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Sicily Luxury Small Ship Cruises

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Just off the southern coast of Italy you'll find the largest island in the Mediterranean, home to a wealth of culture and numerous exciting sites. We offer several tours that focus exclusively on this island, on which you will see the active and majestic Mt. Etna volcano, the exquisite Greek and Roman ruins of Agrigento and Syracuse, the Aeolian Islands & Stromboli Volcano, and Monreale’s impressive and beautiful 12th-century Norman cathedral, among other sites. You might even learn how to cook in traditional Sicilian style. Other cruises simply make a stop in Sicily en route to other destinations around the Mediterranean, including Civitavecchia (Rome), Malta, and even Italy's neighboring countries like Greece, Croatia, France, and Spain. Contact us when you're ready to start planning your luxury cruise to Sicily.
All Cruises Visiting Sicily

10 Best Small Ship Cruises to Sicily for 2025-2026

All Cruises Visiting Sicily
Explore Sibenik on the Dalmatian Coast

Italy, Montenegro & Croatia

12 Days from $3,870
Set sail on a 12-day Royal Clipper cruise through the Mediterranean, visiting stunning destinations like Venice, Dubrovnik, and Syracuse. Experience rich history and culture while enjoying scenic views and a relaxing day at sea before concluding in Civitavecchia, near Rome.
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Tour the charming city of Valletta, Malta.

A Circumnavigation of Sicily with Smithsonian Journeys

9 Days from $9,450
During this 9-day cruise around Sicily aboard the new luxury expedition ship Le Bougainville, you'll be able to explore mythical places at the crossroads of Eastern and Western civilizations. Discover Sicily's most beautiful historic cities and ancient sites.
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Blue hour over the city in the shadow of Mount Etna

Mediterranean Serenade

8 Days from $3,699
Embark on an 8-day cruise to and from Malta aboard the Variety Voyager. Discover the UNESCO World Heritage Ggantija temples on Gozo Island and Lipari in Sicily. Ascend Mount Etna and explore iconic "The Godfather" filming locations.
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Relax in beautiful Sicily

Longing for La Dolce Vita

8 Days from $8,490
Embark on an 8-day "Longing for La Dolce Vita" cruise aboard the Sea Cloud Spirit. Begin in Taormina, a town known for its blend of cultures and varied cuisine. Explore Palermo and discover its historic palazzi and gold mosaics, then head to Lipari, an island with volcanic landscapes and a lively harbor town. The trip concludes in Amalfi.
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Sunset over Palermo

Sicilian Sunsets & Amalfi Delights

8 Days from $3,799
Embark on an 8-day cruise aboard the Variety Voyager from Valletta to Sicily and Southern Italy, exploring historic cities and stunning coastlines. Discover Agrigento, Erice, and Pompeii while enjoying exclusive onboard experiences and authentic Sicilian cuisine.
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The Ancient Shores of Sicily and Malta

10 Days from $14,158
Embark on a 10-day Ancient Shores of Sicily and Malta cruise, aboard Sea Cloud II. Explore ancient cities, UNESCO-listed temples, and landscapes shaped by the Romans, Greeks, and Carthaginians. Visit Agrigento’s Valley of the Temples, the Ggantija Temples, and Valletta, stroll medieval Erice, and tour The Godfather’s Castello degli Schiavi.
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Culture and Islands of the Mediterranean

12 Days from $9,540
Embark on a 12-day cruise from Barcelona to Malta aboard L’Austral. Enjoy culinary and cultural experiences with an included excursion per port. Highlights include Menorca, Alghero, Cagliari, Trapani, Palermo, Lipari, Catania, Syracuse, Gozo, and ending in Valletta.
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Cruise into charming Sicily

Amalfi & Sicily

8 Days from $2,460
Set sail on an 8-day cruise aboard the Royal Clipper, exploring Italy and Sicily with stops in Civitavecchia, Sorrento, Amalfi, Taormina, and Syracuse. Enjoy volcanic views at the Aeolian Islands and optional excursions to Pompeii while experiencing Mediterranean beauty and history.
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Visit the Baroque Cathedral of Syracuse

