mediterranean cruises with msc

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MSC Cruises Mediterranean cruises from $49*

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MSC Cruises Mediterranean Cruises

When it comes to MSC Cruises, Mediterranean cruises are their specialty. With European-style service, extensive knowledge of the area and attractions within, and regional touches that will bring a smile to your face, these vacation options are a true delight. Explore a region featuring castles, palaces, and quaint towns. Go on a culinary adventure in search of the finest fare—feasting upon seafood in Italy or puffy pastries in France. Enrich yourself with a salsa dancing lesson from a real ‘bailador’ or bask in the architectural excellence of Rome. Sail with the best on a MSC Cruises Mediterranean cruise.

Things to Do on a Mediterranean Cruise with MSC Cruises

The Mediterranean is one of the most creative and inspiring regions in the world. On an MSC Cruises sailing to the Mediterranean you can visit pyramids in Egypt, taste wine in Barcelona and learn about Greek gods in Athens.

• Dubrovnik and Its Old City Walls (Dubrovnik, Croatia) A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the “Pearl of the Adriatic” is the amazing historical center of Dubrovnik that is surrounded by magnificent city towers and architecture. Visit this and the old city walls that were built in the 12th century to keep invaders out and are now a tourist attraction because of the beauty of the preserved construction.  

• They Pyramids and Sakkara Desert Safari (Alexandria, Egypt) For a truly unique exploration, visit the famous Pyramids of Egypt (Khufu, Khafra and Menkaure) and the famous Sphinx. Ride on the back of a camel to the Sakkara Country Club where you’ll visit the Pyramid of Sakkara and learn how to make paper from reeds at the Papyrus Institute.  

• Highlights of Barcelona, Montserrat and Wine Tasting (Barcelona, Spain) Barcelona is full of extravagant art and architecture, and in this MSC Cruises tour you’ll have a chance to see Paseo de Gracia and Sagrada Familia, both designed by Gaudi. You’ll also visit Montserrat, where the Virgin of Montserrat statue stands. Before you end this excursion, you’ll also visit the Cavas Vilarnau cellars for a tasting of sparkling wine and Spanish champagne.  

• City Tour and Hassan II’s Mosque (Casablanca, Morocco) Casablanca rose after a 1755 earthquake rocked the old city of Anfa, leading many citizens to abandon the old city for Casablanca. Be sure to visit the beautiful architecture of the Cathedral of Notre Dame de Lourdes and one of the largest mosques in the Islamic world, the Mosque of Hassan II.  

• Capri Island Tour (Naples, Italy) One of the most relaxing and beautiful island tours awaits you as you travel through the Bay of Naples and into the Island of Capri. You’ll dock at the Marina Grande and reach the Capri city center for an opportunity to explore the charismatic streets through the square of Piazza Umberto.  

• Athens and Acropolis (Piraeus-Athens, Greece) Visit the city that is known for developing the foundation of western civilization and modern democracy, the stunning Athens, Greece. You’ll get great photograph opportunities at Athens’ most popular and historic landmarks, Acropolis and the Parthenon.  

Top 10 MSC Cruises Mediterranean Cruises

• MSC Seaside 6 NIGHT Mediterranean - Western CRUISE Departing From Genoa, Italy (May 2024)
• MSC Lirica 7 NIGHT Mediterranean - Eastern CRUISE Departing From Venice, Italy (May 2024 - Sep 2025)
• MSC Opera 7 NIGHT Mediterranean - Eastern CRUISE Departing From Bari, Italy (May 2024 - Oct 2025)
• MSC Sinfonia 7 NIGHT Mediterranean - Eastern CRUISE Departing From Zadar, Croatia (May 2024)
• MSC Fantasia 7 NIGHT Mediterranean - Western CRUISE Departing From Valencia, Spain (May 2024 - Oct 2024)
• MSC Grandiosa 7 NIGHT Mediterranean - Western CRUISE Departing From Naples, Italy (May 2024 - Oct 2024)
• MSC Seaside 7 NIGHT Mediterranean - Western CRUISE Departing From Genoa, Italy (May 2024 - Oct 2024)
• MSC Seaview 7 NIGHT Mediterranean - Western CRUISE Departing From Barcelona, Spain (May 2024 - Nov 2025)
• MSC World Europa 7 NIGHT Mediterranean - Western CRUISE Departing From Marseille, France (May 2024 - Nov 2025)
• MSC Orchestra 10 NIGHT Mediterranean - Western CRUISE Departing From Lisbon, Portugal (May 2024 - Oct 2024)

MSC Cruises Mediterranean Departure Ports

Learn more about each of the possible departure ports for a Mediterranean cruise with MSC Cruises. Your MSC Cruises Mediterranean cruise could leave from any of the following cities:

Alicante, Spain

Escape to this Mediterranean city of Alicante, Spain with enticing sandy beaches and museums.

