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 Cruise between Greece’s glistening Cyclades Islands, enjoying stops in Athens, Santorini, Mykonos, and many more. It doesn’t take the oracle’s foresight to know you’ll fall in love with Greece aboard our all-gay cruise. Kicking off in ancient Athens, this Mediterranean adventure is equal parts hedonistic and historical. On the hedonist side, we’ll delight in the flavors, fashions, and fabulous festivities of modern Greece – especially on stylish Santorini and uber-gay Mykonos. Historically speaking, we’ll enjoy private tours of the Acropolis, Akrotiri, Ermoupolis, and other ancient sites throughout the Cyclades. Stand by for fun, feta, and perhaps one-too-many shots of ouzo. Opa!
Athens and the Acropolis at sunset. The beautiful Cyclades, Paros, Santorini, Mykonos and the neighboring UNESCO-protected archaeological isle of Delos. The crystal blue waters " hidden gems of the Aegean Sea. Each day you will discover a new port of call, a hidden cove with crystal blue waters to cool you, a glimpse of ancient history to amaze you and rich cultural diversity to intrigue you. Experience our Greek Islands Boutique all-gay cruise!
• Indulge in Mykonos’ famously fabulous nightlife
• Dive off our private yacht into the balmy Aegean Sea
• Stroll Santorini, photographing its striking stucco architecture
• Enjoy walking tours through some of Greece’s most noteworthy archeological sites including the Acropolis, the ruins of Akrotiri, and Ermoupolis
• Make lifelong friends with your fellow passengers during indulgent onboard meals
• Nibble your way through traditional Greek tavernas, tasting mezze and sipping ouzo on a private food tour
• Forget the real world while kicking back on pristine beaches or shopping for tchotchkes in local shops
Day 1
Ya Sou! Welcome to Athens. Upon arrival at the airport, you’ll be transferred to our joining point hotel.
Feel free to spend the day exploring the country’s capital which boasts more layers of history and culture than a slab of baklava. At 5:00pm we’ll meet in the hotel lobby for our Welcome Meeting. After everyone has gotten acquainted, we’ll sit down for our official Welcome Dinner.
Hotel: Electra Metropolis Athens Hotel, Athens
Day 2
Rise and shine! We have a big day starting with a private tour of the ancient Acropolis.
After an optional lunch in Athens, we’ll shuttle to Marina Zea port to board the Variety Voyager, our home for the next week. Upon embarkation, we’ll have a safety briefing, meet our crew, and enjoy welcome drinks. Feel free to explore the yacht and settle in before our first Greek dinner on board.
Afterwards, we’ll sail to Poros where we’ll spend a few hours exploring. In the evening we’ll set sail to Poliegos, anchoring midway and spending the night at sea.
Accommodation: Variety Cruises Variety Voyager
Day 3
Early this morning we’ll arrive at the uninhabited island of Poliegos, known for its picture-perfect beaches and plentiful goat population. We’ll enjoy a swim stop in Poliegos’ azure waters followed by a BBQ lunch on deck. After lunch, we sail to Folegandros, one of the lesser-known islands, where we’ll stay overnight. Upon arrival, we’ll take a local bus to the charming Upper City, where you are free to wander on your own and nibble your way through its many Greek tavernas before returning to the ship.
Accommodation: Variety Cruises Variety Voyager
Day 4
Feel free to take your coffee on the upper deck as we sail to stylish Santorini.
Upon arrival, we have a half-day tour planned beginning with a cable car ride up to the island’s capital, Fira. It’s here we’ll stroll the city’s narrow streets.
We’ll then board a bus and take a scenic drive through the countryside, passing the village of Pyrgos en route to the archaeological site of Akrotiri. This ancient city was frozen in time by layers of ash from an eruption 3,600 years ago. Excavation has unveiled a sophisticated and ancient city with excellent frescoes and elaborate architecture. From here we head further north to picturesque Oia, which sits comfortably above the striking caldera. Our local guide will lead us through the town, pointing out its famous domed buildings as well as giving us insights into the city’s architecture and culture. After some free time, head back to the Voyager for a late “Greek Night” dinner on board. Expect ouzo, meze (Greek appetizers), seafood, and other local delicacies. To toga or not to toga? That is the question.
Accommodation: Variety Cruises Variety Voyager
Day 5
After breakfast we set sail for Paros with a swim stop in the enchanting bay of Antiparos and a BBQ lunch on board. In the afternoon you are welcome to join our optional culture and history tour. We’ll begin at one of the most important Byzantine monuments throughout Greece, the church of Ekatontapiliani. Explore the villages of Lefkes and Marpissa (known for their whitewashed houses), Venetian architecture, windmills, and dovecotes. Our guide will lead us through the folklore museum before taking us to Naoussa, a fishing village that has blossomed into a chic city full of shops, taverns, bars, and nightlife. After some free time to pick up knick knacks, we’ll head back to the ship. This evening grab dinner at a local restaurant on your own.