Cruising Southern Italy and Sicily – with Smithsonian Journeys

9 Days from $8,220
Sail on this 9-day Southern Italy and Sicily cruise with Smithsonian Journeys aboard Le Dumont-d'Urville. Start in Valletta, Malta, exploring historic landmarks. Visit Syracuse's Greek and cultural sites and Taormina's scenic views and theater. Explore Reggio di Calabria's coast and museum. Visit Civitavecchia, and conclude in Livorno, Tuscany.
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Sicilian landscape in the early evening

Amalfi & Sicily

7 Days from $2,080
Embark on a 7-day cruise aboard the Star Clipper, starting from Civitavecchia and visiting Italy's beautiful coastal spots like the Aeolian Islands and Amalfi. Conclude your journey with easy access to explore Rome.
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Luxury Italy

4 Best Luxury Small Ship Cruises Visiting Sicily for 2025-2026

Trip Name From Days Next Departure Summary
Mediterranean Island Voyage: Sicily, Sardinia, Corsica, and Elba – with Smithsonian Journeys $7,790 8 May 26, 2025 Explore the heart of the Mediterranean on this 8-day Mediterranean Island Cruise with Smithsonian Journeys from Valletta to Nice aboard Le Bougainville. Discover Sicily, Sardinia, Corsica, and Elba's historical civilizations that left mark on these islands' language, cuisine, art, and architecture.
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From the City of Gods to the Eternal City $7,590 12 Join Le Bougainville on this 12-day journey from Athens to Civitavecchia, exploring the Mediterranean. Enjoy diverse experiences with included excursions at each port of call. Highlights include marveling at Taormina, exploring Chania, and visiting Phaestos Palace. Discover ancient cities, coastlines, and historical treasures.
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From Malta to the Adriatic Coast $6,220 9 Aug 13, 2025 Embark on a 9-day cruise on Le Bougainville, visiting Malta, Montenegro, Croatia, and Italy, with UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Venice, Dubrovnik, and Valletta—benefit from expert-curated excursions at each port, including Tivat's heritage and Lecce from Otranto.
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Italy, Montenegro & Croatia $3,450 12 May 31, 2025 Embark on a 12-day cruise aboard Star Flyer, cruising through Italy, Montenegro, and Croatia. Experience historic ports, Mediterranean cuisine, and scenic beauty while enjoying the comfort of a traditional sailing ship.
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Italy Travel Articles

Sicily Cruise Tips & Travel Guide

Visit charming coastal towns of Sicily

Top 8 Must-Visit Sicilian Minor Islands Attractions

Discover the top 8 must-visit destinations in the Sicilian Minor Islands for an unforgettable travel experience!
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Explore ruins in Sicily

Top 10 Must-See and Do Attractions in Sicily

Discover the top 10 things to do and see in Sicily, from exploring ancient ruins to indulging in delicious cuisine and relaxing on beautiful beaches.
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Fun Facts About Sicily

  • Mount Etna Majesty: Sicily boasts the presence of Mount Etna, one of the most active volcanoes globally, offering a dramatic and ever-changing landscape. Etna's eruptions have shaped the island's history and continue to captivate with their awe-inspiring displays of natural power.
  • Greek Temples in Agrigento: Agrigento is home to the Valley of the Temples, an extraordinary archaeological site with well-preserved ancient Greek temples. These magnificent structures, including the Temple of Concordia, showcase the enduring influence of Greek civilization on Sicily.
  • Palermo's Markets: Palermo's bustling markets, such as Ballarò and Vucciria, offer a sensory explosion of colors, scents, and flavors. From fresh seafood to vibrant produce, these markets are a vibrant reflection of Sicily's culinary richness and cultural diversity.
  • Cosa Nostra Legacy: Sicily has been the historical epicenter of the notorious Mafia, with its complex history and influence on the island's society. Efforts to combat organized crime continue, showcasing the resilience and determination of the Sicilian people.
  • Unique Sicilian Dialects: Sicily boasts a variety of unique dialects and languages influenced by its diverse history, including Greek, Arabic, and Norman. This linguistic tapestry reflects the island's rich heritage and the numerous civilizations that have left their mark.
  • Sicilian Marionette Theater: Sicily is home to an ancient form of storytelling known as Sicilian marionette theater. Performers bring tales of chivalry and heroism to life using elaborately crafted puppets, preserving a centuries-old tradition that still captivates audiences today. his unique form of storytelling is an artistic treasure that has been recognized by UNESCO for its cultural significance.
  • Zibibbo Grapes and Marsala Wine: The sun-drenched vineyards of Sicily produce the Zibibbo grape, known for its sweet and aromatic qualities. This grape variety is the foundation of the world-renowned Marsala wine.
  • Caltagirone's Ceramic Staircase: The town of Caltagirone is famed for its intricate ceramics, and its Santa Maria del Monte staircase is adorned with vibrant, hand-painted tiles. Each step is a canvas, creating a stunning mosaic that celebrates Sicily's artistic heritage.
Trevi Fountain in Rome

