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Viking Venus

Launched in May 2021 from Portsmouth, England, Viking Venus features modern amenities and a contemporary design. The ship can hold 930 passengers and 465 crew members. Amenities include multiple pools and shops, as well as a cinema, a live performance theater, a jazz lounge, a spa, a fitness center and a salon. Plus, you can attend a lecture or discussion with the onboard historian, who helps educate passengers on the cultural aspects of each destination. An onboard cooking school, The Kitchen Table, also allows guests to learn about each destination's unique cuisine. 

Cruisers can enjoy daily updated food options at The Restaurant, diverse cuisine at the World Café, expertly paired tasting menus at The Chef's Table and Italian favorites at Manfredi's Italian Restaurant. There are eight dining venues on board in total, in addition to the ship's cooking school at The Kitchen Table and 24/7 room service.

When it's time to rest, there are six types of accommodations to choose from – all with private verandas. The standard Veranda Staterooms measure 270 square feet and feature plush beds, free Wi-Fi access and flat-screen TVs. Higher-tier rooms come with extras like priority shore excursion reservations, priority spa reservations, in-room coffee and free laundry services. Plus, travelers in these cabins will have more space: Rooms reach up to 1,448 square feet and may include separate living and dining areas.

The Viking Venus sails to popular European destinations like Barcelona , Athens , Bangkok , Istanbul , Rome , London , Sydney and Stockholm .

Debuted in October 2021, Rotterdam welcomes up to 2,668 guests at double occupancy, 3,172 guests at maximum capacity and 1.048 crew members. The name hearkens back to the line's founding in the late 19th century, when its first ship, Rotterdam, sailed from the Netherlands to New York. Though the ship's name is rooted in the cruise line's past, its amenities are anything but antiquated. 

Among Rotterdam's standout facilities is World Stage, a performance venue that features a two-story, 270-degree wraparound LED screen that creates a panorama of light and sound for audience members. For more entertainment, passengers can catch a performance at any of the ship's numerous music venues, including the Rolling Stone Rock Room and B.B. King's Blues Club.

When travelers aren't grooving to live tunes, they can test their luck at the onboard casino or relax at the spa. Meanwhile, kids can play the day away at the Kids Club. Foodies will be pleased to hear the ship offers eight dining options, including Rudi's Sel de Mer, a French brasserie, and Tamarind, which highlights the culinary traditions of Southeast Asia, China and Japan.

Cabins range in size from 143 square feet to 1,290 square feet, with some of the luxury suites boasting floor-to-ceiling windows, whirlpool baths and verandas with hot tubs.

Sailings aboard Rotterdam depart from ports like Fort Lauderdale, Florida , and Amsterdam to destinations in the Caribbean, Europe and the Panama Canal.

U.S. News Insider Tip: The art collection aboard Rotterdam is valued at more than $4.1 million and has 2,645 pieces of diverse works ranging in value from $500 to $620,000. Take some time to walk around the ship to explore the collections. Each of the three stairwells has a theme that reaches from top to bottom: architecture, music or zoology. – Jill Schildhouse, Contributor

Viking Saturn

Debuted in May 2023, the adults-only Viking Saturn has the capacity to hold 930 passengers and 465 crew members. Travelers love the ship's clean Scandinavian design and compact size, which allows it to dock in smaller ports that larger cruise ships cannot reach.

On board, travelers have access to a slew of amenities, including a fitness center, a spa, a library, a state-of-the-art theater, a hair salon, an infinity pool and more. A resident historian is also on board to offer lectures and educational programming about upcoming port destinations. When hunger strikes, Viking Saturn offers an array of dining options, from fresh seafood at World Café to afternoon tea service at Wintergarden to traditional Norwegian cuisine at Mamsen's. Or, learn how to prepare regional dishes from your itinerary at the onboard cooking school.

Starting at 270 square feet, standard staterooms come equipped with king-size mattresses (which can be converted into two twin beds), flat-screen TVs, full-size verandas and bathrooms with heated floors. What's more, each accommodation includes 24-hour room service. Travelers who opt to stay in one of the ship's upgraded suites (which reach up to 1,448 square feet) have access to additional perks such as separate living areas and dining rooms, complimentary laundry services and a welcome bottle of Champagne, among other luxuries.

Viking Saturn sails to a variety of destinations in northern Europe (such as Bergen, Norway; London  and Stockholm ) and the Mediterranean (think: Barcelona, Spain ; Rome ; Athens, Greece ; and Istanbul ).

Seven Seas Splendor

Debuted in September 2021, the 746-passenger (double occupancy), 548-crew member Seven Seas Splendor is the newest ship within the Regent fleet. Seven Seas Splendor – along with most of the line's other ships – takes opulence to the next level by equipping each suite with its own private balcony. Other standard in-room amenities include interactive flat-screen TVs, luxurious bath products, bathrobes and slippers, signature queen-size beds and dining tables for two. There are 10 suite categories available, ranging from the smallest Veranda (307 square feet) and Deluxe Veranda suites (308 to 361 square feet) to the largest Regent (4,443 square feet) and Master suites (1,895 to 2,108 square feet). 

Guests have a wide array of things to do while on board. Spend your days relaxing at the spa, playing paddle tennis or bocce ball, working up a sweat on the jogging track or taking a dip in the ship's two whirlpools and two pools, one of which is an infinity-edge pool that stretches along the edge of the ship, providing swimmers with exceptional views of the ocean. At night, enjoy one of five shows at the onboard theater. 

When it comes to food, Seven Seas Splendor offers eight eateries ranging from casual to fine dining. Enjoy your breakfast alfresco at La Veranda and grub down for lunch at the Pool Grill buffet. For something more formal, opt for a French-inspired meal at Chartreuse, Pan-Asian dishes at Pacific Rim or Compass Rose, the largest restaurant on the ship.

Seven Seas Splendor visits a variety of European and Mediterranean destinations, as well as ports across Europe, the Caribbean, Africa and South America.

Celebrity Apex

The Celebrity Apex – which made its inaugural sailing in June 2021 – can hold up to 2,910 passengers at double occupancy, 3,385 at maximum occupancy and 1,320 crew members. Guests can wine and dine at 29 restaurants, bars and lounges, then spend the night testing their luck at the casino or enjoying live music at the Magic Carpet (which offers great ocean views). Specialty restaurants include a steakhouse and a raw bar, while main dining options feature Mediterranean, Italian and French cuisines. There are also meeting spaces and multipurpose areas on board, as well as upscale shops. 

Visit the spa or adults-only Solarium pool to stay relaxed throughout your stay at sea. For younger travelers, there are some kid-friendly areas of the ship – such as a Camp at Sea. However, the ship is geared more toward adult clientele (or families with older children) looking for a relaxing escape.

The ship's staterooms, which start at 181 square feet, offer smart TVs, customizable air conditioning and plenty of storage space. Many rooms also offer private verandas. If you're willing to splurge, consider booking a room in The Retreat. This exclusive section of the ship features luxury accommodations as well as access to a private restaurant, sun deck and lounge. Plus, rooms in The Retreat offer more space, measuring up to 1,892 square feet.

