small yacht cruises greek islands

Greece Small Ship Cruises

Start Date Select Month March 2024 April 2024 May 2024 June 2024 July 2024 August 2024 September 2024 October 2024 November 2024 December 2024 January 2025 February 2025 March 2025 April 2025 May 2025 June 2025 July 2025 August 2025 September 2025 October 2025 November 2025 December 2025 January 2026 February 2026 March 2026 OR, More specific start
Food & Wine
Most Popular
Solo Travel
Adventure Options
Archaeological Site Visits
Land & Sea Exploration
Local Market Visits
Small Ship Cruises
Small Ship Sailing
Stand Up Paddle Boarding
Urban Exploration
Village Visits
Wine Tasting
Emerald Azzurra
Emerald Sakara
Le Bougainville
Le Champlain
Le Dumont-d'Urville
MV La Belle de L'Adriatique
National Geographic Explorer
Royal Clipper
Sea Cloud II
Silver Whisper
Star Clipper
Variety Voyager
World Traveller

Italy, Montenegro & Croatia

Ride in a gondola in Venice
Visit the town of Rovinj
Call in at Kotor, Montenegro
Join an optional tour to Pompeii
Jewels of the Cyclades
Dine at traditional Greek Tavernas
Enjoy a swim-stop at Poliegos
Explore Delos's archaeological site
Walk through Syros

Mediterranean Enchantments

Visit the site of Delphi
Explore the Albanian Riviera
Marvel at the town of Kotor
Explore ports in 4 countries
Explore the Sistine Chapel
Snorkel at Palmarola
Visit the medieval city of Kotor
Cruise through Venice's canals

The Hidden Pearls of the Aegean Sea

Enjoy the windjammer experience
Discover Cyclades islands
Visit Mycenae, a UNESCO site
Learn ancient ruins history
Antiquity to Byzantium
Explore Epidaurus
Discover Mycenae
Experience Mani Peninsula
Visit Pylos

Cruising the Greek Islands of the Southern Aegean: with Smithsonian Journeys

Smithsonian Journeys Cruise
Explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Sail the Santorini Caldera
Explore Mykonos

At the heart of the Greek Islands

MAUD FONTENOY FOUNDATION
Enjoy UNESCO World Heritages Sites
Santorini caldera sunset

Aegean Wine Cruise

Experience Monemvasia
Wander Platanos' vineyard terraces
Visit the charming port of Tinos

Saronic Gems

Visit ancient ruins in Epidaurus
Explore Poros beautiful beaches
Enjoy swimming in Porto Cheli
Visit many museum in Nafplion
Explore the island of Spetses
Discover Hydra's ancient ruins

Sparkling Cyclades

See pristine waters of Milos
Explore Sifnos' vibrant culture
Enjoy swimming in Despotiko
Visit ancient ruins in Delos
Explore the island of Syros
See marine sanctuary in Yiaros

Aegean Escape

Visit Kythnos' famous baths
Explore the dreamy island of Sifnos
Explore Sarakiniko beach
Enjoy Santorini
See the sandy beaches of Magganari

Divine Cyclades

Explore Cape Sounion
Discover the island of Delos
Experience Mykonos
Enjoy at Schinoussa Island

Ancient Paths

Explore Gytheio
Visit Navagio beach
Experience Elafonisos
Discover Monemvasia
Explore Hydra

Athens (Piraeus) To Athens (Piraeus)

Explore Athens' ancient ruins
Discover Paros
Experience divine beauty in Patmos

The Enchanting Island World of Cyclades

Visit islands in the Cyclades
Tour St. John's Monastery in Patmos
Marvel at Athen's classical art
Visit Ermoupoli in Syros

Following the Summer Breeze Through the Aegean Sea

Tour Mycenae, a World Heritage Site
Enjoy the laidback lifestyle
Explore the Temple of Artemis
Discover Bosporus

Greece Travel Guide

All Greece Trips
Greece Overview
Greece Cruise Ports of Call
Adriatic Sea

Favorite Greece All Trips

Classical Greece

Top Greece Travel Destinations

Corinth Canal
Mediterranean

Greece Trips by Departure Date

2024 Greece trips (68)
2025 Greece trips (29)
2026 Greece trips (4)
May 2024 (18)
June 2024 (18)
July 2024 (31)
August 2024 (24)
September 2024 (17)
October 2024 (18)
June 2025 (18)
July 2025 (18)
August 2025 (14)

Top Experiences in Greece

Greece Cruises (73)
Greece Beaches (24)
Greece Luxury (14)
Greece Cultural (10)
Greece Most Popular (5)
Greece Food & Wine (3)
Greece Land Tours (3)

Greece Trips by Duration

8 day trips (45)
9 day trips (4)
10 day trips (3)
11 day trips (4)
12 day trips (8)
15 day trips (3)

Greece Trips by Activity

Greece small ship cruises (61)
Greece archaeological site visits (49)
Greece village visits (34)
Greece small ship sailing (19)
Greece snorkeling (11)
Greece local market visits (10)
Greece urban exploration (9)
Greece wine tasting (6)
Greece kayaking (5)
Greece hiking (3)
Greece stand up paddle boarding (3)

Why Travel With Adventure Life

Recognized by.

Greek Island Small Ship Cruises

Greek Island small ship cruises are the ultimate way to explore these legendary islands. Cruise up close and in style away from big-ship cruise crowds. We are your trusted Greece small cruise experts.

The Greek Islands are home to clear azure waters, white-sand beaches, incredible architecture, stunning archeology and thousands of years of culture and history. No wonder they are one of the world’s most popular cruising destinations.

View our selection of Greece small ship cruises and learn why small ships are the best way to experience the Greek Islands. Our experts outline what to expect and share tips to help you choose your cruise. Or contact us to plan your dream trip.

ON THIS PAGE – Greek Island Small Ship Cruises : Greek Islands Small Ship Experience Greece Small Ships vs Big Ships Greece Small Ship Ports How to Choose Your Cruise Best Time to Cruise View All Greece Small Cruises

The Greek Islands Small Ship Experience

What is it like to cruise aboard a small ship in the Greek Islands? In one word: intimate. Highlights of the Greece small ship experience include:

Small groups of like-minded passengers from 44-264 guests.
Small ports in authentic towns. Dock & anchor where larger ships cannot.
Organized and optional tours with expert local guides. Visit historic towns, archeological sites, museums, wineries and more.
Free time in town to explore or dine on your own.
Get off the ship away from port. Off-vessel activities including swim stops, snorkeling, secluded beaches, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding.
Delicious combination of meals on board and ashore.
Wide variety of small ships and yachts to choose from.

Small Ship Greece Cruise Vacations

Compare the itineraries, boats & more . Find your perfect cruise.

Greece Small Ship Cruises vs Big Ships

Cruising is the ultimate way to explore the best of Greece. Imagine Greek Island hopping without the ferry lines and hassle of checking in and out of hotels. Savvy travelers know, there is a huge difference in the type of cruises in Greece.

Big ships are focused inward on the floating resort and amenities. The ship itself is the attraction with waterslides, casinos, Broadway-style shows and midnight buffets. Big ships visit crowded ports at midday and cruise at night.

Small ships are focused outward, on the destination. Cruise up close to shore where the big ships can’t. Visit intimate ports, uninhabited beaches and authentic islands. If you want to get off the ship to explore Greece like a local, then a small ship cruise is for you. Learn more about the difference between small ship cruising and big ships .

Big Ship vs Small Ship Cruise Ports

The Greek Islands consist of 6,000 islands and islets, of which 227 are inhabited.

Most big ships are concentrated on the 10 most popular ports in Greece. As such there may be as many as 7 ships in a small port each day. The popular ports of Santorini, Mykonos and Crete have their charms, but can be overrun by cruise ship tour groups.

Small ships visit dozens of remote islands, most of which are off limits to big ships. Undiscovered islands such as Paros, Folegandros, Patmos and Serifos reveal the unhurried and authentic Greek culture, history and lifestyle. Actively explore away from port with swimming and paddling at dozens more uninhabited islands. Learn more about the best Greek Islands for small ships .

Santorini, Mykonos, Crete, Hydra & More

Find the right islands for you in this helpful guide.

How to Choose – Greece Cruise Tips

With so many Greek Islands and so many small ships, how to decide which cruise? Our experts have the insight and tips to help you choose. We suggest you consider your itinerary first, then your style of travel, then your ship and finally select your cabin. Let’s review each of these in more detail.

Choosing Your Route – Greece Cruise Itineraries

Probably the most important consideration is your itinerary. Ask yourself these questions. Are there islands that you must see? Are you traveling before or after your cruise? How long do you have for your cruise?

Many people have Santorini, Mykonos and Crete on their bucket list. While these islands are crowded, they do have their charm. And small ships will help you avoid crowds as much as possible. Are these truly on your bucket list or only because they are the ones you have heard of?

Many cruises begin and end in Athens, but some combine Greece with other Mediterranean countries. Cruises may embark or disembark in nearby Croatia, Italy or Turkey. Your overall travel plans may influence your itinerary choice.

Most Greece cruises are 8 days and visit 8-12 islands in a week. Longer itineraries span 10-12 days while the longest cruises are up to 15 days cruising in Greece.

Consider Your Style of Travel

All cruises will make stops at culturally rich towns and historically significant archeological sites. But do you enjoy other off-vessel activities such as snorkeling and kayaking? Are nature hikes part of your travel portfolio? Different cruises offer a variety of different activities and levels of activity.

Choose Your Greece Small Ship

The ship you choose will have a profound impact on your experience and on the price. You’ve already determined you prefer a small ship instead of a mega cruise ship. Next consider the size and amenities of your small ship in Greece.

In general the smallest boats, those carrying 60 guests or fewer, will offer more off vessel activates such as swim stops and kayaking in between the islands. Small ships carrying more than 100 guests will feature larger cabins, more deck space and luxurious accommodations.

Motor sailors are a beautiful way to travel, but keep in mind that winds and routes dictate most sailing vessels will run under motor power most of the time. Cruising with sails up can help stabilize the vessel when seas are choppy.

Do you want the utmost in sophisticated luxury, are you interested in a historic square-rigged sailing yacht or a quaint small cruiser? Ship sizes run from 48-264 guests. Some examples of the most popular small ships in Greece are listed at he bottom of this page.

Our experts are adept at finding the right ship for you. We’ve been aboard and brig our first hand knowledge to help you select and book the perfect Greek Islands small ship.

Ask Us About the Fleet of Greek Islands Small Ships

Greece Small Ship Cruise Cost

Of course, budget is a huge consideration when considering a cruise. Prices vary widely depending on the ship, the cabin, the length of the itinerary and time of year. Small ship cruises in Greece start as low as $1,850 per person and can reach over $18,000 per person. There is a small cruise for every style and budget, let our experts help you find yours.

Small ship cruises sell out early in general. Plan to book 12 months in advance to take advantage of early booking discounts. Boot at least 6-9 months in advance for the best selection of ships, itineraries and cabins. Last-minute cruises are sometimes available but don’t expect any last-minute flash sales.

How to Get to Your Greece Cruise – Embarkation

Most small ship cruises to the Greek Islands begin and end in Athens. Flights to Athens International Airport “Eleftherios Venizelos” (ATH) are available from major airports around the world. The airport is accessible to downtown Athens and cruise embarkation ports by metro, suburban rail and bus. Most small ship cruise travelers will purchase private transfers to their ship or hotel.

Many small ship cruises embark in Piraeus Harbor, the main port of Athens. Some smaller ships and yachts will embark at the nearby Marina Zea. These ports are easily reached by taxi from downtown Athens.

We highly recommend travelers arrive in Athens at least one night prior to your cruise embarkation. Cruises will embark in the afternoon. Many flights from the USA to Athens arrive mid-day. Without an extra overnight you may miss the boat if your flight to Athens is delayed.

Best Time to Cruise the Greek Islands

Small ship cruises operate in Greece each year from April to October. High season is from June through August.

The best time to cruise Greece is in spring, early summer and fall. May, early June and September are particularly nice because prices are lower, and crowds are fewer. August is popular but can be hot and crowded. Learn more about the cruising season region-wide on our detailed page on Mediterranean small ship cruises .

View All Greek Island Small Ship Cruises

Start your trip search below by viewing all our Greece small ship cruises for 2024 and 2025. Contact us for a personalized consultation and recommendation.

Call now 1-877-620-2875 to talk to a Specialist

On this spectacular 8-day Classical Greece cruise, explore the beautiful Cyclades, Kea, Santorini, Mykonos, Crete, Hydra, Nafplion, Monemvassia and the UNESCO-protected archaeological isle of Delos aboard one of three yachts.

No Results...

You’ve arrived at a crossroads. Press “Clear Filters” and try again to find results, or simply connect with a travel specialist now for a personalized recommendation:

Hear it from Greece Small Ship Cruise Travelers

We had a great time and could not fault anything. Good food, great service by friendly staff. Go by small boat to see more and go to places where big ships can not go.

40 people of different ages, from different parts of the world. We loved the diversity of the people on the ship. Everyone seemed to enjoy everyone. A small ship allowed us to meet and become friends with everyone on the boat. Truly a great experience.

AdventureSmith is a very professional organization that is a pleasure to work with. This was our third, but certainly not last trip with AdventureSmith.

Ship and staff were top box. We all fell in love with our guide, Georgia.

Please note: The primary ship operating the mentioned itinerary can change from year to year, so the ship this guest cruised on may no longer be sailing this exact route.

We had a great time and could not fault anything. Good food, great service by friendly staff. We enjoyed all the optional excursions. Always wanted to do a trip around the Greek Islands. Ferries were too hard too much packing and unpacking. We never wanted to go on a big ship. Too many people, so Harmony V was perfect. We most enjoyed Santorini and Mykonos...They are the most beautiful.

Accommodations Review

Harmony V was very comfortable. The cabins are great and well looked after by the staff.

Meals Review

The food was very good and the variety excellent. It is a great idea to have a meal ashore each day either lunch or dinner to get an idea of local food, and culture. It was a great experience. We had an the best experience on Mykonos. It was a fun night, very inexpensive and top food.

Crew & Guides Review

Stella was our principle leader. She was terrific, and could not do enough for us. She was always bright and happy and full of information. We were able to leave our luggage on board until about midday when Stella ordered a taxi for us to go to the airport. The other guides on our optional excursions were also very good.

AdventureSmith Explorations Review

We certainly would recommend AdventureSmith Explorations to friends and family. We would most likely do another trip with them sometime in the future. The material sent out before we left home explained every thing we need to know.

Traveler Advice

Go by small boat to see more and go to places where big ships can not go.

Featured in this Traveler Review

Classical Greece Cruise

They were clean and well maintained. But this isn’t a Class A boat with 5 star accommodations, so “excellent” doesn’t enter into the description.

Glad we were able to have a lunch or dinner on shore. This allowed us time to truly enjoy each place we visited. Breakfast buffets were very good. Lunch’s good. The “Greek night” dinner was very good, but the 2 others were just average.

Itinerary Review

We loved Folegandros & Paros. Both provided a more laid-back experience. Beautiful places with excellent shopping & restaurants. We loved the adjustment’s the captain made to allow us more time to swim and snorkel. This pleased everyone on the ship. We also loved the diversity of the people on the ship and the fact that everyone enjoyed everyone. The fact that this was a small ship allowed us to meet and become friends with everyone on the boat. Truly a great experience.

[We least enjoyed] Santorini & Mykonos. You can leave these 2 famous places for the large number of cruise ships that frequent the shores. Very crowded and not much fun...though we imagine they might be very nice when not overflowing with people. But we’re equally sure there are a lot more islands in the Cyclades that would be even more enjoyable to visit.

The cruise director, Viki, was very nice and professional. But sometimes our communication wasn’t great. The captain was a very nice man and seemed to go out of his way to accommodate the desires of the guests on his ship. We’d rate him as excellent and would definitely sail with him again. Local guides: we only did 1 on-shore guided tour on Santorini. We didn’t enjoy it, so chose to not do any others. Other fellow travelers felt the same, although those that did choose to do the guided tour of the heritage site of Delo’s found it very interesting and informative.

All information was great. The only item we weren’t expecting was the high temps (mid 90’s) of August. This was a last minute trip for us. We feel fortunate that everything worked as planned.

If possible, avoid traveling to this area in August. Very crowded and hot...We learned that August is not the time to do this trip. Way to many cruise ships. Way too hot this time of year (mid 90’s with high humidity). These 2 items did affect the overall enjoyment of the trip.

Jewels of the Cyclades

AdventureSmith is a very professional organization that is a pleasure to work with. This was our third, but certainly not last trip with AS. The trip included 5 days in Athens, Greece and a week aboard the Sea Cloud through Lindblad. We found Lindblad a little rigid to work with during the planning stages. In Greece, they were outstanding. The Sea Cloud is a gorgeous sailing barque. The crew, both Lindblad and Sea Cloud, were warm, gracious and a delight to sail with. My wife had always wanted to visit Greece. I love sailing. The combination got us.

I think Santorini was a top destination. It's a beautiful island that I would stay on. The smaller islands were interesting as well.

Room was, as expected, tight quarters. It's an old ship, after all. The public areas are great. The upper deck is a beautiful place for cocktails, or just relaxing. Seeing the Sea Cloud under sail is a real treat.

Food was excellent. I think I probably gained weight, but that's my fault. I preferred the buffet dinners to the served ones. Variety was excellent. Lot's of great salads. Good seafood and fresh fish.

All of the people leading the expedition are true professionals. They know their stuff. One of the regular speakers has her PHD in archeology and is a real expert on the region and Greek history. I was really impressed with all of them. The two regular guides are Greek and have many years experience in the areas we visited. One of our Lindblad guides, a native Greek, was much too insistent on trying to tell us all about the Greek Orthodox religion. As a non-Christian, I found it a little off-putting. She knew her stuff, but seemed anxious to proselytize...

Between AdventureSmith and Lindblad, we were well prepared. We made our own flight arrangements, but AS was very helpful. I cannot say enough good about our experience both with AdventureSmith and with Lindblad.

Sailing the Greek Isles Aboard Sea Cloud
Sea Cloud: Lindblad

Everything about the room like the shower/water pressure, comfy bed, cabin attendants was top box.

