Ex UK Cruises

Are you looking to spend your holiday aboard a cruise liner travelling to exotic locations and happen to be a resident of the UK? Well you’ll be happy to know that a good number of world-renowned cruisers set off from Southampton and Portsmouth. Ex UK Cruises refer to cruise voyages that start from UK ports and go round the world or to specific Baltic, Mediterranean or Caribbean destinations. One of the more popular of these is Cunard whose reputation as a top liner started way back in 1840. It is known to be a stickler for tradition and if you want to enjoy your cruise the way they were enjoyed in the past; with diner dress codes and music by a string quartet; this is the cruiser for you.

Another of these elegant, traditional cruise liners is Swan Hellenic. It is a favourite for seasoned travellers who are over 60 and are keen on exploring the world. The itineraries offered by this liner, owned by the All Leisure Group, are driven by the destinations and those who book cruises with Swan Hellenic can expect exciting excursions as part of the experience. This liner is also known for its highly educated clientele, evidence of which is the well-stocked library on board. Also in this category of Ex UK Cruises are the Hebridean Island Cruises that take voyagers sailing into the Scottish Highlands. Their only ship, the Hebridean Princess, took no lesser than the Queen for a cruise to celebrate her 80th birthday. Among the activities you can look forward to aboard this 49-passenger vessel are poetry readings, lectures and whisky tastings. It doesn’t get any more British than that.

P&O is one of the most renowned liners that sails out of Southampton; only one of its fleet of 7 ships does not offer cruising from UK’s cruise capital. Its ships offer passengers varied experiences depending on their preferences and budgets. The adults-only Arcadia takes voyagers on 24-night cruises to Canadian destinations as well as 7-night sorties to the Norwegian fjords. Calls at exotic cities such as New York, Venice and Istanbul make these trips worth every penny. Those who want to take their kids along for the cruise can book P&O’s Oriana which will make a staggering 24 Ex UK Cruises between now and next year. These include both long and short haul voyages to Western Europe and the Caribbean. The ship features a children’s pool and a children’s club that are sure to keep your kids busy as you relax and enjoy being a world away from the daily grind.

Those with energy to burn and fear the prospect of getting bored stiff while voyaging can bank on Royal Caribbean International to supply them with their dream cruise. With ships equipped with surf simulators, ice-skating rinks, rock climbing walls, heated swimming pools, miniature golf and plenty of other games, adrenaline junkies will have no reason to complain. These ships are also equipped with a selection of bars and restaurants that cater to diverse tastes as well as ice-cream parlours for you to spoil your kids. And if you must get in touch with the outside world there are WiFi and roaming cellular facilities available too. For those who are curious about the safety and security measures on board, you can find more information at https://www.aronfeld.com/are-there-jails-on-cruise-ships/.


World Cruises

There is nothing like forgetting all your earthly cares and embarking on a voyage around the world; just you (and a few other passengers, and the crew) against the vast deep blue ocean waters. But unlike the famous hero who conquered this quest in 80 days, you will be cruising through the journey at a leisurely pace riding on the lap of luxury. World cruises are many and varied, tailored to cater to different tastes. Crystal World Cruise for instance offers an itinerary that casts off from Miami, leads you through the Gulf of Mexico on to the Caribbean Seas. From there the ship transits the Panama Canal and makes a stopover at Peru, and another at Chile a few days later. It continues skirting the coast of the South American continent touching Brazil and takes voyagers along the famous River Amazon before continuing via the Atlantic Ocean. The beauty of this kind of cruise is that you get to see many destinations in one trip.

From the picturesque beaches of the Caribbean to the fascinating volcanic islands of Indonesia to the history-laden holy land, Israel. If you’re on a budget or have a particular destination in mind that you want to explore, you can go for the so called ‘cruise and stay’ packages that offer you a cruise to a particular location which you can then explore to your heart’s content instead of continuing to other destinations.

Each cruise comes with its own excursion itinerary of places you can expect to go on shore and explore. At each of these places there will be a set of activities you’ll have the option of indulging in. For instance on the Crystal World Cruise you can enjoy exploring the interior of the Antilles on an ATV as well as make a tour of the Hato Caves and the Seaquarium. Guided tours are a good way to spend time on shore as you will learn a lot and also get to spend time on only the places that really matter.

A few things you’ll be wise to consider before booking a world cruise include the general profile of the passengers on the voyage. If you’re a young couple going on the journey as part of your honeymoon or just a romantic outing, you may not be thrilled to find that most of your shipmates are in their sixties and seventies.

It is also prudent to expect the list of onboard activities carefully as unlike short cruises where there are stopovers every other day where voyagers can go exploring on shore, world cruises have fewer of these layoffs and you will be expected to stay on board for most of them. Therefore if you fail to find activities to your liking it could make for a rather miserable trip. It is common knowledge now that some cruises require passengers to dress up for diner. If this does not sit well with you it is important you find out beforehand and avoid a potentially embarrassing faux pas. To help you decide which liner will provide you with the best experience on your round-the-world journey, you could take a couple of shorter cruises on different ships.


Royal Caribbean Cruises

Taking the step of booking your holiday with Royal Caribbean Cruises is a sure way of making your holiday one to remember for years to come. For one you will have a choice of over 200 destinations around the world. Secondly, you will have a fleet of new, or almost new vessels to choose from.

The depth of this firm’s fleet allows for plenty of different itineraries with ships setting sail from UK ports as well as many other departure points. Itineraries cater for all groups of travellers; whether you have kids, or fall in the senior category, you will find an itinerary suited to your unique needs. Should you have a special occasion you want to celebrate while cruising, you will be pleased to know something can be arranged to help you celebrate. The vessels themselves are powered by state-of-the-art technology and are fully equipped to keep voyagers entertained for the duration of the trip.

