greek isles cruise october 2024

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9 Night Greek Isles Cruise

Your ship odyssey of the seas.

A TOP DECK TAKEOVER

North Star ®

Adventure Ocean ®

Splashaway Bay℠

RipCord ® by iFLY ®

New dishes for days.

Giovanni’s℠ Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar

Teppanyaki℠

Chops Grille℠

Downtime that’s up for anything.

Playmakers℠ Bar & Arcade

Bionic Bar ®

Music Hall℠

Day 1: rome, italy.

ANCIENT AND AMAZING

ADVENTURE SQUARED

SACRED SPACES

LOCAL CUISINE

Day 2: Naples / Capri, Italy

popular Shore Excursions

Amazing experiences coming soon..

Go Underground

Church Bells Ring

Local Cuisine

Day 3: Cruising

Trapeze School

Day 4: athens, greece.

Take Me to Church

Mediterranean Romance

Boats and the Bronze Age

Day 5: Mykonos, Greece

COASTAL COSMOPOLITAN

INTO THE BLUE

DIG UP THE PAST

Day 6: Ephesus, Turkey

Window Into Ancient Life

Set Your Sights on Selcuk

Haggle for a Turkish Carpet

Day 7: Santorini, Greece

VOLCANIC WONDERS

IT TAKES A VILLAGE

THE GLASS HALF FULL

Day 8: Chania, Crete

Active Archaeology

Mountain Monasteries

Hike to the Gorge

Day 9: Cruising

El Loco Fresh ®

Chef's Table

Day 10: rome, italy.

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Greek Cruises

Greek Isle cruises deliver ancient wonders and once-in-a-lifetime excursions along with some of the bluest water on earth. See ruins from the dawn of democracy, wind down on a beach, and then indulge in fresh Mediterranean fare, all in one day. Our Greek Isle cruises offer a striking balance between popular attractions and seldom-visited ports. Whether you have 7 days, 12 days, or more, you’ll find just the right itinerary in our wide selection. Wander a brilliant-white maze of shops, restaurants, and homes to a breathtaking overlook. Stand in the same place as the greatest thinkers of all time. Sample flavorful cuisine at a taverna you’ll talk about for years to come. From ancient Athens to sun-dappled Mykonos, colorful Chania to the incredible Olympia, find the best Greek Isle cruises right here.

Europe Cruises    |    Mediterranean Cruises    |    Greece Cruises    |    Cruises from Athens

Highlights from Cruises to Greece

The best greek isle cruises.

History & Culture

Greek Isle Beauty

Explore greek isle ports.

Piraeus (Athens), Greece

Step back in time on your cruise to Greece. Visit the Parthenon, the Temple of Athena Nike, and other ancient ruins. Follow your tour with an open-air dinner in the Plaka neighborhood.

Crete (Souda), Greece

On the northwest coast of the island of Crete, Souda beckons with a romantic Venetian harbor, Old Town’s tangle of streets, and a 500-year-old lighthouse.

Katakolon (Olympia), Greece

The region reveals what it means to be Greek: traditions that go back thousands of years, simple but delicious and healthy cuisine, towering mountains, and crystal blue seas.

Mykonos, Greece

Mykonos is a top choice among the glamourous. Chic tavernas with open terraces line the sea and after the sun dips down, the island sizzles with youthful energy.

Kerkira (Corfu), Greece

Come ashore to Corfu on your Greek Islands cruise, a muse for some of history’s most notable writers. Be inspired with a swim in its azure waters or wander verdant, cypress-dotted hills.

Rhodes, Greece

Even without its immense Helios statue, Rhodes remains one of the most-visited Greek islands with its white-sand beaches, glittering coves and fascinating ruins.

Thira (Santorini), Greece

Santorini has a dizzying array of archeological treasures, sun-bleached villages and world-renowned wines. To top it all, it’s home to one of the most beautiful volcanic calderas in the world.

Gythion (Sparta), Greece

Once the port of ancient Sparta, this lovely fishing town draws its name from gi theon, which means “land of the gods” in Greek. It’s the entryway to the rugged, mountainous realm of the Spartans—the fiercely independent people who rejected foreign rule time and time again.

