Shore excursions

[runner250]

We're taking our first Star Clipper cruise in the Greek Isles next May and we want to see as much of Santorini and Rhoades as we can. Is it better to sign up for the Star Clipper shore excursions or to pick one after going ashore on the islands? Thanks!!!!

[shiela]

I have no first-hand knowledge of that area. But I suggest you buy a good guidebook prior to your trip, and do your homework. The excursions can be pricey and, depending upon your location, it may or may not be worthwhile. You've got to make a lot of decision when you embark and it's not an easy thing to do. Each evening, we would compare notes with the other passengers and you'd have a much better idea - after the fact of whether you made the right choice. Some ports were so charming, it was great to just stroll around - or enjoy the watersports at the beach. In others, you had to venture out on the tour to experience the scenery, or historic sights. Just do as much research as you can before you go so you'll make the very best choices. Good luck!

[hybrn8]

Hi - Went to both this past summer on Oceania's Nautica. We did not take shore excursions - we rented taxis which were plentiful and relatively cheap to get us where we wanted to go. I thought Rhodes was a yawn, except for a nice lunch. The town where the ship docks is about 15-20 minute ride to the town where you trudge (or ride a sad and stinky donkey) up to their Acropolis (along with the inhabitants of much of Europe the day we were there). Santorini has its charms but a cab ride for 15-20 minutes takes you where you want to go. Mostly walking in both places. Cannot see why you would pre-book anything on either of these islands. Just go wandering off. Now, if you want to do something exotic like hang-glide or go to a nude beach, you are on your own!!!