Can You Sleep On The Balcony Of A Cruise Ship
Can You Sleep on a Cruise Ship Balcony? There are no rules that say that passengers on cruise ships cant sleep on their balconies. That said, cruise lines do generally advise against it. Despite this many people enjoy sleeping on their balconies and you wont have any problem doing so if you want to.
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Disclaimer: This post was created in collaboration with Celebrity Cruises. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Friday 26th of March 2021
All beautiful ports to visit..Another port I really enjoyed was Valletta Malta
Costa Marcos
Tuesday 22nd of October 2019
It’s very hard to argue with your list. One change I would make though, is to add some representation from the Eastern Mediterranean proper . I would nominate Chania, a beautiful port-of-call in Crete, with a wonderful Venetian era old town and port. To keep the list at ten I would callously ditch Seville, since this is only visited by cruise ships a handful of times per year.
Hi, Im Greta, thanks for stopping by! In 2017 I left my life as a management consultant and started chasing waterfalls, sunsets and views around the world. In this blog I share all my favourite travel stories and tips, to help you make the most out of your own trips!
Travel Inland To The Eternal City Rome Italy
Rome is not on the coast, so cruises normally dock in the port town of Civitavecchia and travel into the city by bus. But Rome is undoubtedly worth that extra hassle. It contains some of the most staggering historic sites in Europe, such as the Colosseum, the largest amphitheater in the world and a great ancient entertainment complex where gladiators clashed and Christians were consumed by lions. Then head over to the Roman Forum, an evocative patchwork of ruins that was once the center of life in Imperial Rome. And once youve tired yourself out with this kind of sightseeing, you can feed in one of Romes many superb cafes and restaurants, relaxing in the heart of the eternal city.
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Best Overall: P& O Cruise
Courtesy of P& O Cruise
- Ship Name: Aurora
- Itinerary: Andalsnes, Norway Romsdalsfjord, Norway Tromso, Norway Alta, Norway Stavanger, Norway Southampton, UK
After undergoing a refurbishment in early 2019, the 1,874-passengerAurora is now one of three adults-only vessels that sail under P& O cruises . Aurora is ideal for cruisers who enjoy ocean cruising on a mid-sized ship, with an array of dining options and several cabin choices ranging from interior to spacious suites. Dance classes, a full-service spa, a theater, movie cinema, casino, and a number of bars and lounges including the bustling, four-story central atrium are all available onboard the vessel. For a chance to see the northern lights, Aurora sails round-trip on a breathtaking voyage through Norwegian fjords and dramatic scenery.
Choosing Your Mediterranean Small Ship
Choosing a small ship in the Mediterranean means experiencing this popular region in a small, like-minded group, with active options such as fishing and swimming along the way.
So, what are the best small cruise ships in the Mediterranean? Your best cruise ship for Mediterranean cruises depends on the type of ship you want.
AdventureSmiths Mediterranean ships are all small enough to slip into secluded bays and most offer swimming right from the boat. Elegant interiors are complemented by teak sundecks with panoramic views, inviting chaise loungers and common spaces optimized for indoor/outdoor living.
The best small cruise ships in the Mediterranean range from historic tall ships to sleek modern yachts. Here we detail the options for your best cruise ship for Mediterranean cruises:
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Italy Best For Romantics
Thanks to its long Mediterranean coastline, packed with enticing ports, Italy is one of the worldâs classic cruise destinations.
From Romeâs ancient landmarks, elaborate fountains and atmospheric piazzas to the Renaissance glories of Florence, this ever rewarding country is filled with some of the worldâs greatest works of art and architecture. And as you make your way south towards the gorgeous island of Sicily, youâll pass fabulous scenery â from Sorrentoâs colourful sun-bleached façades to the sheer cliffs and rugged shoreline of the Amalfi Coast.
In between, donât miss out on the lively pizzerias and bustling neighbourhood trattorias â perfect for a plate of pasta and a crisp glass of wine, followed by a romantic stroll with a gelato in hand.
And if you book with Azamara, late departures in some ports mean youâll be able to capture the true essence of la dolce vita.
Portugal Best For Wine Lovers
With close to 500 miles of rugged Atlantic coast, on which both of its main cities are perched, Portugal is a natural cruising destination.
