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If you're looking to escape for a few days, or want the perfect all-round venue to celebrate that special occasion, why not try a mini cruise.

Choose a departure range of up to 1 month if you have not selected a specific cruise line or Choose a departure date range of up to 3 months if you have selected a specific cruise line

Mini Cruise Offers

1. western europe.

Ventura 4 nights 07 Feb 2024

  • Family Friendly Ship*

2. Dutch Waterways in Five Nights

Bolette 5 nights 20 Feb 2024

  • Smaller ships. Fewer guests. Personal service.

3. Short Break

Aurora 4 nights 08 Mar 2024

  • Elegant, traditional and exclusively for adults

4. Short Break

Aurora 4 nights 28 Mar 2024

5. Western Europe

Britannia 5 nights 21 Apr 2024

6. Northern Europe from Southampton

MSC Euribia 5 nights 23 Apr 2024

  • Gratuities Included

7. Western Europe

Ventura 4 nights 30 Apr 2024

8. Dutch Tulips & Waterways in Five Nights

Borealis 5 nights 02 May 2024

9. Springtime Norwegian Fjords

Balmoral 5 nights 03 May 2024

10. Short Break

Arcadia 3 nights 04 May 2024

11. Hamburg Short Break

Queen Mary 2 4 nights 12 May 2024

  • White Star Service
  • Classically British cruise experience

12. Short Break

Aurora 3 nights 15 May 2024

Princess Cruises

13. Scandinavian Sampler

Sky Princess 5 nights 19 May 2024

14. Springtime Norwegian Fjords in Five Nights

Balmoral 5 nights 23 May 2024

15. Discovering Normandy & The Channel Islands

Borealis 5 nights 25 May 2024

16. Northern Europe from Southampton

MSC Virtuosa 5 nights 27 May 2024

17. Bruges and Le Havre Short Break

Queen Mary 2 3 nights 30 May 2024

18. Short Break

Arcadia 3 nights 06 Jun 2024

19. Dublin Seacation

Ambition 3 nights 08 Jun 2024

  • Premium value, traditional cruise experience at an affordable price.

20. Western Europe

Ventura 4 nights 11 Jun 2024

21. Short Break

Aurora 3 nights 04 Jul 2024

22. Western Europe

Ventura 4 nights 09 Jul 2024

23. Short Break

Arcadia 3 nights 27 Jul 2024

24. UK & Ireland Getaway

Ambition 5 nights 28 Jul 2024

25. Summertime Norwegian Fjords in Five

Balmoral 5 nights 02 Aug 2024

26. Northern Isles

Ambition 5 nights 16 Aug 2024

27. Spain Cruise from Southampton

Disney Dream 4 nights 19 Aug 2024

  • Fun for all the family
  • Adult-exclusive pool, dining, nightclubs & lounges

28. Discovering Normandy & The Channel Islands

Borealis 5 nights 23 Aug 2024

29. Portsmouth to Zeebrugge (& back)

Resilient Lady 3 nights 27 Aug 2024

  • Exclusively for adults 18+
  • All group fitness classes such as yoga & HIIT included
  • All meals, selected soft drinks, WiFi & tips included

30. Short Break to Rotterdam

Queen Anne 4 nights 28 Aug 2024

31. From England to Amsterdam (& back)

Resilient Lady 4 nights 30 Aug 2024

32. The UK to Amsterdam & Zeebrugge

Resilient Lady 5 nights 03 Sep 2024

33. Western Europe

Ventura 4 nights 10 Sep 2024

34. Bruges Short Break

Queen Mary 2 4 nights 11 Sep 2024

35. The UK to Zeebrugge & Amsterdam

Resilient Lady 5 nights 14 Sep 2024

36. From England to Amsterdam (& back)

Resilient Lady 4 nights 19 Sep 2024

37. Northern Europe from Southampton

MSC Virtuosa 4 nights 24 Sep 2024

38. Cherbourg and Bruges

Queen Anne 4 nights 11 Oct 2024

39. Northern Europe from Southampton

MSC Virtuosa 4 nights 12 Oct 2024

40. Hamburg Short Break

Queen Mary 2 4 nights 13 Oct 2024

41. Northern Europe from Southampton

MSC Virtuosa 4 nights 16 Oct 2024

42. Northern Europe from Southampton

MSC Virtuosa 5 nights 20 Oct 2024

43. Belgium And France

Arvia 4 nights 21 Oct 2024

44. Amsterdam City Break

Ambience 3 nights 24 Oct 2024

45. European Sampler

Sky Princess 5 nights 28 Oct 2024

46. Amsterdam Short Break

Queen Victoria 4 nights 15 Nov 2024

47. Amsterdam & Antwerp City Break

Ambition 5 nights 21 Nov 2024

48. Amsterdam & Antwerp City Break

Ambition 4 nights 22 Nov 2024

49. Short Break

Arcadia 3 nights 25 Nov 2024

50. Cherbourg And Bruges

Queen Victoria 4 nights 01 Dec 2024

About Mini Cruises

Mini Cruises find and book your mini cruise breaks with Cruise Direct.

If you're looking to escape for a few days, or want the perfect venue to celebrate that special occasion, why not try a mini cruise?

Popular Mini Cruises Lines

P&o cruises mini cruises, cunard line short voyages, fred olsen mini cruises, royal caribbean international mini cruises.

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Mundy Cruising

6 of the best luxury mini cruises in 2024 and 2025.

Published 9th January 2024 in Cruise Advice By Alex Loizou /cruise-news/cruise-advice/best-mini-cruises

Ritz Carlton Yacht Collection - Evrima

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In the world of luxury cruising, it's unusual to see itineraries shorter than seven nights, but there are several out there if you want to dip your toe into the world of cruising, or are simply looking for a shorter break. Here are six of the best luxury mini cruises in 2024 and 2025.

Mainstream brands do cater to those looking for a short break, usually from the UK, but the ultra-luxury lines tend to avoid the not so luxurious world of frequent turnaround days, recognising that the level of intuitive service they provide needs time to mature to perfection.

There are, however, some quirks of itinerary planning, which can leave a shorter sailing open for sale, giving a rare opportunity to dip your toe in the water and travel with a particular brand for the first time, or even test whether cruising is for you, before committing to a longer, more substantial voyage.

1. Riverside Luxury Cruises

The popularity of river cruising has increased dramatically over the last few years and if you're curious about what all the fuss is about, then river cruise newcomer Riverside Luxury Cruises offers a wide selection of 3, 4 and 5 night voyages to tempt you.

Perhaps take in the delights of the South of France with a 5-night voyage in July 2024 on board Riverside Ravel or extend an autumnal city break with a 3-night Captivating Danube Capitals voyage in September 2024 aboard Riverside Mozart. If you're already thinking ahead to the festive season, a short river cruise is the perfect way to see some of Europe's traditional Christmas markets, too!

Riverside Mozart on the Danube

2023 brought the return of Crystal, under new ownership and with both beloved ocean ships, Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony , emerging from extensive refurbishment with a new lease of life.

If you're keen to try the new Crystal then perhaps consider one of their 5-night voyages in the Mediterranean: Crystal Symphony sails from Rhodes to Athens in April 2024 or Rome to Monte Carlo in July 2025 which offer great value and can easily be worked into a larger itinerary.

Crystal Serenity - Bistro

3. Hapag-Lloyd Cruises

Why not sample what is referred to in the industry as the world's best cruise ship, MS Europa 2 , with this short voyage from Hamburg to Kiel in July 2024 ?

Availability is very limited but it presents a great way to try some of the facilities on board, including the numerous restaurants and expansive spa, plus you can enjoy a daylight transit of the Kiel Canal and a day in historic Copenhagen to take in the sights.

Hapag-Lloyd Cruises - MS Europa 2

4. The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

The launch of the long awaited, and much anticipated, 298-guest Evrima marked Ritz-Carlton's entrance into the luxury cruise arena in 2022, and their second yacht, Ilma , launches this year.

