Norwegian Cruise Line has made several adjustments to Norwegian Pearl’s summer 2026 Mediterranean schedule, introducing new destinations and extending time in select ports.
While some originally planned stops have been swapped out, the revised itineraries still promise a rich mix of iconic cities, coastal charm, and unforgettable experiences across Southern Europe.
These changes mainly affect sailings between Greece and Italy in May and June 2026, and guests will now get the opportunity to discover different ports while enjoying more time in others.
Santorini Replaced With Mykonos on May 2026 Sailing
One of the most notable itinerary updates applies to the May 10, 2026, cruise departing Athens (Piraeus) and ending in Ravenna, Italy.
Originally, the ship was scheduled to call at Santorini, one of Greece’s most famous islands. However, due to updated port availability, that stop has now been replaced with a visit to Mykonos.
While Santorini is famous for its dramatic caldera views and blue-domed churches, Mykonos offers its own unforgettable appeal, including:
- Iconic whitewashed buildings and winding streets.
- Historic windmills overlooking the Aegean Sea.
- Stunning beaches and vibrant waterfront areas.
- Boutique shopping, cafés, and lively nightlife.
For many travelers, Mykonos delivers a completely different—but equally rewarding—Greek island experience.
Guests Will Get More Time to Explore Montenegro’s Historic Kotor
Another key improvement involves the ship’s stop in Kotor, Montenegro.
Norwegian Cruise Line has adjusted arrival and departure times, giving passengers additional time to explore this scenic UNESCO-listed destination.
Kotor is widely considered one of the Mediterranean’s hidden gems, known for:
- Medieval city walls and fortresses.
- Charming old town squares and alleyways.
- Dramatic mountain and harbor scenery.
- Local cafés, shops, and cultural landmarks.
Even an extra 30 minutes in port can make a difference, allowing guests to explore deeper or enjoy a more relaxed visit.
Popular Mediterranean Destinations Still Included
Despite these changes, the overall itinerary continues to feature several highly sought-after Mediterranean stops.
Passengers will still visit:
- Katakolon, Greece – Gateway to Ancient Olympia, birthplace of the Olympic Games.
- Corfu, Greece – Known for its unique blend of Greek, Venetian, and French influences.
- Split, Croatia – Home to the historic Diocletian’s Palace and beautiful Adriatic coastline.
- Koper, Slovenia – A charming coastal town with historic architecture and a relaxed atmosphere.
This combination ensures guests experience a diverse mix of culture, history, and scenic beauty.
June 2026 Sailing Also Receives Itinerary Adjustment
The June 21, 2026, sailing, which also travels between Athens and Ravenna, will see one key port change as well.
Instead of visiting Zadar, Croatia, the ship will now stop in Split, giving guests another chance to explore one of Croatia’s most famous coastal cities.
Split offers:
- Roman-era ruins and ancient landmarks.
- Beautiful waterfront promenades.
- Historic old town filled with shops and restaurants.
- Easy access to nearby islands and beaches.
Meanwhile, Santorini remains part of the June itinerary, along with Corfu, Katakolon, Koper, and Kotor.
Shore Excursions Will Be Refunded for Cancelled Ports
Norwegian Cruise Line has confirmed that guests who booked excursions for cancelled ports will receive full refunds automatically.
This allows passengers to easily select new experiences in the replacement destinations.
This ensures travelers aren’t financially impacted by the changes and can still enjoy exciting shore adventures.
Changes Reflect Normal Cruise Industry Adjustments
Itinerary updates like these are fairly common in the cruise industry and are often caused by factors such as:
- Port congestion
- Docking availability
- Operational scheduling adjustments
- Weather or safety considerations
Rather than reducing the experience, these changes often introduce guests to equally impressive destinations they might not have visited otherwise.
Norwegian Pearl Continues Offering a Strong Mediterranean Experience
Even with the updates, Norwegian Pearl’s summer 2026 cruises still deliver everything guests expect from a Mediterranean sailing—historic cities, scenic coastlines, and culturally rich destinations.
With stops across Greece, Croatia, Slovenia, and Montenegro, plus new additions like Mykonos and Split, passengers can still look forward to an unforgettable European cruise filled with memorable moments.
For many travelers, discovering a new destination unexpectedly can become one of the most exciting highlights of the entire journey.
