Italy Cruises
Italy cruise holidays offer a unique way to experience the country’s beauty from a new perspective. Delving into this glorious European country’s breadth of breathtaking landscapes, you’ll discover some of its most spectacular locations from the comforts of luxurious vessels that regularly embark on cruises around Italy.
From the glistening waters and cliffside settlements of the Amalfi Coast to the bustling streets of Rome, you can embrace Italy’s wealth of spectacular sights, with fascinating histories and vibrant cultures, seamlessly during an Italy cruise holiday.
Cruises around Italy are the future of travel in the country, not only for the reasons above but for the level of luxury and convenience that they offer. Italy cruises feature spectacular onboard amenities, from spas to world-class dining, as well as exceptional entertainment and elegant accommodations that make for the perfect ‘home away from home’ while you’re exploring this European gem.
So, when you’re not connecting with Italy’s beauty on land, you can admire it from afar as you savour a stress-free sailing experience in the comforts of your own floating hotel. With Blue Water Cruising Holidays, you can indulge in all of this and more during our Italy cruises. Browse our carefully curated collection online to bring you one step closer to booking your unforgettable and adventurous Italy cruise holidays.
Italy Cruises 2025/2026
12-Night Italy Intensive Voyage
Special OfferUp to $1000 OBC per stateroom on selected sailings!
Civitavecchia, Livorno, Portoferraio, Sorrento, Amalfi, Catania, Crotone, Taranto, Kotor, Chioggia
Amalfi and Sicily
Special OfferSave up to 20% PLUS exclusive Blue Water extra £50pp discount!
Civitavecchia (Italy), Lipari, Messina, Amalfi, Sorrento, Ponza, Civitavecchia
Corsica and Monaco Grand Prix Trials
Special OfferSave up to 20% PLUS exclusive Blue Water extra £50pp discount!
Cannes (France), Lerici (Italy), Portoferraio (Elba), L'Ile Rousse (Corsica), Calvi , Fontvieille (Monaco), St Tropez (France), Cannes
From the City of Gods to the Canals of Venice
Special OfferSave up to 25%!
Athens, Crossing the Corinth Canal, Itea, Parga, Otranto, Vieste, Split, Zadar, Piran, Venice
Greek Islands and Croatia
Special OfferSave up to 20% PLUS exclusive Blue Water extra £50pp discount!
Venice (Italy), Cres (Croatia), Hvar, Dubrovnik, Kotor (Montenegro), Corfu (Greece), Katakalon, Santorini, Mykonos, Athens
Highlights of Croatia and Montenegro
Special OfferSave up to 20% PLUS exclusive Blue Water extra £50pp discount!
Venice (Italy), Zadar (Croatia), Hvar, Dubrovnik (Croatia), Kotor (Montenegro), Vis, Rovinj, Venice (Italy)
Iconic Cities of the Western Mediterranean
Special OfferExclusive Blue Water offer - £100pp OBC!
UK - Barcelona (Spain) , Montpelier (France) , Marseille , Monte Carlo (Monaco) , Florence (Italy) - Pisa , Rome - UK , Barcelona , Pisa
Les Voiles de St Tropez
Special OfferSave up to 20% PLUS exclusive Blue Water extra £50pp discount!
Cannes (France), Lerici (Italy), Portoferraio (Elba), Corsica beach - Bonifacio, Alghero (Sardinia, Italy), St Tropez, Cannes (France)
Ligurian Sea
Special OfferSave up to 20% PLUS exclusive Blue Water extra £50pp discount!
Cannes (France), Lerci (Italy), Portoferraio, Sant'Amanza (France) - Bonifacio, Alghero (Italy), Porticcio Beach (France) - Ajaccio, Monaco (Monaco), Cannes (France)
Malta to the Balearic Islands
Special OfferSave up to 20% PLUS exclusive Blue Water extra £50pp discount!
Valletta (Malta), Gozo, Cagliari (Sardinia, Italy), Mahon (Menorca, Balearic Islands), Palma de Mallorca (Mallorca, Balearic Islands), Ibiza (Balearic Islands), Cartagena (Spain), Motril, Malaga
Monaco Grand Prix
Special OfferSave up to 20% PLUS exclusive Blue Water extra £50pp discount!
