Ahh, ancient Greece. Besides being known for her history, poetry, and tradition, she radiates beautiful and wild Mediterranean nature, authentic food, and hidden sea treasures. And what better way to discover the Greek islands than on a 7-day Greek island cruise onboard one of the luxury vessels? Because luxury Greek island cruises are so in demand, the availability of yachts is very limited. By booking your yacht charter early enough, your cruise of the Greek islands will be guaranteed.
In this article, we will guide you through the best islands to visit during your Greek island hopping cruise, the top yachts for this type of journey, and which are the best 3 Greek itineraries that will make your adventure on the Ionian sea an unforgettable experience.
Let’s begin with the best islands to visit while on a cruise in Greek islands.
Mykonos
Your 7-day Greek island cruise starts from Athens, and the first stop should be the famous island of Mykonos. The Greek version of the Spanish Ibiza is well-known for its lavish private parties, elegant high-end restaurants, and endless megayachts lined up along the coast. But there’s more to Mykonos than the dazzling sand and insatiable revelers.
The island’s 25 beaches are justifiably the biggest natural attraction. The white and blue colors are featured across the island’s architecture, making it so unique yet warm and pleasant.
Santorini
If you are spending your Greek cruise with your loved one, you cannot skip a visit to Santorini. With its clear turquoise water surrounding the massive active volcano and its famous breathtaking sunsets, Santorini is considered the most romantic getaway in Greece.
The island is becoming a popular “wedding destination” for couples from all over the world, so in case you are planning to go down that road, this is just the perfect place. The island’s inland features endless vineyards and traditional villages that let you see beyond the tourist hustle. Make sure you stop in Pyrgos and taste the local delicacies, and walk through charming backstreets.
Corfu
Corfu is one of the greenest and most lavish islands in Greece. Its dense vegetation on a landscape is full of wildflowers, bushes, and more than 2 million olive trees.
With a 215km long coastline, Corfu offers plenty of sightseeing and endless things to do and explore. Regardless of being one of the most popular Greek islands, thanks to its size, you will never feel cramped even in the middle of high season.
The old city of Corfu is A UNESCO Heritage monument, that features a multicultural character with Venetian, English, and French influences. If you are looking for the best Greek island cruise of 2023, Corfu should definitely be on your list.
Lipsi
Lipsi is the perfect island to take a break from your 7-day Greek island tour and just relax on land. This very small and tranquil island is perfect if you are looking for a quiet day away from the tourist crowd. Being so small, you can literally walk to any of the sandy beaches. Lipsi is also a great little island with unique taverns where you can taste some of the best local gourmet delicacies.
Kalymnos
Kalymnos is another Greek island definitely worth visiting. Known for its wild and rugged landscape, rocky cliffs, and steep hillsides, Kalymnos is a top destination for climbers from all around the world. This particular island is also well-for traditional sponge harvesting. Make sure that Kalymnos is on your list of Greek island hopping – you will not be disappointed.
Kos
Kos makes it on the map of the most famous islands in Greece. Besides its rich history and endless tourist attractions, Kos is a dream for water sports lovers and diving enthusiasts. The sandy beaches and crystal clear water are packed with marine life ready to be discovered. Kos also has a rich nightlife, making it a perfect tourist attraction for all ages.
Top yachts available to cruise in Greek islands:
Cosmos
Yacht Cosmos embodies luxury and true traditional Greek shipbuilding. The spacious sundeck features a jacuzzi from which you can enjoy the beautiful Greek scenery. There is also a dining table where you can savor traditional Greek food. Cosmos can accommodate up to 9 guests in 4 comfortable cabins and a crew of 4 at your disposal at any time. Cosmos should definitely be on the list for your Greek island cruises in 2023.
Ecce Navigo
Ecce Navigo is a crewed 30-meter luxury wooden yacht. With plenty of indoor and outdoor space, you and your guests will never feel cramped. The sundeck feature white padded sunbeds, a lounge area, and a dining table, perfect for witnessing the most beautiful Greek sunsets. She also comes packed with several water toys that you can take out and discover the nearby beaches and underwater world. Ecce Navigo can sleep up to 10 guests in 5 cabins with ensuite bathrooms.
Erato
Being one of the few luxury gulets in Greece that can accommodate up to 19 people, Erato is perfect for families with young kids. There are several cushioned areas on the deck, ideal for sunbathing with a good book in hand. The large shaded dining table offers plenty of space for everybody to sit and enjoy traditional Mediterranean cuisine. Erato has also lots of water toys, such as a kneeboard, windsurf, paddle board, and 2 canoes. Hop on the tender boat and visit the nearby beaches or go wine tasting on land.
