The Mediterranean
The classic ocean cruising region: Italy, France, Spain, Croatia, Greece, Turkey, Malta. Best on a small ship that can dock in Sorrento, Portofino, Hvar, or Mykonos rather than tendering from a distant port. Choose between the Western Med (Italy and France) for cuisine and culture or the Eastern Med (Greece and the Adriatic) for islands and ancient sites.
When to Go
May to June and September to October offer warm weather without the August crush. Late October has wonderful light and fewer crowds.