Sailing the Greek Isles is a dream for many cruisers, and knowing the ins and outs of cruising to Greece can help you plan this once-in-a-lifetime trip as smoothly as possible.

Royal Caribbean offers cruises to Greece each European cruise season, and visiting Greece via cruise ship offers the perfect way to see the country’s famous islands and attractions. Whether you’re interested in touring the birthplace of the Olympics, swimming at world-renowned beaches, or strolling charming villages, visiting Greece is sure to impress.

In this guide, we’ll review the top tips and tricks to know before you sail the Greek Isles. From picking an itinerary to packing, here are the top things to know.

In this guide:

• Why go on a Greek Isles cruise
• Greek Isles cruise ports
• Greek Isles cruise itineraries
• Best time of year for a Greek Isles cruise
• Which Royal Caribbean ships sail to Greece?
• What to pack for a Greek Isles cruise
• Greek Isles cruise FAQ

Why go on a Greek Isles cruise

Ancient history

History buffs will be blown away by the archaeological sites and history to discover on a cruise to Greece. There are few cruise ports offering the opportunity to walk alongside ruins built over 2,500 years ago, yet you can discover ancient ruins in not just one, but several Greek cruise ports.

Even more “modern” history is still fascinating. Walking through the Old Towns of ports like Corfu, Kotor, Split will transport you back in time, and you’ll surely be in awe of how such magnificent structures were built so long ago.

Ferry vs. cruise

While on a Greek Isles cruise, you’ll likely spot plenty of ferries transporting locals and tourists from island to island. While visiting the Greek Isles by ferry will allow you more flexibility in how long you want to spend in each place, it also means you’ll constantly be lugging suitcases around from island to island.

If you book a cruise to the Greek Isles, you’ll only have to unpack once, yet you’ll be able to explore a new port nearly every day. Plus, you’ll get to enjoy a classic cruise experience onboard in the evening without any stress about travel logistics from place to place.

Fresh, flavorful cuisine

One of the best aspects of a European cruise is tasting local cuisine in each port and country you visit, and Greece will certainly not disappoint when it comes to food. We recommend allotting 1-2 hours per port day to sit down for a nice Greek meal. Not only will it offer much-needed rest in the shade on hot summer days, but you’ll be able to taste local and regional specialties.

Starting your meal with a Greek salad is a must while in port, and you may want to try dolmades (stuffed grape leaves) as well. For the main course, most restaurants will offer a variety of grilled meats and fish, or you may opt for a traditional Greek moussaka, an oven-baked dish made with layers of eggplant, lamb, tomato, potato, and cheese.

Don’t forget to stop in a local bakery during your time in Greece! From Greek bagels to baklava and spinach & feta pies, your senses are sure to be overwhelmed in the best way possible.

Breathtaking scenery

Greece and the nearby countries you’ll visit are stunning. While the scenery can change from port to port, expect to see tall, rugged mountains and some of the most turquoise water you’ll ever see.

Nature lovers will appreciate the sheer variety of choices available on a Greek Isles cruise. If lounging by the beach is your idea of fun, you’ll find countless beautiful beaches to choose from. A Greek Isles cruise also offers plenty of hiking, kayaking, 4-wheeling, snorkeling, and more.

One thing you’ll appreciate about a Greek Isles cruise is the scenery you’ll spot throughout the entire sailing. Greek Isles cruises tend to stick relatively close to land, meaning you’ll almost always have views of nearby mountains and islands while at sea.

Greek Isles cruise ports

Most cruises to Greece will stop at three to four Greek ports. While each port is, in some way or another, quintessentially Greek, they each offer their own highlights. Some ports may fare best for a beach day whereas others are located nearby some of the most famous archaeological sites in the world.

Having an understanding of what is offered in each Greek port can help you better select a cruise itinerary. No matter which itinerary you choose, however, you’ll likely be amazed by the beauty, culture, and charm of everywhere you visit in Greece.

Here are some of the ports to choose from on a Greek Isles cruise itinerary:

Santorini

Santorini is perhaps the most well-known of the Greek Isles. The island is famous for its white buildings topped with blue domes, dramatic sunsets, and romantic atmosphere. Popular activities for a day in Santorini include exploring the town of Oia, visiting the Red Beach, and taking a catamaran tour through the island’s underwater volcano.

Rhodes

Rhodes is most known for the Colossus of Rhodes, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. While the 108 ft. statue has long been destroyed, the island still boasts a plethora of attractions for visitors to enjoy. Strolling through the Old Town, ascending the Acropolis of Rhodes, or spending the day at the beach are all great options.

Athens

The capital of Greece is a far cry from the quaint island villages you’ll find on a Greek Isles cruise, but it’s well worth a visit. With over 3 million people, Athens is a bustling city with a unique blend of ancient history and modern influences.

Athens is a common embarkation port for a Greek Isles cruise, so be sure to arrive 1-2 days before your cruise begins so you can have plenty of time for sightseeing. Many cruises departing from other Mediterranean ports will visit Athens as a port day, allowing passengers to visit the city’s top attractions, such as the Acropolis, before getting back onboard.

Chania (Crete)

Located on the Greek island of Crete, Chania is known for its colorful Venetian Harbor, which was built in the 14th century. Chania’s Old Town is a picture-perfect place to spend the day, but if you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, don’t hesitate to book an excursion to discover Crete’s mountains and valleys.

Argostoli

Argostoli is the capital of the Greek island of Kefalonia, located in the Ionian Sea. While you can spend the day simply walking around town and tasting local cuisine, you may be more interested in Argostoli’s natural attractions.

From Melissani Cave’s sunlit waters to beaches with unbelievably-blue waters, you're sure to have a relaxing day in Argostoli. Don’t forget to try a glass of Robola wine while on the island of Kefalonia, as it’s said to be one of the best wine varieties in all of Greece.

Mykonos

Mykonos is another of Greece’s most popular islands, known for its beaches, villages, and nightlife. Cruise ships tender right off the coast of the Old Town, home to a maze of picturesque white stone buildings with cobalt blue doors. Don’t miss the historic Mykonos Windmills, where you can enjoy views of the island with a cool summer breeze.

Olympia (Katakolon)

Katakolon, located in western Greece, is a gateway to Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic games. A walk through the Olympia complex is a must when visiting Katakolon, where you’ll be able to see where the Olympic Games took place from 776 BC to 393 AD.

Olympia is approximately 45 minutes away from Katakolon. After returning from the archaeological site, be sure to take some time to walk around Katakolon’s town center, where plenty of shopping and restaurants await.

Zakynthos

If you’re looking for a beach day, look no further than Zakynthos. The island is known for its turquoise waters, blue caves, and white limestone cliffs. The most famous attraction in Zakynthos is a visit to Navagio Beach, otherwise known as Shipwreck Beach, which has been named one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

Corfu

Corfu is an island located in the Adriatic sea, southwest of Albania and east of Italy. Due to its geographical location, the island has been influenced by a variety of cultures and people throughout history.

Walking through Corfu’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, will allow you to transport yourself back in time to the island’s Venetian rule. If an active adventure is more your style, consider a 4-wheel adventure through Corfu’s hillsides or a coastal hike along Corfu’s crystal clear beaches.

Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki is not an island; it’s located in mainland Greece and is the second biggest city in the country. Don’t let this deter you, though, as the city offers plenty of activities for all interests. Consider a day trip to Mount Olympus, the highest mountain in Greece, which was regarded as the home of many Greek gods in Greek mythology.

If you’d prefer to stay close to the port, the city’s cafe-lined waterfront is sure to be a relaxing place to dine as you watch Thessaloniki’s bustling city life pass by.

Skiathos

Skiathos is not a very common port stop on a cruise to Greece, and you’ll likely see the stop on itineraries labeled “Mamma Mia Cruise”, named after the iconic musical filmed in Greece. With 60 beaches on the island, Skiathos can make for an excellent beach day.

Greek Isles cruise itineraries

It’s rare for a Greek Isles cruise to only visit Greece. In fact, even when a cruise is labeled “Greek Isles Cruise” on Royal Caribbean’s website, the itinerary usually includes one or two port stops in nearby countries in addition to Greece.

There are plenty of beautiful and historic ports in the Mediterranean to discover outside of Greece, but the type of Greek Isles itinerary you choose can influence what other countries and ports you’ll visit.

Greek & Adriatic cruises

Greek & Adriatic cruises combine visits to the Greek Isles with port stops along the Adriatic to ports in Italy, Montenegro, Croatia, and Slovenia. Many of these cruises are one-way sailings from Athens, Greece to Venice (Ravenna), Italy and vice versa.

Common ports visited outside of Greece include Split and Dubrovnik in Croatia and Kotor, Montenegro. Less common stops may include Koper, Slovenia and Bari, Italy.

