Top 10 Mediterranean Cruise Deal Providers
By Richard "Rick" Callahan | Published: 2023-10-27 | Category: Mediterranean Cruise Deals
About Mediterranean Cruise Deals
Services offering packaged cruise vacations focused on ports within the Mediterranean Sea. These often include accommodation, meals, entertainment, and transportation between destinations.
How We Evaluated
Providers were evaluated based on itinerary diversity, perceived value for money, ship quality, onboard amenities and service, and the ease of finding and booking deals.
Rating Criteria
- → Itinerary Variety
- → Price/Value
- → Ship Quality
- → Onboard Experience
- → Booking Ease
The Best Mediterranean Cruise Deals
Carnival Cruise Line
Visit Website →Known as the 'Fun Ships,' offering budget-friendly, high-energy cruises, though with a more limited presence in the Mediterranean.
Target Audience
Budget Travelers, Families, Younger Cruisers, First-time Cruisers
Service Offerings
Mediterranean Sailings (Seasonal)
Typically offers a limited number of Mediterranean itineraries, often seasonally, focusing on major ports.
- Casual, high-energy atmosphere
- Wide range of included dining (Guy's Burger Joint, BlueIguana Cantina)
- Water slides and onboard activities
- Focus on fun and entertainment
Scorecard (Overall: 7.0 / 10.0)
Pricing Model
Budget/Value
Generally offers some of the lowest fares, making it very budget-friendly.
Pros
- + Very affordable cruise fares
- + Fun, lively onboard atmosphere
- + Good variety of included food options
- + Appeals to families and younger crowds
Cons
- - Limited Mediterranean itinerary options compared to others
- - Ships can be crowded and noisy
- - Base fare is low, but many extras cost more
- - Less focus on destination enrichment
Verdict
"A budget-friendly option for a fun Mediterranean cruise if their limited itineraries match your plans, best for those prioritizing onboard fun over destination depth."
Holland America Line
Visit Website →Premium line with a long history, offering traditional cruising experiences and focusing on destination immersion in the Mediterranean.
Target Audience
Mature Travelers, Destination Enthusiasts, Traditional Cruisers
Service Offerings
Mediterranean Explorations
Features itineraries often highlighting history and culture, utilizing mid-size ships.
- Emphasis on culinary experiences (including cooking demos)
- Live music venues ('Music Walk')
- Enrichment programs (BBC Earth Experiences)
- Mid-size ships offer a more classic feel
Scorecard (Overall: 7.8 / 10.0)
Pricing Model
Premium
Premium pricing reflecting the service and onboard experience.
Pros
- + Excellent live music and enrichment programs
- + High standard of service and dining
- + Comfortable, mid-size ships
- + Focus on destination immersion
Cons
- - Older demographic may not suit everyone
- - Pace is generally more relaxed
- - Fewer flashy onboard activities compared to larger lines
Verdict
"Best suited for mature travelers who appreciate a traditional, refined cruise experience with excellent music and enrichment in the Mediterranean."
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Princess Cruises
Visit Website →Offers a more traditional cruise experience focused on destinations, with a good selection of Mediterranean itineraries.
Target Audience
Couples, Mature Travelers, Destination-Focused Cruisers
Service Offerings
Mediterranean Voyages
Provides diverse itineraries covering classic Mediterranean destinations on large and mid-size ships.
- Emphasis on destination enrichment
- 'Movies Under the Stars' outdoor cinema
- Variety of dining options
- MedallionClass technology for personalized service
Scorecard (Overall: 8.0 / 10.0)
Pricing Model
Mid-Range/Premium
Positioned slightly above mass-market lines, often with package options available.
Pros
- + Good balance of relaxation and activities
- + Strong focus on destinations and enrichment
- + Comfortable ships with good service
- + Innovative MedallionClass technology enhances experience
Cons
- - Can feel less energetic than some lines
- - Onboard atmosphere is more traditional
- - Pricing can be higher than mass-market competitors
Verdict
"A reliable choice for travelers seeking a comfortable, destination-focused Mediterranean cruise with good service and amenities."
