Cruising can be a polarising topic amongst travellers, synonomous with large ships and fast-paced itineraries, visiting well known attractions only. However, cruising can also be slow, authentic and quiet. This is where small cruise vessels, with a maximum of 34-72 passengers, come in. With the range of Variety small ship cruises on offer at Sun Island Tours, there is a cruise to suit everyone. If you think cruising isn’t for you, read on for five reasons why smaller cruise ships will change your mind.
A smaller cruise vessel means that in addition to seeing the stars of the Aegean such as Mykonos and Santorini, you’ll have access to smaller, less touristed islands where the pace is slower and the culture more traditional. Variety’s Unexplored Greek Islands cruise is ideal for those looking to explore the hidden beauty of lesser visited gems. You’ll visit a range of island including traditional Lipsi, striking Amorgos (a quiet Santorini), and gorgeous Koufonisia, which arguably has the best beaches in Greece.
Make the most of your time ashore and really get to know the island you are visiting, then enjoy the convenience of a cruise by returning to your comfortable cabin where you’ve already unpacked. Many of our cruises include special on land experiences that are designed to help you to connect with and understand the culture and history of the island you are visiting. For instance, on Variety’s Unexplored Greek Islands cruise, you can partake in a cooking class on the island of Ikaria, considered a Blue Zone where inhabitants live longer than other regions of the world. Or, visit some of Greece’s most significant historical sites as you cruise around the Pelopponese peninsula on Variety’s Antiquity to Byzantium cruise.
If there’s a reason to book a cruise on a smaller ship, it’s for the unrivalled swimming opportunities. Escape the overcrowded beaches and drop anchor at spectacular, secluded spots only accessible by smaller cruise vessels. Our Jewels of the Cyclades tour takes you to a range of secret swimming spots, including uninhabited Poliegos (off the coast of popular Milos) and the celebrity hideaway of Antiparos.
Indulge in the 8-day Wines of Greece cruise. Greece’s top wine spots also happen to be some of the country’s most scenic and historically fascinating destinations, such as traditional Milos with its uniquely stunning beaches, Santorini’s iconic caldera, and coastal Nafplio, which is in close proximity to the ruins of the Mycenaean palace. Enjoy daily on shore wine and history tours, onboard meals that are paired with Greek wines, and evening wine tastings in the comfort of your cruise vessel.
A smaller cruising vessel means quicker and easier access to ports compared to larger cruise ships. Our 8-Day Classical Greece cruise includes the superstars of the Aegean – Santorini, Mykonos and Crete. Disembark easily to beat the crowds and see why these destinations are eternally popular.
View all our Variety small ship cruises through the Greek islands here.
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