Greece & Turkey cruises

Greece & Turkey cruises typically visit either Kusadasi or Istanbul in Turkey in addition to several Greek islands.

Kusadasi, located nearby the famous ancient city of Ephesus, is much more common as a port stop than Istanbul. Both ports, however, offer the chance to discover the blend of cultures–from Mediterranean to Middle Eastern and Central Asian–that make Turkey so unique.

Other Greek Isles itineraries

Outside of cruises to Turkey and the Adriatic, you’ll come across other cruise itineraries that visit Greece. Holy Land cruises, for example, often visit several Greek islands in addition to ports in Israel and Turkey.

You can also find itineraries that include stops in Greece and Cyprus as well as one-way sailings from Greece to the Western Mediterranean visiting ports like Rome and Barcelona.

Best time of year for a Greek Isles cruise

Royal Caribbean’s European cruise season runs from April to October each year, with cruises to the Greek Isles being offered all season long.

Truthfully, there is no “wrong” time to go on a Greek Isles cruise. Weather in the Mediterranean remains sunny, dry, and warm throughout the cruise season and seas tend to be quite calm.

That being said, the peak of summer can get uncomfortably hot in Greece, so scheduling excursions and port days around the beach is recommended. The most pleasant temperatures (i.e. not too warm) can be found in late spring and fall.

Related: What is the best time to cruise the Mediterranean?

The most crowds will be found in the peak summer months of June, July, and August, although crowds should be expected at any time of the cruise season. Oftentimes how crowded a port feels is more correlated with how many ships are in port with you as opposed to the month itself. Having only one ship in port in mid-July will feel far less crowded than having three ships in port in September.

The most important thing you can do when traveling in peak season is to disembark the ship as early as possible. Not only will you be able to start exploring before the weather gets too warm, but you’ll get the chance to walk around town before hoards of other tourists arrive.

What ships sail to Greece?

The newest and biggest Royal Caribbean ship sailing to the Greek Isles is Odyssey of the Seas. As a Quantum Class cruise ship, Odyssey of the Seas boasts the latest and greatest of Royal Caribbean’s onboard activities, dining venues, and entertainment. 

Related: Complete guide to Odyssey of the Seas

Several smaller cruise ships sail to the Greek Isles each year. Typically, these will be Vision, Radiance, or Voyager Class cruise ships like Rhapsody of the Seas, Brilliance of the Seas, and Explorer of the Seas.

While Royal Caribbean’s older cruise ships may not have as many of the bells and whistles as a ship like Odyssey of the Seas, they still offer fantastic dining options, pools, children’s programming, and entertainment. They can also come at a much better price than a newer ship, allowing you to save more money for shore excursions and cruise add-ons.

Therefore, don’t overlook a smaller, older Royal Caribbean ship for a Greek Isles cruise. When visiting Europe, a cruise is sometimes more about the destination than the ship itself.

What to pack for a Greek Isles cruise

Lightweight clothes

Temperatures will very likely be toasty on a Greek Isles cruise, so packing lightweight clothing is essential. Wearing shorts, t-shirts, rompers, and sturdy sandals will help keep you cool even in the warmest temperatures. A pair of sneakers is recommended, too, as you’ll likely be doing a lot of walking!

While there’s no hard rule against it, take caution when packing sundresses that are prone to flying up in the wind, as you’ll likely encounter a strong breeze while touring the islands. You may also opt to wear a pair of lightweight shorts underneath a dress to avoid any mishaps!

The classic “Greek tourist” wardrobe is to dress in blue and white to match the charming villages and buildings you’ll see in places like Mykonos and Santorini. You’ll likely see plenty of tourists in these colors, and it can be fun to have a classic “island photoshoot” while in port!

Related: What to wear on a Mediterranean cruise

Daypack & accessories

One item you’ll want to carry with you in port is a daypack. In your daypack, it’s recommended to pack sunscreen, a beach towel, valuables, and a pair of flip flops if you’re doing a combination of a walking and beach day.

If you want to travel stress-free, even on the most crowded port days, consider purchasing an anti-theft travel daypack. The main pocket on these backpacks is only accessible from a zipper that goes against your back, which can deter anyone from opening your bag in crowded spaces.

Be sure to pack a pair of sunglasses as well. The Mediterranean sun can be strong, so keeping your eyes protected and comfortable is essential. The same goes for a hat, too, such as a baseball cap or sun hat.

Greek Isles cruise FAQ

Which currency should I bring? Do I need cash?

Greece uses the Euro, and ATMs are widely available on Greek islands. It’s recommended to bring around 200 euros with you on a Greek Isles cruise, as you may occasionally come across restaurants, bars, and shops that do not take credit or debit cards. Most businesses will take card payments, especially in more touristy areas, so try to pay with card first (assuming your card has no foreign transaction fees).

As most Greek Isles cruises visit other countries in addition to Greece, it’s important to know which currencies to use in each port.

• Italy and Montenegro use the euro as their official currency, and Croatia will be officially adopting the euro in 2023, although payments in Euro are accepted in 2022.
• Turkey’s official currency is the Turkish Lira, and while you can usually pay with euros or credit cards in tourist areas, you will likely get a better exchange rate when paying in Lira. If your cruise only visits Turkey for one day, though, it may not be worth the hassle to use the Lira.
• Israel’s official currency is the New Israeli Shekel (NIS), but card payments are widely accepted throughout the country. Similar to Turkey, if your cruise only visits Israel for one day, you may not need to take out local currency, instead opting for card payments or (if possible) using euros.

Should I book excursions on a Greek Isles cruise?

Many cruise ports in Greece are charming and walkable, meaning it's possible to spend an entire day wandering around town without booking a tour. Some ports even have nice beaches within walking distance of the ship if you’re hoping for a low-cost beach day.

Some port stops may be easier with a tour, especially if you plan to visit archaeological sites. If you want to visit the Acropolis in Athens or Olympia, for example, you may prefer the insights you’ll gain on a narrated tour of these famous sites rather than exploring on your own.

Likewise, boat or catamaran tours can be an excellent way to enjoy Greece’s coastline and beaches. These tours are extremely popular, so you’ll often find tour companies selling boat trips right when you get off the ship.

If you’re looking to book a tour through an independent provider, be sure to read our guide about booking excursions independently.

Which ship should I book?

Deciding which Royal Caribbean cruise ship to book can be confusing, especially for first time cruisers. There are typically between 3-4 cruise ships offering Greek Isles itineraries each summer, and each ship comes with advantages and disadvantages.

In the Caribbean, which has an abundance of ships sailing at any time of year, we often say to choose a newer or amplified ship for your first cruise experience. Choosing a newer, updated ship means you’ll be able to experience Royal Caribbean’s latest activities, entertainment, and restaurants. 

For a Greek Isles cruise, however, we advise looking more at the destinations you want to visit rather than the ship itself. If sailing through the dramatic cliffs of Kotor, Montenegro would be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for you, you won’t be able to book the biggest cruise ship.

Related: 8 questions to ask yourself before picking a cruise ship

If you’re traveling with kids, keep in mind that most Greek Isles cruises are extremely port-intensive. Unlike on a Caribbean cruise where you may have three sea days in one week, it’s not uncommon for there to be only one day at sea while cruising the Mediterranean.

By the time you come back from a busy day in port each day and eat dinner, you’ll have little time for onboard activities and events before bedtime. While smaller cruise ships may have fewer activities for kids onboard, they should still offer enough to keep kids busy for the shorter periods you’ll be onboard.

For more Greek Isles cruise information, check out our Live Blog from Rhapsody of the Seas to learn more about day-to-day life on a cruise to Greece:

• Rhapsody of the Seas Live Blog - Day 1 - Embarkation in Athens
• Rhapsody of the Seas Live Blog - Day 2 - Mykonos
• Rhapsody of the Seas Live Blog - Day 3 - Chania
• Rhapsody of the Seas Live Blog - Day 4 - Zakynthos
• Rhapsody of the Seas Live Blog - Day 5 - Sea Day
• Rhapsody of the Seas Live Blog - Day 6 - Kotor
• Rhapsody of the Seas Live Blog - Day 7 - Split

A whale watching tour is one of the most sought after shore excursions on an Alaska cruise, and for good reason. Viewing some of the largest mammals on earth in their natural habitat is breathtaking and one that will be a highlight for many on an Alaska cruise.

Deciding where to book a whale watching excursion, what to bring with you, and what to expect can be confusing, so here are a few tips and tricks to make your whale watching experience as unforgettable as possible.

Types of whales to see in Alaska

There are four main types of whales to see in Alaska: humpback whales, gray whales, killer whales (orcas), and beluga whales.

Humpback whales are the most common to spot on a whale watching excursion, and are most prevalent in June and July.

If you’re traveling to Alaska in the early season, you may be able to spot gray whales as they migrate further north. Gray whales are most likely to be seen in late April to early May.

