thomson eastern mediterranean cruises

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Eastern Mediterranean Cruises

The sparkling coast of the Eastern Mediterranean awaits.

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Luxury Cruises to the Eastern Mediterranean

From its stunning coastline and ancient architecture to its famous cuisine and charming culture, cruising through the Eastern Mediterranean is one of the most rewarding vacations you’ll ever experience.

On one of our luxury European cruises to the Eastern Mediterranean, you’ll discover incredible ports in Israel, Croatia, Greece, Malta, Turkey, Slovenia, Montenegro, and Italy. Stroll alongside the white-washed buildings of Santorini. Explore the walled city of Dubrovnik. Marvel at historic landmarks in Istanbul. Or visit one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World in Ephesus. There’s no shortage of beauty and wonder awaiting during an Eastern Mediterranean cruise.

Eastern Mediterranean Cruise Highlights

Ancient ruins.

Explore fascinating historical treasures on a cruise to the Eastern Mediterranean. In Athens, visit the famous ruins of the Parthenon, a temple dedicated to the goddess Athena that dates back to 438 BC. Step inside Diocletian’s Palace in Split, a sprawling fort built for a Roman emperor in the fourth century. During an overnight stay in Jerusalem, see famous religious landmarks including the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, the scene of Jesus’ resurrection, and the Al-Aqsa Mosque and the Dome of the Rock, two sacred Muslim sites.

Greek Sunsets

You’ll never forget the first time you witness one of Greece’s legendary sunsets. Oia, a picturesque town on the island of Santorini, and Zakynthos, a small island surrounded by impossibly blue waters, are both considered some of the best spots in the world to see the sun go down. Make your way up a cliffside restaurant or viewing point and watch as the sky transforms into a canvas of pink, orange, and purple hues in the distance. 

Mediterranean Cuisine

Feast your senses on the delicious food and drink of this magical region. Explore the unique flavors of Eastern Europe during your days in port, where you’ll dine in seaside restaurants, wander through charming local markets, and sip some of the best wines in the world. Enjoy grilled fish and fresh octopus in Greece. Order a plate of black risotto, a Croatian specialty, in Split or Dubrovnik. While in Israel, eat as much hummus, falafel, and baba ganoush as your heart desires.

Featured Ports

Sail into the sparkling coast of Dubrovnik, a chic Croatian port known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic.” Walk around the well-preserved city walls and admire the scenic terracotta rooftops. Feast on Croatian wine and oysters, two of the region’s delicacies. Visit the Rector’s Palace, a stunningly restored Gothic building. Enjoy a leisurely bike ride around a nearby village, then lounge under the sun at one of Dubrovnik’s lovely sandy beaches.

You’ll fall head over heels with Santorini as soon as you step foot on this idyllic Greek Island, where winding alleys are surrounded by white-washed buildings, blooming flowers, and spectacular views of the Ionian Sea. Explore the cliffside villages of Fira and Oia and their cafes, restaurants, and blue-domed churches. Sail around the island’s scenic half-moon-shaped bay while marveling at a volcanic caldera. Or lounge under the sun and dip your toes in one of Santorini’s famous black sand beaches.

East meets West in Istanbul, a cosmopolitan city located between Europe and Asia that combines the best of both worlds. Learn all about the rich history of iconic landmarks like the Blue Mosque and the Hagia Sophia. Go shopping at the labyrinth Grand Bazaar, where you’ll find all sorts of handmade treasures. Sip on a glass of Turkish tea by the Bosphorus, the body of water that separates the European and Asian sides of the city.

Eastern Mediterranean Cruise Itineraries

The Eastern Mediterranean cruise season begins in late May and lasts until mid-October. You’ll find everything from 6-night jaunts around Croatia, Greece, and Montenegro and 7-night sailings that stop in Italy, Malta, and Croatia, to lengthier journeys around the area, including 10-night cruises to Italy, Croatia, and Montenegro and 12-night journeys around Turkey and the Greek Islands. Most of our Eastern Mediterranean cruises spend only a day at sea, giving you plenty of time to explore the region in depth. 

Itineraries

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Why Sail to the Eastern Mediterranean with Celebrity Cruises

There’s no better way to explore the Mediterranean than on a cruise with Celebrity Cruises. Once you set sail around this magical region, you’ll understand why we’ve been voted the best cruise line in Europe for 11 consecutive years. Not only will you travel to some of the most coveted destinations in the Eastern Mediterranean, but you’ll also enjoy an unrivaled experience on board during your time at sea.

Our ships are known for their impeccable service, unlimited entertainment offerings, and world-class cuisine. Savor dishes crafted by our Michelin-starred chef that bring the flavors and food of the destination right to your plate. Spend an indulgent day at our serene spa, where you’ll leave feeling refreshed and reinvigorated. Marvel at the thrilling performances that take place in the theater, and enjoy unbeatable views of the ocean everywhere you turn. 

If you want to take your vacation to the next level, book an Eastern Mediterranean cruise on one of our newest vessels, Celebrity Edge or Celebrity Apex. These cutting-edge ships feature an innovative outward design that brings the ocean right into your stateroom. Explore exciting venues such as Eden, a bar, lounge, and restaurant with live performances and inventive cuisine, as well as the Magic Carpet, a moving cantilevered platform where you’ll feel as if you’re floating above the ocean.

View All Cruises to the Eastern Mediterranean

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Marella Cruises

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Marella Cruises fleet

Marella voyager, marella discovery, marella explorer, marella discovery 2, marella explorer 2, review of marella cruises.

Marella Cruises (renamed in 2018 from "Thomson Cruises", tui.co.uk/cruise) is a "TUI Group"-owned and "TUI UK and Ireland"-operated British cruise line, that offers low-price voyages in Europe, Caribbean, and Asia. The company's older vessels are chartered from Holland America Line and Celestyal Cruises . Marella's new fleet consists of TUI-owned ships formerly owned and operated by Royal Caribbean and TUI Cruises .

In late-April 2020 was officially announced that the liner Marella Celebration will be retired (either sold or scrapped ) after 15 years of service with Thomson-Marella UK. The ship was scheduled to be homeported in Dubrovnik Croatia (June through October 2020, and May through October 2021), in Limassol Cyprus (Nov-Dec 2020, and March-April 2021) and in Dubai UAE (Dec 2020 through March 2021). All these voyages (which are still listed at CruiseMapper) were canceled.

