Black Sea

In terms of its etymology, there are various theories on the origins of the title Black Sea, with one conjecture being that it simply is a reference to visibility levels in the waters, which are much lower than in the neighbouring Mediterranean Sea.

The Black Sea is now a popular tourist destination and those on Black Sea cruises have the advantage of taking in a variety of countries in one go. In Turkey, cruisers can discover the popular city of Istanbul while Ukraine offers history, breathtaking landscapes and famous landmarks.

On a Black Sea cruise it is possible to visit Odessa's Potemkin Steps or Sevastopol, which contains an intriguing mixture of modern and ancient architecture.

In Romania, the city of Constanta offers a doorway to the historical city of Bucharest while those stopping off in Bulgaria can anticipate relaxing on some of the eastern European country's more beautiful beaches.

Those on a Black Sea cruise can also take a trip along the Danube River, a principal feeder to the inland expanse of water and the longest river in the European Union.