Killer whales, or orcas, can sometimes be spotted on a whale watching excursion as well. Orcas are quick moving animals, though, and have more unpredictable movement patterns than humpback whales, so they are less common to see.

Beluga whales are unlikely to be spotted on an Alaska cruise, as they spend their time further north in the Bering Sea and Arctic Ocean. Occasionally they may go as far south as Turnagain Arm near Anchorage, but it is highly unlikely you will spot a beluga whale on a typical southeast Alaska cruise itinerary.

Other whales, such as minke and fin whales, are present in Alaska although far less common to see on a whale watching excursion.

Best ports for viewing whales in Alaska

While it’s possible to view whales in any Alaska cruise port, two of the most popular whale watching destinations are Juneau and Icy Strait Point. Both locations are home to feeding grounds for humpback whales, making sightings extremely common.

Juneau is the most popular whale watching port. Not only is it a more common port stop than Icy Strait Point, but it offers the biggest chance of spotting whales.

That being said, Juneau is a port offering an abundance of other activities to enjoy, from hiking at Mendenhall Glacier to the Goldbelt Tram Cable Car and drinking in saloons. Some guests opt not to book a whale watching tour in Juneau and instead book it in a port where there are less excursion and activity options.

In Icy Strait Point there are fewer excursions to choose from, leading many to save whale watching for their day in this port instead.

Seward, Alaska is another recommended port for whale watching. If you are doing a one way cruise to or from Alaska, consider a whale watching tour in Seward before or after the cruise. This can be a good option for guests interested in other excursions while on the cruise but still wanting to book a whale watching tour before heading home.

Although not in Alaska, Victoria, British Columbia can be another excellent port for whale watching.

It’s common for whale watching excursion providers to offer a guaranteed whale sighting. If you do not end up seeing a whale, they may offer you a partial cash refund. Be sure to read your tour operator’s policies before booking to be aware of the details.

Whale watching in your cruise departure port

If you don’t want to book a whale watching tour while in Alaska, consider booking one in your cruise departure port. Both Seattle and Vancouver offer whale watching opportunities, so this can be a nice way to add another day of excitement to your vacation before or after a cruise.

Plus, by booking a whale watching tour in your departure port, more time is opened up while in Alaska to book other types of shore excursions.

Viewing whales from the cruise ship

If a whale watching excursion is out of your budget, you are prone to seasickness on small vessels, or you prioritized other activities while in port, you may still be able to spot whales while on an Alaska cruise.

While the ship is sailing through the northern Pacific waters, whales can sometimes be spotted from the ship. This can happen in the open ocean on the way to or from Alaska, or while the ship is sailing through the Inside Passage.

When whales are spotted by the captain, an announcement will be made on the loudspeaker to let guests know there are whales near the ship. When this happens, expect a flood of guests quickly heading to the outside decks eager to catch a glimpse of whales.

The best spots onboard to watch whales from the ship are from a private balcony, Promenade deck, upper pool deck/running track, and outdoor area at the Windjammer.

Bring binoculars

It’s a good idea to bring binoculars on an Alaska cruise regardless of if you booked a whale watching tour or not. Alaska’s scenery is so vast that sometimes a closer look through binoculars at mountains, glaciers, and wildlife is helpful.

The same is true on a whale watching excursion. Pack a pair of binoculars with you for your tour to ensure you can catch the best glimpse of whales if they happen to be far away. While a binocular is not necessary for every person in your travel party, having a pair to share with the group is recommended.

Get your camera ready

Make sure your camera and phone battery are fully charged before your whale watching excursion. Photography aficionados may want to bring a full camera setup with a telephoto lens to ensure they can capture the best pictures possible.

Whichever camera you bring, though, remember to spend some time away from the lens and view whales without the use of a screen or camera viewfinder. While capturing photos is something you may value, it’s just as important to spend time during the excursion away from your electronics.

Seasickness medication or remedies

Whale watching boats are usually quite small and can encounter choppy waters. Even on the smoothest of days, the rocking of a small boat can make some passengers feel seasick.

If you are prone to seasickness, don’t hesitate to pack seasickness remedies with you for your whale watching excursion, whether medication or natural remedies.

Whale watching excursions with other activities

Some guests may want to go whale watching but combine the tour with other popular activities in port. This gives the opportunity to not only spot whales, but experience what else a port has to offer.

In Juneau, for example, you can book the “Mendenhall Glacier, Whale Watching, and Wildlife Quest” excursion which brings you on a whale watching tour followed by free time to explore Mendenhall Glacier. This can give guests the best of both worlds by experiencing two of Juneau’s most popular attractions.

In addition, some excursions may not be listed as a ‘whale watching excursion’ but may offer the opportunity to spot whales. In Icy Strait Point, guests can book a kayaking excursion that brings them on a tour through the waters of Port Frederick. This is a route commonly followed by humpback or killer whales, so passengers will have a chance of spotting whales while on a kayak.

Planning a cruise to Alaska? Be sure to read more of our tips for an Alaska cruise:

• What it's like to go on an Alaska cruise in the early season
• What is the best time of year to see wildlife in Alaska?
• How much does an Alaska cruise cost?
• How different is an Alaska cruise vs Caribbean?

I'm en route back to the United States after two of my best cruises yet: a 7-night Spain & France cruise on Anthem of the Seas and a 7-night Greek & Adriatic cruise on Rhapsody of the Seas. This was my first time cruising to Europe, and it was everything I imagined it would be... and then some!

Despite extensive research beforehand, not everything can go perfectly on a cruise vacation, and I certainly made a few mistakes along the way. However, I also made many great decisions during my time in Europe that enhanced my cruise experience.

Here are the 7 things I did right and 4 I did wrong on my Royal Caribbean European cruises.

The mistakes

Not getting tender tickets ASAP

Three ports on my Greek Isles cruise were tender ports, meaning a short boat ride was required to get from the anchored ship to port. You must have a tender ticket to board the tender boat. The tickets are free, but each has a group number, and you cannot head ashore until your group number is called.

On our second tender port, Zakynthos, we did not collect tender tickets until an hour after they were available for pickup. We were in Group 7, and the boarding process seemed to be going extremely slowly.

After waiting a while for even Group 2 to be called, we were stressed that we would have limited time in port. We decided to head to the tender boarding area to gauge how long our wait would be. After around 30 minutes of waiting there, we were able to snag 3 extra spots on a tender boat.

In the future, I’ll make sure to collect my tender tickets as soon as possible to be in one of the first groups to head ashore.

Not bringing pool towels into port

One mistake we made while visiting Croatia on Rhapsody of the Seas was deciding to not bring pool towels with us off the ship. We weren't sure if we would find a beach or not, and we didn't think it was worth it to carry towels around all day.

After an hour of walking around Split in the heat, we realized we needed to cool down at the beach. Because we did not bring pool towels and did not want to lay directly on rocks, we had to purchase a beach chair rental for $26 each. If we had brought the pool towels, we could have saved the money to use on drinks, souvenirs, or lunch in port.

Lesson learned: if you think you might want to go to the beach on a port day, bring pool towels off the ship!

Not packing sandals

As someone who writes articles on packing advice for a Royal Caribbean cruise, you'd think I'd be more prepared when it came to my own cruise vacation.

Prior to my European cruises, I spent two weeks vacationing in Spain and Portugal. During this time, my old, trusty pair of sandals I brought from home broke. Instead of buying a new pair, I figured I would be fine with my tennis shoes, ballet flats, and flip flops.

I ended up wearing my sneakers most days in port, and while I do think sneakers are usually the best footwear choice when sightseeing Europe, there were definitely many moments when I wished I had brought a nice pair of sandals with me!

Related: What to wear on a Mediterranean cruise

Not packing seasickness remedies

My Greek & Adriatic cruise had smooth sailing the entire cruise, but my Anthem of the Seas cruise encountered choppier waters than what I was used to.

While I was not affected by the ship's motion, my friend Samantha, who came on the cruise with me, wished she had packed more seasickness remedies in her bag. She was able to buy extra Dramamine tablets on the ship, but they were priced pretty exorbitantly compared to what she could have bought at a local pharmacy!

If you're ever affected by motion sickness, be sure to pack remedies with you to help ensure you don't feel ill on your vacation!

Related: I tried my first cruise from the UK: here's what you should know

Things I did right

Disembarking the ship early on port days

One of the best decisions I made in all European cruise ports was to get off the ship as early as possible. We were usually able to disembark around 7:30-8:30 in the morning

This is especially recommended on Mediterranean itineraries, as the afternoon can get extremely hot. When we were in Kotor, for example, the heat felt almost unbearable in the afternoon, so we went back to the ship a bit earlier than I initially anticipated.

Because we had gotten off the ship as early as possible, I was able to spend 6-7 hours in port before it got too hot and crowded, and I was able to explore the towns in more favorable conditions.

