cruise nyc to italy

• Vacation Rentals
• Restaurants
• Things to do
• Italy Tourism
• Italy Hotels
• Italy Vacation Rentals
• Flights to Italy
• Italy Restaurants
• Things to Do in Italy
• Italy Travel Forum
• Italy Photos
• All Italy Hotels
• Last Minute Hotels in Italy
• 3-stars Hotels in Italy
• 4-stars Hotels in Italy
• 5-stars Hotels in Italy
• Italy Hotels with Pools
• Pet Friendly Hotels in Italy
• Italy Hotels with Free Parking
• Barcelo Bavaro Palace All Inclusive Resort
• The Mirage Hotel & Casino
• Secrets Royal Beach Punta Cana
• Hilton Cancun, an All-Inclusive Resort
• Excellence Punta Cana
• Dreams Royal Beach Punta Cana
• Hotel Chester
• Dreams Macao Beach Punta Cana
• Hotel Riu Palace Kukulkan
• Aruba Ocean Villas
• Royalton Riviera Cancun
• Secrets Moxche Playa del Carmen
• Excellence Playa Mujeres
• Crystal Land Of Paradise
• Grand Hyatt Baha Mar
• Popular All-Inclusive Resorts
• Popular Beach Resorts
• Popular Family Resorts
• Popular All-Inclusive Hotels
• Popular Hotels With Waterparks
• Popular Honeymoon Resorts
• Popular Luxury Resorts
• Popular All-Inclusive Family Resorts
• Popular Golf Resorts
• Popular Spa Resorts
• Popular Cheap Resorts
• Cruises from New York City
• Cruises from California to New York City
• Cruises from Florida to New York City
• Cruises from Los Angeles to New York City
• Cruises from Fort Lauderdale to New York City
• Cruises from Miami to New York City
• Cruises from Tampa to New York City
• Cruises from San Francisco to New York City
• Cruises from Boston to New York City
• Cruises from Montreal to New York City
• Cruises from Quebec City to New York City
• Cruises from Southampton to New York City
• Cruises from London to New York City
• Cruises from Hamburg to New York City
• Cruises from Kiel to New York City
• Cruises from Copenhagen to New York City
• Cruises from Reykjavik to New York City
• Cruises from Cape Town to New York City
• Cruises from New York City to Europe
• Cruises from New York City to United States
• Cruises from New York City to Louisiana
• Cruises from New York City to Maine
• Cruises from New York City to Massachusetts
• Cruises from New York City to Rhode Island
• Cruises from New York City to Washington
• Cruises from New York City to Martha's Vineyard
• Cruises from New York City to Los Angeles
• Cruises from New York City to Santa Barbara
• Cruises from New York City to Fort Lauderdale
• Cruises from New York City to Miami
• Cruises from New York City to Port Canaveral
• Cruises from New York City to Tampa
• Cruises from New York City to Portland
• Cruises from New York City to Bayonne
• Cruises from New York City to Red Hook
• Cruises from New York City to Charleston
• Cruises from New York City to Norfolk
• Cruises from New York City to Bar Harbor
• Carnival Cruises from New York City
• Celebrity Cruises from New York City
• Cunard Cruises from New York City
• Disney Cruises from New York City
• Holland America Cruises from New York City
• Norwegian (NCL) Cruises from New York City
• Princess Cruises from New York City
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises from New York City
• Royal Caribbean Cruises from New York City
• Silversea Cruises from New York City
• Windstar Cruises from New York City
• Hurtigruten Cruises from New York City
• Oceania Cruises from New York City
• MSC Cruises from New York City
• Viking Ocean Cruises from New York City
• Carnival Cruises to New York City
• Celebrity Cruises to New York City
• Cunard Cruises to New York City
• Disney Cruises to New York City
• Holland America Cruises to New York City
• Norwegian (NCL) Cruises to New York City
• Princess Cruises to New York City
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises to New York City
• Seabourn Cruises to New York City
• Silversea Cruises to New York City
• Windstar Cruises to New York City
• Costa Cruises to New York City
• Hurtigruten Cruises to New York City
• Oceania Cruises to New York City
• MSC Cruises to New York City
• Viking Ocean Cruises to New York City
• 3 to 5 Day Cruises from New York City
• 6 to 9 Day Cruises from New York City
• 10 to 14 Day Cruises from New York City
• 15+ Day Cruises from New York City
• 3 to 5 Day New York City Cruises
• 6 to 9 Day New York City Cruises
• 10 to 14 Day New York City Cruises
• 15+ Day New York City Cruises
• New York City Family Cruises
• New York City Luxury Cruises
• Family Cruises out of New York City
• Luxury Cruises out of New York City
• GreenLeaders
• Things to Do
• Travel Stories
• Rental Cars
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travelers' Choice
• Help Center

Cheap Italy Cruises from New York City

• Europe    

Cruises from New York City to Italy

• New York - All

14 Night Cruise to Transatlantic

• You are looking for one of Royal Caribbean's next-gen cruise ships with lots to do onboard
• You want a wide selection of dining venues, both specialty and included
• You seek a unique variety of activites and entertainment, from simulated sky diving to robotic shows
• You prefer a smaller ship with fewer fellow passengers and more space per guest
• You appreciate a greater destination focus with an observation lounge, besides North Star
• You want even more included without the need to pay for extras

15 Night Cruise to Transatlantic

• You like your ships and entertainment options super-sized
• You are traveling solo and want dedicated single cabins
• You are looking to stay in Norwegian's Haven suite area
• You want a standard oceanview room; there are none onboard
• You like ships small and intimate, with quiet spaces galore

45 Night Cruise to Transatlantic

• You want a mid-sized ship with plenty of open deck spaces
• You like having big ship choice with small ship intimacy
• You love the classic cruise experience and like dressing up
• You crave the mega choices that big mega ships can offer
• You expect nonstop scheduled activities by day and night

116 Night Cruise to Around the World

• You are a discerning traveler seeking the ultimate luxury cruise
• You appreciate big-ship amenities with small-ship ambiance
• You want lavishly-appointed suites that spare no expense
• You prefer the intimacy of a smaller ship with fewer people
• You are watching your pennies; Mariner commands high prices

Explore New York City

• Need help? 1-888-751-7804 1-888-751-7804
• Let Us Call You CALL ME
• Drink Packages
• Flights by Celebrity℠
• Hotels by Celebrity
• Manage Reservation
• Shore Excursions
• Upgrade with MoveUp

• My Tier and Points
• Join Captain's Club

Already booked? Sign in or create an account

• South Korea
• New Zealand
• Grand Cayman
• St. Maarten
• U.S Virgin Islands
• New England & Canada
• Pacific Coast
• Antarctic Ocean
• Panama Canal
• Transatlantic
• Transpacific
• Cruise Ports (+300)
• Mediterranean
• Perfect Day at CocoCay
• All Inclusive
• Bucket List Cruises
• Cruise & Land Package
• Groups & Events
• New Cruises
• Popular Cruises
• Specialty Cruises
• Destination Highlights
• Group Excursions
• Private Journeys
• Shore Excursions Overview
• Small Group Discoveries

• 360° Virtual Tours
• Celebrity Apex®
• Celebrity Ascent℠ NEW
• Celebrity Beyond℠
• Celebrity Constellation®
• Celebrity Edge®
• Celebrity Eclipse®
• Celebrity Equinox®
• Celebrity Infinity®
• Celebrity Millennium®
• Celebrity Reflection®
• Celebrity Silhouette®
• Celebrity Solstice®
• Celebrity Summit®
• Celebrity Xcel℠ COMING SOON
• Explore Edge Series

Galapagos Expedition Series

• Celebrity Flora®
• Celebrity Xpedition®
• Celebrity Xploration®
• The Retreat
• All Suites. All Included
• Iconic Suite
• Penthouse Suite
• Reflection Suite
• Royal Suite
• Signature Suite
• Celebrity Suite
• Aqua Sky Suite
• Horizon Suite
• Sunset Suite
• Concierge Class
• Galapagos Accommodations
• Eat & Drink
• Entertainment
• Spa & Wellness

• Cruising 101
• Cruise Fare Options
• Cruise Tips
• First Time on a Cruise
• What is Included on a Cruise
• Future Cruise Vacations
• Accessible Cruising
• Captain's Club Rewards
• Cruise Insurance
• Flights by Celebrity
• Healthy at Sea
• Manage Cruise
• The Celebrity Store
• Travel Documents
• Royal Caribbean International
• Celebrity Cruises

• 75% Off 2nd Guest + Bonus Savings
• 3rd and 4th Guests Sail Free
• Galapagos 20% Savings + Free Flights
• Resident Rates
• Exciting Deals
• View All Offers
• All Included
• Cruise & Land Packages
• Dining Packages
• Photo Packages
• Wi-Fi Packages
• View All Packages
• Captain's Club Overview
• Join the Club
• Loyalty Exclusive Offers
• Tiers & Benefits
• Celebrity Cruises Visa Signature® Card

Enjoy 75% off your second guest’s cruise fare and get bonus savings of up to $150. Plus, additional guests in your stateroom sail free on select sailings.

