Greek Island Hopping 2027 – The Complete Gulet Cruise Guide

Wooden two-masted sailing yacht anchored in clear blue-green waters near a rocky shoreline with pine trees nearby.

Greek island hopping by gulet cruise in 2027 follows the same Saturday-to-Saturday format that made 2025 and 2026 fully sold out across all Sail in Greece routes. With 2027 dates now open for booking from May through October, early reservations are available on all six routes –Ionian, Zante, Rhodes, Mykonos, Harmony, and 18-39s -at 2027 prices that represent significant savings versus last-minute bookings.

Whether you’re planning a relaxing island escape, an adventure with friends, or your first sailing holiday in Greece, booking early gives you the widest choice of departure dates, cabins, and routes. Sail in Greece continues to offer authentic gulet cruises that combine stunning islands, crystal-clear waters, local cuisine, and unforgettable experiences that are difficult to replicate on larger cruise ships.

Classic wooden sailing yacht with two masts moored in crystal-clear turquoise water near a rocky pine-covered coastline under a bright blue sky.

Why Plan Your 2027 Greek Island Cruise Early (2026 was fully sold out)

Demand for Greek island cruises has continued to grow every year. Following fully booked departures throughout the 2025 and 2026 seasons, many travellers are already securing their preferred dates for 2027.

Booking early provides several important advantages. You’ll have access to the full selection of departure dates between May and October, greater flexibility in choosing cabin types, and access to the best available prices before demand increases.

Unlike large cruise ships that visit crowded ports, Sail in Greece’s traditional gulets explore quieter bays, hidden beaches, charming fishing villages, and authentic Greek islands. Since each gulet accommodates a limited number of guests, availability naturally becomes limited much earlier than many travellers expect.

If you’re travelling with family, friends, or as part of a group, early reservations also ensure everyone can stay on the same departure.

Two-masted wooden sailing yacht anchored in a clear turquoise bay, with rocky, tree-covered islands surrounding it.

The 6 Greek Gulet Cruise Routes Available in 2027

Sail in Greece offers six carefully designed itineraries, each providing a different perspective of the Greek islands while maintaining the company’s signature Saturday-to-Saturday cruise format.

Ionian Island Hopping (Corfu, Kefalonia, Ithaca, Zante)

The Ionian Cruise is one of the most popular routes for travellers seeking a balance of relaxation, sightseeing, swimming, and authentic Greek culture. Guests explore beautiful islands including Corfu, Kefalonia, Ithaca, Lefkada, Paxos, and Zante while enjoying daily swim stops in crystal-clear waters.

This itinerary is perfect for couples, families, and first-time visitors looking to experience some of Greece’s most picturesque islands.

Zante & Ionian Cruise (Kefalonia, Meganisi, Ithaca)

The Zante Cruise combines dramatic coastlines with peaceful island villages and famous natural attractions. Highlights include Kefalonia’s turquoise beaches, Meganisi’s quiet harbours, Ithaca’s legendary history, and the vibrant atmosphere of Zakynthos (Zante).

Travellers enjoy a mix of scenic sailing, local tavernas, optional excursions, and opportunities to swim in secluded coves that are only accessible by boat.

Rhodes & Dodecanese Cruise (Symi, Chalki, Tilos)

The Rhodes Cruise explores the beautiful Dodecanese islands in the southeastern Aegean Sea. Guests discover colourful harbours, medieval towns, peaceful villages, and crystal-clear anchorages throughout islands such as Symi, Chalki, Tilos, and Rhodes.

History lovers particularly enjoy this route because of its combination of ancient architecture, traditional island life, and impressive coastal scenery.

Mykonos & Cyclades Cruise

The Mykonos Cruise showcases the famous Cyclades island group, combining iconic destinations with lesser-known gems. Travellers experience whitewashed villages, blue-domed churches, lively waterfronts, and spectacular sunsets while exploring some of Greece’s most photographed islands.

The itinerary offers the perfect balance between vibrant nightlife, cultural exploration, relaxing beaches, and traditional Greek hospitality.

Harmony Cruise (Saronic Islands)

The Harmony Cruise explores the beautiful Saronic Gulf, located close to Athens. Islands such as Aegina, Poros, Hydra, and Spetses offer charming waterfront towns, historic landmarks, beautiful walking streets, and relaxed island living.

This route is ideal for travellers looking for shorter transfer times from Athens while still enjoying an authentic sailing experience through some of Greece’s most elegant islands.

18–39s Party Cruise

Designed specifically for younger travellers, the 18–39s Cruise combines island hopping with social experiences, beach parties, water activities, nightlife, and unforgettable memories.

Guests enjoy the same stunning sailing experience while meeting like-minded travellers from around the world. It’s an excellent choice for solo travellers, groups of friends, and anyone looking for a lively atmosphere alongside beautiful Greek scenery.

Best Months for a Greek Cruise in 2027 (with pricing guide)

The Greek sailing season runs from May through October, with each month offering something different.

May marks the beginning of the season, featuring pleasant temperatures, quieter islands, and attractive early-season pricing.

