Greek Islands Cruises
Indulge in the luxury of Greece when you set sail on a cruise to the Greek Islands. Immerse yourself in the country's rich history and culture through ancient ruins and picturesque villages, or take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea and enjoy the breathtaking scenery. Cherish the warmth from the locals and create memories that will last a lifetime. [ReadMoreMob]
Join us on a Greek cruise and discover some of the 1,400 islands that dot the Aegean and Ionian seas. Bask in the serene beauty of Rhodes, one of the largest Greek Islands, known for its stunning beaches, ancient history, and charming old town; or visit the UNESCO-listed Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights.[ReadMoreDesk]
The best way to experience the unique charm of each island is on a Greece cruise, where you'll discover remote beaches and encounter incredible wildlife. Explore ancient Byzantine trails and volcanic landscapes on foot, or enjoy a scenic bike ride through the lush forests. Don't forget to indulge in local delicacies in charming tavernas dotted throughout the region.
No cruise is complete without a stop at Piraeus, bringing you to the ancient city of Athens. Here, you can visit the Acropolis Citadel with the iconic Parthenon temple dedicated to Athena, the goddess of wisdom. For history lovers, the National Archaeological Museum is a must-visit, filled with tales of Greek Gods and artistic works.
Ancient temples continue, as outside the city, you can reach archaeological sites including the outdoor theatre of Delphi, the Temple of Zeus, and the Ancient Agora.
A cruise to Greece and the Greek Islands gives you the chance to indulge in a vibrant and diverse fusion of flavours influenced by Mediterranean and Balkan culinary traditions. From traditional moussaka and fresh seafood to aromatic herbs and spices, each bite tells a story of regional passion and heritage. Everything is best washed down with the locals' drink of choice, Ouzo, to complete the experience.
Discover our cruises to Greece
Browse our latest Greece cruises below. Each one is a hand-crafted itinerary aboard our smaller ships, bringing you close to the heart of every port with unhurried time ashore and the warm, friendly atmosphere we're known for. Find the sailing that suits you and start looking forward to the journey ahead.
Discover our shore tours in Greece
Shore excursions vary by itinerary and may not be available on every sailing. Images are for illustrative purposes only and may not reflect the exact experience, locations, or activities included in your chosen tour.
Olive Oil Mill Experience
Visit an award‑winning olive mill surrounded by ancient groves, exploring both historic and modern methods of production before tasting the estate’s celebrated extra‑virgin oils.
Ancient Lindos & Acropolis
Travel to the whitewashed village of Lindos, climbing its hilltop path to the Acropolis where ancient temples, sea views and centuries of Greek history come vividly to life.
Kallithea Springs
Unwind at the beautifully restored Kallithea Springs, where Italian‑era architecture, mosaic walkways and crystal‑clear waters offer a peaceful place to swim and explore.
Frequently asked questions about Greece
Why should I cruise to Greece?
Greece invites you to slow down – sunlit islands, ancient ruins and everyday life shaped by the sea. Cruising makes it easy to experience different islands and regions without rushing between them.
Fred. Olsen’s approach focuses on balance – time ashore to explore and enjoy local life, and calm evenings back on board, ready for the next gentle arrival.
When is the best time to cruise to Greece?
Greece is enjoyable throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer warm, comfortable temperatures for exploring historic sites and island towns, while early summer brings longer days and a relaxed rhythm. Winter is now an option too, with fly‑cruise itineraries providing a pleasant way to experience quieter ports and milder weather than much of Europe.
Each season offers something slightly different, all with the ease of arriving by sea.
What can I see and do on a Greece cruise?
A Greece cruise brings you close to ancient civilisation, classic island scenery and Bronze Age history. You can:
- Visit the Acropolis in Athens from Piraeus, one of the most important historic sites in the world.
- Explore Oia village in Santorini, known for its white‑washed houses and sweeping caldera views.
- Tour Knossos Palace on Crete, a key site of Minoan Bronze Age history.
Between ports, you’ll enjoy steady sailings with views of islands, headlands and the Aegean coastline unfolding from deck.
How long are Greece cruises and what itineraries are available?
Greece is offered as a fly‑cruise destination with Fred. Olsen, rather than a sailing from the UK. Itineraries vary in length, with time to explore a mix of islands and historic ports at a relaxed pace – from ancient sites to coastal towns and waterfront cafés.
What should I pack and what should I know before cruising to Greece?
Greece cruises are generally warm, so pack lightweight clothing, a sun hat, and comfortable shoes for exploring harbours and ancient sites. Don’t forget sun protection, swimwear for beaches, and smart-casual attire for evenings onboard.
Are Greece cruises suitable for first-time cruisers/couples/solo travellers?
Greece cruises are perfectly suited to first-time cruisers, offering gentle sailing between stunning islands and ancient sites. Couples will delight in romantic harbours and sun-drenched vistas, while solo travellers will enjoy the friendly, sociable atmosphere onboard and ashore.
Ports in Greece
Agios Nikolaos
Ermoupoli
Heraklion
Kerkira
Kos
Mytilene, Lesbos
Piraeus (for Athens)
Rhodes
Santorini
Souda Bay
