Top 10 Greece Cruises Recommended by Travel Experts

Windstar Cruises

As Clabbers points out, this boutique luxury cruise line is ideal for those seeking “a more intimate, relaxed yacht-style experience.” The onboard atmosphere is described as “upscale without being pretentious or excessive.” Additionally, “each ship features a water sports platform equipped with kayaks, water trampolines, stand-up paddleboards, snorkeling gear, floating mats, and various other ‘toys’ that are made available (weather and location permitting) at least once on most Greek itineraries.”

Itinerary: You can't go wrong with any of Windstar's Greece routes, but Clabbers specifically highlights the popular Treasures of the Greek Isles voyage, which departs weekly from May to October. Travelers can explore beloved destinations like Mykonos and Santorini, as well as “quieter (and less crowded!) spots like Monemvasia and Patmos.” An exclusive highlight includes dining among the ruins in nearby Turkey during the line's complimentary Evening in Ephesus “after-hours” event, featuring a sumptuous five-course dinner paired with a chamber orchestra. Notably, Windstar partners with the renowned James Beard Foundation, ensuring exceptional culinary experiences at sea.

Explora Journeys

“A fresh face in the luxury travel scene, Explora Journeys provides the elegance and comfort of a contemporary European luxury resort on its yacht-inspired 922-guest vessel, Explora I, with Explora II launching later this year,” Clabbers explains. The line has made waves in the industry by eliminating typical cruise features like main dining rooms, large buffets, and notoriously cramped staterooms. Instead, Clabbers notes, guests can indulge in a variety of “superb restaurants that other lines might label as specialty options,” along with “four distinct swimming pools, each offering a unique ambiance,” and all-suite lodgings, some featuring private plunge pools. It’s also significant that “Explora Journeys is the first luxury line to provide a dedicated youth program and facility year-round,” making it an ideal choice for multi-generational families wanting to explore Greece in style.

Itinerary: Departing round-trip from Athens, the aptly titled eight-night A Journey from Athens to Athens itinerary features a blend of popular ports like Mykonos and Santorini, alongside lesser-known gems like Syros, renowned for its neoclassical architecture, vibrant town, and (essentially) crowd-free beaches. The cruise also includes a stop at the tranquil resort town of Marmaris in Turkey before reaching its final destination, Kos, a stunning Greek island celebrated for its sandy shores, whitewashed buildings, and historical landmarks.

Celebrity Cruises

As Clabbers notes, "Celebrity Cruises was established by a Greek shipping family," highlighting the line's strong connections to Greece, including many officers from the country. He adds, "When you explore Greece, you’re truly experiencing their homeland, which reflects in their enthusiasm and affection for the Hellenic culture." With a variety of larger ships available, Celebrity offers numerous choices for accommodations (from budget-friendly inside rooms to luxurious suites in The Retreat), as well as diverse itineraries, dining options, and entertainment; making Celebrity "a fantastic choice for both adults and families seeking more onboard activities." 

Itinerary: The nine-night Best Of Greece itinerary embarks round-trip from Athens on select dates between May and October, aboard the 2,170-passenger Celebrity Infinity, which Clabbers describes as one of the line’s smaller, yet more experienced vessels. The journey begins in Santorini, followed by a stop in Ephesus, Turkey, and then Mykonos. “Moreover,” Clabbers mentions, "Infinity  visits Volos and Thessaloniki, ports often overlooked by larger ships.” Kavala, situated in northern Greece, is the final port of call before returning to Athens, where travelers can immerse themselves in history, culture, and stunning architecture — complemented by breathtaking landscapes (from lagoons and lakes to wetlands and beaches) and vibrant flora and fauna.

Silversea

Silversea presents a range of cruise itineraries in Greece, standing out as one of the few truly luxurious all-inclusive cruise lines. According to Clabbers, the 596-passenger Silver Moon features all-suite accommodations and a charming small-ship ambiance — with exceptional dining, beverages, and shore excursions included in the cruise price. Regarding shore excursions, he states, “These offerings allow you to immerse yourself more fully in Greek culture and culinary adventures.” 

Itinerary: While any of Silversea’s Greek itineraries are excellent choices, Clabbers particularly endorses the seven-night Athens to Athens voyage, which “highlights major attractions while including lesser-known destinations such as Souda Bay in Crete, Nafplion, Patmos, and Rhodes,” where he suggests exploring the “ruins of the temple at Lindos, which overlook the Mediterranean, and then tracing the steps of the Crusaders in the historic town.” The cruise also visits Nafplion, a charming seaside locale with beautiful beaches that remains largely undiscovered by many American travelers — for now, at least.

Variety Cruises

As noted by T+L A-list travel advisor and small ship expert Mary Curry, this local Greek cruise line boasts its own fleet of yachts, most accommodating fewer than 50 passengers. Due to the small size of the ships, Curry explains, “you can venture a bit further off the typical tourist paths.” Variety offers several itineraries in Greece, including unique themed cruises focused on hiking and wine tasting.

