Why Winter Cruising In The Mediterranean Is A Great Idea

Just a few years ago, the majority of cruise ships sailing in the Eastern and Western Mediterranean were moved to sunnier locations, such as the Caribbean, Mexico, or South America, for the winter season. From late November to early March it was difficult to find a cruise ship wintering in Europe, but in recent years the interest has increased dramatically. Now a few cruise lines are making their permanent home in and around the Mediterranean while others explore the market. In the meantime, those willing to endure the possibility of inclement weather are finding big payoffs. Here’s why travelers are booking winter cruises, as well as which cruise lines are sailing there.

Off-season travel brings many of the perks that experienced travelers have come to expect: Fewer crowds translate to easier access to popular tourist attractions, uncrowded streets, rare lines, and welcoming restaurants. Winter cruising offers favorable pricing from the cruise lines with attractive incentives to bring guests on board, combined with decreased airfares for great value. When deciding whether to go, travelers should consider that some seasonal shops, restaurants, and tourist sites close during the winter, which creates a different atmosphere, especially in small towns. On board, cooler temperatures probably eliminate sunbathing by the pool, but it’s often off-balanced by additional indoor activities. Tourists willing to pack a coat and rain gear will find a delightfully uncrowded Europe.

Here are some of the lines that offer a variety of exciting itineraries.

Costa Cruises has four ships in the Western Mediterranean with several cruises in January 2016, including one to Southern Spain, Italy, and Morocco for 11 nights. February and March provides additional ships to choose from including 12 nights to Greece, Italy, and France. By April, there are 47 cruises in the Eastern and Western Mediterranean, so truly something for everyone!

MSC Cruises let’s you enjoy five cruises in January 2016 and several cruises with seven different itineraries in February, including a 7-night cruise to Spain, Malta, France, and Italy. Or journey on an 11-night cruise from Civitavecchia (Rome) for a great bargain, plus exclusive offers and incentives. By mid-March the Mediterranean climate is temperate and a great time to choose one of MSC’s nine itineraries.

Norwegian Cruise Line offers a handful of cruises from January to March including a cruise departing from Barcelona on a 10-day Spain and Canary Island voyage. For upscale cruising, Viking Ocean Cruises is entering the winter Mediterranean market with 7- and 14-night cruises from Barcelona in both January and February.

With so many new European winter cruise options and fewer crowds, it’s time to book that affordable vacation!