Southern Italy Cruises

Southern Italy is a stunning region known for its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and gastronomic delights. Did you know that Southern Italy is home to some of the most beautiful coastlines in the world, including the Amalfi Coast and the stunning beaches of Sicily? Cruising to Southern Italy allows you to explore picturesque towns, indulge in delicious local cuisine, and visit historical landmarks—all from the convenience of a cruise ship. With its unique blend of culture, relaxation, and adventure, embarking on a cruise in Southern Italy is an unforgettable experience!

Major Cruise Lines to Southern Italy

• MSC Cruises: MSC operates a fleet of 23 ships, with 12 dedicated to itineraries that explore Southern Italy. The MSC Seaside and MSC Fantasia stand out for their family-friendly amenities and diverse onboard entertainment options. These ships also offer a variety of dining experiences that showcase local Italian cuisine. Most cruises to Southern Italy depart from international ports such as Bari or Genoa, making it easy for cruisers to start their Italian adventure.
• Princess Cruises: With a fleet of 17 ships, Princess has 11 that offer itineraries to Southern Italy. The Sun Princess and Majestic Princess are renowned for their excellent service and wide range of onboard activities, from entertainment to relaxation. Guests can embark from domestic ports like Sydney and Brisbane, as well as international ports such as Civitavecchia (Rome) or Athens, ensuring ample choices for travelers joining this exciting journey.
• Cunard: Cunard operates a luxurious fleet of 4 ships, with 2 that provide itineraries in Southern Italy. The Queen Victoria and Queen Anne are known for their classic elegance, offering opulent dining options and unique onboard experiences, like traditional afternoon tea. Departures primarily occur from international ports such as Civitavecchia (Rome) or Barcelona, allowing Australian cruisers also to diversify their options with departures from Sydney.
• P&O Cruises: With a fleet of 7 ships, P&O has 4 that visit Southern Italy regularly. The Azura and Aurora emphasize a family-friendly environment and a variety of onboard activities that cater to guests of all ages. Departures are commonly from Southampton or Santa Cruz de Tenerife, ensuring a smooth transition for those eager to discover the beauty of Southern Italy.
• Holland America Line: Holland America features a fleet size of 11 ships, with 4 dedicated to itineraries in Southern Italy. The Oosterdam and Nieuw Statendam stand out for their sophisticated dining experiences and onboard enrichment programs. Departures usually happen from international ports such as Athens or Barcelona, while Sydney serves as the domestic port option for Australian cruisers wanting to explore this breathtaking region.

Top Luxury and Small Ship Cruises to Southern Italy

• Oceania Cruises: Oceania’s fleet consists of 8 ships, with 6 offering itineraries to Southern Italy. The Nautica and Vista are well-known for their focus on culinary excellence and destination immersion, providing guests with authentic local experiences and flavors. Departures regularly occur from key international ports such as Civitavecchia (Rome) or Athens, serving as convenient starting points for exploring Southern Italy.
• Seabourn: With a fleet of 6 ships, Seabourn has 3 that cruise to Southern Italy. The Seabourn Ovation and Seabourn Encore focus on providing a premium experience, combining personalized service with culinary delights. Most cruises depart from ports like Barcelona or Monte Carlo, allowing cruisers to begin their journey with a touch of elegance.
• Azamara Cruises: Azamara operates a fleet of 4, with 3 vessels that frequently visit Southern Italy. The Azamara Onward and Azamara Quest are known for offering immersive experiences, allowing longer stays in port for deeper exploration. Typical departure ports include Civitavecchia (Rome) or Venice, ensuring smooth access to the treasures of Southern Italy.
• Silversea: Silversea’s luxurious fleet includes 12 ships, with 6 offering itineraries to Southern Italy. The Silver Ray and Silver Whisper are celebrated for their all-inclusive service and upscale amenities, creating a refined atmosphere for cruisers. Departures commonly occur from ports like Civitavecchia (Rome) or Lisbon, setting the stage for an opulent journey through Southern Italy.

Must-See Harbours in Southern Italy

• Civitavecchia (Rome): This port serves as the gateway to Italy’s capital, making it easy to explore Rome’s historical treasures. While docked, make sure to visit the iconic Colosseum, the Vatican Museums, and the beautiful Trevi Fountain. Grab some gelato from a nearby café for a sweet treat as you take in the city’s rich history!
• Naples: Naples is famous for its culinary scene, particularly being the birthplace of pizza. Explore the historic centre, visit the National Archaeological Museum, or take a day trip to Pompeii to walk through ancient ruins. Don’t forget to try Neapolitan pizza at a local pizzeria before departing!
• Palermo, Sicily: The capital of Sicily, Palermo captivates visitors with its rich history and beautiful architecture. While in port, visit the stunning Palatine Chapel, explore the bustling markets, and indulge in traditional Sicilian pastries. The vibrant atmosphere and local cuisine will leave you enchanted!
• Messina: Known for its picturesque coastline, Messina is a charming Sicilian port city. Visit the historic Cathedral of Messina and the nearby Torre dei Venti for panoramic views of the city and the Strait of Messina. If time allows, enjoy a local seafood dish at one of the inviting waterfront restaurants!
• Corfu: This beautiful island features stunning beaches and lush landscapes. While docked, explore the old town—a UNESCO World Heritage site—visit the imposing Old Fortress, or relax on one of the many picturesque beaches, where you can enjoy swimming and water sports!

The Best Times to Cruise to Southern Italy

When planning a cruise, the best times to visit Southern Italy are from April to June, when temperatures can range from 17°C to 27°C, providing pleasant weather for exploration without the intense summer heat. The summer months of July and August can be quite hot, reaching around 30°C, making it ideal for beach lovers but likely attracting larger crowds. For a more comfortable experience, consider cruising from September to November when temperatures hover between 20°C and 26°C, allowing you to enjoy local festivals and the stunning autumn colours!

Cost Overview for a Cruise in Southern Italy

When budgeting for your adventure, expect a 1-week cruise in Southern Italy to range from approximately $1,400 to $2,800 AUD for standard options, while luxury cruises may start around $4,000 AUD and increase from there. Dining out can also vary—meals at local restaurants can cost anywhere from $20 to $60 AUD, while drinks may range from $5 to $15 AUD. Many cruise packages include meals onboard, providing a chance to experience authentic Italian cuisine without worry!

Alternative Regions to Consider

If you’re considering a cruise to Southern Italy, take a look at these charming alternative regions:

• Italy: Explore the richness of northern Italy, including the breathtaking cities of Venice, Florence, and Milan, where art, history, and exquisite cuisine await!
• Western Mediterranean: This region combines beautiful coastlines and vibrant cultures, inviting you to uncover the charm and delights of Italy, Spain, and France!
• Eastern Mediterranean: Sail into the enchanting landscapes and deep history found in iconic destinations like Greece and Turkey for spectacular experiences.
• Croatia: Known for its stunning coastline along the Adriatic, Croatia offers picturesque towns like Dubrovnik and Split, along with beautiful national parks that captivate outdoor enthusiasts!
• Spain: Experience the warmth of Spanish culture, delightful food, and vibrant cities such as Barcelona and Valencia, perfect for an unforgettable vacation!

Ready to set sail for the captivating shores of Southern Italy? Book your next cruise holiday with Cruise1st today, and immerse yourself in the exquisite beauty, culture, and culinary delights waiting for you in this amazing region!