Escape to Paradise: Best Mediterranean Cruises

When I was little and sat in the elementary school classroom, the Mediterranean sea made a fantastic world in my mind, I still remember it was in the class Ancient Greece in geography and history. And I am so lucky to have had the privilege to actually soak in the experiences of the cruise in the Mediterranean with my parents from about eight years old. Then we almost traveled there on different cruise ships every year. I would say, with its crystal-clear waters, rich history, and vibrant culture, the Mediterranean offers a unique and unforgettable experience for all who embark on a cruise. So whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway, an adventure-packed journey, or a romantic escape, I can guide you toward the perfect cruise itinerary. With my knowledge and passion for the region, I am excited to share my insights and help you plan your dream Mediterranean cruise.

According to industry experts and personal experience, the top 10 best cruises to sail on the Mediterranean include:

These cruises offer an array of amenities, entertainment, dining options, and excursions to satisfy any traveler’s preferences. With their exceptional service and breathtaking destinations, these cruises promise an unforgettable Mediterranean experience.

Celebrity Apex

Celebrity Apex is the newest addition to the Celebrity Cruises fleet, launched in 2020. It is the second ship in the Edge-class series and boasts a length of 1,004 feet, a maximum occupancy of 2,910 passengers, and 1,320 crew members. As soon as you step on board, you are greeted by a modern and chic atmosphere, with sleek lines, elegant furnishings, and an abundance of natural light.

One of the standout features of Celebrity Apex is the Magic Carpet, a cantilevered platform that moves up and down the ship’s side, providing different experiences at different levels. This unique space can serve as an outdoor lounge, a specialty restaurant, or even a launch pad for shore excursions.

The ship’s accommodations are equally impressive, ranging from cozy interior staterooms to spacious suites with floor-to-ceiling windows and private balconies. All rooms feature luxurious amenities, such as plush bedding, interactive flat-screen TVs, and 24-hour room service.

Another highlight of sailing on Celebrity Apex is the dining experience. The ship offers a wide variety of restaurants, from the main dining room and buffet to specialty restaurants, such as Eden, an immersive culinary and sensory experience that takes diners on a journey through nature. The ship also features a raw bar, a sushi restaurant, a steakhouse, and a rooftop garden grill.

During my time on board Celebrity Apex, I enjoyed exploring the ship’s many entertainment options, including the theater, which features state-of-the-art technology and Broadway-style productions. The ship also offers live music, a casino, a spa, and a fitness center, ensuring that there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Overall, sailing on Celebrity Apex was a truly unforgettable experience. From the ship’s stunning design and top-notch amenities to its exceptional service and attention to detail, this is undoubtedly one of the best cruises to sail on the Mediterranean. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a first-time passenger, I highly recommend considering Celebrity Apex for your next Mediterranean adventure.

Norwegian Epic

Norwegian Epic is a massive cruise ship that was launched in 2010. It boasts a length of 1,081 feet, a maximum occupancy of 4,100 passengers, and a crew of over 1,700. The ship is known for its innovative design and modern amenities, which make for a comfortable and enjoyable cruising experience.

One of the most impressive features of Norwegian Epic is its wide variety of dining options. The ship offers over 20 different restaurants, ranging from casual eateries to upscale specialty dining venues. Some of the standout restaurants include Teppanyaki, a Japanese hibachi-style restaurant; Moderno Churrascaria, a Brazilian steakhouse; and the Garden Café, a buffet-style restaurant with a wide selection of international dishes.

In addition to its dining options, Norwegian Epic also has a wide range of entertainment and activities for passengers to enjoy. The ship features several swimming pools, a water park, a rock climbing wall, a sports complex, and a casino. There are also nightly shows and live music performances, as well as a comedy club and a nightclub for those who want to dance the night away.

The accommodations on Norwegian Epic are also impressive, with a range of staterooms and suites to choose from. The ship offers everything from budget-friendly interior staterooms to spacious suites with private balconies and butler service. All rooms feature comfortable furnishings, flat-screen TVs, and mini-fridges.

