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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.
April, May, September and October
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.
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.
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.
Uniworld
Up to 30% off worldwide cruises
Valid on select 2020 departures across Asia, Europe, Egypt, Russia and more. T&Cs apply.
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U River Cruises
Europe river cruises from $245 per day
Valid for travel on select dates between December 2019 - October 2020. Destinations include Budapest, Regensburg, Amsterdam, Frankfurt, Brussels, Vienna and more. T&Cs apply.
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MSC Cruises
Free drinks of up to $1,000 value on worldwide cruises
Valid for travel between January - April 2020. Destinations include Caribbean, USA, Canada, Northern Europe, Mediterranean, Grand Voyages and more.
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Uniworld
Up to $600 off worldwide 2020 river cruises
Valid for travel on select dates in 2020 including Christmas season. Discount applies to River Heritage club members. Destinations include Europe, France, Italy, Portugal, Spain, Russia, Asia, Egypt and India. T&Cs apply.
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Uniworld
Up to $400 off worldwide river cruises
Valid for travel on select dates in 2019 - 2020 including Christmas season. Discount applies to River Heritage club members. Destinations include Asia, Europe, Egypt, France, India, Italy, Portugal, Spain and Russia. T&Cs apply.
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CruiseAway
Up to $1,000 air credit + up to $400 OBC with Princess Landmark cruises
Valid for select 2019-2020 travel dates booked until 12 December 2019. Destinations include Europe, Alaska, Japan, Asia, New Zealand, South Pacific, Australia, Caribbean and more. T&Cs apply.
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CruiseAway
Up to 46% off Celebrity cruises
Valid for travel on select 2020 dates. Destinations include Mediterranean Sea, Southern Europe, Pacific, Hawaii, Canada, USA East Coast and more. T&Cs apply.
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CruiseAway
Free Europe flights with Viking River Cruises
Valid for 2020-2021 sailings. T&Cs apply.
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Flight Centre - Cruises
Free flights, upgrades and 2-for-1 deposits on Viking Cruises
Book a Viking ocean or river cruise in destinations like Italy, France, Norway, the UK, Germany, the USA, Japan and more between August 2019 and March 2021.
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CruiseAway
Up to 40% off Miami cruises
Valid for travel on select dates in 2019 - 2020. Other destinations include New York, Europe, Caribbean and more. T&Cs apply.
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My Cruises
Pay only $200 deposit for cruises
Valid on select 2019 - 2020 cruises. Destinations include Hawaii, Sydney, Barcelona, Dubai, Tokyo, Italy, Greek Isles and more. T&Cs apply.
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| Last checked | Code description | Code |
|---|---|---|
| 13 Nov 2019 | Up to 5% off cruises + Up to $100 OBC with 50% off deposits | ******** |
| 13 Nov 2019 | 3-night P&O cruises from $449 + room upgrade sale | ******** |
| 13 Nov 2019 | Up to $500 OBC with New Zealand and Australia cruises | ******** |
| 7 Nov 2019 | Up to 30% off worldwide cruises | ******** |
| 6 Nov 2019 | Europe river cruises from $245 per day | ******** |
