Sunken Pillars & Salt Air – Athens, Ephesus & Rome

About this cruise

If you've got 17 nights to work with, this sailing from Naples on October 8, 2028 through Palermo, Messina and Souda (Chania), with additional stops along the Western Mediterranean is genuinely one of the better ways to spend them. You wind up in Barcelona, so it's worth planning a night or two there. A few ports come in quick succession, which is great for sightseeing but means you'll appreciate the sea days when they arrive. Crossing 5 borders through the Western Mediterranean: Italy, Greece, Türkiye, France and Spain. You'll notice the culture shift at every stop. Messina stands out. It's Sicily's gateway to Mount Etna and Taormina. Around 11 hours per port on average, which is generous enough to go beyond the obvious. Sun Princess joined the Princess Cruises's lineup in 2024. Still has that new-ship feel. The longer time on board means you'll catch several shows, themed nights, and start feeling like a regular at your favourite bar. Families and groups will find plenty to do: waterslides, shows, multiple pools, and something for every age. The autumn timing is underrated too. Good weather, calmer seas, and a more relaxed ship. All in all, it's a solid trip.