We are experienced Caribbean cruisers and now want to go on our first Mediterranean/Europe cruise this Summer (or early Fall). As far as value to price: What cruise line/ship would you recommend? And, when is the best time of year to go (we like warm weather but hate crowds). We've cruised with Princess, Carnival and Royal Caribbean. We're getting older - we started in our early 20's, but now we're closer to 50. We have more money now but, of course, want a good deal. Most important to us: food and more upscale surroundings. We probably can't afford the Luxury lines, but the Premium lines should be fine. Any advice would be greatly appreciated!

This question has been asked and answered many times. Type Med.... in the search box. Lots of good options. Holland Am has some very nice cruises that would probably meet your criteria. Poke around a little more.

I agree with the recommendation for HAL. The Westerdam is newly refurbished and in the Med for the season. Definitely more upscale than Carnival and Princess, wonderful accomodations, very good food and a gracious crew.

Meets all your requests!

We just took an Oceania cruise in 9/06 that was Istanbul to Venice with the Greek Isles as part of the itinerary. Smaller ship, great food, and more upscale (but not snobish) than our Celebrity (considered premium) cruise. Take a look at their website.

We went in September as I said. Perfect time to go. Weather was still warm-to-hot, but crowds are not what you see in the summer.

I would also recommend Oceania--our favorite cruise line, by far. Wonderful staff, excellent food, TO reps on board at each port.

We've done the Med twice in October, and loved it.

BuddyD:

I guess everyone has their own way of traveling.

You mention wanting to go on a Mediterranean cruise .

To me whether is the shp is Princess or Holland American or Celebrrity really does not matter.

What is important to me is the Ports of call.

There is no use of me getting a good deal if I want to see Athens and Florence and Rome and these places are not on the tour intinerary ports of call.

I was on a Mediterraean Cruise in October ( 2006), good weather , but I went over many many different cruise options before I settled on getting 98% of the Ports I wanted.

But ,hey, that's me.
I am only giving you my opinion .

Good Luck
Percy