celebrity cruise reviews mediterranean

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Mediterranean Cruises

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Discover the Timeless Beauty & Culture of the Mediterranean

With history spanning thousands of years, glamorous ports, and dazzling scenery, a Mediterranean cruise is the perfect vacation—and there’s no better way to experience cruises to the Mediterranean than with Celebrity. Bask on the beach in Mykonos one day and watch a fiery sunset over Santorini the next. Sip a cappuccino in glorious Taormina while gazing at snow-capped Mount Etna in the distance, or dig into tapas in a sunlit square in Barcelona. Let us show you Europe’s most beautiful places in style on a cruise to the Mediterranean with Celebrity.

Featured Mediterranean Cruises

Italy cruises.

Whether you dream of exploring the glorious Amalfi Coast or marveling at the ancient sites of Rome, Celebrity has the perfect cruise to Italy, with itineraries ranging from 7 to 12 nights. 

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Greece Cruises

Cruises to Greece visit the very best of the islands and cosmopolitan cities on the mainland, including Athens and historic Thessaloniki. Each port bursts with character, from Santorini to Zakynthos, and Mykonos. 

Spain Cruises

Sail from Barcelona and take in Alhambra in Granada, the elegant capital of Palma and Seville, the home of flamenco. On cruises of 7 to 12 nights, you can feast on tapas, taste wines in Rioja, and unwind all in one culture-packed country.

View Popular Mediterranean Cruise Destinations

Israel & Egypt

Find Your Perfect Mediterranean Cruise Vacation

Itineraries.

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Celebrity City Stays

Mediterranean Ships

Mediterranean Shore Excursions

Why Cruise to the Mediterranean with Celebrity Cruises

Enjoy ancient port cities and glorious scenery on a Mediterranean cruise with Celebrity. You’ll find itineraries ranging from 7 to 12 nights offered by nine of our award-winning ships, including four of our revolutionary Edge-Series ships.  

On board, you’ll be immersed in personalized touches that make every Celebrity vacation special. As you sail from one historic port to the next, indulge in globally inspired menus in up to 12 specialty restaurants. Whatever the occasion, your certified sommelier can pour you the perfect vintage to match the moment, uncorked from a wine list that’s won the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence 10 years in a row. 

On Edge-Series ships, gaze at exquisite Greek islands or the glamorous Italian coastline, fringed with olive and lemon groves, from the vantage point of The Magic Carpet®, suspended high above the ocean. 

Elevate your vacation to the next level at The Retreat®, with luxurious suite accommodation, access to a private sundeck (on select ships) and tranquil lounge, and dining at the exclusive Luminae at The Retreat. And when you venture ashore, you’ll find carefully curated excursions geared to your personal taste, from Destination Highlights to Small Group Discoveries and custom-designed Private Journeys. 

From destination-intensive 7-night cruises to 12-night explorations across this historic region, Celebrity has the best Mediterranean cruise for you. With nine ships to choose from, including four of our ground-breaking Edge-Series ships, you’ll find the perfect setting as your home away from home in the heart of Europe. 

Featured Articles

Best Places to Visit in the Mediterranean

The best places to visit in the Mediterranean feature incredible cultural treasures, idyllic landscapes, and some of the most well-known landmarks in Europe.

Insider’s Guide to the Towns of Cinque Terre

The watercolor towns of Cinque Terre, including Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore, are strung along the rugged and impossibly beautiful Italian Riviera.

11 Spectacular Mediterranean Cities to Visit

For remarkable art, ancient history, contemporary culture, and gorgeous beaches, it’s hard to beat these Mediterranean cities.

The 17 Best Beaches in the Mediterranean

The whole of the Mediterranean is fringed with dazzlingly beautiful beaches, and the greatest appeal is that they’re all different.

12 Stunning French Beach Towns to Visit

Gorgeous French beach towns are abundant, thanks to the country’s extensive coastlines along the English Channel to the north, the Atlantic to the west, and the Mediterranean to the south.

The Ultimate Guide to Food in Athens

Athens, the cradle of civilization, boasts an incredible foodie scene ranging from high-end restaurants to the simplest of street food.

11 Best Things to Do in Malta

From the capital, Valletta, to the countryside and coast, there are plenty of things to do in Malta for travelers in search of history, culture, and more.

19 Most Romantic Places in Greece

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Top Mediterranean FAQs

Where do Mediterranean cruises go?

Whether you love art, history, natural wonders, fine cuisine, or all of the above, a Mediterranean cruise lets you experience something amazing at every stop. The Mediterranean region is vast, including many countries each with its own personality, cuisine, and scenery. 

Celebrity’s Mediterranean cruises sail from Athens, Barcelona, Rome, Southampton, and Ravenna (Venice). 

Feel like an old-fashioned movie star on the French Riviera, learn about military history in Malta, explore Biblical history in Israel, and delve back more than 4,000 years in time to Egypt.

How long are Mediterranean cruises?

Mediterranean cruises on Celebrity last from six to 12 nights. Spend seven nights visiting popular ports in Spain, France, and Italy, or longer voyages that include Greece and Turkey. 

When’s the best time to cruise? 

The best time to cruise the Mediterranean will vary depending on your particular interests and schedule. The main Mediterranean cruise season runs from April through November each year, with June to September the peak months. But with Celebrity you can cruise Europe year round. 

July to September is the peak summer season in the Mediterranean, when most Europeans take their summer vacation. April, May, June, later in September, and October are all great months to visit, too. You can sail the Mediterranean with Celebrity right up to November, which is a wonderful time for sightseeing with fewer people around. The best time to head to the far south of the region is from February to April, when the climate is perfect for exploring Israel and Egypt.

What should I pack?

When you’re packing for a Mediterranean cruise, swimwear and beach outfits are essential. You’ll need comfortable shoes for sightseeing, whether this involves walking over uneven cobblestone roads or clambering over the rocky paths of the Acropolis in Athens. 

A good sun hat is essential If you want to visit churches, synagogues, and cathedrals we recommend long pants or skirt and a scarf/shawl to cover your shoulders.  

If you’re traveling at the beginning or the end of the season, the weather could be cool, so bring cover-ups and a light waterproof jacket.

Throughout the ship, casual resort wear, sundresses, shorts, polos, or button-downs are appropriate, paired with sandals, low heels, and loafers. In main and specialty dining, we ask guests to refrain from wearing swimsuits, see-through coverups or robes, bare feet, tank tops, T-shirts, and baseball caps. 

Smart Casual attire is required for entry to main dining, specialty dining, and the Celebrity Theatre. Smart Casual means you look comfortable yet tasteful in a dress, skirt, long pants, or jeans with a stylish top or button-down. Shorts and flip flops are not considered Smart Casual. 

Each itinerary features one to two “formal” nights that we call Evening Chic. Evening Chic means you dress to impress, glamorous and sophisticated in your own way, with a cocktail dress, skirt, slacks, or designer jeans, an elegant dress top, or blazer—some guests even pack a tuxedo or gown for onboard photos. 

The daily program, delivered to your stateroom and available at the Guest Relations Desk, will be your guide to the correct attire each evening. If you do not wish to participate in Evening Chic, Smart Casual attire is acceptable for dining and attending the theater.

What can I see while I’m there?

From the history-lined canals of Venice to the sun-soaked playgrounds of the French Riviera to the iconic architecture of Spain, our array of award-winning Europe vacations offers something special for every discerning world traveler.

