You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience.

Shore Excursions Group

Excursions & Tours

special offer banner

Exclusive Mykonos Old and New

5 Stars

Highlights of Mykonos

Authentic Mykonos

Authentic Mykonos

Grand Tour of Mykonos

Grand Tour of Mykonos

Mykonos South Beaches Cruise

Little Venice & Agios Stefanos Daily Cruise

Mykonos Cooking Class

Mykonos Cooking Class

Executive Wine Tasting

Executive Wine Tasting

Armenistis Lighthouse Visit

Armenistis Lighthouse Visit

Mykonos Sunset and Little Venice by Boat

Mykonos Sunset and Little Venice by Boat

Visit a Mykonian Farm and the Monastery

Visit a Mykonian Farm and the Monastery

Mykonos Jeep Safari

Panoramic Mykonos 4x4 SUV Adventure

Ancient Delos and Rhenia Island by Boat

Ancient Delos and Rhenia Island by Boat

Ancient Delos

Ancient Delos

4.5 Stars

Mykonos Town Walking Discovery

Private Ancient Delos

Private Ancient Delos

Private Vehicle - Full Day Mykonos

Private Driver Full Day in Mykonos

Private Guide and Vehicle - Full Day Mykonos

Private Guide and Vehicle - Full Day Mykonos

Private Guide and Vehicle - Half Day Mykonos

Private Guided Half Day in Mykonos

Private Cooking Lesson in Mykonos Home Culinary Tour

Private Mykonos Cooking Experience

Private Mykonos Island and Walking Tour

Private Mykonos Island and Walking Tour

Private Vehicle - Half Day Mykonos

Private Vehicle - Half Day Mykonos

Mykonos, greece shore excursions, best mykonos excursions & tours.

Mykonos is a Greek island, part of the Cyclades, and is a very popular Mediterranean cruise port. Thousands a year flock for the island's vibrant nightlife, crystal clear waters, and award-winning restaurants. Compared to the world-renowned Santorini, Mykonos offers better beaches, archeological wonders, and so much more. Explore Mykonos and everything it has to offer.

Beautiful Beaches

There's no shortage of incredible beaches on this Greek island. Here are some of our favorites and why.

Agios Ioannis

Considered the most beautiful beach on the island's southwest coast, Agios has soft sand and clear blue waters. From there, cruisers can enjoy an amazing view over the island of Delos. It's a good place to get away from it all, but not too close to the town to be overwhelmed by tourists.

Elia is the largest beach in Mykonos. The beach is largely family-friendly with lots of beach cafes and places to eat. Embodying a fun, carefree atmosphere, it's no wonder that it's one of Mykonos' most popular beach destinations. Elia is 25 minutes by car from Mykonos Town.

Popular with families who enjoy watersports, this beach is on the eastern side of the island. Sailing, windsurfing, snorkeling, scuba diving, and more await at Kalafati. Feeling thirsty or hungry? Upscale open-air bars and seafood restaurants line the shore.

The most famous of all of Mykonos' beaches, Paradise is what a party beach is all about. It attracts crowds who dance, drink, and listen to the music playing at several bars and restaurants. Paradise is just 20 minutes from the center of Mykonos Town. It's also within walking distance of four other beaches: Paraga, Agia Anna, Platys Gialos, and Psarou.

Archeological Sites

Discover Mykonos' ancient heritage at their popular archeological sites that date back thousands of years.

Delos is next to Mykonos and is the island where Apollo was born, based on Greek mythology. The entire island was dedicated to the Greek god of the sun, and worshipers from all over the Mediterranean would come to honor him. It's currently an open archeology site with fascinating monuments and a museum. Delos was added to the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Greece back in 1990.

Full-Day Sightseeing

Mykonos is considered a small island, - but with everything that there is to see and do, tourists can spend several days sightseeing.

Mykonos is one of the most developed islands in Greece for tourism - there are regular ferries all year long, but itineraries are most frequent during the summer. Tourists can ferry to Athens, Santorini, Paros, Naxos, Crete, Tinos, and more. All ferries to Mykonos dock at the New Port of Mykonos, just minutes away from the Main Town in a car.

Old Town Mykonos, otherwise known as Chora (also known as "Mykonos Town" or "Hora", is the picturesque capital and largest town on the island. It's a mostly pedestrian maze of narrow streets with cubic whitewashed houses. It's essentially a traditional Cycladic village, with bougainvilleas, small white churches, and colorful windows, doors, and balconies. Visitors can explore on their own or do a walking tour with a small group.

Famous Churches

There are several iconic churches across the island. The Panagia Paraportiani Church dates back to the 1400s, and it's considered a perfect example of Cycladic architecture. Panagia Paraportiani is classified as a national monument and can be found in the town of Chora. The architecture of the monastery of Panagia Tourliani is just as impressive. Originally built in 1542 by two priests, the monastery was restored in 1767 and is located in Ano Mera village.

The island is known for its impressive beaches and nightlife, but the culinary scene further adds to its charm. From fine-dining and internationally acclaimed restaurants to street food and traditional bakeries, Mykonos has something for everyone. However, if you're more interested in drinking and dancing, there is no better place to party. From confetti-dropping bottle-popping mega-club experiences to intimate live music bars, most of them are within walking distance of the island's main hub of Old Town.

facebook

Dave's Travel Pages

Greek Island Hopping | Greece Travel Ideas | Bicycle Touring

Mykonos In One Day – What To Do In Mykonos From A Cruise Ship

An ideal one day Mykonos itinerary for anyone with limited time on the island. I'll show you what to see in Mykonos in one day so you can plan your Mykonos cruise stop to perfection!

Things to do in one day in Mykonos

How to see Mykonos in a day

Mykonos is one of the most famous Greek islands in the Cyclades. It has amazing beaches, a lovely main town called Chora, and it is incredibly popular for its party scene.

Oh, and did you know you can take a guided tour of the UNESCO site of Delos which is the Greek island right next door?

We've written this 1 day Mykonos itinerary for people who only have limited time on the island. Typically, this is people going ashore on a Mykonos cruise stop as part of a Greek isles or Mediterranean cruise.

It's always going to be difficult giving such a fantastic destination as Mykonos the time it deserves during relatively short shore excursions. Fortunately, due to its compact nature, you can see many of the must-see highlights of Mykonos island in just a few hours.

Mykonos Shore Excursion Vs See It Yourself

Before we dive in, I'll start by saying that I personally don't find the organized tours in Mykonos to offer particularly good value for money.

That said, I also totally understand why some people prefer a private tour during their port day in Mykonos. It makes life easier, all the logistics are taken care of, and hey, you're on vacation!

With that in mind, this sightseeing tour is one of the best for visitors to Mykonos arriving on a cruise ship: Mykonos Shore Excursion with Terminal Pickup

If you're undecided on whether you want to take an organized tour of Mykonos or do it yourself , read the rest of this guide. I'll share with you the best things to do with one day in Mykonos, Greece so you get a real taste of what this picture-perfect island is all about.

(Our Mykonos travel tips and suggestions are based on our own experiences on the island. We hope you enjoy your visit as much as we did!)

Dave and Vanessa in Mykonos Greece

Explore Mykonos Town

Whether you are spending 1 day in Mykonos or 5, you'll want to check out Mykonos Town. Also known as Chora, it is one of the most impressive main towns in the Cyclades.

If you've arrived by cruise boat, you'll find yourselves at the New Port of Mykonos (Tourlos). This is just one bus stop away from the city center, and the ride takes only a few minutes.

A church inside Mykonos Chora

Mykonos Town is full of the typical Cycladic white-washed houses and narrow winding streets. There are cute churches hidden around every corner, in addition to restaurants, cafes, bars and all types of shops.

Some people arriving in Mykonos on a cruise ship choose to wander around Mykonos Town for their whole time on the island. It's extremely picturesque, and there's lots of places to take time out and enjoy drinks or a meal.

Walking through Mykonos town

What to see in Mykonos Town

You can comfortably explore the town on your own, but an excellent idea is take a guided walking day tour and avoid getting lost in the maze-like Chora. Although honestly, getting lost in the Chora is half the fun, as you discover a lot more that way!

  • Walking tour of Mykonos (Best rated tour in Mykonos)
  • Mykonos Walking Tour

As you are wandering around the Old Town, do not miss Paraportiani church, better known as Panagia Paraportiani. This strangely shaped church is actually made up of five churches.

The lower part construction, including four of the churches used to be part of the Mykonos castle, which was built here several centuries ago. The last church, which is named Panagia Paraportiani, is the one on top. The name “Paraportiani” comes from the Greek word “paraporti”, which was the side-door to the castle.

Finally, if you are interested in archaeology, visit the Archaeological Museum in Mykonos Town, where you can see many artifacts excavated on the nearby Rhineia island. More on this below.

Little Venice in Mykonos Town

Mykonos Town is also where the famous Little Venice is located. This tiny area is made up of a series of old houses, built right above the sea. It's extremely photogenic and you can never get bored of the views.

Visiting Little Venice Mykonos in September

Sit at one of the seaside bars, or wander around the small quarter and find your own favourite spot to enjoy the ambiance and take photos from.

Opposite Little Venice, you will see the iconic Mykonos windmills. While there are plenty of windmills in other Greek islands and the rest of Greece, the ones in Mykonos are among its best known landmarks.

Visiting the windmills of Mykonos on a walking tour

Historically, the windmills were once used to grind wheat and other crops. Today, they have been restored and are a favourite attraction for people visiting Mykonos.

This area is also one of the best places to visit in Mykonos Greece for the sunset. If your time on the island allows, it's worth considering. More on sunsets later!

Enjoying the sunset in Mykonos at Little Venice

Visit the archaeological site of Ancient Delos

The way Mykonos tours and excursions go, one of the most popular activities is a tour to the nearby Delos island. This is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and is highly recommended if you are considering what to do in Mykonos from a cruise ship.

The small island of Delos, which is just a half hour away by boat from Mykonos itself, was extremely important in Ancient Greece. Delos is where Leto gave birth to God Apollo and his sister Artemis, and as such it was considered a sacred island.

Walking through Delos in Greece

In addition to it being one of the most important sacred places in ancient Greece, it was also an important center for trade and commerce.

It is estimated that Delos was once home to around 30,000 people, which is an incredible number for its size. In comparison, the current population of Mykonos is around than 20,000 people! Today, it is one of the most popular World Heritage Sites in Greece.

mosaic at delos in greece

This massive archaeological site would need several hours to be fully explored, and much of it hasn't been excavated yet. The most important areas, however, can be visited in about 3 or 4-hours.

You can see the remains of awesome ancient mansions, stunning mosaic floors, the Sacred Way, and the famous marble lions given to the island by the Naxians. Allow for some time in the small Delos museum, which contains several ancient artefacts.

The famous Naxian Lions of Delos

Day Trip to Delos

Small cruise boats depart from the Old Port in Mykonos Town a few times per day, carrying visitors to Delos and back. The journey takes a little over a half-hour.

Tour of Delos in Greece

If you are visiting Mykonos on a cruise, chances are your time on the island will be limited. It's best to book a Delos tour, run by a local tour operator and including a licensed tour guide.

  • Original Morning Delos Guided Tour
  • Original Evening Delos Guided Tour
  • Delos Tour From Cruise Ship

I am very glad that I took a guided tour in Delos . Our guide explained a lot about Delos and the nearby Rhenia island. We also had discussions about the Delian league, the city-states of the time, and the Cycladic civilization in general.

In my opinion, it was the only way for this UNESCO World Heritage Site to come alive.

Cruise around Delos island and Rhenia island

If you prefer to spend longer cruising around the Aegean, it is possible to combine a tour of Delos island with a cruise to the deserted Rhenia. This is another island close to Delos where a lot of ancient ruins have been found. It is currently abandoned, but there are talks of if it becoming an archaeological park in the future.

