Saturday, April 26, 2025 

Mano Cruises has officially kicked off its eagerly awaited 2025 season in the Eastern Mediterranean, marking the return of the Crown Iris after its winter break. The 1,462-passenger ship set sail from Haifa on March 27, 2025, launching a new series of voyages to some of the most popular and picturesque destinations in the region.
The season’s first voyage took guests on a scenic three-night trip to Cyprus, with an unforgettable overnight stop in Limassol. The Crown Iris now offers a range of two- to four-night cruises, inviting travelers to explore the stunning landscapes and cultural gems of Cyprus and Greece. Passengers will visit incredible ports, including Larnaca, Rhodes, Heraklion, and Piraeus, along with other remarkable stops like Agios Nikolaos, Santorini, Thessaloniki, Patmos, Volos, and Mykonos.
In addition to the shorter cruises, the Crown Iris will embark on longer Mediterranean journeys. Following the first set of short cruises, the ship left Haifa on April 20, 2025, for an exciting 12-night adventure through the Central Mediterranean. This extended itinerary will take guests to iconic destinations in Greece, Italy, and Malta, with stops at Heraklion, Chania, Valletta, Catania, Palermo, Civitavecchia, and Naples, returning to Israel in early May.
One of the most exciting highlights of the 2025 season is the introduction of a new Black Sea cruise scheduled for late October. This 11-night voyage will take guests to fascinating, off-the-beaten-path ports in Greece, Bulgaria, and Romania, including Syros, Varna, Constanza, and Bourgas. It offers a unique opportunity to explore less-touristed yet equally captivating destinations that remain untouched by the crowds seen in more popular regions.
The Crown Iris’s extended season will continue through late December 2025, giving more travelers the chance to immerse themselves in the Mediterranean’s unparalleled beauty and rich cultural heritage. Originally built as the Royal Majesty for Majesty Cruise Line, the Crown Iris has undergone significant refurbishments over the years. It has sailed with several cruise lines, including Norwegian Cruise Line, Louis Cruises, Celestyal Cruises, and Thomson Cruises. Notably, a major renovation in 1999 extended the ship’s length by 33 meters, adding more staterooms and public spaces to enhance the overall guest experience.
With its stunning itineraries, extensive renovations, and enduring charm, the Crown Iris is set to offer a remarkable cruising season in 2025. Guests are invited to explore the breathtaking landscapes of the Eastern Mediterranean and beyond, from the sun-kissed islands of Greece to the hidden treasures of the Black Sea. The Crown Iris promises a journey filled with unforgettable experiences and timeless appeal for every traveler.
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