Epic Mediterranean Cruise

This seven-night Mediterranean cruise aboard the 4-star Norwegian Epic offers a wonderful opportunity to explore the historical highlights of Italy and France. Tailored for Irish travellers seeking both value and comfort, this package includes direct flights from Dublin, checked luggage, and all necessary transfers, ensuring a stress-free start and end to your holiday. The voyage follows a scenic route from the ancient gates of Rome to the vibrant streets of Barcelona, allowing you to wake up in a new cultural capital almost every morning.

The Norwegian Epic is a modern and well-equipped vessel known for its casual ‘Freestyle Cruising’ approach. This means you can dine when and where you choose, with 17 different restaurants available, including elegant main dining rooms and various speciality options like a steakhouse or an Italian farmhouse. Between ports, you can make the most of the extensive onboard facilities. There are 18 bars and lounges, a full-service spa, bowling alleys, and an impressive aqua park. The evening entertainment is a particular highlight, featuring professional Broadway productions such as ‘Priscilla, Queen of the Desert’ and ‘Ballroom Blitz’, alongside live music and comedy sets.

Your itinerary begins in Civitavecchia, the gateway to Rome, before heading south to the stunning Amalfi Coast. Here, you can admire the colourful fishing villages and lemon groves that cling to the rugged shoreline. Next, the ship calls at Catania in Sicily, situated at the base of Mount Etna. This city is a fascinating mix of Roman history and baroque architecture. After a relaxing day at sea to enjoy the Mediterranean cruise facilities, you will arrive in Livorno. This port provides easy access to the iconic Tuscan cities of Florence and Pisa, where you can see the Renaissance art and the famous Leaning Tower.

Continuing into France, you will visit Nice, a gem of the French Riviera known for its pebble beaches and belle époque architecture. From here, it is a short trip to the hilltop village of Eze or the bustling markets of Nice’s Old City. The final port of call is Marseille, the gateway to Provence. This historic city is known for its clear light—which has inspired many famous artists—and its excellent seafood. For those looking to enhance their experience, an optional ‘Free At Sea’ upgrade is available, providing additional benefits such as an all-inclusive drinks package and Wi-Fi. This Mediterranean cruise concludes in Barcelona, where you will disembark for your return flight home, having experienced the very best of the Western Mediterranean in one organised trip.