tips on getting the most from your greek island cruise

​A Greek Island cruise is a convenient way to see Greece without having to fly or take ferries between the islands.  While you are eating a scrumptous dinner, being entertained in the theater, or maybe trying your luck at the casino, you sail from one port to the next.  Plus, you only have to pack/unpack once for the entire cruise.  Most cruises to the Greek islands sail out of Venice which makes for a fantastic pre-cruise stay.

Venice

Sailing Out Of Venice

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​Here are some considerations for which cruise line to choose:

1. The ports – Which ports do you want to see?  Is Santorini high on your list?  Are you a Games of Thrones fan and have to see Dubrovnik?  Is the Parthenon in Athens an absolute must?
2. Size of ship – The larger the ship, the more options for restaurants and activities you will have.  However, there will be longer lines to embark, disembark, tender to port, etc.
3. Guest profile – Some of the cruise lines are geared more towards Europeans and other cruise lines are geared more towards Americans. 
4. Time of year – Shoulder season tends to be less crowded while still maintaining good weather.  

Sailing Into Santorini

Santorini

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​Set the right expectations:

1. Take it easy the first couple of days to give your body time to adjust to the jet lag/time change. 
2. Plan your shore excursions in advance but be prepared for any changes due to weather, etc.
3. Plan for large crowds.  Know in advance how many cruise ships will be in port the same day as you.  Venice, Santorini, etc are experiencing ‘over tourism’ even during the shoulder seasons.  If you can, book private tours to make the most of your time in these places.  In Santorini, the lines for the cable car to get to Fira can be 1-2 hours each way.  You can walk or ride the donkeys up as an alternative.  However, try to avoid riding the donkeys as the animals work under horrid conditions.  If it’s a nice day and you want some exercise, the walk up will most likely save you time.  Walking down is easier and will also save you time.  A tip, if you walk down at night make sure your cell phone has a flashlight to avoid stepping in the donkey ‘droppings’.  The paths are light but dimly.

Dubrovnik aka King's Landing

Famous Windmills of Mykonos

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​Misc tips:

1. If your cruise line allows you to make reservations in advance for dinner and/or shows, take advantage of this to avoid disappointment later.
2. Order yourself a pack of bottled water so it’s waiting for you when you get to your cabin.  Staying hydrated is one of the best things you can do to help with jet lag and stay energized for your vacation.  It’s a good idea to drink one every morning to start your day.
3. Be aware of the conversion rate when pulling money out of an ATM so you can be sure you are not paying for extra fees.  You should pay no more than $10 (aside from conversation rate) per ATM withdrawal for the convenience.
4. Pack the right converter.  Italy uses a different electrical converter than most other European countries.
5. Research in advance how you will communicate with the other members of your party on the cruise.  Many times the cruise line will have an app for this purpose.  Download in advance so you will be ready to go.
   

Dominique Barba
Bliss Travel Service - a travel agency specializing in river and ocean cruises, all-inclusive vacations, European packages, honeymoons, weddings, group travel
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