Holland America plays host to the 10-Day Mediterranean Enchantment cruise out of Civitavecchia, Italy, the port town right outside of Rome. The ms Noordam vessel then travels to Florence, Monte Carlo and Barcelona before heading south toward the Mediterranean coastal town of La Goulette, Tunisia. The ship stops at Naples before returning back to Civitavecchia. The vessel caters to more than 1,900 passengers and offers a variety of staterooms, including those outfitted with ocean views and balconies. Upscale suites may feature such perks as binoculars, umbrellas and a stereo system. As of October, 2010, prices range from $1,600 to $3,7000, depending on the accommodations.
10-Day Mediterranean Enchantment
Holland America
877-932-4259
hollandamerica.com
Guests aboard the Norwegian Cruise Line's Norwegian Jade can enjoy an 11-day Mediterranean and Holy Land excursion. Sailing from Rome, the itinerary includes visits to such cities as Alanya, Turkey and Limassol, Cyprus, as well as the Israeli port towns of Haifa and Ashdod and the Egyptian cities of Port Said and Alexandria. The cruise also includes four days exclusively at sea, often sailing amidst the Southern Mediterranean. The Norwegian Jade offers a host of dining options, including a steakhouse, a sushi bar, an Italian restaurant and a French eatery. The vessel also features four hot tubs, two swimming pools, a casino, an arcade, a theater and boutique shops. Prices range from $950 to $1,750 as of October 2010.
11-Day Mediterranean & the Holy Land
Norwegian Cruise Line
866-234-7350
norwegiancruiseline.com
Princess Cruises offers a Holy Land cruise between Rome and Athens. Stops along the way include such countries as Turkey, Israel and Egypt, as well as a visit to the Greek island, Santorini. Passengers sail aboard the Pacific Princess, a smaller vessel than most major cruise liners, offering a capacity of just 670 people. Lodging options include interior cabins, mini-suites, suites and more than 200 staterooms featuring balconies. Guests may enjoy dining at such restaurants as the steakhouse, pizzeria, buffet, afternoon tea hall or the wine and caviar bar. In October 2010, prices are between $3,000 and $3,500.
Holy Land: Rome to Athens
Princess Cruises
800-774-6237
princess.com
