Sherman's Travel

Summer is prime sailing season for Mediterranean cruises, meaning there are plenty of unique itineraries to choose from, but all at higher costs. Average rates on cruise lines like Royal Caribbean, MSC, and Norwegian hover around $800-$1,400 for a seven-night cruise – and the ship will be packed with thousands of other passengers. Variety Cruises is offering a summer cruise sale on its yacht-like vessels (carrying 4-24 cabins) that brings the total cruise fare down to less than rates on mega-ships (and you can’t put a price tag on peace and quiet). 

Companion travelers can save 50 percent on the Aegean Odyssey, Jewels of the Cyclades, Classical Greece, and Tales of the Adriatic cruise programs, plus guests receive a two-night stay at an Athens hotel, or a $140 ship credit on select itineraries. Rates start at $1,530/person (or $1,148/person after discount) for the Jewels of the Cyclades itinerary which includes visits to Santorini, Mykonos, and other sparkling islands in the Aegean Sea. In addition to these savings, the cruise line is waiving the single-traveler supplement. This offer expires May 30.

About the cruise line:
Founded in 2005, Variety Cruises offers sailings to lesser-visited ports in the Mediterranean, with a wide range of cruising options from inexpensive casual cruises to sophisticated yachts that take you off-the-beaten path. Its fleet consists of 15 fully-owned vessels, making it the largest world-wide small-ship company.

The Greek Islands are among the world’s most popular tourist destinations and it’s easy to see why. Praised since the days of Homer, this legendary archipelago draws millions of visitors every summer for its fine beaches, picture-perfect whitewashed villages, and glamorous nightlife. Now you can visit four gorgeous Aegean Islands with this affordable ten-night island-hopper package. Your exciting itinerary begins with two nights in Athens, then ferries you over to three stunning ports in the Cyclades: Mykonos, Paros, and Santorini. Your adventure concludes with a stay on the fascinating Greek Island of Crete where you can explore the famous Minoan Palaces Knossos and Phaistos, and savor a glass of cold raki, a powerful Cretan sprit distilled from crushed grape skins. Starting at just $1139, the vacation includes round-trip international airfare between the US and Athens, two nights’ hotel in each destination, plus all local flights and ferries.

Celebrate spring in the Greek Islands with an affordable vacation package from EuropeanDestinations.com. This 6-night air-inclusive package provides a budget-friendly opportunity to unwind in the romantic Cyclades, and also get a taste of the glory of ancient Greece with time in Athens. Spend a few days in the capital city exploring the Parthenon and the renowned National Archeological Museum. Next, head to Mykonos for a trendy beach and nightlife scene second to none. Round out your trip with two nights on beautiful Santorini, one of the world’s most picturesque volcanic islands. Starting at just $1017, the offer includes round-trip flight from the US, ferry transportation, breakfast, your choice of hotels. While the offer is available through summer, you’ll beat summer’s crowds by traveling soon. Plus, you’ll also enjoy mild temperatures in the 60s and 70s ideal for exploring white-roofed cliffside villages, glittering black-and-red-sand beaches, and some of the world’s most picturesque ports and fishing marinas.