With hundreds of islands scattered across the Mediterranean, and its hillside villages steeped in centuries of maritime history, the Greek Islands remain one of the world’s most captivating sailing destinations. Star Clippers’ 2026 Greece sailings invite travelers to experience this timeless region the way it was meant to be explored—under sail aboard a traditional tall ship, gliding between islands and arriving directly into the heart of historic ports. For a limited time, guests who reserve select 2026 Greece sailings by April 30, 2026, will receive one complimentary pre- or post-cruise hotel night in Athens with breakfast and a complimentary transfer between the hotel and ship (or reverse). Offer is valid for residents of North, Central and South America only.
Unlike conventional cruise ships, Star Clippers’ authentic sailing vessels travel under wind power whenever possible, bringing guests closer to the maritime traditions of the Mediterranean. With expansive teak decks, open-air lounging spaces and a relaxed yacht-like atmosphere, the company’s ships offer an intimate way to explore the Greek Islands and smaller ports often inaccessible to larger vessels.
The special promotion applies to select 2026 Greece itineraries aboard the 166-guest Star Flyer, sailing roundtrip from Athens (Piraeus). Each itinerary highlights different island regions of the Aegean, combining scenic sailing passages with stops in picturesque harbors and historic coastal towns.
One featured departure is the Northern Cyclades (July 11 and August 1), a seven-night voyage that explores some of the most celebrated islands of the Aegean. Sailing roundtrip from Athens, the itinerary includes visits to iconic destinations such as Mykonos, known for its whitewashed architecture and vibrant waterfront; Amorgos, home to the dramatic cliff-side Monastery of Hozoviotissa; and Sifnos, an island celebrated for its culinary traditions and charming harbor villages. Fares for this sailing starting at $2,410 per person, double, including port charges.
Another option is the Southern Cyclades itinerary (July 18 and August 8), offering a blend of legendary islands and dramatic volcanic landscapes. Guests can experience Santorini’s famous caldera views, explore the medieval Old Town of Rhodes, and enjoy relaxed sailing between the islands with time on deck as the ship moves under wind power through the Aegean Sea. The voyage also includes a stop in Hydra, where cars are banned and transportation is primarily by foot or donkey, preserving the island’s timeless character. This sailing offers fares from $2,410.
Travelers seeking a route rich in natural beauty and lesser-visited ports may consider Sporades Highlights. This seven-night itinerary (July 25 and August 15) focuses on the lush islands of the northern Aegean, including Skiathos and Skopelos, where pine forests meet turquoise waters and traditional villages along the hillsides with views of the sea. Guests also visit Poros, a charming harbor town just off the Peloponnese coast known for its neoclassical architecture and relaxed waterfront cafés. Fares start at $2,410.
Each voyage combines the romance of traditional sailing with modern comforts. When the wind fills the 56,000 square feet of sails, guests can hear the snap of canvas while enjoying sweeping views of the Aegean from the ship’s open decks—an experience that evokes the golden age of sailing while delivering the amenities expected by today’s travelers. Guests are invited to learn about sailing from the crew, climb the crow’s nest, help hoist the sails, or simply watch as the crew manages lines and rigging — a hands-on experience no conventional cruise can offer.
During the weeklong itineraries, days may include swimming stops, exploring historic harbors, browsing local markets and enjoying Greek cuisine ashore. Evenings aboard ship are relaxed and convivial, often featuring open-air dining, cocktails under the stars and live piano music in the lounge.
The complimentary Athens hotel night and transfer offer allows guests to extend their journey effortlessly, making it easier to explore the ancient capital before embarking or after returning from their sailing adventure. Space for the promotion is limited and available only on select sailings for new bookings made by April 30, 2026.
For more than 35 years, Star Clippers has been introducing travelers to the thrill of modern tall-ship sailing to remote ports in the Caribbean, Mediterranean, and Central America. The company operates three of the world’s largest and tallest sailing vessels: Star Clipper and Star Flyer are traditional clipper ships with modern amenities carrying 166 guests each, while the 227-guest Royal Clipper holds the Guinness World Record as the largest and only five-masted, fully-rigged sailing ship in service today. All three ships have expansive teak decks, swimming pools informal dining, convivial tropical bars on deck, and piano lounges.