Southern Europe Cruises

Southern Europe is a vibrant tapestry of cultures, landscapes and flavours just waiting to be explored. Known for its sun-kissed beaches, historic cities and delectable cuisine, this region is an ideal choice for cruisers seeking a captivating escape. Did you know that Southern Europe is home to some of the world’s oldest civilisations? Ancient ruins, stunning architecture and charismatic locals beckon you to immerse yourself in its rich history. Whether you’re lounging on a beach in the Balearic Islands or wandering through the bustling streets of Athens, a cruise to Southern Europe ensures you experience the best this enchanting part of the world has to offer.

Major Cruise Lines Stepping Foot in Southern Europe

• MSC Cruises: With a fleet of 23 ships, MSC boasts 17 stunning vessels that visit Southern Europe. Notable mentions include the MSC Fantasia and MSC Grandiosa, which feature family-friendly amenities, elegant dining options and exhilarating entertainment. Cruises predominantly depart from vibrant ports such as Genoa and Barcelona, giving you easy access to delightful coastal cities.
• Princess Cruises: This cruise line operates 17 ships with 12 ready to whisk you away to the wonders of Southern Europe. Look out for the Sun Princess and Sky Princess, known for their luxurious retreats and superb service. Popular embarkation points include the historic cities of Rome and Southampton, which make for convenient starting spots for your Southern European adventure.
• Cunard: With a boutique fleet of 4 ships, Cunard offers Southern European voyages aboard 3 of its vessels. The Queen Victoria and Queen Anne attract cruisers with their classic British elegance, refined dining and splendid artwork. These cruises tend to set sail from bustling Southampton or picturesque Rome, promising a sophisticated journey across sunny shores.
• P&O Cruises: Home to 7 ships, P&O Cruises is proud to offer all of them on itineraries that visit the beauty of Southern Europe. The Azura and Ventura are particularly popular, presenting an array of dining venues and entertainment options that cater to all ages. Most voyages conveniently depart from Valletta or Southampton, making it easy to embark on your journey.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: With a fleet of 20 ships, Norwegian has 13 vessels that come alive in Southern European waters. The Norwegian Viva and Norwegian Sky are favourites, boasting freestyle dining and vibrant nightlife options that add excitement to your cruise experience. Departures most frequently occur from cosmopolitan ports such as Rome and Lisbon, giving cruisers ample opportunities to explore before setting sail.

Luxury and Small Ship Cruises to Southern Europe

• Explora Journeys: With a fleet of 2 ships, both EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II explore Southern Europe, offering intimate luxury experiences. Their stylish design and spacious suites provide premium comfort at sea. Expect most sailings to start from colourful Barcelona or historic Athens, allowing cruisers to indulge in the local culture before they board.
• Oceania Cruises: This cruise line presents a fleet of 8 ships, with 7 dedicated to Southern European adventures. The Nautica and Vista are well-regarded for their gourmet culinary experiences and impressive itineraries. Cruises commonly depart from famous ports like Rome and Barcelona, allowing travellers to kick off their journey in iconic surroundings.
• Azamara Cruises: With a fleet of 4 ships, all of which venture to Southern Europe, the Azamara Onward and Azamara Quest stand out for their immersive port experiences and focus on destination-rich itineraries. Cruises often depart from Athens or Barcelona, putting you right in the heart of remarkable cities.
• Seabourn: Featuring a fleet of 5 ships, Seabourn has 3 dedicated to the charms of Southern Europe. The Seabourn Ovation and Seabourn Encore offer ultra-luxurious sailing experiences, with top-tier amenities and bespoke excursions. Expect departures from stylish Barcelona or historic Athens, ensuring an opulent start to your cruise.
• Fred Olsen: With 3 ships all offering itineraries to Southern Europe, the Balmoral and Bolette provide an intimate cruise experience, complete with hearty British hospitality. Departures typically occur from Southampton or Liverpool, making it easy for British cruisers to set off on their Mediterranean adventure.

Top Harbours to Explore in Southern Europe

• Barcelona, Spain: Dive right into the heart of Catalonia when you dock in Barcelona. Scale the famous Sagrada Familia, stroll along La Rambla, or indulge in some tapas at La Boqueria market. Be sure to wander through the Gothic Quarter, where narrow streets transport you back in time, making for an unforgettable day in this dynamic city.
• Rome, Italy: A day in Rome is never enough, but make the most of your time by visiting the iconic Vatican City, where the grandeur of St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel await. Alternatively, toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain or explore the ancient ruins of the Colosseum. Rome’s rich history and world-class cuisine offer endless opportunities for exploration.
• Athens, Greece: Step back into ancient history with a visit to the Acropolis and its vast archaeological wonders. Stroll through the charming neighbourhood of Plaka or enjoy a leisurely café outing with traditional Greek dishes. With the Acropolis Museum nearby, you can soak in even more of Athens’ storied past during your limited time ashore.
• Palma de Mallorca, Spain: Known for its stunning coastline and vibrant atmosphere, Palma offers beaches, quaint streets and the impressive Palma Cathedral. Enjoy a stroll through the picturesque Old Town, or rent a bicycle to explore the island’s lush interior. For some unique memories, try your hand at local delicacies like ensaimadas or sip on a refreshing sangria.
• Valletta, Malta: Valletta impresses with its baroque architecture and rich history. Take a scenic walk around the fortified walls or explore the beautiful St. John’s Co-Cathedral. Don’t miss the Upper Barracca Gardens, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Grand Harbour—a perfect photo opportunity before your cruise continues.

Why Choose to Cruise in Southern Europe Throughout the Year?

Southern Europe boasts a temperate climate, offering distinct seasons that appeal to different types of cruisers. If you’re keen on stunning blossoms and moderate temperatures, consider embarking from April to June, when the average temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C. Summer months between July and September bring warmer weather, typically ranging from 25°C to 35°C, making beach days a delight, but be prepared for larger crowds. For those who prefer milder conditions and fewer tourists, the shoulder seasons of October to December are brilliant options, with temperatures averaging from 10°C to 20°C. In winter (January to March), you can experience cosy atmospheres and enjoy traditional festivities, with temperatures around 8°C to 15°C—perfect for a unique cultural experience.

The Cost of Cruising Southern Europe

When budgeting for your holiday, you can generally expect a one-week cruise in Southern Europe to cost anywhere from GBP 700 to GBP 1500 per person, depending on the cruise line and the level of accommodation you choose. For a more opulent experience, two-week cruises can range from GBP 1500 to GBP 4000 per person or more. Luxury cruising experiences tend to be priced higher, averaging between GBP 2000 and GBP 5000 for a week. As a point of reference, meals and drinks onshore can add up, with an average meal costing around GBP 15 to GBP 30 and drinks varying from GBP 3 to GBP 10. Therefore, it’s wise to consider both onboard and onshore expenses when planning your Southern European adventure.

So why not explore the enchanting wonders of Southern Europe on a cruise? At Cruise1st, we’re here to help you make your booking as seamless as possible. With an array of wonderful itineraries and cruise lines at your fingertips, your dream holiday is just a click away!