Bonnie

Going with 3 generations to the Greek Islands this summer and would like suggestions as to a good itinerary and cruise line. Haven't figured out a budget yet as we're not sure how much it would cost. Three 20 year-olds, 2- 50 year olds and 1 wonderful 75 year-old. We need advice to plan this special trip.

Paul Therault

Hi Bonnie,<BR><BR>You should sail with the company that is Greek and knows the Greek Islands the best. Royal Olympia Cruises. I would advise one of their newer ships such as the Olympic Explorer.<BR><BR>Paul

Bonnie

How would you compare a cruise of the Greek Islands with a cruise of the Mediterranean - Venice, Monaco,etc.? What should we expect to pay on the RO? And last question, how long should the cruise be? Thanks for any help.

Paul Therault

Hi Bonnie,<BR><BR>Tough questions. You are speaking of two separate fabulous itineraries. Sail one this year and the other one the next. A TA can give you the prices of the two new RO ships. I would not advise the older RO ships if you are used to creature comfort.<BR><BR>If you wish Eastern Med. I would advise Princess Golden. A bit expensive but they do it best.<BR><BR>Paul

Surlok

Don't forget Orient Lines and the Crown Odysssey: the itineraries are wonderful, their pace, a little slower than the Olympic Explorer's, and the ground operation, well handled. There are great rates including air from the US, as well hotels, and even pre or post cruise packages. For the age range, I think the Crown Odyseey would be more adequate, unless for the 20 years old girls, but still...<BR><BR>Ypu can check the cruisecritic.com board, where there's a bord for each cruise line. This board will give you a more accurate idea as for what these lines offer.

Paul Therault

Surlock has the right info also. I will add .... all exotic itineraries do not have many young people. But since their are 3 of them they will make their own "fun."<BR><BR>Costa is a 5 star Italian line that has a few ships in Greece. First European has a new ship called the Mistral that has many balconies.<BR><BR>I would still choose the RO Explorer if you wish the "Greek" experience. The ship is port intensive (as Surlock mentions) and very fast. Seven night cruises. This may not appeal to some.<BR><BR>Best to visit a travel agent.<BR><BR>Paul

Bonnie

Thanks for the info. I will check further into the ships you mention. Is it alright to go in May or is the weather better later in the summer?

Paul Therault

Hi Bonnie,<BR><BR>I do not know about May except what I heard. Not many tourists and not many shops/restaurants are open in the off season.<BR><BR>Paul

Surlok

Bonnie,<BR><BR>Unless you want sea bathing, May, June, and September, October are perfect for the Greek islands. The tourist crowds haven't arrived yet, the shops will be open, the weather, pleasant, and since May is considered shoulder season, you're likely paying less. In my opinion, July and August, considered high sesason, are worse: way too many tourists, too hot weather, crowded sites, and everything is more expensive.<BR><BR>Regards,<BR><BR>S

Bonnie

We're travelling from Toronto. Any idea of what a good price would be to pay on the ships you mentioned? Also, any ideas on how to get great prices as there are 3 cabins being booked. Is having a balcony on a cruise ship a deciding factor? The info. I am getting is wonderful!