Embarking on a small luxury cruise ship in the Mediterranean is a fantastic way to explore the region’s hidden gems. Imagine gliding through crystal-clear waters, hopping between Greek islands, stopping at charming coastal villages, and indulging in exquisite local cuisines. Small luxury cruise ships take you to less-visited, smaller ports, providing an intimate and immersive travel experience.
I’ve found that cruising is the best way to experience the Mediterranean. Small luxury cruise ships let you explore hidden gems, offering new, immersive experiences at each stop. Imagine walking through the ancient ruins of Rome, exploring the vibrant streets of Athens, relaxing on the stunning beaches of the French Riviera, or admiring the picturesque Amalfi Coast. These journeys reveal the region’s rich cultural tapestry and provide a unique charm and luxury.
Planning a Mediterranean cruise on a small ship? The best times to travel are from May to June and September to October. These months offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds, ensuring a more enjoyable and relaxing experience.
If you’re looking for the best small-ship cruise line to sail around the Mediterranean, this guide is here to help. Based on my travels and research, I’ve gathered recommendations and tips for the best small-ship cruises, highlighting the unique experiences they offer. My insights aim to help you choose a memorable cruise and enjoy the Mediterranean at its best.
What is a Small Luxury Cruise Ship?
Small luxury cruise ships typically accommodate between 50 and 400 guests. These vessels offer an intimate and exclusive travel experience and can dock at less-frequented ports and secluded harbors. The luxury ships could resemble private yachts, tall sailing ships, or small cruise ships. Despite their small size, they usually offer spacious accommodations and exceptional amenities.
The luxurious experience on small cruise ships is unmatched compared with larger vessels. Forget about standing in line for mediocre buffet food or scrambling for sun loungers around a packed pool. The ships are designed for comfort and exclusivity, focused on more personalized and attentive service.
Although cruise companies like Oceania and Regent Seven Seas cruises are sometimes classed as Mediterranean small-ship cruise lines, their ships are too large for my list. Like many travelers, I’ve found that traveling on small ships with 400 passengers or fewer offers the ultimate luxury and intimate experience.
Top Small Luxury Cruise Ships For the Mediterranean
Discover the Mediterranean’s unmatched beauty and rich history on small luxury cruise ships. This cruise ship review explores all luxurious sailing experiences, from elegant mega yachts to graceful sailing ships. Each one promises a remarkable voyage, immersing you in the region’s culture, beauty, and charm.
Here are the top small luxury cruise ships that excel in providing a remarkable Mediterranean adventure.
Windstar Cruises
Windstar Cruises offers an intimate and luxurious way to explore the Mediterranean’s stunning coastlines and hidden gems. The fleet of luxury vessels includes three powered yachts and three tall ships. Cruise itineraries span the Greek Isles, the Amalfi Coast, Italy, Croatia, the Aegean Sea, and southern Spain. With Windstar, you can dock in smaller, less crowded ports that larger cruise ships cannot reach.
Guests frequently rave about their experiences with Windstar, praising the unique itineraries and exceptional service. The intimate ports of call on Windstar cruise itineraries include Old Town Dubrovnik, cruising the Guadalquivir River, various Greek islands, and the Dalmatian Coast. These experiences offer a truly immersive and personalized journey.
Tall sailing ships with masts in Windstar’s fleet
The Windstar fleet of sailing boats includes Wind Spirit, Wind Surf, and Wind Star. These ships feature teak wood decks and sleek sails. The spacious staterooms have fresh fruit daily, L’Occitane toiletries, granite countertops, and luxury robes. The bridge suites offer a step up in luxury with a whirlpool tub, in-suite dining, and flat-screen TVs.
The sailing yachts also offer 24/7 room service, a gym, live music, locally inspired cuisine, and water sports. In selected ports, water platforms provide opportunities for kayaking, paddle boarding, and snorkeling. Some ships even offer water skiing and wakeboarding. Additionally, the chef provides cooking courses and market tours in beautiful destinations.
Wind Spirit and Wind Star
Immerse yourself in the age of sailing on the Wind Star or Wind Spirit. Both sailing ships have similar specs and facilities.
