royal caribbean greece cruise 2023

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ROYAL CARIBBEAN ARABIA

• Destinations
• Brochure 23-24

ADVENTURE ON THE AEGEAN

Greece & greek isles cruises, cruise to greece and greek isles where temples, amphitheatres and villages preserved in volcanic ash still reveal the mysteries of the past. enjoy dramatic sunsets across translucent waters while exploring the white cliffs of milos, or transport yourself to the ancient past at ruins found on nearly every greek island. the temple of aphaia looms over aegina, while delos island hosts the incredible terrace of the lions. you'll find the world-famous acropolis on rhodes island and the akrotiri on santorini. but don't forget to watch the sun rise over the aegean while visiting the renowned windmills of mykonos. discover the magic with a greece and greek isles cruise..

ISLAND EXPLORER

Get in touch with traditional customs and soak in the mediterranean waves on the sun-soaked greek isles onboard the best greece and greek isles cruises..

VIVA LA VILLAGE LIFE

Santorini only has villages, not towns, and these diverse areas provide a first-hand glimpse into Greek life. Because the whole island is less than 28 square miles, it's not difficult to take in most of the sights from the looming cliffs and still have time for shopping, eating and some down time on the Aegean Sea.

DIVE TO THE DEPTHS

Greece's underwater worlds complete with seahorses, eels and plenty of fish are almost too perfect not to grab your scuba gear and take the plunge. Santorini has an excellent dive center that will get you into the water fast with instructors who will guide you through the warm Mediterranean waters.

THE THRILL OF THE CLIMB

Another great thing to do while in Greece are the daily tours of the volcano Nea Kameni, which is located on an uninhabited island close to Santorini: begin with a short boat ride, followed by a climb up to the volcanic craters that takes just over an hour. The tour then takes in hot springs and mud baths, where you can recharge your batteries.

UNEARTH THE PAST

Go on an archaeological exploration of the ancient world's most renowned sites, from bronze age excavations to temples dedicated to the greek gods with your cruise to greece and greek isles..

ANCIENT ADVENTURES

The largest of the Greek islands, Crete is both a beach paradise and home to some of the country's premier archaeological finds and attractions. Visit Greece and tour the Palace at Knossos, built by the Minoans more than 4,000 years ago, before exploring the Archaeological Museum, where the treasures of Knossos – including sculptures, jewellery and mosaics – are exhibited.

Excavations of Akrotiri on Santorini Island date back to the Manoan Bronze Age, where the settlement was preserved in ash following a volcanic eruption in 1627 B.C. The site is still being excavated today, and you can witness history first-hand by exploring the vast settlement and the enormous ongoing archaeological dig.

GUIDED BY GODS

Delos is one of the most important archaeological sites in the world, and it's also the mythological birthplace of the sun god, Apollo, and his twin, Artemis, goddess of the moon and the hunt. You can spend hours exploring the ruins and learning about Greek history on the most-sacred place of worship in Ancient Greece. Even the nearby old port has its own charm, with an amphitheatre, sanctuary and various dwellings waiting to be explored. Beach Cave in Greece Beach Cave in Greece AN EAST-TO-WEST AEGEAN ADVENTURE

FROM HELLAS TO HAIFA

This is not your average summer holiday in europe – it’s an all-out culture trip you’ll never forget. offering longer stays in port, odyssey of the seas℠ takes you deeper into the culture, history and natural beauty of some of europe’s most incredible destinations. cruise to greece and explore the most beautiful isles in the aegean or take your adventure further on a longer wander with extended stays in turkey and israel..

GO FOR GREEK

There’s nothing like spending a summer in Greece, and an adventure on Odyssey of the Seas℠ is the perfect way to experience it. Scope picture-perfect sunsets in Santorini. Tour a local vineyard in Crete. And spend a day soaking up the sun on a golden-sand beach in Mykonos. You’re in for adventure no matter how you choose to isle away the time.

GO BOLD INTO THE HOLY LAND

If you’re looking for a bucket-list trip, this is it. Wander along the Wailing Wall in Jerusalem’s Old City. Take a dip in the Dead Sea. And soak up the sights, sounds and scents of a traditional Turkish market in Ephesus. Sailing into the Holy Land, every day is filled with new discoveries.

CUISINE EVERYTHING'S BETTA WITH A LITTLE FETA

The greek islands are known for famous foods like feta cheese, but the location is also home to a slew of other delicacies. olive oil plays a big part in the local cuisine, as does local produce, such as tomatoes and other mediterranean vegetables. feast on feta me meli, baked feta wrapped in filo or choriatiki: greek salad with tons of vegetables. while meat such as lamb, pork and veal are found everywhere, especially in gyros or keftethes (meatballs), fish and seafood are the undisputed stars, due to proximity to the sea..

SAY CHEESE!

Kefalonia is home to the legendary tiropita cheese puff, which is basically cheese baked in cheese, although you'll also find puffs filled with vegetables, particularly spinach, and even sometimes meat. You can also find local cheeses like feta, manuri or kefalotiri everywhere.

EYES ON THE PIES

Meat pies filled with lamb, veal or sometimes pork are called kreatopita, and they are cooked with wine and tomatoes, garlic, cinnamon and nutmeg, creating a medley of flavours. There's also a variety called pastitsio that combines pasta and meat.

FLEX YOUR MUSSELS

Your choices are endless when it comes to fresh seafood prepared according to local tradition. Try a simple shrimp and pasta dish, or go wild with octapodi kokkinisto, octopus in tomato sauce, during your Greece cruise.

RELATED DESTINATIONS

Health and safety protocols, guest conduct rules, and regional travel restrictions vary by ship and destination, and are subject to change without notice. due to evolving health protocols, imagery and messaging may not accurately reflect onboard and destination experiences, offerings, features, or itineraries. these may not be available during your voyage, may vary by ship and destination, and may be subject to change without notice..

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9 Night Greek Isles Cruise

Royal Caribbean International is known for ships with a wow factor. From ice skating rinks to zip lines, if you can think of it, you can find it on a Royal Caribbean cruise.

Raise a glass to the Mediterranean where you’ll find magnificent churches and castles, along with spectacular food. The history and art are nothing to shake a stick at either.

A cruise to Civitavecchia is a chance for you to hop a quick train to Rome and explore the enormous history through ruins, galleries and The Vatican museums.

• Odyssey Of The Seas - Passenger Capacity:  4,198 (double occupancy) Year Built:  2021 Last Refurbished:  N/A

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Odyssey Of The Seas

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Mediterranean

Ports of Call

Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy , Naples, Italy , Mykonos, Greece , Piraeus (Athens), Greece , Ephesus, Turkey , Santorini (Thira), Greece , Chania, Greece

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Royal Caribbean: 60% OFF 2nd Guest and Kids Free*

Up to $500 FREE Onboard Credit* - TCW Exclusive

• Itinerary & Pricing

9 Night Greek Isles Cruise sailing on the Odyssey Of The Seas

Departure dates: aug 2024 - aug 2025.

From $1,789

From $1,379

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Stateroom prices for Aug. 25, 2024

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*** All itineraries are subject to change without notice. Please confirm your itinerary on the Review page before purchasing your cruise.