June offers warm weather, longer days, and ideal swimming conditions while remaining less crowded than peak summer.

July and August are the busiest months. Travellers enjoy consistently sunny weather, vibrant nightlife, and lively island events. Due to high demand, these months usually command premium prices and sell out first.

September is considered one of the best months for sailing. The sea remains warm after summer, temperatures become more comfortable, and popular destinations become less crowded.

October provides a peaceful end to the sailing season, with mild weather, beautiful sunsets, and excellent value for travellers seeking a quieter experience.

As a general guide, departures in May and October are typically the most affordable, June and September offer excellent value, while July and August represent peak-season pricing due to demand.

For current weather conditions and seasonal climate information, you can also refer to the Official Greek National Tourism Organisation.

What’s Changed for 2027 -New Destinations, Fleet Updates

The 2027 season continues Sail in Greece’s commitment to delivering authentic small-group sailing experiences while maintaining the high standards that have made previous seasons so successful.

Guests can expect carefully maintained traditional gulets, experienced local crews, flexible swim stops depending on weather conditions, and continuously refined itineraries designed to maximise time on the water and time exploring each destination.

Operational improvements, guest feedback, and itinerary refinements continue to enhance the overall experience while preserving the relaxed atmosphere that defines a Sail in Greece holiday.

As additional updates become available for the 2027 season, they will be reflected across individual cruise pages and departure schedules.

How to Book Your 2027 Greek Gulet Cruise (deposit, process)

Booking your 2027 cruise is simple.

  1. Choose the cruise route that best matches your travel style.
  2. Select your preferred departure date between May and October.
  3. Complete your reservation online.
  4. Pay the required deposit to secure your cabin.
  5. Receive your booking confirmation and travel information.
  6. Complete the remaining balance according to the payment schedule before departure.

Because 2025 and 2026 departures reached full capacity, booking early is strongly recommended, especially for July and August departures and for travellers requiring multiple cabins.

If you’re unsure which itinerary is right for you, the Sail in Greece team can help recommend the best route based on your travel preferences, budget, and group size.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 2027 booking now open?

Yes. Sail in Greece has opened bookings for the 2027 season, with departures scheduled from May through October.

Why should I book early?

Previous seasons sold out well in advance. Early booking gives you access to the widest choice of dates, cabins, and pricing.

Which cruise route is best for first-time visitors?

The Ionian Cruise is often recommended for first-time visitors because it combines beautiful scenery, relaxed sailing, charming villages, and iconic Greek islands.

Are meals included on board?

Meals and onboard inclusions vary depending on the selected cruise. Please refer to the individual cruise page for complete details before booking.

How much deposit is required?

The required deposit and payment schedule are shown during the booking process and may vary depending on the selected cruise and departure.

Start Planning Your Greek Island Adventure

A gulet cruise remains one of the most rewarding ways to discover Greece. Instead of rushing between crowded ferry terminals or visiting only the busiest tourist destinations, you’ll wake up each morning surrounded by the sea, swim in secluded bays, enjoy authentic Greek cuisine, and explore islands at a relaxed pace.

With 2027 departures now available and previous seasons selling out completely, early planning provides the best opportunity to secure your preferred itinerary and travel dates. Whether you’re dreaming of the Ionian Islands, the Cyclades, the Dodecanese, or a lively social sailing experience, Sail in Greece offers a route designed for every type of traveller.

Start planning today and make 2027 the year you experience the Greek islands from the deck of a traditional gulet.

How to Visit Greek Islands Without the Crowds in 2026

Bow view of a sailing yacht at sea with a wooden deck, rigging overhead and calm blue water extending to distant mountains.
Sailboat near a rocky cliff on turquoise water under a clear blue sky, people on deck enjoying the calm sea


In 2026, Greece implemented daily visitor caps of 8,000 people on Santorini and introduced strict limits on mega-cruise ship arrivals in Mykonos. For travellers wanting to see these iconic islands authentically – without queuing for three hours to see a sunset – the answer is arriving by private sailing boat. A gulet cruise lets you anchor in the same bays as the superyachts, visit islands that commercial ferries never reach, and experience Greece the way it was 30 years ago.Official Greece Travel Guide


Why Greece Is Capping Visitors in 2026


For years, Greece’s tourism boom looked like an unqualified success story. Arrival numbers climbed every season, hotel occupancy hit record highs, and islands that were once sleepy fishing communities became global travel brands. But by the mid-2020s, the strain on infrastructure, water supplies, and local life had become impossible to ignore.

Santorini, in particular, became the poster child for overtourism. On peak summer days, more than 17,000 cruise passengers were disembarking onto an island with a permanent population of roughly 15,000 people. Streets in Oia and Fira turned into slow-moving human traffic jams by mid-morning, and the famous caldera-view sunset spots required arriving hours early just to find standing room.

In response, Greek authorities introduced a daily cap of 8,000 cruise visitors to Santorini in 2026, alongside new restrictions on the number of mega-ships permitted to dock in Mykonos on any given day. Local municipalities have also tightened rules around short-term rentals, beach club expansion, and vehicle access in historic centres. The goal isn’t to discourage tourism altogether – Greece’s economy depends heavily on it – but to protect the character of the islands and the quality of life for residents, while making the visitor experience more sustainable in the long run.

