Greece Cruises

Experience the Wonders of Greece on Your Next Cruise

Welcome to Greece, a beautiful country steeped in history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes. Known for its stunning islands, ancient ruins, and delicious cuisine, Greece is a destination that captivates travellers from around the globe. Fun fact: Greece is home to over 6,000 islands, with only about 227 being inhabited! Opting for a cruise to Greece provides a unique opportunity to explore its gorgeous harbours, delve into historical sites, and savour mouth-watering local dishes while enjoying the luxury of a cruise ship.

Top Major Cruise Lines to Greece

• Cunard: With a fleet of 4 ships, Cunard features 2 vessels—Queen Mary 2 and Queen Elizabeth—that offer itineraries that include Greece. Renowned for their luxurious experience and classic elegance, Cunard ships boast stunning interiors, exceptional dining options, and world-class service. Most departures take place from major international ports like Southampton, making it easy for cruisers to start their Greek adventure.
• Princess Cruises: Operating a fleet of 17 ships, Princess Cruises offers itineraries to Greece on 6 of their vessels, including Caribbean Princess and Regal Princess. Popular for their excellent service and diverse dining options, Princess ships create a welcoming atmosphere for all guests. Departures generally occur from international ports such as Rome and Barcelona, ensuring a smooth journey to Greece.
• MSC Cruises: With a fleet size of 24, MSC Cruises features 6 ships—including MSC Lirica and MSC Magnifica—offering itineraries to Greece. Known for their authentic Mediterranean flair, MSC provides an exciting onboard experience complete with endless entertainment options. Departures commonly take place from major international ports like Civitavecchia and Barcelona.
• Holland America Line: With 11 ships in their fleet, Holland America has 4 vessels that include itineraries to Greece, including ms Rotterdam and ms Eurodam. Recognised for their immersive and enriching experiences, Holland America offers a combination of culinary excellence and cultural exploration. Departures typically occur from international ports such as Venice.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: With a fleet of 21 ships, Norwegian Cruise Line features 7 vessels—including Norwegian Epic and Norwegian Gem—that frequently sail to Greece. Famous for their "freestyle cruising" concept, Norwegian lets guests enjoy flexible dining and entertainment options. Departures typically occur from international ports like Barcelona and Rome, welcoming cruisers to the enchanting landscapes of Greece.

Top Luxury and Small Ship Cruise Lines to Greece

• Viking Ocean Cruises: With a fleet of 11 ships, Viking has 7 vessels—including Viking Star and Viking Saturn—delivering itineraries that explore Greece. Viking is known for its immersive experiences, focusing on cultural enrichment and intimate settings. Departures generally happen from major international ports like Pireus (Athens) or Istanbul, making it straightforward for cruisers to discover Greece.
• Oceania Cruises: With 8 ships in their fleet, Oceania features 7 vessels—including Nautica and Regatta—offering itineraries to Greece. Oceania is celebrated for its culinary excellence and immersive destination experiences, ensuring every moment onboard is unforgettable. Departures typically occur from international ports like Istanbul and Pireus (Athens) for easy access to Greece.
• Explora Journeys: Featuring a fleet of 2 ships, Explora has both vessels offering itineraries that include Greece. Known for their emphasis on personal wellness and transformative experiences, Explora provides exceptional service and thoughtfully curated itineraries. Departures generally occur from major ports like Pireus (Athens) or Istanbul, allowing effortless access to Greek beauty.
• Silversea: With a fleet size of 12, Silversea features 6 ships—including Silver Muse and Silver Nova—offering itineraries to Greece. Renowned for their luxurious all-inclusive experience, Silversea ensures unparalleled service and personalised attention for guests. Guests departing typically do so from Pireus (Athens) or Venice, making travel convenient to Greece's stunning destinations.
• Azamara Cruises: With a fleet of 4 ships, Azamara boasts 4 vessels—including Azamara Journey and Azamara Quest—that frequently visit Greece. Known for their focus on immersive travel experiences and longer port stays, Azamara allows guests to fully savour each destination. Departures generally occur from popular ports like Pireus (Athens) or Fusina (Venice).