Rates & offers are subject to select dates & categories, cruise only, per person, based on double occupancy, in US Dollars & include NCCF. Government taxes & fees are additional and vary based on sailing. All government taxes and fees may change without notice -- please confirm at time of booking. All rates & offers are capacity controlled, are subject to availability & confirmation, & may change without notice. Additional restrictions may apply. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed -- please confirm details at time of booking. Stateroom photos are for sample purposes only -- actual design and layout may vary.

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Best Greece cruises: Top 5 ships sailing the Greek isles

From ancient mythology to wine and olives, there's a lot to love about Greece . There's something magical about the contrast between the deep-blue waters of the Aegean Sea and the ancient ruins and white buildings found on the Greek islands.

The best Greece cruises offer a well-rounded mix of islands and key Greece destinations: Athens for its ruins, Santorini for its blue-roofed churches, Mykonos for its shopping and nightlife, and Rhodes for its palace and charming cobblestone streets. You might even luck out and snag a visit to places like Turkey or Montenegro, too.

If you're not sure which ships to consider, here's a list of the best cruises to Greece for different kinds of travelers.

Note: Prices were accurate at the time of publication; they're subject to change without notice.

For more cruise guides, news and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Best Greek isles cruises for families: Disney Dream

Disney Cruise Line is ideal for families. If a Disney cruise to Greece with kids sounds appealing, Disney Dream is the ship that will take you there.

The vessel isn't the line's newest, but it's also not the oldest, and you'll still find plenty to do on board. The 2,500-passenger ship's small size means it's easy to learn your way around. Even better, Disney Dream is typically more affordable than the line's newest vessels.

Dream offers jaw-dropping entertainment and daily character appearances, which means your children likely won't be bored on the ship. Its magical kids clubs feature a replica of Andy's room from "Toy Story" and the Millennium Falcon's cockpit from "Star Wars." (Expect surprise visits from R2-D2 or a squad of stormtroopers.)

Also, Greece is wrapped in tons of ancient history to spark your family's imagination. For example, in Athens, you might choose to take a guided tour of the Acropolis, followed by a "day in the life of an archaeologist" experience, where you'll search for treasures in a faux archaeological dig.

If the kids prefer something sportier, they might enjoy an excursion that takes visitors to the Panathenaic Stadium for a tour and a talk about the first Olympic games of the modern era.

Disney Dream sails five-, seven- and nine-night voyages from $322 per person, per night, for a windowless inside cabin. Some itineraries sail round-trip from Rome, while others cruise one-way between Rome and Barcelona with calls on Athens, Mykonos and other ports in Greece.

Related: Best cruise lines for families

Best adults-only Greece cruises for party animals: Resilient Lady

If you enjoy a lively megaship party atmosphere but you don't want an environment that's overrun with kids, Virgin Voyages ' Resilient Lady will likely be the best Greece cruise option for you.

Although Virgin's Greece itineraries are pretty standard, its onboard experience is what sets it apart in the region.

The adults-only ship combines a casual vibe with a ramped-up nightlife. You'll find passengers dressed like mermaids, crew dressed like drag queens and performers that more accurately represent a cross-section of real life than those whom you'll find on most other lines' vessels.

As part of what just might be the best entertainment at sea , nighttime shows run the gamut from lounge singers and seemingly impromptu atrium dance parties to secret below-deck visits to the "crew bar" for a drink. There's also Scarlet Night — a rave-like pool-deck dance party where everyone wears red.

If that's not wild enough for you, there's also an app that lets you order Champagne to wherever you are on board, free fitness classes that encourage you to dress up in your '80s best and even a tattoo parlor so you can make some bad decisions.

Resilient Lady sails seven-, 10- and 11-night cruises from Athens, starting at $145 per person, per night, for an inside cabin. The voyages feature a mix of stops in Greece (including Santorini and Rhodes and an overnight in Mykonos), Croatia, Turkey and Montenegro, depending on the specific itinerary you choose.

Related: The best adults-only cruises to try if you can't stand being around kids on vacation

Best budget-friendly Greece cruises: Rhapsody of the Seas

Want to check out Greece but have limited funds? Although you'll have to factor in potentially expensive flights to Europe to board, a voyage on Royal Caribbean 's Explorer of the Seas could be right up your alley.

The vessel is one of Royal Caribbean's oldest ships — it debuted in 2000 — but that doesn't mean you won't find fun onboard activities such as trivia, pool games, nightly theater performances, game shows, dancing and live music.

The best part if you're on a budget is the price. You can snag sailings of six, seven or eight nights from just $85 per person, per night, for an inside cabin. These cruises sail either between Rome and Athens or between Barcelona and Athens, or round-trip from Ravenna (the port for Bologna, Italy). Voyages include calls on Athens, Santorini and Mykonos, as well as ports in Cyprus and Turkey.

Related: How to get a deal on a cruise

Best small-ship luxury Greece cruises: Windstar's Wind Star

Windstar Cruises ' namesake, Wind Star, is a 148-passenger masted sailing yacht that offers a special Greek islands experience because it calls on some of the area's smaller ports in addition to Athens.

The ship is great for sailing aficionados. Because of its small size, it can visit smaller ports that larger vessels can't access. (Think Monemvasia, a town carved into rock, and Gythion, where you'll find caves and lovely beaches.)

Also, Wind Star is an upscale ship, which means you'll find elevated dining and service on board. All cabins offer at least one window. When you purchase an all-inclusive fare, Wi-Fi, gratuities and alcohol are rolled into the price.

Among other itineraries, the vessel sails weeklong cruises between Athens and Rome that call on Monemvasia and Gythion in Greece, as well as several ports in Italy. Rates start from $300 per person, per night, for an outside cabin.

Related: The best luxury cruise lines for elegance and exclusivity

Best locally based Greek isles cruises: Celestyal Journey

Celestyal Cruises is a line you don't hear about too often, but it's based in Greece, which means it has a unique perspective on Greek island sailings.

If you're looking for a cruise vacation that's full of local Greek flair, check out the brand's Celestyal Journey. The ship isn't new, but it's new to the line. Following an extensive refurbishment, and its Celestyal debut in late 2023, it's the youngest member of the line's fleet.

Holding about 1,200 passengers, Celestyal Journey is small enough that you'll still receive a personalized experience but large enough to offer a multitude of onboard amenities. Enjoy yourself at the spa and fitness center, eight bars, seven restaurants, a chef's table experience and two pools. The ship offers 630 cabins, including 149 balcony cabins, 120 junior suites and 28 full-fledged suite accommodations.

Itineraries offered by Celestyal Journey range from four to 28 nights, departing from either Athens or Thessaloniki. Most voyages include calls on well-known Greek ports like Santorini, Rhodes and Mykonos, while longer sailings also venture to places in Turkey and Montenegro. Prices start from $89 per person, per night, for an inside cabin.

Bottom line

The best cruises to Greece combine a mix of fascinating destinations with a ship that fits your budget and travel style. If you're still unsure which cruise to choose, check with a knowledgeable cruise travel agent who can help you sort through the options.

Have more cruise questions? TPG has answers:

• Banned items: What not to pack for a cruise
• Man overboard: Why do people fall off cruise ships?
• What is baked Alaska, and why is it paraded around cruise ships?
• What are the largest cruise ships in the world?
• What is a gentleman host on a cruise?
• What is the Jones Act and how does it affect cruise ships?
• What is a lido deck on a cruise ship?
• What's a cruise cabin guarantee and will it save you money?
• What's the difference between a cruise concierge and a butler?

Press Releases

Royal caribbean opens epic lineup of european adventures for summer 2023.

