We both chose to do Mediterranean cruises for our “first” European trip. For the DINKs, it was their first together. For the Family, it was their first with kids. It’s a great option for those who haven’t traveled before and/or an easy way to see a lot.
Benefits
There is so many reasons why a Mediterranean cruise is perfect for a first time international traveler.
- Convenience: Mediterranean cruises provide a hassle-free travel experience, with all accommodations, meals, and transportation conveniently arranged onboard the ship. This eliminates the need for extensive planning and logistics, allowing you to focus on enjoying your vacation.
- Variety of Destinations: One of the greatest advantages of a Mediterranean cruise is the opportunity to visit multiple destinations in a single trip. From vibrant cities like Barcelona and Rome to picturesque coastal towns in Greece and Croatia, each port of call offers a unique cultural and historical experience.
- Family-Friendly Activities: For families traveling with children, cruise ships typically offer a wide range of amenities and activities tailored to different age groups. From supervised kids’ clubs and water parks to family-friendly shore excursions, there’s no shortage of entertainment options to keep everyone happy and engaged.
- Flexibility: While organized shore excursions are available, cruise passengers also have the flexibility to explore ports of call independently at their own pace. Whether you prefer to immerse yourself in local culture, relax on the beach, or embark on an adventure-filled excursion, you can tailor your itinerary to suit your interests and preferences.
- All-Inclusive Experience: Mediterranean cruises often include a variety of onboard amenities and entertainment options, from gourmet dining and live performances to fitness facilities and spa services. This all-inclusive experience allows you to indulge in luxury and relaxation throughout your journey.
Tips
Taking a Mediterranean cruise can be a fantastic way to explore multiple destinations in one trip while enjoying the comfort and luxury of a cruise ship. But there are challenges that come with traveling with a large crowd of people.
- Pack Wisely: Pack light but include essentials like comfortable walking shoes, swimwear, sunscreen, and layers for varying weather conditions. Most cruises have casual dress codes, but bring some formal wear if your ship hosts formal nights.
- Stay Informed About Ports: Familiarize yourself with each port of call beforehand. Research local attractions, transportation options, and cultural norms to make the most of your time ashore. If you plan to do things on your own, make sure you understand how easy or difficult it is as it varies by port. If your port requires a tender to reach shore, keep in mind that excursions booked through the ship are prioritized and often mean getting off the ship much earlier than if you are trying to do it on your own.
- Stay Healthy: Take necessary health precautions, such as packing any medications you might need, staying hydrated, and using sunscreen. We make sure to bring ammune boosting vitamins. Cruise ships have medical facilities onboard, but it’s wise to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
The Same
Ports of Call: Both our Itineraries included the following:
Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona is a vibrant city renowned for its stunning architecture, including the iconic Sagrada Familia and Park Güell designed by Antoni Gaudí. Visitors can explore the historic Gothic Quarter, stroll along the bustling Las Ramblas promenade, and indulge in delicious Catalan cuisine at local tapas bars and restaurants. Learn More: Things to do: Barcelona, Spain
Naples, Italy
Naples is a historic city with a rich cultural heritage and is famous for its mouthwatering pizza, which originated here. Visitors can explore the UNESCO-listed historic center, home to landmarks like the Naples Cathedral and the Royal Palace of Naples. Nearby attractions include the ancient ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum, buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Learn More: Things to do: Naples, Italy
Palma De Mallorca, Spain
Palma de Mallorca is the capital of the Balearic Islands and boasts a stunning cathedral, La Seu, overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Visitors can wander through the charming Old Town with its narrow cobblestone streets, visit historic landmarks like Bellver Castle, and relax on the picturesque beaches along the island’s coastline. Learn More: Things to do: Palma De Mallorca, Spain
Civitavecchia, Italy
Civitavecchia serves as the gateway to Rome, Italy’s capital, located approximately 45 minutes away by train or shuttle. Our first time stopping into Civitavecchia we took a tour into Rome.
Rome, Italy
Visitors can explore Rome’s iconic landmarks, including the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Vatican City, and Trevi Fountain. The city is brimming with history, art, and culture, offering endless opportunities for sightseeing and exploration. Learn More: Things to do: Rome, Italy
The Family
A Disney Mediterranean cruise offers the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and Disney magic, making it an unforgettable vacation experience for families and Disney fans of all ages. With spectacular ports of call, world-class entertainment, and unparalleled service, it’s a vacation you’ll cherish for years to come.