Viva Shira
Viva Shira is an elegant and luxurious yacht perfect for your Greek cruise. With plenty of sundeck space and sunbeds, large indoor and outdoor dining tables, and several water toys, she will make your Greek island hopping unforgettable. She can comfortably fit up to 10 guests in 5 cabins and a crew of 5 that tends to your wishes and needs at all times. Viva Shira is also an excellent choice for families with kids.
Matina
If you want to have a true luxury sailing experience, the motor sailor Matina is a great choice. With almost 40 meters in length and enough space for 10 guests, you and your group will never feel cramped. Her wooden and white interior throughout the whole vessel gives a warm and cozy feeling. The cabins are also spacious and have an ensuite bathroom. There’s also air conditioning available at all times to ensure a comfortable voyage on the Ionian sea.
Best 3 Greek islands itineraries:
7-day cruise of the Cyclades
One of the best Greek island cruises in 2023 should definitely be the Cyclades route. The 1st day begins in the port of Mykonos, where after dinner onboard, you can dive into the busy nightlife of this famous island.
On the 2nd day, we sail towards Delos where you enjoy the authentic island atmosphere and Greece’s typical white and blue architecture. The 3rd day is reserved for Ios where you explore its beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife. On the 4th day, you will have a chance to walk around the most romantic island, Santorini, and witness one of the prettiest sunsets in Greece.
On the 5th day, we stop in Schinoussa, where you can swim, walk through cobblestoned paths or try the delicious local food. The greenest island in the Cyclades, Naxos awaits you on the 6th day. Its high mountains and fertile valleys are perfect for a hike and stunning views. The last stop of the cruise is reserved for the island Rineia where you can spend your day on its beautiful beach. In the evening, we will anchor back in Mykonos and enjoy a dinner under the stars.
Sporades islands
Your 7-day Greek island cruise begins in ancient Athens. You will have the evening for exploring the historical city and the local way of life. We highly recommend visiting the mighty Acropolis and the museum. Sunday morning, we sail to the beautiful islet of Pontikonissi for a lunch stop, and in the afternoon, we arrive at Skopelos. Take an evening stroll around town before heading back on board for a nightcap.
The next day we head towards Alonissos. Its turquoise sea, blue skies, endless pine and olive trees, and gorgeous architectural style will enchant you. On the 4th day, we arrive at the main port of Skopelos. Here, you can rest on the beach, try some local food at the excellent taverns or go for a stroll around the island.
The next stop is the beautiful island Agonitas, where you can witness its wonderful landscapes and golden coastline. We will arrive at Skiathos in the morning hours when you can enjoy some shopping and exploring. Skiathos is well-known for the movie »Mamma Mia« which was filmed in this location.
Here, you can enjoy some shopping and explore the island’s pristine nature before heading to the Pelion Peninsula and the tiny port of Agia Kiriaki for a restful overnight stay. On the last day, we head towards the small and lovely port of Orei where you can explore the old town and the remains of a fortress of an ancient acropolis.
Corfu and surrounding Greek islands
Last but not least on our list is a wonderful Greek cruise of Corfu and its surrounding islands. Your journey will begin at Corfu. Make sure you check out the UNESCO World Heritage Site and visit some of the historic Venetian houses that are still standing.
In the morning, you will sail to Thesprotia region where you can go for a swim and enjoy a typical Greek lunch. In the afternoon you will have a chance to visit the beautiful coves of Syvota Village. Heading towards Parga, you will have a chance to dive into the crystal clear waters of Lichnos Bay, famous for its caves of Aphrodite.
On the fourth day, the sail is set for Antipaxos, a sheltered paradise for those seeking some quiet time. In the afternoon, you will head to Paxos, an island filled with olive trees, cliffs, and its famous Blue Cave (Ypapanti Cave). The next stop is Petriti, a little cute fisherman’s village on the east coast. After another swim break, you will cruise to Sagiada, a quiet coastal village on the northwest side of Thesprotia.
Upon waking up and enjoying breakfast, sailing continues towards the North to explore Greece’s numerous coves with crystal-clear water and enjoy one last swim before heading back to Gouvia Marina. A special Captain’s dinner will be served, where you and your group can talk about your naval experience and wrap up your Greek island-hopping cruise in style.
If you are looking for a unique luxury Greek island cruise in 2023, the vessels and itineraries listed above are the perfect combinations. These are just some examples of possible routes and types of boats for Greek island hopping, so make sure you contact us and we will find your best match.
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