Norwegian 7 Day Greek Isles from Venice Cruise: What to Expect

Staying on each Greek Island for multiple days would be fantastic, but when you’re short on time, the best way to travel the Greek Islands is via a cruise.  

The 7 day Norwegian cruise from Venice has some of the most popular Greek Island stops and is one of the best Greek Island cruises on offer.  This Greek Island hopping cruise was a great way for us to see the Greek Islands in October.

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More About The Greek Islands Cruise

The Greek cruise takes you to all the famous Greek isles!

The Islands are divided into six main island groups, namely the Saronic Gulf Islands, the Cyclades Islands, the North Aegean Islands, the Dodecanese Islands, the Sporades Islands, the Ionian Islands, and the island of Crete.  

It’s not too difficult getting around the Greek Islands within a group as this can be done via ferry and hydrofoil options. There are plenty of smaller Greek island cruise ships provided!

However, if you’re considering how to travel the Greek Islands in different groups, the only option really is to cruise around the Greek Islands or to fly.  This is why Greek Island cruises are such a great option, as there is no need to check into multiple hotels and unpack multiple times. If a large cruise ship isn’t your thing, then you might enjoy a sailing holiday in Greece instead.

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NCL Greece Cruise From Venice

We took the Norwegian Cruise from Venice, which is a fantastic 7-day Greek Island cruise, and includes 6 port stops.  The cruise from Venice to Greek Islands includes stops at Mykonos, Corfu, Santorini, as well as a stop in the Montenegro city of Kotor, the Croatian city of Dubrovnik and back to Venice.

We had a fantastic time in Greece, cruising the seas, and highly recommend it if you are looking at 7-day Greek Island cruises. It really is the best way to see the Greek Islands in one week.

If you’re interested in learning more about this Norwegian Cruise, then keep reading below for my full Norwegian cruise review.

Best Way to Cruise Greek Islands: 7day Greek Isles Cruise Itinerary

As mentioned, the best way to travel the Greek Islands for 7 days really is onboard a Greek Island cruise. While you don’t spend too long on any given island, during this 7-night Greek Isles cruise onboard the Norwegian Star you will get a great overview of the islands.  

Let’s check out the Norwegian Cruise Line Greek Islands itinerary so you’ll know what to expect when you cruise to Greece’s famous islands.

 

Arriving in Venice

We arrived in Venice the day before our cruise so we didn’t have to feel rushed. We took full advantage of our short stay in Venice and started to explore the city as soon as we checked into our hotel and dropped off our bags we were off! If you are in Venice for a while before the cruise, there are plenty of must-have experiences in Venice to be enjoyed!

Departure Day: Venice, Italy

The Venice to Greece cruise departs Venice at 5 pm.  However, you are required to be on board the Norwegian Cruise Line – Greek Isles, no later than 3 pm.

Getting to the cruise port from Venice was fairly easy and inexpensive.  We walked from our hotel to the People Mover that took us directly to the port which was only a short ride.  Once we arrived at the port we walked to where the Norwegian Star ship was docked for check-in.

The check-in process is fairly easy as it is the same as checking in for a flight.  Once you arrive at the port your luggage is tagged and checked in and will be delivered to your cabin by the afternoon.  You then proceed to the check-in counter where you get your cabin fee.

Your picture will be taken for your room key and credit card swiped for any incidentals.  Once you have received your cabin key you will then proceed to security (like at the airport) where your bags are scanned.

 

Day 1: Kotor, Montenegro

Most of the first full day of the cruise from Venice to Greece is spent on the water.  We took full advantage of the late port stop and explored the ship. As we were getting closer to Kotor, we took in all the beauty of the mountains.

At 2pm we arrived at our first port being Kotor in Montenegro.  Kotor is located between the mountains and the Bay of Kotor on the Adriatic Sea and is listed as a UNESCO World Natural and Historical Heritage Site.  Despite only having 6 hours in port (departure is at 8 pm), you get the opportunity to stroll the cobbled streets, admire the old buildings and explore the gorgeous little cafes and shops.