- Passenger capacity: 148
- Passenger-to-crew ratio: 1.5:1
- Cabins: 73 ocean-view staterooms
- Luxury features: Watersports platform, gourmet dining in two restaurants, onboard spa, library, boutique, champagne
- Best for: Romantic getaways, small group travel, adventure seekers
Wind Surf
The Wind Surf is the largest ship in the Windstar sailing fleet which includes the following:
- Passenger capacity: 342
- Passenger-to-crew ratio: 1.6:1
- Cabins: 150 staterooms and 18 deluxe suites, all with ocean views and luxury linens
- Luxury features: Multiple dining venues, spa, swimming pool, water sports platform
- Best for: Larger groups, luxury travelers, food and wine enthusiasts
Key luxury yachts in Windstar’s fleet
Windstar’s luxury yachts offer an intimate and elegant sailing experience, accommodating 312 guests. These vessels blend modern luxury, featuring spacious suites, gourmet dining, onboard spas, and butler service. The yachts can dock at small ports like Sanary-sur-Mer, Sinop, and Seville, and also navigate narrow waterways such as the Kiel Canal and Corinth.
Star Legend, Star Breeze, Star Pride
The three luxury cruise ships in the Star range boast spacious suites and provide a luxurious private yacht experience. Experience dining in one of the two restaurants, relaxing in the spa, or enjoying the pool. The best suites have private verandas and in-suite dining and feature separate living areas.
All three ships have similar specifications and features
- Passenger capacity: 312
- Passenger-to-crew ratio: 1.5:1
- Cabins: A variety of suites, some with separate living areas, queen beds, walk-in closets, marble bathrooms, and private verandas
- Luxury features: All-suite accommodations, onboard spa, multiple dining options
- Best for: Luxury travelers, couples, cultural explorers
SeaDream Yacht Club
Sailing with SeaDream Yacht Club along the Northern Mediterranean coast feels like being on a private yacht.
The intimate atmosphere aboard the elegant ships is immediately apparent, with only around 100 guests. You spend days traveling around the Sorrentine Peninsula, the Greek Isles, Tuscany, the French Riviera, or discovering hidden gems in Southern Spain. A highlight is the stunning journey through the Corinth Canal.
The two luxury yachts in SeaDream’s fleet offer the ultimate in Mediterranean cruising. Enjoy magical evenings dining in one of the opulent restaurants and watching romantic sunsets. Then, return to your spacious stateroom for the comfort of a Balinese Dream Bed, where you have luxury robes, linens, and an espresso coffee machine.
Booking a Mediterranean cruise with SeaDream gives you an elegant yachting adventure around some of the most picturesque locations in the Mediterranean. Onshore excursions include the Venice canals, historical Athens, Monte Carlo, Santorini, and Tangier. The ships have one of the best crew-to-guest ratios for any luxury cruise line.
Key ships in SeaDream’s fleet include:
SeaDream I and SeaDream II
SeaDream I and II are two luxury mega yachts with a capacity of 112 passengers. They feature elegant staterooms, gourmet dining, and an array of amenities, including an onboard marina and spa services.
- Passenger capacity: 112
- Passenger-to-crew ratio: Approximately 1:1
- Cabins: 56 ocean-view staterooms with queen beds, flat-screen TVs, marble-lined bathrooms, and luxury Elm Organic bath amenities
- Luxury features: Onboard marina, Balinese Dream Beds, gourmet dining, spa, 24-hour room service, climate control
- Best for: Intimate luxury travel, couples on a romantic getaway, culture buffs, and exploring less-frequented ports
Silversea Cruises
Silversea’s boutique Mediterranean cruises offer an unparalleled way to explore this historic and beautiful region. Guests consistently praise the luxurious and intimate experience, highlighting the personal touches and exclusive access to lesser-known ports.
Immerse yourself in the rich cultures and spectacular landscapes of Greece, Italy, Spain, and Portugal. Your cruise day may begin with a guided tour of ancient ruins, followed by a visit to a family-owned vineyard for an authentic wine tasting. Then, return to the private sanctuary of your small luxury cruise ship to enjoy fine dining at the renowned La Terrazza restaurant.
