Centuries of Art: 8-Night Regent Rome to Venice Cruise

Centuries of Art is an eight-night sailing for travelers who want great art and architecture at nearly every stop, with the summer crowds starting to ease. Seven Seas Mariner departs Rome’s port of Civitavecchia on September 2, 2027, sails south along Italy’s west coast to Sicily and Malta, then crosses to the Adriatic for Montenegro and Croatia before ending in Venice on September 10. Early September usually brings warm days and sea temperatures still pleasant for swimming.

Salerno is a convenient base for the Amalfi Coast and for the Greek temples at Paestum, with Pompeii also within reach. From Messina, many guests head to the hilltop town of Taormina, with its ancient theater and views toward Mount Etna. Valletta, Malta’s compact fortified capital, is a highlight for art lovers: St. John’s Co-Cathedral holds Caravaggio’s The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist.

After a sea day, the ship enters the Bay of Kotor, where steep mountains rise around a walled old town. Dubrovnik’s city walls offer one of the classic walks of the Mediterranean, best done early before the day warms up. Rijeka, Croatia’s main port, is close to the elegant seaside resort of Opatija. Venice closes the voyage; large cruise ships now dock at Fusina on the mainland, so we will help you plan the short water transfer and a hotel night or two in the city.

Seven Seas Mariner is an all-suite ship from Regent Seven Seas Cruises, and the line is known for including a great deal in its fares. Shore excursions, fine wines and spirits, specialty dining, prepaid gratuities and Wi-Fi are part of most fares, and many add round-trip air as well. On an itinerary this rich, included excursions can add real value. Ask us to break down your fare’s inclusions.

Planning a few days in Rome first? Share your travel dates and suite wish list with us, and we will check current fares, availability and any onboard credit offered.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far is Civitavecchia from Rome?
Civitavecchia is roughly an hour to an hour and a half from central Rome by car, depending on traffic, and there is also train service. We recommend at least one pre-cruise night in Rome.

Where do cruise ships dock in Venice now?
Large cruise ships no longer sail through the Giudecca Canal, so this voyage ends at Fusina on the mainland. From there, transfers into Venice are typically by water taxi or shuttle boat.

Is September a good time for a Mediterranean cruise?
Yes. September generally offers warm weather and warm seas, and crowds are usually lighter than in July and August, though popular spots like Dubrovnik and Venice can still be busy.