Otranto

Perched at the heel of Italy, Otranto is a cruise port that stands apart with a landscape that often steals the scene and a heritage that reads like a living manuscript. Its Adriatic panorama offers days when, from a clear horizon, the silhouette of Albania can be seen, lending a rare sense of distance and wonder. Signature experiences center on the town's fortress remnants and the Cathedral of Santa Maria Annunziata, where martyrs' relics still tell the tale of a city that refused to bow to conquest. Shore programs blend natural beauty with culture—private boat rides along limestone coastlines, guided wanders through cobbled lanes, and tastings of Apulian specialties—while easy access to Lecce's baroque artistry and the Salento's whitewashed towns allows guests to weave day trips into a richer story. The port itself accommodates today's cruise fleets with deep-water berths and efficient embarkation, complemented by seamless transfers to iconic destinations like Gallipoli, Santa Maria di Leuca, and the heart of Puglia. Onboard services highlight regional cuisine, multilingual concierge and shore-excursion desks, spa and wellness options, and family-friendly activities, ensuring a voyage that pairs effortless travel with the warm hospitality of Otranto.