Sailing the Aegean Sea: A Greek Island Cruise Experience

April 8, 2024

Can you imagine a more idyllic vacation than island-hopping through the azure waters of the Aegean Sea on a scenic cruise? Sailing between iconic destinations like Santorini, Mykonos and Crete while soaking up postcard-worthy Greek island scenery – it’s the stuff of dreams. A Greek island cruise offers a front-row seat to historic sites, whitewashed villages, fantastic food and unforgettable Mediterranean views. Simply get a Greek visa UK to visit Greece and use our guide to enjoy an incredible cruise vacation!

Best Time to Sail Aegean Sea on a Greek Island Cruise

The prime season for Greek island cruises runs from April to October when the weather is warm, sunny and dry. 

Try avoiding the peak summer months like July and August. These tend to be the hottest and most crowded times to sail so expect higher prices. On the other hand, late spring and early fall can also offer great value with mild temperatures and fewer crowds.

If you prefer less crowds then choose to cruise in a shoulder season in Greece. Cruising shoulder seasons like May/June and September/October are ideal. That’s because you’ll likely enjoy pleasant daytime highs of 70-80°F perfect for outdoor exploring. 

If you like cool weather then April and November are your best bets. They tend to be cooler, with a higher chance of rain. However, Avid divers and swimmers may prefer the warmer summer seas. 

Bonus Tip: For fewer crowds and milder weather, consider an early May or late September/early October cruise. You’ll enjoy the sunny Aegean minus the peak prices and masses of tourists on popular islands like Santorini. Also, make sure to book your Greece visa appointment in advance for a hassle-free visit!

Top Destinations to Cover on an Aegean Greek Island Cruise

The cruise route will determine the bucket list-worthy islands and ports of call you’ll visit. Here are some typical stops:

1. Cyclades Islands

Family-friendly Naxos, party-centric Mykonos, and volcanic Santorini – the star Cyclades Islands are a highlight of most Aegean itineraries. In addition to their jaw-dropping scenery, visitors come for awesome beaches, historic sites, and dining/nightlife scenes.

Here are some attractions to explore in the Ruins:

• Many Cycladic islands boast well-preserved archaeological sites like the Delos ruins, an ancient Greek commercial hub that feels frozen in time. 
• Also, try wandering Delos’ marble streets past crumbling temples and amphitheatres is a surreal experience.

2. Dodecanese Islands

The dreamy isles like Rhodes and Kos feature ancient medieval towns with jaw-dropping castles and fortresses. You will come across amazing aquamarine waters, pine forests, and lovely beaches here.

Don’t miss key attractions like the walled Old Town of Rhodes. It’s an open-air museum lined with Byzantine churches, the Street of Knights, and ruins from centuries of occupation. Get lost in its atmospheric cobbled lanes with your Greece Tourist Visa!

3. Crete

Greece’s largest island wows with natural wonders like the Samaria Gorge, countless ancient ruins, charming coastal villages and Heraklion’s outstanding archaeological museum. Don’t miss moussaka, a delicious Greek beef & eggplant lasagna!

Must-See Site: The Palace of Knossos is Crete’s star archaeological site. This Bronze Age Minoan palace was a centre of ancient Aegean civilization with intricate frescoes, storerooms and an elaborate throne room.

4. Athens

What Greek island adventure would be complete without time in the iconic capital? Explore the ancient Acropolis citadel, avant-garde Acropolis Museum, and al fresco cafe scene.

Take a Guided Tour: An expert-led walking tour brings Greek mythology and history to vivid life as you visit top Athens attractions like the Parthenon, Agora, and Temple of Poseidon. Alternatively, a food tour is a delicious way to eat your way through local specialities.

So, when are you applying for online Greece visa? Greece awaits your arrival!

Foods to Try During Your Greek Island Cruise

Despite being at sea, your cruise ship will offer plenty of opportunities to sample Greece’s iconic cuisine. From hearty comfort food to fresh seafood, here are some foods you should try on your cruise:

1. Moussaka – This rich, oven-baked casserole layers eggplant, spiced lamb, and béchamel sauce. A true national obsession.
2. Souvlaki – Skewers of tender, marinated pork shish kebab make a fulfilling and flavorful Greek street food.
3. Saganaki – Who can resist flaming hot cheese? This pan-fried cheese appetizer makes a dramatic presentation.
4. Greek salad – Cool off with a classic Greek salad overflowing with ripe tomatoes, cucumber, olives, feta and herbs.
5. Spanakopita – Light and flaky phyllo pastries encase savoury spinach and feta fillings in this moreish snack.
6. Baklava – No meal is complete without sticky sweet baklava drizzled with honey syrup for dessert.
7. Greek wines – Sip unique Greek varietals like Assyrtiko and Moschofilero from world-class island appellations.