In mid-October 2021, TUI announced that Mein Schiff Herz will be transferred in 2023 to Marella's fleet. Following a drydock refurbishment, the boat will be renamed Marella Voyager , starting operations for Marella on June 3, 2023.

Company history and changes

Initially, Thomson Cruises (UK company) started operations in 1973, but due to rising fuel costs, its passenger shipping operations were terminated in 1976. Thomson restarted cruise shipping in 1995. Marella Cruises is a very popular brand on the British travel market. It was established in 1965 as a division of the UK's largest tour operator and travel agency Thomson Holidays (now TUI UK). Thomson Holidays was a subsidiary of Thomson Corporation (1989-2008 defunct). Marella's parent company (TUI Group) owns hotels, the companies TUI Cruises, Marella Cruises, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises , and the travel brands International Expeditions and Zegrahm Expeditions. The company also owns aircraft and the airlines Corsair International (France), TUI Airways (UK), TUI fly Nordic (Sweden), TUI fly Belgium, TUI fly Deutschland, TUI fly Netherlands.

Two Greek ocean liners were chartered by Thomson in 1973, but the company failed to capture the audience, like other cruise lines of the 1970s. Operations were restarted in 1995 after Thomson chartered the liner Sapphire (originally named MS Italia, built 1965, scrapped 2010) from Louis Cruise Lines (now Celestyal Cruises ). Soon the company chartered other ocean liners, among which Island Breeze (RMS Transvaal Castle, 1961-2003), Topaz (RMS Empress of Britain, 1955-2008), The Emerald (SS Santa Rosa, 1958-2012).

Thomson Cruises aimed an effect on the British market just like Carnival did in the USA. Package holidays had already been very popular in the UK, and the company wanted the same for cruising. Despite the aging ships, Thomson Cruises attracted an ever-increasing number of first-time UK cruisers with affordable fares and presence of the company's travel agencies across Britain. In the 1990s, Thomson started operations as a budget cruise line and improved its product becoming more successful in the UK by improving amenities, ships and services, and introducing a wider range of itineraries.

Royal Caribbean sold its stake in Island Cruises to TUI Travel (Thomson's parent company) in 2008. In 2009 Island Star left the fleet and joined the Spanish brand of Royal Caribbean - Pullmantur. Island Escape joined Thomson fleet in 2009 and continued to offer informal cruises to the UK source market. Thomson Dream (Marella Dream) joined the fleet in spring 2010 being long-term chartered from Costa Cruises .

In March 2015, Royal Caribbean International (RCI) announced they had agreed to sell Splendour of the Seas to TUI in the second quarter of 2016. TUI would lease the vessel to Thomson Cruises in order to replace Island Escape. In May 2015, TUI Group announced plans for Mein Schiff 1/now Marella Explorer and Mein Schiff 2/Herz/now Marella Voyager to be transferred to Thomson UK over the next few years. Shiff 1 (renamed Marella Explorer ) entered Marella's fleet in 2017. In October 2015, Thomson's Island Cruises brand was discontinued after its only ship MS Island Escape (now Ocean Gala ) completed its last voyage with Thomson.

For FY2017, company's turnover was GBP 502 million, with EBITA (earnings-before-interest-taxes-depreciation-amortization) GBP 86,5 million and total number of served passengers 308,000 (101,7% occupancy). For FY2018 (fiscal year), TUI Group's earnings (from the 3 cruise brands - TUI, Marella, and Hapag-Lloyd) increased by 10,7% - to EUR 901,9 million. The company's turnover was EUR 324 million (26,8% increase over 2017). Group's average daily rates increased to EUR 178 euro (TUI, up from EUR 173), EUR 141 (Marella, up from EUR 131) and EUR 615 (Hapag-Lloyd, up from EUR 594).

In March 2018, TUI Group announced that to Marella's fleet will be added Marella Explorer 2 (formerly SkySea Golden Era, initially Celebrity Century), with scheduled delivery in December 2018. The liner was previously operated by SkySea Cruise Line - Asian joint venture company (owned by the RCCL-Royal Caribbean and Ctrip International). SkySea was the first contemporary brand developed for the Chinese market. Operational between May 2015 - September 2018, the new cruise line handled nearly 300 voyages and around 0,5 million passengers.

Marella "cruise and stay" holiday package deals include hotel or apartment at the beginning or at the end of the voyage.

Onboard cuisine offers everything you can think about - from healthy options to exotic local specialties and culinary choices on offer. Daytime entertainment with Marella cruises is great for all members of the family. There are also different activities for children onboard and special children's menu for junior diners. You can relax each evening in the wide range of bars and lounges or enjoy first-class entertainment with singers and comedians.

Marella fly-cruise deals from the UK to the Caribbean are served by regional TUI Airways flights from UK airports ( Cardiff , Doncaster Sheffield, East Midlands, Greenock-Glasgow , Newcastle , Stansted, Birmingham, Manchester, London -Gatwick). Flights are to the company's Caribbean homeports Bridgetown Barbados and Montego Bay Jamaica . In 2019 were introduced "cruise-only flights" to Malaysia from Manchester Airport. The TUI Airways service (via Boeing 787 aircraft) connects to Langkawi Island - homeport for Marella's Far East Asia voyages. Such direct flights (TUI Airways) are also offered from London-Gatwick and Birmingham.

On select cruises, Marella offers free all-inclusive upgrades on the fleet's older liners. The new vessels ( Marella Discovery and Marella Discovery 2 ) offered these all-inclusive packages as standard fare inclusion. Since summer 2019, TUI's Marella brand operates with all-inclusive cruise deals fleetwide.

Since November 2022, Marella UK (via partnership with OneSpaWorld Holdings/health and wellness company) provides ocean-inspired wellness products and services on all its ships. The range of OneSpaWorld's services includes Ocean Body Treatments (massages and polishes), Ocean Facial, Ocean Salon Services. On Marella ships, OneSpaWorld uses premium beauty brands like Elemis, L'Oreal, Kerastase. The brands owned by OneSpaWorld include Mandara Spa, Bliss Spa, Chavana Spa, Glow Spa.

