Top Small Ship Cruises in the Mediterranean: Unforgettable Journeys

Sailing on an intimate ship offers numerous benefits, including the ability to reach less accessible ports and smooth disembarkation. The following destinations and brands are exceptional choices for this style of cruising.

Corsica – Ponant

The 64-passenger Le Ponant, the original vessel of the French cruise operator Ponant, regularly visits the French, Italian, and North African-influenced island of Corsica. On the southeastern coast, marvel at the limestone cliffs of the Gulf of Santa Manza before sailing north to Cargèse, renowned for its historic churches. (Seven-night sailings from $4,970 per person, all-inclusive.)

Tuscan Islands – Sailing Collective

Brooklyn-based Sailing Collective, a charter company specializing in small-group cruises for eight to 10 passengers, explores the picturesque Tuscan Islands. Visit pine-forested Isola del Giglio, which boasts three small villages, and the volcanic Capraia, part of the Arcipelago Toscano national park. (Seven-night sailings from $3,200 for a single cabin, all-inclusive.)

Spain – SeaDream Yacht Club

SeaDream Yacht Club operates two 112-passenger vessels and features Wine Voyages, highlighting some of the Mediterranean’s finest producers. The seven-night Barcelona-to-Málaga itinerary, which is scheduled to include a sherry-pairing dinner in Puerto Banús, offers guests an exquisite culinary experience complemented by excursions to Anima Negra, a top Mallorcan winery. (From $4,726 per person, all-inclusive.)

French and Italian Riviera – Silversea

Many Mediterranean cruises typically last a week or longer. Nevertheless, if you prefer a shorter journey or wish to combine sailing with land experiences, Silversea offers a 5-day voyage on the Silver Shadow, departing May 22, 2019. Enjoy opportunities to explore the grand hotels in Cannes, the casinos and the prestigious Monaco Grand Prix in Monte Carlo, and the stunning architecture of Italy’s Cinque Terre. (From $4,770 per person, all-inclusive.)

Spain and Morocco – Scenic

With 10 restaurants and bars for just 228 guests, along with a heated indoor pool and pilates studio, the Scenic Eclipse is set to transform the luxury cruise market. In April, during its inaugural Mediterranean season, it will offer a Tenerife to Barcelona cruise that explores Moroccan cities, including Essaouira and Casablanca. (From $7,795.)

French and Italian Riviera – Windstar Cruises

Readers of iBestTravel have shown a preference for the 310-passenger Wind Surf — a true sailing vessel and the flagship of Windstar Cruises. Consequently, they voted the brand the No. 1 Midsize-Ship Cruise Line in the 2018 World’s Best Awards. The vessel will host several seven-day “Yachtman’s Harbors of the Riviera” sailings next year, visiting glamorous ports such as Portofino, Monte Carlo, Cannes, and Sanary-Sur-Mer. (From $3,199 per person.)