There’s nothing quite like the feeling of setting sail on a cruise ship and leaving the stresses of everyday life behind. One of the best destinations to cruise to from New York is undoubtedly Italy, with its rich history, beautiful architecture, and delicious cuisine. If you’re thinking of planning a cruise to Italy from New York, you’ll want to choose the right ship and itinerary for your needs. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the 7 best cruises from New York to Italy based on factors such as itinerary, cruise line reputation, and onboard amenities. Join us as we take an in-depth look at each of these cruises from New York to Rome, Italy, so you can make an informed decision and enjoy the vacation of a lifetime.
#1. Norwegian Cruise Line‘s “The Haven & Italy”
Norwegian Cruise Line’s “The Haven and Italy” is one of the luxurious cruises from New York to Italy that offers guests a perfect blend of comfort and adventure. The cruise departs from New York City and takes passengers on a 16-day cruise across the Atlantic to Italy. The experience starts with VIP treatment at the port, where guests can skip the long lines and go straight to their private Haven suites. The Haven is an exclusive area of the ship that provides guests with unparalleled luxury and privacy. The suites are spacious and come with a personal butler and concierge service to cater to every guest’s needs.
Guests onboard can choose from a variety of dining options, ranging from gourmet dining to casual buffets and everything in between. The ship has a large spa, a fitness center, and numerous entertainment options, including Broadway-style musicals and live music performances. The Haven & Italy tour visits some of the most beautiful and historic towns in Italy, including Naples, Florence, Rome, and Venice. The tours are supervised by knowledgeable instructors who share information about the area’s culture and history.
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#2. Cunard‘s “Transatlantic Crossing and Mediterranean”
Cunard’s “Transatlantic Crossing and Mediterranean” cruise is an exceptional journey that combines the best of both worlds. Starting in New York, the ship embarks on a fourteen-day transatlantic journey across the Atlantic Ocean, stopping at ports in England and Spain before reaching its final destination in Italy. This voyage is perfect for travelers who want to experience the luxury of a transatlantic crossing and the beauty of the Mediterranean all in one trip.
During the transatlantic crossing, guests can enjoy the many amenities aboard the ship, including a spa, a fitness center, and multiple dining options. For those who love the outdoors, there are plenty of opportunities to get some fresh air and take in the stunning views of the ocean from the deck of the ship.
After arriving in Europe, guests can explore the historic cities of Southampton and Barcelona before embarking on the Mediterranean portion of the trip. The itinerary includes stops in some of the most beautiful cities in Italy, including Rome, Naples, and Venice. Each port of call offers a unique glimpse into the history, culture, and cuisine of Italy. Cunard’s “Transatlantic Crossing and Mediterranean” cruise is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that offers the perfect balance of relaxation, adventure, and exploration.
#3. Oceania Cruises‘ “Mediterranean Pathways”
Oceania Cruises’ “Mediterranean Pathways” is the perfect cruise for those who want to experience the Mediterranean in style. This 16-night journey departs from New York and takes you on a voyage through some of the most beautiful cities in Europe. The ship, Sirena, is a luxurious vessel with spacious accommodations and all the amenities you could ever need. During the cruise, you’ll be treated to some of the most spectacular views of the Mediterranean. You’ll visit cities like Barcelona, Marseille, Monte Carlo, and Santorini. Each city offers its unique charm, from the stunning architecture in Barcelona to the beautiful beaches in Santorini.
One of the highlights of the trip is the cuisine. Oceania Cruises is known for its outstanding food, and “Mediterranean Pathways” is no exception. The ship’s restaurants offer a variety of dining options, from casual to formal, and all of the food is made with the freshest ingredients. You’ll have the opportunity to taste some of the best Mediterranean cuisine, including fresh seafood, pasta, and local specialties. On board the ship, there are plenty of activities to keep you entertained. You can relax by the pool, take a fitness class, or enjoy a spa treatment. There are also nightly shows and entertainment, including live music and performances.
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#4. Princess Cruises‘ “Mediterranean & Aegean Medley”
The “Mediterranean and Aegean Medley” trip from Princess Cruises is a spectacular excursion through the heart of the Mediterranean and Aegean Seas. This cruise departs from New York for a 12-night journey via some of Europe’s most iconic and scenic destinations. The ship visits Valencia in Spain, and Cannes in France, Italy, Greece, and Turkey, allowing you to learn about the rich history, culture, and architecture of these amazing nations. Among the ports of call on the voyage are Barcelona, Marseille, Florence, Rome, Athens, and Istanbul.
On board the ship, you’ll be treated to world-class amenities, including gourmet dining, live entertainment, and luxurious accommodations. The ship features a variety of restaurants, bars, and lounges, as well as a spa, fitness center, and swimming pools. One of the highlights of this cruise is the chance to explore the stunning Greek islands, including Mykonos and Santorini. With their whitewashed buildings, blue-domed churches, and crystal-clear waters, these islands are among the most picturesque destinations in the world. You’ll have plenty of time to explore these islands and soak up the Mediterranean sun. The Princess Cruises is indeed one of the best from New York to Italy.
#5. Royal Caribbean‘s “Mediterranean Beaches”
The 12-night “Mediterranean Beaches” cruise by Royal Caribbean departs from Cape Liberty in New Jersey, just outside of New York City, and visits ports in Italy, Greece, and Spain. This voyage is ideal for people who want to explore the beauty of the Mediterranean while also experiencing the elegance of a Royal Caribbean cruise.