Tough to say given my lack of knowledge of food service on a ship. I felt the quality of the main courses could have been better. The salads and appetizer bar was better. Leftovers usually were somewhere in the following day’s meal and really wasn’t great.

[We most enjoyed]...Crete, Hydra, Mykonos. Liked the archaeology and ancient architecture and myths. Santorini was a bit of a disappointment. Just too crowded and crazy. It certainly was beautiful and I liked the geology of the island.

Georgia was excellent. She was almost over responsive to guests doing more than required to satisfy their needs. I don’t think you could do better with a trip leader. I guess my wife shared at introduction time we were there celebrating our 60th anniversary. At one of the dinners we were recognized for this with a very nice cake that was shared with others. Nice touch.

Fellow Passengers Review

We had the luck to meet and be with Sarah - a ninth time Variety line veteran who just happened to live on Crete. We got a wealth of information from her

Already have shared our positive experience with another couple.

Variety Voyager

100+ combined years of experience, 7 continents explored, decades of expedition cruising around the world & here to help you find & book your dream trip.

Greek Island Small Ships

Small ships cruising the Greek Islands carry only 44-264 guests for the ultimate up close exploration. These small cruise ships vary considerably from historic and elegant sailing vessels to modern expedition ships with the latest in luxury and amenities. View our top small boats in Greece below or contact our experts to match you with the perfect small cruise ship.

The 157-foot, 49-guest Galileo is a steel-hull motorsailer cruising the Greek Isles in classic style. Enjoy the best of the Mediterranean aboard this stunning vessel.

The 58-guest Sea Cloud: Lindblad is the historic Marjorie Merriweather Post sailing yacht Sea Cloud, chartered by Lindblad Expeditions for select Caribbean and Mediterranean itineraries. Enjoy the grace and class of an extraordinarily elegant ship while relaxing in the casual atmosphere and informal style of expedition travel.

The 200-to-264-guest L'Austral is a sophisticated, luxury expedition ship cruising Antarctica. Enjoy her chic-yet-casual private yacht atmosphere created by a blend of precious materials, discreet elegance and gastronomic delights, paired with an engaging program of lectures and adventure activities.

The 44-guest Harmony G is a modern, elegant yacht with a sleek high-tech look very similar to private yachts found in famous ports around the Mediterranean. Her powerful engines and state-of-the-art stabilizers allow for safe and comfortable cruising.

Contact Us - Greek Island Small Ship Cruises

Travel is best planned one-on-one, and we’re here to help you with your specific needs.

First Name *
Last Name *
Phone (required because some email replies get blocked) *
Country of residence (required in order to comply with privacy laws) * United States of America - US Afghanistan - AF Aland Islands - AX Albania - AL Algeria - DZ American Samoa - AS Andorra - AD Angola - AO Anguilla - AI Antarctica - AQ Antigua and Barbuda - AG Argentina - AR Armenia - AM Aruba - AW Australia - AU Austria - AT Azerbaijan - AZ Bahamas - BS Bahrain - BH Bangladesh - BD Barbados - BB Belarus - BY Belgium - BE Belize - BZ Benin - BJ Bermuda - BM Bhutan - BT Bolivia - BO Bosnia and Herzegovina - BA Botswana - BW Bouvet Island - BV Brazil - BR British Virgin Islands - VG British Indian Ocean Territory - IO Brunei Darussalam - BN Bulgaria - BG Burkina Faso - BF Burundi - BI Cambodia - KH Cameroon - CM Canada - CA Cape Verde - CV Cayman Islands - KY Central African Republic - CF Chad - TD Chile - CL China - CN Hong Kong, SAR China - HK Macao, SAR China - MO Christmas Island - CX Cocos (Keeling) Islands - CC Colombia - CO Comoros - KM Congo (Brazzaville) - CG Congo, (Kinshasa) - CD Cook Islands - CK Costa Rica - CR Côte d'Ivoire - CI Croatia - HR Cuba - CU Cyprus - CY Czech Republic - CZ Denmark - DK Djibouti - DJ Dominica - DM Dominican Republic - DO Ecuador - EC Egypt - EG El Salvador - SV Equatorial Guinea - GQ Eritrea - ER Estonia - EE Ethiopia - ET Falkland Islands (Malvinas) - FK Faroe Islands - FO Fiji - FJ Finland - FI France - FR French Guiana - GF French Polynesia - PF French Southern Territories - TF Gabon - GA Gambia - GM Georgia - GE Germany - DE Ghana - GH Gibraltar - GI Greece - GR Greenland - GL Grenada - GD Guadeloupe - GP Guam - GU Guatemala - GT Guernsey - GG Guinea - GN Guinea-Bissau - GW Guyana - GY Haiti - HT Heard and Mcdonald Islands - HM Holy See (Vatican City State) - VA Honduras - HN Hungary - HU Iceland - IS India - IN Indonesia - ID Iran, Islamic Republic of - IR Iraq - IQ Ireland - IE Isle of Man - IM Israel - IL Italy - IT Jamaica - JM Japan - JP Jersey - JE Jordan - JO Kazakhstan - KZ Kenya - KE Kiribati - KI Korea (North) - KP Korea (South) - KR Kuwait - KW Kyrgyzstan - KG Lao PDR - LA Latvia - LV Lebanon - LB Lesotho - LS Liberia - LR Libya - LY Liechtenstein - LI Lithuania - LT Luxembourg - LU Macedonia, Republic of - MK Madagascar - MG Malawi - MW Malaysia - MY Maldives - MV Mali - ML Malta - MT Marshall Islands - MH Martinique - MQ Mauritania - MR Mauritius - MU Mayotte - YT Mexico - MX Micronesia, Federated States of - FM Moldova - MD Monaco - MC Mongolia - MN Montenegro - ME Montserrat - MS Morocco - MA Mozambique - MZ Myanmar - MM Namibia - NA Nauru - NR Nepal - NP Netherlands - NL Netherlands Antilles - AN New Caledonia - NC New Zealand - NZ Nicaragua - NI Niger - NE Nigeria - NG Niue - NU Norfolk Island - NF Northern Mariana Islands - MP Norway - NO Oman - OM Pakistan - PK Palau - PW Palestinian Territory - PS Panama - PA Papua New Guinea - PG Paraguay - PY Peru - PE Philippines - PH Pitcairn - PN Poland - PL Portugal - PT Puerto Rico - PR Qatar - QA Réunion - RE Romania - RO Russian Federation - RU Rwanda - RW Saint-Barthélemy - BL Saint Helena - SH Saint Kitts and Nevis - KN Saint Lucia - LC Saint-Martin (French part) - MF Saint Pierre and Miquelon - PM Saint Vincent and Grenadines - VC Samoa - WS San Marino - SM Sao Tome and Principe - ST Saudi Arabia - SA Senegal - SN Serbia - RS Seychelles - SC Sierra Leone - SL Singapore - SG Slovakia - SK Slovenia - SI Solomon Islands - SB Somalia - SO South Africa - ZA South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands - GS South Sudan - SS Spain - ES Sri Lanka - LK Sudan - SD Suriname - SR Svalbard and Jan Mayen Islands - SJ Swaziland - SZ Sweden - SE Switzerland - CH Syrian Arab Republic (Syria) - SY Taiwan, Republic of China - TW Tajikistan - TJ Tanzania, United Republic of - TZ Thailand - TH Timor-Leste - TL Togo - TG Tokelau - TK Tonga - TO Trinidad and Tobago - TT Tunisia - TN Turkey - TR Turkmenistan - TM Turks and Caicos Islands - TC Tuvalu - TV Uganda - UG Ukraine - UA United Arab Emirates - AE United Kingdom - GB United States of America - US US Minor Outlying Islands - UM Uruguay - UY Uzbekistan - UZ Vanuatu - VU Venezuela (Bolivarian Republic) - VE Viet Nam - VN Virgin Islands, US - VI Wallis and Futuna Islands - WF Western Sahara - EH Yemen - YE Zambia - ZM Zimbabwe - ZW
Newsletter Subscribe to our email newsletter
By submitting this form, you consent to our privacy policy .
Hidden IP Location

Talk to an AdventureSmith Travel Specialist Call us toll free at 1-877-620-2875 . Call us direct at 530-583-1775 .

Office Hours Monday through Friday, 8am-5pm Pacific Time.

Address 40169 Truckee Airport Road, Suite 201 Truckee, CA 96161

Please leave your name and email address for our newsletter.

GULET CRUISES
GULET CABIN SALES
PRIVATE HIRE GULETS
GULET & STAY
SMALL SHIP CRUISES
Greek Island Cruises
Gulet Cruises
Croatian-Adriatic Cruises
Nile Cruises
Seychelles Cruises
Tahiti Cruises
West Africa Cruises
TAILOR MADE & MULTI CENTER HOLIDAYS

Greece & Greek Islands

NORTH CYPRUS

Egypt & Jordan

SAFARI TOUR - TANZANIA
DESTINATIONS
Ephesus & Pamukkale
Island of Santorini
Island of Naxos
Island of Mykonos
Island of Paros
Rhodes Island
Island of Corfu
Island of Zante
Island of Patmos
Island of Kos
Multi Centre Holidays
Island of Korcula
Island of Sipan
Tucepi - Makaraska
Island of Hvar
Piran and Portoroz
Nile Cruise
High Atlas Mountains
Jordan Holidays
North Cyprus
TREASURES OF OMAN CRUISE
Cape Verde Cruises
Testimonials

Greek Island Small Ship Cruises

Island hopping in the beautiful greek islands.

Overview | Cruises

Greek Island Hopping Holidays

If you're looking for an unforgettable holiday, consider a Greek island cruise. These island hopping cruises take you to some of the most beautiful and historic islands in the Mediterranean, and they're perfect for tourists and travellers of all ages. Our Greek Island Hopping Holidays take in famous archaeological sites, enjoy delicious Mediterranean food, take in wonderful scenery, soak up the sun as well as plenty of time for relaxation on beautiful beaches. The great thing about our island hopping cruises is the fact you get to see several beautiful greek islands during your holiday. The Greek Islands, steeped in myth, with their rich history and breath-taking scenery, call to mind the romanticism of Homer and the bravery of the ancient heroes. The only quest which you will be undertaking is the search for absolute relaxation, whether that is reading a book on deck, soaking up the sun, or exploring ancient history on shore.

Our Greek Islands small ship cruises set sail from Athens and include stops on the most famous of the Greek islands including Santorini and Mykonos as well as lesser known small, picturesque islands such as Naxos and Paros. We have an extensive selection of luxury Greek Island Cruises such as Antiquity to Byzantium small ship Cruise, Athens & Greek Islands cruise holidays, Greece & Adriatic small ship cruise, Greek Islands cruise & stay holidays, Luxury Greek Island cruises, variety cruises and much more. On board you will enjoy a high standard of personal service combined with excellent cuisine. A typical small ship cruise in the Greek Islands has around 25 cabins and employs 16 - 20 crew including a professional ship manager, tour guides and service managers. Your itinerary will be planned by your expert tour guide, who will let you know every evening what the programme is for the following day and give you an insight into the culture and history of the places you will be exploring. Greek Island hopping cruises are brilliant for seeing more of the beautiful islands and packing more into your holiday.

Why Should I Choose A Small Ship Cruise

Small ship cruises in Greece offer a more intimate and personalised travel experience compared to large cruise ships. Some of the benefits of small ship cruises include:

1. Flexibility: Small ship cruises can access ports and locations that larger ships cannot, giving passengers the opportunity to visit unique and remote destinations not possible on larger vessels.

2. Personalised experience: With fewer passengers, small ship cruises offer a more personalised experience. The crew can provide individual attention to each guest, and the itinerary can be customised to suit the group's preferences.

3. Privacy: Small ship cruises allow for a more private and intimate experience. Passengers can enjoy the ship's amenities without the crowds and queues that are common on larger ships.

4. Cultural immersion: Small ship cruises often offer opportunities to learn about the local culture and traditions of the destinations visited. This can include onboard lectures, local guides, and authentic cultural experiences.

5. Eco-friendly: Small ships have a smaller environmental footprint than larger cruise ships. They consume less fuel and produce fewer emissions, making them a more sustainable choice for travellers who are concerned about their impact on the environment.

Our small ship cruises provide a unique and immersive island hopping experience that is well-suited for travellers who value intimacy, flexibility, and cultural immersion. Diamond Star Experience have a fabulous collection of Greek Island cruises with luxury small ship and Gulet cruises ideal for greek island hopping holidays.

Cruise and Stay in Athens / Greek Islands

We are happy to arrange your favourite Athens & Greek Islands cruise holidays. You can choose to stay in Athens before or after your cruise. Please let us know your requirements and we will tailor your Greek Island Cruise & Stay holiday just for you.

MS HARMONY G

NEW - Ionian Odyssey Cruise

M/S GALILEO / PANORAMA

Jewels of the Cyclades Athens to Athens

Ms harmony v.

Classical Greece Small Ship Cruise

M/s elysium - boutique cruise.

Elixir Cruise - Divine Cyclades Cruise Athens to Athens

Elixir Cruise - Ancient Paths Cruise Athens to Athens

Information & Dates

M/S GALILEO

Antiquity to Byzantium Cruise

New- m/y gemaya - boutique cruise experiences.

M/Y Gemaya - Cabin Sales & Private Charter- Athens

M/s panorama.

Aegan Odyssey Athens to Athens

Why book with diamond star experience....

Looking for something different?

Personal service tailored to you, 30 years knowledge & experience, quality customer care, all products personally inspected, 100% financial protection.

"I wanted to send you an e-mail now that we are back from our wonderful holiday. My wife and I wanted to express our sincere gratitude to you and the team at Diamond Star for arranging a truly unique style of holiday that we are still talking about to friends and family two weeks after we came home. The places we have visited, and the things we have seen were truly amazing, it will take a month or more to sort through our photos" Andrew and June Welch - 24 Oct 2022

"Back from our holiday to Istanbul/Cappadocia what an awesome holiday. The hot air balloon was out of this world. Thank you Diamond Star for making it all possible special thanks to Nazan. I recommend this company to make your dreams come true." Mrs Angela Bailey - 6 Oct 2022

"We arrived home from Fethiye on Monday, and would just like to thank you and Akin for planning an amazing trip. The gulet was fantastic and as usual, the Ece Saray Hotel was lovely. The staff there are some of the best we have come across, and the breakfasts were great. We are looking ahead to 2023 and were wondering if you could arrange a quote for a similar trip." Sue and Mike Fedeczko - 28 September 2022

Speak to a Specialist

Akin has been to all these places and experienced all these holidays.

Give him a ring to discuss your holiday in detail on 0330 390 0999 or send an email.

Small Ship Cruises

Tailor Made

Destinations

Holiday types.

Tailor Made Holidays

Gulet Cruise Holidays

Villa Holidays

Our Charities

Elephant Sanctuary

Climate Change

DEC Covid-19

We are proud to be a multi-award-winning cruise specialist

Mundy Cruising

8 of the best small ship cruises to the greek islands.

Published 14th March 2024 in Cruise Advice By Claire Benktander /cruise-news/cruise-advice/best-small-ship-greek-island-cruises

Best small ship cruises to the Greek Islands

1. seadream yacht club.

A firm Mundy favourite, the intimate yachts of SeaDream carry just 112 lucky guests, with a laid-back, al fresco style that is perfectly suited to exploring the sun-kissed Greek islands.

Itineraries include the glamour destinations of Mykonos and Santorini, as well as smaller islands such as rugged, fertile Naxos and the upmarket island of Patmos, where Saint John is said to have written the Book of Revelations.

best small ship cruises to the Greek Islands

2. Windstar Cruises

The small ships of Windstar Cruises are particularly popular with first-time cruisers, as well as those who prefer a more casual ambience on board, and their destination-focused itineraries visit many of the Mediterranean's smaller ports.

The 148-guest Wind Star and Wind Spirit as well as 342-guest Wind Surf all operate a number of round-trip voyages from Athens, calling at islands including Rhodes, Crete and Santorini, with the ship's marina ensuring you can enjoy the complimentary watersports when anchored in the Greek Islands' hidden bays and tiny coves.

French cruise line Ponant has undergone significant expansion over the last few years, and their chic Explorer Class yachts as well as their slightly older, beautiful Sister Ships both offer an extensive Greek islands programme.

An Athens round-trip ticks off the big hitters like Mykonos and Santorini, while more unusual itineraries call at sleepy Symi, reachable only by smaller cruise ships, traffic-free Hydra and off-the-beaten-track Limnos.

4. Sea Cloud Cruises

For those who love the romance of sail, Sea Cloud Cruises is the perfect choice. These magnificent three- and four-masted ships are a throwback to another age, and are a true sight to behold as they sail through the warm waters of the Mediterranean, showcasing the fascinating spectacle of hoisting all the sails by hand - a process that can take a full hour to complete.

You'll be the envy of other cruisers when you arrive at islands such as Paxos, Spetses, Patmos and Milos, and with a maximum of 136 guests the ships are able to visit those smaller ports that the bigger vessels can't reach.

5. Silversea

Silversea pioneered the all-inclusive luxury cruise concept, and are renowned for their personal service and varied itineraries. Their 'classic' fleet ranges in size from the 296-guest Silver Wind to Silver Spirit , which accommodates 608 guests, and they offer a number of Greek island itineraries.

Silversea tend to stick to the better known islands such as Rhodes, Corfu, Santorini and Mykonos on Athens round-trips or culminating in Venice, on itineraries of varying lengths between 7 and 14 nights.

6. Seabourn

Seabourn's fleet of small ships is the most modern of all the ultra-luxury lines, with three 458-guest sister ships and Encore and Ovation , both of which carry 604 pampered travellers.

Seabourn is a great choice if you're looking for a longer Greek islands cruise, with 14-night voyages that include Skopelos, Naxos, Santorini and Kos, as well as calls in Malta and Sicily. There are also some itineraries that combine Greece with Croatia and Slovenia, and occasionally you'll find even longer cruises that carry on to Dubai and beyond.

7. Crystal Cruises

Multi-award-winning Crystal Cruises are one of the best in the business, with a luxury all-inclusive product that includes fabulous dining, sumptuous accommodation and the very highest levels of personalised service, which has been enhanced since their relaunch in February 2023.