Which features are these, you ask? Travelling aboard these cruise ships is like travelling on a floating city; designer fashion outlets, 3D movie theatres, Starbucks, fitness centres, casinos and a host of other establishments are available on board. You can even take a leisurely stroll alongside the sea on a promenade. These ships are built for different durations of cruises. Ships under the Sovereign Class, for instance, are designed for shorter trips, the Vision Class vessels will comfortably ferry holidaymakers from Alaska to Hawaii to Mexico and on to Asia. All ships are replete with balconies from which passengers can enjoy breathtaking views of the ocean. WiFi is available for those who have their laptops and must connect with the rest of the world. You will also have access to roaming cellular services to help you keep in touch.

Specifically for lovers of sport, this liners fleet are equipped with facilities such as miniature golf and 40-foot rock walls for climbing. And no, you don’t have to go overboard literally to find waves to ride. The onboard surf simulator fitted on some of the Royal Caribbean fleet projects waves of up to 40 metres in length. Not into hanging ten? Grab a pair of skates and hit the ice rink.

You needn’t burden yourself with lugging your skates from home; you can get a pair on board. Or shoot some hoops, or play volleyball, or spar in the boxing gym. And for those who fear losing their newfound figure as they gorge themselves on the exquisite onboard cuisine, there is a jogging track and a well-equipped gym. There’ll even be a trained fitness instructor to take you through an aerobics or yoga class. If all this still does not quench your thirst for adventure, you can wait until you make a stopover and see what awaits you on dry land.

There are plenty of events on board aimed at occupying the time of passengers and giving them an opportunity to have fun while interacting.

As mentioned earlier, Royal Caribbean Cruises travel to hundreds of destinations on 6 continents. These are all exotic locations with interesting sights.


Mediterranean Cruises

Discover a side of Europe you’ve not experienced before by taking on one of the many Mediterranean cruises available. Visit some of the most beautiful cities in Greece, Turkey, Italy and Spain as you indulge yourself in the pinnacle of luxury. Among the features prepared to ensure you feel properly pampered on board are wonderfully furnished and decorated rooms from which you can still enjoy spectacular views of the sea.

One of the joys of these cruises is the excursions you make inland during stopovers at various ports. Truly Mediterranean cruises offer an all in one package to tourists; apart from the relaxation and comfort of travelling on a floating 5-star hotel, you get to visit acclaimed sites and take exhilarating hikes through the greenery of natural landscapes. To take you through these excursions will be highly experienced guides who can comfortably communicate in a number of languages. You will also get to traipse about in exotic cities such as Istanbul, Rome, Florence and Venice sightseeing and shopping to your heart’s delight. Perhaps one of the most anticipated stopovers is the one at the legendary Cannes, where the annual international film festival is held. This town’s historic centre is full of centuries-old monuments that will intrigue history buffs and curious travellers alike. Of course there’s also the irreplaceable French Riviera. The place is also a venerable shoppers’ paradise. History freaks will also be keen on the Dubrovnik layoff on the Croatian coast. Landmarks dating back to the 14th century are still there. One of the things you absolutely have to do is walk along the walls of the walled city; a challenging but highly rewarding experience.

The beauty of these packages is that they can be tailor-made to suit your exact needs. You can decide whether or not to include the towering minarets and domes of Istanbul in your trip. While booking with Costa Cruises you can choose to include the wellness package; therapeutic full-body massages and treatments, workouts in a well-equipped fitness centre topped off with a variety of low-calorie foods. If you’re celebrating a special occasion; a birthday, anniversary, honeymoon, etc, you can ask for special arrangements to be made to make it a day to remember. Should you be taking your kids along for the cruise, liners such as Royal Caribbean Legend of the Seas will fully cater to them with a raft of games to keep them occupied besides the on-board swimming pools. Can’t do without a throbbing night scene? No need to fear boredom; apart from a selection of bars, each serving a selection of wicked cocktails, you will be treated to live music and live DJs on most Mediterranean cruises.

While most people dream of a cruise lounging in the lovely summer sunshine, booking your Mediterranean sail in spring is not a bad idea as there are less crowds both on board and when you make stopovers. Also, the weather is still not hostile then. If you’re on a budget you might want to try a winter cruise.


Fjords Cruises

Whenever the word ‘cruise’ is mentioned, most minds usually fly to massive ships drifting on foamy ocean waters. But if you didn’t know, a cruise on the tranquil fjords of Europe or Northern America can be just as enjoyable and probably even more relaxing. Imagine sailing along quiet waters while admiring the unique architecture of hidden towns you will never find on your regular sea or ocean itinerary. You will also be treated to excursions inland where you will get to immerse yourself in cultures you probably never knew existed. If you were looking for a clever way to pop the question, you simply have to book one of these fjord cruises; you are virtually guaranteed a ‘yes’. Looking for a wedding venue that is far from the cliché locations? Here is an option you should consider.

Not convinced? Take the Kenai Fjords for example, tucked away in Alaska. This cruise offers you not only the usual pampering you expect on a cruise, you will get such extras as stunning views of the Alaska glaciers as well as the chance to watch Gray Whales and other forms of marine life such as sea lions and otters. Seeing these magnificent mammals blow up jets of water up to 13 feet high is quite an experience on its own. You will also get to see seagulls, puffins and other rare birds. As you watch nature put on a show you’ll be digging into some tasty Alaska salmon or Alaska king crab.

In a Norwegian fjord cruise you will be able to go on excursions inland including a visit to the Botanical Gardens of Akureyi where you will encounter several different plant species you probably won’t have seen before. A visit to the folklore museum of Laufás will reveal life as it was in a typical farmhouse there in the late 19th century. Voyagers can expect to see many unique geological features along the way including fascinating lava formations and numerous pseudo-craters. There is a geothermal field littered with attractions such as steam vents, hot springs and sulphur deposits. The glaciers here are also something to behold and tourists who take Norwegian fjord cruises can expect to stop at the Boyabre and Supphelle glaciers. The views here are simply breathtaking. An essential part of the Norwegian experience is spending time in the peaceful little villages. But perhaps the part travellers who book summer cruises look forward to most is the abnormally long summer days in which the sun shines even at midnight. While it is flabbergasting to see a bright sky at 11pm, falling asleep under such circumstance can prove to be a bit of a challenge. And though there are nightclubs complete with DJs on a number of these cruises, trying to party in what seems to be the afternoon can feel a little weird.