Vacations for the Whole Family: Nine Ships to Sail to More Than 25 Countries in the Mediterranean, Scandinavia and the Holy Land

MIAMI, Jan. 6, 2022 – Royal Caribbean International revealed the 2023 European summer lineup of nine award-winning ships that will visit landmark destinations in more than 25 countries, from the Amalfi Coast to the Holy Land, plus the Adriatic islands of Croatia, British Isles, Canary Islands and Greek Isles. Beginning in May 2023, vacationers of all ages can experience the region’s timeless beauty on a variety of cruises that range from five to 12 nights and visit iconic locales, from Reykjavik, Iceland, to Tel Aviv, Israel, and everything in between. The cruise line’s new summer 2023 Europe cruises are now open.   

Travelers with their sights on Europe can choose from 35 unique itineraries and a diverse set of ships, a matchup that makes for memories galore. Royal Caribbean’s Odyssey of the Seas in Rome,  following up its 2021 debut, and Anthem of the Seas in Southampton, England, are two returning favorites set to offer the whole family a combination of signature features and standout experiences. Highlights include Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade and bumper cars in SeaPlex , the largest indoor and outdoor activity complex at sea, North Star – the highest viewing deck on a cruise ship – and the gravity-defying skydiving simulator, RipCord by iFly. From Rome and Barcelona, Spain, Oasis Class ship Symphony of the Seas will bring all types of vacationers together with thrilling experiences across seven distinct neighborhoods only found on Royal Caribbean, like the Ultimate Abyss , the tallest slide at sea; famed Broadway shows and original productions across ice, water, stage and air; and more than 20 different restaurants, bars and lounges.

Itinerary Highlights

• Odyssey of the Seas – Cruising from: Rome Headlining the European summer lineup is one of Royal Caribbean’s newest additions, Odyssey , returning for an encore after its first summer in the region in 2022. Vacationers have a choice of 7- to 9-night cruises from Rome to Naples , Italy; the idyllic Greek Isles and Turkey , as well as 12-night Holy Land sailings to the historic, bustling cities of Limassol, Cyprus ; Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey ; and Jerusalem , Israel . From the iconic whitewashed homes of Santorini, Greece , to the Temple Mount in Jerusalem and the ruins of the ancient city of Ephesus – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – a world from centuries past is within reach.
• Symphony of the Seas – Cruising from: Barcelona and Rome One of Time’s World’s Greatest Places in 2018 and Royal Caribbean’s renowned Oasis Class ships, Symphony heads to the Western Mediterranean. Travelers can set course on 7-night cruises , from Barcelona or Rome , to bucket list destinations like Naples , Palma de Mallorca , Spain, and Provence, France . Whether exploring 14th-century castles and cathedrals in Mallorca or marveling at the Duomo in Florence, Italy , travelers can expect days filled with rich culture and history.
• Serenade of the Seas – Cruising from: Barcelona Serenade will call the warm shores of Barcelona home and sail 8-night itineraries to the Western Mediterranean , 12-night cruises to the Greek Isles and 5-night sailings to Italy and France . Beaches and beats await in Ibiza , Spain , home to a legendary electronic music scene, while the Cote d’Azur offers a glamorous getaway in iconic Cannes, France .
• Explorer of the Seas – Cruising from: Venice (Ravenna), Italy New to Ravenna, Italy, Explorer will explore the Aegean Sea and visit Olympia, Greece – the birthplace of the Olympic Games – for the first time, among several picturesque destinations. The 7-night cruises will sail to the Greek Isles and beyond to Adriatic and Mediterranean gems such as Kotor, Montenegro , and Chania, Crete.
• Brilliance of the Seas – Cruising from: Rome and Venice (Ravenna), Athens, Greece; and Barcelona Sailing open-jaw itineraries from Italy , Greece and Spain , Brilliance will offer vacationers a choice of four epic European cities to start and complete their adventures in the Western Mediterranean , Greek Isles and Adriatic Sea . The 7-night cruises will sail from Rome to Athens, Greece; Athens to Venice; Venice to Barcelona; and Barcelona to Rome. Bucket list-worthy sites like the Diocletian’s Palace in Split, Croatia , St. Mark’s Basilica in Venice and Praetorian Palace in Koper, Slovenia – a new destination for Brilliance – are just a few of the top spots awaiting travelers.
• Rhapsody of the Seas – Cruising from: Haifa, Israel, and Limassol, Cyprus Rhapsody will be the first Royal Caribbean ship to sail from Limassol and Haifa , Israel , all in one season. The new summer combination consists of 7-night sailings to ports of call in Turkey , Israel and Greece , including first-time destinations for the cruise line, like Skiathos and Thessaloniki, Greece. Starting in September, the ship will take off on short 4- and 5-night getaways from Haifa and visit Cyprus and the Greek Isles.
• Anthem of the Seas – Cruising from: Southampton, England A returning favorite, Anthem   will call Southampton, England , home for the third consecutive year. Adventure seekers can have their choice of 7-night adventures to Spain and France , or the Norwegian Fjords . They can visit destinations new to Anthem, including Maloy and Haugesund, Norway, and Cork, Ireland . Longer, 11- and 12-night vacations will go further to places such as Lisbon , Portugal; Vigo, Spain; and the Canary Islands . Between sampling lutefisk in Stavanger, Norway , and shopping for locally made goods in Lanzarote , Canary Islands , there are culture-rich experiences and outdoor explorations in store.
• Voyager of the Seas – Cruising from: Copenhagen, Denmark, and Stockholm Voyager returns to Northern Europe, sailing from Copenhagen, Denmark , and Stockholm to offer a mix of 7- to 11-night itineraries around Scandinavian countries, Estonia and Russia . There will be stunning sites to behold, like the Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood in St. Petersburg, Russia , and the Suomenlinna fortress in Helsinki, Finland , a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the country’s most popular landmarks. Guests looking for a longer vacation can cruise from San Juan, Puerto Rico, to Copenhagen on a 14-night sailing that features an overnight in Bermuda and visits to St. Thomas, France and Belgium. 
• Jewel of the Seas – Cruising from: Amsterdam, the Netherlands All summer, Jewel will cruise roundtrip from Amsterdam, the Netherlands , welcoming travelers on 12-night sailings to the Arctic Circle, the British Isles, Iceland and Ireland . Picturesque destinations, including the Blue Lagoon in Reykjavik and the White Cliffs of Dover in England , will be just a night’s rest away.

About Royal Caribbean International Royal Caribbean International  has been delivering innovation at sea for more than 50 years. Each successive class of ships is an architectural marvel featuring the latest technology and guest experiences for today's adventurous traveler. The cruise line continues to revolutionize vacations with itineraries to more than 270 destinations in 72 countries on six continents, including Royal Caribbean's private island destination in The Bahamas,  Perfect Day at CocoCay ,   the first in the Perfect Day Island Collection. Royal Caribbean has also been voted "Best Cruise Line Overall" for 19 consecutive years in the  Travel Weekly  Readers' Choice Awards. 

Media can stay up to date by following  @RoyalCaribPR on Twitter and visiting RoyalCaribbeanPressCenter.com. For additional information or to make reservations, vacationers can call their travel advisor; visit RoyalCaribbean.com; or call (800) ROYAL-CARIBBEAN. 

