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Ports in Portugal are also included in Mediterranean cruise itineraries. Even though it doesn't have any coastline on the Mediterranean Sea, Portugal is considered part of the Mediterranean region. Indulge in Mediterranean cuisine at waterfront restaurants, sample fresh seafood and local wines, and enjoy regional specialties at bustling markets in areas like the Amalfi Coast, Valencia or Capri. But I only book with third-party operators if the ship docks right at the city I want to explore because I never want to miss the all-aboard time. Many river lines also offer Christmas market cruises in November and December to Germany, Austria and Eastern Europe. If you're seeking a slightly cheaper river cruise in Europe, spring can mean flowers in glorious bloom and milder temperatures.
Popular Mediterranean Cruise Ports
A seven-night sailing from Boston to Montreal in May 2024 with Holland America starts at $779 per person. A similar seven-night itinerary from Boston to Quebec City in late September starts at $1,279 per person. The summer months are also the best time to see several species of whales off the coast of Newfoundland, including humpback whales. The summer offers some of the nicest weather, with daytime highs in Boston and New York between 80 and 90 degrees. Along the coastal areas in Maine and Canada, you'll find highs in the 70s in July.
Night Temperatures
Not actual snow; this is almond blossom season, the beginning of spring, and is a wonderful time to visit. What’s typically the low season is becoming increasingly popular for Mediterranean getaways. You won’t be lying on the beach in January, but in the far south and east, for example, you could find wonderful hiking weather. In these winter months, you’ll have museums and galleries virtually to yourself. Restaurants and bars remain open in port cities, and the atmosphere is, if anything, more relaxed than at the height of summer. All of these cruise destinations are considered Mediterranean, along with Monaco, the southern coasts of France and Spain, and even Israel.
Mediterranean Cruises 101
However, the draw of ideal summer vacation weather in June will bring more crowds than you’ll see in the shoulder season. These lines offer a variety of itinerary choices, so you can find the Mediterranean ports you most want to visit. You'll also find lots of restaurant choices and evening entertainment options to keep you occupied at night when the ship is sailing. You can find a variety of weeklong Mediterranean cruises, but if you've got the time, nine- to 14-night sailings are not uncommon. Seven-night cruises are best if you're short on time or want to tack on a few days in Barcelona, Rome or Athens before or after your cruise.
If you have some flexibility with what you want to see and do, a winter cruise could save you some money. Full of art, culture, romance, and iconic landmarks, each season offers its unique take on the Italian and Spanish ports that make up these beautiful itineraries in Europe. If you're ready to plan your next cruise vacation, read on for our take on the best months and seasons to cruise The Mediterranean. Fall can also be a great time to visit the most southerly Mediterranean ports, such as Egypt and Israel, as the peak summer months are almost sure to be uncomfortably hot. Early June should come with fewer crowds than later in the month, as many families do not vacation as soon as the school year is over, preferring to wait until a bit later in the summer.
Best Time to Cruise Europe: April - Mid-June and September - October
Visit the Parthenon in Athens, Greece, or the Colosseum in Rome; see Michelangelo's David in Florence, Italy; or make a pilgrimage to the Wailing Wall in Jerusalem. Take a tour to a medieval town or marvel at the construction of a soaring cathedral. MSC Cruises offers a diverse selection of Mediterranean itineraries, including unique stops in lesser-known ports. Experience their elegant ships, exceptional service, and a variety of dining options while exploring the wonders of the Mediterranean.
Hotels
May and early June are great options for cruises to the archipelago, and you can expect highs in the low 80s by June. December, March and April also offer nice weather, although the rainy season sometimes starts as early as mid-March before continuing through the fall. The shoulder seasons will also have fewer passengers and tourists — and you may even have some attractions to yourself in the cities and towns. Shoulder season in the Caribbean is May through November, the months just before peak season, which is December through April. This is the time when you'll typically find better deals on pricing, especially in May and September to November. • Location, Location, Location The smoothest sailing part of a cruise ship is on the lower decks, midship.
At Cruisebound, we're here to help you explore the wonders of the Mediterranean, offering you the opportunity to immerse yourself in its vibrant cultural tapestry and its thriving wildlife. October sees slightly chillier weather than September, but is also considered one of the best months for a Mediterranean cruise, and a bit of a “hidden secret” among those cruising to Europe in the fall. Royal Caribbean’s Mediterranean season continues to late October or early November, at which point ships return to the Caribbean for the winter season. The Mediterranean cruise shoulder season returns in September as a new school year begins, leading to fewer crowds and lower prices. In addition, the temperature in early September remains excellent, making the month one of the best times of the year for a Mediterranean cruise.
When to cruise the Mediterranean for the best weather
You can’t go wrong with a Mediterranean cruise any time of the cruise season, but certain months are better than others depending on what you want to experience. During winter there are few options for cruises and many places close for the season. While the primary Mediterranean cruise season runs during the warmer months of the year, you can still enjoy plenty of what the region has to offer during the winter months.
Alaska has a short cruise season that lasts from late April through October. June through August is Alaska's high season, when weather is warmest and summer vacation season is in full swing. However, crowds and high fares are the norm at this time of year and rain is likely, especially in August. May in Bermuda is your best bet for shoulder season travel if you're after discounts and the highest likelihood for sunny skies and warm temperatures. Even so, you can expect temperate weather year-round, and far less humidity than islands farther south. If it's too chilly for the beach in the shoulder season, you can always try out the island's many golf courses and spas.
Best times to go on a cruise: Alaska, Caribbean, Mediterranean - USA TODAY
Best times to go on a cruise: Alaska, Caribbean, Mediterranean.
Posted: Thu, 29 Feb 2024 08:00:00 GMT [source]
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. If you don't enjoy big crowds with lots of partying, avoid a cruise to Australia during the New Year's Eve festivities, as it's one of the busiest times of year for tourists, especially in Sydney. Australia Day celebrations can also draw crowds, so be aware if your itinerary includes that January holiday.
The 8 Best Mediterranean Cruises Of 2024 - Forbes
The 8 Best Mediterranean Cruises Of 2024.
Posted: Tue, 23 Jan 2024 08:00:00 GMT [source]
Disney is a luxury cruise line and offers excellent amenities to complement your cruise holiday. Peak-season cruises tend to be more expensive, so if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, consider traveling during the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn). The main Mediterranean cruise season runs from April through November each year, with June to September the peak months.
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