Book with Windstar Cruises and your itinerary will also include a stop in Madeira, that balmy archipelago off the northwest coast of Africa where you can sample the islandâs world-famous fortified wines against a gorgeous tropical backdrop.
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Why A Summer Cruise Is The Best Way To Explore Iceland
A stopover to catch the Northern Lights in winter or a road trip in spring are the most typical ways to explore Iceland, but circumnavigating the countrys 3,088-mile coastline on a cruise ship in summer flitting from city to archipelago to fjord is an increasingly popular option.
The season brings clearer conditions in which to view the huge glacier fingers that stretch over the mountain tops temperatures are more comfortable for horse riding, outdoor bathing and tours in all-terrain vehicles and the midnight sun is a must-see wonder.
Indeed, the Icelands Natural Beauty itinerary offered by Viking Cruises the lines only trip focused solely on Europes second largest island were snapped up by UK passengers in summer 2021 and are selling fast for 2023.
It was on the third day, in the Westfjords town of Isafjordur, that I knew I was smitten with this country of extremes. As I sat astride a RIB, with a father and daughter team guiding me through the fjord, the anticipation began to build. We had sailed far from shore and come to a stop, the grey water calm all around us. Then my fellow passengers began pointing towards a spot in the near distance.
On another afternoon, I boarded a Zodiac in the Fjallsarlon ice lagoon and found myself looking up at the outstretched fingers of Vatnajokull glacier as we passed blue-black icebergs. On several occasions I was transfixed by the power of a waterfall, not least the two-tiered, 105ft Gullfoss.
What Is The Best Way To Cruise The Mediterranean
Mediterranean Cruise is one of the most popular destinations in the world. Cruises in the Mediterranean tend to be intense but can offer you limitless. To experience the best Mediterranean cruise, it is very important for you to consider the following three factors:
1. Best destinations 2. Best time 3. Best cruise lines
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The 20 Best European Cruises For Summer
From family fun to enjoying the great outdoors, we have voyages for all plus why Iceland is surprisingly enticing for a summer sailing
Rather like a coiled spring, European cruises are expected to bounce back with a vengeance this summer following the ravages of the past two years. As travel to the Continent becomes increasingly easy, with restrictions beginning to fall away, companies have seen a surge in demand from cruise-deprived customers determined to book summer sailaways and, in some cases, utilise the future cruise credit that they were given to compensate for cancelled trips.
Alison Earnshaw, managing director of online cruise agencies Cruise 118, Six Star Cruises and River Voyages, said there are significant numbers of customers using FCCs to book cruises or splash out on something extra special.
As these FCCs could be worth 125 per cent of what customers originally paid, they represent a significant benefit so we are seeing more people trading up and booking trips of a lifetime or upgrading their cabins or suites, she explained.
She also cautioned that anyone who hasnt yet used their FCCs needs to be aware that several cruise lines have stipulated that customers must not only book by the end of December, but ensure they travel by then, too.
Availability is particularly good for early summer especially on popular routes such as Portugals Douro and Rhône cruises through Provence.
Western Versus Eastern Mediterranean:
Mediterranean cruises are categorised geographically in two types western and eastern.
- Western Med usually includes cruises that are west of Italy and they generally depart from Barcellona or Rome . They visit Spain, France, Italy, Malta, and Gibraltar.
- Eastern Med cruises focus on the Adriatic sea and the Greek Islands. They usually depart from Athens or Venice. They visit Italy, Croatia, Montenegro, and Greece. Occasionally longer cruises can go as far as Istambul.
- Combination of the two: these are generally longer cruises 15+ days and offer a combination of eastern and western Med. Most of the time they are one way . They are often called Mediterranean explorers or Mediterranean Medley.
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Medium Ship Line #: Msc Cruises
Showing up for the third time on our list, MSC Cruises is clearly beloved by many! The Swiss cruise line has just four medium-size shipsthe Lirica classwhich accommodate between 2,000 and 2,600 passengers. Theyre also the oldest ships in the fleet, though they each underwent refurbishment as part of MSCs Renaissance program to modernize interiors and expand their size. The line is known for its Mediterranean inspirationthough its fleet sails far beyond the region, calling at ports all over the worldso youll find delicious Italian food on board no matter where your ship is taking you. MSC sailings are quite lively, especially at night, with many guests partying at nightclubs into the late hours.
