Greece Cruises

Experience the Magic of Greece with CruiseAway

Greece, with its enchanting islands, rich culture, and history that stretches back thousands of years, is an ideal destination for cruise enthusiasts. Experiencing Greece by cruise allows you to effortlessly explore iconic spots like the ancient ruins of Athens, the stunning sunsets of Santorini, and the vibrant nightlife of Mykonos. You can immerse yourself in the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea while enjoying the convenience of hassle-free travel between stunning destinations. Fun fact: Greece has over 6,000 islands scattered in the Aegean and Ionian Seas, and about 227 of them are inhabited! With myriad adventures waiting on each island, a cruise is one of the best ways to dive deep into what Greece has to offer.

Top Harbours to Visit in Greece

When cruising to Greece, you can expect to visit a variety of amazing harbours. Here are five must-visit ports:

• Athens: The bustling capital and a hub of ancient history. Cruisers can explore the breathtaking **Acropolis**, home to the Parthenon and other magnificent ruins. Don’t miss **Plaka**, its oldest district, filled with charming shops and eateries. Insider tip: Arrive early to beat the crowds at the Acropolis and enjoy a leisurely breakfast in Plaka!
• Mykonos: Known for its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife, Mykonos welcomes cruisers to relax during the day at **Psarou Beach** or explore the picturesque streets lined with whitewashed buildings and blooming bougainvillaea. Head to **Little Venice** for unforgettable sunset views. Pro tip: Take a walking tour to discover hidden gems and local spots off the beaten path!
• Santorini: Famous for its iconic blue domes and breathtaking sunsets, Santorini’s beauty is unparalleled. Explore the charming villages of **Oia** and **Fira**, where you can enjoy stunning vistas or sip local wines at a cliffside café. Insider tip: If time allows, take a local bus to **Oia** for a quiet exploration before the tourists descend.
• Corfu: This lush island delivers a unique blend of Venetian, French, and British influences. While in port, wander the **Old Fortress**, visit the **Achilleion Palace**, or relax on the beautiful beaches. Pro tip: Try some local **ouzo** or traditional Greek **moussaka** at a local taverna!
• Kotor: Nestled in the Bay of Kotor, this charming town features medieval architecture and stunning fjord-like landscapes. Explore its winding streets, visit the historic **Kotor Cathedral**, and hike up to the **fortress of San Giovanni** for breathtaking views. Don’t forget to try the local seafood—it’s a must!

Best Times to Cruise Greece

The ideal time to cruise to **Greece** is during the shoulder seasons of **April to June** and **September to October**. Temperatures generally range from **20°C to 30°C**, making for comfortable exploring days and pleasant evenings. The summer months of **July and August** can see temperatures soar above **30°C** and attract peak tourist crowds, so it’s best to book your cruise well in advance if you plan to travel during these periods!

Cost of Cruising in Greece

When budgeting for your Greek adventure, expect a one-week cruise to cost around **$1,700 to $3,500**, while a two-week cruise would range from **$3,500 up to $6,500**. Luxury options typically start around **$5,000** for a week. The most affordable times to cruise Greece usually fall in the spring and early autumn, while prices peak during the summer months. Dining in Greece is relatively affordable, often costing about **$20 to $40** per meal, whether you’re sitting down to enjoy local dishes at a tavern or grabbing a quick bite at a café.

