Most cruise travelers book a particular sailing because they like the ports of call listed on the itinerary. After all, cruising provides the most convenient way to visit new places all while sleeping in the same bed each night.
But imagine booking a voyage where the ports you visit are a complete surprise. That’s exactly what Variety Cruises has just announced with the cruise line’s second “mystery cruise”.
Passengers on the 72-guest vessel only know two locations for the entire itinerary: where the cruise starts and where it ends. Everything in between is a complete mystery.
The new mystery voyage has been announced for a June 21, 2025 sailing date. The 8-day Mediterranean Sea cruise will begin at the Valletta cruise port in Malta and end in Naples, Italy.
As far as what ports will be visited along the way, Variety Cruises only gives a few possible hints on their website by asking, “Could it be a secret island lost to time? A forgotten fishing village with stories untold? Or perhaps a hidden cove, known only to the sea?”
But of course, someone has to know where the ship is going. These details are known only to the crew and the ports themselves.
It takes a unique type of traveler to book this kind of trip. And it also takes a fair chunk of change, as prices start at $3,912 for a 130-167 sq. ft. cabin and up to almost $8,500 for the 260 sq. ft. Owner’s Suite.
The vessel for this surprise voyage, Variety Voyager, is 223 feet long, has 36 cabins for guests, and has a crew of 32, for an almost 2 to 1 ratio.
So, it’s a more intimate cruising experience no doubt, and some of the proceeds go towards a non-profit that specializes in environmental cleanliness.
Variety Cruises is a family-owned company from Athens, Greece, established in 1949. The company operates a fleet of small vessels, accommodating 34 to 72 passengers, which allows access to unique, less-visited destinations like secluded Greek islands, Tahitian waters, or West African rivers—places larger cruise ships can’t go.
The focus is on sustainable, authentic travel with a personal touch, offering local cuisine and small-group excursions. Led by CEO Filippos Venetopoulos, the company runs eight ships and supports charitable causes, such as ocean conservation and education, through a portion of each fare.