To make the most of your fjord trip, try and get up early to savour the amazingly tranquil views of the quiet green mountains and the pure white waterfalls tumbling on their sides. As part of the excursion most fjord cruises allow visitors to explore the landscape and even kayak in the waters of the fjord.

Other than all the above, you will get the usual on-board pampering; air-conditioned rooms, casinos, bars, spas etc.


European Cruises

While you can savour the beauty of the Mediterranean Sea from the beaches of exotic French, Italian, Spanish and Greek locations, a trip aboard a luxury cruise line is arguably a better way to do it. Think about it, how else will you get away from it all and have the endless seas to yourself while savouring the tastiest dishes and sipping cocktails (and probably also relax in a bubble bath). All this while giving the explorer in you a field day, touring the sights and sounds of some of Europe’s most celebrated resorts. There really are few, if any, better ways of spending a holiday.

The Western Mediterranean Cruise offered by the Royal Caribbean Legend of the Seas is one of the most highly rated European cruises. It offers the willing traveller a sweep through some of Italy, France and Spain’s most beautiful cities aboard a beautiful, clean vessel equipped with virtually all the bells and whistles expected of cruise ships. Of your seven-day long cruise, you will spend at least four days wandering through the streets of Barcelona, Naples, Rome and other attraction-laden cities. Among the key marvels of this cruise is the sheer opulence of the rooms guests spend their nights in. A king size bed, a sofa that folds into a double bed and a glass coffee table are some of the elegant furniture items that voyagers will find there. To ensure you’re completely at ease in your room, there is an air conditioner that you can adjust to your liking. To kill those hours before you fall asleep is a TV with a couple of movie channels. But perhaps the best part of these rooms is the balcony that offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean.

The ship even has ATM services on board should you want to buy anything or tip the staff. If you have to keep an eye on your email while on holiday you can take advantage of the computers hooked up to the Internet.

Fancy a swim or a poolside lounge as you sail? Feel free to splash about in the on board swimming pools or lie in the lounging chairs that dot the pool deck. If you have your youngsters with you, the shallow pools will be perfect for them to play in.

The bars serve voyagers a large variety of drinks and some smashing cocktails. And with activities such as karaoke and comedy nights, you’re bound to live out some unforgettable moments. There are also numerous other activities organised to help voyagers interact and create some magical moments of their own. Repasts to suit diverse palates are available on robust menus that offer everything from pizza and burgers to seafood.

Further steps have been taken to ensure the total relaxation of visitors with on board spas in which guests can get the kinks rubbed out of their backs by professional masseurs. There is also hydrotherapy available in the spas on some European cruises. Still on health matters, should anything go awry as regards your (or your kids’) health during your dream voyage, you can relax in the thought that fully qualified doctors and nurses form part of the ship’s staff.


Caribbean Cruises

The word ‘Caribbean’ is usually enough to evoke images of crystal clear waters bordered by spotless white sands; the setting sun glowing orange behind silhouetted palm trees. Now, instead of rushing things and jetting into the islands within a couple of hours, why not take a leisurely cruise to the islands aboard a luxury cruise ship? With cruisers it’s not just about arriving, it’s about travelling in comfort and arriving in style. In fact you could say that the unparalleled sense of peace that invades you as you lounge on the deck facing the vast blue sea is the destination for most voyagers. There’s also the added extra of exploring the unspoilt areas off the regular Caribbean tourist beat. Old San Juan, the second-oldest of the European settlements in the ‘New World’, Dominica, the ‘Nature Isle of the Caribbean’ and Barbados’ tropical rain forests are just a few of the discoveries you’ll make as you venture inland with Cruise1st.

An important first step towards enjoying your cruise is booking a cruise suited to your specific needs. Usually there are cruises that are geared towards a specific group; a family cruise, for instance, or one that is targeted at singles.

While you won’t be thrown out if you don’t fall within that particular demographic, you will probably feel awkward and end up not enjoying the cruise you worked so hard for. Some liners will have rules regarding dress code while some will prohibit smoking on board.

Most cruise ships come equipped with ample indoor entertainment to ensure voyagers remain occupied throughout the trip. For those with the cash to spare there is the full complement of slot machines, roulette tables, etc, on which they can chance their luck. There are plenty of games you can try your hand at such as bowling, mini golf, even kickboxing! You are well advised to pack your swimming trunks or bikini right after your travel documents as most cruises will have on-board swimming.

Equally important are your sunscreen, hat and sunglasses so that you can savour the marvellous Caribbean weather without the fear of suffering sunburn. And when the sun disappears behind the ocean, the party gets underway with a variety of on board bars providing a selection of drinks and entertainment, including live music and DJs. When it comes to matters gastronomy, Caribbean cruises like NCL give travellers the option of choosing their own meal times instead of waiting for official diner times. And they have 12 restaurants to choose from; each offering a diverse menu.

On shore activities are rife but you need to plan carefully for you not to miss out. Spas are usually one of the most in-demand cruise activities and if you fail to book well in advance, you might just miss out on this mode of relaxation. Thankfully there is the Internet and online booking.

The reason many holidaymakers opt for Caribbean cruises is total relaxation; the idea of getting away from it all, drifting on calm waters with the only disturbance being a soft breeze brushing the eyelashes. And this you will find in plenty as you will have the entire deck to lounge on as well as the private balconies some cruisers provide.


