
CRUISE TRAVEL AGENT
Posted on May 17, 2026 by Geoffrey Lenart
The moon glistening over the inky, tranquil Mediterranean Sea; the intoxicating aromas of freshly-baked pastries wafting from coastal towns; and the striking vision of ancient ruins are fragments of the enigmatic allure awaiting you on a Mediterranean cruise vacation.
Oceania Cruises is now offering its Spring 2026 Sale with cruise fares up to 40% Off on dozens of Mediterranean sailings in 2026 and 2027. Booking must be made from May 1, 2026 through June 30, 2026, and is available for select categories on select sailings, subject to change and capacity controlled. See us at Seven Seas Travel for details.
Oceania Cruises's "Luxury of Choice" program offers a flexible component of their cruise fare package which allows you to customize your experience by choosing one of the following two perks: (Both guests in the stateroom must select the same option.)
1) House Select Beverage Package
What’s Included: Unlimited champagne, wine, and beer by the glass.
Selections: A curated list of dozens of premium labels and international beers.
2) Shore Excursion Credit
This is the better pick if you prefer to spend your "cruise currency" on immersive land experiences. The credit amount scales based on the length of your voyage.
If no amenity is chosen, a non-use credit will be applied to final payment: for sailings up to 9 days receive US$200 credit per stateroom; 10-13 days receive US$300 credit per stateroom; 14-19 days receive US$400 credit per stateroom; 20-25 days receive US$500 credit per stateroom; 26+ days receive US$600 credit per stateroom. Complimentary Wine & Beer includes a selection of wine by the glass or beer from our General Bar Menu.

Silversea Cruise Line's INDULGENT SAVINGS OFFER applies to new, individual All-Inclusive Plus and All-Inclusive fare bookings, double occupancy, made March 17, 2026 to June 2, 2026 on select voyages, excluding full World Cruises, full Grand Voyages and special combination voyages. 157 Mediterranean voyages are covered by this offer.
The offer provides cruise fare savings of $1,500 per guest or $2,500 per guest or $3,500 per guest. Indulgent Savings Offer is combinable with Event Certificates, National Account Amenities, Referral Savings, Onboard Savings, Combination Savings (back-to-back), Kids Savings and Venetian Society Savings. A typical savings can be had on the Silversea Nova for its November 13-23, 2026 sailing from Venice to Rome at a savings of $3,500 per person from normal fare. Price for this cruise starts at just $5,700 per person.
From now until May 26, 2026 (final booking date for this promotion), Viking Ocean Cruises is pleased to offer an exclusive, limited-time incentive:
- $100 Shipboard Credit per person on any new 8 day Mediterranean sailing
- $200 Shipboard Credit per person on any new 9-15 day Mediterranean sailing
- $300 Shipboard Credit per person on any new 16+ day Mediterranean sailing
With up to FREE international airfare, a FREE stateroom upgrade and reduced fares, now is the perfect time to plan your travels along the Mediterranean’s legendary shores. Behold Old Town Dubrovnik’s vibrant red roofs from your vantage point atop its medieval stone walls. In Greece, explore Thessaloníki’s vibrant waterfront and iconic White Tower, built by the Ottomans in the 15th century.
This promotion includes 15 voyages with each voyage having several sailing dates. 5 out of the 15 voyages include FREE Viking airfare with stateroom prices starting at $2,499 per person. Offer applies to bookings made from May 1 - 31, 2026.
Cruisers can choose the route that best fits their interests. In addition to enjoying rich wines and mouthwatering dishes like pastas and pizzas, cruisers will marvel at natural beauty, such as Positano's white beaches or Mykonos' turquoise sea. Four typical routes include:
1) The Mediterranean Sea & the Aegean Sea from Rome, Italy,
2) The Mediterranean Sea & Adriatic Sea from Athens, Greece,
3) The Mediterranean Sea from Barcelona,
4) The Mediterranean Sea & the Aegean Sea from Istanbul, Turkey to Athens, Greece
All that being said, the Mediterranean cruise is all about the Ports of Call and what to do when you arrive at those Ports of Call.
Seven Seas Travel of St Clair Shores, Michigan (Detroit Metro Area) can help you plan your dream vacation, including flights, hotels, guided tours, cruises, rental cars, and more. Seven Seas Travel has been in business since 1964. Seven Seas Travel offers a 24/7/365 live answering service. If you would like a quick quote, you can call Seven Seas Travel at (586) 775-7300 and press 1 for an immediate quote. Customer testimonials are available here. Seven Seas Travel is a leading cruise travel agent.
IF you are in need of immediate assistance, please call using the button below and ask for our cruise specialist, Ms. Lynette Richardson.
For cruise tips and a great starter for all things, Cruises, CLICK HERE.

