Corfu Cruises

Corfu, Greece – A Gem in the Ionian Sea

Welcome to Corfu, a lush and breathtaking island in Greece renowned for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and enchanting culture! Corfu's unique charm is evident in its Venetian architecture, beautiful beaches, and vibrant gardens. Fun fact: Corfu is one of the greenest islands in Greece, with over 3 million olive trees! Visiting Corfu on a cruise opens up opportunities to explore picturesque villages, relax on pristine beaches, and indulge in delicious local cuisine!

Exploring Corfu, Greece

When your cruise ship docks in Corfu, a variety of activities and sights await you:

• Visit the Old Town: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Corfu’s Old Town is filled with cobbled streets, historic buildings, and charming squares. Stroll through the narrow lanes, and make sure to visit the stunning Spianada Square!
• Explore the Achilleion Palace: This neoclassical palace was built for Empress Elisabeth of Austria and features beautiful gardens, impressive statues, and fascinating architecture. Don’t miss the spectacular views of the surrounding landscape!
• Relax at Paleokastritsa Beach: This striking beach is known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning coves. Enjoy sunbathing or partake in water sports such as kayaking and snorkeling while surrounded by beautiful natural scenery.
• Tour the Corfu Museum of Asian Art: Located in the old palace, this museum has an impressive collection of Asian artifacts, showcasing works from China and Japan, making it a cultural highlight in Corfu.
• Savor Local Cuisine: Delight in the traditional Greek dishes at local tavernas, where you can try specialties like Souvlaki, Moussaka, and the island’s famous Pastitsada, alongside a glass of local wine!

Nearby Harbours You Might Visit

Your cruise itinerary may also take you to these captivating ports:

• Dubrovnik, Croatia: Known as the "Pearl of the Adriatic," Dubrovnik boasts stunning medieval walls and beautiful architecture. Stroll through the car-free Old Town, take a cable car for panoramic views, or relax at scenic beaches.
• Split, Croatia: This vibrant city is famous for its ancient Roman palace and mix of modern living. Explore Diocletian's Palace, enjoy local cuisine at outdoor eateries, and visit beautiful beaches nearby.
• Piraeus (Athens), Greece: As the gateway to Athens, Piraeus offers easy access to ancient wonders like the Acropolis. Spend your day exploring the historical sites of Athens before returning to your ship.
• Santorini, Greece: Known for its stunning sunsets and iconic white-washed buildings, Santorini offers a magical experience. Visit the charming villages of Oia and Fira, and enjoy breathtaking views over the caldera.
• La Valletta, Malta: This charming capital city is packed with historical sites, including St. John's Co-Cathedral and the Grand Master's Palace. Explore the narrow streets and enjoy the local cuisine for a memorable experience.

Common Regions Encountered on Cruises to Corfu

A cruise to Corfu provides the opportunity to explore several intriguing regions:

• Eastern Mediterranean: This vibrant region is characterized by stunning coastlines, rich cultural heritage, and delicious cuisine, making it an ideal destination for a memorable cruising experience.
• Mediterranean Sea: The Mediterranean Sea is home to numerous beautiful islands, each with unique charm. Whether it’s cultural experiences, stunning beaches, or delectable culinary delights, this area has something for everyone.
• Greek Islands: Famous for their striking beauty and rich history, the Greek Islands are a treasure trove of experiences. With each island offering its own unique charm, cruisers can discover picturesque villages, ancient ruins, and idyllic beaches.
• Western Mediterranean: This area boasts beautiful coastlines, colorful culture, and delicious cuisine. Cruises through the Western Mediterranean allow travelers to visit iconic cities like Barcelona, Nice, and Rome.
• Croatia: Known for its stunning coastline, ancient towns, and vibrant culture, Croatia offers an array of experiences that attract travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.