Accommodation: Variety Cruises Variety Voyager
Day 6
After breakfast, we arrive in magical Mykonos, one of the gayest holiday destinations in all of Europe, if not the world. We’ll have a totally free day here, but before you sashay your way over to the nude beaches and beloved gay bars, you’re welcome to join us on a short 2-hour walking tour of the town. We’ll visit Paraportiani church, the castle ruins, Little Venice, the Alefkandra area, the Metropolitan Church and the breathtaking unique windmills of the island. We’ll then stroll the narrow streets of Matoyiannia before wrapping up the tour. An early lunch will be included on the ship, leaving you the afternoon and evening to enjoy the local restaurant and nightlife scene.
Accommodation: Variety Cruises Variety Voyager
Day 7
Today you’re free to sleep in if you indulged in the local nightlife, or you can join our optional excursion to UNESCO-listed Delos. This teeny, uninhabited island is just a quick ferry ride from Mykonos. On this private excursion, our guide will point out Hellenistic houses, the Sanctuary (Apollo’s temple), and the guardians of the Sacred Lake: five marble lions from the 7th century BC. Finally, we’ll visit the Theatre and the Roman quarter, where Dionysus’ ancient statues await. Lunch isn’t included today, so we’ll reconvene for dinner on the ship while we sail towards Syros.
Accommodation: Variety Cruises Variety Voyager
Day 8
This morning we’ll wake in Ermoupolis (Town of Hermes) on the island of Syros. On an included group tour we’ll stroll the marble streets, learning about the island’s unique history. During the Renaissance, Syros took a different architectural path from most of Greece. It now has distinct Neoclassic, Byzantine, and Venetian vibes. We’ll visit the impressive Town Hall, the Apollo Theatre, the Captain’s Quarter, and visit a local market. It’s here we’ll grab a table at a family-run taverna and taste authentic Cycladic cuisine. Back on board, we’ll have some light snacks followed by another refreshing swim stop. Finally, we’ll sail past Cape Sounion and view the temple of Poseidon from our ship. In the evening we’ll enjoy our Farewell Captain’s Dinner back in Athen’s Marina Zea.
Accommodation: Variety Cruises Variety Voyager
Day 9
Sadly, we will disembark early this morning. Your trip includes a complimentary departure transfer which will be confirmed by your group leader. For those guests spending extra nights at our official finishing point hotel, we’ll also provide a transfer to the hotel. Thank you for joining our Greece: Aegean Sea Gay Cruise. Antio sas for now!
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• Local Guide and Gay Cruise Host from beginning to end of tour
• Arrival & departure transfers to/from joining/finishing point hotel
• Breakfast daily, 3 Lunches, 6 Dinners
• One house wine, beer or refreshment for one meal per day while on board
• Complimentary snacks, fruits, water, tea, and coffee on the ship
• Guided tours in Athens, Santorini and Syros
• Guided tours of the Acropolis of Athens, Fira, Akrotiri and Ermoupolis
• All activities and entry fees and mentioned in the itinerary
• All transportation (private and public) as part of the organized itinerary
• Welcome & Farewell Cocktail
• Gratuities for city/activity guides, drivers, and included meals
• A $50 USD Rainbow Railroad donation to help resettle LGBTQ+ refugees.
• International airfare
• Optional activities, meals, and drinks (including alcohol and water at included meals) not outlined in itinerary
• Gratuities for ship crew and local guide (approximately $110–$150/person)
• Water on transportation - please bring a reusable water bottle to refill with filtered water available on the ship
• Entry visa & Covid-19 testing fees
• Travel insurance (medical & repatriation coverage is mandatory for all travellers.
Gay travellers will fall in love with this thick slice of hedonistic heaven.
From ancient Olympia to modern Mykonos, Greece has always been a country where the food is as rich as the history, and the locals are as hot as the weather. Thankfully, travellers can cool off in the balmy Aegean Sea which laps the country’s beloved beaches. While you’ll find gay bars throughout the country, Mykonos deserves a special shout-out. The island’s extraordinary nightlife is as flaming as saganaki—and just as delicious. If you’re planning a big gay Greek adventure, we highly recommend packing both your stretchy and party pants…and maybe even a toga for good measure.
Visas
A visa is not required for American, Australian, British, and Canadian citizens travelling to Greece for fewer than 90 days. There may be exceptions, and all visas are the responsibility of the traveller.
