Odyssey of the Seas Review: Greek Isles Cruise Guide

LAST UPDATED September 12, 2025 BY Katarina Komazec

I’ve sailed the Eastern Mediterranean a few times before, but my trip on Odyssey of the Seas felt different.

The ports were familiar: Civitavecchia, Naples, Athens, Santorini, Mykonos, Chania, Rhodes, and Kusadasi, but the ship itself made this cruise stand out.

Odyssey isn’t just a way to get from port to port; it’s part of the experience, with shows, activities, and spaces you don’t usually find on a Med sailing.

In this Odyssey of the Seas review, I’ll walk you through what the ship is really like on a Greek Isles itinerary, from cabins and dining to sea days and port tips.

Odyssey of the Seas at a Glance

Odyssey of the Seas is part of Royal Caribbean’s Quantum Ultra class, one of the newest in the fleet.

The ship carries around 4,200 guests at double occupancy, but on a busy summer cruise, it can feel even fuller.

Compared to some of the larger Oasis Class ships, Odyssey is slightly smaller, yet it still packs in plenty of features.

What stood out to me is how much there is to do on board when you’re not in port.

You’ve got Two70, a high-tech lounge that transforms into a theater with incredible digital shows, the North Star observation capsule that lifts you above the ship for panoramic views, and the SeaPlex, a huge indoor sports area with bumper cars, table tennis, and more.

At the same time, Odyssey still feels like a Mediterranean ship.

The Solarium is perfect for escaping the heat on a sea day, the pool deck is lively, and dining is a big part of the experience.

All of this makes it a great fit for a Greek Isles itinerary — there’s enough happening on board to keep you entertained between ports, but it never takes away from the destination focus.

🎥 Want a quick look around the ship? Here’s my highlights video, deck by deck.

Who Is Odyssey of the Seas For?

Odyssey works well for families, couples, and multigenerational groups.

There’s something for kids (SeaPlex, Splashaway Bay), adults (Solarium, specialty dining, bars), and everyone in between.

If you like a mix of modern ship activities and destination-focused cruising, this ship is a solid choice.

Cabins & Staterooms on Odyssey of the Seas

Best Cabins for a Greek Isles Cruise

For an itinerary like the Greek Isles, balcony cabins are the most popular choice, and for good reason.

Watching the ship sail into Santorini at sunrise or leaving Mykonos at night from your own balcony is a memory in itself.

If budget allows, a midship balcony gives you both the views and the stability, which can be helpful in the Aegean where the winds sometimes get strong.

Another good option is a midship oceanview on a lower deck. You still get natural light and a glimpse of the sea, but at a lower price point than a balcony.

These cabins are also convenient if you prefer shorter walks to the gangway on busy port days, which this itinerary has plenty of.

Families often go for connecting balcony or interior cabins near the action, while couples might prefer something closer to the Solarium for a quieter feel.

My Cabin: Oceanview 3634

During my cruise, I stayed in cabin 3634 on deck 3, an oceanview with a porthole.

It turned out to be a very practical choice. The cabin was quiet, comfortable, and had enough storage space for a week-long trip.

Most days were spent ashore exploring ports, so I didn’t miss having a balcony, but I really appreciated the natural light and sea views when waking up in the morning or returning in the evening.

For anyone looking to balance comfort and budget, this type of cabin works really well on a port-heavy itinerary like the Greek Isles.

🎥 I also filmed a quick stateroom overview on my YouTube channel if you’d like to take a look inside: [Watch here].

Cabins to Avoid

Not every stateroom on Odyssey is ideal, especially if you’re sensitive to noise or movement. I’d avoid forward cabins on higher decks, since the ship can feel more motion there when seas get choppy.

Cabins located directly under busy venues like the pool deck or theater can also get noisy late at night.

Another thing to think about: cabins far from elevators may look good on a deck plan, but after a long day walking around Athens or climbing Santorini’s hills, the extra distance back to your room feels longer than it looks on paper.

