Embark on an Enchanting Journey to Tunisia with Cruise1st
Tunisia is a vibrant tapestry of stunning landscapes, rich history, and welcoming culture, making it an enticing destination for cruising. Nestled at the northern tip of Africa, it is home to ancient Roman ruins, Sahara deserts, and beautiful Mediterranean beaches. Fun fact: Tunisia boasts the ruins of Carthage, once a rival to Rome, and today these stunning archaeological sites attract history enthusiasts from around the globe! A cruise to Tunisia provides the perfect opportunity to witness its beauty, indulge in delightful cuisine, and immerse yourself in the captivating local culture.
Major Cruise Lines Offering Tunisia Itineraries
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MSC Cruises: With a fleet of 23 ships, MSC has 3 that call on Tunisia, including MSC Fantasia and MSC Seaside. Known for their family-friendly atmosphere and exceptional onboard entertainment, these ships provide delightful experiences for all ages. Cruises to Tunisia often depart from major ports like Barcelona or Naples, allowing cruisers ample opportunities to explore before or after their visit.
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Holland America Line: Featuring a fleet of 11 ships, Holland America has 3 offering journeys to Tunisia, such as the Oosterdam and Nieuw Statendam. These ships are renowned for their immersive cultural experiences and delectable culinary offerings. Passengers can set sail from versatile international ports, with Barcelona and Athens being popular choices for embarkation.
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Ambassador Cruise Line: With a smaller fleet of just 2 ships, Ambassador Cruise Line also features 2 that visit Tunisia—Ambience and Ambition. These cruise ships focus on creating an engaging onboard atmosphere, allowing guests to explore the region in comfort. Departures typically occur from Tilbury (London), giving you a chance to enjoy a scenic journey before reaching Tunisia.
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P&O Cruises: This line offers a fleet of 7 ships, with 1 ship—Aurora—sailing to Tunisia. The ship is celebrated for its classic and traditional cruising experience, featuring devoted service and a relaxed atmosphere. Most itineraries depart from Southampton, ensuring a comfortable start to your Tunisian adventure.
Luxury and Small Ship Cruises to Tunisia
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Oceania Cruises: With a fleet of 8, Oceania has 4 ships visiting Tunisia, including Nautica and Marina. Known for their gourmet dining experiences, these ships focus on providing quality culinary offerings and destination immersion. Cruises to Tunisia typically depart from ports like Athens or Civitavecchia (Rome), enabling cruisers to start their journey in vibrant historical cities.
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Seabourn: This luxury cruise line features a fleet of 6, with the Seabourn Ovation visiting Tunisia. Renowned for its intimate cruising experience, Seabourn excels in personalized service and exquisite dining. Passengers often set sail from Civitavecchia (Rome) or Barcelona, allowing for some exploration of beautiful coastal cities before reaching Tunisia.
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Explora Journeys: With a fleet size of only 2 ships, Explora has 1 offering a unique route to Tunisia—EXPLORA II. This cruise line prides itself on luxury and sustainability while offering a range of enriching itineraries. Departures can take place from Civitavecchia (Rome) or Barcelona, giving guests an exciting start to their voyage.
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Silversea: Boasting a fleet of 12, Silversea has 3 ships making their mark in Tunisia, namely Silver Moon and Silver Ray. Known for their all-inclusive luxury and refined atmosphere, these ships cater to guests who appreciate exceptional service. Cruises usually depart from renowned ports such as Lisbon or Civitavecchia (Rome).
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Azamara Cruises: With a fleet of 4, Azamara features 2 ships that visit Tunisia, the Azamara Journey and Azamara Pursuit. Their focus on immersive destination experiences ensures that guests connect with the local culture at each port for a truly enriching experience. Departures often happen from Nice or Málaga, allowing for a scenic start to your adventure.
Top Harbours to Visit in Tunisia
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Tunis/La Goulette: This bustling port city is the gateway to Tunisia’s capital. Cruise passengers can explore the Bardo Museum, known for its spectacular mosaics, or visit the ancient ruins of Carthage nearby. The lively medina offers a sensory overload of colours and sounds, where you can shop for traditional crafts and enjoy authentic Tunisian food at local eateries.
Popular Harbours Typically Visited Before or After Tunisia
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Barcelona, Spain: A vibrant city brimming with unique architecture, Barcelona features the famous Sagrada Familia and Park Güell. While docked, immerse yourself in the local culture by indulging in tapas, strolling along La Rambla, or exploring the Gothic quarter’s winding streets filled with history.
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Valletta, Malta: Valletta is a UNESCO World Heritage site rich in history and beautiful baroque architecture. Visit St. John’s Co-Cathedral, home to Caravaggio’s famous paintings, or stroll through the Upper Barracca Gardens for stunning views of the Grand Harbour.
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Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy: As the primary cruise port for Rome, Civitavecchia opens the door to the Eternal City. Plan a day to visit iconic sites like the Colosseum and the Vatican City or wander through the charming streets of Trastevere for authentic Roman cuisine.
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Naples, Italy: Famous for its rich history and being the birthplace of pizza, Naples is set against a dramatic backdrop of Mount Vesuvius. You can visit the ancient ruins of Pompeii, explore the vibrant street life, or indulge in Neapolitan pizza at a renowned local pizzeria.
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Palermo, Sicily: Palermo is a city bursting with culture, showcasing stunning churches, bustling markets, and lively piazzas. Visitors can explore the Palatine Chapel and the sprawling historic centre or dive into the local street food scene for delicious arancini and cannoli.
When to Cruise to Tunisia
Tunisia is beautiful all year round, but the best time to visit is from April to June when temperatures range from 18-28°C, perfect for outdoor adventures and cultural exploration. July to August tends to be hot, with temperatures soaring to 30-40°C, ideal for beachgoers and those wanting to bask in the sun. The shoulder season of September to October offers pleasant weather averaging 20-30°C, perfect for visiting local sites without the summer crowds.
Cost Overview for Cruises to Tunisia
A one-week cruise to Tunisia typically ranges from $1,200 to $2,000 AUD, while a two-week journey can vary from $2,400 to $4,000 AUD. For those seeking a luxurious experience, expect costs to start around $5,000 AUD for a week and climb upwards of $10,000 AUD for a two-week voyage. Meals are often included on cruises, but local dining options can range from $15-$35 AUD per meal, and drinks may set you back an additional $8-$12 AUD each, depending on the venue.
Alternative Regions to Consider
If you’re considering a cruise to Tunisia, think about these exciting alternatives:
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Adriatic Sea: With its stunning coastline and historic cities like Dubrovnik and Split, the Adriatic offers a variety of cultural experiences and breathtaking scenery that will keep you captivated.
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North Africa: Beyond Tunisia, North Africa encompasses the exotic landscapes and rich heritage of countries like Morocco and Egypt, offering additional adventures.
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Eastern Mediterranean: This region is filled with diverse cultures, ancient history, and beautiful islands, making it ideal for both relaxation and exploration.
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Amalfi Coast: Famous for its dramatic cliffs and picturesque towns, the Amalfi Coast is perfect for those looking to indulge in stunning views and sun-soaked days on the beach.
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Greek Islands: With crystal-clear waters, charming villages, and tasty Mediterranean cuisine, the Greek Islands offer an idyllic escape full of culture and natural beauty.
Get ready to discover the magic of Tunisia! Let Cruise1st help you navigate your perfect cruise holiday, filled with cultural treasures and unforgettable experiences!