For independent travellers, this shift creates a new reality. Turning up in high season without a plan now means competing for a shrinking pool of walk-in availability, particularly on the islands everyone has heard of. The islands themselves haven’t become less beautiful – if anything, the caps are protecting what makes them special. But the way people access them needs to change.


The Problem With Visiting Santorini and Mykonos in 2026

Even with visitor caps in place, Santorini and Mykonos in peak season remain two of the busiest patches of coastline in the Mediterranean. The caps limit cruise arrivals, but they do very little to reduce the sheer volume of people already staying on the islands via hotels, ferries, and short-term rentals.

The practical problems for travellers haven’t disappeared – they’ve just shifted shape:

  • Restricted spontaneity. With daily arrival limits, popular excursions, boat tours, and even restaurant tables need to be booked well in advance. Turning up and figuring it out as you go is far less realistic than it used to be.
  • Concentrated crowds in a smaller footprint. Santorini is a small island. Even 8,000 capped daily arrivals, combined with existing hotel guests, still creates dense crowds around the caldera towns, the same handful of beaches, and the sunset viewpoints everyone photographs.
  • Rising prices. Reduced supply against strong demand pushes prices upward – for accommodation, excursions, and even simple things like a table for dinner with a view.
  • A homogenised experience. Much of what visitors see on Santorini and Mykonos today is built around tourism itself: souvenir shops, infinity pools, and photo-ready cafés, rather than the fishing villages and working ports these islands once were.

None of this means Santorini and Mykonos aren’t worth visiting – they absolutely are. But seeing them exclusively by staying on land, and trying to squeeze both into a single land-based itinerary, increasingly means spending a significant part of your holiday managing logistics rather than enjoying the islands.


How a Sailing Holiday Changes Everything

A gulet cruise solves the crowding problem in a way that no amount of clever land-based planning can. Instead of basing yourself in one town and taking day trips out, you bring your accommodation with you – a traditional wooden sailing boat that moves between islands, anchoring in bays and harbours that are simply inaccessible to the coach tours and cruise ship crowds.

The difference comes down to a few key advantages:

You control your own schedule. Rather than being tied to ferry timetables or excursion departure times, a private gulet moves at the pace your group sets. If a bay is busy, you sail on to the next one. If you find somewhere beautiful and quiet, you simply stay longer.

You reach places ferries don’t go. Commercial ferry routes connect major ports because that’s where the passenger volume is. Countless smaller islands, secluded coves, and quiet anchorages across the Aegean and Ionian have little or no ferry service at all – but they’re easily reached by sailing boat.

You see Santorini and Mykonos differently. Rather than arriving by ferry into the main port and joining the crowds on foot, a sailing itinerary can approach these islands by sea, anchor away from the main harbour, and visit at times of day when the day-trippers have gone home. You get the caldera views and whitewashed villages, minus the three-hour queue for a sunset photo.

Every day brings a new anchorage. Instead of one island for your whole trip, a week-long cruise typically visits five or more islands, so the crowding problem is spread out rather than concentrated. If one spot feels busier than expected, it’s simply part of a longer journey rather than the whole holiday.

It’s how Greece used to feel. Long before mass tourism, this coastline was explored by boat – fishermen, traders, and early travellers moved between islands by sea. A gulet cruise reconnects you with that older rhythm: swimming from the deck in clear water, eating fresh fish in tiny harbour tavernas, and waking up somewhere new.


5 Greek Islands You Can Only Reach by Boat

Beyond the household names, Greece has thousands of islands and islets, and many of the most beautiful are only practically accessible by private boat. Here are five worth seeking out on a sailing itinerary.


1. Polyaigos

Uninhabited and largely untouched, this small island near Milos has no ferry service and no permanent population – just dramatic cliffs, sea caves, and turquoise water that few travellers ever see.


2. Koufonisia’s hidden coves

While the main village of Koufonisia does get a ferry, the island’s best swimming spots – tiny coves with sculpted rock formations and impossibly clear water – are tucked along a coastline that’s far easier to reach by boat than on foot.


3. Marathi

A tiny islet in the Dodecanese with a handful of residents and a couple of family-run tavernas, Marathi is the kind of place where a gulet can anchor for lunch and you’ll barely see another visitor.


4. Paximada

Off the coast of Crete, this rocky islet has no infrastructure at all, but it’s a haven for wildlife and a striking, peaceful stop for swimming and snorkelling.


5. Sikinos

Often overlooked in favour of its neighbour Santorini, Sikinos has limited ferry connections, a slower pace of life, and Byzantine ruins with almost no other tourists in sight.

These are the kinds of stops that transform a Greek island holiday – not replacing the icons, but adding the contrast of true seclusion alongside them.


Our Crowd-Free Greece Sailing Routes

At Sail in Greece, our cruises are built around exactly this idea: combining the islands people come to Greece to see with the quieter anchorages that only a private gulet can reach.