Italy Cruises

Tabs view cruises.

• View Cruises

Unforgettable Luxury Cruises to Italy

Experience the joys of la dolce vita on one of our award-winning cruises to Italy. This spectacular destination has a bounty of treasures waiting to be discovered, from mouthwatering cuisine to magnificent archaeological sites and some of the world’s greatest art treasures.

Our Mediterranean cruises visit Italy’s most beautiful destinations. Dive into the azure ocean off the island of Sardinia and marvel at the grandeur of Mount Etna in Sicily. Drift along the romantic canals of Venice from a port stop in Ravenna. Explore the Colosseum and the Vatican in Rome. Gaze at dreamy villages in gelato colors spilling over the lemon-fragranced hillsides of the Amalfi Coast.

Embark on exciting shore excursions that include in-depth city tours, wine tastings, cooking classes, and more. There’s no shortage of beauty and wonder awaiting you on a luxury Italy cruise with Celebrity Cruises.

Italy Cruise Highlights

Fantastic cuisine.

One of the highlights of cruising to Italy is sampling all of the culinary delights of the region. Sip on glasses of Chianti, Barolo, and Pinot Grigio. Try Tuscan specialties like bistecca alla Fiorentina and grab a slice of authentic Neapolitan pizza in Naples. Buy a box of biscotti in Sicily and order a plate of bucatini or gnocchi in Rome. Finish off your meal with a creamy gelato and a reinvigorating shot of espresso.

Famous Landmarks

You’ll find magnificent landmarks everywhere during your cruise to Italy. In Rome, explore the Colosseum, where gladiators once battled, and throw a coin into the baroque Trevi Fountain to ensure your return to the city. In Florence, admire the perfection of Michelangelo’s David. Take a photo at the astonishing Leaning Tower of Pisa and admire the dappled sunlight and azure water inside Capri’s famed Blue Grotto. While in Venice, be dazzled by the exquisite mosaics inside St. Mark’s Basilica.

The Amalfi Coast

Soak in the beauty of the Amalfi Coast, where mountains plunge straight into the sparkling Mediterranean and pastel-colored townhouses and fragrant citrus groves cling to the hillsides. Visit the picturesque cliffside towns of Positano, Ravello, and Sorrento and savor a lunch of fresh seafood and crisp white wine in a beachfront restaurant. Sail to the fabled island of Capri, famed for its dramatic scenery and lavish villas, and sip limoncello while people watching in the chic Piazzetta.

Featured Italy Cruise Ports

Ravenna (venice).

The beautiful city of Ravenna reflects its one-time status as capital of the western Roman empire. Ancient churches and baptistries throughout the center, all protected by UNESCO, are adorned with exquisite early Christian mosaics. From Ravenna, visit the enchanting city of Venice, famed for its canals, grand waterfront palaces, ancient bridges, and art, from the masterpieces inside the Doge’s Palace to the contemporary Peggy Guggenheim Collection.

Rome (Civitavecchia)

History lovers and cultural connoisseurs will experience a feast for the senses in Rome, Italy’s elegant capital. Step back in time inside the Colosseum, an ancient amphitheater that dates back to the first century. Marvel at the heavenly frescoes of Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel inside the Vatican, and the vastness of St. Peter’s Basilica. Sip your morning cappuccino on gorgeous Piazza Navona against a soundtrack of splashing fountains and browse the designer shops on Via del Corso.

The seaside village of Portofino is one of Italy’s most glamorous destinations. Stroll around its winding streets lined with colorful buildings and admire the megayachts bobbing in the pretty harbor. Wander up the hill through the pinewoods beside the town to Castello Brown, a historic fort with dazzling views, or step inside enticing boutiques around the Piazzetta. This alluring square is the perfect spot for homemade gelato or a refreshing Aperol spritz cocktail in the sunshine.

Italy Cruise Itineraries

The Italy cruise season begins in May and lasts until October. Itineraries range from seven to twelve nights and depart from Ravenna (Venice), Rome, Athens and Barcelona. Most of our itineraries include one or two nights at sea and at least six different port stops in each sailing. Depending on your Italy cruise itinerary, you’ll sail around the country while also visiting ports in either Spain, France, Croatia, Greece, Turkey, and beyond, allowing you to explore Italy as well as other top destinations in Europe.

Itineraries

Why cruise to italy with celebrity cruises.

Experience the wonders of Italy while aboard one of our award-winning ships. Find out why we’ve been voted the best cruise line in Europe for 13 years in a row as you enjoy unparalleled service, stay in elegantly designed staterooms and suites, dine on world-class cuisine, and stop in spectacular port destinations along the way.

You’ll have access to non-stop entertainment, both on board and ashore. Sign up for exciting shore excursions that include everything from family-friendly outings to culinary tours. Watch show-stopping performances at the onboard theater, or unwind in our state-of-the-art spa. Spend a night out at one of our world-class specialty restaurants, and finish off the evening by dancing under the stars in a chic lounge in the middle of the sea. 

View All Italy Cruises

You might also like.

Sicily Cruises

Sardinia Cruises

Tuscany Cruises

Amalfi Coast Cruises

Cruise from Venice to Greece

Cruises from Rome to Greece

Italy and Greece Cruises

Barcelona to Venice Cruises

Cruise from Barcelona to Rome

Classic Cities and Towns in the Italian Riviera

Best Food Cities in Italy

Picturesque Coastal Towns in Italy

Best Time to Visit Italy

Most Beautiful Cities in Italy

Unforgettable Ways to Experience Italy in the Summer

Best Things to Do in Cinque Terre

Best Places to Visit in Sicily

Best Time to Visit the Amalfi Coast

Previewing: Promo Dashboard Campaigns

Cruises from New York to Italy

Cruises to Italy from NYC are extremely rare but they do exist. Only one or two a year are offered, which means that when you have the opportunity to go you shouldn't hesitate. See the schedule of departures below.

A one-way cruise to Rome from New York is particularly attractive. They stop at several beautiful ports along the way.

April 8, 2024: 16-night cruise to Italy on Norwegian Cruise Line . One-way from New York to Rome (Italy). Visit Bermuda, Ponta Delgada (Azores), Lisbon (Portugal), Seville (Spain), Granada (Spain), Ibiza (Spain), Barcelona (Spain) and Cannes (France).

April 24, 2024: 16-night cruise to Italy on MSC . One-way from Brooklyn (New York) to Rome (Italy). Visit King's Wharf (Bermuda), Ponta Delgada (Azores), Lisbon (Portugal) and Barcelona (Spain).