These sailing tours allow for time to explore the archaeological site of Delos, but also time for a swim off the coast of Rhenia. The Mykonos boat trips to Delos and Rhenia start from Agios Ioannis port and transfer can be included.

  • 6 Hour Delos and Rhenia Boat Trip
  • Yacht cruise to Delos and Rhenia

Go to a beach in Mykonos

You'll have to judge for yourself if you have time to venture out and see more of the island. If you do, you'll find the famous Cycladic island is a paradise for people who like swimming. There are over 30 beautiful beaches in Mykonos. Depending on your preferences, there will be at least one that you will want to spend some time on.

Reasons to visit Mykonos include amazing coloured seas like this one

If you have been to Santorini, you will remember that most of the beaches have grey / black sand. By comparison almost all of the beaches in Mykonos are far better and have soft, powdery white sand, and crystal clear waters.

The closest beach to Mykonos town

The closest option to Mykonos Town is Megali Ammos beach. You could even walk there if you wanted. If you are planning to tour the island by car, you could stop here for a quick swim. In our experience, this beach is a great sunset spot.

Ornos beach in Mykonos

Another option not too far from Mykonos Town is Ornos Beach. The whole area is a busy resort, and Ornos sandy beach is fully organized with beach bars and cafes. There are also plenty of restaurants all around.

More Mykonos Beaches

People who are interested in beach parties will enjoy Super Paradise beach, which is a beautiful, wide stretch of sand. Unless you go off-season it will probably be quite crowded.

The famous Jackie O club offers amazing views of Super Paradise. This picturesque, gay-friendly bar is known for its drag shows and other similar events.

Paradise beach on the other hand is more low-key. There are plenty of bars and clubs as well as water sports and a diving school. For people thinking to stay longer in Mykonos without breaking the bank, Paradise Beach camping is a popular choice.

The best beaches in Mykonos Greece

Platis Gialos beach has amazing white and golden sand and palm trees, and it feels really exotic. It might be easier to get there on a Mykonos tour, as there is no free parking space.

One of our favourite Mykonian beaches was Kalafatis, a little further out of Mykonos Town. It's one of the few beaches on the island with natural shade, and there are also plenty of watersports. We could easily have spent our whole day in Mykonos right here!

Finally, if you prefer more relaxed beaches and you can take a full-day tour in Mykonos, head to Agrari. While a part of the beach is organized with loungers and umbrellas, some of it is natural and wild. This was one of our top things to do in Mykonos island.

Most of the beaches mentioned above are accessible in some form of public transportation, taxi or private car. However, an easier (and more fun) way to see a few of the beaches is a full-day coast cruise .

Here is a complete guide of all Mykonos beaches .

See the sunset in Mykonos

Wait, what? Isn't Santorini the island where the sunsets are spectacular? Well, Santorini may be more famous for its sunsets, but we found that some of the sunsets in Mykonos were actually better.

A magnificent Mykonos sunset at the lighthouse

Sure, Mykonos does not have a volcano like Santorini, but the Mykonian sunsets are great regardless!

Where to see the Mykonos sunset

One of the most advertised places to see the sunset in Mykonos island is the Armenistis lighthouse. It can get quite crowded in peak season, but the views are beautiful and wild, and feel miles away from the all-night parties.

Armenistas Lighthouse Sunset Mykonos

Walk all the way past Armenistis, and you will feel like you are on the edge of the world.

Another beautiful spot to watch the sunset from in Mykonos is Kapari beach. You can only get there in your own transportation. Turn right after Agios Ioannis church, and you'll then need to drive on a narrow dirt road where you can't reverse. Bonus – you can see Delos in the background.

One of our favourite sunsets in Mykonos was from the beach under the windmills in Chora, just behind the Sea Satin restaurant. The restaurant was closed when we were there, and we were the only people on that small beach. While seeing the sunset from Caprice bar in Little Venice is very high on most people's things to do in Mykonos, we were happier to stay on the quiet little beach.

If sunset views from above are important to you, a great place to go is 180 Sunset Bar. Depending on when you are visiting Mykonos, reservations may be required. Check their website for more information.

Sunset on a beach in mykonos

Finally, if your schedule allows it, another option is to take a half-day sunset tour to some of the island's beautiful beaches. This is an ideal tour if you want to explore the best beaches of Mykonos island without having to worry about transportation.

Nightlife in Mykonos

The nightlife in Mykonos doesn't really need an introduction. If you are staying 24 hours in Mykonos including overnight, go for a late drink in one of the numerous bars and clubs. Walk around Chora, and discover your own favourite.

Should I visit the monastery of Tourliani in Ano Mera?

Apart from Mykonos town, the island doesn't really have many other villages like Tinos or Naxos do. The only other settlement which is not a tourist resort is Ano Mera, a small inland town.

The main attraction here is the Monastery of Panagia Tourliani. While it's quite impressive, I wouldn't include it in my list of what to see in Mykonos in one day. If you are staying longer, by all means go.

How to get to Mykonos

Mykonos has an international airport. There are several direct flights connecting major European cities with the pretty Aegean island. Alternatively, you can fly to Athens and take a domestic flight.

Taking the ferry from Mykonos to Syros

Another option is to take a ferry from one of the nearby islands or Piraeus, the Athens port. Santorini, Naxos, Paros, Tinos, and many other of the Cyclades are directly connected with Mykonos.

You can take a look at my Mykonos to Santorini ferry guide , as this is one of the more popular connections.

Many people choose to take a normal ferry, which is slower and offers a comfortable trip. Others prefer a high-speed ferry, which is more expensive but takes considerably less time.

Mykonos Shore Excursions

If you've gotten this far and you feel a little overwhelmed, perhaps organized Mykonos shore excursions might suit you. Here are the best of the best:

  • Mykonos Shore Excursion: City & Island Tour
  • The Original Morning Delos Guided Tour
  • Highlights of Mykonos: Half-Day Tour

FAQ About What to do in Mykonos in one day

Many tourists who want to plan their time in Mykonos off the cruise ships ask questions similar to:

Is one day enough in Mykonos?

There are many things to do in Mykonos, but with a well thought out itinerary, you can see most of the major highlights of this beautiful Greek island.

What can I do in one day in Mykonos?

Day trippers to Mykonos will be ale to explore Mykonos Old Town, see the Windmills and Little Venice, have a lovely meal of Greek food, and even have time to see Delos.

Where do the cruise ships dock in Mykonos?

The Greek island of Mykonos is a popular stop on cruise ship tours of the Greek Islands. The majority of cruise ships arrive at the new port in Tourlos, while some cruise ships may dock/anchor off the old port. Make use of the cruise shuttle bus to get from the new port to Mykonos Town.

How much money do I need in a day in Mykonos?

If you are not staying overnight in Mykonos, you'll avoid the cost of a hotel which is the biggest single expense. Cruise passengers should probably allow $100 to $150 per person to cover meal, gifts from souvenir shops, and perhaps a trip to Delos.

Is the Delos Unesco World Heritage Site worth visiting?

Delos is one of the most important archaeological sites in the world. It is the mythical birthplace of the Greek God Apollo, and Delos is well worth visiting as a half day trip from Mykonos (perfect for cruise passengers!).

What to do in Mykonos in 1 day

Feel free to pin this Mykonos one day itinerary to one of your boards on Pinterest for future reference. That way, you'll be able to find it easily for when you finalise your plans to spend one day in Mykonos from cruise ship.

A perfect Mykonos itinerary for spending one day in Mykonos Greece

You might also be interested in these other travel guides:

  • One day in Santorini
  • Best Mykonos Tours and Day Trips
  • Mykonos 3 day itinerary
  • Where to stay in Mykonos
  • Things to know before traveling to Greece

Dave Briggs visiting an island in Greece

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

ncl excursions mykonos

Mykonos, Greece

Greek mythology contends that Mykonos is the rock that Heracles hurled to defeat the Giants. The island, part of the Cyclades archipelago, is known for its nightlife and slew of white-sand beaches, including Elia and Kalafatis, which are perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Steady breezes provide optimal conditions for activities such as surfing and parasailing. Revisit the 19th century at Lena's House, an annex of the Folklore Museum, and marvel at the Mediterranean views outside Paraportiani Church. Once used to grind wheat and generate energy, the town's famous windmills now make for great photo ops, particularly when shot from Alefkandra. This district, dubbed "Little Venice" because of its colorful houses perched along the sea, is home to trendy bars and art galleries. Boats are available to transport you to the archeological site of Delos, believed to be the birthplace of deities Apollo and Artemis.

ncl excursions mykonos

  • CruiseMapper
  • Cruise Ports
  • Mediterranean - Black Sea Cruise Ports

Mykonos Island (Greece)

Cruise port schedule, live map, terminals, news.

Mykonos Island cruise port

Region Mediterranean - Black Sea

Local Time 2024-04-30 00:29

Port Mykonos Island cruise ship schedule shows timetable calendars of all arrival and departure dates by month. The port's schedule lists all ships (in links) with cruises going to or leaving from Mykonos Island, Greece. To see the full itineraries (ports of call dates and arrival / departure times) and their lowest rates – just follow the corresponding ship-link.

Mykonos Island is one of Cyclades Islands (Greece, Aegean Sea), located in the archipelago's center. The Cyclades form a circle surrounding the sacred Delos Island . Group's larges island is Naxos . Mykonos Island has total area approx 105 km2 (41 mi2) and population around 10,000, most of whom live in isle's main and biggest port town Mykonos (on the western coast).

Port's peak cruising season is in May and September. Mykonos Airport is located approx 4 km (2,5 mi) southeast of the town and serves domestic (year-round) and international flights (summer only). The island is also accessible via tour boats and ferries .

High-speed ships/ferry catamarans offer daily passenger shipping services from mainland Greece ( Piraeus-Athens , Rafina, Thessaloniki , Kavala ), and Crete ( Heraklion , Rethymno ). Fast ferries/Ro-Pax ships connect Mykonos with the surrounding islands Paros, Santorini (Thira), Syros, Tinos, Andros, Naxos, Folegandros, Sifnos, Ios, Amorgos (Katapola), Koufonisi, Milos, Serifos (Livadi), Skiathos, Chios, Ikaria (Evdilos, Agios Kirikos), Samos (Karlovassi), Kimolos, Sikinos, Lesbos (Mytilene), Limnos, Kythnos, Patmos.

Most inter-island ferry services are provided by Hellenic Seaways . Other Greek companies include Minoan Lines , Blue Star Ferries , Sea Jets, Golden Star Ferries, Cyclades Fast Ferries. After the island is named the cruise ship Blue Star Mykonos .

Mykonos Town (Chora) was named following the Greek practice to name the island's principal town after the isle itself. The local economy is heavily based on tourism. The island is famous worldwide for its vibrant nightlife and also for being a gay-friendly destination with several major establishments catering to LGBT communities

As cruise port, Mykonos is Cyclades' second most popular island destination - after Santorini . The town features as tourist attractions narrow curving streets, gorgeous blue-colored cube houses, white windmills. There are numerous operational windmills around the isle, but most are in Chora. Kato Mili (lower mills) stand in a row on a hill overlooking the sea.

Like Santorini, Mykonos is often included in Eastern Med itineraries operated by major cruise line brands like Costa , MSC , RCI-Royal Caribbean , NCL-Norwegian , HAL-Holland America , Celebrity , Princess , as well as the luxury travel brands Azamara , RSSC-Regent , Oceania , Seabourn , Windstar , SeaDream .

In 2019, the cruise port handled 550 ship calls with estimated ~700,000 passengers.

Following the COVID crisis, in 2022 Mykonos handled a total of 608 cruise ship calls, which number in 2023 surged to 895 (131 in June alone). However, 2023's over-tourism revealed the island's inadequate infrastructure to handle such a volume of visitors, among which is the lack of facilities (including public toilets) at the port to accommodate passengers from several simultaneously visiting cruise ships.