Our Ionian Cruises explore the calmer, greener side of Greece – think Kefalonia, Ithaca, and Zante – where pine-covered hills meet turquoise bays, and the pace of island life feels noticeably slower than in the Aegean.

Our Zante Cruises focus on the beaches and sea caves of Zakynthos and its surrounding islets, including spots that are effectively unreachable except by boat, away from the beach-club crowds.

Our Rhodes Cruises combine the medieval old town of Rhodes with a chain of Dodecanese islands and hidden coves that most travellers never make it to.

For those wanting a livelier social atmosphere, our 18-39s Cruises and Mykonos Cruises blend the buzz of nightlife stops with plenty of swimming and quieter anchorages in between – so you get the party without spending your whole trip fighting crowds.

Our Harmony Cruises strike a balance between sightseeing, relaxation, and a touch of nightlife, ideal for groups with mixed priorities.

And for travellers who want full flexibility, our Yacht Experiences let you charter privately and shape the entire itinerary – including which crowded ports to skip entirely.

Every itinerary is built around a fleet of traditional wooden gulets, ranging from smaller Standard boats for intimate groups up to larger Luxury vessels for bigger parties, so the experience can be tailored to the group size and style of trip you’re after.


Practical Tips for Avoiding the Crowds in 2026

If you’re planning a Greek island trip this year, a few practical adjustments can make a significant difference to how crowded your experience feels.

Book well ahead, especially for July and August. With visitor caps in place on the busiest islands, availability for accommodation, excursions, and boat charters is tighter than in previous years. Early booking isn’t just about price – it’s about securing a spot at all.

Consider shoulder season. Late May, June, and September offer warm weather and calmer seas, with a fraction of the visitor numbers of peak summer. Many sailing routes are just as enjoyable, if not more so, outside the July-August peak.

Visit famous islands by sea, not by ferry. Arriving at Santorini or Mykonos by private boat, and anchoring away from the main port, avoids much of the disembarkation bottleneck that ferry and cruise passengers face.

Prioritise time on the water over time in town. The most memorable parts of a Greek island trip are often swimming in a quiet bay or watching the sunset from a boat deck – not standing in a crowd. Build your itinerary around these moments rather than ticking off towns.

Choose a smaller vessel and group size if you want more flexibility. Larger charter groups sometimes need to plan further ahead for anchorages and dinner reservations; smaller groups can be more spontaneous.

Pack light and pack smart. Space on a gulet is more limited than in a hotel room. A soft-sided bag, reef-safe sunscreen, and swimwear that dries quickly will serve you far better than a hard suitcase full of resort wear.

Talk to your operator about the current visitor caps. Rules can shift during the season, and an experienced local operator will know which anchorages and ports are quietest on any given week.


Frequently Asked Questions


Do the 2026 visitor caps mean I can’t visit Santorini or Mykonos this year? No. The caps limit the number of cruise ship passengers allowed to disembark each day; they don’t prevent independent travellers, including those arriving by private sailing boat, from visiting. Booking ahead and choosing quieter arrival times still gives you full access to both islands.

Is a gulet cruise suitable for people who aren’t experienced sailors? Yes. Gulets are crewed by an experienced captain and crew who handle all the navigation and sailing, so guests can simply relax, swim, and enjoy the itinerary without any sailing experience required.

How many islands do you typically visit on a one-week cruise? Most one-week itineraries call at five to seven islands and anchorages, combining well-known destinations with quieter bays and villages that aren’t accessible by regular ferry services.

When is the best time to book a Greece sailing holiday in 2026 to avoid crowds? Late May, June, and September tend to offer the best balance of good weather and lower visitor numbers, though July and August remain popular for those who don’t mind booking further in advance to secure availability.

Comparison: Sailing vs. Cruises

Sailing vs. Cruises: A Comparison Of Freedom, Experience, And Navigation

When considering a vacation on the water, most travelers fall into two camps: those drawn to the vast independence of sailing and those who prefer the structured luxury of cruises. While both offer unforgettable maritime experiences, the way they deliver adventure, freedom, and connection with the sea couldn’t be more different. 

                                                                                                       Photo by Peter Hansen on Unsplash

We will compare sailing and cruises across three key pillars—freedom, experience, and navigation—offering clarity for anyone torn between hoisting the sails or boarding a megaship in 2025.

Cruising vs. Sailing On A River: Two Routes To Tranquility

One of the key factors is finding freedom on the water, since that’s probably the reason why you embarked on the whole adventure. Let’s look at what sailing and cruises offer when the setting is a winding river rather than the open sea.

River Cruises: Guided Comfort and Cultural Depth

River cruises offer an entirely different experience, blending guided exploration with the comfort of full-service hospitality. These vessels are long, low, and designed for the intimacy of inland travel. Cruises along the Danube, Rhine, Mekong, or Mississippi deliver structured routes that maximize sightseeing, often including onboard historians or local experts to enhance your understanding of each region.

Nowhere is this more evident than in the heart of Europe, where Danube and Rhine itineraries wind through a tapestry of historic cities, vineyards, and castles—bringing centuries of culture directly to your cabin door.