The Celebrity Apex sails to European destinations like Italy, Croatia and Portugal, as well as to Caribbean hot spots like St. Thomas , Puerto Rico , Belize and Grand Cayman . 

Viking Mars

Viking's newest ship, the Viking Mars accommodates 930 passengers and, since it's a smaller vessel, it can dock in many ports where some of the larger ocean-faring cruise ships can't reach. The all-veranda accommodations on this ship, which debuted in May 2022, range in size from around 270 square feet to 1,448 square feet. In-room amenities include free Wi-Fi access, flat-screen TVs, safes, minibars filled with drinks and snacks, robes, slippers and 24-hour room service.

Visitors will find a relaxing spa, a hair salon, a yoga area and a well-equipped indoor fitness center (plus an outdoor fitness center) aboard the ship. Those looking to unwind with a book in one hand and a cocktail in the other should snag a cozy spot in The Living Room. Like other Viking ships, the Viking Mars offers educational programming, lectures, cooking classes and more on board.

Cruisers can also enjoy amenities like the main pool and hot tub, the infinity pool, the cinema, the theater, a jazz lounge and various bars. Dining options on this ship include Manfredi's Italian Restaurant, Aquavit Terrace, World Café, The Chef's Table and The Kitchen Table.

Viking Mars receives rave reviews from recent cruisers. The variety of excursions, the delectable onboard dining and the comfortable cabins are a few things previous guests highlighted as superb. However, the staff received mixed reviews: Some experienced attentive and friendly employees, while a few noted they were expecting better service across the board for the price point.

Upcoming itineraries on the Viking Mars include cruises with ports of call in Iceland, Norway, Greece, Italy, Spain, the U.S. and Canada.

The 930-passenger Viking Sky – which debuted in February 2017 – receives rave reviews from past cruisers for its port-heavy itineraries (fares include one complimentary excursion per port) and luxurious, comfortable staterooms. Cabins offer between 270 and 1,448 square feet of space and include balconies, complimentary Wi-Fi access, flat-screen TVs and bathrooms with heated floors, among other amenities. Those who opt for an upgraded stateroom or suite are treated to additional perks, like priority reservations at the spa and specialty restaurants.

Viking Sky's activities include classes at the fitness center, treatments at the spa and destination-focused lectures. The ship also offers two pools and two whirlpools, including an infinity pool on the stern of the ship. In the evenings, passengers can enjoy live performances in the theater or watch destination-related movies in one of two cinemas.

Guests also have their choice of cuisine, from alfresco dining on the Aquavit Terrace to Manfredi's Italian Restaurant. With 550 crew members on board, the ship maintains a nearly 2-to-1 guest-to-crew ratio.

Viking Sky sails to the Mediterranean, Europe, Central America and more. The ship also offers world voyages.

Resilient Lady

An adults-only, LGBTQ-friendly cruise ship, Resilient Lady has a maximum capacity of 2,762 passengers and carries 1,150 crew members. Since setting sail in May 2023, Virgin Voyages' third ship has received praise among travelers for its exceptional dining scene and exciting entertainment options. With onboard experiences ranging from acrobatic performances to comedy shows to themed parties, Resilient Lady is best for travelers who are seeking an upbeat and social atmosphere.  

When you've worked up an appetite from your activity-filled day, grab a bite at one of the ship's 20-plus eateries, which serve everything from Mexican to Asian to Italian fare. Although all food is included, reservations are still required at many restaurants. There is also no shortage of bars to choose from, whether you want to sample The Loose Cannon's signature cocktails or sip some bubbly in the Champagne lounge.

All accommodations come equipped with comforts like flat-screen TVs, rain showers, mood lighting and convertible Seabeds. For more room, opt for one of the ship's RockStar Quarters. These upgraded suites feature extras like a terrace with a hammock, European king-size mattresses and spacious marble bathrooms.

Resilient Lady sails to a variety of destinations in Europe and the Caribbean, including top destinations such as Athens, Greece ; Dubrovnik, Croatia .; and Castries, St. Lucia . 

U.S. News Insider Tip:  The Wake boasts the most ambiance of all eateries on Virgin Voyages vessels by far, so make sure to lock in reservations when you can. This upscale restaurant offers prime entrees with plenty of upgrade options for those who want to splurge. This establishment also features huge windows that provide incredible views of the ocean from the back of the ship. –  Holly Johnson, Contributor

Viking Jupiter

Debuted in February 2019, Viking Jupiter is the cruise line's sixth ocean vessel. The ship sleeps up to 930 guests in luxurious staterooms that include everything from large bathrooms to comfortable king-sized beds. As an added bonus, each room is equipped with free Wi-Fi access.

Travelers will have the opportunity to indulge in several onboard activities. They can visit the spa's snow grotto and chill beneath the snowflakes, go for a swim in the infinity pool or let their worries melt away in the hot tub. The Bar and The Living Room offer additional spaces to unwind with a cocktail or mingle with fellow cruisers.

For afternoon tea and light snacks, travelers can stop by Wintergarden, or for a heartier meal, the main dining room, Manfredi's Italian Restaurant or World Café offer scrumptious European delicacies, Chinese fare and everything in between. In the evening, cruisers can catch a live show in The Theater or a destination-themed movie in one of two onboard cinemas.

Recent travelers were wowed by the ship, appreciating its tasteful, minimalist decor. They also found the food delicious and suggested purchasing the upgraded drink package.

Viking Jupiter visits ports in Buenos Aires , Barcelona  and more on both regional and transatlantic cruises.

U.S. News Insider Tip: Viking Jupiter and Viking Orion are the only two ships in the fleet that have a planetarium called the Explorer’s Dome. Refer to the daily program, the Viking Star, to see what shows are available during your voyage. – Gwen Pratesi, Contributor

Debuted in May 2023, Oceania Cruises' first new ship in more than a decade can hold up to 1,200 passengers and 800 crew members. Vista is the inaugural ship in Oceania's Allura Class, featuring top-of-the-line amenities like a culinary center, an artist loft and an extensive library, along with facilities like a pool, a casino, a spa and a fitness center. Additionally, Vista offers enrichment opportunities like destination-focused seminars led by guest speakers and dynamic musical performances.

One of the highlights of Oceania Vista is its wide array of dining venues, from specialty restaurants like Ember (American fare) and Toscana (Italian cuisine) to the poolside Waves Grill and daily afternoon tea service. In the evening, guests can grab a drink at their choice of several bars and lounges; Vista's immersive mixology program utilizes innovative techniques and trends to create an elevated cocktail experience.

Vista's well-appointed staterooms – which range from 240 to 2,400 square feet – boast balconies, queen-size beds, rainforest showers, flat-screen TVs and 24-hour room service, among other amenities. If you splurge for a suite, you'll enjoy added benefits like iPads, cashmere blankets, complimentary laundry and shoeshine services, access to the Executive Lounge and butler service.