Their two newly-refurbished ships, the 606-guest Crystal Symphony and 740-guest Crystal Serenity , will visit the Med between April and August this year and next, with itineraries calling at islands including Mykonos, Paros and Patmos, home to fabulous beaches and upmarket restaurants and bars.

To combine a luxurious cruise with the Greek islands' history and culture, look no further than Emerald Cruises. Their yacht-like Emerald Azzurra is one of the most luxurious ships at sea, alongside an intimate, relaxed style as well as an infinity-style pool, al fresco Sky Bar, wellness area and marina at the back of the yacht, allowing you to hop straight into the bright blue coves surrounding the Greek islands with a host of water toys.

Itineraries visit key sites of historical interest such as Delos and Rhodes, as well as big hitters like Mykonos and Santorini and smaller, unspoilt islands like Lefkada's yacht-dotted Nydri and the classic whitewashed houses and blue-domed churches of Paros, with lots of options to extend your trip with pre- or post-cruise stays in Athens.

Claire is Marketing Manager at Mundy Cruising, having worked with the company for nearly a year and in travel for over 8 years. Most recently she's cruised on Seabourn and has also sailed with Ponant and Uniworld. Her favourite destination is Sweden however she's also enjoyed cruises in the the Galapagos, Mediterranean, Caribbean, Northern Europe, Greek Isles and the Far East. When she’s not travelling she loves weekends away in the countryside.

Get your free subscription to Cruise News

The UK's most authoritative magazine about the world of luxury cruising. New ships, new destinations, new experiences and new offers. Be more informed, every two months, with Cruise News.

Find a cruise

Luxury Greek island cruises

Ancient jewels of the Mediterranean

21 Mar - 28 Mar 2024 (7 Nights)

From £4,570 pp

Athens to Athens

29 Mar - 11 Apr 2024 (13 Nights)

From £7,000 pp

Athens to Istanbul

29 Mar - 4 Apr 2024 (6 Nights)

From £5,400 pp

Istanbul to Athens

4 Apr - 11 Apr 2024 (7 Nights)

From £5,900 pp

Ruins of Ancient Olympia, near Katakolon, Greece

CSY-007-240406

6 Apr - 13 Apr 2024 (7 Nights)

Myths & Marvels of the Aegean

Windstar Cruises

8 Apr - 16 Apr 2024 (8 Nights)

From £2,993 pp

Ancient theatre at the Acropolis, Athens

Rhodes to Piraeus (Athens )

8 Apr - 13 Apr 2024 (5 Nights)

11 Apr - 24 Apr 2024 (13 Nights)

Greek Islands and the Eastern Med

13 Apr - 25 Apr 2024 (12 Nights)

Springtime in the Aegean Sea

From £5,960 pp

28-Day Canary Islands & Eastern Mediterranean

14 Apr - 12 May 2024 (28 Nights)

16 Apr - 24 Apr 2024 (8 Nights)

From £2,111 pp

8 of the best small ship cruises to Alaska

5 of the best luxury cruise lines for excursions

Exceptional at Sea: The latest news from Crystal

5 of the best World Cruises in 2025 & 2026

020 7399 7670

Emergency Banner Component

Mediterranean Odyssey: Greece & Turkey

Direction and Year

Select the cruise direction, and the year, you would like to travel.

2024 Eastbound
2024 Westbound

Accommodations

Pricing & Availability
Important Info

Uniquely Tauck

EXPERIENCE WITH TAUCK

Attend a private evening of Greek food and entertainment at a special venue on the island of Rhodes, exclusively for Tauck guests only

Following a day exploring the island of Mykonos, attend an exclusive olive oil tasting experience back onboard the ship; meet a master olive oil sommelier who gives a presentation that includes how to recognize the characteristics of a good quality extra virgin olive oil

TAUCK VALUE INCLUDES

All gratuities to Tauck Directors, ship staff and local guides

Traveling with Tauck's private group and the same Tauck Director on land and at sea aboard the ship

Tauck's private shore excursions and distinctive inclusions valued at $3,896

Spend one night in the center of Athens at one of Europe's premier hotels, Hotel Grande Bretagne

8-night cruise aboard Windstar's Star Legend

SEE WHAT YOUR JOURNEY INCLUDES

Active components such as hiking, bicycling and walking longer distances may be included, and hills and/or uneven terrain may be encountered on several days. Guests should be able to walk two to three miles and stand for long periods of time with no difficulty.

Moderately paced, and may include some early morning hotel departures, one or two on-tour flights, and extended motor coach travel.

Cultural Journeys and Expeditions

A Mediterranean cruise unlike any other on a voyage from Greece to the islands of Mykonos, Crete and Rhodes to Turkey...

Embark on a small ship odyssey to Greek islands and the 'Land of Four Seasons' - Turkey, where you'll experience unforgettable wines, local cuisines, cultures, ruins of lost empires, blazing sunsets, temples, Crusader citadels, and far flung, mystical landscapes where gods and mythologies were born.

Magical Island of Mykonos

Two ways to spend your day – and a master class in olive oil.

A choice of sightseeing excursions awaits you in Mykonos... On one, transfer by boat to the local island of Delos, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a treasure trove of ancient archeological sites – you'll be able to visualize Greek life as it once was. Alternatively, visit a farm for a taste of traditional daily life as well as homemade bread and tzatziki. Later in the afternoon – an exclusive olive oil tasting experience; meet a master olive oil sommelier who gives a presentation that includes how to recognize the characteristics of a good quality extra virgin olive oil.

Ephesus' Library of Celsus

Although the ancient city of Ephesus, in what is now Turkey, was originally built by the Greeks in the 10th century AD, much of the ruins you'll see at the site today date to the city's Roman period – like the famed Library of Celsus, constructed in the 2nd century AD to memorialize a Roman governor of Asia. Only the facade of this remarkable building has survived, but restored and re-erected, it is a stunning example of Roman urban architecture...

Hotel Grande Bretagne

Eternal elegance in athens' ancient heart.

Situated right in the heart of Athens since 1874, the five-star, landmark Hotel Grande Bretagne offers an unrivalled perspective of the Greek capital's mythical history, with breathtaking views of the fabled Acropolis, regal Syntagma Square and the Parliament, lush Lycabettus Hill or the original Olympic Stadium. A favorite of celebrities and dignitaries for more than 140 years, this historic hotel is also within walking distance of exclusive shopping areas, museums and the business district.

Download, Print Or Share

Take The Details With You

Download day-by-day details.

All the information you need for this journey at your fingertips – day-by-day details, map, hotel descriptions, key highlights and more.

Where you stay is an important part of your journey – with Tauck, accommodations have been handpicked and carefully selected for their location and ambiance, enhancing the destinations you explore. Download accommodation details and your travel plans begin!

Tour Planner

Download the details to make planning your trip easier - including an itinerary overview, pricing based on your selected departure date and accommodations, plus protection plan costs.

Request A Tour Planner

Welcome Aboard

Star Legend

Ship Specifications

View Cabin Categories

Balcony Suite

Star Balcony Suite

Deluxe Suite

Owner's Suite

Ocean View Suite

Star Ocean View Suite

Star Porthole Suite

Overnight Accommodations

Extend your stay

Arrive Early

Athens, Greece

Nights 2-9 On Board

Tauck Small Ship

Your Journey

Pricing & Availability

Pricing & Dates are not available yet. Please check back soon.

Eastbound: Athens → Athens

No departures found.

Try using less filters or select a different year.

Westbound: Athens → Athens

Want more detailed information.

Request a Tour Planner

Call 800-788-7885

About Booking This Tour

Travel Documents

If you are a U.S. citizen traveling internationally , you will need a passport valid for six months beyond the completion of your Tauck journey for entry into Greece and Turkey. Although Turkey usually requires foreign visitors to obtain a visa in order to enter the country, Tauck guests traveling aboard a ship are part of a validated escorted shore excursion and are thus not required to obtain an individual Turkish visa (regardless of their citizenship). You do not need a visa for Greece.

If you are a citizen of another country traveling internationally , you should contact a consulate or embassy of Greece to determine what travel documentation is required.

International maritime security guidelines require that your passport information be provided to us prior to your embarkation. You need to provide this information to us as soon as you book your cruise or boarding may be denied. Once you board the cruise ship, your passport will be held by the purser until you disembark.

You will be issued a boarding card, which you must present before embarking the ship in each port. This security measure also ensures that only Tauck guests are permitted onboard.

We recommend that you make at least two photocopies of all the travel documents that you bring with you. Include copies of the photo page of your passport that contains the date of issuance, the date of expiration and your citizenship. Secure one set of copies in the safe in your room while traveling and leave one set behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your documents are misplaced, lost or stolen.

To facilitate Travel Requirements, destinations are increasingly utilizing online forms that require digital proof that you've successfully completed your submission (via an email, QR code, etc.) To ensure smooth travels and peace of mind, we strongly recommend all guests carry a personal smart phone and sign up for international data plans before traveling overseas.

TRAVELING WITH CHILDREN AS A GUARDIAN: If you are traveling as the guardian of a child/children, we strongly suggest that you carry a letter from both parents of the child authorizing emergency treatment in the event of illness or accident. For travel abroad, many foreign countries have specific entry requirements for children under 21 who are traveling internationally without BOTH parents. (These requirements are in response to the increased incidence of children being abducted and taken abroad.) PLEASE NOTE THAT TAUCK IS NOT RESPONSIBLE for the disruption of travel caused by improper documentation for children traveling without both parents.

How to Book a Tour

See your travel advisor, or call Tauck at 800-468-2825 to make a reservation.

At the time of booking, please have the following information ready for all members of your party:

Tour Name and Departure Date
Traveler's Name: First and last names as they appear on your passport or driver's license
Traveler's Address(es)
Email Address*
Traveler's Phone Number(s)*
Emergency Contact Information: Please provide the name and phone number of a relative or friend (not travelling with you) whom we could contact during the tour in the unlikely event of an emergency
Interest in purchasing a travel protection plan (US and Canada)
Interest in extending your trip by staying in a Tauck recommended hotel before your trip begins or after it ends
Interest in our specially negotiated airfares

* Required Fields

Deposits & Final Payment

The deposit and the fees for the optional Protection Plan or Cancel Fee Waiver [CFW] coverage are due at time of booking.

The deposit amount is $1,500 per person

Final Payment is due to Tauck 60 days before departure for lands trips, and 120 days before departure for cruises and rail journeys. If your deposit was made by credit card, final payment will be automatic unless you opted out at time of booking. Bookings without full payment at this time may be subject to cancellation without notice. Failure to make payment will be a considered a cancellation by the guest and all applicable cancellation fees will apply.

Cruise Protection Plan

Effective for plans purchased as of July 1, 2021:

Tauck's Cruise and Event Protection

Tauck's Cruise & Event Protection provides you with cancellation protection before your journey begins as well as insurance benefits while you are traveling. It must be purchased within 10 days of your initial deposit. Guest Protection includes the following:

Cancellation Waiver – Provided by Tauck:

Under Tauck's Cancellation Fee Waiver you can cancel your tour for ANY REASON and Tauck will reduce the regular cancellation fees outlined herein, provided we are notified of cancellation before your cruise departs. Certain terms and restrictions apply (see below*).

*Extreme Circumstances: In the event of an act of God, war (whether declared or undeclared), terrorism, accident, natural disaster, outbreak of disease, or other event or circumstance beyond our control that contributes to or results in cancellation rates above our historical cancellation rates in the absence of such event or occurrence, Tauck reserves the right to issue a credit to you in lieu of a money-back refund, applicable to a future Tauck journey. Travel Insurance Benefits – Underwritten by United States Fire Insurance Company.

Trip Cancellation – Should you cancel for covered reasons, the plan reimburses cancellation fees imposed, up to your total trip cost.
Trip Interruption – If you have to interrupt your tour for covered reasons, the plan provides reimbursement to catch up to your tour or return home.
Travel Delay – Provides reimbursement for missed, prepaid travel arrangements if you are delayed by a common carrier, natural disaster, unannounced strike, or other reasons as cited in the plan.
Medical Expense – Reimburses covered medical expenses incurred in the event you become injured or sick during your trip.
Baggage / Personal Effects Protection – Provides reimbursement in the event your luggage or personal effects are, lost, stolen, damaged or delayed during your trip.

Worldwide Emergency Assistance Services – Provided by Carefree Travel Assistance; 24-hour emergency telephone assistance hotline for medical and travel related problems.

The cost of Tauck's Cruise and Event Protection is: $799 per person

This plan provides cancellation coverage for your trip and other insurance coverages that apply only during the covered trip. You may have coverage from other sources that provides you with similar benefits but may be subject to different restrictions depending upon your other coverages. You may wish to compare the terms of this policy with your existing life, health, home and automobile policies. If you have any questions about your current coverage, call your insurer, insurance agent or broker.

This optional Cruise and Event Protection must be requested at time of booking and fee must be included in initial payment. Details will be provided with written confirmation of your reservation. Cruise and Event Protection does not protect travel agent commissions. Reimbursements will be made according to original method of payment. The amount of any refund shall be reduced by any recoveries obtained by you from any third parties.

To obtain your state-specific Certificate of Insurance that contains the complete terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the certificate, visit affinitytravelcert.com/docs/TACCREINTL

If You Have To Cancel

If you cancel within 10 days of initial deposit

Within the first 10 days after you place your initial deposit, you may cancel your reservation for any reason with no cancellation fees.

If you cancel more than 10 days after initial deposit

Regardless of reason, cancellations result in costly charges from our travel and hotel providers covering penalties and fees incurred by canceling confirmed bookings. These fees vary from tour to tour. Therefore, the following fees apply for this tour.

Cancellation Fees with Tauck's Cruise Protection Plan:

120 days or more before departure: Loss of cost of Tauck's Cruise and Event Protection fee per person 119 – 60 days before departure: Loss of 25% of the cost of the cruise, not including air (if applicable), plus loss of Cruise and Event Protection fee, per person 59 – 1 days before departure: Loss of 50% of the cost of the cruise, not including air (if applicable), plus loss of Cruise and Event Protection fee, per person Cancellation Fees without Tauck's Cruise Protection Plan: 120 days or more before departure: $1500 per person 119 – 60 days before departure: Loss of 50% of the cost of cruise, not including air (if applicable), per person 59 - 1 days before departure: Loss of 100% of the cost of cruise, not including air (if applicable), per person Time of cancellation will be when notice is received in our Wilton Woods, CT office.

Tour Interruption Fees

If you have to interrupt your tour en route, you may be entitled to a refund for the unused land portion if it exceeds 24 hours; certain restrictions apply. Such refunds are based upon the number of overnights missed less a fee of $40 per person per day for unused transportation and other fixed expenses.

Partial Room Cancellation

A person who cancels or leaves a tour while a roommate remains constitutes a cancellation of one type of accommodation and rebooking of another type of accommodation. The price charged to the remaining person is the new, higher price for the new accommodation.

In the event of an unforeseen circumstance beyond our control, Tauck reserves the right to amend the cancellation and transfer terms outlined herein. Note: All Guests, regardless of residency, who book a Tauck journey have the option of purchasing the Cancellation Waiver provided by Tauck in the event they need to cancel their trip after making their reservations. Tauck's Cruise & Event Protection, which includes both the Cancellation Fee Waiver and the Travel Insurance Benefits and Assistance Services described above, is not available to residents of Puerto Rico.

Travel Requirements For This Tour

Air Information and Luggage Restrictions

AIRFARE: Airfare to and from this destination is not included in the journey cost. If purchasing your air elsewhere, it is very important to provide us with your confirmed arriving and departing flight information no later than 3 weeks before your arrival date. Flight information can be submitted to Tauck (or verified, if you've already provided it) in the My Account section of Tauck.com.

TAUCK AIRPORT TRANSFERS are included at the start and end of the journey between the airport and the Tauck hotel. Airport transfers are available for any pre tour or post tour hotel stays immediately consecutive to the tour, providing flight information is received in the Tauck office no later than three weeks in advance. Details on locating your transfer upon arrival to the tour start city will be included in your final documents.

AIRLINES and CHECKED LUGGAGE: Due to space limitations during your Tauck journey, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one average-size suitcase per person. Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and are free to revise luggage policies without notice. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies. PLEASE NOTE that if you are booked on a tour that includes on-tour flights, the checked luggage weight restrictions for these flights may be lower than the weight restrictions for your international flights.

Checked Luggage – General

Due to space restrictions, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one suitcase per person weighing no more than 50 pounds (23 kg) and with overall dimensions (length + width + height) not exceeding 62 inches (158 cm).

Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and luggage exceeding airline standards for size or weight may result in expensive overage fees or other consequences.

Airlines are free to revise luggage policies without notice, and certain airlines have different baggage allowances for different classes of service. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies .

Tauck luggage tags will be provided by your Tauck Director on Day 1 of your itinerary. Please do not attach a Tauck luggage tag to any carry-on items, as the Tauck tags designate luggage that is to be handled and transferred by ground operators and hotel staff during your journey.

Carry-on Luggage - General

Although oversize bags and wheeled, carry-on luggage are popular for airline travel, they are often not convenient or appropriate for motor coach travel. Most modern sightseeing motor coaches offer limited space for numerous or larger items. Space under seats or in the overhead rack is typically small, and designed to accommodate items like coats, hats, purses, and small camera bags, etc.

For your day-to-day travel while on tour, we recommend that you limit your hand luggage to a small, soft-sided carry-on piece, and that you bring only those items you need handy during the day such as make-up, medications, cameras, film, etc. Items too large to fit under the motor coach seat or on the overhead rack must be stored in the luggage bays beneath the motor coach, and may be inaccessible during daytime travel.

Health, Safety and Mobility

HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS

A doctor and limited medical facilities are available onboard. However, if you take special medications, please bring an adequate supply with you; they may not be available onboard. Medical services and all medicines (except acetaminophen, aspirin and anti-nausea pills) dispensed to you by the ship's doctor will be charged to your shipboard account. If you become ill during the voyage and the physician is unable to care for your needs onboard, you will be transferred to medical facilities onshore.

The Windstar cruise ships are registered in the Bahamas. Please check with your health insurance provider to determine whether you are covered while traveling. If you will not be covered under your current policy, we strongly suggest that you arrange for adequate coverage while on tour.

