Small Ship Cruises: Explore Hidden Greek Islands

Greece is home to thousands of islands, but many travellers only visit popular destinations like Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete. However, some of the most breathtaking and culturally rich islands are often overlooked. With small ship cruises, you can explore these remote gems, discovering places many have never heard of.

These little-known destinations have pristine beaches, Greek villages, and rich history. Large cruise ships can’t reach them. While some ferries operate, schedules are limited and infrequent. That’s why small ship cruising is the best way to experience them.

Seafarer Cruises’ ‘Hidden Greece’ itinerary unveils the country’s best-kept secrets. With small ship cruises, you can sail into charming harbours and explore tranquil bays rarely visited by tourists.

Small ship cruises are perfect for a personal, immersive, and flexible Greece experience.

• Moor in tiny harbours: bringing you right into the heart of authentic island life
• Anchor in tucked-away bays: allowing you to swim in crystal-clear waters without the crowds
• Flexible itineraries: letting you enjoy spontaneous adventures and island-hopping
• Avoid the rush: so you can experience these destinations when others can’t

Seafarer Cruises’ ‘Hidden Greece’ itinerary is for travellers seeking more than postcard locations. It reveals Greece’s true essence!

1. Amorgos: The Greek Island You Didn’t Know You Needed to Visit

In fact, even if you haven’t heard of Amorgos, you might recognise its jaw-dropping scenery from the cult film The Big Blue. Plus, this remote Cycladic island is famous for its dramatic cliffs, deep-blue waters, and unspoiled beaches.

Must-see highlights include:

• Monastery of Hozoviotissa: A stunning 11th-century monastery built into a cliffside, offering spectacular views.
• Agia Anna Beach: A tiny, picture-perfect cove where you can swim in the clearest water imaginable.
• Chora Town: A classic Cycladic town with whitewashed houses, winding alleys, and quiet charm.

2. Iraklia: A Wild and Untamed Greek Escape

For travellers who love nature and peace, Iraklia is a dream. This tiny island has just one village, but it’s full of hiking trails and quiet beaches. It’s also the perfect place to spend your nights stargazing…

• Cave of Agios Ioannis: One of the largest and most impressive caves in the Cyclades, filled with ancient stalactites.
• Livadi Beach: A long stretch of soft sand with calm, shallow waters.
• Hiking trails through wild landscapes: Offering stunning sea views and total solitude.

3. Koufonisia: The Closest You’ll Get to the Caribbean in Greece

“Koufonisia” doesn’t refer to one island; they are actually two: Pano (Upper) Koufonisi and Kato (Lower) Koufonisi. With golden sand beaches, turquoise waters, and a laid-back atmosphere, these islands feel like a remote paradise that time forgot.

What makes Koufonisia special?

• Pori Beach: A breath-taking bay with shallow, calm, and pristine waters.
• Seafood straight from the boat: The freshest fish you’ll ever eat, served in tiny, family-run tavernas.
• Untouched sea caves & lagoons: Only reachable by boat or swimming, giving you a true sense of adventure.

4. Schinoussa: A Tiny Island with a Big Personality

Schinoussa is so small that many Greeks don’t even know where it is! This island has only a few hundred residents, offering a relaxing, slow-paced escape. Enjoy beaches, authentic Greek food, and some of the friendliest locals in the Aegean.

• Tsigouri Beach: A quiet, sandy beach with zero crowds.
• Authentic Greek hospitality: Experience homemade cheeses, fresh bread, and local wines in cosy tavernas.
• Hiking trails with Aegean views: Wander along ancient paths leading to panoramic sea vistas.

5. Serifos: The Secret Cycladic Gem with a Fascinating History

Serifos is a well-kept secret unlike its famous Cycladic neighbours. It’s known for its hilltop Chora, mining history, and untouched beaches.

• Chora Town: One of the most dramatic Cycladic towns, built on a steep hillside with an amazing view.
• Psili Ammos Beach: A soft sandy beach with shallow waters, voted one of the best in Europe.
• Old Mines & Caves: Serifos has a rich mining history, and you can explore abandoned tunnels and secret caves.

Why Visit These Islands with Seafarer Cruises?

Ultimately, small ship cruises are the perfect way to explore Greece’s unknown islands. Here’s why:

• Access Remote Harbours and Villages: Large cruise ships can’t dock in these tiny ports, and ferries have infrequent schedules. For this reason, Seafarer’s small ship cruises take you straight into the heart of each island, hassle-free.
• Anchor in Hidden Bays and Coves: Swim in unspoiled waters away from crowded beaches. Unlike ferries, small ships let you stop in secluded lagoons and sea caves only reachable by boat.
• Enjoy Flexible Itineraries: No rigid ferry schedules. Small ship cruises adapt to weather, local events, and spontaneous discoveries, so you get the best experience.
• Authentic Local Experiences: Dock in traditional fishing villages, stroll through charming Choras, and dine at family-run tavernas serving the freshest seafood.
• Explore Natural and Historic Wonders: Visit places like the Monastery of Hozoviotissa in Amorgos, the historic mines of Serifos, and hiking trails with Aegean views. Moreover, all this without the usual tourist crowds.

In conclusion, with Seafarer’s small ship cruises, you don’t just visit Greece, you experience it.

Tips for Your Small Ship Cruise Adventure

Pack light & casual: A mix of swimwear, comfortable walking shoes, and light layers is all you need in small ship cruises.
Embrace the local rhythm: These islands move at a slower, more relaxed pace, so take time to enjoy it.
Be open to changes: Weather conditions may adjust your route, but this often leads to even better discoveries.

Ready to Experience Greece Like Never Before?

To sum up, small ship cruises offer the perfect way to reach remote destinations while enjoying a more personal experience. Seafarer Cruises’ ‘Hidden Greece’ itinerary gives you exclusive access to lesser-known islands, flexible schedules, and authentic cultural encounters.

Click below to get a quote and start your adventure today!

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