Freedom on a river cruise is limited in terms of navigation—but expansive in cultural and culinary offerings. You won’t be steering or making course decisions, but you will have access to tailored excursions, wine tastings, and local performances right from the gangway.

Everything is pre-arranged: mooring permissions, dining, entertainment, and ground transportation. It’s freedom from planning, not freedom of movement.

 

River Sailing: Quiet Waterways and Immersive Routes

Sailing on a river introduces a deeply tranquil, scenic, and close-to-the-land experience. Unlike ocean sailing, where you’re at the mercy of changing tides and open water, rivers offer calm conditions and an ever-present shoreline. 

You’ll typically sail smaller vessels such as sloops or traditional houseboats that can navigate narrower channels and shallower waters. This environment is perfect for slow-paced exploration, where you can dock in remote hamlets or unmarked countryside spots at will.

Personal freedom is enhanced by the absence of waves and harsh winds, making river sailing ideal for those newer to the helm. You still get the benefit of flexibility—changing course, stopping spontaneously, or anchoring near a vineyard or river café. 

Depending on the country, some rivers require licenses, awareness of lock systems, or knowledge of inland waterway regulations. Popular destinations like the Loire Valley in France or the Douro in Portugal offer rich cultural immersion with manageable sailing conditions.

 

Experience Aboard And Ashore

We’ll now dive deer (no pun intended) into the aboard and ashore experiences. 

 

Sailing: Intimate, Authentic, and Immersive

Sailing delivers an immersive connection to nature, culture, and maritime life. With only a handful of passengers—sometimes just your own party—you’ll experience a level of intimacy unavailable on cruise liners. You can feel the wind shift, hear the water slap against the hull, and respond to the rhythm of the sea.

Onshore, sailors can explore locations that cruise ships overlook. These often include tiny fishing villages, lesser-known islands, or local tavernas with no tourism infrastructure. Instead of herding off a ship with hundreds of others, you drop anchor at your own pace and discover places on your terms. Destinations like the Grenadines, Sporades, or Croatia’s Kornati archipelago are best seen this way.

Accommodations, while smaller, are more personal. You sleep under the stars or in cozy cabins, wake with the sunrise, and prepare your own meals—or enjoy local cuisine ashore. The experience is less about luxury and more about connection, both with your travel group and with nature.

Cruises: Luxury, Entertainment, and Social Atmosphere

Cruise ships offer floating resorts with 5-star amenities—think spas, casinos, cinemas, fitness centers, themed bars, and fine dining restaurants. From couples to families with young children, there’s something for everyone. The scale of entertainment onboard is unmatched, with Broadway musicals, cooking classes, lectures, and high-end shopping often included.

Ashore, shore excursions cater to mass tourism. Tours are pre-arranged and fast-paced, taking passengers to the most popular attractions. While efficient, these outings often lack the depth or authenticity of independent exploration. You’re unlikely to stumble upon a hidden café or forge personal connections with locals in a 3-hour organized tour.

Still, the cruise experience excels in scale and variety. You might visit five countries in a week without unpacking once. The convenience, variety of dining options, and access to onboard medical care make cruises particularly appealing for multigenerational groups or those seeking all-inclusive ease.

                                                                                                       Photo by Artem Verbo on Unsplash

Navigation and Seamanship

Here’s where the big differences come, but only if you want to sail without a captain. We’ll delve into this below. 

Sailing: Hands-On Skill and Navigational Mastery

Navigation is central to the sailing experience, whether you’re managing a catamaran in the Caribbean or a monohull in the Mediterranean. GPS, nautical charts, VHF radios, and weather routing all play critical roles, and sailors must know how to interpret wind direction, read currents, and respond to mechanical issues.

Even when hiring a skipper, passengers are often encouraged to participate—learning to hoist sails, tie knots, or steer under sail power. This engagement builds seamanship and offers a rewarding challenge. Courses like the Royal Yachting Association (RYA) Day Skipper or the American Sailing Association’s 104 course are popular among novices looking to gain competence before setting out.

Cruises: Passive Transport and Global Scale

Navigation aboard cruise ships is a professional endeavor handled entirely by licensed captains, marine engineers, and high-tech equipment. Modern cruise liners are marvels of maritime engineering, capable of covering thousands of nautical miles with remarkable precision. These vessels follow international maritime protocols, utilize satellite navigation, and chart weather patterns far in advance.

Passengers are largely unaware of the navigational complexity occurring behind the scenes. This hands-off experience suits travelers who prefer not to think about the mechanics of movement. While you won’t learn to sail or read the stars, you’ll enjoy a seamless transit between ports while sipping champagne on the sun deck.

                                                                                                Photo by Ludomił Sawicki on Unsplash

Endnote – Which Is Right For You?

Choosing between sailing and cruises often comes down to your appetite for exploration versus indulgence, but emerging hybrid experiences—like small expedition yachts or eco-luxury catamarans—now blur the line between both. 

These innovative options offer curated itineraries with room for spontaneity, appealing to adventurers and comfort-seekers alike. As travel trends evolve in 2025, the smartest choice might be one that blends freedom and luxury rather than forcing you to pick a side.

