white canopy tent on white building near ocean

Escape the Winter Blues: How to Plan a Mediterranean Cruise

On 24 October 202522 June 2026 By Yours in Travel, Lindsay QuailIn Cruise, Destinations, Editorial, Exotic Holidays, News, Travel Information, Travel Tips

Yes, summer’s finally here — the braais, beach days, and late sunsets we’ve all been waiting for. But let’s be honest… before we know it, those long, warm evenings will give way to chilly mornings and grey skies again.

So here’s a thought: while everyone’s bundling up next winter, you could be somewhere in the Mediterranean, sipping a sundowner on deck as the sun sets over Santorini. Sounds good, right?

Now’s actually the perfect time to start dreaming — and planning — for a mid-year escape in 2026. Here’s how to swap South Africa’s winter for the Mediterranean’s golden summer.

When to Go

The Mediterranean cruising season runs from April to September, which lines up perfectly with our coldest months. Expect long, sunny days, temperatures in the mid-20s to low-30s, and evenings made for outdoor dining.

If you’d prefer fewer crowds and slightly cooler weather, May, June, or September are ideal.

Why Choose a Cruise?

Cruising the Med is one of those travel experiences that mixes comfort and discovery in just the right way.

✔ You unpack once
No train stations, no hotel hopping, no dragging your luggage around. Your floating hotel takes you from port to port while you relax.

✔ You see a lot in a short time
Wake up in Greece, have lunch in Croatia, and end the day watching the sunset off the Italian coast. Effortless exploring at its best.

✔ It suits every budget
Cruising isn’t only for the ultra-rich. There are shorter, affordable options for first-timers and luxurious voyages for when you feel like a proper spoil.

Where to Go

There’s no wrong choice when it comes to Mediterranean routes — just different flavours of fantastic.

Greek Islands & the Aegean
Whitewashed villages, turquoise coves, ancient ruins, and seafood tavernas by the sea. Think Santorini sunsets and Mykonos nightlife.

Adriatic Adventures (Croatia & Montenegro)
Medieval walled cities, crystal-clear water, and a fascinating mix of Venetian, Ottoman, and Slavic culture. Dubrovnik and Kotor are definite highlights.

Western Mediterranean
For something a bit more cosmopolitan, the French Riviera, Italian coast, and Spanish ports serve up art, architecture, and amazing food.

What It Costs

Cruise fares vary depending on length, route, and style, but here’s a rough idea:

Budget options: Shorter trips or inside cabins can start from around R20,000 per person sharing.
Mid-range: Between R20,000–R50,000 gets you great itineraries, comfortable cabins, and plenty of onboard extras.
Luxury: From R50,000+, you’re looking at smaller ships, gourmet dining, and personalised service.

Since most cruise fares include accommodation, meals, and entertainment, it can actually work out more affordable than a traditional land holiday — especially in peak European season.

Getting There

Most Mediterranean cruises depart from Athens, Rome, Venice, or Barcelona.
You’ll usually fly via a European or Middle Eastern hub (Emirates, Qatar, or Turkish Airlines are popular routes from South Africa).

If you can, arrive a few days early to explore your departure city before boarding. It’s less stressful — and gives you a bonus city break to start your trip.

Visa Requirements

South African passport holders will require Schengen visas for most European countries (which includes most Mediterranean destinations). South African citizens and certain foreigners resident in R.S.A. require a visa to enter the Schengen territory, i.e. Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland. This visa grants in general free mobility within the Schengen Territory for visitor’s/ business/ tourist stays of maximum of 90 days per 180 days of the year.

Some Music to Get You in That Med Mood

Whether you’re planning your next adventure or just daydreaming about it, here’s a little soundtrack to help you drift away to the Med — sunshine, sea breeze, and all.

Got a favourite Mediterranean-inspired song? Drop it in the comments — I’m always adding to my travel playlists.

Why It’s Worth It

There’s something special about Mediterranean cruising. You get the food, history, sunshine, and culture — all without the constant packing, planning, or catching trains.

And while everyone back home is wrapped up in scarves and nursing hot chocolates, you’ll be sailing between sunlit islands, deciding whether to swim, explore, or just sit back and watch the waves.

Now that’s how to escape the winter blues.