In this Mediterranean cruise guide, we provide ten resources for you to:
1) Identify the "Standard" Mediterranean Cruise and 5 Very Crowded Ports of Call;
2) Enjoy Winter Cruising in the Mediterranean, the WindStar Legend Ship;
3) Explore Off the Beaten Path Ports in the Mediterranean, 11 Hidden Gem CRUISE Ports of Call;
4) Prepare For your Mediterranean Cruise;
5) Learn about Western and Eastern Mediterranean Cruises and Their 2 Popular Departure Ports of Call;
6) Explore 4 INDUSTRIAL Mixed Use Ports of Call;
7) Experience Onboard Experiences and Accommodations, Including Dining on the Mediterranean Cruise;
8) Learn About 4 Popular-Crowded CRUISE Ports of Call;
9) Discover Luxury Mediterranean sailings from Cruise Companies such as Celebrity Cruises;
10) Discover Economical Mediterranean sailings from Cruise Companies such as MSC Cruises.

The Mediterranean is one of the most popular cruise destinations in the world, and for good reason. It offers breathtaking coastal views, rich cultural experiences, and a diverse range of landscapes and attractions. From the sun-soaked beaches of Greece to the ancient ruins of Italy and beyond, there is something to satisfy every type of traveler and a cruise line that can meet those needs.
With so much diversity among the ports of call available on any given itinerary, one can choose from an array of unique experiences - whether it is strolling around Valencia's historic old town; marveling at Dubrovnik’s remarkable walls, discovering Santorini's seaside villages perched atop volcanic cliffs or visiting famous landmarks like Rome's Colosseum or Athens's Acropolis.
All that being said, there are five very busy, often crammed with summertime visitors, sometimes difficult to get around Mediterranean ports which most cruise companies visit and visitors should be aware of, that include:
1) Venice, Italy
2) Barcelona, Spain
3) Santorini, Greece
4) Dubrovnik, Croatia
5) Oia, Greece
Be sure to check the exciting NCL Viva, first sailing was 2023, that sails from Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy; Athens, Greece; Istanbul, Turkey; Barcelona, Spain; Venice, Italy on 9, 10, and 11 day voyages in the Mediterranean from the 2026-2027 summer season. Explore the Mandara Spa & Thermal Suite: saunas (charcoal, salt, etc.), steam rooms, pools and the Vibe Beach Club: adult-only retreat with extra lounge spa plus the Viva Theater & Club:which transforms from a 3-story theater into a nightclub.
"Windstar Legendary Winter in the Mediterranean" is the winter cruise itinerary offered by Windstar Cruises. Typically sailing on the "Star Legend" ship, guests will visit ports across southern Europe with milder weather, smaller crowds, and festive holiday atmospheres in cities like Barcelona, Rome, Venice. Key points about Windstar's Legendary Winter Mediterranean cruise include festive holiday markets, smaller crowds, unique winter experiences, and milder weather. Benefits of winter cruising are lower airfares, better deals on activities, and a chance to experience a different side of the Mediterranean.
It would be remiss not to mention that some ports along a Mediterranean cruise journey may feel too familiar at times due to mass tourism, which has led to overcrowding. Despite the Mediterranean's popularity as a vacation destination, there are plenty of more exotic places for travelers to explore. These ports typically are used mostly or exclusively for cruise ships.
Some of those off the beaten path cruise centric ports of call include:
1) One of the most unique and lesser-known cruise destinations in the Mediterranean is Malta, a small island nation located off the coast of Italy and North Africa. Despite its size, Malta offers a fascinating history, abundant natural beauty, and an eclectic blend of cultures.
Malta is home to some of Europe's most impressive sites, including the stunning St. John’s Co-Cathedral, Valletta's Grand Harbour, and Hagar Qim Temples. Additionally, its geographic location makes it a great starting or stopping point for diverse itineraries - whether you’re heading west towards Spain or east to Greece.
Check out the all new Viking Cruises, Vela. The Vela accommodates up to 998 guests, in 499 staterooms — meaning an average of about 2 guests per cabin. Every guest stateroom has a private veranda. That’s a luxury not always standard on cruise ships of similar size. With its size (smaller than many mega ships) and verandas on all cabins, the ship can dock at ports that larger ships cannot, giving more “close to destination” access.
2) Another destination that might surprise travelers with its richness in culture is Tunisia. Travelers can visit Carthage, which dates back to 814 BCE, or its capital Tunis, which is brimming with old world charms yet still features modern diversions for visitors that appreciate both authenticity and fun.
3) Another must-see place off the beaten path is Rhodes, Greece. Rhodes’ medieval city is clearly the island’s must-see attraction. Some standout attractions include: The Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes/KNIGHTS TEMPLAR (a museum dedicated to Rhodes’ history and the Grand Master’s apartment with its magnificent mosaic floors); the Archaeological Museum of Rhodes; the Byzantine Art Museum and its many frescoes and icons from the Byzantine period; and the Churches of Agia Triada and Agia Aikaterini.

