The Best Boat for Cruising the Mediterranean (3 Types)

On this page:

1. Top 3 Types of Boats for Mediterranean Cruising
2. Key Characteristics of an Ideal Boat for Cruising The Meds
3. Other Practical Information for Mediterranean Cruising

Top 3 Types of Boats for Mediterranean Cruising

Here are the top three types of boats suitable for a Mediterranean cruising adventure each with their pros and cons:

Boat Type	Pros	Cons
Sailboats	More traditional and authentic experience, can access smaller ports and coves, offer a more intimate experience	Less comfortable, less space and amenities, more challenging to navigate
Small Cruise Ships	More comfortable and luxurious, has more space and amenities, gives more opportunities to socialize	More expensive, has less privacy, may not have access to smaller ports and coves
RV Boats	offer a unique cruising experience, offers more comfort and amenities, have more space and privacy, independent and flexible	May not offer as many socializing opportunities, may require more maintenance and upkeep, cannot access smaller ports and coves

Below is a table comparing the three boat types mentioned above in terms of the key characteristics of an ideal sailboat for cruising the Meds.

Key Characteristics	Sailboat	Small Cruise Ship	RV Boat
Size	Ideal size is between 40-50 feet	Size is typically between 100-300 feet	Typically between 30-45 feet
Comfort	Can be comfortable with proper amenities, but space is limited	More spacious with more amenities, including restaurants and entertainment	Can be comfortable with proper amenities, but space is limited
Stability	Can be stable depending on the design and size; can handle rough seas in the Mediterranean May be less stable than other types of boats due to their design and rigging	Generally more stable due to larger size and stabilizing technology	May not be as stable as larger boats due to their smaller size and lighter weight
Speed	Can travel at moderate speeds, typically between 5-10 knots	Can travel at faster speeds, typically between 15-20 knots	Can travel at moderate speeds, typically between 5-10 knots
Safety Equipment	Includes: life jackets flares first aid kit VHF radio Compass Navigation lights Harness Jacklines for crew members	Includes: life jackets life raft fire suppression system navigation equipment VHF radio Have more extensive safety procedures and drill Has a trained medical staff on board	Includes: life jackets fire extinguisher navigation lights first aid kit

Sailboats offer a more traditional and authentic cruising experience

Sailboats are a popular choice for Mediterranean cruising. They're great for those who want to enjoy the journey as much as the destination. They are typically smaller in size, which means they can access smaller ports and coves that larger boats can't. They also offer a more intimate experience, as you'll be sailing with a smaller group of people.

However, sailboats can also be less comfortable than other types of boats. They offer less space and amenities, and they can be more challenging to navigate. If you're looking for a more luxurious experience, a sailboat may not be the best choice for you.

Small cruise ships offer a more comfortable and luxurious cruising experience

Small cruise ships offer more space and amenities than sailboats, but they're too big to access smaller ports and coves. They are also great for those who want to socialize with other travelers, as they offer more opportunities to meet and interact with other passengers.

However, small cruise ships can be more expensive than other types of boats. They also offer less privacy than sailboats, as you'll be traveling with a larger group of people.

RV boats allow a unique Mediterranean cruising experience

RV boats offer the comfort and amenities of a traditional RV but on the water. They are great for those who want a more independent and flexible cruising experience. They offer more space and privacy than other types of boats, and they allow you to explore the Mediterranean at your own pace.

Key Characteristics of an Ideal Boat for Cruising The Meds

The best boat for cruising typically has a height of 40 - 50 feet

This size provides enough space to accommodate all of the necessary equipment and supplies, while still being maneuverable in tight spaces.

In the Mediterranean, most marinas can only accommodate a specific maximum boat length, so you have to take that into account. For more details on this, see this article: What's the Right Size of Sailboat for the Mediterranean Sea?

The best boat to explore the Meds must be comfortable enough

Comfort is key when cruising the Mediterranean, as you will likely be spending a lot of time on the boat. Look for a boat with comfortable seating, ample storage, and good ventilation.

The best boat to explore the Meds needs to be stable

The Mediterranean can be known for its choppy waters, so you might need to choose a boat that is stable and can handle rough seas. Look for a boat with a deep keel and a sturdy hull.

The best boat for cruising must have a moderate speed

While speed isn't necessarily the most important factor, it's still worth considering. A boat that can travel at a moderate speed will allow you to cover more ground and see more of the region.

Cruising across the Mediterranean takes about three to six weeks, so if you want to see more in less time, choose a boat that can allow you to do so.

The best boat to cruise the Meds should have the necessary safety equipment

Safety should always be a top priority when cruising, and the Mediterranean is no exception. Look for a boat with all of the necessary safety equipment, including life jackets, flares, and a first aid kit.