Optional Norwegian Star Excursions – Kotor

The Norwegian Cruise Line – Greece, has a few organized tours that you may wish to join, including:

• Kayaking the Adriatic Coastline: Over 3.25 hours explore the waters of the Bay of Kotor by kayak.  
• Boka Bay Catamaran Sail & Beach
• The Bay of Kotor Tuk Tuk Tour
• Historic Kotor & Budva-Kilims Story
• Montenegrin Village Life & Kotor
• Hike to the top of the City Walls
• Cycling Around Boka Bay
• Explore the Old Town – A Medieval Jewel
• Kotor, Perast & Our Lady of the Rock
• Easy Kotor & Perast
• Budva and Kotor Montenegrin Pearl

In Kotor, we did the Budva and Kotor Montenegrin Pearl tour. Once we arrived at the port we met our guide at the port of Kotor.  Before driving to the town of Budva we drove to view Sveti Stefan, once a 15th-century fortified town on an island.

Today it is an exclusive resort.  After our photo stop, we headed to old Budva.  We did a walking tour of old Budva. We walked through the narrow streets of this fortified medieval town which was influenced by the ancient republic of Venice. After our tour of Budva, we returned to Kotor to stroll through the UNESCO World Heritage site of Kotor.

 

Day 2: Corfu, Greece

On day 2 of the Greek Isles cruise, the ship docks in Corfu at 10 am. Corfu is said to be one of the lushest of the Greek Islands and is absolutely stunning with its dramatic blue waters and sweet little hillside villages.  With a full day of exploring, (the ship departs at 4 pm) you have plenty of time to explore the island.

Optional Norwegian Star Excursions – Corfu

The Norwegian Cruise – Greek Islands, has some great Corfu Excursions:

• Best of Corfu
• Achilleion Palace & Corfu Town
• Scenic Island Flavours
• Scenic Corfu & Island Views
• 4×4 Adventure
• Mountain Bike Expedition
• Corfu Beach Break

Discover the best of Corfu on this tour. You’ll tour the island, visit a stunning palace and enjoy a traditional lunch with live entertainment at a local taverna. Drive through Corfu and arrive at Achilleon’s Palace built by order of Empress Elizabeth of Austria and completed in 1891. The empress had fallen in love with the natural beauty of the island during her 1861 visit and also developed a great appreciation for Greek history and mythology.

After a guided visit of the grounds and palace, you’ll continue to the traditional village of Kinopiastes. Enjoy a rich and traditional lunch at the famous Tripas Tavern accompanied by live Greek music and dancers. Board your coach for the drive back to the Old Town of Corfu where you’ll have the opportunity to either be dropped off, to walk through the narrow lanes and browse on your own, or return with the coach directly to your ship.

Day 3: Santorini, Greece

Day 3 of one of the best Greek Isles cruises is a long day of cruising, so it’s a great opportunity to join in some of the onboard activities.  Once you dock in Santorini, you can enjoy its many beautiful beaches.

With so many things to do in Santorini and with limited time, we decided to join the Charming Oia Village tour that took us to both Oia and Fira where we took the cable car back down to our ship.

At 2 pm the ship docked into Santorini. One of the more popular Greek Islands, Santorini is a stop on all the best cruise Greek Islands tours.  The island is well known for its whitewashed villages hanging on the edge of the cliffs. With the ship departing at 10 pm, you have 8 full hours to explore the gorgeous island and discover volcanic Santorini.

Optional Norwegian Star Excursions – Santorini

The Norwegian Venice to the Greek Islands cruise has some great Santorini excursions:

• Greek Style Celebration – Opa
• Ancient Akrotiri & Wine Tasting
• Charming Oia & Winery
• Volcano Hiking
• Charming Oia Village
• Ultimate Santorini
• 4×4 Island Adventure
• Perivolos Beach Transfer

Built high up on the ridge of red rocks, Oia offers breathtaking views of the blue Aegean and the caldera below. Take a stroll around the narrow streets with free time to visit the art galleries, antique shops and perhaps enjoy a cup of coffee in one of the cafés or pastry shops.