(Coronavirus crisis) passenger shipping pause 2020-2021

Due to the COVID pandemic, Marella UK suspended its entire fleet's passenger shipping operations (all liners) by canceling all voyages with pre-scheduled departures in the period March 14, 2020, through late-June 2021.

Next are listed all Marella ships and their first departure dates/regions/homeports in 2021-2022 - DISCOVERY (Sept 3/Mediterranean-Greece from Corfu/"Aegean Discovery"), DISCOVERY 2 ( April 5, 2022 /Mediterranean from Palma de Mallorca), EXPLORER (June 25/ UK from Southampton ), EXPLORER 2 (July 10/ UK from Newcastle ).

• Marella's Caribbean 2021 program was canceled, which affected the ships DISCOVERY (from Montego Bay Jamaica) and EXPLORER 2 (from Bridgetown Barbados).
• DISCOVERY 2's Mediterranean 2021 program (Adriatic and Greek Islands from Corfu) was canceled, and the ship restarted in April 2022.
• DISCOVERY's 2021 homeporting in Palma de Mallorca was replaced with Corfu Greece.
• Two Marella ships (Celebration, Dream) were sold and left the fleet. Marella Dream was originally planned to restart voyages on May 4, 2021. Marella Dream was originally planned to restart voyages on May 4, 2021.

All affected bookings received full refunds (100% monetary) or 110% in FCC (future cruise credit), including on prepurchased through Marella (TUI UK) packages and services. With rebooking, the fare paid is transferred to FCCs (110%). Holiday package bookings (cruise and land vacations) receive 120% refund (in FCC) or 100% cash refund. All refunds are received within 4 weeks prior to the original departure date.

Itinerary of Marella Cruises

With a large selection of destinations and itineraries, Marella Cruises may show you the whole world. With a variety of UK cruises with departures from Southampton , Newcastle and Harwich , fly-cruise holidays from a large number of airports (available departures from over twenty UK airports), Marella Cruises sail in the Red Sea and the Canary Islands during winter, the Mediterranean in summer. There are about a hundred different destinations to explore aboard Marella ships.

Marella's UK-Caribbean fly-cruise deals are via TUI Airways (sister-company, part of TUI Group). The packages include direct flights from the UK (London-Gatwick and Birmingham) to Melbourne Orlando Airport. Marella optionally offers "cruise and stay" packages with a choice of 18 different hotels in the Caribbean.

Marella cruise itinerary changes

Following the Coronavirus crisis, in mid-April 2021 Marella announced a new ex-UK 2021 summer program with itineraries leaving roundtrip from UK ports and mainly coastal cruising along Britain's coast.

Marella Explorer 1 was homeported in Southampton (starting June 25, 2021).

• The 3-night "Sail the South Coast" (mini-cruise itinerary from Southampton) visits Dover and Portland.
• The "Sail the Irish Sea" itinerary (starting August 2021) from Southampton visits Liverpool, Dublin, Cobh.
• Scottish itineraries out of Southampton visit Invergordon, Leith (Edinburgh), Newcastle.
• "A Taste of the West Coast" itinerary (one-way Southampton to Portland) visits Greenock, Belfast, Holyhead.

Marella Explorer 2 was homeported in Newcastle upon Tyne (starting July 10, 2021).

Marella Celebration (1984-built, former ms Noordam and Thomson Celebration) joined the fleet in 2005. During summer, the ship operated Adriatic Sea roundtrips out of Dubrovnik Croatia. During winter it offered Persian Gulf cruises from Dubai . For summer 2018, the ship was relocated to homeport Dubrovnik for an adults-only cruise program with full-day port stays in Bar, Korcula, Zadar, Venice, Trieste, Split. The ship also introduced 2 new 7-day itineraries, themed "Sail Three Seas" (Valletta Malta, Messina Sicily, Cephalonia Island, Igoumenitsa, Kotor) and "Greek Mystique" (Chania Crete, Piraeus-Athens, Kalamata, Corfu Island, Kotor).

• In late-April 2020, Marella announced that the Celebration ship will be retired after 15 years of service with Thomson-Marella UK.
• Marella Celebration was scheduled to be homeported in Dubrovnik Croatia (June through October 2020, and May through October 2021), in Limassol Cyprus (Nov-Dec 2020, and March-April 2021) and in Dubai UAE (Dec 2020 through March 2021). All these scheduled departures were cancelled. Among those were two repositioning cruises (via Suez Canal ) visiting Singapore . Both relocation voyages ("Wonders of the Far East" and "Flavours of the Far East") were planned as 14-day itineraries featuring a late-night stay in Singapore.
• Marella Celebration had also planned 3 new itineraries from homeports Limassol, Dubai and Dubrovnik. The 6-night "Ancient Adventure" (from Dubrovnik) visits Piraeus-Athens and Rhodes Island. The relocation voyages between Limassol and Dubai ("Continental Crossing" and "Arabia Awaits") visited Aqaba-Petra (Jordan) and Salalah (Oman).

Thomson Majesty (1992-built) joined the fleet in 2012 and operated roundtrips to Madeira and Canary Islands with departures from Tenerife and Gran Canaria. In 2018, the ship was sold to Mano Cruises and now operates as Crown Iris .

Thomson Spirit (1983-built, former ms Nieuw Amsterdam , ms Patriot, ms Spirit), joined the fleet in 2003. The ship offered year-round European itineraries - Western Mediterranean (from Malaga and roundtrip Madeira) and Canary Islands (departures from Tenerife and Gran Canaria). Thomson Spirit's last cruise for Marella was scheduled for October 21, 2018.

Marella Dream (1986, fka MS Homeric, ms Westerdam , Costa Europa, Thomson Dream) joined the fleet in 2010 and left the fleet in 2020. During summer, the ship offered Eastern Mediterranean roundtrips from Corfu Greece. During winter it offered Caribbean roundtrips from Jamaica (Montego Bay), with Transatlantic repositioning crossings between the Caribbean and Europe.