Gorgeous Harbours in Greece

• Pireus (Athens): As Greece's busiest port, Pireus is a gateway to the rich history and culture of Athens. When your cruise docks here, take the time to visit iconic landmarks such as the Acropolis and Parthenon. You can explore vibrant neighbourhoods like Plaka and enjoy traditional Greek cuisine in local tavernas. With only a short time docked, be sure to taste some delicious souvlaki or spanakopita!
• Corfu: Known for its lush landscapes and beautiful beaches, Corfu welcomes cruise passengers with open arms. Visitors can explore the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site with its Venetian architecture, and stroll along the scenic waterfront. Don’t forget to try the local dish, pastitsada, before soaking up the sun on one of Corfu's stunning beaches!
• Mykonos: Renowned for its nightlife and stunning beaches, Mykonos is a must-visit. Cruise visitors can explore the iconic windmills, wander through the charming narrow streets of Mykonos Town, and enjoy a drink at famous beach clubs. For a unique experience, take a quick swim at Elia Beach or visit the nearby Delos Island, an important archaeological site!
• Santorini (Thira): One of the most picturesque islands in Greece, Santorini charms visitors with its white-washed buildings and stunning sunsets. When docked, explore the village of Oia, visit the ancient Akrotiri ruins, and bask in the beauty of Red Beach. Be sure to capture the iconic sunset from Oia or have a glass of local Assyrtiko wine!
• Katakolon: As the gateway to Ancient Olympia, Katakolon provides visitors the chance to immerse themselves in history. Cruise guests can visit the archaeological site of Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games, and see the ancient ruins. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the local shops for olive oil and crafts before heading back to your ship!

Top Harbours Typically Visited by Cruises Going to Greece

• Bridgetown, Barbados: A vibrant and colourful capital city, Bridgetown offers visitors an opportunity to delve into local history while enjoying duty-free shopping and beautiful beaches. Discover the historic Garrison, a UNESCO World Heritage site, before enjoying the local rum punch!

Best Times to Cruise to Greece

The ideal time to cruise to Greece is typically between April and June, when temperatures range from 18°C to 28°C, creating perfect conditions for outdoor exploration and relaxation on the beaches. For those seeking a quieter experience, consider visiting during September to October, when the weather remains mild, and the summer crowds have dissipated, making it great for exploring the islands at a leisurely pace.

Cost of Cruising to Greece

A typical one-week cruise to Greece usually starts around $1,600, while a two-week cruise might run approximately $3,500. Luxury cruise options typically begin around $5,200 for a week. Dining in Greece can be quite affordable, with average meal prices ranging from $15 to $40 depending on where you choose to dine, and drinks generally costing approximately $4 to $10—allowing you to indulge in the island's culinary delights.

Alternative Regions Worth Considering for Your Next Cruise

If Greece has captured your imagination, consider these alternative regions for your next adventure:

• Caribbean: Renowned for its stunning beaches and vibrant cultures, this region offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure in tropical paradise.
• Adriatic Sea: With its picturesque coastal towns and rich history, the Adriatic Sea invites visitors to explore beautiful cities like Dubrovnik and Split.
• Italy: Known for its rich history, art, and incredible cuisine, Italy offers unmatched experiences in cities like Rome, Venice, and Florence.
• Spanish Islands: Explore exciting islands, unique cultures, and delicious food, letting you experience Spain in all its vibrant glory.
• South East Asia: Offering a diverse mix of cultures, beautiful landscapes, and culinary delights, South East Asia presents exciting adventures and stunning experiences.

Are you ready to set sail for the enchanting destinations of Greece? Book your cruise with Cruise1st today and dive into the rich history, stunning scenery, and mouth-watering cuisine that awaits you in this incredible region!