Sail Away In 2019…

If you’re one of the nearly two million Brits planning to take a cruise this year, take a look at these top picks…

Cruises are surging in popularity, and it’s easy to see why. Setting sail gives you a sense of freedom, and allows you to see the world in style, hassle-free.

Part of the appeal is the huge variety of destinations to choose from. While the most popular choices continue to be the Caribbean for winter sun, the Mediterranean for year-round appeal and the Norwegian fjords for their majestic beauty, a cruise holiday can also take you as far away as Japan or the Arctic.

River cruises are also showing a phenomenal rise in bookings. The Rhine, Seine, Danube and Portugal’s ‘River of Gold’ are enduringly popular, but travellers are also looking east, to destinations like the Ganges in India.

Of course, you can go for all-out luxury if that’s what you’re after, but because many cruises are all-inclusive, they actually offer fantastic value for money. This is making them a popular option for multi-generational family trips, with some ships now offering family apartments or staterooms, plus activity clubs to keep children busy. In fact, cruises are now in such demand that 20 new ocean ships were launched this year. It might be just the time to set sail…

For the frazzled...

INDULGE IN A SPA CRUISE

Refresh your mind, revive your soul and get more active on the latest cruise experiences.

If you’re a dedicated spa lover, try Viking Ocean. While most cruise lines charge extra for a spa pass, its Scandi-style facilities are free, so you can wallow in its rejuvenating thalassotherapy pool and steam sauna as much as you like.