Náfplion

Náfplion greets cruise guests with a port call that is as lyrical as its name: Oraia, beautiful, is the word Greeks use for Nafplion, where the town’s old section clings to a peninsula that juts into the gulf of Argos, and every alleyway, stair, and plaza tells a different note of Greece’s layered history. What sets this stop apart is not only the architecture—Greek, Venetian, and Turkish façades lining narrow lanes and stone flights that climb beneath the walls of Acronafplia—but the way the harbor itself becomes a stage for signature experiences: a measured ascent to the Palamidi fortress for sweeping views, a quick boat ride to the Bourtzi fortress on the islet off the harbor, and lingering pauses in tree-shaded plazas before savoring seafood on a sunlit quay. From here you can anchor Nafplion as a base for broader exploration of the Argolid, with shore excursions to Mycenae, Epidaurus, and Tiryns, or linger for a leisurely day and still reach surrounding antiquities within a comfortable half-day. The port’s modern facilities welcome fleets with a compact, well-signposted terminal, smooth docking for mid-sized ships, and efficient passenger flows that keep time on schedule. Onboard services translate Nafplion’s charm into the voyage itself—regional tastings of olive oil and wine, guided audio tours, and curated experiences ashore—ensuring guests savor the town’s timeless beauty alongside its rich nearby ruins without compromising time in port.