The smallest cruise ship in the Silversea fleet is the Silver Whisper. Here, all-inclusive, ultra-luxury cruising with spacious suites await you. Enjoy a meal at the poolside grill bar or relax in the Observation Library or Panorama Lounge, which offers stunning panoramic views of the sea and a tranquil environment to unwind. Additionally, you can enjoy impeccable butler service and exquisite culinary offerings by world-renowned chefs
Silver Whisper
Silver Whisper epitomizes world-class hotel accommodations on the sea, offering luxury and personalized service. The ship has outdoor observation decks, four restaurants, a Zagara Spa, a casino, a fitness center, a theater, a bar, and a boutique. It combines modern amenities with classic elegance, making it feel like a sophisticated private yacht.
- Passenger capacity: 388
- Passenger-to-crew ratio: 1.2:1
- Cabins: 194 ocean-view suites with private verandas, marble bathrooms, walk-in closets, and luxury linens
- Luxury features: Personalized butler service, multiple gourmet dining options, onboard spa, casino, cultural enrichment programs
- Best for: Luxury travelers, cultural enthusiasts, intimate and sophisticated cruising experiences
Atlas Ocean Voyages
Enjoy intimate yacht-style cruising a variety of ports in the Mediterranean on an ultra-luxurious cruise ship. The cruises sail through the azure waters of the Mediterranean, stopping at hidden gems and iconic cities alike. Whether exploring the vibrant streets of Barcelona, Old Nice on the Côte d’Azur, or exploring Portugal’s wine region, you will experience exciting adventures.
The two Atlas Ocean exploration ships are some of the most modern and elegant cruise vessels in the Mediterranean. I’ve heard from numerous guests who praise the impeccable service and exquisite amenities. When you book an all-inclusive cruise, you get just that. Cruise prices include beverages, food, champagne, butler service, wine tastings, and culinary demonstrations. A special treat is the Josper Grill dining experience at 7AFT Grill, highly recommended by seasoned travelers.
From gourmet dining that showcases regional flavors to an array of enrichment programs, every detail is curated to enhance the journey in your private haven at sea. You can also enjoy exclusive food tours while in port, adding an extra layer of authenticity to your Mediterranean adventure.
Key ships in Atlas Ocean Voyages’ fleet include:
World Traveller and World Navigator
The World Navigator and World Traveller combine adventure with luxurious comfort and free food on board. During Mediterranean sailings, you can bask in an intimate cruising experience designed for cultural and gastronomic explorers.
- Passenger capacity: 196
- Passenger-to-crew ratio: Nearly 1:1
- Cabins: 98 suites with ocean views, some with private balconies, marble bathrooms, L’Occitane bath products, Espresso maker, and premium bedding
- Luxury features: Personalized butler service, multiple dining venues, fully stocked free minibar, fitness studio, SeaSpa by L’Occitane, swimming pool, sundeck, and enrichment programs
- Best for: Adventurous luxury travelers, cultural enthusiasts, a honeymoon cruise, and anyone seeking immersive cultural experiences
Emerald Cruises
Emerald Cruises offers stunning yacht and river cruise sailings to destinations in the Mediterranean and Adriatic Sea.
Stepping off the luxury yacht opens the way to breathtaking beaches, rich cultures, and historic towns with ancient architecture. Cruise itineraries include sleepy, less-frequented ports like Piraeus, Civitavecchia, Dubrovnik, and the French Riviera. The smaller cruise ships mean you can dock where larger vessels cannot reach.
While cruising the waters of southern Europe, you can enjoy an atmosphere of contemporary elegance and comfort. Emerald cruise ships have around 100 guests, giving the voyages a distinctive, intimate feel. Enjoy gourmet dining, a wellness center, and spacious suites with ocean views.
Key small ships in Emerald Cruises’ fleet include:
Emerald Sakara and Emerald Azzurra
The Emerald Azzurra and Emerald Sakara offer a chic and luxurious yachting experience. These cruise ships have six decks, including a marina platform, tender boats, water sports, a boutique, an observation lounge, and a swimming pool. The ships also feature La Cucina Dining and the Amici Bar & Lounge.