Operating predominantly in the Caribbean and Mediterranean, there is a small selection of five-night voyages which offer a great way to sample this new cruise line and an excellent opportunity for a combined cruise and stay. This Greek Isles voyage in September 2024 offers a port-intensive island hopping journey aboard Evrima, and if you'd like to try out new yacht Ilma, take a trip to the Bahamas on this 5-night Caribbean escape in April 2025 .

Ritz-Carlton Yacht Club - Evrima

Ponant have a couple of five-night voyages on board the groundbreaking Le Commandant Charcot this year, repositioning from Reykjavik to Tromso in October and from Bergen to Helsinki in November .

These ocean voyages are a rare opportunity to test out this extraordinary vessel before committing to one of the remarkable expeditions it operates in the Polar regions. Plus, you can tag on a land-based trip in one of these iconic cities of Northern Europe.

Ponant - Le Commandant Charcot

6. Hebridean Island Cruises

Finally, the ever popular Hebridean Princess does, on occasion, offer shorter four-night sailings around Scotland's wild and beautiful Western Isles for a maximum of 48 guests. Usually at the start and end of the regular season, these March and November departures fill up quickly but are great for enhancing a land-based itinerary, and in 2024 they are also offering an additional two 4-night sampler voyages in August.

Their second ship, the 38-guest Lord of the Highlands , offers a couple of 5-night cruises in 2024 highlighting the Inner Isles, and a 6-night voyage at the beginning and end of the season, transitting the Caledonian Canal.

Hebridean Princess - Conservatory

Alex is Director of Sales & Marketing at Mundy Cruising, having worked with the company for 10 years and in travel for over 18 years. Most recently he's cruised on Regent Seven Seas and has also sailed with Seabourn, Crystal, SeaDream, Tauck and Ponant. His favourite destination is South America however he's also enjoyed cruises in the Western Mediterranean, Middle East, East Africa & Indian Ocean, India, Myanmar, South East Asia and Antarctica. When he’s not travelling he loves walking holidays; a favourite included a trek to Everest Base Camp.

mini cruises september 2024

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Find a cruise

Our top picks for luxury mini cruises

Valletta, Malta

Ancient jewels of the Mediterranean

21 Mar - 28 Mar 2024 (7 Nights)

From £3,720 pp

Kiloran Bay, Colonsay, Scotland

Easter Escape

Hebridean Island Cruises

26 Mar - 2 Apr 2024 (7 Nights)

From £3,900 pp

Armadale harbour on the Isle of Skye, Scotland

Flavours of the Hebrides

2 Apr - 9 Apr 2024 (7 Nights)

From £4,440 pp

Ancient theatre at the Acropolis, Athens

Rhodes to Piraeus (Athens )

8 Apr - 13 Apr 2024 (5 Nights)

Oban, Scotland

Springtime Surprise

9 Apr - 16 Apr 2024 (7 Nights)

From £4,490 pp

Saone riverfront, Lyon

Secrets of the Rhône

Riverside Luxury Cruises

10 Apr - 14 Apr 2024 (4 Nights)

From £1,747 pp

Place de la République, Arles

EXPERIENCE Rhône

10 Apr - 17 Apr 2024 (7 Nights)

From £2,798 pp

Sandy beach near Gairloch, Scotland

Secrets of the Scenic North West

16 Apr - 20 Apr 2024 (4 Nights)

From £4,560 pp

St Martha's Church in Tarascon, France

Gems of Southern France

18 Apr - 23 Apr 2024 (5 Nights)

From £1,994 pp

Tournon sur Rhone and Tain l'Hermitage, France

22 Apr - 26 Apr 2024 (4 Nights)

From £1,949 pp

Viviers cathedral, France

22 Apr - 29 Apr 2024 (7 Nights)

From £3,116 pp

Crinan, Argyll, Scotland

Footloose through the Western Seaboard

23 Apr - 30 Apr 2024 (7 Nights)

From £5,200 pp

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Mini Cruises

Amsterdam Canal with tulips in the foreground

Short breaks & taster cruises

If you are tempted by the thought of recharging your batteries on a short cruise break, or are looking to try cruising for the first time, then a Fred. Olsen Mini Cruise may be just the antidote. A quick getaway is always a welcome escape from it all, bringing with it some well-earned time away, an escape from the routine and even chances to discover somewhere new. 

There is a varied selection of short sailings and destinations available and no matter which cruise you choose, you’ll enjoy a restful, relaxing and rewarding experience from the moment you board your smaller, friendlier cruise ship.

Whether you choose to join a romantic escape to the diamonds, chocolates and flowers of Amsterdam and Antwerp; journey along the picturesque River Seine; or simply indulge on a two-night cruise, you can be assured that you’ll enjoy the same friendly, attentive service, delectable dining and fantastic entertainment that you would on a longer sailing.

A short break on one of our smaller, friendlier ships is sure to give you lasting memories, and could become the inspiration for more adventures around the world. Find your perfect Fred. Olsen Mini Cruise below.

There is a varied selection of short sailings and destinations available and no matter which cruise you choose, you’ll enjoy a restful, relaxing and rewarding experience from the moment you board your smaller, friendlier cruise ship. [ReadMoreDesk]

Whether you choose to join a romantic escape to the diamonds, chocolates and flowers of Amsterdam and Antwerp; journey along the picturesque River Seine; or simply indulge on a one-night cruise, you can be assured that you’ll enjoy the same friendly, attentive service, delectable dining and fantastic entertainment that you would on a longer sailing.

31 Ocean Cruises

View of Oslo town hall, Norway

Scandinavian Easter City Break • L2408

  • Escape to Scandinavia and explore two captivating cities for a memorable Easter weekend
  • After sailing Oslofjord, take in the plentiful historic, artistic and cultural highlights of Oslo
  • Spend Easter Sunday strolling Gothenburg’s pretty streets, squares, parks and gardens
  • 1 offer available

Guests in the Lido bar, Bolette

Two Night Mini-Cruise to Liverpool • T2407

  • Two nights of Fred. Olsen’s small ship cruising
  • Enjoy delicious food, entertainment and service
  • Relax and sample ocean cruising on Bolette

Dutch windmill and colorful tulips in spring garden of flowers Keukenhof, Holland, Netherlands.

Dutch Tulips & Waterways in Five Nights • S2408

  • A bank holiday break of traditional Dutch experiences
  • In Amsterdam, see the Keukenhof tulips in bloom 
  • Sail the peaceful Nieuwe Maas

Nordfjord, Norway

Springtime Norwegian Fjords in Five Nights • L2412

  • This five-night escape provides a taste of fjordland exploration
  • Explore Alesund and climb Mount Aksla for panoramic views
  • Experience scenic cruising of Nordfjord, and a sunset sail by Hornelen 
  • 2 offers available

Passengers looking out to Fingals cave from onboard, UK

Scenic Isles of Scotland in Five Nights • T2409

  • Enjoy a relaxing break over the May Day Bank Holiday
  • Join ORCA on deck of Bolette to spot whales 
  • Visit Orkney and the Isle of Lewis for historic sites 

Beautiful views of Nordfjord, Norway

Springtime Norwegian Fjords in Five Nights • L2414

  • Enjoy a taste of the Norwegian fjords in five nights
  • Sail the picturesque Nordfjord on board Balmoral
  • Learn how the Briksdal Glacier has changed over time

Beach in St. Mary's, Isles of Scilly, Cornwall UK.

