Name: Gems of the Mediterranean
Brand: Viking Ocean Cruises

Overview

The Viking Vela leaves Barcelona behind as she sets course for Mediterranean and Italy on this 21-night Viking Ocean Cruises sailing. With 3 ports on the itinerary - from Sète to Messina and Çanakkale - there's no shortage of places to explore between 1 relaxing sea days. On board, the days at sea pass effortlessly - with Mediterranean and Italy's ever-changing coastline stretching out in every direction. Secure your place from just £6,808 per person on this exceptional Viking Ocean Cruises cruise.

Viking Ocean Cruises

Viking began as a river cruise line and entered the ocean-cruise market with the launch of the 930-guest Viking Star.

Viking has already made an indelible mark on the sector with its fleet of stylish, near-identical, adult-only ships.

The cruise line currently has 10 ships in its fleet.

Cruise Itinerary

Days 1-2

Barcelona

Barcelona, a city defined by its innovative spirit from the architectural wonders of Gaudto the bustling medieval streets of the Gothic Quarter, offers a vivid window into Spains artistic soul. The city benefits from a Mediterranean climate, ensuring pleasant weather perfect for leisurely explorations of its many districts. Cruise lines such as Royal Caribbean and Norwegian utilize Barcelona as a key port, giving travelers the chance to immerse themselves in a blend of modernist architecture and vibrant local life. An intriguing fact about Barcelona is its beach was artificially created in preparation for the 1992 Olympics, showcasing the city's ability to ingeniously reinvent itself while maintaining its historical roots.

Day 3

Sète

Day 4

Marseille

Nestled along the shimmering shores of the Mediterranean, Marseille beckons with a vibrant past steeped in maritime lore. Its bustling port has been a hub of trade and cultural exchange for centuries, with influences from Europe, Africa, and the Middle East converging in its bustling streets. Blessed with a mild Mediterranean climate, Marseille offers a haven for sun-seekers year-round, while its labyrinthine alleys and bustling markets promise an authentic taste of French life. Beyond the tourist hotspots, hidden gems await exploration, such as the secluded coves of the Calanques National Park, where azure waters meet rugged cliffs in a breathtaking tableau.

Day 5

Villefranche-sur-Mer

Nestled on the sun-kissed shores of the French Riviera, Villefranche-sur-Mer exudes an enchanting charm steeped in maritime history. Its azure waters have witnessed the passage of ancient mariners and modern-day adventurers alike. Bask in the Mediterranean climate, where gentle sea breezes mingle with the scent of citrus groves, offering respite from the bustling city life. This idyllic haven provides a gateway to the authentic essence of France, with its quaint cobblestone streets and colorful waterfront cafes. As cruise lines dock in its picturesque harbor, Villefranche-sur-Mer unveils its hidden treasures, inviting travelers to savor its culinary delights and immerse themselves in its vibrant local culture.

Days 6-7

Livorno

Day 8

Civitavecchia

Perched on the shores of the Tyrrhenian Sea, Civitavecchia boasts a storied past intertwined with maritime adventures. As the gateway to Rome, its harbor has welcomed seafarers for centuries, echoing with tales of ancient civilizations and grand conquests. The Mediterranean climate blesses visitors with balmy breezes and sun-drenched days, creating an idyllic atmosphere for exploration. Away from the bustling metropolis, Civitavecchia offers an authentic Italian experience, where cobblestone streets wind through charming piazzas and trattorias serve up delectable seafood caught fresh from the sea. Don't miss the chance to stroll along the historic harbor walls, built to protect against marauding pirates centuries ago.

Day 9

Naples

Amidst the captivating backdrop of Mount Vesuvius, Naples beckons with a tapestry of ancient allure. Its fabled past, steeped in mythology and legend, whispers tales of emperors and poets, of Pompeii's tragic fate and the birth of pizza. The Mediterranean climate blesses Naples with warm, sun-drenched days, perfect for savoring gelato on cobblestone streets or basking in the glow of historic piazzas. This vibrant city pulsates with an energy that ignites the senses, inviting travelers to immerse themselves in authentic Neapolitan life. And did you know? Naples boasts the world's oldest continuously operating pizzeria, Antica Pizzeria Port'Alba, dating back to 1738.

Day 10

Messina

Amidst the sun-kissed shores of Messina lies a tapestry of history woven with tales of ancient civilizations and legendary events. Its storied past, marked by encounters with Phoenicians, Greeks, and Romans, echoes through its cobblestone streets and majestic architecture. The Mediterranean climate here offers a balmy embrace, perfect for leisurely exploration and al fresco dining. Beyond the bustling ports, Messina unveils hidden gems, from charming cafes to vibrant markets, where travelers can savor authentic Sicilian flavors and immerse themselves in local traditions. As the gateway to Sicily, Messina beckons cruisegoers with its rich heritage and timeless allure, promising an unforgettable journey through the heart of Italy.

Day 11

Canakkale, a gateway to legends and legacies, beckons with the echoes of ancient battles and the whispers of timeless tales. Set against the backdrop of azure waters and rugged landscapes, its storied past unfolds like an epic drama, drawing travelers into its embrace. The Mediterranean climate blesses this region with mild winters and sun-drenched summers, creating the perfect ambiance for exploration. Away from the hustle and bustle of conventional tourist hubs, Canakkale offers an authentic glimpse into Turkey's soul, where every cobblestone street and seaside promenade tells a story. As twilight falls, the silhouette of the legendary Trojan Horse stands sentinel, a testament to the enduring spirit of this historic land.