Cruise Your Way: The Freedom of Flexible, Freestyle Sailing

On 14 October 202513 June 2026 By Yours in Travel, Lindsay QuailIn Cruise, Editorial, News

In Not All Cruises Are Created Equal: Finding Your Perfect Sailing Style, we introduced the wonderfully diverse world of cruising. Now let’s explore one of the most popular styles for modern travellers: flexible, freestyle cruising.

If the thought of fixed dining times, formal dress codes, and rigid schedules makes you feel a bit trapped, you’re going to love this approach to cruising. Freestyle sailing is all about choice, spontaneity, and doing things your way.

What Makes Freestyle Cruising Different?

Traditional cruising often comes with structure: you’re assigned a dining time (early or late seating), you sit at the same table with the same people each evening, and certain nights require formal attire. Whilst some travellers adore this predictability and social ritual, others find it constraining.

Freestyle cruising flips this model entirely. There are no assigned dining times or tables. You eat when you want, where you want, and with whom you want. Fancy a late breakfast? Sleep in. Want to try a different restaurant every night? Go for it. Prefer casual clothes over suits and gowns? Pack accordingly. The ship becomes your floating resort, and you’re free to craft your own daily rhythm.

Who Is This Style Perfect For?

Families with Young Children

Parents know that toddlers don’t operate on fixed schedules. Freestyle cruising means you can feed the kids early, get them to bed, and then enjoy a leisurely adults-only dinner without rushing or worrying about assigned seating times.

Groups of Friends

When you’re travelling with mates, you don’t always want to do everything together. Freestyle cruising lets everyone explore at their own pace, then meet up for dinner when it suits the group, not the ship’s schedule.

Independent Travellers

If you prefer spontaneity over structure, freestyle cruising gives you the freedom to plan your day as it unfolds. Sleep late, skip the organized activities, find a quiet deck chair with your book. It’s your holiday.

First-Time Cruisers

For those new to cruising, the relaxed atmosphere and lack of rigid rules can make the experience far less intimidating. You won’t worry about doing things “wrong” or missing assigned times.

What to Expect Onboard

Dining Flexibility

Instead of one or two main dining rooms with fixed seatings, freestyle ships typically offer multiple restaurants with varying cuisines and atmospheres. You might choose casual buffet dining one night, Asian fusion the next, and a steakhouse after that. Most specialty restaurants require reservations, but the main dining venues operate on a first-come basis.

Dress Codes

Forget packing three formal outfits. Freestyle cruising embraces “resort casual” as the standard. Some ships have optional formal nights where you can dress up if you fancy it, but jeans and smart casual wear are perfectly acceptable in most dining venues. There’s no judgment if you prefer comfort over glamour.

Entertainment and Activities

The programming is just as flexible as the dining. Shows, activities, and excursions are available throughout the day, but there’s no pressure to attend everything. Pick what interests you and skip the rest without feeling like you’re missing the “cruise experience.”

Port Days

Perhaps the biggest advantage is flexibility in port. Without fixed meal times, you can maximize your time ashore. Grab a quick breakfast and be first off the ship, or sleep in and explore the port at your leisure. Return when you’re ready, not when a dining reservation dictates.

Practical Considerations

Book Specialty Restaurants Early

Whilst main dining is walk-up, popular specialty restaurants fill quickly. Book your favourites soon after boarding, or even before you sail if online reservations are available.

Prime Time Is Still Busy

Just because dining is flexible doesn’t mean everyone won’t want to eat at 7pm. If you prefer quieter mealtimes, consider slightly earlier or later slots.

Some Structure Still Exists

The ship still operates on a schedule. Shore excursions have set times, the ship departs ports at specific hours, and shows run at scheduled intervals. The flexibility is in how you choose to use your time, not in the ship’s operational schedule.

Service Can Vary

Without assigned waitstaff building relationships with you over the voyage, service may feel less personalized than traditional cruising. You gain flexibility but might sacrifice that “they know exactly how you like your coffee” familiarity.

Is Freestyle Cruising Right for You?

If you value independence, hate feeling rushed, and prefer making decisions in the moment rather than weeks in advance, freestyle cruising offers an ideal balance between structured travel and personal freedom. You get the convenience of a cruise (unpack once, wake up in new destinations) without the rigidity some associate with traditional sailing.