Discovering Normandy & the Channel Islands • S2411

  • Sample camembert and Calvados in Honfleur
  • Discover the history of St. Peter Port in Guernsey
  • Enjoy the sub-tropical microclimate of the Isles of Scilly

Views of Portree, Isle of Skye, Scotland

Scenic Scottish Isles in Five Nights • T2411

  • Discover the awe-inspiring scenery of the Hebrides
  • Join ORCA on deck to spot marine life
  • Discover seabird and marine life of the Scottish Isles

Guest looking out to sea from deck, Balmoral

One-Night Mini-Cruise • L2418

  • Enjoy one night of Fred. Olsen’s small ship cruising
  • Sample delicious food, entertainment and personal service
  • Relax and enjoy a taste of ocean cruising on Balmoral

Views of Lysefjord and Preikestolen in Norway

Summertime Norwegian Fjords in Five Nights • L2423

  • Experience the beauty of Norway in just five nights
  • Visit the Swords in the Rock monument in Stavanger
  • Sail under Pulpit Rock and past the Hornelen sea cliff

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13 of the best small ship cruises

Try a boutique cruise holiday on a ship designed for fewer guests

best small ship cruises

As much as the mega liners of the world are tempting for the all-singing, all-dancing, resort-at-sea type of holidays, finding the best small ship cruises means seeking out lesser-known destinations and tapping into exclusivity, individuality, and personal service.

We think the best small ship cruises are those that are a little out of the ordinary. Perhaps it’s a cruise that follows an unusual itinerary around tiny islands, like the islands of Costa Rica or the Scotland's Western Isles . Or maybe the ship itself is extraordinary because it is more akin to a sailing boat, such as the stylish MS Galileo . We love small ship cruises when something extra-special happens onboard too, such as a celebrity cooking class . And what could be more glamorous than dropping anchor at St Tropez's celebrated regatta after a week exploring the French and Italian Rivieras ?

When searching for the best small ship cruises, you'll want to make sure they match the experiences you're after. For a friendly atmosphere where guests get to know each other over dinner, a European river cruise along the Douro or through Bordeaux can offer plenty of shared experiences and opportunities to meet new people. For something that will give you plenty to talk about when you get home, expedition cruises to far-flung places like Antarctica are thrilling and intrepid without sacrificing comfort.

For more ideas, we’ve rounded up the best small ship cruises to help you pick the perfect nautical holiday.

Sail the Seine from Paris to Normandy’s beaches

eiffel tower or tour eiffel aerial view, is a wrought iron lattice tower on the champ de mars in paris, france

Hop on board the lovely S.S. Joie de Vivre for a memorable small ship cruise through northern France, visiting Paris, Rouen, and the Palace of Versailles. This exquisite floating pied-à-terre is the epitome of French glamour, with fine antiques, handcrafted furniture, original artwork, and signature accents inspired by 20th-century Parisian design.

You'll find lots to do on board in between excursions, with a wellness centre, spa, wine bar, bistro, and entertainment centre. Joining you on board for part of your trip will be renowned chef Michel Roux, who'll host a live cooking demonstration and a Q&A, so you can heighten your knowledge of fine French cuisine.

And as if that wasn’t tempting enough, you’ll also coincide with the Rugby World Cup final in Paris, allowing you to soak in the celebratory atmosphere in the city on match day, or even attend the final yourself if you have tickets, before heading back to S.S. Joie de Vivre for a supremely comfy night’s sleep.

A royal-style voyage around Scottish islands

best small ship cruises

Exploring a region by cruise often means you can cover more ground in less time. On a small ship, there’s the opportunity to tuck into ports and waterways that big cruise liners can’t. The elegant Lord of the Glens, hosting just 54 guests, investigates the inland waters of the Caledonian Canal and hidden Scottish sea lochs. Unlike some ocean cruises where you enjoy endless views of the horizon, on a Scottish cruise, there are landmarks and landscapes to admire from the deck almost all the time, including Urquhart Castle, the waterway of Laggan Avenue that’s lined with Scots pines, and the looming Ben Nevis.

Lord of the Glens is a one-of-a-kind ship with a design inspired by the Royal Family's former floating palace, The Royal Yacht Britannia. There’s a feeling of warmth and comfort throughout the ship, where dinner is created from locally sourced ingredients, and drinks are served in crystal glasses by attentive staff as you look out at the Scottish scenery through enormous picture windows.

You can join a very special departure on Lord of the Glens in May 2023 hosted by TV weather presenter, Carol Kirkwood.

You'll hear Carol reminisce about her life growing up in Morar and more about her grandfather’s role in building the incredible Glenfinnan Viaduct — which you'll also have a chance to cross on a journey on the West Highland Railway included in the trip.

FIND OUT MORE

Another chance to explore Scotland aboard Lord of the Glens comes in October, when broadcaster and proud Scotswoman Kirsty Wark will join a sailing through the locks of the Caledonian Canal and onwards to the Sound of Mull.

For the first few days, Kirsty will be on hand to chat with guests about the history of modern Scotland - the perfect conversation as you glide past exceptional Scottish scenery.

Explore the islands of Venice on a glamorous cruise

small ship cruises

Take an oh-so-stylish cruise on S.S LA Venezia, an opulent river ship swathed in fine fabrics and finished with gilded accents and plenty of iconic Murano glass (she’s sailing to and from Venice, after all).

While the ship alone is enough to tempt, an October 2023 voyage from Venice to Torcello, Chioggia, Burano and Murano includes an exclusive private live cooking demonstration and market visit with chef Rick Stein, elevating this cruise from excellent to exceptional.

You’ll be in the company of just 125 other guests, so attentive service is assured. Just because it’s a small ship, doesn’t mean it’s light on choices. The S.S La Venezia has three dining venues, including an Italian kitchen on the upper deck.

This cruise offers exclusive access to some of the city's most treasured buildings, like St Mark's Basilica and Doge's Palace — perfect if you're keen to learn more about Venice's art and architecture.

Navigate the islands and secluded coves of Croatia's coast

best small ship cruises

Croatia's Adriatic Coast is home to some of the country's most spectacular locations, like the Krka National Park and the sleek island resort of Hvar. Set sail with us on boutique ship MS Prestige on a voyage that takes you through these wonderful waters.

Highlights of the itinerary include sailing through the islands of Kornati National Park, a large archipelago with over 80 idyllic islands, and a visit to the enchanting historical city of Zadar. MS Prestige is a sleek, yacht-like cruiser that carries just 38 passengers and is the perfect vessel for exploring the coast and islands of Croatia. The ship’s size means it can easily tuck into smaller bays, and there's a platform at the rear of the ship so that you can easily swim in the famously crystal-clear waters of Croatia's peaceful coves.

The ultimate exclusive cruise in the Med

best small ship cruises

Royal Clipper is an extra-special ship and one that turns heads wherever she roams. Dressed to the nines with a complement of 42 white sails, she really is a beauty. You can explore Mediterranean waters powered by the wind whenever possible, giving a wonderful romance to your cruise that's hard to beat. Carrying just 227 guests, Royal Clipper is small enough to stop at some smaller ports along the French and Italian Rivieras.

Join an exciting cruise in September 2023 that coincides with the glamorous St Tropez regatta, where you'll drop anchor and enjoy the yacht races from the deck. That's not the only highlight of this one-off sailing: celebrity chef James Martin also joins this voyage demonstrating his skills in an onboard cooking demo and taking questions from guests.

A mega yacht in the Caribbean

best small cruise ships

Hosting just 100 guests (with 72 crew to look after them), the brand-new Emerald Azzurra is a gorgeous ship with billionaire-boat styling. This is quite a departure from your classic cruise ship, where you can spend days leaping off the ship's marine platform directly into the Caribbean Sea — then wrap yourself in one of Azzurra's Missoni towels post-dip.

A ship of this elegance deserves to be seen in the most glamorous locations. In March 2024, Emerald Azzurra follows a route around some of the Caribbean's most lusted-after locations, including Barbados, Tobago, Bequia, and Grenada.

A foodie cruise of Bordeaux with Raymond Blanc

best small ship cruises

With a range of opulent finishing touches, Scenic Diamond is a luxurious ship that carries a maximum of 155 passengers and offers exceptional dining, with all meals included on board.

