Corfu Cruises

Corfu, a stunning Greek island in the Ionian Sea, is known for its lush landscapes, picturesque beaches, and captivating history. With its delightful blend of Venetian, French, and British influences, Corfu is rich in culture and offers an unforgettable experience for cruise travellers. Fun fact: Corfu was the first place in Greece to establish a school of higher education, known as the Ionian Academy, reflecting its long-standing commitment to education and culture! Cruising to Corfu provides a unique opportunity to explore this beautiful destination while enjoying the luxurious features of your ship, from world-class dining to insightful excursions into the island’s rich heritage.

Major Cruise Lines Offering Itineraries to Corfu

• Princess Cruises operates a fleet of 17 ships, with 6 dedicated to itineraries featuring Corfu. The Sun Princess and Enchanted Princess are noteworthy for their diverse entertainment offerings and extensive dining options. The Enchanted Princess, in particular, is praised for its stunning piazza and the Movies Under the Stars experience. Most cruises depart from Rome or Athens, ensuring a seamless journey to the beautiful shores of Corfu.
• Norwegian Cruise Line consists of 20 ships, with 7 offering itineraries that include Corfu. The Norwegian Viva and Norwegian Pearl are favourites for their freestyle cruising philosophy, which provides guests with flexibility in dining and a wide range of entertainment options. Norwegian ships are equipped with water parks and diverse restaurants. Departures are most frequent from Athens or Rome, allowing easy access to your upcoming Greek exploration.
• Royal Caribbean Cruises operates 29 ships, with 4 focused on itineraries that include Corfu. The Voyager of the Seas and Explorer of the Seas stand out for their exciting onboard activities like ice skating and surf simulators, along with diverse dining experiences. These ships typically depart from Athens or Rome, ensuring a great introduction to Corfu’s charm and beauty.
• MSC Cruises operates a fleet of 23 ships, with 6 that visit Corfu. The MSC Virtuosa and MSC Armonia provide unique and engaging experiences for guests, including themed dining options and exciting entertainment. These ships are loved for their international cuisines and family-friendly amenities. Most cruises typically depart from Venice or Bari, providing great entry points to your journey through the Greek islands.
• Cunard features 4 ships in its fleet, with 2 dedicated to itineraries that include Corfu. The Queen Anne and Queen Victoria are known for their luxurious ocean liners and the elegant world-class service they provide. Cunard’s voyages include memorable experiences like formal dining and balls. Departures typically occur from Southampton or Rome, making it easy to embark on your delightful journey to Corfu.

Luxury and Small Ship Options for Corfu

• Oceania Cruises operates a fleet of 8 ships, with 4 featuring itineraries to Corfu. The Nautica and Vista are celebrated for their luxurious settings and gourmet culinary experiences that showcase local flavours. These ships guarantee a refined and intimate cruise atmosphere. Departures usually take place from Miami or Athens, offering great access to the treasured landscapes of the region.
• Azamara Cruises consists of a fleet of 4 ships, with 2 dedicated to itineraries that include Corfu. The Azamara Quest and Azamara Onward are known for their emphasis on immersive experiences and late-night port stays, allowing guests to fully engage with the local culture. Departures typically happen from Miami or Lisbon, facilitating easy transitions into the captivating Greek isles.
• Seabourn comprises a luxurious fleet of 5 ships, with 1 focused on the Corfu itineraries. The Seabourn Ovation offers superb service and spacious suites, ensuring guests savour all aspects of an ultra-luxury cruise experience. Most departures take place from Athens or Dubrovnik, ensuring a sophisticated entry into the enchanting landscapes of Corfu.
• Explora Journeys operates a fleet of 2 ships, both featuring itineraries to Corfu. The EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II are designed with an emphasis on wellness and luxury, providing an enriching atmosphere for truly memorable journeys. Departures generally occur from Barcelona or Venice, providing refined embarkation options as you set sail for the stunning island.
• Fred Olsen operates a small fleet of 3 ships, with 2 focusing on itineraries to Corfu. The Balmoral and Bolette are appreciated for their classic cruising experience and warm hospitality. Most cruises depart from Southampton or Liverpool, providing convenient access for UK cruisers eager to explore this beautiful island.

Top Harbours to Discover in Corfu

• Corfu Town – The capital city is known for its rich history and stunning architecture. Wander through the narrow streets of the Old Town, renowned for its Venetian and Neoclassical buildings, and visit the impressive Old Fortress for panoramic views. Don’t forget to try some local dishes, such as pastitsada or sofrito, at one of the quaint traditional tavernas.
• Paleokastritsa – Known for its stunning beaches and beautiful coastline, Paleokastritsa offers crystal-clear waters ideal for swimming and water sports. Visit the Monastery of The Virgin Mary, perched on a cliff with amazing views, or enjoy a relaxing day on one of the nearby beaches. Boat tours to explore hidden coves and caves are also popular here.
• Agios Gordios – A picturesque village with a stunning beach, Agios Gordios is perfect for those seeking a relaxed day in the sun. Enjoy the scenic views, indulge in local cuisine at a beachside restaurant, or take a leisurely swim in the crystal-clear waters. The surrounding hills offer beautiful walking trails if you’re feeling adventurous.
• Sidari – Famous for its unique beaches and vibrant nightlife, Sidari is a lively resort area. Enjoy sunbathing on the Canal d’Amour beach, known for its romantic legend. Sidari’s nightlife is vibrant, with plenty of bars and restaurants where visitors can enjoy traditional Greek food and lively entertainment.
• Kassiopi – A charming fishing village situated in the northeast of Corfu, Kassiopi is renowned for its picturesque harbour and stunning views of the island. Explore the ruins of Kassiopi Castle for incredible views of the surrounding area, or relax at one of the local tavernas while sampling freshly caught seafood. The crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming or snorkelling!

When to Cruise to Corfu

The climate in Corfu is Mediterranean, making it an inviting destination for cruising year-round. From January to March, temperatures are mild, typically ranging from 10°C to 16°C, ideal for leisurely exploration of historical sites without the hustle and bustle of summer tourism. Spring (April to June) brings warmth with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C, making it perfect for enjoying the stunning landscapes and local flora. Summer (July to September) can be warm and lively, with average temperatures of 25°C to 35°C, drawing tourists to the island’s beaches and cultural festivals in droves. As autumn arrives (October to December), temperatures cool to about 15°C to 25°C, perfect for exploring local culture and enjoying authentic cuisine as crowds dwindle.

Costs of Cruising to Corfu

A standard one-week cruise to Corfu typically costs between £700 and £1,500, depending on the cruise line and selected accommodations. Luxury cruises usually start at around £3,000, with prices potentially increasing based on the level of service and available amenities. Dining on the island can vary, with meals costing around £10 to £30 at local restaurants, and drinks usually priced between £3 and £10, offering you a chance to indulge in delicious Greek cuisine during your stay.

The charming landscapes, rich history, and friendly atmosphere of Corfu await you! It’s time to book your cruise holiday via Cruise1st and embark on a delightful journey through the stunning Greek islands!