cruise ports adriatic

10 Adriatic Cruise Ports You Need to Visit

One day, while cruising the internet, we discovered an unbelievable deal on what might have been the best Mediterranean cruise ship itinerary we had ever seen: 10 Adriiatic cruise ports and four countries in 11 days. Who could resist such an opportunity?

All we’d need to do was focus on enjoying ourselves while sailing the Mediterranean Sea from Rome ( Civitavecchia ) to Athens (Piraeus). We delighted in every destination and site, especially because almost every one was new. We’d only been to one of them before (that would be Venice).

10 Adriatic cruise ports you need to visit

Anyway, this article is a summary of the 10 Mediterranean cruise ports that our cruise ship docked at along the way. Holland America really did its research; every one is worth visiting!

I’ve included links to related stories and the best tours you can take at each port.

1. Civitavecchia, Italy (Rome Cruise Port)

Civitavecchia is the seaport closest to Rome and is one of the Mediterranean’s largest cruise ports. Strictly speaking, Civitavecchia is not an Adriatic seaport. It lies on the Tyrennhian Sea, which borders Italy’s western coastline. However, I’ve included it because most Mediterranean cruises begin or end there, no matter the itinerary.

Because we had never been to this part of Italy before, we arrived a few days early so we could take a look around the city before departure. Also, it was added insurance that a train delay on the day of the cruise would not cause us to miss the sailing.

Things to do in Civitavecchia

There’s so much to enjoy in Civitavecchia that we never bothered to leave the city, even for the two nearby thermal baths  that date from the time of Christ. If you don’t want to look around the ancient town, other popular activities include:

• See pre-Republic ruins and uncover the Etruscan heritage of Italy on an excursion to Tuscania and the Tarquinia necropolis.
• Take a day trip to Rome  to see the impressive Colosseum, Arch of Constantine and Imperial Forum, and then marvel at artistic masterpieces in the Vatican Museums.
• Spend the day in the beautiful Tuscan countryside to visit a local winery, the Archeological Park and Tomb of François, and enjoy a full Tuscan lunch.

2. Venice, Italy

Venice, that iconic city of canals and gondolas, was literally built out of the marshes of the Adriatic. It is the most popular Mediterranean cruise port of all … even more so than Rome.

One of the most romantic cities in the world, Venice offers picturesque scenery and classic artwork at every turn. It has often been called the “home of the Renaissance” and was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987. From the Grand Canal to the Doge’s Palace in St. Mark’s Square, every canal, bridge, and building seems to be a masterpiece of architecture and every dish promises to be a masterpiece of cuisine.

Things to do in Venice

Popular activities include:

• Chic shopping on Rialto Bridge or at Piazza San Marco.
• A once-in-a-lifetime gondola tour, to get a canal-level view of Venice and its sinking buildings.
• Visiting the famous Bridge of Sighs and the Doge’s Palace.

If you’ve already been-there-done-that in Venice, visit another island in the Venetian Lagoon. You can take a vaporetto and explore an island on your own, or book a tour like this one and see a few islands in a few hours.

• For an authentic souvenir of Venice, the island of Murano has produced exquisite Venetian glass for centuries (vases and jewelry are popular mementos)
• The colorful island of Burano is ideal for photography. This is where you need to shop if you’re looking for authentic, handmade Venetian lace.

3. Ravenna, Italy

It’s a shame more Adriatic ocean cruises don’t stop at Ravenna and that it isn’t a well-known tourist destination. Once the capital of the Western Roman Empire, Ravenna is famed for its exquisite Arian and Byzantine mosaics. Eight locations are so special they have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

Take the Basilica of Sant’ Apolinare, for example. What may look like a lovely collection of tiny, bright tiles on close inspection will, when you step back, transform into a vivid image of a sea voyage, an image of Jesus, or a choir of angels. Waxing philosophical for a moment, I guess everything resolves into clarity if you can just achieve the proper perspective.

Another interesting fact: Italy’s great Dante Alighieri (author of The Divine Comedy), is buried in Ravenna, and you can visit his tomb (free).

What to do in Ravenna

• We took the hop-on/hop-off bus in Ravenna, but the infrequent schedule was so frustrating that we ended up walking to many sites. If you  hire a guide , you’ll save time and see more.
• Notable out-of-town excursions include Bologna, Ferrara, and the Ferrari museum.
• You can even leave Italy and tour San Marino, the world’s oldest surviving republic. San Marino has remained free since 301 A.D., even during the Renaissance and World War II. This tiny country, which covers a total area of only 23 square miles and has a population of only about 22,000, is completely landlocked by Italy. Click here to learn more.

4. Dubrovnik, Croatia

Dubrovnik is one of the most popular Mediterranean cruise stops and competes with Venice for port activity. However, even though Venice once controlled the Dalmatian coastline, the two cities couldn’t be more different. Dubrovnik’s striking red-tiled roofs and impressive 12 th -century defensive walls have made it one of the finest and best-preserved medieval cities in the world.

Dubrovnik is full of quaint bazaars and markets, Baroque churches, museums, palaces, and monasteries. Take time to meander through the less crowded side streets that have been polished smooth over centuries of use, and stop for a bite to eat at a local restaurant or café to people watch.

Climb the steps to the top of the walls (admission charge) and walk around the perimeter of the city. They will offer a unique perspective of Old Dubrovnik and the Adriatic. Just remember to we ar a hat and sunglasses, and bring water. The city’s pale stone walls radiate heat and reflect sunlight.

What else to do in Dubrovnik

• Take a Game of Thrones tour  and see where King’s Landing scenes were filmed. (You may even hear stories from behind the scenes; some of the tour guides were Game of Thrones extras and stand-ins.)
• The best views of Dubrovnik and the Adriatic are, without a doubt, from the top of Mount Srd. Take a cable car to the top (or hire a driver, as we did), enjoy the restaurant at the top, and give your camera a workout.
• Soak up the sun at the city’s nearby beach
• Enjoy the local atmosphere in Cavtat, a picturesque resort town.
• Cross the border into Bosnia and Herzegovina to visit the religious pilgrimage site of Medjugore and take in the stunning natural beauty of the town of Mostar, with its iconic bridge arching over the meandering river below. (Bring your passport!)

5. Split, Croatia

Split,  the second largest city in Croatia, began in the 6 th century BC. It has endured everything from Greek rule to Roman domination to post-war Socialist politics and is now a powerful port and tourist destination.

With a history like that, it’s no surprise that Split’s historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here you’ll find historic Diocletian’s Palace, the old Castle market, and plenty of buildings sporting Roman or Venetian architectural styles.

Things to do in Split, Croatia

• Take a brief tour of the city on the free walking tour (be nice and tip the guide well).
• Check out the local farmers’ market for some fresh fruit, olives, or a sample of the local cheese.
• Look for a wine shop that offers tastings or just order a glass with your meal. We discovered one in a hidden corner of the city and can’t say enough good things about Croatian wines. Few if any Croatian wines are available in the U.S. American wine distributors are missing a golden opportunity, that’s for sure.
• Sail by catamaran to Hvar and Pakleni Islands. Explore Hvar’s old town and stop to swim in peaceful bays before returning to Split as the sun sets.

6. Kotor, Montenegro

You’ll find plenty of natural beauty, Venetian architecture, and ancient history in Kotor, Montenegro.  The town lies on the Bay of Kotor, a secluded inlet, partially hidden from the Adriatic by towering limestone cliffs. Kotor earned its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site both for its medieval city and its picturesque landscape. It could easily be called the most beautiful town in Montenegro.

Kotor was settled during ancient Roman times (168 BC) and its historical sites abound. The two most outstanding spots are Cathedral of Saint Tryphon in the old town (built in 1166) and the ancient walls that surround the city. The walls were built for protection by the Republic of Venice.

Things to do in Kotor

• Kotor’s main square, Piazza of the Arms, has a beautiful old stone clock tower and offers a variety of excellent restaurants, cafés and shops that will keep you busy for quite a while. But please, don’t miss the less touristed side streets, where you can often find even better prices, more attentive service and more authentic local dishes.
• Wine lovers, rejoice! Local wineries produce absolutely amazing wines at incredibly low prices.
• There’s a hop-on/hop-off tour bus that runs between Kotor and Perast.
• In Perast, you can enjoy a short cruise to Our Lady of the Rocks, a manmade island in the bay. Legend has it that the island was formed over centuries by seamen who tossed rocks in the sea to keep an ancient oath. Today, the islet has a small church and historic paintings, including a 17 th century baroque masterpiece from Perast.
• You can also take a highly-rated private tour to visit some fascinating towns along the bay.

7. Corfu, Greece

The second largest Greek island in the Ionian Sea, Corfu (or Kérkyra, as it is locally known) serves both as a major tourist destination and a producer of olive oil and local wines. Its neoclassical houses and ancient fortifications dating from the Venetian era, are what gave Old Town Corfu its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Corfu is the perfect place to wander. Meander along ancient bougainvillea-laden cobblestone streets, among buildings sporting Venice’s characteristic arches, and visit Greek churches such as the church dedicated to Our Lady of the Cave or Saint Spyridon church, where the body of the island’s patron saint lies.

Whether you take the HOHO sightseeing bus or explore the town on foot, make sure you cross the moat to visit Kerkyra’s ancient Palacio Frourio (old citadel). It was built by the Venetians and is now used for cultural events and concerts.

What to see in Corfu (Kerkyra)

• Nearby Achilleion Palace is a favorite with cruisers. Also known as Sissy’s Palace, it is full of magnificent statues that honor the strong and brave Achilles, warrior of the Trojan War. Cruise ships offer tours, or you can visit on your own.
• To get a break from all the UNESCO sites and tourist-packed attractions, spend all or part of your day at a local beach. Glyfada beach is well known for its crystal clear waters, while the large surface of soft sand is surrounded by tree-covered cliffs and imposing rocky formations.
• Visit award-winning Governor’s Olive Mill, take a guided walk through the ancient olive groves, and learn how to taste and recognize high-quality olive oil just as the professionals do.

ⓘ TIP: For an authentic taste of Greece, order horiatiki salata for lunch. It’s a true Greek salad. We liked it so much that we had it every day and never got tired of it. To find out what makes it special, read my  recipe for authentic Greek salad.

8. Katakolon, Greece

If you want to experience a sleepy Greek town, visit Katakolon  on a day when no cruise ship is expected. Only 612 people live in this tiny port town, so there’s little activity unless a cruise ship docks.

Katakolon cruise port is known as the gateway to one of Greece’s most legendary sites. Mount Olympus was the most sacred site for the ancient Greeks, who believed it was the home of the gods. It was also the birthplace of the modern Olympic Games (776 B.C.). Many of the structures that can still be seen today date even further back than that.

What to do in Katakolon

• Most cruise passengers opt for the bus excursion to Mount Olympus, but you can take the train there on your own if you’re on a budget. If you’d like a guided tour but don’t fancy being part of a tour group, you can also book a private tour and share the price with two or three others.
• Katakolon has an interesting museum as well as a tourist train that runs around the area. We took it out to a little beach and enjoyed a delightful lunch along with a lovely view of the Adriatic. If you’re a beach lover, this might make a nice option in the warmer months.
• The tourist train also stops at Mercouri Estate. This working farm and winery has been family-owned for nearly 150 years. Use the opportunity to sample some of Greece’s delicious wines.

9. Nafplio, Greece

Nafplio, also known as Nafplion, was one of our favorite Adriatic cruise ports because of its stunning scenery and fascinating past.

The Byzantines took control of it in the eleventh century, followed by the Venetians, the Ottomans, and finally, the French. After the Greek War of Independence, Nafplio was the first capital of the newly born Greek state from 1823 to 1834).

As one of the largest Mediterranean cruise ports, Nafplion offers passengers a wide range of entertainment options. Clear waters, endless adorable shops, and miles of scenic walking trails await you, not to mention the town beach, where you’ll frequently spot locals casting for everything from flying fish to octopus.

There’s lots to see, as well.