• On October 1, 2020, was announced the r etirement ( end of the charter ) of the 34-year-old Marella Dream - after 10 years of service with Thomson-Marella UK (2010-2020). All Marella Dream cruises scheduled between May 4 and December 30, 2021 (37x itineraries) were cancelled. All Marella Dream Mediterranean 2021 voyages were transferred to Marella Discovery 1, which was rescheduled for homeporting in Palma de Mallorca Spain (instead of Port Canaveral USA ). As a result of the redeployment, Discovery 1's summer 2021 Caribbean voyages were all cancelled.

Marella Discovery 1 (1996, former "Splendour of the Seas" and "Thomson Discovery") joined the fleet in 2016. The ship offers year-round Western Mediterranean roundtrips from Palma de Mallorca .

Marella Discovery 2 (1995-built, fka "Legend of the Seas" / Royal Caribbean and "TUI Discovery 2"), joined the fleet in Spring 2017. The ship operates Mediterranean cruises (leaving from Malaga Spain) and Canary Islands cruises (out of Tenerife to ports in the Canaries, Morocco, and Madeira).

Marella Explorer (1996-built, fka Mein Schiff 1 , initially "Celebrity Galaxy") started operations in 2018, with 7-day Western Mediterranean cruises leaving roundtrip from homeport Palma De Mallorca Spain and visiting popular French Riviera ports in France .

Marella Explorer 2 (1995-built, fka "SkySea Golden Era", initially "Celebrity Century") started operations in April 2019 with 7-day Mediterranean itineraries leaving roundtrip from homeport Naples (Italy) .

Marella Voyager (1997-built, fka "Mein Schiff 1" and "Mein Schiff Herz", initially "Celebrity Mercury") joins Marella's fleet in June 2023. Following a drydock, the boat's Maiden Voyage leaves on June 3, 2023, from Palma de Mallorca (Majorca Island, Balearic Spain) .

• Out of Palma/homeport are visited large port cities in Italy, Spain and France. The 7-day itineraries are themed "Mediterranean Secrets", "Highlights Of The Mediterranean", "Highlights Of The Med", "Magic Of Spain", "Cosmopolitan Classics", "Mediterranean Secrets".
• Marella Voyager's winter 2023-2024 program is in the Caribbean, based on homeporting in Bridgetown Barbados and offers 3x 8-day itineraries - "A Taste of the Tropics from Barbados", "Paradise Islands", and "Tropical Delights". The ship's winter schedule will be open for booking from July 21, 2022.

Itineraries 2024-2025

Marella returns to Dominicana in winter 2024-2025, after a 7-year hiatus (since 2017 under the Thomson Cruises brand).

The adults-only ship Marella Explorer 2 is homeported in La Romana (starting on Christmas Eve/Dec 24, 2024) for a series of Caribbean roundtrips. The itineraries visit destinations in Grenada, Barbados, St Lucia, St Kitts, Dominica, Antigua, St Maarten, Tortola BVI, and Samana Dominicana (new port for Marella).

Additionally, a third itinerary visits the Netherlands' ABC Islands (Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao).

Marella's winter 2024-2025 Mediterranean schedule features two shorter itineraries. Marella Explorer ship starts from Malaga (on December 9th, 2024) heading towards Tenerife Canaries via Gibraltar UK and Casablanca Morocco , with one day at sea. The Marella Voyager ship departs from Palma de Mallorca (on November 2) visiting Spain's ports Alicante , Almeria , and Malaga.

New winter itineraries include 6-night voyages leaving from Marmaris Turkey , Corfu Greece and Malaga.

Marella's summer 2025 itineraries incorporate 10x cruise-and-stay/cruisetour packages.

Marella Discovery 2 is homeported in Limassol Cyprus (commencing May 7, 2025) for the summer, marking the brand's return to Limassol since the winter of 2017 (under the Thomson brand). The liner will operate two different itineraries - "Aegean Gems" ( Kusadasi , Mykonos , Piraeus-Athens , Souda Crete , Rhodes ) and "Grecian Discovery" (Piraeus, Santorini , Crete, Rhodes).

Simultaneously, Marella Voyager (inaugurated in June 2023) is homeported in Palma during summer 2025, introducing 4 different itineraries: "Magic of Spain", "Treasures of the Mediterranean", "Mediterranean Secrets" and "Mediterranean Medley".

Marella's summer 2025 program also introduces 10x cruise-and-land packages providing access to 200+ hotels in destinations like Palma, Corfu, Dubrovnik, Cyprus. These packages allow selection between pre-cruise and post-cruise hotel stays.

Marella Cruises to Cuba

Marella Explorer 2's 7-night itinerary "Flavours of the Caribbean" visits Cuba with an overnight in Havana . The 7-day roundtrip from Jamaica ( Montego Bay ) also visits Mexico (Cozumel), and Grand Cayman Island (George Town).

Marella offered roundtrips to Cuba out of Jamaica ( Montego Bay ) with Marella Dream . Itineraries started in 2017. The maiden voyage was on January 31 (7-night to Grand Cayman, Havana, Cozumel). In 2020, two Marella ships (Celebration, Dream) were sold and left the fleet.

Marella Cruises related cruise news

Marella Cruises UK homeports ship Explorer 2 in Dominicana (winter 2024-2025 Caribbean season)

Minister of Tourism David Collado recently announced that the UK-based Marella Cruises has designated the Dominican Republic, specifically La Romana...

Marella UK's Asia & Middle East cruises (ship Discovery 2) canceled due to Red Sea crisis

TUI has made the decision to cancel Marella Cruises UK's Asia and Middle East program from November 2024 to the end of April 2025. In a...

Marella (TUI UK) cancels Red Sea repositioning cruises due to safety concerns

Marella Cruises has made the decision to cancel a series of repositioning sailings on Discovery 2 ship due to concerns regarding the Red Sea area...

Marella UK unveils summer 2025 itineraries, incorporating 10 cruise-and-stay packages

Marella Cruises UK unveiled its summer 2025 itineraries, incorporating 10 cruise-and-stay packages into the offerings. Marella Discovery 2 ship is...

Marella Cruises integrates Starlink WiFi connectivity throughout its fleet

The UK-based company Marella Cruises has recently integrated the Starlink WiFi connectivity service throughout its fleet. This implementation is...

Port Canaveral commissioners to spend $67+ million for 2 new cruise terminal parking garages

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Trimline rebrands 5th Marella Cruises UK ship

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9-month-old baby medevaced from Marella Explorer cruise ship

A swift and well-coordinated emergency response resulted in the successful evacuation of a 9-month-old British citizen from Marella Explorer ship...