Canary Island Cruises

Whenever these islands are mentioned, a dreamy film comes over the eyes of most people as they contemplate expanses of gold sand bordering calm azure waters and the gentle whisper of the Atlantic Ocean.

This Spanish archipelago effortlessly fulfils the holidaymaker’s desires, offering wonderful volcanic sights inland as well as some of the finest seafood on the planet.

This alongside a highly conducive environment for water sports and a host of other outdoor activities. While it is easy to simply board a plane and fly into this slice of heaven, wouldn’t it be so much more exciting to sail in the way Christopher Columbus and his comrades did? Not that you’ll be doing so aboard the bare vessels in which these early explorers discovered the world. You’ll be bobbing about the waters in a vessel built with the luxury of its passengers as its chief priority.

There are a wide range of liners offering highly seductive packages of 11 and 14 day cruises taking passengers from Barcelona through the waters of the Mediterranean touching the coasts of Italy, Morocco and such Canary Island cities as Las Palmas and Santa Cruz de Tenerife before returning to dock in Spain.  Some cruises start all the way in Southampton in the UK such as the Celebrity Eclipse Cruise. During cast-off you and fellow voyagers will be treated to a lavish send-off party on the deck of your cruise ship. More often than not even as you board the vessel, a member of the crew will hand you a smile and a complimentary glass of champagne. The stopovers are some of the most enjoyable part of the cruise experience as is the part where you get to stretch yourself underneath a parasol and laze in the abundant sun. There are also places from which to enjoy amazing views of the distant islands. Many of those who’ve been on Canary Island Cruises never stop talking about the food they were served on board, and rightly so. There is a great variety of meals; from steak to burgers to seafood, done by top-notch chefs and served by amiable staff. You can either go to the designated dining room or have your meal delivered to your cabin. Of course there are fully-stocked bars with every genre of poison; from freshly squeezed fruit juice cocktails to your regular 500ml Heineken.

On board entertainment comes in many flavours and you are sure to have plenty to occupy you for the duration of the excursion. Most ships will be equipped with swimming pools and various forms of indoor entertainment including TVs in rooms, basketball, ping-pong, karaoke and comedy shows. And when the ship docks at the destination, holidaymakers have the option of venturing on shore excursions.

A tip: on many occasions you will meet waiters walking around with attractive, multicoloured cocktails and be tempted to ask for one. Be sure, before you place your order, to confirm if it’s complimentary or you’ll have to sign for it. Having said that, most cruises will serve guests such beverages as milk, coffee and juice on the house. Carbonated drinks and alcoholic beverages will have to be paid for.

So the next time you’re thinking of a way to get away from the hustle and bustle or are thinking of a way to ‘pop the question’, let one of those week-long Canary Island Cruises be at the top of your wish list.


Australasia Cruises

Australia is one of the most desired holiday destinations in the world. Known for its gorgeous weather, high standard of living and fantastic hospitality, Australia keeps tourists coming back year after year. With so many destinations to choose from in the country, it can be difficult to choose where to go first. That’s when Australasia cruises holidays can help.

With holidays to Australasia cruises, you’ll get to visit a few different locations in Australia. You’ll sail on a luxury ship and you can choose which excursions you’d prefer to take part in on your trip. You could even choose Australasia cruise holidays which also head to New Zealand.

Destinations to Choose from

When you start looking for holidays to Australasia cruises, you’ll find many different ones on offer. In order to choose the right one for you, it’s important to do a little research into the different destinations. Look at the activities on offer and think about the experiences you want to enjoy. A cruise is something most people only experience once in their lifetime. Therefore it makes sense to ensure that you choose a cruise that fits your preferences as closely as possible.

Sydney is one of the most popular destinations to head to. You could enjoy sipping on drinks on the historic rocks region. You could also enjoy a little culture and entertainment by seeing a show at the Sydney Opera house. Or if you’d prefer to take in the natural beauty of the city then you should head to the Royal Botanical Gardens. Then to complete your Sydney Australasia cruise holidays, you can soak up the sun on the famous Bondi Beach.

If you’re looking to experience a taste of paradise then holidays to Australasia cruises that head to Whitsunday Islands is definitely for you. You’ll be presented with pure white sand beaches. As you walk along the beaches you’ll be entertained by the squeaking sound of the sand.

Another popular destination which many Australias cruises holidays head to is Brisbane. This is a lively part of the country with plenty to see and do. The State Art Museum and Queensland Museum are just two of the cultured activities on offer. Or if you want to spend a relaxing afternoon with nature, the Butterfly House is definitely the place to go.

If you’d prefer to check out the famous underwater sights that Australia has to offer then Cairns would be the perfect destination. Situated on the edge of the Great Barrier Reef, this town has a really relaxing atmosphere. You can enjoy a trip on the Kuranda Skyrail Cable Car which enables you to see the entire region with beautiful, breathtaking views. This is one of the most beautiful destinations in Australia which is why many Australasia cruises holidays stop here.

Overall holidays to Australasia cruises provide you with a once in a lifetime experience. Remember to take your time to look at the different destinations and excursions on offer before you choose the best cruise to suit your needs.


Alaska Cruise

Alaska cruises holidays are considered to be one of the ‘must see’ experiences before you die. Once you’ve been on one of these amazing cruises you’ll never forget it. This truly is a trip of a lifetime and it will bring out your inner adventurer. With beautiful, majestic mountains and plenty of wildlife to see, you’ll be blown away by the glorious sights that Alaska has to offer.

The Different Cruises on Offer

There are many different Alaska cruises holidays to choose from and each offers something truly unique. The Inside Passage is just one of the fantastic cruises on offer.

If you’re looking for holidays to Alaska cruises are a great way to explore the country. In the southeast of the country, the Inner Passage is also known as Panhandle. It’s famous for its huge amount of wildlife, excellent hospitality and native culture. You’ll find that most cruises along the Inside Passage are around 7 nights, though occasionally there are shorter and longer trips available.