Kavala (Neapolis), Greece

Northern Greece is often overlooked as a Greek Isle cruise destination, and many will not even have heard of the Macedonian port of Kavála. But the city, and the region it opens into, are both picturesque and culturally important, with a history that encompasses classical times as well as the more modern era.

Mytilene, Nisos Lesbos

Lesbos, Greece is well known for olives and ouzo production, and visitors can see evidence of both everywhere. The island's charms extend beyond those pleasures, though: It’s a beautiful place of open plains, sweeping hills, and sandy beaches with views of Turkey across the water.

Pylos, Greece

Pine-covered hills wrap around the lovely town of Pylos (often referred to as Navarino, its Italian name), in the Messenia region of Greece's Peloponnese. Cobblestoned streets lead down to the harbor, where outdoor cafés overlook the bay. This pleasant scene, however, belies a turbulent history.

Featured Greek Isle Shore Excursions

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Athens (Piraeus) • Santorini • Crete • Rhodes • Ephesus (Kusadasi) • Mykonos • Athens (Piraeus)

Discover the Greek Isles with Olivia

Olivia brings you the BEST of the Greek Isles on this exciting 7-night luxury cruise beginning and ending in Athens. With histories and cultures spanning more than 2,000 years, it’s no wonder that Greece and Turkey are must-see countries. Relax onboard the 5-star Azamara Pursuit while you watch the breathtaking Santorini sunset; travel back in time in the vibrant Crete; feel the medieval presence in picturesque Rhodes; wonder at the ancient cities of Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey; and sunbathe on the idyllic beaches in Mykonos.

Athens (Piraeus), Greece • Santorini, Greece • Crete, Greece • Rhodes, Greece • Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey • Mykonos, Greece • Athens (Piraeus), Greece

Explore Your Itinerary

WHAT'S INCLUDED

• Accommodations for 8 days/7 nights on board the Azamara Pursuit
• All meals, including room service (specialty restaurants have a nominal charge)
• Select standard spirits, international beers and wines served in public areas
• Bottled water, soft drinks, specialty coffees and teas
• Self-service Laundry
• Concierge services for personal guidance and reservations
• Gratuities (covered in NDA fees)
• Olivia signature entertainment and programming
• Personalized Team Olivia assistance throughout

Explore Your Ship

Our Travel Consultants can be reached at USA or Canada: 800.631.6277 or International 415.962.5700 , option 1.

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Olivia is happy to offer a 6-month interest free payment plan (20% deposit and 5 installments) and accepts VISA, MasterCard and Discover.

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Greece and greek islands cruises

Greece, the birthplace of philosophy , the Olympic Games and Western literature , offers an incomparable insight into ancient history and cultural heritage. No exploration of the Mediterranean is truly complete without MSC Greek Island Cruises , which journey through some of the most breath-taking landscapes this part of the world has on display.   Athens , the capital of Greece, has been inhabited for over 3,000 years. Discover more about these ancient roots at archaeological sites such as the Parthenon temple, a symbol of the city and of Greece. Located at the top of the Acropolis, it’s one of the most important cultural monuments in the world.   But beyond the borders of the ancient city are the Greek islands that can only be properly seen on one of our Greek Islands cruises. One-fifth of Greece’s territory is made up of more than 3000 islands, famed the world over for their fantastic variety of beaches. Ranging from extensive white sand beaches to tiny bays surrounded by steep, ocean carved cliffs, there’s a hidden cove for every visitor.   Sail with us on the MSC Greece and Greek Islands Cruise 2024 - 2025 season and you will discover magnificent places such as Mykonos , an eye-catching, white-and-blue stone city offering a fantastic nightlife, or Rhodes , with its old town centre where you can sample delicious Greek yoghurt, served with fresh honey and walnuts.   Throughout the year, there is also a host of cultural and folkloric events that are not to be missed. For visitors, these are an opportunity to enjoy the typical music and dancing, all making for an unforgettable holiday with MSC Greece cruises.   Book an MSC Mediterranean voyage that includes Greek Islands cruises today, and you’ll experience Greece, its islands, and a truly memorable holiday.