Related Videos

Overview b-roll footage of Royal Caribbean's innovative Anthem of the Seas.  The game-changing thrills guests have in store on board the award-winning Quantum Class ship include the RipCord by iFly sky diving experience, the signature FlowRider surf simulator, North Star, the all-glass observation capsule that extends 300 feet (91 meters) above sea level; indoor and outdoor pools; and SeaPlex, the largest indoor activity space at sea. With show-stopping entertainment, dedicated spaces for kids and teens, a variety of restaurants serving up a world of flavors and more, Anthem is the ideal getaway for travelers of all ages.

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'I never thought I'd go on a cruise. Here's my honest verdict after 10 days at sea.'

When I told my friends that my new husband and I were going on a cruise for our honeymoon, I fully expected their responses.

But aren't cruises for old people?

Do you even get to leave the boat?

Are cruises safe right now with COVID on the rise again?

All very good questions, and ones I wanted to answer myself when Royal Caribbean offered us the chance to take their all-inclusive nine night voyage to the Greek Islands on the Odyssey of the Seas in May 2022.

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The Official Age You're No Longer Hot (According To Kim K)

Yatu Widders-Hunt Is Shining A Light On Indigenous Fashion

Firstly, yes - for some there is an undeniable stigma around cruising, and that stems from a few things. After the Ruby Princess incident in 2020 and in the wake of the pandemic, people are understandably hesitant to travel in confinement with thousands of other people on a boat. And to that I would say: fair. 

Then there's the perception that cruises only cater to specific people, namely not young ones. I was also in this camp, as someone who's travelled widely and always been pretty intrepid. 

My partner and I have driven a campervan through the California desert, traversed the cliffs of the Amalfi Coast via public transport (not advised), and had any number of adventures off the beaten track. All a world away from the casinos, discos and kids' clubs that cruises might conjure up in your head. (You're not wrong, by the way, but stay with me.)

Here's everything I learnt about cruising on my honeymoon, and, to my surprise, why I would definitely do it again.

The hard work is done for you.

After our wedding, we were tired. Tired of planning, tired of logistics, tired of dishing out eye-watering amounts of money to different suppliers. The beauty of a cruise, as I discovered, is that once you've booked your trip, the itinerary is taken care of and you just have to... show up. And I know - to some, that may sound a little lazy. But not if you've spent the last two years dreaming about a holiday where you barely have to lift a finger.

Our Royal Caribbean cruise ticked off some of the best of the Med, starting and ending in Rome and stopping along the way in Naples (the gateway to Amalfi), Santorini, Mykonos, Turkey's scenic port city of Kusadasi, Rhodes and Crete.

On a packed trip like this one, the itinerary will generally allow for one day of sightseeing at each stop - you depart the boat at the port and return when you're done exploring, before sunset. Unfortunately, this means you miss out on the local nightlife, which is a downside that is balanced by all the on-board entertainment that happens after nightfall.

On board the ship you can easily book in to a number of pre-arranged tours, for an additional fee. These are especially handy in places like Turkey where there is some road travel involved in reaching key destinations like Ephesus (a minibus takes you there safely and a guide can help fill in the historical blanks), but whether you book a tour or simply wander freely and take it all in is up to you.

We opted for a mix - we jumped onto a guided tour of the ancient Acropolis of Lindos in Rhodes, as well as Pompeii because #history, but decided to do Santorini ourselves so we could spend the day shopping at the endless markets on the cliff-side, eating grilled octopus, and drinking cocktails. (FYI, on this very laidback holiday, the closest we came to a newlywed fight was when he forced us to walk down the mountain to get back to the tender boats instead of lining up for the cable car, and I'm still mad about it).

It cuts out wasted travel time.

On a self-guided Euro trip, if you wanted to get to several cities or countries you'd have to include travel days in your tally which eat up precious holiday time. In Greece, this would not only mean air travel but also buses, taxis, ferries and charter boats. The beauty of doing this via a cruise is that the travel happens at night while you're sleeping. We literally went to bed in Santorini and woke up in Mykonos.

We showed our passports once, when boarding the ship in Rome, and didn't have to get them out again. Not waiting in lines at airports with other tired, angry travellers to get to your next location = bliss.

You can choose your own adventure.

On a holiday like this one, how much you get out of it is up to you. There is zero judgement from fellow travellers on what you do with your days - I saw families making the most of the facilities on-board and sojourning for short shore expeditions with their young kids, and I saw seasoned cruisers heading out for all-day hikes with bucket hats and maps in hand. 

My husband and I took it at our own pace - some of the highlights for me were the free time during our tour of Amalfi, browsing the upscale boutiques and incredible vistas of Positano (I had the best cannoli of my life there) and lunch in Sorrento taking in the seaside opulence and the sweeping Italian coastline - we ate at one of the oldest family-run hotels in Europe perched on the cliffside; I was told you come for the lunch and the free views. They didn't disappoint.

We also loved exploring the less touristy spots, like Chania (Crete) where we took a $6 return shuttle to the Old Market - a bustling shopping and dining precinct on the water that gets compared to Venice. I'm not sure we would have ever made it to Chania if it wasn't on the cruise agenda, and now we'll definitely be going back.

Health and safety are a priority.

There are obvious and very valid concerns around the safety of this type of travel when COVID is still hanging around. When we boarded our cruise, we had to show a negative Rat test - these needed to be overseen by a licensed testing facility and cost around 30 euro, or 50 dollars. 

Safe in the knowledge that everyone on the cruise was in the same boat (sorry), it was up to us whether we chose to wear a mask on board. Most didn't, but some people wore them at the buffet and during performances at the various theatres. All staff wore masks at all times, and there were sanitising dispensers absolutely everywhere. Tables at the restaurants were sanitised constantly. Additionally, all passengers had to wash their hands at washing stations before meals. Yes, it felt a little like kindergarten, but it added some extra peace of mind re: germs.

There were also COVID testing facilities on the boat, should anyone want to rule out a diagnosis.

There's (actually) something for everyone.

When I think of a cruise, the first thing that comes to mind is activities. Loads of activities. And the Odyssey of the Seas has... all of them. From a surf simulator to an indoor skydiving facility, bumper cars to laser tag, a walking track, climbing wall, games arcade, day spa, adults-only pool retreat and a decked-out gym with plenty of free classes from yoga to cycling. Not to mention the North Star viewing deck, which is the highest observation deck at sea in the world and offers 360 views of the boat and the surrounding ocean. 

On the entertainment front, it's everything you could imagine: there's a fully fledged casino and several theatres (all entertainment is included and you can go to the shows as many times as you like; we went to two musicals and a magic show) and an old-fashioned music hall offering pool, karaoke nights and themed trivia around the clock. On the retail front you'll find jewellery stores, merch shops, and a man playing showtunes on a piano while you browse. Very boujie.

By the way, if you're looking to book a cruise closer to home in 2022, the above features are indicative of what's to come on board the two Quantum Class ships that Royal Caribbean will bring to Australia this year. Ovation of the Seas will sail from Sydney in October, and Quantum of the Seas will depart from Brisbane in November, offering cruises around Australia, the South Pacific and New Zealand.

The food is *chef's kiss*.

We ate like we'd never eaten before, dividing our time between the stacked buffet and the 20 restaurants on board, 13 of which were included with our stay. Seven speciality restaurants offer different cuisines depending on what you fancy, like gourmet Italian, an American steakhouse, and an Alice in Wonderland themed dining experience that specialises in culinary trickery, Heston Blumenthal style.