One standout feature on board Scenic Diamond is its cookery school, Scenic Culinaire , where you can learn more about the art of French cuisine in between shore excursions. This makes it the perfect vessel for a gourmet exploration of France.

Join Good Housekeeping on a foodie cruise of Bordeaux in October and you'll sail through one of France's premier gastronomic regions in style. As well as lessons Scenic Culinaire , you'll have an exclusive live cooking demonstration and Q&A session with iconic chef, Raymond Blanc.

As you sail along the Garonne and Dordogne rivers you'll stop off to visit several historic vineyards, elegant châteaux wine estates, and local markets.

A low-impact expedition cruise around the British Isles

best small ship cruises

Some of the best small ship cruises can be better for the environment, especially when you choose one that runs on biofuel to reduce emissions and departs from the UK, making your entire trip flight-free.

Take a low-impact voyage on MS Maud, a ship from expedition specialist Hurtigruten. Hosting just over 500 guests means you get the best of both worlds — a personalised experience but with more onboard facilities than on truly dinky ships. On a 13-day adventure in the spring or summer of 2023, you can explore the waters closest to home, visiting Wales, Northern Ireland, Scotland, the Isle of Man, the Republic of Ireland, and the Isles of Scilly.

The fabulous beaches of Costa Rica

couple of tourists walking on exotic beach at sunset, costa rica

When you want to explore the coastline and islands of Costa Rica, it's sensible to find a cruise where you'll visit smaller ports and go a little off the beaten track — and to do that, you're going to need a smaller ship.

Journey down the west coast of Central America on Star Clipper, a traditional tall ship that evokes the romance of a grander age and carries just 166 guests. Over a week-long exploration, you'll sail into shimmering turquoise bays with a bounty of exotic marine life and call at destinations that serve as gateways to the national parks where you can see the lush mangroves and gorgeous lagoons and hear the calls of monkeys in the rainforests.

A never-forget Antartica expedition

best small ship cruises

A cruise to Antarctica really is nothing short of extraordinary. And to do it right, you need to join an accomplished crew who know how this wonderland works. In 2020, expedition cruise experts Hurtigruten introduced MS Fridtjof Nansen to its fleet and it fast became one of our favourite small vessels to explore Antarctic waters.

Hosting just 500 guests, it's not the smallest ship exploring the region. But in this instance, being a little larger means you get some extra facilities including a choice of restaurants (a definite plus on an 11-night cruise), a large science centre, and a fabulous outdoor swimming pool (which, yes, is heated so you can take a dip in as you gaze across the monochromatic landscape).

Another option for exploring the White Continent is on a 13-day expedition cruise aboard MS Roald Amundsen, which also takes you to the fascinating Falkland Islands, where you'll find grassy hills, wildflowers, sandy beaches, and colonies of penguins.

MS Roald Amundsen is a state-of-the-art expedition vessel specially designed for voyages in polar waters and like MS Fridtjof Nansen and most of Hurtigruten's fleet, includes a science centre, a two-level observation deck, and a range of excellent dining options.

Wine tasting on the Douro River

best small ship cruises

River cruises are ideal for seeing the diversity of a region, and there’s plenty to see hopping from place to place along the Douro River in Portugal. A-ROSA ALVA is a small river boat that promises plenty of variety on an itinerary that starts in the colourful city of Porto before sailing into the wine-growing valleys.

Guests have the chance to disembark and take part in the traditional grape harvest, but that’s not the only reason it’s the perfect cruise for wine lovers. There are also plenty of opportunities to taste the local port wine at the Quinta da Roseda estate near Pinhão and sip from the ship’s selection as you look out at the passing scenery from ALVA’s Panorama Lounge.

Yachting around the Cyclades

best small ship cruises

Fancy boarding a ship that’s more like a private yacht than a cruise ship? MS Galileo is a vessel that harks back to the ships of yesteryear, venturing around the Greek islands with its white, billowing sails unfurled. You’ll dock at smaller islands, including gorgeous Folegandros – but you won’t miss out on experiencing why sun-splashed Santorini and Paros get their sought-after status.

Galileo typically stays in port until the wee hours, allowing time to disembark after dinner for evening strolls and drinks by the waterside. Because there’s a little more wriggle room in the itinerary than on larger ships, don’t be surprised if your crew makes an unscheduled swim stop for guests to take a refreshing dip in the sparkling waters.

There are just 24 cabins on board, making Galileo feel more like an oversized millionaire’s yacht than a cruise ship. And if the idea of a typical cruise with dressing up in gowns under the hot Greek sunshine doesn’t seem like a happy match, you can leave your sequins at home – this is a cruise that, despite feeling exclusive, is blissfully informal too.

An island-hopping adventure in the Hebrides

best small ship cruises

Scotland's Inner and Outer Hebrides are known and loved for their dramatic landscapes, from serene lochs to towering mountains. There are hundreds of islands to explore, so navigating on a small ship is a comfortable and convenient way of seeing the best of the isles, without having to worry about local ferry timetables.

Hurtigruten's environmentally progressive ship MS Spitsbergen is the perfect vessel for exploring Scotland's smaller islands — compact enough to manoeuvre into ports on tiny islands, but large enough to feature excellent facilities like a sauna, hot tub, lounge bar, and library. Like all Hurtigruten's ships, you'll also find a science centre on board, so you can learn more about the intriguing landscapes and wildlife you'll be seeing on your cruise.

Join us for an island-hopping adventure in the Hebrides on MS Spitsbergen and you'll see fantastic scenery, varied birds and wildlife and taste delicious whiskies at local distilleries.

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BEST CRUISES IN 2024-2025: WANDER THE WORLD WITH ROYAL CARIBBEAN

Published on - June 17, 2021 at 1:35 pm

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GO WILD ON NEW CRUISES TO ALASKA

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SPEND A WEEK IN THE TROPICS

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It’s no secret that Royal Caribbean® offers epic  Caribbean  cruises. And each year, it finds new ways to raise the bar. True to form, the 2024-2025 cruise season will be the boldest yet for island hopping, with more than 20 world-class ships sailing to the top-rated shores of the  eastern ,  western  and  southern Caribbean .  Like Grand Cayman, Jamaica, Aruba and the award-winning private island Perfect Day at CocoCay . In 2023, the fleet’s newest addition, Wonder of the Seas ℠ , launches 7-night adventures from Port Canaveral. Both Fort Lauderdale and Miami welcome  Symphony of the Seas®  and Oasis of the Seas®  for bolder shore exploring across the tropics' most iconic islaes. Plus, Oasis of the Seas®  and Odyssey of the Seas ℠  hit Fort Lauderdale with sailings to Perfect Day at CocoCay on nearly every itinerary. Meanwhile, Harmony of the Seas® offers thrills of Oasis Class proportions from Galveston.

And arriving in 2024, Icon of the Seas ℠   brings a first-of-its-kind Royal Caribbean® adventure for the whole family with sailings to eastern and western Caribbean islands, including stops at the cruise line’s private destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas. But that’s not all — you’ll also be able to chase adventure through the tropics onboard fleet favorites Vision® , Serenade® , Grandeur® , Jewel® and Voyager of the Seas ®.

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Ultimate world cruise.

Rio de Janeiro's Sugarloaf is iconic from any vantage point, whether you climb it or not.

Pick a corner of the globe and explore every inch of it on the 2024-2025  Ultimate World Cruise ℠ — the most epic cruise to ever set sail. Explore 150+ destinations and 11 World Wonders across seven continents. Or, for a shorter adventure, choose any of the four Ultimate Cruise segments.

Each voyage of 60+ nights dives deeper into every destination with comprehensive, immersive itineraries that call at ports both large and small. Venture across three continents on the Ultimate Americas Cruise , from the postcard-perfect shores of the Caribbean to South America and the wildlife-studded shores of Antarctica as you round Cape Horn. Or follow your dreams and explore the Far East and Down Under on the Ultimate Asia Pacific Cruise , an unparalleled adventure across Asia, Australia, India and the South Pacific.