Check out more Sail in Greece blogs here

 

Mykonos vs. Santorini: Which Island is Right for You?

Mykonos vs. Santorini: Which Island is Right for You?

If you’re planning a trip to Greece, then you’re likely in the process of researching different islands. And with more than 200 inhabited islands to choose from, knowing which one to select can be difficult. For many, it comes down to Mykonos or Santorini.

Get to Know Mykonos

Located in the southern portion of the Aegean Sea, Mykonos is one of the more famous and acclaimed Greek islands belonging to the Cyclades complex. You’ll find it nestled in close proximity to a number of other smaller islands, including Paros, Tinos, Naxos, and Syros.

Mykonos is believed to be the second-most visited Greek island each year – something that’s due in large part to its vibrant dual personality. During the daytime, Mykonos is a classic Greek island with all of the iconic views and experiences that travelers and tourists have come to expect: windmills, cozy paved alleys, trendy shops, Instagram-worthy architecture, and sugar-cube houses. But when the sun goes down, the island’s wild side comes out. The nightlife in Mykonos is renowned, and the Little Venice portion of the island comes alive on warm summer evenings.

Mykonos or Santorini: A Comparison Guide

Get to Know Santorini

Santorini’s iconic crescent moon shape is easy to spot on a map of the Greek islands. And whether you’re browsing a map or swiping through international travel pictures, there’s no mistaking Santorini when you see it.

Year after year, Santorini continues to be one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. Known for its beautiful rugged cliffs, pristine white architecture, and carefully “stacked” homes overlooking the Aegean Sea, this island is a lively oasis that every world traveler will eventually want to experience firsthand. 

“Breathtaking” is the only word to accurately describe Santorini. Neatly paved streets, one-of-a-kind architecture, and eclectic shops and cafes make this island a popular wedding spot and honeymoon destination. And because it’s so close to other popular Greek islands like Mykonos and Crete, it sees a steady flow of travelers from cruise ships and Greek gulets.

Which Island is Right for You

While it’s somewhat unfair to compare them, Mykonos and Santorini will forever be pitted against one another. Their proximity and popularity make them worthy “rivals” – though it’s a friendly and healthy competition.

As a traveler, you may be wondering which island is right for you? Well, it depends. Here are some factors to consider:

Best for Beaches: Mykonos

You can’t go wrong with any of the beaches on either island, but they offer totally different experiences. On Santorini, you’ll find volcanic pebbles and red sand. They’re pretty interesting and impressive, but not the kind of beach that most people think of when they imagine sticking their toes in the sand. Mykonos, on the other hand, has white sandy beaches with clear turquoise waters. Plus, you can find a beach for any style (family beaches, gay beaches, nude beaches, etc.).

With all of that being said, we give Mykonos the award for “best beaches.” We’ll put it like this: People visit beaches in both Santorini and Mykonos, but they come back for the beaches of Mykonos. 

Best for Nightlife: Mykonos

As mentioned before, Mykonos has quite the nightlife scene. It has a surprising number of clubs and bars for people of every taste. It also happens to be an incredibly LGBTQ+ community that caters to people looking for a good time. (That’s not to say Santorini isn’t gay-friendly, but Mykonos is known for gay bars, gay beaches, and world-class drag shows.)

Santorini doesn’t exactly shut down at sunset, but you’ll only find a couple of bars worth visiting late at night, and there aren’t any clubs to speak of. However, if your version of “nightlife” is a bottle of wine with your significant other in a corner booth, Santorini has plenty to offer. It all depends on what you want.

Best for Attractions: Santorini

Santorini has one of the most diverse cultures of any Greek island. It’s beautiful, refined, and distinctly, well, Santorinian. You’ll find no fewer than 16 wineries on the island, amazing museums (like Akrotiri Prehistoric Site, Art Space Gallery, Ancient Thera Site, Maritime Museum, Archeological Museum, etc.), five Venetian castles, and an active volcano!

While Mykonos is known for its beaches and nightlife, you won’t find nearly the same attractions and culture. The main town of “Chora” is picturesque and has some good food, but there isn’t as much to “do” during the daytime (when compared to Santorini). 

Mykonos or Santorini: A Comparison GuideBest for Romance: Santorini

Romance can be found anywhere, but when it comes to romantic destinations, these two islands can be best described as follows:

Santorini is for couples. Amazing sunsets, incredible culinary hotspots, quaint villages, and best-in-class hotels and resorts all make for a romantic experience tailored to couples. 

Mykonos is for singles. Party-friendly beaches, all-night clubs, and plenty of LGBTQ+ bars make Mykonos an amazing place for singles to hang out, mingle, and enjoy new experiences. 

There are obviously exceptions to this – and it doesn’t mean that singles can’t visit Santorini or couples can’t have a great time in Mykonos – but you get the idea. One is more upbeat and carefree, while the other is laid back and luxurious. You’ll have to decide which version of romance you’re looking for. 