Get up close to historic sites like the ancient Colosseum in Rome, the Acropolis in Athens, and the charming Old City of Dubrovnik. Take stellar photos at the Piazza San Marco in Venice, the Leaning Tower of Pisa in Italy, and the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona. See Michelangelo’s remarkable Renaissance artwork on the Sistine Chapel ceiling as you tour Vatican City.

In Portugal, experience the spectacular medieval architecture in Lisbon and taste a variety of Port wines in Porto. Explore our port of call in Italy, Trieste, and its ancient architecture, lively cultural scene, and Venetian-inspired coffeehouses. We’re also returning to Kusadasi, and Istanbul in Turkey.

Some of the most beautiful natural sights you’ll ever see may be the view of the whitewashed buildings and turquoise waters in Santorini or the pastel-colored fishing villages in the Amalfi Coast in Italy.

Where are the best beaches?

The Mediterranean is fringed with  dazzlingly beautiful beaches . Here, you’ll find some of the most beautiful stretches of sand in the world, wild dunes, craggy cliffs, rocky coves, and aquamarine shallows on others.

For long sweeps of sand, great watersports, and a lively scene, try Mykonos. If black or red sand intrigues you, head for Santorini. For old-fashioned glamor, visit the beaches around Italy’s Amalfi Coast or the chic beach towns along the French Riviera. 

Sardinia arguably has the most beautiful turquoise water. Ibiza is fringed with pretty coves, some sleepy, some with cool beach bars and DJs spinning tunes all afternoon. 

What is there for families to do on a Mediterranean cruise?

The Mediterranean is fantastic for families. It’s educational, it brings history to life, the shopping is great, the ice cream unsurpassed, and the beaches superb. Mediterranean cultures love kids, too, and children are welcomed everywhere. 

Families can enjoy the Colosseum in Rome, gondola rides in Venice, the old walls of Dubrovnik, and cable cars for stunning city views or off-road buggy experiences. You can also experience Pompeii, the cave houses of Matera, and for soccer fans, Camp Nou stadium in Barcelona. 

Should I book tours ahead of time?

If you are traveling in peak season, we recommend you book your Shore Excursions through My Celebrity Cruises as soon as you confirm your sailing as many attractions around the Mediterranean are extremely popular. 

Booking a shore excursion  with Celebrity also means you’ll be visiting attractions with a professional guide, and on a tour that guarantees to return you to the ship on time. 

Whether you're looking for a private, customizable experience, a carefully curated guided tour with a small group, or an unforgettable trip to iconic local landmarks, we have the right option to discover any destination, granting in-depth knowledge, expertise, and a truly extraordinary experience.

Can I get around with English?

Many languages are spoken around the Mediterranean, from Maltese to French, Italian, Spanish, Greek, Turkish, and Hebrew. Most people working in the hospitality industry speak some English.

Do I need a visa?

You will need a passport to travel to the Mediterranean, but the vast majority of countries visited by European cruises do not require a visa. From 2024, Americans, Canadians, and British citizens will be required to register for the new European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) to enter 30 European countries. 

This will be easy to apply for, inexpensive, and is simply a pre-authorization system similar to the ESTA that Europeans need to travel to the U.S. and Canada. Once you have the ETIAS, it will be valid for three years. You should make sure you have at least six months before your passport expires, too.

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Review Of Celebrity Cruises Apex Ship Mediterranean Voyage

Aboard the Apex on a 7-day itinerary through Greece, I would get the golden opportunity to experience and review Celebrity Cruises, an award-winning luxury cruise line, as a first-time guest. The newly launched ship, the Apex, is part of the Celebrity Edge series, designed to give cruisers an overall more luxurious experience. The concept combines upscale contemporary features, health and wellness, and an innovative design while providing a sense of community on board. Apex and its two other sister ships, the Edge and the Beyond are scheduled to launch in April 2022.

As a luxury travel advisor who has curated countless custom itineraries to Greece, from romantic Santorinian honeymoons to memorable island-hopping sailing adventures for families, this would be my first time visiting Greece myself. The following is my insight and review on the Celebrity Apex Ship, voyaging through the Mediterranean Sea.

Our cruising itinerary was the 7-Night Greek Islands & Cyprus Cruise, but shortly after embarkment, our route unexpectedly changed due to abrupt COVID-19 related restrictions on the island of Cyprus. Hello Greece and hello… Croatia ! Aha, a change in travel plans, meaning a perfect chance to practice what I often preach to my clients; the whole go with the flow concept.

Like many of the other guests onboard, we embraced this unexpected detour, leading us now to Dubrovnik, Croatia, in addition to the Greek islands of Mykonos, Santorini, Rhodes, plus two days coasting through the Aegean and Adriatic seas.  Now, initially, I thought that two days at sea would be too much downtime. However, my days at sea ended up being exactly what I needed – downtime!

While the career of a travel advisor may seem like an everlasting vacation (spoiler: it’s not), when we do travel, our senses are hyperactivated to best embrace and evaluate the overall travel experience, feather duster in hand, we are brushing away the sugarcoated fluff to reveal and examine the true quality experience that hotels, cruises, and tour operators offer. With our boots on the ground, we can discover the best of the best for our discerning clients.

At Boutique Travel Advisors , our bespoke luxury vacations are thoughtfully curated to each traveler’s own needs, styles, and preferences. Walking a mile in the travelers’ shoes helps us determine not just what to recommend but also for whom and for when. Sometimes, those shoes are water shoes or hiking boots for the active adventurists or even shiny red bottom heels for the glamorous wanderluster. Other times, those shoes are a bit more versatile for discovering the nooks and crannies of a destination on foot. The beauty of travel: There is always something for everyone anywhere you go (and you can never bring too many shoes).

From past bookings with Celebrity, I had a good sense of the ideal clientele for this kind of cruise experience. Still, this trip was an opportunity to understand better which clients would thoroughly enjoy their time onboard with Celebrity. There are so many different cruise lines, styles of ships, and itineraries to choose from, and no one size fits all.

Accompanying me was my 19-year-old niece, Chloe. In addition to enjoying some sweet aunt-niece time, I was also able to gain insight into what it is like for a young adult to sail Celebrity.  In her own words, Chloe shares her own Celebrity Cruises review and how it made Greece a memorable trip for her.

Top 5 Favorite Things About Sailing the Celebrity Apex

Days at Sea

I did not expect this to be on my list of favorite things aboard the Celebrity Apex.  However, the cruise had so many things to do onboard that we kept busy, relaxed, and entertained on both days at sea.  The ship has a state-of-the-art workout facility.  The ship equips the gym with plenty of free weights, equipment, and cardio devices, including Peloton bikes, treadmills, rowers, and climbers. 

Several fitness classes were offered, including yoga, the popular F45 training program, spin classes, and more.  The spa facility is as impressive as the gym.  There were plenty of loungers on the pool decks, and there were enough hot tubs and other areas for leisure lounging on the top decks. 

There is also a track that spans across the top two deck levels.  I usually worked out in the gym every morning and ran a few miles on the track before getting ready for each evening of dinner and entertainment. Surprisingly, I increased my workout routines and re-introduced daily running; this  basically never happens on vacation. Thank you, Celebrity!

