Exploring the Greek islands by cruise ship offers an efficient way to visit multiple destinations, from ancient ruins to stunning beaches. With hundreds of islands to choose from, a cruise allows you to island-hop without the hassle of multiple ferries or flights. Whether you want to see the Acropolis in Athens, relax in Santorini, or party in Mykonos, there is an itinerary for you.
Smaller ships can access remote islands like Amorgos and Delos, offering unique historical sites and landscapes. Many cruises depart from Piraeus, just 30 minutes from Athens, and some include Greece as part of a longer Mediterranean voyage. Santorini is especially welcoming cruise passengers after last year's earthquakes.
However, popular islands have introduced a tourist tax of €20 (£17.18) per passenger between June and September to combat overtourism. This fee is automatically added to fares.
Phil Evans, founder of Cruise Nation, says: "Booking a holiday to Greece is a classic choice for Brits during the summer. Many customers start with a pre-cruise stay in Athens for its heritage and food scene, plus direct flights from the UK."
Top Greek Island Cruise Itineraries for 2026
Star Clippers: Northern Cyclades
Experience a tall ship cruise on the 166-passenger Star Flyer. This seven-night voyage from Athens visits Amorgos, known for its rock-hewn monastery, and Sifnos with clearwater beaches. Onboard activities include yoga, kayaking, and swimming. Departs 12 September 2026 from £2,080pp.
Celebrity: Greek Isles and Malta
Sail on the new Celebrity Xcel for seven nights from Barcelona to Valletta, Rhodes, Santorini, Mykonos, and Athens. Enjoy long port calls until 10pm, high-end bars, regional cuisine, and the Magic Carpet bar. Departs 2 August 2026 from £539pp.
Celestyal: Idyllic Aegean
This seven-night cruise from Athens includes overnight stays in Santorini and Mykonos, plus visits to Milos and the Palace of Knossos in Crete. Onboard, enjoy Greek dancing and dishes at The Taverna. Suite guests dine at Smoked Olive. Departs 6 June 2026 from £609pp.
Variety: Wines of Greece
An intimate cruise for 49 guests on Panorama, guided by wine expert Tim Clarke. Visit vineyards in Nemea, Santorini, and Tinos, with paired wines at dinner. Departs 28 August 2026 from £3,332pp.
Windstar: Treasures of the Greek Isles
The 148-passenger Wind Star accesses secluded ports like Monemvasia (a pedestrian-only cliffside village) and Nafplio with Venetian fortresses. Includes dinner among ruins in Ephesus, Turkey. Departs 22 August 2026 from £3,252pp.
Virgin Voyages: Greek Island Glow
Adult-only Scarlet Lady offers seven nights from Athens with an overnight stop in Mykonos for late-night partying. Also visits Santorini, Rhodes, and Bodrum, Turkey. Departs 20 September 2026 from £1,820pp.
Azamara: Greece Cruise
Eight-night sailing on Azamara Onward with longer port stays, including Rhodes and Santorini until 10pm and an overnight in Athens. Visits quieter islands like Syros and Patmos. Departs 25 July 2026 from £1,429pp.
Princess Cruises: Best of the Mediterranean
A 21-day round-trip from Athens on Sun Princess, covering Santorini, Mykonos, Crete, plus Pompeii, Barcelona, and more. Departs 13 September 2026 from £2,699pp.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to travel?
Cruises run year-round. Summer (July-August) offers guaranteed sunshine but high heat. Shoulder seasons (May-June, September-October) are cooler with fewer crowds. Winter sailings are limited.
What islands will I visit?
Options range from popular islands like Mykonos and Santorini to smaller ports like Paxos and Syros. Smaller ships can access more remote areas.
How can I get the best deal?
Specialist lines like Celestyal and Variety offer Greek-focused cruises, while big brands like Royal Caribbean and smaller ships like Windstar also have deals. Sign up for newsletters and compare on SeaScanner or My Kind of Cruise.
Where do cruises start and end?
Most start and end in Athens for quick access. Some operate from Ephesus or Crete.
