Variety Cruises Reviews

Name: Variety Cruises
Address: 214-216 Syngrou Avenue, 214-216 Syngrou Avenue, Athens, Greece
Rating: 4.57

4.6 Rating 271 Reviews

97 %

of reviewers recommend Variety Cruises

Company Reviews

Metrics

Info

4.6

Based on 271 reviews

Customer Service
Communication Channels	Email, Telephone
Queries Resolved In	6 - 12 Hours

About Variety Cruises:

Embracing the philosophy of elegance, intimacy and adventure, Variety Cruises operates 11 state-of-the-art SOLAS certified yachts hosting less than 71 passengers around the world. Each yacht has an intimate ambiance and a community of like-minded fellow travelers. Known for its high passenger-to-crew ratio, averaging 2 passengers to 1
crew, Variety staff offer personal attention to all passengers.

Since 1968, Variety Cruises as a family-owned cruise company has been delivering
cruise experiences that focus on the destination, while guests enjoy unique benefits of what small ships offers. Our ships serve handpicked destinations worldwide including Greece, the Adriatic Sea, Bali & Indonesian islands, Borneo, Thailand, Israel, Egypt & Jordan, the Cape Verde Islands, the Seychelles, Costa Rica & the Panama, Cuba, West Indies, Spain & Portugal, and Iceland. Variety Cruises’ ships dock right in the heart of the destination and offer multiple swim stops right off the vessel in secluded bays. To learn more, please visit www.varietycruises.com

Visit Website

Phone:

+30 210 6919191

Email:

club@varietycruises.com

Location:

214-216 Syngrou Avenue,
214-216 Syngrou Avenue
Athens, Greece
17672

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Variety Cruises 5 star review on 9th November 2024

Gillian H

Variety Cruises 5 star review on 25th September 2024

Nancy R

Variety Cruises 5 star review on 10th September 2024

Alison G

Anonymous

Anonymous // 01/01/2019

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“This review is a warning to any future passengers with Variety Cruises. I was a passenger on the Variety Cruise boat Panorama II to French Polynesia that began in Tahiti on November 3, 2023. This was a much anticipated trip for me. It was to be my first cruise ever. I have been saving for a long time to afford the costs and flights over. This cruise was expected to end in Tahiti on November 13th, 2023. We embarked as promised but we spent only one night on the boat. On the morning of Nov. 4rth, we woke to find there was no electricity. That meant, among other things, that there were no lights, no use of toilets and no water. The generator was not working so there was no emergency lighting. We were informed that to repair the electricity, a mechanical part would be needed. Since we were in the middle of the South Pacific, a parts delivery was many days away. After an hour of this confusion, we were informed that the cruise was canceled. We were told to pack up and disembark immediately. Unfortunately, there were many other safety violations that I learned about later. Several other passengers are experienced sailors so please see other reviews. We were brought back to Tahiti and were told that Variety Cruises would pay for a full refund and would also pay for 2 nights in a hotel while we got our bearings. We were then told that Variety would only pay for one hotel night. This was a very chaotic situation. We had to find our own accommodations on very short notice in a very expensive country during a very busy season. I did not anticipate being financially on the hook for the 9 days that followed. This meant I paid out of pocket for hotels, meals and all costs that were included in the cruise cost. I chose to stay in the islands because changing my flights would have been so pricey and difficult. Plus, I needed to scramble and make some type of plan rather than stay on the phone with the airlines. Neither I or any of the other passengers received direct communication from Variety and they have certainly not put their promises to refund us in writing. All of us passengers are still waiting for any kind of communication from Variety. We also await financial reparation. There are many concerns with this company. This review is provided to the best of my knowledge and recollection.”

Helpful Report

Dear Ilene, Thank you for bringing your concerns to our attention, and we sincerely apologize for any inconvenience caused by the recent unfortunate event. We are pleased to inform you that Variety Cruises has proceeded with your refund and your travel agent or Variety Cruises will contact with you. We understand the importance of a timely resolution, and we appreciate your patience and understanding as we work to address further this matter. If you have any further inquiries or require additional assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out to our customer support team. Kind Regards, Variety Cruises

“I have not actually taken a cruise with Variety, although I was very interested in several offered. I have just been repeatedly mis-informed by the US office about their special offers and then about certain cabins, with statements in emails being completely at odds with their own publications. I had to send a screen shot of their own website, and even then, no acknowledgement of error nor hint of apology. To espress my concern directly to Variety, I have sent 3 emails, including to marketing@ (as that is mentioned in several company responses on this site). No response. Perhaps this has just saved me from a much worse experience such as those described by others on this site, though I have little doubt that the trips can be wonderful if all goes well.”

