Sardenia Cruises

Embark on an Enchanting Adventure in Sardinia

Sardinia, the stunning Mediterranean island known for its crystal-clear waters, dramatic coastlines, and rich cultural heritage, is a superb destination for cruise enthusiasts. With its pristine beaches and remarkable historical sites, visiting Sardinia offers travellers a seamless blend of relaxation and exploration. Did you know that Sardinia is home to over 1,800 km of coastline, featuring some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe? This enchanting island is also known for its unique language, cultural traditions, and delicious cuisine. A cruise around Sardinia presents a delightful opportunity to experience the island's beauty and charm while visiting other captivating Mediterranean locations.

Major Cruise Lines Sailing to Sardinia

• Cunard has an esteemed fleet of 4 ships, with 3—Queen Victoria and Queen Anne—navigating the intriguing waters around Sardinia. This cruise line is synonymous with luxury, offering polished service and rich onboard experiences, including exclusive entertainment options and lavish dining venues. Cunard's commitment to creating a sophisticated atmosphere sets it apart from others. Most departures occur from Barcelona or Rome, making it convenient for cruisers to embark on their Sardinian adventure directly from the heart of Europe.
• MSC Cruises features an extensive fleet of 23 ships, with 3 of them on itineraries that include stops in Sardinia. The MSC Musica and MSC Lirica are particularly notable for their family-friendly features, such as diverse dining options and entertainment experiences tailored to all ages. Additionally, MSC engages guests with immersive local cultural experiences during their voyages. Expect to set sail from one of the many departure ports, including Valencia or Genoa, for a splendid Sardinian escape.
• Costa Cruises consists of 9 ships, with 3 venturing to romantic Sardinia. Impressive vessels like Costa Pacifica and Costa Smeralda are famous for their Italian flair, featuring vibrant onboard experiences, exquisite dining, and a plethora of entertainment options. With a focus on showing guests the beauty of the Mediterranean culture, Costa promises a delightful cruise experience. Common departure points for these journeys include Rome or Palma de Mallorca, offering ample routes to the island.
• Holland America Line operates a fleet of 11 ships, with 3 planning stops in Sardinia. The Oosterdam and Zuiderdam stand out for their elegant design and commitment to cultural enrichment through onboard educational programmes and local guest lecturers. The dining options aboard Holland America are varied and refined, catering to culinary enthusiasts. Departures from Rome or Fort Lauderdale often transition smoothly into the wonders awaiting in Sardinia.
• Princess Cruises boasts a fleet of 17 ships, with 4 sailing towards Sardinia. The Sky Princess and Sapphire Princess highlight Princess Cruises’ reputation for exceptional service and remarkable onboard amenities. Renowned for their engaging entertainment and gourmet dining, these ships convey a sense of luxury in every experience. Set sail from Southampton or Rome on one of these delightful voyages to Sardinia.

Luxury and Small Ship Options to Explore Sardinia

• Explora Journeys features a fleet of 2 ships, with EXPLORA II making waves in Sardinia. Catering to luxury travellers, Explora focuses on personalised experiences, offering guests the chance to enjoy upscale amenities and curated excursions. Departures commonly occur from Barcelona or Rome, allowing cruisers to leisurely explore this stunning island.
• Seabourn operates a fleet of 4 ships, with 2 vessels—the Seabourn Ovation and Seabourn Sojourn—offering itineraries that include Sardinia. Seabourn is celebrated for its ultra-luxurious experience, with fine dining and executive service tailored to your every desire. With departures from Barcelona or Monte Carlo, guests embark on a journey that embodies the art of cruising in the Mediterranean.
• Oceania Cruises comprises a fleet of 8 ships, with Nautica, showcasing itineraries that touch Sardinia. Noted for its destination-focused experiences, Oceania pays homage to local traditions and flavours across its dining options. With departures from Rome or Miami, Oceania Cruises promises a gracious experience as you discover this beautiful island.
• Azamara Cruises offers 4 ships with itineraries to Sardinia, including Azamara Onward and Azamara Journey. Known for its immersive onboard experiences, Azamara provides guests with unique opportunities to indulge in the local culture. Departing from Athens or Nice, these cruises deliver unforgettable experiences both onboard and ashore.
• Fred Olsen has a fleet of 3 ships, with Bolette offering a delightful way to explore Sardinia. This cruise line is particularly known for its intimate atmosphere and attentive service, ensuring that guests feel right at home. Departures generally occur from Liverpool, allowing adventurers to reach the beautiful shores of Sardinia.