Marella UK cancels current and next cruise on Marella Discovery ship due to engine fire

Marella Cruises UK has decided to cancel the remainder of its ongoing voyage and the upcoming departure of the Marella Discovery cruise ship due to a...

Marella Cruises returns to Dominicana after 7-year absence

Marella Cruises UK will be making a comeback to the Dominican Republic in the winter of 2024-2025, marking their return after a hiatus since 2017...

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Mediterranean cruise guide: Best itineraries, planning tips and things to do

No two Mediterranean cruises are the same. Some bring travelers to the French and Italian rivieras for food, wine and cultural pursuits. Others head east to the Greek Islands, where passengers alternate days sipping ouzo at a beachfront taverna with trips to ancient sites. Each itinerary is a mix of urban tourist capitals — Barcelona! Rome! Istanbul! Jerusalem! — and sleeper gems, such as Portofino, Italy, or Kotor, Montenegro.

If you've never been to Europe, you may feel overwhelmed by destination choices. If you know which ports are on your must-see list, you might be more stumped by which cruise line to choose or which specific itinerary will be the best for you.

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

Know that you can't see everything in one Mediterranean cruise — even on sailings that run multiple weeks. Once you let go of your need to see and do it all and accept that you're on a sampler tour, you'll be better able to make your cruise selections and enjoy the ports your ship does visit.

Get started with this Mediterranean cruise guide. You'll learn the basics of itineraries, cruise lines, destinations, when to go and when to book your European adventure at sea.

Why cruise to the Mediterranean?

Many of the European countries on your travel bucket list lie along the Mediterranean Sea: Spain, France, Italy, Greece, Turkey, Israel and Egypt. A cruise lets you hit many of the hot spots (the French Riviera, Barcelona and Venice, Italy) on one trip without having to navigate multiple hotels, transportation between cities and making dinner reservations in foreign languages.

For some people those experiences are a key part of travel. However, for vacationers who want all the attractions without the hassle, a cruise is an ideal way to explore the Mediterranean. This type of European cruise can be especially alluring to honeymooners, families and older couples.

Mediterranean cruises beckon travelers with a love of culture and history. 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. If you've always wanted to see the pyramids in Giza, Egypt; the ruins in Ephesus, Turkey, and Pompeii, Italy; Gaudi's Sagrada Familia in Barcelona; and the famous casino in Monaco, you can do it easily on a Mediterranean sailing.

You can also eat your way through the markets, cafes, trattorias, gelato shops and crepe stands in the ports you visit. Sample local wines at vineyards in France and Italy, or sip ouzo or limoncello made on the premises.

When do cruises go to the Mediterranean?

You might be surprised to learn that cruise ships sail the Mediterranean year-round.

The majority of ships, however, arrive in the spring and depart in the fall, choosing warmer climes like the Caribbean for holiday sailings. Only a few hardy stalwarts remain through the winter months. Most of those are European-based lines, such as Costa Cruises , MSC Cruises and Celestyal Cruises , but Viking also braves chilly weather for its destination-focused itineraries in Europe.

Best Mediterranean itineraries

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. Longer itineraries are ideal for experiencing a greater variety of destinations and traversing more of the Med.

Here are some the best Mediterranean cruise itineraries you should consider for your European vacation.

Western Mediterranean

The classic Western Mediterranean cruise sails between Barcelona and Rome, and calls in ports in Spain, France, Monaco and Italy. This is your chance to explore Tuscany and the French Riviera, as well as hit up Florence, Monte Carlo, Naples and islands such as Corsica, Mallorca, Sicily and Sardinia. Just watch out: Marquee destinations like Rome and Florence are both located an hour or more from the cruise port, so get ready for long bus rides and long days off the ship.

Greece and Turkey

The classic Eastern Mediterranean cruise sails out of Athens or Istanbul and visits a mix of historic places (Delphi, Ephesus via Kusadasi, Rhodes) and sun-drenched islands (Mykonos and Santorini).

Adriatic Sea

Some so-called Mediterranean cruises actually spend most of their time on the Adriatic Sea, sailing from Venice and visiting ports in Croatia and Greece, and sometimes Montenegro and Albania. You may also find an Adriatic sailing wrapped into longer Western or Eastern Mediterranean cruises.

The most easterly of the Eastern Mediterranean itineraries, Holy Land cruises spend time in Israel and sometimes Egypt, often with overnight stops or multiple days spent in each country to maximize touring opportunities. These sailings may also call in Cyprus or ports in Greece and Turkey.

Best Mediterranean cruise lines

Most major cruise lines send at least one ship to the Mediterranean every year. Even Carnival Cruise Line , known for its affordable cruises out of U.S. home ports, offers some Mediterranean sailings, as does Disney Cruise Line , which typically bases its ships near its theme parks.

If you're looking for a bigger ship, Celebrity Cruises , Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean are the best choices as they base a handful of ships in the Mediterranean each year, arriving in the spring and departing in the fall. 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.

Couples or families with grown children looking for longer sailings and a destination focus should consider Viking, which offers eight- to 15-night cruises through the Mediterranean, including three- and four-week voyages for retirees (or workationers?) who have the time for a most thorough exploration of the region.

Which luxury line is best for your Mediterranean cruise will come down to what you're looking for in a luxury ship and a European itinerary. However, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Silversea Cruises stand out for including a large variety of shore excursions in their cruise fares. If you're a foodie, these two lines plus Oceania Cruises are notable for their culinary tours in port, plus destination-themed cooking classes on board.

Things to do in the Mediterranean

Sightseeing is a big component of Mediterranean cruises, whether that's exploring a historic site like the Roman Forum or the walled city of Dubrovnik, Croatia; visiting cathedrals in Florence and Barcelona; or touring medieval villages, forts and old towns. You might want to skip the formal tours and merely wander around the port town, browsing local shops or grabbing a coffee or snack in a local cafe.

Culinary tours are also popular here. You can choose from roving food tours, cooking classes, winery visits and tastings, and meals made with local produce and cheeses in beautiful villa or farmhouse settings.