Not booking shore excursions

One thing I did right on my two European cruises was opting not to book shore excursions in every port. I've visited Europe many times before on land-based vacations without booking a tour, so I assumed it would be fine to explore on my own while on a cruise.

My assumption was correct. All towns were extremely walkable and offered plenty to see without spending a single penny! In fact, I only spent around €50 total on activities like bicycle rentals, museum entrances, and a journey up the famous Vizcaya bridge in Bilbao, Spain.

I purchased one organized tour, a half-day boat tour in Zakynthos, Greece, that visited the island's famous Shipwreck Beach. We found a local tour operator right when we got into port and were able to book the excursion for €45, which was cheaper than what I had found on Royal Caribbean's and third-party operators' websites. It was well worth it, but I'm sure I could have found plenty to do in Zakynthos without a tour as well.

Related: Visiting Zakynthos, Greece on Rhapsody of the Seas

Not booking a dining or drink package

I decided to eat primarily at complimentary dining venues on both European cruises instead of booking a specialty dining package. 

One of the best parts of traveling to Europe is tasting local cuisine, whether cheese crêpes in France or paella in Spain. Instead of spending around $200 on a dining package, I chose to save money to enjoy lunch in each port I visited, and I was satisfied with this decision.

That being said, dining packages may be a nice option for others on a European cruise, especially those new to Royal Caribbean. Because I sail on Royal Caribbean ships frequently, I've already tried most of the specialty restaurants, so I didn't feel the need to book a package on a European itinerary.

Likewise, I chose not to purchase a drink package for the following reasons:

• My itineraries were very port-intensive, so I would not be on the ship all day, every day to take full advantage of a beverage package
• As a Diamond member in the Crown & Anchor Society, I get four free drinks a day. This is always more than enough for me!
• Most of the countries I would be visiting are known for wine, so I figured I should save my money to spend on drinks in port.

Choosing unique itineraries

When I was deciding which Royal Caribbean cruises to book in Europe this summer, I had no idea where to start. All destinations looked absolutely incredible, from the snowy peaks of Norway to sunny ports in France and Italy.

Because I had been to many popular ports in the Mediterranean before (Rome, Florence, Barcelona, Palermo, Naples, etc.), I decided to book itineraries to ports I knew little about. This ended up being a fantastic decision, as many of these ports (La Rochelle, La Coruña, Zakynthos, etc.) ended up being some of my favorite ports of all time!

On my Anthem of the Seas cruise, there were no other cruise ships docked in port with us, so I was able to visit less touristy ports while observing local culture and lifestyle in a way I could not do in Europe's most popular destinations.

Not visiting Paris

The last day of my Anthem of the Seas cruise stopped in Le Havre, France. This is known as the "Paris" cruise port, but Paris is nearly 3 hours from the port!

I have never been to Paris before, so at first I thought I should book an excursion into the city. After calculating the time I would spend in transit to the city, though, I decided against it. Personally, I didn't feel it was worth it to spend 6 hours in transit for just 4-5 hours in one of the world's most beloved cities.

Instead of visiting Paris, I had a relaxing yet enjoyable day exploring the port of Le Havre. I had lunch in a local crêperie, rode a bicycle along the coast, and spent time at the city's beach.

While I'd love to visit Paris someday, I think it is worth at least a few days instead of just a few hours, so I think I made the right decision by staying in Le Havre.

Related: Spending the day at the port of Le Havre, France

Choosing my cruise based on the itinerary and not the ship

While I love sailing on Royal Caribbean's newest cruise ships, I still prefer to pick itineraries based on the destination and not the ship. So when I was booking my cruises in Europe, I did not care which ship I sailed on as long as it brought me to culturally-rich destinations.

My first cruise was on one of Royal Caribbean's most modern ships, Anthem of the Seas, whereas my second was on Rhapsody of the Seas, the second oldest in the fleet. While the ships shared many of the features that make a Royal Caribbean ship, well... Royal Caribbean, they were very different from each other in terms of size and amenities.

Despite their differences, I found that my onboard experience on both ships was largely the same. I would wake up early, explore a new port, come back for dinner in the Main Dining Room, and spend my evenings relaxing in the Solarium. This could be done on a ship of any size!

Plus, I was so tired after exploring port each day that I barely had enough energy to get ready for dinner, let alone spending all evening at onboard shows and events.

In fact, while some cruisers have no interest in sailing on the fleet's smallest ships, I actually found Rhapsody of the Seas to be perfect for a port-intensive Greek Isles cruise.

The ship has windows everywhere onboard, so you can see expansive views of the ocean from most bars, restaurants, and lounges. This was well-appreciated on my Greece & Adriatic itinerary, where we had views of mountains most of the time we were at sea.

Additionally, with only one sea day in my weeklong cruise, I don't think I would have had time to try all the restaurants and activities available on a larger ship. Plus, smaller ships can often be priced significantly lower than Royal Caribbean's newest cruise ships.

Taking out a little bit of cash

Before my European cruises, I wasn't sure what the payment situation would be in the ports I would be visiting. While I prefer to pay for everything with my card, my past experiences in Europe taught me to always have a little bit of cash on hand.

I took out €200 euros from an ATM prior to my cruise, and it ended up being very helpful, as I encountered many small businesses that preferred or only accepted cash.

Have you ever cruised in Europe before? What lessons, tips, and tricks do you have for planning the perfect Royal Caribbean cruise?

I recently returned from my first ever cruise from the United Kingdom, a 7-night Spain & France cruise on Royal Caribbean’s Anthem of the Seas. Taking a cruise from the UK came with several differences than what I’ve experienced on cruises from the US.

From Main Dining Room meals to port options and expanded drink menus, it was fun to spot the differences in a Royal Caribbean cruise experience when departing from across the pond.

If you’re interested in booking a cruise from Southampton, here’s what you need to know about sailing from the UK.

Limited ship choices

Anthem of the Seas, a Quantum Class ship, calls Southampton home in the summer months, offering cruises to Norway, Spain, France, the Canary Islands, and the Mediterranean.

While having only one ship to book is very limited compared to what you’ll find in the United States or Mediterranean, the good news is that Anthem of the Seas is one of Royal Caribbean’s most modern cruise ships.

As a Quantum Class ship, Anthem was built to sail in many types of weather conditions, and you’ll find a variety of indoor spaces throughout the ship, from multiple indoor pools to an indoor SeaPlex offering activities like bumper cars and volleyball. The entertainment on Anthem of the Seas is sure to impress, too, with a full-length Broadway production of We Will Rock You.

The ship has plenty of complimentary and specialty dining venues to enjoy as well, including Jamie’s Italian, Izumi Sushi, Wonderland, Chops Grille, Johnny Rockets, Solarium Bistro, and Cafe @ Two70.

Royal Caribbean’s newest ship, Icon of the Seas, will be debuting in the United Kingdom in fall 2023 prior to being homeported in Miami, Florida. If you’re hoping to sail on the latest and greatest ship offered by Royal Caribbean, keep an eye out for when Icon of the Seas will be available to book.

Main Dining Room menu differences

Something unique about cruising from the United Kingdom is that the Main Dining Room menu will offer two additional menu options each day: an English-style option and an Indian option.

Menu items include shepherd's pie, chicken tikka masala, chicken and leek pie, and fish curry. You’ll definitely have the opportunity to taste diverse Main Dining Room meals when sailing from the UK!

More gins and whiskeys available

One interesting find on my Anthem of the Seas cruise was a menu of gins and beers located at bars around the ship. This is another way in which Royal Caribbean caters its offerings to guests from the UK, and it was a fun difference to spot onboard!

Menu items include Guinness, Magners Irish Cider, Old Speckled Hen, Hendrick’s, Whitley Neill Rhubarb & Ginger, and Sipsmith.

Getting to the Mediterranean will take more time

If the idea of a sunny Mediterranean cruise sounds appealing to you, keep in mind that the United Kingdom does not have the most convenient access to the Mediterranean sea.

Reaching destinations like Rome and Barcelona from Southampton can take quite some time, so you won’t find any 7-night cruises visiting Mediterranean ports from the UK. Many Mediterranean cruise itineraries will be around 14 nights instead!

The Bay of Biscay can be choppy

If you’re on a cruise itinerary leaving from Southampton that travels to France, Spain, the Canary Islands, or the Mediterranean, your ship will be passing through the Bay of Biscay. The bay is located above northern Spain and to the west of France.

The Bay of Biscay is a body of water that has been feared by sailors for centuries due to its proximity to the open Atlantic waters and storms in the winter months. While today’s modern navigation technology and ship construction has no problem passing through the Bay of Biscay, you may still encounter choppy waters.

If you’re prone to motion sickness, be sure to pack seasickness remedies with you to ensure you can remain comfortable throughout the cruise.

Visiting unique ports

One advantage of cruising from the United Kingdom is that you’ll have the opportunity to visit less common cruise ports.