What to do in Nafplio

• The impressivie Palamidi Fortress that looms over Návplion played a large role in the Greek independence effort of 1822. It’s worth a visit for the views, if nothing else.
• At the castle of Acronauplia, the oldest part of Návplion, you will see stone walls dating back to pre-classical times.
• For history buffs who like archaeological sites, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Mycenae is just a short bus ride away. Or you can book a half-day tour that includes an olive oil tasting along with a visit to Epidavros, another World Heritage Site.
• Local guides can take you on a walking tour through Nafplio and show you its most picturesque alleys and important sites. Afterward, walk through the beautiful old town on your own to check out its many intriguing museums and inviting restaurants.
• If you enjoy olive oil, wine, honey, olive oil or cooking, get to know Greek gastronomy via  culinary tours around Nafplio.

10. Piraeus, Greece (Athens Cruise Port)

Our tenth and final Adriatic cruise port was Piraeus, which serves Athens. As soon as we disembarked we headed straight to the capital city. Athens was the epicenter of the classical world in the 4th and 5th centuries B.C., and much of its rich history and culture has survived until today. The city’s major must-see is the Acropolis, which can be seen from everywhere in the city. Due to its historic significance, it too is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Visit the Acropolis to get a closeup look at the Parthenon, the temple of Athena Nike and the stone amphitheater called the Odeon of Herod Atticus. While there you can also climb Mars Hill, where the apostle Paul addressed the leaders of Athens (see Acts 17:16-34).

We also really enjoyed the Monostiraki neighborhood, the National Archaeological Museum and watching the Changing of the Guard at Syntagma Square. Highly recommend all three.

Best time of year for a Mediterranean cruise

If you plan to visit any of these cruise ports, you should know that the region gets unbearably hot, unreasonably expensive, and extremely crowded in the summer. Spring and fall offer lower temperatures, better prices, and fewer crowds.

Ready to go?

Whether you’re looking for an adventure or a peaceful respite, the Adriatic Coast has something perfect waiting for you. Soak up the sun on one of Croatia’s many gorgeous beaches, explore Venetian canals lined with centuries-old buildings, or take a hike in the stunning Italian Alps.

No matter what you choose to do, you’re sure to have an amazing time cruising along the Adriatic Coast!

ⓘ TIP: Book some extra time in Athens so you can explore the city and visit one of the famous Greek islands.

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Written by Linda

Linda is multilingual and has been to over 50 countries. Her insatiable love of travel, cuisine, and foreign languages inspired her to create As We Saw It, where she documents her trips, shares practical itineraries, and offers insider tips. She’s passionate about helping fellow travelers save time, money, and hassle, and loves to discover new places to explore.

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8 thoughts on “10 adriatic cruise ports you need to visit”.

I didn’t like Venice much, but maybe that’s only my impression. Next week I will be in Athens. What would you reccommend to visit? Your top 3? 🙂

Our Top 3 in Athens? Well, we cheat because we like to take the hop on/hop-off tour bus to get an overview and see what looks intriguing. Not sure if that counts as one of the three, lol.

Of what we saw on our bus tour, our first would be (of course) the Acropolis — besides the Parthenon be sure to see the Odeon of Herodes Atticus and climb the Aeropagus, which not only has fabulous views but was important in Greek and Biblical history besides (see Acts 17:24).

Second, we’d recommend walking around Plaka, which is the oldest neighborhood (conveniently near the Acropolis). It lies between Syntagma and Monastiraki Square. Highly recommend the Changing of the Guard at Syntagma and shop/eating in Monastiraki.

Third, because of Greece’s ancient history we really liked the National Archaeological Museum. We’re fans of world-class museums, but if you’re not, then perhaps you’ll take the bus as #3. 🙂

I think cruises are a great way to discover the world. They give you an sneak preview of what different places have to offer and helps you decide if you want to come back and do a more in-depth exploration later.

Yes, you’re right, Anda. It’s also very convenient for people who travel to collect passport stamps. One day in a country, then on to the next!

Amazing pictures, beautiful countries and great overview. cruising is not my favorite way to travel but you could definitely “sample” quite a few countries in one trip- which may work just great for some people and some trips!!

You’re right; cruising is good for a quick overview.

Awww, this does look really amazing! I have been to many of the countries that you describe. But not the ports. Found you through #TheWeeklyPostcard.

Of the ones I mentioned, which country was your favorite?

Comments are closed.

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Adriatic Sea

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Cruises in the Adriatic Sea offer a fantastic way to explore the natural beauty, rich culture, and fascinating history of this European region. Situated between the eastern coast of Italy and the western coast of the Balkans, it encompasses countries such as Italy, Croatia, Slovenia, Montenegro, and Albania.

The Adriatic coast is renowned for its picturesque landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and sandy and pebble beaches, with majestic mountains cascading into the sea, creating spectacular panoramas. The region is steeped in history and culture, boasting historic sites, medieval palaces, ancient churches, and museums that provide insight into the area’s heritage.

When to cruise in the Adriatic Sea

The cruising season in the Adriatic Sea typically spans from spring to autumn, offering mild and pleasant weather, ideal for exploring the region.

Departure ports for cruises in the Adriatic Sea

Most Adriatic Sea cruises depart from cities like Venice ( Ravenna , Trieste), Rome (Civitavecchia) , or Athens (Piraeus) .

Port visited on Adriatic Sea Cruises

These cruises allow you to visit multiple countries in one journey, including iconic cities such as Venice in Italy, Dubrovnik in Croatia, Kotor in Montenegro, Split and Zadar in Croatia, Koper in Slovenia, Bari in Italy, and many others.

Cruise lines

Several cruise lines, including Norwegian, Celebrity, Royal Caribbean, MSC, and Holland America, offer voyages visiting ports along the Adriatic Sea.

Destination Highlights

Dubrovnik , known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” is a Croatian coastal city renowned for its well-preserved old town fortified within UNESCO World Heritage walls. It features picturesque cobblestone streets, historic churches, opulent palaces, and ancient monuments. The city’s walls offer breathtaking panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea and the old town. Dubrovnik is also famous for its cultural festivals, fascinating museums, pristine pebble beaches, and rich history that has left a lasting imprint on its architecture and culture.

Split , Croatia’s second-largest city, boasts the spectacular Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site housing a labyrinth of cobblestone streets, well-preserved Roman structures, captivating museums, and charming restaurants. Split’s waterfront, the Riva, is bustling day and night, offering a vibrant atmosphere with cafes, bars, and shops. The city serves as a gateway to the nearby Adriatic islands, making it an ideal starting point for boat excursions to paradise-like destinations.

Venice , known as the “City of the Doges,” is one of the world’s most iconic and romantic cities. It enchants visitors with its extraordinary architecture, canals winding through narrow streets, and magnificent Venetian palaces. The heart of the city lies in the St. Mark’s Square, surrounded by the Basilica di San Marco, the iconic Campanile, and the Doge’s Palace. Gondola rides along the canals are a must, as are explorations of picturesque neighborhoods like Dorsoduro and Cannaregio. Venice’s cultural wealth shines through its museums, including the Gallerie dell’Accademia and the Peggy Guggenheim Collection. The city’s cuisine, featuring delicious dishes such as cicchetti (appetizers) and fresh seafood, is also a highlight.

Ports of Calls

• Dubrovnik , Croatia
• Koper , Slovenia
• Kotor , Montenegro
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Adriatic Sea Cruises

An Adriatic Sea cruise offers gorgeous turquoise waters and an intriguing, rugged coastline, dotted with charming terracotta towns, pastel-green olive groves and historic ports that make for a perfect day’s exploring. Stretching down from the romantic canals of Venice , the Italian influence continues along the picturesque Dalmatian coastline of Croatia, via the Roman old-town of Split and the cultural hotspot of Dubrovnik. Spectacular cathedrals, churches and bell towers reveal the Baroque, Renaissance and Venetian history that is present throughout this area; quite distinct from the Slavic influence present across the rest of Croatia, providing a haven for those looking to immerse themselves in a rich culture with fascinating history.

The scenic natural beauty of the Adriatic coast does not disappoint. Having hundreds of offshore islands , each with its own unique character from modern chic to traditional and secluded, if you are seeking endless, idyllic beaches, a cruise around the Adriatic Sea is the perfect place for a getaway.

Despite developing a prominent reputation within the last few decades as a popular tourist destination, the Dalmatian coast retains a quiet, dignified character, avoiding the mass over developments and instead providing its visitors with an elegant, cultured destination to explore.

Voyage dates

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Itinerary: Barcelona, Palma de Majorca, Cannes, Livorno, Civitavecchia, Naples, Messina, Valletta, Kerkyra, Dubrovnik, Split, Triest

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About Adriatic Sea Cruises

An Adriatic Sea cruise will maximise your time along this beautiful coastline, enabling you to discover many of the gems that this enchanting area has to offer.

Although there are many historical links between Dalmatia and our equally named, spotted best friend, it is still under question as to where the Dalmatian dog came from. Some reports suggest they were first found in ancient Egypt, whilst others suggest they originated in India.

Top Adriatic Sea Harbours

Start your Adriatic Sea cruise from Venice and you will fall in love from the start. A unique city, where infamous, picture-postcard vistas do not disappoint when viewed first-hand. Venice is a city of grandeur, with the Byzantine domes of Saint Mark’s Basilica and the Venetian, Gothic-style Doge’s Palace , but equally it holds curiosity with its narrow winding canals, lined with tall, colourful buildings, built upon their wooden platforms to create this ‘floating city’.

Step aboard one of the many gondolas, which alongside the boats, act as both a tourist attraction and a genuine method of transport, and see the city from its very best viewpoint. --> Venice cruises

Interesting fact on Venice

Venice is actually made up of 117 mini islands that sit upon the Venetian Lagoon. Some of these islands are man-made. Sacca Fisola, for example, was created in the 1960’s.

The splendour of the medieval, walled Old Town of Dubrovnik draws many of Croatia’s tourists here to visit and the reason for its popularity is clear from the very first glimpse. The uniform colours of the warm, russet-red roofs and ivory buildings stand in brilliant contrast against the blue of the Adriatic Sea. Named as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1979, there are many cultural sights to explore. Take a walk along the ancient walls surrounding the Old Town to fully appreciate its beauty, before resting for a drink at a bar along its narrow, cobblestoned streets. With a variety of restaurants, small shops and points of interest located within a compact area, it is the ideal place for an easy afternoon’s wander. --> Dubrovnik cruises

Fun fact on Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is the filming location for ‘King’s Landing’ in the award-winning Game of Thrones. With so many of its scenes filmed here, fans can walk in the footsteps of some of their favourite characters.

The ancient centre of Split offers a walk through history like no other. The Roman old town is centred around the 1,700-year-old Diocletian Palace and its imposing fortress-like structures, which were built for the Roman Emperor Diocletian at the turn of the fourth century AD, have since been UNESCO-listed. Take a climb up the bell tower to gain fantastic views of this ancient architecture.

As Croatia’s second largest town , Split is an up and coming tourist destination. Previously being only used as a stopover location to visit its nearby islands, it is now rightfully being recognised for the many treasures it has to offer.

If the nearby islands do beckon, Korčula, Hvar and Brac are just a short ferry ride away. Mountains, forests, beaches and coves provide the ideal opportunity for a day’s outdoor adventure on Brač, whilst Hvar emits a chic, cosmopolitan vibe for those searching for a fashionable place to unwind and enjoy the Mediterranean sun. --> Split cruises

A curious fact about Split

Split has many churches, but one of its most curious is its miniature Saint Martin. This church stands at only 1.6 metres wide and 10 metres long and was the first Christian church to be built within the Diocletian Palace

Best time for Adriatic Sea cruises

Summers along the Dalmatian Coast are nothing short of glorious. Temperatures average 28 °C in July and August and the waters are equally warm. However, this is the high season, so expect busier resorts and peak prices. For a more relaxed, quieter holiday, when day time temperatures are still warm (particularly in the autumn) then May-June or September-early October may suit you better. Spring is also a lovely time of year, as all the flowers are blooming and festivities take place over the Easter period.

Top tip for timing your visit

If you are looking at an Adriatic cruise in the autumn, it is worth checking opening times in advance. Many restaurants and bars close for the end of the season, particularly on the islands.

Top Adriatic Sea sights

An Adriatic cruise offers culture, history and natural beauty across its destinations. In fact, wherever you travel, there will be something for everyone to enjoy. These are our top three favourites places to visit:

Island of Korčula

One of the greenest islands on the Adriatic, Korčula has a wealth of small, beautiful beaches with stunning views. Korčula Town is a walled medieval city, rich in art and culture and also well-worth a visit. With day trips on offer from Dubrovnik, this island is very accessible for those looking to explore.