DEPARTURE PORTS

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• Ancona (Urbino), Italy
• Bari, Italy
• Bodrum, Turkey
• Brindisi (Lecce), Italy
• Cephalonia, Greece
• Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy
• Dubrovnik, Croatia
• Genoa (Portofino), Italy
• Haifa (Jerusalem), Israel
• Istanbul, Turkey
• Izmir, Turkey
• Katakolon (Olympia), Greece
• Kos, Greece
• Kotor, Montenegro
• Kusadasi, Turkey
• Limassol, Cyprus
• Naples (Pompeii), Italy
• Piraeus (Athens), Greece
• Rhodes (Lindos), Greece
• Santorini, Greece
• Split, Croatia
• Trieste (Venice), Italy
• Venice - Marghera, Italy
• Zadar, Croatia
• Zakynthos, Greece

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Greek Island Cruises

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Romance and culture await on a Greek Island cruise

It’s no wonder the Greek Islands have always been a perennial favorite of travelers. Greece is a magical, romantic destination where you can wander alongside stunning coastlines, explore the ruins of ancient cultures, and dine on fresh Mediterranean cuisine all in one vacation.

On one of our luxury Greek Island cruises, explore far-flung beaches, drift out to sea on catamarans and kayaks, and duck into tiny tavernas where you can eat and drink like a local. From the sun-soaked stone buildings in Santorini to the white-sand beaches that beckon in Mykonos, a Greece cruise is the best way to experience the captivating Greek Islands.

Greek Island Cruise Highlights

Once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

There is no shortage of unforgettable experiences to be had in Greece. Its seascapes and cityscapes are wondrous, from the mighty ruins of the Acropolis to the buzzing, modern city center of Athens. Visit an olive farm in Crete, or embark on a tour of Mykonos Town’s organic wineries. Or, take an intimate, exclusive cooking lesson on how to make local favorites in Santorini’s main square, right in the middle of it all.

Ancient History

Greece is a world-renowned destination for history buffs. Stroll through the Acropolis and marvel at human achievement, or visit the Museum of Cycladic Art to study Aegean and Cypriot artifacts. Examine the 400-year-old remains of a town buried under volcanic ash outside of Santorini. Explore the historic forts of Corfu, or hop on a boat ride to Delos, said to be the birthplace of Apollo.

Natural Wonders

Discover Elafonisi Beach, a paradise of pink, powdery sand and shallow waters off the island of Crete. Take an unforgettable cruise through the impressive Corinth Canal on a shore excursion in Athens. Stand in awe at the base of Mount Olympus, Greece’s highest mountain and the fabled home of the Greek gods. In Zakynthos, don’t miss a visit to the awe-inspiring Shipwreck Beach, which often tops best-of lists.

Featured Ports

Santorini, Greece

Travelers flock to Santorini for its cobalt-roofed homes, friendly locals, and fine local wine. On this crescent-shaped island, soak up the sun at black-sand beaches like Perissa, or spend a day at the Santorini Caldera, one of the only places in the world to see submerged remnants of an erupted volcano. Sample Greek wines at family-owned wineries dotting the Aegean coast, and take the time to marvel at the incredible panoramas all around you.

Mykonos, Greece

Mykonos is the quintessential Mediterranean beach destination. Choose your favorite to spend the day on, or book a sailing excursion to go beach hopping. Take a day trip beyond Mykonos to the nearby island of Delos, an uninhabited archeological site said to be the birthplace of Greek gods. Experience an authentic side of the island with a home-cooking class, where you’ll sample and prepare delicious local specialties.

Athens, Greece

To visit the capital of Greece is to take a trip back in time, whether you’re exploring the narrow streets of the Plaka District or hiking the Acropolis for well-earned views of the Parthenon. After a day of exploration, pop into a taverna for Mediterranean meze and a cold beer.

