Posted on November 2, 2004 - by Ralph Grizzle

Winter Cruising In The Med

Cruise operators are looking to expand the traditional spring-through-fall Mediterranean season by offering sailings during the “mild” (their word, not ours) winter months. When the Costa Magica floats from the shipyard this month, Europe’ largest cruise company, Costa Cruises, will press its newest ship into year-round Mediterranean service. Departing Savona, Italy, the ship calls on ports along the Adriatic coast and in Italy, Greece, Cyprus, Turkey and Egypt. Two good reasons to consider winter Med cruising: The ports are less crowded during off-peak months, and the cruises are value-priced (lead price for the 11-day Costa Magica is $1,149 per person).