There were also countless bars including one completely manned by robots (yes, really) and another offering live music and sunset cocktails.

Have you ever had a robot arm deliver you a freshly made mojito? Oh, you haven't? Weird.

It's really bloody fun.

So yeah, there's a lot to do, but you can also do very little. Between all this I still found loads of time to chill by the pool reading my book and drinking margaritas while my partner did... whatever it is men do to relax. But I can safely say there was not one dull moment. 

When I look back on my favourite vacations, the best ones had a mix of soul-nourishing travel experiences and relaxing downtime, and this trip provided that balance. I surprised myself with just how much I enjoyed and made use of the conveniences of the boat, once I leaned in to the big, OTT energy of it all. 

Yes, at times it's a bit like Vegas on the water (with lots of American tourists), and if you embrace it with an open mind, then it's literally impossible not to have a good time. Because they all are, and it's infectious.

If you're after travel that's simplified, stress free, and a little bit surreal, this might be the holiday for you. 

Mamamia  travelled as a guest of Royal Caribbean. All opinions expressed in this article are the author’s own.

Tamara is Mamamia's Head of Lifestyle. For more, follow her on  Instagram .

Royal Caribbean 9 Night Greek Isles Cruise  sailing on Sep 28 2022 on board Odyssey of the Seas from Rome starting at $2,083. Ports of call include Naples/Capri, Santorini, Mykonos, Athens, Ephesus and Chania.

Feature image: Supplied.

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9 Night Greek Isles Cruise

Your ship odyssey of the seas.

A TOP DECK TAKEOVER

North Star ®

Adventure Ocean ®

Splashaway Bay℠

RipCord ® by iFLY ®

New dishes for days.

Giovanni’s℠ Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar

Teppanyaki℠

Chops Grille℠

Downtime that’s up for anything.

Playmakers℠ Bar & Arcade

Bionic Bar ®

Music Hall℠

Day 1: rome, italy.

ANCIENT AND AMAZING

ADVENTURE SQUARED

SACRED SPACES

LOCAL CUISINE

Day 2: Naples / Capri, Italy

popular Shore Excursions

Amazing experiences coming soon..

Go Underground

Church Bells Ring

Local Cuisine

Day 3: Cruising

Trapeze School

Day 4: athens, greece.

Take Me to Church

Mediterranean Romance

Boats and the Bronze Age

Day 5: Mykonos, Greece

COASTAL COSMOPOLITAN

INTO THE BLUE

DIG UP THE PAST

Day 6: Ephesus, Turkey

Window Into Ancient Life

Set Your Sights on Selcuk

Haggle for a Turkish Carpet

Day 7: Santorini, Greece

VOLCANIC WONDERS

IT TAKES A VILLAGE

THE GLASS HALF FULL

Day 8: Chania, Crete

Active Archaeology

Mountain Monasteries

Hike to the Gorge

Day 9: Cruising

El Loco Fresh ®

Chef's Table

Day 10: rome, italy.

Protect Your Trip »

The 4 newest royal caribbean ships.

Explore the newest amenities onboard including surf simulators, fine dining and more.

The Newest Royal Caribbean Ships

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean's highly anticipated Icon of the Seas is set to debut in 2024.

The world's biggest and most ambitious cruise lines never stop building out their fleet of ships, and Royal Caribbean International is no exception. The Florida-based cruise line currently boasts 28 incredible vessels for cruisers of all ages, including the four newest ships that have been added to the fleet since 2021. An even newer ship, Star of the Seas, is also being constructed with a planned launch date during the summer of 2025.

If you're interested in trying out one of the most over-the-top cruise ships sailing the world today, consider Royal Caribbean's newest vessels from the last few years. Read on to learn about the brand-new Icon of the Seas, the jaw-dropping action offered on the Wonder of the Seas, the Utopia of the Seas and the Odyssey of the Seas and all the amenities and unique experiences they have to offer.

Book a Royal Caribbean cruise on GoToSea, a service of U.S. News.

Icon of the Seas

Scheduled to set sail in early 2024, the Icon of the Seas is one of the most celebrated and anticipated new cruise ships across all the major cruise lines. This Icon Class vessel was built to dazzle and entertain cruise passengers of all ages, and it features eight unique neighborhoods, seven pools and the largest waterpark at sea.

In total, Icon of the Seas offers 2,805 individual staterooms with space for 7,600 guests at maximum and 2,350 crew members. The vessel is 1,198 feet long with gross tonnage of 250,800.

• Sails to: The Icon of the Seas will offer alternating seven-night sailings between the Eastern and Western Caribbean. The vessel's Western Caribbean itinerary includes stops at Costa Maya and Cozumel in Mexico, Roatan in Honduras and Perfect Day at CocoCay in the Bahamas . The alternative itinerary also stops at the cruise line's private island , as well as Basseterre in St. Kitts and Nevis and Charlotte Amelie in St. Thomas. All itineraries will depart from Miami .
• Cabin types: Cabins on the Icon of the Seas are spread across eight unique neighborhoods with their own themes and amenities. Cruisers will find the basic interior, ocean view and balcony staterooms they would expect. The ship also features 179 suites that vary in size and in terms of their features, with some really spacious and over-the-top options. For example, the vessel's Ultimate Family Townhouse (UL) is more than 1,700 square feet with three stories, a multi-level slide, an outdoor space with a ping pong table and more.
• Dining options: Icon of the Seas offers 11 included dining options plus room service that's available 24/7. There are also nine unique specialty restaurants on board, including options like Izumi Hibachi and Sushi, the Empire Supper Club and Chops Grille Steakhouse. A Starbucks is also available.
• Features: The Icon of the Seas boasts the largest cruise ship pool at sea, as well as seven pools and nine whirlpools in total. There are also six record-breaking waterslides located in what Royal Caribbean says is the largest waterpark at sea. Nightlife and entertainment options run the gamut from the ship's dueling piano bar to its jazz and blues club to its AquaTheater with mesmerizing shows that feature incredible diving feats and acrobatics.

Read: The Top Party Cruises

Utopia of the Seas

Royal Caribbean's Utopia of the Seas is another vessel that is set to debut in 2024 with sailings from Port Canaveral, Florida. This Oasis Class ship will offer up a total of 2,834 guest rooms and is 1,188 feet in length and 236,860 gross tons in size.

The ship has space for 5,668 passengers at double occupancy and eight different neighborhoods with cabins for guests. Interestingly, this huge ship will not offer seven-night sailings throughout the Caribbean and will instead focus on offering three-night and four-night itineraries, at least at first.

• Sails to: The all-new Utopia of the Seas will offer shorter sailings to the Bahamas. The ship's three-night sailings will stop only at the cruise line's private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay, whereas four-night sailings from Port Canaveral stop at the cruise line's private island and at Nassau, Bahamas.
• Cabin types: The Utopia of the Seas has interior rooms, ocean view rooms and balcony rooms just like other ships. Upgraded room options also abound and include a range of luxury suites at sea. For example, you can book the iconic Ultimate Family Suite, a Solarium Suite with Wraparound Windows, a Royal Loft Suite and more.
• Dining options: There are 10 different included dining experiences on the Utopia of the Seas, with room service also offered 24 hours a day. These include a Main Dining Room experience, several cafe options, a pizzeria, a coastal kitchen with California and Mediterranean-inspired cuisine and more. In addition, there are 10 different specialty restaurants that can also be booked on the Utopia of the Seas, and a Starbucks is on board. Special dining experiences include a hibachi and sushi restaurant, a seafood restaurant, a Chef's Table experience for up to 16 diners at a time, a Johnny Rockets and more.
• Features: Utopia of the Seas has everything you would expect in a new Oasis Class ship from Royal Caribbean. For example, passengers will find five huge pools, eight hot tubs, three water slides, 23 different bars and two on-board casinos. Other features include an ice-skating rink, two rock climbing walls, a zip line, a basketball court, two FlowRider Surf simulators and of course the line's famous AquaTheater. Like other Royal Caribbean ships, Utopia of the Seas also features special spaces for kids and teens, including dedicated clubs, an Imagination Studio and an on-board arcade.

