Southern Italy Cruises

Discover the Allure of Southern Italy on Your Next Cruise

Welcome to Southern Italy, a captivating region brimming with stunning coastlines, rich history, and culinary delights. Stretching from the breathtaking Amalfi Coast to the vibrant island of Sicily, Southern Italy offers an incredible blend of picturesque landscapes and ancient sites. Fun fact: Did you know that Southern Italy is home to the only active volcano in mainland Europe, Mount Vesuvius? A cruise through this enchanting region allows you to explore charming villages, indulge in delicious local cuisine, and immerse yourself in a culture that has influenced the world!

Top Major Cruise Lines to Southern Italy

• MSC Cruises: With a fleet size of 24, MSC has 16 ships—MSC Grandiosa, MSC Bellissima, MSC Sinfonia, and more—offering itineraries to Southern Italy. MSC Cruises is known for their family-friendly atmosphere and fantastic onboard activities, featuring waterparks, entertainment, and diverse dining options. Departures generally take place from international ports, including Barcelona and Civitavecchia (Rome), creating an easy starting point for your explorations.
• Cunard: Operating with a fleet of 4, Cunard features 2 ships—Queen Elizabeth and Queen Victoria—offering itineraries that visit Southern Italy. Renowned for their timeless elegance and an emphasis on luxurious experiences, Cunard delivers exceptional service and an array of fine dining options. Most voyages depart from international ports like Southampton, allowing guests access to the gems of Southern Italy.
• Princess Cruises: With a fleet size of 17, Princess has 6 ships—Caribbean Princess, Regal Princess, and Crown Princess—frequenting Southern Italy. Known for their immersive themed cruises, Princess Cruises provides passengers with unique cultural experiences through local cuisine, entertainment, and excursions. Departures commonly occur from international ports such as Civitavecchia (Rome) and Barcelona.
• Holland America Line: A fleet of 11 ships, Holland America offers 4 ships—MS Nieuw Amsterdam, MS Eurodam, MS Rotterdam, and MS Westerdam—that include itineraries to Southern Italy. Renowned for their culinary excellence and engaging entertainment programs, Holland America ensures a memorable cruising experience. Departures typically take place from Civitavecchia or Barcelona, allowing seamless connections to Southern Italy.
• P&O Cruises: With a fleet size of 7, P&O has 4 ships—Britannia, Iona, Azura, and Ventura—dedicated to sailing around Southern Italy. Celebrated for their relaxed environment and friendly service, P&O keeps passengers entertained with a variety of onboard activities. Departures generally occur from international ports such as Southampton or Barcelona, making it convenient for cruisers looking to explore Southern Italy.

Top Luxury and Small Ship Cruise Lines to Southern Italy

• Viking Ocean Cruises: With a fleet size of 11, Viking operates 7 ships—Viking Saturn, Viking Star, Viking Sky, and others—offering itineraries to Southern Italy. Recognized for their culturally enriching experiences and intimate ships, Viking ensures a unique look into the heart of each destination, allowing for comprehensive local experiences. Departures typically occur from Barcelona or Civitavecchia (Rome), enhancing accessibility to Southern Italy.
• Oceania Cruises: A fleet size of 8 includes 7 ships—Marina, Riviera, Nautica, and more—offering itineraries that cover Southern Italy. Known for their gourmet dining and destination-focused experiences, Oceania ensures cruisers are immersed in local flavours and cultural events during their voyage. Departures commonly occur from ports like Civitavecchia (Rome) or Barcelona.
• Explora Journeys: With 2 ships—EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II—this new cruise line offers itineraries that include Southern Italy. Focused on creating immersive experiences and dedicated to sustainability, Explora provides guests with unique travel opportunities. Departures generally take place from Barcelona or Civitavecchia (Rome), making it easy to start exploring Southern Italy.
• Silversea: With a fleet size of 12, Silversea includes 8 ships—Silver Shadow, Silver Spirit, and Silver Moon—providing itineraries to Southern Italy. Known for their all-inclusive luxury experiences and personalized service, Silversea provides exclusive shore excursions tailored to guests. Departures are typically from Civitavecchia (Rome) or Barcelona, taking cruisers directly to the captivating sites in Southern Italy.
• Azamara Cruises: With a fleet of 4, Azamara has 4 ships—Azamara Journey, Azamara Quest, Azamara Onward, and Azamara Pursuit—operating itineraries that feature Southern Italy. Renowned for their immersive destination experiences, Azamara allows guests to indulge in local life through longer port stays and cultural engagements. Departures generally occur from Pireus (Athens) and Barcelona, facilitating easy access to Southern Italy.