The city of Zadar has some unique and unusual attractions. On its coastline, you will find the Sea Organ; an audio installation made up of several marble steps leading down into the sea, which, with the combination of the waves and the wind, create beautiful sounds through its openings. Linger here until evening and you can enjoy the most colourful sunset via the Sun Salutation; a creative use of LEDs and solar panels that come alive at night for a magical illumination.

Plitvice Lakes National Park

If you have time to venture inland, Plitvice National Park is a true natural wonder; sixteen dazzling lakes, interconnected with a series of breath-taking waterfalls, all surrounded by deep woodlands that are home to deer, bears and rare bird species.

Top tip on visiting a national park

If you would love to visit a national park, but Plitvice Lakes is just not within reach, do not despair! Croatia has eight national parks, including some of its beautiful islands. If you are searching for waterfalls, Krka Waterfalls may be more accessible and delivers equally stunning views.

Regional dishes

This traditional Dalmatian dish is a beef stew with roasted bacon, prunes, red wine, parsley and nutmeg and normally comes served with homemade potato gnocchi.

Black Risotto

Risotto may be thought of as Italian, but here you can see the Italian influence on dishes further round the region, as Black Risotto, made from squid ink, is local to Croatia. Served simply with freshly caught cuttlefish and aromatic olive oil, this dish has become world renowned.

Continuing with the seafood theme, as its freshness in this region delivers the tastiest dishes, Brudet is a simple seafood stew enriched with quality wine. Often a secret family recipe, this delicious dish is definitely worth seeking out.

Local foodie fact

Croatians produce very good wine, although production is small-scale, so not much of it is sold outside the country. Take this rare opportunity to sample it.

To add to your pub quiz knowledge

Take a look at an image of Venice from above. It is actually formed in the shape of a fish.

This is very apt considering the whole city is staying afloat on the water, using wooden stilts supported by mud and bricks.

Surface water temperatures of the Adriatic Sea can get up to 30°C in the summer. This significantly moderates the Adriatic Basin’s climate. This unique nature of the Adriatic Sea creates the perfect home for over 7,000 animal and plant species.

In Split’s Diocletian Palace, there is a genuine Egyptian sphinx that was brought from Egypt by Emperor Diocletian to adorn the entrance to his tomb.

Top Travelling Tip for the Adriatic Sea

Croatians, much like the Italians, love fresh produce. Whilst visiting, take time to explore an open-air market to really absorb the local atmosphere.

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CRUISING , DESTINATIONS , EUROPE , FLASHPACKING

Ultimate adriatic cruise guide: tips, port guides & review of msc sinfonia.

Are you looking for an alternative to the standard Mediterranean cruise ? If so, why not take an Adriatic cruise from Venice to the Greek islands?

Read on for my essential tips for cruising the Adriatic Sea , port guides and a comprehensive review of my experience onboard MSC Sinfonia. My one-week itinerary had five ports of call: Split, Dubrovnik, Santorini, Mykonos and Ancona.  

IN THIS ARTICLE

My Top Adriatic Cruise Tips

1. aim to cruise in june or september.

The Adriatic cruise season typically starts at Easter and runs until October. The Adriatic Sea is calmer during these months and less prone to thunderstorms and high winds that can make navigation hazardous. It is also warmer at this time of year and the islands are open for business. However, unless you are confined to the school holidays, I would avoid the peak season in July and August. Searing Mediterranean heat and jostling crowds are never a good combination. You will also pay more to cruise in these months. In my view, the ideal time of year to take an Adriatic cruise is June or September , when the weather is more predictably good and crowds are fewer. That said, I took an Adriatic Sea cruise in October and, for the most part, the temperature was balmy but not oppressive.

2. DO A LITTLE HOMEWORK TO PICK THE BEST ADRIATIC CRUISE FOR YOU

There is considerable variety in itinerary lengths, ports of call and types of ship. The  duration  of Adriatic Sea cruises generally ranges from seven to 14 days. As with all cruises, you need to think about the  ports of call.   Some itineraries concentrate on the  Balkan peninsula . They will include stops at ports on the mainland and, usually in the case of smaller ships, at some of the 1,300 islands dotting the Adriatic Sea. These ports include Zagreb, Zadar, Sibenik, Split, Hvar, Dubrovnik, Kotor. Other cruise operators offer itineraries that include  Italian ports , including Ravenna, Bari and Ancona. Many of the mainline cruise operators will also throw in a few  Greek ports  of call for good measure, including Piraeus (for Athens), Santorini, Mykonos and Corfu. Check out the available Adriatic cruise itineraries to see which combination of ports is the right one for you. Also, consider  where your cruise starts . For example, many sail from Dubrovnik or Venice. Sailing into and out of Venice used to be an unforgettable experience, offering you a unique perspective of the city’s landmarks. However, following a decree signed by Italian ministers in 2021, cruise ships are no longer allowed to sail into Venice’s historic city centre.

There is a spectrum of  ships  that sail along the Adriatic Sea, accommodating all  budgets , from mainstream behemoths to smaller ships offering a more intimate experience (and that berth at some of the smaller islands). Again, just pick the one that is the right fit for you.

Although not an exhaustive list, here is a selection of mainstream operators that offer Adriatic Sea cruises:

• MSC Cruises
• Norwegian Cruise Line
• Royal Caribbean
• Celebrity Cruises
• Costa Cruises
• AIDA Cruises
• Marella Cruises
• Silversea Cruises
• P&O Cruises

3. PACK APPROPRIATELY

Except for the extreme ends of the booking season, the weather in this region is predictably warm. This makes packing easy. For exploring the ports of call, wear t-shirts with shorts, linen trousers/chinos or skirts. I also like to pack a few easy-to-wear cotton summer dresses. For cooler days and evenings, pack a jumper or lightweight jacket. If you are travelling to the Adriatic in April / May or late September / October, predict unpredictability and stuff a few more warm layers in your suitcase. Ditch the stilettos for sensible walking shoes or trainers. And don’t forget your glad rags for the formal evenings on board! Pack an umbrella at any time of year in case of unexpected downpours.

4. BOOK A BALCONY CABIN

Selecting the right cabin is an important part of planning a cruise . I recommend booking a  balcony cabin  when cruising the Adriatic Sea to the Greek islands. Unlike some cruises, part of the appeal of an Adriatic cruise is the scenery as you sail by. And where better to take in the view than on your private balcony, sipping on an Aperol Spritz?

However, I suggest that you take a look at your cruise itinerary before deciding on the type of cabin. If this is port-intensive with few days at sea, this may not be a worthwhile investment.

A final cautionary note: not all cruise cabins are equal. Therefore if you don’t want to end up under the promenade deck or next to the laundry,  research your cruise cabin  before you book.

Adriatic Sea Cruise Ports & Itinerary

Day one: leaving venice.

Not off to the best of starts. Due to restrictions on departure time from Venice, our scheduled time of 16:30 was put back almost three hours. At 19:15, MSC Sinfonia released her moorings and set sail through the Guidecca Canal.

We should have been able to see the city’s iconic landmarks as we sailed past, including the Cathedral of San Marco. But as the sun had well and truly set by the time we reached St Mark’s canal, we couldn’t and we didn’t.

The ship then continued towards Split, our first destination, 218 nautical miles southeast of Venice.  

DAY TWO: SPLIT, CROATIA

Split, Croatia’s second-biggest city, is one of the oldest settlements along the Adriatic coast, thought to be at least 1700 years old.

The jewel in Split’s crown is its old town, once home to  Diocletian’s Palace . Built by the eponymous Roman Emperor in the 4th Century, this area is now a seductive tangle of churches, chapels and houses.

When you’ve had your fill of the town’s rich history, escape the crowds in Split and walk along the Marjan Peninsula. 

Walk for ten minutes along Riva, Spilt’s café-lined, seafront promenade, until you reach a set of stone steps. From here, it’s an easy uphill climb to the Vindlica viewpoint and its panoramic view of the old town.

MSC Sinfonia berthed at Split’s port, a ten-minute walk along the quayside from the old town.  

You should not need to use public transport within Split.  As the city’s main attractions are scattered over a compact area, everything is walkable.  

• Explore Diocletian’s Palace
• Join a  Game of Thrones  walking tour
• Take a walk along the Marjan Peninsula
• Admire the panorama from the VindNarrowlica viewpoint
• Visit Froggyland
• Shop at a UNESCO-protected supermarket

DAY THREE: AT SEA

Continuing on her south-easterly route in the Adriatic Sea, MSC Sinfonia crossed the Splitska Vrata Canal between the islands of Brac and Solta. A relaxing day at sea, skirting the eastern coast of Italy from Brindisi to Cape D’Ortranto. and passing Kefalonia and Zakynthos.

Balcony seat, a good book and a glass of wine in hand.  

DAY FOUR: SANTORINI & MYKONOS, GREECE

Welcome to  Santorini , the poster child of the Greek islands. One of the most photographed places on the planet, this striking island is quintessential Greece.

Traditional churches with blue domes teeter on the edge of the volcanic caldera. Whitewashed houses tumble in waves down the vertiginous cliffside until they reach the Gulf of Santorini below.

There’s even the occasional photogenic cat.

Cruise ships anchor off Thira, the port town on Santorini’s western coast, and disembarkation is by a tender boat service. From the port, you need to take a cable car to Fira, on the rim of the caldera.

However, Santorini is a very popular port of call for cruise ships and when I visited late in the season, four had dropped anchor there. Fellow passengers reported waiting times of 90 minutes to board the cable car.

The alternative was a strenuous 45-minute walk in the morning heat. Donkeys also transport human cargo up the cliffside but let’s not go there!

If only to avoid these challenges, this is one port of call on this Adriatic cruise where I considered a shore excursion to be of value, particularly if you want to visit places outside of Fira. However, if you want to take your chances with the  public bus connecting Fira and Oia , this runs twice an hour. 

The neighbouring island of Mykonos is famed for its nightlife against the backdrop of stunning beaches and its numerous windmills, vestiges of a bygone age when they ground the wheat for bread-making.

Cruise ships dock at Mykonos’s Port Terminal. From here it is a 15-minute boat ride to Mykonos Old Town.

Mykonos is compact and pedestrian-friendly. If you are confining your exploration to the town itself you won’t need public transport. 

DAY FIVE: AT SEA

Leaving Mykonos in the wee small hours of the morning, MSC Sinfonia started on her 600 nautical mile journey to Dubrovnik.  

DAY SIX: DUBROVNIK, CROATIA

One of the jewels in Croatia’s crown, the extravagantly gorgeous UNESCO World Heritage Site of  Dubrovnik  is instantly enchanting.

Its beauty and historical heritage have always attracted visitors but since Dubrovnik became one of the settings for HBO’s  Game of Thrones , its tourist numbers have exploded.

MSC Sinfonia berthed in the Old Harbour, 3 km from the old town. Some cruise companies may provide a free shuttle bus; others don’t, including MSC.

I took one of the frequent city buses (1, 1a, 1b, 3) to Dubrovnik’s old town’s Pile Gate from the cruise port. The bus stops on the main road outside the bus station.

Dubrovnik’s old town is small enough to navigate on foot.

DAY SEVEN: ANCONA, ITALY

Poor old Ancona hasn’t had the happiest of histories.

The capital of Italy’s Le Marche region was pounded by bombs in WWII and then devastated by an earthquake in 1972. Despite this, it does boast a few historic sights, including a 12th Century cathedral, and is home to an art gallery and the region’s archaeological museum.

However, I suggest that you set your sights further afield and use this Adriatic cruise stop as an opportunity to visit the gorgeous medieval city of  Urbino.  This UNESCO World Heritage site was the cultural capital of the Italian Renaissance in the 15th and 16th centuries and is the birthplace of one of the greats from this period,  Raphael .

Ancona’s cruise port is within easy walking distance of its historic town centre. Useful maps are available from the cruise terminal.  

Ancona’s historic centre is small enough to navigate on foot. 

DAY EIGHT: ARRIVAL BACK IN VENICE

This cruise didn’t have a happy ending for many passengers.

Thick fog forced the closure of the Port of Venice, putting back our arrival time of 08:00 to 13:30. Hope slowly ebbed away from those who had a lunchtime flight out of Venice’s Marco Polo Airport.