Many artists have fallen in love with this idyllic setting and their presence is obvious in the many art galleries. This traditional village offers you spectacular photo opportunities of the famed blue domed churches and sundrenched verandas.If you have time, make sure to check out some of the best beaches in Santorini.

 

Day 4: Mykonos, Greece

On day 4, you’ll arrive nice and early at the Mykonos cruise port.  Mykonos is a popular stop for cruises around the Greek Islands given it is a classic Greek island with whitewashed houses, blue-domed churches, windmills, and stunning Mykonos beaches.  

Arriving at 8 am and departing at 3 pm, you’ll have almost a full day to explore Mykonos.  If you are lucky enough to spend some extra time in Mykonos, make sure to check out some of the best places to stay in Mykonos.

Optional Norwegian Star Excursions – Mykonos

The Norwegian Cruise Greek Isles tour has a few organized tours that you may wish to join, including:

• Delos: Birthplace of Artemis & Apollo
• Scenic Views of Mykonos
• 4X4 Adventure & Beach
• Mykonos of Foot
• Mykonos Beach Transfer

In Mykonos, we did the Scenic Views of Mykonos tour that took us to an Ouzo factory.  Ouzo is a dry anise-flavored aperitif that is widely consumed in Greece and is Its taste is similar to other anise liqueurs.  We also got to explore some of the local beaches, white houses and churches and the world famous windmills.

After our tour we had some time to explore Mykonos and walked around the famous shopping streets, little Venice and of course enjoyed some delicious Greek food.  One dessert that I would highly recommend is the orange pie. Orange pie is a staple in every Greek household during the spring and summer season and I would highly recommend that you fill your belly with this delicious dessert.

Day 5: Day at Sea

Sea days are meant for sleeping in, eating and enjoying the cruise ship.  We slept in and found ourselves lazily roaming around the ship from restaurant to restaurant.  There is no shortage of food on the cruise ship and you will want to try every one of the restaurants on board.  

We lounged by the pool and walked a few laps around the jogging track to help burn off those extra desserts.

Day 6: Dubrovnik, Croatia

After exploring the Greek Islands, this cruise from Venice to Croatia will arrive bright and early at the Dubrovnik cruise port.  

Named “the pearl of the Adriatic” by the poet Lord Byron, you’ll love exploring this city’s gorgeous streets. Admire the old buildings with bright orange roofs and the lovely beaches.  Arriving at 7.30 am and departing at 1.30 pm, you’ll have around half the day for exploring.

Optional Norwegian Star Excursions – Dubrovnik

The Norwegian cruise from Venice to Dubrovnik as a few organized Dubrovnik Excursions:

• Game of Thrones Tour Dubrovnik – Venture Through King’s Landing
• Croatian Riviera & Dubrovnik Tours
• Cabrio Panoramic Tour
• Old Town, Riviera Drive & Wine Tasting
• Dubrovnik, Village & Wine Tasting
• Historic Dubrovnik
• Walking Tour & Cable Car
• Scenic Dubrovnik by Land and Sea
• Sea Kayaking on the Adriatic
• Tuk-Tuk Panoramic Ride and Old Town
• Ultimate Dubrovnik
• Dubrovnik Orientation & Konavle
• There are several Kayaking Dubrovnik tours

I would highly recommend this.  We had enjoyed some Croatian pizza (I think it’s better than Italian pizza but don’t tell my husband I said that) and you can’t visit Dubrovnik without having palacinke (the Croatian version of a crepe).

If you are staying longer than a day, there are so many great day trips from Dubrovnik to enjoy.

Day 7: End of Cruise

All cruises from Venice to Greek Islands must, unfortunately, come to an end, and this Greek Isles cruise ends on day 7, arriving back in Venice at 8 am.

