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Destinations

Greek Island Cruises

Why should I cruise to Greece?

The question is why wouldn’t you embark on a Greek cruise! With incredible architecture spanning thousands of years, delicious cuisine, scenic landscapes and so much history to uncover, exploring Greece should be on everyone’s to-do list.

When you cruise to Greece with us, you’ll have the opportunity to visit a number of Mediterranean countries on the way, including Spain, Malta, Italy, Cyprus and Turkey. Plus with an included panoramic excursion in most ports, as well as optional excursions and independent exploration, you can really make our cruises your own…

Where can I go?

Chania, Crete

Quaint cobbled streets in Chania, Crete

Crete, Greece’s largest island is over 5,000 years old and was home to the ancient world’s most advanced civilisations, including the Bronze Age Minoans, Romans, Byzantines, Ottomans and Venetians. Here you’ll find two fascinating settlements: Chania and Heraklion.

Chania is a picturesque town featuring a blend of Venetian, Turkish and Greek cultures, where you can discover the beautiful harbour, local shops, museums and churches. Chania was built on the ruins of ancient Kydonia, which was thought to have been founded by King Kydon and was one of the most important cities in Crete according to Homer.

Heraklion, Crete

The harbour in Heraklion

Crete’s capital, Heraklion, is full of historic artefacts and architecture, which you can discover on an included panoramic excursion. See the artefacts unearthed at the Palace of Knossos, home of the mythical Minotaur, at Heraklion’s Archaeological Museum. You could also visit the nearby archaeological site of Knossos or traditional island villages for a glimpse into true Cretan life.

Rhodes Town, Rhodes

Admire Lindos’ clifftop acropolisclifftop

Rhodes offers a blend of ancient and modern architecture, and has had a fascinating history, only becoming part of Greece in 1948. Rhodes Town, capital of Rhodes, was founded in 408 BC and is said to be the oldest inhabited medieval town in Europe.

One of Rhodes Town’s most interesting places is the cobbled ‘Street of the Knights’, where 16th-century knights and dignitaries could find companions and speak their native language. See Rhodes Town’s most important sites on an included panoramic excursion, and perhaps opt to visit Lindos acropolis, the ruins of an ancient citadel.

Piraeus for Athens

Athen’s hilltop Parthenon

Sail into Piraeus, then enjoy our complimentary travel service into the ancient Athens, Greece’s capital and largest city, as well as one of the oldest in the world.

Deemed ‘The Cradle of Western Civilisation’, you can explore the birthplace of democracy and the crucible of creativity, witnessing the advanced art, culture and architecture born from the minds of ancient Athenians. Athens was once home to great minds like Socrates, Plato and Euripides - the city was aptly named after Athena, Greek goddess of wisdom.

Athens’ genius is best demonstrated by the UNESCO-listed Acropolis, a well-preserved 5th-century BC complex encompassing the monumental Parthenon, the Erechtheion, the Propylaia and the temple of Athena Nike. The ‘Grande Promenade’ around the Acropolis is an unforgettable walk through history, surrounded by beautiful landscapes and delightful weather.

From the exceptional Acropolis you can wander into the historic Plaka neighbourhood, where you can find a plethora of taverns, cafes and local shops. You may also wish to visit the 5th-century Temple of Poseidon, which is reached via a scenic coastal drive.

Spotlight Excursion: St Andreas Monastery and Robolla Winery

Couple in vineyards

Founded in the Byzantine era, the St Andreas Monastery is known for its rather bizarre relic, that of the sole of St Andrew’s right foot. You can also admire beautiful frescoes dating to the 13th and 17th centuries and enjoy the fascinating museum on site.

From the monastery, continue to the unique Robola winery. A brief guided exploration of the facility offers insight into how the wines are produced. Sample three types of wine together with local snacks before returning to the pier, located approximately 30 minutes from Robola.

Why Cruise with Us?

Spirit of Discovery in Mykonos, Greece

As well as being able to enjoy an exciting range of optional and included excursions ashore, your boutique Saga experience begins before you even board your ship, with our included return travel service. A chauffeur will bring you straight from your front door to the port, handling all your luggage (no weight limits here!), so you can board feeling pampered and relaxed.

Every guest can admire the views and luxury of a balcony cabin, as well as an included turn-down service, room service and great amenities. During days at sea, there is so much to do. From a daily schedule of educational talks, fitness classes, art and dance classes, games and more, to top of the range facilities, you’ll always be entertained. Unwind with a relaxing treatment in the Spa or get pampered in the Salon, it’s up to you!

In the evenings you can dine in a different speciality restaurant each night or enjoy fine dining and first-class service in the Dining Room. Our small-ship luxury means that we offer a ratio of one service team member for every two guests, so you can always expect special and personal service.

Of course, all food, drinks, Wi-Fi and gratuities are included in the price of your cruise, including the snacks and afternoon teas available through the day. Before retiring to your private balcony cabins, after dinner you can sit back and watch our talented on-board entertainers.

The opinions expressed are those of the author and are not held by Saga unless specifically stated.

The material is for general information only and does not constitute investment, tax, legal, medical or other form of advice. You should not rely on this information to make (or refrain from making) any decisions. Always obtain independent, professional advice for your own particular situation.