If you have a medical condition that might limit your participation in activities, please consult your physician for pre-departure health advice and notify us as soon as possible, if you have not already done so. We will advise your Tauck Director accordingly.

VACCINATION REQUIREMENTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Some of the countries visited on this itinerary may require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against certain diseases in order to enter the country. These requirements are subject to frequent change as outbreaks occur and subside in different areas, and it is therefore crucial that you obtain the very latest information on entry requirements as you prepare for your journey.

For the most current information, please consult the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) by clicking here and the World Health Organization (WHO) by clicking here . You may also wish to visit the web sites for the embassies of the countries you will be visiting. Besides providing details on vaccination requirements, these sites can also provide information on vaccinations that may be recommended (but aren't required) and other potential health issues for which no vaccines are available.

Any decisions relating to your health, of course, should not be based solely on information provided by a web site. It is critically important that you consult with your personal physician prior to your journey to obtain any required vaccinations and to review any optional recommendations offered by the CDC or other sources.

Please be sure to discuss your journey with your physician at least four to six weeks in advance of your departure, as certain vaccinations take time to become fully effective. Also, be certain to ask your physician for proof of any vaccinations you receive, and to pack this proof along with your other travel documents in your carry-on luggage (not in your checked luggage).

Researching and complying with vaccination entry requirements for the countries visited on this itinerary is the responsibility of the traveler and not Tauck. Tauck is therefore not responsible for any expenses incurred or disruptions to travel caused by improper or incomplete vaccinations, or by the failure to provide proof of required vaccinations.

If you do not obtain the necessary vaccinations and proper documentation, you may be denied entry into one or more countries, or temporarily quarantined until the necessary vaccinations are administered, or until proper documentation is provided.

To enjoy this cruise, you should be in good health and able to walk reasonable distances, often over unpaved and uneven surfaces. Some of the most memorable sightseeing can only be accomplished on foot. Many of the sites visited were built in antiquity and have many steps and uneven surfaces. It is important that you wear sturdy, comfortable walking shoes that have already been broken-in. The amount of walking that you choose to do, however, is at your discretion. Additionally, you should be steady on your feet to circumnavigate the decks of the ship while cruising on the Aegean Sea. Some ship-to-shore transportation is by local tender. Occasionally you may get wet with spray.

PLEASE NOTE: We regret that this Tauck itinerary cannot accommodate wheelchairs or motorized scooters. Likewise, we regret that we're unable to provide individual assistance to guests with walking difficulties or other personal needs. The responsibility of the Tauck Director who accompanies your trip is to ensure that the larger group enjoys a relaxing and informative journey, and he or she cannot be relied upon to provide ongoing individual assistance to any one guest. Guests requiring such individualized assistance must be accompanied by an able-bodied companion who can provide it.

SPECIAL DIETARY REQUESTS

The restaurants, hotels, caterers and numerous other partners we work with all do their best to accommodate special dietary requests from Tauck guests. However, given the diverse nature of those food providers (from small wineries to grand hotels to world-famous restaurants in more than 70 countries worldwide), some of our partners are better able than others to accommodate such requests. We therefore cannot guarantee that all dietary requests can be accommodated at every meal. Also, please note that where dietary requests can be accommodated, choices will frequently be limited.

Smoking is not permitted on the motor coaches or inside the ship, including inside staterooms. Smoking is only permitted on the outer decks in the designated smoking areas. These regulations pertain to e-cigarettes as well.

The Tauck Experience

Leave Your Worries At Home

One upfront price – no hidden costs, tauck directors – simply the best, never settle for ordinary.

{{ forumDate }} {{ forumTopic }} ({{ totalForumComments }})

From the Forum

Book Today... And Travel Dreams Begin

Discover The World

Call us, or call your travel advisor, to book your preferred departure date today – and explore our beautiful brochures to find your inspiration for your next journey.

Related Journeys

Other Journeys You May Enjoy

Jerusalem, the red sea & petra.

From $6,990

Land Journey

Treasures of the Aegean

From $9,990

Small Ship Cruising

Mediterranean Odyssey: Greece, Cyprus & Israel

From $11,990

Israel and Jordan

From $8,590

Destinations
Antarctica & the Arctic
Australia & New Zealand
Israel & Jordan
Latin America
United States
Tours & Cruises
Exclusive Partnership
Family Journeys
Guest Favorites
River Cruises
Small Groups
Small Ship Cruises
Awards and Accolades
Our History
Tauck Impact
The Tauck Difference
The Taucker Blog
About Tauck
Media Center
Tutorial Video
Agent Connect
Register Your Agency
General Information
Travel Protection
Newsletter Sign Up
Order an eGift Card
Request a Brochure
Tauck Forums
Travel and Health
Travel Updates

Best Greece cruises: Top 5 ships sailing the Greek isles

From ancient mythology to wine and olives, there's a lot to love about Greece . There's something magical about the contrast between the deep-blue waters of the Aegean Sea and the ancient ruins and white buildings found on the Greek islands.

The best Greece cruises are those that offer a well-rounded mix of islands and key Greece destinations: Athens for its ruins, Santorini for its blue-roofed churches, Mykonos for its shopping and nightlife, and Rhodes for its palace and charming cobblestone streets. You might even luck out and snag a visit to places like Turkey or Montenegro, too.

If you're not sure which ships to consider, here's a list of the best cruises to Greece for different kinds of travelers.

For more cruise guides, news and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Best Greek isles cruises for families: Disney Dream

Disney Cruise Line is ideal for families. If a Disney cruise to Greece with kids sounds appealing, Disney Dream is the ship that will take you there.

The vessel is not the line's newest, but it's also not the oldest, so you'll still find plenty to do on board. The 2,500-passenger ship's small size means it's easy to learn your way around. Even better, Disney Dream is typically more affordable than the line's newer vessels.

Your children likely won't be bored on the ship. Dream offers jaw-dropping entertainment and daily character appearances. Its magical kids clubs feature a replica of Andy's room from "Toy Story" and the Millennium Falcon's cockpit from "Star Wars." (Expect surprise visits from R2-D2 or a squad of stormtroopers.)

Also, Greece is wrapped in tons of ancient history to spark your family's imagination. For example, in Athens, your family might choose to take a guided tour of the Acropolis, followed by a "day in the life of an archeologist" experience, where you'll search for treasures in a faux archeological dig.

If the kids prefer something sportier, they might enjoy an excursion that takes visitors to the Panathenaic Stadium for a tour and a talk about the first Olympic games of the modern era.

Disney Dream sails eight-, nine- and 11-night voyages from $416 per person, per night, for a windowless inside cabin. Some itineraries sail round-trip from Rome, while others cruise one-way between Rome and Barcelona with calls on Athens, Mykonos and other ports in Greece.

Related: Best cruise lines for families

Best adults-only Greece cruises for party animals: Resilient Lady

If you enjoy a lively megaship party atmosphere but you don't want an environment that's overrun with kids, Virgin Voyages ' Resilient Lady will likely be the best Greece cruise option for you.

Although Virgin's Greece itineraries are pretty standard, its onboard experience is what sets it apart in the region.

The adults-only ship combines a casual vibe with a ramped-up nightlife. You'll find passengers dressed up like mermaids, crew dressed up like drag queens and performers that more accurately represent a cross-section of real life than those whom you'll find on most other lines' vessels.

Nighttime shows run the gamut from lounge singers and seemingly impromptu atrium dance parties to secret below-deck visits to the "crew bar" for a tipple. There's also Scarlet Night — a rave-like pool-deck dance party where everyone wears red.

If that's not wild enough for you, there's also an app that lets you order Champagne to wherever you are on board, free fitness classes that encourage you to dress up in your '80s best and even a tattoo parlor so you can make some bad decisions.

Resilient Lady sails seven-, 10- and 14-night cruises, starting at $148 per person, per night, for an inside cabin. The voyages feature stops in Croatia, Turkey and Montenegro, in addition to Greece (Santorini, Rhodes and overnight in Mykonos from Athens), depending on the specific itinerary you choose.

Related: The best adults-only cruises to try if you can't stand being around kids on vacation

Best budget-friendly Greece cruises: Rhapsody of the Seas

Want to check out Greece but have limited funds? Although you'll have to factor in potentially expensive flights to Israel to board, a voyage on Royal Caribbean 's Rhapsody of the Seas could be right up your alley.

The ship is one of Royal Caribbean's older ships — it debuted in 1997 — but that doesn't mean you won't find fun onboard activities such as trivia, pool games, nightly theater performances, game shows, dancing and live music.

The best part if you're on a budget is the price. You can snag sailings of five or seven nights, round-trip from Haifa, from just $65 per person, per night, for an inside cabin. Voyages include calls to ports in Rhodes, Athens, Santorini and Mykonos, as well as Cyprus.

Related: How to get a deal on a cruise

Best small-ship luxury Greece cruises: Windstar's Wind Star

Windstar Cruises ' namesake, Wind Star, is a 148-passenger masted sailing yacht that offers a special Greek islands experience.

The ship is great for sailing aficionados. Because of its small size, the ship can visit smaller ports that larger vessels can't access. (Think Patmos, known to theology buffs as the place where the book of Revelation was written; Monemvasia, a town carved into rock; and Nafplion, modern Greece's original capital and now the site of museums, churches and castles.)

Also, Wind Star is an upscale ship, which means you'll find elevated dining and service on board. All cabins offer at least one window. When you purchase an all-inclusive fare, Wi-Fi, gratuities and alcohol are rolled into the price.

The vessel sails weeklong Greece cruises round-trip from Athens and calls on Mykonos, Santorini, Patmos, Monemvasia and Nafplion in Greece, as well as Kusadasi in Turkey. Rates start from $500 per person, per night, for an outside cabin.

Related: The best luxury cruise lines for elegance and exclusivity

Best locally based Greek isles cruises: Celestyal Journey

Celestyal Cruises is a line you don't hear about too often, but it's based in Greece, which means it has a unique perspective on Greek island sailings.

If you're looking for a cruise vacation that's full of local Greek flare, check out the brand's Celestyal Journey. Set to debut for the line in September 2023, the ship isn't new, but following an extensive refurbishment, it will become the youngest member of the line's fleet.

Holding about 1,200 passengers, Celestyal Journey is small enough that you'll still receive a personalized experience but large enough to offer a multitude of onboard amenities. Enjoy yourself at the spa and fitness center, eight bars, seven restaurants, a chef's table experience and two pools. The ship offers 630 cabins, including 149 balcony cabins, 120 junior suites and 28 full-fledged suite accommodations.

Itineraries offered by Celestyal Journey range from four to 28 nights, departing from either Athens or Thessaloniki. Most voyages include calls on well-known Greek ports like Santorini, Rhodes and Mykonos, while longer sailings also venture to places in Turkey and Montenegro. Pricing is not yet available.

Bottom line

The best cruises to Greece combine a mix of fascinating destinations with a ship that fits your budget and travel style. If you're still unsure which cruise to choose, check with a knowledgeable cruise travel agent who can help you sort through the options.

Have more cruise questions? TPG has answers:

Banned items: What not to pack for a cruise
Man overboard: Why do people fall off cruise ships?
What is baked Alaska, and why is it paraded around cruise ships?
What are the largest cruise ships in the world?
What is a gentleman host on a cruise?
What is the Jones Act and how does it affect cruise ships?
What is a lido deck on a cruise ship?
What's a cruise cabin guarantee and will it save you money?
What's the difference between a cruise concierge and a butler?

Small Ship GREECE CRUISES

Small Enchanting Ports. Windstar Style Cruising. See More of the Greek Isles with Windstar.

Treasures of the Greek Isles

Adriatic Archipelagos & Greek Goddesses

James Beard Foundation: Adriatic Archipelagos & Greek Goddesses

Winter in Croatia & Greece

Winter in Italy and the Adriatic

2025 President’s Mystery Cruise

A Piece of Greece, a Slice of Sicily & the Corinth Canal

Aegean Sea Odyssey via the Corinth Canal

Ancient Wonders of Greece & Ephesus

Cappadocia & Aegean Rhapsody Cruise Tour

Cappadocia & aegean rhapsody cruise tour via the corinth canal.

Delphi & Meteora: Grecian Treasures Cruise Tour

Enchanting Greece & the Amalfi Coast

Istanbul Icons & Aegean Artifacts Cruise Tour

James Beard Foundation & Wine Cruise: Adriatic Archipelagos & Greek Goddesses

Myths & Marvels of the Aegean

Star Collector: Adriatic Old Towns & Aegean Islands

Star Collector: Echoes of Italian & Greek Isles via the Corinth Canal

Star Collector: Pilgrimage to the Holy Land & Beyond: Israel, Greece & Turkey

Star Collector: Racing for the Prix du Monde Along the Rivieras

Star Collector: Stories of Italy, Croatia & Greece

Star Collector: Winter Rhapsody in Italy and Croatia

Search Please fill out this field.
Manage Your Subscription
Give a Gift Subscription
Sweepstakes
European Cruises

10 Best Greece Cruises, According to Travel Experts

These are the best Greece cruises for island hopping with ease.

Courtesy of Variety Cruises

With its stunning beaches, rich history, iconic landmarks, and delectable cuisine, a trip to Greece is always a great idea. However, since the nation is home to more than 6,000 islands — some of which are only accessible by boat — your best bet is to explore via cruise. Just take it from Rob Clabbers, Travel + Leisure A-List travel advisor and Q Cruise + Travel founder, who tells T+L that “Greece and the Greek isles are just the perfect destinations to explore by ship” since “a cruise allows you to see more islands and gives you a unique vantage point.” Several of the best Greece cruises also include visits to neighboring countries like Turkey and Italy, for example, which allow travelers to experience several cultures and countries in one action-packed trip. Intrigued? We don’t blame you: Ahead, check out our favorite Greece cruises for every type of traveler, along with itinerary recommendations and expert insight.

Meet the Expert

Rob Clabbers is a T+L A-List travel advisor and founder of Q Cruise + Travel, a Chicago-based travel agency.

Mary Curry is a T+L A-list travel advisor and small ship specialist.

Kari Dillon is the owner of Marvelous Mouse Travels, an agency specializing in theme park and cruise vacations.

Megan Guinnup is a travel agent with Marvelous Mouse Travels.

Windstar Cruises

Courtesy of Windstar

According to Clabbers, this small luxury cruise line is perfect for those who prefer “a smaller, more casual yacht-style experience.” Per the pro, the onboard vibes are best described as “upscale, but not stuffy or over-the-top.” It’s also worth noting that “each ship offers a water sports platform with kayaks, water trampolines, stand-up paddling, snorkel gear, floating carpets, and other ‘toys’ that are deployed (weather and location permitting, of course) at least once on most Greek itineraries.”

Itinerary: While you can’t go wrong with any of Windstar’s Greece itineraries, Clabbers is quick to call out the popular Treasures of the Greek Isles voyage, which sets sail each week from May through October. Passengers can visit beloved ports of call like Mykonos and Santorini, along with “lesser-known (and less-crowded!) places like Monemvasia and Patmos.” As part of the experience, guests have the unique opportunity to feast among the ruins in neighboring Turkey as part of the line’s complimentary Evening in Ephesus “after-hours” event, which, per Clabbers, features a decadent five-course dinner accompanied by a chamber orchestra. Speaking of culinary offerings, it’s worth mentioning that Windstar is the official cruise line partner of the esteemed James Beard Foundation, which means you can expect some of the top eats at sea.

Explora Journeys

Courtesy of Explora Cruises

“A new entrant in the luxury travel industry, Explora Journeys offers all the style and comfort of a modern European luxury resort property on its 922-guest yacht-inspired Explora I and, launching later this year, Explora II, ” explains Clabbers. The line has taken the industry by storm, doing away with cliche cruise staples like main dining rooms, large buffets, and notoriously small staterooms. Instead, says Clabbers, guests can choose from a selection of “excellent restaurants that other companies would call specialty restaurants,” as well as “four swimming pools, each with their own vibe,” and all-suite accommodations, some of which boast private plunge pools. Per the pro, it’s worth noting that “Explora Journeys is the first luxury line that offers a dedicated youth activity program and facility year-round;” as such, it’s an excellent option for multi-generational families looking to cruise Greece in style.

Itinerary: Sailing round-trip from Athens, the aptly named eight-night A Journey from Athens to Athens itinerary includes a mix of popular ports like Mykonos and Santorini, along with hidden-gem locales like Syros, which is famous for its neoclassical architecture, a buzzy main town, and (essentially) crowd-free beaches. The cruise also visits the serene resort town of Marmaris in Turkey before heading to its final port of call, Kos , a gorgeous Greek island known for its sandy beaches, white-washed buildings, and historical sites.

Celebrity Cruises

Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

According to Clabbers, " Celebrity Cruises was launched by a Greek shipping family," so the line has deep ties to — and many officers who hail from — the country. What’s more, he says, "When you visit Greece, they are taking you to their homeland, and it shows in their passion and love of the Hellenic nation." The line offers a range of larger ships and, thus, more options between accommodations (from economical inside rooms to luxurious suites in The Retreat), itineraries, restaurants, and entertainment; as such, Celebrity is "a great option for adults and families who like more activities on their ship."

Itinerary: The nine-night Best Of Greece itinerary cruises round-trip from Athens on select dates from May to October and takes place aboard the 2,170-passenger Celebrity Infinity , which Clabbers described as one of the line’s “smaller and more seasoned ships.” The first port of call is Santorini, followed by Ephesus in Turkey and Mykonos. “Additionally,” says Clabbers, " Infinity travels to Volos and Thessaloniki, ports that are not typically visited by large ships.” Kavala, located in the northern part of the country, serves as the final port of call before heading back to Athens. Here, cruisers can enjoy a mix of history, culture, and architecture — plus some seriously stunning landscapes (from lagoons and lakes to wetlands and beaches) along with lush flora and fauna.

Related: What to Know About All 16 Ships in the Celebrity Cruises Fleet

Courtesy of Silversea cruises

Silversea offers a variety of Greece cruise itineraries, and it’s one of few truly luxe all-inclusive cruise lines. Per Clabbers, the 596-passenger Silver Moon offers all-suite accommodations and a classic small-ship feel — complete with excellent meals, beverages, and shore excursions all included in your cruise fare. Speaking of the latter, he says, “The inclusion of shore excursions also makes it easy to dive deeper into Greek culture and culinary experiences.”

