Greek Islands Cruises

Discover the Enchanting Greek Islands on a Cruise

The Greek Islands are a dream destination, renowned for their crystal-clear waters, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. Cruising the Greek Islands is a fantastic way to explore the rich history, delicious cuisine, and breathtaking scenery of this iconic region. Fun fact: Greece has over 6,000 islands and islets, but only about 227 are inhabited! Each island has its own unique charm, from the iconic blue-domed churches of Santorini to the lively streets of Mykonos. Whether you’re after relaxation on sun-kissed beaches or cultural experiences at ancient ruins, a cruise to the Greek Islands is sure to captivate your heart.

Top Harbours in the Greek Islands

The beauty of the Greek Islands unfolds in the harbours, where you can dive into the local culture and activities. Here are five must-visit harbours that showcase the splendour of this region:

Best Times to Cruise the Greek Islands

The ideal time to visit the Greek Islands is from April to October, when temperatures range from 20°C to 35°C. This is the perfect season to enjoy sunlit beaches and vibrant culture. For those who prefer milder weather, consider cruising in the shoulder seasons of April to June or late September to October, when temperatures are typically around 15°C to 25°C. The crowds are fewer during these months, allowing for a more personal experience exploring the islands!

Cruise Pricing Overview for the Greek Islands

What can you expect in terms of cruise costs? A 1-week cruise to the Greek Islands generally ranges from $1,500 to $3,200 for standard packages, while luxury options can go from $4,500 to $9,000 or more. For 2-week cruises, pricing typically falls between $2,800 and $5,800 for regular cruises and $9,000 to $15,000 for luxury experiences. The most economical months to book are during shoulder seasons in April, May, and September, while the peak period in July can see a rise in prices. Dining in the region usually ranges from $25 to $60 for a meal, while local drinks may cost around $5 to $15.

Major Cruise Lines Sailing to the Greek Islands

• Princess Cruises
  Princess has a fleet of 17 ships, with 8 offering itineraries to the Greek Islands. The top vessels include Sun Princess and Majestic Princess, departing often from our domestic ports in Sydney and Brisbane, as well as international ports like Civitavecchia (Rome) and Athens. Princess Cruises is known for its diverse onboard activities, making it ideal for families and those seeking a fun-filled voyage.
• MSC Cruises
  With a total fleet of 23 ships, MSC has 8 ships operating in the Greek Islands, specifically MSC Opera and MSC Fantasia. These cruises primarily depart from Venice or Bari. MSC is renowned for its family-friendly atmosphere and lively entertainment options, along with exquisite dining experiences that celebrate Mediterranean cuisine.
• Cunard Line
  Cunard’s fleet covers 4 ships, with Queen Victoria and Queen Anne featuring itineraries that include stops at the Greek Islands. Departures typically occur from Civitavecchia (Rome) or Barcelona. Cunard is celebrated for its sophisticated ambience, offering elegant dining and entertainment experiences that charm its passengers.
• Holland America Line
  With 11 ships in its fleet, Holland America offers 3 vessels journeying to the Greek Islands, including Oosterdam and Nieuw Statendam. Departing most frequently from Athens or Barcelona, Holland America focuses on creating immersive travel experiences that connect cruisers with the local culture of each port of call.
• P&O Cruises
  P&O features a fleet of 7 ships, with 4 ships voyaging to the Greek Islands. Notable vessels include Azura and Arcadia, usually departing from Valletta or Southampton. Highlighted for its traditional cruising experience and delightful onboard activities, P&O is well-loved by passengers looking for a classic cruise experience.

Luxury and Small Ship Options

• Viking Ocean Cruises
  Viking has a fleet of 11 ships, with 7 of them offering itineraries to the Greek Islands, including Viking Star and Viking Saturn. Most commonly departing from Athens or Barcelona, Viking is well-known for its all-inclusive experience that allows cruisers to engage in local culture with unique shore excursions at each port.
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises
  Regent operates a total of 6 ships, with 5 of them cruising to the Greek Islands, particularly Seven Seas Voyager and Seven Seas Splendor. Departures mostly take place from Athens or Istanbul, and Regent is celebrated for its luxury offerings, ensuring an upscale and personalised experience for every guest.
• Explora Journeys
  Operating with two ships, Explora has both EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II focusing on the Greek Islands. Departures typically happen from Athens or Istanbul. Known for its emphasis on meaningful travel experiences and high-quality service, Explora offers an intimate and enriching cruise experience.
• Oceania Cruises
  Oceania’s fleet consists of 8 ships, with 5 vessels visiting the Greek Islands, including Nautica and Marina. Most sailings start from Athens or Civitavecchia (Rome), and Oceania is renowned for its gourmet dining experiences and tailored itineraries that immerse guests in local cultures at every stop.
• Azamara Cruises
  All four Azamara ships offer itineraries that include the Greek Islands, with Azamara Onward and Azamara Pursuit leading the way. Departures most commonly occur from Athens or Venice, and Azamara is known for its immersive approach to travel, with longer stays in port allowing for in-depth exploration.

Alternative Regions for Your Cruise Consideration

If the Greek Islands have captured your interest, consider these alternative regions for your next cruise adventure:

• Amalfi Coast: The stunning Amalfi Coast boasts breathtaking cliffside towns, historic sites, and delicious local cuisine. You’ll find charming villages, such as Positano and Ravello, along with opportunities for scenic hikes and boat tours.
• Adriatic Sea: With its rich historical towns and beautiful landscapes, the Adriatic Sea offers a unique blend of natural and cultural experiences. Discover vibrant cities like Dubrovnik alongside stunning island getaways.
• Caribbean: Known for its stunning beaches and warm weather, the Caribbean is ideal for those seeking relaxation and tropical adventures. With vibrant cultures and delicious food, it invites exploration both on land and at sea.
• Turquoise Coast: Also known as the Lycian Coast in Turkey, this stunningly beautiful region features secluded beaches, ancient ruins, and opportunities for marine excursions. Travellers can indulge in the rich Mediterranean lifestyle, complete with delicious local cuisine.
• Spain: When exploring the vibrant country of Spain, a cruise can take you through unique regions, offering visits to historical towns and beautiful beaches while enjoying a taste of local tapas and a vibrant atmosphere.

Ready to experience the stunning beauty of the Greek Islands? Book your unforgettable cruise with CruiseAway today and immerse yourself in the culture, history, and breathtaking landscapes that await!