Which Cruise Lines Go to Greece Top Picks for 2024

Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian Cruise Line lead the pack for 2024 voyages to Greece, offering diverse itineraries that highlight iconic destinations like Santorini, Mykonos, and Athens. These top-rated lines combine luxurious amenities, immersive shore excursions, and flexible sailing options—from 7-day island hops to 14-day Mediterranean journeys—ensuring unforgettable Greek adventures for every traveler.

Key Takeaways

• Celebrity Cruises offers immersive Greek itineraries with luxury amenities and cultural excursions.
• Royal Caribbean features family-friendly ships and stops at top Greek islands like Mykonos.
• Norwegian Cruise Line provides flexible freestyle cruising and extended port stays in Santorini.
• Oceania Cruises excels in small-ship experiences with gourmet dining and off-the-beaten-path ports.
• MSC Cruises delivers budget-friendly options with diverse routes across the Aegean Sea.
• Windstar Cruises specializes in yacht-style voyages to secluded harbors and hidden gems.

Which Cruise Lines Go to Greece? Top Picks for 2024

Dreaming of sun-drenched islands, turquoise waters, and ancient ruins framed by whitewashed buildings? Greece is a top destination for travelers seeking a blend of history, culture, and Mediterranean beauty, and cruising is one of the most convenient and scenic ways to explore its iconic islands and coastal cities. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo adventure, Greece’s diverse destinations—from the Cyclades to the Ionian Islands and the Peloponnese—offer something for every traveler. But with so many cruise lines offering Greek itineraries, how do you choose the right one?

In 2024, the Greek cruise market is more vibrant than ever, with major international lines, luxury brands, and boutique operators all vying for a piece of the Aegean. This comprehensive guide breaks down which cruise lines go to Greece, highlighting the top choices based on itinerary variety, onboard experience, price point, and overall value. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly Mediterranean hop, an ultra-luxury yacht-style voyage, or an immersive cultural journey, we’ve got you covered. Read on to discover the best cruise lines sailing to Greece in 2024 and how to pick the perfect one for your dream vacation.

Major International Cruise Lines with Greek Itineraries

When it comes to which cruise lines go to Greece, the major international operators are often the first choice for first-time cruisers and families due to their reliability, extensive amenities, and wide range of itineraries. These lines typically offer 7- to 14-day Mediterranean cruises that include multiple Greek ports, often starting from Athens (Piraeus), Venice, or Civitavecchia (Rome). Below are the standout names in this category.

Celebrity Cruises: Modern Luxury Meets Greek Culture

Celebrity Cruises has become a top contender in the Greek cruise market, thanks to its Edge Series ships like the Celebrity Ascent and Celebrity Beyond, which offer a more refined, modern luxury experience. In 2024, Celebrity offers 7- to 10-night itineraries that include stops at Santorini, Mykonos, Rhodes, and Crete, with extended stays in Athens. What sets Celebrity apart is its “Celebrity Revolution”—a major fleet upgrade that includes redesigned staterooms, enhanced dining options (like the exclusive Le Petit Chef 3D dining experience), and immersive shore excursions curated by local experts.

Why choose Celebrity? Ideal for couples and foodies who want a balance of relaxation and cultural exploration. Their “Go Local” tours—such as olive oil tastings in Nafplio or wine pairing in Santorini—add authenticity to the experience. Plus, the Infinite Veranda staterooms offer private outdoor space, perfect for enjoying the Aegean views.

Royal Caribbean: Family-Friendly Fun with Greek Flair

Royal Caribbean is a go-to for families and multigenerational travelers. In 2024, ships like Harmony of the Seas and Odyssey of the Seas sail Greek itineraries, combining high-energy onboard activities with scenic island stops. A typical 7-night cruise might include Mykonos, Santorini, Athens, and Kusadasi (Turkey), with optional excursions to the Acropolis, the Palace of Knossos, or a catamaran sail around Santorini’s caldera.

Key highlights: The Ultimate Abyss slide, FlowRider surf simulators, Broadway-style shows, and kids’ clubs make it a hit with families. Royal Caribbean also partners with local guides for “Adventure Ocean” excursions, such as treasure hunts in Rhodes’ medieval Old Town or snorkeling in the clear waters of Paros.