Travelers looking to stretch their legs might want to sign up for cycling tours in city and country settings, hike around a volcano on Santorini or Sicily, or even take a kayak for a spin in Croatia or Greece.

A beach day is possible in the Greek Islands or along the French Riviera, and many ports will have sightseeing cruises.

Best Mediterranean cruise ports

Everyone has their favorite list of the best Mediterranean cruise ports (as evidenced by the discussion I just had with TPG's cruise team about which to include). Some travelers want to hit all the most popular cities, while others prioritize the ability to walk right off the ship into the heart of the town. Some ports are better for historical attractions, others for cafe culture or outdoor activities.

The following cruise ports are generally standouts, no matter your travel style.

Barcelona: Both an embarkation port and a port of call, depending on your itinerary, Barcelona has much to offer first-timers and repeat visitors. Cruise ships dock at the end of Las Ramblas, the main thoroughfare in the old part of the city, so it's easy to leave the ship and simply wander. Don't miss Gaudi's fantastical buildings or a meal of tapas.

Monte Carlo, Monaco: Monte Carlo is both a fascinating port on its own and a gateway to the French Riviera. In town, you can walk to the casino, palace and stunning oceanographic museum. From town, you can take the twisty-turny Corniche coastal roads to destinations like Nice, Eze, Cannes and Grasse.

Dubrovnik, Croatia: Even if you're not in it for the "Game of Thrones" tour, you will be captivated by Dubrovnik and its famous walled city. Walk the walls or take to the water for scenic views of the old town.

Rome: It's actually a pain to get to Rome from the cruise port of Civitavecchia by bus or train, but it's worth it to experience the Eternal City firsthand. Tour the Vatican and Sistine Chapel at St. Peter's Cathedral, step back in time at the Colosseum and Roman Forum, climb the Spanish Steps, throw a coin in the Trevi Fountain and meander through the Borghese Gardens. When your feet give out, take a breather with a gelato or plate of pasta.

Rhodes, Greece: The historic port of Rhodes no longer has a Colossus, but that doesn't take away its appeal. Ensconced by ancient stone walls, Old Town is easily walkable, composed of cobblestone streets lined with restaurants and stores housed in structures dating back to the 14th century. If shopping isn't your thing, keep walking until you reach the Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes, where you can take a tour, or venture out to one of the city's beaches.

Naples, Italy: Naples is one of our favorite ports because you have so many options of what to do there. It's the jumping-off point for tours to Pompeii, Mount Vesuvius, Capri and the Amalfi Coast. Or, if you want to explore the city on your own, perhaps sitting down to a lunch of the region's famous pizza, it's a quick walk right into town from your cruise ship.

Ashdod, Israel : Most cruisers don't stick around Ashdod; it makes our list of best Mediterranean cruise ports because it's the gateway to Jerusalem, Bethlehem, Tel Aviv and the Dead Sea. Prepare to be amazed by the sites you will see, but also be ready for long bus rides and long days off the ship touring.

Istanbul: Istanbul is the vibrant city you might not know you need to visit. Serving as both a departure port and port of call on Mediterranean cruises, the city offers something for everything: the cultural icons of the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque, intense shopping experiences at the Grand Bazaar, Byzantine palaces, traditional Turkish baths (called hammams), flavorful cuisine, Bosporus day cruises between Europe and Asia, and plenty of neighborhoods to explore.

When to book a Mediterranean cruise

It's a good idea to book your Mediterranean cruise early, even nine to 12 months in advance. You can take advantage of early booking discounts and promotions and have the widest selection of available cabins and suites and dining times (if applicable). An early booking is ideal if you're planning on using miles to book your flights or points for a pre-cruise hotel. Look for fall sales when the current Mediterranean season is winding down.

Another smart time to book a Mediterranean cruise is during January or February when cruise lines run their " wave season " sales, often with lots of extra freebies thrown into the cost of the sailing. You might find last-minute deals on spring cruises to Europe or still be considered early for fall itineraries.

What to bring on a Mediterranean cruise

The Mediterranean region has a temperate climate, but it still gets chilly in the spring and fall and can be brutally hot in the summer. Check the weather before your sail date and pack for the predicted temperatures — with layers, in case the forecasters are wrong and it's unseasonably hot or cold.

You'll likely do a good deal of walking on a Mediterranean cruise, so a good pair of walking shoes is a must. Bonus if you can find cute options you can wear on sea days or sneakers that can do double duty in the ship's gym.

If your tours take you to religious sites, especially in Israel and Egypt, you might need a modest outfit that covers shoulders, arms and knees. Ladies, a shawl is a versatile option you can toss over your shoulders (or hair if need be), use for warmth with your strappy formal night attire or as a blanket on the airplane.

Of course, North Americans taking Mediterranean cruise vacations will need a passport to fly to and from their ship's departure and arrival ports.

Bottom line

The Mediterranean is an amazing region to cruise, and a sailing there is a wonderful introduction to Europe for travelers who have never been. The varied choices of itineraries, cruise lines and ships can be intimidating, but rest assured, you can't really go wrong with any of them. Just know that once you go, you may feel a need to return — either to see a port you loved more in-depth on a land vacation or to sail to the Mediterranean countries you missed on your first go-round.

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Eastern Mediterranean CRUISES

A cruise in the Eastern Mediterranean is a journey through diverse cultures steeped in history, delicious cuisines and ports with some of the best destinations that the Mediterranean has to offer. Discover the regions that make the birthplace of Western Civilisations, with a rich history and cities dating back to the Ancient Greek and Roman Empires . Eastern Mediterranean cruises with MSC will take you through the  Adriatic Sea , where you can explore Italian ports, such as the romantic city of Venice . Take your partner on a gondola tour through the many canals, then set off to St Mark’s square to see the surrounding crowds and the beauty of Byzantine architecture. Venture to Croatia to visit the beautiful city of Dubrovnik and walk through the atmospheric old town, a must-see for any Game of Thrones fans who want to explore the city that Kings’ Landing was based on. For a more serene getaway, travel to Montenegro and enjoy the beaches in Kotor with jaw-dropping views of the landscape. The adventure doesn’t stop there, since an Eastern Mediterranean cruise can also take you to the Aegean Sea where you can find picturesque ports in the G reek Islands . Imagine a day spent with your family, tasting cuisines made with the freshest ingredients, strolling through the cobblestone streets and later taking pictures in Oia the most famous village in Santorini - showcasing its’ blue-and-white Cycladic style that never fails to amaze its’ visitors. For a family gateway, the tranquillity of the Corfu beaches is also an ideal choice. Discover each destination like a local with our  MSC Shore Excursions  and when you return home you will bring with you a treasure trove of memories. Start planning your itineraries today and travel to the Eastern Mediterranean with MSC Cruises to get a taste of breath-taking views of landscapes, historic cities, and some of the most beautiful beaches the Mediterranean has to offer.

