Practical Tips for a Mediterranean Cruise
- Ericka Hamilton
- Jul 26
- 4 min read
Updated: 7 days ago
After two parts filled with ancient ruins, sparkling seas, and unforgettable onboard moments, I wanted to wrap up this series with a few practical tips for a Mediterranean Cruise I've learned from personal experience and helping others as a travel advisor.
Whether you're preparing for your first Mediterranean cruise or looking to make your next one smoother, these tips will help you cruise smarter and more confidently.
1. Arrive Early to Adjust to the Time Zone
Flying internationally to meet your cruise? I highly recommend arriving at least one day early. This gives you time to adjust to jet lag and creates a helpful buffer in case of flight delays or unexpected hiccups.
This time, I also used an app called Timeshifter, which builds a personalized jet lag plan based on your exact flight and sleep schedule. I followed its guidance, and honestly, my jet lag was better than it has ever been during my travels to Europe. If adjusting to a new time zone has been a challenge for you in the past, Timeshifter is absolutely worth exploring.
2. Pre-Arrange Your Airport & Port Transportation
In Greece, taxis are relatively easy to find, but we opted for a pre-arranged car service both when we arrived in Athens and again after disembarking in Thessaloniki. And I'm so glad we did.
When we landed, our driver was waiting at the airport. This meant no stress, no long taxi line, and even better, he shared great local tips during the ride into the city. At the end of our cruise, a line of taxis was waiting at the port, but having our ride pre-arranged saved us from standing in that queue as well.
It's always a nice touch to have clear communication with your driver and know someone will be there, ready when you are, to take you to your next destination. Pricing in both cases was very similar to standard taxi fares, but the peace of mind and smooth transitions were well worth it.
3. Think About Your Shore Excursions & Dining Times
Some of our ports had later return times, which meant we occasionally missed our assigned dining time on board. If your cruise includes similar late days, it's good to plan ahead or build in flexibility.
As for shore excursions, I almost always recommend starting with a food tour in new destinations. It's one of the best ways to experience a city's personality through its flavors, stories, and neighborhoods.
If you're the kind of traveler who prefers to explore without a set schedule, I can help with that too. Many of my clients want suggestions for low-key days with a little structure, like a fantastic café, a quiet walking path, or a local shop that's off the radar. You don't need a full itinerary to make the most of your day, but a few thoughtful suggestions go a long way.
4. Explore Beyond the Tourist Zones
One of our most memorable meals in Santorini wasn't in the center of the action; it was tucked away, outside the typical tourist streets. How did we find it? A little research ahead of time. Whether you're looking for a family-run taverna, a scenic hidden viewpoint, or a quieter spot to shop, I can help you plan beyond the usual guidebook suggestions.
5. Carry Some Euros—And Use the Right ATM
While ATMs are easily accessible in both Greece and Turkey, I prefer to have a small amount of local currency with me before I arrive, just in case. If you need to withdraw cash once you're there, look for bank-affiliated ATMs (usually located near banks) and avoid machines labeled 'Euronet', which often charge high fees.
6. Pack Smart for Your Cruise
Packing for a Mediterranean cruise can be tricky. You want to be prepared for various activities, from lounging by the pool to exploring ancient ruins. Here are some tips to help you pack efficiently:
Layer Up: The Mediterranean climate can vary. Bring layers to adapt to changing temperatures.
Comfortable Footwear: You'll likely do a lot of walking. Bring comfortable shoes for excursions.
Swimwear: Don't forget your swimsuit for those beautiful Mediterranean beaches.
Sunscreen and Sunglasses: Protect yourself from the sun while enjoying the stunning views.
7. Stay Hydrated
Cruising can be an exciting adventure, but it's easy to forget to stay hydrated. Here are some tips to stay hydrated:
Carry a Reusable Water Bottle: Fill it up throughout the day to ensure you're drinking enough.
Drink Water Before Meals: This can help you stay hydrated and may aid digestion.
Limit Alcohol: While it's tempting to indulge, try to balance alcoholic drinks with water.
8. Embrace the Local Culture
Each port of call offers a unique cultural experience. Here are some ways to immerse yourself:
Learn Basic Phrases: Knowing a few words in the local language can go a long way.
Try Local Cuisine: Don't miss the opportunity to taste authentic dishes.
Attend Local Events: Check if any festivals or events are happening during your visit.
Ready to Plan Your Own Cruise?
These are just a few of the things I consider when planning a cruise, both for myself and for my clients. Whether you're brand-new to cruising or have sailed before but want a more curated experience, I'd love to help.
As a travel advisor, I take the time to understand your travel style so I can recommend the excursions, dining options, and downtime that work best for you.
📩 Reach out anytime if you're ready to plan a Mediterranean cruise or any cruise! Let's take the stress out of planning and make your dream adventure a reality.
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About the Author: Ericka Hamilton, Travel Advisor & Educator
Ericka Hamilton is the owner of Unveiled Explorations & Travel, where she helps cruisers, solo travelers, and groups plan meaningful, effortless travel. With a background in education and mental health, she brings a calm, transparent, and supportive approach to trip planning—specializing in cruises, escorted tours, and intentional travel for people who want structure without overwhelm.
Learn more at unveiledexplorationstravel.com.
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