Major Cruise Lines Offering Greece Adventures

• Princess Cruises: With a fleet of **17 ships**, **eight** frequently visit Greece, including the popular **Sun Princess** and **Majestic Princess**. They often depart from **Civitavecchia (Rome)** or **Athens**. Princess Cruises provides a variety of onboard activities and entertainment, along with immersive shore excursions to help cruisers make the most of their time in Greece.
• MSC Cruises: Featuring **23 ships**, **eight** of them cruise to Greece, including the **MSC Sinfonia** and **MSC Opera**. Departures mainly occur from **Bari** or **Venice**. MSC is recognized for its family-friendly atmosphere, engaging experiences, and excellent dining options inspired by Mediterranean cuisine, ensuring a delightful experience for all ages.
• Cunard: Operating with **four ships**, **three** head to Greece, such as **Queen Victoria** and **Queen Anne**. Departures often occur from **Civitavecchia (Rome)** or **Barcelona**. Cunard is known for its luxurious experience, featuring elegant dining and entertainment, allowing cruisers to indulge in relaxing days on board.
• Holland America Line: With a fleet of **11 ships**, **four** cruise to Greece, including the **Oosterdam** and **Nieuw Statendam**. Most sail from **Athens** or **Barcelona**. This line is celebrated for its cultural immersion, providing enriching experiences both onboard and ashore, tailored to those who appreciate history and local traditions.
• P&O Cruises: This cruise line has **seven ships**, with **four** sailing to Greece, including the **Azura** and **Arcadia**. They frequently depart from **Valletta** or **Southampton**. P&O Cruises stand out for their excellent service and engaging onboard experiences, creating memorable holiday adventures for families and couples alike.

Luxury and Small Ship Options

• Viking Ocean Cruises: With a fleet of **11 ships**, **seven** travel to Greece, including the **Viking Star** and **Viking Saturn**. They often depart from **Athens** and **Barcelona**. Viking Ocean Cruises is renowned for its immersive itineraries and distinctive cultural experiences, designed to deepen your understanding of Greece’s rich history and vibrant culture.
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises: Featuring a fleet of **six ships**, with **five** that visit Greece, the **Seven Seas Voyager** and **Seven Seas Splendor** are popular options. They usually cruise from **Athens** or **Istanbul**. Regent prides itself on offering an all-inclusive luxury experience, ensuring every necessity from dining to excursions is taken care of for their guests.
• Explora Journeys: This line has **two ships** — **EXPLORA I** and **EXPLORA II** — that both go to Greece. Frequent departures occur from **Athens** or **Istanbul**. The line focuses on sustainable luxury, offering curated journeys that explore local ports and cultures in depth while also creating a luxurious cruise experience.
• Oceania Cruises: With a fleet of **eight ships**, **five** head to Greece, including the **Nautica** and **Vista**. They often depart from **Athens** or **Civitavecchia (Rome)**. Oceania is known for its outstanding culinary offerings and destination-rich itineraries that immerse guests in Greek culture and cuisine.
• Silversea: Featuring **13 ships**, **five** of which cruise to Greece, including **Silver Muse** and **Silver Whisper**. Departures regularly occur from **Athens** or **Lisbon**. Silversea highlights luxurious service, with personalized attention that enhances the cruise tenure, ensuring each guest indulges in the finest aspects of cruising.

Explore Alternative Regions

Considering a cruise to **Greece**? Here are five alternative regions that offer equally captivating experiences:

• Italy: Known for its rich history, impeccable cuisine, and stunning landscapes, Italy provides an alluring alternative with its diverse cities, from Venice to Rome.
• Southern Europe: This intriguing region offers beautiful beaches, ancient ruins, and delectable cuisine, perfect for those seeking Mediterranean charm beyond Greek shores.
• Eastern Mediterranean: With gorgeous islands, unique culture, and historic sites, this region showcases a lovely blend of breathtaking scenery and captivating traditions.
• Adriatic Sea: Featuring picturesque coastal towns and beautiful scenery, cruising the Adriatic offers a different perspective on Mediterranean life, including the stunning city of Dubrovnik.
• Western Mediterranean: Showcasing gorgeous coastlines and vibrant cultures, this is an excellent alternative for those looking to delve into multiple exciting destinations.

With its rich history, stunning landscapes, and delightful cuisine, Greece is an incredible cruising destination waiting to be explored. Book your Greek adventure today with **CruiseAway** and immerse yourself in the beauty and culture this stunning region has to offer!