Apart from these, you can also experience other zesty attractions like:

Try Regional Specialties on Your Greek Island Cruise

Keep an eye out for local delicacies served onboard or during shore excursions like: 

• Cretan dakos salad
• Wild foraged Greek greens like horta
• Santorini’s famous cherry tomatoes
• Fresh-caught seafood like grilled octopus straight from island waters

Enjoy Unique Food & Wine Tours

Many cruise lines offer optional excursions centred around food and wine tours on the islands. Some top must-try things on your cruise:

• Sign up for cooking classes
• Go on winery visits
• Try olive oil tastings, and, 
• Sample culinary specialities at local farms and villages

Want to try out all these foodie experiences? Get started by filling out the online Greece visa application!

How to Take Great Photos on an Aegean Sea Cruise?

Between the coastal scenery, quaint villages and onboard vistas, a Greek Island cruise is a photographer’s paradise. Follow these tips to get frame-worthy photos:

1. Use the rule of thirds

Try shooting scenes with the horizon or main subject slightly off-centre for visual interest. Many cameras have a rule-of-thirds grid you can enable for seamless photography.

2. Frame scenic shots

Use doors, windows, arches and other architectural elements to gorgeously frame landscapes or ancient ruins. 

3. Capture movement/action

Switch to burst mode to freeze waves, splash in pools, or great expressions while zip lining or swimming. 

4. Shoot at golden hour

The warm, soft light during the first or last hour of daylight makes images pop. Get up early or plan stops around sunrise/sunset times.

5. Use editing apps

Enhance colours, clarity and details with one-tap filters in top editing apps like Lightroom, Snapseed and VSCO.

6. Bring the Right Lenses

For the ultimate flexibility on a cruise, pack a versatile zoom lens. These should help you handle any sort of photograph like: 

• Sweeping landscapes
• Up-close portraits, and, 
• Wildlife shots you may encounter along the way

Fast prime lenses with wide apertures also come in handy for low-light shots at night or indoors.

7. Consider Accessories

• Try Using a mini tripod as that will allow sharper long exposures
• A polarizing filter can help cut glare on water
• You may want to invest in waterproof housing. Do this mandatorily if you plan to capture underwater shots while snorkelling or swimming.

Tips to Choose the Perfect Aegean Greek Island Cruise

With so many options, how do you pick the ideal sailing? Determine your priorities in terms of budget, ship size, included amenities, itinerary and vibe.

1. Large vs small ships

Big resort-style ships have tons of onboard amenities like water parks and multiple dining options. But small yachts and sailing vessels can access more off-the-beaten-path islands and ports.

2. All-inclusive vs a la carte

All-inclusive cruises cover accommodations, meals, entertainment, beverages and some excursions in one flat rate. Or you can opt for Pay-as-you-go pricing if you want to carefully use your budget.

3. 3-7 day/night cruises

Itineraries range from short 3-4 day/night samplers to epic 10-14 day voyages. A 7-night is most typical for visiting key islands.

4. Party vs relaxed vibes

Party cruises bring non-stop nightlife and fun-in-the-sun vibes. Low-key adults-only sailings are more laid back for couples or solo travellers.

5. Activity focused cruises

• Some cruises specialize in interests like: 
• Culinary/wine immersions
• Wellness/yoga retreats
• Archaeology, or, 
• Multi-sport adventures

So, choose a cruise that matches your preferences and apply for Greece visa to enjoy a hassle-free experience!

Greek Island Cruise Packing Tips

Maximize your enjoyment by carefully selecting things that you plan to bring for your cruise trip:

1. Versatile, lightweight clothing – Pack breezy linen shirts, sundresses, shorts and sandals for hot island weather. Casual resort wear is standard in Greece. Also, get 1-2 warm layers for cooler evenings.
2. Bathing suits and water shoes – Make the most out of swimming stops with a couple of swimsuits. Water shoes will help prevent slips on wet boat decks. Also, bring a quick-dry towel for your beach visits.
3. Accessories – Don’t forget a hat, sunglasses, cover-ups, and plenty of SPF sunscreen for protection from that powerful Greek sunshine.
4. Cruise essentials – Bring a waterproof tote/dry bag, portable battery packs, and dryer sheets. Also, try having a neck wallet or a sling bag to carry important things easily.  
5. Camera gear – In addition to your smartphone camera, pack a lightweight DSLR or mirrorless camera, lens filters and tripod to capture wide, stunning vistas.
6. Motion sickness relief – Have seasickness medication, motion sickness wristbands and seasick preventatives ready if you get uneasy.

So, pack wisely and get ready to set sail on an unforgettable Aegean island-hopping odyssey! 

Conclusion

Cruising the Greek Isles lets you effortlessly immerse in the: 

• Sun-soaked culture
• Ancient history
• Sumptuous cuisine
• Jaw-dropping scenery across multiple idyllic destinations

Whether you seek nonstop activities or blissful relaxation, an island cruise in Greece offers the ultimate escape. So, what are you waiting for? Apply for Greece visa online today. Go on an exciting cruise that you will cherish for a long time!

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