A boom in the popularity of European cruises is currently taking place, according to Cruise Critic, with a survey showing that 42 per cent of cruise holidaymakers intend to experience one in the coming three years.
And the study shows that
Mediterranean cruises, in particular eastern
Mediterranean cruises are the most popular with holidaymakers - accounting for 32 per cent of respondents' votes.
Ports in Athens, Istanbul and the Greek Islands were popular with this group, while 20 per cent preferred western
Mediterranean cruises to Rome, Naples and Barcelona.
"According to our survey, Europe is a draw because cruisers can experience a variety of different cultures and attractions in one trip," Carolyn Spencer Brown, editor-in-chief of Cruise Critic commented.
Popular ports that travellers want to visit include harbours on the Greek Islands of Santorini, Mykonos and Ios in addition to St Petersburg, Rome and Venice.
New P&O Cruises ship Ventura is setting sail on a
Mediterranean cruise next month.