Remember planning that dream vacation? Imagine sailing through the azure waters of the Mediterranean, exploring ancient ruins, and indulging in delicious cuisine. Choosing the right cruise line can make or break the experience. This article explores the 2020 best cruise lines in the Mediterranean as reported by U.S. News & World Report, offering insights to help you plan your perfect getaway. We’ll delve into the factors that influenced the rankings, the top contenders, and what makes each one unique, ensuring you make an informed decision.
Understanding the U.S. News & World Report Cruise Rankings
The U.S. News & World Report cruise rankings provide a valuable benchmark for travelers. They evaluate cruise lines based on various factors, including reputation among travel experts, health assessments, and passenger satisfaction. Understanding the criteria can empower you to choose a cruise that aligns with your priorities, be it luxury, affordability, or family-friendliness. These rankings are periodically updated, and while focusing on 2020, we can learn valuable lessons applicable to future cruise planning.
Key Ranking Factors
- Reputation Among Experts: Cruise lines are assessed based on reviews and ratings from travel experts and industry professionals. A higher reputation indicates consistent quality and service. This also reflects the experiences of past cruisers, providing insight into what to expect.
- Health Assessments: U.S. News considers the results of health inspections conducted by regulatory bodies. Cleanliness and hygiene are crucial for passenger well-being. Healthy ships contribute to a more enjoyable and worry-free vacation.
- Passenger Satisfaction: Surveys and feedback from past passengers are a significant factor. High passenger satisfaction scores indicate a positive overall experience. This is arguably the most important factor as it directly reflects the opinions of those who have already taken the cruise.
Expert reviews often highlight unique onboard experiences, such as culinary offerings, entertainment options, and shore excursions. They can also point out potential drawbacks or areas where a cruise line could improve, offering a balanced perspective.
Health assessments evaluate various aspects of onboard hygiene, including food handling practices, water quality, and overall cleanliness. These assessments are designed to protect passengers from illness and ensure a safe cruising environment.
Passenger satisfaction scores often reflect factors such as the quality of service, the comfort of accommodations, the variety of onboard activities, and the overall value for money. These scores can help you gauge whether a particular cruise line is likely to meet your expectations.
Top Cruise Lines in the Mediterranean for 2020
In 2020, several cruise lines consistently ranked high for their Mediterranean offerings. These lines stood out due to their exceptional service, diverse itineraries, and overall value. Let’s explore some of the top performers, examining what set them apart in the competitive Mediterranean cruise market. Remember that rankings can fluctuate, but the underlying quality of these cruise lines often remains consistent.
Luxury Options: Seabourn and Silversea
For those seeking an ultra-luxurious experience, Seabourn and Silversea often topped the list. These lines offer smaller, more intimate ships with personalized service and all-inclusive amenities.
- Seabourn: Known for its sophisticated ambiance and impeccable service, Seabourn offers a refined cruising experience. The line emphasizes culinary excellence and provides access to smaller, less-crowded ports.
- Silversea: Silversea focuses on immersive cultural experiences and offers a high level of personalization. The line features itineraries that delve deeper into the region’s history and culture.
- All-Inclusive Amenities: Both lines offer all-inclusive pricing, covering everything from drinks and gratuities to shore excursions in some cases. This simplifies budgeting and allows you to relax and enjoy your vacation without worrying about extra costs.
Seabourn ships feature spacious suites, gourmet dining options, and a wide range of onboard activities, including spa treatments, lectures, and live entertainment. The all-inclusive pricing covers gratuities, beverages, and often shore excursions.
Silversea ships are designed for discerning travelers who appreciate fine dining, luxurious accommodations, and personalized service. The line offers a variety of shore excursions tailored to different interests, from historical tours to culinary adventures.
The all-inclusive nature of these cruises extends to onboard activities, entertainment, and dining options. You can indulge in gourmet meals, enjoy premium beverages, and participate in a variety of activities without incurring additional charges.
Mainstream Choices: Celebrity Cruises and Holland America Line
Celebrity Cruises and Holland America Line offered excellent value and a wider range of itineraries. These lines catered to a broader audience while maintaining a high level of quality and service.
- Celebrity Cruises: Known for its modern design and innovative features, Celebrity Cruises provides a stylish and contemporary cruising experience. The line offers a wide range of onboard activities and entertainment options.
- Holland America Line: Holland America Line emphasizes traditional cruising values and offers a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere. The line focuses on enriching experiences and provides a wide range of shore excursions.