MSC responded well to this delay, keeping the buffet restaurants and bars open until passengers had disembarked.

My Experience Onboard MSC Sinfonia: Ship Review

Built in 2002, and refitted in 2015 to the tune of $200 million, MSC Sinfonia has an elegant and contemporary design. Spread over 13 decks, nine of which are for passengers, she is 32 meters wide and 275 meters long and weighs over 66,000 tonnes.

Unlike many other ships in this price bracket, MSC Sinfonia does not feature a show-stopping central space. Instead of a glitzy chandelier dangling from a great height, there is the use of more restrained primary and neutral colours with touches of marble, brass and glass.

Although getting acclimatised was easy, I found it frustrating that only the forward and aft elevators and stairwells reached all decks.

MSC Sinfonia had 721 crew members for its maximum of 2,679  guests, a higher passenger-to-staff ratio than other ships on which I have sailed. This was reflected in its levels of customer service, but more about that later.

EMBARKATION AT THE PORT OF VENICE

Question: how many queues do you need to join to board an MSC cruise ship in Venice? Answer: four.

Queue #1 to deposit your luggage. Queue #2 to receive your embarkation card. Queue #3 to have your hand luggage scanned and to embark. Queue #4 to have your photo taken for your cruise card.

And I thought that it was the British who loved a queue.

There were a few other aspects of the embarkation process that were surprising:

• At no stage were we asked to complete a health questionnaire to identify if we had an infectious disease
• Credit card details were not required at this stage of the cruise (and registering your card on-board was optional)
• My cruise pass was not handed to you but placed in the cabin

All that said, my cabin was ready, the luggage delivered and the cruise pass primed and ready to go within 15 minutes of boarding. Probably because we had been queuing for so long.  

MSC SINFONIA BALCONY CABIN

I had a balcony cabin, which was decorated in tasteful burgundy and gold tones, complementing the beech-veneered walls. The large, comfortable bed had good quality linen and a choice of pillows (soft or firm).

In contrast to balcony cabins on P&O or Celebrity Cruises or when I sailed on NCL Epic , this was a small space and did not have a sitting area with a sofa and desk. Whilst this is perfectly adequate for a solo traveller on a cruise, two people sharing this cabin for a week might struggle.

Lighting in the cabin was good with overhead, bedside and vanity unit lights. The small TV had a limited choice of channels. There were two-pin EU and US plug sockets.

It took me three days to locate the cabin’s safe, cunningly hidden behind the vanity unit’s mirror!

A small fridge housed the cabin’s mini-bar, but there was no kettle. The following items were also not provided: tissues, a bathrobe, slippers and an umbrella.

Storage space was perfectly adequate for one person but, again, two people might struggle. There were no wall-mounted hooks which are a useful feature of cabins on other cruise lines.

The small  bathroom  had limited storage space and soap, shower gel and shampoo were provided in refillable dispensers.  Bring your hairdryer from home as the one provided is one of those nasty wall-mounted contraptions that resemble vacuum cleaners.

A major plus point is that there is a proper shower cubicle, not just a shower tray with a nasty nylon curtain.

The  balcony  was a decent size, accommodating two reclining chairs and a small table.

FOOD AND DRINK

There are 11  bars  on MSC Sinfonia to choose from, each with a theme. None of them had the wow factor for me.

One of the largest bars is the gloomy Shelagh’s House, which is the ship’s Irish pub.

The Buddha Bar, Sinfonia’s piano bar located on deck 6 was less oppressive.

Unusually, there was  no speciality dining  on MSC Sinfonia. Instead, there was the option to purchase upgraded menu items in the main dining room.

The food in the  main dining room  was consistently good and occasionally very good. The food from the buffet service for lunch and dinner at La Terazza Buffet was acceptable but unexceptional.

Breakfasts were OK, but freshly cooked options were limited. The one omelette station was manned by one member of staff, resulting in considerable queues.

As you might expect from an Italian cruise company, the barista-prepared coffee was excellent. You just needed to be prepared to wait for it. 

RELAXING ON DECK

There was a busy main  pool  with the Doremi Spray Park on deck 11. Pool towels were provided in the cabin.

There was also a power walking track and a small  gym.

Mini golf  and  shuffleboard  were available at the aft of the ship on deck 13.  

ENTERTAINMENT ON MSC SINFONIA

The  entertainment programme  was so underwhelming that I did not attend any of the shows in the ship’s cramped  theatre . There was a slightly odd system whereby, for some shows, you needed to pre-book your place using one of the ship’s touch screens (which did or did not work).

Also underwhelming was the ship’s  programme of activities . Don’t expect cultural immersion or art classes. Instead, daily activities centred on games and fitness with the odd trivia quiz thrown in.  

MSC CUSTOMER SERVICE

This is where MSC Sinfonia failed, often spectacularly.

Although a few of the staff were friendly and welcoming, too many others were disinterested, bordering on contemptuous.  Long waits to be served  in the ship’s bars and restaurants were unacceptable, and this may be a reflection of its staffing levels.

However, the icing on the cake was the  overcharge  on the final bill. I was charged for drinks when I had a drinks package. There was a charge for the all-day shuttle bus at Dubrovnik where I used public transport.

And if that’s not bad enough, this charge was for two people when I had sole occupation of the cabin! How does that work?

Although I remain very cynical about the charge for the shuttle bus, I accept that mistakes can be made. But if these are rectified with grace, a smile and an apology they can be forgiven.

As you might have guessed by now, this was far from the case on MSC Sinfonia. Nothing approaching an apology, let alone a smile, passed the Guest Services assistant’s tightly pursed lips.

Worse still, mine was not an isolated experience. Fellow passengers reported similar issues but others, looking at the length of the queue snaking through the Guest Services area of the ship, gave up the fight.

FELLOW PASSENGERS

MSC is the Eurovision of cruise lines. Expect a  cosmopolitan  crowd onboard. The majority of passengers were Italian but there were also British, French, Spanish and  German passengers. Consider a cruise on MSC as an opportunity to hone your foreign language skills by tuning into the multilingual tannoy announcements. The downside of accommodating a plethora of languages is that it feels like the mandatory emergency drill goes on for a week.  

Adriatic Sea Cruise on MSC Sinfonia: The Good, The Bad and The Downright Ugly

Sailing with MSC is a mid-range budget cruise experience. It cost just over £2,000 for the week’s cruise and return scheduled flights with British Airways from London. This was a good itinerary, with diverse ports of call, each of which had something different to offer. My one regret is that we only stopped in Mykonos at night. With hindsight, I would have looked for an itinerary that would have allowed me to explore the island during daylight hours. The ports of call were very busy, especially Santorini, which was challenging at times. I’m very glad that we didn’t decide to take this cruise in July / August when it is reportedly tourist carnage. MSC Sinfonia is an elegant ship, although it felt a little claustrophobic in places, and a few design aspects were frustrating. The cabin was comfortable, albeit small. Food was generally of good quality. However, the poor customer service I experienced means that it is unlikely that I will cruise with MSC again. I had a great time despite them, which is a sad indictment.

Thank you for reading my Adriatic cruise guide

If you have found this article helpful, take a deeper dive into the stops on this cruise:

• Exploring Diocletian’s Palace in Split
• Croatia Off the Beaten Path in Split, Croatia
• Should You Visit Santorini on a Cruise?
• A War Walk in Dubrovnik: A Scarred Beauty
• A Day in Urbino, Italy: A Renaissance Gem

Finally, if you are new to cruising, I also have advice on  how to pick your first cruise  and  which cruise cabins to book , as well as advice on  solo staterooms  if you are  cruising alone.

Happy sailing!

About Bridget

Bridget Coleman has been a passionate traveller for more than 30 years. She has visited 70+ countries, most as a solo traveller.

Articles on this site reflect her first-hand experiences.

To get in touch, email her at [email protected] or follow her on social media.

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7 Night Greece & Adriatic

Your ship explorer of the seas.

ADVENTURE ON EVERY DECK

FlowRider ®

Typhoon℠ and Cyclone℠

Rock Climbing Wall

Flavorful faves.

Chops Grille℠

Giovanni's Table

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Flashback fun & daring dance moves.

Fast Forward

Invitation to Dance

Pub Performances

Day 1: Ravenna, Italy

MAKE YOUR OWN MOSAICS

DANTE’S TOMB BATTLE

BE THERE. BE SQUARE

LOCAL CUISINE

Day 2: Cruising

The Perfect Storm℠

Scuba Certification

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Spa & Fitness Center

Day 3: santorini, greece.

popular Shore Excursions

Amazing experiences coming soon..

VOLCANIC WONDERS

IT TAKES A VILLAGE

THE GLASS HALF FULL

Day 4: Athens, Greece

Take Me to Church

Mediterranean Romance

Boats and the Bronze Age

Local Cuisine

Day 5: Cruising

Chef's Table

Main Dining Room

Room Service

Day 6: kotor, montenegro.

Old-Town Exploration

Gain Another Perspective

Day 7: Split, Croatia

Discover Diocletian's Palace

Aim for the Adriatic

Day 8: Ravenna, Italy

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Croatia Cruises & Adriatic Cruises

Croatia cruises are incredible, as the region is meant to be viewed by sea. Cruise to the walled Dubrovnik, the labyrinth-like Split, or the island of Korcula, a narrow town that juts into the sapphire Adriatic. Our cruises feature varied itineraries that mix iconic Adriatic locales with hidden treasures. See Croatian medieval cities, with palaces and castles among the clusters of orange rooftops. Explore limestone cliffs, canyons, and caves, sandy and pebbly beaches, or island hop by ferry. The scenery is a major draw for tourists and even movie producers (you might even recognize some locations from “Game of Thrones”). History buffs will have packed agendas full of amazing attractions. Walk the massive walls of Dubrovnik or visit the Roman Palace of Diocletian in Split. Like everything else in the country, Croatia’s food is extraordinary. Adriatic cuisine must be tasted to be believed, from the day’s breakfast of strong coffee and pastries to a late dinner of fresh-caught seafood paired with fantastic regional wine. We cannot wait to show you this amazing place.

Europe Cruises    |    Mediterranean Cruises    |   Dubrovnik Cruises    |    Cruises from Venice (Trieste)

Croatia Cruise Highlights

Steeped in History

Adriatic Wonders

Featured croatia cruise ports.

Split, Croatia

Diocletian’s Palace, a 1,700-year-old fortress is the highlight, but there are beautiful beaches, lively squares and shops beyond the walls. 

Dubrovnik, Croatia

A walled historic quarter, charming sidewalk cafes and vistas of the shimmering Adriatic make every minute in Dubrovnik unforgettable.

Korcula, Croatia

With rolling olive groves and vineyards, a fortified old town and romantic ambience from centuries of Venetian rule, Korčula island is a treasure.

More Europe Cruises

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Mid-Mediterranean – Adriatic Sea

Slovenia, Croatia, Montenegro and Albania all lie on the Eastern side of the Adriatic Sea and don’t forget Italy. Cruises in this part of the world can leave the UK but it is more likely the ships are home-ported at Malta, Naples, Majorca or Venice using their airports. This is a very special area and digs into the history, religion, and mythology, not least the Game of Thrones . (Trieste Palace was where the Dragons were kept, and it goes on and on all the way to Dubrovnik.

Film of an evening cruise out of Venice.

Eastern Mediterranean - the help you need is here

Italy (adriatic).

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Miramare Castle, Trieste, Italy

Miramare, a Cinderella-like castle, which is more like a palace, is on a point in Trieste, Italy.

TRIESTE – Italy – the best things to do and see

Trieste should not be underestimated as an amazing port in its own right, have a look before you consider the three-hour trip to Venice, which is an option from here.

Fincantieri – ship builders

Fincantieri S.p.A. is an Italian shipbuilding company based in Trieste, Italy.

An Evening in Venice

It is not often cruisers get to have an evening anywhere, so this is a treat

Venice, Carnival, Casanova & the Masked Ball

Venice – a history of erotica and gambling? 

SLOVENIA ------- SLOVENIA ------- SLOVENIA ------- SLOVENIA

KOPER - Slovenia

Castles, caves, old village, lakes and wine.