- Passenger capacity: 100
- Passenger-to-crew ratio: Nearly 1.4:1
- Cabins: 50 suites with ocean views, private balconies, and marble bathrooms
- Luxury features: Infinity pool, wellness center, multiple dining options, and marina platform for water sports
- Best for: Luxury travelers, wellness enthusiasts, and those seeking a personalized and intimate cruising experience
Ponant
If you’re seeking an extraordinary and immersive experience in the Mediterranean, Ponant’s luxury small-ship cruises are the answer. Enjoy the diversity of the Mediterranean—from the historic ruins of Greece to the sun-soaked beaches of the Adriatic coastline and sleepy ports in the Cyclades, Sicily, and Corsica. Arriving in smaller ports lets you explore the region’s iconic destinations and hidden gems.
Ponant’s small cruise ships focus on the highest standards of comfort and sophistication. From their fleet, several superyachts, an explorer ship, and a sailing ship take on enriching journeys in the Mediterranean. The range of shore excursions is outstanding. Highlights include the following:
- Acropolis of Athens
- The Theatre of Epidaurus
- The sacred island of Delos
- The ancient city of Nessebar
- The archaeological ruins of Delphi
- The medieval town of Rhodes
- The historic centers of Kotor, Syracuse, and Valletta Dubrovnik
- The relics of Pompeii, Rome, and Venice
- The Turkish Riviera
- Idyllic islands
- Byzantine architecture in ancient Ottoman cities
All you need to do is choose your perfect cruise itinerary with Ponant to enjoy an ideal blend of relaxation, exploration, and adventure.
Key small ships in Ponant’s fleet include:
L’Austral
L’Austral is a luxury yacht that cruises the Mediterranean, combining sleek design with a luxurious ambiance. Imagine sailing to beautiful, intimate destinations like Kotor, Hvar, Mahon, Santorini, and Paxos while relaxing in a panoramic lounge or spacious suite. The superyacht lets you enjoy fine dining options at the Le Coromandel or Le Rodrigues restaurants.
- Passenger capacity: 264
- Passenger-to-crew ratio: 1.8:1
- Cabins: 132 staterooms and suites with private balconies, marble bathrooms, Diptyque toiletries, coffee maker, Flat screen TV, and refined decor by French designers
- Luxury features: Multiple dining venues, spa, theater, and infinity pool
- Best for: Luxury travelers, cultural enthusiasts, refined cruising experiences
Le Ponant
Sail the Mediterranean in luxury on the Le Ponant—an intimate, three-masted sailing yacht. With only 32 passengers on board, it feels like being on a personal yacht with a private butler at your service. The yacht’s sleek design and intimate size allow it to access secluded harbors and lesser-known destinations.
On board, you can relax on the sundeck, swim in the saltwater pool, or relax on the Alizes Deck in the lounge, gym, or spa. Or, when you feel active, head to the marina for paddleboarding, kayaking, snorkeling, or fishing. When you’re ready for dining, the Le Diamant restaurant on the Zéphyr Deck is a fantastic option.
It was the world’s first sailing ship awarded the Relais & Châteaux label.
- Passenger capacity: 32
- Passenger-to-crew ratio: 1:1
- Cabins: 16 staterooms with ocean views, luxury linens, Diptyque Paris bath products, Nespresso coffee maker, and en-suite bathrooms
- Luxury features: Open-air dining, water sports platform, concierge services, onboard Diptyque wellness activities
- Best for: Sailing enthusiasts, intimate luxury travel, exclusive experiences
La Bougainville
La Bougainville is a super-luxurious exploration yacht that spends its summers sailing the Mediterranean. Onboard, you enjoy state-of-the-art amenities and a distinctive private yacht experience. It’s the ideal getaway ship for exploring Mediterranean islands, the Italian coastline, and the French Riviera. On board, you can relax in the underwater lounge or dine in one of the two gourmet restaurants.
You can also enjoy the infinity pool, swimming from the boat’s marina, Zodiac expeditions, theater, spa, and panoramic lounge. The yacht’s modern design and intimate atmosphere make it a standout choice for luxury cruising.
