Discover the Magic of Greece by Sea

From the iconic blue-domed churches of Santorini to the ancient wonders of Athens, from the cosmopolitan shores of Mykonos to the legendary beaches of Crete, discover why Greece remains one of the world’s most enchanting cruise destinations.

Sail Away to the Greek Islands

Greece shaped the course of Western civilization, and that heritage is everywhere you look. Ancient temples crown hilltops above turquoise seas, whitewashed villages tumble down volcanic cliffs, and sun-drenched coastlines stretch toward the horizon. With thousands of islands to explore, a Greek cruise delivers the perfect blend of history, culture, natural beauty, and relaxation. During the April-through-October cruise season, Mediterranean temperatures typically range from 59-86°F (15-30°C), making it an ideal destination for sun-soaked exploration.

White chalk cliffs in Sarakiniko, Milos island, Cyclades, Greece

Ancient History

Greece is home to 18 UNESCO World Heritage sites, from the Acropolis of Athens to the medieval city of Rhodes. Walk where philosophers debated, warriors trained, and oracles prophesied.

Island Paradise

Over 6,000 islands are scattered across the Aegean and Ionian seas, each with its own personality. Some dazzle with whitewashed clifftop villages; others charm with quiet fishing harbors and turquoise coves you’ll have nearly to yourself.

Culinary Delights

Every port brings new flavors to the table. Think grilled octopus at a seaside taverna, Santorini’s Assyrtiko wines paired with local fava, and spanakopita still warm from a village bakery.

Must-Visit Greek Islands

Each Greek island has its own unique character and charm. Our complimentary cruise concierge service will help you find the perfect itinerary to match your dream Greek adventure.

Santorini

Perched above a dramatic volcanic caldera, Santorini rewards visitors with breathtaking views and stunning sunsets. Explore Oia and Fira, sample local wines, and relax on unique red and black sand beaches.

Best For: Romantics, photographers, and wine lovers

Mykonos

Known for its cosmopolitan atmosphere, iconic windmills, and vibrant nightlife. Wander through narrow streets, dine at waterfront restaurants, and discover pristine beaches.

Best For: Nightlife seekers and beach lovers who appreciate a touch of luxury

Rhodes & Crete

Rhodes enchants with its walled Medieval Old Town, while Crete draws visitors to the ancient Knossos ruins and vibrant Cretan culture. Together, these two iconic islands offer a compelling blend of history, beautiful beaches, and authentic traditions.

Best For: History buffs, culture seekers, and families with older children

Popular Greece Cruise Itineraries

Itinerary Type Duration Key Ports Highlights
Greek Isles 7-10 days Athens, Santorini, Mykonos, Crete Island hopping, beaches, iconic villages
Eastern Mediterranean 10-14 days Athens, Rhodes, Ephesus, Istanbul Ancient sites, diverse cultures, Turkey
Adriatic & Greece 7-12 days Venice, Corfu, Athens, Dubrovnik Italy, Greece, Croatia combination

Our Greece cruise travel advisors will show you where to begin.

Given the sheer variety of Greek island experiences, choosing the right cruise itinerary can feel overwhelming. Santorini’s picturesque backdrop and cliff-top towns are world-famous. Mykonos boasts decadent parties and bohemian allure. The port of Athens gives you access to iconic landmarks like the Acropolis and its crowning jewel, the Parthenon.

Celebrity and Princess offer well-rounded Greek itineraries with a mix of popular attractions and hidden gems, while Viking Ocean Cruises visits scenic and historic parts of the Mediterranean on intimate ships. Silversea, Seabourn, Windstar, and Regent Seven Seas provide the most luxurious experiences. Whatever your “why” for visiting, Extraordinary Adventures can help you plan the perfect Greek cruise adventure.

Beyond Greece

Many Greek itineraries can be extended or combined with nearby destinations for an even more memorable voyage.