4) And don't forget one of the most important places in the ancient world, Ephesus which was an ancient Greek port city located on the western shores of modern-day Turkey. Ephesus was the second biggest city of the Roman Empire. Ephesus is home to one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Temple of Artemis which was constructed in the sixth century B.C.
This temple is dedicated to an ancient, local form of the goddess Artemis. The temple was twice the size of any other Greek temple and had 127 columns which were 18.3 metres (60 ft) high and 1.2 metres (4 ft) in diameter. It took workers 120 years to finish the temple.
When visiting Ephesus, be sure the ship actually docks there rather than the tourist resort of Kusadasi, Turkey which is an hour away by car.
5) Sorento, Italy. Another must-visit off the beaten path location on your Mediterranean cruise is the charming town of Sorrento in Italy. Famous for its lemon groves and olive trees, this town offers visitors breathtaking views of the Bay of Naples. Take a day trip to the island of Capri and experience this idyllic island's unmatched charm. And don't forget to indulge in some authentic Neapolitan pizza while you're here!

6) Katakolon (Olympia), Greece: Katakolon is a little seaside village on the western coast of Ilia and it’s exactly what you picture when you think what a Greek village should be. You can taste the day’s catch fresh from the fishermen’s nets at the gateway to Olympia. The home of the first Olympic Games in 776 BCE, Olympia still holds wonder. As explorers wander onto the ruins the first thing that catches their eyes are the stone columns.
7) Fiskardo (Kefalonia), Greece: Amid the Ionian island of Kefalonia lies a small fishing village, Fiskardo, with all the charms of a tiny Greek town but the elegant feel of a luxurious getaway. As a popular choice for yachts to dock, the harbor hosts plenty of upscale seafood restaurants. Opt for a quick dip after a day of adventure at one of Fiskardo’s many pebble coves.
8) Saranda (Butrint), Albania: The horseshoe-shaped bay of Saranda on the Albanian Riviera lies between the Ionian Sea and rolling hills of olive groves. When visiting, the Butrint National Park should hold a spot on your bucket list. This UNESCO World Heritage Site and Ramsar Wetland Site of International Importance holds the remains of a city from the Roman Empire, a scenic lagoon and breathtaking mountains.
9) Alexandria, Egypt: Visit the Catacombs of Kom el Shoqafa, one of the Seven Wonders of the Middle Ages and then journey to the Bibliotheca Alexandrina where you can examine the history of the region in this major cultural center, located next to the sparkling Mediterranean Sea. Finally, visit the popular Amphitheatre.
10) The Bay of Kotor, Montenegro, Adriatic Sea: Just 170 miles away from the Italian mainland on the Adriatic Sea, you can enjoy the mesmerizing beauty of the Bay of Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its fjord-like landscapes. While there, you can explore the charming medieval towns of Kotor, Perast, and Herceg Novi, and indulge in the rich cultural heritage of the region.