Dining on Odyssey of the Seas

Main Dining Room & Windjammer Buffet

On a Greek Isles itinerary, mornings are busy, and the Main Dining Room and Windjammer Buffet reflect that. On port days, expect crowds early, especially if you’re heading out on excursions.

I found the Windjammer had the widest variety for a quick breakfast, but timing matters, so go as soon as it opens to avoid the rush.

The Main Dining Room is a calmer option if you have a later tour or a sea day.

Casual Eats

For something quick between activities or after returning from a long day in port, the casual dining spots are a lifesaver.

El Loco Fresh on the pool deck is great for tacos, quesadillas, and nachos, especially if you don’t want a heavy sit-down meal.

Sorrento’s Pizza was my go-to for a late-night snack, and Café Two70 serves fresh sandwiches and light bites in a quieter setting, a nice break from the busier venues.

Specialty Dining

Over different cruises, I’ve tried most of Odyssey’s specialty restaurants: Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen, Chops Grille, and Izumi are all solid choices and consistent with what you’d expect across the fleet.

But on this sailing, I wanted to try something different.

Wonderland is a very theatrical dining experience. The presentation is whimsical, and the dishes are creative, though definitely not traditional.

It’s worth it if you enjoy trying unusual flavors and want a dinner that feels more like a show.

Teppanyaki turned out to be one of my favorites. The food was excellent, and the chefs put on a fun performance right at the grill.

It’s especially good for groups or families because of the interactive atmosphere.

If you want a special dinner or are celebrating, I’d recommend booking at least one specialty venue in advance, as they do fill up quickly on sea days.

For me, Teppanyaki would be at the top of the list next time.

Entertainment & Activities

Signature Shows

Entertainment is one of Odyssey’s strongest points.

The ship has several production shows, but the one that completely blew me away was The Book in Two70. You do need to reserve it in advance through the app, even though it’s free.

I’m glad I did, because it was hands down the best show I’ve ever seen at sea!

The mix of technology, visuals, live performance, and the way the entire space transforms is something you just don’t expect on a cruise ship. If you see one show on Odyssey, make it this one.

Other highlights include The Effectors in the main theater, which is more of a superhero-style production, and Showgirl: Past. Present. Future, a classic song-and-dance revue.

These are also worth booking, but they don’t have the same “wow” factor as The Book.

Unique Experiences

Beyond the theater, Odyssey is packed with activities you won’t find on many other ships.

The one that impressed me most was the North Star observation capsule. I tried it during my cruise, and it absolutely blew my mind!

The views are incredible, but I’d say it’s definitely best when the ship is actually sailing — being lifted high above the deck while Odyssey is gliding through the open sea makes it feel even more special.

Sailaway from Santorini or Mykonos is another perfect time to book it. Reservations are required, so grab a spot early if you want a prime time.

For something active, RipCord by iFLY (indoor skydiving) is both fun and a little nerve-wracking. Spaces are limited, so booking ahead is essential here too.

The SeaPlex is the largest indoor sports complex at sea, with bumper cars, table tennis, pickleball, and more. It’s a great place to spend time as a family, or just to try something different on a sea day.

Pools & Relaxation

In the summer heat of the Greek Isles, the Solarium was my favorite spot to escape the crowds. It’s adults-only, enclosed, and air-conditioned, which makes a huge difference after a hot day ashore.

The main pool deck is lively and fun, but it gets busy quickly, especially on sea days. Shade is limited, so get there early if you want a lounger.

Sea Days vs Port Days: How to Plan

One thing that makes a Greek Isles cruise on Odyssey different is the rhythm of the trip.

You’ll have several long port days in a row, broken up by just one or two sea days. Planning ahead helps you make the most of both.

Sample Sea Day Schedule

• Morning – Start with a late breakfast in the Main Dining Room or the Solarium Bistro to avoid the Windjammer rush. After that, head to the North Star if you’ve booked a morning slot; it’s a great way to see the ship moving through open sea.
• Late Morning/Afternoon – Try something active like bumper cars at the SeaPlex or relax in the Solarium with a book. This is also a good time to check out a trivia session or enrichment activity.
• Lunch – Grab something light at El Loco Fresh or Café Two70.
• Afternoon – Cool off by the pool, or if you want something adventurous, book a session at RipCord by iFLY.
• Evening – Early dinner followed by one of the big shows. If you can get into The Book, this is the night to do it.