- Diverse Itineraries: These lines offered a variety of Mediterranean itineraries, ranging from classic ports to lesser-known destinations. This allowed travelers to choose a cruise that matched their interests and travel style.
Celebrity Cruises ships feature sleek and modern designs, with spacious accommodations, a variety of dining options, and innovative entertainment venues. The line also offers a robust program of onboard activities, including cooking classes, wine tastings, and live performances.
Holland America Line ships are known for their classic elegance and comfortable accommodations. The line offers a variety of dining options, including formal and casual restaurants, and a wide range of onboard activities, including cooking demonstrations, lectures, and live music.
The diverse itineraries offered by Celebrity Cruises and Holland America Line cater to different interests, from history buffs to foodies to adventure seekers. You can choose a cruise that focuses on ancient ruins, culinary delights, or outdoor activities, depending on your preferences.
Family-Friendly Options: Disney Cruise Line
Disney Cruise Line provided an exceptional experience for families with children, offering themed activities, entertainment, and dedicated spaces for kids and teens.
- Themed Activities: Disney cruises are known for their immersive themed experiences, from character meet-and-greets to Broadway-style shows. These activities cater to both children and adults.
- Dedicated Spaces: The line offers dedicated spaces for kids and teens, including age-appropriate clubs and activities. This allows parents to relax and enjoy their vacation while their children are entertained.
- Family-Friendly Amenities: Disney ships feature family-friendly amenities such as pools, water slides, and movie theaters. These amenities ensure that everyone in the family has something to enjoy.
Themed activities on Disney cruises include character meet-and-greets, costume parties, deck parties, and themed dining experiences. These activities create a magical and memorable experience for families.
Disney cruises feature dedicated spaces for kids and teens, including kids’ clubs, teen lounges, and game rooms. These spaces provide a safe and supervised environment for children to socialize and participate in age-appropriate activities.
Family-friendly amenities on Disney cruises include pools, water slides, movie theaters, and sports courts. These amenities provide a variety of options for entertainment and recreation, ensuring that everyone in the family has a memorable vacation.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Cruise Line
Choosing the right cruise line involves considering your budget, travel style, and interests. Do you prioritize luxury and personalized service, or are you looking for a more affordable and casual experience? Consider these factors to narrow down your options and find the perfect cruise for your needs.
Budget Considerations
- Cruise Fare: The base cruise fare covers your accommodations, meals, and onboard entertainment. However, you’ll also need to factor in additional costs such as airfare, shore excursions, and gratuities.
- Shore Excursions: Shore excursions can significantly add to the cost of your cruise. Consider pre-booking excursions to save money or opting for independent exploration in some ports.
- Onboard Spending: Factor in the cost of drinks, specialty dining, and souvenirs. Setting a budget for onboard spending can help you avoid overspending.
Cruise fares vary depending on the cruise line, the itinerary, the length of the cruise, and the type of cabin you choose. Researching different options and comparing prices can help you find a cruise that fits your budget.
Shore excursions range from guided tours of historical sites to adventurous activities such as snorkeling and hiking. Pre-booking excursions can often save you money compared to booking them onboard the ship.
Onboard spending can include drinks, specialty dining, spa treatments, shopping, and gambling. Setting a budget for these expenses can help you stay within your financial limits.
Travel Style and Interests
- Luxury vs. Casual: Some cruise lines offer a luxurious and sophisticated experience, while others provide a more casual and relaxed atmosphere. Choose a cruise line that matches your preferred travel style.
- Itinerary Preferences: Consider the ports of call and the overall itinerary. Do you prefer visiting iconic cities or exploring lesser-known destinations?
- Onboard Activities: Look for a cruise line that offers onboard activities that align with your interests, such as cooking classes, wine tastings, or live music.
Luxury cruise lines typically offer personalized service, gourmet dining, and all-inclusive amenities. Casual cruise lines often focus on affordability and offer a wider range of activities and entertainment options.
Some Mediterranean cruises focus on iconic cities such as Rome, Athens, and Barcelona, while others explore smaller and more remote destinations. Choosing an itinerary that matches your interests is essential for a fulfilling vacation.
Onboard activities can range from cooking classes and wine tastings to lectures, fitness classes, and live performances. Choosing a cruise line that offers activities that appeal to you can enhance your overall experience.
