With year round cruises and some of the world's best cruise destinations the Mediterranean is good to visit at any time
Massive Savings on Med Cruises which operate year round with a noticeable increase of ships and cruise lines during the summer months from May to October.
There are many departure ports to choose from but the most popular gateways for Kiwis are Barcelona, Rome, Athens, Venice and Monte Carlo.
All the major cruise lines offer cruises in the Med and you really can't go wrong with any combination or itinerary. Early Bird offers are out now which offer great savings and bonus inclusions.
Remember during the peak of summer the destinations you visit will be busier, so it is always best to pre-book your shore excursions so you don't miss out on visiting the places high on your wish list.
Personally, we love cruising the Med in late September, early October, after the crowds have gone and the weather is a bit cooler for all that sightseeing.
Important Greece Cruise Fee Update – Effective 21 July 2025
Please note that, from 21 July 2025, the Greek Government will introduce a mandatory Cruise Fee on all guests boarding at Greek ports. This is a government-mandated daily, per-person fee—regardless of age—for each day you disembark in Greece (including ports of call and final disembarkation).
The fee varies by season and port:
• Peak (1Jun–30 Sep): €20/day at Santorini & Mykonos, €5 at other ports
• Shoulder (Apr & Oct): €12 / €3
• Low (Nov–Mar): €4 / €1
Your cruise line will automatically charge the fee to your onboard account the night before each disembarkation and transfer the full amount directly to Greek authorities. If you choose not to disembark, typically the fee is reversed within 24 hours.
This fee helps support local infrastructure, sustainable tourism, and improves the experience for all visitors—much like tourism charges already applied in other major destinations.
*From pricing below is per person twin share as at 25 Aug 2025 and is subject to change at any time.
Athens Ephesus (Kusadasi), Turkey Heraklion (Crete) Taormina (Giardini Naxos), Sicily Sorrento, Italy Rome Florence / Pisa Nice Provence (Toulon) At Sea Eclipse Viewing Barcelona