Cruises

There are few truly perfect cruise-ship destinations in the world, and the Greek isles are one of them. Who can argue with jagged islands crowned by whitewashed villages and harbors of stunning blue sea lapping up against charming beaches and ancient city walls? The sea approach to places like Santorini and Rhodes is really hard to beat. Cruising in Greece is all about gorgeous scenery, ancient historic sites, and lots of local culture. And not having to worry about deciphering ferry schedules, driving a car, or changing hotel rooms. You get on the ship, you unpack once, and the vessel goes with you as your floating hotel. It's your familiar retreat after a long day of touring or a place to kick back and bask in the Greek sun. Greece is practically tailor-made for cruising. Among the most beautiful regions to cruise in all the world, the seas are relatively calm and the islands are individual in character, offering travelers a satisfying mix of local culture, stunning scenery, and ancient and medieval ruins to explore.

Most Greek island itineraries highlight the region's history with optional guided shore excursions that take in the major sights, spicing up the vacation brew with other, less history-minded excursions such as visits to beaches, meals at local restaurants, and fishing or sailing excursions.

Of course, you can choose to get off the ship at each port of call and head off on your own to explore the sights, hit the beach, or check out the local color at the nearest taverna. Solo is often the best way to go.

If cruising sounds like a good deal to you, you're in luck given the worldwide economic downturn. The region has many, many cruising options. You can go ultraluxe on a small, yachtlike ship like the SeaDream I or go übercasual on the easyCruise Life. You can choose a classic vessel or an ultramodern megaship. There are options from cruise lines that are making new inroads into Greece; other companies are continuing to build on their previous offerings and adding new ports.