Greek Islands Cruises

Greek Isles Cruises

Having been inhabited since 270,000 BC, Greece has earned a rich place in history as the birthplace of democracy; Western philosophy, drama and literature; and the Olympic Games. Today, it draws visitors to its ancient ruins, gorgeous coastlines and wide, open spaces.

Greek Isles Cruise Highlights

Pack comfortable shoes and a bathing suit: of Greece's many draws, you cannot miss relaxing on the beaches of Mykonos and Santorini or hiking up to historical gems like the Acropolis. Other must-sees include ruins like the Parthenon, Ancient Mycenae, and Mystras. In Athens, the Byzantine and Christian Museum and the Acropolis Museum showcase Greek treasures preserved from the earliest centuries of Western civilization. For shopping, stroll through Plaka, a historical neighborhood in Athens, or Monastiraki.

Popular Greek Isles Cruise Ports

Greece is home to more than 200 inhabited islands in the Aegean and Ionian seas. These are three of the most popular destinations to visit on a Greek Islands cruise:

• Santorini, Greece: Step out of a postcard and into Santorini's weaving roads lined with white-washed buildings and blue-domed roofs overlooking a glimmering sea. With beaches shaped by volcanic eruptions and wine producers dotting the island, Santorini is the perfect place to kick back and relax.
• Mykonos, Greece: Known for its spectacular beaches and delicious Mediterranean food - think olives, cheese, honey, and pistachios - Mykonos is a must-see destination while in Greece. On the island, you can visit the Archaeological Museum of Mykonos to see ruins from nearby Delos, the birthplace of Apollo, or rent ATVs to explore the island's rolling hills on your own.
• Athens, Greece: Greece's capital, known as the cradle of Western Civilization, is a history-lover's paradise. Visit the Acropolis, the Temple of Poseidon, the Theater of Dionysus and the Parthenon, as well as museums like the Museum of the City of Athens and the Museum of Cycladic Art.

When is the Best Time to Go to the Greek Isles?

Summer is the most popular time to visit Greece, with warm weather perfect for sunbathing and cooling off in the island's surrounding deep blue waters. June through September is peak season, with July and August seeing the most frequent sailings. During these times, it can get very hot, with temperatures reaching into the 90s (degrees Fahrenheit), so much sure to stay hydrated and pack light, cool clothes.

What Cruise Lines Go to the Greek Isles?

Once reserved for the elite class, the Greek Islands are now frequented by ships big and small. Which line to choose depends largely on which islands you'd like to visit; the smaller the ship, the more hard-to-reach islands passengers can visit. These lines sail to Greece regularly, with a range of ports of call:

• Royal Caribbean Cruises: Often departing from Civitavecchia, Italy, Royal Caribbean's Greek Isles cruises make stops in Katakolon, Athens, Mykonos, and Santorini. Shore excursions on these itineraries include a visit to the Agriturismo Magna Grecia Farm and a hike up Santorini's famous Nea Kameni volcano.
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises: Sail with Regent to Greece from Barcelona on a Grand Mediterranean Cruise or round trip from Athens (Port of Piraeus) on a Majestic Greek Isles sailing. Regent visits Greek ports like Khios, Volos, Katakolon and Athens. Voyages are seven or more nights, with many including ports in Spain and Italy as well.
• Windstar Cruises: For yacht-style cruising and visits to less regularly trafficked ports, Windstar is a top choice. On an Athens to Athens voyage, Windstar travelers will visit nine UNESCO World Heritage Sites and stop in less-crowded ports like Nafplio and Patmos.