Itinerary: While you can’t go wrong with any of Silversea’s Greek itineraries, Clabbers especially recommends the seven-night Athens to Athens cruise, which “calls on highlights, but adds places like Souda Bay in Crete, Nafplion, Patmos, and Rhodes ,” where he recommends visiting the “temple ruins at Lindos, with views over the Mediterranean, and then walk in the footsteps of the Crusaders in the old town.” The cruise also stops in Nafplion, which, despite its romantic seaside setting and lovely beaches, is yet to be uncovered by most American travelers — for now, at least.

Variety Cruises

According to T+L A-list travel advisor and small ship specialist Mary Curry , this local Greek cruise line offers its own fleet of yachts, most carrying fewer than 50 passengers. Since the ships are so small, says Curry, “you can travel a bit further off the beaten path.” Variety offers a handful of Greece itineraries, including specially themed hiking and wine cruises.

Itinerary: Travelers craving a true off-the-beaten-path experience can book the seven-night Unexplored Greece voyage, which sails round-trip from Athens. The first port of call is Ikira, a tiny island known for its hot springs that also happens to be one of the world’s Blue Zones. Then, it’s off to Patmos, known for its fascinating history and unspoiled beaches, before overnighting in Lipsi, a laid-back isle famous for its gorgeous scenery. On board, guests can taste the destination’s famous wine, Aposperitis. The fun continues in Levintha, inhabited by a single family who raises animals and runs a restaurant where guests can enjoy fresh-caught fish. After, it’s off to Amorgos, where scenic hiking and beautiful beaches abound. The next day, you’ll stop at Panagia Hozoviotissa, a cliffside monastery dating back to the 10th century, before heading to Koufonisia, which boasts majestic caves and rock pools accessible only by boat (thankfully, Variety as you covered). The final stop of the day is the serene island of Iraklia, which offers clear-blue waters ideal for swimming. After remaining here overnight, you’ll head to the final port of call, Serifos, where guests can visit a remote beach, followed by an onboard BBQ feast to refuel before heading to Chora, a fairy-tale village.

Courtesy of Ponant Cruises

This French-owned cruise line offers an impressive fleet of small luxury ships. Additionally, says Curry, “Most cabins have private balconies, and travelers who plan early are rewarded with excellent value for the money.” What’s especially unique about Pontant, explains the pro, is that they “partner with Smithsonian Journeys on select departures to offer an enrichment program of included lectures and shore excursions in each port.”

Itinerary: Curry especially recommends the seven-night Cruising the Greek Islands of the Southern Aegean sailing, which will cruise round-trip from Athens in July and October 2025. The cruise calls on aforementioned spots like Patmos, Rhodes, and Amorgos before visiting Adamas in Milos, a volcanic island teeming with postcard-worthy white-washed towns and breathtakingly beautiful beaches. Adamas itself is a tiny fishing port where colorful boats shimmer against the blue waters. Finally, it’s off to Mykonos and Napflion before finally disembarking in Athens.

Disney Cruise Line

Courtesy of Disney Cruise Line

Disney Cruise Line is world-famous for its exciting onboard offerings for children of all ages — including character and superhero meet-and-greets, dining options themed after beloved Disney princesses, and live performances galore — making it a favorite for families hoping for a fun-filled Greece vacation.

Itinerary: "Setting sail aboard the Disney Dream on the seven-night Mediterranean with Greek Isles itinerary is nothing short of magical!" says Megan Guinnup , a travel agent with Marvelous Mouse Travels . Cruising round-trip from Rome, the ship calls on Naples before exploring Greece. In addition to popular ports like Athens and Mykonos, you'll also visit Chania on the island of Crete, which offers a bustling harbor, exquisite architecture, and cobblestone streets that look like they were plucked straight from a (Disney) fairy tale. After exploring each locale, the fun continues back on board, where, per the pro, "there is enchantment everywhere — meeting beloved characters, enjoying deck parties with Mickey and Minnie, and indulging in exquisite cuisine."

Related: Everything You Need to Know About Disney Cruise Ships

Royal Caribbean

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean

This mega-ship line truly has it all: Flashy entertainment and onboard activities — which, depending on the ship, can include everything from water slides to zip lines — and plenty of drinking and dining offerings to appease even the pickiest eaters. Guinnup and Kari Dillon, owner of Marvelous Mouse Travels, recommend setting sail aboard Odyssey of the Seas , which offers several Greek itineraries. "On board," says Guinnup, "There's a plethora of activities to enjoy, from bumper cars and roller skating to exquisite dining and a bionic bar — there's something for everyone!"

Itinerary: The seven-night Greek Isles itinerary sails round-trip from Rome with stops in Santorini, Ephesus, Mykonos, and Naples. Keep in mind that because the ship is so large, Santorini and Mykonos are both tender ports. With that in mind, Dillon recommends springing on The Key, an optional add-on that includes priority tender access so that you can spend as much time as possible on land basking in its beauty.

Virgin Voyages

Courtesy of Virgin Voyages

Richard Branson’s adults-only line has taken the industry by storm with its innovative offerings, including 20-plus restaurants instead of buffets, an onboard tattoo parlor, adult-focused entertainment offerings, and a two-story nightclub.

Itinerary: Dillon especially recommends the seven-night Greek Island Aglow itinerary for travelers seeking a high-energy, adults-only option. She continues, telling T+L, “Not only does this sail to the islands of Santorini and Rhodes, but it [also] has an overnight in Mykonos, which is world-famous for its lively party atmosphere.” As a bonus, the cruise also calls on Bodrum in Turkey, which boasts beautiful beaches, flower-filled cafes, and a bustling nightlife scene.

Celestyal Cruises

Nicolas Economou/NurPhoto via Getty Images

The Greece-based Celesytal Cruises prides itself on offering an authentic Greek vacation experience. Additionally, Celesytal is unique in that it offers year-round Aegean Sea sailings cruising round-trip from Athens and ranging in length from three to 14 nights. On land, Celeystal guests can choose from a selection of the line’s “Authentic Excursions,” which are specially curated, small-group, expert-led experiences designed to take travelers off the beaten path. Options — including walking food tours and pottery-making demos at a local factory — abound, depending on the particular port of call.

Itinerary: The seven-night Idyllic Aegean voyage visits Thessaloniki (which offers an eclectic combination of history, nightlife, and gastronomy), Kuşadası (a popular Turkish resort town), and Heraklion (the capital of Crete) before heading to iconic isles like Santorini and Mykonos, where the ship will remain overnight. Before returning to Athens for disembarkation, you’ll also stop in magnificent Milos.

Harmony V Yacht, Greece

10.0 Exceptional 1 Verified Review

Flexible Booking

from ₽ 31,675 / day

Excellent boat comfort “Captain Orphaeus did a great job of adjusting our itinerary due to unexpected high winds and less than cooperative seas. Going to …” Kenneth C, United States

Luxury yacht with spacious social areas
Explore stunning Greek Islands and archaeological sites

Cruise Greece in comfort aboard the luxury Harmony V yacht. At 54.6 meters/179 feet long and with a maximum of 49 guests in 25 cabins, there will be ample space for everyone to relax and unwind. Social areas include the spacious lounge with classy seating, the American bar, and the joining dining room, which boasts large windows providing beautiful views of the Greek Islands. There is also an external dining area located on the Sun Deck, where meals are served "al fresco." The Sun Deck is ideal for basking under the sun, reading a good book or gazing at the scenery.

The cabins are conveniently spread over the main and upper decks. Each stateroom has a private en-suite bathroom equipped with flat-screen TV sets, DVD players, mini-fridges, hairdryers, individually controlled A/C, and safety deposit boxes. All cabins have large windows to provide stunning sea views.

The Harmony V Classical Greece cruise explores some of the Mediterranean's most stunning Islands. The beautiful Cyclades, Kea, Santorini, Mykonos, and the neighboring UNESCO-protected archaeological isle of Delos are just some of the stops along the way during your 7-night itinerary. Each day a new port of call will be discovered, with hidden coves, crystal-clear blue waters to cool you, and a glimpse of ancient history to amaze you.

Join the Harmony V yacht for a blissful 7-night summer cruise in Greece. Book online today.

Choose your departure date adventure cruise | no scuba diving

Included: VAT, Drinking Water, Tea & Coffee, Welcome Cocktails, Beach BBQ, Half-Board Meal Plan, Special Dinner, Fishing, Snorkel Gear, Beach Towels, Cabin Towels.

Required Extras: Port Fees (380-405 USD per trip).

Optional Extras: Gratuities, Airport Transfer, Hotel Transfer, Alcoholic Beverages, Soft drinks, Snacks, Land Excursions, Laundry / Pressing Services, WiFi internet.

Book now, pay later: You can easily place your booking online. We will then hold the spaces for you and you can confirm with a payment later.

* Extra fees are shown per person.

Pay by bank transfer or online with Best Price Guaranteed

Boat features

Audio & video entertainment
TV in cabins
Air Conditioned saloon
Aircon Cabins
Indoor Saloon
Outdoor Dining
En-Suite bathrooms
Paid Internet
Seaview Cabins
Dedicated Local & International Crew
Available for Charter

Food & Drinks

Western Food
Buffet style
Beer available
Fine Wines Selection
Fine Cuisine
Welcome Cocktails
Full-board Option

If you have any specific dietary requirements whilst on-board your cruise, you can add this to your special requests on step 2 of the booking form. We advise limiting these requests to religious beliefs or food allergies.

Languages Spoken

The crew speaks English, German, French, Spanish, and Russian.

Drawings & Vessel Layouts

Accommodation.

Category P Cabins

Category A Cabins

Category B Cabins

Category C Cabins

Boat specifications.

Year built 2009
Year renovated 2017
Length 179 ft
Cruising speed 10 knots
Max guests 49
Number of cabins 25
Number of bathrooms 25

Boat Navigation and Safety

Depth Sounder
Radio VHF/DSC/SSB
E.P.I.R.B. Distress System
Emergency Rafts
Fire Alarm & Fire Extinguishers
First Aid Kits
Satellite & mobile phones
Engine room CCTV
Crew trained in first aid
Emergency flares

Harmony V Reviews

10.0 Exceptional
1 Verified Review
Vessel 10.0
Activities 10.0
10 Exceptional

One of life's best experiences

Captain Orphaeus did a great job of adjusting our itinerary due to unexpected high winds and less than cooperative seas. Going to Syros (non-scheduled) was a great alternative and one of our favorite islands. Georgia, our cruise director was just a blast to work with. She did a nice job of herding us 'cats'. Jannus, who was in charge of the food and rooms has a great staff. HIs lunch and dinner menus were excellent. We will certainly book with Variety Cruises again.

We’re here to help, 24/7.

Find available liveaboards.

AUD Australian Dollar
BRL Brazilian Real
CAD Canadian Dollar
CHF Swiss Franc
CNY Chinese Yuan
CZK Czech Koruna
DKK Danish Krone
GBP British Pound
HKD Hong Kong Dollar
HUF Hungarian Forin
ILS Israeli New Sheqel
INR Indian Rupee
JPY Japanese Yen
KRW Korean Won
MXN Mexican Peso
MYR Malaysian Ringgit
NOK Norwegian Krone
NZD New Zealand Dollar
PHP Philippine Peso
PLN Polish Zloty
RON Romanian Leu
RUB Russian Ruble
SEK Swedish Krona
SGD Singapore Dollar
THB Thai Baht
TRY Turkish Lira
TWD New Taiwan Dollar
USD US Dollars
ZAR South African Rand

Connect with our expert travel consultants to plan your next trip.

Call us +44 808 168 1066
Email Us Send us a message
About us Read more
New Zealand
Virgin Islands
Admiralty Dream
Adriatic King
Adriatic Princess
Adriatic Queen
Akomo Isseki
Alaskan Dream
All Star Cuan Law
All Star Red Sea
Amadeus Thailand
Amalia Indonesia
Amaya Explorer
Amba Liveaboard
Aqua Tiki II
Aqua Tiki III
Archipell I
Atlantis Azores
Azalea Philippines
Bahamas Aggressor
Bahamas Master
Bahriyeli C
Bahriyeli D
Baranof Dream
Belize Aggressor III
Belize Aggressor IV
Black Pearl
Blackbeards Morning Star
Blackbeards Sea Explorer
Blue Dolphin
Blue Force One
Blue Horizon
Blue Maldives
Blue Melody
Blue Shark 2
Blue Voyager
Bulan Purnama
Burc-u Zafer
BVI Aggressor
Cachalote Explorer
Caledonian Sky
Calico Jack
Calipso Cruise
Calipso Dive
Captain Bota
Captain Sparrow
Caribbean Explorer II
Carpe Diem Indonesia
Cayman Aggressor IV
Chichagof Dream
Christianna VII
Cocos Island Aggressor
Coral Adventurer
Coral Discoverer
Coral Geographer
Coral I and II
Coral Sea Dreaming
Cormorant II
Cruisenautic
Deep Andaman Queen
Dewi Nusantara
Discovery Alaska
Discovery I
Discovery II
Discovery Palawan
DiveRACE Class E
Dolce Vita Egypt
Dolphin Dream
Dolphin Queen
Duke of York
Duyung Baru
EcoPro Mariana
EcoPro Moonima
Elite Galapagos
Emperor Asmaa
Emperor Elite
Emperor Explorer
Emperor Harmoni
Emperor Leo
Emperor Raja Laut
Emperor Serenity
Emperor Superior
Emperor Virgo
Emperor Voyager
Expedition Antarctica
Fascination
Fiji Princess
Freedom III
G Adventures Canary Islands
G Adventures Croatia
G Adventures Greece
G Adventures Thailand
Galapagos Aggressor III
Galapagos Horizon
Galapagos Legend
Galapagos Master
Galapagos Sea Star
Galapagos Sky
Galaxy Diver
Galaxy Diver II
Gaya Baru Indah
Gemini Explorer
Gentle Giant
Ghazala Explorer
Golden Dolphin
Golden Dolphin II
Golden Dolphin iii
Golden Dolphin IV
Grand Majestic
Hammerhead I
Hammerhead II
Harmony G Cape Verde
Heaven Saphir
Heritage Explorer
Hondius Antarctica
Hondius Arctic
Humboldt Explorer
Idriva Comfort Plus
Idriva Deluxe
Idriva Premium
Indo Aggressor
Indo Master
Infinity Galapagos
Jardines Avalon Fleet
Jaz Crown Jewel
Jelajahi Laut
Katarina Line Deluxe
Katarina Line Deluxe Superior
Katarina Line Premium Class
Katarina Line Premium Superior
Katarina Line Traditional En-Suite
Kimberley Quest II
Komodo Sea Dragon
Lucky Marine Liveaboard
Maldives Aggressor II
Maldives Blue Force 3
Maldives Legend Sea Pleasure
Mama Marija
Mama Marija II
Manta Queen 1
Manta Queen 2
Manta Queen 3
Manta Queen 5
Manta Queen 7
Manta Queen 8
Merit Dahabiya
Mikumba Dua
Mutiara Laut
MY Odyssey Liveaboard
Natural Paradise
Nautilus Belle Amie
Nautilus Explorer
Nautilus Gallant Lady
Nautilus Two
Nautilus Under Sea
Neptune One
Nile Queen II
Northern Dream
Ocean Albatros Antarctica
Ocean Albatros Arctic
Ocean Divine
Ocean Hunter 3
Ocean Lovers
Ocean Quest
Ocean Sapphire
Ocean Spray
Ocean Victory
Odyssey Dive
Okeanos Aggressor II
Ombak Putih
Ortelius Antarctica
Ortelius Arctic Diving
Pacific Master
Palau Aggressor II
Palau Siren
Palau Sport
Panorama Greece
Panorama II Polynesia
Pearl of Papua
Philippine Siren
Philippines Aggressor
Plancius Antarctica
Plancius Antarctica Diving
Plancius Arctic
Plancius Arctic Diving
Plataran Phinisi Ambasi
Polar Pioneer
Princess Aloha
Princess Dhonkamana
Princess Haleema
Princess Haseena
Princess Rani
Princess Sara
Princess Ulua
Putri Papua
Queenesia II
Quino el Guardian
Raja Ampat Aggressor
Raja Ampat Explorer
Red Sea Aggressor II
Red Sea Aggressor IV
Red Sea Blue Force 2
Reef Endeavour Diving
Reina Silvia Voyager
Rembrandt van Rijn Arctic
Roatan Aggressor
Rocio del Mar
Rock Islands Aggressor
Royal Evolution
Running on Waves
Safari Endeavour Alaska
Safari Explorer
Safari Explorer Hawaii
Safari Quest
Safari Voyager Mexico
San Spirito
Saudi Explorer
Sawasdee Fasai
Scubaspa Yang
Scubaspa Ying
Scubaspa Zen
Sea Bird Cruise
Sea Pearl Cruise
Sea Safari 8
Sea Safari VI
Sea Safari VII
Sea Scorpion
Sea Serpent
Sea Serpent Contessa
Sea Serpent Excellence
Sea Serpent Grand
Sea Star Alaska
Sea world 1
Seafari Explorer 2
Seahorse II
Seaman Journey
Seawolf Dominator
Seven Seas Egypt
Shore Thing
Situju7 Cruise
Smiling Seahorse
Snefro Love
Snefro Pearl
Snefro Spirit
Snefro Target
Solitude Adventurer
Solitude One
Solomons Master
Spirit of Freedom
SS Glorious Miss Nouran
SS Serena Dreams
Steigenberger Legacy
Steigenberger Minerva
Steigenberger Regency
Steigenberger Royale
Stella Maris
Stella Maris Explorer
Stella Oceana
Sunshine Egypt
The Phinisi
Thunderbird
Tiare Cruise
Tiburon Explorer
Tranquility
Treasure of Galapagos
Turks and Caicos Aggressor II
Turks and Caicos Explorer
Vita Xplorer
Water And Wind
Westward Alaska
Westward Mexico
White Manta
White Pearl
Wilderness Discoverer
Yasawa Princess Cruises
Zephyria II
Cayman Islands
Dominican Republic
Turks and Caicos
Saudi Arabia

Polar Regions

Papua New Guinea
Philippines
Solomon islands

Gear Rental

There is equipment available to rent on this boat. Please provide your rental needs on the booking form. You will need to pay for the rental gear on board of the boat.

