Greek Isles and surrounds in October
 

We're trying to decide between two cruises of the Greek Isles in October 2006. One leaves on the 5th of October and the other on the 29th. Can someone with experience in the Greek Isles, Turkey, Naples, etc. tell me how much difference the later sailing date would make in temps, sea conditions, and Open/closedness of sights/ restaurants, etc. The later cruise wouldn't be over until Nov. 10. It's a little less expensive and flights would be less expensive at that time than the earlier sailing but would we be trading nice weather and open sights/restaurants for a minimal savings? Thanks for any advice on this.

Anyone? I could really use some advice on this. Thanks.

Greek island tourism winds down during October. By November, most tourist restaurants and hotels have closed for the winter, and the weather is less reliable. The web site www.symivisitor.com has a diary describing life on the island of Simi (near Rodos and the Turkish coast) which makes interesting reading.

I'd go for the earlier date, if you can. We've been to Greece in early October and had good weather, warm enough to swim during the day but cooling down at night - later in the month the chance of rain and cooler weather will increase. Most Greek resorts, start to wind down in 2nd half of October as the charter flights from Europe stop for the season.

Thanks so much for the responses. Looks like the additional airfare for the earlier date will be well worth it. I appreciate your help on this.