Cruises to the Greek Islands from Turkey 2026
- Oleg Filatov
- 18 hours ago
- 7 min read
Updated: 3 hours ago
Dreaming of exploring the Greek islands without a visa, departing from Turkey? It's not a fantasy — it's a reality for thousands of tourists from Russia, the CIS, and beyond!In 2026, cruises through the Aegean Sea from the ports of Kusadasi, Izmir, and Istanbul remain one of the most affordable and popular options. Short itineraries of 3–7 nights, prices starting from approximately €220–250 per person (interior cabin, all-inclusive, early booking), and the perfect opportunity to combine with a beach holiday in Turkey (Bodrum or Antalya). Biohactour is an official partner of La Voyage (Celestyal Cruises, MSC Cruises, Costa Cruises, and TUI Cruises).
We offer:
✓ Exclusive prices 10–25% lower than official rates (early booking discounts available until January 31, 2026 — and extended promotions for the peak May–October 2026 season)
✓ Russian/English-speaking groups and guides on Celestyal Discovery and MSC Lirica (where available)
✓ Visa-free entry for Russian citizens (Greece is part of Schengen, but round-trip cruises starting and ending in Turkey allow shore excursions in Greek ports with just a valid passport — no visa required for cruises up to 90 days; this transit rule remains in effect in 2026)
✓ Combo packages: cruise + hotel in Turkey (from approx. €500 for 7 days total, e.g., 3–4 nights cruise + beach hotel)
✓ 0% installment plans and payment with Russian cards (for eligible clients)
This season's flagship is the modern Celestyal Discovery (recently updated, capacity ~1,200–1,360 passengers, 5* service level). Popular routes include round-trips from Kusadasi → Santorini (often with overnight) → Mykonos → Rhodes → Kusadasi, with visits to Ephesus and other highlights. The main 2026 season runs from spring (April–May) through autumn (October), featuring 3–4 night "Iconic Greek Islands" and longer 7-night "Idyllic Aegean" programs.
The December 2025 – January 2026 winter mini-cruises have mostly passed, but early booking for the peak summer season (May–October 2026) is open now with the best discounts — often starting from €220–300 per person for short 3-night sailings (interior), €280–400 for oceanview, and €400–600+ for balcony, depending on dates and promotions.
Didn't find suitable dates for Greek islands cruises? Leave a request — we'll select options in just 5 minutes.
Updated: January 11, 2026.
Sources: Celestyal.com, MSCcruises.ru, Lavoyage.ru, CruiseMapper.com.
Current cruises to the Greek islands from Turkey (January 2026)
Departure Period | Ship | Itinerary (nights) | Interior Cabin | Oceanview Cabin | Balcony Cabin | Notes |
February–March 2026 | Celestyal Discovery | Kusadasi → Santorini → Mykonos → Rhodes (3–4 nights) | from €270 | from €320 | from €420 | Spring sailings, all-inclusive, Russian-speaking guide available |
May–June 2026 | MSC Lirica / Orchestra | Izmir/Istanbul → Rhodes → Santorini → Mykonos → Athens (7 nights) | from €630 | from €780 | from €1,030 | Classic summer cruise, early booking discounts up to 30% |
June–September 2026 | Celestyal Olympia | Kusadasi → Santorini → Mykonos → Rhodes → Crete (4–7 nights) | from €490 | from €630 | from €850 | Most popular route, kids sail free, authentic Greek atmosphere |
July–August 2026 | Costa Toscana / Fascinosa | Istanbul → Rhodes → Santorini → Mykonos → Istanbul (7 nights) | from €700 | from €890 | from €1,200 | Premium all-inclusive, great family discounts |
September–October 2026 | MSC / Celestyal | Kusadasi/Izmir → Santorini → Mykonos → Athens → Rhodes (7 nights) | from €600 | from €750 | from €1,000 | Velvet season – perfect weather + lower peak prices |
Sources:Celestyal.com (официальный, цены на 6.12.2025), MSCcruises.ru, Lavoyage.ru (партнёрские тарифы).
