Best Crete Greece Small Ship Cruises for 2025-2026

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 2025-2026

4 Best Small Cruise Ships that Visit Crete for 2025-2026

Ship Name	Max Passengers	From	Summary
Le Lyrial (CDP)	264	$8,640	The sleek, intimate Le Lyrial sails under the French flag and entrances her passengers with her contemporary decor, comfortable suites, and refined ambiance. Her elegant design allows her to be an ideal sailing vessel. 0
M/Y Callisto	34	$3,190	The M/Y Callisto is furnished with rich fabrics, handsome woodwork, gleaming brass, rare antiques, and fine works of art for comfortable cruising. Because Callisto is a yacht, it can visit those unspoiled islets, pristine beaches, and intimate coves 0
Harmony V	50	$3,050	Introducing 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 famous ports of the world. 0
Harmony G	44	$2,990	The 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 launched in January 2001 and complies with the most stringent safety regulations while its powerful engines and state of the art stabilizers allow for safe and comfortable cruising. 0

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.