Gulet CharterBook Your Greek Gulet Holiday

If you can’t tell by now, both Mykonos and Santorini have so much to offer visitors. Whether you’re a solo traveler, honeymooner, or large family, these two Greek islands have so much to offer. And the best way to see them is by scheduling a Greek gulet holiday. 

Sail in Greece is proud to be the largest gulet fleet owner in Greece. We own 9 luxury gulets and have the ability to arrange private excursions at the best rates on the market for all ages and group sizes.

Whether you want to visit Mykonos, Santorini, and/or every island in between, we can make it happen. Simply click here for our private gulet charter prices or contact us today to learn more!

Best Islands to Visit During Your Stay in Greece

Traveling to Greece is on just about everyone’s bucket list. You can’t help but daydream about gorgeous sunsets along the Mediterranean Sea or sinking your toes into the notorious black sand beaches. Or maybe you picture yourself drinking a cup of coffee while setting sail aboard a gulet charter that takes you to places you never thought you would see.

 

If you weren’t aware, Greece has 227 different islands. There are different clusters such as the Ionian Islands or the Cyclades islands. With so many options to choose from, it may feel impossible to narrow down where you plan to go. Well, look no further because we’ve got you covered.

 

If you are looking for the ultimate guide to your top five Greek islands to visit, keep reading. We’ll take you to some of our top destinations like Corfu, Naxos, Zante, Santorini, and Mykonos.

 

Corfu

 

Along the western side of Greece, right near Italy, is an area of islands known as the Ionian islands. These are by far one of the most breathtaking sets of islands that are worth visiting, specifically Corfu. It’s filled with so much history within its city to explore or you can hike throughout the various hilltop ruins such as Angelokastro, or Angel’s Castle.

 

A unique way to explore Corfu is through a gulet charter. Through Sail In Greece’s Corfu gulet charter cruise, you’ll experience sailing for eight days around different locations on a cabin charter. We highly recommend that if you are going to be taking a journey to Greece that you embark on an adventure that takes you through hidden coves and natural environments you may not have the opportunity to see otherwise.

 

Naxos

 

This quaint little island is home to just over 7,000 people. One of the best times to visit is in the fall because you will find that there are fewer tourists and more locals around. It gives you that small island feel and no matter where on the island you go, you are extremely close to the water. You’ll find more secluded beaches that offer privacy amongst the rocks or you can head over to another coast which may offer more options such as snorkeling.

 

While you’re there, make sure to check out Panormos Beach with its golden sand and crystal clear water. This beach does require a car to access, but it is well worth the drive. Or if you plan on staying near the port, you can also check out Agios Georgios which is only a ten-minute walk from when you get off of the boat.

 

Zante

 

If you want to spoil yourself on your Greek adventure, we suggest taking a tour through Zante. Also known as Zakynthos, the island is known as a summer resort location and there is no question as to why. It’s the southernmost island of the Ionian group and is well known for its Caretta-Caretta turtles as they come there to lay their eggs.

 

If you’re looking to give yourself a luxury experience, try onboarding a Zante cruise aboard the M/S Aphrodite. It seats up to twenty passengers and offers fine dining options as you explore the island for seven nights. Or, depending on the season, you may have a delicious Captain’s dinner aboard one of Sail in Greece Zante cruise’s other gulets such as Hemera, Harmonia, Eros, Panagiotia, or Auror.

 

Santorini

 

But of course, how could we possibly forget one of the most well-known, romantic islands of them all? This island of Santorini, filled with white architecture and blue rooftops along the Aegean Sea, is one of those places you see on the front of postcards. About 15,000 people live on this beautiful island and it is a gorgeous place to visit any time of year.

 

The main villages in Santorini are Oia and Fira, located along the volcanic cliff sides of the island. There is a hike you can take that brings you from one point of the island to the other over the course of six miles. You’ll pass through Firostefani and Imerovigli along the way, giving you the ability to see the island in its entirety.

 

You’ll end your hike by watching the iconic sunset overlooking the ocean and dine out with delicious Turkish-influenced cuisines. What more could you ask for than the most picture-perfect way to end a gorgeous hike along the cliffs?

 

Mykonos

 

Mykonos is an island that is known for its thriving nightlife so if you are looking to dance beneath the stars of Greece, this is the spot for you. Luxurious hotels and fine dining are nearby, but if you are looking for something a little off-the-beaten-path, you may want to check out Agia Anna Beach. There are minimal tourist spots here such as watersports or beach bars which makes it the perfect little spot to hide away for a day at the beach.

 

If you are looking to find a blend of culture, history, and a friendly atmosphere, you will definitely want to consider treating yourself to a Mykonos Greek Island Cruise by Sail in Greece. It provides an opportunity to relax by the ocean while also having the element of socialization with friends both new and old aboard the gulet. This is a great option for people who are looking to throw a bachelor or bachelorette party or are going to be hitting the open seas with friends. 

 

No matter where you decide to go on your vacation to Greece, you will want to make the absolute most out of your time there. Your best bet is by creating a unique experience that caters to what you want your dream trip to be. Sail in Greece offers both intimate and large party gulet cruises through Greece.

