Embarking on a Mediterranean cruise is a dream come true for many travelers. I honestly never thought about a Mediterranean cruise until I had the opportunity to partner with Virgin Voyages. With its rich history, diverse cultures, and breathtaking landscapes, the Mediterranean offers an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a first-time explorer, there’s a Mediterranean cruise that’s perfect for you.

In this comprehensive guide, I’ll share my experience on Virgin Voyages. I’ll also explore various cruise lines, the different types of Mediterranean cruises available, and dive into the specifics of Virgin Voyages and their popular “Irresistible Med” cruise. I’ll also discuss the best time for a Mediterranean cruise, the cost of Mediterranean cruises, and options for luxury and cheap Mediterranean cruises.

Virgin Voyages: The “Irresistible Med” Cruise

Virgin Voyages has revolutionized the cruising experience with their “Irresistible Med” cruise. Designed for the modern traveler, this adults-only voyage promises a blend of relaxation, adventure, and luxury. This was my first ever adults-only cruise and only my second ever cruise. The only other cruise I’ve done was a Disney cruise, which was a vastly different experience than the Virgin Voyages cruise. 

Several of my blogger friends have done Virgin Voyages cruises, so I definitely was excited for the experience. From the moment I arrived at the Barcelona cruise port, I was very impressed with the service. It was so seamless to get on the ship and we were blown away by the size of our room. When we first arrived at the terminal, we asked if there were any upgrades, and we were able to upgrade to a larger sea terrace room for a fee.

Then, we spent the next hour or two exploring the boat. If you’re wondering what’s included, tap here to learn about what’s always included in a Virgin Voyages Luxury Cruise. Soon after, we had a reservation at our first restaurant. Honestly, all of the meals on the ship were amazing. You can watch this video for a peek at some of the amazing food options.

If you’re interested specifically in a Virgin Voyages Mediterranean Cruise, below is more information on our itinerary and the on-board experience. Also, if you’re contemplating an all-inclusive or a cruise, read about that here.

Itinerary and Stops

Toulon, France

Toulon, a historic port city on the French Riviera, offers a blend of naval history and charming old town ambiance. Explore the military museum, stroll through the bustling markets, and enjoy the scenic views from Mont Faron. At this stop, we actually booked a ‘Shore Things’ excursion through Virgin Voyages to visit St. Tropez and Port Grimaud. I absolutely loved Port Grimaud with its cute canals. St. Tropez was less interesting to me. There was high-end shopping and yachts, but beyond that, I didn’t really enjoy that stop. I am still glad I did the excursion so I could see the countryside and also see what some of the other cities look like. There is still a lot more of the South of France to see, so I definitely think I would go back to see other places.

Ibiza, Spain

Known for its legendary nightlife, Ibiza also offers beautiful beaches and tranquil countryside. Visit the UNESCO-listed Dalt Vila, relax on the sandy shores, and experience the island’s vibrant nightlife. I sincerely enjoyed exploring Ibiza town, the old town of Ibiza. We also went to the other side of the island to see Sant Antoni, but I honestly didn’t enjoy that side of the island. The old town area was so charming and quaint. I wish I had a bit more time in Ibiza to explore the beaches, and also go to one of the night clubs. Because I enjoyed the old town area so much, I do think I’d go back to explore more of the island. I also heard that Formentera is a must-visit – an island just next to Ibiza. I would absolutely plan a trip back to Ibiza so I could also do Majora. 

Ajaccio, Corsica

Birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte, Ajaccio offers a mix of history and natural beauty. Stroll along its beautiful beaches, explore the vibrant market, and visit the Maison Bonaparte museum. This is one of the cities we explored on foot and didn’t plan any excursions. We really enjoyed this city to walk around. It has beautiful ocean views and a lot of history to see all within walking distance. We also enjoyed an espresso at a little cafe right down by the water, which was so nice. I do wish I had a bit more time to explore the beaches here. Just from what I could see, it was a beautiful island and I know the beaches would have been lovely. 

Marina di Carrara, Italy

This port town in Tuscany is famous for its marble quarries. Take a tour of the marble caves, visit the nearby city of Pisa to see the Leaning Tower, or explore the picturesque coastal villages of Cinque Terre. This was the prettiest of all of the stops because we had the most amazing views of the marble mountains. From here, we did another ‘Shore Things’ excursion to Cinque Terre. This was probably the biggest highlight of the trip for me, with Ibiza being second. I really enjoyed seeing the little Italian villages. First, we went to Portovenere and then we enjoyed lunch in one of the Cinque Terre villages. I only wish we had a bit more time here to explore more of Italy because I just adore all of the places I’ve visited in Italy. Here’s an old post about Positano and here’s one about Air BnBs in Italy.

