Small Ship Cruises: A Greek Island Adventure Finale

Small ship cruises are not just about where you go. They are about how you feel getting there. In this final chapter of our journey aboard the elegant Galileo, we uncover the magic of quiet ports, unexpected detours, and the kind of crew stories that stay with you.

If you missed the beginning, Part 1 takes you from Athens to Syros and Santorini. In Part 2, we explored Monemvasia and Gytheio, with wine tastings, sun-dried octopus, and an unforgettable onboard “sacrifice.”
Now, we sail toward Katakolo, Olympia, Itea, and a finale that delivers more than we ever expected.

As we continued our small ship cruise, the morning unfolded with laughter and friendly competition. First, a light-hearted “Couple Game” set the mood, welcoming even mother-daughter pairs and sparking smiles across the deck. It was the perfect lead-up to an afternoon steeped in history and discovery.

Arriving in Katakolo at 3 PM, we eagerly disembarked from one of the most memorable small ship cruises. Afterwards, our afternoon was set for a journey back in time to Ancient Olympia.

Ever wondered where the legendary Olympic Games began? Stepping onto the sacred grounds of Ancient Olympia, our first stop was the Pelopion.

It is believed to be the tomb of the quasi-mythical King Pelops. In fact, he was the very figure who lent his name to the Peloponnese. Additionally, his lineage included Agamemnon and Menelaus, the powerful Greek kings of the Trojan War.

Next, we stood in the stadium, a profound field, its start and finish lines still marked by transverse curbing. Imagine athletes entering through the vaulted archway, ready to compete, as spectators gathered along the sloping banks.

You could almost feel the weight of history in that very spot. There, ancient competitors once swore solemn oaths to honour the sacred rules of the Games. For anyone drawn to history-rich destinations, small ship cruises like this offer the chance to step so close to antiquity.

Finally, our exploration led us to the Archaeological Museum of Olympia. It is a sanctuary dedicated to the pan-Hellenic worship of Zeus, the king of gods and men.

Continuing our exploration, guided by Stella (our ever-organised Cruise Coordinator), we arrived at Klio’s Honey Farm. It is a place of quiet and beauty. There, the time-honoured art of beekeeping meets contemporary techniques, resulting in wonderful honey creations.

Indeed, one of the joys of small ship cruises is discovering hidden gems like this, places big ships miss. Klio’s garden was an oasis where time seemed to press the pause button, and her generous hospitality captivated us.

We were treated to the story of her honey extraction and the delicate sweetness of quince spoons. Then came the nourishing touch of honey and beeswax creams. All of it was framed by the vibrant colours and scents of her rose garden, a small piece of heaven.

Our return to the ship brought an unexpected treat: a fantastic Greek dance performance! We weren’t just spectators. We learned the steps of the soulful Zeibekiko and the lively Sirtaki, complete with enthusiastic “OPA!”s.

It’s moments like these that make small ship cruises feel so personal. Could there have been a more wonderful and immersive way to conclude the day?

The dedicated early risers were rewarded with a stunning view of the illuminated Rio-Antirrio Bridge in the pre-dawn hours. Before reaching Itea, we played a game called “Memories,” a fitting tradition on small ship cruises. Each guest shared their most meaningful moment, so that the stories wove together into a shared reflection of the journey.

We arrived in Itea on May 1st, a Greek national holiday. So, aside from a few open tavernas and cafés, the town was quiet.

With Delphi just 15 km away, its inaccessibility felt like a missed note in the day’s melody. All the more reason to plan a return.

Our final cruise hours brimmed with energy as we sipped cocktails on the Sun Deck. It was the perfect vantage point for our passage through the stunning Corinth Canal.

I’d seen it from above last year, but sailing through its narrow gorge was something else entirely. It was a perfect example of what small ship cruises do best: delivering dramatic views without the crowds.

This artificial waterway, a dramatic incision through the narrow Isthmus of Corinth, doesn’t just “separate” the Peloponnese from mainland Greece. It’s a breathtaking feat of engineering. This ancient dream of Nero offers an experience that far surpasses any view from the bridge above.

Moreover, our Farewell Dinner was a poignant reminder: this journey was nearly over. Capture those final moments with the crew, travel companions, and the friends you never expected to meet.

Late that evening, the Galileo returned us to Marina Zeas (where our small ship cruises begin), the circle complete.

The final day arrived, with disembarkation scheduled for 9:00 AM.
Stella’s experience proved invaluable. Her quick thinking and the behind-the-scenes teamwork ensured our adjusted itinerary was just as rewarding. Weather may have forced changes, but their combined dedication let us make the most of every moment.

One evening during the chess championship, I learned our bartender, Yoga, is an avid player. Later, in Chef Eslam’s cooking class, it became clear this was a crew who didn’t just serve. They shared, connected, and genuinely engaged to make your stay feel personal.
Having cruised previously, this Greek adventure was a new chapter. Taking my colleagues’ advice meant I savoured every single moment to the maximum. Ultimately, small ship cruises are a wonderful way to explore multiple destinations with ease.

In addition, meeting like-minded travellers only enhances the experience. If a multi-day voyage with a set group sounds too much, I encourage you to try it. You might just find it utterly fascinating!

Before we say goodbye, a massive thank you to our exceptional Cruise Coordinator and wonderful Captain. The entire crew and behind-the-scenes team also deserve credit for their tireless dedication. Your combined efforts created something truly special, and the final memory is absolutely brilliant!

To sum it up, small ship cruises like Jewels of the Cyclades offer more than a way to see the Greek islands. They create space for connection, discovery, and the kind of memories you don’t find in guidebooks. Dancing on deck, sharing honey in a rose garden, drifting through ancient canals… every moment felt intentional.

If you’re curious about small ship cruises or taking the same journey, we’d love to help you make it real.

Want to relive the full story?
Start with Part 1 | Read Part 2

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