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21-Day Mediterranean Crossing: Greek Isles, Italy & Spain

21-Day Mediterranean Crossing: Greek Isles, Italy & Spain

About This Cruise

Who Is This Cruise For?

  • Families

    5 kids’ and teens’ clubs on board Rotterdam

  • Couples

    A premium ship with a grown-up, relaxed atmosphere

  • Over 50s

    Holland America Line is a favourite with mature travellers

  • Groups & friends

    Rotterdam is a big resort ship with plenty to do together

Type

Ocean, Premium

Ship

Rotterdam

Departure Date

2 December 2028

Cruise Line

Holland America Line

Duration

21 Nights

Select Your Cabin Type
Select your cabin type
Call Us at (01) 554 1010

Itinerary

Turkey

Istanbul

The only city in the world that can lay claim to straddling two continents, Istanbul—once known as Constantinople, capital of the Byzantine and then the Ottoman Empire—has for centuries been a bustling metropolis with one foot in Europe and the other in Asia. Istanbul embraces this enviable position with both a certain chaos and inventiveness, ever evolving as one of the world’s most cosmopolitan crossroads. It’s often said that Istanbul is the meeting point of East and West, but visitors to this city built over the former capital of two great empires are likely to be just as impressed by the juxtaposition of old and new. Office towers creep up behind historic palaces, women in chic designer outfits pass others wearing long skirts and head coverings, peddlers’ pushcarts vie with battered old Fiats and shiny BMWs for dominance of the noisy, narrow streets, and the Grand Bazaar competes with modern shopping malls. At dawn, when the muezzin's call to prayer resounds from ancient minarets, there are inevitably a few hearty revelers still making their way home from nightclubs and bars. Most visitors to this sprawling city of more than 14 million will first set foot in the relatively compact Old City, where the legacy of the Byzantine and Ottoman empires can be seen in monumental works of architecture like the brilliant Aya Sofya and the beautifully proportioned mosques built by the great architect Sinan. Though it would be easy to spend days, if not weeks, exploring the wealth of attractions in the historical peninsula, visitors should make sure also to venture elsewhere in order to experience the vibrancy of contemporary Istanbul. With a lively nightlife propelled by its young population and an exciting arts scene that’s increasingly on the international radar—thanks in part to its stint as the European Capital of Culture in 2010—Istanbul is truly a city that never sleeps. It’s also a place where visitors will feel welcome: Istanbul may be on the Bosphorus, but at heart it’s a Mediterranean city, whose friendly inhabitants are effusively social and eager to share what they love most about it.

Greece

Mykonos

Although the fishing boats still go out in good weather, Mykonos largely makes its living from tourism these days. The summer crowds have turned one of the poorest islands in Greece into one of the richest. Old Mykonians complain that their young, who have inherited stores where their grandfathers once sold eggs or wine, get so much rent that they have lost ambition, and in summer sit around pool bars at night with their friends, and hang out in Athens in winter when island life is less scintillating. Put firmly on the map by Jackie O in the 1960s, Mykonos town—called Hora by the locals—remains the Saint-Tropez of the Greek islands. The scenery is memorable, with its whitewashed streets, Little Venice, the Kato Myli ridge of windmills, and Kastro, the town's medieval quarter. Its cubical two- or three-story houses and churches, with their red or blue doors and domes and wooden balconies, have been long celebrated as some of the best examples of classic Cycladic architecture. Luckily, the Greek Archaeological Service decided to preserve the town, even when the Mykonians would have preferred to rebuild, and so the Old Town has been impressively preserved. Pink oleander, scarlet hibiscus, and trailing green pepper trees form a contrast amid the dazzling whiteness, whose frequent renewal with whitewash is required by law. Any visitor who has the pleasure of getting lost in its narrow streets (made all the narrower by the many outdoor stone staircases, which maximize housing space in the crowded village) will appreciate how its confusing layout was designed to foil pirates—if it was designed at all. After Mykonos fell under Turkish rule in 1537, the Ottomans allowed the islanders to arm their vessels against pirates, which had a contradictory effect: many of them found that raiding other islands was more profitable than tilling arid land. At the height of Aegean piracy, Mykonos was the principal headquarters of the corsair fleets—the place where pirates met their fellows, found willing women, and filled out their crews. Eventually the illicit activity evolved into a legitimate and thriving trade network. Morning on Mykonos town's main quay is busy with deliveries, visitors for the Delos boats, lazy breakfasters, and street cleaners dealing with the previous night's mess. In late morning the cruise-boat people arrive, and the shops are all open. In early afternoon, shaded outdoor tavernas are full of diners eating salads (Mykonos's produce is mostly imported); music is absent or kept low. In mid- and late afternoon, the town feels sleepy, since so many people are at the beach, on excursions, or sleeping in their air-conditioned rooms; even some tourist shops close for siesta. By sunset, people have come back from the beach, having taken their showers and rested. At night, the atmosphere in Mykonos ramps up. The cruise-boat people are mostly gone, coughing three-wheelers make no deliveries in the narrow streets, and everyone is dressed sexy for summer and starting to shimmy with the scene. Many shops stay open past midnight, the restaurants fill up, and the bars and discos make ice cubes as fast as they can. Ready to dive in? Begin your tour of Mykonos town (Hora) by starting out at its heart: Mando Mavrogenous Square.