Major Cruise Lines Visiting Corfu

• Princess Cruises: With a fleet of 17 ships, including Sun Princess and Majestic Princess, Princess Cruises offers diverse itineraries and onboard activities tailored to families and couples alike. Most cruises to Corfu typically depart from Civitavecchia (Rome) or Pireus (Athens).
• MSC Cruises: Featuring a fleet of 24 ships, including MSC Fantasia and MSC Sinfonia, MSC Cruises combines family-friendly experiences with luxury amenities. Most cruises depart from Bari or Pireus (Athens).
• Cunard: This luxury line boasts a fleet of 4 ships like Queen Victoria and Queen Anne, providing refined experiences and exceptional service. Departures frequently occur from Civitavecchia (Rome) or Barcelona.
• Holland America Line: With 11 ships including Oosterdam and Nieuw Statendam, Holland America features premium dining and curated shore excursions. Departures typically occur from Pireus (Athens) or Barcelona.
• P&O Cruises: This cruise line, with a fleet of 7 ships including Azura and Aurora, offers a blend of exceptional service and authentic experiences. Departures generally occur from Valletta or Southampton.

Top Luxury and Small Ship Options

• Oceania Cruises: With a fleet of 8, including Allura and Nautica, Oceania focuses on gourmet dining and enriching itineraries; prime departures are from Venice or Istanbul for a luxurious experience.
• Explora Journeys: A new luxury line with 2 ships, such as EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II, Explora provides luxurious service and unique itineraries, primarily departing from Pireus (Athens) or Istanbul.
• Azamara Cruises: Boasting a fleet of 4 ships including Azamara Onward and Azamara Journey, Azamara is known for immersive experiences with longer stays in port, departing from Fusina (Venice) or Venice.
• Silversea: Featuring 12 ships, such as Silver Spirit, Silversea offers ultra-luxurious experiences tailored to discerning travelers, generally departing from Lisbon or Venice.
• Seabourn: With a fleet of 6 ships including Seabourn Encore and Seabourn Quest, this line offers an intimate voyage experience with luxury itineraries, departing from Pireus (Athens) or Istanbul.

When to Cruise to Corfu, Greece

• Spring (March, April, May): Average temperatures range from 10-20°C, providing pleasant weather for exploring the island’s lush greenery and blooming flowers, making it perfect for outdoor adventures.
• Summer (June, July, August): Expect warmer temperatures of around 20-35°C; summer is the peak travel season in Corfu with lively beaches, festivals, and vibrant nightlife activities.
• Autumn (September, October, November): With temperatures ranging from 15-25°C, autumn is ideal for enjoying fewer crowds at popular tourist spots while exploring vineyards and local markets.
• Winter (December, January, February): Cooler temperatures average from 5-15°C, providing a quieter atmosphere for exploring the island's cultural sites, but expect some rain during this season.

Frequently Asked Questions about Corfu, Greece

What is the typical cost of a cruise?

A one-week cruise visiting Corfu generally costs between $1,200 and $3,500, while a two-week cruise can range from $3,000 to $7,500. Regular cruise prices usually average around $2,600.

What should I expect for the costs of food and beverages?

Dining costs can vary, with meals typically priced from $10 to $50 at local tavernas. Expect beverages like local wine or an ouzo to range from $3 to $12.

What are some dining and shopping possibilities to know about?

Corfu is famous for its local cuisine, including fresh seafood and traditional Greek dishes. Look out for local markets and shops featuring handmade crafts and souvenirs.

What are transportation options?

Upon docking, local transportation options like buses and taxis are readily available. Many cruise lines also offer guided excursions to local attractions.

What should I know about the local currency and making payments?

The local currency is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in tourist areas, but it's wise to carry some cash for smaller shops and traditional markets.

What are safety and health tips to be aware of?

Corfu is considered safe for travelers, but basic precautions should be taken. Stay aware of your surroundings, secure personal belongings, and use sunscreen when enjoying the sun!

What are some helpful language or cultural tips?

The official language is Greek, but English is commonly spoken in tourist areas. Learning a few basic Greek phrases can enhance your experiences and interactions with locals!

Are you ready to explore the enchanting beauty of Corfu? Book your next cruise with Cruise1st and set sail on an unforgettable journey to this magical island!