Oceania Vista explores an array of popular destinations in the U.S., the Caribbean, Mexico, the Mediterranean and more.

U.S. News Insider Tip:  The design of the Vista creates more expansive and contemporary public areas than other ships in Oceania's fleet, so even when the ship is at full capacity, it never feels crowded. Also, since it is an all-veranda ship, all guests have the same great ocean view. – Julie L. Kessler, Contributor

Disclaimers about ship ratings: A ship’s Health Rating is based on vessel inspection scores published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). If a ship did not receive a CDC score within 22 months prior to the calculation of its Overall Rating, its Health Rating appears as N/A; in such a case, the ship’s Overall Rating is calculated using the average Health Rating of all CDC-rated ships within the cruise line. All ship Traveler Ratings are based on ratings provided under license by Cruiseline.com.

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Pros and Cons of a Mediterranean Cruise Vacation: My Honest Review

Posted by Anna | Sep 12, 2022 | Spain Bucket List , Travel | 5

There couldn’t be a better moment to discuss the pros and cons of a Mediterranean Cruise Vacation as we are just back from our holiday tour across the Mediterranean sea with kids. It´s a travel experience many consider at some point, especially if seeking to visit more than one European country on a single trip. Based on my 3 cruise trips, let me share my honest review with all the pros and cons I found along the way.

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Table of Contents

Pros and Cons of a Mediterranean Cruise Vacation

Cruising: yes or no, how cruising has become my thing.

Over the years I kept reassuring everyone that cruising was not my type of vacation. And here I am – writing this article on the 3 Mediterranean cruises we have done as a family.

I went on my 1st Mediterranean Cruise simply out of curiosity. But then, my travel dynamic has changed after having kids. We still hike a lot in Spain , set off on new road trips , and even recently went wine-tasting in La Rioja . But many of my past adventures, like driving around Iceland in 5 days or having a spontaneous weekend in Malta , would be a complete nightmare with the little ones on the road.

Plus, what is even more important – my kids are currently excited about all the holiday ideas that me and my husband used to avoid. Amusement parks, all-inclusive resorts, and cruises – these seem like top things they are never hesitant to try. I mean, it’s also understandable – exploring the Roman ruins might be educative, but a huge cruise liner with all the shows, lights, activities, and lavish decorations simply takes children’s ´s breath away.

This is basically the reason why we have already done three Mediterranean cruises. Based on my experiences, I am ready to share all the pros and cons of a Mediterranean Cruise Vacation with those of you who consider trying it.

Useful Resources

Booking & reading reviews.

To make your own plans at every cruise stop, you can get one these guides: Rick Steves Mediterranean Cruise Ports , Lonely Planet Cruise Ports Mediterranean Europe , Mediterranean Cruise Ports Marco Polo , National Geographic Traveler: Ports of Call and Beyond , Cruise Guide to the Europe & The Mediterranean and Mediterranean By Cruise Ship, 8th Edition: The Complete Guide to Mediterranean Cruising.

To organize it all, you might find handy packing with you a beautiful journal: My Mediterranean Cruise Journal – A Travel Planner , Cruise Ship Companion: Record Your Journey at Sea , Cruise Travel Diary , Bon Voyage! My Cruise Journal , or My Cruise Journal – Notebook to Record .

As to the activities and day trip during your Mediterranean Cruise Vacation – you can book those once on board or check the local offers at any port via GetYourGuide or Viator .

Helpful & inspiring books about cruising

There are a few useful books on cruises you might be interested to read – Tips From The Cruise Addict’s Wife , Best Cruise Tips: 303 Cruise Hacks Saving You Time, Money & Frustration , CRUISING TIPS FOR BEGINNERS , and Cruise Control: A Complete Guide to Carefree Cruising .

If you need more inspiration for the upcoming trip, check these novels set on cruise ships: Dangerous Crossing , The Unsinkable Greta James , The Woman in Cabin 10 , Shipped , and Here Come the Girls .

Cruising with kids

If you plan a Mediterranean Cruise Vacation with kids – spark their wanderlust before the trip via virtual tours (you can check Spain Virtual Tours here ) , travel books, or books about Cruises (like Lonely Planet Kids How Ships Work , Working Boats: An Inside Look at Ten Amazing Watercraf t, How to Draw Cool Ships and Boats , and Hey Kids! Let’s Visit a Cruise Ship ).

Get them their own Kid’s Cruise Travel Journal and Cruise Ships Coloring Book . Especially, if it’s their first time cruising: the little ones will behave so much better once they know what to expect, and how the whole cruising ship world works.

All About Our 3 Mediterranean Cruises

The 1st cruise ever (from venice|italy to santorini|greece).

My first Mediterranean cruise took place in 2012 on board of Costa Fascinosa (these days the boat is on another 14-days itinerary).

Back then cruising was simply something I have never tried in my entire life and was eager to experience.

The main stops on that 7-day Mediterranean Cruise vacation were Venice (Italy), Bari (Italy), Dubrovnik (Croatia), Katakolo (Greece), Rhodes (Greece), and Santorini (Greece).

Overall, I was so new to cruising that everything felt exciting onboard. These days almost no Mediterranean Cruises are leaving from Venice, and the company focusing on the Balkans is Seabourn . But back then I enjoyed so much that opportunity to cross the Adriatic and Ionian Seas (these have the most beautiful see-through waters).

Also, after my first Mediterranean Cruise vacation, I have completely fallen in love with Greece and the Island of Santorini has made it to my list of the most romantic travel experiences around the world .

The 2nd Cruise ( from Tarragona|Spain to Corcega and Sardegna)

Our second Mediterranean Cruise Vacation in 2019 was meant to be our first international family getaway with a 10-month-year-old baby and a 2-year-old toddler. This 11-day trip included lots of new places we have never seen before, like Savona (Italy ) (which we had missed during our romantic trip to Tuscany ), Mahon (Menorca), Ajaccio (Corcega), Elba Island (Italy), Naples (Italy), Toulon (France), and Porto Torres (Sardegna).

Also we made stops at a few familiar destinations like Tarragona/Spain and the top Spanish islands of Mallorca and Ibiza . This vacation was the most challenging one of my three Mediterranean Cruises (mainly cause my kids were so small and we couldn´t use Kids Club on board as they were under 3; plus the wholr trip lasted for 11 days). After the cruise I felt like I needed another vacation to recover.

Nevertheless, I would still have lived it all over again if given a choice. Seeing so many places in 11 days with small kids would be completely impossible on any other kind of trip.

Hitting the road with babies and toddlers has its own challenges no matter where you are heading (plus, you need to bring along so many travel essentials ). Many might say that this effort was not worth it, as children won´t even remember anything while being so small. Well, no way! – Till the present day my oldest daughter (she was only 2 y.o. back then) keeps reminding us of all the shows and experiences on board (especially how she went to party with Peppa Pig that one day lol).

Therefore, my kids made me realize that the whole cruise trip (and the huge ship itself) had a huge impact on them. We booked the trip with Costa Cruises , but these days the boat doing a similar itinerary from Tarragona is Explora Journeys .