11) Monte-Carlo, Monaco: Popular attractions in Monte-Carlo include the Private Collection of Antique Cars of H.S.H. Prince Rainier III, Casino of Monte-Carlo, Monte-Carlo Harbor, Larvotto Beach, Monaco Grand Prix, and Hotel de Paris.

Ultimately, the Mediterranean has so much diversity between its civilizations’ past histories and cultures that exploring both well-trodden paths or under-discovered gems offer rewarding experiences all around.
While venturing off-the-beaten-path can be a wonderful way to escape the crowds and discover new experiences, one shouldn't neglect the classics -- there's a reason why cities like Venice, Rome, and Barcelona continue to be popular among cruisers. Even if some ports may seem "touristy," many of these cities have an enduring draw because of their remarkable cultural heritage.

Preparing for a Mediterranean cruise can be an exciting and daunting experience at the same time. Here are a few tips to ensure that your trip is smooth and hassle-free:
1) Check the entry requirements of the countries you will be visiting. Make sure you have all necessary documentation, such as visas or passports, before embarking on your trip and your cruise line.
2) Another important aspect to consider is packing. When cruising in the Mediterranean, it's important to pack comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for the warm weather and excursions on land. Some travelers prefer traveling with only carry-on luggage to save time at boarding. While this can be convenient in some cases, due to airline and cruise restrictions, it's important to double-check the weight and size limitations of both airlines and cruise lines.

Mediterranean cruises depart from various ports throughout Europe. Here is an overview of some two very popular departure ports and their respective destinations around them. No matter from where you depart to explore the magnificent Mediterranean region, each port and cruise line offers different landing points full of adventures to discover!
Barcelona or what is known as the Western Mediterranean (cruise) is one of the most popular departure points for Western Mediterranean cruises. It's a vibrant city full of life and is often referred to as "the capital of cool". From Barcelona, travelers can embark on a journey through the Western Mediterranean, visiting locations such as Marseilles, Corsica, Sardinia, Naples, Rome, Monte Carlo and more. Barcelona gets 12-13 million visitors per year.
If you prefer starting your journey from Italy or an Eastern Mediterrean cruise, you can sail away from Civitavecchia (a port city in central Italy, a city next to Rome, Italy) which offers a grand departure location - where you can embark yourself onto an Eastern Mediterranean itinerary. Civitavecchia by itself is an uninspiring port city but directly adjacent to Rome, Italy which is just 60-90 minutes away by car. Popular Rome attractions such as the Colosseum, Pantheon, Vatican City, and the Trevi Fountain can be seen post-cruise or pre-cruise.