Ancona, Italy

A beautiful spot along the Adriatic Sea, Ancona offers cruisers an interesting take on Italian history, especially given its history as a Papal State.

Discover imaginative architecture, impressive Spanish dishes and beautiful excursions into nature when you cruise to Barcelona, the capital of Catalonia.

Bari, Italy

Cruise to Bari and explore this extraordinary city in the South of Italy. Highlights include its interesting history and friendly people, who are always ready to show you their way of life.

Brindisi, Italy

This ancient city is sure to charm with its immaculate architecture, tranquil harbor and coastline, delicious cuisine as well as its Greek-Italian feel.  

Cagliari, Sardinia, Italy

As the second largest island in the Mediterranean, this island offers wonderful blue lagoons, ancient buildings, white sand beaches and rich culture.  

Cannes, France

Live the glamorous life in Cannes, the city in the South of France known as the host of the yearly Cannes Film Festival.

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.

Durban, South Africa

Cruise to Durban and explore the colonial history South Africa and delight in the famous beaches where the locals spend their vacations.

Funchal, Madeira, Portugal

The lush island of Madeira and its capital city of Funchal make for a beautiful excursion from the main land of Europe. Cruise to Funchal and spot the beautiful flowers and try the signature wine.

Genoa, Italy

Cruise to the historical port city of Genoa for a laid back walk through history in the city’s well-preserved streets, and be sure to try the local foods like pesto and focaccia bread.

Istanbul, Turkey

Istanbul is a unique city that blends its two distinct influences – from its founding as the Christian capital of Constantinople to the Ottoman ruled Istanbul. Today you can discover both eras and the modern beauty in this thriving city.

Izmir, Turkey

Ismir is a bustling metropolitan center located in Western Turkey, surrounded by the waters of the Gulf of Izmir and the Gediz River.

Kusadasi (Ephesus), Turkey

Kusadasi welcomes visitors from all over to discover the ruins of the ancient city of Ephesus, a powerful city that was once home to the Virgin Mary.

La Goulette, Tunisia

La Goulette is the port of Tunisia's capital city, Tunis. The port's name was derived from the word “gullet” that describes a channel where the city is located. 

Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon has deep cultural roots that are exposed through ruins and museum artifacts. Cruise to Lisbon and discover the culture and history of Portugal in its capital city.

Livorno (Florence/Pisa), Italy

As a port city on the western coast of a country known for its magnificent art, the cruise port of Livorno, Italy is a great starting point to exploring the phenomenal paintings and sculptures found in Italy.

Malaga, Spain

Cruise to Malaga, the celebrated home of Picasso, one of the modern era’s most influential artists. Other attractions include the beautiful Moorish castles and mesmerizing coastal cliffs.

Marseille, France

Marseilles, France’s second most popular city, offers cruisers a vast landscape to discover the area’s ancient history and relish the more modern lifestyle of the French living off the coast of the Mediterranean.

Messina, Sicily, Italy

Enjoy Messina, the gateway to Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean with a proud heritage and world renowned food.

In Miami, you’ll enjoy a small taste of the tropical weather many of you will experience during your cruise, and you’ll see why Miami is one of the most popular places to live in America.

Naples, Italy

Prepare your appetite if you plan to visit Naples, for it is home to many of Italy’s most famous culinary traditions. Naples is more than just great food, so make time to visit the beautiful cathedrals and enriching museums.

Olbia, Italy

Sail into Olbia, Italy to experience a sunny taste of Italy's Emerald Coast with beautiful beaches, scenic islands and secluded coastal trails.

Palermo, Sicily, Italy

Explore the varied history and culture of Palermo, Sicily’s capital city, and enjoy its diverse history, culture and art.

Palma De Mallorca, Spain

The island of Mallorca can boast of an impressive port city where the old and new worlds dwell in perfect harmony.

Learn about the Greek gods and the early philosophy of Socrates when you visit the incredible ruins left in Athens, Greece. At night, go out and take in the culture with the modern Athenians.

Split, Croatia

Beaches, historic sites and a melting pot of cultures can be found in this delightful city along the Adriatic Coast.

Tarragona, Spain

Cruise to the mysterious city of Tarragonna, where ancient ruins and a spicy nightlight are the main attractions.

Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain

See a different side of Europe with a stop at Tenerife in Spain’s Canary Islands. Awe-inspiring landscapes, artistic cultures, and unique flora and fauna highlight this ancient capital city.

Trieste, Italy

Sit back and enjoy the sea breezes in Trieste, an Italian city that despite being close to Venice is more akin to Vienna, the capital of the Hapsburg Empire. 

Valencia, Spain

Located on the Mediterranean Sea, Valencia is a city in Spain that attracts a lot of visitors to uncover the city’s past and revel in its modern achievements, most notably The City of Arts and Sciences.

Valletta, Malta

This entire city is known as a UNESCO World Heritage Site leaving many historic areas and landmarks to explore during your visit to this impressive capital city.  

Experience the serene, romantic splendor of Venice, but don’t forget to check out its wonderful museums and neighborhoods located off the Grand Canal.

Villefranche, France

Sometimes described as a small suburb of Nice, Villefranche is a perfect place to get away from the crowds and see the quiet life of the French Riviera.

Zadar, Croatia

This historic city is rich with Roman architecture as well as many national parks and attractions making this city an exciting one to explore.

Photo Gallery for MSC Cruises Mediterranean Cruises

View our photo gallery of Mediterranean cruising photos from MSC Cruises. Remember, this is only a taste of the experiences waiting for you on a MSC Cruises Mediterranean cruise vacation.

Caserta Palace in Caserta, Italy

Coastal City of Sorrento Italy

Gondola ride on Venice Canal

Piazza del Plebiscito in Naples, Italy

Tripoli Ruins

African oasis in desert Sakkara

La Sagrada Família in Barcelona, Spain

Hasan Mosque II in Casablanca, Morocco

Coast of Capri, Italy

Parthenon in Athens, Greece

Coast of Dubrovnik, Croatia

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Mediterranean Cruises

About Mediterranean Cruises

Embark on an unforgettable Mediterranean adventure and discover a region brimming with diversity. From the magnificent beaches and historic sites of Eastern Mediterranean ports to the vibrant and artistic cities of Western Mediterranean ports , there is something for everyone to enjoy. Immerse yourself in the stunning architecture of Spain and Italy, bask in the sun on Greece's beautiful shores, or marvel at the ancient treasures of Istanbul and Malta.

Mediterranean cruises offer the perfect balance of excitement and relaxation, allowing you to visit iconic destinations along the way. Some itineraries extend to the northern coast of Africa, while others stop at the enchanting Canary Islands. With a warm climate, picturesque waters, and countless attractions, the Mediterranean remains a top destination year-round.

Booking your dream vacation has never been easier, with numerous cruise companies offering unique Mediterranean voyages. Cruise Critic provides comprehensive price and itinerary comparisons, ensuring a seamless planning experience. Take in the rich culture, history, and breathtaking scenery of the Mediterranean on board state-of-the-art ships equipped with world-class amenities. Unleash your sense of adventure and book your Mediterranean cruise today to discover the best that this remarkable region has to offer.

More about the Mediterranean

What is the best time to cruise to the mediterranean, which cruise lines go to the mediterranean.

We found you 2,426 cruise s

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A wide variety of large, small and luxury lines cruise the romantic ports of the Mediterranean. These include Viking Ocean Cruises, Norwegian, MSC, Princess, Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, Holland America, Crystal and Azamara.

What are some things to do in the Mediterranean?

Cruises to the Mediterranean are typically divided into Eastern and Western itineraries. The Western Med includes Italy, Monaco, France and Spain, with plenty of museums, culinary tours, wineries, cathedrals and architecture to ogle. The Eastern Mediterranean contains historic attractions including the ruins of Greece and Turkey, along with sacred sites in Israel or active pursuits hiking Montenegro or Croatia. For more: Best Western Mediterranean Shore Excursions .

Do you need a passport to take a cruise to the Mediterranean?

What should i pack for a cruise to the mediterranean.

Be sure to pack comfortable clothing -- and especially shoes -- for long days of sightseeing. However, Europeans tend to dress with a bit of panache; to fit in, pack a stylish scarf or hat, and maybe leave your lanyards and socks and sandals at home.

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Thessaloniki

Villefranche

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Best Cruise Lines in the Mediterranean

Whether you're exploring the vibrant streets of Barcelona, Spain, admiring the whitewashed villages of Santorini,

Whether you're exploring the vibrant streets of Barcelona, Spain, admiring the whitewashed villages of Santorini, Greece, or immersing yourself in Istanbul's historic sites, the Mediterranean region offers unlimited adventures. And what better way to see it all than on board a cruise ship? To help determine which cruise lines offer the best Mediterranean experience, U.S. News used a methodology factoring in the number and variety of itineraries in the region, and the line's approval rating among experts and travelers. And considering the Mediterranean's immense popularity as a cruise destination, you'll likely find cruise deals to the region year-round. Keep in mind, you may want to consider international travel insurance to protect your trip.

