After your first cruise, few things are more exciting than planning your second. After an experimental cruise around Northern Europe or the British Isles, many cruisers naturally want to set sail for warmer climates, but where should you go? Two of the best options are the sunny Mediterranean and tropical Caribbean, and choosing between them […]
After your first cruise, few things are more exciting than planning your second. After an experimental cruise around Northern Europe or the British Isles, many cruisers naturally want to set sail for warmer climates, but where should you go?
Two of the best options are the sunny Mediterranean and tropical Caribbean, and choosing between them can be difficult. At Odysia Cruise, we know booking with confidence matters, so let’s cover the key information you need to make the right decision.
When it comes to choosing between the Caribbean and the Mediterranean, you have to think beyond glorious weather. Both offer beautiful sunshine and warmth, so let’s look at which destinations suit you best.
If you’re still undecided, the little details might sway you one way or the other. To make things as clear as possible, here’s a breakdown of how these two destinations compare.
| Mediterranean | Caribbean | |
| Peak Season | June to August (peak summer period) | Mid-December to mid-April (dry and low humidity) |
| Quiet Season | November to March (cool and short daylight hours) | September to mid-October (Atlantic hurricane season) |
| Average Climate | Hot and dry with plenty of sunshine (mild and wet winters) | Warm and tropical year-round |
| Average Temperatures | 27-35°C in summer (7-15°C in winter) | 30-34°C in summer (25°C in winter) |
| Time Difference | Western: GMT +1Eastern: GMT +2Turkey: GMT +3 | Atlantic Standard Time: GMT -4Eastern Standard Time: GMT -5 |
| Cruise from the UK? | YES | NO |
If the Mediterranean is sparking your interest, you’ll be pleased to know the region offers many fantastic destinations to see and experience. Itineraries can cover the entire region or focus on one area, so let’s look at some highlights across the Western and Eastern Mediterranean.
For those who appreciate stunning architecture, Barcelona is one of the world’s best places to visit. Home to Gaudi’s masterworks and the iconic Gothic Quarter, the city is perfect for afternoons of exploration, and the promise of authentic paella is worth a port stop alone.
If you’re after character and energy, Marseille delivers both better than anywhere. The historic Notre-Dame de la Garde is a neo-Byzantine gem, and the palpable vibrancy of Le Panier’s street art is a joy to explore. For natural beauty, Calanques National Park’s white limestone cliffs never disappoint.
About halfway across the Mediterranean, Venice awaits, with its intricate waterways and romantic restaurant scene. Every street corner hides another historic landmark, from the Piazza San Marco to the Rialto Bridge. When you get tired, nothing beats a relaxing gondola tour to unwind.
Venturing eastwards, Santorini welcomes cruisers with whitewashed architecture and beautiful volcanic sunsets. Villages like Fira offer afternoons of magical exploration, and the Caldera Cliffs are a natural wonder that makes for the ultimate docking backdrop.
The Maltese capital of Valletta is small but mighty, treating guests to a 16th-century UNESCO World Heritage city that impresses with every street. Its golden limestone architecture is a marvel, and the harbour views from the Upper Barrakka Gardens are as exciting as the midday cannon firing at the Saluting Battery.
Over in Athens, history enthusiasts will love the ruins that still stand, marking the origins of modern democracy. The Acropolis and Parthenon exude the mystique of 5th-century Greece, while the Panathenaic Stadium still vibrates from the very first modern Olympic Games. The views from Mount Lycabettus are worth the climb, too!
If you’re already dreaming of a Caribbean escape, the island network offers plenty of tranquil destinations packed with history and wildlife. Let’s dive into some of the highlights from across both the Greater and Lesser Antilles.
These larger islands are home to many Caribbean gems. Jamaica’s capital, Kingston, is a city brimming with musical and culinary spark, while Havana pairs live jazz clubs with the beautiful pastel facades of Old Havana for classic Cuban charm.
In Puerto Rico, San Juan’s 16th-century Castillo San Felipe del Morro overlooks dramatic ocean views, offering history buffs a treat, while the blend of American, Spanish, and African traditions makes the city an eclectic place to discover.
This chain of smaller islands rivals anywhere in the world for natural beauty. St. Kitts and Nevis offers green mountains from the comfort of the scenic railway, St. Lucia impresses with its iconic Pitons, and Antigua and Barbuda combines historic landmarks with pristine nature at sites like Shirley Heights and Nelson’s Dockyard.
For the Mediterranean, the shoulder seasons of September-October and March-April provide pleasant weather, fewer crowds and lower cruise fares. For the Caribbean, mid-April to May and late October to mid-December are ideal for avoiding peak season and the main hurricane season.
You have plenty of choice when it comes to cruise lines for these itineraries. For the Mediterranean, top lines include MSC Cruises, Seabourn, Cunard and P&O Cruises. For the Caribbean, top lines include Royal Caribbean, Princess Cruises, Celebrity Cruises and Holland America Line.
Whether you choose the Mediterranean or Caribbean, make your dream holiday happen with Odysia Cruise! Explore our cruise deals or browse the world’s best destinations to find your dream getaway.