As an example, cruising from Southampton will give you the chance to visit ports like La Coruña, Vigo, and Bilbao in Spain along with La Rochelle and Le Havre in France.

These ports receive far fewer tourists and cruise ships compared to the most popular European cruise destinations. This can lead to a much more relaxed feel while in port, giving you more opportunity to immerse in local culture and lifestyle without hoards of other tourists around.

If you have more time to spare, you can also book a longer cruise visiting the Canary Islands along with ports in Portugal and mainland Spain. Cruise itineraries to the Canary Islands are not very common, but you’ll typically find a few itineraries on Anthem of the Seas every year.

Weather is unpredictable

While this may not be surprising for those who call the United Kingdom home, don’t be shocked if you encounter cloudy skies and chilly weather when cruising from Southampton. The weather on my June UK cruise was far from ideal for much of our time at sea, and I found myself wearing jeans and a jacket nearly every day.

This may not always be the case, however. When we arrived in our first port of call in France, we encountered lovely temperatures in the 70s. Just a day or two before, though, a heat wave passed through with temperatures over 100 degrees!

Weather is likely to be unpredictable, so remember to check the weather forecast before packing for your cruise!

You can visit Paris

If visiting Paris is on your bucket list, look for cruise itineraries that visit the port of Le Havre, located around 2.5-3 hours from the city center of Paris. Royal Caribbean offers excursions visiting popular spots in the city, from the Eiffel Tower to the Louvre.

Be prepared for a long port day in Le Havre, as excursions to Paris will likely be over 10 hours! They also tend to be quite expensive, with some tours costing several hundreds of dollars.

You can choose to visit Paris on your own instead of on a Royal Caribbean excursion, but keep an eye on the time. With such a long travel time required to reach the city from Le Havre, you don’t want to risk missing the ship!

Gateway to Norway

If you’re hoping to visit Norway, cruising from Southampton will offer the chance to visit the country’s stunning fjords and charming towns. Royal Caribbean regularly offers 7-night Norwegian Fjords cruises visiting ports like Geiranger, Bergen, and Alesund.

A Norwegian cruise is arguably one of the most scenic in the world. If the idea of sailing past colossal mountain peaks on both sides of your cruise ship seems intriguing, don’t hesitate to book a cruise to Norway.

More guests and crew from the UK onboard

A Royal Caribbean cruise departing from Southampton will likely have a higher percentage of crew and guests onboard from the United Kingdom and Ireland. On my recent cruise on Anthem of the Seas, I'd guess that upwards of 80% of guests were from the UK! This was a huge difference compared to cruises leaving from the United States, where a large majority of guests are from the US or Latin America.

I enjoyed the shift in guest makeup on my UK cruise and it was fun talking to other guests on Anthem of the Seas, as I was able to learn more about the lifestyle in culture in different areas of the UK.

Cruising from Southampton is convenient

One aspect I really appreciated on my cruise from Southampton was how accessible the port is from London via public transit. The United Kingdom has an extensive train network, and there is a direct train from London’s Waterloo station to Southampton.

I paid $70 for my roundtrip train ticket on the app Trainline, and it only took around 90 minutes to reach Southampton from central London.

Not only that, but the port in Southampton is within walking distance of the train station! While I took an Uber on my way to the ship, I decided to walk to the station on disembarkation day to avoid a long wait for a taxi or Uber. It only took around 15 minutes!

Have you ever cruised from the United Kingdom? What tips and tricks do you have for those cruising from Southampton for the first time? Let us know in the comments below!

Our last port of call brought us to Split, Croatia. The past week has flown by way too quickly, and it was bittersweet disembarking the ship this morning knowing we were visiting the last of five beautiful ports on this itinerary!

Split is the second biggest city in Croatia, and it's a seaside destination for both Croatians and international tourists.

Split is the first port we've had this week where you can walk off the ship and get to town without a tender or bus ride. It was a nice change of pace to be able to disembark on our own time and get to town quickly without spending time waiting around.

It was a ten minute walk from the port to town, where we walked through the city's walls into old town. Just like yesterday in Kotor, it was like we had stepped into medieval times.

Our first glance of Split was the central square of the Palace of Diocletian, an ancient palace built in the 4th century. The palace was built to be both a Roman military camp and a place for Diocletian, a Roman Emperor, to spend his retirement.

We spent some time navigating through Split's narrow streets and taking in the city's history. I was fascinated by the city's old walls, where the old section of Split met the new.

Interestingly enough, many exterior shots in the series Game of Thrones were filmed in Split. It's easy to see why they picked Split as a filming location, as parts of the city definitely make you feel like you've traveled back in time.

A Game of Thrones museum and souvenir shop are located in town, too, which could make for a fun activity for big fans of the series!

Afternoon at the beach

The temperature today was unpleasantly toasty at 96 degrees, so we didn't have the best conditions for walking around town all day.

Instead of roasting in the heat, we decided to visit a nearby beach in the afternoon to cool down.

Split is known for being a resort town with plenty of beaches, so I was curious to see what the hype was about. We decided on Kasjuni Beach, located 15 minutes away from Split.

For whatever reason, my phone service was not working this morning in Croatia, so I could not order an Uber to the beach. Instead we grabbed a taxi near Split's old town entrance. The taxi was metered, but at around $30 for a 15-minute ride to the beach, it seemed pretty steep.

Kasjuni Beach is located in a small cove, so the water is calm, clear, and refreshing. Greenery and hills line one side of the beach, whereas the other faces the open Adriatic.

We forgot to bring pool towels out with us this morning (a rookie mistake!), so we decided to rent beach chairs to use for the day. A beach club operates on Kasjuni Beach and offers daybed and beach chair rentals. A restaurant and bar are also available, as well as changing areas and restrooms.

We stayed at the beach for around two and a half hours, where we cooled off in the sea, relaxed on our beach chairs, and enjoyed a lunch we packed from a bakery in Split.

Fortunately my phone service began working later in the day, so we were able to Uber back to town for about $8 (over $20 cheaper than the taxi!).

Back to Split

While the beach was really nice, we wanted to head back to Split to explore more of the old city. After all, we can find beaches anywhere in the world, but we would only have a few more hours to explore Croatia!

We did some souvenir shopping in the city and enjoyed some tasty gelato. In these historic towns, it's just as fun to wander around without a plan as it is to plan a full day of sightseeing!

Our last stop of the day was a climb up the bell tower at Diocletian’s Palace, which stands over 180 feet in the air and offers panoramic views of Split. We purchased tickets to the bell tower for $6 each and began the climb. Extremely steep stone stairs at the beginning of the tower turned into metal stairs a few flights up, which were much easier to climb.

The view from the top was spectacular, offering views of Split, the port, the Adriatic, and surrounding mountains.

Back onboard

Our port day in Split was short today, with all-aboard at 4PM. Once we got back onboard, I spent a couple hours working on Royal Caribbean Blog content in the Centrum. With views of Croatia and the Adriatic as we sailed away from Split, it was as good as an "office" can get!

We still had around $100 of onboard credit available to spend, so we made a reservation at Izumi for dinner tonight. There is no hibachi option on Rhapsody of the Seas, so we enjoyed udon noodle dishes, ramen, fried rice, and potstickers!

Everything was delicious as usual, and a meal at Izumi isn't over until you have mochi ice cream and crispy red bean sesame balls.

We ended our night with a gorgeous sunset on the pool deck before heading back to our staterooms to (sadly) pack our bags.

I think this has been the best cruise itinerary I've ever done (although it may be tied with Alaska). It was very port-intensive, so I wouldn't say it was the most relaxing cruise, but the early mornings and thousands of steps walked in port were beyond worth it.

I'm sad to see this cruise end, but I'm super glad I got to share this experience with my siblings. The good news? Our cruise ends tomorrow in Italy, which makes for a good excuse to keep exploring Europe!

Thanks for following along on my live blog! We'll be back again with more live blogs from Matt on Mariner of the Seas during the Royal Caribbean Blog group cruise later this month.

You're ready to take a cruise ship vacation, but want to know when is the best time to cruise to the Caribbean?

There really isn't a bad time to cruise around the Caribbean given that it is a year-round destination and plenty warm every month.

There are pros and cons to certain months of the year that might make you pick one over another, as the winter months are definitely a favorite and when you'll find the most Caribbean cruises offered.

While there are many factors that make a particular time optimal for a Caribbean cruise, many experts believe the best time for a Caribbean cruise is in the winter from November through March because of the significant less risk of rain and lower humidity. Ocean conditions tend to be fairly calm as well, and it's the reason why winter is the peak season for the Caribbean cruise market.

Of course, peak season cruising means higher prices and a winter cruise will cost you more on average than a summer or fall cruise. The cheapest time for a Caribbean cruise is between August and November because school is back in session and the threat of hurricanes and a higher chance of rain.