Comparison of cruise ships sailing to the Greek islands from Turkey
Parameter | Celestyal Discovery | MSC Lirica | Costa Toscana |
Year of construction / renovation | 2024 (new) | 2020 / 2024 | 2019 / 2024 |
Number of passengers | 1 200 | 2 679 | 5 224 |
English-language service | Completely (groups of 20+) | English groups + guide | Announcements and menus in English |
Food | All inclusive premium | 6 restaurants + packages | 13 restaurants, all incl. |
Children are free | Under 18 years of age (3rd-4th) | 3rd-4th in the cabin | Up to 12 years old for free |
Alcohol | Fully enabled | Packages starting from 2,000 ₽/day | Packages starting from 1,800 ₽/day |
Excursions | Petra, Santorini | Mykonos, Rhodes | Athens, Crete |
Real Reviews (December 2025)
"Celestyal Discovery November 29 – December 2 is a dream! For 22,000 ₽ for 3 nights with a balcony, Santorini at dawn is unforgettable. Russian guide, all inclusive super. Without a visa, just a passport."— Olga, Yekaterinburg, 12/3/2025
"MSC Lirica from Izmir on December 1st is perfect for a family. Russian band, kids in a mini club, Rhodes and Crete for 28,000 ₽. The 25% discount has worked!" — Sergey, St. Petersburg, 4.12.2025
How to Book the Cheapest Greek Islands Cruise from Turkey
Want to sail to the stunning Greek islands (Santorini, Mykonos, Rhodes, and more) without a visa, starting from Turkey? Cruises from ports like Kusadasi, Izmir, or Istanbul on lines such as Celestyal Cruises and MSC Cruises offer incredible value — often 30–40% cheaper than similar departures from Western Europe.Here’s how international tourists (including from Europe, the US, UK, and beyond) can secure the best deals in 2026:1. Book Early — Wave Season & Early Booking Discounts (Now – End of January 2026 & Beyond)The best savings happen during the early booking / Wave Season period. Celestyal Cruises offers up to 50% off on select 2026 sailings (with promotions running through early February 2026, including onboard credits up to $582 for dining, drinks, and excursions). For Greek islands routes, expect 20–35% discounts on Celestyal and MSC when booking now for the main season (May–October 2026).
Short 3–4 night "Iconic Greek Islands" cruises often start from around €250–€350 per person (interior cabin, all-inclusive).
7-night classic Aegean programs from €500–€700+ per person (with early bird promotions).
Tip:
Book by January 31, 2026 (or during ongoing Wave Season extensions) for the maximum savings — prices rise significantly closer to departure. Contact us or check official sites for current promotions!2. Combo Deal: Cruise + Turkey Stay — Extend Your Holiday Affordably
Combine your cruise with extra nights in Turkey for the ultimate value package.
Cruise + 3 nights in Bodrum (beachfront hotel, often all-inclusive or with breakfast) starts from around €500–€800 total per person (depending on season, hotel category, and cruise length). Bodrum is a perfect add-on: relax on stunning beaches, explore the ancient castle, or enjoy vibrant nightlife before/after your Greek islands adventure.This combo saves money on separate bookings, includes easy transfers, and lets you enjoy Turkey's turquoise coast alongside the Greek highlights.
Why This Is the Cheapest Way in 2026
Visa-free transit for many nationalities (round-trip from Turkey allows Greek port visits with just a passport — confirm based on your citizenship).
All-inclusive perks on board (meals, drinks, entertainment).
Kids sail free promotions on MSC and Celestyal (often up to 18 years, port fees only).
Multilingual service (English widely spoken, plus Russian-speaking options on select sailings).
Don't miss out — early 2026 is the time to lock in the lowest rates for the peak summer/autumn season!Ready to book the best deal? Leave a request or contact Biohactour (official partner for Celestyal, MSC, Costa) — we'll find the perfect itinerary in minutes.
Updated: January 11, 2026
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Didn't find the right cruise to Greece?
Write to WhatsApp/Telegram +90 532 679 90 57 — we will select an individual + bonus transfer. FAQ: Greek Island Cruises from Turkey
Do Foreigners Need a Visa for Greek Islands Cruises from Turkey?