- Passenger capacity: 184
- Passenger-to-crew ratio: 1.4:1
- Cabins: 92 staterooms and suites with private balconies, modern decor, minbar, Diptyque Paris bath products, WiFi, Bose Bluetooth speaker, and en-suite bathrooms
- Luxury features: Infinity pool, underwater lounge, multiple dining options, spa, water sports toys and equipment
- Best for: Modern luxury travelers, eco-conscious guests, intimate and stylish cruising
Scenic Luxury Cruises
Scenic Luxury Cruises offers an extraordinary way to explore the Mediterranean. The lavish yachts combine opulence with immersive cultural experiences as you sail through shimmering azure waters. Mediterranean itineraries include iconic destinations and hidden treasures. Imagine sailing into the luxurious port of St. Tropez or Monaco or navigating rivers in Portugal and Spain.
A unique feature of Scenic Cruises is the onboard helicopters and submarines. You can soar above the horizon to enjoy wine tasting, visit remote villages, or relax on a golden sandy beach at Praia da Rocha. Late-night departures let you enjoy the wonders of Monte-Carlo, Corsica, Sorrento, and Calvi.
Key small ships in Scenic Luxury Cruises’ fleet include:
Scenic Eclipse
Scenic Eclipse redefines luxury cruising with its state-of-the-art facilities and exclusive itineraries. The private yacht experience feels like being in a floating 6-star hotel with personalized butler service, gourmet dining, and spacious suites. You can relax in the Senses Spa or enjoy breathtaking views from deck 10. It’s rated one of the most opulent ways to enjoy the Mediterranean.
Other features of the Scenic Eclipse include:
- Sushi and Sake Bar
- Azure Bar and Cafe
- Gym and yoga areas
- Marina and a variety of water sports
Scenic Eclipse amenities:
- Passenger capacity: 228
- Passenger-to-crew ratio: Nearly 1:1
- Cabins: 114 all-veranda suites with private balconies, spacious living areas, fully stocked minibar, and marble bathrooms
- Luxury features: Helicopter and submarine excursions, multiple gourmet dining venues, a lavish spa, and an onboard marina for water sports
- Best for: Adventure seekers, luxury travelers, and those looking for unique, immersive experiences
Ritz-Carlton Yacht Club
Ritz-Carlton brings 5-star legendary hotel experiences to its super yachts sailing in the Mediterranean. Cruise itineraries include various ports in southern European waters. On your voyage, you may stop at intimate settings like Civitavecchia, Chioggia, Piraeus, Monte Carlo, and Barcelona. Some cruises include transatlantic crossings from Puerto Rico and Miami to Spain and Portugal.
After disembarking at the port of call, carefully selected private shore excursions take you to historic ruins, quaint towns, secluded beaches, and local tavernas. Imagine gazing at the Acropolis in Athens, the mountain landscapes in Italy, or exploring ancient villages on Greek islands. Ritz-Carlton Yacht Club ensures that every moment on your cruise is memorable.
Key small ship in Ritz-Carlton Yacht Club’s fleet:
Evrima
Evrima exemplifies the pinnacle of luxury yachting in the Mediterranean. With fewer than 300 guests onboard and ten decks, it feels like being on a private yacht. Enjoy fine dining in one of the five restaurants and six lounges. Highlights are the Talaat Nam and S.E.A. fine-dining options. It also has a marina, Ritz-Carlton Spa, swimming pool, opulent suites, and observation lounge.
- Passenger capacity: 298
- Passenger-to-crew ratio: Nearly 1:1
- Cabins: 149 suites with private terraces, floor-to-ceiling windows, espresso machine, champagne, hot tub, in-suite dining, and luxurious furnishings
- Luxury features: Multiple gourmet dining venues, an expansive spa, a marina with water sports equipment, and curated shore excursions
- Best for: Discerning travelers, luxury seekers, and those desiring a bespoke cruising experience
Lindblad Expeditions
Lindblad Expeditions offers a unique and adventurous way to explore the Mediterranean, combining luxury with exploration. The cruises focus on exploring and appreciating Southern Europe’s diverse culture and rich history. Experience kayaking on the turquoise waters of the Cyclades, explore the Bronze Age settlement of Phylakopi and walk around ancient amphitheaters in Croatia, Greece, and Italy.
With expert guides and a focus on education, each voyage provides a deeper understanding of the Mediterranean’s diverse heritage.