Greece

Khania

The second-largest city in Crete and capital of the Homonym Prefecture, Chania is located in Minoan Kidonia at the end of the Homonym Gulf between the Akrotiri and Onicha peninsulas. Chania City is divided into two parts; the Old Town, which is comprised of several connected districts built around the old Venetian Harbour, and New Town, a larger, more modern city whose centre is situated next to, and south of, the Old Town. The Old Town is home to Venetian buildings and Turkish elements that combine to create a unique architectural style, and is considered to be the most beautiful urban district on Crete. It was once surrounded by old Venetian fortifications that separated it from the New Town; however, only the eastern and western parts remain today. Due to its compact size, Skiathos can be easily explored in just a single day.

Italy

Stromboli

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Italy

Messina

Home to the Museo Regionale of Messina, known for featuring two of Caravaggio's paintings, the city is also famous for having been the capital of the ancient kingdom of Sicily.

Italy

Naples

Naples, in the Campania region, is Italy's third largest city. Its claim to fame is the spectacular location along one of the world's most splendid bays, backed by the perfect cone of Mount Vesuvius. In addition to its beautiful setting, Naples' surprises with other outstanding attractions such as the Royal Palace, San Carlos Opera House, the impressive National Archaeological Museum and the Castel Nuovo, dating from the 13th-century. The city's central area is best explored on foot. Chaotic traffic conditions make driving around the city a very frustrating experience. Naples provides a convenient starting point for trips to such favored destinations as Pompeii, Herculaneum and Mount Vesuvius. The Isle of Capri can be reached via a 45-minute hydrofoil service. The region of Campania was home to Greeks settlers some 300 years before Rome was founded. Pompeii, too, was a Greek town before being conquered by the Romans during the 5th century BC. It was under the Romans that Pompeii flourished and grew prosperous. When Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD, the population of 20,000 was wiped out, but dozens of buildings were preserved under layers of cinder more than 20 feet deep. The most important finds from Pompeii are displayed in Naples' National Archaeological Museum. A visit here will no doubt enhance a visit to ancient Pompeii.

Italy

Civitavecchia

Italy's vibrant capital lives in the present, but no other city on earth evokes its past so powerfully. For over 2,500 years, emperors, popes, artists, and common citizens have left their mark here. Archaeological remains from ancient Rome, art-stuffed churches, and the treasures of Vatican City vie for your attention, but Rome is also a wonderful place to practice the Italian-perfected il dolce far niente, the sweet art of idleness. Your most memorable experiences may include sitting at a caffè in the Campo de' Fiori or strolling in a beguiling piazza.

Italy

Livorno

Livorno is a gritty city with a long and interesting history. In the early Middle Ages it alternately belonged to Pisa and Genoa. In 1421 Florence, seeking access to the sea, bought it. Cosimo I (1519–74) started construction of the harbor in 1571, putting Livorno on the map. After Ferdinando I de' Medici (1549–1609) proclaimed Livorno a free city, it became a haven for people suffering from religious persecution; Roman Catholics from England and Jews and Moors from Spain and Portugal, among others, settled here. The Quattro Mori (Four Moors), also known as the Monument to Ferdinando I, commemorates this. (The statue of Ferdinando I dates from 1595, the bronze Moors by Pietro Tacca from the 1620s.)In the following centuries, and particularly in the 18th, Livorno boomed as a port. In the 19th century the town drew a host of famous Britons passing through on their grand tours. Its prominence continued up to World War II, when it was heavily bombed. Much of the town's architecture, therefore, postdates the war, and it's somewhat difficult to imagine what it might have looked like before. Livorno has recovered from the war, however, as it's become a huge point of departure for container ships, as well as the only spot in Tuscany for cruise ships to dock for the day.Most of Livorno's artistic treasures date from the 17th century and aren't all that interesting unless you dote on obscure baroque artists. Livorno's most famous native artist, Amedeo Modigliani (1884–1920), was of much more recent vintage. Sadly, there's no notable work by him in his hometown.There may not be much in the way of art, but it's still worth strolling around the city. The Mercato Nuovo, which has been around since 1894, sells all sorts of fruits, vegetables, grains, meat, and fish. Outdoor markets nearby are also chock-full of local color. The presence of Camp Darby, an American military base just outside town, accounts for the availability of many American products.If you have time, Livorno is worth a stop for lunch or dinner at the very least.