Greek Island Cruise Itineraries

Explore the wonders of Greece on 7- to 12-night itineraries available year round. Along with ports of call in the country’s best destinations, our cruises to Greece also include stops in Turkey, Italy, Malta, and beyond. You’ll depart from Rome, Athens, or Barcelona, making it easy to extend your vacation in one of these stunning cities before or after your cruise.

Itineraries

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Corfu, Greece

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Rhodes, Greece

Hydra, Greece

Set Sail on a Greek Island Cruise with Celebrity

Before you ride a donkey to the top of Santorini Island, before you stare in awe at the Acropolis, and before you lose track of time on a warm Mediterranean beach with a cocktail in hand, your journey on board one of our luxury cruise ships is all part of the unforgettable experience. 

Your vacation begins the moment you step on board. Discover the unparalleled service, delectable culinary creations, innovative venues, thrilling performances, and indulgent wellness treatments that take your vacation from good to extraordinary. You’ve never seen Greece like this before.

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Ten of the best small-ship cruises

Not a fan of mega-ships our cruise expert has picked the best boutique sailings to keep things exclusive and adventurous.

T here’s something special about small-ship cruising. You’ll feel a deeper connection to the sea, and there’s a certain pleasure from being docked in chic little ports among the superyachts or anchored in a remote bay far from the crowds. Of course, there won’t be Broadway shows and a choice of restaurants, but simplicity is all part of the appeal. Here are ten of the best small-ship cruises for this year and next.

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1. Authentic Caribbean

Explore some of the tiniest islands in the Caribbean on Ponant’s smallest ship: the swish, recently refurbished sailing yacht Le Ponant, which carries just 32 passengers. Sail from Marigot on St Martin to Prickly Pear Cays on Anguilla, St Barts, Nevis, Falmouth Bay on Antigua, Barbuda and the chic Îles des Saintes in Guadeloupe — in other words some of the most seductive islands in the region. On board you can expect the fine dining and service that comes from the ship’s partnership with Relais & Châteaux. Details Seven nights’ all-inclusive from £5,550pp, including excursions, departing on March 8, 2025 (uk.ponant.com). Fly to St Maarten and back from Guadeloupe

2. Croatia under sail

Explore Croatia in detail on the classic schooner Kairos, which sails out of medieval Trogir to Vis, Hvar and Korcula, as well as lesser-known islands and anchorages, depending on wind speed and direction. With just 16 passengers and seven crew on board, this is small-ship luxury at its best — and you don’t have to help to sail the boat unless you want to do so. When you’re at anchor, jump straight into the warm Adriatic. Evenings are spent either in lively towns or anchored in remote bays. Details Seven nights’ full board from £3,025pp, departing on August 10 (venturesailholidays.com). Fly to Split

3. Butlers in the Bahamas

This 12-night cruise zigzags from New York to Bermuda for an overnight stay, through the Bahamian islands of San Salvador, Exuma and Honeymoon Harbour on tiny Gun Cay, then on to Miami before ending back in Nassau. Expect luxury all the way, with a butler service, an open bar and helicopter trips, plus a submarine and water toys to play on when the ship’s marina platform is down, which is often. Scenic Eclipse carries just 228 passengers, with the vibe of a swish private yacht in its glossy lounges and smart, high-ceilinged cabins. Details Twelve nights’ all-inclusive from £6,914pp, including flights, private transfers, tips, wi-fi and excursions, departing on October 12 (scenic.co.uk)

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4. turkey as you please.

Muster a group of 12 and you can charter a gulet for a blissful week exploring the Turquoise Coast of Turkey. Sailing from Bodrum, you’ll travel on the gleaming wooden Salamander, which comes with a crew of four, including a chef. Visit pretty fishing villages and drop anchor in pine-scented bays surrounded by green mountains for swimming off the boat, as well as playing on the water toys. On board are six en suite cabins and plenty of lounging space on deck, where you’ll also have meals. Details Seven nights’ full board (excluding two dinners) from £22,870 for 12, including transfers and house wine, departing on June 24 (salamandervoyages.com). Fly to Bodrum

