Galileo
- capacity
- 49
- year built
- 1992
- remodeled
- 2016
- crew members
- 18
- length
- 157 feet
- beam
- 32 feet
- draft
- 9 feet
- cruising speed
- 11 knots
The 157-foot, 49-guest Galileo is a classic steel-hull motorsailer cruising the Greek Isles, offering the best of the Mediterranean: sun, sea, sand and history. This stunning vessel was built with the most stringent safety regulations. First launched in 1992, she was fully rebuilt in 2007 and most recently renovated in 2016. Significant upgrades to the guest accommodations, indoor and outdoor public areas make her a delightful motorsailer for cruising the Mediterranean.
Why Sail Aboard M/S Galileo
The Galileo is one of our most popular small ships cruising the Mediterranean, and for many reasons. Although she is a motorsailer, she has the charm of a historic Mediterranean sailing vessel. She primarily cruises under power, with sails raised occasionally when weather and route allow. Being Greek-owned and operated since 1992, she brings a lot of history and a connected, authentic crew. Her itineraries focus solely on the best of the Greek Islands. At only 157 feet, she can dock right downtown in small ports that are off limits to big cruise ships. And she’s small enough to visit authentic small ports like Folegandros, Paros and Syros that highlight Greece’s archeological treasures and fascinating culture.
Consult this page for a detailed description of the small ship including deck plans and a photo gallery. Our expedition cruise experts have been aboard the Galileo firsthand. Read our Galileo cruise ship review, or let us help you compare this ship with other small cruise ships that offer small ship Mediterranean cruises and Greek Island small ship cruises.
Common Areas Aboard Galileo
During the day, life on board centers around the indoor lounge area and dining room, as well as the outdoor areas at the Main, Upper and Sun Decks. Renovated in 2016, the Main Deck lounge area with an American bar leads into a warm and elegant dining room finished with wood and carpet flooring, and beautiful soft fabrics.
The indoor lounge is air conditioned for hot days and the outdoor lounge provides excellent views, especially when under sail. Guests on Galileo very much enjoy the shaded outdoor area with an outdoor bar where they can relax enjoying the most breathtaking sea views. In the evening, guests watch the sunset and enjoy a drink under the stars.
Dining Aboard Galileo
The spacious dining room seats all passengers in a single, unassigned seating and allows for spectacular views while dining in an elegant environment. Food is served at the table or presented on the state-of-the-art hot & cold buffet, which also includes an “a la minute cooking” section. Menus are a mix of traditional Greek dishes and international fare. Expect offerings that include meat, chicken or fish, but special dietary requests can be accommodated with advance notice.
Special dining events include a captain’s dinner, deckside BBQ lunch and Greek Night featuring traditional recipes like moussaka, dolma, spanakopita and souvlaki. And most cruise routes are half-board, meaning you’ll dine on your own at port for half the meals.
Activities Aboard Galileo
The captain will drop anchor at secluded bays and beautiful uninhabited islands where, weather permitting, guests may enjoy swimming, snorkeling, stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking. The stern’s classic wooden ladder invites a dip at regular intervals. Back on the ship, board games help entertain between exciting activity stops.
The Greek crew of 16-18 ensure excellent customer service and insight. Aboard Galileo you’ll arrive early and stay late avoiding the big ship crowds. Optional tours are small and intimate with exceptional local guides. And your cruise director will customize each experience based on conditions and have access to skip the lines museums and archeological sites.
Cabins & Deck Plan Aboard Galileo
The M/S Galileo’s 24 outside guest cabins are located on Upper and Lower Decks, all with portholes. Elegantly decorated, they have either two twin or one double bed and bathrooms with showers en suite. All cabins are fully air-conditioned and offer storage space, mini safes, mini fridges, hair dryers, radio music controls and telephones (for internal use). Limited laundry service is available.
