Marella Cruises has highlighted Katakolon, a seaside town on Greece’s western Peloponnese coast, as a laid-back alternative to Santorini that can be visited during one of its seven-night Mediterranean itineraries.

The town with traditional tavernas, a picturesque harbor with waterfront cafés, local restaurants and boutique shops, can be explored on foot straight from the cruise port.

In a press release, the cruise line underlined lower prices than in tourist hotspots, with local beer in a taverna typically costing €3 (£2.60) and half liter of house wine €4.50 (£4).

The town also serves as the gateway to Olympia, the birthplace of the ancient Olympic Games, where the Olympic flame is still lit ahead of each edition of modern Games.

“While Santorini remains one of Greece’s most iconic destinations, Katakolon offers something completely different for customers looking to get off the beaten track,” said Ped Vojvodic, destinations services manager at Marella Cruises.

“It’s a charming coastal town with a relaxed atmosphere, but its real appeal is the access it provides to Olympia, one of the most important historical sites in the world. For travelers interested in history, culture and authentic Greek experiences, Katakolon is a fantastic alternative.”

The town can be visited on the seven-night “Greek Mystique” round cruise from Dubrovnik, Croatia, on the Marella Explorer 2 from £1,316 per person (based on two adults sharing an Inside Cabin on an all-inclusive basis).

After a day at sea, the sailing calls at Souda (for Chania), Crete; Piraeus (for Athens), Greece; Katakolon (for Olympia), Greece; Corfu Town, Corfu; Kotor, Montenegro and returns to Dubrovnik.

TUI Airways flights from London Gatwick to Dubrovnik departing on October 15, 2026, are included, as well as luggage per person, transfers, tips and service charges.