Nevertheless, since the kids were so impressed, I felt like we would be forced to go on another Mediterranean Cruise in the nearest future.

The 3rd Cruise (From Barcelona|Spain to Rome|Italy)

And so it was. Last week we returned from our third Mediterranean Cruise vacation. This trip was the least interesting in terms of sightseeing (as we´ve already been in all the cruise-stop cities), but the best one in terms of our experience. It was on board of MSC Meraviglia (these days the ship is cruising in the US), but MSC Seaview offers a similar itinerary.

First of all, my girls have grown up (now they are 5 and 3 years old). So, being on the road with them got so much easier – we could even use the Kids club a few times.

Secondly, visiting the destinations we have already seen has dropped the pressure of not being able to enjoy a new place fully (as it happens on every Mediterranean Cruise Vacation due to a limited time at any destination, especially with kids).

For this trip, the itinerary included Cannes (France), Genova (Italy), La Spezia (Italy), Rome (Italy), Mallorca (Spain ), and Barcelona (Spain) . Both me and my husband were secretly disappointed that our kids enjoyed the cruise ship and all the shows on board more than they did with the new European cities and museums. But I guess, it was also quite predictable right from the start. At their age kids usually love shows, fun, lights, and dancing, and tend to complain about the summer heat and queues at landmarks.

You can check our room, food, and other details of this Mediterranean Cruise Vacation on my IG Highlights .

So, let me sum it all up a bit and talk more in detail about the pros and cons of a Mediterranean cruise vacation, based on our three trips.

My Opinion: Pros and Cons of a Mediterranean Cruise

Pros of cruising the mediterranean sea.

Going on a Mediterranean Cruise definitely has some significant perks if compared to other types of travel, otherwise, it would never be as popular as it is.

1. No packing/unpacking

On a cruise, you hit a new place every single day, but you only pack/unpack twice – after boarding and when you are leaving the ship. It is definitely convenient and time-saving for every single human being on Earth, but for those of us traveling with small kids – it is an absolute game-changer.

Those of you who are parents would know that traveling light with kids is almost a mission-impossible kind of task. Therefore minimizing packing/unpacking frees up a lot of time you can spend on smth else. You don´t need to move around overloaded with staff, you simply unpack at arrival and forget about it till the end of your Mediterranean Cruise Vacation.

2. Multiple countries and destinations

Another huge plus of the Mediterranean Cruise Vacation is the variety of destinations, countries, and cultures you might briefly see in one single week. It´s never dull, unlike staying in the same place for a week might feel for many.

If you are traveling with kids, visiting different countries along the way is a great way to open up their minds. They are getting exposed to new languages, cultures, and architectural wonders across Europe every single day. So it´s quite a unique experience for the little ones.

3. Social life

Going out, dressing up, sipping cocktails, enjoying sunsets, meeting people, and making friends. Social life possibilities are unlimited on any Mediterranean Cruise Vacation.

This works even for people traveling with kids. Firstly, you can always leave them at the Kids Club to enjoy a quiet child-free dinner. Secondly, you can meet other families with kids and share a few child-friendly activities altogether. Thirdly, your kids might make new friends from other countries and have their own social life going on.

Usually, there are lots of activities and events organized on board, so that even people traveling alone could meet like-minded souls.

4. The Kids Club

If you are planning to use the Kids Club a lot – do your research well as it might be one of your top criteria to pick one cruise ship or another.

Some Mediterranean Cruises might even offer a nanny service and clubs for babies on board. During our second Mediterranean Cruise vacation, this might have been such a game changer. Our ship had a few playgrounds, but no club/activities for babies. Both of my girls were under 3 and after 11 days of our Mediterranean Cruise Vacation I ended up so burned out after chasing them around all the time. Being able to have time for myself, even 20 min a day, would make things much easier.

By the way, it also helps if you are traveling with parents or friends, so you could at least have a few hours of rest in case your baby gives you a sleepless night. But if it´s just you and your partner traveling with small kids, having an opportunity to leave your child on a playground with other kids under the supervision of professional staff might be great for the whole family. Even as babies our children are always looking for company of their own age wherever they go.

5. Entertainment

While you would probably find me in a quiet place with views reading a wanderlust book , most people pick a Mediterranean Cruise Vacation because of the non-stop entertainment. The day before you usually have the next-day schedule of events. It usually includes theatre shows and performances, music concerts, parties, dance classes, yoga, etc., sale events, and so on all day long.

It is simply impossible to get bored on board as you can find something for all tastes and preferences. It´s also a great experience for kids – my girls have enjoyed musicals, different dancing and magic shows, and even a circus – all in one single week.

This one is controversial for me. On one hand, you have all the types of food and cuisines on board available 24/7 hours. Most of the cruise ships have additional restaurants, which you can visit for an extra payment. First 2-3 days I really enjoyed trying everything, but the last few days it all started tasting the same way for me. But maybe it’s just me. Most people claim the food is one of the biggest perks of a Mediterranean Cruise Vacation.

The staff is generally friendly and willing to help. Many tourists say they got pampered on cruises. Personally, I mostly enjoyed the room service cleaning two times per day. If traveling with kids, a great cleaning service is that one small thing that ends up making a big difference. Let´s say if my kids would spill something on the sofa – I could easily press the cleaning button, go out for a dinner, and at my return, it would all be fixed.

Cons of cruising the Mediterranean

1. overcrowding.

This might not be a disadvantage for people who love the buzz and looking for busy social life. But for me, personally, this feels like one of the biggest cons of a Mediterranean Cruise Vacation.

Even a room with a balcony does not guarantee privacy to enjoy a cozy book with views. As with so many neighbors around someone is always making noise. Plus, most Mediterranean Cruises have one or two days of navigation within the itinerary, meaning that every single guest will spend this day on board. This day pool is almost impossible to access, and a buffet is such a nightmare as well.

2. Limited time at any destination

Having a limited time at each destination is also not for everyone. In bigger cities, you barely get a chance to see a few of the local sights, while constantly checking up on your timing to return on time. Plus, getting out of the dock area can be more time-consuming than one could initially expect.

For some places, the whole experience of disembarking might even feel stressful.

For instance, on our last Mediterranean Cruise Vacation, the ship made a stop at Civitavecchia, located only 86 km from Rome. Even though it seems close enough to make the most of your day, in fact, you will spend much more than an hour in order to get to Italy´s capital (unless you rent a car or get an organized tour).

The whole organization at this port is probably my worst cruise experience so far. The bus inside the port was taking everyone to another bus stop, where we were supposed to get another bus to the train station. Plus, the line to get tickets at the train station was huge. So the actual train ride from Civitavecchia to Rome took us 1,15h, but two buses and buying train tickets – another 1,40 h. It basically left us with a few hours in Rome and the whole day spent on the road.

3. Internet

Staying connected is almost never a part of a Mediterranean Cruise Vacation. Internet onboard is slow and expensive.

