Running on Waves

A journey we will never forget!!!

On 06/10/2023 we arrived on board as guests,felt as friends for seven days and left the ship
06/17/2023 with tears in the eyes.

Thanks to crew which made everything (and a bid more) possible !!!

Hendrik & Andrea

Date of experience: June 17, 2023

https://www.trustpilot.com/reviews/64996e93a2db4776ccad8699

The ship is like a diamond - everything was perfect and shiny!

We were the only Australians of 22 passengers, on our June trip through the Cyclades, but everyone spoke excellent or charming English and were very friendly.
The staff were sooooo helpful.
Nothing was too much trouble.
They were always happy and keen to make us happy.

Breakfast was at 8am but I was always welcome in the saloon at 7.15am as they were setting up.
I was doing travel planning on my laptop and preferred the firm, flat surface of the dining table.
I was offered fresh squeezed orange juice by Malvin and my espresso coffee by Taier.

The dining experience on board was amazing -with a varied menu which included exceptional Greek dishes.
I also loved the tuna tartare on avocado!
It was such fun to see Robert every night preparing his unique and delicious pasta station!
I loved his risotto with porcini mushrooms.

The on-off boarding for the tender transfer to shore was always safe and I felt very looked after by the sailing crew.

Robert (Tour Director) was always thinking of our welfare and was so kind and efficient in arranging an exclusive appointment in a hospital on the island of Ios.
My husband, John, needed a Medical Doctor to remove stitches on his head from a surgical procedure which had been done before we left Australia a week before. (It was a great success!)

The special touches like the bubbles on boarding on the first night, the pink Prosecco to toast the Santorini Sunset and the Photo Safari on the final night were amazing.(A photo safari is when the passengers are in the tender circling the ship when it is in full sail. A magnificent sight!)

This ship is like a diamond - everything was perfect and shiny!

I cannot recommend it more highly and the experience is in the top 10 of a lifetime of many unique travels.

Date of experience: June 10, 2023

https://www.trustpilot.com/reviews/64970c3c8b366a12dc95da4a

I had seen a travel influencer post this trip last summer and thought wow I had never thought of traveling this way. Small ship, sailing through the Greek islands. It looked amazing. I was hesitant because I couldn't really find much information or reviews but I thought let's just go for it, and I booked on a whim. I have traveled on many different lines from Princess to Disney to Crystal. But I had never done a ship like this and didn't know what to expect. Running on Waves far exceeded my expectations and we had the trip of a lifetime. The boat is absolutely beautiful. Small enough that you feel like you're on someone's personal sailboat, but luxurious enough that your every need is taken care of. We had one of the larger main deck cabins and I definitely recommend that. We had plenty of space and it didn't feel like we were on such a small boat. The crew was fantastic. Robert, the hotel manager, is an absolute gem. He worked all day every day to make sure everyone was having a wonderful experience. The food was fresh and delicious and every evening Robert would cook up a specialty pasta for us, every bowl made with love. Our stops were islands I had previously never been to, with the exception of Santorini, but they were incredible to discover. Each island had its own beauty and each island was completely different. Our favorites were Syros and Milos. I would never have even thought to visit them without this itinerary. We had opportunities on this boat that you would never have on the big ships. Visiting these smaller islands, climbing the mast, and even jumping off the ship into the Aegean Sea on our final day. I could go on and on about Running on Waves. If you have the opportunity to book on this incredible ship please take it. You will not regret it.

Source: direct feedback

Date of experience: Thursday, June 15, 2023

Luxury sailing yacht. Best way too see the Greek isles!

My wife and I were looking for a smaller, relaxed cruise ship to see as many of the greek islands as possible. We did a random google search and found Running On Waves, which had great reviews everywhere we looked. We trusted the reviews and booked it. We’re glad we did! We’ve traveled all over the world and have a pretty discerning taste for service/accommodations and both the crew and the boat amazed us. Attentive, friendly service and the crew really felt like family by the end of the vacation. Our room was very spacious! We were pleasantly surprised by the size of the bathroom/shower. Great sailing themed room with comfortable beds. The housekeeping was on point as well. There was never a single time that our room was not serviced with fresh towels, soap, etc. We really can’t say enough about how great it was. Don’t think, just book!