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Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)
Visit Website →Known for 'Freestyle Cruising,' offering flexibility in dining and activities on contemporary ships sailing popular Mediterranean routes.
Target Audience
Couples, Families, Travelers Seeking Flexibility
Service Offerings
Mediterranean Sailings
Offers a variety of Mediterranean itineraries focusing on major ports, with emphasis on relaxed schedules and dining choices.
- No set dining times or assigned tables
- Wide range of specialty restaurants (extra cost)
- Extensive entertainment options
- Often includes bundled perks ('Free at Sea' promotion)
Scorecard (Overall: 8.2 / 10.0)
Pricing Model
Mid-Range/Mass Market
Base fares are competitive; value often depends on 'Free at Sea' promotional inclusions.
Pros
- + Flexible 'Freestyle' concept appeals to many
- + Good variety of dining and entertainment
- + 'Free at Sea' offers can add significant value
- + Contemporary ships with good amenities
Cons
- - Specialty dining and other extras can add up
- - Some find the freestyle approach less structured
- - Can feel crowded, especially on larger ships
Verdict
"A solid choice for travelers who value flexibility and choice in their dining and schedule while exploring the Mediterranean."
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MSC Cruises
Visit Website →European-based line offering modern ships, competitive pricing, and a strong presence in the Mediterranean, catering well to families.
Target Audience
Families, European Travelers, Value Seekers
Service Offerings
Mediterranean Cruises
Extensive range of Western and Eastern Mediterranean itineraries, often departing from European homeports.
- Modern, stylish ships
- Frequent deals and competitive pricing
- Strong family programs (kids sail free/reduced)
- Distinct European onboard atmosphere
Scorecard (Overall: 8.4 / 10.0)
Pricing Model
Value/Mid-Range
Often among the most affordable options, especially for families, but expect extra charges onboard.
Pros
- + Excellent value, particularly for families
- + Very strong and diverse Mediterranean itinerary selection
- + Modern and often glamorous ships
- + Authentic European flair
Cons
- - Onboard experience can feel busy and loud
- - Service levels may vary
- - Communication can be multilingual, which some find confusing
Verdict
"A great value option, especially for families, offering extensive Mediterranean choices and modern ships with a distinct European vibe."
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Royal Caribbean International
Visit Website →Major cruise line known for large, innovative ships packed with activities, offering diverse Mediterranean itineraries suitable for families and active travelers.
Target Audience
Families, Active Travelers, Multi-generational Groups
Service Offerings
Mediterranean Adventures
Sails popular Mediterranean routes on some of the world's largest cruise ships.
- Wide range of onboard activities (rock climbing, surfing simulators, water slides)
- Extensive dining options
- Varied entertainment (Broadway shows, ice skating)
- Youth programs ('Adventure Ocean')
Scorecard (Overall: 8.5 / 10.0)
Pricing Model
Mid-Range/Mass Market
Competitive pricing with frequent deals, but many activities and specialty dining options cost extra.
Pros
- + Vast array of onboard activities and entertainment
- + Excellent options for families with children
- + Innovative and well-maintained ships
- + Good value for the base fare
Cons
- - Large ships can feel crowded
- - Many onboard features incur extra costs
- - Itineraries often focus on major, busy ports
Verdict
"A top choice for families and active cruisers looking for high-energy fun and lots to do onboard during a Mediterranean vacation."
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Azamara
Visit Website →Boutique luxury cruise line specializing in destination immersion with longer port stays and unique cultural experiences in the Mediterranean.
Target Audience
Experienced Travelers, Luxury Seekers, Cultural Explorers
Service Offerings
Mediterranean Immersive Voyages
Focuses on smaller, less-traveled Mediterranean ports with overnight stays and late departures.
- Small ships (around 700 guests)
- Inclusive amenities (gratuities, select beverages, self-service laundry)
- Emphasis on 'Destination Immersion'
- Unique 'AzAmazing Evenings' events included
Scorecard (Overall: 8.7 / 10.0)
Pricing Model
Luxury/Boutique
Premium pricing reflecting the inclusive nature and destination focus.