EAstern Mediterranean Ports

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Eastern Mediterranean Cruises

About Eastern Mediterranean Cruises

If you're a fan of art and antiquities, a cruise to the Eastern Mediterranean is right up your alley. With itineraries that include the Adriatic/Dalmatian Coast, Black Sea, Greek Isles and Holy Land, the region is a treasure trove for history lovers. Ports such as Venice and Athens have their own unique flavor, while the Greek Isles, Crete and Cypress lure beachgoers. Religion in the Eastern Mediterranean is varied, do don't miss Dubrovnik's ancient churches, Istanbul's breathtaking mosques or Jerusalem's vibrant synagogues.

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

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Hidden Gems of the Mediterranean

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28 Night Mediterranean - Eastern Cruise Details

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There are a wide variety of cruise lines offering Eastern Mediterranean cruises including Royal Caribbean, Princess, Holland America, Disney Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises and more. European lines like MSC and Costa have a big presence here, as well and luxury lines including Regent Seven Seas and Crystal. Some lines, like Azamara, offer country-intensive cruises to just one of these Eastern Mediterranean nations, like Italy or Greece. Others offer itineraries themed "holy lands" that visit notable religious sites.

What are some things to do in the Eastern Mediterranean?

A major highlight of Eastern Mediterranean cruises is visiting historic sites like the Acropolis and Parthenon in Athens, Dubrovnik's Old Town and holy Judeo-Christian pilgrimage sites in Haifa and Jerusalem. But the region is also brimming with gorgeous beaches and incredible food to enjoy.

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

Yes, a passport is required for Americans to cruise to the Eastern Mediterranean.

What should I pack for a cruise to the Eastern Mediterranean?

Lightweight, comfortable clothing and a swimsuit are essentials in the Eastern Mediterranean, as are comfortable shoes -- sandals for the beach and sneakers for city sightseeing. For visits to monasteries, temples and other religious sites, it's smart to pack a pashmina or shawl that can be used to cover heads or shoulders; skirts or dresses can still be required for women at some holy sites.

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Eastern Mediterranean Cruises

The sparkling coast of the Eastern Mediterranean awaits.

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Luxury Cruises to the Eastern Mediterranean

From its stunning coastline and ancient architecture to its famous cuisine and charming culture, cruising through the Eastern Mediterranean is one of the most rewarding vacations you’ll ever experience.

On one of our luxury European cruises to the Eastern Mediterranean, you’ll discover incredible ports in Israel, Croatia, Greece, Malta, Turkey, Slovenia, Montenegro, and Italy. Stroll alongside the white-washed buildings of Santorini. Explore the walled city of Dubrovnik. Marvel at historic landmarks in Istanbul. Or visit one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World in Ephesus. There’s no shortage of beauty and wonder awaiting during an Eastern Mediterranean cruise.

Eastern Mediterranean Cruise Highlights

Ancient ruins.

Explore fascinating historical treasures on a cruise to the Eastern Mediterranean. In Athens, visit the famous ruins of the Parthenon, a temple dedicated to the goddess Athena that dates back to 438 BC. Step inside Diocletian’s Palace in Split, a sprawling fort built for a Roman emperor in the fourth century. During an overnight stay in Jerusalem, see famous religious landmarks including the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, the scene of Jesus’ resurrection, and the Al-Aqsa Mosque and the Dome of the Rock, two sacred Muslim sites.

Greek Sunsets

You’ll never forget the first time you witness one of Greece’s legendary sunsets. Oia, a picturesque town on the island of Santorini, and Zakynthos, a small island surrounded by impossibly blue waters, are both considered some of the best spots in the world to see the sun go down. Make your way up a cliffside restaurant or viewing point and watch as the sky transforms into a canvas of pink, orange, and purple hues in the distance. 

Mediterranean Cuisine

Feast your senses on the delicious food and drink of this magical region. Explore the unique flavors of Eastern Europe during your days in port, where you’ll dine in seaside restaurants, wander through charming local markets, and sip some of the best wines in the world. Enjoy grilled fish and fresh octopus in Greece. Order a plate of black risotto, a Croatian specialty, in Split or Dubrovnik. While in Israel, eat as much hummus, falafel, and baba ganoush as your heart desires.

Featured Ports

Sail into the sparkling coast of Dubrovnik, a chic Croatian port known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic.” Walk around the well-preserved city walls and admire the scenic terracotta rooftops. Feast on Croatian wine and oysters, two of the region’s delicacies. Visit the Rector’s Palace, a stunningly restored Gothic building. Enjoy a leisurely bike ride around a nearby village, then lounge under the sun at one of Dubrovnik’s lovely sandy beaches.

You’ll fall head over heels with Santorini as soon as you step foot on this idyllic Greek Island, where winding alleys are surrounded by white-washed buildings, blooming flowers, and spectacular views of the Ionian Sea. Explore the cliffside villages of Fira and Oia and their cafes, restaurants, and blue-domed churches. Sail around the island’s scenic half-moon-shaped bay while marveling at a volcanic caldera. Or lounge under the sun and dip your toes in one of Santorini’s famous black sand beaches.

East meets West in Istanbul, a cosmopolitan city located between Europe and Asia that combines the best of both worlds. Learn all about the rich history of iconic landmarks like the Blue Mosque and the Hagia Sophia. Go shopping at the labyrinth Grand Bazaar, where you’ll find all sorts of handmade treasures. Sip on a glass of Turkish tea by the Bosphorus, the body of water that separates the European and Asian sides of the city.

