Sunday, March 31, 2024

The 11 Best Luxury Cruise Lines, According to T+L's Experts

best cruise ships in europe

Departing from Rome, Athens or Barcelona, sail into Marseille and bask in the beauty of Provence’s lavender fields. Or taste cuisine as rich as the culture with fresh vegetables in Santorini and hand-thrown pizzas in Naples. Lowest pricing is based on our 3rd party pricing supplier and valid as of April 23rd, 2024. Ultimately, the best cruise to Europe is a bit subjective in that it depends where in Europe you'd like to go and what your travel style is. Be sure to weigh a combination of destination, price and onboard vibe when deciding which is best for you and your travel party. Fares start from $381 per person, per night, for a balcony stateroom.

best cruise ships in europe

What is the best time to cruise to Europe?

Popular routes for Italian cruises include stops in Genoa, Civitavecchia, Messina, Olbia, Florence, Naples, and Venice. Each of these cities has its unique charm and attractions, so there’s always something new and exciting to discover. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing vacation or an adventure-packed trip, Italy has something for everyone. Italy is incredible when it comes to cruising, with its coastal towns, picturesque landscapes and rich history. From the stunning Amalfi Coast to the charming Cinque Terre, plenty of beautiful and unique destinations exist.

Greece: A crusie with Seabourn, Silversea, Ponant, Windstar, or Variety Cruises

Here, average daily rates accounted for 60% of scores, while expert, traveler and health ratings accounted for the other 40%. Cruise lines with average daily rates of $300 or more did not qualify for this category. Layered clothing accommodates the region's variable weather, while specialized gear might be necessary for specific excursions.

25 BEST Europe Cruises 2024 (Prices + Itineraries): Cruises to Europe on Cruise Critic - Cruise Critic

25 BEST Europe Cruises 2024 (Prices + Itineraries): Cruises to Europe on Cruise Critic.

Posted: Mon, 23 Oct 2023 16:11:17 GMT [source]

Embark on an Unforgettable Vacation on a Luxury Cruise Ship to Europe

With its historic sites, whitewashed towns, the popular beaches of Mykonos, and views galore in the cliffside towns of Santorini, Greece opened its doors to international travelers in May. Nearly a dozen cruise lines are returning to the Aegean this summer and fall so there are ample options for those seeking to sail the Greek isles. After a pandemic year without any European cruises available to Americans, sailing options are returning for the summer 2021 season.

Cruise lines are testing the waters with a limited number of ships and new health and safety protocols in place with most cruises restricted to passengers who have been vaccinated. Don’t just cruise to Europe, experience it alongside those lucky enough to call it home. Our Local Connections program introduces you to each region with award-winning shore excursions. Enjoy a food and wine pairing in the home of a local Tuscan farmer. Capture snapshots of Glasgow’s breathtaking scenery with the help of a Scottish photographer. The ship offers a regular program of 7-, 10- and 14-night voyages, starting from $148 per person, per night, for an inside cabin.

Best cruise lines in the Mediterranean

The ship passes the Mosel vineyards and docks in the medieval town of Cochem for a guided walking tour. The next day, guests can tour the town of Bernkastel-Kues and enjoy a wine tasting or hike to the ruins of a castle for a stunning view. After a morning tour of Saarburg, the ship cruises along the Saar River with panoramic views of its massive loop. The ship stops in Luxembourg and then continues to Koblenz, where the Rhine and Moselle Rivers meet, before returning to Cologne. The eight-day "Sensations of Lyon & Provence" cruise begins in Lyon and heads to a quaint village and then south again towards Tournon, with its 16th-century castle. Along the way, guests can choose a hike through vineyards, canoe trip, village walking tours, or wine tasting onboard.

Save Big With These European Cruise Deals

If you want to explore modern Scandinavia while gaining access to some of the region’s best museums, such an itinerary is a perfect choice. It's easy to be intrigued by Iceland, whether you walk through Reykjavik's riveting Hallgrimskirkja church, or watch the northern lights dance over Kirkjufellsfoss waterfalls. Plus, there are few better ways to cap off cruises to Europe than a dip in the aptly-named Blue Lagoon. As you browse cruises, the first question you ask will be "Where are cruise ports near me?" Here's how to choose a port, and what to do once you're there. A Barcelona vacation is always a good idea, but arriving at this iconic port of call by sea is a truly unique experience. Here are some fun European cities to visit on your next European cruise — plus tips to make it a memorable, stress-free experience.

Sail on the new, polar-class, 126-passenger National Geographic Resolution, where you can work out in the yoga studio or linger in the infinity-style hot tubs when not on shore sipping port at the wine cellars in Porto. Ultraluxury lines such as Seabourn and Silversea are in the mix for summer 2021, along with boutique lines such as France-based Ponant and Windstar, with its 148-passenger, four-masted Wind Star sailing ship. Until it was popularized by the 1992 Olympics, Barcelona was a hidden gem amidst Europe’s diverse landscapes. Now it’s widely recognized for its architectural masterpieces and spirited customs.

