6 Mistakes Not to Make on Your Mediterranean Cruise

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A Mediterranean cruise is the ultimate bucket-list trip, allowing travelers to explore iconic cities, stunning beaches, and world-famous landmarks. When done right, it’s the perfect blend of relaxation (you only need to unpack once, and the logistics are all taken care of) and adventure (you can see a lot in a short amount of time).

However, there are a few common mistakes that many travelers make that can easily ruin their trip. To avoid these easy missteps, the travel experts at VIP Santorini gave us their best tips for what not to do on a Mediterranean cruise. 

Editor’s Note: This story was sponsored by VIP Santorini

1. Not Factoring Tendering Time at Ports

If your cruise ship arrives in a port at 11 a.m., you can schedule plans onshore starting at 11:05 a.m. Wrong. Many Mediterranean ports are too small to accommodate large cruise ships directly. Instead, passengers will have to take smaller tender boats to get to shore, which can add extra time for disembarkation and boarding. Be sure to allocate this additional time into your schedule. 

2. Booking Large Bus Tours in Small Towns

We can’t think of a worse way to see a charming Mediterranean village than through the windows of a large tour bus that barely fits down the town’s quaint, narrow, cobblestone streets. Most destinations you’ll visit on a Mediterranean cruise are best explored on foot or with a smaller group. If you sign up for a big bus tour, you might be packed in with 50 or more people and feel rushed. You’ll have to stick to a strict schedule and won’t be able to enjoy the charm of small towns—you’ll miss out on small restaurants and might not be able to visit attractions that can’t handle large groups.

Instead, book a private or small group excursion with a local tour operator who can take you to the hidden gems the large group tours bypass.

3. Falling into the Cruise Ship Excursion Trap

If you book your excursion through the cruise line, avoiding the mega-bus tours mentioned above is hard. A private or small group tour booked with a local provider like VIP Santorini will be better value and provide a better and more authentic experience. However, many cruisers are deterred by the fear-mongering warnings from the cruise line about long waits or missing the boat if they book independent excursions.

Don’t let the warnings scare you off—just make sure you allow plenty of time to get back to the ship before it departs. If you’re afraid you won’t make it off the boat in time for your tour, consider upgrading your ship reservation to a premium class for priority disembarkation.

4. Choosing the Wrong Itinerary 

Although the appeal of a Mediterranean cruise is that you get to see lots of different destinations in one trip, you want to be able actually experience those destinations. So, if you’ve always dreamed of visiting Santorini, don’t choose a cruise itinerary that only stops there for a few hours. You’ll feel rushed and like you didn’t get a true taste of the destination. Make sure you read the cruise’s itinerary carefully before booking, and look for cruises with full-day stops (i.e., the ship will be docked from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.) at the destinations that are most important to you.

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5. Not Eating Off the Ship

One of the perks of traveling on a cruise is the all-you-can-eat buffet, but save some stomach space for dining off-ship. Shipboard meals are convenient, but tasting the local cuisine is an essential part of travel you don’t want to deprive yourself of.

When you’re onshore, visit local restaurants and markets to immerse yourself in the authentic food culture. VIP Santorini recommends trying the following Mediterranean classics:

• Greek salad
• Olive oil
• Cheese
• Wine
• Spirits, including ouzo or raki

6. Packing the Wrong Shoes

Visiting many Greek destinations, including Athens and the islands, involves significant amounts of walking. You’ll need to be prepared for cobblestone streets, steep hills, and uneven pathways. If you’ve packed uncomfortable shoes or flimsy flip-flops, you won’t be able to explore as much as you hoped and might wind up back at the ship earlier than planned, nursing blisters or sore feet. 

Pack comfortable shoes that are well-broken-in and can handle uneven terrain and many miles. 

Bonus Insider Tips: Santorini & Athens

The experts at VIP Santorini have years of on-the-ground experience across the Mediterranean. Here are their insider tips for visitors to two of the most popular Mediterranean cruise destinations, Santorini and Athens.

Santorini Travel Tips

The old port in Fira, Santorini, is separated from the main town by a steep climb, so be prepared. There are three main options to get from the old port into town:

1. Cable car: Quick and efficient, but expect lines during peak hours.
2. Walking: It is a steep climb up over 600 stairs to reach the town from the old port. Be prepared for a strenuous workout, and also expect to share the stairs with donkeys.
3. Donkey rides: A controversial choice that animal welfare advocates advise against.

Walking in the Villages

Narrow cobblestone paths connect the picturesque villages of Oia, Fira, and Imerovigli. Exploring these iconic towns means navigating many stairs and uneven surfaces. Take your time, wear breathable clothing, and carry water, especially in the summer heat. 

Recommended Service in Santorini

For a reliable and excellent experience in Santorini, consider using VIP Santorini. They offer tailored tours and transfers, allowing you to explore the island’s stunning landscapes and traditional villages comfortably and at your own pace.

Athens Travel Tips

Athens is a mix of ancient ruins and bustling urban streets. Walking to landmarks like the Acropolis, Plaka, and Monastiraki markets requires stamina.

Tips for Visiting the Acropolis:

• Wear comfortable shoes with good grip—some pathways around the ruins can be slippery.
• Morning visits are less crowded and cooler, making the climb more enjoyable.

Key Items to Bring

• Comfortable walking shoes (preferably closed-toe for uneven paths).
• Sun protection: Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses.
• Refillable water bottle to stay hydrated.
• Light layers: The weather can vary between sunny afternoons and breezy evenings.

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