Eastern Mediterranean Cruise Itineraries

The Eastern Mediterranean cruise season begins in late May and lasts until mid-October. You’ll find everything from 6-night jaunts around Croatia, Greece, and Montenegro and 7-night sailings that stop in Italy, Malta, and Croatia, to lengthier journeys around the area, including 10-night cruises to Italy, Croatia, and Montenegro and 12-night journeys around Turkey and the Greek Islands. Most of our Eastern Mediterranean cruises spend only a day at sea, giving you plenty of time to explore the region in depth. 

Itineraries

Why sail to the eastern mediterranean with celebrity cruises.

There’s no better way to explore the Mediterranean than on a cruise with Celebrity Cruises. Once you set sail around this magical region, you’ll understand why we’ve been voted the best cruise line in Europe for 11 consecutive years. Not only will you travel to some of the most coveted destinations in the Eastern Mediterranean, but you’ll also enjoy an unrivaled experience on board during your time at sea.

Our ships are known for their impeccable service, unlimited entertainment offerings, and world-class cuisine. Savor dishes crafted by our Michelin-starred chef that bring the flavors and food of the destination right to your plate. Spend an indulgent day at our serene spa, where you’ll leave feeling refreshed and reinvigorated. Marvel at the thrilling performances that take place in the theater, and enjoy unbeatable views of the ocean everywhere you turn. 

If you want to take your vacation to the next level, book an Eastern Mediterranean cruise on one of our newest vessels, Celebrity Edge or Celebrity Apex. These cutting-edge ships feature an innovative outward design that brings the ocean right into your stateroom. Explore exciting venues such as Eden, a bar, lounge, and restaurant with live performances and inventive cuisine, as well as the Magic Carpet, a moving cantilevered platform where you’ll feel as if you’re floating above the ocean.

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Highlights of mediterranean cruises.

Join Viking and discover a region awash in culture and history. Civilization is said to have begun and evolved on these shores, whether as the birthplace of democracy or science or with the refinement of wine or art. From the sun-soaked shores of Spain and Sicily to the ancient past of Greece and Israel, Viking reveals millennia of history to you during our many journeys along these fabled waters. Here is a sample of what you can look forward to on a Mediterranean voyage:

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Cruising the Moskva River: A short guide to boat trips in Russia’s capital

There’s hardly a better way to absorb Moscow’s atmosphere than on a ship sailing up and down the Moskva River. While complicated ticketing, loud music and chilling winds might dampen the anticipated fun, this checklist will help you to enjoy the scenic views and not fall into common tourist traps.

How to find the right boat?

There are plenty of boats and selecting the right one might be challenging. The size of the boat should be your main criteria.

Plenty of small boats cruise the Moskva River, and the most vivid one is this yellow Lay’s-branded boat. Everyone who has ever visited Moscow probably has seen it.

This option might leave a passenger disembarking partially deaf as the merciless Russian pop music blasts onboard. A free spirit, however, will find partying on such a vessel to be an unforgettable and authentic experience that’s almost a metaphor for life in modern Russia: too loud, and sometimes too welcoming. Tickets start at $13 (800 rubles) per person.

Bigger boats offer smoother sailing and tend to attract foreign visitors because of their distinct Soviet aura. Indeed, many of the older vessels must have seen better days. They are still afloat, however, and getting aboard is a unique ‘cultural’ experience. Sometimes the crew might offer lunch or dinner to passengers, but this option must be purchased with the ticket. Here is one such  option  offering dinner for $24 (1,490 rubles).

If you want to travel in style, consider Flotilla Radisson. These large, modern vessels are quite posh, with a cozy restaurant and an attentive crew at your service. Even though the selection of wines and food is modest, these vessels are still much better than other boats.

Surprisingly, the luxurious boats are priced rather modestly, and a single ticket goes for $17-$32 (1,100-2,000 rubles); also expect a reasonable restaurant bill on top.

How to buy tickets?

Women holding photos of ships promise huge discounts to “the young and beautiful,” and give personal invitations for river tours. They sound and look nice, but there’s a small catch: their ticket prices are usually more than those purchased online.

“We bought tickets from street hawkers for 900 rubles each, only to later discover that the other passengers bought their tickets twice as cheap!”  wrote  (in Russian) a disappointed Rostislav on a travel company website.

Nevertheless, buying from street hawkers has one considerable advantage: they personally escort you to the vessel so that you don’t waste time looking for the boat on your own.

Prices start at $13 (800 rubles) for one ride, and for an additional $6.5 (400 rubles) you can purchase an unlimited number of tours on the same boat on any given day.

Flotilla Radisson has official ticket offices at Gorky Park and Hotel Ukraine, but they’re often sold out.

Buying online is an option that might save some cash. Websites such as  this   offer considerable discounts for tickets sold online. On a busy Friday night an online purchase might be the only chance to get a ticket on a Flotilla Radisson boat.

This  website  (in Russian) offers multiple options for short river cruises in and around the city center, including offbeat options such as ‘disco cruises’ and ‘children cruises.’ This other  website  sells tickets online, but doesn’t have an English version. The interface is intuitive, however.

Buying tickets online has its bad points, however. The most common is confusing which pier you should go to and missing your river tour.

“I once bought tickets online to save with the discount that the website offered,” said Igor Shvarkin from Moscow. “The pier was initially marked as ‘Park Kultury,’ but when I arrived it wasn’t easy to find my boat because there were too many there. My guests had to walk a considerable distance before I finally found the vessel that accepted my tickets purchased online,” said the man.

There are two main boarding piers in the city center:  Hotel Ukraine  and  Park Kultury . Always take note of your particular berth when buying tickets online.

Where to sit onboard?

Even on a warm day, the headwind might be chilly for passengers on deck. Make sure you have warm clothes, or that the crew has blankets ready upon request.

The glass-encased hold makes the tour much more comfortable, but not at the expense of having an enjoyable experience.

Getting off the boat requires preparation as well. Ideally, you should be able to disembark on any pier along the way. In reality, passengers never know where the boat’s captain will make the next stop. Street hawkers often tell passengers in advance where they’ll be able to disembark. If you buy tickets online then you’ll have to research it yourself.

There’s a chance that the captain won’t make any stops at all and will take you back to where the tour began, which is the case with Flotilla Radisson. The safest option is to automatically expect that you’ll return to the pier where you started.

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