Top 3 Greek island cruises for 2025

Did you know there are more than 1,400 islands dotted across the Aegean and Ionian seas? You better get exploring.

And what better way to do it than embarking on a Greek island cruise with Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines?

Live your Mamma Mia dreams while dipping in the glimmering sea or perhaps on an excursion with Fred. Olsen where you’re savouring Kalamata olives, moussaka and souvlaki.

And Fred. Olsen offers unforgettable, hand-crafted itineraries. Onboard, you can expect a welcoming, warm atmosphere, which comes hand in hand with the cruise lines small ships. After all, Fred. Olsen calls at ports which larger vessels simply cannot access.

Unpack once and explore endlessly with Fred. Olsen, explore our top three Greek island cruises with this intimate cruise line below…

Greek Island Odyssey

This eight-night itinerary onboard Balmoral ensures that you explore everything there is to know and see about the Greek islands – calling at eight ports.

Departing October 17, 2025, you’ll begin your journey in Dubrovnik, Croatia, where you can get a taste for this deeply historic city by walking the medieval walls and admiring the countless Gothic, Baroque and Renaissance monuments that pass you by.

After your first sea day, you’ll arrive in Argostoli, the capital of the gorgeous Greek island Kefalonia. Keep an eye out for loggerhead turtles that can be seen swimming the waters near the Koutavos Lagoon.

Head onto the top deck the next day to drink in the mesmerising views of Zakynthos’ coastline. Snap a picture of the golden sands framed with limestone cliffs. Don’t forget to watch out for Shipwreck Beach, home to the marooned MV Panagiotis.

Other stand-out ports of call include Santorini, which is characterised for white-washed buildings decorated with blue domes dotted on the volcanic cliffs. Navigate your way around the narrow streets and stumble upon vibrant restaurants where the smell of traditional Greek dishes will tempt you in.

Onboard Balmoral, the smallest ship in Fred. Olsen’s fleet, you can look forward to relaxing by the two pools, having a tipple at the seven bars and lounges or eating perfectly cooked seafood in the main dining restaurant, Ballindalloch Restaurant.

Ensure you try out one of the speciality dining venues while you are onboard, such as Colours & Tastes, which serves up a sizzling taste of Asia. Think, bao buns, crispy beef and sushi.

Greek Island Odyssey with Turkey

Imagine 20 nights of exploring landmarks, experiencing local traditions and relaxing onboard a stylish vessel – does life get any better?

Boasting the same itinerary as ‘Greek Island Odyssey’ above, this cruise goes on to uncover the beauty of Turkey afterwards.

Take Istanbul, for example, where you can practically see the ancient empires that once ruled. Must-dos include the Blue Mosque, the central landmark of the city, as well as the Grand Bazaar, which consists of a maze of souqs sat underneath intricately decorated ceilings.

Bodrum is also a jewel on Turkey’s coast, featuring one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World – the astounding tomb erected in honour of Persian governor Mausolus, destroyed by earthquakes from the 12^th to 15^th century. Try some of the local cuisine, such as Pide, which is Turkish pizza, and Baklava.

You will also visit Kusadasi, known for its beautiful beaches and as the starting point for UNESCO World Heritage Site as Ephesus. The Belediye Hamaı Kusadasi is well worth a visit as the only traditional Turkish steam bath in the region.

Exploring the Dalmatian Coast & Greek Islands

Departing October 7, 2025, this 18-night cruise onboard Balmoral sails to Greece and beyond.

12 ports of call bring you to Greek classics such as Rhodes, Santorini and Athens as well as a few hidden gems.

Take Kalamata, located in southern Greece, this city is best known for its production of Kalamata olives. You can stroll next to the waterfront and peer into tavernas and cafes before heading over to the Old Town, which offers neoclassical houses and a 13^th-century castle.

Beyond Greece, you’ll sail to the beautiful Bay of Kotor, Montenegro. Jump at the opportunity to discover Lustica Bay Village where you can explore an olive tree plantation to learn about the production of olive oil with Fred. Olsen.

Sibenik is a lesser-known Croatian city that you’ll also visit on this itinerary. Gaze at the terracotta-topped buildings, wander the steep side streets and stumble upon architectural gems such as the terrific town hall.

Do any of these hand-crafted itineraries tickle your fancy? Book today and have something amazing to look forward to for 2025.