14-Day ~ Greek Isles, Malta and Naples Knitting Cruise (Aug 2027)

14-Day Greek Isles, Malta & Naples Knitting Cruise with Kristin Drysdale
Aug 28 - Sep 11, 2027

Join Craft Cruises and knitting expert Kristin Drysdale on an unforgettable 14-day Mediterranean knitting adventure aboard Holland America's Oosterdam cruising from Barcelona to Rome. This remarkable voyage explores the heart of the ancient Mediterranean, visiting Malta, Greece, Turkey, Montenegro, and some of Italy's most beloved coastal destinations.

For knitters, this itinerary offers far more than beautiful ports. It is a journey through regions where textiles, sheep farming, weaving, embroidery, and handcraft traditions have shaped local culture for centuries. From the whitewashed villages of the Greek Isles to the fjord-like Bay of Kotor, from Sicilian markets to the boutique yarn shops of Rome, every stop offers opportunities to discover authentic local craftsmanship, regional foods, stunning scenery, and memorable cultural experiences.

Sea days are perfectly spaced throughout the voyage, providing ample time to relax with your knitting, enjoy Kristin's classes, and connect with fellow knitters. Whether you are interested in sweater construction, Scandinavian colorwork, improving your knitting technique, or simply enjoying exceptional travel with like-minded friends, this cruise offers the perfect balance of learning, exploration, and inspiration.

Come knit your way through the Mediterranean with Craft Cruises and Kristin Drysdale on what promises to be one of our most memorable knitting adventures.

Your Instructor - Kristin Drysdale

Kristin Drysdale has taught and designed knitwear for more than twenty-five years and is internationally recognized for her expertise in Scandinavian knitting traditions. As founder of Scandiwork, Kristin specializes in continental knitting, colorwork, sweater construction, and helping knitters create garments that truly fit. Inspired by her Scandinavian heritage, she has spent decades studying Nordic knitting techniques, history, and design traditions. Her warm teaching style and practical approach help knitters become more confident, independent makers.

Whether you are new to colorwork or an experienced sweater knitter, Kristin excels at breaking complex techniques into manageable steps and helping students understand the "why" behind the process. Her goal is simple: to help every knitter create beautiful projects they will be proud to wear and enjoy for years to come.

Kristin Drysdale's onboard classes include a variety of techniques inspired by Mediterranean and Scandinavian textile traditions. Kristin looks forward to sharing her passion for knitting with everyone on this cruise. Topics include ambidextrous knitting for colorwork, knitting sweaters that fit, the Mattie Pullover, Scandiworks Secrets, and Italian Knitting. This cruise is perfect for knitters of all skill levels who want to learn new techniques, connect with fellow fiber enthusiasts, and explore the rich textile heritage of the Mediterranean while traveling in style and comfort.

10-Day Italy & Croatia Knitting Cruise Highlights

Craft Cruises selects itineraries offering various activities to help bring each port to life. Whether you explore on your own or on an escorted tour, these enriching encounters ensure everyone goes home with memories that last a lifetime.

• Arrive early to enjoy all Barcelona has to offer. Stroll along Las Ramblas, a boulevard full of street performers, cafes, and outdoor shopping which includes anything from live animals to art.


• Explore the main market in Barcelona, La Boqueria, where you will find all kinds of culinary marvels, hand-made sweets and other goodies to entice your senses.


• Learn about Gaudí architecture.


• Shop for yarn at Barcelona's most popular yarn shop and visit the astoundingly beautiful Gothic Quarter with even more great little shops full of treasures.


• Shop for yarn at All You Knit is Love and Miss Kits in Barcelona. Both shops are internationally recognized for having curated selections of local, imported and private label hand-dyed yarns.


• Visit Valletta, Malta, a UNESCO World Heritage city with centuries of Mediterranean trading history and a rich legacy of lace, embroidery, and textile craft.


• Shop at Victor Galea Haberdashery, a long-established family business in Valletta that carries yarns, sewing supplies, trims, and notions. The shop represents the sort of traditional haberdashery that has largely disappeared from many European cities and offers a glimpse into Malta's continuing craft culture.


• Wander around Chania, Crete. It is truly one of Greece's most charming ports with its Venetian architecture, flower-filled lanes, waterfront cafés, and a relaxed pace make this an ideal destination for knitters who enjoy wandering and discovering unexpected treasures.


• Shop at Pleko Chania, located a short walk from Chania's old harbor, this independent yarn shop specializes in natural fibers and carries brands such as Noro, Lana Gatto, Louisa Harding, Debbie Bliss, and Drops.


• Wander, photograph, and enjoy lunch by the sea. Mykonos rewards those who slow down.


• In Kusadasi visit the remarkable ruins of Ephesus, one of the most important archaeological sites in the Mediterranean.


• Spend time shopping for yarn and exploring Plaka, Athens' charming "Neighborhood of the Gods," nestled beneath the Acropolis. Stroll through its winding alleys lined with historic landmarks, colorful flower-filled balconies, inviting tavernas, and cozy cafés.


• Grab your knitting and find a comfortable place on deck, and watch the scenery unfold as the ship arrives in Kotor, Montenegro. The dramatic fjord-like Bay of Kotor is surrounded by mountains that rise almost directly from the water and is considered the most beautiful harbor in Europe.


• Corfu combines Venetian elegance, beautiful gardens, and a relaxed island atmosphere. This is an excellent port for a leisurely stroll and a long lunch overlooking the water.


• Messina serves as a gateway to Sicily's rich food culture and dramatic landscapes. Don't overlook the local pastries, seafood, and bustling markets.


• Enjoy an overnight stay in Naples, gateway to Pompeii, the Amalfi Coast, Capri, and some of Italy's most celebrated food traditions. With two days in port, guests can choose between ancient history, spectacular coastal scenery, bustling local markets, or simply savoring authentic Neapolitan cuisine at a leisurely pace.


• Explore Rome (Civitavecchia), the eternal city, and shop for high-quality Italian yarns and notions at boutique fiber shops in the city center.