Mykonos Island cruise terminal

Ferries and cruise ships to Mykonos Island dock (anchor) at Mykonos Town - ferry port on the western coast. Mykonos cruise ship terminal is located at Tourlos. It is near Agios Stefanos beach. The distance to Mykonos Town (Hora) is 1.2 miles (3.5 km). There are shuttle buses to the town center. You can also catch a taxi from the taxi square on the Mykonos waterfront. The walking distance is about half an hour.

Mykonos cruise port's Tourlos Dock serves only smaller cruise ships. Larger vessels anchor in the bay and their passengers are tendered/ferried ashore by boats to the old harbor's tender dock, which is within walking distance from downtown.

The closest airport is approx 6 km (4 mi) from the seaport and approx 4 km (2 mi) from the tender dock.

  • Petros the Pelican: Petros is the official Mykonos’s mascot since 1954. The first “Petros” was found in the area after a storm. The bird left its migrating and became resident of Mykonos. It lived there for over 30 years. Now, the spirit of Petros is found in his predecessor around the seafront.
  • Windmills: they date from the 16th century and are among the most popular landmarks.
  • Little Venice: this is the nickname of the western town part (near the sea). All the buildings in the area are constructed at the edge of the sea. The verandas are overhanging the seawater.
  • Paraportiani: located near the entrance of the harbour. The transalation of the name is ” inner or secondary door.” Parapotiani comprises five smaller churches. The first was built in 1475.
  • Delos: the small island is among the top archaeological sites in Greece. It is a national museum. You can reach it by ferry from Mykonos cruise port old dock. The voyage takes around one hour.
  • Beaches: the beaches of Mykonos are like taken from romantic novel. Among the most popular are Ornos Beach (7 km from Mykonos cruise port terminal, 4 from the tender dock), Agios Ioannis Beach (8 km from Mykonos cruise port terminal, 5 from the tender dock) and Paradise Beach (9 km from Mykonos cruise port terminal, 6.3 from the tender dock)

Mykonos Island tours, shore excursions, hotels

City tours and shore excursions.

NCL-Norwegian Cruise Line launches 2024 Europe Season with Greek Isles and Italy voyage

NCL-Norwegian Cruise Line launches 2024 Europe Season with Greek Isles and Italy voyage

NCL-Norwegian Cruise Line inaugurated its 2024 Europe travel season on April 19, 2024, with Norwegian Epic docking in Civitavecchia/Rome, before...

Greek ferry company Seajets starts a cruise line with Goddess of Night ship (fka Costa Magica)

Greek ferry company Seajets starts a cruise line with Goddess of Night ship (fka Costa Magica)

Seajets, a prominent Greek ferry operator, is making its foray into the cruise industry with the acquisition of the 2004-built cruise vessel Costa...

Explora Journeys introduces exclusive Mediterranean experiences for 2024

Explora Journeys introduces exclusive Mediterranean experiences for 2024

Explora Journeys, the luxury lifestyle ocean travel brand and subsidiary of MSC Group, has unveiled a new assortment of distinctive destination...

Celestyal Discovery ship showcases new livery after Maiden Voyage

Celestyal Discovery ship showcases new livery after Maiden Voyage

Celestyal Discovery/fka AIDAaura recently concluded her inaugural voyage around the Aegean on March 22, 2024, debuting the cruise line’s fresh...

Costa unveils 'Sea Destinations' to enrich Mediterranean and Northern European cruises

Costa unveils 'Sea Destinations' to enrich Mediterranean and Northern European cruises

Beginning in spring 2024, Costa's Mediterranean and Northern European cruises will introduce new destinations to be enjoyed from the distinct vantage...

SeaDream Yacht Club expands Greek Isles itineraries with a 14-night B2B cruise

SeaDream Yacht Club expands Greek Isles itineraries with a 14-night B2B cruise

SeaDream Yacht Club, a boutique luxury travel brand renowned for its intimate yachting experiences, announced the expansion of its Greek Isles 2025...

Celestyal Cruises expands offerings with 3 new Adriatic countries (Croatia, Montenegro, Italy)

Celestyal Cruises expands offerings with 3 new Adriatic countries (Croatia, Montenegro, Italy)

The Greek travel brand Celestyal Cruises is set to expand its offerings, introducing 3 new countries in Southern Europe/Adriatic Sea - Croatia...

MSC Cruises opens summer 2024 itineraries for booking

MSC Cruises opens summer 2024 itineraries for booking

MSC Cruises has unveiled its summer 2024 itineraries, now open for booking. The upcoming season will feature voyages by MSC Divina, MSC Lirica, MSC...

Marella UK unveils summer 2025 itineraries, incorporating 10 cruise-and-stay packages

Marella UK unveils summer 2025 itineraries, incorporating 10 cruise-and-stay packages

Marella Cruises UK unveiled its summer 2025 itineraries, incorporating 10 cruise-and-stay packages into the offerings. Marella Discovery 2 ship is...

Celestyal Journey sets sail from Port Piraeus (Greece) on maiden voyage

Celestyal Journey sets sail from Port Piraeus (Greece) on maiden voyage

On Saturday, September 2nd, the cruise ship Celestyal Journey embarked from the port of Piraeus (Athens, Greece), marking her inaugural voyage under...

  •   show more news

Mykonos Island - user reviews and comments

  • Competitions
  • Destinations
  • Find a Cruise
  • News and Interviews
  • Travel Insurance
  • Port Guides
  • GDPR and Privacy Notice

flag-UK

Best-value Greek Island shore excursions in Crete, Rhodes, Corfu & beyond

Greek island cruises wend their way among over 6,000 islands scattered across the Aegean and Ionian Seas, stopping at Crete, Rhodes, Corfu and more – but what are the best value shore excursions?

In association with:

Norwegian Cruise Line

Greek island cruises promise an unforgettable voyage filled with history, culture and natural wonders.

There’s Santorini, with its iconic blue-domed churches, Mykonos, known for its vibrant nightlife and beautiful beaches, Crete – the largest Greek Island – boasting ancient ruins and diverse landscapes, while Rhodes and its medieval Old Town was once home to one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Getting out amongst these treasures is crucial when on Greek Islands cruises, but seeing the sights doesn’t have to cost the earth.

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) offers a vast array of amazing shore excursions on cruises to Greece, whether you’re after relaxation, ancient history or local cuisine.

They’re practical, too; booking an excursion with NCL ensures a hassle-free and convenient experience. With one-stop shopping, transparent pricing and dedicated pre-cruise specialists, NCL prioritises your comfort. Enjoy the expertise of onboard consultants, be among the first to disembark at each port, and rest easy knowing the ship waits for NCL-organised tour participants.

The flexibility to modify or cancel excursions up to 48 hours prior, along with insured operators, provides peace of mind. Plus, with the Free at Sea upgrade, enjoy US$ 50 Shore Excursion Discounts per port, maximising your cruise adventure.

There’s no need to worry about the prices of shore excursions on Greece cruises either, NCL excursions cater for all budgets. We’ve done the hard work for you and rounded up the best value Greek island cruise shore excursions available with NCL across all the line’s ports of call.

NCL Greek Island cruise destinations

Mykonos Santorini Rhodes Crete Paros Corfu

mykonos windmills greece

Best value Greek Island cruise shore excursions

Ncl mykonos excursions, mykonos beach transfer – 4¼ hours.

Explore the renowned beaches of Mykonos, complete with pristine waters and golden sands on this affordable day trip. Unwind and bask in the sun – ancient Greeks worshipped it for good reason.

Mykonos On Foot – 2½ Hours, snack provided

This Greek Islands cruise walking tour discovers Mykonos’ buzzy nightlife, picturesque beaches and rich history. Check out such attractions as the Aegean Maritime Museum and iconic windmills while indulging in local refreshments along the way.

Scenic Views of Mykonos – 3¼ Hours, snack provided

If you’re after beaches and windmills on your Greek cruises, this NCL Mykonos shore excursion is the boy for you. Uncover the charming village of Ano Mera, visit the Panayia Tourliani Monastery and savour yummy Greek appetisers and national spirit ouzo along the way. Careful, the latter can be a heavy hitter!

10-Day Mediterranean: Italy, France & Greece from Athens to Rome

Duration: 10 nights Where: Athens (Piraeus), Greece | Kusadasi, Turkey | Istanbul | Mykonos, Greece | Santorini | Messina (Sicily), Italy | Naples | Florence/Pisa (Livorno) | Nice/Monaco (Villefranche), France | Rome (Civitavecchia) Ship: Norwegian Viva Price: From £1,729 pp

woman parthenon athens greek island cruise

NCL Santorini excursions

Perivolos black sand beach escape – 5¼ hours.

Take a dip in the limpid waters of the Aegean Sea and welcome the warm embrace of the Greek sun as you escape to these unusual black shores. How’s that holiday feeling coming along?

Volcano Hiking  – 2½ Hours

Want more of a challenge on your Greek Islands cruises? How about hiking one of the biggest active underwater volcanoes in the world? This brisk and invigorating 30-minute walk covers 3/4 mile on rocky and gravel terrain, leading you to the crater. Fun fact: the whole island was formed by the eruption of Santorini volcano in the 16th century (which also obliterated the Minoan civilisation of Crete. Whoops).

Charming Oia Village – 3¼ Hours

Perched on the elevated ridge of crimson cliffs, Oia presents awe-inspiring views of the azure Aegean Sea and the caldera beneath. Wander through the village’s narrow streets and pretend you’re an extra in Mamma Mia on this NCL Santorini shore excursion.

15-Day Mediterranean: Italy, France & Greece from Barcelona to Athens

Duration: 15 nights Where: Barcelona, Spain | Cannes, France | Florence/Pisa (Livorno), Italy | Rome (Civitavecchia) | Naples | Santorini, Greece | Mykonos | Kusadasi, Turkey | Istanbul (overnight) | Alexandria, Egypt | Athen (Piraeus), Greece Ship: Norwegian Sky Price: From £1,899 pp

Barcelona

NCL Rhodes excursions

Rhodes – exploring rhodes’ religious past – 3½ hours.

Greece cruises are nothing if not packed with incredible history and culture and on this experience you can accompany a theology specialist on a journey through medieval Rhodes, delving into the mosques, synagogues and churches that showcase the city’s incredible history (and indeed religious tolerance).

Traditions of Rhodes & Home Visit – 3.25 hours

Perfect for those wanting an easy start to their day, this NCL Rhodes shore excursion takes guests in an air-conditioned motor coach through the New Town of Rhodes. Along the way, you’ll pass by Mandraki Harbour and Fort Nicholas, where the site of the Colossus of Rhodes, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, is marked by two bronze deer statues.

Grand Masters Palace – 2½ Hours

Rhodes boasts a wealth of history and myriad notable monuments from the past, with the Grand Masters Palace the most breathtaking. Before reaching the medieval castle – built in the 14th century by the Knights of Saint John – enjoy a picturesque drive along the old port of Mandraki. The palace’s souvenir shop is probably where you should stock up on some postcards (gloating content to pals back home optional).

Rhodes Greece greek island cruises

NCL Crete excursions

Scenic agios nicolaos – 4¼ hours.

Motor through the pretty Cretan countryside to reach the bay of Elounda where you’ll have time to explore this laid-back erstwhile fishing village before continuing your excursion to Agios Nikolaos, renowned for its lively harbour and the mythical Lake Voulismeni. Legend has it two beautiful ancient Greek goddesses – Athena (goddess of wisdom) and Artemis the huntress – bathed here. Don’t blame us if no babes turn up while you’re on your Greece cruise, though.

Heraklion Open-Air Sightseeing Tour – 2½ Hours

Take it easy and discover Crete’s biggest city Heraklion aboard a double-decker bus, admiring landmarks and learning about its fascinating history. Take in the sights of sea-front Venetian fortress Koules Castle and the tomb of writer Nikos Kazantzakis (a titan of modern Greek literature) during this NCL Crete shore excursion.