Italy Overview

This boot-shaped peninsula is a country almost every traveler longs to visit! Ancient history, rich culture, world-renowned cuisine, & iconic landmarks are just a few of the reasons travel to Italy is so appealing. Our brief introduction to the geography, culture & attractions of this popular destination will help prepare you for your own Italy experience!
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Walking in Santorini

Introduction to the Mediterranean

Summer is the high travel season in the Mediterranean. The best time to take a Mediterranean cruise, however, is in the spring (May-June) or fall (September-October).
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See the famed Rialto bridge in Venice

Best Time to Visit Italy

The shoulder seasons of spring and autumn are the best times to travel to Italy for superb weather, lower rates, and fewer crowds. Summers in Italy are also gorgeous, but some may find the heat and crowds overwhelming.
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Relax on the beaches of the French Riviera

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The temperate climate of the Mediterranean makes it a delightful destination to visit on a luxury cruise. Coupled with explorations of historic cities and archaeological sites and plenty of active day excursions, from swimming and snorkeling in turquoise waters to hiking and biking around the ancient ruins and rolling valleys, you don’t have to travel beyond the ports to find a world of adventure.
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Must-Try Sicilian Dishes

  • Arancini: These golden, deep-fried rice balls are a Sicilian delight. Filled with ragù (meat sauce), mozzarella, and peas, arancini are a savory treat with a crispy exterior and a flavorful, gooey center.
  • Caponata: A flavorful eggplant dish, caponata is a sweet and sour Sicilian appetizer made with eggplants, tomatoes, olives, and capers. It's often enjoyed as a spread on bread or as a side dish.
  • Cannoli: Sicily's iconic dessert, cannoli are crisp pastry tubes filled with a sweet ricotta cheese mixture. The ends are usually dipped in chopped pistachios or chocolate chips, adding a delightful crunch to the creamy filling.
  • Pasta alla Norma: Named after Bellini's opera "Norma," this pasta dish features eggplant, tomatoes, basil, and ricotta salata (salted ricotta). It's a simple yet flavorful representation of Sicilian cuisine.
  • Sarde a Beccafico: Stuffed sardines, or "sarde a beccafico," are a Sicilian delicacy. The sardines are filled with breadcrumbs, pine nuts, raisins, and sometimes a hint of citrus, creating a unique combination of sweet and savory flavors.
  • Panelle: These chickpea fritters are a popular Sicilian street food. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, panelle are often served in a bread roll or on their own with a sprinkle of salt.
  • Spaghetti alla Siciliana: A classic Sicilian pasta dish, spaghetti alla Siciliana features a sauce made with tomatoes, garlic, olives, and capers. It's a simple yet vibrant representation of Sicily's love for bold flavors.
  • Pasta con le Sarde: This pasta dish combines sardines, wild fennel, pine nuts, and raisins, creating a symphony of contrasting textures and tastes. It reflects the island's rich culinary history and the influence of various cultures.
  • Cassata: A traditional Sicilian dessert, cassata is a rich sponge cake soaked in liqueur and layered with sweetened ricotta, candied fruit, and marzipan. It's often topped with a smooth layer of fondant icing.
  • Granita: A refreshing Sicilian dessert, granita is a semi-frozen treat made from water, sugar, and various flavorings such as coffee, almond, or lemon. Served with a brioche or on its own, granita is a perfect way to cool down on a warm Sicilian day.
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