Cannes (France), Monaco (Monaco), Lerici (Italy), Portoferraio (Elba), Bastia (Corsica), Bonifacio, Porto Cervo (Sardinia), Civitavecchia (Italy)
Rome to Cannes
Special OfferSave up to 20% PLUS exclusive Blue Water extra £50pp discount!
Civitavecchia (Italy), Portoferraio, Bonifacio (France), Stintino (Sardinia, Italy), Ajaccio (France), Calvi, St Tropez, Cannes
Why Choose a Cruise in Italy
Italy is a cruise destination that has soared in popularity in recent decades, making it one of Europe’s best-loved destinations. This is not only because of its world-renowned sites and attractions, like the iconic Colosseum and the Leaning Tower of Piza, but also for its ancient cities including the charming canals of Venice and the Renaissance architecture of Florence. These contribute to the country’s rich history and long-standing heritage, which captivate the attention of travellers from all over the world.
With the country’s history intertwined with its unique culture - that varies beautifully between regions - this makes for an all-the-more immersive experience for travellers when they visit Italy. From tucking into regional Italian delicacies like arancini and ossobuco to connecting with the country’s wine landscapes in local vineyards, there’s a whole world to discover during cruises to Italy.
One of the greatest advantages of an Italy cruise holiday is how effortlessly you can travel across the country’s landscapes to discover all of this and more. Hop from one destination to another seamlessly, meaning you don’t have to sacrifice visiting only a handful of destinations during cruises in Italy like you would on a single trip.
And in each destination, make the most of incredible excursions to authentically connect with Italy’s landscapes. From vineyard tours in Tuscany to guided experiences in the archeological sites of Pompeii, you’re guaranteed to make incredible memories onboard any Italy cruises thanks to their perfect balance between adventure and relaxation.
Popular Cruise Regions in Italy
You’re spoilt for choice given the variety of cruises in Italy available. From sailing the gleaming coastline of the Adriatic to exploring the Italian islands, here are a selection of the most popular cruise regions in Italy to inspire you:
Mediterranean and Amalfi Coast Cruises
Beneath the glistening Mediterranean sunshine, explore the sunkissed landscapes of a handful of Italy’s most iconic destinations, including vibrant Naples and picturesque Sorrento. Be taken on a journey along the iconic Amalfi Coastline, known for its dramatic cliffs and traditional villages perched by the sea, where you can indulge in authentic Italian living and incredible cuisine.
Popular activities onboard Mediterranean and Amalfi Coast cruises include walking in the footsteps of ancient civilisations in the ruins of Pompeii, or floating across to the glamorous island of Capri, known for being an A-lister hotspot.
Venice and Adriatic Cruises
Onboard Venice and Adriatic cruises, you’ll explore another coastline of Italy home to some of its most enchanting waterfront cities and islands. Most notably, you can visit one of the world’s most sought-after Italian destinations - Venice.
This magical city on the water, home to winding canals and breathtaking architecture, is a must-visit when you explore Italy. Enjoy romantic gondola rides and marvel at the grandeur of St. Mark’s Basilica during your stay.
And, beyond Venice, Adriatic cruises offer the opportunity to discover lesser-known islands and destinations in the Adriatic Sea, opening your eyes to what lies beyond the tourist-trodden route, including the wonderful cities of Trieste and Ravenna.
Sicily and Southern Italy Cruises
Sicily is one of Italy’s most desirable island destinations, making it a must-visit during your Italy cruise holiday. Journey to discover the beauty of Sicily and Southern Italy onboard tailored Italy cruises that showcase the very best of their culture, history, and pristine natural beauty.
During these cruises in Italy, you’ll dock in major ports like Catania and Palermo, opening the gate for you to discover Sicily’s rich heritage. You’ll have the opportunity to venture to the mighty Mount Etna, Europe’s most active volcano, during your visit too. You’ll encounter the coastal allure of destinations in Southern Italy as well, including the sun-baked Calabria region, known for its sensational beaches.
Italy River Cruises
River cruises in Italy offer the unique opportunity to leisurely explore the country’s inland landscapes, home to picturesque countryside regions and sleepy hillside towns showcasing rural Italian life at its finest.
