Small Ship Cruises
Small Ship Cruises in Greece
Explore hidden harbours, island villages and quieter coastlines aboard a handpicked small ship cruise through Greece.
About Small Ship Cruising in Greece
Greece is one of the world's most rewarding destinations for small ship cruising. With hundreds of islands scattered across the Aegean and Ionian seas, the country rewards travellers who venture beyond the major ports — and small ships are the ideal way to do it. Unlike large cruise vessels that can only dock at a handful of busy ports, small ships carrying 30 to 70 guests can slip into tiny harbours, anchor in secluded bays for swim stops, and overnight at quiet islands where the evening atmosphere is genuinely local. The result is a more relaxed, more personal and more authentic Greek island experience. Cruise Smaller offers a curated selection of Greece small ship cruises, from motor yachts exploring the Cyclades to traditional sailing vessels venturing to the Dodecanese and Saronic Gulf. Whether you are drawn to the whitewashed lanes of Mykonos, the caldera views of Santorini, the otherworldly landscapes of Milos or the medieval streets of Rhodes, our team can help you find the right ship and itinerary for your travel style. Every cruise is backed by the expertise of the Sun Island Tours team — Australian travel specialists with more than 35 years of experience helping travellers plan memorable voyages.
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Small Ship Cruises in Greece
31 cruises available
Cruise Ships
Ships Operating in Greece
Running on Waves
42 passengers
MV La Belle de l'Adriatique
195 passengers
Variety Voyager
72 passengers
Harmony V
49 passengers
Harmony G
44 passengers
Galileo
49 passengers
Panorama
49 passengers
Elysium
58 passengers
Gemaya
12 passengers
Cruise Companies
Cruise Companies in Greece
Why Smaller Ships
Why Cruise Greece on a Smaller Ship?
Access to Smaller Harbours
Small ships can dock at tiny island ports like Paros, Milos and Naxos that large cruise ships simply cannot reach, giving you a genuinely local Greek island experience.
Swim Stops in Secluded Bays
Many itineraries include swimming stops in crystal-clear coves accessible only by sea — a highlight of small ship cruising in the Aegean.
Fewer Passengers, More Personal
With typically 30 to 70 guests on board, you will enjoy attentive service, no crowds at meal times, and the freedom to explore ports at your own pace.
More Time Ashore
Smaller vessels mean faster embarkation and disembarkation, giving you more time to wander the whitewashed lanes of Mykonos or watch the sunset in Santorini.
Authentic Greek Hospitality
Many vessels are crewed by Greek seafarers who share their knowledge of local cuisine, hidden tavernas and the stories behind each island.
Places Visited
Greece Highlights
Athens
Most Greece small ship cruises begin or end in Athens, where you can explore the Acropolis, the Plaka district and world-class museums before embarkation.
Mykonos
Famous for its windmills, whitewashed streets and vibrant atmosphere, Mykonos is a perennial favourite on Aegean itineraries.
Santorini
The dramatic caldera views of Santorini are unforgettable — small ships can get closer to the cliffs for a perspective larger vessels miss.
Paros
A laid-back island with charming fishing villages, golden beaches and excellent local tavernas, perfect for unhurried exploration.
Milos
Known for its otherworldly lunar landscapes and hidden coves, Milos is a highlight for travellers seeking lesser-known Greek islands.
Rhodes
The medieval Old Town of Rhodes is a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering history, beaches and natural beauty in equal measure.
Seasonal Advice
Best Time to Cruise Greece
The main cruising season in Greece runs from April to October. July and August are the busiest months, with hot temperatures and the most crowded ports. For pleasant weather and fewer crowds, May, June and September are ideal — the sea is warm enough for swimming and island life is more relaxed. October can still offer lovely conditions, though days are shorter and some islands begin to wind down for winter. Sea conditions are generally calm throughout the season, with the meltemi wind occasionally affecting itineraries in July and August.
Suitability
Who Is This Destination Suitable For?
Departure Ports & Pre-Cruise Planning
The main embarkation ports for Greece small ship cruises are:
- Athens (Lavrion Port)
- Piraeus (Athens)
- Thessaloniki
Travel Tips for Australian Travellers
- We recommend arriving in Athens at least one day before your cruise departs to allow for flight delays and to explore the city.
- Athens International Airport (ATH) is approximately 30 to 60 minutes from the port of Lavrion or Piraeus, depending on traffic.
- Some itineraries start or end in Thessaloniki, which has its own airport with connections via Athens.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes for shore excursions — many island streets are cobblestoned.
- Pack swimwear, sun protection and light layers for warm days and cooler evenings on deck.
- Consider a post-cruise stay on one of the larger islands such as Santorini or Crete.
Please consult the Australian Government's Smartraveller website for current visa, entry and travel advisory information.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Cruise Smaller is owned and operated by the Sun Island Tours team, trusted Australian travel specialists with more than 35 years of experience. Learn more about us.
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