For history buffs, the Ultimate Middle East and Med Cruise is a journey back in time, your chance to delve into history’s greatest mysteries, myths and legends as you uncover ancient sites in Dubai, Egypt, Greece, Italy and more. And if you're a castle-chasing greenery-gazing wanderer, the Ultimate Europe and Beyond Cruise offers an immersive cultural exploration, from Barcelona and Paris to Morocco en route to Scandinavia and beyond. Whichever segment you choose, get ready for a journey that’s worlds away from ordinary.

Wherever you’re looking to wander over the next couple of years, you can explore the world’s most incredible destinations with your next cruise — all while making memories in between shores on ships brimming with innovative thrills, spectacular  cruise entertainment , delicious  dining experiences , and more. Explore all our upcoming itineraries on our 2024-2025 cruise page , and stay tuned for more adventures later this year.

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Mini cruises & short breaks from Southampton in 2024, 2025 & 2026

Mini cruises from southampton are the ideal tonic for those in need of a short break. with cruises from leading cruise lines including p&o cruises, msc, cunard and fred olsen cruises a mini cruise from southampton can give you that quick break with some fantastic entertainment, dining and service., the best deals on mini cruises from southampton, short cruises from southampton.

Mini cruises from Southampton are a great short break to see some of the closer ports whilst getting some of the superb service from our leading cruise lines. 3 night cruises from Southampton may take you to places such as Zeebrugge from where you may visit the picturesque town of Bruges, St. Peter Port in Guernsey or perhaps Le Havre in France. A 3 day cruise from Southampton can be taken throughout the year - Christmas cruises could take you to some Christmas markets or just allow you to enjoy the festivities on a new year mini cruise.

A slightly longer 4 night cruise from Southampton could include an additional port of call in your cruise and of course take you a bit further afield. A 4 night cruise from Southampton could show you the city of Amsterdam where you can explore the canals, art museums and historical sights also perhaps with a call at the French port of Cherbourg. Of course we shouldn't exclude 3 night cruises from Southampton which call at some of the best ports in the UK such as Falmouth, Dover or Portland which we often discount to our own detriment.

Short cruises from Southampton are available on various cruise lines so the choice of cruise style is really yours. A short cruise from Southampton is often used as an ideal way to try out a different cruise line or for a first cruise. Try British favourites such as P&O Cruises or Fred Olsen Cruises, take up the Mediterranean flavours with MSC Cruises or perhaps choose something with a little more luxury with Celebrity or Princess Cruises.

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All aboard! 10 bucket-list cruise vacations to take this year

Chelle Koster Walton

February 29, 2024 // By Chelle Koster Walton

By Chelle Koster Walton Naples Local Expert February 29, 2024

Regent Seven Seas' latest Grandeur ship is full of luxurious amenities

Versace tableware in a restaurant that feels like an electrified topsy-turvy forest. A blingy atrium chandelier inspired by a tennis bracelet. Hand-blown glass cherry blossoms and wallflowers designed by Coco Chanel. And a custom-designed Fabergé egg in a nest of pearls on a seven-seas-motif pedestal. The beauty of Regent Seven Seas' Grandeur cruise ship lies in its details.

The luxury cruise line is already known for its high-end amenities, exquisite beauty, and ports of call. There's so much to discover on Grandeur, from the mesmerizing fish-bowl fantasy of the Observation Lounge to restaurants ranging from pan-Asian to French and classic steakhouse. Take a cooking class with chef John Stephano in the Culinary Arts Kitchen one day, and end the night with glam stage productions to inspire the sweetest dreams.

This all comes on a cruise ship where fewer than 750 passengers occupy 372 balcony suites, and 548 crew members are aboard to indulge every whim.

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The Grandeur is just one cruise ship that excels and elevates the cruising experience, as luxury lines continue to outdo each other with over-the-top vessels, services, and itineraries.

Here, in no particular order (impossible to rank such varied offerings), are 10 bucket-list cruise vacations not to miss this year.

Regent Seven Seas' Grandeur: Spotlight on Fabergé

The first Fabergé egg at sea is part of the Grandeur's art collection

My fascination with Fabergé and Grandeur’s first-ever Egg Objet in residence puts this 10-night, all-inclusive European cruise on my bucket radar. Departing from Rome’s Civitavecchia port on July 1, it hits such ports as Valletta, Malta; Ibiza, Spain; and Marseille, France.

It includes pre-cruise experiences, excursions, private tours, and onboard discussions tied to Fabergé. Onboard, the attraction is the ship’s godmother, Sarah Fabergé, great-granddaughter of legendary artist-jeweler Peter Carl Fabergé, and the first-ever Fabergé egg nested permanently on a cruise ship, dubbed “Journey in Jewels.”

Royal Caribbean International's Icon of the Seas: Eastern Caribbean

Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas rules in the size department

When size matters, here’s a cruise ship so big, it has neighborhoods — eight of them, to be exact. Although, at 1,198 feet long, Royal Caribbean International's Icon of the Seas isn’t just about size. One of 2024's newest cruise ships , it's now in the spotlight, thanks to the high-profile launch with international soccer star Lionel Messi.

To thrill every type of vacationer with theme park largesse, the more than 40 restaurants and entertainment options are unequaled. This Eastern Caribbean cruise departs from Miami with stops in St. Kitts, St. Thomas, and Royal Caribbean International’s private Bahama island, CocoCay.

French Country Waterways' Nenuphar: Canals of Champagne

Nenuphar plies the waterways of Champagne for bubbly and top cuisine

The ultimate in exclusive cruising, French Country Waterways' Nenuphar transports 12 guests on a gustatory voyage through the waterways of France’s most celebrated wine region. Regal staterooms with antique provincial furnishings and innovative cuisine make the onboard experience enough to celebrate. Imagine exploring grand cathedrals and gardens, touring and tasting at prestigious wine cellars, and a special Michelin-rated dinner with wine pairings.

Guests also can enjoy independent walking and bicycling excursions along the canals and into charming villages. The inclusive cruise builds in a fully stocked open bar and wines, many from Grand Cru and Premier Cru vineyards.

Star Clippers' Royal Clipper: Barbados to Lisbon Ocean Crossing

The Royal Clipper is the largest in the Star Clippers fleet

For those enamored by square-rigged sailing ships, a 16-day ocean crossing aboard Star Clippers' Royal Clipper , a Guinness World Record-setting ship for size, is the ultimate. She boasts 42 majestic sails, plus modern amenities to balance with old-world elegance.

There's plenty to fill your days at sea, including water sports, a spa and health club with underwater portholes, social lounges, 19,000 square feet of open deck, and mast-climbing to crow’s nests 75 feet above the water. The one port of call between Barbados and Lisbon allows the opportunity to explore the Azores on the gorgeous and historic Portuguese island of San Miguel.

Scenic Eclipse II: Discover the Kimberley Coastline (Australia)

The Scenic Eclipse II has veranda suites and lots of dining options

Aboard the Scenic Eclipse II , an 11-day itinerary titled, "An Ancient Wilderness Wonderland," travels along the rugged Australian coast from Darwin to Broome. Discover waterfalls, rookery islands, reefs, and nature reserves on inflatable boat excursions, or luxuriate aboard the cruise ship that's outfitted for exploration and pampering.

With a one-to-one crew ratio, you'll want for nothing. As one of the best boutique cruise lines , the 228-passenger ship features veranda suites and 10 dining experiences. On the intellectual side, expect deep-dive lectures and educational programs from a team led by award-winning wilderness expert Mike Cusack.

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection's Ilma: Maiden Voyage from Monte Carlo to Rome

Ilma's pool deck fits the Ritz-Carlton brand to a tee

The second luxury superyacht for the new Ritz-Carlton brand, which debuts September 2, offers a Mediterranean cruise that takes in medieval hilltop towns along the Livorno countryside, Florence, the French Riviera, and the sophisticated ports of Corsica and Porto Cervo. It sails into the Roman port Civitavecchia eight days later.

