Disney Cruise Line Returns to Greece Summer 2021
The options for an adventurous summer family vacation have expanded with the announcement of Disney Cruise Line returning to Greece for the summer 2021 cruise season. The Disney Magic, the brands’ first vessel, will operate four sailings to the Greek Isles from May through July 2021. Ranging from 8 to 11 nights, bookings for the new itineraries became available February 28.
The addition of this new itinerary falls in line with the projection that cruise tourism in Greece is positioned to see a significant rise in the coming years. “In 2020 and 2021, we expect several vessels with a capacity of 5,000-7,000 passengers each, compared to cruise liners of 2,000-3,000 in the past,” said Deputy Manager for Public and Investor Relations Nektarios Demenopoulos. Greek ports are expected to attract more cruise tourists following a rise of about 15 percent both in cruise ship calls and passenger arrivals in 2019. Piraeus, Greece’s biggest port, remains the top destination for cruises in Greece for the 10th year in a row, with 622 cruise calls last year, compared to 524 in the previous year.
Known for its pristine beaches, volcanic isles, hillside villages and ancient history, Greece and the Greek Isles offers cruisers rich culture, adventure, and cuisine. Disney’s sailings will depart from Civitavecchia (Rome) and feature a new port of call to Kefalonia. Itinerary stops include Piraeus and a string of islands in the Aegean Sea: Mykonos, Santorini, and Katakolon. Depending on the length of the cruise, itineraries will also include stops to ports in Italy, Spain or France.
Kefalonia, the cruise lines’ brand-new port of call, is an island in the Ionian Sea just west of mainland Greece. With mountainous villages and indigo bays, Kefalonia will offer visitors architectural delights such as the Castle of Saint George and natural wonders like the Cave of Drogarati. Mykonos – one of Greece’s most popular destinations known for white-sand beaches and turquoise water, features 16th-century windmills and whitewashed churches. Santorini – known for dramatic views and stunning sunsets, boasts popular activities from swimming and sunbathing at molten-dyed beaches to exploring ancient ruins once buried in volcanic ash. Piraeus – steeped with history is a gateway to Athens and Katakolon – located near ancient Olympia which was home to the first Olympic Games.
The Disney Magic, the cruise line’s first ship, underwent an overhaul in 2013 to include its now-signature AquaDunk slide. Designed with families in mind, the Disney Magic combines classic nostalgia and modern amenities with Disney’s signature service. Staterooms are equipped with innovations that ensure the ultimate comfort and relaxation for guests of all ages. The ship features 11 decks, multiple restaurants, and 875 staterooms to accommodate 2700 passengers.