Each of the meals was so delectable – particularly the scrumptious breakfast spread. Each of the signature restaurants has its own ambiance, making it a novelty to try each one. We chose to splurge on specialty dining on three of our nights, including one night of sushi (so fresh), another night at Eden (delicious), and the Le Petit Chef for the other (a perfect choice for families with young children).

Eden Restaurant Dining Area

Variety Shows & Entertainment 

Somehow, Celebrity knows just how to keep everyone entertained on one ship.  While I am so not one to ever place fifty on black, anyone expecting a casino aboard their cruise will be pleased by the immense size and number of slots and table games.  Occasionally, guests gathered in the shaded areas to watch a movie. But, of course, the airing of Mamma Mia! had my full attention. 

This musical is such a light-hearted production that touches on the beautifully messy complexities of romance, it’s hard not to imagine yourself singing and dancing through Greece… (wait, we were actually there!).

My niece and I also enjoyed the nightly shows. Each night there was an early and late show, and we tried to catch them both. Musicals, singers, magicians, and comedians entertained us into the wee hours of the night. I laughed so hard that it essentially served as a core workout along with my return to running – once again, thank you, Celebrity!

The Retreat

While we did not have a suite in The Retreat, I was able to do a site inspection, and can I just say wow, this exclusive area of the ship has added amenities and provides an element of privacy as if you are staying at a boutique hotel.  It will appeal to healthy-minded people looking to use the spa and fitness center daily. 

It also has an exclusive lounge, its own sundeck with pool, a private restaurant (the Luminaire featuring signature dishes created by our Global Culinary Ambassador Daniel Boulud and a dedicated Personal Retreat Host. The Retreat offers suite-level accommodations with panoramic views. In addition, it has two-story residences that include a private terrace and plunge pool.

This type of cabin, an Edge Villa, features one bedroom, a spacious separate living room, and two bathrooms (Sq ft: 739 interior / 211 terrace).  The Retreat also contains two-bedroom options including the Iconic Suite (Sq ft: 1892 interior / 689 terrace), the Penthouse Suite (Sq ft: 967-1690 interior / 197- 1098 terrace) and the Reflection Suite (Sq ft: 1636 interior / 193 terrace).   The name speaks for itself, but the Retreat is where guests get pampered in privacy, relaxation, spa services, and a spacious cabin and terrace. The next time we cruise with Celebrity, we will choose the Retreat as offered on several of their ships.

Taste of Greece

One of the many benefits of cruising is the convenience and ease of traveling to more than one destination in a short time frame. Instead, you are allowed to explore different islands without unpacking and repacking, nor do you waste time traveling by plane or ferry. Cruising is a beautiful way to explore a country for the first time, especially if there are many micro-destinations to choose from, such as Greece & the Greek Islands. 

You may never feel like you have enough time in any one place, but a day in the port will determine if it is a place you would like to revisit at a future date. After breathing in that warm yet refreshing island air, I know that the islands of Antiparos, Crete, or Naxos are worthy of returning to.

My short-lived time on Celebrity Cruises Apex scratched the surface on Greece and left me not only desiring more, but it left me with insight into what to do and where to go to fulfill that desire one day. With a clearer vision comes more anticipation, and I am already looking forward to returning with my husband for a romantic stay at an iconic resort in Santorini. And the time after? Renting a private, beachside villa for a beautiful family getaway.

Lunch & Aperol Spritz at Pantheon Restaurant in Athens, Greece

I do not know if the long-awaited return of cruising has anything to do with it – but the other guests on the Celebrity Apex were especially warm and friendly. It was evident by the energy in every room that every passenger was as happy and grateful to be here as the next.

The people we met came from all walks of life, traveling with friends, family, a significant other, or extended families. After just a few days of sailing, these once strangers turned into familiar faces, and not long after, they became our cruise friends. We would cross paths with our new friends at the pool and continue meeting new smiling faces throughout the excursions and ship activities.

By the end of our sail, the college students followed each other on social media. They wished that they had met sooner (hint, hint to Celebrity). What could Celebrity Cruises Apex do to make the experience better for families? The clientele on our sail consisted of many families, primarily families with late teens and young adults. It would help to offer more ice breaker activities in the lounges to help cultivate those connections early on.

Within a shared experience of a cruise, there is a collective bond that takes place among fellow passengers that you simply do not get in everyday home life. When the dominant mindset of those around you is to fully enjoy and embrace the experience, it’s the little moments and positive exchanges that make a big impact on a spectacularly joy-filled trip. 

Favorite Port

Santorini was my favorite port day, as I’ve been anticipating my first time visiting this island for many years. It did not disappoint. We spent the day in Oia Valley, visiting shops and soaking in the Caldera View. I couldn’t help but want to stay longer.  On our most adventurous port day, we cliff jumped, visited shimmering beaches and coves, and kayaked over 6.5 kilometers around Dubrovnik. Talk about an unforgettable day.

We did a mix of excursions at the ports arranged by both Celebrity and our preferred tour partners in Greece and Croatia. There are so many benefits to hiring a private guide and driver, allowing you to take full advantage of your day doing whatever you want, at your own pace!

View of Santorini, Greece

My Final Take on Greece

What was there not to love about exploring Greece on a luxury cruise? I loved the food, the warm, cultured people, the architecture & history, the beaches, and more. If I had the luxury of more downtime, I would have strolled through the cobblestone streets lined with local fashion boutiques, art galleries, and cafés. Next time around, I will gift myself the chance to relax (ahem, put down the travel advising feather duster) and wake up in gratitude to the fifty-shades-of-blue of the Mediterranean Sea.

Fortunately, a voyage through the Greek islands never repeats itself. My review of the Celebrity Cruises Apex Ship is that it left me wanting even more of Greece! I have a newfound item on my travel bucket list: to sail on a private yacht with my husband and our closest friends. I imagine myself being amongst a handful of my favorite people, salty sea breeze dancing right along with us as we effortlessly carve our way through the turquoise Aegean waters. Cue the ABBA playlist in the background. Maybe someday, being an empty nester won’t be so bad?

Boutique Travel Advisors is a full-service, luxury travel agency . We specialize in creating  bespoke itineraries  for discerning clients around the world. Please visit our   website   or call 480-787-1477 to speak with a dedicated travel expert. 

Are you planning an international or domestic trip? Check out our other articles to help you come prepared!

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If you would like assistance purchasing a travel insurance policy, please get in touch with a BTA advisor .

About the Author: ANGELA RICE

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NCL or Celebrity for Mediterranean?

By NCteacherlovescruising , November 25, 2022 in Norwegian Cruise Line

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NCteacherlovescruising

My husband and I, along with some friends, are planning a summer 2024 Greece/Italy cruise.  I see what looks like a good deal with NCL today.  Of course, Celebrity hasn't released their itineraries yet.  Should we jump on their Black Friday special or wait to see what Celebrity offers once they open?  

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Sailing12Away

If you like the itinerary, ship, and price of the NCL cruise then book it. You can always cancel before final payment date with less penalties than Celebrity has for their sailings.

Without knowing the particulars of the trips or ships you're trying to compare, or what is important to you and your travel mates in terms of things you like to do, food you like, entertainment you enjoy, etc - it's impossible for us to tell you what to do.