PIRAN - Slovenia

Wonderful old villages full of tradition, caves and castles featured on the coastline, and ruins and lakes inland

CROATIA -------- ---- ---- CROATIA ------------ CROATIA ------------ CROATIA

CRES - Croatia

Cres is on the Croatian coast and has a 16th-century Venetian Tower and Arsan Palace

DUBROVNIK - Croatia - Game of Thrones

Everything comes second to Game of Thrones. We have our own Game of Thrones film on the filming, as well as walking the walls and the old city.

HVAR - Croatia - summer island in the Adriatic Sea

KOMIŽA - Croatia

Romance and sunshine, that is what brought the producers of Mamma Mia! to this area as well as Greece.

KORCULA - Croatia

A big yellow taxi catamaran! Or a history tour, or a winery…

MALI LOSINJ - Croatia

Museum of Lošinj, in the 19th-century Fritzi Palace can be found on this Croatian island.

MIJET - Croatia

Cruise ships anchor at Sobra, the port town and guests tender. A great place to cycle around.

OPATIJA - Croatia

A promenade walk and exotic flowers add to the sun, sea and sand.

PULA - Croatia

Pula has an incredible colosseum.

RAB - Croatia

This ancient walled city has 4 bell towers. Including the Romanesque tower at the Cathedral Svete Marije (St. Mary) and the tower at the ruins of Sveti Ivan Church (St. John the Evangelist). The 16th-century Monastery St. Justine (Crkva Svete Justine) is a museum.

RIJEKA - Croatia - located in Primorje-Gorski Kotar County on Kvarner Bay, an inlet of the Adriatic Sea

ROVINJ - Croatia - western coast of the Istrian peninsula

ŠIBENIK - Croatia - a gateway to the Kornati Islands

SPLIT - Croatia - Dalmatian Coast

Game of Thrones was here – for a bit. But the Romans were here for longer.

TROGIR- Croatia - Dalmatian Coast

Close to Split, the area has a wealth of medieval and Roman history

ZADAR - Croatia

For all the ruins, the modern wind pipes designed in the concrete promenade might be the thing you remember.

MONTENEGRO --------------------- MONTENEGRO --------------- MONTENEGRO --------------------- MONTENEGRO

Montenegrin is the Balkan state’s official language. However, Bosnian, Croatian, Serbian and Albanian all remain languages in official use.

BAR - Montenegro

Podgorica is 41km from Bar, 58 minutes on a train for around €3.

KOTOR - Montenegro

An interesting port because it is along a river canyon, the Gulf of Kotor, which has made it easy to protect throughout its long history.

ALBANIA -------------- ALBANIA -------------- ALBANIA -------------- ALBANIA -------------- ALBANIA -

• LANGUAGE/PHRASES: English spoken
• Hello – Përshëndetje! / Tungjatjeta
• Good morning – Mirëmëngjes!
• Bye – Mirupafshim!
• Yes – Po
• No – Jo
• How much is it? – Sa kushton?

DURRES - Albania

Durres has a huge Roman amphitheatre, a 9th-century church with mosaic-covered walls and much more.

SARANDE - Albania

A popular holiday resort at the mouth of the Adriatic, it is opposite Corfu which is a ferry ride away.

Med Ports of France   Med Ports of Spain   Western Mediterranean Islands   Ports of Italy   Cruise Ports of Turkey   Ports of Greece and Greek Islands Ports of the Far Eastern Mediterranean   Cruise Ports of the Black Sea     Cruise Ports of Suez, Red Sea and Western India

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Welcome to cruise doris visits, here to help you cruise, we film cruise port guides., our first stop 2024 will be africa..

Ex-movie makes, we now write thrilling

Pace-driven holiday cruise novels.

But we leave the chat to you under the watchful team of chat group mods & experts on our hosted FB groups

– feel welcome, join in, ask a question, start a chat thread, the doris visits chat groups.

AMBASSADOR CRUISE GROUP – UK based cruise line with two ships

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SAGA CRUISE GROUP  – smaller over 50 UK style all inclusive ships  

VIKING CRUISES GROUP – smaller – adult only – US/UK/International ships – great routes

AZAMARA & OCEANIA     VIRGIN ADULT SHIPS – Adult only ships

EVERY CRUISE PORT -click here       EVERY CRUISE SHIP – click here

In 2024 we are building our AFRICA menu and visiting to film Cape Town and other ports

Walvis Bay, Namibia

Many safaris are offered and there is an abundant bird life including flamingos, pelicans

Dakar, Senegal. Trip to Gorée Island.

Dakar, Senegal has a very busy port which is always full of ships. Invaded many times it has changed hands over and over until it regained independence in August, 1960.

Cape Town, South Africa

This garden of wine and golf has features that include Robbin Island and Table Mountain but we start with the penguins.

Freddie Mercury house in Zanzibar

Freddie Mercury was born in Zanzibar. It is a strictly religious country so is not as proud of him as you might expect.

About Us  

Doris Visits is just a little hobby, and a way of helping people research ports and ships. It is our way of giving back as we are on the ships between 6 and 12 times a year as Guest Lecturers. The site is also supported by other guest lecturers.

Why Doris?  It was a character Jean played in a TV show and we started the port guides as a little spin-off. It took over. I mean, rode into town and said this is it.

Who is Jean ?  Jean is a West End and Broadway actress who now has her own one woman show called Royal Mistresses, which she performs at guilds and on ships. Hence, she cruises – a bit. She now presents TV and is known by many cruisers for her Doris Visits port guides.

Who is Stuart?   Featured in a clip in the 2024 Oscars – in the tribute to movie stuntmen – he was the Queen Alien in Aliens. Now, he points the iPhone at Jean when they go and explore ashore. He finished in movies as a director, and now writes cruise thrillers.

The grandchildren who sometimes travel and from their son Luke Aikman. He was the young Colin Firth in Fever Pitch and appeared in Freight. He is now a producer and business entrepreneur. Their daughter helped with the plot of the first four novels and is now writing with comedian Joe Wilkinson.  Laura Aikman is known for being the girlfriend in the Christmas Gavin and Stacey, and Dyan Cannon in Archie. Some grew up with her Saturday show, Mysti.

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Adriatic Cruises

Adriatic ports.

Civitavecchia

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Greek Island Hopping Cruise

Mini cruises, 7 night cruises, arabian gulf, back to back cruises, cruises from, theme cruises, adriatic cruises, mediterranean, inclusive cruising, food and drink, know before you go – brochure.

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Heavenly Adriatic - 7 Nights

The ultimate voyage for those craving history, culture and beauty, our Heavenly Adriatic cruise invites you to soak up the serene atmosphere of spellbinding destinations across the islands and beyond. Uncover secrets behind the turquoise coastline that have been cherished for centuries. Unearth the legends of ancient Olympia, see for yourself Kefalonia’s mesmerizing cave and taste the treasures grown in Montenegro’s verdant lands. As you scale ancient city walls, stroll along charming fishing harbors and climb volcanic peaks, you’ll get a unique glimpse into the wonders of the natural world and lives from long ago.

Cruise itinerary

Your heavenly Adriatic escape begins in the majestic city of Athens. As one of the oldest cities in the world, the vibrant modern metropolis boasts an intriguing and contrasting mix of old and modern architecture in perfect harmony and balance. Explore the city and soak up the atmosphere by the harbour’s edge as you wait to embark for your exciting adventure.

Fir covered lands dotted with charming villages meet a sparkling coastline on Kefalonia, the largest Ionian island. Delve further into this jewel’s beauty. See nature’s best work in the Melissani Cave where sublime colors reflect off lake within. Or watch yachts jostle as you sip a drink and enjoy the sunset on the harbor of one of the fishing villages.

As we draw closer to Dubrovnik, all eyes will be on the towering city walls. Take the chance to walk along them to gain a unique perspective of the limestone streets, baroque architecture and the shimmer of turquoise beckoning beyond. Then head further into the city’s myriad streets to soak up the atmosphere in seemingly endless bars, cafes and restaurants.

(Montenegro)

Where red rooftops contrast with crystal blue waters and towering peaks. Kotor’s spectacular bay is an awe inspiring backdrop to a medieval maze of stunning architecture, Venetian palaces, ornate churches, museums and squares sprinkled with cafes, bars and restaurants.

Kotor is a UNESCO world heritage site with a 2,000 year history that can be traced back all the way to its ancient Roman beginnings. This historic city is absolutely mesmerising. Explore the  monumental city walls built in the Middle Ages and criss-cross the narrow streets to the most recognisable symbol of the city, the Cathedral of St Tryphon, a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture.

Transport yourself to the captivating port town of Bari, nestled in the stunning region of Puglia, Italy. Immerse yourself in its rich history and vibrant charm, as you explore its ancient streets and marvel at its architectural wonders. As you wander through the bustling local markets, let the scent of freshly baked focaccia and the lively chatter of locals embrace you, offering a tantalizing glimpse into the authentic Puglian lifestyle.

Corfu Town is cosmopolitan, charming and friendly. You can easily lose yourself here as you explore the narrow alleyways, soak up the atmosphere and meet the locals at one of the many cafes, bars and restaurants. You may be surprised by the Italian feel, largely thanks to the Venetian architecture, but you won’t be surprised by the Greek warm welcome.

As you dock in the sleepy fishing village of Katakolo, you would never imagine the secret gem it guards. Nearby, the ancient city of Olympia bears a wealth of priceless artefacts and sculptures. Feel the awe that remains in the world-famous home of the Olympic Games. Here you also have the chance to unwind on a 50-mile sandy beach with crystalline blue waters.

While your cruise may be drawing to an end, the tantalising city of Athens still lies ahead. Delve deep into the city’s sidestreets, bursting with life and culture. Or, clamber up high to the Acropolis for a stunning view of this thriving, cosmopolitan city. As the sun sets, take in the Athens skyline by night and wonder at the dancing Aegean. There’s no better place to end your cruise than here.

Amazing excursions carefully curated

Achilleion – corfu town, cool caves and a clifftop town.

CRAFTING YOUR OWN GIN

Discover a fairytale town, discover the best of kefalonia, dubrovnik food on foot, highlights of montenegro, historic kotor & budva, igor’s magical recycled scrap art, indulge your passion for wine, kotor hike and bike, kotor off-road adventure, kotor walking tour, markovic winery and the visit to budva old town, meet the life of the locals, monopoli & rural life experience, olympia & archaeological museum, olympia & olive oil tasting, olympia & wine tasting, olympia hiking, paleokastritsa – natural beauty and byzantine presence -the city of corfu and kanoni, panoramic dubrovnik, village life & wine, see the real-life relics of santa claus, the ever green island of corfu – achillion, kanoni, the town, the game of thrones locations tour, trani and oil mill with tasting, transfer to kourouta beach, transfer to makris gialos beach, unveil the wonders of kefalonia, historic dubrovnik, walking dubrovnik, walking dubrovnik city walls, classical athens and its monuments, the acropolis & the new acropolis museum, athens monuments and the acropolis, athens tour and the new acropolis museum, an inclusive experience.

COMPLIMENTARY DINING

We know the best recipes are the ones passed down between generations. And we love to share that with our guests. So onboard a Celestyal cruise, you can expect freshly prepared by our local chefs – morning, noon and night!

SELECT DRINKS WITH MEALS

Sit down to an authentic evening meal and enjoy specially selected drinks to go with it. Our dedicated hospitality team know how to make every meal a delicious experience so let them take your taste buds away.

VIBRANT ENTERTAINMENT

Immersing our guests in the local way of life is at the heart of the Celestyal experience. Take Greek dancing lessons from a pro and take the Mediterranean culture home with you. Enjoy a drink with your group as you watch the stars glitter off the Aegean with our front-seat, panoramic horizon bar views. And don’t miss the colour and magic of Cirque Fantastic!

$80 SHOREX EXCURSION DISCOUNT

We can’t wait to welcome you to our beautiful blue world, so when you step foot on the sands of Greece and the Eastern Med, our endless excursion options are designed to take you to the heart of our homeland. As standard, all of our guests enjoy a $80 excursion discount to put towards any of our immersive experiences.

PORT CHARGES AND GRATUITIES

With all charges, port expenses and gratuities included in our fares, you can relax knowing we’ve got you covered. We’ll bring your next adventure to you, with no additional fees.

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The 2024 cruise season in Central Adriatic Ports is ready to start!

• March 22, 2024

The cruise ports of Ancona, Pesaro, and Ortona, managed by the Central Adriatic Ports Authority, will be once again the protagonists of the cruise season in the Adriatic.