Helpful Report

Dear Janet, Thank you for bringing your concerns to our attention. We are pleased to inform you that our marketing department has responded to your inquiry and upon thorough investigation, it has come to our attention that there was a misunderstanding with our US office. We sincerely apologize for any confusion or inconvenience this may have caused you. If you have any further inquiries or require additional assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out to our customer support team. Kind Regards, Variety Cruises

“Just attempted to take a highly anticipated 11 day cruise of Tahiti on Variety Cruise Panorama II on Nov. 3. After an extremely lax safety meeting (I.e. they did not properly demonstrate how to don life preservers or identify muster points) we completed first day sailing from Papeete to Moorea Island (approximately 2 hours). The sailing was extremely rocky, chairs were tipping over and unsecured items were flying around. Luckily I know of no passengers being hurt. Everyone was very concerned about the rest of the trip. First night at anchor in Moorea, at about 2AM, the power on the boat died. No engine control, no lights or water, pitch black, no emergency lighting, no flashlights supplied, no checking of passengers by crew, and travellers in lower level were impeded by flood control door which was electrically controlled. To me these are all violations of marine safety protocols. That morning we were informed by the captain and excursion coordinator that the cruise was cancelled because a required part needed to be shipped from Europe. We were informed that Variety Cruise would refund our money, they would transport us back to Papeete, and they would cover two nights accommodation and meals in Papeete, time for us to make alternative plans. After one day Variety Cruise rescinded their offer to only one night. During this whole time there was no Variety Cruise representative present, the only person available for information was the excursion coordinator, Sethora (who did an amazing job of organizing our return to Papeete on her own time). Our second day was to have been a 18 hour overnight sailing to Bora Bora. One could only imagine the potential disaster that would have ensued if the power failure had happened at night in open sea. As others have pointed out the Panorama II is not suitable for sailing the rough seas of Tahiti nor does Variety Cruise meet marine safety protocols. Operation of the Panorama II in Tahiti should be shut down immediately. Also I do not feel that Variety Cruise has sufficiently compensated us for our lost vacation time, extensive travel and emotional angst suffered during this failed excursion. For anybody planning on taking Variety Cruise on Panorama II be forewarned.”

Helpful Report

Dear Roy, Thank you for bringing your concerns to our attention, and we sincerely apologize for any inconvenience caused by the recent unfortunate event. We are pleased to inform you that Variety Cruises has proceeded with your refund and your travel agent or Variety Cruises will contact with you. We understand the importance of a timely resolution, and we appreciate your patience and understanding as we work to address further this matter. If you have any further inquiries or require additional assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out to our customer support team. Kind Regards, Variety Cruises

“I was on the cruise in Tahiti that began on November 3, 2023. Myself and the other passengers are still waiting for any kind of communication from Variety. There are many concerns with this company. Buyer beware...”

Helpful Report

“Nov. 3rd we boarded the motor sailor Panorama II in Tahiti for a 11 day cruise. We motor sailed about 2 hours to near by Moorea Island. The winds were about 10 knots with a beam sea. I was shocked at the poor handling of this vessel. If the Panorama II had a stabilization system it was sure not working. This boat rolled and pitched beyond comfortable. We were told that the next evening we would be motor sailing 18 hours to our next destination. I was concerned as bad weather and higher winds were in the forecast. People in topside staterooms were told the would be moved below were the ships rolling and pitching would not be so valiant. The next morning at 7am we woke up with sore backs due to the 3" thick foam mattress and to find there was no electricity, no lights, no use of toilets and not even any emergency lighting. The lower passageway fire doors were closed and with O visibility. There were no crew to inform passengers and fire doors were not forced open until after 9am when crew informed the passengers that there was a major electrical distribution problem and that parts were a week away. Cruse was cancelled. Then and only then did crew show up below to assist with carrying luggage topside. Passengers were told that Variety Cruises would put us up in a hotel in Pipette for 2 nights at there expense and we would get a full refund. When we got to the hotel we were told that Variety would only pay for one night. I filled a report with the Greek Coast Guard as to how badly the captain and crew performed during the power outage. 3 weeks later we have still not received our refund. The Panorama II is not suited for the Society Islands I do not recommend travelling with Variety Cruises. Check out other passengers reviews on Trip Advisor”

Helpful Report

Dear Steve, Thank you for bringing your concerns to our attention, and we sincerely apologize for any inconvenience caused by the recent unfortunate event. We are pleased to inform you that Variety Cruises has proceeded with your refund and your travel agent or Variety Cruises will contact with you. We understand the importance of a timely resolution, and we appreciate your patience and understanding as we worked to address this matter. If you have any further inquiries or require additional assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out to our customer support team. Kind Regards, Variety Cruises

“Update! no one from customer care department is in contact with me.”

