Sailing the Mediterranean: A Sun-Kissed Journey on the Sun Princess

Our Mediterranean cruise on the Sun Princess from June 15-22, 2024, was an extraordinary experience, particularly for someone like me who has celiac disease. From the moment we stepped onboard, the crew went above and beyond to ensure that my dietary needs were not just met, but truly catered to in a way that made me feel special. Every evening brings a new culinary surprise, from exquisite gluten-free pasta dishes to mouthwatering desserts. The highlight for me was the tiramisu specially prepared for Italian night after our port day in Sicily. The richness and authenticity of the flavors were unforgettable, and the fact that it was safely gluten-free made it all the more enjoyable. Dining on this cruise was a worry-free experience, allowing me to savor each meal without any concern, which significantly enhanced the overall enjoyment of our trip.

The ports we visited on this cruise were nothing short of breathtaking, each offering a unique glimpse into the rich history and culture of the Mediterranean. Our journey began in Athens, where we spent three days exploring the ancient wonders before boarding the ship. Our first port of call was Bar, Montenegro, where we were charmed by the stunning coastal scenery and historic old town. Next, we sailed to Corfu, Greece, where the lush landscapes and beautiful beaches provided a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration. In Sicily, we docked in Messina, where we took in the stunning views of the Strait of Messina and visited the historical sites, including the famous Messina Cathedral. Our final Italian port was Naples, a city rich in history and culture, where we explored the ancient ruins of Pompeii and enjoyed the breathtaking views of Mount Vesuvius.

The Sun Princess itself was a marvel, with the Dome quickly becoming our favorite spot on the ship. This unique space was where we spent much of our leisure time. It offers a seamless blend of indoor and outdoor environments that caters to everyone in our family. The kids adored swimming in the pool, which spanned both inside and outside, giving them the freedom to splash around regardless of the weather. For us adults, the Dome provided a perfect retreat where we could relax and take in the surroundings. We often found ourselves unwinding to the soothing sounds of an acoustic artist singing cover songs while sipping on fancy guava margaritas. The ambiance was the perfect mix of laid-back and lively, making it an ideal gathering spot whether we were looking for family fun or some quiet moments together.

Another standout aspect of our cruise experience was the Princess Plus package, which truly elevated our time onboard. This package offered a range of luxurious inclusions that made our cruise more enjoyable and hassle-free. With premium drinks, Wi-Fi, and crew appreciation all bundled together, we didn’t have to worry about additional costs piling up. This allowed us to fully relax and immerse ourselves in the experience. Whether we were indulging in expertly crafted cocktails, staying connected with friends and family back home, or simply enjoying the attentive service of the crew, the Princess Plus package added an extra layer of convenience and luxury that we thoroughly appreciated.

In addition to the Princess Plus package, we decided to treat ourselves to the thermal spa pass, an additional cost that proved to be well worth it. The thermal spa quickly became our sanctuary, offering a serene escape where we could unwind after a day of exploration. The sauna and hot tub were our go-to spots for relaxation, providing much-needed rejuvenation while the kids were off enjoying themselves at the kids club. The thermal spa was the perfect complement to our busy days, offering a tranquil space to recharge and reflect on the incredible experiences we were having. This added touch of luxury truly enhanced our overall cruise experience, making it one of the most memorable aspects of our trip.

Of course, the kids club was another highlight that kept our children entertained and engaged throughout the cruise. Having sailed with Princess before, we knew our kids would have a fantastic time, and once again, the club did not disappoint. The kids club felt like a camp at sea, where they participated in games, scavenger hunts, parties, and more, all while making new friends. By the end of the trip, they had formed bonds with other children that they continued to stay in touch with even after the cruise. The kids would beg to go back to the club every day, and we didn’t mind one bit. It gave us the opportunity to enjoy some adult time, whether it was relaxing in the spa or participating in one of the many onboard activities. The balance of family time during port days and personal time onboard created a perfect blend of togetherness and relaxation, ensuring that everyone in the family had a fulfilling and enjoyable vacation. The personalized touches, such as the birthday celebration for our daughter and the adorable towel animals waiting for us each night, made this cruise a truly magical experience for all of us.

Our Mediterranean cruise on the Sun Princess was an absolute blast! The ports were amazing, and we had the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. The ship itself was super multi-generational-friendly, with tons of activities for both kids and adults. Even with my celiac disease, I enjoyed every meal, with delicious gluten-free options that were a real treat. Whether the kids were making new friends at the club or we were unwinding with a drink in hand, there was always something fun to do. We can't wait to do it all again!

This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to Barcelona. In need of further inspiration? Check out Nicola Volpi’s guide, Barcelona Off the Beaten Track.