Top 11 Italy Cruise Providers Including Airfare
By Amanda Reyes | Published: 2024-07-26 | Category: Italy Cruise Including Airfare
About Italy Cruise Including Airfare
Italy cruises including airfare offer packaged travel deals combining sea voyages exploring Italian ports with round-trip flights, simplifying the booking process. These packages often bundle transfers between the airport, hotel (if applicable), and cruise port.
How We Evaluated
Providers were evaluated based on the typical inclusiveness of their Italy cruise and airfare packages, variety of Italian itineraries, perceived value for money, customer service reputation, and the quality of airfare integration. Scores reflect a comparative analysis of offerings focused on bundled Italy cruise and flight deals.
Rating Criteria
- → Package Inclusiveness
- → Itinerary Variety
- → Value for Money
- → Customer Service
- → Airfare Integration Quality
The Best Italy Cruise Including Airfare
Collette
Visit Website →Long-standing tour operator offering comprehensive guided tours globally, including Italy itineraries often featuring included airfare and sometimes cruise elements.
Target Audience
Mature Travelers, Mid-range to Upscale Seekers, Group Tour Enthusiasts
Service Offerings
Italy Tours & Cruise Tours with Air
Offers guided land tours of Italy and specific 'Cruise Tour' itineraries combining land exploration with Mediterranean cruises, typically including roundtrip airfare.
- Included roundtrip airfare is standard on many tours
- Specific cruise tour products available for Italy/Mediterranean
- Includes accommodation, many meals, guided sightseeing, and transfers
Scorecard (Overall: 7.8 / 10.0)
Pricing Model
Mid-Range/Premium
Positioned towards comprehensive, inclusive touring with a higher service level, reflected in price. Airfare inclusion is a key feature.
Pros
- + Highly inclusive packages with airfare standard
- + Long history and strong reputation
- + Offers specific cruise tour options
- + Good customer service and support
Cons
- - Primarily focused on guided land tours
- - Less flexibility than booking independently
- - Group travel format
Verdict
"Excellent for travelers seeking comprehensive, worry-free guided Italy vacations, including cruise tours, with flights bundled into the package price."
Trafalgar
Visit Website →Major guided tour operator offering trips worldwide, including Italy itineraries that may feature cruise segments and bundled airfare.
Target Audience
Mid-range travelers, Families, Couples, First-time Europe visitors
Service Offerings
Italy Tours with Cruise Options & Air
Guided vacations in Italy, often with options to add Mediterranean cruise extensions, frequently packaging airfare.
- Airfare-inclusive package options available
- Combines structured land tours with potential cruise elements
- Focus on key sights and experiences with local guides
Scorecard (Overall: 7.2 / 10.0)
Pricing Model
Mid-Range
Offers a balance of inclusions and free time at a mid-range price point. Air-inclusive options simplify budgeting.
Pros
- + Well-structured tours with knowledgeable guides
- + Air-inclusive options simplify planning
- + Good mix of planned activities and free time
- + Strong global reputation
Cons
- - Cruise component is often an add-on or segment, not the main focus
- - Group travel format may not suit everyone
Verdict
"A reliable option for guided Italy vacations with integrated flight options, suitable for those who enjoy structured tours potentially combined with cruising."
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Perillo Tours
Visit Website →Family-owned tour operator specializing in escorted tours to Italy, sometimes incorporating cruise elements or offering comparable packages.
Target Audience
Mid-range to Upscale Travelers, Those seeking deep Italy immersion, Seniors
Service Offerings
Italy Tours (potentially comparable to Cruise + Air)
While primarily offering land tours, their expertise in Italy and bundled airfare provides a comparable comprehensive travel package.
- Deep expertise in Italy travel
- Packages typically include roundtrip airfare, accommodation, tours, and many meals
- Focus on high-quality, guided experiences
Scorecard (Overall: 7.6 / 10.0)
Pricing Model
Mid-Range/Premium
Offers inclusive pricing covering flights, hotels, guided tours, and most meals, reflecting a higher service level.
Pros
- + Decades of specialized Italy expertise
- + Highly inclusive tour packages
- + Strong reputation for quality and service
- + Airfare typically included
Cons
- - Primarily land-based, cruise components less common
- - Less focus on cruising specifically
- - Higher price point than budget operators
Verdict
"An excellent choice for travelers prioritizing deep Italian cultural immersion with included airfare, even if primarily land-based, offering a comparable planned vacation."
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Costco Travel
Visit Website →Travel agency arm of Costco Wholesale, offering vacation packages, cruises, and hotels, often with added value for members.
