Greek Islands cruises visit islands such as Santorini, Mykonos, Rhodes and Corfu in a single trip; some itineraries depart from Istanbul, Kuşadası or Çeşme, so you can start your journey without flying abroad. This page lists the Aegean and Greek Islands cruise itineraries currently available.
Which Islands and Ports?
The most common destinations on currently available itineraries are Athens (Piraeus), Santorini, Mykonos, Corfu, and Rhodes. Aegean–Adriatic itineraries extend to Italy via Bari and Naples; ports in Türkiye on these routes include Istanbul, Kuşadası, and Marmaris.
Departures from Türkiye
Sailings from Istanbul are operated by Costa Pacifica and MSC ships; there are also short programs departing from Çeşme. When departing from Türkiye, no international flight is needed; you board the ship at the port.
Visa on Arrival
Greece offers seasonal visas on arrival on some islands for Turkish citizens; itineraries available with a visa on arrival are marked “Visa on Arrival” in the tour title. Other itineraries require a Schengen visa.
Duration and Price
Programs range from 3 to 11 nights; the most common duration is 7 nights. Prices start at around 1.026 euros per person.
Santorini and Mykonos
Santorini is the Aegean’s best-known island, with white-and-blue houses perched on the edge of a volcanic caldera; ships anchor inside the caldera, and passengers take small boats to the port of Fira. From Fira, you can take a bus to Oia, which is famous for its sunsets. Mykonos is known for its windmills, the seaside houses of the Little Venice district and its beaches. These two islands feature on almost all Greek Islands cruises.
Rhodes, Corfu and Athens
The walled Old Town of Rhodes and the Street of the Knights are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Corfu is one of the largest islands in the Ionian Sea, known for its green landscapes and Old Town with Venetian influences. From Athens’ port of Piraeus, it takes about half an hour to reach the Acropolis and the Parthenon; Athens is a culture-focused stop on most itineraries.
What Is Included on the Ship?
Cabin accommodation, meals in the main restaurant and buffet, evening shows and pools are included in the price. Drinks packages, specialty restaurants, spa services, internet and shore excursions cost extra. The onboard service charge is applied per night; whether it is included is stated on each sailing’s page.
When to Go?
The cruise season in the Aegean runs from April to October. May–June and September are the most balanced months for swimming and sightseeing; July and August are hot and crowded, and the meltemi winds can make the sea choppy in the Aegean. Going ashore by boat in Santorini depends on weather conditions.
Who Is It Suitable For?
Greek Islands cruises are the most convenient way to see several islands in a short time: there is no need to arrange separate ferries and hotels for each island. Departing from Turkish ports, these itineraries do not require flights, making them especially popular with families and first-time cruise travelers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does the Greek Islands cruise depart from?
There are programs departing from Istanbul, Kuşadası and Çeşme, as well as sailings departing from Athens (Piraeus) and ports in Italy.
Are Santorini and Mykonos included in the same tour?
Yes; most itineraries visit both islands.
Can you take a cruise with a visa on arrival?
Only for itineraries with “Visa at the Border” in the title; the others require a Schengen visa.
How Many Nights Does It Last?
It lasts between 3 and 11 nights; 7 nights is the most common.