Cruise Ship Size
- Large Ships: Large cruise ships offer a wide range of amenities and activities but can feel crowded at times. These ships typically cater to a broader audience.
- Small Ships: Small cruise ships offer a more intimate and personalized experience but may have fewer amenities. These ships often visit smaller, less-crowded ports.
- Mid-Sized Ships: Mid-sized ships offer a balance between amenities and intimacy. These ships can provide a comfortable and enjoyable experience without feeling too crowded.
Large cruise ships can accommodate thousands of passengers and offer a variety of dining options, entertainment venues, and recreational facilities. However, they can also feel crowded, especially during peak season.
Small cruise ships typically accommodate fewer than 1,000 passengers and offer a more intimate and personalized experience. They often visit smaller ports that are inaccessible to larger ships.
Mid-sized cruise ships offer a good balance between amenities and intimacy, providing a comfortable and enjoyable experience without feeling too crowded. These ships often visit a variety of ports, from iconic cities to smaller destinations.
Debunking Common Mediterranean Cruise Myths
Several misconceptions surround Mediterranean cruises. Separating fact from fiction can help you make informed decisions and have realistic expectations. Let’s address some common myths to ensure a smoother cruise planning process.
Myth: Mediterranean Cruises Are Only for the Wealthy
While luxury options exist, many affordable Mediterranean cruises cater to various budgets. With careful planning and research, you can find a cruise that fits your financial constraints. You don’t need to break the bank to experience the beauty of the Mediterranean.
- Off-Season Travel: Traveling during the off-season (spring or fall) can significantly reduce cruise fares and airfare costs. This allows you to enjoy the Mediterranean without the peak-season crowds and prices.
- Interior Cabins: Choosing an interior cabin can save you money compared to ocean-view or balcony cabins. You’ll still have access to all the onboard amenities and activities.
- DIY Excursions: Instead of booking expensive shore excursions, consider exploring ports independently. Research local transportation options and create your own itinerary.
The shoulder seasons of spring and fall offer pleasant weather in the Mediterranean and lower prices compared to the summer months. You can also avoid the crowds that flock to the region during the peak tourist season.
Interior cabins are the most affordable option on most cruise ships. While they don’t offer a view, they provide a comfortable and functional space for sleeping and relaxing.
DIY excursions can save you money and allow you to explore ports at your own pace. Research local transportation options, such as buses and trains, and plan your own itinerary based on your interests.
Myth: All Mediterranean Ports Are Overcrowded
While popular ports can get crowded, many smaller, less-visited destinations offer a more authentic and peaceful experience. Research itineraries that include a mix of well-known and off-the-beaten-path ports. Many cruise lines are now focusing on smaller port options to avoid overtourism.
- Smaller Ports: Explore itineraries that include smaller ports such as Kotor (Montenegro), Valletta (Malta), and Dubrovnik (Croatia). These ports offer unique cultural experiences and stunning scenery without the crowds.
- Early Morning Exploration: Arrive at popular ports early in the morning to avoid the crowds. This allows you to explore the sites before the tour buses arrive.
- Off-Season Visits: Visiting during the off-season can also reduce crowds in popular ports. You’ll have a more relaxed and enjoyable experience.
Smaller ports often offer a more authentic and intimate experience compared to larger, more popular destinations. You can explore local markets, sample regional cuisine, and interact with local residents without the crowds.
Arriving at popular ports early in the morning can help you avoid the crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience. You can visit popular attractions before they become overcrowded and take advantage of photo opportunities without hordes of tourists.
Visiting during the off-season can significantly reduce crowds in popular ports, allowing you to explore the sites at your own pace and enjoy a more relaxed and authentic experience.
Myth: Cruises Are Boring
Modern cruise ships offer a wide range of activities and entertainment options, from live music and Broadway-style shows to cooking classes and casino gambling. There’s something for everyone on board, ensuring a stimulating and enjoyable vacation. The rise of theme cruises (wine, history, etc.) further enhances interest.
- Onboard Entertainment: Cruise ships offer a variety of onboard entertainment options, including live music, Broadway-style shows, comedy acts, and themed parties.
- Onboard Activities: Participate in onboard activities such as cooking classes, wine tastings, dance lessons, and fitness classes. These activities provide opportunities to learn new skills and socialize with other passengers.
- Shore Excursions: Shore excursions offer opportunities to explore different cultures, visit historical sites, and participate in adventurous activities. These excursions can be tailored to your interests and preferences.