• Favorites & Watchlist Find a Cruise Cruise Deals Cruise Ships Destinations Manage My Cruise​ FAQ Perfect Day at CocoCay Weekend Cruises Crown & Anchor Society Cruising Guides Gift Cards Contact Us Royal Caribbean Group
• Back to Main Menu
• Search Cruises " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-2-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruises" target="_self"> Search Cruises
• Cruise Deals
• Weekend Cruises
• Last Minute Cruises
• Family Cruises​
• 2024-2025 Cruises
• All Cruise Ships " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-4-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruise-ships" target="_self"> All Cruise Ships
• Cruise Dining
• Onboard Activities
• Cruise Rooms
• The Cruise Experience
• All Cruise Destinations " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-5-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/cruise-destinations" target="_self"> All Cruise Destinations
• Cruise Ports
• Shore Excursions
• Perfect Day at CocoCay
• Caribbean Cruises
• Bahamas Cruises​
• Alaska Cruises
• European Cruises​
• Mediterranean Cruises​
• Cruise Planner
• Make a Payment
• Beverage Packages​
• Shore Excursions​
• Dining Packages​
• Royal Gifts
• Check-In for My Cruise
• Update Guest Information
• Book a Flight
• Transportation
• Book a Hotel
• Required Travel Documents
• Redeem Cruise Credit
• All FAQs " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-7-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/faq" target="_self"> All FAQs
• Boarding Requirements
• Future Cruise Credit​
• Travel Documents​
• Check-in​ & Boarding Pass
• Transportation​
• Perfect Day at CocoCay​
• Post-Cruise Inquiries
• Royal Caribbean
• Celebrity Cruises

Cruise to Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy

Rome (civitavecchia) shore excursions, amazing experiences coming soon., sorry, there are no excursions for this port at this moment., things to do in rome (civitavecchia).

ANCIENT AND AMAZING

The Pantheon in Rome, Italy

Walk through the heart of Ancient Rome. Start at the Colosseum, an enormous arena where gladiators once battled. Then meander around the Roman Forum’s timeworn ruins, past crumbling temples and basilicas. See where emperors lived on Palatine Hill— and enjoy an up-close view of the 2,000-year-old, well-preserved Pantheon church.

ADVENTURE SQUARED

A fountain in Piazza Navona in Italy

Roam around Rome’s piazzas, as each offers a unique perspective. Dine al fresco in Piazza Navona and climb The Spanish Steps in Piazza di Spagna. Wander cobbled alleys in bustling Trastevere and browse Campo de’ Fiori’s artisan stalls. Be sure to toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain for good measure.

SACRED SPACES

Explore the Vatican Museums’ extraordinary collection of tapestries and classical statues. Step inside the Sistine Chapel and be awed by Michelangelo’s ceiling frescoes. Then enter St. Peter’s Basilica, one of the world’s largest churches, to stand under its enormous sky-piercing dome.

LOCAL CUISINE

Romans live to eat, whether it’s family-style or in a sidewalk café. For an authentic taste of Cucina Romana, try carciofi alla Romana (braised artichokes) or spaghetti alla carbonara. Enjoy panino (stuffed sandwiches) or thin-crusted Roman pizza. Satisfy your sweet tooth with a scoop of gelato. Then finish the night with a glass of white wine from the surrounding Lazio region.

Street stalls throughout the city are your best bet for souvenirs. Via Condotti offers a string of couture Italian designers. Browse artist studios along Via Margutta, or the indie artisan retailers of the Monti neighborhood. Porta Portese is the city’s largest flea market— and La Rinascente, the first department store.

Best Deals to Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy

These cruises are selling out fast, get them while you can.

Departs From {{card.portName}}

Onboard {{card.shipName}} of the Seas

{{ card.totalGroups }} Itineraries

We've circled the globe and couldn't find any sailings that match your search. View All Cruises

We're having trouble retrieving these cruises. View All Results

Similar to Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy

Previewing: Promo Dashboard Campaigns

My Personas

Code: ∅.

USA to Italy Cruises

There are cruises from the United States to Italy. Six cruise lines offer options.

US to Italy cruises depart from Fort Lauderdale, Miami, Tampa or New York. Rome is on the west coast of Italy, and Venice is on the far north-east coast.

March 27, 2024: 15-day cruise from Miami (Florida) to Rome (Italy) on Oceania . Visit Great Stirrup Cay (Bahamas), Royal Naval Dockyard (Bermuda), Horta (Azores), Cadiz (Spain), Malaga (Spain) and Monte Carlo (Monaco).

April 7, 2024: 12-day cruise from Port Canaveral (Florida) to Rome (Italy) on Norwegian Cruise Line . Visit Gibraltar and Alicante (Spain).

April 8, 2024: 16-day cruise from New York to Rome (Italy) on Norwegian Cruise Line . Visit Royal Naval Dockyard (Bermuda), Ponta Delgada (Azores), Lisbon (Portugal), Cadiz (Spain), Malaga (Spain), Ibiz (Spain), Barcelona (Spain), Cannes (France) and Florence (Italy).

April 21, 2024: 14-night cruise from Fort Lauderdale (Florida) to Rome (Italy) on Royal Caribbean . Visit Ponta Delgada (Azores), Malaga (Spain), Cartagena (Spain) and La Spezia (Italy).

April 21, 2024: 19-day cruise from Miami (Florida) to Rome (Italy) on MSC . Visit New York (New York), Kings Wharf (Bermuda), Ponta Delgada (Azores), Lisbon (Portugal) and Barcelona (Spain).

March 24, 2025: 15-night cruise to Italy on Princess . One-way from Fort Lauderdale (Florida) to Rome (Italy). Visit Funchal (Madeira), Gibraltar, Malaga (Spain) and Ajaccio (Corsica).

March 31, 2025: 15-night cruise to Italy on Norwegian . One-way from New York to Rome (Italy). Visit Bermuda, Ponta Delgada (Azores), Lisbon (Portugal), Barcelona (Spain), Cannes (France), Florence (Italy) and Naples (Italy).

April 12, 2025: 16-night cruise to Italy on Celebrity . One-way from Tampa (Florida) to Rome (Italy). Visit Royal Naval Dockyard (Bermuda), Gibraltar and Cartagena (Spain).

April 20, 2025: 15-night cruise to Italy on Celebrity . One-way from Fort Lauderdale (Florida) to Rome (Italy). Visit Royal Naval Dockyard (Bermuda), Gibraltar, Cartagena (Spain) and Florence (Italy).

April 27, 2025: 14-night cruise to Italy on on Royal Caribbean . One-way from Cape Liberty (New Jersey) to Rome (Italy). Visit Ponta Delgada (Azores), Malaga (Spain), Cartagena (Spain), Valencia (Spain) and Florence (Italy).

• 1-855-932-1711
• My Account Hello Credits My Account Log out

Cruises to Italy & Amalfi Coast

Italy is so photogenic; it’s almost as if the entire country was built for wanderlust-inducing travel pictures. Whether this is your first time, or you’ve been before, an Italy cruise offers a new angle and the convenience of unpacking just once as you go from remote coastal towns to big cities. Our Italy cruise itineraries are unmatched in scope, bringing you to iconic destinations like the Eternal City of Rome (Civitavecchia),  the Amalfi Coast, and Vatican City,  along with seldom-visited jewels. Wander seashell-pink villages stacked precipitously along the Adriatic Sea on Italy cruises to Amalfi. Float Venice’s canals while a gondolier sings a lovely serenade. Sip chianti al fresco as the late sun bathes Rome in golden light. Taste classic Naples pizza that was perfected generations ago. On a cruise to Italy, experience an Italian vacation so immersive, you’ll forever feel at home in the region.

Europe Cruises    |    Mediterranean Cruises    |    Cruises to Italy    |    Cruises from Rome

Highlights from Cruises to Italy

The best way to explore the italian coast.

Roman History & Culture

Feast for the Eyes

Featured italy cruise ports.

Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy

Rome is Italy's beating heart, full of Rennaissance cathedrals and piazzas begging for you to sit and sip espresso.

Venice, Italy

Known as the city the floats on water, and the highlight of any cruise to Italy, Venice needs no further introduction.

Livorno (Florence), Italy

Florence is a dream Italian cruise destination for Renaissance-era sightseeing. But it’s a foodie haven too with family-run tripe wagons, wine bars and trattorias.

Ravenna (San Marino), Italy

A walker’s paradise and shopper’s mecca, Ravenna is home to the Basilica of Sant' Apollinare Nuovo, with its intricate mosaics; Dante’s tomb (author of The Divine Comedy); posh boutiques, and cafés.

Portoferraio (Elba), Italy

On your Italian cruise, visit Villa San Martino, the summer residence of Emperor Napoleon, and wander Portoferraio's centuries-old labyrinth of alleys.