Illbcruzn4life

5 hours ago, NCteacherlovescruising said: My husband and I, along with some friends, are planning a summer 2024 Greece/Italy cruise.  I see what looks like a good deal with NCL today.  Of course, Celebrity hasn't released their itineraries yet.  Should we jump on their Black Friday special or wait to see what Celebrity offers once they open?  

could you elaborate on this Grece/Italy cruise in summer 2024. I was looking for the same thing but don't see any pricing that I find reasonable.

Not sure what the Black Friday specials are today but looks like they doubled the prices and then gave the 2nd person free today. Maybe I interpreted the deal incorrectly as I don't sail NCL a lot.

I'm booked on NCL for Greece/Italy 2024.  It was the perfect itinerary / cabin / price.  I couldn't pass it up.

Now, I booked it a year ago when it was first released and I've already received one huge price drop for "booking" onboard my last cruise.  They were running a special (ha!  I know, there's always a special) and they let me use it.  But it dropped the price $3K from what I already thought was a fantastic price.

I'll keep checking other options but I really doubt I'll be able to match or beat the price.

Crazy planning mom

We sailed on the Jade out of Athens in October.  It was a nice older ship with great crew.  The included food was pretty decent and the food in the specialty restaurants was great.  If you do the air promo, make sure you ask for a deviation to arrive at least 1 day early.   Otherwise, you arrive the day of the sailing and it could be dicey.

We had looked at Celebrity when booking but it was more money at the time.   Ironically, we are taking the same Celebrity ship- the Apex  in the Caribbean in Feb 2024.  For me in the Caribbean, the ship is more important.  In the Mediterranean, the ports are more important than the ship.  Celebrity should be rolling out their 2024 itineraries probably next month.  You could always wait to comparison shop.

When you're considering the Mediterranean, it's going to be port intensive (one sea day on the itinerary I did) so the ship becomes secondary.  Whichever offers the itinerary you want at the best price would be the one I'd jump at.  Since X hasn't posted that yet, I'd book NCL if it's otherwise acceptable.  I'm always one to revisit my choices periodically in the hopes of a better deal so I'd certainly check again once Celebrity releases its schedule -- and probably again before final payment.

On 11/25/2022 at 4:33 PM, Sailing12Away said: If you like the itinerary, ship, and price of the NCL cruise then book it. You can always cancel before final payment date with less penalties than Celebrity has for their sailings.   Without knowing the particulars of the trips or ships you're trying to compare, or what is important to you and your travel mates in terms of things you like to do, food you like, entertainment you enjoy, etc - it's impossible for us to tell you what to do.

My friends are more familiar with those ports than I, so I will let them chose the itinerary.  None of us are that particular with food, we would enjoy sight seeing.

On 11/25/2022 at 7:58 PM, Illbcruzn4life said: could you elaborate on this Grece/Italy cruise in summer 2024. I was looking for the same thing but don't see any pricing that I find reasonable.   Not sure what the Black Friday specials are today but looks like they doubled the prices and then gave the 2nd person free today. Maybe I interpreted the deal incorrectly as I don't sail NCL a lot.

That's entirely possible, since I hadn't priced it before.  I was just browsing for Black Friday sales and it looked like a good deal with the second person free on the cruise and flight.

On 11/26/2022 at 7:57 AM, Purple_Pig said: I'm booked on NCL for Greece/Italy 2024.  It was the perfect itinerary / cabin / price.  I couldn't pass it up.   Now, I booked it a year ago when it was first released and I've already received one huge price drop for "booking" onboard my last cruise.  They were running a special (ha!  I know, there's always a special) and they let me use it.  But it dropped the price $3K from what I already thought was a fantastic price.   I'll keep checking other options but I really doubt I'll be able to match or beat the price.

That's awesome!

On 11/26/2022 at 10:04 AM, Crazy planning mom said: We sailed on the Jade out of Athens in October.  It was a nice older ship with great crew.  The included food was pretty decent and the food in the specialty restaurants was great.  If you do the air promo, make sure you ask for a deviation to arrive at least 1 day early.   Otherwise, you arrive the day of the sailing and it could be dicey. We had looked at Celebrity when booking but it was more money at the time.   Ironically, we are taking the same Celebrity ship- the Apex  in the Caribbean in Feb 2024.  For me in the Caribbean, the ship is more important.  In the Mediterranean, the ports are more important than the ship.  Celebrity should be rolling out their 2024 itineraries probably next month.  You could always wait to comparison shop.

I think I would ask for more than 1 day.  I'd like to stay there at least a couple days prior to the cruise to explore.

23 hours ago, phillygwm said: When you're considering the Mediterranean, it's going to be port intensive (one sea day on the itinerary I did) so the ship becomes secondary.  Whichever offers the itinerary you want at the best price would be the one I'd jump at.  Since X hasn't posted that yet, I'd book NCL if it's otherwise acceptable.  I'm always one to revisit my choices periodically in the hopes of a better deal so I'd certainly check again once Celebrity releases its schedule -- and probably again before final payment.

I believe I read somewhere that Celebrity's will open on December 5th.  I will be on Celebrity in 3 weeks, may book onboard.

If you're using the NCL air promotion, you can only fly in 2 days early. So keep that in mind if you wanted to spend more time than that - you won't be able to with using their basic air promotion.

6 hours ago, Sailing12Away said: If you're using the NCL air promotion, you can only fly in 2 days early. So keep that in mind if you wanted to spend more time than that - you won't be able to with using their basic air promotion.

Yes, we opted to do 2 days prior and 2 days after.

Just one thing to watch out for on those eastern med/Greek isles itineraries is that quite a few of the ports don’t have the docking capacity for every ship size so there is a big chance of having to tender to shore from the ship. It’s what has put me off a lot of those itineraries, I’d much prefer they used one of the smaller ships so docking is possible.

I’ve experienced the disaster that is tendering to great stirrup cay from Norwegian Breakaway which took *hours* even with the earliest non-excursion tender ticket. 

AstoriaPreppy

1 hour ago, eileeshb said: Just one thing to watch out for on those eastern med/Greek isles itineraries is that quite a few of the ports don’t have the docking capacity for every ship size so there is a big chance of having to tender to shore from the ship. It’s what has put me off a lot of those itineraries, I’d much prefer they used one of the smaller ships so docking is possible. I’ve experienced the disaster that is tendering to great stirrup cay from Norwegian Breakaway which took *hours* even with the earliest non-excursion tender ticket. 

One benefit of the Edge class ships are the amazing tendering facilities they've designed. The entry to the tender deck is a huge, open space with a wall of windows (not restricted crew space like other ships), and the actual loading deck to the tenders is the ship's Magic Carpet, which goes to sea-level when tendering. 

The tenders themselves are amazing: air conditioned, fold down, theater-style cushioned seats, flat screen TVs, etc. 

If you're anti-tender but still want to do the Med/Adriatic/Greek Isles, I couldn't recommend a Celebrity Edge class ship more. 

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7 of the best Mediterranean cruise holidays to book for 2024

The Mediterranean is without doubt a top choice for holidays for British tourists seeking the sun – and its waters are world-class for cruising .

Here, holidaymakers will find a tangle of rich cultures, irresistible romance and classic cuisines, and a slice of the 28,600 miles of colourful coastline in southern Europe is often best discovered by boat.

With on-shore excursions exploring everything from the Greek gods to platters of authentic tapas, it’s possible to liaise with locals over flamenco in Barcelona , cleanse your palette with gelato in Sicily and bask on the beaches of Mykonos all on one trip.