During my time on board Norwegian Epic, I was impressed by the ship’s overall atmosphere and attention to detail. The staff was friendly and accommodating, and the ship was always clean and well-maintained. I particularly enjoyed the ship’s many outdoor spaces, including the Spice H2O adults-only retreat and the 678 Ocean Place, a three-level dining and entertainment complex with stunning ocean views.

Overall, Norwegian Epic is an excellent choice for anyone looking to sail on the Mediterranean. With its impressive dining options, wide range of activities and entertainment, and comfortable accommodations, this ship has something for everyone. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, I highly recommend considering Norwegian Epic for your next Mediterranean adventure.

Harmony of the Seas

As someone who has had the pleasure of sailing on the Harmony of the Seas, I can confidently say that it is one of the most impressive cruise ships in the world. Launched in 2016, this Royal Caribbean vessel boasts a length of 1,188 feet, a maximum occupancy of over 6,700 passengers, and a crew of over 2,000.

One of the standout features of Harmony of the Seas is its expansive array of dining options. The ship offers over 20 different restaurants, ranging from casual cafes to upscale specialty dining venues. Whether you’re in the mood for sushi at Izumi, burgers at Johnny Rockets, or fine dining at 150 Central Park, there is something to satisfy every palate.

Another highlight of Harmony of the Seas is its entertainment offerings. The ship features the Broadway hit musical “Grease,” an ice-skating show, a water acrobatics show, and a circus-style aerial show. There are also nightly comedy performances, live music, and a casino for those who want to try their luck.

The accommodations on Harmony of the Seas are also impressive. The ship offers a range of staterooms and suites, including interior cabins, oceanview rooms, and spacious suites with private balconies. All rooms feature comfortable furnishings and modern amenities, such as flat-screen TVs and mini-fridges.

One of the most unique aspects of Harmony of the Seas is its Central Park, a lush garden area in the middle of the ship. This open-air space features over 12,000 plants, including trees, shrubs, and flowers, as well as several dining options and shops.

The ship also offers a range of activities and amenities for guests of all ages. There are several swimming pools, including a kid-friendly splash park and an adults-only solarium. The ship also features a zip line, a rock climbing wall, a mini-golf course, and a full-size basketball court.

Overall, Harmony of the Seas is an incredible choice for anyone looking to sail on a luxurious and action-packed Mediterranean cruise. With its exceptional dining options, top-notch entertainment, and comfortable accommodations, this ship is sure to provide an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or a significant other, Harmony of the Seas has something for everyone.

You can read my blog post about Harmony of the Seas by clicking this link.

MSC Seaview

As someone who has had the pleasure of sailing on the MSC Seaview, I can attest to the fact that it is a truly remarkable cruise ship. Launched in 2018, this MSC Cruises vessel boasts a length of 1,066 feet, a maximum occupancy of over 5,300 passengers, and a crew of over 1,400.

One of the standout features of MSC Seaview is its sleek and modern design. The ship’s innovative “seaside promenade” features a wide variety of shops, bars, and restaurants, and offers stunning ocean views. The ship’s sleek and contemporary décor creates a sophisticated yet comfortable atmosphere throughout.

Another highlight of MSC Seaview is its exceptional dining options. The ship offers a wide range of restaurants, including specialty dining venues and casual dining options. Whether you’re in the mood for Italian cuisine at Eataly or fresh seafood at Ocean Cay, there is something to satisfy every palate. However, MSC Seaview sometimes has late dining, around 9 pm. So if you don’t like that you may want to consider booking another cruise.

The accommodations on MSC Seaview are also impressive. The ship offers a range of staterooms and suites, including interior cabins, oceanview rooms, and spacious suites with private balconies. All rooms feature comfortable furnishings and modern amenities, such as flat-screen TVs and mini-fridges.