Catania, Sicily, Italy

Sicily's second-largest city is intimately connected to the active volcano that towers above it. The smoking, gurgling peak of Mt. Etna, one of the island's most iconic landmarks, shaped Catania significantly.

Palermo, Italy

Palermo is a jumble of old and new. Explore ancient attractions, such as the mosaics of the Palatine Chapel (en Italiana: “Cappella Palatina”). Or, take a day trip to the seaside Cefalù.

Taormina, Italy

Perched on a hilltop, Taormina has an ancient theater and dramatic views of the scalloped coastline. An active volcano looms over this stunning city.

Featured Italy Cruise Excursions

More Europe Cruises

Cruises to Croatia

Cruises to Turkey

Cruises to Monaco

Cruises to Italy

Cruises to Spain

Cruises to Amsterdam

Help Widget copy TBD

HAL Home page

Cruising to Italy from North America

How to get from the u.s. to italy by cruise ship.

However, if your heart is set on a transatlantic cruise, there are two ways to achieve this.

First, the most obvious option: you take the classic Queen Mary 2 cruise from New York to Southampton, England, catch a train to London, and then fly down to Italy on the cheap using a no-frills airline (a sailing variant on the Big Beg Switcheroo ). » more

The other option is to find a seasonal repositioning cruise that will, indeed, take you directly to Italy—though this really only works in the spring, when cruise lines are sending their boats over to Europe for the summer cruising season (and—if you want to cruise home from Italy, again in the fall when the ships are being moved back). Details below . » more

Here a bit on Italian cruises , and then a short take on how each version of Transatlantic cruising to Italy can work.

Italian cruises

Ah, sailing the Mediterranean, stopping at fabled ports like Naples , Venice , and... Civitavecchia ?

Yes, well a few of the standard Italian cruise stops have unfamiliar names because they are actually the ports of call for more famous inland cities—in the case of Civitavecchia , it is Rome . To visit Pisa or Florence (or elsewhere in Tuscany ) the port you want is Livorno .

All cruise itineraries are quick to point this out, either listing the major city or cities in parentheses after the port (or, a bit misleadingly, putting the name of the port in parentheses). But it helps to know. It also helps to know how to get into those cities from the port —rather than pay the inflated fees for the ship's shuttle service. » more

As for finding a cruise that includes Italy, that's best left to the cruise discounters —who always charge less than the cruise lines themselves, and/or throw in great benefits and freebies (their ability to buy in bulk lets them negotiate better deals than you ever could going it alone). » more

The Big Ben Switcheroo: Nautical Edition (cruising to England; flying to Italy)

Now that the fabled QE2 (QEII, technically, refers to Her Majesty Elizabeth, Queen of England; QE2 refers to the big boat) is headed for a retirement moored in Dubai, the premier ship crossing the Pond is her niece, the Queen Mary 2 .

From Southampton, you can take a train to London (a 90-minute trip, with trains leaving every 15 minutes), then from there grab a low-cost airplane ride to just about any city in Italy you can think of—not just Rome and Milan , but Venice , Pisa , Naples , Palermo ... you name it. » more

Repositioning cruises (sailing directly to Italy)

Most cruises ships spend half the year (the winter) on this side of the Atlantic (mostly cruising the Caribbean) and the other half (the summer) on the European side, cruising the Mediterranean, Adriatic, Aegean, and North Sea.

That means, twice a year, they have to reposition the boats from one side of the Pond to the other. Some make a straight-arrow journey —leaving from a port like Miami or New York, sailing for 5-6 days, then putting in in England, Spain, or Portugal. (If they're making all the way for Italy, they make make a few more stops in Spain and Portugal and maybe France along the way.)

Other transatlantic repositioning cruises take a more leisurely two weeks and call at a dozen other ports in the Caribbean and Europe along the way. These globe-trotting cruise ships tend to head over to Europe in March and April and come back in September and October (some linger into November and even December), when hurricane season is winding down and Caribbean cruises come back into high demand.

Rates for these repositioning cruises start around $599 per person for two sharing a cabin. A few samples (from 2010 sailings):

• Apr. 10: 14 Night Transatlantic Cruise on Norwegian Cruise Line's Norwegian Gem New York to Venice, Italy (via Ponta Delgada, Azores, Portugal, Lisbon, Portugal, Cadiz (Seville), Spain, and Malaga, Spain) - From $639 .
• Oct 30: 14 Night Transatlantic Cruise on Norwegian Cruise Line's Norwegian Gem Venice, Italy to New York (same trip as above, backwards) - From $839 .
• Apr. 10: 14 Night Transatlantic Cruise on Royal Caribbean International's Navigator Of The Seas Miami, Florida to Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy (via Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain, Barcelona, Spain, and Nice, France) - From $799 .
• Oct. 23: 14 Night Transatlantic Cruise on Royal Caribbean International's Navigator Of The Seas Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy to Miami, Florida (same as above, backwards) - From $919 .
• Apr. 3: 16 Night Transatlantic Cruise on Holland America Line's Eurodam Fort Lauderdale, Florida to Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy (via Lisbon, Portugal, Portimao, Portugal, Cadiz (Seville), Spain, Almeria, Spain, Ibiza, Spain, Barcelona, Spain, and Monte Carlo, Monaco) - From $1,199 .

Of course, these cruises are one-way, leaving it up to you to find airfare to or from Europe and also to or from New York or Florida (or wherever the domestic end of the cruise is).

Where to find and book transatlantic cruises

You should never book a cruise directly with the cruise line, but rather via a travel agent or a cruise specialist, which have the power of buying in bulk to get better rates and loads of extras and freebies (on-board ship credits, free booze, and other perks). I suggest using an aggregator or cruise discounter , as detailed on the Cruise Savings page, but for a start:

Tips & links

www.cruisedirect.com www.cruisecompete.com www.cruisecritic.com www.smallshipcruises.com

• Tourism info
• Italia.it (national tourism authority)
• Beniculturali.it (historic and cultural sites ministry)
• Culturaitalia.it (cultural patrimony)
• Coopculture.it (runs many major museums and ancient sights)
• Multi-day tours
• Intrepidtravel.com
• Gadventures.com
• SelectItaly.com
• Infohub.com
• Walks, activities, tours, & guides
• ContextTravel.com
• City-discovery.com
• Gear & clothing
• Backwoods.com
• Travelsmith.com
• Magellans.com
• Booking.com
• Hostelz.com
• HotelsCombined.com
• Priceline.com
• Bedandbreakfast.com
• Bed-and-breakfast.it
• Hostelworld.com
• Bbitalia.it
• Karenbrown.com
• Apartments & villas
• Rentalo.com
• Homeaway.com
• Belvilla.com
• Interhomeusa.com
• Villasintl.com
• Craigslist.org
• Hostels & campgrounds
• Hostelbookers.com
• HostelsClub.com
• Residence hotels
• Biz-stay.com
• Agriturismo (farm stays)
• Terranostra.it
• Turismoverde.it
• Agriturist.it
• Momondo.com
• AutoEurope.com
• CheapOair.com
• Cheapflights.com
• CheapTickets.com
• Airport transfers
• Rome: Adr.it
• Milan: Sea-aeroportimilano.it
• Venice: Veniceairport.it
• Florence / Pisa: Aeroporto.firenze.it , Pisa-airport.com
• Palermo: Gesap.it
• ItaliaRail.com
• Raileurope.com
• Trenitalia.com
• Autoeurope.com
• RentalCars.com
• CarRentals.com
• AutoSlash.com
• Europebycar.com
• Renaultusa.com
• Short-term leases
• Car resources
• Emergency service/tow: tel . 803-116
• Highway agency: Autostrade.it (traffic info, serivce areas, toll calculator, weather)
• Italian automotive club (~AAA): Aci.it
• ZTLs: Ztl-italia.blogspot.com (lightly outdated, but handy, links to cities' traffic-free zones)
• Regional & long-distance bus (coach) info
• Orariautobus.it
• Italybus.it
• Oraribus.com
• Cruisedirect.com
• Expedia.com
• Cruisecompete.com
• Onlinevacationcenter.com
• Vacationstogo.com
• iCruise.com
• Cruisecritic.com
• Cruisemates.com
• Smallshipcruises.com
• Shore excursions & port transfers
• City-Discovery.com
• Shoretrips.com
• Traghettilines.it
• Traghetti.com
• Aferry.co.uk
• Directferries.com
• Traghettionline.com
• Navigazionelaghi.it (lakes)