With fewer than 450 passengers aboard and a near one-to-one crew ratio, Ilma , like its predecessor Evrima (the first-ever hotel-company cruise ship), is all about personal, exclusive service. Suites with private terraces, a nice mix of fine restaurants and bars, a signature brand spa, plus an onboard marina bring its level of amenities to the Ritz standard.

Lindblad Expeditions' National Geographic Explorer: Antarctica Direct

Kayaking excursions get Explorer guests up-close to Antarctica wildlife

Those looking for high arctic adventure and enrichment with the most luxury and least travel time possible will find it aboard Lindblad Expeditions' National Geographic Explorer , which skips the slow crossing through the Drake Passage with a quick flight.

Built for polar exploration and recently refurbished to bolster its luxe adventure mission, Explorer maximizes its observation experience with high perches and a welcoming bridge. You become part of the scenery with wildlife explorations on kayaking and inflatable excursions, from onboard observation vantages, and even from staterooms outfitted with “Command Center” tools.

The eight-day itinerary begins in Puerto Natales, Chile, with a two-hour flight to King George Island to board the Explorer. Whales, penguins, elephant seals, icebergs, and glaciers headline the breathtaking views, all of which are interpreted by expert team members. Three departure dates are available during the Explorer 2024 season: Nov. 26, Dec. 1, and Dec. 15.

Silversea's Silver Nova: Panama City to Lima

Silversea's on-board S.A.L.T. lab is a foodie paradise

Food and fine dining have always beat at the heart of the cruising experience, but Silversea’s S.A.L.T. (Sea and Land Taste) concept takes culinary cruising to the next level. Developed by a James Beard award-winning editor, the program immerses guests into rare on-shore and on-board foodie fantasies.

On this seven-day cruise aboard the all-suites, 728-passenger Silver Nova , shore excursions visit a cacao hacienda in Ecuador and include a gala with Peruvian dinner in a colonial Lima mansion.

UnCruise's Family Wilderness Adventurer: Juneau to Juneau

Families can take the polar plunge in Glacier Bay

In an informal poll among fellow travel writers about the best Alaskan cruises , UnCruise was a clear winner. They cited its small-boat ability to go where no others have gone before them (apologies to “Star Trek”) and the fact that guests have the option to take daily off-boat excursions, from hiking to kayaking.

In the past, UnCruise excursions into Glacier Bay were age-limited. New in 2024, the cruise line offers a family-friendly itinerary. Specially tailored family activities fill the eight days in renowned Glacier Bay National Park aboard the 60-guest Adventurer . Six Family Explorer cruises are on the docket starting in June.

Viking Sky: World Voyager I

The Explorers' Lounge of the Viking Ocean Ship

Move over, Magellan and Phineas Fogg. They're not the only ones who can go around the world. You can too!

Board Viking Sky to circumnavigate the globe — the ultimate cruise. A Dec. 19 departure from Fort Lauderdale ends up in New York City three months later. In between, you’ll visit 37 countries with the possibility of 83 guided, culturally immersive tours, from Panama and Los Angeles to Tahiti, New Zealand, Vietnam, and Turkey.

Although more commonly aligned with river cruises , Viking boasts ocean liners with the same small-ship (930 guests max) nimbleness and sleek, Scandinavian design. Viking Sky’s staterooms garner praise for their private verandas and understated elegance.

Chelle Koster Walton

About Chelle Koster Walton

Chelle Koster Walton, a veteran travel writer, covers island, coastal and cruise exploration.

Read more about Chelle Koster Walton here.

Connect with Chelle via: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest

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September cruises

September cruise deals for a perfect start to autumn.

Even if summer is ending, there’s no reason to stop travelling. In fact, September can be  one of the best times to discover  the world. Warm sunny days slide into cooler crisp autumnal air, and with summer crowds dispersing, you can  explore iconic landmarks  and must-see natural wonders  at your own pace  with a  September cruise . For your September holidays, take to the seas with MSC Cruises and craft precious memories with your family or friends on a unique cruise to superb global locations.

Discover some of the best holiday destinations in September! Maybe the call of fall will draw you to the sights, sounds and flavors of the  Mediterranean  or will draw you to the epic landscapes, fantastical fjords and cosmopolitan cities of  Northern Europe ? Whether it’s the ancient treasures of Greece, the beautiful Balearics, the souks and spices of Turkey and Morocco, there’s a perfect voyage for you! Are you  Caribbean  dreaming of palm-fringed sandy beaches in a tropical paradise, or do you want to discover the color of autumn at its absolute best in  Canada  and  New   England ? Whatever your travel desires are, an amazing adventure is waiting you with MSC’s September cruises! Once onboard, enjoy delicious dining, world-class entertainment, and delicious dining options as you cruise the blue to wonder-filled places. 

So, why not get ahead of the rest and plan your September 2024 cruise now to take advantage of our unmissable selection of September cruise deals?    

Terms and conditions

“Save and Sail Cruise Only” and “Save and Sail with Drinks” rates are per person based on double occupancy. The rates are subject to change and may vary without notice. This offer is valid on new bookings only from 16/10/2023 to 30/04/2024, valid until departure valid on selected sailings from Winter 23/24.

This promo is only combinable with the Healthcare discount, and the MSC Voyagers Club discount, also with the “target” promos. It excludes any other offer or MSC Discounts and/or Future Cruise Consultant Vouchers, unless otherwise stated on ad-hoc promotional material. The Healthcare discount is valid for all Destinations (MSC WORLD CRUISES excluded) and it is subject to availability at the moment of the reservation. 3rd and 4th berth guests pay the usual applicable rate. Guests travelling on different Experiences will be subject to restrictions on dining arrangements. During the Save and Sail Campaign, for sailings included, the promotion will be visible on the reservation system at the time of the booking under the “Save and Sail cruise only” and “Save and Sail with Drinks, price descriptions.

Only bookings taken under the “Save and Sail with Drinks” will receive the Premium Extra Drinks Package . The Premium Extra Drinks Package allows the guests to enjoy whilst on board, unlimited consumption of all drinks priced up to €13. Other conditions & terms may apply. Flights and any other add-ons will be available at the current selling rates, payable by all guests under the same booking. Single Supplement can vary, up 100%. Flights and any add-ons (gratuities, travel insurance, shore excursions and any other item of a personal nature) will be at the current selling rates, payable by all passengers under the same booking and subject to availability, unless clearly stated in the offer.

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12 Themed Cruises You Should Have On Your Radar In 2024

T aking a cruise is an experience unlike anything else. Days at sea on a ship full of entertainment and relaxation make for a fantastic vacation. But what if you want even more from your cruise? A theme might be what's missing. In addition to all the usual cruise experiences, themed cruises allow fans of a particular artist, lifestyle, hobby (or even animal), to celebrate their passion on the high seas with activities, events, surprises, and sometimes special guests.

There are dozens of themed cruises on offer each year, usually hosted by major cruise lines like Norwegian , Carnival, and Royal Caribbean. But don't let their numbers fool you. According to  Business Insider , themed cruises are rapidly climbing in popularity, and some trips are selling out in record time. That means it's important to find your dream-themed cruise and reserve your tickets as early as possible.

Fortunately, even if they're sold out, most themed cruises will let you join a waiting list, so there's still hope! Here are 12 themed cruises that will set sail in 2024 and are well worth boarding, either now or the next time they hit the high seas.

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The Emo's Not Dead Cruise

If you truly know it's not a phase, the Emo's Not Dead Cruise is perfect for you. Gather with fellow emo fans for four days (and nights) of concerts, activities, and even a private party at Great Stirrup Kay in the Bahamas. Over a dozen bands will perform, including Yellowcard, Senses Fail, and Armor for Sleep. Alongside themed activities like a masquerade ball, cruisegoers can also enjoy surprisingly cheerful activities like a bellyflop competition in the ship's pool.

