By mid-October, it became evident that the tourist season on Greece’s islands was fading.
Traveling on a Star Clippers cruise, it became apparent that many restaurants were closing for the season, often contradicting their Google Maps listings. In the quaint town of Skopelos, I found myself amidst the sparse tourism crowd, exploring a local souvenir shop during the final hour of port call.
Curious about the local businesses’ operational hours, I inquired about the shop’s closing time. “Tomorrow,” replied the shopkeeper with a fatigue that echoed through many establishments I encountered throughout my journey. The unspoken sentiment seemed to ask, “Why are you still here among the dwindling tourist numbers?”
Before embarking on my cruise from Athens, I had pondered the experience of sailing through Greece and Turkey in October. It’s well-known that European cities like Rome or Athens are more enjoyable in the cooler months of February when vibrant life continues but without the overwhelming summer crowds.
This particular cruise, normally centered around beach activities at charming islands, included ports like Dikili, Turkey, and multiple locations in Greece such as Lemnos, Skiathos, Skopelos, and Poros.
Is October a Good Time to Visit Greek Islands?
Streets on the island of Lemnos were mostly empty during an October cruise call. Photo Credit: Teri West
Throughout the voyage, travelers weighed the pros and cons of exploring these picturesque islands in the fall. Interestingly, the milder October temperatures enhanced nearly every land-based activity compared to the heat of summer. From scaling forts on Lemnos and enjoying breathtaking views to biking treks leading to tucked-away churches, fall offered a unique charm.
In Turkey, the ancient city of Pergamon provided an eye-opening experience, revealing fascinating historical sites under the warm October sun. Each town visited featured charming winding streets and friendly local cats, making the off-season surprisingly delightful.
Even with predictions of dips into the high 60s, the sun offered a much warmer feel—often with opportunities to wear shorts comfortably. Although the warmth did not significantly invite swimming, many passengers still seized the opportunity to enjoy the azure beaches, even if the waters felt bracingly cold.
Photo Credit: Teri West
The movie-themed tour on the island of Skopelos is a highlight during the Star Clipper sailing.
Star Clippers provided various equipment for activities like snorkeling, paddleboarding, and sailing, which guests readily enjoyed while on board. However, dining remained a challenge as restaurants reported inconsistent hours. Several eateries in Skiathos were closed despite being listed as open online, leading to an unexpected hunt for alternative options near the port.
On Skopelos, a lunch stop revealed similar issues, as many desired dishes were unavailable at a waterfront eatery predominantly serving the limited tourist population that day. Conversely, dining options were more abundant on Lemnos, which catered primarily to locals, allowing visitors to indulge in authentic Greek cuisine, like the shrimp pasta which was a specialty of the island.
Sports team crew members of the Star Clipper prepare for guests to climb the mast while at port in Dikili, Turkey. Photo Credit: Teri West
A Shift in Onboard Experience
Upon returning to the ship, the weather conditions dictated a different ambiance. The colder climate deterred swimming in the ship’s pools, as cooler winds necessitated extra layers while sailing. This atmospheric change impacted the onboard experience significantly, with limited indoor lounges available on the Star Clipper.
Ultimately, a cruise during the shoulder season, particularly to small European island destinations, hinges on individual travel preferences. For those prioritizing exploration and local experiences without large crowds, October may be the perfect time to visit Greece’s enchanting islands. However, if one’s focus leans more towards swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying vibrant dining scenes, an end-of-season cruise may not be the best choice.
