Summer Vibes & Starry Nights: Cruising the Mediterranean in Celebrity Style

Pre & post cruise stays

Before embarking on the Celebrity Ascent in Barcelona, I indulged in the luxury of the city’s finest accommodations. The Hotel Arts Barcelona offered breathtaking views of the Mediterranean, combined with unparalleled comfort and style. Its central location made exploring the vibrant streets of Barcelona a breeze. Another excellent choice is the Majestic Hotel & Spa, renowned for its elegant rooms and exceptional service.

After disembarking in Rome, the options are just as enticing. A stay in the heart of Rome, such as at the Hotel Hassler, provides a taste of historical opulence and prime access to the city's iconic landmarks. For those looking to extend their adventure, heading to Venice offers the charming Belmond Hotel Cipriani, a haven of luxury along the canals. Alternatively, my choice was to explore Northern Italy. Grand Hotel Tremezzo in Lake Como provided a serene retreat with stunning lakeside views and world-class amenities, while Hotel Spadari al Duomo in Milan combined modern comfort with easy access to the city's vibrant cultural scene.

Essentials to bring

For a Mediterranean cruise with a mix of city and beach destinations, packing smart is key. Lightweight, breathable fabrics are essential for warm days exploring cities like Cannes and Sicily. Pack versatile clothing that can transition from sightseeing to beach outings. Don’t forget a stylish swimsuit, cover-up and comfortable walking shoes for those charming cobblestone streets. A light jacket or sweater is also handy for cooler evenings and air-conditioned interiors. Additionally, bring a good camera, sun protection and a small, foldable tote for beach days.

The ship

The Celebrity Ascent offers a luxurious and modern cruising experience, epitomizing elegance with its sleek design and cutting-edge amenities. Dining is a highlight, featuring exceptional options such as Le Voyage, created by Michelin-starred chef Daniel Boulud, and the vibrant Raw on Five for exquisite Japanese cuisine. The ship’s layout ensures effortless navigation between venues, including The Spa for rejuvenating treatments and the lively Fortunes Casino for entertainment. With its stylish, contemporary decor and expansive spaces, the Celebrity Ascent provides a relaxing yet sophisticated atmosphere. Ensuring that every moment aboard is indulgent and memorable.

Entertainment and activities

Onboard, the Celebrity Ascent caters to a younger, active crowd with a rich array of entertainment options. Evening performances range from high-energy shows to intimate live music, ensuring a dynamic experience. The ship’s activities include engaging culinary workshops, cocktail making classes, themed parties and more. For families or younger travelers, the cruise offers kid-friendly activities and youth programs, ensuring all guests find something enjoyable to do.

Port calls

Each port on this Mediterranean voyage offers unique and captivating experiences. This specific itinerary includes the following port calls:

• Corsica: Discover the historic citadel of Calvi, where you can marvel at the well-preserved architecture and enjoy stunning views of the sea. The island’s pristine beaches provide a perfect spot for relaxation and sunbathing.

• Cinque Terre: Wander through the colorful, cliffside villages of Cinque Terre, each offering its own charm and breathtaking coastal views. The rugged coastline invites exploration, whether by hiking or leisurely strolls between the towns.

• Cannes: Experience the glamor of Cannes with luxury shopping along the famous Croisette and a visit to one of the chic beach clubs. Alternatively, take a stroll through the charming old town for a taste of local culture.

• Sardinia: In Cagliari, the island’s vibrant capital, explore the historic district of Castello with its narrow streets and panoramic views. Visit the impressive Cagliari Cathedral and relax at Poetto Beach, known for its long stretch of golden sand and crystal-clear waters.

• Malta: Dive into Malta’s rich history with a visit to Valletta’s grand architecture. Explore the dramatic cliffs of Dingli for breathtaking natural scenery.

• Sicily: Sicily offers a wealth of ancient ruins, including the impressive Valley of the Temples. Explore the charming town of Taormina, with its ancient Greek theater and stunning views of the coastline. For a dramatic natural experience, visit Mount Etna, Europe’s highest active volcano, and enjoy panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape.

• Naples: Discover the picturesque island of Procida with its colorful harbor and quaint streets. In Naples, delve into the city’s historic treasures and use it as a gateway to the stunning Amalfi Coast. Visit the enchanting island of Capri or the lush island of Ischia, each offering unique landscapes and experiences.

Additional costs

The cruise fare typically covers accommodations, dining and standard onboard activities. For a more seamless experience, I opted for an inclusive package that covered taxes, beverages and Wi-Fi. Additional costs may include specialty dining, excursions, spa treatments and gratuities. These extras can enhance your voyage but are not included in the base fare, so it’s wise to plan and budget accordingly.

Best time to travel:

Ideal Months: The best months to cruise the Mediterranean on the Celebrity Ascent (or any ship) are May, June and September. These months offer pleasant weather, with warm temperatures perfect for sightseeing without the intense summer heat.

Comfortable Weather: During these months, temperatures typically range from 70°F to 80°F (21°C to 27°C). Making it comfortable for both daytime activities and evening relaxation.

Fewer Crowds: May and September, in particular, are slightly outside the peak tourist season, so clients can enjoy popular attractions with fewer crowds and a more relaxed atmosphere.

Tips for first-time cruisers or first-time Celebrity cruisers:

Plan Shore Excursions Early: Mediterranean ports offer rich cultural experiences, and excursions can fill up quickly. I recommend booking shore excursions in advance to secure spots in popular activities like visiting ancient ruins, wine tasting or private beach trips.

Pack Smartly: Encourage packing layers, as evenings can be cooler even in May, June and September. A mix of casual outfits for daytime and more formal attire for the ship’s evening activities is recommended.

Learn the Ship Layout: The Celebrity Ascent is a large and luxurious ship with plenty of amenities. I highly suggest taking some time to familiarize yourself with the ship’s layout early on. This way you can easily navigate between dining options, entertainment venues and relaxation spots.

Dining Reservations: Celebrity Ascent offers a variety of dining experiences. I would highly suggest making reservations for specialty restaurants as early as possible to ensure you get to try different cuisines during your cruise. The specialty dining on this ship usually sells out.

Must-do activities:

Explore Iconic Mediterranean Ports: Sailing in the summer months of Europe, you will have the opportunity to visit a variety of captivating Mediterranean destinations. I encourage you to immerse yourself in the rich history, diverse cultures and breathtaking landscapes each port offers. Whether it's exploring ancient sites, strolling through charming coastal towns or indulging in local cuisine, every stop promises unique and memorable experiences.

Enjoy Onboard Entertainment: The Celebrity Ascent features top-notch entertainment, including live shows, musical performances and themed nights. I recommend that you check the daily schedule and plan to attend a few of these events. (You can check the schedule on the free app that is updated daily, or the daily program that is delivered to your stateroom every night for the following day.)

Relax at the Spa: The ship's spa facilities offer luxurious treatments. This is a great way to unwind after a day of exploring.

Savor Sunset Views: The Mediterranean offers stunning sunset views throughout the cruise. Whether from your private balcony, the upper deck or the sunset bar, take a moment each evening and enjoy the breathtaking colors as the sun sets over the sea.

Bonus tip:

Stay Hydrated: The Mediterranean can be warm, and with all the exploring, it’s easy to forget to stay hydrated. Please drink plenty of water, especially during shore excursions. Make sure you have sun protection and comfortable shoes, as you will be doing a ton of walking through these breathtaking Mediterranean cities, beach towns and villages.

This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to Europe. In need of further inspiration? Check out Kayla Rooney's guide, Barcelona Bound: A Stylish Escape to Spain's Chic Capital.