MS Galileo

The 1992-built MS Galileo cruise ship is a motor-sailing yacht owned by Variety Cruises (fleet). The vessel underwent a major drydock refit in 2007, which included adding a third mast. This luxury sail yacht has a maximum passenger capacity of 50, plus 18 crew and staff.

The ship (IMO number 8986286) is currently Greece-flagged (MMSI 239299000) and registered in Piraeus/Athens.

The shipowner, Variety Cruises, is an Athens, Greece-based company founded in 2006 by Diogenis Venetopoulos. Since 2020, the company’s CEO has been Filippos Venetopoulos — grandson of the founder and son of the Chairman, Lakis Venetopoulos.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Variety Cruises suspended passenger operations fleetwide from March 21 to July 23, 2020 (covering 8 small ships and 4 superyachts). The fleet's flagship is the Variety Voyager. Other vessels include Galileo, Panorama I, Panorama II, Harmony V, Harmony G, Pegasos, and Callisto. The company’s charter-only yachts are named Absolute King, Christiane, Monte Carlo, and Obsession.

Variety Cruises’ fares start at approximately USD 2600 per person for a 7-day itinerary (based on double occupancy).

Decks and Cabins

The 25 cabins aboard are spread across two of the ship’s four decks, and all are outside. Lower Deck accommodations feature portholes, while Upper Deck cabins have windows. Staterooms range in size from 90 to 140 ft² (8.5 to 13 m²) and are available in three categories. Categories B and C are located on the Lower Deck, while A-class cabins are on the Upper Deck. Cabins are equipped with either queen or twin beds, which are fixed — guests should specify their preference when booking. All accommodations are air-conditioned and include TVs, internal-use telephones, mini-fridges, safes, bathrooms with showers, and hairdryers.

Shipboard Facilities

Operating mainly on warm-weather Greek itineraries, the ship emphasizes outdoor living. The Top Deck features a spacious sun area with chairs and loungers. The Upper Deck has an outdoor bar with seating, while a swimming platform allows guests to enjoy the sea when conditions permit. Water sports equipment such as snorkeling gear and kayaks is available upon request. Indoor facilities include a lounge with a library, comfortable sofas, and a flat-screen TV. The Main Deck houses the restaurant and indoor bar, with meals often served alfresco in pleasant weather.

The typical passenger mix across the Variety Cruises fleet is approximately 40% American, 50% European, and 10% Australian. A cruise coordinator provides shore excursion details and destination briefings. Wi-Fi is available for an additional fee.