If you head to Juneau, Alaska, you’ll get to enjoy some unique experiences. You can enjoy a little bear spotting or you could even enjoy a helicopter ride over the area. With gorgeous sights to see and plenty of activities to keep you occupied, you’ll never forget your Alaska cruise to Juneau.

Other fantastic holidays to Alaska cruises include the Hubbard Glacier. This spectacular glacier is over 6 miles long and it’s also around 400 years old. What better way to take in the beauty of this impressive sight than on a luxury cruise ship?

If you’re looking for Alaska cruises holidays with a difference then you may want to head to Skagway. It is packed full of Western style saloons. There’s also plenty of women dressed up in western costumes. You can enjoy the region on a steam train and take in the rich history of the area.

Why Opt for an Alaska Cruise?

One of the main reasons why people opt for holidays to Alaska cruises is because you get to experience several different destinations in the same trip. You’ll typically get to spend a day in each destination. This gives you chance to enjoy the local culture and main tourist attractions. You can choose to dine on the ship or enjoy local delicacies. Alaska is known for its fresh and tasty food.

One thing to keep in mind is that when you book Alaska cruises holidays, you need to book as early as possible. If you don’t book the excursions you want until the last minute, they may be fully booked. You also need to select your dining options as quickly as possible. As they are a once in a lifetime opportunity, it makes sense to ensure that you have the best possible experience.

Overall Alaska cruise holidays will provide you with an experience you’ll never forget. Don’t forget to check out all of your options before you choose which cruise you want to go on. There’s many different ones to choose from and you can tailor them to suit your preferences.


River Cruises

If you’re looking for a holiday with a difference then river cruises holidays could be just what you need. No matter where you fancy travelling to, there will be a local river cruise you can enjoy. Here you’ll find out more about some of the most popular holidays to river cruises that thousands of people enjoy each year.

The Benefits of River Cruises

There are many reasons why you may want to consider river cruises holidays over any other type. The main benefits include:

1. You’ll only have to pack and unpack your belongings once, no matter how many places you’re visiting

2. You can experience many different countries and cities in the same holiday

3. Fantastic views with constantly changing scenery

4. A relaxing environment

If you were to visit several different countries/cities on a standard holiday, you’d have to pack and unpack your suitcase several times. This can take up quite a lot of time. With a cruise you simply have to unpack once and you’re then free to explore as many different places as you want to without worrying about your luggage.

The only problem you’ll have when choosing holidays to river cruises is knowing where to go.

The Most Popular River Cruises

Some river cruises holidays are more popular than others. If you’re heading to Europe then Danube, Rhine, Seine and Douro are four of the most popular destinations. Danube is particularly popular. Located in central Europe, Danube is ideal for couples and you’ll find many romantic packages on offer. It also has many cultural sights and it stretches for 1,800 miles. Europe has some of the most romantic and affordable cruises on offer.

If you’re looking to go a bit further then the Nile is a fantastic choice. Holidays to river cruises in the Nile takes you in between Aswan and Luxor. You’ll get to take in the gorgeous sights of temples and tombs. Experience the impressive Tutankhamen’s Tomb and the colourful sights of Aswan. The best Nile river cruises holidays will combine a short stay in Cairo.

If you’re looking for holidays to river cruises which feature plenty to see and do then the Yangtze in China could be perfect. You’ll find many companies which offer Yangtze cruises combine them with a few nights in top cities such as Shanghai and Wuhan. The most memorable part of a cruise to the Yangtze is the Three Gorges Dam. This is a cruise you’ll never forget!

Another once in a lifetime river cruise is the Amazon in Brazil. This is the largest river in the world and you’ll witness many picturesque sights. The beautiful city of Santarum is just one of the sights you’ll see.

No matter how much money you have available for your river cruises holidays, there’ll be at least one fantastic destination to match it. Why not take a look at the many different river cruises on offer around the world online today? Take into account your budget, what you’d like to see and do on the cruise and where you’d ideally like to go.


Nile Cruise

The best way to appreciate Egypt

Despite Egypt being one of the most populous countries in Africa with over 80 million people, the vast majority of its land is uninhabited desert.  Most of Egypt exists in a thin strip on either side of the River Nile, so there can be no better way to truly appreciate this historic country than a cruise down the 4,130 miles of the river.

Egypt is full of inspiring sights, from the busy hustle and bustle of Cairo, the Pyramids of Menkaure, Khafre and Khufu at Giza, to the Valley of Kings at Luxur.  You’ll be able to view an ancient history like nowhere else on Earth; a civilization that existed for three thousand years before falling to the Roman Empire.

Most Nile cruises start logically in Cairo, as the majority of tourists fly into the country via Cairo International Airport; and most Nile cruises start just as logically with a tour of the capital.  You’ll no doubt take in a trip to the Egyptian Museum and its wondrous treasures, and you’ll experience the Coptic Quarter with its ancient churches.  Close to Cairo are the wondrous pyramids at Giza, which are a must-see.  Beware though, Giza is not the cleanest place in the country, and the vendors thrusting their wares in your face can become a little intimidating.

Although your cruise may begin in Cairo, you’re not likely to board there.  Instead, your cruise company will probably fly you down the Nile to Luxor.  Your schedule is likely to be quite hectic as there is usually so much to see, so don’t be afraid to take a day off now and again to enjoy the facilities your ship will no doubt offer.  Most ships will have sun decks and offer spa treatments.  A day of indulgence is as important as a day of sight-seeing.  Your cruise company is also likely to offer entertainment which will give you a chance to socialize with your fellow passengers; be gregarious and you could make some lifelong friends.

Be careful of paying over-the-odds for trips and excursions.  Before you go it is often worth seeing what is on offer and doing a little homework to see if it’s worth the money.  You will not have time to do everything whilst you are on the cruise, so make sure you’ve selected the items that are of most interest to you and which previous travellers have recommended.

