Top 10 Italy Cruise Lines
By Dante Holloway | Published: 2024-10-26 | Category: Italy Cruise
About Italy Cruise
Italy cruises offer voyages exploring the rich history, culture, and coastlines of Italy, typically stopping at multiple Italian ports as part of Mediterranean itineraries. These trips provide a convenient way to experience diverse regions without frequent packing and unpacking.
How We Evaluated
Providers were evaluated based on the variety and quality of Italian itineraries, ship amenities and onboard experience, customer reviews, overall value proposition, dining options, and service standards. Scores reflect a composite assessment of these factors for Mediterranean and Italy-focused sailings.
Rating Criteria
- → Itinerary Variety & Quality
- → Onboard Experience & Amenities
- → Value for Money
- → Dining Quality
- → Service Level
The Best Italy Cruise
Costa Cruises
Visit Website →An Italian cruise line offering a vibrant, European-focused experience, known for its Italian hospitality, food, and family atmosphere.
Target Audience
Families, Europeans, Budget-conscious travelers, Travelers seeking an authentic Italian/European vibe
Service Offerings
Authentic Italian Mediterranean Cruises
Specializes in Mediterranean itineraries heavily featuring Italian ports, with departures from multiple Italian cities.
- Strong Italian ambiance, food, and culture onboard
- Multi-lingual environment
- Emphasis on lively entertainment and parties
Scorecard (Overall: 6.8 / 10.0)
Pricing Model
Budget-friendly/Contemporary
Often one of the most affordable options for cruising the Mediterranean, particularly appealing to the European market.
Pros
- + Authentic Italian/European experience
- + Competitive pricing
- + Lively onboard atmosphere
- + Good for families looking for value
Cons
- - Food and service may not meet North American premium expectations
- - Can be loud, announcements in many languages
- - Smoking permitted in more areas than on US-based lines
- - Itineraries can be port-intensive with short stays
Verdict
"Best suited for travelers seeking an energetic, budget-friendly, and authentically European cruise experience centered around Italy."
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)
Visit Website →Pioneered 'Freestyle Cruising,' offering flexibility with dining times and venues, a relaxed atmosphere, and diverse onboard entertainment.
Target Audience
Families, Younger couples, Solo travelers (due to Studio cabins), Travelers seeking flexibility
Service Offerings
Freestyle Italy & Mediterranean Cruises
Provides a range of Italian and Mediterranean itineraries with a focus on casual cruising, multiple dining options, and varied entertainment.
- No set dining times or assigned tables
- Wide array of specialty restaurants (extra charge)
- Often features Broadway shows and extensive bars/lounges
Scorecard (Overall: 7.4 / 10.0)
Pricing Model
Mid-range/Contemporary
Competitive pricing with frequent 'Free at Sea' promotions adding value (drinks, specialty dining, Wi-Fi, excursions).
Pros
- + Flexible 'Freestyle Cruising' concept
- + Wide variety of dining options
- + Good entertainment choices
- + 'Free at Sea' packages offer excellent value
Cons
- - Specialty dining costs can add up quickly
- - Service can be inconsistent
- - Atmosphere can feel less refined than premium lines
- - Can be crowded
Verdict
"A strong contender for travelers seeking flexibility, variety, and good value (especially with promotions) on their Italian cruise."
Royal Caribbean International
Visit Website →Known for its large, innovative ships packed with activities, entertainment, and dining options, catering primarily to families and active travelers.
Target Audience
Families with kids and teens, Active travelers, Groups, Travelers seeking high-energy entertainment
Service Offerings
Action-Packed Italy & Mediterranean Cruises
Features itineraries visiting major Italian ports, often on some of the world's largest cruise ships with extensive onboard attractions.
- Ships include features like rock climbing walls, surf simulators, water slides
- Broadway-style shows and diverse entertainment
- Wide range of dining venues (many at extra cost)
Scorecard (Overall: 7.4 / 10.0)
Pricing Model
Mid-range/Contemporary
Competitively priced for the mass market, though many onboard activities and dining options cost extra.
Pros
- + Unmatched variety of onboard activities and entertainment
- + Excellent facilities for children and teens
- + Innovative ship design
- + Wide appeal for different age groups
Cons
- - Large ships can feel very crowded
- - Emphasis is more on the ship than the destination
- - Many extra costs onboard
- - Itineraries may focus only on the largest, busiest ports
Verdict
"Ideal for families and active travelers who prioritize onboard fun and entertainment as much as the Italian destinations."
