Western Europe Cruises

Embark on an Unforgettable Journey through Western Europe with Cruise1st

Western Europe is a region steeped in history, culture, and stunning landscapes, offering a tapestry of experiences that are just waiting to be explored. From iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower in Paris to the beautiful canals of Amsterdam and the majestic palaces of Vienna, there’s something for everyone. Fun fact: Western Europe is home to some of the world's best cuisines, ranging from Italian pastas to French pastries! Cruising through Western Europe allows you to hit multiple destinations effortlessly while enjoying breathtaking views from the comfort of your ship. Imagine disembarking each day to explore charming towns and vibrant cities, all while soaking in the stunning coastal views across the continent.

Top Cruise Lines Offering Western Europe Itineraries

• MSC Cruises: With a fleet of 23 ships, MSC features 15 vessels that sail to Western Europe, including the MSC Poesia and MSC Magnifica. Both ships excel in offering enriching entertainment and activities onboard while also ensuring family-friendly amenities. Departing most often from Melbourne for local cruisers and from popular international ports like Genoa or Barcelona, MSC provides ample opportunities to start your adventure through the heart of Western Europe.
• Holland America Line: Holland America operates 11 ships, with 5 offering itineraries to Western Europe, including the Nieuw Statendam and Rotterdam. These ships are praised for their immersive cultural experiences and culinary delights that reflect the regional flavours. Most departures are from Sydney, or international ports including Rotterdam and Dover, creating seamless access to the allure of Western Europe.
• Cunard: With a smaller fleet of 4 ships, Cunard has 3 that journey into the charms of Western Europe, notably Queen Victoria and Queen Mary 2. These ships provide a grandeur experience with a focus on elegance and traditional cruising. Commonly departing from Sydney, they also have international options from Southampton and Hamburg, creating an opportunity to embark on a remarkable journey across iconic coastal cities.
• Princess Cruises: With a fleet of 17 ships, Princess features 10 ships offering journeys to Western Europe, including the Sun Princess and Sky Princess. Known for their high-quality entertainment and diverse dining options, these ships cater to a variety of preferences. Cruises typically depart from Sydney or Brisbane for domestic cruisers while international journeys often start from Southampton or Barcelona.
• A-ROSA: This line features a fleet of 13, with 12 sailing to Western Europe including the A-ROSA BRAVA and A-ROSA SILVA. These ships are particularly well-suited for those looking to enjoy scenic riverside cruising combined with cultural experiences. Departures often occur from Cologne or Passau, allowing for easy access to the charming river towns and cities in Western Europe.

Luxury and Small Ship Cruises to Western Europe

• Oceania Cruises: Oceania has a fleet of 8 ships, with 6 offering itineraries to Western Europe. Notable vessels include Sirena and Vista, known for their focus on gourmet dining and rich cultural experiences at each port. Most cruises begin from Southampton or Barcelona, catering to those who wish to indulge in luxurious surroundings while exploring the wonderful destinations of Western Europe.
• Seabourn: With 6 ships, Seabourn has 3 that travel to Western Europe, including Seabourn Ovation and Seabourn Sojourn. Their commitment to ultra-luxury gives guests exclusive experiences onboard and ashore. Cruises typically depart from either Barcelona or Monte Carlo, ensuring you're set for an opulent adventure through the Mediterranean and beyond.
• Azamara Cruises: Offering 4 ships, all of which cruise to Western Europe, Azamara Journey and Azamara Quest stand out for their in-depth cultural excursions and immersive experiences. Departing from notable ports such as Barcelona or Civitavecchia (Rome), Azamara ensures cruisers have the chance to explore local customs and flavours, making for an enriching trip.
• Explora Journeys: With 2 ships in their fleet, both EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II focus on luxurious cruising experiences to Western Europe with a commitment to sustainability. Departures occur primarily from Barcelona or Civitavecchia (Rome), providing a perfect setting for cruisers looking for upscale travel with a focus on responsible tourism.
• Silversea: With a fleet of 12, Silversea has 6 ships offering routes to Western Europe, including Silver Dawn and Silver Ray. Known for their all-inclusive service and elegant atmosphere, they cater to a discerning clientele looking for refined adventures. Departures typically take place from Lisbon or Civitavecchia (Rome), giving access to the heart of European culture.