A Taste Of Crete – 4¼ Hours

Travel from Heraklion to the wine region of Peza, where you’ll tour a contemporary winery. Meander around the quaint village of Archanes and indulge in Cretan snacks within the shade of a tree-filled square.

Knossos & Heraklion City 4¼ Hours

Uncover the secrets of The Minoan Palace of Knossos and the ancient civilisation that thrived here after it was constructed around 2,000 BC. Tour the legendary Palace of King Minos and enjoy leisure time in Heraklion. Don’t worry, there are no minotaur monsters there now…we think.

Old Fortress of Corfu, greek island cruises

NCL Paros excursions

Highlights of paros – 3½ hours.

Soak up the allure of two quintessential Greek villages starting with Naousa, where the rhythm of life revolves around the sea. Stroll along the waterfront and look out for traditional wooden fishing boats known as caique.

Caves of Antiparos – 3½ Hours

On this NCL Paros shore excursion you’ll take in the geological marvels of the Caves of Antiparos (they’re packed with stalactites and stalagmites) before a tour of the sole village on Antiparos. A brief yet picturesque ferry ride will transport you to the island where you’ll descend a staircase into the depths of the cave.

7-Day Greek Isles: Santorini, Rhodes & Mykonos Round-Trip Athens

Duration: 7 nights Where: Athens (Piraeus), Greece | Rhodes | Bodrum, Turkey | Mykonos, Greece | Heraklion, Crete | Santorini | Paros | Athens (Piraeus) Ship: Norwegian Getaway Price: From £1,029 pp

couple santorini ncl cruise

NCL Corfu excursions

Go local – a day in the country life of a corfiot family – 6 hours.

Spend a day at a farm near Agios Matheos village where you’ll engage in farm activities and gaining insights into Greek rural life. Experience country living, picking produce, sampling herbs and observing beehives. The day includes a cooking demonstration for a family lunch. Cap it off with a scenic drive back along the Corfu coast.

Scenic Corfu & Island Views – 3½ Hours

On this NCL Corfu shore extrusions, passengers can feast on local delicacies and tour a Koum Kouat distillery – the orange fruit is native to the Greek island. Uncover the lovely small villages such as Lakones and other Corfu highlights, too.

Mons Repos Palace & Corfu Town – 4¼ Hours

Ride through the countryside of Corfu, admiring such landmarks as Mons Repos Palace (the late Prince Philip was born in the 19th-century villa) and tiny islet Mouse Island (plus its Byzantine chapel of Pantokrator) before concluding your NCL excursion in the Old Town, where you’ll have ample time to explore. Yeah, go on, have another ouzo.

10-Day Greek Isles: Santorini, Athens & Florence Round-Trip Rome

Duration: 10 nights Where: Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy | Santorini, Greece | Athens (Piraeus) | Mykonos | Corfu | Valletta, Malta | Messina (Sicily), Italy | Naples | Florence/Pisa (Livorno) | Rome (Civitavecchia) Ship: Norwegian Epic Price: From £1,247 pp

corfu boats

Top 5 ports of call on a luxury Egypt & Greece cruise

Saga Cruises has revealed an updated itinerary for 2024 that takes guests on a tour of the Mediterranean with this Greece to Egypt cruise.

Best foodie excursions for Greek cuisine in Greece

Greek food is never better than when eaten in its homeland – and a Greece cruise is the perfect way to eat your way across the country’s coastline.

Want to holiday for just £29 a night? There’s a cruise for that

The latest Celestyal cruise deal sees holidaymakers sail for just £29 per night with food and drinks included! Here’s what you need to know.

Become the first to know about win-a-cruise competitions, on-trend holiday inspo and don’t-miss travel advice from the experts.

sailawaze newsletter image

Ahoy there!

Make a Bucket List

Living the Bucket List lifestyle

Norwegian Cruise Lines (NCL) Greek Island Cruise – Norwegian Jade

Norwegian Cruise Lines (NCL) Greek Island Cruise - Norwegian Jade

We booked in late October 2021 and would be arriving on the ship in November 2021, a mere two weeks later. So, planning had to be done quickly, but in all honesty most of the time preparing was focused on the four nights we were spending in Athens after the cruise. We have detailed this in our guide on visiting Athens which will give you everything you need to know.

For a trip which was so last minute that we barely had any time to plan anything, it was an incredible experience and we’re eager to tell you about it. This guide to the Norwegian Jade Greek Island route will provide information on the ship itself, food, drink, the facilities and what activities you could enjoy if you booked it as well.

We specifically took a route which stopped at

Olympian/Katakolon

All of these were places we wanted to visit, but we have to admit being incredibly excited about Mykonos and Santorini.

Ad Disclaimer!

This website uses paid adverts and affiliate links, these come at no additional cost to you and help us to fund the operation of the website, meaning we can continue to provide you with valuable content.

The money received from these links and adverts do not influence any recommondations made within our content.

Norwegian Jade Cruise Ship Statistics

So, let’s start with some facts about the ship which was built in 2006 and was refurbished in 2017.

  • It weighs 93,558 gross register tons,
  • The ship can take 2,404 people,
  • It is 294 meters in length and 38 meters max beam (the width of the ship at its widest point),
  • There are 1,037 crew on the ship.

As you can see it’s a pretty big ship and there is plenty for you to do on there. But we’ll start at the point we arrived in Athens, because we imagine most of you will be flying into Athens international airport.

Getting to and From the Cruise Terminal in Piraeus

norwegian cruise lines ncl jade ship

  • Buses – Bus route X96 (express) goes from Athens airport to Piraeus, Drapetsona and then back again. A bus departs every 30 to 40 minutes and it takes about 60 minutes to get there. Tickets cost 6 Euros per person, per trip which makes this the cheapest of the options.
  • Trains – This is the option we chose on our journey from the airport to Piraeus. You will find the train station across the road from the airport, and it is clearly marked. If you tell the attendant at the ticket office that you are going direct to Piraeus, they will tell you what platform to go to and the time of the next train. There are two sides to the platform, one being the metro and the other the suburban train; again, they are clearly sign posted. Once you get on the train you simply stay on it to the end which is in Piraeus, and it will take about an hour. The cost per ticket is 9 euros each way, so a little bit more than the bus. But the trains are pretty comfortable, and they felt safe when we were on them, which was at night. The only problem with both the train and bus, is that once you reach your destination you then have to find transport to the port or your hotel. We really struggled to get a taxi or Uber from the train station and had to walk 20 minutes to the hotel. Now that doesn’t seem too bad, but it was at night, on uneven pavements and then a huge hill. So, as you can imagine we were exhausted at the end of it, especially as we had just flown in. You may be able to flag down a taxi just outside the station, but if not be prepared for a walk.
  • Taxi / Uber – We took a taxi after the cruise from the port to Athens city centre and then from the centre to the airport. Both times it worked out to be much more expensive than public transport, but of course it was more convenient. You will find that most Uber drivers are also taxi’s and as such don’t be shocked to see a yellow taxi rock up. The journey from the airport to Piraeus can take between 40 and 90 minutes, depending on traffic and it will cost you between 50 and 60 Euros. The Uber app will tell you how much the cost is, but if you’re getting a taxi then make sure you ask before you get in.

You may be heading straight to the cruise terminal, if so we highly recommend making sure you have transport all the way there. We stayed in Piraeus the night before we set sail in the Phidias Piraeus Hotel . It was perfect for us for the night because it had plenty of shops and restaurants around. The staff were friendly, check in was quick and easy, and the room had recently been renovated so was nice and modern. There is a small lift, so you’ll probably need a couple of trips to get your cases up. But they have a free shuttle from the hotel to the cruise port which saves a few pennies.

Booking and Checking in Process for the Norwegian Jade NCL

mykonos greek cruise

Once you have booked you will receive confirmation via email and details as to what you need to do before you arrive. It will include pre-picking a time to board the ship, watching an emergency protocol video, uploading a picture for security, and completing passenger information. This can be done 2 weeks in advance, but online check in closes 3 days before you embark. You can of course complete the check in procedure when you reach the port terminal, but it means your boarding process will take longer.

We also had to register with the NCL approved Covid 19 testing company, so that we could be tested at the cruise port before we proceeded onto the ship. Our trip was November 2021, but obviously this can change so make sure you read any emails sent to you thoroughly.

The actual check in process was simple, even with all the covid elements. Staff were informative and friendly, and you were simply moved from one section to the next. We had to wait to get tested, then complete the lateral flow test, wait for the results, check in for our room key, go through security and then we could board. It sounds a lot but we felt quite relaxed throughout, and each step was streamlined.

What’s available on the NCL Jade?

This was the biggest cruise liner we have ever been on, because previously we have only ventured on smaller Caribbean cruises to places like the Bahamas.

The ship has 15 decks, and you board on the 4 th level, so everything you need is pretty much above that. The main floors are deck 7 which has restaurants, bars, shops and one of the entrances to the theatre. Deck 6 also has bars and restaurants; it is where the casino can be found and also has an entrance to the theatre. Deck 12 is the buffet restaurant, fitness centre and also takes you out to the pool area. But we’ll go through a full inventory of the facilities so that you have everything you need to know beforehand.

Here’s a small breakdown on the range of cabins available on the Norwegian Jade.

  • Inside Cabin – This was the standard of room we stayed in, and it was a lovely size with plenty of wardrobe space.
  • Oceanview Cabin – Very similar to the inside cabin, but with a porthole view of the ocean.
  • Balcony Cabin – In general they tend to be larger rooms, but the main selling point is the balcony and view. You can enjoy watching the waves roll past as you sit and relax in your room.
  • Club Balcony Suite – Has the beautiful ocean view and balcony, but you also have a sitting room which gives you extra space to spread out. It also has a luxury bath and shower.
  • Suite – Pure luxury with an aft-facing balcony, a queen-size bed and sofa bed. Some have a living and dining area with butler and concierge service.
  • The Haven – Located at the top of the ship, with large bedrooms, luxury bath and shower, a living area, dining area, private balcony and access to a private courtyard, plus a butler and concierge service.

Restaurants and Speciality Dining

ncl jade lido deck pool and hot tubs

  • Moderno Churrascaria – Brazilian food
  • Cagney’s Steakhouse
  • Garden Café – Buffet Restaurant
  • The Great Outdoors – Buffet Restaurant
  • La Cucina – Italian Restaurant
  • Topsiders Bar and Grill – Pool Side Snacks
  • Jasmine Garden – Asian Resturant
  • Atrium Café – Cakes and Pastries
  • Alizar – Main Dining Restaurant
  • Grand Pacific – Main Dining Restaurant
  • Le Bistro – French Cuisine
  • O’Sheehan’s Neighborhood Bar and Grill
  • Spinnaker Lounge – At the top of the ship, so you can expect incredible views.
  • The Atrium Bar – This is quite a central spot on the ship, but in all honesty we didn’t really feel a comfy vibe there. It was next to guest services and as such can get busy and there were better bars. They serve the usual drinks, plus coffees and pastries. You will also see live music performed during the evening.
  • Jade Club Casino Bar – For those of you who fancy a tipple as you’re playing your favourite slot machine.
  • Magnum’s Champagne and Wine Bar – Perfect if you’re after some bubbles to finish your day at sea. Magnums has an extensive list of wines and champagne which would suit even the biggest connoisseurs out there. It’s also next to the live entertainment, so an ideal spot for those of you after a chilled night.
  • Mixers Martini and Cocktail Bar – If you’re looking for something a little fruitier for your drink, then head to Mixers. We were impressed by the range of cocktails that was offered on board.
  • Sake Bar – Next to the Jasmine restaurant and although it is only small, it offers a number of Sake options.
  • Bliss Ultra Lounge – Has more of a night club vibe to it, so as you can imagine there’s plenty of low lighting. Karaoke was held here most nights and DJ’s or live bands played.
  • Java Café and Bar – For those of you in need of a caffeine hit, the Java Café serves frozen coffee, espressos, cappuccinos, teas, pastries and cookies.
  • Sugarcane Mojito Bar – Another option for the cocktail fans out there.
  • The Pitstop – One of the two options on the top deck for those of you who like a tipple as you catch some rays. They offer a wide range of options including cocktails, some of which are frozen and delicious.
  • Topsiders Bar and Grill – Very similar to the Pitstop, just a bigger bar and closer to the pool. You have an excellent range of beers, spirits and cocktails.
  • Tankards Beer and Whiskey Bar – They have a great list of whiskey and beer, plus it’s close enough to the live entertainment that you can hear it, but far enough that you can still chat.
  • The Great Outdoors – This is both the buffet restaurant and a bar, so grab some amazing food and a tipple of your choice and check out the scenery.
  • O’Sheehan’s – The Irish bar is mainly a restaurant, but there is a section for anyone who simply wants a drink.