Must-Visit Harbours in Sardinia

• Cagliari - The capital city offers a blend of stunning beaches and historical landmarks. Stroll through the picturesque old town, visit the ancient Roman amphitheatre, or take a dip at Poetto Beach, where azure waters meet golden sands. For a unique experience, check out the local markets for some traditional Sardinian treats.
• Olbia - This charming city is famous for its vibrant marina and nearby stunning beaches. Explore the archaeological museum to learn about the island’s rich history, or take a day trip to the nearby Costa Smeralda, known for its glamorous beaches and upscale resorts. Enjoy a leisurely meal at a seaside restaurant, sampling the region's delicious seafood specialities.
• Alghero - With its medieval architecture and Catalan influence, Alghero is a delightful destination. Visit the historic city walls and traverse the cobblestone streets filled with charming shops and cafés. Don't miss exploring the nearby Neptune's Grotto, a stunning sea cave accessible by boat or by walking down a scenic staircase.
• Porto Cervo - A glamorous seaside resort town located in the heart of the Costa Smeralda, Porto Cervo attracts the rich and famous. Stroll through the marina filled with luxury yachts, shop in exclusive boutiques, or enjoy the luxury beach clubs with exquisite dining offerings. Snap some pictures of the beautiful architecture and explosive nature surroundings while enjoying your time at this top-rated destination.
• Carloforte - This quaint island fishing village is located on the island of San Pietro, known for its distinctive blend of Italian and Ligurian cultures. Visitors can sample traditional tuna dishes and take part in cultural events. Enjoy a day of lounging at the gorgeous beaches or hiking in nearby nature reserves for a refreshing experience after a scenic cruise.

Seasonal Highlights for Cruising in Sardinia

Sardinia is a fantastic destination year-round. Exploring from January to March, you’ll enjoy average temperatures ranging from 10°C to 15°C, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor adventures without the tourist crowds. As spring blooms from April to June, temperatures rise to pleasing levels between 15°C and 25°C, offering great opportunities for beach outings and exploring hidden gems. Summer, from July to September, sees the island bustling with visitors, and temperatures can soar to between 24°C and 35°C, ideal for sun worshippers and beach enthusiasts. Autumn, from October to December, brings cooler temperatures of 10°C to 23°C, offering a peaceful vibe and stunning scenery as the landscapes transition into vibrant autumn colours.

Cost of Cruising to Sardinia

When considering a cruise to Sardinia, expect to pay between £700 and £1,300 per person for a week-long journey and approximately £1,500 to £2,800 for two weeks. Luxury cruises generally begin at around £1,800 for a week, offering impeccable service and lavish amenities. Onshore, meals typically range from £15 to £40 depending on the dining experience, while drinks usually cost between £3 and £10, allowing you to enjoy Sardinian wines and gastronomy while exploring the island's delights.

Alternative Regions Worth Considering

If Sardinia charms you but you'd like to explore different regions, consider these captivating alternatives:

• Amalfi Coast - Renowned for its stunning cliffs and vibrant villages, the Amalfi Coast offers breathtaking views and delicious cuisine. Each town along the coast is unique and worth exploring, giving you a sense of the local culture and rich history.
• Balearic Islands - A beautiful Mediterranean region known for its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife, the Balearic Islands present exciting opportunities for relaxation and adventure, from Mallorca's culture to Ibiza's iconic party scene.
• Italian Riviera - This picturesque coastal area is famous for its charming villages and dramatic cliffs. Enjoy leisurely days exploring places like Cinque Terre and Portofino, and indulge in authentic Italian cuisine along the way.
• Greek Islands - Rich in history and stunning landscapes, cruising the Greek Islands offers serene beaches, vibrant nightlife, and delicious Mediterranean cuisine—a perfect mix of relaxation and exploration.
• Corsica - With its rugged mountains and pristine coastlines, Corsica promises outdoor adventures and stunning views, combined with delightful local flavours and rich history to explore.

With its captivating beauty, rich culture, and exhilarating adventures, booking a cruise holiday to Sardinia through Cruise1st will surely create unforgettable memories. Get ready to explore the enchanting landscapes of this Mediterranean jewel!