Spain

Cartagena

A Mediterranean city and naval station located in the Region of Murcia, southeastern Spain, Cartagena’s sheltered bay has attracted sailors for centuries. The Carthaginians founded the city in 223BC and named it Cartago Nova; it later became a prosperous Roman colony, and a Byzantine trading centre. The city has been the main Spanish Mediterranean naval base since the reign of King Philip II, and is still surrounded by walls built during this period. Cartagena’s importance grew with the arrival of the Spanish Bourbons in the 18th century, when the Navidad Fortress was constructed to protect the harbour. In recent years, traces of the city’s fascinating past have been brought to light: a well-preserved Roman Theatre was discovered in 1988, and this has now been restored and opened to the public. During your free time, you may like to take a mini-cruise around Cartagena's historic harbour: these operate several times a day, take approximately 40 minutes and do not need to be booked in advance. Full details will be available at the port.

Gibraltar

Gibraltar

Tagged on to the end of Iberia, the intriguing British outpost of Gibraltar is dominated by a sandy peninsula and the stunning 1,400-feet-high limestone Rock. Although small, Gibraltar has always been seen as having great strategic importance on account of its advantageous position where the Atlantic meets the Mediterranean, just 12 miles from the coast of Africa. Ever popular with British holidaymakers, Gibraltar is very much a home from home, boasting excellent duty-free shopping in many familiar British high street shops. Please note: Gibraltar’s small size and narrow winding roads mean that excursions are operated by 22-seater mini-buses, accompanied by a driver/guide. Local health and safety regulations prohibit the carriage of walking aids and collapsible wheelchairs on these vehicles. If you do wish to bring a mobility aid, we can arrange the Rock Tour by taxi, which has extra space. If this suits your requirements, please advise the Tours and Travel office when you join the ship, as numbers are limited.

United States

Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Like many southeast Florida neighbors, Fort Lauderdale has long been revitalizing. In a state where gaudy tourist zones often stand aloof from workaday downtowns, Fort Lauderdale exhibits consistency at both ends of the 2-mile Las Olas corridor. The sparkling look results from upgrades both downtown and on the beachfront. Matching the downtown's innovative arts district, cafés, and boutiques is an equally inventive beach area, with hotels, cafés, and shops facing an undeveloped shoreline, and new resort-style hotels replacing faded icons of yesteryear. Despite wariness of pretentious overdevelopment, city leaders have allowed a striking number of glittering high-rises. Nostalgic locals and frequent visitors fret over the diminishing vision of sailboats bobbing in waters near downtown; however, Fort Lauderdale remains the yachting capital of the world, and the water toys don’t seem to be going anywhere.
Suite

Pinnacle Suite

Our premier 1,290 sq. ft. Pinnacle Suite features floor-to-ceiling glass doors, large private Whirlpool verandahs (on select ships), living, dining, and dressing rooms, and lush sleeping accommodations with luxurious Duxiana® king beds. These elegant suites sleep up to four guests and include a deep soaking tub and an independent, full-size shower stall, dual-sink vanities, and guest toilets. 

  • 1,290 sq. ft.
  • Exclusive access to the Neptune Lounge
  • Personal concierge
  • Priority check-in
  • Complimentary laundry service, pressing, and dry cleaning

Suite

Neptune Spa Suite

Steps from the Spa & Salon, Neptune Spa Suites feature floor-to-ceiling glass doors, spacious private verandahs, expansive sitting areas, separate dressing rooms, and comfortable sleeping accommodations with Mariner’s Dream™ beds, our 465–502 sq. ft. suite sleeps up to 4 guests and boast a deep soaking tub and an independent, full-size shower stall, dual-sink vanities, premium bathrobes, pillow menus, fresh flowers, and binoculars.

  • 465–502 sq. ft.
  • Exclusive use of Neptune Lounge
  • Personal concierge
  • Priority check-in
  • Proximity to the Spa & Salon

Suite

Neptune Suite

With floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a private verandah, these spacious suites are flooded with light. They feature a large sitting area and two lower beds convertible to one king-size bed—our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses. The bathroom comes with a dual-sink vanity, full-size whirlpool bath and shower, plus additional shower stall. Amenities include use of the exclusive Neptune Lounge, a private concierge and an array of complimentary services.