Daytime – Generally on NCL the dress code is quite relaxed with most people wearing swimming costumes, shorts, flip flops and t-shirts. Obviously if you’re going into the buffet restaurant then wear something over your swimming costume and bare feet is not allowed.

Evening – Most people who have never cruised before imagine ball gowns and tuxedos. Those days are long gone and instead you simply dress smartly. So, no beach wear, just more of the clothes you would wear to a restaurant or on a night out.

Additional Facilities on the Norwegian Jade Cruise Ship

mykonos town cruise ncl

  • Blazing Boots – Which is a tribute show to classic country pop songs, so you will enjoy a wide range from tear jerkers to those favourites which get your feet tapping.
  • Elements – A show based on the four elements Earth, Air, Wind and Fire. This was the second show we saw and in all honesty, we didn’t think it would be our kind of thing, but wow. There are acrobatic elements to the show, but we won’t say anymore and ruin it for you.
  • Palace of Lights – Sadly we didn’t see this one, but it is themed on 1950’s Cuba with salsa and mambo, and incredible music.

Perspectives Studio – This is a professional photography studio where you can have portraits taken to capture the memories of an incredible holiday.

Professional Portraits – Very similar to the studio, expect you’ll find the photographers located around the ship with varying backgrounds. There is no cost to sitting and having your picture taken, then you can go and check it out afterwards to see if you want to buy it. On every cruise we have taken, the staff will photograph you as you board the ship. It’s simply a step to get through as you embark, and you can purchase the photo as a holiday souvenir.

Art Gallery – Yes you read that correctly! There was quite an extensive range of pieces from varying artists. We would recommend that you take a look early, because you will be surprised by how many pieces were sold.

Basketball/Volleyball/Tennis Court – Our cruise had a port every single day, so most of the time the court was empty, but we did find the occasional person playing basketball.

Business Centre and Meeting Rooms – They offer the Scalzi Bridge rooms, the Academia Bridge room, and the Rialto Bridge room for any business meetings.

Card Room – For those of you who love a little competition, why not head to the card room and play some games. There is plenty to choose from including board games and chess.

Cigar Lounge – Within this area you are allowed to smoke in public, but what makes it extra special is the fact that the Cigar Club is a relaxed space. They offer a number of premium cigars and spirits such as cognacs, so if this is your thing then why not treat yourself.

Entourage Teen Club – The ship caters for the youngsters too because they have their own space away from parents. Made to imitate a surfer’s paradise, the teen club has lots of things to do, including video games and air hockey.

Fitness Centre – With incredible views out of the side of the ship, the fitness centre has both cardio and weights equipment. It is one of the better equipped gyms we have seen on our travels and is open from 6am to 11pm. There is always someone available for assistance and they are great for advice on technique.

Hot Tubs – There is an incredible four hot tubs on the NCL Jade, and they are heaven! Especially after you’ve had a long day walking around sightseeing, it’s bliss to soak your weary bones in the warm bubbles. Of course, they can get busy, but we found that during the day when you are ashore and people were on excursions, that most of them were empty.

Internet Café – You can purchase Wi-Fi on the ship, but it is pretty expensive. We had free roaming for Greece, so when we went ashore it was fine to use our contracted data. It was only at night when the ship was at sea we didn’t have any internet, which was fine for us. If you want to contact people at home but not purchase any additional packages, then you can use the internet café.

Jade Casino – We’re not professionals, but we like to dabble every so often. The Jade Casino is an impressive space with a bit of everything from Roulette, Blackjack, Craps, slots, and Poker. There is a raft of slot machines with minimum deposits to suit all types of bettors. As you can imagine the best way to credit is via your room card.

Jogging/Walking Track – Found on the top deck and circling around the tennis/basketball court is the jogging/walking track which we used a few times.

Library – If you’re looking for something to read, forgotten your book or finished the one you brought, then fear not because NCL Jade has its own library with a great selection.

Mandara Spa and Salon – A beautiful relaxing spa with several treatment options including massage and nail treatments.

Pool – Located on deck 12 this is one of the larger pools we have seen on a cruise ship, and it was the perfect way to cool down in the Mediterranean sun. Topsiders Bar and Grill is located next to it and servers walk around taking drink orders, so you don’t even need to move from your sun lounger.

Sapphire Kid’s Pool – This is a kid’s section for little swimmers which has a shallow pool with a slide.

Spa Thermal Suite – The perfect treat for those of you who are after a relaxing holiday. This form of sauna helps your body detox and improves circulation.

ncl jade cruise ship pool

The Chapel – Available daily for anyone who wants to use it, but it can also be used as a meeting room.

Video Arcade – With a great range of games, this is the perfect pitstop for those of you after a bit of fun.

Shopping – It may be a cruise ship, but that doesn’t mean you cannot shop till you drop. This is what’s available on board:

  • Effy Jewellery – Is a fine jewellery brand.
  • Galleria Shops – A range of duty-free items, including jewellery, handbags, alcohol and perfume.
  • The Galleria Boutique – Forgotten your bathing suit or you need a need t-shirt? Then head to the Galleria for a great range of clothing.
  • The Photo Gallery – they have a range of items such as cameras, binoculars, camera accessories, frames, and photo souvenirs.
  • The Tides – If you are thinking about your next cruise already, then head to the Tides and see what deals they have to offer.

NCL Jade Food and Drink

No matter your food preferences, we are sure that the Norwegian Jade will be able to accommodate you. We are predominantly plant based and as such asked what NCL vegan options were available in the buffet restaurant each day and the following day for evening meals. In all our experiences of cruising and travelling abroad, we have never eaten so well and so much. If you have any special food requirements, then head to the main restaurant on the first day and inform them. They will either take the information or they will tell you where to go.

We went to the Jasmine restaurant where a food specialist took our details and entered it against our room. This meant that for every meal they were aware and could prepare a dish especially for us. We would pick what we wanted to eat during our meal for the following evening and enjoyed varied dishes such as burritos, curries, chillies and stir-fry’s. Starters ranged from tomato bruschetta, soups, and spring rolls. The dessert was always a fruit plate, because sadly they didn’t have anything cake based for us to enjoy.

Within the buffet restaurant we informed the chef about our preferences, and they walked around and pointed out what was available to us. This was ideal and we didn’t realise how much we could have, especially those of you who love a good curry.

If you’re not limited food wise then boy are you in for a treat, because they pretty much offer everything you could want. The buffet restaurant has a multitude of options for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Then add in the main restaurant which has an array of starters, mains, and desserts. Finally throw in the speciality restaurants and it can all become quite overwhelming. Even in the bar areas such as O’Sheehan’s and Topsider’s, you can grab a burger and fries or a sandwich. To give you some examples they had stews, soups, cheese toasties, omelettes, pizzas, lasagne, sandwiches, cakes, salads and so on and so on. Pretty much something to suit everyone’s palette, even a sushi bar!

When it comes to drinks again there are so many options its difficult to list them all. The bars have an array of cocktails, wines, beers, and spirits, which will vary depending on which one you’re at. Within the buffet restaurant you can enjoy fruit juices or an alcoholic beverage; we loved the white wine. But you also have coffee and tea places dotted around, with options such as green tea being available.

Activities on the Cruise Ship

Every night when your room is turned down, an activities sheet is left called ‘Freestyle Daily’. It will provide information on the port that you will visit the following day, including if it is a tender port or not. But it will also list the activities for the following day with the time and where to go on the ship, including live music, games, shows and any offers or competitions.

The list is too extensive for us to put here, but to give you a few examples, there was live music every night on a number of spots on the ship. You had DJ’s day and night, karaoke in the bliss lounge, bingo every night, and then extra activities such as learning Spanish, yoga lessons, wine or whiskey tastings and singles mixers. There’s pretty much something for everyone, all ages, so you’ll never be bored.

Places Visited During NCL Greek Island Cruise

norwegian jade greek island cruise attractions and excursions

The best part of European cruises is that most cruise ships dock in the main towns, so that you can simply walk in to explore. Unlike Caribbean cruises where you have to book an excursion to really see the place you’ve visited. So, we opted to just get off the ship and have a wander, rather than booking the excursions. But we will give you an idea of what is available on each stop, just in case you would rather do more than see the local town.

We found the prices of excursions to be quite steep, especially in comparison to the Caribbean options. At the time we looked (November 2021), transfers to the beach alone were 33 euros which to us didn’t seem worth the money.

We’ll give you a little information on what each port had to offer and the main excursions. You can then decide what is best for you on your holiday.

Known as the Ibiza of the Greek Islands, Mykonos offers a party atmosphere during peak season with its many nightclubs. Of course, this isn’t going to be a focus for people on a cruise ship, so what else does Mykonos have to offer?

You will dock in Tourlos which is close to Mykonos Town, but unlike the advice we had read before we went, we strongly advise that you do not walk to the town. There is a free shuttle bus provided to and from the town, and both are obviously sign posted. The actual walk is quite a distance, and it can be on roads with no pavements, so save some time and just hop on the bus.

Within Mykonos Town you can enjoy the iconic row of 16 th century windmills, Paraportiani Orthodox Church and Little Venice. There are quaint tourist and jewellery shops, plus plenty of restaurants and bars to stop and relax for a coffee.

What makes Mykonos Town so beautiful is the endless rows of whitewashed houses, with little blue doors. The iconic images we normally associate with Santorini. Most people from the ship followed each other along the same tourist route to the windmills at the end.

We did the same, but on the way back wandered further into the town through the little streets and took the most beautiful pictures. Mykonos is a photographer’s dream, with bougainvillea draped everywhere and sleepy local cats whiling away the hours in the midday sun.

In all honesty we didn’t feel like we needed an excursion and most of the excursions were in the same areas we walked too anyway. So, it depends if you’re after an in-depth history of the place or you simply like to walk about and take it all in.

If you’re definitely interested in an excursion, then here are a few of the more popular ones.

  • Let’s Take a Selfie – Take the perfect selfie in Mykonos to share with family and friends,
  • Made in Mykonos – Sample locally made products such as cheese, yoghurt, beer and organic dishes.
  • Delos: Birthplace of Artemis and Apollo – The birthplace of the Goddess Artemis and God Apollo is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • Mykonos on Foot – A walking tour exploring the beauty of Mykonos, both lifestyle and history.

Just a couple of extra tips for those of you who decide to wander around the town. Firstly, look out for Petros the pelican who tends to hang around Little Venice. He’s famous for posing with tourists as they take a selfie or photo and has now become an icon of Mykonos Town. Secondly try and bring smaller notes when you get your Euros, it helps when you are buying any touristy bits in the smaller shops.

One of the lesser-known islands on our cruise, Patmos is famous for being the place where the disciple/apostle John had his visions as told in the Book of Revelation of the New Testament. It was also where the book was said to be written.

To visit Patmos you will have to board a tender boat to sail over to the shore, which is really easy. The port is small, and it leads into a little town of shops, restaurants and bars. Its quite nice to wander around for an hour or so and look at the shops.

If you’re interested in heading further afield then at the top of a hill is the Monastery of Saint John the Theologian. This was built in 1088 and has elaborate frescos and chapels, plus there is a museum in connection to the monastery.