Day 12

Suda Bay, Crete

Day 13

Kusadasi

Welcome to Kusadasi, where the sands of time reveal tales of ancient civilizations and maritime adventures. Here, amidst the gentle Mediterranean climate and azure waters, cruise lines dock to unveil the treasures of this historic port city. Kusadasi offers an authentic escape from the typical tourist traps, with its winding streets, bustling markets, and welcoming locals. As a showcase for the real Turkey, Kusadasi boasts a rich culinary scene, where traditional Turkish delights tantalize the taste buds. And did you know? Kusadasi is home to the ancient city of Ephesus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, attracting travelers from far and wide to marvel at its majestic ruins.

Days 14-16

Piraeus

Day 17

Heraklion (Iraklion), Crete

Day 18

Rhodes

Rhodes, once home to the Colossus, one of the ancient world's wonders, is a treasure trove of scenic beauty and architectural marvels. The island's climate is a perfect blend of warm sunshine and gentle sea breezes, ideal for exploring its abundant natural and architectural sights. Cruise lines like Celebrity Cruises and MSC make a point of showcasing Rhodes not just for its sun-soaked beaches but for its less frequented villages and ancient ruins that capture the essence of the islands past splendor. A unique attraction here is the Palace of the Grand Master, a medieval castle that was once the stronghold of the Knights of St. John, offering visitors a glimpse into the chivalric and strategic importance of this island at the crossroads of civilizations.

Day 19

Kusadasi

Day 20

Çanakkale

Days 21-22

Istanbul

Welcome to Istanbul, where the echoes of ancient empires resound through the city's majestic skyline. Here, amidst the confluence of Europe and Asia, cruise lines dock to unveil the treasures of this historic metropolis. Blessed with a Mediterranean climate and vibrant energy, Istanbul offers a sensory feast for those seeking an authentic escape from the ordinary. From bustling bazaars to tranquil mosques, the city showcases the real essence of Turkey, where tradition and modernity intertwine. And did you know? Istanbul is the only city in the world that straddles two continents, bridging the gap between East and West with its timeless allure.

Days 1-2

Barcelona

Day 3

Sète

Day 4

Marseille

Day 5

Villefranche-sur-Mer

Days 6-7

Livorno

Day 8

Day 9

Day 10

Day 11

Day 12

Suda Bay, Crete

Day 13

Kusadasi

Days 14-16 Piraeus

Piraeus

Day 17

Heraklion (Iraklion), Crete

Day 18

Rhodes

Day 19

Kusadasi

Day 20

Çanakkale

Days 21-22

Istanbul

998

Passengers

2024

Launched

238m

Length

30m

Width

EUR

Currency

Viking Vela

Expand your horizons on our award-winning, all-veranda small ship, with just 998 guests, allowing us to dock where larger ships cannot.

All Prices

Customer reviews

Reviews

Amazing cruise from Barcelona to rome

We’d always done river cruises with Viking but decided to an ocean cruise with them! We weren’t disappointed as it was amazing as soon as we arrived at Barcelona airport as the Viking were there to meet us ! The ship was beautiful and they’d upgraded us as well! The staff were so friendly and helpful! Food was yummy and excursions and entertainment great! It was our anniversary whilst on the cruise so had a lovely meal at mandfridos who made it special. Certainly a wonderful cruise!

Viking Ocean Cruises Viking Mars

Reviews

2023-06-02 15:25:44

We went all the way to Australia and New Zealand for our first Viking cruise. The welcome at Sydney airport left a lot to be desired with co-ordination between two reps was non existent. We were left sitting outside waiting and waiting and eventually directed to a coach, where the driver asked “ where had we been?” He too was frustrated. The hotel was very well located and excellent. We boarded the ship, which looked like a newly built house with everything new. The food was good, but the carvery catered for non UK tastes with the meat very pink! But with plenty of alternatives so you could avoid it. Our only real complaint was trying to register for an excursion. Instead of using the theatre like all other cruise lines, Viking staff attempted this in a corridor, with people trying to register and others simply trying to get past. As the ship was only six months old I guess. the staff were inexperienced .

Viking Ocean Cruises Viking Mars

Reviews

2023-06-02 13:27:28

This was our first cruise. We had a fabulous time. We did end up missing two port of calls because of Cyclone Gabrielle but Viking took great care of us. We also extended 4 days in New Zealand which was incredible! We will definitely be cruising with Viking again.

Viking Ocean Cruises Viking Orion

Reviews

2023-03-28 17:59:06

Viking Ocean Cruises Viking Jupiter

Reviews

2023-03-09 12:00:04

Was great except the World Cafe ( Their Carvery ) catered for American tastes with the meat hardly cooked, Viking Mars needs to rethink this when moving to Europe.

Viking Ocean Cruises Viking Mars

Reviews

2023-03-08 17:09:20

Viking Ocean Cruises Viking Sky

Reviews

2023-02-15 19:22:01

Viking met expectations

Viking Ocean Cruises Viking Sky

Reviews

2023-01-23 09:30:02

Overall a very good cruise. We had previously only cruised with Fred Olsen and it was interesting to compare the two lines. The airport pickup and transfer in Spain was very good as was disembarkation in Tilbury. The cabins or 'staterooms' seemed large and of a very high standard. Food was good and exceptional in the 'free' Italian restaurant however the dining areas were crowded, noisy and the service was slow. Dress was much less formal than I was expecting for the evening meals. There wasn't that much in the way of activities during the day and the evening music in the bars seemed to close rather early. The evening show was unambitious - just singing Beatles and ABBA songs etc. The lectures were a bit hit and miss. The included shore excursions although well organised were tedious and uninspired almost certainly better to explore oneself. . The Spa area with free access was amazing. The ship was beautifully furnished throughout. The (complimentary for us) all inclusive drinks was a very good including several decent wines and spirits. Free WiFi was good and reliable. Would we go with Viking again? Definitely, although I think without special offers their fares are a bit on the high side compared to some for the experience you get.

Viking Ocean Cruises Viking Venus