To combat this, a new trend is emerging in the industry. Many itineraries are moving away from larger cities, replacing them with smaller stops, where cruisers are able to see a more authentic side of the country.
Most famously, Venice banned cruise ships in 2022, resulting in the use of tenders to access the city. The ships were bringing pollution and erosion of the city’s foundations and improvements have been seen in the last two years. Whilst some cruise companies now run tenders into Venice, others have chosen to move away all together in favour of smaller alternatives, such as Ravenna.
Amsterdam is another historical city struggling with the effects of the cruise industry, with sustainability being the major concern of the government. With the city aiming to reduce overall tourist numbers, it was the clear choice to close their main cruise terminal. Instead, cruisers will stop elsewhere in the Netherlands, most commonly in Rotterdam, a bustling multicultural offering.
So how will this impact your future cruise? As cruise ships are only getting larger, expect itineraries to include fewer cities and well-known attractions in favour of new, hidden gems nearby. Here, you will still experience the same culture, food and climate and will have the opportunity to discover something new in calmer surroundings. So look out for places like Zadar, Nafplion and Tarragona. Haven't heard of them yet? Read on to explore…
GET.cruises will help you find the best cruise deals. Search for your perfect Mediterranean cruise holiday and compare prices from all the major travel agents.
Zadar
Move over busy Dubrobnik and Split, Zadar offers a balance of Croatia’s past and future. Like its larger neighbours, its Roman old town offers amazing architecture, hinting at the history of this fascinating country, yet Zadar has some unique, surprising modern twists. The millennial Sea Organ lies under your feet as you wander the promenade, making music from the motion of the waves. This is complemented by the Sun Salutation monument, dedicated to the solar star, with solar panels generating an evening light show.
Nafplion
Greece is a hive of cruise terminals and tourists, with Piraeus, lying just outside Athens, being the most popular mainland port. In comparison, Nafphlion receives far fewer numbers and surprises guests with its alluring coastline and excellent location for some of Greece’s historic sites. The town itself is centred around the marble flagged Syntagma Square, the perfect location for lunch and a glass of the local wine. Off the square, the Ottoman Trianon Mosque oozes charm and, if you’re ready to climb the 999 steps, the views from the town’s fortress are spectacular. Several excursions also showcase the marvels of this Greek region. A boat ride 400m from the harbour takes you to Bourtzi Castle, the fortress that guards the island. Its fascinating history can be explored inside and if you’re lucky enough to stay for the sunset, make sure you have the camera at the ready! Alternatively, an hour's drive to the ancient city of Epidaurus will transport you to the 6th century. Here, the Temple of Asclepius, the God of Healing, stands proud alongside other beautifully preserved ruins and artifacts, that tell the story of ancient medicine from some of the first surgical instruments to the use of snakes for shock therapy.
Tarragona
One hour south of busy Barcelona by train, Tarragona offers a quieter view of the Mediterranean. The cultural highlights of the big city as well as the stunning Cala Fonda beach (a short journey North) are definitely worth the travel time from the port. Tarragona itself also has plenty to do, with world-class art galleries, paella steeped with local seafood and a UNESCO World Heritage old town, which includes a Roman amphitheatre, forum and necropolis.
GET.cruises will help you find the best cruise deals. Search for your perfect Mediterranean cruise holiday and compare prices from all the major travel agents.
