MEDITERRANEAN CRUISES
EMBARK ON A MEDITERRANEAN LOVE AFFAIR, SET SAIL AND DISCOVER AWE-INSPIRING COASTLINES, ISLANDS AND OLD WORLD CITIES
A romantic odyssey like no other
Embark on a romantic odyssey as the Mediterranean greets you with warm breezes, sparkling blue waters, fresh seafood, and medieval towns. Immerse yourself in European culture and indulge in a relaxing and enlightening holiday. Be transported to iconic cities, historical sites, and charming villages. Cruise along major metropolises and dive into their rich heritage, while also exploring lesser-known beach hideaways and tranquil villages. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, this region has something to offer every wanderlust-filled soul.
Set sail to the Western Mediterranean’s hottest holiday destinations and immerse yourself in the glitz and glamour. Explore the star-studded beach promenade of Cannes, stroll through quaint seaside towns, and marvel at the works of Gaudi in Barcelona. Discover the golden sands of Costa del Sol in Spain and witness the dramatic cliffs of Portugal’s Algarve. Or take a journey through time with an Eastern Mediterranean cruise. Adorned with stunning coastline, ancient architecture, and warm hospitality, the Eastern Mediterranean promises an unforgettable adventure. Witness the captivating sunset over Santorini’s iconic blue and whitewashed towns, walk in the footsteps of ancient Greeks at the Acropolis of Athens, and explore the historic walled city of Dubrovnik. Indulge in the vibrant culture of Istanbul and marvel at the wonders of Ephesus.
No matter your itinerary, let each day bring a new country, a new culture, a new experience, and a deeper understanding of the vibrant history that the Mediterranean has to offer.
Cruise Season
Although cruising the Mediterranean is delightful at any time of the year, summer is when people are most drawn to the allure of the region. June to August marks the peak season when the Mediterranean is bustling with sunseekers and tourists. But, remember, it can get scorching hot, especially in the Eastern Mediterranean.
If summer is not your cup of tea, spring and autumn offer milder temperatures and fewer crowds, making it an ideal time to explore the Mediterranean. You will still have plenty of itineraries to choose from, with a number of cruise lines offering extended seasons and some cruising in the Mediterranean year-round.
Highlights of the Mediterranean
The Mediterranean encompasses an incredibly diverse range of countries and cultures, from Italy, France, Croatia and Spain, to Greece and Turkey, as well as Egypt, Morocco and Israel. And while each of these destinations hold countless highlights, it’s Croatia that continues to surprise and delight, because while Croatia has undeniably become a popular destination over the past few decades, there are still countless hidden treasures just waiting to be explored! You can visit expansive ruins and discover preserved palaces. Hike through national parks and try hearty Croatian cuisine. From relaxing beaches to coastal cities and bracing inland adventures and attractions, visiting a Croation port is like stumbling upon a secret paradise.
Key Ports to Visit
⚓ PIRAEUS (FOR ATHENS), GREECE
The vibrant port of Piraeus is the gateway to Athens, where you can immerse yourself in the rich history of this ancient city, indulge in Greek culinary delights, and wander through charming neighborhoods, fueling your imagination with the tales of gods and heroes. It’s where adventure meets relaxation amidst the timeless beauty of Greece.
⚓ DUBROVNIK, CROATIA
Experience the enchanting allure of Dubrovnik – the “Pearl of the Adriatic”. Walk through the captivating medieval Old Town, where ancient forts and cathedrals stand resolute. Discover the secrets of the 14th-century Franciscan Monastery and immerse yourself in the artistry of the Rector’s Palace. Awaken your senses at the 18th-century Dubrovnik Cathedral, or unwind and soak up the sun at the stunning beaches of Banje and Lapad. Fall in love with the charm of Dubrovnik – a city that will leave you spellbound.
⚓ ISTANBUL, TURKEY
Embark on an enchanting journey through time and cultures as you step foot in Istanbul, the mesmerising gateway linking Europe and Asia. Immerse yourself in the captivating history of iconic landmarks like The Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia museum, and Topkapi Palace. Don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in a shopping extravaganza at the bustling Grand Bazaar, where exotic spices and unique treasures await. As the sun sets, be captivated by the unparalleled beauty of Istanbul’s sail-away, a breathtaking moment that will etch memories forever.
⚓ VENICE, ITALY
Discover the enchanting canals of Venice, where gondolas await to transport you to palazzos and hidden treasures. Explore the majestic Basilica di San Marco and indulge in a shopper’s paradise, filled with exquisite blown glass and luxurious leather products. Get ready to be captivated by the romantic allure of this Italian gem.
⚓ BARCELONA, SPAIN
Experience the enchantment of Barcelona, the city that steals the hearts of architecture enthusiasts and food aficionados alike. From the vibrant Las Ramblas to the awe-inspiring Basilica de la Sagrada Familia, immerse yourself in the captivating beauty that has been captivating travellers since 1883. Explore the charming neighborhoods and unravel the secrets of the Gothic Quarter. Barcelona awaits, ready to mesmerise and delight.
⚓ FLORENCE, ITALY
Unleash your inner art enthusiast in the captivating city of Florence. With a rich tapestry of Renaissance marvels at your fingertips, prepare to be mesmerized by the masterpieces at Accademia and Uffizi Gallery. And who can resist the allure of Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral, standing proud as one of the world’s most impressive churches? Indulge in a leisurely stroll along the iconic Ponte Vecchio, where shimmering shops beckon with an array of precious jewellery, luxurious leather, and exquisite stationery. It’s time to soak up the charm and elegance of Florence, where history and beauty collide in harmonious perfection.
⚓ ROME, ITALY
Discover the eternal city of Rome, where ancient wonders and stunning architecture await. From the legendary Colosseum to the awe-inspiring St. Peter’s Basilica, embark on a journey through time in this captivating destination. Immerse yourself in history, culture, and the irresistible charm of Vatican City. Let Rome be your playground and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Weather
The Mediterranean region boasts a pleasant, temperate climate. However, you may still encounter some chill in the spring and fall, while experiencing scorching heat during the summer. Spring (May to June) and autumn (September to October) often offer the ideal weather for a Mediterranean cruise, with warm temperatures, beaming sunshine, and noticeably fewer crowds than the summer months.
Insider Tip
Many Mediterranean cruises are quite port-intensive – there are just so many beautiful destinations to see that many cruise lines pack their itineraries to the brim. You don’t want to get back from your holiday feeling like you need another holiday because you’ve overloaded your cruise with every kind of shore excursion on offer, so we recommend planning your must-sees and must-dos ahead of time and booking them in. Then keep the rest of the days flexible to see how you feel, to allow yourself some lightler activity days, or even some lazy days on the beach.
