A Small-Ship Cruise in the Aegean Sea

Greek island-hopping means you’ll be surrounded by breath-taking views. Standing on deck, you’ll feel the sun kiss your skin and the salty sea breeze throughout your hair while gazing at the endless blue waters of the Aegean. You’ll get a different perspective of those spectacular coastlines dotted with idyllic beaches and coves. The view will be continuously changing as you sail to different islands. For example, while approaching Naxos, you’ll see its iconic Portara, the remains of the unfinished Temple of Apollo dating back to the 6th century BC. Sailing around Zakynthos, one of the lush Ionian islands you’ll marvel at forested shorelines, dramatic cliffs, and beaches with chalk-white sand, including famous Shipwreck beach, edged by electric blue waters and topped by the rusting skeleton of a shipwreck. 

No matter which itinerary you choose the views are bound to be dazzling throughout. The grand finale of every day is the sunset, with Greek sunsets some of the most magical on the planet. Watching the brilliant orange hue fill the sky and a myriad of colors splash across the sea before the sun melts into the water is something you won’t soon forget. 

Some places just can’t be reached by car, but a small-ship cruise can take you to hidden bays and beaches that aren’t accessible any other way. There is usually at least one swim stop every day during the cruising season, bringing the chance to leap into crystal-clear blue waters while surrounded by the incredible scenery with few others around. Being able to anchor in some of the most beautiful spots out of the reach of the masses is one of the highlights of a small-ship cruise. If you were to sail on one of those huge cruise ships instead (or rent a car), you won’t be able to leap into the sea from the vessel, but a smaller yacht-like ship can get close to the shore, allowing you to dive in and swim over to a private beach that few others have access to.