Cruise customers are advised to pay CAREFUL attention to the actual port they will be visiting on their cruise. On the online or paper brochure, the actual port is often shown in parenthesis after the well known city which is shown to the left. That being said, there are several ports which are commercial industrial ports that are separated by 30-90 minute drives from well known historical locations. These industrial historical ports include:
1) Piraeus is a busy industrial port and city but only 60 minutes away from Athens, Greece with its world renowned Acropolis, Parthenon, and Panathenaic Stadium. From Athens, travelers can embark on a journey through the Eastern Mediterranean, visiting locations such as Alexandria, Dubrovnik, Santorini, Venice, Istanbul, Kotor, Mykonos, and Naples.
2) Livorno, Italy is also a busy industrial port of departure but the city of Florence with Michelangelo's David, Ponte Vecchio, and the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore are but 90 minutes away by car.
The main attractions of Livorno include:
Terrazza Mascagni is a promenade over the sea with checkered flooring that bears the name of the renowned composer Pietro Mascagni. The renowned Bagni Pancaldi, a coastal resort established in 1846 and formerly frequented by the Savoy princes and other nobility, is located on the left, while the Livorno Aquarium is located on the right.

Quartiere Venezia, also known as the New Venice District, is a bustling area that was established in the 1600s and is situated in the center of the city. The old bridges, lanes, canals, homes, and warehouses that connected to the harbor are still there. Every year in July, this neighborhood hosts "Effetto Venezia," a festival that includes performances, food and wine events, and traditional markets.
The statue of the Four Moors was made by Pietro Tacca between 1623 and 1626. Giovanni Bandini built the monument, which features a marble statue of Grand Duke Ferdinand I atop a pedestal with four bronze Moors in chains.
The Medici port is surrounded by a fortification known as the Old Fortress, or Fortezza Vecchia. Over the years, this elegant stronghold has undergone several architectural alterations.
Fortezza Nuova (New fortification), an antique red brick fortification built during the Medici era to defend Livorno from pirate attacks, was designed by Bernardo Buontalenti.

3) La Spezia in Northern Italy is another industrial port of departure where in 60 minutes, you can be enjoying the Cinque Terre region with spectacular hillsides, villages, and very popular beaches.
Top Attractions in La Spezia include:
Castello di San Giorgio: A 13th-century castle offering sweeping views of the city and harbor, housing an archaeological museum.
Museo Tecnico Navale (Naval Technical Museum): One of Italy's premier naval museums, featuring ship figureheads and military artifacts.
Museo Civico Amedeo Lia: Located in an old convent, this museum houses an extensive collection of art from the 13th to 18th centuries.
4) Katakolon in Greece is a small town with a few shops but the port is only an hour's drive from Olympia Greece, home of the first Olympics with its ruins and a first rate museum.

After a long day of exploration in different ports, there's nothing better than returning to your comfortable home away from home on board your ship. The accommodations vary depending on your budget and personal preference.

From interior staterooms to luxury suites with balconies overlooking the ocean, most accommodations onboard Mediterranean cruises are designed with ultimate comfort and relaxation in mind. Passengers can expect amenities such as plush bedding, flat-screen TVs, and well-appointed bathrooms.
When it comes to onboard experiences, Mediterranean cruises offer a wide range of activities to keep passengers entertained during their days at sea. From cooking demonstrations and dance lessons to movie screenings and live entertainment, there's always something to do on each cruise line on board.
In addition, most Mediterranean cruise lines offer excellent dining options, ranging from casual cafes to upscale fine-dining restaurants. Each meal is curated with fresh, locally sourced ingredients that highlight the flavors of the region.
The unique blend of cultural immersion, scenic views, onboard experiences, and exceptional accommodations make Mediterranean cruises an unforgettable vacation experience that you won't soon forget.

One of the highlights of any Mediterranean cruise is the opportunity to sample a wide range of delicious cuisines. Whether you prefer traditional Mediterranean dishes or international fare, cruise ships and each cruise line offer a variety of dining options. Most cruises offer all-inclusive dining, which includes meals and snacks throughout the day.
Onboard restaurants run the gamut from casual buffet-style eateries to elegant fine-dining establishments that offer multi-course menus with wine pairings. One popular option for many travelers is to enjoy dinner at one of the ship's specialty restaurants. These venues often feature unique menus that are designed to showcase the flavors of the region, with offerings like fresh seafood and locally sourced produce.
Another great feature of dining on a Mediterranean cruise is that you can usually enjoy your meal while taking in breathtaking views of the sea and coastline. Many ships have outdoor dining areas or rooftop bars where you can relax with a cocktail or glass of wine as you soak up the scenery.
While most cruisers agree that the dining experience is a highlight of their trip, there may be some who feel that the quality and variety of food isn't always as high as they would like. Additionally, travelers with dietary restrictions may find it challenging to find suitable options. However, most cruise lines are able to accommodate special requests if given sufficient notice.