Related pages

• Saving money on cruises
• Avoiding cruise money-pits and rip-offs
• D.I.Y. shore excursions
• How to get into town from major ports of call ( Civitavecchia/Rome , Livorno/Florence , Livorno/Pisa , Venice , Naples )
• Ferries in Italy —the poor man's cruise lines
• Pefect Italy itineraries
• Italy destinations
• Italy planning FAQ

Share this page

Search ReidsItaly.com

• Top 10 Italy tips
• Getting to & around Italy
• Itineraries
• Info & Passports
• Packing tips & lists
• Money & shopping
• Sightseeing
• Health & Safety
• Communications
• City itineraries (1–4 days in Rome, Venice, Florence, etc)
• If you have one week in Italy
• If you have two weeks in Italy
• How to use these itineraries
• When to go to Italy
• The trip countdown calendar (for obsessives)
• Daily itinerary tips
• By plane from North America
• By plane from within Europe
• By tour or package
• Reid's Tips for saving on transportation
• Vacation packages
• Air-hotel packages
• Air-car packages
• Specialty tours
• Learning vacations
• Study tours
• Language schools
• Active vacations
• Walking tours
• Seniors tours
• Family tours
• Women's tours
• Disabled tours
• Religious tours
• Guided tours
• Microtours/single-day tours
• By rental car
• By low-cost airline
• Where to stay in Italy
• Booking hotels
• Italian hotels 101
• Alternative accommodations
•     Agriturismi
•     Apartments
•     B&Bs
•     Campgrounds
•     Sleep for free
•     Monasteries
•     Villa rentals
•     More lodging options
• Reid's tips for saving on lodging
• Passports & visas
• Tourist offices
• Guidebooks & other travel media
• Fun stuff - Books, movies, & more
• The art of packing light
• The Ultimate Packing List
• Gear & gadgets
• Electronics & converters
• Changing money
• Cash (euros)
• Credit cards
• Traveler's checks
• Wiring money
• Rip-offs & scams
• Reid's Tips for saving money
• What to buy in Italy
• Reid's tips for saving on shopping
• Metric system sizes
• The art of bargaining
• Customs limits
• Planning your days
• Microtours (city & sights tours)
• Museums 101
• Theaters & tickets
• Take only photographs...
• Reid's Tips for saving on sightseeing
• Dining in Italy
• Types of Italian eateries
• The Italian meal
• Typical Italian food
• Italian wine & liquors
• Quick Italian dining phrases
• Picnicking & street food
• Reid's tips for saving on dining
• Health concerns
•     Hospitals
•     Pharmacies
•     Health insurance
• Trip insurance
• Safety concerns
•     Pickpockets
•     Losing things
•     Embassies
•     Terrorism
• Issues for women
• Issues for the handicapped
• Racial concerns
• Tips for gay travelers
• Parla Italiano?
•     Quick Italian phrase sheet
•     Phrase books & dictionaries
•     On the polite use of English
•     Those Italian gestures
• Best ways to stay in touch
•     Phones in Italy
• How to dial Italy or call home from Italy
•     Cellphones in Italy
•     Cybercafes in Italy
•     WiFi in Italy
•     Skype
•     Mail in Italy
• The metric system
• Saving on airfares
• Saving on train travel
• Saving on car rentals
• Saving on cruises
• Saving on lodging
• Saving on dining
• Saving on sightseeing
• Free sightseeing
• Free lodging (honest)
• Free dining (seriously)
• Worst savings tips

Shortcuts to popular planning sections:

Airfares , Cars , Trains , Tours , Packages , Cruises , Lodging , Itineraries , Info , Packing , Prep , Comm

• Map of all regions
• Emilia Romagna
• Trentino Alto-Adige
• Leaning Tower of Pisa
• Sistine Chapel
• Michelangelo's David
• Da Vinci's Last Supper
• Grand Canal of Venice
• Blue Grotto
• Brunelleschi's Dome
• Chianti vineyards
• Cinque Terre
• Ponte Vecchio
• Basilica of St. Francis
• Temple of Concord
• Mole Antonellina
• Castel del Monte
• Secret Hotels
• Vietri sul Mare
• The Chianti
• Planning FAQ
• Riomaggiore
• Monterosso al Mare
• Lake Maggiore
• Lake Lugano
• Lake Varese
• Lazio lakes
• San Gimignano
• Montepulciano
• Tuscan Itineraries
• Top 10 tips
• Getting to Italy
• Save on airfares
• Tours & Specialty trips
• Getting around in Italy
• Italian trains
• Renting a car
• Save money on transportation
• Top 10 lodging tips
• Amazing alternatives to hotels
• How Italian hotels work
• The hotel hunt
• Hotel scams & rip-offs
• Save money on lodging
• Top 10 planning tips
• Time to budget for cities
• Sights to book ahead
• Perfect city & regional itineraries
• If you have one week...
• If you have two weeks...
• The countdown calendar
• Book a tour
• Book airfare
• Book hotels
• Book a rental car
• Book train tickets & railpasses
• Book a cruise
• Book sightseeing
• Get travel gear
• Choose guidebooks
• Information, guidebooks, & passports
• Packing lists & tips
• Money matters
• Shopping & taxes
• Health, safety, & insurance
• Communications: Italian lessons to cellpones
• Sightseeing tips
• Microtours of cities & sights
• Save money on sightseeing
• Dining tips
• Save money on dining
• Top experiences
• Italian icons
• Culinary adventures
• Once-in-a-lifetime
• Reid's offbeat experiences
• Italian skills
• Learn something new
• Italian modes of transport
• Opera & concerts
• Get religion
• Sports & outdoors
• Retail therapy

This article was written by Reid Bramblett and was last updated in April 2015 . All information was accurate at the time. about | contact | faq » THE REIDSITALY.COM DIFFERENCE « åß Copyright © 2008–2017 by Reid Bramblett . Author: Reid Bramblett

Like ReidsItaly? Try ReidsEngland.com

• Enable Accessibility

• 00800 0310 21 21 1-855-577-9489 1-877-288-3037 1-877-288-3037 1-877-474-2969
• | NCL Travel Blog">11-Reasons to Cruise to Alaska this Summer | NCL Travel Blog
• | Norwegian Cruise Line">14-Day Authentic Alaska - Northbound Cruise Tour | Norwegian Cruise Line
• | Deck Plans | Norwegian Cruise Line">14-Day Authentic Alaska - Southbound Cruise Tour | Deck Plans | Norwegian Cruise Line
• | Norwegian Cruise Line">20-Day Transpacific from Tokyo (Yokohama) & Alaska | Norwegian Cruise Line
• | NCL Travel Blog">11 Reasons to Cruise to Alaska this Summer | NCL Travel Blog
• View All Results
• Preferences
• Latitudes Rewards
• Special Offers
• Personalised Recommendations
• Make reservations before you cruise
• 1 (current)

* Terms & Conditions Package not available on sailings less than 5 days or charter sailings.

Select a Month to update Weather info

• MONTH Apr Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
• AVG. TEMPERATURE thermometer 17 ° C HIGH 11 ° C LOW
• AVG. PRECIPITATION drops 69 MM
• Cruise Ports

Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy

• Need to Know
• Itineraries
• VIEW CRUISES

Endless adventures await in Rome. With two and a half thousand years of history, art and culture, it is no wonder Rome is one of the most visited cities on the planet. Gaze at the masterpieces of the Vatican or walk into the past with visits to ancient relics, historic monuments and legendary museums. Or people-watch whilst sipping on an espresso in a quaint cafe.