Key small ships in Lindblad Expeditions’ fleet include:
Sea Cloud
The Sea Cloud, owned by Sea Cloud Cruises and chartered by Lindblad for select voyages, is a beautiful ship that provide an intimate and luxurious atmosphere. Imagine setting sail from secluded harbors on a four-masted tall ship in the Mediterranean. This luxurious sailing ship blends historical elegance with modern luxury. Step back in time with its teak decks, five-star service, fine dining, and elegantly restored original cabins, including the sumptuous Owner’s Suite.
- Passenger capacity: 58
- Passenger-to-crew ratio: Nearly 1:1
- Cabins: 30 luxurious outside cabins with antique furnishings, marble bathrooms, and modern amenities
- Luxury features: Gourmet dining, extensive library, outdoor lounge areas, and watersports
- Best for: History buffs, sailing enthusiasts, and those seeking a unique and elegant cruising experience
NG Orion
National Geographic Orion is a modern expedition ship equipped for luxury and adventure. It offers state-of-the-art facilities and a range of activities designed to explore the Mediterranean’s hidden treasures. Its elevated maneuverability means it can navigate secluded bays, inshore waters, and sinuous rivers.
The NG Orion spends summers cruising the calm, crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean before heading to the Caribbean and polar regions in Winter.
- Passenger capacity: 102
- Passenger-to-crew ratio: 1:1
- Cabins: 53 spacious cabins with modern decor, private balconies, and premium amenities
- Luxury features: Science center, multiple dining options, wellness programs, and ten Zodiacs for shore excursions
- Best for: Adventure seekers, science enthusiasts, and those desiring an educational and luxurious travel experience
Variety Cruises
Variety Cruises offers an intimate way to explore Greece, Italy, and the Adriatic Seas with their fleet of small yachts, accommodating 32 to 72 passengers. Ships like Panorama I and Panorama II navigate iconic Greek islands and the picturesque Adriatic coast.
Docking in small harbors alongside superyachts, these cruises offer immersive experiences such as exploring local markets, dining in seaside tavernas, and visiting historic ruins.
Highlights include navigating the Corinth Canal and visiting Koper, Opatija, Kotor, and Montenegro’s Bay.
Each ship provides luxurious amenities like sun decks, observation lounges, mini spas, and deluxe toiletries. All-inclusive packages cover meals, select beverages, and shore excursions, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable journey.
Key small ships in Variety Cruises’ fleet include:
Variety Voyager: Mega yacht, 72 passengers, 2:1 passenger-to-crew ratio, 36 ocean-view cabins.
- Harmony V: Motor yacht, 49 passengers, 2:1 passenger-to-crew ratio, 25 cabins.
- Harmony G: Superyacht, 44 passengers, 2:1 passenger-to-crew ratio, 21 cabins.
- Galileo: Three-masted motor sailer, 49 passengers, 2:1 passenger-to-crew ratio, 24 cabins.
- Panorama: Motor sailer, 49 passengers, 2:1 passenger-to-crew ratio, 24 cabins.
- Callisto: Motor yacht, 34 passengers, 1.5:1 passenger-to-crew ratio, 17 cabins.
Star Clipper Cruises
Star Clipper Cruises blends the romance of traditional tall ship sailing with modern luxury for boutique cruises in the Mediterranean. The fleet of elegant, fully rigged tall ships provides an adventurous voyage of discovery and island hopping in Southern Europe. The small sailing ships can access secluded spots, charming harbors, and off-the-beaten-track destinations.
Enjoy the relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere onboard a Star Clipper ship. The modern small cruise ships offer spacious suites and cabins, swimming pools, nautical decor, and teak decks. Relaxing in the Edwardian-style library or enjoying a drink at the outdoor bars takes you back to a bygone era of a tall ship sailing.
The attentive crew ensures a high level of service, creating a friendly and welcoming environment. Additionally, gourmet dining, spacious cabins, water sports, and enrichment programs add to the overall experience.
Key small ships in Star Clipper Cruises’ fleet include:
Royal Clipper
Royal Clipper is the largest full-rigged sailing vessel in service. It delivers an authentic sailing experience paired with luxurious amenities. This magnificent vessel provides the thrill of sailing while enjoying the ultimate standards of luxury and service. Its 42 sails look splendid as you set sail on a voyage of adventure in the Mediterranean.