Sample Port Day Schedule (Santorini example)

• Morning – Quick breakfast at the Windjammer before heading off the ship early. Since Santorini is a tender port, the earlier you go, the better.
• Daytime – Explore the island (I took the cable car up and explored Fira on my own). Expect to be out most of the day.
• Afternoon – Return to the ship tired and hungry — this is when Sorrento’s Pizza or El Loco Fresh hits the spot.
• Evening – Relax in your cabin or the Solarium before dinner. Book a specialty restaurant like Teppanyaki on a port day; it’s less crowded than on sea days.
• Night – If you still have energy, catch a shorter evening performance or a live music act in one of the bars.

Embarkation & Debarkation in Civitavecchia (Rome)

Most Odyssey of the Seas Greek Isles cruises start and end in Civitavecchia, the port of Rome. It’s about a 1-hour and 15 minutes from the city, so planning your transfers is important.

You can get there by train from Rome Termini, which is the cheapest option, or book a private transfer if you’re traveling with luggage or a group.

Once in Civitavecchia, it’s another short shuttle ride or walk to the cruise terminal. Boarding was well organized on my sailing, but I’d still recommend arriving early to avoid the midday rush.

Odyssey of the Seas in the Greek Isles

One of the best parts of this cruise is how well the ship pairs with the ports. Odyssey gives you plenty to do on board, but the real highlights are ashore.

Here’s what our itinerary looked like and what to expect in each port.

Naples

Naples is usually the first stop after leaving Civitavecchia, and it offers more choices than almost any other port on this itinerary.

You can head out to Pompeii, Capri, or the Amalfi Coast — all are incredible.

I’ve been to Naples several times, including visiting Pompeii on my own, which is always worth the trip.

But if it’s your first time in Naples, I’d honestly suggest staying in the city itself.

Naples has an energy that feels very different from the islands: the historic center, piazzas, castles, and, of course, real Neapolitan pizza.

Since the port is right in town, you can easily explore on foot without worrying about long transfers.

👉 Full guide: Naples Cruise Port Guide & Top Things to Do
👉 How to Visit Pompeii from Naples Cruise Port

Santorini (Tender Port)

Santorini is stunning, but also one of the trickiest ports. Odyssey anchors offshore, and you need to take a tender boat to the old port below Fira.

From there, the cable car takes you up the cliff, but lines build fast, especially if more than one ship is in port.

My advice: take the earliest tender you can and head straight for the cable car to avoid wasting time in queues.

Even with the logistics, the views from the ship at sunrise and from Oia during the day make it all worthwhile.

👉 Read my full guide to Santorini Cruise Port (+ Top Things to Do in Santorini)

Mykonos

Odyssey usually docks at the New Port in Mykonos, about 2 km from town.

From there, the easiest way to get into the old town is by water taxi, which takes around 10 minutes and drops you right by the harbor.

Occasionally, the ship may anchor offshore and use tenders that land at the Old Port, but docking at the New Port is more common.

Once in town, everything is within walking distance. The maze of narrow streets is perfect for exploring at your own pace; you’ll find cafés, small boutiques, and plenty of photo spots.

Don’t miss the famous windmills and “Little Venice,” just a short stroll from the harbor, and try to leave time to simply wander and enjoy the atmosphere.

👉 Full guide: Mykonos Cruise Port Guide

Athens (Piraeus)

Athens is one of the longest and busiest port days.

From the port of Piraeus, it’s about 30–40 minutes into the city by taxi or metro.

If you want to see the Acropolis, go early before the midday heat and crowds. It’s an intense day, but completely worth it.

After climbing the Acropolis, I loved walking through Plaka for food and shopping before heading back.

You’ll come back tired, but the Greek capital is a must!