Civitavecchia Cruise Image Gallery

• Fountain di Trevi
• Cathedral of Orvieto
• Piazza Venezia
• Piazza Navona
• Civita di Bagnoregio
• St. Peter's Square with Basilica of St.Peter
• Vatican Museum
• Cafe in Rome
• Castle St. Angelo

Civitavecchia

What you NEED TO KNOW

Featured Civitavecchia CRUISE ITINERARIES

The Best Cruises Departing From NYC, From Bermuda Getaways to Transatlantic Voyages

By Meena Thiruvengadam

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Tourists and residents alike can take advantage of the many cruises that depart from New York City, offering easy access to warm weather getaways, family vacations, expeditions, and more. After all, nothing screams adventure like sailing away from the Big Apple with the Statue of Liberty and iconic city skyline in your wake.

Plus, New York is home to the oldest cruise terminal in the United States. Nowadays, there are two hubs, one in Manhattan and another in Brooklyn . An additional cruise terminal, in Cape Liberty in Bayonne, New Jersey, also serves the area.

The Manhattan cruise terminal is located on the edge of Midtown, making it easy to spend port days or pre-cruise time exploring Times Square, Central Park, or the Theater District. The Empire State Building and iconic department stores including Macy’s Herald Square are also within walking distance of the Manhattan cruise port.

The Brooklyn cruise port is a 15-minute drive from Brooklyn Bridge Park , which offers some of the best views of downtown Manhattan. If you're looking to stretch your legs, the walk across the Brooklyn Bridge into Manhattan offers just over a mile of picturesque city viewpoints. While Bayonne, New Jersey may not be a huge tourist destination, sailing from Cape Liberty does provide a postcard-perfect look at the Manhattan skyline and its famous neighbor, the Statue of Liberty.

Jump ahead:

Which cruise lines sail out of New York?

Where do cruises go from new york, best overall cruise itinerary from new york, best transatlantic cruise from new york, best family cruise from new york, best cruise from new york for solo travelers, best caribbean luxury cruise from new york, best bermuda cruise from new york, best fall foliage cruise from new york, best mediterranean cruise from new york.

Both large cruise ships and a few smaller ships cruise from New York , giving you the option to pick a vessel with lots of restaurants and lounges, or one that’s cozier with fewer dining options. A variety of cruise lines—including Norwegian Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, Holland America, Disney, Cunard, Silversea, Oceania Cruises, and Viking—sail from New York City. This variety caters to all types of traveler budgets, so whether you're looking to cruise from New York for as little as a few hundred dollars or drop thousands on a bucket list vacation, there's something for you.

Cruises from New York sail to Canada, Greenland, Iceland, Europe, the United Kingdom, Bermuda, the Caribbean, and beyond. Several world cruises also stop in New York.

The short version of the story is that whether it’s a short island escape or the unforgettable journey of a lifetime you’re after, a cruise from New York will result in PTO well spent. Ahead, we've pulled some of your best options for cruising from New York City.

Viking offers ocean cruises between New York and Reykjavik in June, August, and September.

Trade the soaring skyscrapers of New York City for coastal Canada, remote Greenland, and endless Icelandic summer days. This Viking itinerary makes two stops in Canada and two stops in Greenland before circumnavigating Iceland, beginning with the remote Westfjords and ending in Reykjavik. Sail the same seas as legendary Norse explorer Leif Erikkson (on a far more luxurious Viking ship) while learning about the American Revolution and Canadian exploration from the cruise line’s resident historian. Lounge by the pool, visit the spa, or look out for whales and puffins. Viking has several nearly identical ocean ships sailing this itinerary from New York—each can accommodate a maximum of 930 passengers, allowing them to dock in ports larger ships cannot access.

It’s impossible to get bored on the MSC Meraviglia . See six Broadway-caliber shows over a 7-night cruise, spend sea days at the thermal spa or lounging by the pool, go bowling, play arcade games, try out an F1 simulator, or work out in a state-of-the-art gym—the opportunities are endless. MSC’s Meraviglia sails from New York to Bermuda, Canada, New England, the Bahamas, and Florida and can accommodate up to 5,642 passengers across 2,214 staterooms. Choose among 23 dining venues and 20 bars and lounges, or try to eat your way through all of them.

Norwegian Prima is one of the best cruises for solo travelers departing from New York City.

On most cruise lines, traveling solo means paying up to double the fare for a cabin to yourself, but not on the Norwegian Prima . This ship has a special area set aside for solo travelers with 73 studio suites and a private common area for mingling. Each of the Norwegian Prima’s 95-square-foot studio suites comes with a full-size bed, en suite bathroom, and a vanity table. And while space inside these studios are tight, you’ll likely be so busy go-karting, lounging by the pool, taking in shows, and relaxing in hot tubs, it’s unlikely you’ll find yourself spending much time in the room beyond catching some shut eye. The Norwegian Prima sails to Bermuda and the Caribbean from New York and offers a transatlantic repositioning itinerary.Best transatlantic cruise from New York

On Holland America's Volendam , embark on an unforgettable roundtrip journey from New York that includes a stop in the Azores and overnights in Rome, Cairo, and Istanbul. This 45-day journey on Holland America’s Volendam crosses the iconic Strait of Gibraltar and offers several sea days to enjoy the ship’s onboard amenities, which include a spa, swimming pools, and several restaurants. The Volendam accommodates just over 1,400 guests and is designed around grand public spaces. Dive deeper into destinations with regional cooking demonstrations as well as food and wine tastings. There’s no better way to travel in comfort and see the Statue of Liberty, Colosseum, Pyramids of Giza, and Hagia Sophia on a single trip.

Regent Seven Seas cruises are known for all-inclusive luxury.

Sample the best of the Caribbean in just 15 days on the Seven Seas Grandeur , one of the most luxurious ships at sea. This Regent Seven Seas cruise visits Bermuda, St. Barts, St. Lucia, Barbados, Grenada, Bonaire, Curacao, and Aruba en route to Miami. This cruise line is a favorite among retired travelers, and the Seven Seas Grandeur is the line’s most luxurious ship. There are 746 suites, a spa, a teaching kitchen, a casino, and Broadway-caliber entertainment onboard. Regent Seven Seas’ specialty is all-inclusive luxury, and it means it. Shore excursions, alcohol, specialty restaurants, and laundry are included in cruise fares, which start at around $8,400 for this itinerary.

Escape New York City and head straight to the pink beaches and turquoise waters of Bermuda on the Celebrity Eclipse . Spend two full nights in Bermuda and several days at sea—plenty of time to enjoy everything the Celebrity Eclipse has to offer. Play basketball, go shopping or spend your time at the casino, pools or spa. Or eat and drink your way across more than a dozen bars and restaurants, including an interactive Le Petit Chef dining experience. These seven-night roundtrip sailings depart from Cape Liberty in Bayonne, New Jersey, making it especially easy to combine a visit to the Statue of Liberty with your cruise.

Hop on the Seabourn Quest in October for an unforgettable journey through the colors of autumn. Spend a gorgeous fall day in Central Park before setting sail from New York to Montréal by way of Martha's Vineyard, Boston, Halifax, and Prince Edward Island on a 12-day itinerary along the eastern seaboard. This is a small ship that’s especially popular among North Americans, Europeans, and Australians, and a cruise line that’s beloved by foodies. Seabourn is known for its indulgent steaks, endless caviar, and partnership with award-winning chef Thomas Keller, who has a namesake restaurant on board.

In just 16 nights, sail from Manhattan to Bermuda, Portugal, Spain , the south of France, and Italy on the Norwegian Escape , a ship that accommodates just over 4,000 passengers and is sure to offer something for everyone. The Norwegian Escape offers several restaurants and lounges on board as well as Broadway shows, five multistory waterslides, and the largest ropes course at sea. On its Mediterranean sailing, the cruise stops in Lisbon , Malaga, Barcelona, Cannes, and Rome.

This story has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

8 best Italy cruises for a Mediterranean vacation

You don't have to search all that hard to find the best Italy cruises — most leading cruise lines offer dozens of itineraries that visit Italian ports, often in conjunction with neighboring countries France, Greece and Croatia.

The reason? Italy has it all: coastlines on both the Mediterranean and the Adriatic, historic port cities (Rome, Venice and Naples among them) and spectacular islands (including Sicily, Sardinia, Capri and Elba).

