Top 10 Reasons to Take a Cruise In The Mediterranean This Year

Planning your summer holiday and can’t decide what to do? A cruise might be a great option.

Until recently, I’d always shunned cruises. I was used to travelling solo, crafting my own itinerary, and following my own schedule. 

The idea of being stuck on a ship in the middle of the ocean had zero appeal. But I was wrong! 

After experiencing my first cruise, I was actually shocked – in a good way – at how much I managed to see in a short space of time with pretty much no effort – it’s fair to say I’m a cruise convert! 

If you’re still on the fence about cruising, here are my top reasons to take a cruise in the Mediterranean this year. 

Why Take a Cruise in the Mediterranean?

1. Ancient History

The Mediterranean feels somewhat like a giant open-air museum, with thousands of years of history layered over it.  – and if you’re a fanatic of ancient ruins like me, you’ll be spoilt for choice.

I’ve walked through the ruins of ancient Rome, stood in awe at the Acropolis in Athens, and wandered the walls of Dubrovnik – and yes, for the Game of Thrones fans, you’ll have the chance to walk through the same streets that were King’s Landing.

Every port you visit on a Mediterranean cruise is a gateway to the past.

Whether you’re tracing the steps of Roman emperors, exploring Greek ruins, or taking a tour in Dubrovnik, you’ll be right in the middle of history. It’s a brilliant way to immerse yourself in the stories of the past.

2. The Cruising Experience

Before I went on my first cruise, I had this image in my head that they would be filled with old people, with naff entertainment, and mediocre food – a cruise had next to zero appeal.

I ended up having to eat my hat (such a great British phrase!), and after my first cruise experience, I had to debunk all those myths I once believed. 

If you’re not sure where to start for your first cruise experience, then opt for one of the more trusted companies like P&O Cruises, Oceania, or Celebrity Cruises.

Modern ships offer a variety of onboard activities and accommodations that cater to all ages. Some even offer no-fly options, including chauffeur services or complimentary parking at the port, which is great if you want to avoid the hassle of getting to and from airports with their increasingly hefty charges for luggage. 

Plus, you have a variety of options for drink packages, which means if you’re alcohol-free, you don’t get stung paying the same price as all those who opt to drink alcohol. 

The other great thing is that with the boom in interest in more environmentally conscious ways of travel, there’s a goal to have net-zero carbon cruising by 2050. 

If you’re hoping to make a more sustainable choice for your next getaway, cruising could be a great option. 

3. The Food

The Mediterranean is known for some of the best cuisine on the planet – my personal faves are Greek and Italian, which naturally have tons of veggie options without feeling like I’m missing out.

On a cruise ship, you’ll have different dining options. Although at times I’ve gone for the a la carte menu, I’ve mostly found the buffet to have so much choice that I’ve generally stuck with this.

Advice – remember to add something with a stretchy waistband to your cruise packing list.

The food is always made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and they’ll often do themed nights based on where you’re passing through. 

Food is also served with locally sourced wine – if you buy into one of the drinks packages, this is usually included; otherwise, you can just buy it by the glass (or bottle).

There’s also plenty of variety, so I’ve never been disappointed, and I’m sure you’ll be spoilt for choice too, no matter your palate.

4. Easy to Plan

One of the biggest advantages of a Mediterranean cruise is how incredibly easy it is to plan. 

Cruise packages often include accommodations, dining, and excursions, making it simple for families to budget and plan without worrying about the logistical details.

I’m usually a DIY traveller, I love the freedom and flexibility; however, on occasions, it’s nice letting someone else do all the planning. All I have to do is show up. 

Plus, there are so many cruises departing from UK ports that you don’t even have the hassle of airports – luggage fees, lost luggage, and being there 3 hours before departure – cruises can be a lot more stress-free. 

All you have to do is reserve your cruise and wait for the day of departure. 

You won’t have to waste time figuring out how to get between locations or booking places to stay. 

One of the things I didn’t expect as a first-time cruiser, was how much I got to see with pretty much no effort on my part. 

5. Cities That Float

Each cruise ship offers a ton of amenities and activities on board. 

I’ve never been a fan of sitting and relaxing – within 30 minutes of sunbathing, I’m fidgety. 

There were so many activities on board that I actually got FOMO that I couldn’t do everything. Generally, I opted for the more active things – from learning Greek dance, salsa lessons, and, believe it or not, basketball (they had a netted area on the deck).  

They also have onboard shopping centres, spas and cinemas, theatres, and games rooms. From memory, I think my cruise ship had 3 swimming pools! And of course different bars – which of course I worked my way through every evening. 

During my Mediterranean cruise, I also had fast internet access, which is always a plus. 

6. Variety

The Mediterranean offers a diverse range of experiences.

What you’ll do will depend on which ports you’re stopping at. 

Each port had a variety of excursions on offer, there was also the option of exploring the area yourself, or even just staying on board to relax.

Options I had included from the bustling bazaars of Kuşadasi, Turkey – I did this after exploring Ephesus ruins (of course I was going to opt for the ruins!).

I also got to enjoy a traditional Greek night on Mykonos, as well as hike a volcano in Santorini.

Each port is different, making each day of the cruise a new adventure.

I loved the flexibility of choosing between the different itineraries and having plenty of free time to explore at my own pace. As long as you’re back on board at the designated time, you are free to do whatever suits your pace and interests​.

7. Educational Value

While sunbathing and drinking as many Pina Coladas as you want is one of the best parts of a holiday for some – I also get that it’s not for everyone, and that’s ok.

A holiday is whatever you make it. 

I’ve already harped on about how much I love ruins –  but I also love delving into the culture and history of each place, too. 

The excursions will have qualified guides included – these guides are locals! They aren’t just staff reading from a script, so you know what you are being told is authentic.

8. Seasonal Perks

The season you plan your cruise can also enhance the experience.

The best times to visit the Mediterranean are either spring (May–June) or autumn (September–October). This is partly due to milder weather, but also because they avoid the crowds of the peak summer months. 

Cruising at this time means you’ll have a more enjoyable experience.

You can also pick up some absolute bargains if you’re willing to travel outside of the peak season.

9. Community and Cultural Immersion

Many cruises offer themed nights and cultural shows that reflect the traditions of the countries you visit.

I remember they even offered a language lesson when I did my cruise!

I also got to watch cookery sessions (which always ended up with getting to sample the food), learn traditional dancing, and have a go at pottery – I tried, but definitely not my forte! 

10. Ok Solo!

Another one of the reasons I’d been put off going on a cruise for so long was the whole solo travel thing.

I didn’t want to feel like a spare wheel. 

Did I feel like a spare wheel – not at all? 

The onboard events allowed me to meet so many people – some with shared interests, and even some who didn’t speak the same language. What they all had in common – they were so friendly, and in the same position I was, they were travelling solo, and keen to meet others in the same situation.

Even the dining area had designated tables for solo passengers to sit, so you didn’t have to eat alone.

Final Thoughts About Reasons to Take a Cruise

Taking a cruise in the Mediterranean brings together the best of both worlds – luxury and ease, with ancient history and delicious cuisine.

 It’s a fantastic choice for all ages, offering a mix of relaxation and exploration. You can uncover ancient ruins, savour the finest foods, and bask in the sun on the deck. 

I know that after my first cruising experience, I was definitely eager to do more. 

To start planning your adventure, check out more of my articles for tips and tricks to ensure an unforgettable trip.

• 10 Reasons to Take a Cruise In The Mediterranean
• Cruising for Beginners: Things I Wish I Knew Before My First Cruise
• Greek Island Hopping: Detailed Review of Celestyal Cruises