Between the Monastery which is in Chora and the port town of Skala, you will find the Cave of the Apocalypse. It is meant to be the location where John the disciple wrote the Book of Revelation.

If you’re interested in excursions in Patmos, then there are two that NCL offer, and they both involve a tour of the cave and Monastery which are both UNESCO Sites. If you prefer to go yourself then you can get a taxi from Skala to the Monastery and the driver will wait for you for an hour; the cost is 40 Euros. We had read that you can walk to the monastery but from speaking to people who attempted it, it was too dangerous as there was no proper pathway.

rhodes ncl jade greek island cruise

The best part is the fact that Rhodes Town is a 10-minute walk from the cruise port, so you don’t need any buses or tender boats. Just outside the port you will find taxis and a hop on hop off bus. The bus route is only small, but they are pretty good options for getting around a new area and learning about what you are seeing.

We loved wandering around Rhodes Town, not only was there plenty to do, but it was incredibly beautiful and perfect for those Instagram pictures. But if you want to try one of the excursions then here are a few offered by NCL;

  • Highlights of Rhodes – Begins at the old port of Mandraki and tour historic sites around the island.
  • Ancient Lindos and its Acropolis – Head to the ancient town of Lindos and visit the beautiful acropolis.
  • Traditions of Rhodes and Home Visit – Board a coach through the New Town of Rhodes, along Mandraki Harbour and Fort Nicholas. Up to Monte Smith hill for views of the ancient stadium and the Temple of Apollo. Then a visit to Koskinou to a home decorated with local art ceramic plates and observe the techniques of the potter’s craft.

This is the capital of Crete and is known as a port city, due to the massive dock and marina. Within Heraklion you will find two monuments, the Palace of Knossos and Phaistos Palace. Around the cities Venetian port is a 16 th century fortress called Koules and within the walls you will find Turkish and Venetian fountains.

Because the cruise port in Heraklion is so big you cannot just walk off and into the town. There is a free shuttle bus back and forth, similar to when you disembark in Mykonos.

Some of the excursions available in Heraklion via NCL are;

  • Go Local, Cretan Village of Krousonas – Explore the village of Krousonas, including the St Irene of Kroussonas Monastery.
  • Knossos and Village Life – Explore the village of Knossos and the village of Arolithos to see how people lived in the past.
  • Scenic Agios Nicolaos – Head to Elounda and stroll around the resort town of Agios Nikolaos, with a bustling harbour, restaurants and shops.

When you port in Katakolon you will have the opportunity to visit Olympian, the site of the first Olympic Games which took place in 776 B.C. The journey is about 40 minutes by bus, and you will arrive to an ancient ruin of pillars and statues. The site includes the Temple of Zeus which is considered one of the Seven Wonders of the World.

If you haven’t booked an excursion on the ship then you can either get a taxi or a bus, there are plenty available. Next to the cruise port is a small town with a few shops and restaurants. There is also a little beach nearby, which is nothing spectacular, but we saw a turtle on the beach as we strolled along. Within the town you can jump on a little train which takes you around the local area for a cost of 6 Euros.

Some of the excursions available through NCL are.

  • Olympia and Archaeological Museum – Visit the Olympic Stadium, Temple of Zeus and the Archaeological Museum.
  • Olympia and Wine Tasting – Not only will you visit the Olympic site, but you will also go to a family-owned vineyard and tour the winery. You will have a chance to taste the wines produced by the Kanellakopoulos family.

Oia Santorini - ncl jade cruise greece

Because Santorini doesn’t have a cruise port you have to take a tender boat to the port of Skala, also known as the old port. This is at the base of the Caldera Cliffs in Fira which is the capital of Santorini. To get from the bottom of the cliff to the top you have three options.

  • Get the cable car,
  • Walk the 587 steps from Skala or Fira,
  • Ride on a donkey up the steps.

If you’re energetic and fancy the walk then good for you, we normally take on the challenge, but we took a different route. We would recommend not using the donkey option and the cruise ship prewarn passengers that it is unsafe. Not only can the saddles be loose and as such you can fall off, but the donkeys are seriously mistreated by their owners. This really only leaves one final option if you’re going directly to Fira, but in all honesty it is so much fun and the views are incredible.

We took the cable car on the route back and it cost us 6 Euros, so you’re looking at 12 Euros for a return ticket. The total journey is 4 minutes maximum, and it will take you right into the shops, so you don’t have to walk very far.

Before we went on the cruise, we researched places to visit in Santorini and was told that Oia was the place to go. Oia is where you will see the whitewashed houses and blue roofs, but it is further up the island. A taxi will take about 30 to 40 minutes and we were told it was an average of 15 Euros each way.

When we arrived, we saw a company with a fast boat to Oia, now we will prewarn you, we waited ages to leave. The company won’t begin the journey until the boat is full and then we didn’t find it that fast, but it was a better option than getting a taxi. We paid 20 Euros in total and that included the boat, a bus from the dock in Oia to the top of the cliff and then a bus from Oia back to Fira. If you were a couple that is a total of 40 Euros, but the taxi route would be 30 Euros minimum. There is a steep walk from the port in Oia to the bus pick up so it would be impossible for anyone with health issues or mobility problems.

When you reach the main touristy spot in Oia you will be happy, because it’s as beautiful as the pictures. Most of the stepped areas are private sections specifically for the hotels, so just be careful where you are wandering. There are lots of shops and restaurants to spend time in, but the streets are small, and they got busy quickly. Bear in mind we travelled there in November, so we can imagine it’s bedlam in peak season.

We just wandered along and took a raft of pictures and then grabbed a drink, before heading back on the bus to Fira. The capital of Santorini is pretty big and has so much to offer the shopaholics out there, so make sure you leave plenty of time before heading back to the ship. There are lots of churches and museums if you fancy gaining some knowledge about the island itself. But we just enjoyed the sunshine and the chance to stroll around.

There are a number of NCL excursions in Santorini, including:

  • Let’s Take a Selfie – A tour guide will show you the best spots to take the perfect pictures and add in a little history as you go.
  • Santorini’s Musical Heritage – Visit Pyrgo’s a little village where you can discover how Greek musical instruments are made. The you will head to a local winery and sample a selection of wines and local delicacies.
  • Greek Style Celebration – Opa! – Head to Oia and visit a renowned Greek restaurant with incredible food, wine, music and dancing. They will perform ‘Zorba the Greek’ whilst breaking plates whilst the bouzouki plays.

Hopefully we’ve covered everything you will need whether you have booked this trip or not. As we mentioned above, we booked the cruise very last minute and so did less preparation than normal. Also, we had the covid element to contend with, such as additional paperwork. But upon reflection now we have returned from the trip, including staying in Athens, it was all so easy.

Boarding the ship was straightforward, the food and drinks were incredible and that’s with dietary restrictions. The staff went above and beyond for us, and the room was bigger than we expected. Then add in the incredible ports, with many being simple walks away from the ship and you have the perfect vacation.

The only negative we found and it’s a personal opinion, is that the excursions were pretty expensive. When you compare them to the Caribbean cruise options; simply going to the beach was 33 Euros each which seemed excessive to us. But again, we didn’t feel the need to book any, but we would still recommend taking a look at them and seeing what you think. Just as a side note the winery tours tend to be pretty early starts, so be aware that you’ll be drinking alcohol earlier than normal.

If you decide to book, or you have already booked, then we wish you a wonderful time and please tag us into your Instagram pictures, we love to see your adventures.

  • Norwegian Cruise Line

NCL Excursion Reviews

By Coastalbreezes , May 16, 2016 in Norwegian Cruise Line

Recommended Posts

Cool Cruiser

Coastalbreezes

When I was deciding on what excursions to take on my upcoming cruise, I found it so helpful to read the reviews on NCL's website. Some excursions that sounded great had some terrible reviews and others enlightened me that it might be an hour catamaran ride followed by a 45 minute bus ride to get to a particular place (something I wouldn't be interested in).

One thing I did notice is that most excursions only had a few reviews (maybe a few had 10 or more but that was the minority).

Considering the thousands of people who take excursions, I was surprised that there weren't more reviews.

To those who post them, thank you. And if you do take a ship-sponsored trip, I would love to read about your experience. It really helps especially with the high cost involved for most of them.

Link to comment

Share on other sites.

30,000+ Club

BirdTravels

One thing I did notice is that most excursions only had a few reviews (maybe a few had 10 or more but that was the minority).   Tracy

I am a "Top 10" shoreex reviewer on NCL.com. The majority of the reviews that I have done over the years are no longer on the NCL website. I've never tied to figure out how it all works.

I had originally assumed that between seasons, tours were removed from the website when they were no longer offered. Then when the cruise line contracts with a tour provider for the next season, they were created with no reviews. Now I just don't know.

All I can say is that there were many more reviews written than what you find on the web site.

Like

You would be shocked at how many posters just walk aimlessly around the ports and don't venture further...so no reviews needed

Many just take a cab to the beach...which is a perfect thing to do in the Carib...so no reviews

Sent from my iPad using Forums

When I was deciding on what excursions to take on my upcoming cruise, I found it so helpful to read the reviews on NCL's website. Some excursions that sounded great had some terrible reviews and others enlightened me that it might be an hour catamaran ride followed by a 45 minute bus ride to get to a particular place (something I wouldn't be interested in).   One thing I did notice is that most excursions only had a few reviews (maybe a few had 10 or more but that was the minority).   Considering the thousands of people who take excursions, I was surprised that there weren't more reviews.   To those who post them, thank you. And if you do take a ship-sponsored trip, I would love to read about your experience. It really helps especially with the high cost involved for most of them.   Tracy

Something to remember is that when booking an ncl excursion....you are basically using the same operators that you would book if booking on your own

Price notwithstanding....it is quite likely that you won't even be able to book a particular say snorkel excursion on your own in many case as ncl has already booked the boats for their excursions

When you can find a private snorkel excursion the prices are usually very high but you are getting more time

While you can dig around to find one I myself have found it easier to do certain excursions through the ship

Fwiw the last thing I want or need is a bus tour of an island. If I book ncl tours I want snorkeling or I can just grab a cab to a beach....which btw in a place like st kitts will also get you a stop on a mountaintop to see the monkeys and where the Atlantic and Carib meet.

Any taxi driver worth their salt in st kitts knows to stop there if you are going to that part of the island

99% of the time I am cruising solo so I only take NCL excursions because I don't feel comfortable jumping in a taxi alone.

I love going to the beach and for my upcoming cruise, I was about to book a certain beach excursion when I decided to read the reviews. Most of them talked about how rocky the beach was, lots of seaweed and how the local vendors refused to leave you alone. Not my idea of fun so I nixed the idea.

Fortunately by continuing to read additional reviews, I found the perfect beach trip.

I submitted a review of an excursion in Tangier that was a bit critical - NCL never published it.

Jenjer

Check out the ports of call you are visiting here on CC you will get more info than you will ever find on NCL's web site. Or any one ships web site.

Or check out Trip advisor.

The posted ones are approved by NCL so not everything gets posted.

That's too bad because I would think it would help others make an informed decision. I've also written some critical (yet honest) reviews and have had both my positive and negative ones published.

99% of the time I am cruising solo so I only take NCL excursions because I don't feel comfortable jumping in a taxi alone.   I love going to the beach and for my upcoming cruise, I was about to book a certain beach excursion when I decided to read the reviews. Most of them talked about how rocky the beach was, lots of seaweed and how the local vendors refused to leave you alone. Not my idea of fun so I nixed the idea.   Fortunately by continuing to read additional reviews, I found the perfect beach trip.   Tracy

I don't actually believe you would be solo in a taxi to the beach anyway.

They usually wait until the van is full or semi full and then try to agree on a pick up time at the beach for the group

That's been our experience anyway

We get in taxi...with others whom we do not know...but who usually are agreeable to whatever beach the group wants....although you can go to any beach you want but the dispatchers know to group riders by beach preference....then....