Here's a look at what each month of the year is like for a Caribbean cruise so that you can pick the best time for your family to cruise the Caribbean. 

When is the best Caribbean weather?

Cruises to the Caribbean are split up into three regions: Eastern, Western, and Southern Caribbean.

Best weather in the Eastern and Western Caribbean

If you're looking for warm weather, excellent snorkeling opportunities, and beautiful beachfront destinations, then the winter months are often ideal. Winter in the Caribbean sees plenty of sunshine with temperatures ranging from 70s-80s Fahrenheit (20-30 Celsius). Some islands may experience cooler temperatures but it is rarely ever below 60˚F (15˚C). These balmy conditions offer excellent swimming and snorkeling as well as warm evenings perfect for exploring local cuisine or simply relaxing after a long day at sea. Another factor to consider during this time is that most schools are in session so there will be fewer children onboard resulting in an overall quieter environment.

Moreover, this is the time of year that is not part of hurricane season.

In addition, cruising between December and April means an escape for many guests who are coming from colder locations further north.  It is a popular time for many to escape to warmer temperatures. When it is 5 degrees at home, spending the day in the Caribbean can be a really great idea.

The weather on excursions and beach days will be more comfortable in the winter months. Whether you’re walking around Mayan ruins in Costa Maya, lounging in a beach chair in St. Thomas, or going hiking in St. Lucia, you won’t feel as hot as you would in the peak of summer.

Best weather in the Southern Caribbean

While winter is still a fantastic time to cruise to the southern Caribbean, our recommendation for the best time to cruise this region is during hurricane season.

The southern Caribbean has a lower chance of being impacted by hurricanes, as it mainly lies below the hurricane belt. Therefore, during hurricane season in the fall, you are still likely to see lower prices but have a lower probability of your cruise being affected by a hurricane.

What about the summer?

June, July, and August are the most popular months to cruise to the Caribbean, and cruising in the summer comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. 

Summertime also offers longer days with beautiful sunsets—ideal for romantic cruises—and plenty of island hopping opportunities since some islands have peak season during this time allowing them to accommodate more tourists than they would otherwise.

That said, temperatures tend to be much higher during these months reaching up into the 90s (30s Celsius). The warm air can make sightseeing tiring so if you plan on doing a lot of island hopping opt for an itinerary that includes more stops so you can spend your days discovering each island’s offerings without tiring yourself out in the heat.

Looking at a weather forecast in the summer can initially be a bit disappointing, as you will often see that the forecast shows rain every day. However, usually the rain does not last the entire day, and often lasts only an hour or so.

With kids out of school in the summer, you should expect to see more families onboard. Summer can be a great time for families to cruise because they do not have to rely on a school schedule, giving them more flexibility in cruise itinerary and length.

One advantage of cruising in the summer is that the ocean temperatures tend to be warmer than in the winter. While the water in the Caribbean usually stays quite comfortable, the water temperature can get chilly in more northerly Caribbean destinations during the winter. This is something that you will not have to worry about by selecting a cruise in the summer.

Another advantage of cruising in the summer months is that daylight hours are longer. Whereas in the winter it may get dark around 5:30PM, in the summertime, sunset may not be until 7 or 8PM, depending on where in the Caribbean you are sailing.

Should I cruise in the Caribbean during hurricane season?

Cruising during hurricane season may sound scary, but it is not as crazy as it may seem.

Hurricane season runs between June 1 and November 30, and it is the time of year when we typically see tropical storms form in the Caribbean. The most common months to see hurricanes are in August and September. Of course, that does not mean there is a hurricane every day, nor does it mean when there is one, the entire Caribbean is affected.

First and foremost, Royal Caribbean employs a Chief Meteorologist to track every disturbance and storm out there, and provide guidance to each cruise ship on how to best avoid the storm. 

Royal Caribbean will absolutely, positively, avoid the path of any hurricane. Itineraries will be flipped, swapped or completely changed to avoid going anywhere near the storm. The cruise line has said time and time again that the safety of its guests, crew and ships are vital, and they will not send their vessels near any hurricane.

In rare situations, entire sailings have been canceled if the path of the storm rules out any possibility of a ship making it in or out of its homeport.

The top reason to cruise during hurricane season is it will cost you a lot less to cruise during this time of year, and the likelihood of a storm directly impacting your cruise is low.  Moreover, your ship will not go in or near any storm.

Cheapest months to go on a Caribbean cruise

If you are looking to get the lowest cost for a Caribbean cruise, late August through early November see some of the lowest prices of the year.

Cruises in this time period have two things in common: it is the peak of hurricane season and it is also when most families are unable to vacation due to the school calendar. The combined effect is lower demand for cruises, and thus, lower prices.

You can also find bargains during other times of the year when school is typically in session, such as mid-January to mid-February, mid-April through the end of May, and the first two weeks of December.

While we recommend cruising to the Caribbean in the winter months, don’t expect to find the cheapest fares around the holidays. Cruises around Christmas and New Year’s will, unsurprisingly, come with higher prices. That being said, the holidays can be a fun time to set sail with special dining menus, decor, and events throughout the ship.

There are always exceptions, but the key to finding the best price on a Caribbean cruise is to try to go when most others cannot cruise. Avoiding religious holidays and the school vacation calendar is a good start.

Caribbean holidays and festivals

A great way to dive deeper into the cultures of the Caribbean islands you visit is by experiencing local holidays and festivals. Festivals happen throughout the year and can be a unique way to experience a port during your cruise.

Heading to Barbados? Each summer, the island nation hosts the Crop Over Festival. Crop Over is a festival that originated over three hundred years ago when the Bajan people celebrated the end of the sugar cane growing season. Nowadays, Crop Over is celebrated with music, dance, arts, concerts, street parties, and plenty of Barbadian rum!

The festival is celebrated with events from May to August, with the biggest celebration taking place on Grand Kadooment Day in early August. Most events take place in Bridgetown, where Royal Caribbean ships port.

The biggest festival in the Caribbean each year is Carnival. Celebrated throughout the Caribbean, the most famous Caribbean carnival is in Port of Spain, Trinidad & Tobago. Carnival in Trinidad & Tobago is held each year on the Monday and Tuesday before Ash Wednesday. From street parades to calypso music, elaborate costumes, and dancing, a full port day of partying is guaranteed.

Carnival and similar festivals are also celebrated in other Caribbean islands. Exact dates may change depending on the year, so be sure to check if you will be sailing to these islands during Carnival.

• St. Lucia: Mid-July
• St. Vincent: June and July
• Grenada: August
• Aruba: January - March
• St. Maarten: April
• Bahamas: May
• Curaçao: January - March
• Dominica: February

What times of the year should I avoid?

While there isn’t a particular time of year that needs to be avoided when cruising to the Caribbean, you may prefer a certain time of the year based on your schedule and cruising style.

Royal Caribbean is a family-oriented cruise line. Sailings that occur during spring break, holidays, and the peak of summer will have more kids and families onboard. If you are looking for a sailing free from a lot of kids, these are probably not the best times to cruise. Likewise, if you have children and want them to be around a lot of other kids or teens, these times of the year can be a good choice.

In addition, cruises during spring break may see an influx of college-aged students, thus leading to a bigger party atmosphere. Cruise pricing during this time in March or April can also be higher than choosing to cruise in February or May instead.

Oftentimes, however, the length of a cruise can have a bigger impact on the ship’s atmosphere even more than the time of year. Shorter, 3 and 4-night cruises are likely to have a bigger party vibe and more families onboard, whereas longer cruises tend to skew quieter.

Luckily, you will likely have nice weather no matter what time of the year you sail to the Caribbean. Certain times of the year may be more warm, humid, or rainy than others, but in general, the weather in the Caribbean is warm and breezy. 

Today we visited one of the most scenic places I have ever been: Kotor, Montenegro! Nestled in an isolated area on the Bay of Kotor, this small town is known for its medieval Old Town and unbelievable scenery.

From the moment I saw a photo of Kotor on Royal Caribbean’s website, I knew I had to book a cruise to Montenegro. In fact, I made sure to book this itinerary specifically over others because it visited not only the Greek Isles, but also the Balkans.

That decision turned out to be a great one, because today was one of the best port days yet! (Do I say that every day?)

First impressions of Kotor, Montenegro

I did not want to miss the scenic passage into Kotor, so I set my alarm for 5AM this morning. Luckily our clocks were set back one hour the night before, so it wasn't too early. A lot of other passengers must have had the same idea, because when I reached the pool deck around 5:30 there were already plenty of people outside eager to watch Montenegro's gorgeous scenery pass by.

We collected our tender tickets at 7AM and were off the ship by 7:30. The tender ride to Kotor was only around five minutes, offering stunning views of Rhapsody of the Seas surrounded by tall mountain peaks on all sides. The tender boat dropped us off at the pier, which is only a 1-2 minute walk to Kotor's famous Old Town.

