Cruises

Cruising the Aegean: A First-Timer's Guide

Everything you need to know before your first Mediterranean cruise, including what not to pack.

Dimitri Karaolis·20 March 2026· 9 min
Cruising the Aegean: A First-Timer's Guide
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Why the Aegean?

An Aegean cruise lets you wake up in a new Greek island every morning without repacking your case once. Rhodes, Santorini, Mykonos, Crete: all on one ticket.

For first-timers it's the gentlest possible introduction to cruising, with short hops between ports and warm weather most of the year.

Choosing your ship

Smaller ships reach the tiny islands the mega-liners can't. If you want to dock in Mykonos town rather than tender from a distant anchorage, pick a mid-size vessel.

All-inclusive drinks packages are usually worth it on a seven-night sailing. Do the maths before you board.

  • Mid-size ships: best for island-hopping
  • Mega-ships: best for onboard entertainment
  • Sailing yachts: best for romance and quiet

What not to pack

A different outfit for every night. The dress code is relaxed, and nobody is judging. One smart outfit for the captain's dinner is plenty.

Also leave the hairdryer at home. Every cabin has one, and yours is probably better.

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