Cruise Holidays
Seas the Day
Your Ultimate Guide to Cruise Holidays!
Welcome to a holiday where your hotel moves with you, where you can wake up to the stunning skyline of a new country almost every day, and where the journey itself is a spectacular adventure. This is the magic of a cruise holiday! It’s about seamlessly blending the thrill of exploring multiple destinations with the comfort and luxury of a world-class floating resort. Forget the hassle of packing and unpacking, booking connecting flights, or lugging suitcases around – on a cruise, your only job is to decide which amazing experience to try next.
From mega-ships that are like glittering cities at sea, packed with water parks and Broadway shows, to smaller, elegant vessels that glide into secluded, intimate ports, there is a cruise for every taste, budget, and dream. Whether you want to sail through majestic fjords, hop between sun-drenched Mediterranean islands, or just relax on deck with a cocktail in hand as the world drifts by, your ship has come in.
Why a Cruise Should Be Your Next Voyage
Unpack Once, See the World
This is the genius of cruising. You settle into your comfortable cabin at the start of your trip, and it remains your home base as you journey from one incredible destination to the next. Imagine exploring the ancient wonders of Rome one day and the chic boutiques of the French Riviera the next, all without ever having to repack your suitcase. It is the most convenient, effortless, and relaxing way to experience a variety of places on a single holiday.
An Ocean of Onboard Activities
Think of your ship not just as transport, but as a destination in its own right. Modern cruise ships are packed to the gills with incredible things to do. You can catch a dazzling West End-style show, dine in gourmet restaurants, test your luck in the casino, or relax with a massage in a luxurious spa. For the more active, there are swimming pools, state-of-the-art gyms, and even rock-climbing walls, surf simulators, and ice rinks on some ships! Boredom is simply not on the itinerary.
Incredible Value and Simplicity
A cruise can be one of the best value holidays you’ll ever take. Your fare typically includes your accommodation, all your meals in the main dining rooms and buffet restaurants, a huge range of entertainment, and, of course, your travel between ports. This makes it incredibly easy to manage your budget, as so much is covered in the initial price. When you compare it to the cost of booking flights, hotels, and meals for a multi-destination land trip, cruising often comes out as the clear winner.
Four great itineraries from the UK
The Majestic Norwegian Fjords
For breathtaking scenery that feels out of this world, a cruise to the Norwegian Fjords is unbeatable. Best of all, many sail directly from Southampton, making it an easy no-fly option from Bournemouth. Picture yourself gliding silently through deep, tranquil fjords, with cascading waterfalls tumbling down immense cliffs on either side. You’ll visit charming waterside villages and witness some of the most dramatic and pristine landscapes on Earth, all from the comfort of your ship.
Mediterranean Magic
Soak up the sun and culture of the Med on a cruise that takes in the continent’s most iconic ports. A typical Western Mediterranean itinerary might include stops in vibrant Barcelona, historic Rome (via the port of Civitavecchia), and the beautiful island of Majorca. It’s a perfect blend of ancient history, fantastic food, beautiful beaches, and chic European city life, all rolled into one incredible, sun-drenched holiday.
The Canary Islands & Madeira
Escape to year-round sunshine with a cruise to the Canary Islands. Departing conveniently from the UK, this route is perfect for catching some sun in the spring or autumn. You can explore the dramatic volcanic landscapes of Tenerife and Lanzarote, wander through the lush, subtropical gardens of Madeira (the 'Floating Garden of the Atlantic'), and enjoy a relaxing series of sea days to make the most of the ship’s facilities. It’s an island-hopping adventure without the airport hassle.
A Caribbean Dream (Fly-Cruise)
For the ultimate tropical paradise escape, a Caribbean fly-cruise is the stuff of dreams. Your package will typically include a flight to a hub like Barbados or Miami, where you’ll join your ship. From there, you’ll island-hop through a wonderland of turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, and swaying palm trees. Each island has its own unique vibe, from the reggae rhythms of Jamaica to the colourful architecture of Curaçao. It’s pure bliss.
Top Tips for a Smooth Sailing
Choose Your Cabin Wisely
Your cabin is your sanctuary, so think about what you need. An Inside cabin is the most budget-friendly option, perfect if you plan to be out and about all day. An Oceanview gives you a window to the world, while a Balcony cabin is a game-changer, offering private outdoor space to enjoy your morning coffee or a sunset cocktail. For the ultimate indulgence, a Suite provides more space and extra perks.
Budget for the Onboard Extras
While your cruise is largely inclusive, be aware of the extras. Things like alcoholic drinks, speciality dining restaurants, spa treatments, casino spending, and shore excursions will cost more. Look into drinks packages beforehand to see if they offer good value for you, and factor in daily gratuities (tips), which are often automatically added to your onboard account.
Don't Miss the Boat! (Literally)
This is the cardinal rule of cruising. When you’re in port, be acutely aware of the all-aboard time – and know that the ship runs on "ship time," which may differ from the local time. The ship will not wait for you! Set multiple alarms, and if you’re worried, book excursions directly through the cruise line, as they guarantee to get you back to the ship on time.
Embrace the Sea Days
Days spent at sea are a gift, not just a travel day! This is your chance to fully explore your magnificent ship. Have a leisurely breakfast, find a sun lounger by the pool, try a fitness class, see a matinee show, or simply sit on your balcony and watch the waves. Sea days are the perfect opportunity to relax and recharge between bustling port days.
Ready to Make Waves?
A cruise holiday is a truly unique experience, offering the perfect formula of adventure and relaxation, discovery and comfort. It’s about letting the rhythm of the ocean set your pace and allowing a crew of hospitality experts to take care of your every need, while the wonders of the world appear on your horizon each morning.
With the major cruise port of Southampton just down the road, casting off on a global adventure has never been easier. Forget any preconceptions you might have and get ready to explore the world in one of the most enjoyable and effortless ways imaginable. Your ship is ready to sail. Are you ready to come aboard?