It depends on your nationality — but for most visa-exempt travelers (e.g., US, Canada, UK, Australia, EU citizens), no full visa is required!For round-trip cruises starting and ending in Turkish ports (Kusadasi, Izmir, Istanbul) on lines like Celestyal, MSC, or Costa, you can go ashore in Greek ports (Santorini, Mykonos, Rhodes, etc.) without a Schengen visa thanks to the cruise transit exemption.You only need:
A valid passport (usually with at least 6 months validity).
Your cruise booking/confirmation (as proof of round-trip transit).
Key notes for 2026:
Visa-exempt nationalities (US, Canada, UK, Australia, etc.): Currently visa-free for short shore excursions in Greece. From late 2026 (likely Q4), you'll need an ETIAS travel authorization (simple online pre-approval, €7 fee, valid 3 years) for entry into the Schengen Area — even for brief cruise stops.
EU/Schengen passport holders: Completely visa-free and no ETIAS needed.
If your nationality normally requires a Schengen visa: You may need a multi-entry Schengen visa — check with your cruise line or embassy.
Always confirm with the cruise operator (Celestyal/MSC/Costa) or Biohactour, as rules depend on exact itinerary and nationality.
Turkish entry: Usually visa-free or e-Visa for most foreigners on cruises.
What are the ports of departure in Turkey?
Kuşadası (main port for Celestyal), Izmir, Istanbul. Transfer from Bodrum/Antalya from €20.
What is included in the price?
All inclusive (food, drinks), excursions to the port, fees. Surcharges: premium drinks ~18 EUR/day on Costa.
Are cruises suitable for children?
Yes — mini clubs, water parks on all liners. Children under 12-18 years old are free in the 3rd-4th place.
How to Get to the Cruise Port? (For UK and European Travellers Already in Turkey)
Getting to your cruise departure port (typically Kusadasi for short Greek islands itineraries, or Izmir port) is straightforward and convenient, especially if you're already holidaying in Turkey (e.g., in Bodrum, Antalya, Istanbul, or the Aegean coast).Main options for international visitors (UK, EU, etc.):
Fly directly to Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport (ADB): Many low-cost and scheduled airlines offer flights from major European cities (London, Manchester, Paris, Berlin, Amsterdam, Rome, etc.) — flight time 3–4 hours. Budget carriers like easyJet, Ryanair (seasonal), Pegasus, SunExpress, or Turkish Airlines provide frequent options, often with fares starting from £50–£150 one-way in shoulder season (check Skyscanner or airline sites for 2026 deals). From Izmir Airport to Kusadasi cruise port: ~70–80 km (about 1 hour by road).
Private or shared transfer from Izmir Airport to Kusadasi/Izmir port: We offer reliable, English-speaking transfers — door-to-door, air-conditioned vehicles, with meet & greet at arrivals. Price: from approx. €20–€30 per person (shared shuttle) or €80–€120 for private (up to 4 people, depending on group size). Much easier than taxis or public transport — no haggling, fixed price, and flight tracking included.
If flying into Istanbul or other Turkish airports: Domestic flights to Izmir are cheap and quick (1 hour), or take a bus/train combo. But for most cruisers, direct to Izmir is simplest.
Bonus tip: Many cruise packages include port transfers if booked through us (Biohactour — official partner for Celestyal, MSC, Costa). We can arrange everything seamlessly, including pick-up from your hotel in Bodrum/Antalya/Istanbul if you're extending your stay.No stress — arrive relaxed and ready for your Greek islands adventure (Santorini, Mykonos, Rhodes, etc.)!Need help with flights, transfers, or combining with a pre-cruise hotel stay? Just ask — we'll sort it in minutes!
Is it possible to combine this with a holiday in Turkey?
Yes — 3 nights cruise + 4 nights hotel in Bodrum from 500 Euros (contact us and we will arrange)
Which excursions are mandatory?
Santorini (sunset, volcano), Mykonos (beaches), Rhodes (ancient city).
How much does a balcony cabin cost?
From 360 Euros for 3 nights (Celestyal) - island view bonus.
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