For South African travellers booking longer voyages or repositioning cruises, the freestyle approach can make extended time onboard far more pleasant. Two weeks with fixed dining times feels very different from two weeks where every day brings new choices.

Press play and sail away

Feel the freedom of the sea with a playlist made for smooth sailing and sunny horizons.

What’s Next?

Freestyle cruising represents the casual, contemporary end of the cruising spectrum. But what about the opposite? In our next post, we’ll explore the world of luxury cruising, where personalized service, all-inclusive indulgence, and exquisite attention to detail create an entirely different kind of freedom.

Coming soon: “The Art of Luxury Cruising: When Every Detail Matters”

Not All Cruises Are Created Equal: Finding Your Perfect Sailing Style

On 6 October 202522 June 2026 By Yours in Travel, Lindsay QuailIn Cruise, Destinations, Editorial, Exotic Holidays, News, Photos, Travel Information

If you think a cruise is just a cruise, you’re in for a pleasant surprise. The world of cruising has evolved into a wonderfully diverse landscape, offering everything from relaxed, come-as-you-are adventures to sophisticated voyages where evening gowns and black ties are the norm. For South Africans planning their first cruise, or seasoned sailors looking to try something different, understanding these distinctions can mean the difference between a good holiday and an absolutely brilliant one.

This is the first in our series exploring different cruise styles, helping you navigate (pun intended) the sometimes overwhelming array of options available when you’re ready to set sail.

The Main Cruise Categories: What’s Your Style?

Luxury Cruising

Think butler service, all-inclusive pricing, fine dining that rivals Cape Town’s best restaurants, and ships that feel more like boutique hotels than floating resorts. Luxury cruises offer smaller ships, higher crew-to-passenger ratios, and itineraries that often include overnight stays in port. You’re paying for exclusivity, personalised service, and the kind of attention to detail that makes you feel genuinely spoilt.

Family-Friendly Cruising

Picture of swimming pools surrounded by colourful umbrellas and loungers on the deck of a cruise ship called the Spectrum of the Seas.

These are the fun-filled floating playgrounds with water slides, kids’ clubs, character meet-and-greets, and activities designed to keep everyone from toddlers to teenagers entertained. Evening shows are Broadway-style productions, dining is casual and accommodating, and there’s always something happening. Perfect for school holiday adventures when you want entertainment sorted without the stress of planning every moment.

Adult-Only Cruising

Some ships cater exclusively to passengers 18 and over (or even 21+), offering a more peaceful, sophisticated atmosphere. You won’t find waterslides or children’s activities here. Instead, expect elegant spaces, culinary experiences, and entertainment geared towards grown-up tastes. Ideal for couples’ getaways or groups of friends wanting a child-free environment.

Elegant & Traditional Cruising

For those who appreciate the golden age of ocean travel, these cruises embrace formal nights, afternoon tea, ballroom dancing, and the refined traditions of classic seafaring. Service is impeccable, the pace is leisurely, and there’s a certain timeless quality to the experience. Popular with mature travellers who value grace and sophistication.

Adventure & Expedition Cruising

These cruises are all about the destination rather than the ship itself. Smaller vessels take you to remote locations like Antarctica, the Galápagos, or Norwegian fjords, with expert naturalists, Zodiac landings (Zodiacs are small, motorised inflatable boats used for shore landings), and enrichment programmes. If you’d rather spot penguins than lounge by a pool, this is your calling.

Cultural & Enrichment Cruising

These sailings attract curious minds with lecture programmes, workshops, local performers, and in-depth shore excursions. Ships are typically smaller, atmospheres are intellectual, and fellow passengers are likely to be well-travelled and engaged. Perfect for those who see travel as education.

Three Ways to Cruise: Ocean, River, and Expedition

Ocean Cruising

This is what most people picture: large ships crossing open seas, visiting multiple countries, and offering resort-style amenities. Ocean cruises can range from mega-ships carrying thousands of passengers to mid-sized vessels with a more intimate feel. You’ll have formal dining rooms, multiple restaurants, pools, spas, theatres, and endless activities. Popular routes for South Africans include the Mediterranean, Caribbean, and Norwegian fjords.

A South African Secret: Repositioning Cruises

Here’s something many local travellers don’t realise: repositioning cruises are an absolute gem for South Africans. These are voyages where ships move from one cruising region to another based on seasonal demand. A ship might spend European summer in the Mediterranean, then reposition to the Caribbean or Asia for winter, often stopping in Cape Town or Durban along the way.