It was like we had stepped out of the 21st century and entered medieval Europe. Many buildings and churches were built over 900 years ago, and I felt like I could be in a fairytale. Narrow, cobblestone streets led to public squares, where locals and tourists alike gathered to enjoy breakfast and relax amongst Kotor's surrounding mountains.

I fell in love with the town instantly, and my day was only just beginning!

Hiking to the Castle of San Giovanni

One of the top activities to do in Kotor is to visit the Castle of San Giovanni, located above Kotor’s Old Town and the city walls. Some type of fortification has been located in Kotor since before the 6th century, although the current structure of the castle was built by the Venetians in the 15th century.

The trailhead to the Castle of San Giovanni can be accessed from Old Town with an €8 entrance fee. The hike takes around 40 minutes to reach the top via over 1350 steps!

Luckily, almost the entire hike was in the shade, so it was relatively pleasant even when climbing. The trail had plenty of areas to take a rest, and there were also vendors selling water and snacks. Amazing views were in abundance for the entirety of the trail, but the best views were, of course, at the top.

Exploring more of Kotor’s Old Town

Following the hike, I stopped at a local cafe for a fresh orange juice and “Moscow Cake”, made with cream, cherries, pineapple, and almonds. It was delightful!

One thing you’ll notice when walking around town is the abundance of cats. Cats are a symbol of Kotor, and it was fun to check out a bit of the town's "cat tourism". There are several cat-themed souvenir shops filled with handmade trinkets, magnets, and decor.

We also made a brief visit to the Kotor Cat Museum, which offers photos and information dedicated to the love of cats around the world. It was certainly a unique place. Proceeds at the museum go toward keeping Kotor’s cats fed and happy. A few kittens called the museum home, too, which was definitely very cute!

After so much exploring and hiking, it was time for lunch. There’s quite a bit of Italian influence in Kotor due to Italy’s proximity and presence in the Bay of Kotor throughout history. This influence can be seen in the cuisine as well, with risottos and pastas common on menus in Kotor.

We had lunch at La Catedrale Pasta Bar, where we enjoyed pasta pomodoro and homemade white wine, which was quite refreshing on such a sunny day. One of my favorite parts of a European cruise so far is having a nice sit-down lunch outdoors each day!

Back onboard

Unfortunately the weather was almost to the point of being unbearably hot once afternoon came, and we were quickly getting exhausted. The sun was beyond strong today, and while there were plenty of shady spots in Kotor, there was not much of a breeze! The Old Town of Kotor is small, however, so we felt as if we had seen most of the town in a relatively short amount of time.

We got back onboard around 1:30 and were in desperate need of a nap, both to cool down and catch up on sleep. I'm glad we got off the ship as soon as possible this morning, as we were able to explore the majority of Old Town before it got too hot. Plus, crowds increased significantly in the afternoon. If you have a Mediterranean cruise booked in the future, I'd definitely recommend disembarking the ship early in the morning.

After our "quick" nap (which ended up being about 3 hours), we hung out in the Centrum where we took in the views of Kotor and surrounding area. By late afternoon, clouds started to roll into the bay and temperatures cooled down significantly.

We had dinner tonight in the Windjammer, which proved to be a wonderful place to watch the beginning of sailaway. The Windjammer on Rhapsody of the Seas is located forward instead of aft, so it offered a great view of the helicopter pad and ship as we began the journey to Croatia.

After dinner, we headed upstairs to the pool deck to enjoy more panoramic views of one of the most beautiful sailaways I've ever seen!

We also found a "hidden secret" spot on Rhapsody of the Seas. Located on deck 9 and accessible from the Solarium or via steps near the rock climbing wall is an area of pool chairs with nice views off the ship’s port side. We relaxed here for an hour, taking in the last views of Montenegro before we entered the open seas of the Adriatic.

We spent the rest of the evening in the Solarium and on the pool deck before heading back to our stateroom. Tomorrow we will be in our last port of call: Split: Croatia!

Today is the first and only sea day of my 7-night Greek & Adriatic cruise, and we spent the day relaxing as we left the Ionian Sea and entered the Adriatic.

Our port days the previous three days started super early in the morning, so I took it easy this morning with a chai tea latte from Cafe Latitudes, which I enjoyed in the Centrum while catching up on Royal Caribbean Blog work.

Lunch was in the Windjammer today. I think I prefer the Windjammer to other dining options onboard due to the sheer range of options available. Today's highlights were a pasta bake with spinach and cheese, grilled vegetables, and baklava!

After lunch, I grabbed a coffee in the Diamond Lounge. The Diamond Lounge on Rhapsody of the Seas is in a slightly odd location, as it's in a corner of the Shall We Dance Lounge with barriers that don't reach the ceiling.

However, I feel the views in the Diamond Lounge are far superior than the lounge's location on other ships due to the vast views of the ocean available.

The art auction had just started in the Shall We Dance Lounge. I've never attended the art auction before, and after editing several Royal Caribbean Blog YouTube videos where Matt states he dislikes the art auction, I never had an inkling to go.

The auction's free champagne caught my eye, however, so Lauren and I sat down to watch.

We actually enjoyed ourselves a lot more than we thought we would! While we had no plans to purchase artwork (some were being auctioned for $10,000-20,000!), it was weirdly fun to watch the staff hype up each art piece and raffle off prizes. While I'm not sure I entirely understand why the art gallery and auctions exist on all Royal Caribbean cruise ships, it was certainly an interesting way to spend an hour.

Following the art auction was a fan-favorite cruise activity: the World's Sexiest Man Competition. It's impossible not to laugh during this competition, as the ship's "sexiest" men battle through a series of physical challenges and interview questions. It's one of those classic cruise ship activities that sound cheesy, but is quite entertaining!

At this point in the afternoon we were sailing alongside the coast of Albania, which was fascinating! I love seeing different countries and landscapes from afar on sea days, especially those I know little about.

I had to catch up on some Royal Caribbean Blog work in the afternoon, so I hung out in my stateroom for a few hours before dinner.

We had our last dinner tonight in the Main Dining Room, as we'll be eating in the Windjammer tomorrow and Izumi on our last night.

I ordered the eggplant parmesan as my main (which I got with a side of spaghetti marinara) and the molten chocolate cake for dessert. Everything in the Main Dining Room has been excellent on Rhapsody of the Seas, and the service from my waiters Marvic and Bayu was great!

We decided to see a show after dinner, as we had not yet seen any production show onboard. We watched a variety show, which started with a musical performance by the ship's orchestra followed by a magician.

Watching a magic show is unexpectedly becoming one of my favorite types of shows to attend on a cruise!  While the magic is impressive, the comedic remarks of the magician add to the performance and make it a fun, family-friendly activity where the whole audience gets involved.

On a side note, the Broadway Melodies theater on this ship is beautiful! I'm loving the more intricate design of an older cruise ship.

We ended the night with a drink at Schooner Bar, which we drank while lounging on the Promenade deck and watching the calmest water I've ever seen pass by.

A sea day was well-appreciated after three busy port days, and we all feel rested for the remainder of our cruise. Tomorrow I will be waking up bright and early for one of the most anticipated moments on this cruise: sailing into the port of Kotor, Montenegro.

Stray observations

Most people I've talked to prior to this cruise seemed to view small cruise ships in a negative way, but I think this type of ship works well for a port-intensive itinerary! I never use most of the features on bigger ships anyway (water slides, zipline, etc.) so my experience on Rhapsody has not been much different than my day-to-day on an Oasis or Quantum Class ship.

Many announcements and events are being translated into Portuguese and Spanish on this cruise, as there are a ton of Brazilians onboard as well as guests from Spanish speaking countries.

The seas have been almost perfect for the entire week so far. A Greek Isles cruise may be a good choice for those prone to seasickness (except for the tender boat rides!).

Some days are absolutely perfect, and today was one of those days! 

Rhapsody of the Seas anchored off the coast of Zakynthos, Greece today. Located in the Ionian Sea, Zakynthos is most known for its landscapes, beaches, and nightlife. Perhaps the most famous spot on the island is Navagio Beach, otherwise known as Shipwreck Beach, which has frequently been named one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

Zakynthos is a tender port, so you must collect tender tickets prior to leaving the ship. We collected our ticket around 8AM (the ticket spot opened at 7) and we received a ticket for Group 7.

The tender process seemed to be taking pretty long for just Group 1. After 20 minutes of waiting, Group 2 hadn't even been announced yet! We decided to walk to the tender area to gauge how long our wait might be to get off the ship.

We waited with a large group of other passengers, but the group numbers being called in this area were further ahead than what had been announced on the loudspeaker. After around 30 minutes of waiting, we were able to snag 3 spots on a tender boat.

Next time, I'll definitely be sure to get my tender tickets early to avoid any extra wait times!