Target Audience
Costco Members, Value Seekers, Families
Service Offerings
Cruise Packages including Italy
Offers cruise packages on various lines (including those visiting Italy), sometimes bundling airfare or providing Costco Shop Card incentives which can offset flight costs.
- Partners with major cruise lines
- Packages often include extras like onboard credit or Costco Shop Cards
- Airfare can sometimes be bundled or booked separately
Scorecard (Overall: 7.2 / 10.0)
Pricing Model
Value/Mid-Range
Focuses on providing value through competitive pricing and added perks for Costco members. Airfare bundling varies by package.
Pros
- + Good value proposition, especially with included perks
- + Access to deals across multiple cruise lines
- + Reputable brand
- + Clear package details
Cons
- - Requires Costco membership
- - Airfare integration is less direct than cruise line programs
- - Limited customization
Verdict
"A solid value option for Costco members looking for Italy cruise packages, particularly when perks like Shop Cards are offered."
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Royal Caribbean International
Visit Website →One of the world's largest cruise lines, known for innovative ships, extensive activities, and global itineraries.
Target Audience
Families, Active Travelers, All Ages
Service Offerings
Italy Cruises with Air2Sea
Cruises visiting Italian ports with an integrated air booking program (Air2Sea) ensuring arrival to the ship.
- Air2Sea program offers competitive fares and arrival assurance
- Large, activity-filled ships often sail Mediterranean routes including Italy
- Broad appeal for various types of travelers
Scorecard (Overall: 7.0 / 10.0)
Pricing Model
Mid-Range
Competitive mass-market pricing. Air2Sea provides airfare as an add-on with price and schedule flexibility.
Pros
- + Excellent Air2Sea program with arrival guarantee
- + Wide range of onboard activities
- + Ships catering well to families
- + Strong brand recognition
Cons
- - Airfare is an add-on cost
- - Large ships may not appeal to everyone
- - Can feel crowded
Verdict
"A reliable choice for families and active travelers seeking an Italy cruise with a robust air booking program integrated."
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Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)
Visit Website →Known for 'Freestyle Cruising' offering flexibility in dining and entertainment. Frequently runs 'Free at Sea' promotions which can include airfare credits.
Target Audience
Families, Couples, Solo Travelers, Those seeking flexibility
Service Offerings
Italy Cruises with Airfare Offers
Mediterranean cruises visiting Italy, often featuring promotions that include discounted or free airfare for the second guest, bookable through NCL.
- 'Free at Sea' often includes airfare options/credits
- Flexible dining and entertainment schedules
- Variety of ships sailing Italian itineraries
Scorecard (Overall: 7.4 / 10.0)
Pricing Model
Mid-Range
Base fares are competitive; value increases significantly with 'Free at Sea' promotions (which may include airfare components). Airfare is typically booked as part of these promotions or separately.
Pros
- + 'Free at Sea' offers can provide excellent value
- + Flexible 'Freestyle Cruising' concept
- + Wide range of entertainment
- + Good selection of Italy ports
Cons
- - Airfare promotions can have specific terms/restrictions
- - Onboard costs can add up if not covered by promotion
Verdict
"A great option for travelers prioritizing flexibility and potentially securing good value through promotions that bundle airfare or offer credits for Italy cruises."
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Princess Cruises
Visit Website →Major cruise line offering a wide range of itineraries worldwide, known for its Princess EZair program.
Target Audience
Couples, Families, Mature Travelers
Service Offerings
Italy Cruises with Princess EZair
Mediterranean cruises visiting Italy, with airfare available through the integrated Princess EZair booking platform.
- Princess EZair offers flexible booking and late arrival protection
- Wide variety of Mediterranean and Adriatic itineraries featuring Italy
- Options for different ship sizes and onboard experiences
Scorecard (Overall: 7.2 / 10.0)
Pricing Model
Mid-Range
Competitively priced within the mass-market segment. Airfare via EZair is an additional cost but often competitive.
Pros
- + Reliable and flexible EZair program
- + Good selection of Italy-focused itineraries
- + Comfortable ships with consistent service
- + MedallionClass technology enhances experience
Cons
- - Airfare is an add-on cost
- - Base fare doesn't include as many perks as premium lines
Verdict
"A solid choice for travelers wanting diverse Italy cruise options and a dependable, integrated flight booking system."
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Gate 1 Travel
Visit Website →Tour operator specializing in escorted tours, independent vacations, and cruises, often bundling international airfare.