Why are these brilliant for us? First, they’re significantly cheaper per night because the cruise line is moving the ship anyway: think of it as hitching a ride whilst they’re headed somewhere regardless. Second, you can do convenient one-way itineraries: fly to Europe and cruise home to South Africa, or cruise from Cape Town to Singapore and fly back. Third, these longer voyages (often 2-3 weeks) include unique ports you wouldn’t normally visit on standard itineraries. It’s genuinely one of the best-kept secrets in cruising for South African travellers.

River Cruising

River cruises offer a completely different experience. These smaller ships (often carrying fewer than 200 passengers) glide through inland waterways, docking right in the heart of cities and towns. You’ll wake up in a new destination almost daily, with no long stretches at sea. The pace is relaxed, the atmosphere is intimate, and dining is typically open-seating. European rivers like the Rhine, Danube, and Seine are perennial favourites, whilst the Mekong and Nile offer more exotic adventures.

Expedition Cruising

Purpose-built expedition ships are designed to reach places larger vessels simply cannot. With ice-strengthened hulls, shallow drafts, and Zodiac launching platforms (Zodiacs are small, motorised inflatable boats used for shore landings), these ships prioritise access over amenities. Cabins are comfortable but modest, dining is communal, and the focus is entirely on the natural world and cultural encounters. Daily excursions might include kayaking among icebergs, visiting scientific research stations, or walking alongside wildlife in pristine environments. It’s active, immersive, and utterly unforgettable.

What’s Next in This Series?

Over the coming weeks and months, we’ll dive deeper into specific cruise styles, starting with relaxed, flexible cruising where you can truly holiday at your own pace. We’ll explore what makes each style special, who they’re best suited for, and how to choose the right cruise for your preferences.

Whether you’re dreaming of sundowners on a river terrace in Portugal, champagne in the Arctic, or a family adventure through the Greek islands, there’s a cruise style perfectly matched to your travel personality. The trick is knowing what’s out there, and that’s exactly what this series is here to help you discover.

Stay tuned for more posts in this series.

Wander: More Than Just a Summer Song – It’s the Anthem for Every Journey

On 28 September 202522 June 2026 By VagabondIn Cruise, Destinations, Exotic Holidays, Guest Post, Music, News, Ski-ing1 Comment

There’s something lekker about music that captures the essence of movement, of discovery, of that restless spirit that calls us to explore beyond the familiar. “Wander” by Canadian alt-pop duo Neon Dreams, South African Booshle G and New Yorker BYRNE, isn’t just the perfect soundtrack for chilled summer days – it’s the anthem that should be playing in every traveller’s heart as they set off to discover the world.

The Summer Connection

Summer has always been synonymous with adventure. School’s out, the weather’s warm, and there’s this electric feeling in the air that anything is possible. “Wander” perfectly encapsulates that summer energy – the freedom, the spontaneity, the desire to chase horizons. But here’s the thing: that feeling doesn’t have to end when March rolls around.

Beyond Seasonal Boundaries

What makes “Wander” truly special is how it transcends the typical summer song formula. While other tracks might focus on braais and beaches, this song speaks to something deeper – the universal human desire to explore, to seek, to find ourselves in new places and experiences.

Whether you’re:

Backpacking through Southeast Asia in the monsoon season
Exploring European Christmas markets in December
Chasing the Northern Lights in Iceland’s winter darkness
Road-tripping through autumn’s changing colours

The spirit of “Wander” travels with you, regardless of the season or destination.

The Traveller’s Soundtrack

Every seasoned traveller knows that music can transform a journey. It’s the soundtrack to our adventures, the emotional backdrop to our discoveries. “Wander” deserves a permanent spot on every travel playlist because it captures:

The Anticipation: That flutter of excitement as you plan your next adventure
The Journey: The open road, the unknown path, the thrill of movement
The Discovery: Those moments when you find something unexpected and beautiful
The Reflection: Looking back on experiences that changed you

Making It Your Own

The beauty of adopting “Wander” as your travel anthem is that it grows with your experiences. Each time you hear it in a new place – whether it’s echoing through headphones on a train in Japan or playing softly at a café in Paris – it collects new memories, new meanings.