Arrival in Zakynthos

The tender ride to Zakynthos from the ship was so beautiful it was almost a shore excursion in itself! Just like every other day in Greece so far, the scenery was filled with mountain peaks, charming harbor towns, and some of the most blue water I've ever seen.

After two days of walking all around Mykonos and Crete, we were in the mood for a relaxing day at the beach.

Our goal once we arrived in town was to find some kind of boat tour or beach shuttle that we could book for the day. Luckily, there were a few tour operators on the main street in front of the port offering boat tours to the main sights of Zakynthos.

We decided to book a 5-hour tour that would bring us to the other side of Zakynthos for a boat ride to Shipwreck Beach. The tour was €45 per person, which felt reasonable considering Royal Caribbean was offering the same type of excursion for over $70.

We had an hour to kill before the tour began, so we walked to a nearby bakery to pick up snacks and lunch for the day, as the tour did not include food. Greece is sure to impress when it comes to pastries and breads!

Boat tour in Zakynthos

Our tour group of around 40 people met at the travel agency's office, where we boarded a bus that would bring us to our boat. The bus was an hour long (which I did not realize when I booked the tour), but offered a nice way to see the countryside of Zakynthos.

As we approached the western side of the island, we were rewarded with spectacular views of dramatic cliffs alongside the sea. The bus then descended down a steep, narrow road to a small beach, where we boarded a small boat that would take us to Shipwreck Beach.

Any expectations I had for the tour were quickly exceeded when we began sailing toward the beach. I've never seen a landscape quite like the coastline of Zakynthos, where tiny beaches with crystal blue water could be spotted below huge white, rocky cliffs.

Navagio (Shipwreck) Beach

It took around 20 minutes to reach Shipwreck Beach. Funny enough, Shipwreck Beach was not the highlight of our tour. While beautiful, it was extremely crowded! I would still recommend visiting, but be prepared for crowds. Additionally, most tours only visit the beach from the sea, so you aren't able to view the famous view of the beach from above if that is important to you.

The water was beautiful regardless of the crowds, though, and it was a nice spot to cool down in the Mediterranean sun. We stayed on the island for an hour before continuing the tour.

Once back onboard the boat, we headed to a series of caves located in the island's steep white cliffs. We also stopped for a 15-minute swimming break in the middle of a cove.

My favorite part of the day was the boat ride itself, where we could enjoy the breathtaking landscapes of Zakynthos with a nice ocean breeze. I can’t get over how beautiful this country is!

Of all the ports I've visited in Greece this week, I think Zakynthos is best suited for a beach day. Mykonos and Chania seemed fit for simply wandering around town, but the highlights of Zakynthos seem to be in the island's natural wonders. You're also able to rent a private boat for the day, which may be a better option for large groups or those who want to explore on their own itinerary.

Back onboard

Another hour-long bus ride was in order to get back to Zakynthos town after we disembarked the boat on our tour. The tour bus conveniently dropped us off on the pier, so we boarded a tender boat to bring us back to Rhapsody of the Seas.

We got back onboard around 4:45, so quickly got ready for dinner in the Main Dining Room.

One of the main reasons I'm onboard is to film a full video tour of Rhapsody of the Seas for the Royal Caribbean Blog YouTube Channel. After dinner, I spent an hour or two walking around the ship filming the ship tour, where I made a few observations about Vision Class ships:

• I quite like the Centrum compared to the Royal Promenade because there are so many views of the ocean everywhere.
• I'm not a huge shopper, so I like how all shopping areas are congregated in one space on the ship (Centrum Shops).
• Rhapsody of the Seas has tons of plaques on the walls from ports she has visited over the past 25 years. It's fascinating to see just how many places this ship has been, and it gives a personal touch to the ship that I haven't experienced on a cruise before.

After filming, I met back up with my siblings for a cocktail in Schooner Bar (my recommendation: the El Floridito). We also briefly went into the Shall We Dance Lounge for an "Adult Game Show", but we weren't loving it so we spent the rest of the evening lounging on the pool deck instead.

After three extremely busy days in Mykonos, Crete, and Zakynthos, we are ready for our first sea day tomorrow as we make our way toward Kotor, Montenegro!

Today is the third day of my 7-night Greek & Adriatic cruise on Rhapsody of the Seas, and it brings us to our second port of call: Chania, Crete.

What is Crete?

Crete is the largest island in Greece and the fifth largest in the Mediterranean, with a population of around 636,000. The island is mostly mountainous, with jagged peaks rising dramatically out of the sea. Dotted along the landscape are valleys, gorges, lakes, rivers, beaches, and caves.

Crete has been influenced by a variety of cultures throughout history, from the Venetians to Ottomans, Arabs, and Byzantines.

The island is also said to be home to the first major European civilization, the Minoans, who called the island home around 5,000 years ago.

First impressions of Chania, Crete

Cruise ships dock near the town of Chania in Crete, located on the northwest coast of the island. A complimentary shuttle is available to bring passengers from port to Chania’s town center.

We did not have any set plans for the day, but were hoping to just wander around Chania to taste local food and relax amongst the town’s history and culture.

I had heard amazing things about Chania’s historic Old Venetian Harbor, built by Venetians in the 14th century as a leading trade center in the Mediterranean sea, so we headed there as soon as we got off the shuttle bus.

The walk to the harbor was as picturesque as it gets, with narrow cobblestone streets filled with cafes, restaurants, flowers, and cats.

It’s easy to see why this area of Chania is named the “Old Venetian Harbor”. Charming buildings painted with a colorful palette of oranges, blues, reds, yellows, and pinks dotted the town.

While I was reminded of Venice while walking through Mykonos yesterday, I actually felt like I was in Venice today in Crete!

We walked along the harbor, which led us to the port’s lighthouse and wonderful views of Crete’s scenery and towns.

Afternoon in the sun

The temperature today felt very warm. While the temperature yesterday in Mykonos was similar, the island’s strong winds created a nice breeze, allowing us to keep relatively cool. Today, however, the sun was extremely strong.

Due to the heat, we stopped for fresh-squeezed juices at a cafe before a delicious Italian meal at Laganon Fresh Pasta. With freshly made pasta noodles and a savory arrabbiata sauce, it was a fantastic, cheap lunch choice (6 euros per dish) in Chania!

After lunch, we continued walking along the harbor, which led us to even more cute alleys and streets to explore. Just like yesterday in Mykonos, Chania was much more crowded in the afternoon compared to the morning, but the crowds were not overwhelming.

Crete is a huge island compared to the other Greek islands on this itinerary. It’s impossible to see the whole island in one day.

I would definitely love to come back for a longer period of time to hike, bike, and climb the island’s steep mountain peaks, but for a short port day it was nice to simply wander around the Venetian Harbor.

Other than walking, shopping, and sitting at local cafes and restaurants, there were not a ton of activities to do in the town of Chania itself. Popular attractions like beaches, caves, and mountains were further away and probably best done with an excursion through Royal Caribbean or an independent provider.

There were several boat tours available to book directly at the harbor, though, with pricing at 15 euros for an hour tour to a nearby island. This is something to consider if you’re hoping for a more adventure-filled day in Chania!

I am perfectly content to relax at a cafe while people watching and enjoying the ocean breeze, so I found the town to be exactly what I wanted. We enjoyed cocktails in a small bar overlooking the harbor to get out of the sun for the remainder of the afternoon.

Our last stop in Chania was to a local bakery to purchase a few snacks to bring back to the ship with us. We were able to board the shuttle bus right away and head back to Rhapsody of the Seas around 4PM.

Back onboard

Today’s strong heat made us pretty tired, so a nap was in order when we returned to our stateroom. Napping in an interior stateroom in pitch-black darkness is the best!

We decided to dine at the Windjammer for dinner tonight as opposed to the Main Dining Room. Having so many port days in a row, along with all the travel we did to get to Greece in the first place, has made us a little exhausted (in the best way possible). The idea of a long sit-down meal did not seem appealing tonight, and I find dinner at the Windjammer to be just as good as the dining room!

Rhapsody of the Seas set sail from Crete as we ate, and I was absolutely amazed by the island’s scenery as we began the journey into the open Mediterranean sea. We relaxed in the Solarium while enjoying our last views of Crete.

While we’ve been pretty tired at night due to full days exploring port, we finally made it out of our stateroom tonight to explore activities and entertainment available on Rhapsody of the Seas.

First up was a trip to Schooner Bar for cocktails and piano entertainment followed by a brief visit to Casino Royale. I also briefly stopped by the theater to watch a bit of “Ballroom Fever”, a signature production show on Rhapsody of the Seas combining various types of ballroom dancing with vocals.

It was finally time to head to bed and get ready for another port of call tomorrow: Zakynthos, Greece. With only one more port day in Greece, I’m already sad to say goodbye to what has quickly become one of my favorite countries in the world!