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A view of Aghios Nikolaos, Crete

Rethymnon Crete Small Ship Cruises

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Many cruises of the Greek Isles feature Crete as one of the staple destinations, and the port town of Rethymnon makes for an excellent stop. From here, you can explore the ancient city of Knossos (where the minotaur was born) near Heraklion, before departing to the up-and-coming tourist destination of nearby Kythira. While exploring Crete, make sure to sample the local cuisine, bursting with Mediterranean flavor and Greek tradition. The beaches near Rethymnon are a great place to relax, while the adventure-seekers can explore the ruins and well-preserved architecture around the city, including the Fortezza 16th century citadel, museums, and ancient tombs. The Venetian and Turkish influence can be seen all around Rethymnon's narrow streets. It's no wonder that this is the legendary home of Zeus. Contact us to start planning!
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3 Best Small Ship Cruises to Crete for 2024-2025

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Traditional architecture in Greece.

Classical Greece

Athens to Athens
8 Days from $3,050
Explore Mykonos, Santorini, Crete, and Nafplion during an 8-day cruise on the Harmony G, which leaves from and returns to the historic city of Athens. See the ancient wonders of these port cities while relaxing on a cruise through the clear waters of the Mediterranean. This cruise combines traditional cruising with exclusive yacht experiences.
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The whitewashed cliffs of Santorini

Classical Greece

Athens to Athens
8 Days from $3,350
Explore Mykonos, Santorini, Crete, and Nafplion during an 8-day cruise on the Harmony G, which leaves from and returns to the historic city of Athens. See the ancient wonders of these port cities while relaxing on a cruise through the clear waters of the Mediterranean. This cruise combines traditional cruising with exclusive yacht experiences.
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Colorful local boats in Greece

Classical Greece

Roundtrip Athens
8 Days from $3,490
This 8-day cruise of Greece from the Variety Voyager takes you round-trip from historic Athens to Mykonos, Santorini, Crete, and Nafplion, where you see the archaeological treasures of these port towns while enjoying a relaxing cruise of turquoise Mediterranean waters that balances small ship sailing with luxury yachting.
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3 Best Luxury Small Ship Cruises to Crete for 2024-2025

Traditional architecture in Greece.

Classical Greece

Athens to Athens
8 Days from $3,050
Explore Mykonos, Santorini, Crete, and Nafplion during an 8-day cruise on the Harmony G, which leaves from and returns to the historic city of Athens. See the ancient wonders of these port cities while relaxing on a cruise through the clear waters of the Mediterranean. This cruise combines traditional cruising with exclusive yacht experiences.
0
The whitewashed cliffs of Santorini

Classical Greece

Athens to Athens
8 Days from $3,350
Explore Mykonos, Santorini, Crete, and Nafplion during an 8-day cruise on the Harmony G, which leaves from and returns to the historic city of Athens. See the ancient wonders of these port cities while relaxing on a cruise through the clear waters of the Mediterranean. This cruise combines traditional cruising with exclusive yacht experiences.
0
Colorful local boats in Greece

Classical Greece

Roundtrip Athens
8 Days from $3,490
This 8-day cruise of Greece from the Variety Voyager takes you round-trip from historic Athens to Mykonos, Santorini, Crete, and Nafplion, where you see the archaeological treasures of these port towns while enjoying a relaxing cruise of turquoise Mediterranean waters that balances small ship sailing with luxury yachting.
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4 Best Small Cruise Ships that Visit Crete for 2024-2025

Ship NameMax PassengersFromSummary
Le Lyrial (CDP)264$8200The sleek, intimate Le Lyrial sails under the French flag and entrances her passengers with her contemporary decor, comfortable suites, and refined …
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M/Y Callisto34$3190The M/Y Callisto is furnished with rich fabrics, handsome woodwork, gleaming brass, rare antiques, and fine works of art for comfortable cruising. …
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Harmony V50$3050Introducing the Harmony V, a modern vessel launched in June 2009, with a sleek high-tech look very similar to the private yachts to be found in the …
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Harmony G44$3350The Harmony G is a modern vessel with a sleek high-tech look very similar to the private yachts to be found in the famous ports of the world. She was …
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Greece Travel Articles

Crete Cruise Tips & Travel Guide

Highlights of Crete
Considered among the top Greek Islands to visit on a tour of this ancient country, Crete is full of fascinating archaeological sites, centuries of rich traditions, excellent beaches, and charming towns. 

The city of Rethymno is the major port here, where several cruises dock so that you can enjoy opportunities to:
  • See the Venetian architecture and atmosphere that defines the city.
  • Visit the Fortezza, a well preserved 16th century citadel perched high atop the hill.
  • Explore the ruins and archaeological sites, like the Bronze Age remnants of Knossos.
Your exploration of Crete is bookended by stops in picturesque Santorini, Katakolon, Kythira, Nafplion, and the other major islands in this Mediterranean archipelago. 

Your tour might also visit the major cities of Athens or Rome. 
Witness the Changing of the Guard in Athens

Greece Overview

Often called the cradle of western civilization, Greece maintains a rich culture that has evolved over thousands of years and has influenced people throughout the world. With so much history and deep-rooted traditions, travel to this destination evokes a truly unique sense of cultural romance.
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Hydra Island, Greece

Greece Cruise Ports of Call

A small ship cruise is one of the best ways to see and experience all that Greece has to offer. However, with so many options, travelers might find themselves overwhelmed when starting to plan a trip. Learning more about the most well known ports of call for a Greece cruise can help narrow down the best options for you.
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Crystal clear blue waters in Crete

Top 10 Things to Do and See in Crete - Must-See Attractions & Experiences

Explore the top 10 things to do and see in Crete for an unforgettable travel experience.
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Greece Cruising Videos

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