Read: The Largest Cruise Ships in the World

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Wonder of the Seas

Sailing the friendly seas since March 2022, the Wonder of the Seas boasts more individual rooms and suites than Icon of the Seas. The Oasis-class ship features 2,867 staterooms with a total guest capacity of 7,084. There are also eight unique neighborhoods for cruisers to choose from, each with its own decor and flair.

This Royal Caribbean vessel is also huge at 1,188 feet long and 235,600 gross tons. A total of 2,204 crew members run the ship and assist guests.

• Sails to: Wonder of the Seas is currently sailing from Port Canaveral, Florida and offers seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries. The Eastern itinerary includes stops in Charlotte Amelie, St. Thomas and Phillipsburg, St. Maarten as well as Perfect Day at CocoCay. Meanwhile, the Western loop stops at the cruise line's private island as well as Cozumel and Costa Maya in Mexico and Roatan, Honduras.
• Cabin types: Wonder of the Seas also offers all the normal cabin types you would expect, including interior rooms, sea view rooms and balcony staterooms. There are also over-the-top suites to choose from, including an Ultimate Family Suite, a Royal Suite, an Owner's Suite and more.
• Dining options: Nine complimentary dining options are included on the Wonder of the Seas, with a main dining room, a buffet option and plenty of other eateries available to grab a bite to eat. There are also 11 unique specialty restaurants on board, including a steakhouse and a seafood restaurant, a Johnny Rockets, a sushi and hibachi restaurant and Giovanni's Italian Kitchen and Wine Bar. For coffee lovers, a Starbucks is also on board.
• Features: The Wonder of the Seas has its own Central Park, along with 11 different bars, as well as special kids and teens-only areas like a social club and an arcade. Other notable features include the vessel's AquaTheater, rock-climbing walls, whirlpools, laser tag and more. There are also 19 swimming pools, an ice rink and a casino on the Wonder of the Seas.

Read: The Top Cruises for Teens

Odyssey of the Seas

Royal Caribbean's Odyssey of the Seas is a Quantum Ultra Class cruise ship that's smaller than the other newest vessels from the line. The impressive ship completed its first sailing in 2021 when it became the first ship of its class to sail from the United States. Odyssey of the Seas currently departs from Fort Lauderdale, Florida and other ports and offers a range of six-night and seven-night sailings throughout the Caribbean in the coming months.

Up to 4,198 guests can sail on the Odyssey of the Seas with double occupancy, and 1,612 crew members are on board to tend to their every need. The ship is approximately 1,138 feet long and is 167,704 gross tons.

• Sails to: Odyssey of the Seas will depart from various ports in the United States and elsewhere in the world in the coming years. For example, there are upcoming six-night sailings from Fort Lauderdale that include stops in Labadee, Haiti and Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic in addition to Perfect Day at CocoCay. The vessel will complete a 14-day transatlantic cruise in April and May of 2024, which begins in Fort Lauderdale and ends in Rome, Italy. From there, the vessel will offer Greek Islands cruises from Rome before moving back to Cape Liberty (New York), New Jersey in the fall of 2024. At that point, itineraries will include stops in Port Canaveral, Florida, Nassau in the Bahamas and Perfect Day at CocoCay.
• Cabin types: Odyssey of the Seas offers interior staterooms, ocean view rooms and balcony staterooms. Guests can also book interior rooms with a virtual balcony that boasts a floor-to-ceiling virtual view of the outdoors. Over-the-top suites available on the Odyssey include an Owner's Loft Suite, a Royal Loft Suite, a Grand Loft Suite and more.
• Dining options: As a smaller vessel with considerably fewer passengers than Royal Caribbean's Oasis Class and Icon Class ships, Odyssey of the Seas has fewer dining options overall. Guests can dine at seven included eateries including a main dining room, a bistro, a cafe and the main ship buffet. There are also seven specialty restaurants and experiences on board including the Chef's Table, a Chops Grille and a sushi and hibachi restaurant. Like other newer ships from Royal Caribbean, the Odyssey also has its own Starbucks.
• Features: The Odyssey has eight dedicated bars and lounges on board, bumper cars, laser tag, a rock-climbing wall, an outdoor movie screen and a casino, along with kid and teen features like an arcade, a kids' splash area and a social club. A FlowRider surf simulator is on board, as well as a sky diving simulator. Note that the Odyssey of the Seas doesn't have an AquaTheater like Oasis Class ships.

Find a Royal Caribbean cruise on GoToSea.

Look Out for Star of the Seas

Royal Caribbean is already offering limited information about its newest ship, the Star of the Seas. This vessel will also be an Icon Class ship like the Icon of the Seas, meaning it will be big and beautiful with all the bells and whistles.

The Star of the Seas is scheduled to debut in 2025.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Holly Johnson is a travel expert and content creator who has covered cruises and other family travel for more than a decade. She has cruised dozens of times with most of the major cruise lines and has ventured on itineraries throughout the Caribbean, Europe and the Middle East. Johnson used her personal experience and research expertise to write this article, along with information provided by Royal Caribbean.

You might also be interested in:

• Icon of the Seas Review
• What to Pack for a Cruise
• Royal Caribbean vs. Carnival
• Cruise Line Drink Packages
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

Tags: Travel , Cruises , Royal Caribbean Cruises

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UPFRONT/LISTEN

Rockin’ the Waves

Set sail on a music cruise

MUSIC-THEMED cruises have long been drawing dance crowds to the seas. Now that the travel industry is back at full force post-pandemic, the ships are rocking again, with popular acts booked and often interacting with passengers too. “We tear down the walls between artists, celebrities, creators and their passionate communities by fully taking over a ship to provide immersive experiences,” says Taniqua Martin, senior marketing and communications specialist for Sixthman, a company that has staged more than 150 music-themed vacations at resorts and on cruises since 2001.

Here are some upcoming music cruises that might float your boat.

The ’80s Cruise February 29–March 7, 2024 Featuring 38 Special, Soft Cell, Debbie Gibson and others, this cruise is hosted by former MTV VJs Mark Goodman, Alan Hunter and Downtown Julie Brown. It travels from Port Canaveral, Florida, to Willemstad, Curaçao, and Oranjestad, Aruba, on Royal Caribbean’s Mariner of the Seas.

Rock Legends Cruise XI February 22–26, 2024 Sammy Hagar & the Circle and ZZ Top’s Billy F Gibbons headline the latest version of this “floating rock festival with a cause,” which sails from Miami to Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic, on Royal Caribbean’s Independence of the Seas. It’s staged by the Native American Heritage Association.

