Eastern Mediterranean Cruises

The Eastern Mediterranean is a captivating region known for its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and vibrant cultures. Did you know that it is home to historical sites like the ancient city of Petra in Jordan and the striking architecture of the Parthenon in Greece? Cruising through the Eastern Mediterranean offers the unique opportunity to explore a blend of exquisite coastlines and culturally rich cities. From the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea to the historical treasures of the Levant, a cruise here allows you to indulge in local cuisines, sip on fine wines, and immerse yourself in the fascinating stories of the past—all while travelling in the comfort of a luxury ship!

Major Cruise Lines to the Eastern Mediterranean

• Cunard: With a fleet size of 4 ships, Cunard has 3 that frequently visit the Eastern Mediterranean. The Queen Victoria and Queen Anne are highly regarded for their elegance and exceptional onboard service, providing guests with a classic cruising experience. While you sail away, enjoy afternoon tea in the elegant lounges and fine dining at specialty restaurants. Typical departures occur from international ports, primarily Civitavecchia (Rome) and Trieste, as well as domestic options like Sydney for Australian cruisers.
• Princess Cruises: This cruise line operates 17 ships, with 10 ships dedicated to itineraries in the Eastern Mediterranean. The Sun Princess and Majestic Princess are known for their diverse onboard activities and excellent family-friendly options, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Ports of departure include domestic options such as Sydney and Brisbane, along with international ports like Civitavecchia (Rome) and Athens, making it easy for travelers to explore this stunning region.
• MSC Cruises: MSC‘s fleet consists of 23 vessels, with 9 offering cruises to the Eastern Mediterranean. The MSC Sinfonia and MSC Opera are popular choices, beloved for their lively entertainment and family-oriented features. Most cruises depart from ports like Venice or Bari, providing a seamless embarkation experience for those looking to discover all that the Eastern Mediterranean has to offer!
• Holland America Line: Holland America has 11 ships in its fleet, with 4 providing itineraries in the Eastern Mediterranean. The Nieuw Statendam and Rotterdam are celebrated for their upmarket ambiance and exceptional culinary experiences. Departures typically occur from international ports such as Athens or Barcelona, allowing guests to easily start their journey through charming locales.
• P&O Cruises: Operating 7 ships, P&O has 4 that sail to the Eastern Mediterranean. The Azura and Aurora are known for their comfortable accommodations and diverse onboard activities. Departures frequently occur from ports such as Valletta and Southampton, offering flexible travel times for cruisers keen on exploring this iconic region.

Top Luxury and Small Ship Cruises to the Eastern Mediterranean

• Oceania Cruises: With a fleet of 8 ships, Oceania has 5 that sail to the Eastern Mediterranean. The Nautica and Vista are notable for their culinary focus and destination immersion, allowing guests to savor local dishes and wines while onboard. Most departures happen from ports like Athens or Civitavecchia (Rome), creating an easy starting point for your exploration of this vibrant region.
• Silversea: Silversea operates 12 ships, with 5 that frequently offer itineraries to the Eastern Mediterranean. The Silver Muse and Silver Ray are known for their smaller size, focusing on personalized service and luxurious accommodations. Departures commonly take place from ports such as Athens or Lisbon, providing an exciting introduction to the journey ahead.
• Azamara Cruises: With a fleet size of 4, Azamara has 4 cruise ships focusing on the Eastern Mediterranean. The Azamara Quest and Azamara Onward excel in offering immersive travel experiences with longer stays in port, allowing guests to enjoy more time in beautiful locales. Typical departure ports include Athens or Venice for easy access to the exploration of this captivating region.
• Seabourn: Featuring a fleet of 6, Seabourn has 2 vessels that provide itineraries to the Eastern Mediterranean. The Seabourn Quest and Seabourn Sojourn focus on delivering an all-inclusive luxury experience, ensuring passengers enjoy their cruise with world-class service and dining. Departures mostly occur from Athens or Dubrovnik, providing enticing gateways to explore.

Notable Harbours in the Eastern Mediterranean

• Athens, Greece: Athens is legendary for its rich history and ancient landmarks. While docked, explore the iconic Acropolis and its museum, marvel at the Parthenon, and wander through the charming streets of Plaka filled with shops and cafes. Savor a traditional Greek meal at a local taverna for an authentic experience!
• Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy: Civitavecchia serves as the primary port for Rome. In your limited time, take the opportunity to visit highlights such as the Vatican City, the Colosseum, and the Trevi Fountain. If you can spare a few hours, enjoy authentic pasta or gelato at a nearby café!
• Valletta, Malta: Valletta is a UNESCO World Heritage site with remarkable attractions. Discover St. John’s Co-Cathedral and wander the historic streets filled with local shops and eateries. Don’t forget to enjoy the stunning views from the Upper Barracca Gardens—perfect for capturing unforgettable photos!
• Istanbul, Turkey: Istanbul straddles two continents, offering a unique mix of cultures. While in port, visit stunning sites such as the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the bustling Grand Bazaar. Sample local delights like baklava or Turkish delight as you soak up the dynamic atmosphere of this beautiful city!
• Mykonos, Greece: Known for its picturesque beaches and vibrant nightlife, Mykonos is a favorite port of call. Spend the day relaxing on the beautiful beaches, enjoy water sports, or wander through the charming, whitewashed buildings of Mykonos Town. Visit the famous windmills and take in stunning sunset views over the Aegean Sea!

The Best Times to Cruise the Eastern Mediterranean

When scheduling your cruise to the Eastern Mediterranean, consider the seasonal weather patterns. The ideal time to visit is from April to June, with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 28°C, perfect for exploration without the summer rush. Summer months from July to August can be hot, averaging around 30°C, making it great for beach days but subject to larger tourist crowds. The autumn months, September to November, offer milder temperatures between 22°C and 26°C, providing pleasant weather to explore historical sites and local cultures.

Cost Overview for a Cruise in the Eastern Mediterranean

If budgeting is a consideration, the cost for a 1-week cruise typically ranges from $1,500 to $2,900 AUD for standard cruises, while luxury offerings may start around $3,800 AUD or higher. Dining costs in the region vary; expect meals in local restaurants to range from $20 to $55 AUD, while drinks generally cost around $5 to $15 AUD. Many cruise packages often cover meals, allowing you to try local dishes without worrying about the costs accumulating!

Alternative Regions to Consider

If you’re thinking about a cruise to the Eastern Mediterranean, consider these fantastic alternative regions that are equally enticing:

• Western Mediterranean: Explore the charming cities and breathtaking coastlines of countries like France and Spain while indulging in Mediterranean culinary delights. This region showcases cultural richness alongside stunning landscapes.
• Southern Europe: Enjoy warm climates and gorgeous landscapes through countries like Italy and Greece, presenting delightful experiences for food enthusiasts, art lovers, and history buffs alike.
• Caribbean: If you’re looking for sunny beaches and tropical vibes, the Caribbean is perfect for relaxation and adventure in a stunning exotic setting.
• North Africa: Venture into North Africa for a captivating experience of vibrant markets, unique architecture, and rich traditions in countries like Tunisia and Morocco—perfect for culture lovers!
• Cascading with options, visit the Aegean Sea: Known for its incredible beauty, the Aegean Sea welcomes you with picturesque islands, crystal-clear waters, and unforgettable experiences!

Are you ready to sail into the enchanting Eastern Mediterranean? Book your next cruise holiday with Cruise1st today and immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty and rich culture this stunning region has to offer!