You have ample choice of itineraries for river cruises in Italy, but the Po River is a particular highlight. Italy’s longest river, it is home to some of the country’s most important settlements, including Venice, Verona, and Ferrara.
Ferrara is a living example of the beauty of the Renaissance era, with exceptional architecture and beautiful cultural heritage. Witness its beauty onboard river cruises in Italy, and many other spectacular destinations in the country’s countryside, as you indulge in tranquil waterfront scenes in comfort.
Best Time to Take a Cruise in Italy
The best time to embark on an Italy cruise holiday depends entirely on your preferences and priorities. Asking yourself what you want to gain from your Italy cruise experience will help pinpoint the best months so that you leave the country with memories that will last a lifetime.
In spring, you can expect pleasant, mild temperatures and fewer crowds that offer a comfortable time to explore the country and its regions. Particularly if you embark on river cruises in Italy, you’ll be surrounded by the blooming landscapes of its countryside, which is a perfectly picturesque experience. Festivals including the Infiorata Flower Festival and Easter celebrations across the country make for wonderful additions to your cruise itinerary.
Summer is when temperatures reach their warmest in Italy, with the sunshine beaming down on its landscapes and islands. However, it’s also the busiest season of the year, when ports are often crowded and prices are slightly more expensive. But, you’ll experience the country in its best light during a cruise at this time of year, and enjoy lively events like Tuscany’s music festivals, and beach events along the Amalfi coastline.
Temperatures begin to cool in autumn in Italy, and tourist crowds dissipate, leaving behind a more peaceful atmosphere and comfortable climate to explore the country’s destinations. Visiting Italy in autumn would not be complete without celebrating the grape harvest in destinations like Tuscany, or stopping by world-renowned events like the Venice Film Festival.
Last, but not least, winter brings the coolest temperatures of the year, and fewer crowds as a result. You can therefore enjoy destinations largely to yourself at this time of year. But, it’s also when festivities across the country begin to kick off, like Christmas markets and events including the famous Carnevale di Venezia, taking place in February, which shouldn’t be missed.
What to Expect on an Italy Cruise
An Italy cruise holiday is an immersive experience opening the door for keen travellers to immerse themselves in the best of the country’s landscapes and destinations while having the luxury of opulent amenities, accommodations, and dining at their fingertips.
These cruises around Italy have been carefully designed to offer seamless travel experiences where guests can equally indulge in the spectacular culture and heritage of Italy during curated excursions and stop-offs, as well as elegant onboard features.
Expect diverse dining opportunities onboard Italy cruises, offering gourmet dishes on menus showcasing the very best Italian cuisine and regional delights. From wood-fired pizzas to freshly caught seafood, you’ll be taken on a culinary journey of discovery as you cruise the waters of Italy.
Carefully-planned and immersive experiences are available onboard at every opportunity for you to connect with. Whether they’re hands-on cooking demonstrations or opera and classic music performances, these experiences bring the beauty of Italy to you at your leisure onboard. And when you’re not onboard your cruise vessel, you’ll have unforgettable opportunities lined up to connect with Italy’s culture and landscapes, from vineyard visits to ancient ruin explorations.
Italy Cruise FAQs
Typically, Italy cruises last between one week to 12 nights. This offers the optimal amount of time to explore several destinations in the country around its coastlines and inland regions. However, depending on where you’re visiting, you may find shorter or longer sailings.
It’s entirely up to you what Italy cruise itinerary you choose, and there are plenty of options for different cruise durations to suit your needs.
Italy cruises include the cost of your private accommodation onboard, transportation between ports, some - if not all - meals onboard, and onboard entertainment and amenities like wellness centres. You may have to pay some additional costs during your cruise, such as for alcoholic beverages onboard and certain on-shore excursions, but this depends on the cruise line and itinerary you choose.
If you’re travelling from the Schengen Area, you do not need a visa to take cruises in Italy, as long as you’re travelling for less than 90 days within any 180 day period.
If you’re unsure of your home country’s visa requirements for travelling to Italy, we’d recommend you check the necessary government guidelines so you know exactly what you will need to do before your cruise.