Keeping the Blues Alive at Sea Mediterranean August 17–22  Blues guitarist Joe Bonamassa rocks with Kenny Wayne Shepherd and Blackberry Smoke on this cruise from Athens, Greece, to Dubrovnik, Croatia, and Santorini, Greece, on the Norwegian Jade. — Craig Rosen

Illustration by Zohar Lazar

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Love Exploring

We’ve Rounded Up the World’s Greatest Cruise Ports

Posted: December 13, 2023 | Last updated: December 13, 2023

Cruise control

Nothing beats the thrill of seeing a destination come into view from the water as you travel on board a cruise ship. The first glimpse you'll get of a destination as you come in to dock is its port, and while some can be unattractive, others are simply beautiful and will inspire you to explore the destination further. These ports often offer something special for the visitor, whether it’s their top-notch facilities, stunning and iconic scenery or proximity to the area's hustle and bustle. Here is a look at some of the best cruise ports and ports of call worldwide.

Piraeus port, Athens, Greece

This ancient city port has three harbours, making it the largest port in Greece and one of the largest in Europe. Piraeus has religious and historic landmarks of its own, but Athens is only eight miles (13km) to the northeast and is easily accessible via a 30-minute metro ride or a 20- to 30-minute taxi ride. The port connects the peninsula with most Greek islands, and it’s the main stop for cruise ships touring the Aegean Sea. The port is reached by cruise lines such as Royal Caribbean, NCL, Celebrity, Princess, Azamara, Silversea and Virgin Voyages.

Port of Singapore

The port of Singapore is one of the biggest in the world. There are two berthing facilities at the Singapore Cruise Centre and Marina Bay Cruise Centre, located next to the Marina South Pier. The port is close to attractions such as Sentosa Island, Gardens by the Bay, Chinatown and Marina Bay Sands. Singapore’s strategic location means the destination is often described as the gateway to southeast Asia. Some of the major cruise lines operating from there are Princess, Celebrity, Cunard, Royal Caribbean, Seabourn, Holland American Line (HAL) and Silversea.

Ports of Dubai, UAE

The glamorous emirate of Dubai remains a major port of embarkation and a call for cruise travellers on itineraries to destinations in the Middle East and Arabian Gulf. The city has two cruise ports, with two terminals in Port Rashid and two at the new Dubai Harbour, which opened in 2020. The latter have entertainment venues, leisure spaces and premium retail shopping areas. Dubai Harbour is directly linked with the city's transport network and monorail system and is visited by Carnival Corporation cruise line brands, while Port Rashid welcomes other major cruise lines.

Manhattan Cruise Terminal, New York City, New York, USA

Seeing the port of Manhattan from the water is arguably one of the most iconic sights to be had from a cruise ship. Passengers can take in the Manhattan skyline, Statue of Liberty and Governors Island. Manhattan Cruise Terminal is situated on the Hudson River on the city's west side in the Hell's Kitchen area. New York City has been serving cruise passengers longer than any other US city. From the port, it’s a taxi or subway ride into the city. Cruise lines berthing there include NCL, Cunard, Princess, P&O, Carnival, Oceania, Disney Cruise Line, Fred. Olsen and Viking.

Port of San Miguel de Cozumel, Mexico

San Miguel de Cozumel port is at the heart of this Mexican island and is surrounded by beautiful clear water, a coral reef and miles of beaches offering snorkelling and scuba diving opportunities soon after you disembark. The buzzing city of San Miguel is also a short walk away and has many seafront shops and restaurants. Visitors can walk along the sea wall, El Malecon, and head to the main square. If there is time, ancient Mayan ruins can be explored too. Many ships docking at this port head on to the Caribbean and some of the cruise lines stopping here include Carnival, Royal Caribbean, NCL, Marella, MSC and Princess.

Port of Cape Town, South Africa

The cruise terminal at the port of Cape Town is operated by the V&A Waterfront, a 304-acre neighbourhood with shops, restaurants, hotels and entertainment options. On the approach to the port, passengers can view the scenic bay and harbour and the mountains beyond. Take the cable car to the top of Table Mountain to get a beautiful vista of the city that's within walking distance of the port. The major cruise lines heading to and from the port include Oceania, Seabourn, NCL, MSC and Regent Seven Seas.

Geirangerfjord Port, Norway

Cruise guests will enjoy magnificent views of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Geirangerfjord area as they head to the small cruise port. Lined by mountains and waterfalls, the fjord has a magical looking landscape and a very small village. Cruise lines offer excursions from the port, such as kayaking along the waterways, helicopter rides and hiking tours to amazing viewpoints like Eagle Bend and Dalsnibba mountain. Lines including Viking, Hurtigruten, Windstar, Silversea, HAL, Ponant, Celebrity and Cunard all have itineraries to the destination.

Half Moon Cay, Bahamas

Half Moon Cay is a 2,400-acre island retreat in the Bahamas, located 10 miles (16km) southeast of Nassau. The island is owned by Carnival Corporation and is therefore only a port of call for Carnival and Holland America Line, which use the island as part of their Caribbean and Panama Canal itineraries. The paradise island has facilities for families, couples and groups. There are beach cabanas, bars with thatched roofs and hammocks for relaxing days spent swimming and sunbathing. For more active pursuits scuba diving, snorkelling, jet-skiing, parasailing, glass-bottom boating, cycling and hiking are all part of the offering.

Port of Valletta, Malta

Cruise ships enter the Port of Valletta via the impressive and historic Grand Harbour, which extends for about two miles (3.6km) inland on the island of Malta. Passengers disembarking the ships at Valletta Cruise Port can head to the neighbouring historic Valletta harbour. The waterfront venue offers food, shopping and entertainment and some of the island's most impressive views and iconic ancient buildings. Malta is strategically positioned in the centre of the Mediterranean offering eastern and western itineraries and is visited by cruise lines such as Celebrity, Marella, P&O, Oceania, Fred. Olsen, Princess and HAL.

Port of Skala, Santorini, Greece

The journey to the Greek island of Santorini offers some of the most beautiful views from the Mediterranean Sea. On the approach to the old port, passengers are met with scenes of whitewashed villages with cobalt-blue cupolas set high on the cliffs. Santorini's capital, Fira, can be reached from the port by tender dock and then by cable car, or by walking up 580 or so steps. Santorini is often the most popular cruising destination of all the Greek isles and is visited by lines including Marella, Celestyal, HAL, Royal Caribbean, MSC, Celebrity, Princess Cruises and Seabourn.

Port of Jeju, South Korea

Cruise passengers arriving at the port on the UNESCO-listed Jeju Island in South Korea have the opportunity to explore secluded beaches, underground lava tunnels, caves and waterfalls. Jeju city is one mile (2km) from the port. The island was once a honeymoon destination for South Korean couples and is also home to an adults-only theme park called Love Land, which features more than a hundred erotic sculptures. Quirky cruise itinerary excursions also take in the Teddy Bear Museum. Among the cruise lines stopping at the island are Celebrity, Princess, HAL, Regent Seven Seas, Silversea, Oceania and Seabourn.

Port of Haifa, Israel

The Port of Haifa is directly linked with downtown Haifa and it only takes a few minutes to walk to the railway station, or around 15 minutes to walk to the city centre. Haifa is the third largest city in Israel and its main attraction is the Bahá’í World Centre and surrounding Bahá’í gardens. The National Museum, Mount Carmel national park, Israel National Museum of Science, Technology, and Space and the Haifa Museum of Art are also worth a visit. The port welcomes HAL, Royal Caribbean, MSC, Azamara, Princess Cruises and NCL, among other cruise lines.