Other Practical Information for Mediterranean Cruising

Knowing the best boat you could use for cruising the Meds is one thing, but here's other important information to keep in mind when planning your Mediterranean cruise.

Plan your itinerary

The Mediterranean Sea is bordered by three continents, and a cruise can take you to ports in Europe, Asia, and Africa. The region is divided into two main areas: the Eastern Mediterranean and the Western Mediterranean. Eastern Mediterranean cruises typically visit ports in Greece, Turkey, and Croatia, while Western Mediterranean cruises stop in Spain, Italy, and France.

When choosing an itinerary, you might want to consider which ports you want to visit and which cruise line offers the best route. Some cruise lines offer year-round Mediterranean itineraries, while others only sail during the summer months. Shoulder seasons, which fall between peak and off-peak travel times, can be a good option for those looking to avoid crowds and save money.

You can read this article to get more tips and information on some of the famous locations you can consider for your itinerary.

Consider the weather and temperatures

The Mediterranean enjoys a mild climate year-round, but temperatures can vary depending on the season and region.

The peak season in the Mediterranean is from late May to early October, but it will also be very crowded at this time. For a quieter experience, try going during the off-season, which is from April to May and September to October. Temperatures are also cooler during these times which are more comfortable for sightseeing.

Summers are hot and dry, with temperatures often exceeding 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Winters are mild but can be rainy, especially in the Western Mediterranean. You might want to check the weather forecast for your destination before you pack and bring appropriate clothing for the season.

Select the best cruise line that will give the most rewarding experience

There are many cruise lines that offer Mediterranean itineraries, each with its own unique style and amenities. But when choosing one, you should consider your budget, preferred itinerary, and onboard amenities.

There are also different types of ships to choose from, including small luxury yachts and large ocean liners. Small ships can offer a more intimate and personalized experience, while larger ships often have more onboard activities and entertainment.

Here are some of the most popular cruise lines that offer Mediterranean itineraries:

1. Viking Cruises: Viking offers a range of Mediterranean itineraries, from 8-day cruises to longer 22-day voyages. Their ships are designed for comfort and luxury, with spacious staterooms and a focus on cultural enrichment.

2. Princess Cruises: Princess Cruises offers a variety of Mediterranean itineraries, including stops in Italy, Greece, and Turkey. Their ships are known for their elegance and sophistication, with plenty of onboard amenities to keep you entertained.

3. Royal Caribbean: Royal Caribbean has a reputation for offering fun and exciting cruises, and their Mediterranean itineraries are no exception. With stops in ports like Barcelona, Naples, and Santorini, you'll have plenty of opportunities to explore the region's rich history and culture.

4. Celebrity Cruises: Celebrity Cruises offers a range of Mediterranean itineraries, from 7-day cruises to longer 14-day voyages. Their ships are known for their modern design and luxurious amenities, including gourmet dining and spa treatments.

5. Costa Cruises: Costa Cruises offers a variety of Mediterranean itineraries, with stops in popular ports like Barcelona, Rome, and Athens. Their ships are designed for fun and relaxation, with plenty of onboard activities and entertainment options.

6. Celestyal Cruises: Celestyal Cruises specializes in Mediterranean itineraries, with a focus on the Greek islands. Their ships are smaller and more intimate than some of the larger cruise lines, with a focus on authentic cultural experiences.

7. Holland America:Holland America offers a variety of Mediterranean itineraries, with stops in ports like Venice, Dubrovnik, and Monte Carlo. Their ships are known for their elegant design and classic style, with plenty of onboard activities and entertainment options.

8. Oceania Cruises:Oceania Cruises offers a range of Mediterranean itineraries. The new offers range from seven days to a 59-day Grand Voyage from Miami to Rome. Their ships are designed for luxury and comfort, with gourmet dining and spa treatments.

9. Silversea Cruises: Silversea Cruises offers a variety of Mediterranean itineraries, with stops in ports like Barcelona, Monte Carlo, and Venice. Their ships are known for their all-inclusive luxury, with spacious suites and personalized service.

10. Azamara Club Cruises: Azamara Club Cruises offers cruises to all three regions: Northern, including Scandinavia and the Baltic countries; Western Europe; and the Mediterranean. Two ships – the Azamara Journey and the Azamara Quest – follow multiple itineraries around the continent.

11. MSC Cruises: MSC Cruises offers a variety of Mediterranean itineraries, with stops in ports like Barcelona, Marseille, and Naples. Their ships are known for their family-friendly atmosphere and onboard entertainment options.