Whilst in Luxor, the Valley of the Kings cannot be missed.  There are 63 tombs, but it’s not possible to visit them all.  The most memorable are the tombs of Ramses I, Ramses III and Ramses XI.  You can pay extra to visit the tomb of Tutankhamun if you wish but all his majestic treasures now reside at the Egyptian Museum.

Egypt is more often brutally hot than not so dress loosely, but appropriately.  The Egyptian dress code means keeping as much as the flesh covered as is possible.  Make sure bottled water is always available and protect the top of your head with a hat, and those exposed parts of you with sunscreen.

Most cruises either disembark or turn around at Aswan.  Here you can see Lake Nasser, the world’s largest manmade lake, and visit an ancient Nubian village before you head back north or head home.

A cruise down the Nile is easily the best way to see Egypt in a nutshell.  You’ll be amazed at what people achieved without modern machinery, and you’ll take home the kind of memories you’ll treasure forever.

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  • Microsoft Innovations: Empowering the Mobile ExperienceHamish Kaumaya | February 12, 2020
    Microsoft is a global technology leader, constantly driving innovation and transforming the digital landscape. With cutting-edge mobile applications and cloud solutions, the company enables users to work, learn, and enjoy entertainment wherever they are. Innovative...... Read More...
    Virgin Voyages CruisesDaniel Reed | September 21, 2022
    Virgin Voyages Cruises Virgin Voyages Cruises, Adult-by-Design which means that this holiday is just for those 18 and over. No kidding. With elevated experiences curated with adults in mind. Virgin Voyages have created a place where only your Sailors’ inner-child...... Read More...
    T1Kalyani Sharavana | August 23, 2022
    T1 ... Read More...
  • Liberty of the Seas | Mediterranean Cruises | Reviewed 11 Jun 2020
    Just a few lines to say a great huge big THANK YOU for organising another wonderful holiday for us! The cruise was excellent. The whole experience was stress free which is a major factor for me! The taxis all turned up on time which was amazing. We also thought the hotel in Barcelona was excellent, so thank you again Tim. You really are a star.

    by Ann
    Guildford, Surrey
    Adventure of the Seas | Royal Caribbean Cruises | Reviewed 11 Jun 2020
    I thought we'd just let you know what a wonderful time we all had aboard the Adventure of the Seas, and thank you for your part in the arrangements, we enjoyed every minute, no doubt probably our best cruise to date. Also I would say that disparaging remarks or criticism were totally unfounded, we gave all the staff, food, cabins, entertainment, weather and the ports of call, 10 out of 10, its a great ship, managed by a fine Master and very dedicated crew. We may have to give next year a miss to build up the bank balance, but we will come back to you for your expertise, as our Cruise Connoisseur.

    by Barry
    Pontypridd, Mid Glamorgan
    Cala Galdana | Menorca | Reviewed 11 Jun 2020
    Thank you so very much for the trip you arranged for us, it was everything we wanted. The hotel was lovely and we thoroughly enjoyed just relaxing in the shade watching the world go by. My wife took four books on her kindle, but only read 16% of the first one because we met and talked to so many lovely people.

    by Alan
    Broadstairs, Kent
    NY / Disney / Clearwater | Disney Florida | Reviewed 11 Jun 2020
    Thanks again for helping us organise the holiday of a lifetime!!! We had an amazing time and really appreciated you assistance with the breakfast in Clearwater ;o)

    by Lisa
    Birmingham, West Midlands
    Milano | Verona | Reviewed 11 Jun 2020
    I just wanted to say a huge thank you for organising our trip to Verona last weekend. This was a very emotive trip for my wife & I, as it was our first trip to Italy since my wife's cancer diagnosis 2 years ago. Italy is without a doubt our favourite place on the planet and we were not sure if she would see it again. Thanks to you, she has regained, what I call her Italian smile, it came across her face the minute we touched down. Money cannot pay for that smile!The hotel at Gatwick was literally a 2 minute bus ride from the airport, front row seats on the flight over and chauffeur driven limo to meet us at the airport was an amazing start to the weekend. When you said we were staying in a 3 star hotel, I was, if I'm honest, a little nervous, generally speaking, 3 star hotels in Italy means you are sleeping in a cow shed. Not at the Hotel Milano, what an amazing hotel, slap bang in the centre of Verona, with views of the arena, excellent breakfast, towels changed twice daily, good size bedrooms and very comfortable beds! The air con worked superbly, which was just as well with temperatures in the 30's every day. Thank you for making this trip memorable for both of us.

    by Mike
    Sittingbourne, Kent
    Azura | Fjords Cruises | Reviewed 08 Jun 2020
    First of all thank you for helping our son & daughter to organise such a great surprise trip for us. The only cruise I've wanted to do and it certainly came up to expectations. It really was fantastic and made a wonderful golden wedding present with all the immediate family with us - a rare occasion! A really big thank you for the wonderful bouquet of roses which arrived in our cabin. I was really touched by such a kind thought, they were beautiful and very much appreciated.

    by Trish
    Oxford, Oxfordshire
    Serenade of the Seas | Worldwide Cruises | Reviewed 08 Jun 2020
    There aren't many people I can say this to, but you've totally impressed my mother-in-law. Seriously, thank you for all you hard work in arranging the cruise on board Serenade of the Seas for my in-laws and four other guests. Not only were your clients located in in three corners of the UK, but you had to deal with very late booking alterations, various medical requirements, special dietary requirements and not to mention 6 very experienced cruisers.All arrangements were completed by you with professional calm and flourish and, due to your personal intervention and attention to detail, everything was perfect from beginning to end. The whole party, who have much cruising experience between them, were totally impressed and will undoubtedly be booking with you again.

    by Michael
    Canterbury, Kent
    Rocky Mountains Fly Drive | Canada | Reviewed 08 Jun 2020
    Thank you for all your expertise - all arrangements worked superbly - but then again you know that! Definitely our best holiday ever.