For more cruise guides, news and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Plus, with a cruise season that runs from early April through late October (and even year-round for a few cruise lines), Italy offers something for everyone. Travel here to find an alluring mix of impeccably preserved historic sites, renowned regional cuisines and natural wonders waiting to be discovered.

Here are eight of the best Italy cruises for every type of traveler.

Best Italy cruises for cultural immersion: Azamara

Azamara pioneered the concept of single-country itineraries, which allow for greater cultural immersion and even overnight stays in select ports. The cruise line's 11-night voyage in October 2024 is one of its most comprehensive.

The sailing begins in Monte Carlo, Monaco, and ends in Rome (Civitavecchia), with visits to seven more Italian ports and Tunis, Tunisia. You'll explore Genoa, Livorno (overnight for Florence/Pisa), Porto Santo Stefano (on the Tuscan coast), Cagliari (on Sardinia), Trapani (on Sicily), Amalfi and Sorrento.

This voyage is aboard the 684-passenger Azamara Onward, one of the cruise line's four virtually identical ships. (All are former Renaissance R-class ships built in the early 2000s and renovated over the past several years.) The vessels' intimate size and Azamara's focus on cultural experiences and shore excursions emphasizing history and food (including cooking classes and market tours) make for an immersive cruise itinerary.

Other Italy-Intensive voyages in 2023 and 2024 include the following: a 10-night voyage in October 2023 aboard Azamara Quest, a 10-night voyage in April 2024 aboard Azamara Pursuit, and a seven-night voyage in May 2024 aboard Azamara Quest.

Best Italy cruises for small-ship lovers: Windstar Cruises

It's rare to find a cruise itinerary so fully focused on one specific region of Italy, but Windstar Cruises ' small ships — three classic sailing yachts and three all-suite motor yachts, which accommodate 148 to 342 guests — allow it to offer cruises to less-frequented ports.

Windstar's 10-day Sicilian Splendors , aboard its 342-passenger sailing yacht Wind Surf, is available on multiple dates in 2023, 2024 and 2025. The ship will cruise round-trip from Rome and call on six Italian ports: Catania (for Mount Etna), Porto Empedocle (for the ancient ruins at Agrigento) and Trapani (for its signature colored salts and Marsala wines), all in Sicily; the island of Lipari (the largest of seven Aeolian Islands); and Sorrento and Amalfi on the stunning Amalfi Coast. The cruise also visits the neighboring islands of Malta and Gozo.

Five-masted Wind Surf is the world's largest sailing ship. It manages to be intimate without feeling claustrophobic, although it is worth noting that none of its staterooms or suites has a balcony. There is, however, ample deck space for relaxation, with a pool and two hot tubs, as well as inviting alfresco bars and dining areas.

Related: The 2 classes of Windstar ships, explained

Indoors, the ship's restaurants and social spaces, such as the Veranda Restaurant, Stella Bistro and the Compass Rose Bar, are light-filled, with elegant neutral decor refreshed in 2019.

Musical entertainment takes place in the Wind Surf Lounge and Compass Rose Bar, and Windstar's excellent dining program reflects an ongoing partnership with the James Beard Foundation. In select tender ports, passengers can enjoy a watersports platform and take out sea kayaks and stand-up paddleboards.

Best Italy cruises for onboard pampering: Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

If enjoying yacht-style indulgence as you explore Southern Italy is on your cruise wish list, consider the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection's 10-night Rome to Valletta itinerary in May 2024. This cruise visits scenic hot spots such as Sorrento and Amalfi on the Amalfi Coast, history-rich Siracusa in Sicily and three ports (Gallipoli, Taranto and Otranto) in lesser-known Puglia, located on the heel of boot-shaped Italy, before passengers disembark in Malta.

Ritz-Carlton, which entered the cruise realm in 2021 with its 298-passenger luxury yacht, Evrima , offers an all-inclusive "yachting lifestyle" experience. This leisurely sailing features overnights in Sorrento and Taranto and two sea days with ample ways to enjoy onboard pampering. The ship's spacious suites are designed with a contemporary residential feel and range in size from 300 square feet with an 81-square-foot terrace to 1,091 square feet with a 635-square-foot terrace.

Evrima also offers nine bars and dining venues featuring menus created to reflect the ports visited. For culinary indulgence, guests can book a table at S.E.A., a specialty dining experience designed by Chef Sven Elverfeld of Aqua, the Michelin three-starred restaurant at The Ritz-Carlton in Wolfsburg, Germany.

The ship also features chicly designed spaces for relaxing and socializing, such as the Pool House lounge overlooking an aft infinity pool, a second pool located next to the alfresco restaurant Mistral, a panoramic Observation Lounge and a full-service Ritz-Carlton Spa.

Related: The best luxury cruise lines for elegance and exclusivity

Best Italy cruises for foodies: Silversea Cruises

The three newest ships in the Silversea Cruises fleet — Silver Moon, Silver Dawn and 2023's first-in-class Silver Nova — all feature the cruise line's immersive culinary program known as S.A.L.T. (Sea and Land Taste). When Silversea's next ship, the 728-passenger Silver Ray, debuts in 2024, it will also take its guests on culinary-focused journeys — among them an 11-day Rome to Venice itinerary in June 2024.

The itinerary includes calls on seven ports in Italy: Rome, Naples, Sorrento, Palermo, Siracusa, Trieste and Venice. The sailing also visits ports in Malta, Montenegro and Croatia.

Silversea's sailings blend food-centric excursions — such as a visit to a family farm for a tasting of fresh cheese, salami and olive oil in Sorrento — with the onboard S.A.L.T. program to make sampling local cuisine a natural part of the cruise experience. The day-to-day menus at S.A.L.T. Kitchen are all inspired by the ports visited. The Terrain menu focuses on that day's port while the Voyage menu draws from the best flavors of the entire itinerary.

Passengers aboard Silver Ray should definitely pack an appetite — in addition to S.A.L.T. Kitchen, the ship features seven other restaurants. They are La Dame for haute French cuisine, Atlantide for signature fine dining (think caviar and lobster), Kaiseki for Japanese sushi and teppanyaki (as well as pan-Asian dishes), Silver Note for tapas-style dining and live music, The Grill for casual burgers and salads, La Terrazza for handmade pasta and other Italian specialties, and Spaccanapoli for thin-crusted Naples-style pizza. With 11 nights aboard, there's time to sample all of them.

Related: The ultimate guide to cruise ship food and dining

Best Italy cruises for families: Norwegian Cruise Line

If an Italy adventure with the entire family sounds like the perfect cruise vacation in 2024, Norwegian Cruise Line 's new Norwegian Viva, launching in August 2023 as the sister ship to 2022's Norwegian Prima, is an ideal playground for guests of all ages.

The most Italy-focused itinerary? The 10-day Mediterranean: Italy, Greece & Croatia cruise (offered aboard 3,099-guest Viva in late June and late September 2024) calls on six ports in Italy — Rome, Livorno, Naples, Messina, Siracusa and Trieste — as well as the islands of Corfu and Malta; Koper, Slovenia; and Dubrovnik and Split in Croatia.

This itinerary is rich in history and culture, including the ancient landmarks of Rome, the archeological wonders of Pompeii and the Leaning Tower of Pisa near Livorno, plus the beauty and culinary treats (sweet cannoli and savory arancini) of Sicily, where Viva makes two port calls. Though the cruise ends in Trieste, the wonders of Venice are just 90 minutes away, so adding a few extra nights to explore its colorful, canal-laced islands is a must.

Onboard Viva, you'll enjoy more than a dozen dining options (five of them complimentary, including the casual and family-friendly Indulge Food Hall), 16 bars and lounges and all the fun activities/entertainment (including a production of the Broadway hit "Beetlejuice: The Musical") that the line offers.

Related: Best cruise lines for families

Top amenities include the three-deck Viva Speedway for exhilarating go-kart racing, three thrilling slides (two of them 10-story corkscrew dry slides and one tidal-wave-style waterslide), virtual-reality gaming in the Galaxy Pavilion, tech-enhanced minigolf and more. Also, Viva's generous outside deck space — especially Deck 8's Ocean Boulevard with its lively Indulge Outdoor Lounge and sleek Infinity Beach pools — is ideal for scenic cruising in the Mediterranean and Adriatic.