Virgin Voyages Onboard Experience

Virgin Voyages prides itself on offering a unique and luxurious onboard experience. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Chic Accommodations: The staterooms and suites are designed with comfort and style in mind, featuring modern decor, smart technology, and ocean views.
2. Gourmet Dining: With over 20 dining options, including Michelin-starred chef-led restaurants, you’ll enjoy a culinary journey like no other. From fresh seafood to international cuisine, there’s something to satisfy every palate.
3. Wellness and Fitness: Stay active with state-of-the-art fitness facilities, yoga classes, and wellness programs. The onboard spa offers a range of treatments to help you unwind and rejuvenate.
4. Entertainment: Expect cutting-edge entertainment, from live performances and DJ sets to immersive theater productions. Virgin Voyages also offers unique experiences like drag shows and outdoor movie nights.
5. Adult-Only Atmosphere: With no children on board, the ambiance is sophisticated and relaxed, perfect for couples, friends, and solo travelers looking to unwind and have fun.

Cruise Lines Offering Mediterranean Cruises

1. Royal Caribbean International: Known for its innovative ships and extensive itineraries, Royal Caribbean offers a variety of Mediterranean cruises. From the bustling ports of Barcelona and Rome to the serene beauty of the Greek Isles, Royal Caribbean has something for everyone.
2. MSC Cruises: MSC Cruises, a European-based line, provides an authentic Mediterranean experience with its modern fleet. Their cruises often include stops at lesser-known gems like Kotor, Montenegro, and Valletta, Malta, alongside popular destinations such as Venice and Athens.
3. Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): NCL‘s freestyle cruising concept allows for a more relaxed and customizable experience. Their Mediterranean itineraries often feature extended stays in key ports, giving passengers more time to explore cities like Florence, Santorini, and Dubrovnik.
4. Celebrity Cruises: Celebrity Cruises is known for its upscale experience and exceptional service. Their Mediterranean voyages focus on cultural immersion and culinary excellence, visiting destinations such as the Amalfi Coast, Mykonos, and the French Riviera.

Types of Mediterranean Cruises

1. Western Mediterranean Cruises: These cruises typically cover Spain, France, and Italy. Ports of call might include Barcelona, Marseille, Nice, Florence, and Rome. Western Mediterranean cruises are perfect for those interested in art, history, and gourmet cuisine.
2. Eastern Mediterranean Cruises: Focusing on Greece, Turkey, and the Balkans, Eastern Mediterranean cruises visit iconic sites like Athens, Istanbul, and Dubrovnik. These cruises are ideal for history buffs and lovers of ancient civilizations.
3. Southern Mediterranean Cruises: These itineraries often include stops in Malta, Tunisia, and Morocco. Southern Mediterranean cruises offer a mix of European and North African cultures, with opportunities to explore markets, ancient ruins, and stunning coastlines.
4. Greek Isles Cruises: A favorite among many cruisers, Greek Isles cruises visit islands such as Santorini, Mykonos, Crete, and Rhodes. These cruises are perfect for beach lovers and those seeking picturesque landscapes and charming villages. If you want to learn more about Greek travel, here’s my 10-day itinerary and what to pack for Greece, which is also a perfect packing list for a Mediterranean Cruise.

Luxury Mediterranean Cruises

For those seeking a luxury Mediterranean cruise, lines like Celebrity Cruises and Virgin Voyages offer upscale experiences with top-tier amenities, fine dining, and exclusive excursions. These cruises provide a more intimate and personalized experience, often with fewer passengers and more luxurious accommodations.

Cheap Mediterranean Cruises

Travelers on a budget can still enjoy the splendor of a Mediterranean cruise. MSC Cruises and Norwegian Cruise Line often offer affordable options without compromising on the quality of the experience. Booking in advance, traveling during the shoulder seasons, and looking out for promotions can help you find the cheapest Mediterranean cruise options. Costa is another cruise line that offers really affordable cruises.

Best Time for a Mediterranean Cruise

The best time for a Mediterranean cruise is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are smaller. These periods also offer the best value, avoiding the peak summer months when prices and temperatures are at their highest.

Cost of Mediterranean Cruise

The cost of a Mediterranean cruise can vary widely depending on the cruise line, itinerary, and time of year. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $800 to $2,500 per person for a week-long cruise. Luxury Mediterranean cruises and longer itineraries can cost significantly more, while cheap Mediterranean cruises can be found for less, especially during off-peak times.

Best Itinerary for Mediterranean Cruise

Choosing the best itinerary for a Mediterranean cruise depends on your interests. For a blend of iconic cities and hidden gems, consider an itinerary that includes stops in Barcelona, Rome, Athens, and the Greek Isles. This combination offers a rich mix of history, culture, and stunning scenery.

Mediterranean Cruise Final Thoughts

A Mediterranean cruise is a perfect way to explore the diverse and enchanting regions of this historic sea. Whether you choose a traditional cruise line or opt for the modern luxury of Virgin Voyages, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable adventure. The “Irresistible Med” cruise by Virgin Voyages offers a unique blend of top-tier destinations, luxurious onboard experiences, and a vibrant, adult-only atmosphere. Pack your bags and set sail for the Mediterranean—an unforgettable journey awaits!