Balearic Islands Cruises

The Balearic Islands, a captivating archipelago situated in the western Mediterranean Sea, are known for their stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural heritage. Comprising Majorca, Menorca, Ibiza, and Formentera, these islands attract millions of visitors each year with their idyllic landscapes and warm hospitality. Fun fact: The Balearic Islands are not just about beautiful beaches; they also boast some of the best-preserved prehistoric sites in Europe, such as the Talaiotic settlements on Menorca! A cruise to the Balearic Islands is the perfect way to explore these enchanting islands, indulge in local cuisine, and soak in the Mediterranean sun, all while enjoying the luxury of modern cruise travel.

Top Cruise Lines Sailing to the Balearic Islands

• MSC Cruises: With a total fleet size of 23 ships, MSC operates 8 that specifically sail to the Balearic Islands. The MSC Virtuosa and MSC Seaview are standout options, featuring numerous onboard activities, family-friendly facilities, and a variety of delicious dining selections reflecting the Mediterranean flavours. Departures typically occur from bustling ports such as Genoa or Barcelona, providing convenient access to the captivating Balearics.
• P&O Cruises: This popular cruise line has a fleet of 7 ships, all offering itineraries that visit the beautiful Balearic Islands. The Azura and Ventura are particularly loved for their array of entertainment options and excellent service. Most cruises depart from Southampton or Santa Cruz de Tenerife, making it easy for UK travellers to embark on their voyage to the tranquil islands.
• Princess Cruises: With a fleet of 17 ships, Princess Cruises features 7 that offer itineraries to the Balearic Islands. The Sun Princess and Crown Princess are well-known for their excellent dining options and comprehensive onboard entertainment. Departures are most common from ports such as Rome or Southampton, giving guests seamless access to the beauty of Balearic Islands during their cruise.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: Operating a fleet of 20 ships, Norwegian has 9 that visit the stunning Balearic Islands. The Norwegian Dawn and Norwegian Star provide a relaxed atmosphere with freestyle dining and vibrant onboard entertainment options. Cruises generally depart from Barcelona or Rome, ensuring an exciting start to your island expedition.
• Holland America Line: This cruise line features a fleet of 11 ships, with 4 that sail to the Balearic Islands. The Oosterdam and Nieuw Statendam are especially noted for their premium dining and enrichment programs, delivering a balanced cruising experience. Departures predominantly occur from Barcelona or Athens, allowing easy access to both the islands and mainland attractions.

Luxury and Small Ship Options for the Balearic Islands

• Oceania Cruises: With a fleet of 8 ships, Oceania offers 6 that sail to the beautiful Balearic Islands. The Marina and Nautica are distinguished for their focus on culinary excellence and a refined atmosphere, providing a luxurious cruise experience. Departures typically occur from ports such as Southampton or Civitavecchia (Rome), where you can begin your extraordinary journey.
• Explora Journeys: With a fleet of 2 ships, both EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II visit the Balearic Islands, bringing a luxurious cruising experience. These vessels are known for their elegant design and unparalleled service, ensuring a delightful journey. Departures generally occur from Barcelona or Rome, allowing for a tasteful beginning to your island adventure.
• Azamara Cruises: With a fleet size of 4 ships, Azamara operates 3 vessels that explore the enchanting Balearic Islands. The Azamara Quest and Azamara Onward are celebrated for their immersive experiences and extending port stays, allowing you to soak in the unique culture of each destination. Departures are typically made from Barcelona or Rome, providing ideal access to the islands’ charm.
• Seabourn: With a fleet size of 5 ships, Seabourn has 1 vessel that operates itineraries in the Balearic Islands. The Seabourn Ovation is renowned for its luxurious accommodations and exceptional service, catering to discerning travellers seeking an upscale experience. Departures most frequently occur from Barcelona or Monte Carlo for a refined start to your discovery.
• Fred Olsen: Fred Olsen features a fleet of 3 ships, all of which sail to the splendid Balearic Islands. The Balmoral and Bolette focus on delivering personal service and a warm atmosphere, perfect for those looking for a friendly cruise experience. Departures usually occur from Southampton or Liverpool, making it convenient for UK guests to set off on their heavenly holiday.

Must-Visit Harbours in the Balearic Islands

• Palma de Mallorca: The capital of the Balearic Islands, Palma is renowned for its stunning architecture and rich history. While docked, visit the impressive Palma Cathedral and enjoy a leisurely stroll around the charming Old Town. Relax on the sandy beaches or treat yourself to a refreshing drink at one of the many buzzing waterfront cafés while soaking up the sun.
• Ibiza: Famed for its nightlife, Ibiza is much more than just clubs and parties. Explore the beautiful beaches, take a walk through the charming streets of Dalt Vila (the old town), or visit the stunning Es Vedrà rock formation for incredible views. Don’t forget to relax at one of the many beach clubs boasting gorgeous sunset views while sipping a refreshing cocktail!
• Málaga: This picturesque coastal city invites cruisers to experience its cultural treasures. Visit the magnificent Alcazaba fortress, explore the stunning Picasso Museum (inspired by the famous artist who was born here), or stroll along the beautiful promenade. Be sure to indulge in local tapas and fresh seafood during your visit!
• Valencia: While part of mainland Spain, Valencia often charms cruisers with its vibrant cultural scene and stunning architecture. Spend time exploring the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences, or visit the historic Valencia Cathedral. The delicious paella hails from Valencia, so be certain to sample this local dish in its birthplace!
• Cádiz: Known for its rich history and beautiful beaches, Cádiz offers a delightful blend of experiences for cruise passengers. Explore the historic old town with its charming narrow streets, visit the stunning Cádiz Cathedral, or relax on the sandy Playa de la Victoria. Indulging in local freshly caught seafood is a must while you’re in this beautiful city.

Best Times to Cruise the Balearic Islands

Timing your cruise to the Balearic Islands can enhance your overall experience. From January to March, temperatures typically range from 10°C to 18°C, making it pleasant for exploration without the summer crowds. Spring (April to June) sees temperatures increase to 15°C to 28°C, providing ideal conditions for outdoor adventures and beaches to explore. The summer months of July to September can be quite hot, averaging between 25°C and 35°C, perfect for sun lovers but expecting larger crowds at popular sites. Autumn (October to December) showcases mild temperatures of 15°C to 20°C, along with beautiful fall colours and local harvest festivals, providing a fantastic backdrop for your travels.

The Cost of Cruising to the Balearic Islands

When planning your budget for a cruise to the Balearic Islands, expect one-week itineraries to generally range from GBP 600 to GBP 1,400 per person, depending on the cruise line and type of accommodation chosen. For two-week cruises, prices typically lie between GBP 1,200 and GBP 3,000 or more. Luxury cruises often command higher price tags, averaging between GBP 2,000 and GBP 6,000 for a week. Onshore dining usually costs around GBP 12 to GBP 30 for meals, with drinks priced at GBP 3 to GBP 10, allowing you to indulge in the robust culinary delights of the Balearic Islands.

Are you ready to experience the delightful landscapes and rich cultures of the Balearic Islands? At Cruise1st, we’re dedicated to helping you plan your perfect holiday experience with an impressive selection of attractive itineraries and cruise lines tailored to your desires. Don’t let this opportunity slip away—book your captivating cruise to the Balearic Islands today!