MSC Cruises
Visit Website →A large, contemporary cruise line with a strong European flavor, modern ships, family-friendly amenities, and competitive pricing.
Target Audience
Families, Budget-conscious travelers, Europeans, Travelers seeking lively, international atmosphere
Service Offerings
Affordable Italy & Mediterranean Voyages
Extensive range of Italy-centric and wider Mediterranean itineraries, often departing from Italian ports like Genoa, Civitavecchia (Rome), and Naples.
- Modern fleet with large, feature-rich ships
- Strong family programs and kids' clubs
- Features 'MSC Yacht Club' ship-within-a-ship luxury complex
Scorecard (Overall: 7.6 / 10.0)
Pricing Model
Budget-friendly/Contemporary
Often offers some of the most competitive pricing for Mediterranean cruises, especially for families.
Pros
- + Competitive pricing, excellent value
- + Modern, large ships with many amenities
- + Strong focus on families
- + Authentic European onboard experience
Cons
- - Food quality can be inconsistent, especially in main dining rooms
- - Service can be less polished than premium lines
- - Onboard atmosphere can be loud and busy; announcements in multiple languages
Verdict
"A top choice for budget-conscious travelers and families looking for a modern, amenity-packed ship experience with a European flair in Italy."
Holland America Line
Visit Website →Premium cruise line known for classic cruising style, mid-sized ships, culinary focus (including cooking demos), and live music.
Target Audience
Mature travelers, Couples, Music lovers, Foodies seeking culinary programs
Service Offerings
Italy & Mediterranean Explorer Cruises
Offers well-paced itineraries exploring Italian highlights and broader Mediterranean regions, often on mid-sized ships allowing access to varied ports.
- Strong focus on live music ('Music Walk')
- Partnerships with culinary experts and institutions
- Mid-sized ships offer a balance of amenities and intimacy
Scorecard (Overall: 7.8 / 10.0)
Pricing Model
Premium/Mid-range
Positioned in the premium segment, offering a refined experience at a moderate price point.
Pros
- + Excellent live music options
- + Strong culinary programs and dining quality
- + Comfortable, mid-sized ships
- + Classic, refined ambiance
Cons
- - Pace and atmosphere might be too quiet for younger travelers or families
- - Nightlife is generally subdued
- - Fewer flashy amenities than mega-ships
Verdict
"Great for mature travelers and couples who appreciate classic cruising, fine dining, and excellent live music while exploring Italy."
Princess Cruises
Visit Website →A well-regarded premium line offering a wide range of itineraries on large, modern ships with a balance of relaxation and activities.
Target Audience
Multi-generational families, Couples, Travelers seeking a comfortable, upscale mainstream experience, First-time cruisers
Service Offerings
Classic Italy & Mediterranean Cruises
Provides numerous sailings covering major Italian ports (Rome, Florence/Pisa, Naples) often combined with Greece, Spain, and France.
- Known for 'Movies Under the Stars' and 'The Sanctuary' adults-only retreat
- Offers MedallionClass technology for personalized service
- Variety of dining options, including specialty restaurants
Scorecard (Overall: 7.8 / 10.0)
Pricing Model
Premium/Mid-range
Offers good value, positioned slightly above mass-market lines, with options for inclusive packages (Princess Plus/Premier).
Pros
- + Wide variety of itineraries and ship choices
- + Good balance of activities and relaxation
- + Innovative MedallionClass technology enhances experience
- + Strong value proposition, especially with packages
Cons
- - Dining quality can be inconsistent outside specialty venues
- - Large ships can feel crowded
- - Service can be less personalized than on smaller lines
Verdict
"A solid choice for a wide range of travelers, including families, seeking a comfortable and activity-rich cruise experience in Italy."
Azamara
Visit Website →Specializes in destination immersion with longer stays, more overnights, and unique evening port experiences on small, boutique-style ships.
Target Audience
Destination explorers, Travelers seeking authentic local experiences, Adults preferring smaller ships, Couples
Service Offerings
Italy Intensive Voyages
Focuses deeply on Italy and the Mediterranean, featuring late-night departures and overnight stays in ports like Venice, Sorrento, or Amalfi Coast towns.
- Emphasis on 'Destination Immersion' experiences
- Includes select standard spirits, beers, and wines
- Small ships access unique ports
Scorecard (Overall: 8.6 / 10.0)
Pricing Model
Upper-Premium/Boutique
Inclusive pricing covers gratuities, select beverages, and shuttle service in ports. Positioned as boutique luxury.