    by Julie
    Canterbury, Kent
    Garden Route Tour | South Africa | Reviewed 08 Jun 2020
    Congratulations - you are just brilliant at your job, as we knew you would be. We have just returned from the most amazing holiday. Everything went like clockwork and we cannot thank you enough.The itinerary you gave us was perfect. If we had done Shamwari early on as our companions on the drives were doing then the impact / climax would just not have been the same. The President Protea was a perfect start for us - good swimming pool & very adequate 3 star. Lots to tell you about one day. Terrible drought there, but we just squeezed in before they tightened up. Thank you again so much.

    by Jim
    Hythe, Kent
    Oceania Cruises - Riviera | Mediterranean Cruises | Reviewed 08 Jun 2020
    Just back from a fantastic holiday. Everything went really well with your arrangements. The Centurion Palace was great and I would strongly recommend it. It is a great location, very comfortable & very attentive staff. Venice was a trifle hot but lovely all the same and now competing for our favourite Italian city. All went well with the ship, again thank you for picking it for us; a perfect choice. Staff were great, cabin very comfortable and what was so nice is that there was no forced seating. We could eat in a choice of restaurants and there was always a table for two if we wanted it. The food choices were outstanding. The itinerary was very interesting particularly Kotor in Montenegro. We easily got a train into Florence and were bold over by Barcelona. A big thank you from us both for organising this trip, and believe it or not, we both came back a few pounds lighter!

    by Andrew
    Folkestone, Kent
    GF Gran Costa Adeje | Tenerife | Reviewed 13 Feb 2019
    Just got back from a trip to Tenerife organised by Sarah... The organisation was perfect... the flights, transfers and Hotel accommodation all worked perfectly and Sarah kept a look out to make sure we were OK throughout... those little personal touches are really appreciated... on our way to Canada with Sarah's help in September … Can't wait... cant recommend her services highly enough.

    by Kevin Russell
    Haywards Heath, Haywards Heath
    BEACHES TURKS & CAICOS | Bahamas | Reviewed 02 Dec 2017
    I had never used a Travel Consultant before. Daniel was recommended to me at a number of networking events & when I was thinking of planning a holiday I contacted him. From here I noticed a different level of service than I had experienced with other travel sales channels.2 things stick out; 1. Daniel jumped on my request immediately. I was impressed by how he communicated at every step of the way & acted with pace. This created trust very quickly. 2. Daniel always left a next move. This is a very skilful approach to sales. I was never boxed in, always had an alternative & had options.I recommend Daniel & will be using him for all my future travel needs.

    by Steve Knapp
    Sheffield, Sheffield
    The Palace | Malta | Reviewed 02 Dec 2017
    Great 4 days in Malta organised by Daniel! My passport had only a couple of months left on it and I was worried that I'd need to quickly get a new one but Daniel checked Malta's entry rules and was able to put my mind at ease ...saving me a wodge of cash.

    by Laura Billingham
    Sheffield, Sheffield
    Grand Hotel Vesuvio Naples | Naples | Reviewed 02 Dec 2017
    recently needed to arrange a long weekend break for my partner in Naples. within a couple of days were were able to book, confirm and have the paperwork sorted for us. Daniel took all the messing about which I hate doing and found us a 5*hotel deal. Brillìant service

    by Richard Godley
    Sheffield, Sheffield
    Madrid | Reviewed 06 Jun 2017
    Hello JillOnce again we would like to thank you very much for giving us such a terrific service. Our recent holiday to Spain with Great Rail Journeys was not quite as straight forward as we had hoped partly because there were days added and two couples - one British and the other Australian.Thank you Jill for filling in all the missing paperwork for taxis. You must have spent considerable time sorting out that problem. For the four of us, nothing could have been more simple. Lovely, executive cars arrived at each designated meeting place with superb drivers.It was pure pleasure to be picked up and delivered so efficiently. There were absolutely no hitches. Thanks must also go to GRJ for providing such excellent transportation. Mr and Mrs Atkinson have asked me to give you their sincere thanks to which we add our own.Thank you Jill Sincerely The Atkinsons and Boylands. June 2017

    by Sandi Boyland
    Eastbourne, West sussek
    Santa Maria Suites | Milan | Reviewed 15 May 2017
    Joelle arranged this trip for myself and my husband for his 50th birthday. She put a lot of thought and care into selecting the perfect little hotel, close to the city centre and within easy reach of the station. Cannot recommend her skills highly enough!

    by Bacon
    Bocking, Braintree
    Mediterranean Palace | Cyprus | Reviewed 16 Aug 2016
    Nothing is ever too much for Kristina, no matter how many times we change our mind or budget Kristina still manages to make it work. Kristina goes the extra mile and ensures we are spoilt and well looked after on every trip

    by Rebecca
    Keen, Marlborough
    Le Victoria | Mauritius | Reviewed 11 Nov 2015
    Hi Kristina, Everything was brilliant thank you. Mauritius and Le Victoria were AMAZING!! The place was stunning, and the people were so friendly, everyone from the cab driver from the airport to the hotel to the people checking us in on the way home, couldn’t have helped us any more even if they wanted to. I would 100% recommend Mauritius and Le Victoria to anyone asking about it. Thank you for all you done, to help get it booked.

    by A Button
    Poulton, Essex
    DREAMS LA ROMANA | Dominican Republic | Reviewed 12 Sep 2015
    HiJenny,Thank–you for organising our trip to Dominican Republic everything was brilliant and went really well,as expected when you are organising things, the resort was brilliant much better than we had imagined and we were upgraded to fantastic rooms 7303 and 7304 they were the most recently refurbished and also used for the preferred club.I know its early but sometimes its best to try and sort things early so for next August we are thinking of Dreams St Thomas ? but do not think we can fly there direct from UK so were thinking of 3 nights New York, 12-14 nights at Dreams and then fly back direct if available or via Miami with 2 nights there.Or another thought is Aruba I know the Dreams there does not open till 2018 but I think there are similar chain there.Please could you look at these for August 2016.Thanks again for yet another great holiday this year, how do you manage to ALWAYS get our holidays so spot on ?

