Port Buzz: Katakolon, Greece via Silversea Cruises

Silver Spirit calls on Katakolon, Greece

The gateway to ancient Greece and Olympia: the birthplace of the Olympics.

Silversea Cruises’ Silver Spirit arrived to Katakolon, Greece today around noon. The port is situated on a headland overlooking the Ionian Sea on the west side of the Peloponnese peninsula. The main draw for cruise ships calling on the region is Olympia, which is 20 miles away and a drive that takes approximately 30 minutes by motorcoach.

Cruise visitors calling on Katakolon will have a couple of options for exploring this seaside town. The biggest draw is a half-day tour to Olympia to discover the archeological sites of the ancient city. Other options, for people wanting to discover the surrounding area can opt to head to the beach or walk around town (I did both – and loved it).

Beach break

I did not want to make the trip to Olympia and opted to bypass Ancient Greece for a day enjoying the sleepy Greek waterfront town. Cruise ships dock in Ka

Crystal clear water: jelly fish swimming by

Downtown Katakolon – Enjoying the Greek Sun

The waterfront is quaint with plenty of shops and restaurants, bars, and cafes. With reasonable prices, it’s easy to spend the afternoon people watching and gazing at the marina.

Waterside shops in Katakolon, Greece. Photo by Carrie Finley.Bajak

Shopping includes handicrafts, jewelry, t-shirts, and products involving olives (soaps, oli, and wood carvings). — Shopping includes handicrafts, jewelry, t-shirts, and products involving olives (soaps, oil, and wood carvings).

Touring the town is very easy, mostly because it consists of just a few blocks. There are two swimming beaches for those inclined to get in the water for a dip. The beach closest to the ship was a little crowded for my liking but it contained deep water for a swim. The other beach is on the other side of town and contains a sandy beach but it is very shallow. The lack of crowds and the free lounge chairs (with purchase of a drink) were submersible, so enjoying the water was easy.

Lovers of handicrafts will really enjoy shopping in Greece. There’s an abundance of ceramics, both traditional and modern, wooden bowls, reproductions of ancient statuary, woven rugs, jewelry, lace, and edibles such as delicious honey and olive oil.

Welcome back onboard

Having most of the day to explore port, heading back to the suite was a welcome affair. Our butler, Sumit was standing by with a collection of canapes.

Canapes a la sea side — Caviar and mini-quiche: tasty bites on Silver Spirit.

Don’t miss ways to explore the port of call offered by Silversea Cruises

Kourouta Beach Break
Olympia – Birthplace of the Olympics
Olympia & Mercouri Estate
Olympia & the Archaeological Museum
Silver Shore Privato – private van and guide

Cruise Buzz