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Viking Ocean Cruises

Viking offers ample Mediterranean sailings to a variety of ports. With destination-focused itineraries and a free shore excursion in each port, you'll learn more about places like Rome and Florence, Italy; Dubrovnik, Croatia; Athens, Greece; and Monte Carlo during your trip. Viking also dishes out delectable food on board in dining venues that embrace many Mediterranean cuisines.

• 4.57 Overall Rating
• 9 Ships in Fleet

Seabourn Cruise Line

Well-heeled travelers love the luxury and ample onboard amenities (including fine dining, foodie experiences, chic pools and live music venues) on Seabourn's ships as they cruise to ports in Malta, Italy, Greece and the South of France. The line's ships carry no more than 600 guests, so you won't have to worry about overcrowding. Plus, all onboard meals and drinks are complimentary.

• 4.39 Overall Rating
• 5 Ships in Fleet

Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises receives high praise for its affordable prices and wealth of onboard activities. The fleet's Mediterranean ships carry around 3,000 passengers or fewer, offering travelers amenities like kids clubs, food and wine workshops, captivating musical productions, interactive game shows and more. Itineraries may include stops in Portofino, Italy; Valencia, Spain; and Mykonos, Greece.

• 4.36 Overall Rating
• 13 Ships in Fleet

Oceania Cruises

Oceania Cruises focuses on individualized service with a high attention to detail and specialized dining venues. It's also typically a child-free crowd, with no programming for younger cruisers. The line offers Mediterranean sailings to many popular ports like Corfu, Greece; Porto, Portugal; and Palermo, Italy, as well as plenty of shore excursions to satisfy curious minds and adventurous travelers.

• 4.30 Overall Rating
• 7 Ships in Fleet

Royal Caribbean International

Some of Royal Caribbean's ships are massive, which makes it tough for them to navigate the Mediterranean. As such, cruises to this region are offered on the brand's smaller vessels. Available itineraries include stops in cities like Split, Croatia; Chania, Crete; Cannes, France; and Limassol, Cyprus. Plus, fun onboard activities range from rock climbing walls to game shows.

• 4.17 Overall Rating
• 25 Ships in Fleet

With itineraries across numerous Mediterranean countries, Azamara stands out for catering to travelers interested in exploring less-frequented ports of call, including Rhodes, Greece; Kotor, Montenegro; and Koper, Slovenia. Passengers on select voyages can also participate in the line's AzAmazing Celebrations program, which arranges culturally immersive experiences.

• 4.05 Overall Rating
• 4 Ships in Fleet

MSC Cruises

Catering mostly to Europeans, MSC Cruises offers plenty of Mediterranean sailings, with ports of call ranging from Cannes, France, to Naples, Italy, to Tangier, Morocco. The fleet's ships carry between roughly 2,500 and 6,700 cruisers and feature a wealth of onboard amenities, including pools, spas, kids clubs and ample dining options.

• 3.79 Overall Rating
• 22 Ships in Fleet

Costa Cruises

It's no surprise that Carnival-owned, Europe-based Costa Cruises boasts a bevy of Mediterranean itineraries at affordable prices. All sorts of Mediterranean cruises are available, with sailings to destinations like the Balearic Islands in Spain; Alexandria, Egypt; and several Greek islands. Costa's ships also provide kids programming, evening entertainment and numerous restaurants and bars.

• 3.50 Overall Rating
• 8 Ships in Fleet

Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line doesn't tout as many Mediterranean itineraries as some competitors. However, the line stops in spots like Venice, Italy; Athens, Greece; and Barcelona, Spain. Norwegian also boasts a wide range of shore excursions, from food tours to scenic drives. And the frequent Free at Sea promo allows cruisers to buy a package to enjoy free Wi-Fi, drinks and specialty dining.

• 3.97 Overall Rating
• 19 Ships in Fleet

Disclaimers about ship ratings: A ship’s Health Rating is based on vessel inspection scores published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). If a ship did not receive a CDC score within 22 months prior to the calculation of its Overall Rating, its Health Rating appears as N/A; in such a case, the ship’s Overall Rating is calculated using the average Health Rating of all CDC-rated ships within the cruise line. All ship Traveler Ratings are based on ratings provided under license by Cruiseline.com.