ROYAL CARIBBEAN UNVEILS 2025 EUROPEAN ADVENTURES - Royal Caribbean Press Center

ROYAL CARIBBEAN UNVEILS 2025 EUROPEAN ADVENTURES.

Posted: Wed, 08 Nov 2023 08:00:00 GMT [source]

Additionally, the line's culinary director is a member of the French association Tables et Auberges de France. For the best in-suite views, book a room at the back of the ship, Kelly Cochrane, executive chef of Regent Seven Seas Cruises tells T+L. Meena Thiruvengadam is a lifelong traveler and veteran journalist who has visited more than 50 countries across six continents. Her writing has appeared in The Wall Street Journal, Departures, TripSavvy, and other publications. Pre-pandemic, 62% of people who had never cruised indicated they wanted to try it.

On day six, guests can choose a trip to Rothenburg or visit a family-owned farm for a home-cooked morning tea. The ship passes through the Main-Danube Canal that connects the Black Sea and the North Sea. In Vienna, there's a cocktail party and private orchestra recital or city tour before heading to Budapest for two days.

Excursions, which include the opportunity to camp on land overnight for optimal Northern Lights viewing, are led by a 26-person expedition team. Alternatively, you may opt to just stay cozy in your fancy suite and get a wake-up call should the lights appear. Most departures are from Tromsø, Norway, or Copenhagen, with fares for 12-night sailings starting from $10,999 per person. See multiple international cities without the hassle of transportation or additional planning. Cruise from one destination to the next with world-class entertainment, fresh food and relaxing accommodations at your fingertips.

New from Lindblad Expeditions in April 2022 is a unique cultural exploration cruise from Lisbon to Bordeaux. The itinerary begins in Porto, Portugal, and continues through Basque country to the epicenter for French wine, Bordeaux, with a strong focus on food and drink throughout the cruise. Ships will sail at reduced capacity and popular attractions are unlikely to be crowded. As restrictions ease, the traffic is bound to pick up in 2022, which already is looking like a year when ships will sail full due to pent-up demand.

When you return to the ship, continue your exploration with unique activities and global cuisine, or enjoy the familiar comforts of home with your favorite foods — all on our best European cruise ships. Planning a European cruise is a dream come true, but with so many incredible destinations to choose from, narrowing down your itinerary can be a challenge. The enchanting cities of Barcelona and Monaco, along with picturesque Italian cruise ports, await you in the Western Mediterranean.

Plus these are the first ships designed with Princess® MedallionClass®, making them the best European cruises at sea. Revel in first-class experiences without the first-class price tag. On a European cruise, unpack once and save on transportation and baggage fees as well as dining and entertainment costs.

Instead of pre-programmed group activities, guests create their own unique experiences with a complimentary city tour app for each destination. All-inclusive plans and group tours are not part of Teeming's itineraries. Established in 1976, Croisi offers cruises on rivers, canals, and seas with a fleet of oceangoing ships, canal barges, and river cruise ships. The company's innovative approach allowed them to be pioneers on several rivers in Europe including the Gironde, Loire, Po, and Elbe, basing their ships' design on the characteristics of the waterways.

15 of the Best European River Cruises

best cruise ships in europe

Insightful port talks provide information on the next day's program that cover all questions, such as how much walking is involved and difficulty levels. Saga Cruises is a British cruise line specifically designed for seniors aged over 50. Their ships are elegant and spacious, with comfortable cabins and a range of activities tailored to the interests of older travelers. The itineraries cover destinations in the Mediterranean, the Baltic Sea, and the Norwegian fjords. The eight-day "Traveling on the Elbe and Havel" cruise covers Germany's north on rivers and canals aboard the Frederick Chopin. Starting in Berlin, the cruise continues to Potsdam for a guided walking tour.

Night Italian SojournDetails

On the way, Avalon Choice excursions include a culinary walk, cooking class, painting workshop, wine tastings, guided bike rides, and more, with Active, Classic, and Discovery level activities. Uniworld's one-of-a-kind vessels are inspired by the locales they visit, making their luxurious ships a destination in themselves. Billed as "the world's only authentic boutique cruise line," Uniworld offers in-suite butler service, world-class cuisine, and all-inclusive rates that cover premium spirits and wines as well as gratuities. If, after seeing the movie Luca, which debuts June 18, your family gets a hankering to visit Italy, Disney Cruise Line has you covered. The 1,750-passenger Disney Magic will sail in Europe spring and summer 2022, with several sailings stopping in Italy. A six-night departure from Barcelona to Rome on June 4, 2022 (fares for a family of four sharing a cabin start at $6,732 per person), gets you to Genoa, which is key.

