Andreas Stylianopoulos, owner of Navigator Travel & Tourist Services and Massimiliano Gianvenuti, Royal Caribbean Key Account Manager IRs Greece, Israel, Turkey, Cyprus, Netherlands, Belgium, Romania, Hungary, Balkans, Ukraine, Malta. Photo © Greek Travel Pages
Royal Caribbean is reinforcing its long-term commitment to Greece and the Eastern Mediterranean for 2026–2027, combining expanded homeporting in Piraeus with plans to launch its first private cruise destination in Europe.
The cruise line will base two vessels in Athens across the two seasons while introducing new itinerary highlights — including an overnight call in Egypt — further strengthening Greece’s role in its regional deployment strategy.
The plans were presented to Greek media during an event in Athens by officials of Navigator Travel & Tourist Services, the exclusive representative for Royal Caribbean International in Greece and Bulgaria. During the presentation, it was confirmed that Brilliance of the Seas will homeport in Piraeus in 2026, followed by Rhapsody of the Seas operating from the Greek port in 2027.
“Travelers can take a boat from Piraeus, cruise to Turkey, and return after visiting Mykonos and Santorini,” said Stella Papadaki, Communications and Sales Executive at Navigator Travel & Tourist Services.
Brilliance of the Seas returns in 2026
Maria Dinemi, Digital Marketing Director Cruise Department, presenting the itineraries of the Brilliance of the Seas. Photo © Greek Travel Pages
In summer 2026, Brilliance of the Seas will operate four seven-night roundtrip sailings from Piraeus. The itineraries include calls at popular Greek destinations such as Mykonos, Santorini and Rhodes, alongside ports in Turkey and Cyprus, including Ephesus, Bodrum, Istanbul and Limassol.
Part of the Radiance Class, the 293-meter vessel accommodates up to 2,142 guests and is tailored to offer a destination-focused cruise experience in the Eastern Mediterranean.
2027 program connects Greece and Egypt
The program of the Rhapsody of the Seas departing from Piraeus. Photo © Greek Travel Pages
Royal Caribbean is set to expand its regional footprint further in 2027, with Rhapsody of the Seas offering weekly departures from Piraeus.
A key development for the season is the introduction of Egypt to the itinerary for the first time, featuring an overnight stay in Alexandria. The extended call will allow passengers more time to explore the destination and participate in shore excursions beyond a traditional day visit, providing a more immersive experience in the region.
At the same time, the line will operate seven-night “Best of Greece & Turkey” cruises, calling at Mykonos, Ephesus (Kusadasi), Santorini and Istanbul — where the itinerary includes a two-day stay — strengthening the city-and-culture dimension of its Eastern Mediterranean program.
Royal Beach Club Santorini to debut in 2026
An impression of the upcoming Royal Beach Club on Santorini set to open in summer 2026. Photo source: Royal Caribbean
Beyond ship deployments, Royal Caribbean is preparing to launch its first Royal Beach Club in Europe, set to open in Santorini in summer 2026.
The new facility will be integrated into a full-day shore experience branded as “Ultimate Santorini”, combining coastal sightseeing with access to the private beach club. The excursion will begin with a ferry tour along Santorini’s coastline before arriving at a volcanic black-sand beach, where guests will have access to dedicated beach facilities, dining options and panoramic sea views.
The program will also include stops in Oia and Fira, allowing passengers to explore the island’s iconic blue-domed architecture and the vibrant center of the capital.
“The company has strategically moved to differentiate its product by offering passengers private, dedicated spaces that enhance comfort and exclusivity,” Papadaki noted.
The Royal Beach Club forms part of the company’s broader “Ultimate Destinations” portfolio and represents a strategic investment in curated, premium shore experiences in high-demand destinations such as Santorini.
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