- Passenger capacity: 227
- Passenger-to-crew ratio: 2:1
- Cabins: 114 cabins, including 14 deluxe suites, marble bathrooms, and elegant furnishings
- Luxury features: Three swimming pools, a marina platform for water sports, spa and wellness center, and multiple dining venues
- Best for: Sailing enthusiasts, luxury travelers, and those seeking a unique cruising experience
Star Clipper and Star Flyer
The Star Clipper and Star Flyer are authentic clipper ships, each with four masts and 16 sails. They have an elegantly appointed dining room, two swimming pools, bars, and a library. The sailing experience is intimate and luxurious and a romantic way to explore the hidden gems of the Mediterranean.
In wintertime, the star clipper fleet heads west for intimate small-ship cruises in the Caribbean, exploring the West Indies, Bahamas, and Antilles.
- Passenger capacity: 166
- Passenger-to-crew ratio: 2:1
- Cabins: 79 outside cabins and six inside cabins, private bathrooms, luxury toiletries, and classic nautical decor
- Luxury features: Swimming pools, elegant dining rooms, tropical bar, and a library
- Best for: Small group travel, cultural enthusiasts, and travelers seeking a fusion of tradition and luxury
Noble Caledonia
Noble Caledonia offers luxurious small-ship cruises for exploring the Mediterranean’s diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Cruise itineraries ensure a blend of well-known destinations and hidden gems. One-week and two-week voyages take in beautiful locations like Malta, Tunisia, Andalucia, Istria, the Corinth Canal, and Patmos.
Bespoke shore excursions let guests experience Southern Europe’s coastline in an intimate and immersive way. Whether ancient ruins in Rome, the picturesque Amalfi Coast, or the serene Greek Isles, each voyage delivers a blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural enrichment.
Noble Caledonia’s focus on smaller ships ensures a personalized experience when stopping at secluded ports without the hassle and commotion of larger cruise ships.
Key small ships in Noble Caledonia’s fleet include:
Elysium
Elysium offers an intimate and luxurious cruising experience. Spacious cabins make cruising exceedingly comfortable. The small expedition ship is ideal for relaxing on the Phos Deck, unwinding in the hot tub, and enjoying Mediterranean cuisine in the restaurant. It also has Zodiacs for tailored excursions or tendering to shore.
- Passenger capacity: 50
- Passenger-to-crew ratio: 1.5:1
- Cabins: 25 cabins with private bathrooms, luxury linens, and elegant decor
- Luxury features: Spa, sun deck, gourmet dining, water sports platform
- Best for: Intimate travel, luxury seekers, cultural explorers
Island Sky
Island Sky is renowned for its elegance and comfort. With spacious suites and extensive onboard amenities, it offers an exceptional cruising experience. This ship is ideal for those looking to explore the Mediterranean in style. Guest speakers also give informative port briefings before you enjoy fine dining with exclusive menus on the Lido Deck.
- Passenger capacity: 118
- Passenger-to-crew ratio: 2:1
- Cabins: 59 suites with ocean views, marble bathrooms, and refined furnishings
- Luxury features: Multiple dining options, library, sun deck, lecture theater
- Best for: Luxury travelers, adventure seekers, and those desiring a sophisticated cruising experience
Small Mediterranean Cruise Lines vs. Larger Cruise Ships
Choosing a small cruise line over a large one has numerous benefits when sailing the Mediterranean. Smaller ships tend to avoid the popular ports large cruise lines use, fostering a more genuine cultural immersion and avoiding throngs of tourists. The relaxed onboard atmosphere, personalized service, and luxurious amenities make the voyage unique and memorable.
Why Choose a Small Cruise Ship for a Luxury Mediterranean Cruise
Choosing a small cruise ship for a luxury Mediterranean cruise offers unique advantages.
Typically, smaller ships offer a more personalized environment. Some vessels stay in port longer or overnight, giving you more opportunities to explore cities and local attractions. Also, smaller ships can dock in secluded bays, navigate narrow waterways, or visit less-frequented ports. These factors enhance the luxury cruise experience in the Mediterranean.