Better still, docking at ancient harbours on multi-storey vessels promises seafaring travellers a balmy greeting in the summer season from June to September.

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Best for: City stops

14-day mediterranean with greece, france & italy, princess cruises.

Departs: Athens (Piraeus), Greece

Arrives: Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy

To tick the likes of Athens, Barcelona, Marseille and Genoa off of your bucket list in just 14 days, Princess Cruise’s Mediterranean itinerary offers a nine-port adventure on Sun Princess. The all-inclusive voyage through Greece, Montenegro, Italy, Spain and France has an extensive choice of classic on-shore excursions, with interior rooms starting from £2,099pp.

Departing 17 August 2024.

Best for: Luxury sailing

7-night corsica & french riviera, star clippers.

Departs: Cannes, France

Arrives: Cannes, France

One of the world’s most glamorous ports, a departure from Cannes sets the tone for this seven-night sail of Corsica and the French Riviera with Star Clippers . Peruse the boutiques of Portofino, swim in the sparkling shallows off Plage Saint Antoine in Corscica and top up your tan in St Tropez from £1,665pp under the white sails of the intimate Star Flyer clipper ship.

Departing 20 July 2024.

Best for: Couples

7-night mediterranean cruise, msc cruises.

Departs: Piraeus (Athens), Greece

Arrives: Piraeus (Athens), Greece

Love is in the sea breeze on MSC Cruises’ week-long cruise in the Mediterranean. Picture a romantic island hop with your partner to the blues of Corfu, Cefalonia, Bari and the whitewashed churches of Santorini (primed for a proposal so we hear). Better still, the full board voyage on MSC Opera comes complete with a piano bar, sea view restaurants and steamy spa facilities, with interior cabins from just £659pp.

Departing 23 July 2024.

Best for: Families

7-night mediterranean cruise from barcelona, disney cruise line.

Departs: Barcelona, Spain

Arrives: Barcelona, Spain

Undeniably, Disney does magic best – and what better way to travel the Mediterranean with kids than a week with Mickey and his friends on the Disney Dream from Barcelona? There are shows, slides and snacks to enjoy on deck between docks in Palermo, Naples, Civitavecchia and Livorno. An inside stateroom for two adults and two children starts from £8,173.

Departing 5 July 2024.

Best for: Foodies

Best of italy & croatia, celebrity cruises.

Departs: Rome, Italy

Arrives: Ravenna, Italy

With a host of culinary cruises in their fleet, the onboard dining experience of a Celebrity Cruise ship leaves little to desire – and on the 10-day ‘Best of Italy & Croatia’ cruise, foodies will also have a chance to taste classic dishes in their birthplaces. There are citrus fruits in Portofino, pizza in Naples, arancini in Sicily, and Dalmatian stew in Split to savour during the $1,902pp (£1,505) voyage.

Departing 17 September 2024.

Best for: All-inclusive

Mediterranean medley, marella cruises.

Departs: Palma, Mallorca

Arrives: Palma, Mallorca

Kick your feet up with Marella Cruises for an all-inclusive float to French favourites Livorno, Villefranche, Toulon and star Spanish cities including Barcelona, Valencia and Palma. On the brand new Marella Voyager, 27 restaurants and bars, an indoor cinema, a pool deck and a mini golf course mean your hardest decision while on the Med will be how to spend your morning and fit in six meals. The week’s journey starts from £1,118pp, including flights and transfers.

Departing 24 August 2024.

Best for: History buffs

Istanbul icons & aegean artifacts, windstar cruises.

Departs: Athens, Greece

Arrives: Istanbul, Turkey

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Departing 9 October 2024.

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9 cruise lines with the best food.

Set sail with one of these cruise lines for an epicurean adventure at sea.

Cruise Lines With the Best Food

Courtesy of Holland America Line

Holland America Line's Tamarind restaurant offers delicious Pan-Asian cuisine.

Taking a cruise vacation transports you to coveted destinations in places around the world. For many people, though, it's all about the culinary experience, especially for those who return time and again to dine at their favorite onboard venues – many of which rival the best restaurants you'll find on land. While most cruise lines still offer all-you-can-eat buffet-style venues, some also feature next-level culinary experiences with world-renowned chefs at the helm, menus curated by Michelin-starred chefs, and immersive food and beverage programs.

If you're a foodie looking for the cruise lines with the best food, U.S. News has compiled this list of cruise lines focused on delivering an extraordinary dining experience, based on expert opinion and reviews. We've also highlighted two of the venues on each line that receive accolades for outstanding food and service.

Luxury cruise lines

Mainstream cruise lines.

Find your perfect cruise

Oceania Cruises

Courtesy of Oceania Cruises

Oceania Cruises' culinary program has long been regarded as one of the best of any cruise line – and the company has even trademarked the term "The Finest Cuisine at Sea." Jacques Pépin, the renowned French master chef, has been the executive culinary director since 2003; he has inspired the menus and cuisine on board the line's seven small luxury ships since that time, including the newest vessel, Vista . Oceania is also committed to sourcing the best ingredients from destinations around the world. In addition, the line has a high ratio of culinary staff to guests, and the ship's galleys are outfitted with equipment you'd typically see in Michelin-starred restaurants.

Guests can book exclusive Culinary Discovery Tours on two of the ships, Marina and Riviera . Hone your culinary skills or learn to prepare new types of cuisine at The Culinary Center, found on Marina, Riviera and Vista. You'll also find special wine-tasting and Champagne events in partnership with La Reserve by Wine Spectator. In addition, the line has just announced its first Culinary Masters' Cruise featuring Oceania's two French master chefs aboard Marina in October 2024.

Most of the dining venues are complimentary on Oceania Cruises (except for Privée and La Reserve), and options run the gamut from French and Asian cuisine to Italian fare and steakhouse specialties. There are also new culinary concepts on board Vista – including Ember, which features American classics, as well as Aquamar Kitchen, a venue focused on healthy Mediterranean-inspired cuisine.

Here are two of Oceania's best restaurants:

• Red Ginger: Red Ginger's colorful red and gold interiors, designed with feng shui in mind, draw guests in when they enter the restaurant, but it's the bold Asian flavors that keep them coming back for more. With Vietnamese, Thai and Japanese specialties to choose from, diners will enjoy selections such as caramelized tiger prawns, crispy ginger calamari, red and green curries, and bulgogi rib-eye steak. Red Ginger is available on Marina, Riviera, Sirena and Vista.
• Toscana: The hearty cuisine inspired by Tuscan and northern Italian flavors at Toscana is served on Versace china that's custom designed for the restaurant. Diners should come with an appetite to enjoy several courses before the main event, including a hot or cold antipasti or soup, a selection of pastas, and a classic version of Caesar salad prepared tableside. Traditional main dish favorites include osso buco alla Milanese, veal scaloppini, lobster fra diavolo and Dover sole. Toscana is available on Regatta, Insignia, Nautica, Marina, Riviera and Vista.

Book an  Oceania Cruises  itinerary on GoToSea, a service of U.S. News.

Silversea Cruises

Courtesy of Silversea Cruises

Silversea is another cruise line known for its culinary excellence. Guests will find a selection of international venues featuring Italian, Asian and French cuisine on board the line's fleet of 12 ships.