While you get cell service with most European carriers at ports, during navigation, you are mostly disconnected from the rest of the world. On our 3rd Mediterranean cruise, the company had an app for agenda and internal communications, but it worked horribly. After constantly, switching on/off my phone and trying to locate each other via texts in the app, we quickly returned to the old times when people had to organize themselves without cell phones.

I wish I knew about GigSky back then: so far, it´s the only eSim that provides connectivity on cruise ships.

4. Extra charges and prices on board

Excursions, dining, SPA, photos, and almost everything you will try to buy on board will be overpriced.

Make sure to get a drinks package before your trip, because you might break the bank overwise. By and large, you need to constantly follow your ship account, to keep track of charges. On our last cruise, we put 150 on our account before the trip and they were not activated for some reason. At the reception desk, they fixed the problem (after waiting 40 min in line). But if we would not have checked it – there could have been problems and delays at disembarking.

Another small detail I did not like on our last Mediterranean Cruise Vacation was that they automatically charged 1 euro per every guest for their charity foundation. You could claim the money back at the reception desk, but wasting time in line to get back one euro barely seems a wise decision.

So, by and large even with reputable cruise companies you need to keep an eye on your spendings and bills all the time.

As I´ve previously said, this one is quite controversial for me. First 2-3 days I really enjoyed trying everything, but the last few days it all started tasting the same way for me.

On the other hand, even if you enjoy the food, too much good food around 24/7 might also be a problem for those trying to stay in shape.

6. Small cabins

Cruise ship accommodations are designed to make the most of the space, so those who are used to wide spaces might not feel comfortable inside. On our last Mediterranean Cruise Vacation, we had a balcony, which slightly made things better. But still, your personal space will be quite limited anyway.

7. Environment

Large cruise ships still have significant emissions, even though some of them invest in upgrading fleets. This is also a fact to consider, as the future of travel definitely lies in sustainable choices.

It would be fair to add that for me, personally, the pros overweight the cons if traveling with small children. Even living on a huge cruise liner for a week, seeing the horizon in the middle of the sea, experiencing the shows, and meeting other kids from all over the world is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for the little ones. I feel like they´ve grown up so much via our Mediterranean Cruise Vacations and tried tons of new things in one single week.

I feel like our 3 Mediterranean Cruise Vacations will stay in our family memory box forever as one of the coolest experiences ever shared.

Therefore, it might end up being one of your top travel experiences as well. You should simply consider all the pros and cons of a Mediterranean Cruise Vacation before deciding whether it’s the right holiday choice for you.

• Accommodation : For short stays, I usually book via Agoda , Booking , and Hotellook
• Tours&excursions : My favorites for guided tours are GetYourGuide , Viator , and Klook
• Museums&attractions: Get mobile tickets for attractions via Tiqets (use ATC5 code for a 5% discount via this link )
• Semi-private & private tours: LivTours is my favorite place for unique & crafted experiences in Europe
• For Foodies:  Eatwith  is a unique platform for finding culinary experiences with locals around the world
• Audio guides : Book audio excursions & tours in 35+ countries via WeGoTrip
• Flights : Find the best deals with Skyscanner , WayAway , and Kiwi
• Driving in a new country? – Check out Tripiamo guides (do not miss Tripiamo Driving in Spain Guide )
• Train&bus tickets : Currently, I book via Trainline , Busbud , and Omio
• Car rental: To find the best deals, I use Rental Cars and Discover Cars
• Top E-Sim: GigSky helps me to avoid roaming fees and provides connectivity everywhere (even on a cruise ship)
• Internet Security on the road : Connect safely to public Wi-Fi and bypass censorship with NordVPN
• Transfers: For individual transfer services, I like GetTransfer and Kiwitaxi
• Suitcases&Luggage : Discover where to store your luggage on the go with Radical Storage
• Travel Insurance : Find the best trip insurance plans via VisitorsCoverage and EKTA
• Compensation for delayed/canceled flights : Check out AirHelp and Compensair
• Renting Bikes: To find motorcycles, scooters, quads, and bicycles, I use   BikesBooking
• Package Tours: Head to  CheapOair and  Expedia
• For Bloggers : To monetize my blog, I work with Travelpayouts and Stay22

About The Author

Traveling in Spain non-stop is my biggest obsession. Looking for Spanish hidden gems and local travel tips? - You are in the right place! Let me be your insider guide to Spain!

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I just did my first cruise a few weeks ago from Barcelona to Rome. I loved it; it was great not to have to keep packing and unpacking as you say, but there’s not enough time in port, plus I, too, worry about the environmental impact. I’m still in two minds whether I will cruise again – it’s definitely a love / hate thing.

The thought of cruising around the Mediterranean sounds so romantic. In reality, I think I would feel as though I didn’t have enough time to fully experience each stop along the way. Still, if given the chance, I wouldn’t turn the opportunity down.

I feel exactly the same way about cruising. I like it when I want to visit multiple places that are relatively close together (like several islands) because then I don’t have to pack/unpack. I don’t like cruising when it takes days to get to my destination. Great job explaining all the angles so people can make an informed decision.

So interesting! I’ve never been on a cruise, but lately I’ve been super interested in at least trying one.

Even though there isn’t much time at each location, I’d probably use it for inspiration on where to fly back to lol.

Thank you for sharing your detailed review of a Mediterranean cruise vacation! Your insights on the pros and cons are incredibly helpful for anyone considering this type of trip. It’s great to hear about the stunning scenery, diverse cultural experiences, and delicious cuisine. I appreciate your honesty about the potential drawbacks, like the crowded ports and sometimes limited time to explore. Your balanced perspective provides a realistic view, making it easier for travelers to make informed decisions. Looking forward to more of your travel reviews! ✨

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The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Cunard Line cruise ship

Cunard Line is a relatively small cruise company with just four ships, but that doesn't mean it has a small footprint when it comes to places its ships go.

The storied passenger ship company — one of the oldest in the world, with a history that dates back to 1840 — offers cruises to almost every corner of the globe.

The line's four vessels — Queen Mary 2, Queen Elizabeth, Queen Victoria and Queen Anne — are almost always on the move. They operate diverse itineraries on multiple continents, including Europe, North America and Asia.

They also often travel around the world on epic voyages that can last three months or more. For 2026, for instance, two of Cunard's four vessels will operate complete circumnavigations of the globe lasting many months (more on these below).

Among its many itinerary offerings, Cunard has a particularly large footprint in Europe, with at least three of its four vessels spending at least some time each year in the region. Asia is another big destination for Cunard, with at least two or three of its ships heading there most years for at least a few sailings, too.

The line also regularly offers sailings in North America, including in the Caribbean, New England and Canada, and Alaska. Australia and New Zealand appear often on Cunard's itinerary schedule as well.

Cunard ships sail everything from super-short, two-night voyages between Southampton, England, and Hamburg, Germany, that don't include a single port call to 116-night globe-circling trips that take in dozens of ports.

Here are our picks for the five best Cunard cruise destinations.