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MEDITERRANEAN CRUISES

Jump on board on one of our Mediterranean cruises , and immerse yourself in the Egyptian, Greek, Persian, Iberian and Roman cultures, to mention a few. Taste the real Mediterranean cuisine where olive oil, wheat, grains, fruits and vegetables are always abundant. If you have always wanted to visit some of the most emblematic monuments around the world like the Colosseum in Rome , the Parthenon in Athens or the Basílica de la Sagrada Familia in Barcelona , we invite you to go on a romantic holiday as a couple or create unique experiences and memories as a family or a group of friends, like you have never done before, on one of our MSC cruises around the Mediterranean. Discover all the hidden gems in Spain , Italy , France , Greece , Morocco, Croatia , Cyprus, Malta, Montenegro, Portugal, Slovenia, Serbia, Albania, Tunisia and Turkey, while on a cruise in the Mediterranean Sea. Adventure and culture are out there, take a look through our available Mediterranean excursions and choose from a list of unforgettable visits to the Acropolis in Athens, making a wish by the Trevi Fountain in Rome or tasting French cuisine when in Marseille . Let us organise everything for you to enjoy every moment of your Mediterranean holiday . There's no better time than now to plan your holidays and book one of our Mediterranean cruises for 2024 and 2025 ; or treat yourself to a last-minute escape on a Mediterranean cruise with MSC Cruises .

Mediterranean Countries

Greece & greek island cruises.

Greece & Greek Islands are known for their white beaches and turquoise-blue waters, and also for a vast cultural and historical heritage that has influenced the rest of Europe for millennia. Come aboard our ships for a Greek cruise with MSC Cruises and discover destinations such as Rhodes , a UNESCO World Heritage Site with its medieval city, the ruins of Kamiros, or the temple of Athena Lindia; Katakolon , the gateway to Olympia, home to the first Olympic Games, and also a UNESCO World Heritage Site; or Heraklion , the location of the famous Minotaur labyrinth myth, and capital city of Crete, where you will be able to visit the Palace of Knossos, the Palace of Phaestos, and much more. Don't miss the magnificence of this country, with all its attractions such as the Acropolis and La Plaka in Athens , but also smaller coastal towns with charming and picturesque harbours in, Corfu , Santorini or Mykonos , with our Greek island cruises . Enjoy the treasures of each destination.

Italy Cruises

Italy holds a prominent position in the Mediterranean, and its long coastline offers many cultural and natural opportunities for those travelling by sea. Our Italy cruises can take you to well-known cities such and world-class places as Rome , Naples   (Pompeii, Capri and Sorrento), Venice , Genoa  (Portofino and Le Cinque Terre), Messina  (Taormina), Siracusa  or Palermo , among others, but MSC Cruises during your Italy cruise can also offer calls and excursions to suggestive gems like Trieste  with the Miramare Castle, Livorno  - gateway to Florence and Pisa - , or the wonders of Puglia and Basilicata, featuring Bari , Brindisi , Lecce, Alberobello, Matera. Whether with your family, with friends, or in a couple's getaway, experience life aboard a spectacular cruise ship while travelling to cities surrounded by the turquoise blue of the Mediterranean Sea: immerse yourself into the local culture and savour all the different cuisines offered by each Italian region. Every cruise is a special time with MSC Cruises.

Croatia Cruises

Croatia is a treasure of the Adriatic Sea , with many islands and coastal towns famous for their picturesque buildings, enhanced by the natural beauty of their surroundings. Choose a Croatia cruise and discover the city of Dubrovnik , an UNESCO World Heritage Site: enjoy the Rector's Palace, the Modra Spilja Cave, or a stroll around the charming streets with the Mediterranean at one side, and idyllic mountains on the background . If you want to experience a place with a little more bustle, our Croatia cruises will take you to Split , an Ancient Roman town that has turned into a busy city, no longer resembling a Roman settlement more than vestigially, with its seafront cafés and businesses as well as historical sites, such as the Temple of Jupiter.

MEDITERANNEAN Cruises

MEDITERRANEAN ports

VENICE CRUISE

Discover one of the most beautiful and unique cities in Europe with one of our Venice cruise ships , and experience the bustle of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, built upon 118 small islands , interconnected by more than 400 bridges . Venice has been a most influential port since de Middle Ages, when it amassed great wealth that is now visible in its impressive architecture and art. During your Venice cruise you can stroll around Saint Mark's Square , visit the city's museums, or go on a Gondola ride. The " Queen of the Adriatic " just awaits you: come on board and MSC Cruise to discover the treasures of each Mediterranean destination.

