Last-Minute Family Fun: Top 6 Mediterranean Cruises for Summer 2023

School holidays are just around the corner, and for many families, this prospect either sparks joy with the anticipation of a well-planned break or instills dread at the thought of an open-ended summer with nothing to do. A cruise is one of the most convenient family holiday options, and even at this stage of the year, there are still plenty of sailings available – but you’ll need to act fast as they sell out quickly. The success of a cruise holiday depends on choosing the right one for your family. For example, my children need to be kept entertained at all times, so water slides are a must. While mega cruises may not be everyone’s cup of tea (in which case, go for a smaller one), multi-national Mediterranean cruises are fantastic for families. Here are some top options to consider:

If you’re looking for a cruise that caters to kids aged 5 to 12, the Western Mediterranean Cruise on Allure of the Seas is a great choice. This 7-night cruise from Rome on Royal Caribbean’s Allure of the Seas is perfect for families who want to keep their kids entertained with new additions like The Perfect Storm (two racing slides), a FlowRider (surf simulator), a ten-storey zip line, rock climbing wall, and even an ice-skating rink. The Central Park area with 12,000 plants and The Boardwalk is perfect for fresh air. If sailing in August, consider a pre- or post-cruise stay to enjoy Rome at a more leisurely pace. Prices start from £1,043pp for a family of three (excluding alcoholic and soft drinks).

The Greek Isles: Santorini, Rhodes & Istanbul

For intergenerational families and teens, the Greek Isles cruise on Norwegian Cruise Line’s Viva is a great option. This 7-night cruise from Athens takes you to Santorini, Mykonos, and Istanbul, showcasing highlights of both Greece and Turkey, including awe-inspiring Ephesus. The Haven is an exclusive area with butler service, private concierge desk, adults-only sundeck and infinity pool. The Indulge Hall is a food-truck style fiesta with Mexican, Spanish tapas and Asian noodles. Prices start from £1,329 pp for a balcony room (excluding most daily activities).

Croatia Family Adventure on The MS San Snova

For nature lovers and culture seekers, the Croatia Family Adventure on UTracks’ MS San Snova is an ideal choice. This 7-night cruise from Split takes you to Vis, Brac, and Hvar islands, where you can hunt Croatian treasures while island hopping through South Dalmatia. The 36-passenger San Snova is purpose-built for close cultural encounters and camaraderie. It’s ideal for unplugging and exploring the local culture without WiFi. Bike helmets aren’t available for rent, so it’s worth packing your own. Prices start from £1,055 for adults and £902 for children (excluding drinks).

Mediterranean, Spain & Portugal on APEX

If you’re looking for a more luxurious option, consider the Mediterranean, Spain & Portugal cruise on Celebrity Cruises’ APEX. This cruise offers a unique blend of culture and relaxation as you explore the vibrant cities and stunning landscapes of Spain and Portugal. While specific details on this cruise are not provided in the article, Celebrity Cruises is known for its high-end amenities and exceptional service, making it a great choice for families who want to experience the best of both worlds.

In conclusion, there are plenty of great options for family cruises this school holiday season. Whether you’re looking