Variety Cruises are pleased to announce the first of our new Wine Cruises of Greece. This journey takes us to many of the Greek wine hotspots including Nemea, Santorini, and Samos. Wine and the making of it is central to this voyage, but as we follow its trail we’ll also discover the limestone crags and wild mountains of the Peloponnese, the breathtaking views of Santorini, and the quieter villages of the Cyclades and Eastern Aegean islands. We’ll meet leading winemakers, taste at top wineries, and enjoy dinners paired with a specially chosen selection of wines - each exploring the superb native grape varieties of Greece’s many diverse regions.
This exploration will illustrate how the wines of Greece have emerged as some of the most interesting and exciting in the world over the past 25 years, with changes at least as profound as those that have taken place in Chile and New Zealand. Our on board chef will design classic and regional fare, matching intense local flavours with the unique and varied wines.


This carefully curated itinerary was designed by wine expert and wine tourism guru, Tim Clarke. Tim accompanies the cruise as our on-board wine guide and expert. With his wife Lynette Arblaster, he cofounded Arblaster & Clarke Wine Tours, which they ran together for nearly 30 years. He has also been engaged in winemaking himself, on the island of Samos. We’re sure you’ll find his enthusiasm for Greece and its wines infectious. We know we do. On this specialty cruise, expect Tim to cover the wine scene from the classical age through to the modern era, and to give you an exceptional insight into the country.

Discover the charm of Nafplio, a picturesque seaside town where you can stroll through cobblestone alleys, admire the imposing Palamidi Fortress overlooking the bay, and enjoy sweeping views. Nearby, explore the ancient site of Mycenae, one of Greece’s most important archaeological landmarks, before journeying to Nemea — the country’s premier red wine appellation — for an unforgettable visit to the renowned Gaia Winery.

Taste rare indigenous wines and visit boutique wineries on islands and mainland Greece, including Sigalas in Santorini, Vakakis in Samos, and Tranampelos in Naxos. Enjoy guided tastings, meet passionate winemakers, and savor meals perfectly paired with local varietals.
Marina Zeas, Athens (2-3 PM): Step aboard and let the journey begin with a sparkling welcome drink as you meet your fellow travelers and crew. As the sun sets, sail toward the charming island of Poros and enjoy your first dinner, perfectly paired with hand-picked Ionian Sea wines. Overnight in Poros.
Arrive in the charming seaside town of Nafplio, one of Greece’s most romantic destinations. Begin the day with a guided visit to the legendary ruins of Mycenae, where history and myth intertwine. Journey into the heart of the Peloponnese wine country, arriving in Nemea, renowned for the noble Agiorgitiko grape. Delight in exclusive tastings at Gaia Wines and Semeli Winery, celebrated for their award-winning reds and elegant whites. A lunch is served at Semeli Winery, perfectly paired with their finest wines. Return to Nafplio for a leisurely afternoon to explore its picturesque streets. In the evening, dinner is served on board, featuring carefully selected wines, as the ship sets sail for a peaceful overnight journey along the Arcadian coast. Overnight at sea.
Step into a medieval fairytale in Monemvasia — once Europe’s most important wine port, famous for its legendary Malvasia wines. Visit Tsimbidi Winery, guardians of the legendary Malvasia tradition, and taste rare indigenous varieties that revive centuries of winemaking heritage. Wander the cobbled streets of the Castle (Kastro), enjoy lunch at your leisure, and soak in breathtaking sea views. In the afternoon, we sail toward Santorini with a refreshing swim stop (weather permitting). Dinner onboard. Overnight at Sea.
Awaken to the dramatic beauty of Santorini, rising from the deep blue Aegean. After a swim stop and relaxed BBQ lunch on deck, explore the island’s world-famous volcanic vineyards with a private tasting at Sigalas Winery. Taste crisp, mineral-driven wines unlike anywhere else on earth. Return onboard for a wine-paired dinner before sailing toward Samos. Overnight at Sea.
Arrive in the charming harbor of Pythagorion, where ancient history meets Aegean charm. Visit Vakakis Winery, a boutique estate showcasing the expressive character of Samian wines. Continue to the mountain village of Platanos for a leisurely lunch with local varietals. Return to the ship for an afternoon swim or relaxed port exploration. Tonight’s dinner on board features exceptional wines from Chios and Ikaria — islands renowned for winemaking since antiquity. Late evening departure for Naxos. Overnight at sea.
Arrive in Naxos in the morning and start your tour exploring its charming villages, with whitewashed houses, narrow streets, and glimpses of local life and Cycladic tradition The tour leads to Tranampelos Winery, a family-run estate where you’ll taste the distinctive wines of Naxos, paired with a selection of local delicacies. Learn about the island’s indigenous grape varieties and the winemaking traditions that have been preserved for generations.
Return to the port and enjoy a leisurely lunch on board as we set sail toward Syros.
Arrive in the afternoon at Syros, the cosmopolitan heart of the Cyclades. In the evening, savor an included dinner at a local taverna, where traditional flavors are enhanced by the warmth of the island’s hospitality. After dinner, the night is yours to wander around the elegant town. Overnight at Syros.
Begin the day with a leisurely walking tour of Syros, exploring its elegant neoclassical architecture, bustling squares, and charming marble streets. Afterwards, visit Ousyra Winery for a final tasting, savoring the island’s signature wines and learning about the unique grape varieties and winemaking traditions of Syros.
Return to the ship for a relaxed lunch on board before setting sail back to Marina Zeas, enjoying the sea breeze the way.
In the evening, gather for a farewell dinner on board, celebrating the journey with delicious food, exceptional wines, and the memories of a week exploring Greece’s islands and vineyards.
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast on board before disembarking in Athens between 8:30-9am.
In case of severe weather conditions our expertly designed routes are adjusted ensuring your safety & comfort by applying our rich marine knowledge, garnered since 1949. Stay flexible – Adventure on.