Tip: Book a “Suite” or “Royal Genie” package for priority boarding, private dining, and customized shore tours—ideal for maximizing your time in each port.

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): Freestyle Cruising in the Aegean

NCL’s Freestyle Cruising concept—no formal dining times, flexible dress codes, and open-seating restaurants—resonates with independent travelers who want to explore Greece on their own terms. In 2024, ships like Norwegian Escape and Norwegian Encore offer 7- to 11-night Greek cruises with stops in Corfu, Katakolo (for Olympia), and Santorini. NCL’s “Free at Sea” promotion includes perks like free specialty dining, beverage packages, and shore excursion credits.

Best for: Solo travelers, couples, and groups who value flexibility. NCL also offers “Overnight in Athens” options, allowing you to explore the city’s nightlife and historic sites at a leisurely pace. Their “Greece Unplugged” shore excursions focus on off-the-beaten-path experiences, such as cooking classes in a Mykonos villa or hiking to the ancient theater in Epidaurus.

Luxury and Premium Cruise Lines for an Elevated Greek Experience

If you’re seeking a more refined, intimate, and culturally immersive cruise experience, luxury and premium lines offer smaller ships, personalized service, and curated itineraries that go beyond the usual tourist hotspots. These lines are perfect for travelers who want to “travel deeper” in Greece.

Oceania Cruises: Culinary Excellence and Cultural Immersion

Oceania Cruises is renowned for its “The Finest Cuisine at Sea” philosophy, and its Greek itineraries in 2024 are no exception. Ships like Oceania Riviera and Oceania Vista offer 10- to 14-night cruises that include lesser-known ports like Nafplio, Monemvasia, and Skiathos, as well as extended stays in Athens and Santorini. All-inclusive fares cover gratuities, specialty dining (including Jacques Pépin’s French bistro), and select shore excursions.

What makes Oceania unique? Their “Culinary Discovery Tours”—such as a visit to a family-owned olive farm in Crete or a cooking class with a Mykonos chef—are led by onboard culinary experts. The ships also feature “Artist Loft” workshops, where you can learn Greek pottery or jewelry-making from local artisans.

Tip: Book an “Owner’s Suite” for a private butler, priority tender access, and complimentary spa treatments—ideal for a romantic or milestone celebration.

Seabourn: Yacht-Like Elegance and Intimate Exploration

Seabourn’s ultra-luxury ships, like Seabourn Encore and Seabourn Ovation, carry only 600 guests, offering a yacht-like experience with all-suite accommodations and a 1:1 staff-to-guest ratio. In 2024, Seabourn offers 10- to 14-night “Greece & the Cyclades” itineraries that include stops in Delos (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), Folegandros, and Syros—ports rarely visited by larger ships.

Standout features: Complimentary premium spirits and wines, a “Seabourn Square” concierge lounge, and “Seabourn Conversations”—lectures by historians, archaeologists, and local experts. Their “Caviar in the Surf” beach party (held on a private island) is a signature experience.

Best for: Honeymooners, luxury seekers, and culture enthusiasts who want to explore Greece without the crowds. Seabourn also offers “Private Events”, such as a private tour of the Acropolis with a renowned archaeologist.

Silversea: All-Inclusive Ultra-Luxury with a Focus on Authenticity

Silversea Cruises takes luxury to the next level with its all-inclusive model, which covers everything from shore excursions and premium beverages to butler service and gratuities. In 2024, ships like Silver Muse and Silver Spirit offer 7- to 12-night Greek itineraries, including overnight stays in Santorini and Corfu. Silversea’s “Zodiac Expeditions” allow guests to explore hidden coves and ancient ruins up close.

Why Silversea? Their “Local Connection” program partners with local communities for authentic experiences, such as a visit to a traditional pottery workshop in Naxos or a dinner in a family’s home in Crete. The “Connoisseur’s Collection” excursions—like a private wine tasting at a Santorini vineyard—are included in the fare.

Tip: Book a “Grand Suite” for a private balcony with a whirlpool tub and complimentary spa access.