About The Ship: Norwegian Star

You will certainly be comfortable during this Venice to Greek Islands cruise.  Like most cruise ships, the Norwegian Star is huge!

With 14 decks, the Norwegian Star has 15 restaurants and cafes, 10 bars and lounges, a casino, a theatre, heaps of recreation areas and a dedicated area for the kids.  The ship has been recently refurbished as part of The Norwegian Edge program.

Norwegian Star Cabin Options

Onboard this Greek Island-hopping cruise, there are various room options suitable for groups of 2 people, 3 people, and 4 people.  Rooms are further split into categories namely inside, ocean view, balcony, mini-suite, and suites.

 

Inside State Rooms

These are the budget rooms onboard the cruise to the Greek Islands and include everything you need including TV, sitting room and more.  These rooms are found on decks 4, 5, 8, 9,10,11 and 12 and are around 142sqf in size.

Oceanview State Rooms

If, whilst on board your cruise of the Greek Islands, you’d like to see the ocean out your window, these rooms are for you.  Suitable for up to 4 people, these rooms are spacious at around 159 sqf and are located on decks 4, 5,6 and 8.

 

Balcony State Rooms

For those wanting a little more luxury on their cruise through the Greek Islands, the rooms with balconies are perfect.  These rooms accommodate 3 people and have floor to ceiling glass doors opening to your very own balcony. These rooms are found on decks 8, 9, 10 and 11 and are very spacious from 203 to 303 sqf.

Mini-Suite

During your Greek isle cruise, the mini-suites provide additional space with your very own sitting room as well as a luxury bath and shower and your very own balcony.  These rooms are suitable for up to 4 people, and are spacious with 283 sq feet of space. Mini-suites are located on deck 11 only.

Suite

For the ultimate in luxury Greek Island cruises, there are a variety of different suites available accommodation from 4 to up to 7 people.  Choose from luxury 1 bedroom, 2 bedroom or even 3-bedroom suites with your own deck, hot tub, even butler and concierge service. Suites are located on decks 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14.

 

Norwegian Star Dining Options

One thing is for sure – you won’t go hungry on board the Norwegian Cruise – Greek Islands.  With many restaurants and bars to choose from, you will never get bored or eat the same thing again.

O’Sheehan’s Neighborhood Bar & Grill

Cruising the Greek Islands whilst eating Irish pub classics is possible onboard the Norwegian Cruise Line – Greek Islands. This bar and grill is open 24 hours and there is no additional charge.

 

On one of the best Greek cruises, this is a must-see place to dine!

Moderno Churrascaria

Cruise the Greek Isles while enjoying authentic Brazilian food at Modern Churrascaria.  Enjoy salads and skewers of slow-roasted meats.

Cagney’s Steakhouse

At this steakhouse, you can enjoy some delicious American-style food.

Garden Cafe

Onboard the Norwegian Cruise Line from Venice you can enjoy a buffet breakfast, lunch, and dinner at the Garden Café.  From this café, there are gorgeous views across the ocean and plenty of food options including meats, pasts, omelets, waffles, ice cream and more.

Topsiders Bar & Grill

While onboard this Venice to Greek Islands cruise, if you crave some casual dining and good food, such as burgers and hot dogs, then Topsiders is perfect for you.

Ginza Asian Restaurant

Cruise the Greek seas whilst enjoying Asian fusion cuisine at Ginza Asian Restaurant.  Here they have fresh noodle dishes, wok-fried dishes, soups and more.

Aqua Main Dining Room

This is one of two main restaurants where passengers eat during their 7 day Greek Isles cruise.  The Aqua Main Dining room serves a range of food.

Versailles Main Dining Room

The second main dining room is Versailles, which also offers a range of dishes.

La Cucina

At La Cucina, you can enjoy Italian classics like pasta carbonara and lobster fettuccine.

Le Bistro

Onboard the Norwegian Star there is even a French restaurant!  Le Bistro serves a range of classic French cuisine, as well as other Mediterranean dishes.