One of the most unique aspects of MSC Seaview is its exceptional outdoor spaces. The ship features a variety of swimming pools and whirlpools, including an infinity pool that extends out over the ship’s stern. The ship also offers an outdoor fitness area, a full-size basketball court, and a zip line for adventurous guests.

The ship’s entertainment offerings are also top-notch. The Broadway-style shows are a highlight, as are the nightly live music performances and themed parties. The ship also features a casino and a range of bars and lounges, offering a variety of nightlife options.

MSC Seaview is an excellent choice for anyone looking to sail on a luxurious and modern Mediterranean cruise. With its exceptional dining options, stunning outdoor spaces, and comfortable accommodations, this ship is sure to provide an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or a significant other, MSC Seaview has something for everyone.

Costa Smerelda

As someone who has had the pleasure of sailing on the Costa Smeralda, I can say that this cruise ship truly captures the beauty and charm of the Mediterranean. Launched in 2019, the Costa Smeralda is one of the newest ships in the Costa Cruises fleet and offers a luxurious and unforgettable experience.

One of the standout features of the Costa Smeralda is its innovative design, inspired by the beauty of Italy. The ship features numerous themed areas, including a Mediterranean-style piazza and an Italian-style promenade. The ship’s decor is elegant and modern, with a focus on incorporating natural materials and warm colors.

The dining options on the Costa Smeralda are also exceptional. The ship offers a range of restaurants and bars, including specialty dining venues and casual dining options. Whether you’re in the mood for traditional Italian cuisine at Piazza Trattoria or a cocktail at the ship’s Champagne bar, there is something to satisfy every taste.

The accommodations on the Costa Smeralda are equally impressive. The ship offers a range of staterooms and suites, including interior cabins, oceanview rooms, and spacious suites with private balconies. All rooms feature stylish furnishings and modern amenities, such as flat-screen TVs and mini-fridges.

One of the most unique aspects of the Costa Smeralda is its exceptional outdoor spaces. The ship features a variety of swimming pools and whirlpools, including an infinity pool that offers stunning ocean views. The ship also offers an outdoor fitness area and a range of sports activities, including basketball, mini-golf, and a jogging track.

The ship’s entertainment offerings are also top-notch. The Broadway-style shows are a highlight, as are the nightly live music performances and themed parties. The ship also features a casino and a range of bars and lounges, offering a variety of nightlife options.

Overall, the Costa Smeralda is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a luxurious and modern Mediterranean cruise. With its exceptional dining options, stunning outdoor spaces, and comfortable accommodations, this ship offers a truly unforgettable experience. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or a significant other, the Costa Smeralda is sure to exceed your expectations and provide memories that will last a lifetime. However, if you book a balcony room like I did, you may find that there is a transparent glass wall that separates the cabin and the shower with a curtain that can be pulled aside in the cabin. So, if you’re sharing a cabin, make sure your cabin mate is trustworthy.

Nieuw Amsterdam

As someone who has had the pleasure of sailing on the Nieuw Amsterdam, I can attest that this cruise ship offers an unforgettable experience for any traveler. Launched in 2010, the Nieuw Amsterdam is one of the newest ships in the Holland America Line and boasts a range of modern amenities and elegant decor.

One of the standout features of the Nieuw Amsterdam is its attention to detail. From the ship’s sleek design to the attentive service of the crew, every aspect of the ship is designed to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for passengers. The ship’s decor is stylish and sophisticated, with a focus on incorporating artwork and design elements that reflect the Dutch heritage of the Holland America Line.

The dining options on the Nieuw Amsterdam are also exceptional. The ship offers a range of restaurants and bars, including specialty dining venues and casual dining options. Whether you’re in the mood for a steak at the Pinnacle Grill or a casual meal at the Lido Market, there is something to satisfy every taste.

The accommodations on the Nieuw Amsterdam are just amazing. The ship offers a range of staterooms and suites, including interior cabins, oceanview rooms, and spacious suites with private balconies. All rooms have stylish furnishings and lovely amenities, such as flat-screen TVs and mini-fridges.