Upon drop off at the beach the group usually agrees to a pick up time....as no one wants to miss the ship

Its all very civilized and easy

The group can agree to make sure they locate you before they leave just to be sure you don't miss the ride back

No need to stay with them at the beach but honestly just agree to meet up at agreed upon time

All pax have the same concerns so you will be ok doing this IMHO

I have to debate the NCL sanctioned excursions. Coming off the Getaway back in the end of April, this was the first time I booked third party excursions (and one NCL) for this trip. And to be honest, I did a lot of reading here (CC) and with TripAdvisor to select my excursions. The cost savings is substantial when you are a family; (I had two adults and two kids). Every NCL excursion was a budget buster and I saved at least close to $200 per excursion going third party. Each one had absolute assurances to make sure you didn't miss your boat. Many rely on reviews to maintain their business model and they know we (Americans) like to speak our mines so many won't risk a bad review.

I did Cozumel (last port) on NCL as a "last minute" selection since we had nothing planned. The cost was the highest of all the excursions.

Do your homework and have confidence that there are plenty of good third party excursions out there.

Hope this helps.

atomax

Don't forget to join your roll call and go to the Meet & Greet! Most people on the roll call have already researched/arranged independent tours (many based on Trip Advisor reviews and are looking for people to round out their groups. If the groups are full, you can contact the tour operator directly about starting another group.

We have never done a ship-operated tour, most because they are so expensive, and the groups are always sooo large! On private tours, you have smaller groups/buses, so it is easier and faster to get around/stay ahead of the ship tours.

On our most recent cruise, we met up with a couple from our M&G. The husband would go ashore as soon as the ship was cleared, survey all the tour operators selling tours, and then negotiate a price for a group of us (made up of M&G'ers and other people we met on the cruise). We ended up saving a ton of money on these private excursions, and the service was often better because the companies are smaller and more reliant on good reviews on sites such as TA.

Last three posts = great suggestions!

  • 5 years later...

pghflyer

Has this not changed in the last 6-years?  Still no way to post a tour review (I just poked around for 20 minutes and couldn't figure it out)?  The descriptions on their reviews leaves MUCH to be desired (ex. recent "7 hour tour including Mayan ruins etc"....but 6 of it is BUS transport time). 

I guess as the seller (and profiter), they are likely not going to want any negative reviews so I suppose I am not surprised, but I never realized they were so curated.

Happycrafter123

I really wish there were reviews posted for the NCL excursions too.  Upcoming Baltic cruise, and I’ve compared prices with other tour operators, when factoring in the free at sea discount, it really is about the same price give or take a couple dollars as going with non-NCL operators, but not sure of the quality, and really don’t like the risk of missing boat…. 

Sailing12Away

Sailing12Away

Best bet is to search in the port of call forums. That's where you'll get unfiltered and honest opinions on the best (and worst) cruise-sponsored tours, as well as options for ones found via Viator or private companies.

  • 1 year later...
On 5/16/2016 at 8:43 AM, BirdTravels said:   I am a "Top 10" shoreex reviewer on NCL.com. The majority of the reviews that I have done over the years are no longer on the NCL website. I've never tied to figure out how it all works.   I had originally assumed that between seasons, tours were removed from the website when they were no longer offered. Then when the cruise line contracts with a tour provider for the next season, they were created with no reviews. Now I just don't know.   All I can say is that there were many more reviews written than what you find on the web site.

do you have a place where you posted your reviews? looking for the mediterranean

littlelulu01

littlelulu01

18 hours ago, Joan18 said: do you have a place where you posted your reviews? looking for the mediterranean

https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2727265-mediterranean-ship-excursions-review/page/2/#replyForm

Not Bird travels but I posted reviews of about 14 Mediterranean ncl excursions on this review.  It was just prior to the pandemic but same excursions still on offer through ncl so you might get some ideas. 

Thanks

12 minutes ago, littlelulu01 said: https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2727265-mediterranean-ship-excursions-review/page/2/#replyForm Not Bird travels but I posted reviews of about 14 Mediterranean ncl excursions on this review.  It was just prior to the pandemic but same excursions still on offer through ncl so you might get some ideas. 

I remember reading your review, it was great!

19 hours ago, Joan18 said: do you have a place where you posted your reviews? looking for the mediterranean

Sorry. They were NCL reviews which are probably OBE. The pandemic cancelled our last med cruise and we have been staying closer to home since. 

Please sign in to comment

You will be able to leave a comment after signing in

  • Welcome to Cruise Critic
  • New Cruisers
  • Cruise Lines “A – O”
  • Cruise Lines “P – Z”
  • River Cruising
  • Cruise Critic News & Features
  • Digital Photography & Cruise Technology
  • Special Interest Cruising
  • Cruise Discussion Topics
  • UK Cruising
  • Australia & New Zealand Cruisers
  • Canadian Cruisers
  • North American Homeports
  • Ports of Call
  • Cruise Conversations

Announcements

  • New to Cruise Critic? Join our Community!

Write Your Own Amazing Review !

WAR_icy_SUPERstar777.jpg

Click this gorgeous photo by member SUPERstar777 to share your review!

Features & News

LauraS

LauraS · Started Friday at 07:21 PM

LauraS · Started Friday at 03:17 PM

LauraS · Started Thursday at 04:15 PM

LauraS · Started Thursday at 03:00 PM

LauraS · Started Thursday at 10:41 AM

Z72_9339 - Copy.jpg

  • Existing user? Sign in OR Create an Account
  • Find Your Roll Call
  • Meet & Mingle
  • Community Help Center
  • All Activity
  • Member Photo Albums
  • Meet & Mingle Photos
  • Favorite Cruise Memories
  • Cruise Food Photos
  • Cruise Ship Photos
  • Ports of Call Photos
  • Towel Animal Photos
  • Amazing, Funny & Totally Awesome Cruise Photos
  • Write a Review
  • Live Cruise Reports
  • Member Cruise Reviews
  • Create New...

Norwegian Cruise Line

  • View Results
  • 1 (current)

* Terms & Conditions Package not available on sailings less than 5 days or charter sailings.

twitter share quote

Norwegian Cruise Line Launches 2024 Europe Season: New Homeports, Endless Adventure and Unmatched Value

This Year, NCL Offers More than 100 Immersive Europe Itineraries from 13 Homeports Across Nine Ships, Including Its Newest Prima Class Vessels

Company to Launch First-Ever Summer Season of Sailings Between New York City to Reykjavik, Iceland Beginning July 2024 

NCL Delivers an Incredible Value-for-Money Travel Experience with Inclusive Vacation Enhancing Benefits with its Free at Sea Offer

  • Norwegian Viva - Aerial - Lisbon Norwegian Viva in Lisbon during her first call on Aug. 19, 2023
  • Norwegian Escape - Santorini - Composite
  • Norwegian Prima in Reykjavik, Iceland
  • Norwegian Star - Aerial Norwegian Star at sea Pacific Coast

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), the innovator in global cruise travel with a 57-year history of breaking boundaries, launched its 2024 Europe travel season on April 19, 2024 with the arrival of Norwegian Epic to its seasonal homeport of Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy, before embarking on a 10-day Greek Isles and Italy voyage.

During this summer travel season, guests embarking on NCL cruises in Europe will have the opportunity to choose from 101 distinctive itineraries with 38 roundtrips and 63 open-jaw sailings, calling to 140 captivating ports across Northern Europe, the Mediterranean, Greek Isles, and the Atlantic Coast.  Additionally, guests can fully explore highlight destinations such as Istanbul, Turkey; Florence (Livorno), Italy and Reykjavik, Iceland with select itineraries offering overnight calls. Cruises will be departing from 13 homeports with New York City; Le Havre (Paris), France; and Oslo, Norway being three brand new options for NCL voyages to Europe.  The Company will have a total of nine ships 1 in region, including its newest innovative vessels, Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva , as well as Norwegian Escape , which returns to Europe following its first successful season in 2022.

With an average of 10 hours in port, guests can explore at their leisure or choose from a wide range of shore excursions designed to provide guests with an in-depth experience of each destination. For more immersive experiences, NCL offers a unique collection of shore excursions including, Beyond Blueprints, where guests uncover the design secrets and stories of Europe's most iconic architectural landmarks; Gourmet Tours, designed for the foodie-driven traveler allowing them to go behind the scenes of local cuisines; and Go Local, a selection of excursions inviting guests to unveil the everyday rhythms and customs of life in destinations. Guests aiming to spend even more time in Europe and dive deeper into the rich history of the region can take advantage of NCL's expanding Cruisetours program, a pre- or post-cruise-option that includes roundtrip flights, hotel stays, transportation and excursions. Cruisetours are currently available in 10 European destinations, such as Istanbul, Turkey; Paris, France; Barcelona, Spain; Reykjavik, Iceland; Rome and Venice, Italy, amongst others.

“As we return to Europe for this season, our goal remains consistent—curating unmatched and captivating experiences for guests to immerse in Europe’s most iconic and sought-after destinations, while delivering value for them to maximize their journey with us,” says David J. Herrera, president of Norwegian Cruise Line. “In fact, we have found that cruising to Europe with NCL offers up to 40% 2  more value than a similar land-based vacation, making it not just a memorable experience, but a cost-effective one. There is still time for guests to book that last-minute trip to Europe with NCL and enjoy the beauty of waking up in a new destination nearly every day.” 

Not only does a NCL cruise in Europe offer a great value when compared to a similar land-based vacation with comparable services and inclusions 2 , but it also provides a significantly enhanced experience with a variety of offerings to enjoy on board, including high-production value entertainment; up to 20 world-class dining options; and a wide array of shipboard activities suitable for the whole family, from thrilling races on the only three-level racetracks at sea to serene moments in the award-winning Mandara Spa ® .  Moreover, with NCL's Freestyle Cruising philosophy, guests have the freedom to tailor their vacation experience to their preferences, with no fixed schedules or dinner times.  NCL’s freedom of choice and value proposition invites guests to explore the world while enjoying the convenience of unpacking just once and waking up in a new and exciting destination almost every day.  Plus, with NCL’s Free at Sea offer, guests can customize their vacation even more to their desires by receiving value-enhancing vacation perks such as specialty dining, unlimited beverage package, shore excursion credits, free airfare for the second guest, and others.

David J. Herrera,  President of Norwegian Cruise Line

As we return to Europe for this season, our goal remains consistent-curating unmatched and captivating experiences for guests to immerse in Europe's most iconic and sought-after destinations, while delivering value for them to maximize their journey with us. In fact, we have found that cruising to Europe with NCL offers up to 40% 2  more value than a similar land-based vacation, making it not just a memorable experience, but a cost-effective one. There is still time for guests to book that last-minute trip to Europe with NCL and enjoy the beauty of waking up in a new destination nearly every day.  

ncl excursions mykonos

Itinerary highlights for NCL cruises in Europe include:

Norwegian Star Sails a Series of Open-Jaw Sailings to Iceland, Greenland and Canada

Norwegian Star, the only ship in NCL's award-winning fleet equipped for polar navigation, which makes it possible for it to reach ports above the Arctic Circle.  As such, the ship will be the first in the NCL fleet to offer a new summer series of breath-taking and port-rich 12- to 14-day open-jaw sailings between New York City and Reykjavik, Iceland with calls to Akureyri and Grundarfjordur, Iceland; Qaqortoq, Greenland; and St. John's (Newfoundland) and Halifax, Canada. These itineraries will embark in July and August 2024.

Explore the Blue and White Greek Isles with Norwegian Getaway

Norwegian Getaway will homeport in Athens (Piraeus), Greece on June 25 embarking on seven- to 10-day Greek Isles roundtrip itineraries . Each day, the ship will moor at a new port allowing guests to explore bucket-list destinations like Istanbul, Turkey; Iraklion, Santorini and Mykonos, Greece as well as hidden gem Izmir (Ephesus), Turkey. Select departures include overnight stays in Istanbul giving guests more than 24 hours to visit Hagia Sophia, Topkapı Palace and the Grand Bazaar.