Atrium Café and Bar

If you need a quick coffee, or somewhere to relax, visit the Atrium Café and Bar.

Sushi and Sake Bar

At the Sushi and Sake Bar – you guessed it – they serve sushi and delicious Japanese food

Teppanyaki

Want even more Japanese food?  Then head to Teppanyaki where you sit at shared tables and be amazed as the chefs dazzle you with their cooking skills, serving up a range of meats.

 

Norwegian Star Bars and Lounges

Once the sun goes down, you’ll no doubt want to venture out for a drink or two.  Onboard this cruise there are plenty of great bars to choose from.

Sky High

The Sky High Bar is a casual outdoor bar.

Sugarcane Mojito Bar

As the name suggests this bar serves up mojitos day and night!

Spice H20

Adults only at this bar where you can relax in reclined lounge chairs whilst sipping cocktails or join the dance floor in the evening.

5 O’Clock Somewhere Bar

Ha – I’ve always loved that saying – it’s 5 o’clock somewhere!  At this bar, you can chill out whilst drinking a margarita or whatever your drink of choice is.

Gatsby’s Champagne Bar

If you want something a little more sophisticated, head to Gatsby’s Champagne Bar. Which serves a selection of premium champagne and vodka, caviar, Pate and Foie Gras.

Bliss Ultra Lounge

If you’re a dancer, then the Bliss Ultra Lounge is where you’ll want to be in the evenings.  Great place to dance and have a drink or two.

Norwegian Star Entertainment

No Greek Island cruises from Venice would be complete with plenty of onboard entertainment, and onboard the Norwegian Star is no exception. There is plenty of onboard activities to keep you busy when you’re not in port.

Stardust Theatre

At the Stardust Theatre, you can enjoy fantastic Broadway-style shows in this traditional European opera house style theatre which spreads out over three decks.  If you are expecting cheesy all-inclusive resort type entertainment, you are going to be pleasantly surprised. The entertainment is amazing – it really did surprise us how fantastic the shows were.

 

Star Club Casino

If you’re feeling lucky or like a bit of Blackjack, Roulette, poker machine then head on up to the Star Club Casino Bar.

Recreation and other Facilities

Like all the best Greek Cruise lines, the Norwegian Star has plenty of facilities for you to stay active, as well as relax.

The Oasis Pool

While you cruise Venice to Greece, you can spend time in the Norwegian Star’s main pool which also has two hot tubs.  The deck during the day at sea was completely full but yet didn’t feel uncomfortable.

The ship was full but there was enough room for everyone to bask in the sun.  There are tiered levels of loungers, which allows for more seating without feeling crowded.

Jogging / Walking track

Run circles around the other guests or get in your daily walk while you’re at sea. Breakfast always tastes better after a good walk or run, right?  We actually found ourselves walking along this track, especially during our day at sea.

Mandara Spa

If being pampered is your idea of a holiday, the Mandara Spa is the place for you. This full-service beauty salon and spa offers a wide range of spa treatments to rejuvenate your body and soul.

Indoor Lap Pool and Jacuzzi

Just because you’re at sea, doesn’t mean you can’t get in your daily swim. The Indoor Lap Pool includes a Thermal Suite. C’mon, jump in. The water feels fine.

Spa Thermal Suite

The Thermal Suite offers a unique experience benefiting the mind and body. Feel the weightlessness and total relaxation created by the kneading effect of water in the Thalassotherapy Pool. Head to the steam room to soothe aching joints, freshen your complexion and re-energize your immune system.

If detox is what you crave, sit down at the sauna to sweat out your cares as your heart and sweat glands work together to purify your body. Take a dip in the hot tub and leave the world behind as the power of the warm water improves your circulation and loosen stiff muscles.

Thermal Suite Pass

Refresh, recharge and relax. Experience the ultimate in heat and water therapy at the Thermal Suite and enjoy the resplendent views.