Approximately 465-502 sq. ft. including verandah

Suite

Signature Suite

These elegant 393–400 sq. ft. suites feature a sitting area with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a private verandah. Signature Suites accommodate up to four guests with two beds that convert to a queen- or king-size bed — our signature Mariner’s Dream™ bed, and a Murphy, Pullman, or sofa bed, depending on configuration.

  • 393–400 sq. ft.
  • Refrigerator
  • Set of binoculars

Suite

Vista Suite

Graced with a private verandah, floor-to-ceiling glass doors, and comfortable sitting areas, our 260–356 sq. ft. Vista Suites are filled with natural light. They include two beds that convert to one queen-size bed — our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush euro-top mattress.

  • 260–356 sq. ft.
  • Refrigerator
  • Set of binoculars

Suite

Aft-View Vista Suite

Graced with a private verandah, floor-to-ceiling glass doors, and comfortable sitting areas, our 260–356 sq. ft. Vista Suites are filled with natural light. They include two beds that convert to one queen-size bed — our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush euro-top mattress.

  • 260–356 sq. ft.
  • Refrigerator
  • Set of binoculars

Balcony

Spa Verandah

Steps from the Spa & Salon, these 228–405 sq. ft. staterooms are filled with light from floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a private balcony. Verandah staterooms include a sitting area and two beds that convert to one queen-size bed — our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush euro-top mattress.

Balcony

Aft-View Verandah

Floor-to-ceiling doors lead to your balcony, infusing these coveted 228–405 sq. ft. staterooms with natural light. Enjoy a private verandah overlooking the ocean, a spacious sitting area for unwinding, and our signature Mariner’s Dream™ bed that can convert from one queen to two beds.

Balcony

Verandah

Floor-to-ceiling doors lead to your balcony, infusing these coveted 228–405 sq. ft. staterooms with natural light. Enjoy a private verandah overlooking the ocean, a spacious sitting area for unwinding, and our signature Mariner’s Dream™ bed that can convert from one queen to two beds.

Balcony

Obstructed Verandah

These 228–405 sq. ft. staterooms are filled with light from floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a private balcony with a partially obstructed view. Verandah staterooms include a sitting area and two beds that convert to one queen-size bed — our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush euro-top mattress.

Outside

Family Ocean View

These expansive 222–231 sq. ft. Family Ocean View staterooms sleep up to 5 guests with two beds that convert to one queen-size bed — our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush euro-top mattress — plus an additional bed and a sofa bed. They include a sitting area, full bath, and 3/4 bath (additional bath, shower, and sink).

Outside

Spa Ocean View

Steps from the Spa & Salon, these 175–282 sq. ft. staterooms include a sitting area, two beds that convert to one queen-size bed — our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush euro-top mattress — and premium massage showerheads.

Outside

Ocean View

With a view of the ocean through a window or porthole, these expansive staterooms include a sitting area, two beds that convert to one queen-size bed — our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush euro-top mattress — premium massage showerheads, and a host of amenities.

Outside

Single Ocean View

Designed specially for solo travelers, these 127–172 sq. ft. Single Ocean View staterooms include a full-size signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush euro-top mattress and a host of amenities.

Inside

Spa Inside

Steps from the Spa & Salon, our 143–225 sq. ft. Interior staterooms offer exceptional value with two beds that convert to one queen-size bed — our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush euro-top mattress — and premium massage showerheads.

Inside

Inside

Big on comfort, our 143–225 sq. ft. Inside staterooms offer exceptional value with two beds that convert to one queen-size bed — our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush euro-top mattress — premium massage showerheads and a host of amenities. 

french

Sel De Mer

Sel de Mer is an intimate Mediterranean Bistro featuring the flavors of France, Spain and Greece with a focus on fresh fish and authentically prepared recipes.

varies

The Dining Room

Multi-course dining with fresh seafood, global flavors, and flexible options daily, all included in your cruise fare.

casual

Pinnacle Grill

Welcome to Pinnacle Grill, our signature chophouse featuring Wagyu, seafood, regional specialties, sides, wines & desserts.

italian

Canaletto

In Italy, there’s nothing more important than coming together to celebrate the joy of great food. Canaletto's crafted menu is inspired by the simplicity of Italian food and its rich, robust flavors. And at Canaletto, our pasta is made from scratch each and every day. Buon Appetito!