Helpful Report

“DO NOT GET FULLED BY THIS COMPANY!!! My attorney is building the case on them already. On September 22nd 2023 we traveled on your Panorama II cruise sailing of Tahiti. The crew didn't take necessary safety precautions and fault to check our kayak. The drain plug on the kayak wasn't securely closed which resulted in drawn water from the ocean. The back of the kayak was completely covered with water. I was able to grab my bag with our documents and cash but my phone went down to the ocean. They refused to reimburse me for my phone! Well, now they will also have to cover any legal fees”

Helpful Report

Dear Paulina, Thank you for your review. Our Customer Care department is in contact with you and we are more than happy to find a mutual solution in your concerns. With warm regards, Variety Cruises team

“Die Crew war super.Die Auswahl der Ausflüge die Petro organisiert hat waren ein Traum.Der Barkeeper Semi hat uns jeden Wunsch erfüllt und war sehr freundlich.Wie auch der Rest der Crew .Die Kabine 201 war sehr geräumig .Kann die Yacht nur weiterempfehlen.”

Helpful Report

Vielen Dank für Ihre freundlichen Worte. Wir freuen uns darauf, Sie wieder an Bord begrüßen zu dürfen.

“Très bonne organisation dans les choix des îles et des activités. Le personnel à bord d'une extrême gentillesse, efficace et attentionné, vraiment au top”

Variety Cruises 5 star review on 18th June 2023

Helpful Report

Chère Muriel, merci infiniment d'avoir partagé votre expérience positive de notre croisière aux îles Seychelles. Nous sommes ravis de savoir que vous avez apprécié notre organisation soignée dans le choix des îles et des activités. De plus, il est gratifiant de recevoir vos compliments concernant notre personnel à bord. Leur gentillesse, leur efficacité et leur attention sont au cœur de notre engagement envers nos passagers. Votre retour positif nous encourage à continuer à offrir des expériences exceptionnelles à bord de nos croisières. Nous sommes honorés d'avoir pu vous accueillir et espérons vous revoir bientôt pour une autre expérience mémorable.

“Our trip to French Polynesia (Tahiti, Bora Bora,....) was wonderful. I recommend Variety Cruises and this destination to everyone.”

Helpful Report

Dear Jill, thank you for your kind words and recommendation; we are thrilled to hear that your trip to French Polynesia with Variety Cruises was a wonderful experience, and we wholeheartedly endorse this destination to all travelers.

“We have just completed 7 nights in the Society Islands Tahiti (June 2023). We had a fantastic time . Staff, food and cabins were all better then expected. Comfortable beds, very tasty food and excellent excursions to some awesome snorkelling and cultural destinations . We three Australians loved the laid back, friendly vibe on the yacht! Staff were awesome from the Captain to the galley staff. Very professional but also genuinely friendly and caring. A special mention for Kostas cruise manager, Elliot excursion coordinator and Dataram and his lovely female offsider in the dining room … all demonstrated great skills in service and were always happy to listen and respond to specific needs/ requests to improve our experiences.”

Helpful Report

We are delighted to hear that you had a fantastic time during your 7-night cruise in Tahiti; your positive feedback regarding the staff, food, cabins, excursions, and the overall laid-back and friendly vibe on the boat is greatly appreciated, and we extend a special acknowledgment to Kostas, Elliott, Dataram, and his team for their exceptional service, attentiveness, and their ability to cater to your specific needs and requests, enhancing your overall experience on board.

“Good service and friendly staff”

Helpful Report

Thank you so much Hakan! Sea you soon.

“Great service.”

Helpful Report

Thank you Susan!