Basketball/Volleyball Court

Shoot hoops, join a game or play volleyball at the enclosed, outdoor Basketball/Volleyball Court.

Golf Driving Net

Fore! Play a round at one of two Golf Driving Nets onboard, because there’s no such thing as a lost ball or a bad drive on Norwegian Star.

Barong Fitness Centre

There are numerous ways to stay in shape while onboard. The Barong Fitness Centre is open from 6 am to 11 pm with a full-service gym and aerobics/fitness classes offered daily.

Hot Tubs

There are six hot tubs conveniently located. Try them all out or pick your favorite and make relaxing and unwinding a part of your daily regimen.

Library

You’ll find a well-stocked selection of things to read with all the elegant trimmings a good library deserves.

Internet Café

No matter how far you are from home, you can stay in touch. The Internet Café can also be used as a computer lecture and training centre.

Things for Kids to do on the Norwegian Star

Not all cruises to Greece have this much variety! Even the little ones have an endless number of activities to choose from.

Splash Academy

Jump into a splash of fun at Splash Academy just for kids 3-12. Join us for active games, arts, and crafts, and jump into character with the creative theme days.

Teen Club

A hip place for teens to hang out. It features a video wall, jukebox, football table, and air hockey. By night the Teen Club turns into a teen disco.

Video Zone

Stop by the video arcade and capture a few aliens, win a car race, play pinball and fly a jet fighter.

Norwegian Star Shopping

Something that makes this one of the best cruises to Greece is that there are amazing shops to enjoy some retail therapy in!

Colombian Emeralds International

Each of our gemstones, whether they be emeralds, diamonds, sapphires or rubies, convey exactly the right sentiment for that special moment. We also carry top brand timepieces at duty-free prices.

Port o’Call

You’ll find a nice selection of sundries to purchase here.

The Galleria Shops

Need a new bathing suit? How about a surprise gift for your sweetheart? The Galleria is a department store that offers a wide selection of brand names and specialty goodies.  If you forgot something you can definitely find it at one of the cruise ship shops.

The Tides

Conveniently located in the Atrium, Tides offers the very best deals of the cruise, our exciting one-day specials give you the chance to make savings of up to 70% off US prices what better way to take home a gift for everyone. Make sure you check the Freestyle Daily for day and time of each daily special.

Wine Cellar

Here’s your chance to go wine tasting while onboard ship. You’ll find a wide selection of wines to sample and purchase.

 

Departure Dates and Pricing of the Norwegian Star Greek Isles Cruise

The Greek Isle cruises typically start departing in late May or early June and end mid-October.  The price of a 7 day Greek Isle cruise varies on the room category and the date that you decide to sail and typically starts at approximately $1000 per person for an inside room.

Best Time to Cruise the Greek Islands

The best time to begin your Greek Islands cruising is anytime really, but I would recommend cruising in the early spring or fall.  It is fairly hot and crowded in Europe during the summer months. If you cruise at the beginning or end of the cruise season then you can enjoy comfortable weather conditions as well as smaller crowds.

Before You Go / Good to Know

• Disembarkation usually begins 2 hours after docking.
• Due to security reasons, all guests must be on board 2 hours before sailing.
• Itineraries are subject to change at any time without notice.
• Check your specific sailing for exact departure and arrival times. All times are local to the port.

 

Best of the Greek Island Cruises: Norwegian Cruise from Venice

This was our second cruise with Norwegian Cruise Lines and we are absolutely hooked. It is something that makes for a thrilling bucket list adventure!

We loved everything from the gourmet food onboard the ship, to the service and of course the destinations.  NCL offers freestyle cruising that allows you to dine freely when and where you want. You can do as much, or as little, as you want on a cruise which is why we think the Norwegian Star is one of the best luxury Greek Islands Cruises to sail on.

Thank you to Norwegian Cruise Lines for a fabulous vacation.  We loved our time on the Greek Isle Norwegian Star cruise. The service was outstanding and the staff were always there to make sure we had everything we needed to make our vacation memorable.

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