From the cliffs of Cornwall to the shores of Capri: applying your UK coast guide mindset to a Mediterranean cruise

There is something undeniably alluring about life by the coast of the UK. The gentle sounds of the waves, the cool salty ocean breeze and the ever-changing changing horizon are not just geography, but a mindset that reminds you of the sunny islands of the Mediterranean.

Whether you live by the ocean, or are simply inspired by its essence, the best way to channel this sense of freedom is to make space in your schedule and book a cruise to the Mediterranean coastline to reap the many advantages of being outdoors.

Besides the mental and physical benefits, cruising this region gives you access to some of the most iconic harbours of Greece, Italy and Croatia with their top cultural landmarks and some of the best weather to boot.

Numerous cruise lines sail to this appealing region, each offering a mix of cultural and religious sites, combined with beautiful coastal landscapes that allow you to connect with nature, something which comes naturally with time spent on the water.

Best time to cruise the Mediterranean

The Mediterranean is a year round destination, but the time you wish to cruise depends on what the object of your vacation is.

Factors like festivals, weather and sea conditions and pricing could well determine which travel period is right for you.

Often September is considered the best period to not only enjoy the coastal attractions with fewer crowds, but dipped sailing prices of as much as 50% as this is the shoulder season.

Why cruise to the Mediterranean

The Mediterranean has been enchanting cruise travellers for ages with its sun-drenched coastlines, vibrant cultures and excellent cuisine.

Cruising to this region combines the excitement of visiting multiple coastal cities with the ease and comfort of a floating resort.

There is no need to pack and unpack every few days and worry about the hassle of airport transfers. You get to see a new destination by day, and relax in the comfort of your stateroom by night.

If you are a first-timer, a Mediterranean cruise could be rewarding experiences as you will need to see and do a lot, without the complicated stress of logistics.

What to look for on a first Mediterranean cruise

Cruising the right cruise can make a world of a difference in your cruise vacation. For the best comfort levels you need to consider:

• Trip duration: For first-time Mediterranean cruisers, a week-long itinerary is long enough to visit several islands to get a good balance of rest and exploration.
• Embarkation ports: For better coastal landscapes, choose the Western Mediterranean ports of Italy, France and Spain as they are major transit hubs and are well-connected by international flights
• Onboard comforts: Look for cruise lines with top class amenities like spas and entertainment options to make your first onboard experience more enjoyable

Tips for booking your Mediterranean cruise

A little planning goes a long way into making a cruise vacation a valued part of your trip. So consider:

Book early: Mediterranean cruises tend to sell out fast, especially during the peak season. Book well in advance to get the best accommodation options, especially if you are eyeing a specific itinerary.

Travel off-season: If you cruise in the shoulder months of May or September, you will enjoy better weather, fewer crowds, and importantly lower rates

Pre or post cruise stay: Make sure you keep an extra day, either before or after your cruise trip, to explore your embarkation city. It is a great way to see a new destination and ease into your cruise trip.

Cruise accommodation: Consider booking a balcony cabin, providing it fits in your budget. It is a great way to watch views of the Mediterranean coastline as you drift by from your private space. You are unlikely to forget this first-time cruise memory.

Selecting the cruise line: Plan ahead to choose the right cruise line and itinerary, as this can make all the difference between a stress-free trip and an overwhelming holiday. Enjoy the onboard amenities, embrace the local flavors and soak up the surreal coastal views from your ship’s balcony.

Countries you can visit on a Mediterranean cruise

 When you cruise the Mediterranean, it means you wake up in a new country each morning with breathtaking coastal beauty just a step away.

Bounded by Europe, Asia and Africa, allows travellers to experience a remarkable variety of landscape, languages and traditions, all within a single itinerary.

Below are some of the countries you can visit on a Mediterranean cruise which are perfect for your allure of the coasts of the region:

• Italy: Italy is the cornerstone of most Western Mediterranean cruise itineraries that offer an unmatched combination of culinary delights, history and coastal beauty. From Naples you can access Pompeii, Capri and the Amalfi coast. In Sicily, Palermo and Messina are known for their vibrant markets and sweeping coastal views.
• Greece: The highlight of any Eastern Mediterranean itinerary renowned for its idyllic islands, especially the legendary sunset views from Santorini and the relaxed coastal resorts of Corfu.
• Croatia: Situated on the Adriatic Sea, the dramatic coastline of Croatia is one of the most picturesque in the Mediterranean. Time spent by the sea on its pristine beaches and inland adventures is something you will cherish forever.

Ready to book your Mediterranean getaway? Keep our tips handy for a hassle free adventure.