    by Peter Watts
    ESSEX , ESSEX
    Villa Marija Tucei Croatia | Med & Short Haul | Reviewed 11 Sep 2015
    Myself and Harry would just like to say a HUGE thank you for helping us arrange our holiday. It was the most amazing holiday, Tucepi is the most beautiful place. Our room was lovely, a great view right out to the Marina and the beach, and Villa Marija was the perfect location. Thank you again, will definitely be returning, and also will be contacting you again for future holidays!

    by K Milner
    Tewkesbury, Glos
    Atrium prestige thalasso spa | Rhodes | Reviewed 06 Sep 2015
    Just back from yet another exceptional trip planned for us by Jackie. The hotel was outstanding, fantastic facilities, great location and fabulous service.Jackie goes above and beyond to find the perfect holiday for us each time we've used her services. I cannot recommend her enough.

    by Lisa Whitehead
    Swinderby , Lincs
    Mitsis family village | Kos | Reviewed 31 Aug 2015
    Not long back from our 3rd holiday of the year all booked by Jackie, Jackie is excellent at finding great hotels at fantastic prices. firstly we booked a holiday in Mexico at the Occidental Grand Excaret on the Riviera Maya. For the May bank holiday weekend we asked Jackie if she could find us something in the UK with a hot tub for a relaxing break, Jackie quickly replied with a few options and we ended up booking Conifer Lodges at Newton Stewart in Dumfries and Galloway. The price through Jackie was cheaper than what we could of booked it ourselves. Lastly we have not been long back from Kardemeana in Kos, this one proved a bit more difficult to find as we'd been spoilt in Mexico, Jackie spent a lot of time finding us exactly what we asked for and yet again managed to find us a fantastic hotel at a brilliant price. I look forward to booking next years holiday's with Jackie as I know she'll exceed our expectations for what we want.

    by linda turner
    carlisle, carlisle
    Aegean Village | Kos | Reviewed 22 Aug 2015
    I have just come back from a fantastic week in Kos which Jackie booked at very short notice for my daughter and myself. I was a little nervous about travelling alone with my 7 year old for the first time as my husband was working and, to compound matters, I had an injured shoulder. Jackie arranged everything to make the holiday as easy for me as possible. The hotel was lovely and just what we wanted - we had a great break.Before contacting Jackie I had already wasted almost a full day trawling the internet and tying myself up in knots. Jackie did all the research, gave me loads of suggestions and had the whole holiday booked and organised in just a few hours. All I had to do was pack and turn up for the flight. Next time I'm not going to even think about searching online - I'll get straight in touch with Jackie and ask her to sort it out for me! Thanks Jackie! xx

    by Claire Mitchell
    Darlington, Co Durham
    Sol Costa Blanca | Benidorm | Reviewed 17 Jul 2015
    Hi Kristina The holiday was more than fantastic thank you, they looked after us brilliantly at the hotel, upgraded the room. Best holiday ever, we loved every minute.Thank you so very much for arranging it all

    by S Bowden
    Swindon, Swindon
    El Nido Resort | Faraway | Reviewed 15 Jul 2015
    Hi Kristina, We would like to take this opportunity to thank you for the fabulous booking you made us, it far exceeded our expectations, it was out of this world. All the hotels were fabulous. El Nido Resort, Apulit Island, was like a piece of Paradise. We would gladly recommend you and your company to all our friends and family, and look forward to working with you again.

    by Mr & Mrs K Manning
    Greenford, Middlesex
    El Paso PortAventura | Salou | Reviewed 04 Jun 2015
    Hi Olivia, Just wanted to let you know that we had a fabulous holiday at El Paso Hotel, It was excellent, the food plentiful and there was a good selection. All geared up for families, with a lovely big pool. Being close to the theme park and water park was the icing on the cake, we even managed to spend one morning on the beach, this was in walking distance. Our private transfer was perfect, no worrying about the childrens seats as they were in our bus. Thank you so much for arranging everything for me and my family, you were so helpful and nothing was too much trouble, you certainly made the whole holiday experience for the eleven of us a complete joy. I will certainly be using you again.

    by Susan Brotherhood
    Welwyn Garden City, Herts
    Playa Pesquero | Cuba | Reviewed 05 Mar 2015
    Hi Kristina, We had a fabulous time. The resort had everything you could want, everyone catered for, people really friendly. The restaurants had a good variety of food, beaches & sea. It was lovely. Thank you very much for finding us this gem.

    by P Harding
    Cirencester, Glos
    Dubai | Reviewed 30 Jan 2015
    We have used Karens expertise on at 3 far away trips to-date and each time we have found Karen to be excellent in offering advise and great service, along with competitive pricing. the hotels have always been first class so we look forward to our next two trips with confidence.

    by john
    redditch, worcestershire
    Tailormade trip | Australia | Reviewed 02 Dec 2014
    Everything went according to plan thank you.The hotel in Sydney was in a great location, as was the accommodation in Port Douglas, Darwin and Singapore. The excursions you organised were excellent, we thank you very much for your help and patience whilst organising our holiday. I have a few ideas for some future adventures so will be in touch for your help.

    by K Sayers
    Nottingham, Nottingham
    Le Preskil Beach Resort | Mauritius | Reviewed 22 Oct 2014
    Just back from our latest holiday at Le Preskil Beach Resort in Mauritius arranged by Dany. Once again every detail was spot on and we had a room upgrade to a "Prestige Cottage". When you travel - Go Dany!

    by Jeremy Lillies
    Mitcham, London
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