How to see the best of the Mediterranean in 21 days

Step aboard a voyage that takes you into the Mediterranean’s most idyllic locales without the crowds.

Experience a slower and more thorough way of seeing the world onboard a cruise, where days unfold to the rhythm of the sea and every morning promises a new discovery. It’s hard to understand the joy of waking up to a new destination every morning and travelling without the chore of unpacking, until you’ve experienced it for yourself. Nowhere is this more true than along the shores of the Mediterranean, where landscapes feel almost theatrical in their drama and beauty. Croatia’s coastline reveals a mosaic of sapphire waters, pine-fringed islands and medieval stone towns glowing in the afternoon sun. Greece showcases whitewashed villages, dramatic cliffs and caldera views that fall away into impossibly blue seas. Along the Turkish coast near Ephesus, fertile valleys, golden hills and ancient ruins rise quietly above calm waters. Cinematic scenes unfold in Croatia’s old town of Dubrovnik. If you’re looking for a new way to see one of the world’s most enthralling regions without the crowds, then Seabourn‘s 21-day ‘Mediterranean Mosaic: Croatia, Greece & Ephesus’ itinerary aboard Seabourn Ovation is the best option for you.

How to see the best of the Mediterranean…

Departing Civitavecchia near Rome on 8 May 2027 and concluding in Istanbul in Turkey on 29 May 2027, this Mediterranean cruise offers an immersive journey through some of the region’s most beautiful ports, proving that this is the best way to see the Mediterranean without the crowds. Italy features prominently with visits to Giardini Naxos near Taormina and Brindisi (gateway to the baroque beauty of Lecce), while Malta’s fortified capital Valletta delivers history and harbour views. Along the Adriatic, stops in Croatia include Korcula and Dubrovnik, then guests will discover the fjord-like scenery of Kotor in Montenegro. Discover Greece from Corfu’s Ionian landscapes to Delphi and ancient Sparta, and the cultural heart of Athens, before continuing to the medieval drama of Monemvasia, Agios Nikolaos in Crete and the iconic Mykonos. Turkey completes the voyage with Cesme, Kusadasi for access to Ephesus. Onboard, guests enjoy the intimacy of small ship yacht harbours and boutique ports, extended stays and overnights in marquee destinations, and signature experiences that elevate the journey.

Must-see destinations…

Malta: Valletta is one of the Mediterranean’s most interesting small capitals. It has a UNESCO-listed grid of bastions, Baroque buildings and grand churches that overlook the harbour. St John’s Co-Cathedral is a highlight.

Croatia: HBO series Game of Thrones was filmed in Dubrovnik for good reason. Known as the Pearl of the Adriatic, its fully intact medieval walls, terracotta roofs and sweeping views over the Adriatic Sea are quintessential Dalmatian coast sights.

Montenegro: Located within a fjord-like bay and ringed by mountains, Kotor is a medieval old town comprised of narrow lanes, historic squares and fortress paths.

Greece: Delphi is the site of the ancient Oracle of Delphi and was once considered the centre of the classical world. The archaeological remains, including the Temple of Apollo and ancient theatre, bring an otherworldly grandeur to this very real location.

Turkey: Ephesus is a remarkably preserved Roman ruin incorporating the Library of Celsus and the Great Theatre, while in Istanbul, guests can visit bucket-list sites such as Hagia Sophia, the Grand Bazaar and the Blue Mosque.

How to experience them…

Evening at Ephesus is an exclusive and atmospheric experience that allows Seabourn guests to encounter one of the ancient world’s greatest cities after hours. Following an early dinner onboard, guests travel by coach to the upper gate of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed site, where refreshments are served. The evening includes a private classical music performance within the Odeon Theatre.

Shopping with the Chef is a culinary tour that invites Seabourn guests to explore the Mediterranean’s local food markets and wine regions guided by an expert Seabourn chef.

Marina Day is a signature Seabourn experience that offers guests a full day of complimentary watersports and beach activities, from kayaking and paddleboarding to Caviar in the Surf and beach barbecues.

Join an expert wine tasting at Barone di Villagrande Winery in Taormina, Italy. Explore the heart of Sicily on this tour to the historic Barone di Villagrande Estate on the slopes of Mt Etna, where guests can sip exceptional wines crafted from volcanic soils in a mountain setting.

Go kayaking on Kotor Bay in Montenegro. Sign up for the kayaking adventure through Kotor Bay to paddle past coastal churches and villages, then swim against a backdrop of mountain landscapes.

Taste the flavours of Croatia in the Peljesac Peninsula of Dubrovnik on a scenic drive through vineyards and quaint villages, sampling renowned local wines and olive oils at Grgich Cellars. Then, experience the unique Navis Mysterium wines aged in the sea at Edivo Winery, paired with local cheeses, prosciutto and olives, and browse handcrafted Croatian pottery, glass and artisanal products in the shop.

Explore Corfu in a 4×4 in Greece. Drive through olive groves, traditional villages and winding mountain roads while taking in sea vistas. Stop in charming villages such as Sokraki and Lakones, then enjoy refreshments in a café overlooking the bays of Paleokastritsa.

Tour Athens and the Acropolis in Greece, including the Parthenon, Erechtheum and Porch of the Caryatids. This excursion includes a scenic drive through Athens, then showcases highlights such as Constitution Square, the Royal Palace, the Temple of Zeus and the historic Olympic Stadium.

See Alacati through the lens of a foodie in Turkey. Wander the picturesque cobblestone streets of Alacati, where traditional Greek stone houses and bougainvillea frame the historic suburb, and sample local delicacies including simit, kumru sandwiches, mastik gum cookies and artisanal gelato.

The ultra-luxury Seabourn experience

Seabourn is a world-leading ultra-luxury cruise line offering an all-inclusive sailing experience that combines ocean-facing suites (many with private verandas) and exceptional interior design with world-class dining, complimentary premium spirits, gratuities, Wi‑Fi and personalised service. Onboard, guests have access to fitness spaces, leisure areas and an indulgent spa with wellness programs, and exclusive events, live music and shows, with something to suit every type of traveller programmed every day. Seabourn guests enjoy exceptional itineraries with incredible excursions, visiting marquee ports and hidden gems across the Mediterranean in small yet opulent ships that can go where larger ships cannot, affording guests access to unique destinations, making every sailing special. This is luxury cruising, but not as you know it.