The Atlantic

If Cunard has an iconic itinerary, it is the regular transatlantic voyages that its flagship, the 2,691-passenger Queen Mary 2, operates between New York City and Southampton, England, throughout the year — something unique in the world of cruising.

In most cases, these trips lack even a single port stop. They are one-way sailings designed to get you across the Atlantic in relative speed and comfort — just like the line offered in the 19th century. But unlike back then, they aren't voyages people take out of necessity.

Both leisure and business travelers can now travel between North America and Europe in a matter of hours on speedy jets, so there's no longer a pressing need for such transatlantic crossings on a practical level. But Cunard has been able to keep the tradition alive for a subset of travelers who enjoy moving between the continents in a more leisurely way.

For many people who take Queen Mary 2 across the Atlantic, the ship itself and the experience of the crossing on it is the destination. It's not uncommon for passengers to take Queen Mary 2 one-way across the Atlantic just to experience a crossing before flying back home.

Queen Mary 2 was specifically built for such crossings, with a more streamlined shape and more powerful engines than traditional cruise ships. It can cut through the sometimes rough waves of the Atlantic at higher speeds and with more comfort for passengers.

Aficionados say Queen Mary 2 is a true ocean liner — a ship designed to sail a direct course across oceans between two far-apart destinations — not a cruise ship. It is thus something truly different in the world of cruises.

Related: Why I was wrong about transatlantic cruises

Having sailed across the Atlantic on Queen Mary 2 three times over the years, including on its maiden voyage in 2004, I couldn't agree more. There is nothing quite like zooming across the ocean on the vessel, which is built with a grand ballroom, elegant restaurants and other formal spaces that evoke the famed ocean liners of a century ago. It's a throwback to an earlier time.

In a typical year, Queen Mary 2 operates about 20 Atlantic crossings. In most cases, it makes the crossing in seven nights without any stops, but it sometimes does longer eight-night crossings. It occasionally adds a stop in a destination along the way — Boston, for instance, or the Azores.

In addition to transatlantic crossings, Cunard has long been known for epic around-the-world voyages that stop at dozens of destinations on four, five or even six continents.

Cunard usually will send one and sometimes even two of its four ships on monthslong jaunts around the world every year, something it has done for many decades.

In a typical year, the line will begin one around-the-world sailing in Southampton, England, its traditional home base, and another in a North American port such as New York, allowing Americans to travel across the globe without ever getting on a flight longer than a few hours.

That's the case for 2026, when Queen Mary 2 will sail a 109-night world voyage out of New York City, and the 2,996-passenger Queen Anne will sail a 109-night world voyage out of Southampton (the latter voyage also can be boarded in Hamburg).

Related: 12 epic around-the-world cruises

As is sometimes the case with such trips, the sailing on Queen Anne won't be a full circumnavigation of the globe. The ship will travel from Southampton to the Mediterranean and then through the Suez Canal to Asia and Australia before looping back westward to travel around Africa back to Europe. It's a sailing that will hit large portions of the world but not complete the circle.

The Queen Mary 2 sailing will be a true circumnavigation, with the ship circling the world westward. The voyage will take the ship to New York, Curacao, the Panama Canal and the West Coast of Mexico and the United States before a Pacific crossing to Hawaii, French Polynesia, New Zealand and Australia. From there, Queen Mary 2 will make multiple stops across Asia before cruising westward to the Middle East and through the Suez Canal to Europe.

In part due to the fact that it's based in Southampton and has a strong following among British travelers, Cunard has long had a particular focus on sailings in Europe. As of the publishing of this guide, 289 of the 632 departures on Cunard's schedule were devoted to Northern Europe, Western Europe or the Mediterranean. If you add in transatlantic departures between Europe and North America, that number jumps to 381 — more than half of all departures on Cunard's schedule.

For the coming year, three of Cunard's four vessels (every one but Queen Elizabeth) will spend at least part of the year sailing in Europe, with the biggest portion of sailings in the Mediterranean.

These Europe routings vary greatly in length and destination. Unlike many of its competitors operating in Europe, Cunard offers lots of short sailings, sometimes as short as two or three nights, that provide a chance for a quick trip between, say, Hamburg and Southampton. Often, these short sailings are one-way on Queen Mary 2 and timed to lead straight into a transatlantic crossing.

Someone in Europe could board Queen Mary 2 in Hamburg for a two-night sailing to Southampton and then stay aboard for a subsequent seven-night sailing to New York City.

Cunard also often offers many round-trip "short break" getaways lasting three or four nights out of Southampton to places like Bruges, Belgium; Amsterdam; and Le Havre, France. These trips are mostly aimed at a local British crowd.

Additionally, Cunard operates many longer Europe itineraries, sometimes as long as 30 nights, which take in a dozen or more major destinations. A good example of the latter is the line's 28-night Mediterranean Highlights itinerary from Civitavecchia, Italy (the port for Rome), to Barcelona, a one-way trip that takes in a wide range of ports across Italy, Croatia, Montenegro, Greece, Malta, Spain and Turkey.

In the Mediterranean, the line's main hubs are Piraeus, Greece (the port for Athens); Istanbul; Trieste, Italy; Barcelona; and Civitavecchia.

In Northern Europe, Cunard's big hub is Southampton, but it also offers voyages out of Hamburg and Kiel in Germany.

Related: Best Mediterranean cruises for every type of traveler

Cunard is one of just a handful of Europe-based cruise lines that has regularly devoted a ship to the Alaska market in recent years — typically the 2,081-passenger Queen Elizabeth.

For the summer of 2025, for instance, Queen Elizabeth will operate a dozen round-trip sailings to Alaska out of Seattle.

These Alaska voyages will mostly be 10 or 11 nights in length, which is longer than the typical Alaska sailing out of Vancouver. A handful of the sailings will be seven nights in length.

Cunard's typical 10- and 11-night Alaska sailings include calls at Sitka, Ketchikan, Juneau and either Haines or Skagway in Alaska as well as Victoria, British Columbia. The ship will also visit Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve and at least one other nature-focused destination such as Misty Fjords National Monument or Endicott Arm.

Related: Alaska cruise guide: Best itineraries, planning tips and things to do

Asia, Australia and New Zealand

Cunard usually sends at least one of its three ships to Asia, Australia and New Zealand every winter for sailings out of such major hubs as Tokyo (where ships sail from nearby Yokohama) and Sydney.

The line also typically sends one or two ships on around-the-world cruises every winter that include segments in Asia, Australia and New Zealand. The result is as many as three of the line's four vessels could be sailing in the regions during the winter. (See more on the line's world cruises above.)

Cunard ships typically offer a relatively wide mix of itineraries in the regions, never staying in the same part of Asia, Australia and New Zealand for too many voyages in a row.

That said, for 2025, Cunard's Queen Elizabeth will be based out of Tokyo for nearly two months for multiple sailings around Japan. These sailings typically also include a stop in either South Korea or Taiwan.

Related: The best luxury cruise lines for elegance and exclusivity

Among the Australia itineraries that Cunard has on its schedule for the next two years is an epic 27-night sailing around Australia out of Melbourne that includes nearly a dozen stops in such Australian cities as Sydney, Cairns, Darwin, Broome, Perth and Adelaide.