The first Emo's Not Dead cruise was in 2022. Cruisegoer and emo fan TheReelChris shared highlights on  YouTube , calling it "EPIC." Fans in the comments section agree, with Schecterplayer92 adding, "This was one of the best experiences of my life." With a killer lineup and entertaining activities scheduled, it seems like Emo's Not Dead 2024 will also be a rad experience. The cruise will be hosted on the Norwegian Pearl, leaving from Miami on February 26 and returning on March 1, 2024. But what would an emo-related cruise be without a little sadness? Unfortunately, the cruise is already sold out. If you're interested, you can  sign up for the waiting list  and hope.

Meow Meow Cruise

Some of us know that no matter how great a vacation might be, cats would make it even better. Meow Meow Cruise has solved that problem. While guests unfortunately aren't allowed to bring their own furry friends aboard Virgin Voyages' Scarlet Lady, the four-day cruise will give them their feline fix in plenty of other ways. 

Activities include cat-themed trivia and a scavenger hunt. But the best part may be communing with fellow cat people (many of whom stroll around the ship wearing cat ears). You'll also be able to mingle with real cats -- one of 2024's ports of call is Key West, where you'll find the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum and its community of about 60 friendly polydactyl kitties, many of them descended from one of the author's own pets.

It's hard to find reviews for Meow Meow Cruise, but the fact that this themed cruise has been going on annually since 2015 speaks for itself. The 2024 Meow Meow Cruise sets sail from Miami on February 21, with a return date of February 25. Tickets are still available, but to be sure you don't miss out, consider booking right now.

In My Cruise Era

Sure, cruises are great — and cruising is a multi-billion dollar industry — but is anything more popular than Taylor Swift? For those who can't imagine anyone saying "no" to that question, there's no better cruise than In My Cruise Era. While not officially affiliated with Taylor Swift, this themed cruise is a passionate fan homage. Swifties will be able to dress up in their favorite Taylor-inspired looks, exchange friendship bracelets, perform their idol's songs during karaoke sessions, and more. We're also guessing there will be of lots impromptu song breaks throughout the ship from Taylor's extensive catalog.

Royal Caribbean's Allure of the Seas will host this cruise, which sets sail from Miami on October 21, 2024 -- which, as People Magazine points out, is one day after the Eras Tour will be in the city. Fans lucky enough to attend the concert can continue their Taylor euphoria for four more days on the high seas. Since this is a new themed cruise, there aren't any reviews, but based on the positive fan vibes from Eras Tour concerts and movie viewings, among other events, we're guessing it's going to be a great time for Swifties. Swifties must agree, since the cruise is already sold out. Cancellations do happen, though, so hopeful fans can join the waiting list.  Contact the cruise's organizers to sign up.

Disney's Halloween On The High Seas

Go on just about any cruise-related blog or website and you'll see that Disney Cruise Line's Halloween-themed cruise, officially called Halloween on the High Seas, is a popular favorite. As you probably expect from Disney, this themed cruise is perfect for a family vacation , so it's not too scary. The cruise is hosted on multiple Disney Cruise Line ships, and each one is decorated with the care and attention to detail you'll find in most Disney-related enterprises. The Pumpkin Tree is the highlight of the decor, with pumpkins that eventually appear on its branches and transform into lit and unlit jack o'lanterns.

Halloween on the High Seas also features Halloween activities (including a trick-or-treating night) and exclusive Halloween-themed desserts. Disney cruises in general are known for their opportunities to meet the studio's beloved characters, and during the Halloween on the High Seas cruises, some of those characters are in costume. Notably, Disney Cruise Line's official site tells us, Minnie Mouse, Daisy Duck, and Clarabelle Cow will be dressed as the Sanderson Sisters -- who wouldn't want to see that? 

This magical mixture of whimsy, fun, and exclusive opportunities is the perfect way to cast a spell on Disney fans of all ages. Luckily, Halloween on the High Seas is held during a number of different times in September and October, so you and your family should be able to find a place on board!

The Hallmark Channel Christmas Cruise

Sure, Hallmark Channel Christmas movies might be a little on the cheesy side, but let's be honest: lots of us dream of being in one in real life. You can get a little of the real-life Hallmark movie experience by visiting some of the movies' filming locations , but now there's a way to have an even more immersive experience: The Hallmark Channel Christmas Cruise.

Passengers will get to meet Hallmark Channel movie stars, attend panels and photo ops, and get to see a new Hallmark Christmas movie before its world premiere. Maybe best of all, passengers can take part in lots of Hallmark Christmas movie-inspired activities, including tree lighting and cookie decorating -- all while wearing their favorite ugly Christmas sweaters.

2024 is the first year of the Hallmark Channel Christmas Cruise. It was originally intended to be just one cruise, but a second one was added after the first one sold out. As of now, two Hallmark Channel Christmas Cruises are scheduled for 2024. Both go from Miami to the Bahamas and back and last four days in November. ... And both are sold out. But Christmas is a time of miracles, so if a Hallmark Channel Christmas experience on the high seas sounds like your dream come true, sign up for the waiting list as soon as you can!

Hurtigruten Northern Lights Cruises

Themed cruises are often about fandoms and hobbies. But Norway-based cruise line Hurtigruten offers a themed cruise that's about something even bigger: the Northern Lights . There are several Northern Lights-themed cruises out there, including some luxurious options by Cunard. Unfortunately, the Northern Lights aren't always visible, but Hurtigruten stands out by offering a Northern Lights Promise for cruises scheduled between September 26 and March 31 and lasting longer than 11 days. If the Northern Lights aren't visible during your cruise, they'll give you another one. So if you're serious about seeing the Aurora Borealis, this is the company to choose.

The Northern Lights are the focus of Hurtigruten's eponymous cruises, but there are also other things to do on board, including scientific lectures and photography lessons. There are excursions, too -- notably a dog sledding option. Passengers who've taken one of Hurtigruten's cruises unanimously praise the stunning fjords and landscapes you can admire from the ship and during excursions, not to mention their experiences of seeing the Northern Lights. Some warn that the ships aren't as luxurious or modern as many other cruise ships, primarily because Hurtigruten's ships are also functional vessels intended to transport and deliver mail to various points on the Norwegian coast. Still,  Cruise Critic reviewers like cmolaison praise the friendly crew, the surprising level of comfort, and the "stunning vistas" you'll see, saying he and his family "highly recommend" taking a Hurtigruten cruise.

Cruise & Crop Crafting Cruises

If the perfect vacation for you is a combination of R&R and crafting, you're in luck! There are several crafting-themed cruises. One of the most popular is organized by Cruise & Crop, with ships around the world hosting different crafting- and arts-themed trips. This makes them the most accessible themed cruises on our list, with different price ranges, departure points, itineraries, and ports of call. One thing all crafting cruises have in common, though, is groups of like-minded people exploring their creativity amid the other joys of cruising.

For instance, one of Crop & Cruise's 2024 offerings is a Mexican Riviera cruise aboard Royal Caribbean's Navigator of the Seas, featuring scrapbooking and other papercraft classes taught by artist Barb Warne. The ship departs from Los Angeles on April 19, returning April 26. Many Cruise & Crop cruises sell out quickly, so if this idea has sparked both your wanderlust and your creativity, be sure to check their list of 2024 cruises and reserve as soon as you can.

Star Trek: The Cruise

For seven days and nights every year, thousands of Star Trek fans gather to be a part of a fandom extravaganza at sea. Star Trek: The Cruise is an experience that features celebrities aboard (2024's guests include LeVar Burton and Wil Wheaton, among many others), costume and cosplay events, and lots of fun activities. 

