Still something of a hidden treasure where cruising is concerned, the Black Sea is growing in popularity amongst those who are looking to explore several of the world’s most captivating places in one trip. Bordering six countries – Bulgaria, Georgia, Romania, Russia, Turkey and Ukraine – The Black Sea’s rich history and culture makes it the ideal destination if you’re looking for something more than just relaxation on your cruise holiday.
Black Sea Cruise Itineraries
Black Sea cruise itineraries depart from Istanbul and Athens, with itineraries lasting between 11 and 14 nights. Black Sea cruises will generally form part of a cruise line’s Mediterranean season and often feature a segment of the Greek Isles at the beginning or end of the itinerary, depending on where you board the ship.
The most frequently visited port of call on a Black Sea cruise is Odessa in Ukraine. Home to stunning beaches and incredible 19th-century architecture, most itineraries will include an overnight stay so that you can make the most of your time in the city. Constanta in Romania is another popular stop. Here, you can enjoy trips to famous monuments, such as the famous Tropaeum Traiani Monument; an eye-catching symbol of the Roman Empires’ victories.
Depending on which cruise line you choose for your Black Sea cruise, your itinerary may also feature some of the region’s smaller gems. Batumi in Georgia is a great place to visit on a cruise and is home to a fascinating Old Town district and beautiful botanic gardens in the northern part of the city. Similarly, the town of Nessebur in Bulgaria will delight with its cobbled streets and Byzantine-era ruins.
The best time for Black Sea cruises
The majority of Black Sea cruises operate between late April and October. However, the summer months are perhaps the best time to visit the region, with the long hot days and warm evenings creating the perfect environment for relaxation and exploration. If you would prefer to visit the Black Sea when the temperatures are slightly cooler, then late September and October are recommended, with the added benefit of less cruise traffic during this time of year.
Cruise lines that visit the Black Sea
Due to the size of the ports and the restrictions on cruise traffic, most cruise lines that visit the Black Sea are on the smaller side of the spectrum. Regent Seven Seas and Azamara both offer Black Sea cruises from Istanbul and Athens, while operators including Saga Cruises and Fred Olsen Cruise Lines visit the region as part of longer, no-fly itineraries in the Mediterranean. The Black Sea is also a top-rated destination for river cruise lines, with AmaWaterways, Scenic and Emerald Waterways offering an array of itineraries from Budapest.
For more information regarding Black Sea cruises or to receive a quote for a future voyage, please call us on 0800 008 6677. Alternatively, please make an online enquiry for one of the itineraries featured below.