Dubrovnik Cruise Port, Croatia

Dubrovnik's main cruise port is located around two miles (3km) away from the Old Town. Most of the cruise ships dock here although some moor in front of the old port, where visitors can then take a tender boat to shore. The old port has UNESCO World Heritage status and is one of the busiest and most beautiful cruise ports in Europe. Dubrovnik’s medieval walled town can be discovered on foot and offers stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. The port of call is reached by cruise lines including NCL, HAL, Costa, P&O, Marella, Cunard, Celebrity, Emerald, Marella and Viking.

Port of Lisbon, Portugal

The Port of Lisbon is the third-largest port in Portugal. While cruising into it along the Tagus River, the impressive structures of the Belem Tower, Discoveries Monument and Cristo Rei statue of Christ – as well as the Ponte 25 de Abril suspension bridge – are all within sight. Lisbon centre and all its attractions can be reached on a short walk from the cruise port. From Lisbon, it's easy to take day trips to resort towns such as Estoril, Sintra and Fatima. Princess, Virgin Voyages, Cunard, P&O, Royal Caribbean, NCL, Carnival, Windstar and Oceania all include ports of call at the destination.

PortMiami, Florida, USA

The port of Miami is often referred to as the cruise capital of the world, welcoming more cruise passengers to its terminals than any other port. Miami's geographic position makes it easily accessible to the Caribbean and Latin America on cruise itineraries. MSC Cruises recently began work on its new £265 million ($350m) terminal at the port, which is expected to be finished by the end of 2023. It will have three berths for mega cruise ships, making it North America’s largest cruise terminal. Virgin Voyages opened a dedicated cruise terminal there earlier this year. The three-storey Terminal V hosts the line’s first ship, Scarlet Lady, and will be joined by Valiant Lady later this year. 

Port St. Maarten, Caribbean

Passengers are immediately welcomed to Harbour Point Village when they arrive ashore on the small island of St. Maarten, affectionately known as "the Friendly Island". The island’s colourful capital, Philipsburg, can be reached in 15 minutes on foot. This town has plenty of Dutch charm, great shopping in the form of duty-free outlets, souvenir shops and market stalls, as well as bars and restaurants. There are plenty of watersports available too. This beautiful island is visited by Carnival, Costa, Disney Cruise Line, Princess,  P&O, NCL and HAL, to name a few.

Port of Barcelona, Spain

The Port of Barcelona is a launching-off point for many Mediterranean cruises and has one of the highest concentrations of cruise passengers in Europe. Within it is the old harbour, Port Vell, and at the foot of the port is the city’s famous boulevard, La Rambla, which stretches through the heart of the city centre. The thoroughfare can be reached on foot or by a cruise shuttle bus from the cruise terminals. The port is a draw for major cruise lines including Viking, Celebrity, Princess, Royal Caribbean, NCL, Marella and Virgin Voyages.

Havana Port, Cuba

Havana Harbour and the cruise terminal at Havana port are located on the eastern edge of this Cuban city, while Old Havana is almost on the doorstep of the cruise terminal. From there, passengers can walk to Plaza San Francisco, one of Old Havana's four main squares, while further south is seaside boulevard the Malecón. The city's central park is also accessible on foot, although a journey in a vintage taxi is a must. If your cruise is coming from Tampa, Key West, Miami or Cozumel, Havana is likely to be on your route, with cruise lines including Viking, Marella, Variety and Royal Caribbean all paying a visit. 

Port of Livorno, Italy

The Port of Livorno is considered a major Italian port and is located on the western coast of the beautiful region of Tuscany. The destination is a popular cruise centre, thanks to its close proximity to Pisa and Florence. Both cities are easy to reach by train after a shuttle bus transfer from the cruise terminal. It's then a 15-minute train journey from Livorno to Pisa, or just over an hour to Florence. The port destination is used by cruise lines including P&O, Marella, Royal Caribbean, HAL, Fred. Olsen, Carnival, MSC, Cunard and Regent Seven Seas.

Port of Stockholm, Sweden

The port of Stockholm is one of the busiest in Europe and shortly after arriving ashore, passengers can visit the stunning city from one of two major cruise terminals: Stadsgarden and Frihamnen. The Millesgården is an art museum and sculpture garden located on the island of Lidingö in front of Frihamnen port. More of the city’s famous museums – such as ABBA The Museum, the Viking Museum and the maritime-focused Vasa Museum – are conveniently located on the city's island oasis of Djurgården. NCL, Royal Caribbean, Viking, Regent and Ponant all include itineraries to Stockholm.

Port of Key West, Florida, USA

At the port of Key West in Florida, the main attractions are all in close proximity as the island city is only four miles long by two miles wide. The old town has historic buildings, art galleries, tropical gardens, shops, vintage saloons, restaurants and bars. Also situated there are The Hemingway Home and Museum and the famous Sloppy Joe's bar, which has been in Key West since 1933. Thanks to its year-round tropical climate, cruise passengers can snorkel or dive in the coral reefs and wrecks surrounding the port. Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Seabourn, Princess, Celebrity, P&O and Virgin Voyages regularly call here.

Port of San Juan, Puerto Rico

With its central Caribbean location, San Juan cruise port in Puerto Rico is a modern world cruise capital. San Juan offers old world charm and natural wonders. Old San Juan is a historic landmark, with 16th- and 17th-century Spanish-style buildings and the fortresses of San Cristobal and El Morro. There are also many shops, lively cafés and restaurants to visit. Natural beauty lies in San Juan's beaches and verdant El Yunque National Forest. Cruise lines such as Royal Caribbean, Carnival, P&O, Celebrity, Silversea and Disney Cruise Line all head here.

Port of Sydney, Australia

With iconic sights such as the Harbour Bridge and the Opera House, Sydney is one of the world’s great port cities. Cruise ships glide past these iconic structures and through the dramatic sandstone passage cliffs of The Heads that lead to and from the Pacific Ocean. Sydney is the only Australian city to have two dedicated cruise terminals and thanks to its size, visitors will be able to see plenty there in a day or two. Cruise lines docking here include NCL, Cunard, Princess, Celebrity, HAL, Royal Caribbean, Silversea, Oceania and Virgin Voyages.

Port of Venice, Italy

Venice is one of the most stunning cities to cruise into, passing sites such as St Mark’s Square as the ship leaves the Adriatic Sea to enter a narrow entrance called the Porto di Lido, on the way to the piers at the Venetian Lagoon and the Venice Cruise Terminal. However, since 2021 ,  medium and large cruise ships have been banned from Venice's historic centre until further notice, due to environmental concerns. Instead, they currently moor at Marghera, a district of Venice on the Italian mainland. P&O, NCL, Royal Caribbean, Marella, Princess, Azamara, MSC, HAL, Oceania and many others call at the destination.

Port of Kotor, Montenegro

Cruise passengers are in for something special as they enter the port at the Bay of Kotor. The ship wends its way through a 17-mile (27km) waterway offering fjord-like views of mountains and leading to the old walled city of Kotor. The old city dates back to the Middle Ages and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with attractive buildings, churches, squares and stone streets. It is a short walk from the cruise port and has small shops and restaurants to stop off at. The destination is reached by cruise lines such as Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, MSC and Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL). 

Now read these fascinating facts about the world's most luxurious cruises

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