On 23rd March, the cruise ship Artemis will open the 2024 cruise season calling the port of Pesaro, Italian Capital of Culture 2024. Its itinerary will continue in the port of Ortona on 24th March, thus letting its passengers explore the beauty of Marche and Abruzzo regions. In both ports, a total of 14 cruise calls are expected up to November 2024, all managed by the Grand Circle Cruise Line company, also thanks to the presence of Athena cruise ship.

The port of Ancona will welcome 60 cruise calls starting on the 5th of April with MSC Lirica, which will arrive every Friday from the Greek island of Santorini until October 25th, with a total of 30 calls. MSC Cruises will enrich its presence in the port of Ancona with the arrival of the brand-new Explora I, the first ship to join the Explora Journeys fleet, which will call twice the Doric port in October 2024.

In addition, in May 2024, Ancona will welcome also Marella Cruises with the ships Marella Explorer 2 and Marella Explorer, with a total of 17 calls, 11 more than in 2023.

Moreover, the Doric port will also be a destination for other luxury cruise companies in 2024: Azamara, Oceania, Ponant, CroisiEurope, Atlas Ocean Voyages and Regent Seven Seas, thus registering a +25% forecast increase of total cruise calls towards 2023.

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The Association of Mediterranean Cruise Ports promotes the cruise industry and unites the ports of ‘Mare Nostrum’ and its adjoining seas

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Royal Caribbean is canceling all stops at this private island port due to over 2,500 deaths & injuries in 3 months

• Updated: Apr. 29, 2024, 1:15 p.m. |
• Published: Apr. 29, 2024, 1:05 p.m.

Royal Caribbean has stopped ships from docking at a private island port in Haiti due to ongoing violence in the region. AP

• Katherine Rodriguez | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com

Royal Caribbean has stopped ships from docking at a private island port in Haiti due to ongoing violence in the region.

The cruise line canceled ships from docking at that port through May, but last week Royal Caribbean modified cruise schedules to avoid the port throughout the summer and into September, according to a post on the Royal Caribbean blog.

“Guests booked on cruises in the summer and early fall are getting notifications from Royal Caribbean that their visits to Labadee have been canceled,” the blog post stated . “On Tuesday (April 23), cruisers began to share updates they received from Royal Caribbean that their itineraries have been updated to drop Labadee and replace it with another port or a sea day.”

Labadee is a beach area owned by Royal Caribbean located on a peninsula in northern Haiti. It is barricaded from the rest of the country and has its own security force.

Between January and March of this year, more than 2,500 people were killed or injured due to violence across Haiti, specifically in the capital of Port-au-Prince.

Royal Caribbean International did not formally announce any changes on its website. Royal Caribbean Blog is not connected with Royal Caribbean International and is just a site for fans of the cruise liner.

However, the blog reposted a notice from the cruise liner about the itinerary changes without mentioning the violence.

“Due to the continuing situation in Haiti, we’ll now visit Grand Turk, Turks & Caicos, instead of Labadee, Haiti,” the notice reads. “We’re sorry for the change – your safety is our top priority. Nevertheless, we’re excited to visit a new port with you!”

This decision by Royal Caribbean comes after the U.S. issued a warning to tourists to avoid traveling to Haiti at this time due to an increase in gang-related violence.

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7 amazing cruise itineraries to book in 2024

I don't know about you, but each year, as the weather turns cold, I start daydreaming about getting out of Dodge — or, in my case, Pennsylvania. My mind wanders to cruises that will take me to places where the temperature is warmer, but I also take a hard look at the (exceptionally lengthy) list of places I'm longing to visit.

After digging through what's new for 2024, I've come up with a shortlist of sailings that I think are noteworthy. They range from a standard Bahamas voyage with a new twist and an extended Alaska sailing that includes a foray across the Arctic Circle to more far-flung destinations in the Asia-Pacific region.

Dream on, dear reader, and add these to your list of 2024 cruise itineraries.

Note: All prices listed are per person, based on double occupancy, unless otherwise noted. Fares do not include taxes and fees.

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

Seabourn's 'Kimberley Expedition: Waterfalls and Wandjinas' itinerary

Last year, the Australia and New Zealand cruise region gained momentum following the pandemic shutdown. In 2024, the hardly populated Australia region of The Kimberley is gaining popularity. Luxury cruise brand Seabourn will be offering a series of six 10-night voyages between Broome and Darwin on expedition vessel Seabourn Pursuit during what will be early winter in the southern hemisphere.

The line's " Kimberley Expedition: Waterfalls and Wandjinas " will take passengers to places along the coast few passengers are able to visit to see the stunning teal waters and horizontal waterfalls of Talbot Bay, sample wines in the Hunter River Region and check out nature preserves in Wyndham.

Details: The first sailing, from Darwin to Broome, embarks on June 12. The final voyage, from Broome to Darwin, departs on Aug. 1. Prices start from $6,134 per person ($613 per person, per night), double occupancy, for the July 2 cruise. All accommodations are suites with balconies.

Celebrity's 'Best of Japan' and 'Vietnam and Thailand' cruises

The number of voyages in Asia was trending upward notably prior to 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic brought cruising in the region to an extended halt. And it's once again on the rise. Following that curve, Celebrity Cruises will be running new 11- to 13-night Asia sailings in 2024 on two ships — Celebrity Millennium and Celebrity Solstice — that bring stops in Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong, Vietnam and Thailand.

What's notable about the offerings is that they will aim to immerse passengers further into the destinations by including overnights in a total of 11 ports across all itineraries. That means more time to explore Hanoi's Old Quarter as the sun sets, indulge in nighttime gastronomy in Hong Kong, visit one of Bangkok's many markets, or learn why Osaka is known for street food.

Details: Celebrity Millennium's " Best of Japan " cruises run from early mid-March to early October. At press time, the least expensive fares — for a 12-night sailing — start from $1,330 per person ($111 per person, per night) for an inside cabin. It travels round-trip from Yokohama and visits Hiroshima, Pusan and other ports, including Osaka, where the ship will overnight.

Celerbrity Solstice's Vietnam and Thailand cruises kick off in mid-January and run through March. The ship will resume them again in the fall of 2024 and run through the winter season. Prices start from $1,255 per person ($105 per person, per night) for an inside cabin. The voyage sails from Hong Kong to Singapore with stops in Da Nang and Koh Samui, plus overnights in Hanoi and Bangkok.

SeaDream's 'Yachting the Adriatic & Greek Isles' sailing

Here's one to put on your radar if you're looking to book — but not necessarily sail — in 2024. It's a new Mediterranean itinerary that doesn't start up for nearly three more years, in 2026. The SeaDream routing brings stops at seven ports that are rarely visited by cruise passengers. During the seven-night voyages, there will be calls at Primosten, Croatia; Cesme, Turkey; Cetubal, Portugal; and Kythira, Kythnos, Syvota and Tinos, Greece — making these sailings unique and well-suited to anyone who loves the region but who's looking for new places to experience.

SeaDream's small ships, each of which carries just 112 people, are able to reach locales about which passengers on megaships can only fantasize. Couple that with excellent service, and you'll be visiting the Our Lady of Loretto statue in Primosten, touring the Cesme Castle and lounging on stunning Greek beaches from a home base that puts you squarely in the lap of luxury.

Details: An itinerary that includes three of the seven new ports is the 11-night " Yachting the Adriatic & Greek Isles " itinerary from Venice, Italy, to Athens, Greece, departing on Aug. 8, 2026, on SeaDream I. Prices start from $10,399 per person ($946 per person, per night) for a room with a porthole view.

Holland America's 'Alaska Arctic Circle Solstice' Legendary Voyage

Alaska is an absolute must for anyone who enjoys the vastness of untouched wilderness, the wildlife it houses and adventurous pursuits it provides. (Think whale-watching, hiking on glaciers and salmon fishing.) However, Holland America 's Westerdam is hosting a 28-day sailing that's anything but your standard cruise to the Last Frontier .

Passengers will visit the usual Alaska ports, such as Ketchikan, Sitka and Juneau, with scenic sailing through the Inside Passage, past Hubbard Glacier and to Glacier Bay. But they can also expect less-common stops at places like Nome, Kodiak, Anchorage (with an overnight) and Homer. Plus, about halfway through, this cruise crosses the Arctic Circle — a rite of passage for many travelers.

Details: Holland America's 28-day " Alaska Arctic Circle Solstice " cruise — one of the line's Legendary Voyages, known for longer durations and a unique mix of port calls — sails June 9-July 7, round-trip from Seattle. Inside cabins start from $5,299 per person (about $189 per person, per night).

Silversea's summertime French Polynesia cruises

Another consideration for future travel is Silversea Cruises , which is featuring its first full-summer season in French Polynesia in 2026. Silver Whisper will offer two immersive itineraries, including overnights, across 17 voyages between April and September.

Passengers can choose seven-night sailings that visit idyllic favorites like Tahiti, Moorea and Huahine and which also include overnights in Bora Bora. Or, they can cruise for twice as long by selecting a 14-night voyage that calls on the same ports as the seven-night option but with Fakarava, Nuku Hiva, Fatu Hiva, Atuona and Tahuata added.

Details: Silversea's seven-night voyages begin April 6, 2026, and start from $5,650 per person ($808 per person, per night) for an ocean-view cabin.

The line's 14-night sailings start on April 20, 2026. Fares start from $10,450 per person ($747 per person, per night) for ocean-view accommodations.

New Bermuda voyages on Carnival Venezia

Beginning in May of 2025, Carnival Cruise Line 's Carnival Venezia will sail a series of eight four- and five-night cruises to Bermuda from New York. These itineraries are notable because the line is aiming to increase its presence there but also because the style of the ship is new to even most of the brand's most dedicated passengers.

In 2022, Carnival announced its Costa by Carnival concept after revealing it would be transferring ships from its Costa sister brand to the Carnival fleet. Now, when travelers visit the Gibb's Hill Lighthouse or check out the island's renowned pink-sand beaches during a sailing on Carnival Venezia, they can enjoy both the Italian style of the ship and Carnival's fun atmosphere and high service standards.

Details: Voyages kick off on May 22, 2025. Prices start from $429 per person ($108 per person, per night) for an inside cabin on a four-night cruise departing Sept. 18, 2025.

Disney Cruise Line's Lighthouse Point itineraries

Disney Cruise Line 's new Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point , a private destination on the Bahamian island of Eleuthera, is set to open in June with a three-night preview sailing on June 6 aboard Disney Magic. Following the initial voyage, the line will run regular three- to seven-night voyages to Lighthouse Point on Disney Magic, Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream.

The island will feature a dedicated family beach and water play area, an arts and culture pavilion focused on Bahamian culture, 20 family cabanas, an adults-only beach and a selection of shore excursion options.

Details: Prices for itineraries that include Lighthouse Point start from $624 per person ($208 per person, per night) for a three-night cruise on Disney Magic. The cruise departs Nov. 5 and sails from Fort Lauderdale's Port Everglades to San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Have cruise questions? TPG has answers:

• Banned items: What not to pack for a cruise
• Man overboard: Why do people fall off cruise ships?
• What is baked Alaska, and why is it paraded around cruise ships?
• What are the largest cruise ships in the world?
• What is a gentleman host on a cruise?
• What is the Jones Act and how does it affect cruise ships?
• What is a lido deck on a cruise ship?
• What's a cruise cabin guarantee and will it save you money?
• What's the difference between a cruise concierge and a butler?

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

Travel | Port Canaveral chalks up record month amid…

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Travel | orange deputies arrest ‘potential serial killer’ in slayings of two women, things to do, subscriber only, travel | port canaveral chalks up record month amid growing cruise demand.

Port Canaveral saw just under 800,000 cruise passengers move on and off its ships in March as part of a record year that keeps topping expectations.

That set a one-month record for the port with an average of nearly 25,600 people a day around 93 cruise ship calls. March is traditionally one of the strongest months of the year for the port with its spring break traffic.

It also marked the halfway point of the fiscal year that began in October 2023. Six months in, the port has seen 3.9 million passenger movements from 479 ship calls.

“The industry itself is very, very strong right now,” said Port CEO Capt. John Murray at the port commission meeting on Wednesday. “There’s a lot of expansion plans. The companies are starting to reorder ships again after the pandemic.”