S.A.L.T., an immersive dining experience that stands for "Sea and Land Taste," is available on Silver Nova , Silver Moon and Silver Dawn . The S.A.L.T. program was created by Adam Sachs, former editor-in-chief of Saveur magazine and three-time James Beard journalism award winner. The innovative program invites guests to experience the destination and local food culture through on-board hands-on activities, including making local recipes in the S.A.L.T. Lab. You can also attend cooking demonstrations and lectures, or book in-depth culinary excursions to working organic farms, Sicilian pasticcerias (where you'll learn how to make pastries) and vineyards in destinations around the world.

The all-inclusive luxury line's restaurant venues are complimentary with the following exceptions: French fine dining restaurant La Dame; the S.A.L.T. Chef's Table experience available on Silver Nova; Seishin Restaurant, which serves Asian fusion dishes on Silver Spirit; and Kaiseki, the Japanese, sushi and teppanyaki venue available on five Silversea ships.

These are two standout dining venues on Silversea:

• S.A.L.T. Kitchen: S.A.L.T. Kitchen's menu changes daily inspired by the destination, but diners will also find a "Voyage" menu that reflects the influences from the overall region of the itinerary. The daily "Terrain" menu in Italy might include dishes likes prawns cooked in a cherry tomato sauce with garlic, white wine and parsley or a classic risotto with clams topped with a pan-fried filet of sole. The "Voyage" menu on an Eastern Mediterranean sailing would feature dishes from Greece, Croatia and Italy. The immersive dining experience is available on Silver Ray, Moon, Dawn and Nova.
• La Dame: The curated menu at La Dame was created by Silversea's top chefs and is served in an elegant contemporary space with white-glove table service. The cuisine pays homage to classic French gastronomy along with modern techniques and flair. Guests can expect to dine on traditional French dishes such as seared duck foie gras, French onion soup, lobster bisque, Dover sole and souffles for dessert. La Dame is available on all the line's ships, except for Silver Origin.

Find a  Silversea Cruise  on GoToSea.

Explora Journeys

Courtesy of Explora Journeys

MSC Group's new luxury brand, Explora Journeys, features a top-notch culinary program with a team of international chefs at the helm. Acclaimed chef Franck Garanger, the line's head of culinary, has been recognized as a French master chef since 2008; he has also overseen the culinary programs for both Silversea and Oceania cruises before joining Explora.

According to Garanger, Explora Journeys has one of the highest chef-to-guest ratios and food costs of any cruise line, which is why you'll see offerings like freshly shucked oysters on the half shell, ceviche, free range and organic chicken, made-to-order grilled fish, and other freshly prepared items in Emporium Marketplace, Explora's globally inspired all-day dining venue. There's also a large focus on plant-based dishes, wellness and healthy menu selections in venues across the ship.

The first of six 922-guest superyacht-style vessels, Explora I, offers guests a choice of six restaurant venues, including the French-inspired Fil Rouge; Marble & Co. Grill, an elegant European steakhouse; and Med Yacht Club, which features delightful Mediterranean cuisine. Guests will also enjoy boutique international and regional wines; try a glass of Moët & Chandon, Explora's "house" Champagne.

During your "journey," you can also attend cooking classes at the Chef's Kitchen, a private dining and culinary school with lead enrichment chef Jean-Louis Dumonet at the helm. Another world-class chef, Dumonet received the distinction of becoming a French master chef in 1994 and has had a very successful culinary career, including achieving his first Michelin star at age 28.

Explore these standouts in Explora's culinary program:

• Sakura: This beautiful Pan-Asian restaurant is open for lunch and dinner. The bright and airy design features cherry blossoms suspended from the ceilings and Asian-inspired decor. The authentic dining experience also boasts an open kitchen and a sushi bar with many ingredients sourced from Japan, and the venue has outdoor seating and indoor tables with floor-to-ceiling ocean views. Begin your evening with an Asian-inspired cocktail and a starter of crispy duck leg confit, wagyu beef tataki or soft-shell crab tempura. Main dish highlights include a miso black cod fillet, 72-hour slow-cooked short rib beef panang and an addictive lobster pad Thai.
• Anthology: The innovative concept at Anthology "is imagined as a unique culinary stage showcasing global cooking talents and cuisines, provenance and rare ingredients along with wines by highly coveted winemakers." The tasting menus are curated by a rotation of top chefs that changes throughout the year. The first chef who opened the new ship, Mauro Uliassi, has a three-Michelin-starred restaurant in the coastal town of Senigallia, Italy. The second chef (through April 2024) is Swedish-born Emma Bengtsson, executive chef at the two-Michelin-starred Aquavit in New York. Anthology is the only dining venue on Explora I that comes at an additional cost. There's also an optional wine pairing.

Compare  Explora Journeys  cruises on GoToSea.

Regent Seven Seas

Regent Seven Seas' culinary program, "Epicurean Indulgence," features top-notch dining experiences on board the luxury line's six ships. Guests will also find educational hands-on cooking classes in the Culinary Arts Kitchen and Epicurean Explorer tours focused on the wines, spirits and regional foods in destinations around the world. Regents' all-inclusive cruise fares include as many as seven dining venues (depending on the ship), that feature French, Italian, Pan-Asian and steakhouse restaurants as well as 24-hour in-suite room service. You can also enjoy fine wines and spirits in all the restaurants, bar and lounges.

Regent Seven Seas boasts a variety of excellent restaurants, but here are two top options:

• Pacific Rim: The entrance to Pacific Rim is just as impressive as its food with the floor-to-ceiling bronze Tibetan Buddhist prayer wheel that sits just outside the venue. Inside, your evening experience in this beautiful zen-like space begins with a signature cocktail and a difficult decision of which Thai, Japanese, Korean, Chinese or Vietnamese dishes to order for dinner. Begin your meal with a selection of sushi and sashimi, then sample pork and shrimp siu mai or thom kha gai soup. For a main dish, don't miss elevated dishes like miso black cod, Canadian lobster tempura or aromatic duck.
• Compass Rose: Compass Rose is the largest specialty restaurant on Regent's ships, and you'll find the elegant venue across the fleet. The menu features classic favorites and dishes that are always available, including foie gras, escargot, Alaskan crab salad, black Angus cuts of beef, New Zealand lamb chops and a daily choice of pasta. The additional chef's gourmet menu changes daily. If you prefer lighter fare, choose one of the healthy Serene Spa & Wellness selections. Guests can also customize their dining preferences and order from any of the menus.

Explore  Regent Seven Seas  deals on GoToSea.

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Courtesy of Viking

Viking's nine 930-guest and adults-only ocean-going ships offer destination-focused dining highlighting regional cuisine and local specialties. In addition, cruisers will find their favorite classic dishes (some with a twist), such as a Norwegian baby shrimp cocktail, beef tenderloin and linguine with clams in The Restaurant, Viking's main dining venue.

Other dining options include an open kitchen and international fare at World Café, which also has a large alfresco dining area called Aquavit Terrace. For more casual fare, head to Mamsen's, a favorite spot for Norwegian specialties, or stop by the Pool Grill, where you'll find made-to-order burgers and light bites. All of these venues – plus two specialty restaurants, Manfredi's and The Chef's Table – are included in the cruise fare.

