Costa Smeralda Cruises

Costa Smeralda, located on the northeastern coast of Sardinia, is celebrated for its stunning turquoise waters, luxurious resorts, and breathtaking landscapes. This glamorous destination is a favourite among cruisers seeking to unwind in the lap of luxury while exploring a mix of natural beauty and rich culture. Fun fact: Costa Smeralda was developed in the 1960s by Prince Karim Aga Khan, and it has since transformed into a playground for celebrities and jet-setters! Embarking on a cruise to Costa Smeralda offers the perfect way to experience its charm, combining relaxation with adventure at sea!

Major Cruise Lines Offering Routes to Costa Smeralda

• MSC Cruises: With a fleet of 23 ships, MSC has 2 vessels—MSC Musica and MSC Orchestra—offering itineraries to Costa Smeralda. What sets these ships apart is their innovative onboard experiences, including luxurious spas and family-friendly amenities, ensuring everyone has a wonderful time at sea. Cruises typically depart from international ports like Genoa or Marseille, making it easy for cruisers to hop on board for their ultimate Mediterranean escape.
• Holland America Line: This esteemed cruise line features 11 ships, with 1 notable ship, Zuiderdam, making its way to Costa Smeralda. Holland America is renowned for its culinary excellence and immersive excursions, providing a sophisticated cruise experience. Departing from international ports like Athens or Cape Town, cruisers can seamlessly embark on their journey to the stunning shores of Costa Smeralda.
• P&O Cruises: P&O boasts a fleet of 7 ships, with 2 making the journey to Costa Smeralda, specifically Aurora and Arcadia. Known for their relaxed atmosphere and exceptional dining options, these ships cater to cruisers looking for comfort and elegance. Most cruises depart from Southampton, allowing easy access for cruising enthusiasts eager to delve into this Mediterranean gem.

Luxury and Small Ship Cruises to Costa Smeralda

• Seabourn: With a fleet of 6 ships, Seabourn features 2 vessels—Seabourn Ovation and Seabourn Sojourn—offering itineraries that visit Costa Smeralda. Renowned for their all-inclusive luxury experience, including gourmet dining and personalized service, these ships provide a truly opulent cruise. Departures often occur from Barcelona or Lisbon, giving you the perfect start to your lavish getaway.
• Oceania Cruises: Oceania has a fleet of 8 ships, with 4 vessels, such as Nautica and Marina, showcasing majestic journeys to Costa Smeralda. These ships offer an enriched cruise experience with an emphasis on regional cuisine and destination immersion. Most embarkations occur from Civitavecchia (Rome) or Athens, ensuring a grand start to your Mediterranean adventure.
• Azamara Cruises: Azamara features a fleet of 4, with 2 ships, Azamara Quest and Azamara Journey, visiting Costa Smeralda. Known for its immersive cruise experience and longer port stays, Azamara allows cruisers to truly soak up the local culture. Departures are mostly from popular ports like Athens or Barcelona, where luxurious adventures await.

Top Harbours to Explore in Costa Smeralda

• Olbia: The gateway to Costa Smeralda, Olbia has a charming historic town with boutique shops and delightful restaurants. Don’t miss the chance to explore the nearby beaches or visit the archaeological site of Nuraghe Riu Mulinu for a dose of local history. You can also rent a scooter to discover the scenic coastline at your own pace.
• Porto Cervo: This glamorous village is famed for its stunning marina and luxury shopping. While visiting, stop by the Church of Stella Maris, which offers panoramic views of the emerald waters. Be sure to indulge in fresh seafood at one of the seaside restaurants—the local cuisine will not disappoint!
• La Maddalena Archipelago: Home to some of the most pristine beaches and picturesque coves, this group of islands is perfect for relaxing beach days. Take a boat tour to explore hidden bays, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, or simply soak up the sun on serene beaches like Spiaggia Rosa.
• Golfo Aranci: Known for its captivating beaches and vibrant atmosphere, Golfo Aranci has plenty to offer. Enjoy a day at the beach or visit the local fish market for a taste of fresh seafood. The nearby Tavolara Island is also worth a visit, where you can hike and enjoy stunning views!
• Palau: This charming coastal town is a perfect base for exploring the natural beauty of the Costa Smeralda. Visit the impressive Capo d’Orso for panoramic views of the Maddalena Archipelago or relax on the stunning Spiaggia di Cala Capra. Don’t forget to sample local delicacies like culurgiones, a type of filled pasta.

When to Cruise Costa Smeralda

The ideal time to visit Costa Smeralda is during the warmer months. From April to June, temperatures generally range from 15°C to 27°C, offering pleasant weather for exploration and beach days. July to September brings summer warmth, with average temperatures between 22°C and 32°C—perfect for indulging in outdoor activities. However, rainfall is minimal. In October to March, the weather cools down to around 10°C to 20°C, making it a peaceful time to enjoy the beauty of the region without the usual tourist crowds, ideal for exploring at leisurely pace.

The Cost of a Cruise to Costa Smeralda

A one-week cruise to Costa Smeralda generally ranges from $1,500 to $2,900 AUD, depending on the cruise line and selected accommodations. Luxury cruises, on the other hand, can cost anywhere from $4,500 to $9,000 AUD, providing upscale amenities and indulgent dining experiences.

As for local dining, you can typically expect to pay around $20 to $35 AUD for a delicious meal at a traditional restaurant, while drinks such as wines or cocktails can range from $7 to $15 AUD. This allows you to relish the stunning flavours of local cuisine while enjoying the breathtaking coastal scenery!

Alternative Regions to Consider for Your Next Cruise

If you’re considering a cruise to Costa Smeralda but want to explore other options, here are some alternative regions to keep in mind:

• Amalfi Coast – A stunning coastal region famed for its picturesque villages, Mediterranean views, and incredible food. It’s a top destination for those seeking a blend of adventure and relaxation in a charming setting!
• Canary Islands – Known for their volcanic landscapes and diverse cultures, visiting the Canary Islands offers a unique blend of relaxation and exploration beneath the sun in a year-round paradise.
• Baleric Islands – This Spanish archipelago boasts sun-soaked beaches and vibrant nightlife, making it an ideal alternative for beach lovers and party seekers alike.
• Southern France – With its picturesque vineyards and charming towns like Nice and Marseille, Southern France serves up a delightful mix of culture, taste, and stunning coastal exploration.
• Croatia – Offering stunning beaches and rich history, Croatia is a rising star in the cruise world with picturesque towns such as Dubrovnik and Split waiting to be explored.

So, whether you’re dreaming of soaking up the sun in Costa Smeralda or exploring one of the exciting alternative destinations, Cruise1st makes it easy to book your unforgettable cruise holiday. Get ready to embrace Mediterranean splendour and create lasting memories!