Ask a question

Fill in the form below and LiveAboard’s customer service will get back to you as soon as possible.

1 double or 2 single beds (amenable twin)
Aircon with control
Ensuite Bathroom
Max 2 guests

The Category P cabins are located on the Upper Deck offering a sofa, large windows, an en suite bathroom with shower, and elegant Corian finishing on walls and floors. The cabins are equipped with flat-screen TV sets, DVD players, mini-fridge, hairdryers, individually controlled A/C and safe deposit boxes.

The Category A cabins are located on the Upper Deck offering large windows, an en suite bathroom with shower, and elegant Corian finishing on walls and floors. The cabins are equipped with flat-screen TV sets, DVD players, mini-fridge, hairdryers, individually controlled A/C and safe deposit boxes.

The Category B cabins are located on the Main Deck offering large windows, an en suite bathroom with shower, and elegant Corian finishing on walls and floors. The cabins are equipped with flat-screen TV sets, DVD players, mini-fridge, hairdryers, individually controlled A/C and safe deposit boxes.

1 double bed

The category C cabins are located on the main deck offering large windows, an en suite bathroom with shower, and elegant Corian finishing on walls and floors. The cabins are equipped with flat-screen TV sets, DVD players, mini-fridge, hairdryers, individually controlled A/C and safe deposit boxes.

Rental Gear Prices

FLEXIBLE BOOKING – This liveaboard offers a free trip reschedule within 24 months if you are unable to travel due to Covid-19 related restrictions.

If you wish to cancel instead of reschedule then the following cancellation terms apply;

More than 240 days out = 90 % refund
Between 120 and 240 days out = 90 % refund
Between 90 and 119 days out = 85 % refund
Between 60 and 89 days out = 75 % refund
Between 30 and 59 days out = 50 % refund
Less than 30 days out = no refund
The destination country prevents you from entering due to their governmental guidelines and restrictions on your country of residence.
Your country of residence prevents you from departing due to their governmental guidelines and restrictions on the embarkation point for the liveaboard.

Only if one or more of the above apply, this liveaboard operator will offer a free re-schedule of your trip within 24 months from the initial departure date

Enquiry - Charters and Groups

Join others on our small cruise vessels between 35 to 75 people capacity on our weekly cruises and discover the beauty of the sea and the Islands, (Greek islands, Croatia, Italy, France, Spain).

Greek Island and Adriatic Cruises

Join others on our weekly greek island cruises and discover the greek islands.

Europe and Mediterranean Cruises

Small luxury mediterranean cruises to greece, italy and france, italy, spain, portugal and more.

African Cruises

African-cruises in calm waters.

Seychelles Cruises

Seychelles is the perfect destination for both summer and winter cruises due to its warm climate..

Costa Rica and Panama Cruises

8 day cruises from costa rica to panama canal.

Main office in Greece:

67 Poseidonos Av., 16675, Glyfada Athens - Greece Tel. +30-210-968-0486 Mobile: +306974788888 WhatsUp: +306974788888 Viber: +306974788888 Email: [email protected]

Branch office in USA:

5497 Wiles Road, Suite 202 Coconut Creek, FL 33073 Tel. +1-954-234-2203 Email: [email protected]

This site uses cookies. Click settings to choose the Cookies you want to enable. COOKIES POLICY

Settings Accept Cookies x

Southeast Asia
North America
Central & South America
Middle-East
Australia & South Pacific
Luxury Awards
Family Travel
Solo Travel
Beaches & Islands
Zodiac Travels
Wellness & Spas
Accessories
Points and Miles
#TheGreenEdit
T+L Tastemakers
Sustainable Travel
T+L Experiences

10 Best Greece Cruises, According To Travel Experts

These are the best greece cruises for island hopping including visits to neighbouring countries like turkey and italy with ease..

By: Lauren Dana Ellman Published: Mar 09, 2024 06:00 PM UTC

10 Best Greece Cruises, According To Travel Experts

Several of the best Greece cruises also include visits to neighbouring countries like Turkey and Italy , for example, which allow travellers to experience several cultures and countries in one action-packed trip. Intrigued? We don’t blame you: Ahead, check out our favourite Greece cruises for every type of traveller, along with itinerary recommendations and expert insight.

These are the best cruises in Greece for island hopping

Windstar cruises.

Itinerary: While you can’t go wrong with any of Windstar’s Greece itineraries, Clabbers is quick to call out the popular Treasures of the Greek Isles voyage, which sets sail each week from May through October. Passengers can visit beloved ports of call like Mykonos and Santorini, along with “lesser-known (and less-crowded!) places like Monemvasia and Patmos.” As part of the experience, guests have the unique opportunity to feast among the ruins in neighbouring Turkey as part of the line’s complimentary Evening in Ephesus “after-hours” event, which, per Clabbers, features a decadent five-course dinner accompanied by a chamber orchestra. Speaking of culinary offerings, it’s worth mentioning that Windstar is the official cruise line partner of the esteemed James Beard Foundation, which means you can expect some of the top eats at sea.

Explora Journeys

“A new entrant in the luxury travel industry, Explora Journeys offers all the style and comfort of a modern European luxury resort property on its 922-guest yacht-inspired Explora I and, launching later this year, Explora II, ” explains Clabbers. The line has taken the industry by storm, doing away with cliche cruise staples like main dining rooms, large buffets, and notoriously small staterooms. Instead, says Clabbers, guests can choose from a selection of “excellent restaurants that other companies would call speciality restaurants,” as well as “four swimming pools , each with their own vibe,” and all-suite accommodations, some of which boast private plunge pools. Per the pro, it’s worth noting that “Explora Journeys is the first luxury line that offers a dedicated youth activity program and facility year-round;” as such, it’s an excellent option for multi-generational families looking to cruise Greece in style.

Itinerary: Sailing round-trip from Athens, the aptly named eight-night A Journey from Athens to Athens itinerary includes a mix of popular ports like Mykonos and Santorini, along with hidden-gem locales like Syros, which is famous for its neoclassical architecture, a buzzy main town, and (essentially) crowd-free beaches. The cruise also visits the serene resort town of Marmaris in Turkey before heading to its final port of call, Kos, a gorgeous Greek island known for its sandy beaches, white-washed buildings, and historical sites.

Celebrity Cruises

According to Clabbers, “ Celebrity Cruises was launched by a Greek shipping family,” so the line has deep ties to — and many officers who hail from — the country. What’s more, he says, “When you visit Greece, they are taking you to their homeland, and it shows in their passion and love of the Hellenic nation.” The line offers a range of larger ships and, thus, more options between accommodations (from economical inside rooms to luxurious suites in The Retreat), itineraries, restaurants, and entertainment; as such, Celebrity is “a great option for adults and families who like more activities on their ship.”

Itinerary: The nine-night Best Of Greece itinerary cruises round-trip from Athens on select dates from May to October and takes place aboard the 2,170-passenger Celebrity Infinity , which Clabbers described as one of the line’s “smaller and more seasoned ships.” The first port of call is Santorini , followed by Ephesus in Turkey and Mykonos. “Additionally,” says Clabbers, “ Infinity travels to Volos and Thessaloniki, ports that are not typically visited by large ships.” Kavala, located in the northern part of the country, serves as the final port of call before heading back to Athens. Here, cruisers can enjoy a mix of history, culture, and architecture — plus some seriously stunning landscapes (from lagoons and lakes to wetlands and beaches) along with lush flora and fauna.

Itinerary: While you can’t go wrong with any of Silversea’s Greek itineraries, Clabbers especially recommends the seven-night Athens to Athens cruise, which “calls on highlights, but adds places like Souda Bay in Crete, Nafplion, Patmos, and Rhodes,” where he recommends visiting the “temple ruins at Lindos, with views over the Mediterranean , and then walk in the footsteps of the Crusaders in the old town.” The cruise also stops in Nafplion, which, despite its romantic seaside setting and lovely beaches, is yet to be uncovered by most American travellers — for now, at least.

Variety Cruises

According to T+L A-list travel advisor and small ship specialist Mary Curry, this local Greek cruise line offers its own fleet of yachts, most carrying fewer than 50 passengers. Since the ships are so small, says Curry, “you can travel a bit further off the beaten path.” Variety offers a handful of Greece itineraries, including specially-themed hiking and wine cruises.

Itinerary: Travellers craving a true off-the-beaten-path experience can book the seven-night Unexplored Greece voyage, which sails round-trip from Athens . The first port of call is Ikira, a tiny island known for its hot springs that also happens to be one of the world’s Blue Zones. Then, it’s off to Patmos, known for its fascinating history and unspoiled beaches, before overnighting in Lipsi, a laid-back isle famous for its gorgeous scenery. On board, guests can taste the destination’s famous wine, Aposperitis. The fun continues in Levintha, inhabited by a single family who raises animals and runs a restaurant where guests can enjoy fresh-caught fish.

After, it’s off to Amorgos, where scenic hiking and beautiful beaches abound. The next day, you’ll stop at Panagia Hozoviotissa, a cliffside monastery dating back to the 10th century, before heading to Koufonisia, which boasts majestic caves and rock pools accessible only by boat (thankfully, Variety as you covered). The final stop of the day is the serene island of Iraklia, which offers clear-blue waters ideal for swimming. After remaining here overnight, you’ll head to the final port of call, Serifos, where guests can visit a remote beach, followed by an onboard BBQ feast to refuel before heading to Chora, a fairy-tale village.

15 Most Beautiful Places To Visit In Greece

This Less-Visited Region In Southern Greece Has Stunning Beaches & Almost No Crowds

This French-owned cruise line offers an impressive fleet of small luxury ships . Additionally, says Curry, “Most cabins have private balconies, and travellers who plan early are rewarded with excellent value for the money.” What’s especially unique about Pontant, explains the pro, is that they “partner with Smithsonian Journeys on select departures to offer an enrichment program of included lectures and shore excursions in each port.”

Itinerary: Curry especially recommends the seven-night Cruising the Greek Islands of the Southern Aegean sailing, which will cruise round-trip from Athens in July and October 2025. The cruise calls on aforementioned spots like Patmos, Rhodes, and Amorgos before visiting Adamas in Milos, a volcanic island teeming with postcard-worthy white-washed towns and breathtakingly beautiful beaches. Adamas itself is a tiny fishing port where colourful boats shimmer against the blue waters. Finally, it’s off to Mykonos and Napflion before finally disembarking in Athens.

Disney Cruise Line

Disney Cruise Line is world-famous for its exciting onboard offerings for children of all ages — including character and superhero meet-and-greets, dining options themed after beloved Disney princesses, and live performances galore — making it a favourite for families hoping for a fun-filled Greece vacation.

Itinerary: “Setting sail aboard the Disney Dream on the seven-night Mediterranean with Greek Isles itinerary is nothing short of magical!” says Megan Guinnup , a travel agent with Marvelous Mouse Travels . Cruising round-trip from Rome, the ship calls on Naples before exploring Greece. In addition to popular ports like Athens and Mykonos, you’ll also visit Chania on the island of Crete, which offers a bustling harbour, exquisite architecture, and cobblestone streets that look like they were plucked straight from a (Disney) fairy tale. After exploring each locale, the fun continues back on board, where, per the pro, “there is enchantment everywhere — meeting beloved characters, enjoying deck parties with Mickey and Minnie, and indulging in exquisite cuisine.”

Royal Caribbean

This mega-ship line truly has it all: Flashy entertainment and onboard activities — which, depending on the ship, can include everything from water slides to zip lines — and plenty of drinking and dining offerings to appease even the pickiest eaters. Guinnup and Kari Dillon, owners of Marvelous Mouse Travels, recommend setting sail aboard Odyssey of the Seas , which offers several Greek itineraries. “On board,” says Guinnup, “There’s a plethora of activities to enjoy, from bumper cars and roller skating to exquisite dining and a bionic bar — there’s something for everyone!”

This Adults-Only Cruise Has In-Room Turntables, Interactive Theatre & a Tattoo Parlour

I Was a Never-Cruiser. Sailing on This New Ship Changed My Mind

Virgin voyages.

Richard Branson’s adults-only line has taken the industry by storm with its innovative offerings, including 20-plus restaurants instead of buffets, an onboard tattoo parlour, adult-focused entertainment offerings, and a two-story nightclub.

Itinerary: Dillon especially recommends the seven-night Greek Island Aglow itinerary for travellers seeking a high-energy, adults-only option. She continues, telling T+L , “Not only does this sail to the islands of Santorini and Rhodes, but it (also)has an overnight in Mykonos, which is world-famous for its lively party atmosphere.” As a bonus, the cruise also calls on Bodrum in Turkey , which boasts beautiful beaches, flower-filled cafes, and a bustling nightlife scene.

Celestyal Cruises

The Greece-based Celesytal Cruises prides itself on offering an authentic Greek vacation experience. Additionally, Celesytal is unique in that it offers year-round Aegean Sea sailings cruising round-trip from Athens and ranging in length from three to 14 nights. On land, Celeystal guests can choose from a selection of the line’s “Authentic Excursions,” which are specially curated, small-group, expert-led experiences designed to take travellers off the beaten path. Options — including walking food tours and pottery-making demos at a local factory — abound, depending on the particular port of call.

Rob Clabbers is a T+L A-List travel advisor and founder of Q Cruise + Travel, a Chicago-based travel agency.

Mary Curry is a T+L A-list travel advisor and small ship specialist.

Kari Dillon is the owner of Marvelous Mouse Travels, an agency specialising in theme park and cruise vacations.

Megan Guinnup is a travel agent with Marvelous Mouse Travels.

shop the best travel experiences here

(Feature Image Credit: Variety Cruises)

This story first appeared on travelandleisure.com

Related: This Gorgeous New Cruise Ship Will Take You To France, Greece And Italy

cruise holiday

Lauren Dana Ellman

This Luxury Tour Company Is Raising The Bar On Egyptian Cruises With A New Nile Riverboat

By Rachel Chang

7 Luxurious Yacht Charters You Can Experience In Thailand

By Olivia Michel

This 11-Day Cruise Is One Of The Best Ways To See The Northern Lights This Year

By Stefanie Waldek

This Once-In-A-Lifetime Trip To Patagonia & Antarctica Is Led By An All-Star Conservationist

This Is One Of The Best Cruise Destinations In The World For 2024 — And How To See It

By Janice Wald Henderson

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s Newest Ship Is Set For July 2025 — What To Know

This Cruise Line Will Make Antarctica Trips Easier Next Year — Here's How

By Paul Brady

This Luxury Cruise Line Just Announced 5 Epic New Sailings — Including A 70-Day Asia Trip

Cruising The Fjords: Here's Our Ultimate Guide From Bergen, Norway

By Tania Tarafdar

Subscribe to our newsletter to get the latest on travel, stay & dining.

You’re all set

Thank you for your subscription.

Guided tour

River Cruise on Luxurious Radisson Boat

Description
Choose date

Equipped with ice-breaking technology, these huge fancy yachts are the only river cruisers running all year around. The round trip journey takes two and a half hours and floats past all the big sights like the White House, Novodevichy monastery and the Kremlin. There’s a large open air observation deck up top, while the main body of the ship houses a restaurant with a dance floor for a romantic post dinner dance. For a particularly romantic experience take one of the evening boats and admire the bright lights of the city skyline at night.

The most relaxing and picturesque tour that Moscow can offer: a great way to see the city center and its main attractions. This is a perfect alternative to exploring the city by car, if you only have time to do sightseeing during weekday rush hours.

Your English-speaking guide is eager to share every bit of their knowledge about the surrounding landscape, the architecture and historical details.

We conduct Moscow river tour on Radisson Flotilla boats all year around! It’s warm inside during winter months, while there’s air conditioning during hot summer days. You may also treat yourself to drinks, lunch or dinner on board (drinks and food are not included in tour price).

The cost of an excursion with a personal guide for 1 person

Quay at Radisson Collection Hotel

Government Headquarters ("the White House")

Kievsky Railway Central

Novodevichy Convent

Luzhniki Stadium

Academy of Sciences

Monument to Peter I

Cathedral of Christ the Saviour

Moscow Kremlin

St.Basil's Cathedral

Novospassky Monastery

U-turn and back to Quay at Radisson Royal Hotel

Choose your dates

Who's going.

Excursion River Cruise on Luxurious Radisson Boat
Date and time:
Who's going:

See photo of the meeting point

Bookings & Enquiries

Our staff will respond to your query promptly and provide detailed information to your questions.

Volga Dream Russian River Cruise

Volga Dream

Scan here for prices and availabilty

Not for sale presently

13 Days - Cruising in luxury along the Russian Volga river.

When it comes to river cruises in Russia, the Volga Dream offers an unprecedented level of luxury, as well as the finest accommodation, delicious food, best service and care in the industry. The advent of the boutique Volga Dream reveals the tsarist-era luxury and provides superior service, installing the ship as the class of the waterway. These voyages have half the amount of guests that are on other Russian River cruises and offer small group tours . These voyages also offer premium hotels in the centre of town during your sightseeing stays in Moscow and St. Petersburg.

The Volga Dream with 60 crew members and a capacity for just over 100 passengers, has the lowest passenger-to-crew ratio among Russian river cruise ships. With so few guests amid the ship’s spacious arrangement, it feels like sailing aboard a private yacht. You’ll find no hassle disembarking at the various ports of call, no delays at mealtime.

This cruise can be from St. Petersburg to Moscow or in reverse. It stops at quaint villages, such as the tiny, picturesque island of Kizhy, along the way and gives you plenty of time to explore Russia in detail.

The Volga Dream voyages are a wonderful way to see a beautiful country so rich in history and the culture.

Please note that all our itineraries, inclusions, dates and prices displayed on this website may change at any time. If you book an itinerary today and have this confirmed it will be the itinerary that is delivered to you. However, the online itinerary on our website may change in the meantime.

As a Certified B Corporation, 50 Degrees North has designed this tour using handpicked local hoteliers and suppliers who share our ethos of delivering services and activities of high social and environmental standards.

The CO2-e per person per day of all tours is carefully measured following each season. We fully offset all emissions of our tours on your behalf, and we constantly look at ways to reduce emissions where possible.