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How Safe Are Cruise Ships In Rough Seas
Yes, cruise ships are designed to handle rough seas. But regarding rough seas The captain will do everything possible to avoid bad weather by steering the ship away from storms or rough seas when possible. Unfortunately its not possible to avoid rough seas in all cases, but dont worry The ship is not going to sink!
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Best Cruise In The Med For Island
If youre hankering after the Greek islands but need a no-fly cruise, Saga Cruises has just the thing: a 22-night return-trip from Southampton to Athens. This voyage will be only the fourth outing for Sagas new boutique ship, Spirit of Adventure, which launches in late August, and along the way it will call at ports where history was made. Theres Malaga, founded by Phoenicians, where you can see Roman ruins and The Alcazaba a Moorish fortress Valletta, Maltas capital, which was built by the Knights of St John and still has buildings from that period Heraklion in Crete has a Venetian fortress, and during an overnight stay in Piraeus there are Greek ruins galore in Athens. The cruise also includes a spot of Greek-island hopping, calling at unspoilt Karpathos, UNESCO-listed Patmos and lovely Lesbos.
*The Tales from the Ancient Mediterranean cruise on the Spirit of Adventure departs 10 October, with prices from £5,928pp, based on two people sharing, and is all-inclusive with no on-board gratuities .
Best Time To Cruise The Mediterranean
It may be surprising, especially if youre still new to cruising, but the best time to take a cruise is often different from the high season. This is certainly true of the Mediterranean. While the high season for the Med is in summer, usually from late June through August, the best time to visit is actually in the spring or fall. Here are some of our top recommendations for when to go for different experiences:
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What Are Popular Regions Of The Mediterranean
Europe’s Mediterranean region can be broken down into two sub-regions: Eastern Mediterranean and Western Mediterranean. The Western Med offers a well-rounded mix of culture, history, beaches and shopping, featuring popular ports in Italy, Spain and France.
The Eastern Med is known more for its beaches and ancient historical sites, offering calls on ports in Turkey and Greece, as well as occasional visits to Croatia, Montenegro, Israel and Russia.
Are There Any Cruise Lines In The Mediterranean
Disney Cruise Line has been expanding its Mediterranean presence with new summer 2019 offerings that include the lines first round-trip sailings out of Rome, and, looking ahead to summer 2020, a trio of Greece-focused itineraries, featuring stops in Athens, Katakolon , Santorini, Mykonos, and Crete.
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Why Book The Mediterranean With Us
The small ships we work with mean a more personalized approach to a popular destination. Our travelers enjoy one-on-one correspondence with a dedicated Adventure Specialist. Plus, we provide recommended flight consolidators and an extensive pre-cruise planner with packing lists, reading lists and answers to common questions.
After reading our above Mediterranean cruise advice, do you still have questions? Or do you have Mediterranean cruise advice of your own? Contact us to ask your question and well make this guide even better.
When To Book A Mediterranean Cruise
Booking far in advance or relatively last minute can often find you cheaper prices. June, July and August tend to be the busiest, and most expensive, months to take a Mediterranean cruise. Your money will often go further if you plan for the shoulder seasons in spring and fall, when the weather is still reliable, if chillier and grayer. Winter will get you even steeper discounts and fewer crowds, but in most cases, it lacks the sunshine and warm weather the Mediterranean is known for, and youll have fewer daylight hours to explore.
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The 10 Best Cruise Ports In The Mediterranean
When I was young I was lucky enough that my parents used to take me on trips with them, which is one of the reasons I love travelling so much today.
Especially my dad always used to travel for work and he took me with him when possible. Being a TV producer, one of the projects that allowed us to travel the most was a travel documentary set on cruise boats.
Ive been on a number of cruises around the Western Mediterranean, Eastern Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Caribbean and Middle East.
I havent seen it all but I can confidently say Ive seen a fair few cruise ports around the world.
For this post Ive teamed up with Celebrity Cruises to bring to you a compilation of the best cruise ports in the Mediterranean.
If youre planning a Mediterranean cruise but youre not sure what harbours to visit, this is the guide for you!