Small-Ship and Boutique Cruise Lines for Off-the-Beaten-Path Greece

For travelers who want to explore Greece’s hidden gems—remote islands, secluded beaches, and ancient villages—small-ship and boutique cruise lines offer a more intimate, flexible, and adventurous experience. These lines typically sail on vessels with fewer than 100 passengers, allowing access to smaller ports and personalized service.

Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic: Adventure and Discovery

Lindblad Expeditions, in partnership with National Geographic, offers expedition-style cruising with a focus on nature, culture, and sustainability. In 2024, the National Geographic Orion sails 7- to 10-night Greek itineraries, including stops in the Ionian Islands (Corfu, Kefalonia), the Dodecanese (Rhodes, Kos), and the Cyclades (Amorgos, Anafi). The ship carries 102 guests and features a fleet of Zodiacs for exploring coastal caves and marine reserves.

Key highlights: Onboard naturalists, historians, and photographers lead excursions and workshops. Guests can participate in citizen science projects, such as coral reef monitoring or turtle nesting surveys. The “National Geographic Global Explorer” program includes lectures on Greek mythology, archaeology, and marine biology.

Best for: Nature lovers, photographers, and eco-conscious travelers. Lindblad also offers “Kayak & Paddleboard” excursions in secluded bays and “Night Sky” stargazing sessions under the clear Aegean sky.

Ponant: French Luxury Meets Greek Adventure

Ponant, the French luxury cruise line, operates sleek, ice-class yachts like Le Lyrial and Le Champlain, which offer 7- to 14-night Greek itineraries in 2024. These cruises focus on lesser-known destinations, such as the Sporades (Skiathos, Alonissos), the Cyclades (Folegandros, Sikinos), and the Peloponnese (Monemvasia, Methoni). Ponant’s “Blue Eye” underwater lounge allows guests to observe marine life in real time.

What sets Ponant apart? Their “Expedition” itineraries include guided hikes, snorkeling, and cultural visits led by French-speaking experts. The all-inclusive fare covers premium wines, gourmet dining (with a focus on Mediterranean cuisine), and shore excursions. Ponant also partners with UNESCO for “Sustainable Travel” initiatives, such as supporting local conservation projects.

Tip: Book a “Prestige Suite” for a private balcony and complimentary spa treatments.

SeaDream Yacht Club: Intimate Yachting in the Aegean

SeaDream’s twin yachts, SeaDream I and SeaDream II, carry only 112 guests, offering a relaxed, yacht-club atmosphere. In 2024, they offer 7-night Greek itineraries that include stops in Mykonos, Delos, Paros, and Naxos, with overnight stays in Santorini. The “Water Toy Marina” offers kayaks, paddleboards, and water skis for exploring hidden coves.

Why SeaDream? Their “Champagne & Caviar Splash” beach party (held on a private island) is legendary. The “Topside Restaurant” offers open-air dining under the stars, and the “Balinese Dream Beds” on deck are perfect for stargazing. SeaDream’s “Gentlemen Hosts” ensure single travelers feel welcome.

Best for: Couples, solo travelers, and small groups who want a relaxed, social atmosphere with a touch of luxury.

Budget-Friendly and Mid-Range Cruise Lines for Greece

Traveling to Greece doesn’t have to break the bank. Several cruise lines offer affordable itineraries without sacrificing quality or experience. These lines are ideal for budget-conscious travelers, young adults, and families looking for value.

MSC Cruises: Affordable Luxury with Greek Charm

MSC Cruises offers some of the most competitive prices in the Greek market, with ships like MSC Grandiosa and MSC Seaview sailing 7-night itineraries in 2024. These cruises typically include Mykonos, Santorini, Athens, and Corfu, with optional excursions to the Acropolis, the Palace of Knossos, and the Blue Caves of Zakynthos.

Key perks: MSC’s “Fantastic Mediterranean” promotion includes free kids’ fares, drink packages, and shore excursion discounts. The “MSC for Me” app allows you to book dining, excursions, and entertainment from your phone. MSC also offers “Greek Nights” onboard, with live music, traditional dancing, and Greek cuisine.

Tip: Book an “Inside Cabin” for the best value, or upgrade to a “Balcony Cabin” for a small additional cost.

