Mediterranean Cruises

Discover the Mediterranean with CruiseAway

Welcome to the Mediterranean, a dazzling stretch of coastlines, rich history, and vibrant cultures. Sailing through this stunning region is an unmatched experience that allows you to hop from one beautiful destination to another. Imagine exploring ancient ruins in Greece, lounging on the sun-soaked beaches of the Amalfi Coast in Italy, or sipping a glass of local wine while enjoying the sunset over Barcelona. Fun fact: the Mediterranean Sea is home to over 17,000 islands, many of which boast breathtaking landscapes and unique cultures! A cruise through the Mediterranean offers the chance to enjoy diverse experiences while indulging in excellent dining and luxurious amenities aboard your ship.

Top Harbours to Visit in the Mediterranean

When you set sail for the **Mediterranean**, you’ll have the opportunity to explore a variety of stunning harbours. Here are five must-visit ports:

• Barcelona, Spain: Barcelona is a cultural hub known for its stunning architecture, such as the iconic **Sagrada Familia** and **Park Güell**. While in town, make sure to stroll through the beautiful **Gothic Quarter**, filled with narrow alleys, charming shops, and delightful cafés. Insider tip: Enjoy a leisurely meal at a local tapas bar, sampling small plates of delightful Mediterranean fare, and don’t forget to try some **patatas bravas**!
• Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy: This port is your gateway to ancient Rome and is famously known for its historical attractions. Make the most of your time by visiting the **Colosseum**, **Roman Forum**, or **Vatican City**. For a more leisurely experience, explore the charming streets of **Trastevere** and indulge in some gelato. Pro tip: Organise a guided tour to make the most of your limited time and skip the queues at popular sites.
• Athens, Greece: Athens combines ancient history and modern vibrancy. The **Acropolis** and its Parthenon are absolute highlights, offering sweeping views of the city below. After exploring, treat yourself to local delicacies at a nearby tavern on the **Plaka**. Don’t miss out on the traditional **souvlaki**! Insider tip: Wear comfortable shoes—you’ll want to wander around the varied terrains while sightseeing!
• Valletta, Malta: Valletta showcases a stunning blend of history and culture, with magnificent Baroque architecture and beautiful waterfront views. While there, explore **St. John’s Co-Cathedral** and the **Upper Barracca Gardens**. Pro tip: Get a cafe and try the local **Pastizzi**, a flaky pastry often filled with ricotta or pea puree, for an authentic taste of Maltese cuisine.
• Marseille, France: Marseille is France’s oldest city and boasts a unique blend of cultures. As you dock, visit the old port and take in the coastal views from **Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde**. Experience the vibrant local food scene by sampling **Bouillabaisse**, a traditional fish soup unique to the region. Insider tip: Use the local public transport for an easy—and economical—way to explore the city!

Best Times to Cruise the Mediterranean

The Mediterranean suntains a temperate climate year-round, making it a popular cruise destination. The ideal sailing season runs from **April to June** and **September to October**, where temperatures generally warm between **20°C and 28°C**. You’ll encounter fewer crowds, pleasant weather, and competitive pricing during these shoulder seasons. From **July to August**, expect peak temperatures soaring up to **30°C and beyond**, coupled with large tourist crowds, where fares are often highest.

The Cost of Cruising in the Mediterranean

Planning your trip budget is crucial! Expect to pay anywhere from **$1,700 to $3,500** for a one-week standard cruise in the Mediterranean, while a two-week cruise can range from **$3,500 to $6,500**. Luxury cruises often start at around **$5,000** for one week. The most economical months to cruise typically fall in the shoulder seasons, while July and August see costs spike due to high demand and school holidays. For dining expenses, ensure to budget around **$20 to $50** per meal based on the restaurant, local cafés being the more budget-friendly option!