BARCELONA CRUISE

Choose a Barcelona cruise and experience a city that combines the intricate street patterns of a medieval settlement and the ordered avenues of a modern town. The "Ciudad Condal" is attractive to visitors for countless reasons, and at MSC Cruises we organise excursions for you to see some of the landmarks, such as the Sagrada Familia , the Camp Nou Stadium , or the Casa Milà , a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The port of Barcelona  is also a sight in itself: it is Spain 's cruise main port, and it has a history of almost 2,000 years. Not a bad place to begin your Barcelona cruise, treat yourself to an unforgettable holiday.

What is the best time of year to cruise the Mediterranean?

What is the weather like in the mediterranean sea, what countries are part of a mediterranean cruise, where do mediterranean cruises depart from, how long is a mediterranean cruise, how much is a cruise around the mediterranean.

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Eastern Mediterranean CRUISES

EAstern Mediterranean Ports

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grand-med-2024

grand med 2024

Discover the best of both the East and West Med! MSC’s Grand Mediterranean combines two 7-night cruises on either side of the Mediterranean to create a grand journey with a free coach transfer between Genoa & Venice included for the first two guests in stateroom (additional guests chargeable at $150 p.p.*). There are a variety of combo cruises for you to choose from that sail between 28 April to 31 October 2024 with departures on Saturday, Sunday or Monday.

OUR TOP GRAND MED ITINERARIES

Msc world europa plus msc sinfonia.

Genoa, Naples, Messina, Valletta, Barcelona, Marseille, Genoa PLUS  Venice, Brindisi, Mykonos, Piraeus, Split, Venice Departure dates for 2024: From 28 April until 22 September 2024

MSC ARMONIA PLUS MSC SEAVIEW

Venice, Dubrovnik, Kotor, Corfu, Zakynthos, Bari, Venice PLUS Genoa, La Spezia, Civitavecchia, Palma de Mallorca, Barcelona, Cannes, Genoa Departure dates for 2024: From 28 April until 21 October 2024

MSC SEASIDE PLUS  MSC LIRICA

Genoa, Civitavecchia, Palermo, Ibiza, Valencia, Marseille, Genoa  PLUS  Venice, Kotor, Mykonos, Santorini, Ancona, Venice Departure dates for 2024: From 28 April until 12 October 2024

DISCOVER ALL OUR GRAND MED CRUISES - ENQUIRE TODAY To enquire fill out the below form and our reservations team will get in touch with you discuss your next Grand Med cruise.

terms-and-conditions

Terms and Conditions

*All itineraries subject to availability. Pricing based on cruise only fare. The Grand Med 2024 offer is only applicable for selected sailings between 28 April to 31 October 2024. To book, call our reservations team or book through your travel agent, for travel agents book by calling MSC Reservations. Children under 17 cruises free, when sharing with two adults in one cabin, only paying port charges, applicable to select cruises, subject to availability and seasonality at time of booking. Coach transfer between Genoa and Venice and Venice and Genoa is free for first two full paying guests, children cruising for free not included. Price of transfer is $150pp AUD.

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Mon - Fri 9 - 19 | Sat 9 - 17.30 | Sun 10 - 16

MEDITERRANEAN CRUISES

Mediterranean Countries

Greece & greek island cruises.

Italy Cruises

Croatia Cruises

MEDITERRANEAN CRUISE DEALS

The perfect moment for amazing new experiences in the Mediterranean at the best price is now. Take a glimpse at the Mediterranean cruise deals by MSC Cruises and explore Italy , Spain , the French Riviera, or savour delicious Greek food while contemplating the breathtaking views of Athens . It is never too early to start planning your idyllic holidays, discover all our Mediterranean cruise deals for 2024 and 2025. Whether you prefer to visit the East and immerse yourself in the streets and history of Croatia , Greece and Turkey , or you prefer the West, the Spanish tapas or French crepes, we have eastern and western Mediterranean cruise deals, to please your preferences: both cases you won’t miss stops in some of the most beautiful places in Italy. Enjoy the treasures of each destination at the best prices with the Mediterranean cruise deals by MSC Cruises.