Contents
Sunset in Venice, Italy, a popular Mediterranean cruise destination
With A Rich Tapestry Of History Iconic Architecture Sun
Adapting to an ever-changing world means cruise lines are increasingly inventive with itineraries but the Mediterranean remains our number one cruise destination, and experts predict the year ahead will see the spectacular Turkish city of Istanbul and Israels Ashdod, for excursions to Jerusalem and Bethlehem, surging in popularity.
Travel to Europe is more popular than ever ABTAs 2020 Travel Trends report revealed that Europe was the number one choice for British holidaymakers travelling abroad, with 84% visiting the continent in 2019, Wendy Atkin-Smith, Managing Director of Viking UK, comments.
Based on demand for both river and ocean cruises in the region over the next two years, this trend is set to continue. Vikings Iconic Western Mediterranean voyage between Barcelona and Rome is one of our most popular itineraries worldwide for UK guests.
On an eight-day cruise guests can visit Rome, Florence, Monte Carlo, Marseille, Montpelier and Barcelona imagine trying to fit in that many city breaks to a one-week holiday.
Most Mediterranean itineraries will also include opportunities to just soak up the sun. Busy days sightseeing are often followed by more relaxing days in beautiful sun-kissed destinations, such as the beautiful islands of Sardinia and Menorca. And returning to cities that may be more familiar, for instance, Barcelona and Rome, means you can dig deeper and visit the neighbourhoods to reveal what makes these places tick.
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Featured Mediterranean Land Programs
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Sacred Treasures of Greece
From the ancient ruins of Delphi and the Acropolis to the magnificent Meteora Monasteries, you will experience some of Greeceâs most sacred treasures during this extensive 4-day program, all of which are UNESCO World Heritage sites. Nestled in the towering rocks of Mt. Parnassus, Delphi transports you to the 6th century BC, while 14th-century monasteries constructed on seemingly inaccessible clifftops have you climbing toward the heavens. Youâll also explore the Acropolis in Athens, arguably the greatest architectural contribution of ancient Greece. In between your tours of these top Greek attractions and monasteries, youâll have time to enjoy the colorful old quarter of Athens, savor delicious Greek cuisine and discover the traditional town of Kalambaka.
Program includes:
All Deals For Your Mediterranean Cruise
Cruises on the Mediterranean Sea: amazing holidays all year round!
Cyprus, France, Greece, Italy, Malta, Monaco, Spain and Turkey.
Cruises on the Mediterranean Sea: a few suggestions
last-minute offersWestern MediterraneanEastern MediterraneanBarcelonaCapriGreek islandsexcellent foodwinetypical musiclush landscapesUseful informationthe best itinerariesLet our operators give you an adviceEternal Cityflighthotelpersonalized holiday packagechoose the best offer for youbest cruise shipssand beachestemperate climateideal destination all year longlow costfar from the chaos and the crowdholidays at convenient pricesFlorenceRomeNaplesVeniceCroatia and MontenegroMediterranean cuisineGenoaNaples Barcellona
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The Best Western Mediterranean Cruise Ports
Western Mediterranean cruises usually start in Civitavecchia or Barcelona, and they sail around the Tirreanean Sea and the Western Mediterranean. Typical ports are:
Barcelona
Barcelona is easily one of the most important cruise ports in the Med. Admittedly, Barcelona is probably the busiest embarkation and disembarkation port in the Mediterranean. In this vibrant city, there is a lot to do and see. Indeed, there is so much that it deserves its very own article.
Valencia
Swim at Valencia Beaches
The most popular beach in Valencia is La Malvarossa. Indeed, its the beach that attracts the most visitors. It is a mixture of urban and beaches, thats what makes this City interesting! There is a promenade lined with palm trees and plenty of restaurants and bars, serving excellent local dishes like Paella or Fideuà.
La Malvarrosa beach is split-up into three core areas. These are Las Arenas, the Malvarrosa, and Patacona beaches. Indeed, all of these beaches are clean, family-friendly, and a great place to spend a low-cost, relaxing time on holiday. And you can also choose from one of the many beaches along the citys coastline. It is perfect for relaxing and sight viewing! Malvarrosa is where Valencians go to sunbathe, and what I love about it is can enjoy the sun, sea, and excellent view for FREE!
Visit the Central Market in Valencia
Explore the Valencia Cathedral
Christian from BCN Travel
Ibiza
Discover Ibiza Cathedral
Catch Sunrise at Aigües Blanques, Ibiza
Gibraltar
Cagliari