Sicily Cruises

Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean, is a jewel that offers an alluring mix of history, culture, and stunning natural beauty, making it a prime cruise destination. With its picturesque coastline, vibrant local traditions, and delectable cuisine, Sicily captures the hearts of its visitors. Fun fact: Sicily is home to Mount Etna, one of the most active volcanoes in the world, which provides a stunning backdrop to the island’s dramatic landscape! A cruise around Sicily allows you to explore ancient ruins, charming hilltop towns, and idyllic beaches, making it an unforgettable journey through Mediterranean paradise.

Top Cruise Lines Sailing to Sicily

• Princess Cruises: With a fleet size of 17 ships, Princess Cruises operates 9 that visit Sicily. The Grand Princess and Enchanted Princess are particularly popular options, known for their extensive amenities and engaging onboard experiences that cater to all ages. Departures frequently occur from major ports like Rome and Athens, offering seamless access to Sicily’s enchanting coast.
• Cunard: Cunard features a fleet of 4 luxurious ships, with 3 offering itineraries that include stops in Sicily. The Queen Victoria and Queen Anne are known for their superb elegance, refined service, and exquisite dining experiences. Most sailings typically depart from ports such as Southampton or Rome, allowing guests to indulge in a magnificent journey enriched by culture and history.
• MSC Cruises: With a fleet size of 23, MSC operates 6 ships that cruise to the captivating shores of Sicily. The MSC World Europa and MSC Sinfonia are particularly noted for their modern design and family-friendly amenities, making them ideal for all guests. Most departures tend to occur from ports such as Barcelona or Genoa, ensuring a vibrant atmosphere as you begin your trip.
• Holland America Line: Comprising a fleet of 11 ships, Holland America features 4 delivering itineraries to Sicily. The Nieuw Statendam and Oosterdam are celebrated for their elegant dining experiences and thoughtfully curated cultural enrichment programs. Most departures generally take place from either Athens or Barcelona, providing an engaging start to your Sicilian exploration.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: With a total of 20 ships, Norwegian has 8 that sail to Sicily. The Norwegian Epic and Norwegian Viva are particularly popular for their freestyle dining and thrilling onboard activities. Most sailings typically depart from ports like Rome or Barcelona, allowing easy access to Sicily’s diverse offerings.

Luxury and Small Ship Options to Explore Sicily

• Oceania Cruises: Oceania’s fleet includes 8 ships, with 6 that feature itineraries in Sicily. The Nautica and Marina are well-regarded for their exceptional culinary experiences and intimate atmosphere, making them perfect for those seeking a luxurious escape. Departures most frequently occur from Southampton or Athens, creating an elegant launch into your Sicilian adventure.
• Explora Journeys: Operating a fleet of 2 ships, both EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II sail to Sicily, offering a distinctly luxurious experience. Renowned for their stylish design and emphasis on wellness, these vessels create unparalleled cruising journeys through stunning coastal scenery. Departures are typically from Barcelona or Rome, ensuring a sophisticated entry into your holiday.
• Azamara Cruises: With a fleet of 4 ships, Azamara operates 3 that traverse the breathtaking coastlines of Sicily. The Azamara Journey and Azamara Onward excel in providing immersive, culturally rich experiences, including longer port stays for deeper exploration of Sicily’s history. Departures primarily occur from Barcelona or Rome, making it convenient for travellers to enjoy this enchanting island.
• Seabourn: With a fleet size of 5, Seabourn offers 1 ship that visits Sicily. The Seabourn Ovation is celebrated for its luxurious experience, highlighting gourmet dining and an exceptional level of service. Departures generally occur from ports such as Barcelona or Monte Carlo, offering an elegant beginning to your cruise.
• Fred Olsen: With a fleet of 3 ships, Fred Olsen operates all 3 on itineraries to Sicily. The Balmoral and Bolette provide a friendly atmosphere and and personal touch, ideal for those wanting a warm cruising environment. Departures typically happen from Southampton or Liverpool, making it easy for UK guests to explore this historical destination.

Top Harbours to Explore in Sicily

• Palermo: The capital city of Sicily, Palermo showcases a rich tapestry of cultures. While docked, explore the stunning Palatine Chapel, stroll through the bustling markets of Ballarò, and marvel at the impressive architecture of the famous Teatro Massimo. Don’t forget to sample local street food like arancini and panelle for a true taste of Sicilian flavours!
• Catania: Nestled at the foot of Mount Etna, Catania is famous for its Baroque architecture and lively street markets. Visit the UNESCO-listed Piazza del Duomo, explore the historic Castello Ursino, and wander through the fish market for a taste of local life. Be sure to try local delicacies such as pasta alla Norma while you are there!
• Messina: A bustling port city, Messina is known for its stunning architecture and proximity to the majestic Mount Etna. Visit the impressive Cathedral of Messina, and don’t miss the astronomical clock that puts on a show every hour. If time permits, consider taking a day trip to nearby Taormina, where you can visit ancient Greek ruins and enjoy breathtaking views of the coast.
• Trapani: Known for its salt flats and beautiful coastal landscapes, Trapani allows cruisers to sample some of Sicily’s best seafood. Explore the charming old town, visit the nearby Egadi Islands, or take a cable car ride to the stunning hilltop town of Erice for magnificent views and history.
• Siracusa: This historic city offers delightful Greek and Roman ruins. Visit the ancient theatre, the Ear of Dionysius, and wander through the beautiful Ortigia Island, where you can admire stunning baroque architecture. Siracusa is a fantastic opportunity to sample freshly caught fish at local trattorias by the waterfront.

The Best Times to Cruise to Sicily

When planning your cruise to Sicily, consider that each season offers a new perspective on the region. From January to March, temperatures can be cool, ranging from 5°C to 15°C, creating the perfect atmosphere for exploring historical sites without the summer crowds. Spring (April to June) brings delightful temperatures of 10°C to 25°C, making it great for sightseeing and enjoying festivities. The summer months from July to September can be hot, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 35°C, ideal for beach activities, but expect larger crowds during this peak season. Autumn (October to December) presents mild temperatures between 10°C and 20°C, allowing for beautiful landscapes and harvest celebrations, creating a unique experience while discovering Sicily.

The Cost of Cruising to Sicily

When budgeting for a cruise to Sicily, 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. For two-week cruises, prices generally sit between GBP 1,200 and GBP 3,500 or more. Luxury cruises may demand higher prices, averaging between GBP 2,000 and GBP 6,500 for a week-long experience. Onshore dining typically costs around GBP 12 to GBP 30 for meals, with drinks usually priced between GBP 3 to GBP 10, allowing you to savour authentic Sicilian culinary delights without overspending.

Are you ready to uncover the magnificent sights and rich traditions of Sicily? At Cruise1st, we’re here to assist you in planning the perfect getaway, featuring an impressive selection of exceptional itineraries and cruise lines tailored to your preferences. Your unforgettable journey through Sicily awaits—book your cruise today!