Top Eastern Mediterranean Cruise Lines for Your Next Adventure

Written by Tony Sheridan, Mediterranean Cruise Specialist at Atlas Holidays.

If the idea of sailing past sun-drenched coastlines appeals to you, then welcome to the Eastern Mediterranean. You can wander through ancient cities. Enjoy sipping ouzo as the sun sets over the Aegean.

This part of the world offers one of the most culturally rich and visually spectacular cruising experiences available.

There are many cruise lines offering routes through Greece, Croatia, Turkey, and beyond. But how do you decide which one is right for you? There are several factors to consider.

As your Mediterranean Cruise Specialist, I’ve handpicked the top cruise lines. They consistently impress when it comes to exploring the Eastern Med. Each cruise line offers something a little different depending on your travel style.

1. Celebrity Cruises

Modern luxury with a destination focus.

Celebrity’s Eastern Mediterranean itineraries blend big hitters like Athens and Santorini with lesser-known gems including Kusadasi or Chania. Their ships feel like boutique hotels at sea — sleek, serene, and stylish. Ideal for couples or friends looking for elegance without formality.

Why choose Celebrity?

• Focus on longer days in port
• Gorgeous spa and wellness options
• Excellent cuisine (and wine pairing, of course)

My tip: Their Greek Isles & Türkiye itineraries are among the most enriching and relaxing you’ll find.

✨ Traveler Tips for Sailing Celebrity Cruises in the Eastern Med.

✅ Arrive early for the views
Some of Celebrity’s best routes offer jaw-dropping sail-ins. This is especially true for Santorini, Mykonos, or Kotor. Grab a spot on deck early with your camera and a coffee in hand.

✅ Take advantage of ‘Included’ Perks
If you book a “Cruise with Drinks, Wi-Fi & Tips Included” fare, you’ll get great value. It offers an excellent return on your investment. You will find that this fare takes the hassle out of budgeting onboard.

✅ Book excursions early. This is especially true in Greece.
Celebrity’s curated shore excursions in ports like Ephesus and Athens fill up quickly, especially the small group ones. Book in advance if you want guided access to historical sites.

✅ Try the rooftop garden or Eden bar for sunset
These are quieter, stylish spots on the Edge-class ships for cocktails, journaling, or sketching (you might even meet like-minded cruisers doing the same!).

✅ Consider AquaClass or Concierge Class
These stateroom categories are a great choice for those who value wellness or priority boarding. They come with thoughtful perks. They offer exclusive dining in Blu. They also offer complimentary spa access.

✅ Use the Celebrity App onboard
It’s genuinely helpful. You can book shows with it. It shows what’s open for lunch. Additionally, you can scan your daily activities. You can even message travel companions through it.

2. Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)

Freedom, fun, and flexibility

If you like variety, entertainment, and doing your own thing — NCL is your perfect fit. Their “Freestyle Cruising” means no strict dining times or dress codes. Think poolside mojitos after exploring Dubrovnik’s old town or catching a Broadway-style show after Santorini.

Why choose NCL?

• Great for multi-generational families.
• Wide variety of dining and onboard entertainment.
• Lots of embarkation options across Europe.

My tip: Their mid-size ships are great for accessing popular Eastern Med ports without the mega-ship crowds.

✨ Traveler Tips for Sailing NCL in the Eastern Med.

✅ Book specialty dining early. Do this especially on sea days.
With no set dining times, popular venues like Cagney’s Steakhouse or Le Bistro can fill up fast. Use the NCL app to make your reservations the moment you board — or before, if possible.

✅ Go for a midship cabin
NCL ships are larger and more lively. A midship stateroom provides better access to everything. It can help reduce motion for those sensitive to sea movement.

✅ Use the “Free at Sea” offers wisely.
NCL often runs promotions. You can pick free perks like drinks, excursions, Wi-Fi, or dining. Choose the ones that genuinely suit your travel style (for Eastern Med, the free excursions can add great value).

✅ Skip the main buffet at peak times
It can get busy. Visit The Local (open 24/7) for a more relaxed experience. Or try one of the sit-down dining rooms for better sea views!

✅ Perfect for port-heavy itineraries
NCL is fantastic if you’re looking for itineraries that tick off bucket-list ports. Just be aware that some stops (like Mykonos or Santorini) use tenders — plan extra time to get ashore.

✅ Check for port-specific shuttle costs
In some Eastern Med ports, NCL charges for shuttle buses into town. It’s worth factoring into your budget or planning to walk or use a local taxi where safe and practical.

3. MSC Cruises

Italian flair and great value.

MSC brings a European flavour to your cruise experience. Expect stylish ships, espresso at breakfast, and evening gelato under the stars. They’re ideal for first-time cruisers or anyone after a budget-friendly Mediterranean escape.

Why choose MSC?

• Very affordable, especially with early booking deals
• Late-night departures from many ports (so you can enjoy dinner ashore)
• Family-friendly with kids-go-free promos

My tip: Look for itineraries that include both mainland Greece and the islands. This way, you get the best of both worlds.

✨ Traveler Tips for Sailing MSC in the Eastern Med.

✅ Expect a European experience — embrace it!
MSC is Italian-owned, and most guests onboard will be European. Announcements are often in multiple languages, and dining times run later than on UK-focused lines. It’s all part of the charm!

✅ Pack smart for formal nights
Even on shorter itineraries, MSC includes “Elegant Evenings” where many guests go all out. Wear a cocktail dress. A smart blazer will help you blend right in. This is especially true on ships sailing from Italy or Greece.