Best Italy cruises for couples: Oceania Cruises

The sophisticated onboard ambiance and a romantic itinerary are a lovely combination, and couples can enjoy both on the 12-night Mediterranean Tapestry sailing offered in June 2024 aboard Oceania Cruises ' newest vessel, Oceania Vista.

The 1,200-passenger ship, which debuted in May 2023, will visit four top ports in Italy — Venice/Trieste in Northern Italy, Taormina in Sicily, Amalfi/Positano in Southern Italy and Civitavecchia for a day in Rome.

Beyond Italy, this itinerary offers a sampling of scenic locales in six other Adriatic and Mediterranean countries with a possible pre-cruise stay in Venice. You'll visit Korcula and Split in Croatia; Kotor, Montenegro; Igoumanitsa and Katakolon in Greece; Ajaccio, Corsica; Monte Carlo, Monaco; Marseille, France; and Barcelona, Spain.

Oceania caters to couples seeking an upscale cruise experience with a culinary focus. Onboard Vista, the atmosphere is sleek and polished, with interior decor awash in elegant neutrals of varying patterns and textures, all woven together into a soothing mosaic (in some cases, literally, as tiled vignettes are used throughout the ship). Vista's bars and lounges, especially the Martini Bar and the Grand Lounge, are so chic you'll want to get dressed up every night to enjoy one of the craft cocktails on their newly enhanced menus.

All specialty dining is included in the cruise fare, and stand-out meals at Polo Grill (for an excellent steakhouse menu), Toscana (for authentic Italian, including recipes by Vista's godmother Giada De Laurentiis) and Red Ginger (for flavorful pan-Asian) are just a reservation away. Two new eateries, Aquamar Kitchen and Ember, serve wellness-focused cuisine and casual American comfort food, respectively, and an expanded Culinary Arts Center lets guests who love to cook take hands-on classes.

Best of all, Vista is an all-balcony ship, so every stateroom features access to fresh air (French Veranda Staterooms don't have an outdoor sitting area, however). Veranda Staterooms and Concierge Level Veranda Staterooms offer a spacious 290 square feet of indoor space — and some of the best standard bathrooms at sea with roomy walk-in showers and ample storage.

Related: The best cruises for couples seeking romance and together time at sea

Best Italy cruises for travelers on a budget: Royal Caribbean

To score a budget cruise fare in the Mediterranean, it helps to look for sailings aboard a cruise line's older ships. If Italy is your main focus for a future cruise, it's hard to beat the seven-night Western Mediterranean itinerary in September 2024 aboard Royal Caribbean 's Voyager of the Seas.

It visits five Italian ports: Venice/Ravenna, Messina in Sicily, Naples, Rome and Livorno (for Florence and Pisa). The ship also calls on Marseille and Barcelona. Voyager's Italy-focused cruise is a jam-packed itinerary with just one sea day.

Ideal for both couples and multi-generational families, the 3,600-passenger Voyager of the Seas (which debuted in 1999 and was last refurbished in 2019) features seven restaurants (including three complimentary dining venues and specialty restaurant favorites Chops Grille and Giovanni's Table) and eight bars/lounges.

The ship has been "amped-up" so guests can enjoy features found on Royal Caribbean's newer ships: Perfect Storm waterslides, FlowRider simulated surfing, Battle for Planet Z laser tag, Voyager Dunes minigolf, Studio B ice-skating shows and reimagined spaces for kids and teens.

Nights aboard Voyager of the Seas will be filled with complimentary entertainment options: production shows in the Royal Theater, pub performances by guest entertainers and bands, game-show competitions, pool parties, outdoor movie nights and a '70s disco party.

Best Italy cruises for adults-only ambiance: Viking

Is Venice at the top of your wish list? Does an adults-only cruise on a ship with serene, Scandinavian-inspired interior decor and complimentary wine or beer with lunch and dinner sound ideal?

If so, check out Viking 's 15-night Italy, the Adriatic and Greece itinerary , which sails from Athens to Rome and visits six Italian ports — Venice/Chioggia, Bari, Crotone, Messina, Naples and Rome — with three days spent in Venice. As a bonus, you'll also visit ports in Greece (Katakolon and Corfu), Croatia (Dubrovnik, Split and Sibenik) and Montenegro (Kotor).

Offered on multiple dates in fall 2023, 2024 and 2025, this itinerary is chock full of port experiences; there are no sea days, and a total of 13 cities are visited. Viking includes one free guided shore excursion in each port, usually a panoramic bus tour or historic walking tour. Use that as an overview and then explore on your own or book one of the cruise line's longer or more specialized excursions. Onboard guest speakers also offer insight into the ports visited and the cultural landscape.

The cruise line's nine ocean ships are all identical and accommodate 930 passengers, most of whom are couples over age 55. Onboard dining is available in eight restaurants, including the main venue, The Restaurant and the buffet-style World Cafe, the casual Pool Grill and the Norwegian-focused Mamsen's. Guests can also reserve dinner at two specialty restaurants (at no extra charge): Manfredi's for Italian cuisine and The Chef's Table for multi-course, wine-paired menus that rotate throughout the cruise.

Afternoon tea is served in the elegant Wintergarden. The Aquavit Terrace overlooking the aft infinity pool is a sunny spot to enjoy alfresco dining.

If you're willing to come back early from port, Viking's ocean ships offer plenty of ways to relax on board. All passengers enjoy complimentary access to the ship's thermal suite in the LivNordic Spa. It features a thalassotherapy pool, steam room, sauna and snow room. The Main Pool has a retractable roof and can be enjoyed no matter what the weather. However, if you want to live it up at night, note that the ship does not have an onboard casino.

Bottom line

The best Italy cruises offer access to some of the country's most-loved cities, as well as a chance to explore some of its sunny islands and lesser-known coastal ports. No matter the itinerary, you're guaranteed to enjoy the splendid landscapes, treasured antiquities and, of course, the incredible gelato.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• 15 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise

Florence in California: Carnival launches new Italian-style cruise ship

Carnival Cruise Line is bringing a touch of Italy to Southern California.

The line launched Carnival Firenze, inspired by its namesake city, this week. The vessel sailed its maiden voyage from its Long Beach homeport on Thursday.

“We carry more guests than any other cruise line from California, and now this ship is giving us the opportunity to offer more fun to more people sailing from Long Beach,” Christine Duffy, the line’s president, said in a news release . “The recipe combining this ship’s beautiful Italian theming with the familiarity of our friendly team’s hospitality is, in a word, perfecto!”

The ship is the second in the Carnival Fun Italian Style concept after sister ship Carnival Venezia joined the fleet last summer. Both were originally part of Costa Cruises – also owned by parent company Carnival Corp. – before being rehomed.

Where will Carnival Firenze sail?

The roughly 5,000-guest ship will offer Baja Mexico and Mexican Riviera cruises ranging from three to seven days. Stops include destinations like Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta and Catalina Island.

What can guests expect on board?

Built in 2020, Firenze was refurbished earlier this year to add Carnival-specific touches. Those include staple venues like the Fahrenheit 555 steakhouse and JavaBlue Cafe.

But the line leans into the ship’s Italian motif. The ship’s atrium was designed with Florence’s Piazza del Duomo in mind and the Lido deck takes influence from the Italian Riviera. There’s even a replica of Michelangelo’s David on board that was previously on Carnival Pride (the real sculpture is located in Florence’s Accademia Gallery).

The theme extends to the food and drink options, with eateries like Italian specialty restaurant Il Viaggio, Mexican-Italian fusion venue Tomodoro and La Strada Grill, serving Italian street food. Frizzante specializes in bubbly drinks, and passengers can sip craft cocktails and Italian coffee at Amari.

Other features include the WaterWorks water park and Serenity Adult-Only Retreat.

How long should I take a cruise?: Here's how short and long cruises compare

How much does Carnival Firenze cost?

Prices vary based on sailing date and other factors, but a five-day Mexican Riviera cruise departing on May 30 currently starts at $409 per person based on double occupancy, according to Carnival’s website . The fare includes much of the food on the ship, drinks like regular coffee and iced tea and more.

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].