In addition to the ports mentioned above, our itinerary included:
Villefranche, France
Villefranche-sur-Mer, situated along the French Riviera, boasts a picturesque bay with crystal-clear waters, a charming old town filled with colorful buildings and narrow cobblestone streets, and a relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere. Visitors can explore the historic Citadel, take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront promenade, or relax on the sandy beaches. Villefranche also serves as a convenient gateway to nearby destinations such as the vibrant city of Nice, known for its Promenade des Anglais and vibrant markets, as well as the glamorous principality of Monaco, home to the famous Monte Carlo Casino and the Prince’s Palace.
Livorno, Italy
Livorno, a bustling port city in Tuscany, Italy, offers access to some of the country’s most iconic destinations. Visitors can explore the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and marvel at its unique architectural marvels. Nearby, the city of Florence beckons with its rich Renaissance history and world-renowned art collections, including masterpieces by Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, and Botticelli. In Livorno itself, travelers can stroll along the scenic canals of the Venezia Nuova district, sample fresh seafood at local trattorias, or visit the historic Fortezza Vecchia fortress overlooking the harbor. Livorno serves as an ideal starting point for exploring the cultural treasures of Tuscany and beyond.
Check out the full details of The Family’s Mediterranean cruise.
The Dinks
We looked for a cruise out of Spain, so that we could spend a few days in Spain prior to departure. We chose Spain over Italy because I just knew we need to go back to Italy at some point anyway. This worked out perfectly as Barcelona was a fairly easy city to get around.
We often ate while in port but in general the food on the ship was better than expected – our expectations were low. The ship was crowded and other guests tended to be rude. Cruising isn’t our preferred way to travel but it worked well for our first experience on our own.
In addition to the ports mentioned above, our itinerary included:
Marseille, France
Marseille, France’s second-largest city, is a vibrant port city with a rich history and a diverse cultural heritage. The historic Old Port, or Vieux-Port, serves as the heart of the city, bustling with activity from waterfront cafes, fish markets, and bustling streets. Visitors can soak in the lively atmosphere, watch the fishermen unload their catch of the day, or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll along the promenade.
- We started our visit at the historic Old Port, a bustling hub with waterfront cafes, markets, and a lively atmosphere. It was just a short walk from the cruise port. We enjoyed watching the colorful fishing boats bobbing gently in the harbor. The air was filled with the aroma of freshly caught seafood and the sounds of street performers, adding to the lively atmosphere that permeated the area.
- We then hopped a board a cruise of the Calanques, a series of stunning limestone cliffs and hidden coves along the Mediterranean coast. Boarding a boat from the Old Port, travelers can embark on a scenic journey through the Calanques National Park, marveling at the dramatic landscapes, turquoise waters, and rugged coastline. Unfortunately our cruise only offered commentary in Italian and French. I guess an unfortunate consequence of being on an Italian ship.
Savona, Italy
Savona, a charming Italian town, is known for its medieval old town, beautiful beaches, and as a gateway to the picturesque Ligurian coast. While most people took excursions, we decided to just walk around town and relax on the beach. We fell in love with this small town.
- Explore the charming medieval old town of Savona, where you can wander through narrow cobblestone streets, admire historic architecture, and discover hidden gems around every corner.
- Spend time on the beautiful beaches: Relax and unwind on the beautiful beaches of Savona, where you can soak up the sun, swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Ligurian Sea. I wish I could tell you how things worked on the beaches there but we don’t know. It looked like each restaurants had access to a beach club. But there happen to be one that had closed down and we saw a couple walk down the stairs and set up on the beach so we followed. We spent hours just relaxing in the sun and enjoying the calm waters.
- One of the highlights of our visit was lunch at a family-owned restaurant, where we were treated to a taste of traditional Ligurian cuisine served with genuine warmth and hospitality. As we savored each flavorful dish, we couldn’t help but be touched by the sight of the family who owned the restaurant gathering together for their own meal, sharing laughter, stories, and cherished moments of togetherness. It was a poignant reminder of the importance of family and community in Italian culture, and a truly memorable experience that added a special touch to our time in Savona.
Summary
Choosing between two different Mediterranean cruises can be a delightful dilemma, each offering unique charms that cater to different aspects of travel. For those drawn to the magic of Disney, a cruise aboard their enchanting ships promises an immersive experience filled with beloved characters, family-friendly entertainment, and impeccable service. On the other hand, opting for a cruise based on ports of call allows travelers to explore the rich history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes of destinations like Barcelona, Rome, Athens, and beyond.
Whether your preference leans towards experiencing the whimsy and nostalgia of Disney while cruising the Mediterranean’s azure waters or diving deep into the cultural tapestry of iconic cities and scenic coastal towns, both options promise unforgettable adventures and cherished memories. Ultimately, the choice between the two cruises hinges on your personal preferences—whether it’s the allure of onboard magic or the allure of exploring diverse Mediterranean destinations, each journey offers its own extraordinary journey through the storied waters of the Mediterranean.
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