“We had a lot of trouble with the booking as the dates were messed up due to time/day/ international date line. This resulted in confusion/stress and accommodation changes. Not sure if this was through variety cruises or insight travel or my cruise. Once we got on board the ship:Great staff, great service- we had the best time! Everything ran smoothly, great tours, top class service; cleanliness…and the food was amazing. Would highly recommend!”

Helpful Report

Dear Anastase, we are glad that once on board the ship you had a fantastic experience with great staff, service, tours, cleanliness, and amazing food. If you wish, we could investigate the booking issues you faced, and we appreciate your recommendation. You may always send us a detailed email at marketing@varietycruises.com

“Cruise,was fantastic, accommodation,before hand,not to be booked in ,was terrible....Especially,arriving at 11.30pm,after a long flight,with no accommodation”

Helpful Report

Thank you so much Andrew!

“We cruised on board the Pan Orama II from Tahiti, around the Society Islands from June 2nd to 9th and would like to take this opportunity to pass on our thanks and appreciation to ALL of the crew and in particular to Sephora, who made it extra special by providing us with a wonderfully authentic Polynesian experience. We found Sephora to be extremely talented and knowledgeable, helpful and kind. Nothing was too much trouble for her and she was passionate about sharing her culture with us which was truly endearing. Thank you Sephora! And thank you to all of the crew for making this such a wonderful cruise that we will remember for many years to come! With our best wishes and kind regards to you all, Martin & Laura. 🙂”

Helpful Report

On behalf of the entire crew, we would like to express our heartfelt gratitude for your kind words and appreciation for your cruise experience aboard the Panorama II, and we are especially grateful for Sephora's exceptional service and her dedication in providing you with an authentic Polynesian experience, as we strive to create unforgettable memories for our guests; thank you for choosing us, and we send our best wishes and kind regards to you, Martin and Laura! 😊

“I had an amazing eleven days on the Panarama II cruising around the Society and Tuamotu Islands, French Polynesia. The Staff was great and the food delicious. There were several activities to do on the islands, or just relax on deck or explore on your own. I'm already thinking about my next cruise with Variety Cruises.”

Variety Cruises 5 star review on 13th June 2023

Helpful Report

We are thrilled to hear that you had an amazing eleven days exploring the Society and Tuamotu Islands aboard the Panorama II in French Polynesia, with great staff, delicious food, a variety of activities, and the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration, and we look forward to welcoming you on your next cruise with Variety Cruises.

“Excellent cruise to the islands of French Polynesia. Being on a small boat gives everything a much more personal touch.”

Helpful Report

Thank you John for your feedback, and we are thrilled to hear that you had an excellent cruise to the islands of French Polynesia, as the small boat experience provided a more personal touch to your journey.

“Our 24 person Greece tour was spoilt by many ( officer) crew members , all scruffily dressed, occupying two guest breakfast tables, and, often , alfresco tables, smoking, drinking, phoning. Worse, 2 Variety head office employees were also aboard, even having lunch tables moved outside, for their convenience. And turned up at the captains dinner, wearing jogging bottoms. All condoned by a useless captain, and ‘ hotel ‘ manager’. None of this nonsense on Seabourne, or the Royal Clipper. Totally unacceptable.”

Helpful Report

Dear Dr and Mrs Young, We sincerely apologize for any negative experiences that you mentioned in your feedback. While it's important to note that the majority of the group had excellent reviews regarding the cruise experience, including the ship, the route, services, and the crew, we thank you for bringing this particular opinion to our attention. We value every comment we receive and take them into careful consideration for future improvements. It's possible that the Variety Cruises cruising concept appeals more to the casual, adventurous, and relaxed type of travelers, as we strive to create a unique and enjoyable experience for all our guests. However, we acknowledge the need to address and rectify any concerns or incidents that may arise, in order to maintain the high standards we aim to achieve. Once again, we apologize for any disappointment caused and assure you that we will continue working diligently to enhance our services based on valuable feedback from our guests. Sea you soon, Variety Cruises

“MY Pegasos Seychellen Rundreise. Einfach toll. Sehr guter Service auf dem Schiff. Alles topp! Sehr gutes Essen. Super Crew. Wir haben sehr viel gesehen von den verschiedenen Inseln und viel Gelegenheit zum Schwimmen und/oder Schnorcheln. Es war für uns eine perfekte Urlaubswoche.”

Helpful Report

Vielen herzlichen Dank für Ihre freundlichen Worte! Wir hoffen, Sie bald wiederzusehen!

Variety Cruises is rated 4.6 based on 271 reviews