Pros
- + Exceptional itineraries with long stays and overnights
- + Access to smaller, less-crowded ports
- + Inclusive amenities add value (gratuities, drinks)
- + Intimate, country-club-like atmosphere
Cons
- - Older ships compared to some competitors (though well-maintained)
- - Limited onboard entertainment compared to large ships
- - Higher price point
Verdict
"Best for travelers who prioritize deep destination exploration and longer port times in Italy over extensive onboard activities."
Oceania Cruises
Visit Website →Upper-premium line renowned for its culinary excellence ('The Finest Cuisine at Sea'), destination-rich itineraries, and luxurious small-to-midsize ships.
Target Audience
Foodies, Experienced cruisers, Travelers seeking upscale, intimate ship experiences, Couples
Service Offerings
Gourmet Italian & Mediterranean Journeys
Offers diverse Italian itineraries often visiting smaller, less-common ports alongside major hubs, emphasizing culinary experiences onboard and ashore.
- Multiple specialty restaurants available at no extra charge
- Smaller ships access ports unavailable to larger vessels
- Focus on longer voyages and unique port combinations
Scorecard (Overall: 8.6 / 10.0)
Pricing Model
Upper-Premium/Luxury
Higher price point reflecting superior dining, service, and intimate ship atmosphere. Often offers airfare/amenity packages.
Pros
- + Best-in-class dining across all venues
- + Intimate and luxurious ship ambiance
- + Interesting itineraries with unique port calls
- + Excellent service
Cons
- - Significantly more expensive than mainstream lines
- - Entertainment options are more subdued
- - Base fare less inclusive than some luxury competitors
Verdict
"The ultimate choice for food lovers seeking exceptional cuisine and an upscale, intimate cruise visiting diverse Italian ports."
Viking Ocean Cruises
Visit Website →Focuses on destination-intensive, adults-only cruises with an emphasis on cultural enrichment and understated luxury.
Target Audience
Mature travelers (55+), Culturally curious individuals, Travelers seeking quieter, enrichment-focused trips, Adults only
Service Offerings
Italy & Mediterranean Cultural Voyages
Itineraries heavily focused on history and culture, often featuring longer port stays and overnights in key Italian cities like Venice or Rome.
- Includes one complimentary shore excursion in every port
- All-veranda ships with Scandinavian design
- Beer, wine, and soft drinks included with lunch and dinner
Scorecard (Overall: 8.6 / 10.0)
Pricing Model
Luxury/Premium
Higher base fare but includes more amenities like excursions, Wi-Fi, and drinks with meals.
Pros
- + Destination-focused itineraries with significant time in port
- + Inclusive pricing adds value (excursions, Wi-Fi, drinks)
- + Elegant, comfortable ships with no casinos or children under 18
- + Strong emphasis on cultural enrichment
Cons
- - Higher price point
- - Limited nightlife and onboard entertainment variety compared to larger lines
- - No options for families with children
Verdict
"Ideal for mature travelers prioritizing cultural immersion and a refined, inclusive onboard experience in Italy."
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Celebrity Cruises
Visit Website →A premium cruise line known for modern luxury, sophisticated design, exceptional service, and strong culinary programs.
Target Audience
Couples, Foodies, Travelers seeking premium experiences, Adults
Service Offerings
Italy & Mediterranean Cruises
Offers diverse itineraries often including multiple stops in Italy (e.g., Rome, Florence/Pisa, Naples, Sicily, Venice) combined with Greek Isles, French Riviera, or Croatia.
- Focus on immersive shore excursions
- Ships feature high-end dining, spas, and entertainment
- Often uses newer, modern ships in the region
Scorecard (Overall: 8.8 / 10.0)
Pricing Model
Premium
Positioned above mass-market lines, offering more inclusions and higher quality for the price point.
Pros
- + Excellent dining options and quality
- + High standard of service
- + Modern and stylish ships
- + Good balance of popular and less common ports
Cons
- - Higher price point than mass-market lines
- - Can feel crowded on larger ships during peak season
Verdict
"Top choice for travelers seeking a premium, modern luxury cruise experience in Italy with excellent food and service."
Final Recommendation
Choosing the right Italy cruise depends on balancing itinerary preferences, onboard style, and budget. Premium lines like Celebrity offer modern luxury and fine dining, while Viking, Oceania, and Azamara excel in destination immersion and upscale experiences, albeit at higher prices. Mainstream options like Princess, Holland America, Royal Caribbean, and NCL provide a wide range of activities and value, particularly for families. MSC and Costa offer budget-friendly, European-flavored voyages, ideal for value-seekers and families prioritizing affordability.