Norwegian Viva’s Cruises to the Mediterranean

Between May and November 2024, NCL's newest ship, Norwegian Viva, offers guests a selection of nine, 10- and 11-day open-jaw voyages cruising the Mediterranean. These unique itineraries feature a different embarkation and disembarkation port in sought-after destinations such as Athens (Piraeus), Greece; Lisbon, Portugal; Venice (Trieste) and Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy, allowing travelers the opportunity to plan an extended vacation either pre- or post-cruise. 

Almost No Days at Sea Onboard Norwegian Escape’s Mediterranean Sailings

Norwegian Escape will be the Company's largest vessel in Europe this season at nearly 165,000 gross tons. The ship will homeport in Barcelona, Spain; Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy; and Trieste (Venice), Italy sailing eight- to 10-day roundtrip sailings in the Western Mediterranean calling to a sun-kissed port each day as well as seven- to 11-day open-jaw sailings with stints in Italy, Greece and France with only one day at sea.

Additionally, NCL cruises in Europe are already on sale through December 2025 giving guests the chance to plan and book their next summer getaway early.

For more information about the Company's award-winning 19-ship fleet and worldwide itineraries, or to book a cruise, please contact a travel professional or visit  www.ncl.com .   

1 Norwegian Dawn, Norwegian Epic, Norwegian Escape, Norwegian Getaway, Norwegian Pearl, Norwegian Prima, Norwegian Sky, Norwegian Star, and Norwegian Viva.

2 For the comparison, Norwegian Cruise Line compared the total prices for Fly-Cruise-Packages on peak season sailings onboard Norwegian Escape (Italy, France and Spain) to 4-star hotels in Spain and Italy. The comparison accounted for total prices including roundtrip flights from the U.S. to Spain or Italy, transfers at the destination, staterooms (incl. balcony with sea view), all-inclusive board or Free at Sea upgrade as well as service charges/tips.

IMAGES

  1. Greek Isles Cruises: 10 Things to Do in Mykonos

    ncl excursions mykonos

  2. Mykonos, Greece Made in Mykonos Excursion

    ncl excursions mykonos

  3. 2021 Greek Isles Cruises: Sail to Santorini, Mykonos & More

    ncl excursions mykonos

  4. Mykonos, Greece Mykonos Beach Transfer Excursion

    ncl excursions mykonos

  5. Mykonos, Greece Let's Take a Selfie

    ncl excursions mykonos

  6. NCL Norwegian Star

    ncl excursions mykonos

VIDEO

  1. 🔴🅻🅸🆅🅴🔴Mevagissey :A Serene Harbour Escape in Cornwall, UK!⛵ 🎥Discover the Charm of Cornish Coasts 🚤✨

  2. Norwegian (NCL) GEM Mykonos 🇬🇷

  3. NCL BOSS Scuba Excursion St. Thomas USVI 🐠🛥🤿

  4. 24 HOURS IN MYKONOS (We Had No Plans And Had The Best Time)

  5. Timelapse of MSC Splendida arriving in Mykonos with Norwegian Breakaway anchored

  6. NCL Breakaway Italy & Greek Isles! Welcome to Athens, Greece!

COMMENTS

  1. Mykonos, Greece Shore Excursions

    Mykonos, Greece. Duration 4 hrs. Embark on a cruise to Delos, birthplace of Apollo & Artemis. Explore ruins with augmented-reality tablets, marvel at temples, lions, & mosaic floors. ... Adult from: $165.00 USD. Child from: $115.00 USD. No reviews yet.

  2. Mykonos, Greece Scenic Views of Mykonos Excursion

    Scenic Views of Mykonos. The island of Mykonos is world famous for its stunning scenic beauty comprised of windmills, sparking bays, superb beaches, white houses and churches with their colorful blue and red domes. You'll pass by Ornos Beach, one of the most cosmopolitan beaches on the island with an abundance of luxurious hotels, tavernas and ...

  3. Mykonos, Greece Mykonos On Foot Excursion

    DETAILS. Arguably the best known of all the Greek islands, Mykonos is renowned today for its nightlife, lively beaches, charming narrow streets, white houses and churches. Both the lifestyle and history of the island are showcased during this walking tour. You'll visit the Aegean Maritime Museum, which goal is the preservation, promotion and ...

  4. Mykonos Shore Excursion Reviews

    If time permits, grab a table at Katerina's (Agion Anargyron 8; 22890/23084; open 11 a.m. to 12:30 a.m. from March to November), which has two levels, and nurse a cocktail while you watch the ...

  5. 10 Best Mykonos Excursions & Tours in Greece

    Mykonos, Greece Shore Excursions Best Mykonos Excursions & Tours. Mykonos is a Greek island, part of the Cyclades, and is a very popular Mediterranean cruise port. Thousands a year flock for the island's vibrant nightlife, crystal clear waters, and award-winning restaurants. Compared to the world-renowned Santorini, Mykonos offers better ...

  6. Mykonos In One Day

    These sailing tours allow for time to explore the archaeological site of Delos, but also time for a swim off the coast of Rhenia. The Mykonos boat trips to Delos and Rhenia start from Agios Ioannis port and transfer can be included. 6 Hour Delos and Rhenia Boat Trip. Yacht cruise to Delos and Rhenia.

  7. THE 10 BEST Mykonos Shore Excursions

    This experience offers both; a relaxing beach time to enjoy pristine sands and crystal-clear waters of Aegean Sea, followed…. 7. Half-Day Delos Tour from Mykonos. Seize the opportunity to take a trip back in time and visit the island of Delos, the most famous and sacred of all islands….

  8. Mykonos Shore Excursions

    5 reviews. #14 of 26 Boat Tours & Water Sports in Mykonos Town. Cultural ToursBoat ToursPrivate ToursDay Trips. Closed now. 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM. Write a review. See all photos. About. Mykonos Shore Excursions offers Tours designed for Cruise Ship passengers visiting Mykonos in a day.

  9. Norwegian Cruise Ports: Mykonos, Greece

    Learn more about Mykonos, Greece, a port offered on Norwegian cruises. 800-338-4962 ...

  10. Mykonos Shore Excursion with Pickup from Cruise Ship Terminal

    Discover and book Mykonos Shore Excursion with Pickup from Cruise Ship Terminal on Tripadvisor. Help. If you have questions about this tour or need help making your booking, we'd be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 24412P12. +1 855 275 5071.

  11. Mykonos: Shore Excursion with Cruise Ship Terminal Pickup

    20 Cyclades Activities for couples. 1 Folegandros. 2 Pounta. 3 Agios Arsenios. 4 Psathi. Enjoy a Mykonos sightseeing tour designed for cruise ship passengers who have limited time on Mykonos Island. Visit sights like the Armenistis Lighthouse and take a walking tour of Mykonos Town.

  12. Mykonos Half-Day Guided Shore Excursion with Port Pickup 2024

    A small island with little by way of public transport, Mykonos takes time to get around. Skip the stress and see the essential sights even if you only have a short time in port on this guided half-day shore excursion with pickup from the terminal. Enjoy a walking tour of Mykonos Town, photograph the Mykonos Windmills (Kato Milli), admire Little Venice, see the 15th-century Church of Panagia ...

  13. Greek island cruises: Best NCL cruise shore excursions in Greece

    Norwegian Breakaway's Greek islands cruise from Rome (Civitavecchia) calls at Santorini, Corfu and Mykonos as well as a brilliant selection of Italian destinations, too. We've taken a look at these three gorgeous Greek islands and what you can see, do and eat there on 2023 shore excursions with NCL (don't read if you're hungry!).

  14. Mykonos: Shore Excursion for Cruise Ship Passengers

    5-hour Private Tour with Wine Tasting and Beach Time. Shared Highlights Tour for Cruise Ship Passengers. LGBTQ+ friendly Shared Tour with Beach Time and Party Time. Save up to 23%. From $158.77 $122.25 per person. Check availability. Reserve now & pay later to book your spot and pay nothing today. Give this as a gift.

  15. Mykonos Island (Greece) cruise port schedule

    Mykonos Island cruise port schedule 2024-2025-2026, map, address, ship terminals, hotels, tours, shore excursions. ... Mykonos Island tours, shore excursions, hotels City Tours and Shore Excursions ... NCL-Norwegian Cruise Line inaugurated its 2024 Europe travel season on April 19, 2024, with Norwegian Epic docking in Civitavecchia/Rome, before

  16. NCL Greek Island cruises: Best value shore excursions in Greece

    Scenic Views of Mykonos - 3¼ Hours, snack provided. If you're after beaches and windmills on your Greek cruises, this NCL Mykonos shore excursion is the boy for you. Uncover the charming village of Ano Mera, visit the Panayia Tourliani Monastery and savour yummy Greek appetisers and national spirit ouzo along the way. Careful, the latter ...

  17. Mykonos Cruise Reviews (2024 UPDATED): Ratings of Mykonos Cruise Port

    1 - 10 of 1,103 Mykonos Cruise Reviews. Review for a Europe - Eastern Mediterranean Cruise on MSC Sinfonia. notley-cruise. 2-5 Cruises • Age 50s. Read More. Sail Date: April 2024. Helpful ...

  18. Mykonos, Greece Mykonos Beach Transfer Excursion

    4. hrs Estimate Duration. Mykonos is world famous for its beautiful golden sandy beaches and transparent waters. Along the south coastline of Mykonos lie some of the island's most beautiful beaches. The beach is a short drive from your ship. Here you can enjoy the clear waters of the Aegean Sea along with a sandy beach and the sun.

  19. NCL Beach excursions?

    October 30, 2008. #1. Posted April 21, 2016. We will be cruising the Mediterranean with NCL in late June. In two of the ports we are thinking of signing up for the NCL Beach excursions. In Corfu, the excursion takes us to a resort at Dassia Village where we can use the facilities of the resort while we relax at the beach.

  20. Cruises To Mykonos, Greece

    Mykonos, Greece. Mykonos is a classic Greek Island with whitewashed houses, blue-domed churches and windmills. Add a reputation for beautiful beaches and you'll understand why Mykonos is the most popular island in the Cyclades. Explore the island in a 4 x 4 or take a ferry to the tiny island of Delos. Explore more of Mykonos on a European cruise!

  21. Greek Isles

    On the NCL Jade departing on 10/31 - Mykonos, Patmos, Rhodes, Crete, Olympia, Santorini, and Athens. ... It is because DW and I simply are not big fans of excursions (especially large group excursions). In August we were on quite a few Greek Islands (over 3 weeks) and rented cars on Santorini and Rhodes (we had a different itinerary then the ...

  22. Norwegian Cruise Lines (NCL) Greek Island Cruise

    Norwegian Jade Cruise Ship Statistics. So, let's start with some facts about the ship which was built in 2006 and was refurbished in 2017. It weighs 93,558 gross register tons, The ship can take 2,404 people, It is 294 meters in length and 38 meters max beam (the width of the ship at its widest point), There are 1,037 crew on the ship.

  23. NCL Excursion Reviews

    Norwegian Cruise Line ; NCL Excursion Reviews NCL Excursion Reviews. By Coastalbreezes, May 16, 2016 in Norwegian Cruise Line. Share More sharing options... Followers 3. Recommended Posts. Coastalbreezes. Posted May 16, 2016. Coastalbreezes. Members; 2.9k January 13, 2005; Florida

  24. Norwegian Cruise Line Launches 2024 Europe Season: New Homeports

    Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), the innovator in global cruise travel with a 57-year history of breaking boundaries, launched its 2024 Europe travel season on April 19, 2024 with the arrival of Norwegian Epic to its seasonal homeport of Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy, before embarking on a 10-day Greek Isles and Italy voyage.. During this summer travel season, guests embarking on NCL cruises in ...