July 2024. Steve and I are cruising on the Norwegian Getaway, a Breakaway class ship by Norwegian Cruise Line or NCL. Interestingly, our stay on board happened shortly after the Getaway paid a visit to the dry dock for some refurbishments. The route? Piraeus, which is the port of Athens in Greece; followed by Mykonos; two days in Istanbul in Turkey or Türkiye; then Kusadasi or Kuşadası for Ephesus; Rhodes; Santorini (Thira or Thera) and back to Piraeus. Oddly enough, the itinerary offered no sea days.  

The last port of call on the ‘7-Day Greek Isles Round-trip Athens: Santorini, Rhodes & Istanbul‘ cruise was Santorini. But we decided to stay on board.

But first, let me introduce Santorini (Σαντορίνη) or Thira (Θήρα). 

Santorini

Located in the southern Aegean Sea, Santorini is the largest island of a volcanic archipelago, shaped by cataclysmic eruptions that have defined its unique character.

The island’s dramatic topography is a direct result of a colossal volcanic eruption estimated to have occurred around 1650 BC. This cataclysmic event formed the caldera, a vast, horseshoe-shaped bay surrounded by towering cliffs. The eruption’s impact was so significant that it’s believed to have inspired the legend of Atlantis.

Despite its volcanic origins, Santorini boasts fertile soil, producing high-quality wines and captivating sunsets that have become synonymous with the island. Its whitewashed villages, perched precariously on the caldera’s edge, offer a picturesque backdrop for unforgettable photographs.

The island’s history is as captivating as its scenery. Evidence of human settlement dates back to the Neolithic era, with the Minoan civilization leaving its mark around the 16th century BC. Santorini’s strategic location made it a thriving trade center, connecting the Aegean and Mediterranean worlds.

The Roman period brought prosperity to the island, with the construction of villas and public buildings. However, earthquakes and volcanic eruptions led to periods of decline. The Byzantine era saw a resurgence, with Santorini becoming a significant maritime and commercial center.

Under Venetian rule in the 13th century, the island experienced a period of fortification and architectural development. The Ottomans conquered Santorini in the 16th century, and their influence is visible in the island’s architecture and culture.

The 20th century brought significant changes. The island came under Italian control following the Italo-Turkish War, and later, during World War II, it was occupied by Germany. After the war, Santorini became part of Greece.

Tourism

Tourism emerged as a dominant force in the island’s economy in the latter half of the 20th century. While bringing prosperity, it also presented challenges. Overtourism, infrastructure strain, and environmental concerns became pressing issues.

Santorini’s allure remains undeniable. Its unique landscape, rich history, and vibrant culture continue to draw visitors from around the world. However, the island faces the challenge of balancing economic growth with environmental preservation and the maintenance of its authentic character.

Future restrictions

In June 2024, so just before we sailed, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis (New Democracy) announced future restrictions for cruises sailing to Santorini and Mykonos. Not only locals complain their islands have become unlivable, other tourists complain too. And Mykonos and Santorini being eyewateringly expensive at times, those complaining tourists are rich. Those are the ones pumping money in the local economy, not the cruisers. 

Why we stayed on board

There are a few reasons why we stayed on board.

Firstly, we’ve already visited Santorini. The tours offered by Shore Excursions were (quasi) identical as the ones MSC offered in 2019. ‘Ancient Akrotiri, wine tasting and Oia’? Been there, done that.

Why not explore on our own? That’s very hard on Santorini. You come ashore at sea level (duh) and then you need to climb. Cars and busses are scarce and hard to get hold of, the funicular has long waiting lines and the climb on foot is steep. 

Once at at the top, what then?

Secondly, overtourism. Mykonos wasn’t fun. Santorini would be even worse.

Thirdly, this cruise didn’t have a sea day. That day was the last full day so it was the last chance to have a nice and relaxing day.

Fourthly, it had been an intense and intensive cruise so a bit of a rest was welcome. Those books don’t read themselves! 

So, what did we do?

Well, “nothing”, or nothing significant. We had a late breakfast, rested on sun beds, went to Mandara Spa. We read, we ate, we napped, we had cocktails.

In the evening we packed our bags, saw the Rob West show, had a little bite and went to bed. 

Not having a sea day

Not having a sea day made me appreciate them. Too many sea days is not ideal. And ideally, there are no continuous sea days. But a sea day surely has its charms.

2024 Athens – Mykonos – Istanbul – Kusadasi – Rhodes – Santorini – Athens Cruise on the Norwegian Getaway

1. Flying Airbus A320neo with Aegean Airlines from Brussels to Athens return.
2. REVIEW | Athenarum Portus Life & Style Hotel in Piraeus.
3. GREECE | A modest exploration of Piraeus.
4. NORWEGIAN CRUISE LINE | Before you sail, online check-in and Embarkation Day.
5. GREECE | Mykonos ft Archaeological Museum, the Windmills and massive crowds.
6. NORWEGIAN GETAWAY | Balcony Stateroom with included access to the Thermal Spa.
7. ISTANBUL | Beylerbeyi Palace – Blue Mosque – Grand Bazaar.
8. NORWEGIAN GETAWAY | Activities – sports – entertainment – common areas.
9. ISTANBUL | Galataport – Sirkeci Railway Station – Hagia Sophia – Topkapi Park.
10. Bars & Lounges on Norwegian Getaway.
11. Ephesus.
12. Restaurants and food on Norwegian Getaway.
13. RHODES | Lindos and its acropolis.
14. Rhodes.