Mediterranean Cruise Types

Mediterranean cruises can focus on the western or eastern Mediterranean, or both together. Deciding on which is right for you depends on the destinations you would like to visit, the desired length of your cruise and whether you would prefer to sail from Southampton or don’t mind flying to a Mediterranean cruise port.

Western Mediterranean Cruises

An exhilarating mix of ancient wonders and stylish modern chic, the Western Mediterranean is one of the world’s most varied and rewarding cruising locations, with a vast array of exciting destinations on its itineraries.

One day you’ll be exploring Barcelona’s incredible shopping streets and wheelchair-friendly beaches, while the next you could be heading into the sumptuous wine-making hinterlands of Provence; the historical hotbeds of Rome, Florence and Pisa; taking a day trip to idyllic Capri; or relaxing on the golden sands of Ibiza or Majorca.

And that’s without even mentioning Lisbon, Cadiz, Corsica, Gibraltar, Monaco, Malta and many more!

The Western Mediterranean is highly accessible for UK travellers, with a wide selection of sailings making roundtrips from Southampton. Fly cruises are also available from Barcelona and Rome and can serve as good opportunities to spend extra time visiting the sights in these great destinations.

Choose a week-long itinerary for the excitement of waking up in a new port nearly every day, or go for a 12- or 14-night voyage to allow yourself some extra days at sea to catch your breath and enjoy the onboard facilities.

Eastern Mediterranean Cruises

A cruise to the Eastern Mediterranean is an opportunity to experience some of the most amazing culture, scenery and beaches the world has to offer, all bathed in Europe’s warmest weather.

The region’s status as a cradle of civilisation has endowed it with countless historical treasures from a long list of pioneering cultures, from Greek to Phoenician, Roman to Byzantine – and there are fascinating historical sights to marvel at wherever you go.

A varied selection of itineraries lets you choose to focus your voyage on culture, history, beaches, or all three, with cruise lengths varying from six- to seven-night whistle-stop tours to 20-night-plus trips that give you more time to relax at sea.

Popular ports of call include Athens (via Piraeus), with its mystical ancient monuments; the ever-majestic Venice; the grand cities of the Dalmatian Coast; tours around the Greek Islands, with stops at stunners like Santorini; the sunny isles of Crete, Corfu and Cyprus; the fascinating East-West melting pot of Istanbul; and the wonders of Egypt.

Round-trip cruises sail from Southampton, while shorter fly cruises are available from a number of ports, including Valetta, Venice, Rome and Athens.

MORE

Mediterranean Cruises – Overview

Best Time to Cruise the Mediterranean

Mediterranean Cruise Port Accessibility

Mediterranean Shore Excursions