One of the most unique aspects of the Nieuw Amsterdam is its exceptional entertainment offerings. The ship features a variety of live performances, including Broadway-style shows and live music performances. The ship also offers a range of activities and events, such as cooking classes and wine tastings, to keep passengers entertained throughout their journey.

The outdoor spaces on the Nieuw Amsterdam are also exceptional. The ship features a range of swimming pools and hot tubs, as well as a spacious sun deck with lounge chairs and a bar. The ship also offers a range of sports activities, including basketball and tennis courts, and a jogging track.

Overall, the Nieuw Amsterdam is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a luxurious and sophisticated cruise experience. With its exceptional dining options, elegant decor, and attentive service, this ship offers a truly unforgettable experience. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or a significant other, the Nieuw Amsterdam is sure to exceed your expectations and provide memories that will last a lifetime.

Enchanted Princess

Having recently sailed on the Enchanted Princess, I can say that this cruise ship truly lives up to its name. From the moment I stepped on board, I was enchanted by the ship’s elegant decor and luxurious amenities.

One of the standout features of the Enchanted Princess is its dining options. The ship offers a range of restaurants and bars, including specialty dining venues like the Crown Grill steakhouse and the Ocean Terrace seafood bar. Whether you’re in the mood for a romantic dinner at Sabatini’s or a casual meal at the World Fresh Marketplace, there is something to satisfy every taste.

The accommodations on the Enchanted Princess are so amzing. The ship offers a range of staterooms and suites, including balcony rooms with amazing views of the ocean. I just love the private balcony that I got. All rooms have great and stylish furniture and modern amenities, including, a flat screen TV.

One of my favorite aspects of the Enchanted Princess was the ship’s entertainment offerings. The ship features a range of live performances, including Broadway-style shows and comedy acts. The ship also offers a variety of activities and events, such as trivia contests and wine tastings, to keep passengers entertained throughout their journey.

The outdoor spaces on the Enchanted Princess are also exceptional. The ship features a range of swimming pools and hot tubs, as well as a spacious sun deck with lounge chairs and a bar. The ship also offers a variety of sports activities, including basketball and volleyball courts, and a jogging track.

One of the most unique aspects of the Enchanted Princess is its focus on wellness and relaxation. The ship offers a range of spa treatments and fitness classes, as well as a relaxing thermal suite with heated lounge chairs and aromatherapy steam rooms.

Overall, the Enchanted Princess is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a luxurious and enchanting cruise experience. With its exceptional dining options, elegant decor, and diverse entertainment offerings, this ship truly has something for everyone. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or a significant other, the Enchanted Princess is sure to provide a magical and unforgettable experience.

Silver Moon

As someone who has had the pleasure of sailing on the Silver Moon, I can say that this cruise ship truly embodies luxury and elegance. From the moment I stepped on board, I was impressed by the ship’s chic and contemporary design.

The dining options on the Silver Moon are truly exceptional. The ship offers a range of restaurants and bars, including specialty dining venues like the Silver Note jazz club and the Japanese-inspired Kaiseki. Whether you’re in the mood for a romantic dinner at Atlantide or a casual meal at the Grill, there is something to suit every taste.

The accommodations on the Silver Moon are equally impressive. The ship offers a range of spacious and stylish staterooms and suites, all featuring luxurious amenities like marble bathrooms and a personalized butler service. Each room is beautifully appointed and designed with comfort and relaxation in mind.

One of the standout features of the Silver Moon is its entertainment offerings. The ship features a range of live performances, including music and dance shows, as well as a cinema and casino. The ship also offers a variety of activities and events, such as cooking demonstrations and wine tastings, to keep passengers entertained throughout their journey.

The outdoor spaces on the Silver Moon are equally exceptional. The ship features a range of swimming pools and hot tubs, as well as a spacious sun deck with comfortable loungers and a bar. The ship also offers a variety of sports activities, including a golf simulator and a jogging track.