Shorter sailings out of Australian ports include a five-night voyage from Sydney to Hobart in the Australian island state of Tasmania.

Bottom line

Despite its small size, Cunard offers a diverse array of itineraries in cruise destinations around the world, from North America to Asia. It's also well known for its transatlantic sailings between New York City and Southampton, plus its epic around-the-world cruises.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

Why the Best Northern Europe Tours Are by Small Ship

What if you could visit multiple European countries but only unpack your suitcase once? What if you didn’t have to sit in traffic or on public transit? The best Northern Europe tours are actually by small ship, and here’s why.

But first, what is a small ship cruise ? By our our definition, which prioritizes off-ship adventure, it’s an average 100 guests aboard small ship cruises in Northern Europe . We offer a wide range though, with ships that hold as few as 8 guests or up to just over 250 passengers. Aboard ships of this intimate of a size, so much more than the average travel experience is possible. Think:

Off Ship Adventure, Nature & Culture Come First

• Each day, actively explore away from the boat in the company of guides and historians.
• Take naturalist-led shore hikes, go sea kayaking and visit scenic landscapes and top historical sites. 
• Return to the ship each evening for a glass of wine, a delicious meal, an informative lecture and a restful sleep.
• Kayaks, paddleboards & even bikes sail on the ship along with you to be at the ready when active opportunity strikes.
• Local experts and artisans come aboard to showcase local cuisine and music, or explore local towns on your own.
• On some Northern Europe river cruises , you can bike or walk along the towpath to meet the ship at its next stop.

Steer Clear of Crowds & Travel Efficiently

• Eschew the busiest ports and cities with unique access to smaller ports the big ships can’t reach.
• Explore small canals and locks in the most intimate of towns aboard ships with uniquely shallow drafts.
• Time is on your side with this efficient mode of travel. Often you’ll tour by day, then sail by night.
• Have the ability to tour multiple European countries within one trip.
• Sail at off-peak times and enjoy the wilderness in less-visited reaches. Dayboats only reach the most popular and populated fjords.
• It’s the ultimate solitude: spend some nights at remote anchorages in coves and quiet harbors.

Unique Perspectives & New Likeminded Friends

• See Norway’s colorful towns and Scotland’s lush hamlets from the seaside and riverside looking in. The perspective is unmatched.
• Your fellow tour mates are likeminded travelers who value efficiency, comradery and educational experiences. Read some of our traveler testimonials .
• Onboard chefs utilize local fare and get to know your preferences over the duration of the trip.
• Visits to wineries, distilleries and local artisans are typically arranged in route.

OUR EXPERTS WERE HERE

You have questions. We have answers.

Freedom from Decision Fatigue – A Truly Relaxing Northern Europe Trip

• Enjoy the freedom of letting your captain and guide set the pace.
• Unpack once but stay in a new port or anchorage nearly every night.
• No need for your wallet. Activities, meals and add-ons are included, or able to be settled at the end of the voyage.
• Family-friendly options with scalable activity choices allow you bringing multiple generations in one trip.

Convinced yet? Our Northern Europe travel options aboard small ships include a range of itineraries with a variety of focal points, from the sweeping green hills of Scotland to the icy fjords of Norway. Learn more about our small ship cruises in Northern Europe or focus in on Iceland cruises , Svalbard cruises or Arctic cruises in the northern latitudes.

See the full list of our Northern Europe tours by small ship.

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Northern Europe Trip Reviews from Our Travelers

What a magical week we experienced on the "Spirit of Scotland." From food and wines and comfortable, well-designed cabins to exciting, fun itineraries, we could not have been better served!

The trip was amazing, it was everything we hoped for and more. Iceland is a a beautiful country with breathtaking scenery, a fascinating history, interesting culture and abundant wildlife.

Fascinating trip to a rarely visited part of the world on an exceptional vessel.

[I most enjoyed] Of course Svalbard, since we had good weather, a captain who loved to challenge the ice and allowed us to see wildlife as promised!

Fulfilling all that was on the detailed expectations. The wilderness of the Arctic was the big plus and to be there in real life and not just seeing it via the TV screen was humbling. To go where there had never been habitation and nature ruled was awesome. The kayaking made the holiday.

Unhurried, convivial atmosphere. Unbelievably clean, no litter. This area shows civic pride in maintaining cleanliness. Off the charts good food with excellent beverage pairings. A staff dedicated to making memorable experiences.

National Geographic cruises are my first choice. My cousins travel a lot and invited me to consider this Norway trip. I have always wanted to go to Norway, so it was an easy choice.

What a magical week we experienced on the "Spirit of Scotland." From food and wines and comfortable, well-designed cabins to exciting, fun itineraries, we could not have been better served! Everything worked like a charm.

Accommodations Review

A barge seemed like a good way to cover a lot of ground and experience the natural beauty of the Highlands and its hidden wonders and wildness.

Meals Review

The food was equal to the best restaurants one could find. We were wined and dined to perfection! The chef is extremely creative and skilled! liked everything and the hostesses were always ready and willing to accommodate all additional requests!

Crew & Guides Review

Helen is an extremely talented and competent manager who inspres confidence at every turn. I felt very safe on all driving excursions and really grateful at all the Highland experiences she packed into our week.

Itinerary Review

The castles--Cawdor, Eileen Donan and Urquhart--were favorite places. Along with that, the wildlife and animals encountered (Highland ponies, black-faced sheep, falconer demo with owls and goshawks and eagles) afforded extraordinary experiences. The trip to the Dalwhinnie Distillery was the least interesting for me, but Highlands scotch is not to be ignored! This was an awesome trip. I wanted to see the Highlands and I can't imagine a better intro!! I would welcome even more info/talks on history of Scotland.

Traveler Advice

Don't miss it!

Featured in this Traveler Review

• Classic Scotland Barge Cruise
• Spirit of Scotland

The trip was amazing, it was everything we hoped for and more. Iceland is a a beautiful country with breathtaking scenery, a fascinating history, interesting culture and abundant wildlife. 

The National Geographic Explorer was awesome, our cabin was spacious and comfortable and the service was exceptional. National Geographic did a great job with protocols related to COVID-19 to keep us safe and healthy.

The quality and variety of the food was top notch. We really enjoyed getting to try local cuisine, the portions were just right and the desserts were delicious.

Both Michael and Leah did a wonderful job managing the expedition. The daily recaps were informative and interesting.  The naturalists truly enhanced our daily experiences.

Every day was unique and we enjoyed every stop and excursion. Highlights were Vigur Island learning about the Eider ducks and seeing lots of birds, especially the Puffins, Grimsey because of the opportunity to be in the Artic circle and the Vatnajokull icecap which was stunning. The flexibility of being able to stop the ship when we encountered whales on 2 occasions was greatly appreciated. We were also impressed by the variety of activities offered. 