Your Next Adventure Awaits

So the next time you’re planning a trip, packing a bag, or even just daydreaming about far-off places, let “Wander” remind you that the world is vast, beautiful, and waiting to be explored. It’s not just a summer song – it’s a call to adventure that knows no seasons, no boundaries, no limits.

After all, the best journeys aren’t just about the destinations we reach – they’re about embracing the spirit of wandering itself.

What song serves as your travel anthem? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

My Aegean Sailing Adventure on Star Clipper

On 28 August 202522 June 2026 By Yours in Travel, Lindsay QuailIn Cruise, Destinations, Editorial, Exotic Holidays, News, Photos, Travel Reviews

Boarding the majestic Star Clipper in Piraeus on Saturday, 16 August marked the beginning of my unforgettable 7-night Star Clipper Aegean cruise, a sailing adventure through some of the most stunning ports in Greece and Türkiye. Huge thanks to #StarClippers and #CruiseVacationsSA for making it all happen!

Under Starlit Sails

We set sail at 21:30 under a starlit sky, the sails rising in the breeze as we left port. Sunday offered a full day at sea. The perfect opportunity to settle in, enjoy the ship’s elegant charm, and get to know fellow passengers.

Kusadasi & the Wonders of Ephesus

Our first port of call was Kusadasi, Türkiye, alive with energy and warm hospitality. A local guide led us to the incredible ruins of Ephesus, just 20 km away, a powerful glimpse into the ancient world with its grand theatre (once seating 24,000), temples, Roman villas, and public baths. The Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, once stood proudly here.

Post-excursion, we enjoyed some shopping at the local bazaar before returning to the ship for drinks and snacks at the Tropical Bar, a perfect spot to unwind and mingle.

Life On Board

Life on the Star Clipper is both relaxed and refined. Meals are served in the stylish Clipper Dining Room, where guests enjoy gourmet international cuisine, accompanied by live piano music by Sam in the Piano Bar. Themed evenings, including an Italian night, White Night, Pirate Dinner, and the glamorous Captain’s Dinner, add to the fun. The dress code is elegant-casual, with opportunities to dress up for special occasions.

The Greek Islands Unveiled

Patmos

Steeped in spiritual and historical significance, Patmos is best known as the island where the Apostle John wrote the Book of Revelations (Apocalypse). Its capital, Chora, is a charming maze of winding, cobbled streets, lined with beautifully preserved homes dating from the 15th to 18th centuries. A true gem here is the House of Simantiris, a traditional residence dating back to 1625, which has remained in the same family for over eight generations. Open to visitors, it offers a rare and intimate look into island life across the centuries, featuring antique furniture, embroidered linens, and ancestral paintings, a living museum of Patmian heritage.

Amorgos

Known for its crystal-clear beaches, whitewashed houses, and traditional windmills, Amorgos is also famous for being the filming location for Luc Besson’s The Big Blue. With tender boats running ashore every 30 minutes, it’s easy to explore this peaceful, photogenic island.

Mykonos

Our second-last port was buzzing with high-season energy. Mykonos, famous for its vibrant nightlife, luxury shopping, and celebrity beach clubs, was in full swing with major events and top DJs. After exploring its iconic white alleys, having a swim at the well-known Paradise Beach some of us returned early evening to the calm of the ship, taking the opportunity to sip a tropical cocktail while lounging at the starboard pool and soaking in the Aegean sunset.

Spetses

The final stop was the sophisticated and car-free island of Spetses. With horse-drawn carriages, elegant neoclassical architecture, and a stylish local crowd, it’s a favourite getaway for Athenians. A refreshing swim off Agios Mamas Beach, a bit of last-minute shopping, and a gelato cone in hand made for the perfect final day ashore.

A Fond Farewell

On our last night, we gathered in the dining room for a delicious final dinner, followed by a Light Show on the Sundeck and dancing under the stars at the Tropical Bar, with DJ Sam spinning classic hits that brought everyone to the dance floor. As dawn broke, we returned to Piraeus with full hearts and unforgettable memories.

A heartfelt thank you to Star Clippers, and to Gaynor Galbraith-Neill, CEO of Cruise Vacations SA, along with her exceptional team, Ilse Stols and Nicky Heyne, for curating such a remarkable experience.

Yours in Travel, Lindsay Quail