👉 Full guide to Piraeus Cruise Port and Top Things to Do in Athens

Chania (Crete)

Odyssey docks in Souda Bay, a short drive from Chania’s old town. The best way to reach it is by the shuttle that runs between the port and Chania’s city center.

This port feels more relaxed compared to Athens or Santorini.

The Venetian harbor, lighthouse, and local market are all close together and easy to explore in just a few hours. It’s a nice change of pace in the middle of a busy itinerary.

👉 Full guide to Chania (Souda) Cruise Port (+ Top Things to Do)

Rhodes

Rhodes is one of my favorite islands, and it’s easy to see why. The ship docks right outside the medieval walls, so you can walk straight into the old town without any transport.

Inside, the cobbled streets, the Palace of the Grand Master, and the mix of shops and cafés make it a fantastic port to explore on your own.

What makes Rhodes even better is that you also have a beach within walking distance of the ship, perfect if you want a mix of sightseeing and relaxation on the same day.

For me, that combination makes Rhodes one of the best stops on this itinerary.

👉 Full guide: Rhodes Cruise Port Guide

Kusadasi (Ephesus, Turkey)

Kusadasi is the jumping-off point for Ephesus, one of the most impressive archaeological sites you’ll ever see.

It’s about a 30-minute drive, and I recommend joining an excursion here because the site is large and filled with history.

Walking through the ancient streets and standing in front of the Library of Celsus is unforgettable.

Back in Kusadasi, the bazaar and waterfront are lively and within walking distance of the pier, so you can still enjoy a bit of shopping before returning to the ship.

👉 Full guide to Kusadasi Cruise Port & Top Things to Do

Tips for Odyssey of the Seas Greek Isles Cruise

• Book shows early – Reserve The Book and The Effectors as soon as they open in the app. They’re free, but spots go fast.
• North Star timing – Try it when the ship is actually sailing, not just docked. The feeling of rising above the open sea is unforgettable.
• Start port mornings early – On tender ports like Santorini, getting the first tender makes a huge difference.
• Breakfast strategy – Windjammer is fine if you’re quick, but for a calmer start, try the Main Dining Room or Solarium Bistro.
• Specialty dining – Teppanyaki and Wonderland are both worth the splurge. Book it on a port day for a less crowded experience.
• Pack for the heat – July and August are hot. Bring a refillable bottle, a hat, and comfortable shoes for long excursions.
• Cabin choice matters – Midship balconies are amazing for sail-ins, but a lower-deck oceanview (like mine) is a practical budget option.
• Balance your days – Use sea days to relax and recharge. Port days are long, and you’ll want the energy.
• Don’t miss Rhodes – It’s easy to walk off, explore the medieval old town, and even fit in beach time without rushing.

Pros & Cons of Odyssey of the Seas (Greek Isles Edition)

Pros

• Modern ship with lots to do: Two70, SeaPlex, and North Star make sea days fun.
• The Book show is a must-see — honestly, the best I’ve watched at sea.
• Solarium is perfect for escaping the summer heat.
• Dining variety, from quick bites to Teppanyaki and Wonderland.
• Family-friendly but still plenty of adult spaces.
• Balcony views of the islands are unforgettable!

Cons

• The pool deck gets crowded quickly on sea days.
• Port mornings can feel hectic, especially in tender ports like Santorini.
• Some cabins are noisy or too far from elevators — not ideal after long excursions.
• Specialty dining is great, but the costs add up fast.

Conclusion

Cruising the Greek Isles on the Odyssey of the Seas turned out to be one of my favorite Mediterranean sailings. The ship itself is amazing, and the mix of ports made every day different.

If you’re planning this itinerary, I recommend checking out my detailed Greek Isles port guides and watching my YouTube channel, where I’ve filmed each of these stops so you can see what to expect.

📘 Looking for more? My Mediterranean Cruise Port Guide eBook covers 40+ ports with tips, maps, and one-day itineraries, a great resource to plan your trip.

🎥 Don’t forget to subscribe to my YouTube channel for more cruise reviews, port guides, and travel tips.

You may also like our cruise port guides to the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Northern Europe, USA & Canada, Middle East, Australia & New Zealand

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