Pros
- + Exceptional focus on destinations with longer stays
- + Intimate, small-ship experience
- + Inclusive amenities add value
- + Access to smaller, unique ports
Cons
- - High price point
- - Older ships compared to some competitors
- - Limited onboard entertainment options
Verdict
"Perfect for seasoned travelers prioritizing deep destination exploration and longer port times over flashy onboard features in the Mediterranean."
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Celebrity Cruises
Visit Website →Premium cruise line offering modern luxury, sophisticated dining, and stylish ships on popular Mediterranean routes.
Target Audience
Couples, Affluent Travelers, Modern Design Enthusiasts
Service Offerings
Mediterranean Sailings
Provides a range of Western and Eastern Mediterranean itineraries on contemporary large ships.
- Innovative ship designs (Edge Series)
- High-quality dining options
- Focus on wellness ('The Spa')
- Often includes drinks, Wi-Fi, tips ('All Included' pricing)
Scorecard (Overall: 8.8 / 10.0)
Pricing Model
Premium
Higher than mass-market, positioned as 'modern luxury'. Often offers inclusive packages.
Pros
- + Stylish, modern ships and accommodations
- + Excellent service and dining
- + Often includes perks like drinks and Wi-Fi
- + Strong balance of relaxation and activity
Cons
- - Can be more expensive than mainstream lines
- - Some find the atmosphere less casual
- - Larger ships might feel crowded at times
Verdict
"Excellent choice for travelers seeking a sophisticated, premium Mediterranean cruise experience with modern amenities and strong service."
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Oceania Cruises
Visit Website →Upper-premium cruise line renowned for its culinary excellence and destination-intensive Mediterranean itineraries.
Target Audience
Foodies, Mature Travelers, Destination Enthusiasts
Service Offerings
Mediterranean Voyages
Focuses on diverse Mediterranean ports with longer stays and unique shore excursions, emphasizing fine dining.
- Mid-size ships (684-1250 guests)
- Multiple specialty restaurants included
- Culinary discovery tours
- Emphasis on port-intensive itineraries
Scorecard (Overall: 8.9 / 10.0)
Pricing Model
Upper-Premium
Premium pricing, often with bundled amenities like airfare or beverage packages ('OLife Choice').
Pros
- + Exceptional dining experiences ('The Finest Cuisine at Sea')
- + Port-intensive itineraries with many options
- + Elegant, comfortable mid-size ships
- + Excellent service
Cons
- - Higher price point than mass-market lines
- - Beverages and excursions often cost extra (unless included in promo)
- - Entertainment is more subdued
Verdict
"Ideal for food-focused travelers who appreciate longer port stays and a refined onboard atmosphere in the Mediterranean."
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View Top Ranked Provider
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Viking Ocean Cruises
Visit Website →Luxury cruise line focused on destination immersion for adults, offering culturally rich Mediterranean itineraries.
Target Audience
Adults, Luxury Travelers, Culturally Curious
Service Offerings
Mediterranean Cruises
Offers extensive itineraries covering Eastern and Western Mediterranean with included shore excursions in most ports.
- Small, elegant ships (under 1000 guests)
- All-veranda staterooms
- Included Wi-Fi
- Beer, wine, soft drinks included with lunch/dinner
Scorecard (Overall: 9.0 / 10.0)
Pricing Model
Premium/Luxury
Higher upfront cost but highly inclusive fares.
Pros
- + High-quality, destination-focused experience
- + Highly inclusive pricing (excursions, drinks)
- + Elegant, smaller ships access unique ports
- + Adults-only environment (typically 18+)
Cons
- - Significantly higher price point
- - Limited onboard entertainment compared to larger lines
- - No facilities for children
Verdict
"Best for discerning adult travelers seeking an immersive, high-quality, and inclusive Mediterranean experience without concern for budget."
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Final Recommendation
The Mediterranean offers diverse cruising experiences, from ultra-luxury immersion to family-friendly fun. Top providers like Viking and Oceania excel in destination focus and quality for a premium price, while Celebrity offers modern luxury. Royal Caribbean and MSC provide excellent value and activities, particularly for families. NCL brings flexibility, while Azamara focuses on boutique immersion. Consider your budget, travel style (luxury, family, active), and desired level of destination focus when choosing.
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