AdventureSmith Explorations Review

Taylor is exceptional. We can't thank her enough for all her assistance to make this trip happen.  She kept us informed, was always quick to answer our many questions and made sure we had everything we needed for the trip. We were extremely pleased with the customer service we received from Taylor.

We had originally booked a different trip for 2020 that included Norway, Greenland and Iceland that ended up being cancelled in 2020 and again in 2021. Taylor Cranney really worked hard to move us to the Circumnavigation of Iceland trip so we could travel this year.

I would suggest walking on a regular basis prior to going on the trip to be able to maximize your experience on the trip.

• A Circumnavigation of Iceland
• National Geographic Explorer
• Taylor Cranney

The vessel is luxurious, cabins and public areas first rate.

The buffet was more appealing with more choices than the restaurant which tried hard to be innovative, but missed appealing to me.

[I most enjoyed]...Seeing 13 polar bears in 6 days acting in a natural way, showing curiosity but no fear. The vastness of the sea and landscape. Riding in a dogsled. Wish we had more chances to visit land and see Arctic plants.

Be prepared to be in awe.

Steve Moir expedition leader had unlimited enthusiasm that was contagious. Naturalists Alize Fouchard, Alexandra Morozova, and Gordana Mrakovcic not only led walks but also gave excellent lectures. Ornithologist Manuel Marin was special, as was local guide Jaakusaaq Soerensen, who taught us about Inuit culture, religion, and language.

Fellow Passengers Review

There were more English speakers on this cruise than my previous Ponant cruise. Had good interactions with a good number of them.

Andrew Browning never misses a detail in preparing me for my trips. Can’t ask for better. I recommend AdventureSmith Explorations to friends and family frequently.

• Le Commandant Charcot Northeast Greenland's Unexplored Sea Ice
• Le Commandant Charcot
• Andrew Browning

[I most enjoyed] Of course Svalbard, since we had good weather, a captain who loved to challenge the ice and allowed us to see wildlife as promised! We enjoyed making new friends and acquaintances.

There were a few disappointing meals. Most were really good as well as the wines offered. Laura, hotel mgr was always check on us at most meals so she was made aware of any "disappointments". Wait staff was very good in spite of being short staffed at times.

The naturalists and leaders were very good on-shore & on-board. Some staffing issues in food service difficult at times. Laura, hotel manager was always on top it. On ship, all were excellent and focused on providing us the best experience possible. Local guides were just OK!

The cruise tours in Fjords and towns were very good. Off ship options provided seemed good. Bergen was a disappointment due to heavy rain and lack of organization, plus we were tired on arrival. The rest of trip met our expectations.

Transportation Review

There were Lindblad pre-trip tour failures and we did not have the experience as promised. Even transfer to the ship seemed a "struggle" for the Bergen team. Once on the ship service & experience was back to the level anticipated.

COVID Logistics

Our steward(s) were helpful and reliable about cleaning ALL areas of ship and wearing their masks. I am so glad we were able to go, stay healthy during that trip thanks to all the staff, seen and unseen.

So helpful to us and to my cousin Pat. Thank you so much!!

DO your homework...read all the forms and you must be ready for ANYTHING traveling internationally in these times!

• Norway's Fjords & Arctic Svalbard
• National Geographic Resolution
• Lindblad Expeditions

The trip ran like clockwork. Fulfilling all that was on the detailed expectations. The wilderness of the Arctic was the big plus and to be there in real life and not just seeing it via the TV screen was humbling. To go where there had never been habitation and nature ruled was awesome. The kayaking made the holiday. The extra dimension, close to the water and ice. The quiet away from the ship and the sense of exploration. Seeing Polar bears, even at a distance, was a special reminder of the fragility of the area and the importance of taking care of the planet. The polar plunge was great bragging rights. Meeting such a wide range of  people, nationalities and ages. Meeting the expedition leaders who were seriously impressive. The talks were interesting. [I wish there was] more detail about 19th century explorations to find the North Pole would have been relevant. Also more about climate change.

The display of the main dishes at the entrance of the dining room helped with choosing and sped up ordering at dinner. Plenty of choice at every meal.

Woody’s team were amazing. Such professional people, nothing was too much trouble and their enthusiasm was infectious. Abbie, our Kayak leader, kept us well informed about plans, safety and made it all fun. We did not realize that her husband had had to leave the ship for medical reasons, until she was able to tell us all was well. Her anxiety for him never showed, that was super professional.

I booked flights to and from Uk no problem. Loved Oslo. I recommend everyone to take some time there especially the Fram museum prior to a trip.

All questions answered promptly.

Don’t expect masses of wildlife, it is a huge wilderness which is an honor to visit not a tv program. Savor the quiet of the ice and glaciers and realize the respect the Arctic deserves. Mindfulness.

• Svalbard Explorer: Best of High Arctic Norway

Helen had deep knowledge of Scotland as well as a broader knowledge of underlying factors impacting the culture and environment. She has the versatility and tact to discuss the point at hand as well as how social, cultural, environmental and economic factors have led to the present and how they may direct the future.

Jim was a phenomenal chef. He will fit your dietary needs to the menu. If you ask, Jim will share his recipes with you.

The whole time was wonderful, we most enjoyed walking the tow path and soaking in the clean air and pristine views of water and mountains.

A broad cross section of the U.S. as well as a charming Aussie. Seven of the eleven guests had careers in the computer software industry. I brought Walter Isaacson's biography "The Innovators" with me. It chronicles the origins and development of computer hardware and software (Britain and America) from the 1800s through 2014.

Purchase insect repellent and afterbite (hydrocortisone) for the "midgies." Keep your mouth closed if you are riding in an area with midgies unless you are hungry. Multiple shops in Inverness have excellent "misty" weather gear. Banks and the Marks and Spencer department store (open on Sundays) offer significantly better exchange rates than the currency exchanges at London Heathrow.

National Geographic cruises are my first choice. My cousins travel a lot and invited me to consider this Norway trip. I have always wanted to go to Norway, so it was an easy choice. I just loved this trip with my cousins.

Amazingly delicious food and excellent food and bar service.

The officers, crew, naturalists, and passengers were friendly and fun. Laura, the expedition leader, and captain could not have been more cordial and informative.

I liked every experience offered, including yoga every morning, visiting Tromso and the Loften Islands, walking to the Fjordnord glacier, seeing all the birds at Bear Island, and being in the Svalbard archipelago for about a week.

Let Our Experts Be Your Guide to Northern Europe Tours

Northern Europe travel with AdventureSmith is a kaleidoscope of options. Explore canals and locks from London, Dublin and Scotland’s Inverness. Tuck into Norway’s stunning fjords and the colorful seaside cities of the North Sea. Discover Iceland’s dramatic waterfalls, hot springs and lava fields. You can even visit the Arctic during your Northern Europe tour.

Need help narrowing it down? Our small ship cruise experts are just a phone call or email away to assist. Contact us to receive a personalized-to-you recommendation on the best Northern Europe tour that incorporates all of the benefits that are hallmark of small ship cruising. Try this unique style of Northern Europe travel and you will be hooked.

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