Must-Visit Harbours in Southern Italy

• Naples: The vibrant city of Naples is not only the gateway to the Amalfi Coast but also a haven for food lovers! While docked, visit the historic centre, indulge in authentic Neapolitan pizza, or explore the nearby ruins of Pompeii. Don’t miss taking a stroll along the waterfront promenade for a truly picturesque view of Vesuvio!
• Messina: Renowned for its stunning landscapes and rich history, Messina is a delightful stop on your cruise. Guests can explore the impressive Cathedral of Messina or take a short excursion to nearby Taormina, where you can visit the ancient Greek Theatre for breathtaking views of Mount Etna.
• Palermo: As the capital of Sicily, Palermo is a city steeped in history and culture. Visitors can roam the vibrant markets, enjoy the beautiful architecture, or check out the stunning Palatine Chapel. Since you won't want to miss the local cuisine, ensure you try some traditional Sicilian street food during your visit.
• Bari: Known for its charming old town, Bari is a gem on the Adriatic Coast. While your cruise is docked, explore the Basilica di San Nicola, wander the streets of the historic quarter, or sample local delicacies, like homemade orecchiette pasta. Don’t forget to relax at one of the quaint cafés!
• Strait of Messina: The narrow strait separating Sicily and mainland Italy offers stunning views and unique maritime experiences. While cruising through this natural wonder, be on the lookout for the mythical whirlpool, Charybdis, and the towering cliffs of the Aspromonte National Park, which are visible along the coast.

Top Harbours Typically Visited by Cruises Going to Southern Italy

• Civitavecchia: The main port for cruising to Rome and the surrounding areas, Civitavecchia is an important embarkation point. Once you dock, take advantage of the opportunity to visit the iconic Colosseum, explore Vatican City, or enjoy traditional Italian dishes at a local trattoria.
• Barcelona: A vibrant metropolis known for its unique architecture and lively atmosphere, Barcelona is a popular stop for many cruises. Visitors can explore the famed Park Güell, visit the stunning Sagrada Familia, or simply stroll along the bustling La Rambla.
• Dubrovnik: Often referred to as the "Pearl of the Adriatic," Dubrovnik boasts stunning medieval architecture and scenic views. When visiting, walk along the city walls, discover the historical Old Town, or enjoy the sandy beaches just a short distance from the port.
• Palma de Mallorca: A picturesque port city characterized by stunning beaches and vibrant culture, Palma offers plenty of activities to enjoy. Visit the historic Almudaina Palace or the stunning Palma Cathedral, and take some time to indulge in the delightful local pastries!

Best Times to Cruise to Southern Italy

The ideal time to cruise to Southern Italy is typically from April to October, with temperatures ranging from about 15°C to 30°C, perfect for exploring cultural sites and soaking up the sun on beautiful beaches. The higher summer months are particularly vibrant, with numerous local festivals and events taking place. If you prefer to avoid crowds and seek lower prices, consider cruising from November to March, when temperatures plummet to 5°C to 15°C, but do expect some rain and cooler conditions.

Costs of Cruising to Southern Italy

A typical one-week cruise to Southern Italy generally starts at around $2,900, while a two-week itinerary may cost approximately $5,800. For those interested in luxury experiences, expect prices to begin around $7,500 for one week. Dining options in the region tend to vary, with meals generally priced between $10 and $60, while drinks will be around $5 to $15, offering plenty of chances to try regional specialties and local wines.

Alternative Regions Worth Considering for Your Next Cruise

If the enchantment of Southern Italy intrigues you, consider these alternative regions for your next cruising adventure:

• Amalfi Coast: Famous for its stunning coastal scenery and picturesque towns, the Amalfi Coast is an ideal destination for those seeking relaxation amidst breathtaking views.
• Eastern Mediterranean: Known for its rich history, cultural experiences, and beautiful landscapes, the Eastern Mediterranean is perfect for cruisers looking to immerse themselves in local traditions.
• Greek Islands: Renowned for their stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural heritage, the Greek Islands offer endless opportunities for exploration and adventure.
• Sicily: The largest Mediterranean island, Sicily is rich in history, culinary delights, and stunning landscapes, making it a fantastic extension of a Southern Italy cruise.
• Western Mediterranean: Featuring iconic cities and beautiful coastlines, the Western Mediterranean offers a unique blend of relaxation and cultural discovery across its beautiful destinations.

Excited to set sail on an incredible adventure through the beautiful landscapes and rich history of Southern Italy? Book your cruise with Cruise1st today and prepare to explore this captivating region!