Uniworld Boutique River Cruises

British line P&O Cruises operates its relatively new megaship Iona in the fjords region for much of that period, with regular departures from Southampton on a popular 7-day itinerary. Following the recent rise in popularity of the region as a cruising destination, the fjords season has extended, with trips available as early as April and as late as September. One such trip is this 12-night itinerary from Celebrity Cruises, which includes a visit to both Visby and Tallinn. Other highlights include a visit to Stockholm and Copenhagen, including an overnight stop in the latter.

Your best-in-class travel companion

Take a river cruise down this majestic river and you’ll encounter some of the world’s most stunning countryside, including the UNESCO-protected Wachau Valley, along with an array of fascinating cultures. Wi-Fi, tips and drinks — like cocktails, wine and specialty coffees — are included in most Celebrity cruise bookings, however the cheapest rates can be purchased without them. Right now, a four-day cruise from Miami to the Bahamas is around $440 per person, including taxes, for an inside state room. U.S. News & World Report on Tuesday published its ranking of the "best" cruise lines of 2022.

Dining

Viking dominates this category due to its "adult-focused environment and luxurious and romantic amenities, such as fireplaces in each ship's common area and private verandas in every stateroom," according to a U.S. Viking, a cruise line based in Basel, Switzerland, is no stranger to accolades. News' luxury list last year too — despite Chairman Torstein Hagen indicating he isn't a fan of the word.

best cruise ships in europe

Tips for Preparing Your House for an Extended Vacation Royal Caribbean Cruises

Sip the local gruner veltliner and riesling in Wachau Valley or dance like you are in The Sound of Music in Salzburg. Back on the ship, check out in wellness classes on the spacious roof deck or dining in onboard restaurants that include a fancy Chef’s Table venue (where you might score a taste of Siberian caviar) and a wine bar. Indulge in a classic sailing experience and revel in life at sea as you travel across the Atlantic. While on board, luxuriate in the best that your ship has to offer — like the Princess Luxury Bed and cuisine made from scratch.

The 8 Best Mediterranean Cruises Of 2024 - Forbes

The 8 Best Mediterranean Cruises Of 2024.

Posted: Tue, 23 Jan 2024 08:00:00 GMT [source]

On board, you'll find fine dining, expansive spas and fitness facilities, and butler service. Oceania Cruises has just seven ships, but the debut of the brand-new Oceania Vista catapults this cruise line into the luxury division. The cruise line's relatively new Go Local shore excursions for small groups bring travelers to under-the-radar destinations, T+L contributing editor and long-time cruiser Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon reported recently. Her 2022 cruise on Riviera included 70 excursions "from canoeing Croatia’s Cetina River to cooking classes in Athens." Explore the wonders of the Old Continent on one of our premium Europe cruise ships. Choose from seven premium cruise ships including Celebrity Apex®, Celebrity Ascent℠, Celebrity Equinox®, Celebrity Eclipse®, Celebrity Infinity®, Celebrity Constellation®, and Celebrity Silhouette®.

best cruise ships in europe

Partnering with AmaWaterways, Adventures by Disney offers cruises on the Seine, Rhine, and Danube Rivers, Disney style. Specially designed itineraries and Adventure Guides create experiences for parents, children, and teens, from active excursions to unique onboard activities. Adults-only dinners and wine tasting experiences along with teen programming, Disney movie nights, karaoke, trivia nights, and Junior Adventurer dinners provide entertainment for guests of all ages.

Unwind with a drink in hand at Crooners, a vintage Sinatra-era cocktail lounge. Or enjoy a glass from the comfort of your stateroom balcony while taking in views of Europe’s most inspiring shorelines. Dive even deeper into the flourishing cultures abroad with More Ashore late-night departures and overnight stays on select European cruise itineraries. Visit one of Dublin’s pubs and enjoy a night of Irish song, dance and Guinness. Go glamping in Alta and spend the night under the evening sky for a chance to see the Northern Lights. Or dance into the evening at a party in Mykonos — an island famous for its nightlife.

This gives you the opportunity to explore different cultures and countries in a single trip. A 21-night European cruise offers endless route options due to the easily accessible ports and short ocean passageways surrounding many European countries. During such a trip, it’s possible to dock in nine or even ten countries, making it a great way to explore multiple destinations in a single journey. Greece is a highly sought-after destination for summer vacations, offering a wealth of ancient history, a rich culture, charming white-washed towns, stunning sunsets, and breathtaking beaches.

The height of summer can be marred by heavy rainfall, while it’s possible to get sunburnt in the snow-covered conditions of February and March. You should always be prepared for rain and colder weather when you travel to Europe, especially in the North. Many of the best European cruises dock in Denmark, and it's no wonder why.

Ponant's luxurious small ships sail to remote destinations like Antarctica, incorporating once-in-a-lifetime experiences such as eclipse spotting from the edge of the earth. The company also partners with Smithsonian and Disney on certain sailings. Discover all of Europe’s most fascinating destinations aboard one of our premium Europe cruise ships. Royal Caribbean International is the largest cruise line in the world, offering a wide variety of cruises at affordable prices. Their ships are large and family-friendly, with a vast array of entertainment options.

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