MEDITERRANEAN ports

view all MEDITERRANEAN PORTS

• Alicante, Spain
• Ancona (Urbino), Italy
• Arrecife de Lanzarote (Canary Is.), Spain
• Barcelona, Spain
• Bari, Italy
• Bodrum, Turkey
• Brindisi (Lecce), Italy
• Cadiz (Seville), Spain
• Cagliari (Sardinia), Italy
• Cannes (Côte d'Azur), France
• Cartagena, Spain
• Casablanca (Marrakech), Morocco
• Ceuta, Spain
• Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy
• Dubrovnik, Croatia
• Funchal (Madeira Is.), Portugal
• Genoa (Portofino), Italy
• Haifa (Jerusalem), Israel
• Ibiza (Baleari Is.), Spain
• Istanbul, Turkey
• Izmir, Turkey
• Koper, Slovenia
• Kotor, Montenegro
• Kusadasi, Turkey
• La Goulette, Tunisia
• La Spezia (Cinque Terre), Italy
• Limassol, Cyprus
• Lisbon, Portugal
• Livorno (Florence), Italy
• Mahon, Spain
• Malaga (Granada), Spain
• Marmaris, Turkey
• Marseille , France
• Messina (Taormina), Italy
• Monfalcone, Italy
• Naples (Pompeii), Italy
• Olbia, Italy
• Palermo (Monreale), Italy
• Palma de Mallorca (Baleari Is.), Spain
• Santa Cruz de Tenerife (Canary Is.), Spain
• Sibenik, Croatia
• Siracusa (Sicily), Italy
• Split, Croatia
• Tangier (Tetouan), Morocco
• Taranto , Italy
• Tarragona, Spain
• Trieste (Venice), Italy
• Valencia, Spain
• Valletta, Malta
• Venice - Marghera, Italy
• Villefranche sur Mer (Montecarlo), France
• Zadar, Croatia

Reviews ON OUR MEDITERRANEAN CRUISES

" Loved every port of call except having to finally return home! "

Teresa T., Cruising the Mediterranean

" We found Winter an ideal time to visit Rome ..cooler and less busy. "

Laura B., Cruising the Mediterranean

" I did enjoy being in Marseille but I really liked each port we sailed to... "

Joan E., Cruising the Mediterranean

What is the best time of year to cruise the Mediterranean?

What is the weather like in the mediterranean sea, what countries are part of a mediterranean cruise, where do mediterranean cruises depart from, how long is a mediterranean cruise, how much is a cruise around the mediterranean, thank you for visiting msc cruises.

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MSC Cruises

When cruises are cheaper than trains and planes

P lanes, trains and automobiles may be the obvious and often most cost-effective ways to get from A to B but, surprisingly, cruise ships can be, too.

Repositioning sailings are the unsung bargains of the cruise world, where canny travellers can often pick up voyages at vastly reduced rates – and give more orthodox forms of transport a run for their money.

The key to finding such a deal comes from studying cruise schedules for sailings – some of which may be just one or two nights – that go directly from one place to another. 

While low-cost flights are generally accepted as the cheapest way to travel internationally, global airfares are on the rise – and by the time you pile on charges for luggage, food and drink and the cost of travelling from the airport to the city centre – where cruise ships invariably dock – taking the sea-going route can emerge as the unlikely winner (and you’ll arrive in considerably more style).

It can even work for travelling to different parts of the UK, though options tend to be restricted to Fred Olsen Cruise Lines when it repositions ships on overnight voyages between the likes of Southampton and Newcastle, Rosyth or other ports further north. 

Italy to Spain from £54

For city-hopping stays in and around Europe, MSC Cruises is the one to watch, as it enables customers to book many of its Mediterranean cruises on a port-to-port basis, rather than taking the entire voyage.

For instance, travellers can book one-nighters between Genoa and Barcelona or Genoa and Marseilles for as little as £54pp, while an overnight sailing between Valencia and Marseilles is £72pp, with these prices obviously including meals. The £54 figure is based on an October 11 departure. For a flight from Genoa to Barcelona on the same date, Skyscanner (skyscanner.net) quotes a service with ITA Airways for £111.99pp, including luggage.

Tony Andrews, the managing director of travel agency cruise.co.uk, says: “MSC doesn’t talk about this enough, as these one-nighters are a great way for people to have a city-break-style experience with a cruise as part of it. It’s a really interesting way to do it.”

The leisurely way to cross the pond

Transatlantic crossings are another potential area to pick up a sea-going bargain, but it’s a question of waiting until the price is right, as rates continually fluctuate.

Many lines offer transatlantic repositionings in spring and autumn, while Cunard runs the only regular crossings between Southampton and New York on its liner Queen Mary 2.

On one occasion some years ago, when prices dropped to just a few hundred pounds, I was sailing from Southampton on the QM2 and met a passenger who had opted to do the same purely because the rates were so much cheaper than flying and he wasn’t in a rush (the crossing takes a week).

Cunard’s prices have since risen overall, but there are still reduced rates on some departures that make this tactic worth pursuing if you fancy a more leisurely way to cross the pond.