Guests on board Viking's ships are also treated to a daily afternoon tea in the Wintergarden, a Scandinavian-inspired, light-filled space located next to the main pool. If you're interested in learning more about destination-focused cuisine, reserve a spot in one of the hands-on cooking classes at The Kitchen Table to learn how to prepare some of the local dishes. These special excursions and culinary classes begin with a visit to a local market and end with an evening of cooking (or watching the dinner preparation) – plus multiple courses of food and wine pairings. There is a fee for the class.

The two specialty restaurants provide an exceptional experience with Viking :

• Manfredi's: Plan to make a reservation at Manfredi's, Viking's Italian restaurant. It features an impressive menu of Italian specialties, including dishes with influence from Tuscany and Rome. Start the evening with a selection of antipasti for two and pasta e fagioli or crème of porcini soup. Then, choose between traditional offerings like osso bucco alla Milanese, rosemary parmesan-crusted lamb or the Tuscan favorite dish bistecca Fiorentina (Florentine-style steak). There are also wonderful fresh pasta dishes and several types of risotto.
• The Chef's Table: The Chef's Table menu changes several times throughout the cruise, allowing guests to sample a variety of multicourse tasting menus that highlight international and regional specialties. The beautiful venue is perfect for a special evening and a "food journey" where you'll savor a selection of Asian, Norwegian, French or other cuisines paired with wines by the ship's master sommelier.

Book a  Viking Ocean Cruises  itinerary on GoToSea.

Holland America Line

Holland America's master chef and creative culinary artist, Rudi Sodamin, has been with the line for around 20 years. He also heads up the Culinary Council, a group of well-known chefs who will be on board for culinary cruises scheduled throughout the year. During these special voyages, guests can attend cooking demonstrations and coffee chats and make reservations for exclusive chef-hosted dinners and events throughout the cruise.

Holland America also has a new initiative with Fresh Fish Ambassador, chef and TV personality Masaharu Morimoto (you'll recognize him from "Iron Chef"). The Global Fresh Fish program affords the line the ability to source more than 80 varieties of fresh fish in destinations around the world. In addition, you'll find certified sustainable Alaskan seafood on the menu during Alaska cruises .

Wine aficionados can look for wine tastings and wine blending sessions on board the ship and excursions to wine regions ashore, some in partnership with Food & Wine magazine. Rudi's Sel De Mer is an excellent choice for a fine dining evening, but the French brasserie-inspired venue is only available on three ships.

Here are two of Holland America's top specialty restaurants:

• Pinnacle Grill: Pinnacle Grill, an upscale steakhouse, is a specialty restaurant (with an additional fee) that's available on all of the line's 11 ships. It's a favorite spot for couples to enjoy a romantic evening and features classic dishes like shrimp cocktail, jumbo lump crab cakes, lobster bisque, filet mignon, surf and turf, and grilled lamb chops. Seafood lovers will also find Alaskan king salmon and halibut. Be sure to save room for a twist on a timeless dessert – the not-so-classic baked Alaska with Ben & Jerry's Cherry Garcia ice cream.
• Tamarind: Tamarind's elegant atmosphere and flavorful Pan-Asian cuisine make this another top pick for Holland American cruisers. The specialty restaurant is available on four ships (for an additional fee) and features dishes from Thailand, Japan, Indonesia and other Asian countries. Appetizers include specialties like crispy duck with a steamed bao bun, shrimp tempura and Chinese five-spice baby back ribs. For the main course, choose from several types of curries, sample Mongolian barbecue lamb chops, or feast on wok-seared shrimp and lobster. Plan to come early to Tamarind Bar to enjoy a cocktail such as a saketini while watching the sunset over the ocean.

Find a  Holland America  cruise on GoToSea.

Disney Cruise Line

Mark Ashman | Courtesy of Disney Cruise Line

Disney Cruise Line offers excellent family-friendly dining options with over-the-top Disney- and movie-themed venues with live character performances and shows. The ships also have upscale adults-only lounges, bars and restaurants that are perfect for a romantic date night. Disney Cruise Line 's unique rotational family dining concept allows guests to experience three different restaurants while having the same dedicated servers every one of those evenings, so the service is personalized throughout your voyage.

Guests on board Disney Wish can dine in the fictional kingdom of Arendelle at Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure. The "Frozen"-themed evening includes Nordic-inspired dishes, musical performances by the characters and even singalongs for the audience. On Disney Wonder , guests are treated to a night filled with New Orleans-style jazz and street parties plus Southern-influenced fare at Tiana's Place. You can also meet Princess Tiana from Disney's animated feature "The Princess and the Frog."

Other top dining venues on Disney Cruise Line include:

Palo: This adults-only Venetian-inspired venue is an upscale spot ideal for a quiet evening without the kids (who will be very happy to spend time at the onboard kids club). The fine dining experience features northern Italian cuisine and floor-to-ceiling windows offering views from nearly every perspective. The specialty restaurant also serves brunch on longer cruises. The prix fixe (or "prezzo fisso") menu includes four courses, or you can opt to choose from the regular menu with a selection of appetizers, salads, pizza, pasta and main dishes that are individually priced. Guests will find Palo on Disney Magic, Wonder, Dream and Fantasy.

On Disney Wish, there's an updated version of the dining concept, Palo Steakhouse. The modern steakhouse and Italian restaurant – inspired by Cogsworth, the enchanted clock from "Beauty and the Beast" – offers cuts of Australian wagyu, Japanese Kobe and Miyazaki beef as well as delightful Italian cuisine and spectacular ocean views. Be sure to splurge on a cocktail at The Rose before dinner if you're dining at Palo Steakhouse. Note that meals at Palo and Palo Steakhouse come with an additional charge.

Remy: The exquisite dining experience at Remy is a collaboration between French chef Arnaud Lallement from l'Assiette Champenoise (a three-Michelin-starred restaurant in France) and Walt Disney World Resort 's chef Scott Hunnel from the renowned restaurant Victoria & Albert's. Your leisurely evening of fine wines and a tasting menu of French fare begins with a signature Taittinger Champagne cocktail prepared tableside.

Special touches in the "Ratatouille"-inspired venue include Frette linens, Christofle silverware, exclusive Bernadaud china made for Remy, Riedel glassware, tableside international cheese service and decanting stations for wines. A Champagne brunch is served on sea days and select port days. There is an additional charge to dine at the restaurant, which is available on Disney Dream and Fantasy.

Explore  Disney Cruise Line  deals on GoToSea.

Virgin Voyages

Courtesy of Virgin Voyages

Virgin Voyages' creative approach to cruising can be found in nearly every aspect of the line's three ships, including its adults-only vibe and fresh approach to dining. Virgin Voyages does not have a traditional main dining room – and there's no onboard buffet or large dining halls. What you will find is more than 20 eateries with menus created by Michelin-starred chefs that are included in the cruise fare. These smaller and more intimate venues include The Galley, a food court-style spot for casual and grab-and-go fare like bento boxes, tacos, salads, sushi, burgers, noodle bowls and desserts.

Meat lovers and vegetarians will love the veggie-forward dishes and indulgent pork or chicken specialties at boldly designed Razzle Dazzle. At Extra Virgin, sample trattoria-style Italian fare like crispy artichokes, seafood pasta, grilled Mediterranean sea bass and a special tableside preparation of affogato for dessert. For a Korean barbecue experience, head over to Gunbae, a fun spot where your evening begins with a shot of soju – Korea's national drink and the best-selling liquor in the world. The Wake is the largest venue on board and the closest restaurant to a main dining room; it sits at the back of the ship and features a raw bar in addition to a selection of steaks and seafood (some offerings come with an upcharge).