Major Cruise Lines Offering Mediterranean Adventures

• MSC Cruises: With a fleet of **23 ships**, **17** of them travel to the Mediterranean. The **MSC Fantasia** and **MSC Magnifica** often make the journey, with departures concentrated around **Genoa** and **Barcelona**. MSC is excellent for families, known for their engaging activities onboard and a variety of dining options inspired by Mediterranean cuisine.
• Princess Cruises: This cruise line features **17 ships**, with **11** cruising to the Mediterranean. **Sun Princess** and **Crown Princess** are popular options, often setting sail from **Civitavecchia (Rome)** or **Barcelona**. Princess Cruises prides itself on providing high-quality service and unique experiences, including immersive shore excursions that allow you to explore the wonderful cultures of the Mediterranean.
• Cunard: With **four ships** in its fleet, **three** concentrate on the Mediterranean, including **Queen Victoria** and **Queen Anne**. Popular ports of departure include **Sydney** and **Civitavecchia**. Cunard is a luxurious cruise line famous for its elegant dining experiences and traditional afternoon teas, elevating your cruising adventure on the water.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: The cruise line features **20 ships**, 12 of which sail to the Mediterranean. The **Norwegian Viva** and **Norwegian Pearl** regularly set sail from **Civitavecchia** or **Barcelona**. Norwegian Cruise Line stands out for their “freestyle cruising” concept, which grants guests the flexibility to dine when and where they wish during their trip.
• P&O Cruises: With a fleet size of **seven ships** and **six** heading for Mediterranean adventures, the **Azura** and **Arvia** provide cruisers with an unforgettable experience. Departing frequently from **Valletta** or **Southampton**, P&O Cruises is well-known for its friendly service and dedication to creating memorable holiday experiences for every guest.

Luxury and Small Ship Options

• Viking Ocean Cruises: With **11 ships** in its fleet, **eight** sail to the Mediterranean. The **Viking Saturn** and **Viking Star** frequently depart from **Barcelona** or **Civitavecchia**. Viking Ocean Cruises is renowned for its enriching itineraries and includes cultural experiences, known as “Viking Homelands,” in every port to deepen your understanding of local traditions.
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises: Operating with **six ships**, five traverse the Mediterranean, notably the **Seven Seas Splendor** and **Seven Seas Voyager**. This cruise line features **21** ports of departure, commonly from **Civitavecchia** or **Barcelona**. Regent is famed for its all-inclusive luxury offering, providing personalised service, gourmet meals, and selected premium beverages, making your experience unforgettable.
• Explora Journeys: This line features **two ships**, both sailing in the Mediterranean, namely **EXPLORA I** and **EXPLORA II**. They frequently depart from **Barcelona** or **Athens** and provide a blend of luxury and exploration with a focus on sustainable cruising, ensuring the beauty of the Mediterranean is preserved for future generations.
• Seabourn: With a fleet of **six ships**, **four** cruising to the Mediterranean, including **Seabourn Encore** and **Seabourn Ovation**. Departing mainly from **Barcelona** or **Athens**, the line promises exceptional service onboard and all-suite accommodations that deliver a luxury experience worth indulging in.
• Silversea: This line features **13 ships**, six of which explore the Mediterranean. The **Silver Ray** and **Silver Spirit** often set sail from **Athens** or **Civitavecchia**. Silversea focuses on intimate luxury experiences with explorations led by knowledgeable local guides, enhancing your cultural immersion while cruising.

Explore Alternative Regions

If the allure of the Mediterranean has caught your attention but you’d like to explore other exceptional destinations, here are five alternatives:

• Southern Europe: This area offers a blend of stunning coastlines, historical sites, and excellent food and wine experiences, making it a must-see for travellers who appreciate rich cultures.
• Western Europe: Renowned for its vibrant cities and rich tradition, Western Europe combines picturesque landscapes with captivating sights and tastes, perfect for cultural buffs!
• Caribbean: Known for idyllic beaches and tropical rhythms, the Caribbean provides a different kind of relaxation combined with exciting island hopping adventures.
• Spain: Diverse and culturally rich, Spain is renowned for its world-class cuisine, lively festivals, and beautiful architecture—perfect for a captivating cruise.
• Eastern Mediterranean: Offering stunning islands, exquisite culture, and ancient history, the Eastern Mediterranean is an enticing spot for those seeking to explore gorgeous coasts.

The Mediterranean promises a wealth of experiences from glorious vistas to delectable food and remarkable ports, making for a spectacular cruise holiday. Don’t wait any longer—take your next step with **CruiseAway** and embrace the adventure that awaits on the high seas!