 

Don’t settle for flying when you could have the opportunity of a lifetime to set sail to multiple different islands around the Mediterranean sea. The only step left is to book your trip!

Why You Should Go On A Cruise to Zante, Greece

Greece has so many beautiful areas with rich histories and cultures. While you might have heard of places like Mykonos, Zante is part of the unforgettable Ionian Islands, and a cruise is the perfect way to see this coastal area. 

In this guide, you’ll learn more about Zante, including some exciting things to do and see while you’re there. You’ll then discover how a Zante gulet cruise is the perfect way to experience this beautiful island.

 

Where Is Zante, Greece?

The mainland of Greece is surrounded by many smaller islands, and each of these offers its own flavor, history, and sightseeing. Zante, which is also commonly known as Zakynthos, is located on the southwest coast of Greece. It’s part of the Ionian islands. One of the main areas of the island to visit is Zakynthos Town. 

 

How Can I Get To Zante?

Because Zante is an island, you won’t be able to get there by car. Instead, you’ll need to access the area either by ferry or some other boat. One of the simplest ways to reach this stunning island is through a gulet cruise. These cruises take people on luxurious wooden yachts around the Greek isles. But these vessels are very different from the large cruiseliners you might be familiar with, as they are much more secluded and private. If you’re looking to experience Zante, a gulet cruise is an ideal way to beat any crowds.

 

What Is The History Of Zante?

Zante has a long, rich history and is even mentioned in The Iliad and The Odyssey. In ancient times, the area’s central location was an advantage strategically, and it was an easy place to live and grow crops. So, most of the inhabitants were wealthy and had some influence and power. 

In more recent history, Zakynthos Island was ruled at various times by Russia and England, but it was re-integrated into Greece in 1864.

 

What Is Zakynthos Island Known For?

The Venetians of long ago called Zante the “Flower of the Orient,” and this nickname gives you some indication of what the area looks like. The landscape is full of lush vegetation and includes coastal areas as well as pine-covered mountains and fertile plains that are ideal for growing food. 

The summers in Zante are warm and sunny, and the island boasts many of the most beloved ingredients from Mediterranean cuisine, such as grapes, olives, and citrus fruits. If you love good food and wine, you’ll find the best here. 

Along with the beautiful views and fascinating history, Zante has also become a tourist destination. Many people enjoy participating in outdoor activities here or enjoying nature as the island hosts the endangered sea turtle, Caretta Caretta. These turtles reproduce on the beaches of Zante Island, so you may get lucky if you time a trip right and get to see the adult turtles on beaches as they lay their eggs.

 

What Is There To Do In Zante, Greece?

If you love the beach, Zante is the perfect destination. The island has world-famous beaches that feature golden sand. Some of the most popular beaches are Alykes and Laganas. While some of these beach areas have many hotels, restaurants, bars, and more, others are quieter and allow visitors to see more of the natural environment. 

Along with the natural vistas and beach activities, the island also has a rich tradition of music and architecture. 

 

What Are Some Specific Activities To Experience In Zante?

While the overall island and Zante Town specifically are unbelievable to view, there are some specific recreational activities you can check out. 

Here is what we recommend:

  • Go inside the Blue Caves: The water under these natural stone arches is exceptionally bright. The colors are almost neon, and swimming or boating around the area is a can’t-miss activity.
  • Experience a nightclub: The Greek islands are known for exceptional nightlife. There are various nightclubs on the island, but Barrage Club is especially popular.
  • Eat as much as you can: While this is a general point more than a specific one, Zante has no shortage of local cuisine to check out. If you get the chance, try as many new foods as possible.
  • Snorkel with the turtles: These majestic creatures are exciting no matter where you see them, but they look best while swimming in their natural habitat. Loggerhead turtles that reproduce on the island are easy to see if you book a boat tour. You’ll even be able to snorkel near the area. 

 

What Does A Cruise To Zante Entail?

A gulet cruise is one of the best ways to see any of the Ionian Islands. These boats vary in size, but most contain around four to 16 cabins. So, they are rather private when compared to other options like ferries. Unlike the large cruise ships you might know about, a gulet cruise is much smaller and allows you privacy. You’ll be able to see more of the views of the coastline and enjoy on-deck activities and a private cabin where you can store your belongings. 

 

Why You Should Book A Cruise Today

At Sail in Greece, our beautiful ocean gulet named the M/S Aphrodite carries passengers to Zante and the surrounding areas. This particular boat can hold up to 20 people and has seven ensuites. During our Zante cruise, we make stops in Agia Efimia, Meganiki, Poros, Vathi, Fiskardo, and Zante.

The itinerary includes swim stops, guided tours, and even includes lunches and two dinners.

With a gulet cruise to Zante and back, you’ll experience the best of Greece. You’ll be able to sightsee and learn about the history of the area and then enjoy the views on board as we sail along the coast. You can relax on the beach, swim, or drink some wine as you sit on the deck. 

If you’ve ever wanted to see Greece, a gulet cruise to Zante is a perfect choice. It’s easy to get started, and we have flexible booking options. Reach out today to find out more.