LGBT Rights in Greece
Greece has a long and storied history with homosexuality. Beyond Greek mythology being particularly homoerotic—looking at you, Apollo—some of the best known gay historical figures were of Greek descent. Notably, Alexander The Great. Today, Greece remains a largely LGBTQ+ welcoming destination, especially in major cities and throughout the laid-back islands. However, the openly homophobic Greek Orthodox Church maintains a firm grasp on day-to-day life. Much of rural Greece remains devoutly religious.
Gay Greece Travel
Fact: Gays love Greece. It’s one of the oldest and best-known LGBTQ+ destinations. Specifically, Mykonos is the epicentre of gay Grecian nightlife where local and international Queens perform for bears, boys, and the occasional lesbian. Countless beaches are overridden with queer people in and out of designer speedos. Circuit parties thump out Top 40 beats throughout high season, with the largest and most famous being XLSIOR hitting the island every August. Finally, Athens Gay Pride is a celebration of local queer culture. It tends to put activism and social equality at the forefront of the festival.
Best Time to Visit
If you’re looking to party in Mykonos, plan your trip in high season (Jun–Aug). For cooler weather and less crowds, shoulder seasons tend to be a better choice (Apr & May, Sep & Oct)
Other Vaccinations
Based on the entry requirements for Greece, there are no other vaccinations needed. To determine if you should take preventative measures to reduce the risk of illness, consult your doctor or a travel medical clinic. We cannot provide vaccination recommendations.
Electricity
The power plugs and sockets are of type C and F. The standard voltage is 230 V and the standard frequency is 50 Hz.
Time Zone:
Eastern European Summer Time (GTM +3)
Starting Point Hotel
Electra Metropolis Athens Hotel, Athens
Located in the heart of Athens, just 200 metres from Syntagma Square, the modern Electra Metropolis boasts a small, rooftop pool with waterfall effect, and a sun terrace with views over the city. Gourmet dishes and refreshing cocktails can be enjoyed at the top-floor restaurant or at the M Bar offering panoramic views over the Acropolis.
The elegant rooms and suites at Electra Metropolis feature modern decor, wooden floors and warm tones. Each includes a marble-tiled bathroom with hairdryer, bathrobes, slippers and luxurious Frederic Malle toiletries. A work desk, 40'' Smart TV with satellite channels, a laptop safe and a mini bar are standard. Free WiFi access is provided throughout.
Imagine a place far from home that feels just like home, where the borders are delineated by the golden shores of the sea; and home is wherever the anchors drop.
Imagine 223 feet of comfort, beauty, and safety classified by the latest International “Safety of Life at Sea” (SOLAS) standards. Imagine your floating home on board the sleek, contemporary state of the art Mega Yacht that sails the seas under the name Variety Voyager, waving her flag through the wind.
36 Oceanview cabins (72 guests) Variety Voyager’s experienced crew of 32 is trained with hospitality at heart to pamper her guests and guarantee the ultimate home away from home experience.
Discover the world by sea at 13 knots per hour, in her un-rushed pace, one island or seashore at a time. Variety Voyager loves to seduce her select 72 guests with her sleek lines and ample deck space redefining what yachting was meant to be. Warm fabrics, rich marbles, ax minster carpeting, and soft tones wood-paneling are just some of the elements that define her essence. 360° views of unobstructed ocean are your eyes’ canvas painted with ocean blue and deep green mountains. Mingle with like-minded travelers in our public areas, enjoy a moment to yourself in our ample deck space, or retreat to your cabin sanctuary all offering windows or portholes connecting you with Mother Nature’s wonders.
Dining Area
Located on the Infinity deck, the glass enclosed dining room seats 75 passengers and allows for spectacular views around you, while dining in an elegant environment. It extends to the adjacent open deck dining room, also seating 50 passengers and allowing for breakfast, lunch or dinner to be taken “al fresco”. Food is served at the table or displayed on the state of the art hot & cold buffet which also includes an “a la minute cooking” section.
Lounge Area
Located on the Riviera deck, right off the reception area, the Lounge is gracefully designed and finished with wood panels. There is ample seating space for moments of pleasure or relaxation and modern AV equipment for presentations. The mini library just off the Riviera Lounge, offers a variety of books and magazines.
Reception and Bar
Reception area & Bar with audiovisual equipment. The ship also provides a library just off the Riviera Lounge, while you can enjoy a fresh made juice or a refreshing cocktail at the partly shaded sun deck lounge bar.
Mini Spa Suite
Located on the Oceans deck, the Mini Spa suite has a massage room and sauna. Our Balinese Spa Supervisor also provides hair, face and nails treatments.
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