The Eastern Mediterranean is a mix of ancient ruins, Greek islands, Turkish ports and stunning coastal views, all together in one route. A 9-day cruise gives you enough time to visit several places while still leaving breathing space to enjoy the ship too. From old sites to seaside moments, each stop feels a bit different. Browse the itineraries that are available below.
*All prices are per person, in US Dollars, based on double occupancy.
| Athens Civitavecchia (Rome) | |
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9 Nights |
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| Athens (Piraeus) | Valletta | Catania | Taranto | Valletta | Catania | Naples | Rome (Civitavecchia) ** | |
Cruise Deals from Athens to Rome (Civitavecchia) |
A nine-day cruise in the Eastern Mediterranean is a fast way to see a lot. You get ancient places to look at, islands and coast views that stand out, and food that change from stop to stop. You also spend less time repacking every day.
| Ship | Departure Port | Ports of Call | Why It's Popular | Best For |
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| MSC Fantasia | Istanbul | Istanbul, Corfu, Bari, Trieste, Katakolon, Piraeus, and Izmir | Rich itinerary depth, classic elegance and features, all-weather comforts, the Yacht Club option, and family entertainment | Travelers looking for feature-packed ships, culture and history buffs, multigenerational families, and European hospitality lovers |
| Celebrity Infinity | Athens (Piraeus) | Rhodes, Ephesus, Santorini, Mykonos, Kavala, Thessaloniki, and Athens | A refined, midsized ship experience that balances classic elegance with modern updates | Destination-focused travelers, couples seeking a relaxed cruise, and upscale cruisers |
| Oceania Allura | Rome (Civitavecchia) | Salerno, Palermo, Tunis, Valletta, Syracuse, Katakolon, Heraklion, Rhodes, and Athens (Piraeus) | An intimate ship with fewer crowds, acclaimed dining, all-inclusive value, and a refined atmosphere | Food enthusiasts, couples, solo adult travelers, and destination-focused explorers |
| Seven Seas Explorer | Rome (Civitavecchia) | Salerno, Palermo, Catania, Katakolon, Corfu, Kotor, and Venice | An all-inclusive luxury experience with exquisite design, spacious surroundings, fine dining, and immersive itineraries | Luxury travelers, couples, milestone celebration travelers, and history and culture buffs |
| Scarlet Lady | Athens (Piraeus) | Bodrum, Santorini, Mykonos, Valletta, Catania, and the Amalfi Coast | A chic, modern, adults-only alternative to traditional mega-ship cruising | Couples, friends, foodies, solo travelers, and first-time or alternative cruisers |
With nine days, you can enjoy a longer time in the Mediterranean without feeling like every stop is a chore. The feeling still depends on the ship. One company may focus more on shows and hangout areas. Another may put more weight on meals, smaller vessels, or a calm luxury vibe.
MSC Cruises often feels worldly. On board, there are many places to eat, plus entertainment, lounges, and busy shared areas. After a day on land, you still have things to do. The Mediterranean influence shows up in the ship look and in the mix of food and onboard activities.
Celebrity Cruises lean toward a modern feel. Cabins and common areas look smooth and fresh. Dining is treated as a highlight, and many spaces are meant for ease, not constant motion. The overall mood feels neat and grown up, but not stiff. For a nine-day trip, that style leaves space to slow down once you get back.
Oceania Cruises is strongly tied to food. Many travelers choose it for that reason. The ships are smaller than big resort ships, so the atmosphere can feel closer. You also get cooking sessions, cozy lounge areas, and experiences that point toward each destination. The whole plan tends to feel relaxed.
Regent Seven Seas does a lot of the setup for you. Much of the work is tied to the cruise package. You do not have to plan every small move by hand. Shore trips and specialty meals are part of the deal. Sometimes they are listed as included choices, and sometimes they are arranged for you. Still, what you must decide yourself can shift with the route you choose. The ships are not huge. The suites also feel roomy . Because of that, the mood on board is easygoing. People want a more polished atmosphere. It is not centered on a crowded, loud ship. Days tend to feel calm and slow.
Virgin Voyages is built around a similar cruise idea, but it is made for adults only. Mealtime is not stuck in one main dining room. You can dine in several different venues. Each one has its own feel. The shows and activities match that style too. It can feel geared toward groups who like to talk and mix. Overall, the trip reads like a grown-up escape. It feels less like a classic cruise meant for families. It feels more like a modern break from routine.
| Cabin Type | Average Price (Per Person) | Inclusions |
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| Inside Cabin | $950*–$1,500* |
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| Ocean View | $1,200*–$1,900* |
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| Balcony | $1,800*–$3,200* |
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| Suite | $4,000–$8,500+* |
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*Costs vary by cruise line, departure port, and season.
If you want a 9-night Eastern Mediterranean trip, consider the shoulder season. Book it for about 6 to 12 months ahead.
Yes, Eastern Mediterranean cruises can be worth the money if you want a convenient way to explore ancient historical sites, islands, and coastlines across destinations such as Greece, Croatia, and Turkey. Your overall value depends on the itinerary, cruise fare, and additional expenses.
Eastern Mediterranean cruises commonly visit Greece, Croatia, and Turkey, with some itineraries including Montenegro, Cyprus, and Italy's Adriatic coast. Certain itineraries may also include Israel, depending on the cruise line and current regional conditions.
MSC Cruises is a good option for travelers seeking budget-friendly Mediterranean cruises, while Celebrity Cruises is worth considering for first-time cruisers who prefer a more premium experience. The best choice depends on your budget, preferred itinerary, onboard amenities, and travel style.
Neither destination is universally better. Eastern Mediterranean cruises are ideal for travelers interested in Greek islands, ancient history, and coastal towns, while Western Mediterranean cruises are better suited to those who want to explore iconic cities, cultural attractions, and destinations along Spain, France, and Italy.
A typical seven-night Eastern Mediterranean cruise costs approximately $700* to $1,400* per person on mainstream cruise lines, while luxury cruises can start at around $4,500*. Actual prices vary by cruise line, sailing date, cabin type, itinerary, and included amenities. Flights, shore excursions, gratuities, and other extras may increase the total cost.
