Black Sea Cruises
The Black Sea is a body of water encircled by Romania, Russia, Ukraine, Georgia, Bulgaria and Turkey. In recent years, cruise lines have suspended their sailings to the Black Sea due to unrest in the area. However, selected cruise lines have once again begun to offer Black Sea cruises, with ports of call including Odessa, Constanta and Georgia.
Black Sea Cruises in 2021 & 2022
Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Azamara and Crystal Cruises are among the cruise lines who have reinstated Black Sea cruises, visiting ports such as Istanbul and Bozcaada. The region is full of intrigue and mystery that's perfect to explore during a luxury cruise.
Regent debuted a brand new collection of sailings through to May 2022, featuring 27 ports of call and first-time sailings for Seven Seas Splendor! This is the first time the cruise line has visited the region since 2014, with calls reaching Romania, Bulgaria and Ukraine.
Azamara offer summer Black Sea voyages departing from Athens and entering the Black Sea via the Strait of Istanbul, which is also known as the Bosporus Strait. After circumnavigating the Black Sea, the ships will then return to Athens at the end of each 14-night voyage.
Crystal Cruises will also be visiting the region in 2021 for the first time in several years with a single 13-night sailing. In 2022, Crystal Cruises will offer more Black Sea cruise itineraries cruising from Istanbul and Athens.
Alternatives to Black Sea Cruises
At the moment, the number of Black Sea cruises is limited. However, if you’re looking for a balance of paradise ports and bustling cities, you may find other destinations in the Mediterranean which are more than suitable.
Alternatively, you may wish to consider a luxury river cruise on the Volga. Porting in Moscow, St Petersburg and Yaroslavl, you can still experience the enchanting atmosphere of Russia, with on-board experiences to rival those of even the most indulgent ocean cruise ships.