Date of experience: Tuesday, June 13, 2023

https://www.cruisecritic.com/memberreviews/memberreview.cfm?EntryID=701164

Unforgettable experience

This cruise was absolutely amazing, the ship is magnificent, the crew is bending over backward to help you in any way possible, the food was delicious in every meal and for every taste.
So so worth it.

Date of experience: Saturday, June 3, 2023

https://www.trustpilot.com/reviews/6486f774e2f534458d113cc0

Trip of a lifetime!

Just returned from a seven day cruise with Running on Waves. It was truly amazing in every way. The ship is gorgeous, the staff exemplary, food amazing and activities wonderful. The shop held 47 passengers which allows for such a rich and wonderful experience. I absolutely recommend this cruise! I will never forget it!!!

Date of experience: Saturday, June 3, 2023

https://www.trustpilot.com/reviews/6484369b30342b7fefb06f0c

We had an amazing time on board this beautiful ship during the month of june. We were a big group, family of 15 (including teenage kids). The accommodations are superb, the food is delicious and the itinerary worked wonderful for us. Claudia and Robert were super attentive and flexible to our needs and they always found a way to make our experience incredible. From finding tours on the islands we visited, transportation and taking care of every little detail. Even though there were changes in our itinerary due to bad weather, Claudia, Robert and the crew found alternative islands we could visit that were equally charming and beautiful.
I would recommend this type of vacation in a heart beat and would love to come back! It would be great if Sicily or Croatia was included in the itinerary in the near future, we would definitely join in!

Date of experience: Wednesday, August 10, 2022

https://www.trustpilot.com/reviews/62f3ebe24c35e69ec5294c70

Just returned from Greece for a wonderful week on Running-on Waves. This was my 3rd Private Yacht Charter and also the best! The food was FANTASTIC and the service provided by the crew was impeccable! I am already in the process of rebooking this Yacht for another trip!

Date of experience: Wednesday, July 6, 2022

https://www.trustpilot.com/reviews/62c44dfe853b02c06c9812d0

My experience with Running On Waves was a once in a lifetime experience in the summer of 2022. Throughout the time, we sailed to several Greek islands with a tremendous staff that was attentive and knowledgeable about each island we went to. Claudia was beyond cheerful, with a steady schedule that included all the details needed to maximize each day with. The crew was charming, helpful, easy to communicate with, and very present for anything the guests requested. To say that our stay on Running On Waves was enjoyed is an understatement. All of us as guests felt fortunate and lucky to be with such a magnificent ship. Not only did we each leave a piece of our hearts with Running On Waves and the staff, but we confidently look forward to returning.

Date of experience: Tuesday, July 5, 2022

https://www.trustpilot.com/reviews/62c2f696ba5bb6ef042b4b19

My sister and I just returned from an amazing trip with Running on Waves. From the start, they had the guests in mind. The itinerary was adjusted due to rough seas to avoid discomfort. Instead of going to Kos and Patmos, we adjusted to go to Poros and Nafpilon instead.

The crew was amazing and attentive. Claudia and Robert truly made the trip amazing with their attention to detail. At every stop, Claudia had ideas for adventures or would set up excursions for us if we chose. The crew did everything they could to ensure our comfort. I was having some back issues from being on the plane and they found extra padding to add to my bed. The only thing I would want more is some shade on the upper deck. It is the best seat in the house but you can't escape the sun. There is a great shady spot on the back of the boat but because of the configuration there isn't a view from there (I know I'm getting very picky LOL) The food was amazing. Every day we had a full buffet of salad, bread, olives, cheeses, and fruit. There was always a delicious soup and 2 hot options. They accommodated dietary restrictions very well (pescatarian, gluten-free, and lactose-free all had plentiful options). I am still trying to understand how they got every piece of meat cooked to perfection and so tender.

The captain recognized that many on the ship were avid sailors and made sure to give us extra sailing time which was so spectacular. We missed Mykonos due to confusion with the port authority but that just means we will have to go back again. I am actually really hoping they might add a Croatia itinerary for 2024. if they do, we will be back with friends and family for sure.

