How to choose the best Mediterranean cruise itinerary?

Mediterranean cruises are excellent opportunities to visit different countries, enjoy the views of the sea, and explore historical places. There are numerous cruise itineraries available in the Mediterranean, and therefore, it can be quite a daunting task to decide which one is the best. When choosing the cruise line, the season, and the ports of call, there are several things that one needs to consider to have a great vacation. Below is a detailed guide that will assist you in choosing the best Mediterranean cruise itinerary.

8 Best Tips for Mediterranean Cruise Itinerary

1. Find out how long your cruise should be

The first decision a traveler has to make when choosing the best Mediterranean cruise itinerary is to decide the duration of the trip. Mediterranean cruises can be as short as 3-4 days or as long as two weeks and more. The duration depends on the time you have, the money you are willing to spend, and how adventurous you want to be.

• Short cruises (3-7 days): Ideal for first-time cruisers or those who have a short time to spare, these cruises are usually concentrated in a particular region, for instance, the Western or Eastern Mediterranean, with a smaller number of calls.
• Medium-length cruises (8-14 days): These cruises are perfect for those who want to get a better taste of the Mediterranean. They can also encompass both large metropolitan areas and smaller ports, thus providing a greater variety of locations.
• Long cruises (15+ days): These itineraries include various locations within more than one country. They are ideal for those who wish to get a firsthand experience of the cultures, history, and geography of the Mediterranean region.

2. Choose between the East and the West Mediterranean

The Mediterranean is generally divided into two main regions: the Eastern Mediterranean and the Western Mediterranean. Selecting the right region to investigate is central to planning the most appropriate cruise and choosing the best Mediterranean cruise itinerary. 

• Western Mediterranean: This region comprises Spain, France, Italy, and Monaco. It is famous for its active cities like Barcelona, Rome, and Marseille and beautiful coastal cities like Cannes and Portofino. A Western Mediterranean cruise is ideal for art lovers, history buffs, and those who like the bustle of cities.
• Eastern Mediterranean: The Eastern Mediterranean includes Greece, Turkey, Croatia, and the Adriatic Sea. This region is perfect for those who are interested in archeology, stunning geological formations, and beautiful coastal towns. Such places as Athens, Santorini, Dubrovnik, and Istanbul are perfect places to visit as they are rich in history and culture and are beautiful to behold.

If you have the time, it is better to take a longer cruise that will include both areas so that you can visit several Mediterranean places.

3. Select the right time for cruising

The Mediterranean cruise season is from April to November, with the busy season being June, July, and August. However, the best time for your cruise will be determined by your choice of weather, crowds, and cost.

• Spring (April to June): Spring is relatively warm, not as busy as summer, and the flowers are in full bloom. It is a good time to go on tours and visit archaeological sites.
• Summer (June to August): Mediterranean cruises are most preferred during summer because of the good weather, long days, and active coastal cities. But it can also be crowded and even more costly than the other two types of accommodation.
• Fall (September to November): Autumn is a good season to cruise because the weather is still warm, there are fewer people, and the prices are relatively low. The sea is still warm for swimming, and local festivals and harvest events are going on.

Also Read: What is the best month for a Mediterranean cruise?

4. Choosing the right cruise line

Selecting the right cruise line is critical to making the right decision when it comes to the Mediterranean cruise. There are various cruise lines available, and each of them has its own specialties and price range, so one must choose the cruise line that is suitable for him.

• Luxury cruise lines: For those who want to indulge themselves in luxurious accommodation, gourmet cuisine, large suites and highly attentive service, it is recommended to choose luxury cruise lines such as Regent Seven Seas, Seabourn, or Silversea. Such lines usually operate smaller vessels, which makes the experience more personal and elite.
• Mainstream cruise lines: If you are looking for something more budget-friendly and suitable for families, consider Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, and MSC Cruises. These lines provide a variety of activities, restaurants, and entertainment facilities for families and groups.
• Boutique and expedition cruise lines: To be more specific, some boutique lines, such as Windstar Cruises and Azamara, have smaller ships that can dock at less popular destinations, thus giving the guests a more cultural experience

5. Think about your desired ports of call

One of the most important criteria when deciding on the best Mediterranean cruise itinerary is the choice of the visited ports. Here are some of the most popular ports and what they offer:

• Barcelona, Spain: A city famous for its beautiful buildings, vibrant atmosphere, and tasty cuisine. It is ideal for anyone interested in culture and art.
• Rome, Italy: As one of the most ancient cities in Europe, Rome offers a great number of historical attractions to visit, including the Colosseum, Vatican City, and the Pantheon.
• Athens, Greece: With the Acropolis and Parthenon, Athens is a great place to explore the ancient history of Greece.
• Dubrovnik, Croatia: Renowned for its ancient walls and the historic city core, Dubrovnik is a beautiful port city that offers both culture and history, as well as stunning views of the Adriatic Sea.
• Santorini, Greece: Famous for the white houses, the sunsets, and the black sand beaches, Santorini is ideal for couples.

Make sure that the cruise program involves both large cities and small towns to get a good taste of the Mediterranean.

Also Read: 5 Best Mediterranean Cruise Ports

 6. Assess shore excursions and onboard activities

Mediterranean cruise shore excursions and activities on board can make your cruise even more enjoyable. Select a cruise line that provides activities of your choice, whether they are guided tours, food and wine, water activities, or cultural programs.

Onboard, think about activities that you would like to do. While some cruise lines offer entertainment options in the form of live performances, dance, and casinos, others offer leisure and educational activities including cooking, wine tasting, and health and fitness.

7. Factor in your budget

Cost is an important consideration when choosing the right Mediterranean cruise package. Think about the base price, but don’t forget about other charges such as flights, tours, meals, tips, and beverages. Always check for promotions and offers, especially when the demand is low, so that you can save as much money as possible.

Also Read: What is the cost of a Mediterranean cruise?

8. Research Reviews and Recommendations

To get more information about specific cruise lines, itineraries, and ports of call, read the reviews of previous travelers. Newsgroups, travel sites, and social networks are the best places to look for real-life stories and recommendations. Friends, family, or travel agents can also be consulted to make the right decision.

Also Read: Best Family Cruise Destinations in the Mediterranean

Conclusion

Selecting the best Mediterranean cruise itinerary is a process that requires several factors to be taken into consideration, including the duration of the cruise, the region, the time of the year, the cruise line, and the ports of call. In this way, by knowing your likes and dislikes and conducting proper research, you can create a unique Mediterranean experience. For further information and to consider different possibilities, go to CruiseBooking.com to get the right cruise package that you are looking for.

By following these tips, you will be on the right track to a great Mediterranean cruise that meets your travel fantasies. Bon voyage!