Other advantages of choosing a Mediterranean small ship cruise include the following:
- Access to a variety of ports traditional cruise ships cannot visit
- Never feeling crowded or rushed when sailing to destinations around the Mediterranean
- High-end amenities, all-inclusive services, and some shore excursions are part of the cruise cost, making it easier to budget
- Enjoy adventurous Mediterranean itineraries to visit off-the-beaten-track places
- Greater access to exclusive cultural excursions, fine dining, and luxury onboard facilities
Why Fall is the Best Time to Visit the Mediterranean
While May to June and September to October are generally great times to visit the Mediterranean, the fall months of September and October stand out as particularly ideal. The weather is perfect, with sunny days and cooler temperatures that make sightseeing in cities like Rome enjoyable. You’ll encounter fewer crowds, making it easier to explore destinations like the French Riviera at a leisurely pace.
The seas are calmer, enhancing your cruising experience. Fall also means a bounty of fresh, local food and wine, with harvest festivals in cities like Barcelona. Additionally, Mediterranean wildlife, including migratory birds and marine mammals, is most active in autumn.
Small Ship Cruises in the Mediterranean: FAQs
When should I book a Mediterranean cruise?
It’s best to book a luxury small-ship Mediterranean cruise six to 12 months in advance. Small-ship cruises in the Mediterranean are popular and tend to sell out quickly. Early booking often comes with added perks like discounts, onboard credits, or free upgrades. However, you can sometimes find last-minute deals, particularly during shoulder seasons.
How to choose a Mediterranean small-ship cruise?
Small Mediterranean cruise lines offer an array of activities, including tours of historic cities, island hopping, relaxing on secluded beaches, and exploring lush landscapes. Other considerations are cruise duration and personal preferences for ship size and amenities. Research different small-ship cruise lines and their itineraries, focusing on the ports of call and onboard experiences.
What is the best way to travel around the Mediterranean?
A voyage on a small cruise ship is the best way to travel around the Mediterranean. This gives you access to lesser-known ports, secluded bays, and river cruises. Small cruises sometimes have later departing times, offering more opportunities to enjoy nightlife in ports of call.
What are the top gastronomic experiences on small Mediterranean cruises?
Mediterranean cuisine is famous for its seafood, olive oil, and fresh vegetables. Gourmet chefs onboard source food from local markets to create culinary delights like Spanish paella, Greek moussaka, and Italian pasta. You can also enjoy exclusive wine tastings featuring local vineyards. Some cruises offer cooking classes and market tours to enhance the culinary experience.
Which side of the ship is best for Mediterranean cruises?
The best side of the ship for a Mediterranean cruise depends on the specific itinerary. Generally, having a cabin on the starboard (right) side may offer better coastline views when sailing east or north. In contrast, the port (left) side might provide better views when sailing west.
Which small-ship cruise line is best for luxury?
Several cruise lines are renowned for luxury Mediterranean cruises. Silversea has a fleet of mega yachts with luxurious, spacious staterooms and suites. Ponant has a stunning sailing ship with room for only 32 passengers. Scenic Luxury Cruises has the most opulent yachts with onboard helicopters and submarines.
What months is the Mediterranean Sea rough?
The Mediterranean Sea can be rougher during late fall and winter when strong winds and storms are expected. The best time for smoother sailing on a small cruise ship is late spring or early fall. The sea is relatively calm during these times, and temperatures are not too hot.
How much does an 8-day Mediterranean luxury cruise cost?
The cost of a Mediterranean cruise can vary widely based on the cruise line, ship, duration, and time of year. Prices for luxury cruises typically range from $2,000 to over $10,000 per person. Small-ship cruises with inclusive amenities and exclusive shore excursions tend to be on the higher end of the spectrum. However, budgeting money is easier because luxury cruises are usually all-inclusive, including shore excursions.
What is the cheapest month to go on a luxury Mediterranean cruise?
The cheapest months to go on a luxury Mediterranean cruise are typically during the shoulder seasons of April to early June and September to October. The weather is still pleasant during these times, but the demand is lower, often resulting in better deals and fewer crowds.
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