What do you need to know before taking a Mediterranean cruise?
Cruises are best known for destinations like Mexico and the Caribbean.
But a Mediterranean cruise is an incredible way to see some of the world's greatest art and historical sites.
The Mediterranean Sea provides access to countries such as Greece, Spain, Italy, France, Croatia and Turkey.
read more: How much does a Mediterranean cruise cost?
I love how much is included in cruise travel, and it gives you the opportunity to see a variety of unique destinations.
If you're looking forward to a cruise to this region, there are a few important details you need to know first.
After completing my second Mediterranean cruise, here are the key things everyone should know before cruising this region:
Read more: I've been on three European cruises and seen people make the same 12 mistakes. Here's how to avoid this:
Learn about the history of your destination
The most important tip is to do your research beforehand.
Don't expect your tour guide to provide you with all the information.
Before I left on my cruise, I borrowed a few books from the library about the country I was going to visit.
These books gave me something to do on the plane and provided useful context for the countries and attractions I was excited about.
Also research the ports and cities you will visit on your cruise.
Don't think that all cities within a country are the same. Many regions have different languages and cuisines.
Research prepares you to understand the sites you will see. Especially in historic cities like Florence or Rome, doing proper research into the area's past will greatly enrich your experience.
Additionally, doing research will help you become more familiar with the culture and customs of the area.
Avoid being an ignorant tourist and educate yourself so you can better communicate with locals.
Learn a few words in the local language
Adding to the previous tip, it's a good idea to learn as many words as possible in the local language.
Even if you don't feel ready to fully learn a new language, learning just a few phrases can go a long way.
It's a good idea to at least teach yourself how to greet and thank people. Instead of assuming everyone speaks English, you might learn to ask, “Do you speak English?”
While stopping at a restroom in Italy, I noticed another American cruiser passenger approaching the restroom attendant and asking a question in English.
The woman stared blankly and refused to answer, and finally the American had to leave without answering her questions.
Speaking politely to someone in the local language shows respect and knowledge of the culture.
I found many shopkeepers and restaurant owners encouraging when I tried speaking in my native language for the first time. This is especially true in France.
Even though I couldn't speak much, everyone around me didn't think that everyone had to speak English and appreciated that I made an effort.
Not only that, but the local people I met also helped me improve my vocabulary and learn new words!
This is a great way to appreciate the culture and immerse yourself in a new country.
The summer season will be unbearably packed
You've probably heard it before. But again, summer in the Mediterranean is very crowded.
I saw an Oasis of the Seas cruise deal and chose to sail the Mediterranean in June. I had heard that the cities would be busy but I thought I would be able to handle the crowds.
read more: Why you must take a winter Mediterranean cruise with Royal Caribbean
After all, you're just a tourist, right? wrong.
The crowds were almost unbearable, especially when coming to popular tourist destinations like the Uffizi Gallery or the Vatican.
Some areas were so crowded that I felt like I could barely enjoy my destination.
Especially in the case of the famous Uffizi Gallery in Florence, there were so many people lining the streets that it was difficult to even see the classical art pieces!
I had to pick my way through throngs of tourists and watch my belongings carefully.
If I could go on a cruise again, I would choose a cruise early or late in the cruise season.
Please bring clothing or a covering that covers your shoulders and knees.
Many major tourist attractions, especially churches, require visitors to dress modestly.
read more: 8 lessons learned from my first European cruise
At least cover your shoulders and knees, and do not wear low-cut clothing.
To help prepare for these requirements, I packed a few pairs of pants, a cardigan, and a scarf.
If I wore shorts or a tank top on the day I went out, I would always bring a scarf with me in case I wanted to go into a scene that required more modest attire.
In general, Europeans dress more formally than Americans, so it is better to pack less casual clothes. At the very least, don't wear slippers or sweatpants in public.
And feel free to head out for a formal night out on a cruise.
Arrive at boarding port early
We recommend arriving at the port at least one day prior to your cruise departure.
The same applies to Mediterranean sailings, but you'll want to get to port as quickly as possible.
With so much international travel and the potential for airline delays, it's a good idea to allow as much extra time as possible.
On a recent Mediterranean cruise, every flight I was on was delayed by at least an hour.
Although I was very grateful to have arrived at the cruise port the day before, I wish I had decided to get to the city earlier.
One day is not enough time to overcome the jet lag that comes with changing time zones.
Jet lag can leave you exhausted throughout the day, and if you don't recover quickly, your cruise experience may be limited.
Exhausting yourself right before a busy, port-intensive Mediterranean cruise (which will also involve a lot of walking!) is a recipe for disaster.
It is recommended that you arrive at the embarkation port at least 2-3 days before your cruise departure to get some rest in advance.
It also gives you more time to explore the area before your voyage begins.