There are many excellent options for dinner, but these are two cruiser-favorite venues:

• The Test Kitchen: Inspired by Auguste Escoffier's "Ma Cuisine," The Test Kitchen is a favorite spot for its laboratory-like eatery and cooking school. The interior decor features metal furniture, beakers and test tubes to get diners in the mood for the exploratory culinary evening. Menus at this innovative venue are presented as a list of ingredients, and guests get to watch the chef combine the selected ingredients of the day for the six-course tasting menu. The upscale experience takes about 2.5 hours. Wine, beer or cocktail pairings come at an additional fee.
• Pink Agave: Virgin's stylish Mexican dining venue, Pink Agave, was inspired by the vibrant streets of Mexico City – and the restaurant features what the line calls the most extensive selection of mezcal and tequila at sea. The menu offerings include small, medium and large plates plus desserts. To begin the evening, order a few small bites to share, including esquites (a grilled corn dish) and aguachile, which is a ceviche made with raw tuna, avocado and jicama. Then, for the main course, choose between options like roasted duck or chicken, achiote marinated pork, or a vegetarian stuffed poblano pepper.

Compare  Virgin Voyages  cruises on GoToSea.

Celebrity Cruises

Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity's selection and quality of restaurant venues – and attentive service – have made the line a favorite for food-focused cruisers for many years. If you're sailing on one of the Celebrity Edge-class ships ( Ascent , Beyond , Apex or Edge ), you'll have up to 32 restaurants to choose from with globally inspired menus created by Michelin-starred chef Cornelius Gallagher.

You can also look for special culinary cruises and onboard events designed in partnership with renowned Michelin-star French chef Daniel Boulud, the line's global culinary brand ambassador. Some of the onboard programs include wine-blending classes, whiskey and scotch tastings, mixology classes, and food and wine pairing workshops.

With so many complimentary dining and specialty options on Celebrity ships (making it hard to choose where to dine), here are two of the unique experiences not to be missed:

• Le Voyage by Daniel Boulud: Daniel Boulud's first signature restaurant at sea is inspired by the chef's global travels. The interior of the specialty restaurant, designed by the Parisian architect-design team of Jouin Manku, is as much of an experience as the meal with its intimate decor and banquette seating. Guests can choose between a standard dinner menu, a regular five-course tasting menu or a plant-based tasting menu. Le Voyage is available on the new Celebrity Ascent and Celebrity Beyond and costs an additional fee.
• Le Petit Chef: The innovative and fantastical 3D dining experience at Le Petit Chef is one of the most unique ways to spend an evening at sea. The immersive meal, which is either served in the quirky Qsine restaurant or Le Grand Bistro, depending on the ship, will delight cruisers of all ages, especially younger children. The tiny, animated chef (think about the size of your hand) entertains guests while preparing each dish. You may see him firing up a grill to sear a steak, picking fresh vegetables from a garden or even going on a fishing adventure in search of lobster. After each dish is prepared by "the chef," waiters will arrive with the actual dish. The 1.5-hour-long experience is an additional cost.

Explore  Celebrity Cruises  deals on GoToSea.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has sailed on nearly every type of cruise ship built, including the newest megaships, paddle-wheelers on the Mississippi River, and an 18-stateroom river ship on the Mekong River in Vietnam and Cambodia. She has also cruised on a traditional masted sailing ship and on a small luxury expedition vessel in Antarctica crossing the notorious Drake Passage twice. She covers the travel and culinary industries for major publications including U.S. News & World Report.

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• Cruise Drink Packages: Your Options by Cruise Line
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• The Best Food Cities in the U.S.
• Cruise Packing List Essentials
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

Tags: Travel , Cruises

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My first cruise with my son was a nightmare. We lost power twice, had to shower with flip-flops, and couldn't make 2 of our destinations.

• Up until this year I had never been on a cruise before. 
• I decided to take my 10-year-old son over Spring break. 
• The cruise desperately needed some TLC and we lost power twice. 

Until this year, I'd never been on a cruise — and I swore I never would. As someone anxious in general, I had plenty of reservations. What if there was a norovirus outbreak? What if I got seasick? What if the ship hit an iceberg, sinking like the Titanic? But as I brainstormed potential Spring break destinations with my 10-year-old, I reconsidered.

As a single mom, I don't love navigating new places alone, and organizing a weeklong vacation felt overwhelming. Setting sail on a fun-packed cruise ship where everything was pre-planned was the perfect solution.

Related stories

I booked a five-night Key West and Bahamas cruise through Celebrity, leaving from Miami. To avoid feeling trapped, I chose a stateroom with a veranda. We could sit outside in the salty ocean air and enjoy the stunning views.

Our pitstop in South Beach

To keep things stress-free, I bookended our trip with a full day and night in South Beach . Neither of us had been there, and the day before our cruise, I splurged on The Miami Beach Edition . The 5-star property, with private beach access, ocean-facing pools, and an on-site ice rink and bowling alley, did not disappoint.

We chose Estiatorio Milos for Easter dinner, a Greek seafood restaurant where fish flown in fresh from the Mediterranean are displayed. The experience included a chef visiting our table to discuss the day's offerings. Our trip was off to an incredible start.

Our cruise experience wasn't great

Boarding our cruise ship, the Celebrity Summit, went smoothly, and we went right to our stateroom , which appeared as advertised. On the balcony, we watched the sunlight dance on the water's surface. I relaxed, letting my worries slip away.

But when I went inside and opened the bathroom door, the musty smell of mildew overwhelmed me. During that night's shower, I discovered why as the water collected in a pool at my feet. From then on, we wore our flip-flops and showered fast.

We made our first port and explored the delightful city of Key West. But our boat couldn't dock the next day due to high winds, so we missed our second destination, Bimini, Bahamas . Disappointed, we explored the boat, looking for fun diversions. But other than gambling and drinking, there wasn't much to do.

The pool was rusty and dirty, and the "arcade" consisted of two Xboxes in a small room. The ship, built in 2001 and refurbished in 2016, desperately needed some TLC. Chipped tile, stained carpets, and broken faucets were a few of its glaring issues. My son checked out the gift shops while I grabbed a coffee. A salesperson put a $2,000 watch on his wrist, encouraging him to make the purchase. Luckily, he knew better.

We even lost power

During a several-hour power outage, our imaginations took over. We discussed the possibility of onboard pirates — zero communication from the crew didn't help. At one point, dark sludge crept up through our shower drain, and our toilet stopped working. When the power came back on, the $270 Wi-Fi didn't, and it remained spotty for the rest of the voyage.

The ship went black again during dinner the next day. The staff served our meal in the dark like nothing was amiss. At that point, we wanted off. The next day, we docked in Nassau, Bahamas, where we played in the ocean. I let my son take me on a Jet Ski ride, which was the highlight of his trip.

The following morning was debarkation day. We couldn't get off the boat fast enough.

We enjoyed another beautiful day at South Beach, sinking our toes in white sand beaches and exploring the outdoor Lincoln Road Mall.

Though our cruise experience was probably an outlier, I won't chance it again. But South Beach? We're in love.

Watch: Cruise ship captain breaks down 8 cruise ship disasters in movies and TV

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