Variety Cruises, the family-owned leader in small ship cruising, is introducing new itineraries for 2025 in both iconic and emerging European locales onboard the company’s signature small ships, taking travellers away from tourist crowds and into the heart of each destination. With departures launching in May 2025, the company will now bring adventurers to Italy, Malta, Croatia, Albania, Slovenia and Montenegro on seven new cruises. Travellers who reserve their space on any new itinerary by 15 November 2024 will also benefit with up to 15% off for booking early.
“There is so much our beautiful continent has to offer travellers, although we’ve seen first-hand the detrimental impact overtourism and mega cruises can have on a destination. It is imperative that travel companies offer more responsible options to protect these beloved places and their communities,” said Filippos Venetopoulos, CEO of Variety Cruises. “With less than 50 passengers on each sailing, these new itineraries provide visitors an opportunity to explore established destinations in new ways only possible by small ship, and discover the charm of up-and-coming countries like Albania that offer similar experiences as their more popular neighbours without the crowds,” he added.
In addition to a robust collection of sailings throughout Greece, where the company was founded in 1949 and is still headquartered, Variety now offers seven new European cruises for 2025 onboard its flagship Variety Voyager and Callisto ships:
Italy & Malta
- Sicilian Sunsets & Amalfi Delights – 8 days, from € 3,450 per person*
A captivating journey starting from the charming capital of Malta, to Sicily and Southern Italy. Highlights of the cruise include: a visit to Agrigento, home to ancient Greek ruins in the UNESCO-listed Temple Valley; an onboard wine tasting experience; discovering the origins of the Mafia and savouring the flavors of Sicilian cuisine in Palermo; a tour of Pompeii; and more.
- La Dolce Vita – 8 days, from € 3,350 per person*
Embark on a journey from Naples, the birthplace of pizza, stopping at the island of Capri, adored by celebrities and global jet-setters. In Sicily, passengers can explore the streets of Taormina and the bustling Corso Umberto, a cosmopolitan hub filled with renowned fashion boutiques. Ascend Mount Etna, an active volcano, visit the filming locations of “The Godfather” in Catania, then journey on to Malta, discovering UNESCO’s cultural heritage sites like the ancient megalithic monuments of Gozo, dating back 5,500 years.
- Mediterranean Serenade – 8 days, from € 3,350 per person*
This cruise, which runs roundtrip from the small nation of Malta, brings travellers to the cobalt-blue seas off Sicily’s northeastern coast, the UNESCO-protected Aeolian Islands (including Gozo Island, sailing around Stromboli and Lipari Island)—a seven-island archipelago brimming with opportunities for relaxation and outdoor adventure.
Italy & the Adriatic Sea
- Yachting in Alabania & Croatia – 8 days, from € 2,900 per person*
This journey promises an unforgettable week through the sparkling waters of the Adriatic Sea, exploring Croatia, Albania and Montenegro, each rich with historical treasures, scenic landscapes and cultural marvels. Guests can explore Korcula’s wine heritage at Bire winery, sampling the unique Grk wine, exclusive to the Lumbarda region and dating back to the 5th century AD; learn about hidden Yugoslavian military tunnels; and witness the ancient art of olive oil production in Montenegro, including a glimpse of one of the oldest olive trees still yielding fruit.
- Venetian Horizons – 8 days, from € 2,900 per person*
Sailing round trip from Venice with visits to several captivating cities in Slovenia and Croatia, guests will explore: the picturesque town of Piran, known for its stunning coastal views and medieval architecture; Opatija, a renowned seaside resort; the stunning Plitvice Lakes; and Ljubljana, Europe’s Green Capital since 1991.
- Adriatic Jewels: From Venice to Debrovnik & Adriatic Jewels: From Dubrovnik to Venice – 8 days, from € 3,450 per person*
Explore the enchanting canals and historic architecture of Venice before venturing into Croatia’s coastal gems, discovering charming towns like Dubrovnik and Split, each steeped in rich history and culture. As the journey unfolds, bask in the tranquil beauty of Montenegro’s Bay of Kotor, surrounded by rugged mountains and serene waters. This cruise promises a blend of cultural immersion, breathtaking scenery and unforgettable experiences along the Adriatic coast.
Variety Cruises, which is celebrating its 75th anniversary in 2024, is known for offering access to destinations often unreachable by larger ships, appealing to the increasing traveller interest in discovering hidden gems and less crowded locations. The company, with a vision to create a better world at sea™, hosts around 50 guests per sailing with a crew of 20 and provides its customers with experiences that are in-depth and community-driven while leaving a minimal footprint behind.
*Travellers can take advantage of Variety Cruises’ Early Booking Discount with up to 15% off the published prices per person on reservations confirmed by 15 November 2024. For more information visit www.varietycruises.com/offers-overview/.
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