Transportation

MS Volga Dream carries 109 passengers, with a crew of 60. The ship has 56 comfortable cabins and all feature either a window or a porthole and a bathroom with separate glass shower. Each cabin is equipped with air conditioning, mini-bar, safety deposit box, telephone, and flat screen television featuring international satellite programming and films as well as various radio and music channel options.

The highlight of this cruise for many travellers spending time on the Volga Dream was getting to meet the crew. They are gracious and talented hosts who really go out of their way to make sure everyone has a wonderful journey.

Accommodation in comfortable centrally located hotels in Moscow and St. Petersburg
Daily sightseeing in small groups of never more than 20-25 guests
Visits to the Kremlin & Armory Chamber, City tour & Metro ride, Red Square & GUM Department store, Armory and Tretyakov Gallery in Moscow
Visits to the magnificent Hermitage, Catherines Palace in Pushkin, Faberge Museum, Peter & Paul's Fortress, City tour and Peterhof (Lower Park & Bath Cottage) in St. Petersburg
4 breakfasts in the hotels
6 breakfasts / 6 lunches / 6 dinners aboard MS Volga Dream with unlimited house, including a BBQ on deck
House wines, beer and soft drinks included with all lunches and dinners
Free time to explore in St. Petersburg and Moscow
24 hour coffee station
Welcome & farewell cocktails
4 fascinating lectures by Russian professors about Russian history and politics
Diverse range of cultural activities aboard MS Volga Dream including Russian Dinner & Vodka testing, Russian classical music concert, cooking lessons, tea ceremony and more.
Russian visa invitation letter
Arrival & departure transfers
Welcome meeting with the guide
Daily supply of bottled water
Port charges

Not Included

International flights
Visa to Russia
All services not mentioned in the program
Tips and Gratuities

Day 1 - Arrival in Moscow

Upon arrival in Moscow, transfer to the deluxe Marriott Aurora located in the historic city centre near the Bolshoi Theatre and Moscow Kremlin. In the evening gather for the warm-up meeting with your guide (available at the hotel lobby from 6pm to 9pm) or spend the rest of the day exploring central Moscow on your own.

Please note that the itinerary from St. Petersburg to Moscow mirrors itinerary from Moscow to St. Petersburg. You can choose which way you wish to travel by the dates of the departures.

2021 programs: Gold program: Hotel in Moscow is Ararat Park Hyatt or Marriott Aurora. Platinum program: Hotel in Moscow is Marriott Aurora or St. Regis.

Restaurants

Optional Add Ons

Day 2 - Exploring Moscow - city tour & Novodevichi Cemetery

Begin the day with an orientation city tour of Moscow and then proceed to the famous Novodevichi Cemetery which holds the tombs of Russian authors, musicians, playwrights, and poets, as well as famous actors, political leaders, and scientists.

The rest of the afternoon is at leisure to explore Moscow on your own or seek out a cultural performance at one of the city’s renowned venues.

This evening you can enjoy an optional opera or ballet performance at the famed Bolshoi Theatre (subject to the schedule of performances). Ask us before departure to secure your seat.

City tour includes: Red Square walking tour, St. Basil's Cathedral (photo stop w/o entrance), GUM Department Store (entrance), Cathedral of Christ the Savior (entrance if time and availability allows), Novodevichy Cemetery (entrance).

2020 City tour includes: Red Square walking tour, St. Basil's Cathedral (photo stop w/o entrance), GUM Department Store (entrance), Cathedral of Christ the Savior (entrance if time and availability allows), Novodevichy Cemetery (entrance).

2021 City tour includes: Tverskaya Street, Lubyanka Square, Kremlin embankment, Cathedral of Christ the Savior (entrance if time and availability allows), Novodevichy Cemetery (entrance), Novodevichy convent (photo stop).

Day 3 - Visit the Kremlin and the Armoury Museum

This morning enter the Kremlin for a visit to the Armory Museum, with its collection of tsarist thrones, ceremonial crowns, coaches and gifts of state. Continue to the beautifully frescoed 15th-century Assumption and Archangel Cathedrals.

The balance of the day is at leisure for independent exploration or optional tours at your choice.

2021 program: In addition to Kremlin, visit the magnificent Red Square and its famous landmarks - Lenin's Tomb and St. Basil's cathedral (outside), a colorful multi-domed complex whose architects were supposedly blinded by Ivan the Terrible so that they would never again be able to recreate such splendor.

Day 4 - Tretyakov Gallery & Metro Ride then embarkation on the Volga Dream

This morning is free for an independent walk or lunch in hotel near-by area. At noon, check-out from your hotel and proceed to Tretyakov Gallery, the first museum dedicated exclusively to Russian fine art. Explore Moscow’s Metro, known for its architectural splendour and transfer to the awaiting luxurious MS Volga Dream to begin sailing along the Russian waterways. Gather for the Captain's welcome reception and dinner as we begin our cruise.

Volga Dream Experience: Bread, Salt & Vodka Welcome Aboard Ceremony

Accommodation

Day 5 - Cruise to Uglich, a Golden Ring city dating back to the 10th century

After a full day of cruising through forested countryside, dock in the ancient trading town of Uglich, one of the spokes of Russia’s renowned Golden Ring. Explore the impressive Church of St. Dmitri-on-the-Blood, erected on the site where Dmitri, son of Ivan the Terrible, was murdered in 1591, and attend an enchanting concert of choral music at St. John’s Church.

During the cruise, you will have opportunities to partake in activities, some cultural, informative and others, relaxing. There are guest speakers on board certain voyages and there are movies shown on Russian Culture and History. There are chances to learn the Russian Cyrillic alphabet and learn traditional crafts. You can get into the the kitchen and learn some Russian cooking secrets or get 'behind the scenes' in the heart of the ship - the engine rooms.

Volga Dream Experience: Documentary Film “Construction of the Moscow Canal”

Day 6 - Stroll in the oldest city on the Volga River, Yaroslavl, a World Heritage site.

Founded in 1010, Yaroslavl is one of the oldest cities in central Russia and the Volga’s first port. In the Spassky Monastery see the Transfiguration of the Savior and admire the mosaics at the Church of Elijah the Prophet. Take part in a costumed reception at the governor’s house, and then re-board the MS Volga Dream in time for lunch.

Volga Dream Experience: Costumed Russian Tea Ceremony & Russian Cooking Class

Day 7 - Visit the village of Goritsy to tour the fortress-like Kirillov-Belozersky Monastery.

Early this morning we cross Lake Beloye, or the White Lake, formerly known as the “tsar’s fishing grounds”. Arrive in the peaceful village of Goritsy to tour the fortress-like Kirillov-Belozersky Monastery with magnificent frescoes by one of the Russia's most renowned icon painters. Return to the ship for a late lunch.

Volga Dream Experience: Russian Dinner with Vodka Tasting

Day 8 - Explore a tiny, picturesque island of Kizhy, a UNESCO World Heritage Site on the Lake Onega.

The Kareliya region, which spans the area from St. Petersburg to the Arctic Circle, is a vast wilderness of forest and water. Discover Lake Onega, fed by 58 rivers and home to 1,369 islands, including Kizhi. See a collection of ancient Russian wooden houses and windmills, and the famous Transfiguration church, built in 1714 without a single nail.

Volga Dream Experience: Piano Concert – pieces by Tchaikovsky and Rakhmaninov

Day 9 - Navigate the Svir River toward Lake Ladoga, Europe's largest freshwater lake.

Be on the deck as we navigate the Svir River toward Lake Ladoga, Europe's largest freshwater lake, past a shoreline dotted with graceful willows, alder trees and stately pines. Step ashore for a brief visit to either Mandrogi or Svirstroy - a small and charming village on the River Svir, with a population of about 1000. Warm and welcoming Svirstroy villagers will offer tea with jam and “pirozhki” (local pies). They will enthusiastically tell you all about Russian tradition, lifestyle and the attractions of Svirstroy village while proudly showing off their homes and kitchen gardens.

After tea hop on a bus for a tour of the nearby town to see the monument of the WWII and visit a local primary school.

Volga Dream Experience: Barbeque on the Open Deck

Day 10 - Arrive into St. Petersburg

Disembark this morning in St. Petersburg, which Peter the Great transformed from marshland into the vibrant city of islands, canals, bridges and pastel-colored palaces. Continue with an orientation tour of St. Petersburg and enter Peter and Paul Fortress, this family shrine of the Romanovs.

Following lunch enter the famed Hermitage Museum, whose four hundred rooms contain spectacular examples of nearly all schools of Western art, including one of the greatest collections of French impressionist works. This evening check-in at the five-star Kempinski Moika 22.

This evening enjoy an optional opera or ballet performance at the famed Mariinsky or Mikhailovskiy Theatre (subject to the schedule of performances).

City Tour includes: Peter & Paul Cathedral (entrance), Split of Basil Island (walking tour), St. Isaac Cathedral (photo stop), Spilled Blood Church (photo stop), Nevskiy Prospekt drive.

2021 Program: Hermitage visit on day 11

Day 11 - St. Petersburg's Peterhof - often cited as the "Versailles of Russia".

Begin today at the meticulously restored Peterhof, St. Petersburg most famous and spectacular Imperial estate, often cited as the "Versalles of Russia". Visit authentic Bath Cottage and stroll in the vast Lower Park with 176 fountains of various forms and styles and four cascades, majestic palaces, numerous gilded statues of ancient gods and heroes. Tour: 10am - 3pm

The balance of the day is at leisure for independent exploration.

2021 Program: The day begins at the world class Hermitage Museum, home to one of world’s most important collections of European art.

Day 12 - Catherine’s Palace, Amber Room & the Faberge Museum

This morning travel to Catherine the Great’s Palace, which houses the extraordinary Amber Room, its six tons of solid amber deftly carved and framed in gold leaf. Once deemed the “eighth wonder of the world,” the room was stripped by the Nazis in 1941, but majestically reconstructed in honour of St. Petersburg’s 300th birthday.

After lunch at Podvorie, a restaurant in a traditional Russian log house, return to St. Petersburg and visit Faberge museum, which contains world's largest collection of works by Carl Faberge, including 9 Easter eggs commissioned by the Russian royal family.

2021 program: This morning, join one of the optional tours or explore St. Petersburg at your own pace. In the afternoon, drive to Catherine the Great’s Palace. Visit to Faberge museum is not included in 2021 Gold program.

Day 13 - Tour ends in St.Petersburg

Transfer to the airport this morning for your flight.

Important Information

This voyage can be upgraded to the Imperial, which includes Four Seasons hotels, cabins, smaller groups on excursions and included activities such as early entrance to the Hermitage and local lunches.

Gold Program Room categories on Volga Dream:

Standard - cabins are all twins (101-118).
Superior - Stateroom on the main deck all twin (201 - 210).
Deluxe - Stateroom on Promenade deck (double; 301-315, 317-324) or Sun deck (twin; 406-409, 411 & 412)
Junior Suite - double on Promenade & Sun deck (316 & 406).
Deluxe Junior Suite - double on Sun deck (402-404).
Owners Suite - double on Promenade deck (300).
Single - Standard Single on the Promenade deck (325 & 326) .
Single - Deluxe on Sun deck (410).

Special Guest Lecturers on each journey are a wonderful addition - if designing your trip around these lecturers interests you, please let us know.

Please note:

There is only a photo stop by the Church of Spilled Blood in St.Petersburg. If you wish to go inside you will be able to do it in your free time (it is centrally located).

TRAVEL WITH CONFIDENCE:

• Passenger health and safety is Volga Dream’s highest priority. • Volga Dream is a small ship with only 100 passengers, which means social distancing is easily achieved. All staterooms and suites have independent ventilation, air-flow systems and individual air conditioning units. • Passengers with flu-like symptoms will not be allowed to board. • All public areas will be disinfected and sanitized frequently and daily. Handsanitizing facilities will be provided on board. • Guests and staff will be subject to regular temperature monitoring. • The ship has well-equipped medical facilities and there is always a doctor on board.

Interactive Tour Map

If you want to commit to a booking please use the Book Tour form below.

Enquire about this tour

Book your tour now. We will contact you to confirm this request.

Click here to book this tour

Visa Requirement

Please note for China, Mongolia and Russia, you will need to arrange your visa before you go. We have supplied links to these visa applications within our Visa section. It is your responsibility to do this before your trip but please don't hesitate to speak to us if you need any assistance. It isn't unusual for our guests to have questions particularly about the Russian visa so please call us if you are in any doubt.

Volga Dream Russian River Cruises

Practical information for your volga dream russian river cruises.

Internet Connection You can access Internet through Wi-Fi in the Lounge on your personal computer or use public computers connected to the Internet in the Library. Internet connection is available 90% time during the cruise.

Smoking Guests are asked to refrain from smoking in all inside areas at all the time. Smoking is only allowed in a specially designated outside area on the Sun Deck.

Elevators Unfortunately, technical layout of the ship does not allow to build an elevator. Main stairs however, have been reconstructed in a way to make them less steep and more comfortable for walking.

Special Dietary Requirements Along with the regular dishes, our standard daily menu also features a vegetarian option. If you have special dietary requirements (vegan, low salt, no pork, etc.) please make sure to send them to us. Our Chef and Maitre D will follow your personal diet and will serve the food you are used to.

Optional Drinks During the cruise all extra expenses will be charged to your personal on board account which shall be cleared on the last day of the cruise.

Forms of payment on board We do accept all types of credit cards, including Visa, Master Card, Circus, and American Express. Unfortunately we do not accept travel checks and other forms of non-cash payment.

Special Dress Code We advise that our guests are dressed elegantly and comfortable during the cruise, but do not apply any special dressing requirements. For the Captain's Welcome and Farewell Cocktails and also evening concerts cocktail dressing and jackets has been frequently chosen to wear by our guests.

Languages Spoken The main language spoken on the cruise is English.

Travel Safe

Travel insurance and safety.

Travel insurance is compulsory for all tours with 50 Degrees North. The safety of our travellers, staff and operators is a major priority of 50 Degrees North. With an operational office in Norway, 50 Degrees North has access to an up-to-the-minute flow of information regarding the countries we work in. We are also in regular contact with the various operators we use. Their in-depth knowledge and understanding of their various areas is vital.

Vessel Reviews
Passenger Vessel World
Offshore World
Tug and Salvage World
Maritime Security World
Specialised Fields
Marine Projects World
Small Craft World
Tanker World
Dry Cargo World
Boxship World
Aquaculture World
Trawling World
Longlining World
Seining World
Potting World
Other Fishing Methods
Regulation & Enforcement
Feature Weeks
Classifieds
Book Reviews

VESSEL REVIEW | Sinichka – Electric commuter boats designed for Russia’s Moskva River

A series of three new electric monohull commuter ferries have already begun operational sailings on the Moskva River in the Russian capital Moscow.

Built by Russian shipyard Emperium, sister vessels Sinichka , Filka , and Presnya – all named after rivers in Moscow – are being operated by the Moscow Department of Transport and Road Infrastructure Development (Moscow Deptrans). They are the first units of a planned fleet of 20 vessels that will serve the capital city and other nearby communities. The new ferry system will be the water transport system to be operated on the Moskva River in 16 years.

Each vessel has a welded aluminium hull, an LOA of 21 metres, a beam of 6.2 metres, a draught of only 1.4 metres, a displacement of 40 tonnes, and capacity for 80 passengers plus two crewmembers. Seating is available for 42 passengers on each ferry, and the main cabins are also fitted with USB charging ports, wifi connectivity, tables, toilets, and space for bicycles and scooters. The cabin layout can be rearranged to allow the operator to adjust the distances between the seats and to install armrests of varying widths.

An open upper deck is also accessible to passengers and is the only area on each ferry where smoking is allowed.

The ferries are all of modular construction with each ferry’s wheelhouse, main cabin, and other structural elements being built as complete, separate components. This enables the ferries to be easily dismantled for transport to anywhere in Russia by rail and then quickly re-assembled within seven days.

The ferries are also ice-capable. Recently completed operational trials on the Moskva showed that the vessels can also easily navigate under mild winter conditions with broken surface ice, though year-round operations are planned for the entire fleet.

The ferries are each fitted with 500kWh lithium iron phosphate battery packs that supply power to two 134kW motors. This configuration can deliver a maximum speed of 11.8 knots, a cruising speed of just under 10 knots, and a range of 150 kilometres.

Emperium said the transfer of rotation of electric motors to the propeller is carried out by direct drive. As a propulsion installation, a pulling rotary propeller-steering column with double screws is used. The installation of double pulling screws, with similar power, allows an operator to increase the efficiency of the propulsion system to deliver a slightly higher speed or to reduce energy consumption. This arrangement also provides the ferries with enhanced manoeuvrability necessary for navigating in close quarters.

The batteries themselves have projected service lives of 10 to 12 years and are fitted with safety features such as built-in fire extinguishers and gas vents. Quick-disconnect features allow the batteries to be easily removed for replacement or maintenance.

Some of our readers have expressed disquiet at our publication of reviews and articles describing new vessels from Russia. We at Baird Maritime can understand and sympathise with those views. However, despite the behaviour of the country’s leaders, we believe that the maritime world needs to learn of the latest developments in vessel design and construction there.

Click here to read other news stories, features, opinion articles, and vessel reviews as part of this month’s Passenger Vessel Week.

Photo: Wikimedia Commons/Béria L. Rodríguez

Baird Maritime

Tags: Emperium Filka Moscow Moscow Department of Transport and Road Infrastructure Development Moskva River Presnya Russia Sinichka WBW newbuild

Previous VESSEL REVIEW | Ferry Rokko – Second 194m Ro-Pax for Miyazaki Car Ferry
Next Brighton man to be charged for illegal abalone haul

Baird Maritime , launched in 1978, is one of the world's premier maritime publishing houses.

The company produces the leading maritime new portal BairdMaritime.com , home of the world famous Work Boat World, Fishing Boat World, Ship World, Ausmarine, and Commercial Mariner sub-sites, and the industry-leading ship brokerage platforms WorkBoatWorld.com and ShipWorld.com .