The Anthem of the Seas is jam-packed with amenities and activities for guests of all ages. There is never a dull moment on board, with activities ranging from rock climbing and mini golf to Broadway-style performances and a casino. The ship also has an indoor pool with a retractable canopy, so you can swim regardless of the weather.
The cruise arrives in Italy at the port of Civitavecchia, which is only a short train ride from Rome. Explore the ancient ruins of the Colosseum and the Roman Forum, or savor authentic Italian cuisine at a local trattoria. The cruise also makes a stop in Naples, where you can take a day trip to the beautiful Amalfi Coast.
The trip makes a stop in Greece on the island of Crete, where you can tour the ancient remains of Knossos or simply relax on one of the island’s beautiful beaches. The trip also visits Santorini, which is famous for its stunning sunsets and panoramic vistas of the Aegean Sea.
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#6. MSC Cruises “Mediterranean Cruise”
MSC Cruises offers a 20-day transatlantic voyage from New York to Venice, Italy. It offers an exceptional itinerary from New York to Italy, allowing travelers to explore the Mediterranean region’s rich culture, art, and history. The journey begins in New York and takes passengers to King’s Wharf in Bermuda, Ponta Delgada in the Azores, Lisbon, Barcelona, and Genoa, Italy.
The first port of call is King’s Wharf in Bermuda, where visitors can enjoy the Caribbean sun and beautiful beaches. The next stop is Ponta Delgada, a charming town in the Azores, where visitors can explore the stunning landscapes and local cuisine. Lisbon, the capital city of Portugal, offers rich history, architecture, and culture.
Barcelona, a vibrant Catalan city, is home to iconic landmarks like the Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, and the Gothic Quarter. Genoa, Italy, is the birthplace of Christopher Columbus and offers stunning architecture, museums, and art galleries. Guests can either stay in Italy and continue exploring independently or return to New York on the return journey. It is indeed one of the most amazing cruises from New York to Italy that provides excellent options.
#7. Holland America Line
The New York-to-Italy cruise route is a popular Holland America Line route, offering a 20-day journey across the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, stopping at iconic destinations. The journey begins in New York City and includes a luxurious cruise ship, where passengers embark on a journey to Ponta Delgada, a stunning Azores island paradise in Portugal. The next stop is Lisbon, Portugal, where passengers can explore the city’s charming neighborhoods, enjoy delicious Portuguese cuisine, and enjoy astonishing views.
The journey then continues to Cadiz, Spain, where visitors can explore the old town and architecture. The ship then sails towards the stunning coast of Italy, stopping at Civitavecchia and finally reaching Venice. This journey is not just a means of transportation but a magnificent vacation experience in itself.
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The Best Time for New York-to-Italy Cruises
When planning a cruise from New York to Italy, it’s crucial to consider the best time of year. The peak season, between May and September, offers warm, sunny weather but can lead to higher prices and crowds. Consider the shoulder season in April or October for a more affordable cruise. The Mediterranean’s mild climate can still experience rough seas and storms, especially in winter. Additionally, consider any cultural or seasonal events in Italy, such as the famous Carnival of Venice, during the cruise.
Ports of Call in Italy
If you’re planning a cruise from New York to Italy, it’s essential to know what ports of call you’ll be visiting. Here are some of the most popular ports of call in Italy that you can expect to see during your cruise:
- Naples: This is a bustling port city that is known for its rich history, delicious food, and stunning architecture. You can explore the ancient ruins of Pompeii, sample the local pizza and pasta, and take in the beauty of the Bay of Naples.
- Florence: Known as the birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence is a must-visit destination for art and history lovers. You can see iconic landmarks like the Duomo and the Ponte Vecchio and visit world-class museums like the Uffizi Gallery.
- Rome: No visit to Italy is complete without a stop in the Eternal City. Rome is home to iconic landmarks like the Colosseum, the Pantheon, and the Vatican, as well as some of the best food and wine in the world.
- Venice: This city is unlike any other in the world, with its winding canals, stunning architecture, and romantic atmosphere. You can take a gondola ride through the canals, visit iconic landmarks like St. Mark’s Basilica, and sample the local seafood and wine.
- Livorno: This port city is the gateway to Tuscany, one of the most beautiful regions in Italy. You can visit charming towns like Lucca and Pisa, sample some of the best wines in the world, and explore the beautiful Tuscan countryside.
Port of Departure in New York
When it comes to cruises from New York to Italy, the port of departure can make all the difference. Fortunately, New York has a few options to choose from when it comes to cruising to Italy.
- Cape Liberty Cruise Port in Bayonne, New Jersey: This port is just a short drive from New York City and is easily accessible by car or public transportation. Cape Liberty is also home to several major cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises, so you’ll have plenty of options to choose from.
- Manhattan Cruise Terminal: This is located on the west side of Manhattan. This terminal is a bit smaller than Cape Liberty but still offers a variety of cruise lines and destinations, including Italy.
- Brooklyn Cruise Terminal: located in the Red Hook neighborhood of Brooklyn. This terminal is a bit farther from Manhattan but offers stunning views of the harbor and the Statue of Liberty. It’s also home to several luxury cruise lines, such as Cunard and Seabourn, which offer transatlantic crossings to Italy and other European destinations.
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