Onboard entertainment is designed to cater to a wide range of interests and preferences. You can enjoy live music in various genres, watch Broadway-style shows, laugh at comedy acts, and participate in themed parties.
Onboard activities are designed to engage passengers and provide opportunities for learning and socializing. You can learn new skills, improve your fitness, and meet new people while enjoying your cruise.
Shore excursions provide opportunities to explore different cultures, visit historical sites, and participate in adventurous activities. You can choose excursions that match your interests and preferences, from guided tours of ancient ruins to adventurous hikes in the mountains.
Sample Scenarios: Planning Your Mediterranean Cruise
Let’s walk through a few scenarios to illustrate how to plan your perfect Mediterranean cruise.
- Budget-Conscious Couple:
- Choose a Mainstream Cruise Line: Opt for a line like Holland America or Celebrity Cruises.
- Travel During the Shoulder Season: Book your cruise for April or October to save on fares.
- Opt for an Interior Cabin: Save money on accommodations by choosing an interior cabin.
- Plan DIY Excursions: Explore ports independently using public transportation and free walking tours.
Mainstream cruise lines offer a balance of affordability and quality, providing a comfortable and enjoyable cruising experience without breaking the bank.
Traveling during the shoulder season can save you money on cruise fares and airfare, while still enjoying pleasant weather in the Mediterranean.
Interior cabins are the most affordable option on most cruise ships, allowing you to save money on accommodations without sacrificing comfort.
DIY excursions can save you money and allow you to explore ports at your own pace, using public transportation and free walking tours.
- Family with Young Children:
- Choose Disney Cruise Line: Benefit from themed activities and dedicated kids’ spaces.
- Look for Itineraries with Sea Days: Allow time for kids to enjoy onboard amenities.
- Book a Family-Sized Cabin: Ensure everyone has enough space to relax comfortably.
- Take Advantage of Kids’ Clubs: Allow parents some downtime while kids are entertained.
Disney Cruise Line offers a magical experience for families with young children, with themed activities, character meet-and-greets, and dedicated kids’ spaces.
Itineraries with sea days provide opportunities for kids to enjoy onboard amenities such as pools, water slides, and kids’ clubs.
Family-sized cabins offer more space and amenities, ensuring that everyone in the family has enough room to relax comfortably.
Kids’ clubs provide a safe and supervised environment for children to socialize and participate in age-appropriate activities, allowing parents to enjoy some downtime.
FAQ
What is the best time of year to take a Mediterranean cruise?
The best time to take a Mediterranean cruise is typically during the shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October). The weather is pleasant, the crowds are smaller, and the prices are often lower than during the peak summer months.
How much does a Mediterranean cruise typically cost?
The cost of a Mediterranean cruise varies depending on the cruise line, the itinerary, the length of the cruise, and the type of cabin you choose. Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from $1,000 to $5,000 per person for a 7-day cruise. Luxury cruises can cost significantly more.
What are some must-see ports on a Mediterranean cruise?
Some must-see ports on a Mediterranean cruise include Rome (Italy), Athens (Greece), Barcelona (Spain), Istanbul (Turkey), and Dubrovnik (Croatia). These ports offer a wealth of historical sites, cultural attractions, and culinary delights.
Do I need a visa for a Mediterranean cruise?
Whether you need a visa for a Mediterranean cruise depends on your nationality and the countries you will be visiting. U.S. citizens typically do not need a visa for short-term tourist visits to many European countries, but it’s always best to check the specific visa requirements for each country on your itinerary.
What should I pack for a Mediterranean cruise?
When packing for a Mediterranean cruise, be sure to bring comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings. You should also pack dressier clothes for formal nights on the ship.
How far in advance should I book a Mediterranean cruise?
It’s generally recommended to book your Mediterranean cruise as far in advance as possible, ideally 6-12 months before your desired travel date. This will give you the best chance of securing your preferred cabin and itinerary, as well as taking advantage of early booking discounts.
Final Thoughts
Planning a Mediterranean cruise involves careful consideration of various factors, from choosing the right cruise line to understanding the nuances of the rankings systems like those used by U.S. News & World Report. By evaluating your budget, travel style, and interests, you can select a cruise that aligns perfectly with your needs. Remember to debunk common myths and consider our sample scenarios for a smoother, more enjoyable experience. Now it’s time to research, compare options, and book the Mediterranean cruise of your dreams!