Target Audience
Budget-conscious travelers, Seniors, Value seekers
Service Offerings
Escorted Italy Tours with Cruise Segments
Packages often combining land tours of Italy with Mediterranean cruises, typically including roundtrip international airfare.
- Airfare from major US gateways usually included in package price
- Combines land exploration with cruising
- Uses various cruise lines for the sea portion
- Focus on value and covering major sights
Scorecard (Overall: 7.8 / 10.0)
Pricing Model
Value/Budget
Known for highly competitive package pricing that includes flights, tours, and cruise elements.
Pros
- + Excellent value for money
- + Airfare typically included in upfront price
- + Combines land and sea exploration
- + Well-organized tours
Cons
- - Less flexibility than booking cruise-only
- - Pacing can be fast
- - Cruise line used may vary
Verdict
"A top choice for budget-conscious travelers wanting a comprehensive Italy experience that includes both land sights and a cruise, with flights bundled in."
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Celebrity Cruises
Visit Website →Premium cruise line focused on modern luxury, culinary experiences, and destination immersion.
Target Audience
Couples, Foodies, Premium Travelers
Service Offerings
Flights by Celebrity
Airfare booking service integrated with cruise bookings, offering options for Italy itineraries with assured arrival.
- Airfare add-on program with booking flexibility
- Assurance program to ensure arrival at the ship
- Often runs 'All Included' pricing covering drinks, Wi-Fi, and tips (air separate)
- Premium ships with strong Italian port presence
Scorecard (Overall: 7.6 / 10.0)
Pricing Model
Premium
Positioned as 'modern luxury', prices are higher than mass-market but lower than luxury lines. Airfare booked via Flights by Celebrity is an additional cost.
Pros
- + High-quality ships and service
- + Excellent dining options
- + Good selection of Mediterranean itineraries including Italy
- + Reliable air booking program
Cons
- - Airfare is typically an add-on cost
- - Higher price point than mass-market lines
Verdict
"Ideal for travelers seeking a premium cruise experience in Italy and valuing a reliable, integrated air booking service."
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MSC Cruises
Visit Website →Swiss-based Italian cruise line with a strong presence in the Mediterranean, offering competitive pricing and family-friendly options.
Target Audience
Families, Couples, Budget-conscious travelers, European travelers
Service Offerings
Fly & Cruise Packages
Bundled deals combining Mediterranean cruises featuring Italy with roundtrip flights, often targeting European and North American markets.
- Dedicated 'Fly & Cruise' program available from select gateways
- Includes flights and often transfers
- Extensive range of ships and Italy-focused itineraries
Scorecard (Overall: 7.8 / 10.0)
Pricing Model
Mid-Range/Value
Generally offers competitive pricing, with frequent promotions. Airfare is an add-on via Fly & Cruise.
Pros
- + Extensive choice of Italy itineraries
- + Competitive pricing ('Fly & Cruise' often good value)
- + Modern fleet with family amenities
- + Strong European focus
Cons
- - Customer service reviews can be mixed
- - Onboard expenses can add up
Verdict
"A strong contender for varied Italy itineraries and value, especially with their dedicated Fly & Cruise program."
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View Top Ranked Provider
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Viking Cruises
Visit Website →Premium cruise line known for destination-focused ocean and river cruises, often including airfare, transfers, and excursions.
Target Audience
Affluent Adults, Seniors, Culturally Curious Travelers
Service Offerings
Italy Ocean Cruises with Viking Air
Packages combining Mediterranean cruises calling on Italian ports with international airfare booked through Viking, often featuring inclusive pricing.
- Roundtrip airfare included or available via Viking Air program
- Airport transfers often included
- Shore excursion included in most ports
- Focus on cultural immersion
Scorecard (Overall: 8.2 / 10.0)
Pricing Model
Premium
Higher price point reflecting significant inclusions (air, transfers, tours, Wi-Fi, beverages with meals).
Pros
- + Highly inclusive packages
- + Well-regarded Viking Air program
- + Destination-focused itineraries
- + High level of service
Cons
- - Premium pricing
- - Primarily targets adults (no casinos/few children's facilities)
Verdict
"Excellent choice for travelers seeking a premium, highly inclusive Italy cruise experience with seamless air travel integration."
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Final Recommendation
Providers offering Italy cruises including airfare range from premium cruise lines with dedicated air programs (like Viking) to tour operators bundling flights with cruise segments (like Gate 1, Collette) and major cruise lines offering integrated air booking platforms (like MSC, Celebrity, Princess, NCL, Royal Caribbean). The best choice depends on budget, desired level of inclusiveness, and preference for cruise-focused versus combined land/sea experiences.
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