Alison Earnshaw, the managing director of online agencies Cruise 118 and Six Star Cruises, says that when rates drop to £600 or £700, taking the ocean route becomes more cost-effective as transatlantic flights have become so expensive.

Another plus is the lack of luggage restrictions, because on cruises you can famously take as much as will fit in your cabin.

“We’ve had people booking to sail to see family in the States with lots of luggage that they’re taking out for them, and then flying back lighter,” she explains. “Alternatively, we’ve had customers who’ve flown to New York for the shopping and sail back as they can bring as much as they want.”

Swap Blighty for Barbados – for £1,129

The Caribbean is another region that comes up trumps for value, with P&O Cruises offering a two-week repositioning voyage from Southampton to Barbados (with stops in Antigua, St Kitts and St Lucia) from £1,129. This price is for an October 18 departure, and includes the flight back to Britain. 

A return fare to Barbados with British Airways (including luggage) during the same period is £733pp. Inter-island flights with Caribbean Airlines (caribbean-airlines.com) between Barbados and other islands in this itinerary amount to approximately £714pp. Add in hotel stays and it’s clear just how much you can save by taking to the water. 

Going global

Miles Morgan, the founder of Miles Morgan Travel, cited world cruises as another option for good-value deals, when cruise companies carve itineraries into segments if they haven’t been selling well, enabling customers to buy legs such as Sydney to Singapore.

“You need to look at sailings a few months in advance, as this is when they tend to be carved up,” he says. “So look now for autumn sailings and at Christmas for the spring. There might be nothing going or you might do well.”

I soon found a 17-night sector of a world cruise on Cunard’s Queen Victoria, departing Singapore on March 26 and arriving in Cape Town on April 12. It calls at Sri Lanka, Mauritius and Port Elizabeth in South Africa. From £1,099pp, not including flights, it works out at £64pp a night – about the same as a Travelodge. 

Flights for the same routing between Singapore and Cape Town for the same time period via Skyscanner amount to approximately £1,150pp, including luggage. Another win for the cruise. 

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Mon, Tue, Wed & Fri 08:00 - 17:00, Thu 08:30 - 17:00, Sat 09:00 - 12:00, Sun & Public Holidays Closed

MEDITERRANEAN CRUISES

Mediterranean Countries

Greece & greek island cruises.

Italy Cruises

Croatia Cruises

Mediterranean Cruise Deals

Mediterranean cruise deals

MEDITERRANEAN ports

view all MEDITERRANEAN PORTS

• Bari, Italy
• Bodrum, Turkey
• Brindisi, Italy
• Cannes, France
• Casablanca, Morocco
• Cefalonia, Greece
• Ceuta, Spain
• Chania, Greece
• Civitavecchia, Italy
• Corfu, Greece
• Dubrovnik, Croatia
• Genoa, Italy
• Haifa, Israel
• Heraklion, Greece
• Istanbul, Turkey
• Izmir, Turkey
• Katakolon, Greece
• Koper, Slovenia
• Kotor, Montenegro
• Kusadasi, Turkey
• La Seyne-sur-Mer (Toulon), France
• La Spezia, Italy
• Limassol, Cyprus
• Marseille, France
• Messina, Italy
• Monfalcone, Italy
• Mykonos, Greece
• Naples, Italy
• Olbia, Italy
• Palermo, Italy
• Piraeus (Athens), Greece
• Rhodes, Greece
• Santorini, Greece
• Sibenik, Croatia
• Split, Croatia
• Syracuse, Italy
• Tangier, Morocco
• Taranto , Italy
• Tarragona, Spain
• Trieste (Venice), Italy
• Tunis, Tunisia
• Valletta, Malta
• Venice - Marghera, Italy
• Villefranche sur Mer, France
• Zadar, Croatia

Reviews ON OUR MEDITERRANEAN CRUISES

" Loved every port of call except having to finally return home! "

Teresa T., Cruising the Mediterranean

" We found Winter an ideal time to visit Rome ..cooler and less busy. "

Laura B., Cruising the Mediterranean

" I did enjoy being in Marseille but I really liked each port we sailed to... "

Joan E., Cruising the Mediterranean

What is the best time of year to cruise the Mediterranean?

What is the weather like in the mediterranean sea, what countries are part of a mediterranean cruise, where do mediterranean cruises depart from, how long is a mediterranean cruise, how much is a cruise around the mediterranean.

Thank you for visiting MSC Cruises

Your browser may be out of date or not compatible with our new site and may not be secure.

For a better experience and to continue your booking with MSC, please update your browser by downloading the latest version below.

Thank you for visiting our site and we look forward to seeing you on board soon!

MSC Cruises