Date of experience: Tuesday, July 5, 2022

https://www.trustpilot.com/reviews/62c45461853b02c06c981b43

My sister and I just returned from an amazing trip with Running on Waves. From the start, they had the guests in mind. The itinerary was adjusted due to rough seas to avoid discomfort. Instead of going to Kos and Patmos, we adjusted to go to Poros and Nafpilon instead.

The crew was amazing and attentive. Claudia and Robert truly made the trip amazing with their attention to detail. At every stop, Claudia had ideas for adventures or would set up excursions for us if we chose. The crew did everything they could to ensure our comfort. I was having some back issues from being on the plane and they found extra padding to add to my bed. The only thing I would want more is some shade on the upper deck. It is the best seat in the house but you can't escape the sun. There is a great shady spot on the back of the boat but because of the configuration there isn't a view from there (I know I'm getting very picky LOL) The food was amazing. Every day we had a full buffet of salad, bread, olives, cheeses, and fruit. There was always a delicious soup and 2 hot options. They accommodated dietary restrictions very well (pescatarian, gluten-free, and lactose-free all had plentiful options). I am still trying to understand how they got every piece of meat cooked to perfection and so tender.

The captain recognized that many on the ship were avid sailors and made sure to give us extra sailing time which was so spectacular. We missed Mykonos due to confusion with the port authority but that just means we will have to go back again. I am actually really hoping they might add a Croatia itinerary for 2024. if they do, we will be back with friends and family for sure.

Date of experience: Tuesday, July 5, 2022

https://www.trustpilot.com/reviews/62c45461853b02c06c981b43

I was a bit leary about booking this cruise, since there were only a few reviews I could find online. I have previously cruised only on larger, six-star cruise ships (Crystal Cruises) so I was hesitant about being on such a small cruise, and worried it wouldn't be as luxurious of an experience as I was used to. It turned it to be more wonderful than I could have ever imagined for cruising the Greek Islands.

The benefits of being on a smaller yacht vs. a big cruise are endless.

-There is no waiting and lining up for tender boats. This maximizes your time on shore.

-You can find the cruise director to ask questions, get advice, help, etc. very easily.

-You can get to your room quickly and easily instead of having to walk 10+ minutes like you do on larger ships.

-You feel incredibly close to the sea, almost like a part of it, instead of feeling like you are on a moving skyscraper.

STAFF

The staff onboard was incredibly helpful, kind, knowledgeable, and friendly. They are willing to go above and beyond to make you happy and soon start to feel like friends because you truly can get to to know and talk to them (if you take the time to.)

MEALS

My other biggest worry was the food onboard - having come from six star cruises and being someone who very particular about food quality. Meals are served buffet style each night, so it makes dining very easy, and efficient. The food is not overly fancy, but everything was fresh, seasonal, very well cooked, and delicious! There was always a fish and meat, fresh vegetables, salad, some type of potato or pasta, a lovely display of fruits and cheese, and homemade dessert.

CABINS

The boat was in immaculate condition, so though each area is indeed small, it looks brand new and is nicely outfitted. The rooms are small, but that is a product on being on a yacht. They all face outward so you always get natural light. I was supposed to be in the mini suite (cabin 5) but through a mix-up ended up in Cabin 24. This was basically on top of the engine, so the room was very loud and almost vibrated at night when the ship was going full steam. I would not recommend booking this cabin. We were moved to cabin 14, closer to the front of the ship, which was a much less noisy room. But you need to be prepared that the rooms on the tween deck are a bit loud. It's just the nature of being on a boat. If you can spring for a main deck cabin, I recommend it.

ENTERTAINMENT

The boat is equipped with games, a screen for movies/karaoke. Since the boat is small, there is no entertainment brought on, but as long as you like talking to the person you are cruising with - this isn't a problem. The boat leaves port quite late each night, and we found after a dinner, and wine, we enjoyed just sitting on the top deck with a glass of wine, talking, watching the stars, and feeling the sea air. There is a speaker onboard for listening to music. I loved the lack of distraction and ability to just disconnect from the outside world. The boat has paddle boards, kayaks, and swimming platform for during the day. But this is of course all weather-permitting and the sea can be quite choppy because of the wind. Overall, I loved this experience. I often left like I was on my own private yacht, since you find yourself with many moments alone on board. I would come back again and again.