One of the most unique aspects of the Silver Moon is its focus on wellness and relaxation. The ship offers a range of spa treatments and fitness classes, as well as a relaxing thermal suite with heated loungers and a snow room. The ship also features a beautiful outdoor spa area with hot tubs and a stunning sea view.

The Silver Moon is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a luxurious and sophisticated cruise experience. With its exceptional dining options, elegant design, and diverse entertainment offerings, this ship truly has something for everyone. The Silver Moon is sure to provide a memorable and enchanting experience.

Crystal Serenity

As someone who has had the pleasure of sailing on the Crystal Serenity, I can confidently say that this ship offers an unparalleled level of luxury and sophistication. From the moment I stepped on board, I was impressed by the ship’s elegant design and attention to detail.

The dining options on the Crystal Serenity are truly exceptional. The ship offers a range of restaurants and bars, including specialty dining venues like Prego, which serves delicious Italian cuisine, and Silk, which offers contemporary Asian-inspired dishes. The main dining room, Waterside, is equally impressive, with a diverse menu of international dishes and impeccable service.

The accommodations on the Crystal Serenity are equally impressive. The ship offers a range of spacious and beautifully appointed staterooms and suites, all featuring luxurious amenities like a private veranda and a 24-hour personal butler service. Each room is designed with comfort and relaxation in mind, with plush bedding, a marble bathroom, and plenty of storage space.

One of the standout features of the Crystal Serenity is its entertainment offerings. The ship features a range of live performances, including music and dance shows, as well as a cinema and casino. The ship also offers a variety of enrichment programs, such as lectures on history, art, and culture, to keep passengers engaged and entertained.

The outdoor spaces on the Crystal Serenity are equally impressive. The ship features a range of swimming pools and hot tubs, as well as a spacious sun deck with comfortable loungers and a bar. The ship also offers a variety of sports activities, including a golf simulator, tennis court, and paddle tennis court.

One of the most unique aspects of the Crystal Serenity is its focus on wellness and relaxation. The ship offers a range of spa treatments and fitness classes, as well as a relaxing thermal suite with heated loungers and a sauna. The ship also features a beautiful outdoor spa area with hot tubs and a stunning sea view.

The Crystal Serenity is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a truly luxurious and sophisticated cruise experience. With its exceptional dining options, elegant design, and diverse entertainment offerings, this ship truly stands out among the competition.

Sirena

As someone who has had the pleasure of sailing on the Sirena, I can attest to the ship’s understated elegance and welcoming atmosphere. From the moment I stepped on board, I was impressed by the ship’s classic design and attention to detail.

The dining options on the Sirena are exceptional, offering a range of restaurants and bars to suit any palate. One of my favorites was Tuscan Steak, which serves delicious steak and seafood dishes in a cozy and intimate setting. The ship’s main dining room, the Grand Dining Room, offers a diverse menu of international dishes and impeccable service.

The accommodations on the Sirena are equally impressive. The ship features a range of beautifully appointed staterooms and suites, all designed with comfort and relaxation in mind. Each room is equipped with plush bedding, a marble bathroom, and plenty of storage space, making it easy to feel at home while at sea.

One of the standout features of the Sirena is its intimate atmosphere, with a capacity of just 684 passengers. This allows for a more personalized and attentive service, with a crew to passenger ratio of 1:1.6. Despite its smaller size, the ship offers a range of entertainment options, including live music, shows, and a casino.

The outdoor spaces on the Sirena are equally impressive, with a beautiful sun deck featuring comfortable loungers, a pool, and hot tubs. The ship also offers a variety of sports activities, including a golf putting green and a fitness center with ocean views.

One of the most unique aspects of the Sirena is its focus on enrichment programs, offering a range of lectures and classes on topics such as history, art, and culture. The ship also offers a variety of shore excursions, allowing passengers to explore the local culture and scenery at each port of call.

Overall, the Sirena is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a more intimate and relaxed cruise experience.