Top Harbours to Explore in Western Europe

• Southampton, England: Often the departure point for many Western European cruises, Southampton is also a vibrant city with lots to offer. Spend your day visiting the SeaCity Museum to learn about the city's maritime heritage, or explore the historic walls and parks. If time permits, take a short train ride to nearby Winchester to see its stunning cathedral.
• Copenhagen, Denmark: A blend of modernity and tradition, Copenhagen boasts iconic attractions such as the Little Mermaid statue and the colourful Nyhavn harbour. While in town, rent a bike and explore the city like a local, or stop by Tivoli Gardens for enchanting sights and relaxation. Don't miss trying a traditional Danish pastry at a local café!
• Dover, England: Famous for its stunning white cliffs, Dover is a historic port with ancient castles. Visitors can explore Dover Castle or take a walk along the cliffs for breathtaking views. The local beaches are perfect for seaside strolls if you want to unwind after exploring the town.
• Oslo, Norway: Nestled among fjords, Oslo is perfect for nature lovers. Cruise passengers can explore the Viking Ship Museum to learn about Norway's seafaring history, or simply wander through the green spaces of the city like Frogner Park, displaying striking sculptures. Don’t miss the chance to try traditional Norwegian salmon cuisine!
• Stockholm, Sweden: This stunning city across 14 islands offers a unique blend of history and modernity. Explore the Royal Palace, stroll around the charming streets of Gamla Stan, the old town, or visit the Vasa Museum, home to a 17th-century warship. Take a boat tour of the archipelago to see the beauty of the area from the water.

Why Book a Cruise to Western Europe?

Traveling to Western Europe provides endless opportunities for adventure and exploration at any time of the year! Spring (April to June) welcomes mild temperatures ranging from 10-20°C, perfect for enjoying blossoming gardens and local attractions. Summer (July to August) brings warmer weather around 20-30°C, ideal for beach activities and outdoor festivals. Autumn (September to November) showcases stunning fall foliage with cool temperatures between 5-15°C, great for hiking and sightseeing, while winter (December to March) offers unique holiday experiences and atmospheric charm with temperatures hovering around 0-10°C.

Cost Overview for Cruises to Western Europe

Expect to pay approximately $1,900 to $2,800 AUD for a week-long cruise to Western Europe, while two-week itineraries might cost between $4,000 to $5,800 AUD. For luxurious cruising experiences, anticipate costs starting around $5,500 AUD, up to $10,000 AUD for an upscale two-week journey. While meals are generally included on cruises, dining in ports can vary, with meals typically averaging $25-60 AUD depending on the restaurant. Drinks, such as a local bottle of wine, generally range around $10-20 AUD, allowing you to indulge while enjoying beautiful views!

Alternative Regions Worth Exploring

If you're considering a cruise to Western Europe, think about these fantastic alternatives:

• Eastern Mediterranean: Combining rich history and stunning coastlines, this region features beautiful destinations such as Greece and Croatia. It’s a haven for sun-seekers and culture lovers alike.
• British Isles: Experience the cultural diversity, historic sites, and stunning scenery of the British Isles. Culinary delights and vibrant city life offer unique opportunities for discovery.
• Scandinavia: This region offers breathtaking natural beauty alongside charming towns. Explore fjords in Norway, vibrant cities in Sweden, and the rich history in Denmark—a perfect combination for adventure!
• Germany: Known for its fairy-tale castles and rich cultural heritage, Germany is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in history, art, and amazing local beer.
• Baltic Sea: Collect beautiful cities like Tallinn, Riga, and Warsaw, the Baltic region combines history and culture with stunning sea views. Ideal for those looking to explore more of Northern Europe!

When you're ready to hit the waves and explore the captivating beauty of Western Europe, Cruise1st is here to help you every step of the way. Book your dream cruise and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!