But what makes Star Trek: The Cruise truly unique is that audience participation is very much encouraged. Passengers and celebrity guests are all considered the crew of one great, big, intergalactic vessel. Passengers get to interact with the guest stars in events like karaoke battles, and stars share parts of their earthly lives with Q&A sessions and even glimpses at other projects they may be involved in.

The first Star Trek: The Cruise was held in 2017 and since then it's been a fan favorite. Star Wars and cruising aficionado Aaron Bossig writes on  Trek Movie.com that many fans go on the cruise every year, and proudly wear t-shirts from the previous ones. He calls Star Trek: The Cruise "an extra special convention experience." 2024's edition will be held on the Mariner of the Seas, departing from Cape Canaveral, Florida, on February 22 and returning on February 29.

Literature Festival At Sea

Once a year, aboard the legendary Queen Mary 2, passengers can mingle with writers, poets, journalists, and critics in a full-blown literary festival in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. Literature Festival at Sea invites writers in all genres to host round table discussions, participate in Q&As revolving around their work and areas of expertise, host workshops, and converse with passengers.

Whether passengers want to participate as much as possible or just attend a few events, the Festival seems to be an excellent addition to a typical Queen Mary 2 voyage. On TripAdvisor , passenger Artemis C writes of her experience at a previous Literature Festival at Sea that "the whole week was a joy". 

2024's lineup features crime novelists, journalists, historians, and more, for what's sure to be a fascinating week of discussion and discovery. If you'd like to combine an elegant transatlantic cruise and a literary experience, 2024's Literature Festival at Sea will take place from November 13-20, departing from Southampton, U.K., and arriving in New York. Cunard has also launched an Australian Literature Festival at Sea, scheduled from December 11-16, 2024, on the Queen Elizabeth, which departs from and returns to Sydney. 

Chefs Making Waves

Many cruise lines are proud of their food offerings. Some cruises feature dishes created by world-famous chefs, and others even host food and wine festivals. But no culinary cruise event seems quite as, well, fun, as Chefs Making Waves. This culinary-themed cruise will set sail for the first time in 2024. Onboard will be a number of beloved celebrity chefs, including Anne Burrell and the Cake Boss himself, Buddy Valastro. Cooking demos and, of course, food tastings of all kinds (including sit-down meals, desserts, and street food) are on the menu. Best of all, Chefs Making Waves is an all-inclusive cruise, so everyone can eat and drink without having to pay extra!

There will be all of the usual cruise-related fun, from swimming to excursions, to help you work up an appetite. There will also be unique games, with some of the chefs participating in events like bingo and a celebrity chef sing-off. If this sounds like an awesome cruise, you're not the only one who feels that way. Chefs Making Waves will take place from March 25-29, departing from Miami with excursions in Great Stirrup Cay and Nassau, Bahamas ... and it's already sold out. But you can still  sign up for the waiting list . With a little luck, you'll be able to enjoy this delicious, themed cruise experience.

Soul Train Cruise

Imagine a festival with a lineup featuring some of the best soul and R&B acts of all time. Now imagine it's on a relaxing cruise ship. This dream is actually reality -- it's called the Soul Train Cruise. The popular themed cruise will be celebrating its 11th year in 2024 and the lineup is on fire. Dozens of groups and artists will perform, including The Temptations, Boyz II Men, and En Vogue. Passengers can also learn how to dance like people did back in the old school days of Soul Train's TV show, with lessons from some of the show's actual dancers. There will also be wine tastings, Q&A's, comedy shows, and a lot more.

With all of this on offer, it's no surprise that the Soul Train Cruise is sold out. But sign up on the waiting list and keep your calendar free from January 27-February 3, and you may get lucky. If you do, the cruise leaves from Fort Lauderdale, with ports of call in Tortola (British Virgin Islands) and St. Maarten.

The Gothic Cruise

The Gothic Cruise is an annual event held on an ordinary cruise ship. Goths mingle with "norms" but have their own private events on board, mostly DJ sets and concerts. There's also a masquerade ball, with Goths decked out in their finest Victorian-style garb ... as long as it meets ship safety requirements, that is. The cruise's website specifies that simulated weapons aren't allowed and notes that hoop skirts are fine for the ball but not in the ship's dining areas, "due to the close proximity of the tables". And yet, the Goth community thrives on these cruises -- and even gains norm fans along the way. 

In a Porthole Magazine article about the Gothic Cruise, longtime attendee Spike Pittman says that many mainstream passengers are wary of the Goths at first, "But by the end they're begging to get into our private events." Some even book their future cruises to coincide with the Gothic Cruise, even if they don't plan on attending every event. 

The Gothic Cruise has been held since 1989. Cruising doesn't seem very Goth, but in the end, the article points out, it comes down to what all themed cruises offer: a sense of community (in this case, one that often stays up all night and sleeps during the day). If this moves your little black heart, the 2024 Gothic Cruise will be held on the Norwegian Escape (but book through the Gothic Cruise's website for private event access), departing from Orlando on March 2, and returning March 9.

Read the original article on Explore .

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Virgin Voyages Return To The UK In 2024 With Portsmouth Mini Cruises

Virgin Voyages Return To The UK In 2024 With Portsmouth Mini Cruises

Amazing news from the folks at Virgin Voyages … they’re returning to the UK, to offer short breaks from Portsmouth in 2024!

In 2024, Virgin Voyages will once again return to UK shores ( Scarlet Lady was first here for the Summer Soirees sailings in Summer 2021), to offer an amazing series of “Portsmouth Shorts” to Northern Europe. These short break cruises will set sail from the convenient city of Portsmouth (makes a change from Southampton eh?!) and feature calls to Amsterdam and Zeebrugge (Bruges). They’ll also be offering a longer sailing to Barcelona, as the ship heads to the Mediterranean.

The Portsmouth Shorts Sailings:

We are delighted to announce that Resilient Lady will be offering new itineraries out of Portsmouth between 23rd August and 23rd September 2024 – a series of brand new three to six night voyages!

Portsmouth to Zeebrugge (& back) – 3 nights Portsmouth, At Sea, Zeebrugge, Portsmouth 27 Aug 2024

From England to Amsterdam (& back) – 4 nights Portsmouth, Amsterdam (overnight), At Sea, Portsmouth 23 Aug 2024 •  30 Aug 2024 • 19 Sep 2024

The UK to Zeebrugge & Amsterdam – 5 nights Portsmouth, Amsterdam (overnight), Bruges, At Sea, Portsmouth 3 Sep 2024 • 14 Sep 2024

English Sights & European Delights – 6 nights Portsmouth, At Sea, La Coruna, Bilbao, Le Verdon (Bordeaux), At Sea, Portsmouth 8 Sep 2024 • 23 Sep 2024

The Portsmouth Long Sailings:

UK to Spain & Morocco – 12 nights Portsmouth, At Sea, At Sea, La Coruna, Lisbon (overnight), At Sea, Casablanca, At Sea, Malaga, At Sea, Mahon, Barcelona 29 Sep 2024

Stay tuned for fares!

Since Jess C went onboard in August 2021 on a Long Weekender , we’ve sent most of the team away (or chosen VV for our own cruise holiday!), to experience what the hype around this cruise line really is!

Phil & Paula can personally recommend a Virgin Voyages holiday to you, after experiencing a Caribbean voyage! And Jess N just came back from her first week away in the Med… she’s a fan too!

These sailings will be your most convenient way to experience the Virgin Voyages casually luxe and exclusively adult lifestyle. Think about it… No flights needed. No airport queues. Just rock up at the cruise terminal at Portsmouth, park your car, and get onboard. Your holiday starts straight away.

And, with food – that would rival the top restaurants on land- from 20+ eateries; soft drinks; group workouts; basic wi-fi and more included in your fare, it’s the luxury break you’ve been looking for.

These mini cruises are Red Hot! So don’t miss out and book early to secure the best rooms!

Call our cruise experts on 02380 658 386 for more information and get ready to book.

My First Virgin Voyages Holiday & I Loved It!

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