5. New year in the Seychelles

Spend more than a week over the new year pottering around the dreamy Seychelles on Emerald Cruises’ sleek, 100-passenger Azzurra, visiting Praslin; rugged Curieuse, home to Aldabra giant tortoises; La Digue, location of the much-photographed Anse Source d’Argent beach; and Aride Island Nature Reserve, a breeding site for seabirds. You can snorkel and paddleboard off the back of the ship, which has a distinct superyacht feel thanks to an infinity pool and lovely alfresco dining area. Details Seven nights’ all-inclusive from £5,445pp, including flights, tips, wi-fi and some activities, departing on December 29 ( emeraldcruises.co.uk )

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6. Amazon adventure

Trace the northeast coastline of South America on a 19-night expedition on Swan Hellenic’s smart SH Vega, which carries 158 passengers. You’ll start in Barbados and head to Trinidad, but this is no ordinary Caribbean cruise — the next stop is Georgetown in Guyana, then it’s the volcanic Salvation Islands, a former penal colony off the coast of French Guiana now returned to nature. From the Brazilian town of Iquiqui you’ll head into the Amazon rainforest in search of jaguars and pink river dolphins. While in Brazil there’s also a chance to see the rippling white sand dunes ofLençois Maranhenses National Park and the Unesco world heritage town of Olinda before arriving in colourful Bahia. Details Nineteen nights’ all-inclusive from £6,980pp including wi-fi, taxes, excursions and a night in Barbados, departing on October 12, 2025 (swanhellenic.com). Fly to Barbados

7. Maritime history on east-coast US

Sail from Boston to New York City on American Cruise Lines’ 90-passenger American Independence, built for the shallow inlets and rivers of the US east coast. You’ll learn about the history of Boston and call at arty, boho coastal towns packed with maritime history. Plymouth was the first pilgrim settlement, while yachtie Newport is known for its opulent seaside estates and lobster. Old Saybrook, settled in 1635, is one of oldest towns in Connecticut, while Sag Harbor is famed for its art galleries and endless beaches. Details Seven nights’ all-inclusive from £5,999pp, including flights, excursions and a night in a hotel pre-cruise, departing on September 29 (fredholidays.co.uk)

8. Tall ship Atlantic crossing

Crossing the Atlantic under sail is special; you’ll have days to commune with the ocean, leaving the stresses of everyday life behind. Join the 170-passenger tall ship Star Flyer in Las Palmas, Gran Canaria — the city from which Columbus set sail in 1492. There’s a stop at the Canary island of La Gomera, then 13 days at sea as you head west to the Tropics, making landfall at St Maarten. On board you can help the crew with the sails, splash around in the pool, have a Thai massage and — on this sailing, which has a yoga theme — practise your sun salutations. Details Fifteen nights’ full board from £2,015pp, departing on November 15 (starclippers.co.uk). Fly to Gran Canaria and back from St Maarten

9. Tempting Tahiti

Discover Tahiti in all its high-definition beauty on the small ship Star Breeze, which carries 312 and is based in Papeete. You’ll visit dreamy islands including Bora Bora, Huahine, Moorea and Raiatea on a seven-night meander through French Polynesia, with swimming in turquoise lagoons, rainforest hikes and visits to vanilla plantations and ancient sacred sites on the agenda. One night there’s a special dinner on a private island, followed by a fire-dancing display under the stars. Details Seven nights’ all-inclusive from £6,200pp, including flights and a night in a hotel pre-cruise, departing on October 17 (windstarcruises.com; book by June 30)

10. Wellness in the Cyclades

Potter round the lesser-visited Greek islands of the Cyclades on the 50-passenger Elysium, a tiny ship that can anchor in smaller harbours, away from the mainstream cruise ships. There’s an emphasis on healthy Greek food for meals onboard, and you can choose the most inviting taverna in town for either lunch or dinner each day. A wellness coach travels on every cruise to help balance mind and body, with yoga, meditation and hiking on offer. On a seven-night Divine Cyclades cruise you’ll sail from Athens and visit islands including Delos, Naxos, Milos, Serifos and Kythnos, as well as big-hitters such as Santorini and Ios. Details Seven nights’ half-board from £2,530pp, departing on September 7 (elixir.cruises). Fly to Athens

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