How much am I
overpaying?
Select all your cruise ports to see the total your group would overpay on excursions.
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€595+
avg saved per 7-port cruise
312%
avg cruise line markup
15
Mediterranean ports covered
Why cruise excursions are so expensive
Cruise lines charge a significant premium for organised shore excursions — not because of quality, but because of captive demand. Most passengers don't research local alternatives before docking. The median ship excursion costs 312% more than the equivalent independent option using public transport.
The single highest markup we've found: Naples (Pompeii by Circumvesuviana train costs €3.50; the ship charges €164). Rome via train from Civitavecchia costs €9 return; ship excursions average €180.
Common questions
How accurate are these prices?
Prices are based on PortTrip's independent research comparing cruise line published excursion prices to verified local transport and tour costs, updated 2025–2026. Cruise line prices vary by ship and season — verify before travelling.
Is it safe to explore cruise ports without an excursion?
Yes, for most major Mediterranean ports. The main risk is timing — returning to the ship late. PortTrip's return-timing tools calculate your exact safe departure time from any location.
What happens if I miss the ship?
The ship sails without you. You'll need to reach the next port independently at your own cost — typically €300–1,500+. This is why the 90-minute return buffer rule exists.
Can I always use public transport from cruise ports?
For all ports listed here, yes — public transport connects the cruise terminal to the city. Journey times and prices are listed for each port. For tender ports (Santorini, Kotor, Mykonos), factor in tender queue time.