Slovenia Cruises

Experience the Beauty of Slovenia with CruiseAway

Slovenia, a hidden gem in the heart of Europe, offers a unique blend of stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, making it a wonderful cruise destination. Travelling through Slovenia allows cruisers to marvel at its pristine lakes, majestic mountains, and picturesque towns, including the captivating capital, Ljubljana. Did you know that Slovenia is one of the greenest countries in the world? Over half the country is covered in forests, and it’s home to the breathtaking **Lake Bled**, often referred to as a fairy-tale destination. Choosing a cruise holiday to Slovenia provides a seamless way to explore its highlights while enjoying the comforts and luxuries of onboard amenities.

Top Harbours to Visit in Slovenia

When sailing to Slovenia, expect stunning harbours that offer a variety of experiences. Here are five must-visit ports:

• Koper: This charming coastal town is Slovenia’s main port and is rich in Venetian architecture. While docked, explore the **Tito Square**, visit the **Koper Cathedral**, or stroll along the picturesque waterfront. Insider tip: Grab a gelato from a local shop and enjoy it while soaking up the coastal views!
• Venice, Italy: Though not in Slovenia, Venice is often the port of departure for cruises heading to Slovenia. This iconic city is known for its winding canals and historic architecture. Don’t miss a gondola ride, and make sure to visit **St. Mark’s Basilica** and the **Rialto Bridge**. Pro tip: Experience the early morning serenity of Venice by wandering the streets before the crowds arrive.
• Dubrovnik, Croatia: While also outside Slovenia, Dubrovnik is frequently included in itineraries. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic.” Walk along the city walls for spectacular views and explore the Old Town’s cobblestone streets. If you have extra time, consider a cable car ride to **Mount Srđ** for breathtaking panoramas.
• Kotor, Montenegro: Another port that’s often part of the Slovene cruise itineraries, Kotor is famous for its beautiful bay and well-preserved medieval architecture. Discover the winding streets of the Old Town, climb the fortress for stunning views, and sample local cuisine at a nearby restaurant. Insider tip: Try the local wine; **Vranac** is a must for wine lovers!
• Valletta, Malta: While not directly in Slovenia, Valletta is another significant port commonly associated with Slovene itineraries. The capital city of Malta offers a fascinating mix of history and culture. Explore the **St. John’s Co-Cathedral** with its baroque architecture and the impressive **Upper Barracca Gardens**. Pro tip: Enjoy a local Maltese pastry called **Pastizzi** while exploring!

Best Times for Cruising to Slovenia

The ideal months for visiting Slovenia and the surrounding areas via a cruise are from **April to June** and **September to October**. Expect pleasant temperatures averaging around **15°C to 25°C**, making it comfortable for exploring the beautiful landscapes and charming cities. The summer months, **July to August**, tend to bring hotter weather with temperatures ranging from **25°C to 35°C** and increase tourist traffic, making early bookings advisable for those peak times.

Cost of Cruising in Slovenia

Regarding pricing, a one-week cruise itinerary to Slovenia ranges from **$1,500 to $3,000**, while two-week voyages can range from **$3,000 to $5,500**. Luxury cruises typically start around **$5,000** for one week. Consider planning during the shoulder seasons of April to June and September to October for more affordable pricing, as summer months generally see higher costs due to demand. Dining expenses are attractively priced, with meals costing approximately **$15 to $40** depending on the venue, allowing travellers a chance to indulge without breaking the bank.

Major Cruise Lines Offering Visits to Slovenia

• Norwegian Cruise Line: This cruise line features **20 ships**, with five offering itineraries that include Slovenia. The **Norwegian Pearl** and **Norwegian Dawn** frequently set sail from ports such as **Venice** and **Civitavecchia (Rome)**. Norwegian Cruise Line stands out for its freestyle cruising concept, providing guests with dining and entertainment flexibility to enhance their vacation experience.
• P&O Cruises: This cruise line operates **seven ships**, with one visiting Slovenia, notably the **Azura**. This ship departs mainly from **Valletta**. P&O Cruises are well-known for their friendly atmosphere and engaging onboard activities, which caters to families and first-time cruisers.
• MSC Cruises: With a fleet size of **23 ships**, only one visits Slovenia, the **MSC Opera** that primarily operates from **Bari** or **Venice**. MSC is ideal for families and offers entertainment facilities suited for all ages along with exquisite cuisine inspired by Mediterranean flavours.

Luxury and Small Ship Options

• Azamara Cruises: With a fleet of **four ships**, all **four** offer itineraries that include Slovenia, notably the **Azamara Onward** and **Azamara Journey**. Departing mainly from **Venice** or **Fusina (Venice)**, Azamara is known for its immersive cultural experiences and extended port stays, enabling passengers to truly explore every destination.
• Viking Ocean Cruises: With **11 ships**, **four** cruise to Slovenia. The **Viking Star** and **Viking Saturn** frequently depart from **Venice** or **Athens**. Viking Ocean Cruises is recognised for its focus on destination immersion, with an array of shore excursions designed to fully embrace local cultures and customs.
• Silversea: This luxury cruise line comprises **13 ships**, with one heading to Slovenia, notably the **Silver Spirit**. Departing from **Lisbon** or **Monte Carlo**, Silversea prides itself on providing an ultra-luxurious experience with exceptional service and gourmet dining options tailored to every guest’s preferences.
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises: With **six ships**, **four** sail to Slovenia, notably the **Seven Seas Navigator** and **Seven Seas Grandeur**. Departing mainly from **Athens** or **Barcelona**, Regent offers an all-inclusive luxury experience with personalised service and gourmet dining, ensuring a refined and delightful cruising experience.
• Seabourn: With a fleet of six ships, one visits Slovenia, the **Seabourn Encore**. This ship typically departs from **Dubrovnik** or **Athens**, offering luxury experiences with notable attention to detail, making it ideal for those desiring top-notch service and meticulously curated itineraries.

Explore Alternative Regions

If Slovenia has piqued your interest but you want to contemplate other stunning regions, consider these five alternatives:

• Eastern Mediterranean: With its gorgeous coastlines, ancient ruins, and vibrant cultures, this region is perfect for those seeking enticing experiences.
• Western Mediterranean: With stunning destinations such as Spain, France, and Italy, it’s known for incredible architecture, diverse cuisine, and a taste of lively city life.
• Southern Europe: Relax on sun-drenched beaches while enjoying delightful culinary delights and rich cultural traditions found in this splendid region.
• Caribbean: Known for its laid-back vibe and crystal-clear waters, the Caribbean is an excellent destination for those looking to unwind on beautiful sandy beaches.
• Dalmatian Coast: Featuring stunning coastal towns and islands, each with its character, the Dalmatian Coast is a perfect complement to any cruise itinerary.

With its scenic beauty, welcoming atmosphere, and myriad cultural experiences, Slovenia stands out as an incredible cruise destination. Set sail for adventure and book your dream cruise with **CruiseAway** today!