Date of experience: Sunday, June 12, 2022

https://www.cruisecritic.co.uk/memberreviews/memberreview.cfm?EntryID=687682

Wir waren eine Gruppe von 28 Gästen und wollten eigentlich die Kykladen befahren. Leider machte uns der Meltemi mit bis zu 7 Bf einen Strich durch die Rechnung. Die Crew zauberte aber in kurzer Zeit ein Alternativprogramm um den Peloponnes (Piräus – Pylos – Piräus) aus dem Hut das alle Gäste restlos begeisterte. Die Landausflüge waren hoch interessant und lockerten die Seereise entsprechend auf. An Bord wurden wir bei den Mahlzeiten ganz gross verwöhnt und immer wieder überrascht; insbesondere, nachdem man bei der Schiffsbesichtigung die kleine Küche besichtigt hatte! Ganze Nachmittage wurden im/am Wasser verbracht: Schwimmen, Kajakfahren, Stand-up Paddeln und die grosse Wasserrutsche vom Hauptdeck liessen die Zeit wie im Flug vergehen. Die Erholung fand man auf dem Sonnendeck oder bei einer Massage. Originalzitat mehrerer Gäste: «Eine Traumwoche»! Ein ganz grosses Dankeschön geht an unsere Reiseleiterin Claudia und den Hoteldirektor Robert. Sie haben uns alle Wünsche von den Augen abgelesen sowie viel Eigeninitiative an den Tag gelegt und so unseren Urlaub zu einem unvergesslichen Erlebnis gemacht. Ein weiterer Dank geht an die ganze Crew und ihren Kapitän Juri, die unauffällig all ihre vielfältigen Arbeiten top erfüllten. Und last but not least erwähne ich gerne die professionelle und transparente Abrechnung am Ende der Reise. Liebe «Running on Waves – Crew», gerne ein anderes Mal wieder!

Date of experience: Sunday, October 17, 2021

I can't say that enough: the best service I ever had, the best crew, the best of the best. We did the South Aegean cruise with Running on Waves on Sep 2021, and we definitely will be going back. And I have to add that the destination isn't going to be the most important aspect of my booking any more. I'm very impressed with how qualified every single individual of this crew is. From attention to the smallest details that make each passenger unique to the level of food, wine list, cleanness which was 10/10. We stayed in the cabin 18 and several times a day things were cleaned, organized, towels changed and much more. The bar service was 24/7 if you wanted, the hotel and activities managers were on point at all times and the crew were nothing but amazing. If you are looking for a unique cruise experience where tailor made decisions are taken with your best interest in mind at all times, you found your ship. The ship is gorgeous, and you even have the opportunity of seeing it at full blast with the sails down in a show made just for you. I left the ship 7 days ago, and I'm missing last week more than I'm missing home.

Date of experience: Friday, October 1, 2021

A fantastic custom adventure through the Greek isles! The ship is one-of-a-kind, beautiful, comfortable. We enjoyed a real sailing experience with wonderful activities. First class service without being pretentious. Casual atmosphere, but still a custom luxury feel. We were able to be as active or relaxed as we wanted at any time. Claudia and Robert and the entire staff and crew were there to help us get the most our of vacation. Helpful and attentive in too many ways to mention. Food was fresh and extraordinarily delicious with plenty of healthy choices. Unique touches like a ship's tender available at any time we were in harbor and swimming and water sports directly from the ship. Tremendous memories made with a small group of fellow passengers, now friends, from around the globe!

Running on Waves is a fantastic boat with a more than fastastic crew team. We did the Agean Cruise 2021 and felt that it was one of the best travel experiences of our live. Is like cruising in a private yacht, unique and beautiful, with the very best top service on board, kind, attentive and very professional, dedicated to make your hollidays memorable. We fully recommend. 

José and Maria João. Lisbon - Portugal.

Date of experience: Thursday, September 2, 2021

Our family very much enjoyed our trip with running on waves. They were very accommodating and always had fun activities for us to take part in. By far the favorite being the swimming, water a slide, and tubing. Claudia and Robert made a trip for our family to remember. The food was better than any restaurant I’ve been to. The crew was always polite and working hard. Thank you so much Running on Waves!

Date of experience: Monday, August 16, 2021