NCL details new dining on Canaveral-bound Norwegian Aqua

That includes more ships from Norwegian Cruise Line, which has been sending its new vessels to Port Canaveral as they debut including next year’s Norwegian Aqua.

“So a lot of great things, a lot of great things, a lot of enthusiasm and I can say that the industry is 110% of what it was prior to the pandemic,” Murray said. “They are back and booming right now. So we’re fortunate to be taking advantage of that here at the port.”

Operating revenue for the year is already at $98 million, which is $3.6 million above budget. It also means the record projection of $187 million in operating revenue through the end of the fiscal year in September is likely to get surpassed as well.

Ship capacity is determined to be at 100% if each stateroom is occupied by two passengers, so ships sailing with families, for instance, will push capacity above 100% and in turn increase revenue for the port from the cruise lines as well as add to an uptick in parking charges.

Royal Caribbean to send massive Utopia of the Seas to Port Canaveral

One of the big drivers has been the addition of a second Oasis-class vessel by Royal Caribbean so that the port hosts two of the largest cruise ships in the world.

Allure of the Seas joined Wonder of the Seas last fall to begin short three- and four-night sailings to the Bahamas, and will continue that until the debut of Royal’s new Utopia of the Seas this summer. Since arriving, it has added more than 650,000 passenger movements to the port’s growing tally.

The port has been home port to 13 ships from Disney Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Norwegian and MSC Cruises, and is set to welcome its first ships from both Princess Cruises and Celebrity Cruises this fall.

Port Canaveral plots timeline to take over marina for new cruise terminal

Right now it has six cruise terminals, but is beginning the work to eventually build a seventh later this decade. During an interview earlier in April at the Seatrade Cruise Global conference in Miami Beach, Murray said the key to growth for the port will be a shift in how the port gives access to each terminal, such as how it plans to operate its seventh terminal.

“It’s going to be multiuser. It’s not going to be a single-use facility. That’s going to be how our concept of operations would be going forward,” Murray said. “The only way you’re going to get good utilization of a terminal is if you can put multiple brands in there and not have it dedicated to just one user.”

That’s how it runs several of its terminals now including Disney Cruise Line at Cruise Terminal 8 and Carnival Cruise Line at its newest terminal, Cruise Terminal 3.

“If they’ve got seven days a week at one terminal and they’re only using three, maybe four days, that’s not high utilization,” Murray said. “Yet, it’s a facility that we’ve got blocked out that we’re not getting any benefit from it for the investment we’ve made.”

He notes Cruise Terminal 10, which gets used by three brands, gets used six days a week.

Murray said with newer and bigger ships on order from all the major lines, the demand is just going to continue to spike for parking space at Florida’s big three ports.

“I think the point now for all of the major brands is finding somewhere to operate,” Murray said. “Because there’s only Miami, [and] we all know how full Miami is; Everglades, [which has] limited capacity or opportunity for growth; and we have more land, but you know, it’s not all going to get committed to the cruise industry.”

“So the question is, how do we allow more opportunities for the cruise lines to operate? This is one — get high utilization out of the terminal.”

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I worked on cruises for 3 years. Here are 6 things I'd never do on board.

• I used to work on cruises. After many days at sea, there are things I'd never do on a cruise .
• I never wear my room key around my neck and try to avoid misnaming the ship.
• I never buy the drink package or pay for meal upgrades in the main dining room.

I've sailed around the world as a cruise-ship employee , and now I enjoy cruising as a passenger.

I love the salty sea air, waking up in a new country, and lazy days by the pool, but a week at sea could get more complicated this year with cruises predicted to be in high demand .

While fighting a little harder to secure a prime seat on the pool deck, you may as well also avoid some rookie mistakes.

Here are six things I'd never do on a cruise after working on them for three years.

Pay for upgrades in the main dining room

Typically, main dining room meals are included in the cost of a cruise. But in recent years, it's become common for cruise lines to charge guests extra if they want to upgrade to "supplementary" items like lobster or certain steaks.

I know $12 may not seem like much for a steak or lobster tail at dinner, but the cost of the cruise is supposed to include your food.

So, even though I enjoy lobster, I stick with the items without the upcharges.

Buy the drink package

I enjoy a piña colada by the pool or a Manhattan while listening to a jazz set after dinner. Even so, it doesn't make sense for me to pay in advance for 12 to 15 cocktails a day.

I've done the math on typical unlimited drink packages , and the cost simply isn't worth it for me.

This is especially true with a port-heavy itinerary. If I've gone ashore to explore all day, that means I'm not sidled up to the bar slurping down alcoholic slushies.

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I prefer to buy as I go and take advantage of happy hour and other drink specials that are available on certain cruise lines. I also check the beverage policy in advance and bring on my own wine, if allowed.

Touch shared contact surfaces with my fingers

Fellow guests will never see me touching the elevator buttons with my fingertips. Knuckles and elbows do the trick.

Some cruise lines are better than others at wiping down commonly touched surfaces, but I don't take any chances. I avoid touching things others frequently touch, and I wash my hands frequently.

This strategy has worked for me, as I have never contracted norovirus, even when it was running rampant on a ship I was on. It's quite contagious and can linger on your fingertips even after using hand sanitizer . I'd definitely rather be safe than sorry.

Wear my room key around my neck

I never walk around the ship with my room key around my neck, and I especially never do this when on land.

There are two reasons for this. First, I see many passengers using the room keys dangling from their necks to flaunt their cruise loyalty status . It just looks pretentious.

The sophisticated cruisers with the highest status, with the most days at sea, never show off their fancy room keys.

That's because they know the more important reason — safety. In port, that room key bouncing off your chest looks like an invitation to be robbed. It screams, "I have money! Come and take it from me."

Misname the ship

English is a funny language that has its quirks. Naming conventions make that even more complicated.

Ships have proper names, and so do not require a definite article. For example, "Tomorrow I am embarking on Discovery Princess," or "I enjoyed scenic cruising on MS Westerdam."

If you want to look like a savvy sailor, learn to drop the "the!"

Plan my port-day itinerary so tight that I may not make it back to the ship on time

Oh, the recurring nightmares I've had about not making it back to the ship on time during a port day.

I've never missed a sail away, but I have cut it too close at times and have had to run down a pier or two. Just recently, as a passenger, my taxi driver got lost returning our group to the port at night.

When I realized how late we were going to be, I forked over $8 per minute to be connected with the ship. I pleaded with them to wait for us. It was a sprint through the port to get back on and we received quite a scolding from the first officer.

That time, we got lucky. In the future, I'll be giving myself more time than I think I need to make it back.

Watch: Why it costs $1 million a day to run one of the world's biggest cruise ships

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• River Cruising

Viking Moscow to St. Petersburg: Safety??

By uilleann , September 20, 2018 in River Cruising

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We are looking at doing the Viking Moscow to St. Petersburg river cruise in 2020. When I checked the US State Dept. They classify Russia as a “Consider another location” due to increased terrorism against American Tourists. I would love to hear peoples thoughts as I have never been to Russia and this cruise looks like fun?

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I can't answer your question specifically. I have done a similar cruise (another line) and I have done a land trip there. If I was to advise people, I would tell people to find a land company and just do St. Petersburg and Moscow. Stay downtown and not clear out where the river boats stay. I was bored with the ports between and wish I had spent more time in Moscow on the river boat (like I did when I was on the land trip.

Again, not the answer to the question you were asking. I personally would have no hesitations going back.

My sister-in-law just did the Viking trip, St, Pete to Moscow, with no problem at all. She reacted as I did -- greatly enjoyed the longer day time sailing of this itinerary, which she found relaxing and peaceful, and the ports quite interesting. (I was on another line, too, a few years ago). I've seen the State Dept. warning but think the cruise lines put a premium on the safety of their PAX and would withdraw their tours if safety was a concern, such as when river cruises on the Nile were shut down. We did a cruise there after they were reinstated and were a bit apprehensive, but we felt safe with the security provided there and had a great time as well.

We did this trip five years ago. We found St. Petersburg and Moscow extremely interesting, but we really enjoyed the ports during the cruising part of the trip. We loved sailing through the countryside and seeing the smaller towns. President Obama was actually in St. Petersburg for a summit the same time we were there, so Americans were treated fine. However, this was all only a few months before the Sochi winter olympics and Putin was on his best behavior. We all know what happened immediately following the olympics. But then we went to Egypt this past January and we're going to Cuba this coming winter, so we're not easily put off by state department warnings.

chicchic325

That area is generally safe. That said, there is no love lost between Russians and Americans. Most of your everyday people will be fine. You will stand out as an American, good/bad/indifferent. Most of the terrorism problems in Russia are further south than Moscow

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... there is no love lost between Russians and Americans.

I don't find it to be the case.... While the governments do indeed have a hard time finding any kind of common ground to start talking, this has not - in my experience - translated into any kind of problems on a person-to-person level.

If anything, I'd encourage the OP to extend their stay on both ends of the trip, via Viking extension or otherwise and explore both cities on their own.

There aren't too many reviews of Vikings Russian River tours here on CC, but to get a general understanding of overall safety and other issues you might also want to check reviews of other cruise companies (AMA, Scenic, Uniworld, Vodohod) and aggregators (Gate 1 cruises, etc) offering the same route - the itineraries are virtually identical.

As far as State Dept warnings go - they have unfortunately become a political tool rather than a useful resourse for travelers.

Host Jazzbeau

I don't find it to be the case.... While the governments do indeed have a hard time finding any kind of common ground to start talking, this has not - in my experience - translated into any kind of problems on a person-to-person level. If anything, I'd encourage the OP to extend their stay on both ends of the trip, via Viking extension or otherwise and explore both cities on their own. There aren't too many reviews of Vikings Russian River tours here on CC, but to get a general understanding of overall safety and other issues you might also want to check reviews of other cruise companies (AMA, Scenic, Uniworld, Vodohod) and aggregators (Gate 1 cruises, etc) offering the same route - the itineraries are virtually identical.   As far as State Dept warnings go - they have unfortunately become a political tool rather than a useful resourse for travelers.

AMA stopped offering cruises in Russia, reportedly because they couldn't deliver the quality of their European and other itineraries.

AMA stopped offering cruises in Russia

Very true, but past reviews should still be available - and could be helpful in overall assessment of things to expect on that route. Like I said, the itineraries are virtually the same (coincidentally, stern State Dept warnings haven't changed much over the years, either).

OnTheJourney

Would love to go to Moscow....and so I've looked at the "Waterways of the Tsars" Viking cruise quite often. When we arrived in SPB, that morning you could just feel the tension onboard the ship. Everyone just seemed keyed up and slightly nervous. NOT the usual feeling like in the Windjammer down in the Caribbean! Anyway, one of the days we went through border patrol they left my wife go right through, but I was questioned rather sternly and at length about why I'm arriving so early before my tour excursion started and what I intended to do. It was a bit uncomfortable. After a bit of jabbering in Russian among the border patrol agents, they finally let me through. Telling them that I was going to go shopping with the extra time before the excursion started seemed to win some points :)

This is because they never really tried. Ours had 2 AMA employees - the rest were Vodohod employees. It was a Vodohod cruise.

Relax & ignore uptight fellow passengers.

Viking Ocean Day One at St Pete we go to the border officer. Stares & glowers at us for something like 2-3 minutes. Then stamps our passports forcefully and bruskly waves us thru.

Day 2 at St Pete. We arrive and are promptly waived thru right away. But no smile.

Two very elderly folks on our same tour were held up at least 15 minutes as we all waited for them. Talked to them and they were both ex-military and had worked at the Pentagon. They surmised that the Rooskies knew this and had some concerns. They were laughing and thought the entire experience was a hoot. Day 2, no problems.

Yeah...we had no problems the next day we went through.

My sister and BIL just returned from the Viking trip from St. Pete. to Moscow. They said the onboard experience wasn't as good as on the European Longships but they thoroughly enjoyed the trip. They too reported the local people they met were a very warm and friendly.

We arrive and are promptly waived thru right away. But no smile.

Just out of pure curiosity (plus in the interest of identifying cultural differences) - why do you think a smile would be in order?

From my point of view: tourism is an economic plus for any country, so officials involved should be customer-focused.

The scowling old Babushkas monitoring in the Russian museums are apparently not in order.

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Suggest you try the Sampsan from Moscow to St Petes.

