Variety Cruises is expanding its European program for 2026 with a new seven-night itinerary through the Greek Islands and Turkey, marking the line’s return to Turkey for the first time in a decade.
The Athens-based small-ship operator said the new roundtrip sailing from Athens will explore the Cyclades and Eastern Aegean, combining marquee ports with lesser-visited islands and a call to Kusadasi for access to the ancient ruins of Ephesus.
The itinerary will feature Mykonos, Delos, Syros and Patmos, alongside Sifnos and Naxos, which are being added to Variety’s program for the first time since the company was founded in 1949.
Variety Cruises Chief Executive Officer Filippos Venetopoulos said the new voyage had been designed for travellers seeking a more intimate and culturally rich way to explore the region.
“This new voyage is ideal for travellers seeking a refined yet immersive cruise experience in Greece and Turkey, offering effortless exploration, cultural depth and breathtaking scenery at every stop – all on board an intimate yacht-style boat,” Venetopoulos said.
“Since my grandfather founded the company 76 years ago, it has been our mission to offer enriching experiences that go deeper into the destination. The addition of Sifnos and Naxos to our portfolio provides travellers with an opportunity to discover hidden gems and interact with local people, away from the more crowded tourist hot spots.”
New itinerary brings Turkey back into the fold
The new cruise will debut on 9 October 2026, with additional departures scheduled for 2027.
As part of the launch, Variety Cruises is offering fares from €2,850 per person, including two complimentary shore excursions in Delos and Ephesus.
Travellers booking the October 2026 departure can access a 20 per cent launch discount, while 2027 sailings are available with a 10 per cent early booking discount.
Lesser-known islands take centre stage
The addition of Sifnos and Naxos signals a continued focus on destinations beyond the region’s busiest tourism hubs.
Variety said the new itinerary blends iconic destinations with more under-the-radar ports, giving guests the chance to experience local communities and a slower pace of travel.
The cruise line has built its reputation on operating smaller vessels that can access places beyond the reach of larger ships, appealing to travellers seeking more authentic and less crowded experiences.
Europe program grows to 10 itineraries
The new sailing comes as Variety Cruises begins its 2026 European summer season, which officially started on 20 March 2026 with the departure of its Peloponnese Treasures: From Antiquity to Byzantium itinerary from Athens.
With the addition of the new Greek Islands and Turkey voyage, the company now offers 10 itineraries across Europe, spanning Greece, Italy, Malta, Croatia, Albania and Montenegro.
Small-ship focus remains central
Variety Cruises, which marked its 75th anniversary in 2024 and completed a fleet-wide refurbishment in 2025, continues to position itself around intimate, community-focused cruising.
The family-owned company typically hosts about 50 guests per sailing with a crew of 20, with an emphasis on immersive experiences and low-impact operations.
