Take a Mediterranean cruise when the weather is warm and there are fewer people.
A cruise on the Mediterranean Sea offers a fusion of romance and adventure.
Yet, because of the huge number of cruise ships that sail through the Mediterranean, the crowds that come with them can quickly diminish that romance and adventure you’re looking for.
To help you get the most enjoyment from your cruise, we’ve sorted out the best times to set sail for the historical ports, idyllic isles and picturesque towns you’ll visit.
Best time to cruise the Mediterranean
April, May, September and October
Why?
April to October is high season when you can choose from a lot of cruise companies and itineraries. Tourism hits its peak from June to August because of school holidays. Those months also often see uncomfortably high temperatures in some destinations. Prices skyrocket and many cruises are sold out several months in advance.
However, during the spring season of April to May, and the fall months of September and October, the Mediterranean Sea is at its best for sailing, with a pleasant, warm climate. This is ideal for travelling on a cruise and taking advantage of outdoor leisure facilities such as swimming pools, as well as excursions at the destinations.
Overview
The region around the Mediterranean Sea has its own Mediterranean Climate with four seasons. This climate is characterised by moderate temperatures throughout the winter (5ºC to 20ºC) and dry summers and hot (25ºC to 40ºC).
The high season for a Mediterranean cruise begins from April and ends in October while the low season lasts from November to March.
Weather and prices
Best time to cruise the Mediterranean, weatherwise. The shoulder-season months (April, May, September and October) enjoy a warm, sunny climate which is ideal for cruising.
Cheapest time to cruise the Mediterranean: During the winter months, you can find the best prices and smaller crowds, but with cooler weather conditions. If you’re not fussed by less-favourable weather conditions, this is the best time to bag a bargain.
Best time to cruise in...
- Western Mediterranean:Spring (April to May) and fall (September to October) are the best months to go for a Western Mediterranean cruise as you’ll still enjoy pleasant weather, but avoid the hoards of tourists that come from June to August.
- Eastern Mediterranean:The shoulder months of May and September are the most enjoyable for Eastern Mediterranean cruises. Hot temperatures in the Eastern Mediterranean add another reason to avoid the peak summer months of July and August. Be aware, however, that some of the smaller businesses and restaurants on Mediterranean islands off Italy, Greece and Croatia are only open during the peak seasons so April and October may offer fewer options.
Cruise deals
Gate1 Travel
Up to $1,100 off European river cruises
Valid on select dates from March 2019 - November 2019. Destinations include Budapest, Munich, Prague, Berlin, Krakow and more. Note: Deposit must be paid by 7 November 2018 to receive discount.
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Fred. Olsen
Europe cruises from £899
Valid for travel on select 2019 dates. Destinations include Spain, Norwegian Fjords, Denmark, Baltic, Portugal, Caribbean and more. T&Cs apply.
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Fred. Olsen
Europe cruises from £499
Valid on September 2018 cruises. Destinations include Spain, Portugal, Southampton and more. T&Cs apply.
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Travel Talk
Up to 50% off Croatia sailings
Valid for select sailings until 12 August 2018. T&Cs apply.
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CruiseAway
Up to 33% on Royal Caribbean sailings
Book a Royal Caribbean sailing with CruiseAway and get up to 71% off the brochure price.
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Fred. Olsen
Fjords cruises from £679 + up to £100 tour credit
Valid for travel on select 2018-19 sailings. Choose from a complimentary all-inclusive drinks upgrade or up to £100 pp shore tour credit. T&C's apply.
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TourRadar
10% off Croatia sailing tours
Valid on select 2018 Croatia sailing trips with Busabout.
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Groupon
11-day European Christmas market cruise from $2,298
Valid for cruise on 10 December 2019. Includes breakfast, lunch, dinner and more. T&Cs apply.
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Let's Ferry
20% off Super economy tickets
Valid on routes to Mykonos, Greece. T&Cs apply.
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Let's Ferry
Greece: €20 passenger tickets with Blue Star Ferries
Valid on select dates of sailings. Destinations include Mykonos, Paros, Santorini, Karpathos, Leros, Samos, Lesvos, Kea and more. T&C's apply.
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Fred. Olsen
Europe river cruises from £799
Valid from August - December 2018. T&Cs apply.
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