There is a four seat compartment at the very front of the train, excellent service, and great views.

Very safe even for Americans !

The scowling old Babushkas monitoring in the Russian museums are apparently not in order

Indeed, wouldn't we all prefer the cheerful young babushkas!

In fact, having spent a bit of time in SPB over the summer, I have a new appreciation for the scowling old type - the only time I've seen them spring back to life, in a soccer-goalie pounce, was to stop a fellow tourist from touching the private parts of a marble statue or leaning against the tapestry-adorned wall in the Hermitage :-)

When I was a Russian History major in the late '60s there was a wonderful story from the days of Stalin about an old Babushka who used to take the subway to Red Square every morning, trudge painfully across the square to the wall of the Kremlin where the front page of Pravda was posted in a glass case, look briefly at the paper and sigh, and then trudge back to the subway. One day the guard asked, "Grandma, why don't you just buy the paper? It only costs a penny." She said, "I don't want to read all of it. I'm just looking for an obituary." The guard said, "But the obituaries aren't printed on the front page!" She answered, " This one will be."

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Adriatic Cruises

Discover the azure water and sweeping romance of the Mediterranean

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Explore Europe’s best-kept secrets on an Adriatic Cruise

Make your way along the coast on an Adriatic cruise and marvel at scenic beaches, Medieval castles, and many more hidden treasures in this captivating region of Europe. Experience vibrant, cosmopolitan communities, charming seaside villages, and a mix of cultures that includes Greek, Roman, Venetian, Slav, Ottoman, and Austro-Hungarian influences.

On your cruise to Europe , you’ll enjoy this lovely mélange in the area’s varied cuisine, architecture, and history. Spend balmy summer days on one of the sultry beaches along the Adriatic coastline or wine tasting in the countryside. Uncover the historic sites of the region and wander through captivating city centers. From Italy and Croatia to Slovenia and Montenegro, this region of Europe has a wealth of cultural gems waiting to be discovered.

Adriatic Cruise Highlights

Forts and castles.

Immerse yourself in the history of the Adriatic by visiting its castles, forts, cathedrals, and palaces. In Dubrovnik, walk along the winding Old City Walls that date back to the 10th century.  In Split, enter Diocletian’s Palace, where the ancient Roman emperor once escaped for rest and refuge. In Trieste, visit the Cathedral of San Giusto Martire, where you’ll enjoy a breathtaking view of the Adriatic Sea. In Koper, stop by the 15th-century Praetorian Palace and admire its Venetian Gothic architecture. 

Sparkling Coasts

Discover the Adriatic’s chic and breathtaking coastlines, where sparkling blue water and gorgeous landscapes await. Find out why Dubrovnik is known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic” after lounging on one of its pebble beaches and enjoying the view of the Elaphite Islands in the distance. Head to the town of Opatija near Rijeka, a secluded hilltop village that was once a holiday escape for Lord Byron and Isadora Duncan. Spend a sunny day in the Slovene Riviera, where you can enjoy 30 miles of scenic towns and seaside restaurants with the freshest seafood.

Culinary Delights

Treat your taste buds to new flavors and ingredients during your cruise around the Adriatic. Take a cooking lesson in Rijeka, the heart of Croatia’s avant-garde culinary scene. Go wine tasting in the Split or explore the vineyards near Koper. In Trieste, enjoy Italian staples along with dishes that feature the strong Austrian-Hungarian influence in the city’s cuisine.

Featured Ports

Trieste, italy.

Hidden in the northeastern tip of the Italian peninsula, Trieste is a unique port city with a vibrant mix of cultures seen throughout its architecture, dialect, and cuisine. Spend some time walking around the Piazza Unita d’Italia, the largest sea-facing square in all of Europe. Visit the Castello di Miramare, once the home of an Archduke Maximilian of Habsburg. Relax at La Diga, a waterfront harbor, where you can lay under the sun, eat a gelato, or go bar-hopping by the beach.

Kotor, Montenegro

Nestled between the Bay of Kotor and the mountains of Mt. Lovcen, Kotor is a charming harbor town with lovely landscapes and dramatic architecture. Explore the Old Town, where medieval buildings, cafes, and shops line every corner. Step into the quirky Cats Museum, which is full of all things feline. Jump into a kayak and paddle your way through the sea, or take a break at one of the town’s private beaches and swim in the crystal-clear Adriatic Sea.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Between Italy and Montenegro, you’ll find the spectacular city of Dubrovnik, a heavenly coastal escape in Croatia that has risen to the top of many travelers’ bucket lists. Walk around the historic Old City Walls, where you’ll see unparalleled views of Dubrovnik’s red-bricked buildings and shimmering sea. Explore the area’s forts and castles, many of which served as backdrops for an immensely popular TV show. Bike around the seaside village of Molunat, an area famous for its golden sand beaches. 

Adriatic Cruise Itineraries

On a cruise to the Adriatic Sea with Celebrity Cruises, choose from 7- to 13-night itineraries that depart from Barcelona, Rome, and Ravenna (Venice). Cruise between May to October and visit ports of call such as Dubrovnik, Split, Trieste, Kotor, and Koper.

Itineraries

Why sail to the adriatic with celebrity.

Discover the beauty of the Mediterranean on an Adriatic Sea cruise with Celebrity, which has been voted the best cruise line in Europe for 10 years in a row. You’ll sail to picturesque towns and popular ports in complete luxury while enjoying world-class service onboard. Sign up for shore excursions and spend your days learning about the area’s rich history, sampling its unique cuisine, and relaxing on the Adriatic Coast’s famous beaches. 

Once you’re back on board, unwind at the indoor solarium, book a massage at The Spa, or unwind on your own private veranda and breathe in the fresh ocean breeze. At night, savor global cuisine at any of our restaurants and cap off the evening with a drink at one of our lively lounges, where you can listen to live music or dance under the stars.

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Caribbean cruise line reroutes ships, cancels stop at island port due to violence, turmoil

• Published: Apr. 25, 2024, 12:11 p.m.

Royal Caribbean International has canceled stops at its private beach in Haiti through September as a result of the violence plaguing the island nation, a private fan blog, citing messages to travelers, reports. AP

• Robert Higgs, cleveland.com

MIAMI – Royal Caribbean has cancelled stops at its private port of Labadee through the summer because of simmering violence in Haiti.

In March, the cruise line canceled stops at the private beach area through May, but this week Royal Caribbean reworked cruise schedules through the summer and into September, a post on the Royal Caribbean Blog said.

“Guests booked on cruises in the summer and early fall are getting notifications from Royal Caribbean that their visits to Labadee have been canceled,” the blog said. “On Tuesday (April 23), cruisers began to share updates they received from Royal Caribbean that their itineraries have been updated to drop Labadee and replace it with another port or a sea day.”

Labadee is a beach area on a peninsula in northern Haiti near Cap-Haitien used exclusively by Royal Caribbean. The cruise line has its own security force at the site, which is walled off from the rest of the country.

The 260-acre site has been leased by Royal Caribbean since the 1980s. It is about a six-hour drive from Haiti’s capital, Port-au-Prince, and thus far has not seen any incidents of violence, the blog said.

More than 2,500 people were killed or injured in gang violence from January to March across Haiti, a more than 50% increase from the same period last year, according to a report Friday by the United Nations Integrated Office in Haiti. The vast majority of violence is in Port-au-Prince .

Cap-Haitien, Haiti’s former capital, has been spared much of the violence and is going through a bit of a resurgence, The Associated Press said . Business owners, anxious parents and even historic state ceremonies have been relocating there, and that began even before gangs started attacking key government infrastructure in Port-au-Prince in late February.

Royal Caribbean International had no formal announcements of the changes posted to its website. Royal Caribbean Blog is an unofficial site for fans of the cruise line and is not affiliated with Royal Caribbean International.

But it cited chatter and messages from cruise ticket holders about changes to their itinerary that showed stops at Labadee were being canceled and replaced with either an extra day of cruising at sea or stops in alternate ports.

A notice from the cruise line, reposted on the blog, informed guests about the change in travel plans, without explicitly mentioning the violence.

“Due to the continuing situation in Haiti, we’ll now visit Grand Turk, Turks & Caicos, instead of Labadee, Haiti,” the notice reads. “We’re sorry for the change – your safety is our top priority. Nevertheless, we’re excited to visit a new port with you!”

Grand Turk is the capital island in the Turks and Caicos archipelago north of Haiti.

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Moscow vs St Petersburg – A Russian Rumble

Russian river cruises are a fantastic way to discover the rich history and culture of an iconic nation. Moscow and St Petersburg are arguably two of Russia’s most famous and popular destinations – but which one is better? Two of our writers will go head to head in an attempt to persuade you why their favourite Russian city should be yours too – with Mark in Moscow’s corner and Jim St Petersburg’s. Ding ding! Let battle commence!

Don’t get me wrong, I do think that St Petersburg is a nice city – but I also think that Moscow is a fantastic city and beyond doubt the best in Russia. The entire region is steeped in illustrious history, from Red Square in the heart of the metropolis, where impressive historic landmarks including the Lenin Mausoleum and St Basil’s Cathedral dominate the skyline, to the world-famous Kremlin. If its history and culture you’re after, St Petersburg simply does not compare.

Moscow also surpasses St Petersburg in terms of areas of natural beauty as well as tranquil parks and gardens. On a pleasant day, visitors can stroll through a number of the city’s wonderful green spaces, including the vast Gorkiy Park, the former imperial estate of Kolomenskoye and the ever-popular Park Sokolniki, filled with beautiful flora and a collection of charming attractions. Moving further off the beaten track is difficult in St Peterburg, whereas in Moscow, stunning outlying areas such as the Patriarshi pond area and the Japanese Garden in Botanichesky Sad offer the perfect place to spend a peaceful day.

When it comes to the shopping and dining experiences on offer, Moscow beats St Petersburg hands down. A wealth of authentic local food, delicious international cuisine and familiar fast food outlets are scattered across the city, offering tourists a plethora of culinary delights. Incredible mixes of gastronomic cultures are available in Moscow. Visitors will find everything from Thai, Vietnamese and Chinese dishes to Armenian and Azerbaijani cuisine.

Tourist’s hoping to pick up some local gifts will find a treasure trove of souvenirs across Moscow, at the range of opulent shopping malls and quaint marketplaces located all over the centre of the city.

In my humble (and correct) opinion – based on the facts in front of me – St Petersburg doesn’t hold a candle to the amazing sights and sounds of Moscow, Russia’s world-famous capital city.

St Petersburg

Sure, Moscow’s the capital; it’s great for squares, overly-expensive cups of coffee and the like. But you can never take Russia’s second city out of contention. Yes, it was built on a swamp, but Peter the Great clearly knew what he was doing. St. Petersburg is one of the most vital modern European cities, don’t let the devotees to the (admittedly, pretty) sights of Moscow fool you.

Perhaps it’s because St. Petersburg’s architect was Italian that it manages to so thoroughly stand out from the crowd of Russian cities. Maybe it’s the winding canals and the classical architecture. Regardless of the past, St. Petersburg is a city which manages to straddle the sweet spot between historical importance and modern style.

But who says Moscow rules the roost when it comes to the historical? There are enough sights in St. Petersburg to keep tourists occupied for days, if not weeks.

Leading the pack is the iconic Winter Palace, an eternally magnificent reminder that Russia is always a hotspot for architecture. Beautifully pristine even after all these years, it remains a contender for the finest photographic subject in Europe – a grand mass of imperial pillars and colourful décor.

And then, of course, there’s the State Hermitage Museum. If the Winter Palace had Moscow on the ropes, this is where St. Petersburg draws back and flings out an uppercut to finish it off.  The museum remains firmly rooted in prodigious hype, but that never stops it from living up to it. Everything from Egyptian mummies to Picasso masterpieces can be found in the endless varnished halls of the State Hermitage, and like the city itself, you’ll wish you had days more to explore it.

And to top it all off, you can visit it all during the legendary White Nights, where on long summer days the sun never seems to dip below the horizon. St Petersburg might be known as a second city, but Moscow has best be looking over its shoulder.

To book your Russian river cruise to Moscow, St Petersburg or both, call the number at the top of this page or click here for our latest deals.

Image Credits:

(1) Ed Yourdon – fotopedia.com

(2) Holgar Zscheyge – fotopedia.com