“There are a LOT of YouTube vids on Aegean islands, also on taking an Aegean cruise which obviously takes care of the accommodation needs and has the advantage of island hopping, including to Santorini.”
We did this back in September. NCL cruise line. Piraeus, Thessaloniki, Istanbul, Kusadasi, Mykonos, Rhodes, Crete and Santorini.
Surprisingly, the most interesting location was Istanbul. Found the folks to be very industrious and friendly. Did not feel unsafe at all - probably walked 5 miles throughout the city - train station, mosques, the underground cistern from “From Russia With Love,” the Golden Horn, etc.
I would recommend this cruise without hesitation.
Thanks abb!