The Mediterranean region has so much to offer travelers that it can be hard to know where to start. From fascinating historical sites to sun-soaked beaches, there is truly something for everyone. Here are just a few POPULAR TOP DESTINATIONS worth exploring:
1) Santorini, Greece - This picturesque island is famous for its dramatic cliffside villages, whitewashed buildings, and black-sand beaches. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the ancient ruins of Akrotiri or watch the sunset from Oia.
2) Dubrovnik, Croatia - Known as the "Pearl of the Adriatic," this medieval city is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Walk along the ancient city walls and explore the narrow streets and squares that offer glimpses into centuries-old traditions.
3) Barcelona, Spain - The vibrant seaside city of Barcelona boasts stunning architecture by Antoni Gaudí and world-class museums like the Picasso Museum. Stroll down Las Ramblas to experience the city's lively street culture.

4) Naples, Italy - Situated between Mount Vesuvius and the Bay of Naples, this bustling city offers an exciting mix of history, art, and culinary delights. Don't miss the chance to visit Pompeii or try a piping-hot slice of Neapolitan pizza.
Exploring the Mediterranean is like taking a journey through time - each destination offers a unique glimpse into a rich and varied past. Whether you're strolling down ancient streets in Athens or admiring masterpieces in Florence, you'll feel like you've stepped back in time to a bygone era.
Be sure to take advantage of shore excursions offered by your cruise line. These tours can give you a deeper understanding of each destination's history and culture while allowing you to make the most of your limited time ashore. With so much to see and do on a Mediterranean cruise, it's no wonder that this region is such a popular destination for travelers from around the world.

The Mediterranean region's borderlands have long served as an inspiration for innumerable pieces of literature and art. On a Celebrity Cruises voyage, you'll discover why this place is so inspiring. Visit Rome to witness Michelangelo's magnificent works of art at St. Peter's Basilica. Pablo Picasso and Edith Wharton both frequented certain locations along the French Riviera.
Additionally, you'll sample the unexpectedly healthful cuisines of Greece, Italy, and Spain that incorporate olive oil, fresh fish, and regional cheese. Now, as you cruise in style with Celebrity Cruises, allow the Mediterranean to inspire you.
There are benefits to cruising with Celebrity Cruises. Participate in the Celebrity Cruises Captain's Club to receive a variety of cruise benefits. Every Celebrity Cruises voyage will allow you to accrue points, and you'll also get access to exclusive deals, offers, and benefits that will make your Celebrity Cruises cruise trip even more amazing.
Gain access to exclusive Celebrity Cruises voyages, discounted spa treatments, free laundry service, upgraded staterooms, and exciting cruise club activities while at sea. You will also get special invitations to various members-only activities taking place on our sailings across the globe as a valued Celebrity Cruises loyalty member.

Visitors seeking an economical Mediterranean sailings congregate on MSC Cruises. On Mediterranean sailings, 85% of the guests of MSC Cruises are from Europe, imparting the vessels with a regional atmosphere. Getting the whole family in on the action won't cost a fortune: those aged 3-11 sail free with MSC Cruises, and those 12-17 get a reduced rate. Plus, the kids' activity program is provided at no extra charge.
MSC Cruises is ideal for families and couples wanting a different Mediterranean sailings experience than the traditional American one without higher costs. MSC Cruises offers multiple Mediterranean sailings packages which choose your cabin and give you bonuses through your vacation. This grants vacationers the ability to personalize their Mediterranean sailings voyage not only based on expense, but also their desires for the cruise line.
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