Thinking of skipping winter this year? The Mediterranean is the perfect escape. Trying to see it all at once can be overwhelming, which is why Celebrity Cruises offers Mediterranean cruises that let you explore a variety of must-see destinations on a carefully planned itinerary.
Each destination has its own unique character, shaped by history, culture, landscapes, cuisine, and traditions. From Santorini’s sunlit cliffs and charming villages to Rome’s architectural treasures and Istanbul’s rich cultural heritage, the Mediterranean offers fresh and inspiring experiences at every stop.
Modern Elegance on the Mediterranean: Celebrity Ascent
Celebrity Cruises offers a modern way to explore the Mediterranean, with thoughtfully designed itineraries and exceptional experiences onboard. Their cruises make it easy to visit multiple destinations, offering a variety of experiences to suit every taste.
Sailing on Celebrity’s Edge Series ships brings modern elegance, innovation and thoughtful design to the sea. At the heart of the series is the Celebrity Ascent, the fourth ship in this award-winning fleet, accommodating 3,260 guests with a crew of 1,400.
This innovative ship offers world-class amenities, from 32 distinctive restaurants, bars, and lounges, including the gourmet Le Voyage by Chef Daniel Boulud, to open-air spaces like the Rooftop Garden, cantilevered floating pools, and the multi-level Sunset Bar designed by Edge Series Travel Ambassador Nate Berkus. Guests can also enjoy the Magic Carpet, a cantilevered platform that moves along the side of the ship, as well as a spa and wellness center, multiple pools, a theatre, casino, jogging track, shopping and 24-hour room service.
Accommodations are designed to bring guests closer to the sea, including AquaClass staterooms and Infinite Veranda rooms. For those who prefer a quieter, more intimate setting, ‘The Retreat’ offers a private space within the ship. With a limited number of suite guests, it includes its own restaurant, lounge, and sundeck with pool — all reserved exclusively for Retreat guests. You can enjoy the privacy and personalised service of this dedicated area, while still having access to all the facilities and experiences across Celebrity Ascent.
Life aboard the Celebrity Ascent is outstanding, but the true highlight of a Mediterranean cruise is the destinations themselves.
Beyond the incredible onboard experience, loyal guests are rewarded too.
As part of the Royal Caribbean Group, Celebrity Cruises Captain’s Club loyalty programme offers exclusive benefits for returning travelers, including onboard discounts, priority services and invitations to exclusive events. Even more appealing, Captain’s Club members enjoy reciprocal recognition benefits when sailing with Silversea, allowing you to experience elevated luxury across both brands while keeping your loyalty status and privileges.
Sail the Mediterranean: An 11-Night Journey Aboard Celebrity Ascent
Every stop on a Celebrity Ascent cruise shows a new side of the Mediterranean.
Ancient civilizations like the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines and Ottomans have left a rich legacy of history, culture, stunning cities, famous monuments and delicious cuisine.
An 11-night Mediterranean cruise aboard the Celebrity Ascent begins in Rome, the capital city where history comes alive—from exploring the Colosseum and the Sistine Chapel in Vatican City to strolling through charming cobblestone piazzas filled with artisan shops and family-run trattorias serving authentic Italian cuisine.
The journey continues in Chania, on the northwest coast of the Greek island of Crete, where Venetian mansions, ancient monasteries, charming streets, and inviting beaches reveal the island’s unique history and character.
Next, visit Ephesus in Turkey, a treasure trove of Greek and Roman ruins, before wandering through Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar, historic mosques, and the majestic Topkapi Palace.
The cruise then takes you to the stunning Greek islands of Santorini and Mykonos, known for their whitewashed villages, dramatic sunsets, and vibrant local culture. The itinerary also includes Naples, with its UNESCO-listed historic center, fascinating Roman ruins, and mouthwatering cuisine—from wood-fired pizza to fresh seafood.
Shore excursions are available to help tailor your journey at your own pace, ensuring you don’t miss the hidden gems along the way.
Days at sea provide time to relax and enjoy the ship’s amenities, including exquisite dining in multiple restaurants, the Classic Beverage Package, Wi-Fi, evening entertainment, pools, a fitness room, and the Solarium.
Want to see the full itinerary? Check out the 11-night Mediterranean cruise to Greece, Turkey & Italy — Cruise Only.
From Sea to Land: Explore the Mediterranean in Depth
For those wanting to make the most of the Mediterranean, Ultimate Cruising offers extended curated packages that perfectly complement the 11-night Celebrity Ascent cruise. The Isles & Icons of the Med package combines your cruise with international airfares, private transfers, a 3-night stay in Rome, and exclusive inclusions such as a Classic Drinks Package where every detail is taken care of from departure to return.
Eager to continue the adventure on land? The Pizza to Parthenon package adds a 12-day small-group tour from Rome to Venice, taking you through Italy’s most stunning regions, from the rolling vineyards and sunlit olive groves of Tuscany to the lakes of northern Italy and the Ligurian coastline. This ultimate package includes return economy airfares, private transfers throughout, an 11-night cruise aboard Celebrity Ascent with meals, Classic Beverage Package and Wi-Fi, plus 4-star accommodation, 18 meals, luxury mini-coach touring, and a dedicated Tour Leader with guided sightseeing included. Along the way, you’ll savour regional flavours, enjoy authentic cultural encounters and take part in hands-on experiences such as cooking classes and truffle hunting— all arranged from beginning to end.
A Mediterranean cruise aboard the Celebrity Ascent invites you to experience the rich tapestry of history, culture, and stunning landscapes that this iconic region offers. From the ancient streets of Rome and the whitewashed, blue-roofed houses of Santorini to the bustling markets of Istanbul, the historic ruins of Ephesus, the crystal-clear waters and secluded bays of Crete and the cobblestoned streets of Mykonos, every stop tells its own unique story.
With Celebrity Cruises, you can enjoy these incredible destinations comfortably and explore them in depth. Whether you’re exploring iconic cities, relaxing at sea or extending your journey with curated land packages, a Mediterranean cruise aboard Celebrity Ascent lets you escape the winter and experience the wonders of the region.