✅ Great value — but watch the extras
Cruise fares can be very competitive. Yet, extras like water with meals come at a cost. Coffee outside breakfast is also not included. Shuttle buses in port incur an extra charge. Consider upgrading to a Fantastica or Aurea package to include more.

✅ Family perks are strong
Kids often cruise free or at a reduced rate with MSC. The kids’ clubs cater to multiple age groups. Perfect for summer holidays or half-term escapes with the grandkids.

✅ Use their app. It helps you find your way around. You can check daily activities and even track your children if they’re in the kids’ club.
The MSC for Me app helps you find your way around. You can check daily activities. You can even track your children if they’re in the kids’ club. The printed daily planner is also handy — pop it in your bag before heading out.

✅ Explore ports independently
Many Eastern Med ports are easy to explore on foot. You can also use local transport. This is ideal if you’re budget-conscious or prefer a flexible day. Ask me for DIY port guides if you want to make the most of time ashore.

4. Princess Cruises

Classic elegance with cultural depth

Princess knows how to cruise the Med well. Their shore excursions are some of the best around, with expert local guides and options for all activity levels. A fantastic choice if you’re after relaxation with a side of enrichment.

Why choose Princess?

• Excellent port lectures and cultural programming
• Beautiful mid-sized ships (not too big, not too small)
• Overnights in iconic ports like Istanbul

My tip: Their Mediterranean Explorer route offers a lovely balance of history and leisure — and some unforgettable sunsets.

✨ Traveler Tips for Sailing Princess Cruises in the Eastern Med.

✅ Take advantage of MedallionClass™ technology
Every guest receives a wearable Medallion. It acts as your room key and payment method. It is also an onboard tracker for friends and family. It also makes embarkation and ordering drinks super smooth — no queues!

✅ Book shore excursions early — the cultural ones go fast
Princess offers high-quality tours with excellent local guides. If you want to visit locations like Ephesus or climb the Acropolis, plan ahead. Exploring Dubrovnik’s Old Town with a historian is another great choice. Reserve in advance.

✅ Enjoy enrichment at sea
Princess hosts destination-themed lectures, culinary demonstrations, and local performances onboard. Check your daily programme for cultural activities — they’re included and surprisingly insightful.

✅ Opt for a balcony whenever possible.
Sailing past the coastlines of Greece, Türkiye, or Croatia is magical — and Princess’s mid-sized ships offer excellent balcony staterooms. Even just 15 minutes with a coffee and the view can be a highlight of your trip.

✅ Dine at your pace
Princess offers both Traditional and Anytime Dining. If you enjoy structure and meeting the same tablemates nightly, go with Traditional. Prefer flexibility? Choose Anytime Dining and dine when and where you like.

✅ Consider the Princess Plus package
Drinks, Wi-Fi, and crew tips are bundled into one price. This is often cheaper than paying for each individually. It simplifies the experience, especially for longer Eastern Med voyages.

5. Windstar Cruises

Boutique yachting for those who hate crowds

If your idea of heaven is anchoring in a private bay, Windstar is for you. You prefer stepping ashore in a quiet fishing village before the big ships arrive. In either case, Windstar is for you. These are small yachts (think 150–300 guests), and you’ll feel like you’re on your own private cruise through the Aegean.

Why choose Windstar?

• Intimate ships with five-star service
• Access to smaller ports like Patmos, Nafplio, and Monemvasia
• Gourmet cuisine and an unhurried pace

My tip: Book early — these sailings fill fast due to their limited capacity and cult fanbase.

✨ Traveler Tips for Sailing Windstar in the Eastern Med.

✅ Pack lightly and comfortably. The vibe is relaxed.
There are no formal nights on Windstar, and the dress code leans toward smart casual. Leave the gowns and tuxes behind and bring resortwear, linen shirts, and flat sandals for cobbled streets.

✅ Arrive early for sail-away from small ports
Watching the sails rise is a magical part of Windstar cruises. It truly enhances the experience. This happens as you depart places like Monemvasia, Nafplio, or Patmos. The open deck at sunset is the place to be — glass of wine optional but recommended.

✅ Take the onboard enrichment seriously
Lectures and cooking demos are intimate. Local guest experts are engaging and often themed to the port you’re about to visit. Ask questions, join the discussions, and dive into the destination.

✅ Don’t miss the Water Sports Platform
On select ships and itineraries, Windstar opens a retractable platform at the stern. This occurs weather permitting. You can kayak, paddleboard, or snorkel right off the back of the ship. It’s a unique experience you won’t get on the big lines.

✅ Book your excursions early — they’re more exclusive
Because of the small ship size, Windstar excursions have limited spots. Reserve cultural highlights or wine tastings in advance to avoid missing out.

✅ Enjoy dining alfresco as often as you can
Have a sunset dinner on deck. Or enjoy breakfast overlooking a quiet Greek harbour. Windstar’s open-air dining areas are one of the best-kept luxuries onboard.

Which One’s Right for You?

Not every ship suits every traveller. Some prefer the buzz of onboard entertainment, others the calm of smaller ports and slow mornings on deck. That’s where I come in.

As your dedicated Cruise Specialist, I’m here to match you with the itinerary, ship, and experience that suits your style. It doesn’t matter if you’re a honeymooner, a solo explorer, or planning a dream family reunion.

Curious about which Eastern Med cruise is right for you?

Let’s chat — I’ll help you find the perfect sailing and the right cruise deal to go with it.

Email me at tony@atlasholidays.co.uk Or message me in the Mediterranean Cruise Advice & Tips Facebook Group