While Caribbean cruises are quite popular during the winter months, the Mediterranean is most popular from spring through to the autumn. Typically, Mediterranean cruises stop at some of the major European cities; Rome, Barcelona, and Cannes, are popular ports of call.

There are two general routes in the Mediterranean: the Eastern Mediterranean and the Western. Cruises in the Eastern Mediterranean travel between the Greek Islands; Egypt, Israel, Turkey, and Cyprus. Western Mediterranean cruises travel between Portugal; Spain, Morocco, Tunisia, Italy, France, Monaco, and Croatia. Most cruises are a week or longer in length, stopping at five or six destinations.

The Mediterranean is a fashionable cruise location and most of the major cruise lines sail their ships to the area for the season. These cruise lines include Holland America, Carnival Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Crystal Cruises, and Royal Caribbean Cruises. The ships are well appointed and take pride in offering excellent service. On-board activities include lectures, classes, sports, movies, shows, and dancing. Most ships have an on-board casino as well. Dining on board can be serious or relaxed, with a wide range of restaurants and dining options on each ship. Room service, including breakfast cooked to order, is available throughout the day.

While the activities on board are worth checking out, those wanting to relax will find many private areas to sit with a good book, sunbathe, or watch the impressive scenery pass by. To find cruise deals, look online. Last minute cruises, offering big savings, are available on booking sites and on the cruise lines’ websites.