  • Turkey – Ancient Ephesus and the exotic bazaars of Istanbul
  • Croatia – Medieval Dubrovnik and the stunning Dalmatian Coast
  • Italy – Venice, Rome, and the Amalfi Coast
  • Holy Land & Beyond – Jerusalem, Petra, and Egypt’s pyramids

Find your specialty cruise today!

We’ll help find the perfect specialty cruise—whether you’re crossing oceans, transiting canals, or exploring the ends of the Earth.

Our specialty cruise advisors will ensure your voyage is everything you dreamed.

Rarely will any of us make it to these extraordinary places more than once. So, if you’re going to do it at all, you should do it right. Let the experts at Extraordinary Adventures ensure that your voyage to these remote destinations is everything you dreamed it would be.

They don’t call us Extraordinary Adventures for nothing, you know.

Best Time to Cruise Greece

The ideal time to cruise the Greek islands is from April through October, with peak season running from June to August.

Spring (April-May): Mild weather, fewer crowds, and blooming landscapes create an intimate setting that many seasoned travelers prefer.

Summer (June-August): Warm temperatures perfect for swimming, long sunny days, and vibrant nightlife. This is peak season with higher prices and more tourists.

Autumn (September-October): Pleasant weather, warm sea temperatures, and fewer tourists make autumn a favorite among experienced cruisers. Many consider this the best time to visit Greece.

Why Book with Extraordinary Adventures

Expert Advisors

Specialty cruise specialists who understand the unique requirements of expedition and world voyages.

Exclusive Perks

Access to special deals, onboard credits, and amenities not available when booking direct.

Personalised Planning

Custom recommendations for ships, itineraries, and cabin selection on complex voyages.

Full Support

Assistance from booking through disembarkation and beyond—we’re with you every step.

Greece Cruise FAQs

The best time to cruise Greece is from April through October. Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and better value, while summer (June-August) provides the warmest temperatures but higher prices and more tourists.

U.S. citizens do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period in the Schengen Area, which includes Greece. Your passport should be valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure date from the Schengen Area.

Greece uses the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted in tourist areas, but it’s advisable to carry some cash for small purchases, local tavernas, and visits to smaller islands or villages.

While preferences vary, most travelers prioritize Santorini for its iconic views, Mykonos for its vibrant atmosphere, Crete for its rich history and diverse landscapes, and Rhodes for its medieval architecture. Your cruise itinerary will typically include several of these highlights.

Most Greece-focused cruises range from 7 to 10 days, which allows you to visit 4-6 islands and ports. If you’re combining Greece with other Mediterranean destinations, 10-14 day itineraries are common and provide a more comprehensive experience.

When visiting religious sites in Greece, modest dress is required. This means covering shoulders and knees. Women may need to cover their heads in some monasteries. Many sites provide wraps or skirts at the entrance if needed.

Several cruise lines excel in Greek waters. Viking Ocean Cruises and Celebrity offer comprehensive itineraries with distinct styles. For luxury experiences, consider Seabourn, Regent Seven Seas, Silversea, or Windstar. Royal Caribbean, Princess, and Norwegian also operate popular Greece itineraries. Our advisors will match you with the perfect cruise line.

Popular Greek shore excursions include touring the Acropolis and Parthenon in Athens, watching the sunset in Oia on Santorini, exploring the ancient ruins at Delos near Mykonos, visiting Knossos Palace on Crete, wine tasting in Santorini’s volcanic vineyards, and beach days on the islands’ famous shores.

Yes! Greece cruises offer wonderful family experiences with a mix of beaches, history, and activities for all ages. Children enjoy swimming, exploring ancient ruins, and discovering new cultures. Most cruise lines offer kids’ clubs and family-friendly excursions.

Absolutely! Many itineraries combine Greek islands with Turkey (Istanbul, Ephesus), Croatia (Dubrovnik), Italy (Venice, Rome), and the Holy Land. Extended voyages of 10-14 nights often visit multiple countries for a comprehensive Mediterranean experience.

Not sure which specialty cruise is right for you?

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