sushi

Tamarind

Savor vibrant Asian flavors at this specialty restaurant on select ships. Additional charge applies.

american

Dive-In

Dive-In offers a variety of casual culinary classics, using the highest quality ingredients. Enjoy a burger, grilled to perfection and served on a toasted brioche with our own trade-marked secret sauce. Savor a succulent Nathan’s Famous gourmet hot dog with golden French fries. Or choose a grilled chicken breast sandwich or juicy portabella mushroom stack. Dive-In is the perfect spot to dine poolside on the best burgers at sea.

italian

New York Pizza

At New York Pizza, choose from a variety of scrumptious, 9-inch, thin-crust pies. Named for New York’s famed five boroughs, our signature pizzas are made to order and topped with only the finest ingredients. Enjoy your pizza by day while overlooking the Lido pool, and into the night.

sushi

Morimoto by Sea Sushi Bar

Watch as expert chefs prepare fresh, à la carte sushi right before your eyes, alongside a curated selection of tempting hot appetizers and entrées to complement your meal perfectly.

varies

24-Hour In-Room Dining

Freshly prepared breakfast, lunch, dinner, and late-night favorites delivered right to your door.

ice_cream

Gelato

At “G” Gelato, you can indulge your sweet tooth with a classic European gelato (ice cream), made fresh on board each day by chefs trained at the Carpigiani Gelato University. Choose from among 12 delightful flavors, two of which are rotated daily. Smooth, creamy and refreshing, this tasty treat is served in a variety of ways, including gelato popsicles and the flavors of G, composed shots with layers of caramel, nuts and gelato. Love pistachio? Select ingredients like Sicilian pistachios make our pistachio gelato out of this world!

Theatre

World Stage

Bold visuals, dynamic choreography, dazzling costumes, and unforgettable music unite in spectacular shows spanning genres and generations.

Musicians

Rolling Stone Lounge

Celebrate 60 years of chart-topping hits, including rock, pop, and country classics that are sure to keep you dancing and reliving unforgettable musical moments.

Musicians

Crow's Nest Bar

Relax in the Crow's Nest, a panoramic lounge high above the sea. Sip your favorite drink and soak in stunning views.

Casino

Casino Action

Your Holland America Line ship’s Casino offers a wide array of gaming options. Whether you prefer slot machines or want to try your hand at blackjack or poker, our dealers and staff are available to provide complimentary instruction — and we offer many engaging tournament options. The Casino is only open at sea.

Musicians

Billboard Onboard

Join the biggest sing-along at sea, test your music knowledge at themed trivia events, and enjoy “All Request” performances featuring classics, and crowd favorites.

Musicians

Lincoln Centre Stage

In an exclusive partnership with the world’s leading centre for the performing arts, we proudly present Lincoln Centre Stage, showcasing outstanding musicians performing multiple programs of chamber music most evenings, as well as afternoon recitals during leisurely days at sea. 

Spa, Wellness, Salon

Greenhouse Spa & Salon

Spa & Salon Services

From personalized massages and revitalizing facials to holistic wellness rituals, expert salon styling, and Elemis products, our Spa & Salon delivers restorative relaxation at sea.​

Pool

Sea View Pool

An Adults-Only Oasis
Exclusively for guests 18 and older, the Sea View Pool features ambient live music during days at sea and is home to our Signature Pool Experience, featuring cold towels and your favorite drinks delivered right to you.

Gym, Exercise Class

Fitness

Stay Active at Sea

Keeping fit is easy with a fully equipped Fitness Center — cardio, strength equipment, and complimentary wellness classes. Elevate your routine with paid personal training or instructor-led classes.

Sports Court

Pickleball At Sea

Whether you're new to the game or a pro, each Holland America ship offers one or two ocean-view courts, so you can serve, volley, and score while sailing the world.

Kids Programs (Ages 3-6)

A world of supervised fun awaits — arts & crafts, sports, and games — all designed to spark creativity and help kids build real friendships at sea.

Tweens Programs (Ages 7-11)


From arts & crafts and sporting events to video gaming tournaments and movie nights, there's plenty to keep tweens engaged.

Teens Programs (Ages 12-17)

Teens connect through sports, group games, movie nights, and dedicated hangouts, plus exclusive evening events like video game tournaments.

Special Needs

Children with special needs are welcome in Kids Club by age. Some activities may require parental support — please share needs at booking.

Port Day Activities

Kids Club activities are available from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on port days*. Lunch is not offered as part of this service. Children must be registered and signed into and out of programming by a parent or guardian.

*Hours of operation may change to better serve our guests.