Costa Cruises: Italian Flair in the Aegean

Costa Cruises, the Italian line, offers 7- to 10-night Greek itineraries with a focus on fun, entertainment, and Italian hospitality. Ships like Costa Toscana and Costa Smeralda sail routes that include Mykonos, Santorini, Rhodes, and Athens. Costa’s “Greece & the Aegean” package includes free Wi-Fi, drink packages, and a choice of shore excursions.

Why Costa? Their “Gourmet Dining” program features Italian and Greek specialties, and the “Costa Arena” theater hosts live shows and concerts. Costa also offers “Family Fun” activities, such as kids’ cooking classes and teen dance parties.

Best for: Families, young adults, and travelers who want a lively, social atmosphere.

Data Table: Comparison of Top Cruise Lines Sailing to Greece in 2024

Cruise Line	Ship Size (Passengers)	Typical Itinerary Length	Key Ports	Price Range (7-Night Cruise)	Best For
Celebrity Cruises	2,918–3,250	7–10 nights	Santorini, Mykonos, Rhodes, Athens	$1,800–$3,500	Couples, foodies, cultural travelers
Royal Caribbean	4,180–5,479	7–11 nights	Mykonos, Santorini, Kusadasi, Corfu	$1,500–$3,000	Families, multigenerational groups
Oceania Cruises	1,250–1,200	10–14 nights	Nafplio, Monemvasia, Skiathos, Delos	$3,500–$7,000	Luxury seekers, cultural immersion
Seabourn	600	10–14 nights	Folegandros, Syros, Delos, Santorini	$5,000–$10,000	Honeymooners, luxury travelers
Lindblad Expeditions	102	7–10 nights	Kefalonia, Amorgos, Alonissos, Rhodes	$4,000–$8,000	Adventure seekers, eco-tourists
MSC Cruises	4,888–5,686	7 nights	Mykonos, Santorini, Corfu, Athens	$900–$1,800	Budget travelers, families

Conclusion: Choosing the Best Cruise Line for Your Greek Adventure

When deciding which cruise lines go to Greece in 2024, the best choice depends on your travel style, budget, and interests. For families and first-time cruisers, Royal Caribbean and MSC Cruises offer a mix of fun, affordability, and convenience. If you’re seeking modern luxury and cultural depth, Celebrity and Oceania are top picks. For ultra-luxury and intimate exploration, Seabourn and Silversea deliver unparalleled service and curated experiences.

Adventurous travelers should consider Lindblad Expeditions or Ponant for off-the-beaten-path itineraries, while SeaDream Yacht Club offers a relaxed, yacht-club vibe perfect for couples and solo explorers. No matter which line you choose, Greece’s timeless beauty, rich history, and warm hospitality await. Start planning your 2024 Greek cruise today—your Aegean adventure begins the moment you step onboard.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which cruise lines go to Greece in 2024?

Top cruise lines sailing to Greece in 2024 include Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), Celebrity Cruises, MSC Cruises, and Holland America Line. These lines offer itineraries ranging from 7 to 14 days, visiting iconic destinations like Santorini, Mykonos, and Athens.

What are the best luxury cruise lines for a Greek Isles vacation?

Luxury options like Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Oceania Cruises, and Seabourn provide all-inclusive Greek Isles experiences with smaller ships for port access. These lines emphasize gourmet dining, personalized service, and unique shore excursions.

Which cruise lines go to Greece with family-friendly amenities?

Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, and MSC Cruises are ideal for families, offering kids’ clubs, water slides, and entertainment. Their Greek itineraries often include stops at family-friendly beaches and historical sites.

Are there any budget-friendly cruise lines that visit Greece?

MSC Cruises and Costa Cruises are excellent budget-friendly options for exploring Greece, with affordable fares and frequent deals. Both lines feature Greek ports alongside other Mediterranean destinations.

Do any cruise lines go to Greece with longer, immersive itineraries?

Holland America Line and Princess Cruises offer extended 12-14 day Greek cruises, allowing deeper exploration of islands like Crete and Rhodes. These sailings often include overnight stays in key ports.

Which cruise lines go to Greece with unique themed voyages?

Celebrity Cruises and Viking Ocean Cruises feature themed Greek voyages, including culinary, history, and wellness-focused journeys. These sailings combine expert-led excursions with onboard enrichment programs.