Terms & Conditions
Advertise with Baird Maritime
Submit News/Leads

17 Best Moscow Tours

Are you planning a visit to the capital of Russia and looking for the best Moscow tours? From Red Square to the Kremlin and from world-class art to fairytale buildings, Moscow is an enchanting city that offers plenty of excitement and elegance. Its history dates back more than 800 years, and there is culture in abundance for visitors to immerse themselves in.

Make the most of your visit with 17 of the best Moscow tours that let you see everything the city and its surroundings have to offer.

1 – Guided Tour of the Moscow Metro

Moscow’s metro is world-famous, thanks to the architectural delights on offer underground stations around the capital. This guided tour of the Moscow stations, otherwise known as “the palace of the people” lasts for 1.5 hours and includes an English-speaking guide who will tell you how the Russian metro became one of the most beautiful in the world. Highlights include Mayakovskaya station with its aviation-themed mosaics.

Moscow metro tours

2 – Cosmonautics Museum Space Tour

Discover Cosmonautics Museum with this space tour. Dive into one of the greatest battles between the Soviet Union and the United States – the space race. Hear about the space programs of the USSR and learn about how the USSR shaped space travel and technology.

Cosmonautics Museum tours

3 – Guided Tour of the Kremlin

A Kremlin is actually a citadel in Russian towns, and Moscow’s version is, without doubt, the most famous. The Kremlin is the heartbeat of the city, and this guided tour takes you to the most important points of interest. See Cathedral Square with its orthodox temples; Tzar Cannon with its 890mm calibre, which is the largest in the world; and the exterior of the all-important government buildings that are located within the Kremlin’s walls.

Click here to learn how to book Kremlin tickets .

Kremlin tours

4 – Moscow City Walking Tour

One of the best Moscow tours for seeing everything the city has to offer, this small-group walking tour lasts for 2 hours and includes an expert guide. Make the most of the capital and see the cobbled spaces of Red Square, take pictures of St Basil’s Cathedral, visit the elegant Bolshoi Theatre, and enjoy the ornamental Alexandrovsky Garden.

Moscow walking tours

5 – Night Tour of Moscow

When the sun sets, the fun begins – and it all starts with a night tour of Russia’s most famous city. The beauty of Moscow comes into full effect after hours, as iconic buildings like St Basil’s Cathedral illuminate against the night sky. Other locations on this tour include the Moscow River and the Ukraine Hotel, which is a landmark skyscraper that was constructed during the era of Stalin.

6 – Sergiev Posad Day Trip

One of the best Moscow tours that take you outside of the city, the Sergiev Posad day trip provides the opportunity to see The Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is the spiritual centre of the Russian Orthodox Church. It’s made up of a number of different buildings that include the blue domes of the Cathedral of the Assumption, Church of St. Sergius and the Bell Tower.

Sergiev Posad day trips from Moscow

7 – City Sightseeing Moscow Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour with Optional Cruise

If your time in Moscow is limited, this hop-on, hop-off bus tour is ideal – and it even features an optional cruise on the river. Choose between a 2 and 3-day ticket and see famous landmarks like Red Square, the Kremlin and the Bolshoi Theatre from an open-top panoramic bus with informative audio commentary. Take your experience to the next level by upgrading to a boat tour.

Moscow hop on hop off bus tours

8 – Guided Tour of the Tretyakov Gallery

As one of the world’s most important galleries, the Tretyakov Gallery is a must-see for any art lovers and is one of the best Moscow tours for culture vultures. Learn about the masterworks of Pablo Tretyakov with a guided tour and discover the secrets behind the paintings. Other noticeable artists on view include Fedotov, Vasnetsov, Rokotov and Kiprenski, who is the author of the famous “Portrait of Alexander Pushkin”.

Tretyakov Gallery tours

9 – Alternative Moscow: 2-Hour Walking Tour

See a different side of Moscow with this 2-hour alternative tour. An expert guide will take you around quirky streets, suburbs and squares while as your veer away from the traditional tourist hotspots. Highlights include a ride on the famous “Annushka” tram and a visit to the neighbourhood of Khitrovka, which was once known as the criminal district of the city.

10 – St.Basil’s Cathedral and Red Square: Private Tour and Ticket

Combine two of Moscow’s biggest attractions with a visit to Red Square and St.Basil’s Cathedral. Admire the beautiful architecture of St.Basil’s Cathedral from inside and out, before wandering Red Square and learn about the soldiers, farmers and revolutionaries that all called this famous square their home. Round things off with the changing of the guard at Alexander Garden.

Red Square tours

11 – Bunker-42 Cold War Museum Guided Tour

Moscow is notorious for the Cold War, which lasted for about 45 years between 1945 and 1990. Head to the world-famous Bunker-42, located 65 meters below ground level, and learn about the storied past. Visit rooms and passages that were set up to shelter 3,000 people in case of nuclear attack and discover other sections, such as the equipment room and the war-proof telecommunications system.

Bunker-42 Cold War Museum tours

12 – Architecture Tour of Moscow’s Metro and Kolomenskoye Estate

Combine the beauty of the metro stations with the Kolomenskoye Estate and see some of Moscow’s grandest sights. After visiting the elegant metro stations, it’s time to go to the Kolomenskoye Estate, which is filled with UNESCO-listed sites that are dedicated to Tsar Peter the Great.

Kolomenskoye tours

13 – Tour of Soviet Moscow

Unpick the history of the USSR with one of the best Moscow tours for discovering Soviet Moscow. Starting at Monument to the Conquerors of Space, a tribute to the success of the Soviet space programme, the tour includes historical landmarks and interesting tidbits about Soviet Russia. There is also a visit to the All-Russia Exhibition Centre (VDNKh), a site that was constructed under the aegis of the USSR in tribute to state achievements.

14 – Moscow: 2.5-Hour Luxury River Cruise with Dining Option

Sail down the Moscow River on this 2.5 hour tour that provides a different perspective of the city and includes landmark sights. The boat features two decks and has panoramic views as well as free Wi-Fi access. Attractions along the route include Ukraine hotel, Sparrow Hills, Christ the Saviour Cathedral, Crimean Bridge, St. Basil’s Cathedral, Zaryadye Park and more.

Moscow boat tours

15 – Izmailovo Market and Vodka Museum Tour

Visit the museum of Vodka and gain insight into one of Russia’s most famous exports and head to the Izmailovo antique and handicraft market to find a gem or two. The tour starts with Izmailovo market, which features the iconic matryoshka dolls, fur hats and amber jewellery. Next up is a trip to the Museum of Vodka, where you will discover a distillery that dates back to the 15th century.

Izmailovo market tours

16 – Súzdal and Vladímir Day Tour

Discover Russia’s famous “Golden Ring” on this tour of two medieval cities outside of Moscow. The historic city of Vladimir is first up with its Golden Gate, which is an ancient city-fortress that dates back to the 13th century. Next up is the neighbouring town of Suzdal, which features historic architecture and the Kremlin, where you can see its striking white walls topped with blue domes.

Suzdal & Vladimir tours from Moscow

17- Moscow Food Tasting & Walking Tour

Sample the unique flavours of Moscow with this food tour that lasts for 3 hours and features more than 15 different food and drink tastings. Weave in and out of small alleys in the city centre while enjoying the best food spots in town. See Moscow like a local while trying classic dishes from local breakfast haunts, bustling markets, the oldest monastery in Moscow, and dumpling cafes where you can taste authentic dumplings and enjoy local coffee.

Moscow food tours

IMAGES

Luxury small-ship cruise the Greek islands 2019 (Updated)
10 Best Greece Small Ship Luxury Cruises
Best Cruises for Greek Island Hopping
Luxury small-ship cruise the Greek islands 2019 (Updated)
Luxury small-ship cruise the Greek islands 2019 (Updated)
Luxury small-ship cruise

COMMENTS

Luxury Small Ship Greek Islands Cruises 2024/25
An 8 day Greek islands small ship cruise visiting the best of Greece including Athens, Santorini, Mykonos, Crete with lesser known destinations including Hydra, Monemvassia and Kythira. ... Cruise for 8 days and 7 nights, visiting the island jewels of the Cyclades while sailing on a small, yacht-like ship that offers comfort and old-style ...
10 Small Ship Cruises in Greece
Littered with tiny and beautiful islands, Greece small ship cruises offer you the opportunity to explore everything the Greek archipelagos have to offer from the comfort of a small ship cruise boat. Visiting the very best of Greece's glittering white sand beaches on one island then away to the lively nightlife hotspots on another is the best ...
15 Best Greece Cruises for 2024-2025
Call 1.406.541.2677. Start Planning My Trip. Cruise the Greek Islands in style on a small ship cruise with Adventure Life and discover ancient civilizations, sunny islands, multi-colored beaches, and welcoming locals. Most cruises depart from Athens where you'll visit the Parthenon & Acropolis and set sail for the Cyclades Islands in the Aegean ...
60 Extraordinary Greece Small Ship Cruises for 2024-2025
Call 1.406.541.2677. Indulge in the intimacy of one of the top 60 small ship cruises while exploring the beautiful Greek coastline and islands in 2024 and 2025. Enjoy gourmet dining and personalized service onboard while discovering fascinating history and astonishing natural landscapes. Visit ancient temples, palaces, churches, fascinating ...
9 Best Greek Island Cruises
7. Seabourn Cruise Line Greek Island Cruises. Seabourn Encore. If you're looking to cruise the Greek Islands in a small, stylish ship, then Seabourn Cruise Line may be your best bet. Seabourn is ...
Greek Island Small Ship Cruises
View our top small boats in Greece below or contact our experts to match you with the perfect small cruise ship. Mid-Sized Cruiser. Galileo. The 157-foot, 49-guest Galileo is a steel-hull motorsailer cruising the Greek Isles in classic style. Enjoy the best of the Mediterranean aboard this stunning vessel.
Greek Islands Small Ship Cruises
On board you will enjoy a high standard of personal service combined with excellent cuisine. A typical small ship cruise in the Greek Islands has around 25 cabins and employs 16 - 20 crew including a professional ship manager, tour guides and service managers. Your itinerary will be planned by your expert tour guide, who will let you know every ...
Greek Island cabin cruises with small cruise boats
ALPHA-2 GREECE CRUISE 2024. The best of the Greek Islands Cruise 8 days Greece cruises from Athens to Folegandros, Santorini, Paros, Delos , Mykonos, Syros, Kythnos on board a 49 passenger traditional motorsailer.
Best Greek Islands Small Ship Cruises 2024
6. Seabourn. Seabourn's fleet of small ships is the most modern of all the ultra-luxury lines, with three 458-guest sister ships and Encore and Ovation, both of which carry 604 pampered travellers. Seabourn is a great choice if you're looking for a longer Greek islands cruise, with 14-night voyages that include Skopelos, Naxos, Santorini and ...
Greek Islands Luxury Small Ships Cruises in Greece 2022 & 2023
Explore the best small ship cruise in Greek Islands with Variety Cruises, a luxury yacht company that offers unique and personalized experiences. Choose from a variety of itineraries, destinations, and cabins for your perfect vacation. Learn about the history, culture, and cuisine of the Greek islands with local guides and experts.
Greece Cyclades Small Ship Cruise 2024
Athens - Kea - Delos - Mykonos - Santorini - Rethymnon/Crete - Kythira - Monemvassia - Nafplion - Hydra - Athens. 7 Nights. From $3,350 pp. An 8 day Greek islands small ship cruise visiting the best of Greece including Athens, Santorini, Mykonos, Crete with lesser known destinations including Hydra, Monemvassia and Kythira. Read More.
Greek Isles Small Ship Cruise
Traveling with Tauck's private group and the same Tauck Director on land and at sea aboard the ship. Tauck's private shore excursions and distinctive inclusions valued at $3,896. Spend one night in the center of Athens at one of Europe's premier hotels, Hotel Grande Bretagne. 8-night cruise aboard Windstar's Star Legend.
Best Greece cruises: Top 5 ships sailing the Greek isles
Best small-ship luxury Greece cruises: Windstar's Wind Star. Wind Star. WINDSTAR CRUISES. Windstar Cruises ' namesake, Wind Star, is a 148-passenger masted sailing yacht that offers a special Greek islands experience. The ship is great for sailing aficionados.
2024, 2025, 2026 Greece Cruises
Small Ship GREECE CRUISES . Small Enchanting Ports. Windstar Style Cruising. ... Windstar Cruises is one of the few yachts that call here as it's truly a hidden gem that doesn't have room for much larger cruise lines. ... Palea Kameni, or Old Burnt Island, is less than 2,000 years old, while Nea Kameni, or Young Burnt Island, began forming just ...
10 Best Greece Cruises, According to Travel Experts
Variety Cruises. Courtesy of Variety Cruises. According to T+L A-list travel advisor and small ship specialist Mary Curry, this local Greek cruise line offers its own fleet of yachts, most ...
Galileo Yacht, Greece
Sail the stunning Greek Islands in absolute comfort aboard the Galileo yacht this summer. With a sleek, classic design, ample deck space, and tasteful furnishings, she makes the perfect home-from-home for your Greek cruise. Social areas include a spacious lounge, a large indoor dining room, two decks for sunbathing, an outdoor bar, and plenty ...
Harmony V Yacht, Greece
Luxury yacht with spacious social areas; Explore stunning Greek Islands and archaeological sites; Cruise Greece in comfort aboard the luxury Harmony V yacht. At 54.6 meters/179 feet long and with a maximum of 49 guests in 25 cabins, there will be ample space for everyone to relax and unwind.
best small boat greek island cruises
Join others on our small cruise vessels between 35 to 75 people capacity on our weekly cruises and discover the beauty of the sea and the Islands, (Greek islands, Croatia, Italy, France, Spain).
Best Greece Cruises, According To Travel Experts
Image credit: Windstar. According to Clabbers, this small luxury cruise line is perfect for those who prefer "a smaller, more casual yacht-style experience." Per the pro, the onboard vibes are best described as "upscale, but not stuffy or over-the-top." It's also worth noting that "each ship offers a water sports platform with kayaks, water trampolines, stand-up paddling, snorkel ...
Signature Cyclades & Crete Cruise-Tour
Cruise for 8 days and 7 nights, visiting the island jewels of the Cyclades while sailing on a small, yacht-like ship that offers comfort and old-style beauty. Enjoy the salty sea air and Mediterranean sun as she sets her white sails, enchanted by the glistening expanse of the Aegean Sea.
River Cruise on Luxurious Radisson Boat
Moscow City: View Moscow Beneath Your Feet. $96. Details. River Cruise on Luxurios Radisson Ship with a guided excursion: time to relax and soak in the gorgeous Moscow landscape. Our guide will accompany you and reveal the details behind the structures on the river banks around you.
Volga Dream Russian river voyages
The Volga Dream with 60 crew members and a capacity for just over 100 passengers, has the lowest passenger-to-crew ratio among Russian river cruise ships. With so few guests amid the ship's spacious arrangement, it feels like sailing aboard a private yacht. You'll find no hassle disembarking at the various ports of call, no delays at mealtime.
VESSEL REVIEW
A series of three new electric monohull commuter ferries have already begun operational sailings on the Moskva River in the Russian capital Moscow. Built by Russian shipyard Emperium, sister vessels Sinichka, Filka, and Presnya - all named after rivers in Moscow - are being operated by the Moscow Department of Transport and Road Infrastructure Development […]
17 Best Moscow Tours 2024
14 - Moscow: 2.5-Hour Luxury River Cruise with Dining Option. Sail down the Moscow River on this 2.5 hour tour that provides a different perspective of the city and includes landmark sights. The boat features two decks and has panoramic views as well as free Wi-Fi access.

Greece Small Ship Cruises

Italy, Montenegro & Croatia

Mediterranean Enchantments

The Hidden Pearls of the Aegean Sea

Cruising the Greek Islands of the Southern Aegean: with Smithsonian Journeys

At the heart of the Greek Islands

Aegean Wine Cruise

Saronic Gems

Sparkling Cyclades

Aegean Escape

Divine Cyclades

Ancient Paths

Athens (Piraeus) To Athens (Piraeus)

The Enchanting Island World of Cyclades

Following the Summer Breeze Through the Aegean Sea

Greece Travel Guide

Favorite Greece All Trips

Top Greece Travel Destinations

Greece Trips by Departure Date

Top Experiences in Greece

Greece Trips by Duration

Greece Trips by Activity

Why Travel With Adventure Life

Greek Island Small Ship Cruises

The Greek Islands Small Ship Experience

Small Ship Greece Cruise Vacations

Greece Small Ship Cruises vs Big Ships

Big Ship vs Small Ship Cruise Ports

Santorini, Mykonos, Crete, Hydra & More

How to Choose – Greece Cruise Tips

Choosing Your Route – Greece Cruise Itineraries

Consider Your Style of Travel

Choose Your Greece Small Ship

Ask Us About the Fleet of Greek Islands Small Ships

Greece Small Ship Cruise Cost

How to Get to Your Greece Cruise – Embarkation

Best Time to Cruise the Greek Islands

View All Greek Island Small Ship Cruises

No Results...

Hear it from Greece Small Ship Cruise Travelers

Accommodations Review

Meals Review

Crew & Guides Review

AdventureSmith Explorations Review

Traveler Advice

Featured in this Traveler Review

Itinerary Review

Fellow Passengers Review

Greek Island Small Ships

Contact Us - Greek Island Small Ship Cruises

Greek Island Small Ship Cruises

Greek Island Hopping Holidays

Why Should I Choose A Small Ship Cruise

Cruise and Stay in Athens / Greek Islands

MS HARMONY G

NEW - Ionian Odyssey Cruise

M/S GALILEO / PANORAMA

Jewels of the Cyclades Athens to Athens

Classical Greece Small Ship Cruise

Elixir Cruise - Divine Cyclades Cruise Athens to Athens

Elixir Cruise - Ancient Paths Cruise Athens to Athens

M/S GALILEO

Antiquity to Byzantium Cruise

M/Y Gemaya - Cabin Sales & Private Charter- Athens

Aegan Odyssey Athens to Athens

Looking for something different?

Speak to a Specialist

Destinations

Our Charities

Mundy Cruising

Related links

Best small ship cruises to the Greek Islands

2. Windstar Cruises

4. Sea Cloud Cruises

5. Silversea

6. Seabourn

7. Crystal Cruises

Get your free subscription to Cruise News

Luxury Greek island cruises

Ancient jewels of the Mediterranean