Itinerary: For travelers seeking a genuine off-the-beaten-path adventure, the seven-night Unexplored Greece voyage departs round-trip from Athens. The journey begins in Ikira, a small island celebrated for its hot springs and recognized as one of the world’s Blue Zones. Next, you’ll visit Patmos, famed for its rich history and pristine beaches, followed by an overnight stay in Lipsi, a relaxed island known for its stunning landscapes. Onboard, guests can sample the region's renowned wine, Aposperitis. The adventure continues in Levintha, where a single family resides, raising livestock and operating a restaurant serving fresh fish. Following this, you’ll arrive in Amorgos, a paradise for scenic hikes and picturesque beaches. The next day, you’ll visit Panagia Hozoviotissa, a cliffside monastery dating back to the 10th century, before heading to Koufonisia, known for its magnificent caves and rock pools accessible only by boat (and Variety has got you covered). The day concludes on the tranquil island of Iraklia, featuring crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming. After spending the night there, you’ll proceed to your final stop, Serifos, where guests can explore a secluded beach and enjoy an onboard BBQ feast to recharge before heading to Chora, a storybook village.

Ponant

This French-owned cruise line features an impressive fleet of small luxury vessels. Curry notes, “Most cabins include private balconies, and those who book early enjoy great value for their investment.” What sets Ponant apart, the expert explains, is their collaboration with Smithsonian Journeys on select sailings, offering an enriching program that includes lectures and shore excursions at each port.

Itinerary: Curry highly recommends the seven-night Cruising the Greek Islands of the Southern Aegean voyage, which departs round-trip from Athens in July and October 2025. This cruise visits popular destinations such as Patmos, Rhodes, and Amorgos, and includes a stop at Adamas in Milos, a volcanic island known for its picture-perfect white-washed villages and stunning beaches. Adamas itself is a quaint fishing harbor where vibrant boats glisten against the azure waters. The itinerary concludes with visits to Mykonos and Nafplion before returning to Athens.

Disney Cruise Line

Disney Cruise Line is renowned worldwide for its thrilling onboard activities for children of all ages — featuring meet-and-greets with characters and superheroes, dining experiences themed around beloved Disney princesses, and a plethora of live performances — making it a top choice for families seeking an entertaining vacation in Greece.

Itinerary: "Embarking on the Disney Dream for the seven-night Mediterranean with Greek Isles itinerary is truly enchanting!" says Megan Guinnup, a travel agent with Marvelous Mouse Travels. Departing round-trip from Rome, the cruise makes a stop in Naples before heading to Greece. Alongside well-known ports like Athens and Mykonos, you'll explore Chania on the island of Crete, famous for its vibrant harbor, stunning architecture, and picturesque cobblestone streets that seem to come straight from a (Disney) fairy tale. After each port of call, the magic continues onboard, where, according to the expert, "enchantment awaits at every turn — meet beloved characters, join deck parties with Mickey and Minnie, and savor exquisite dining options."

Royal Caribbean

This mega-ship line truly offers everything: vibrant entertainment and a multitude of onboard activities — which can range from thrilling water slides to zip lines — alongside an array of dining and drinking options to satisfy even the fussiest diners. Guinnup and Kari Dillon, owner of Marvelous Mouse Travels, suggest embarking on the Odyssey of the Seas, which features various Greek itineraries. "Onboard," notes Guinnup, "you'll find an abundance of activities, from bumper cars and roller skating to exquisite dining and a robotic bar — there's something for everyone!"

Itinerary: The seven-night Greek Isles journey departs round-trip from Rome, with stops in Santorini, Ephesus, Mykonos, and Naples. It's important to note that due to the ship's size, both Santorini and Mykonos require tendering. Given this, Dillon advises opting for The Key, an optional add-on that provides priority tender access, allowing you to maximize your time enjoying the stunning landscapes on land.

Virgin Voyages

Richard Branson’s adults-only line has revolutionized the cruise industry with its unique offerings, featuring over 20 restaurants in place of traditional buffets, an onboard tattoo studio, entertainment tailored for adults, and a two-story nightclub.

Itinerary: Dillon highly recommends the seven-night Greek Island Aglow cruise for those looking for a vibrant, adults-only experience. She shares with T+L, “This voyage not only visits the islands of Santorini and Rhodes, but it also includes an overnight stay in Mykonos, renowned for its energetic nightlife.” Additionally, the cruise stops in Bodrum, Turkey, famous for its stunning beaches, blooming cafes, and lively nightlife.

Celestyal Cruises

Based in Greece, Celestyal Cruises takes pride in delivering an authentic Greek holiday experience. What sets Celestyal apart is its year-round sailings in the Aegean Sea, departing round-trip from Athens, with voyages ranging from three to 14 nights. Guests can choose from a variety of 'Authentic Excursions,' which are carefully curated, small-group experiences led by experts designed to guide travelers off the beaten path. Options include culinary walking tours and pottery workshops at local factories, depending on the port of call.

Itinerary: The seven-night Idyllic Aegean cruise takes you to Thessaloniki, known for its blend of history, nightlife, and cuisine; Kuşadası, a favored resort town in Turkey; and Heraklion, the capital of Crete. The journey also includes iconic islands like Santorini and Mykonos, where the ship will dock overnight, before concluding with a stop in stunning Milos on the way back to Athens for disembarkation.