saga cruise uk

• CruiseMapper
• Cruise Lines

Saga Cruises

History, review, itineraries, ships, deck plans, news.

•   Fleet
•   Review
•   Itinerary
•   News

Saga Cruises fleet

Spirit of adventure, spirit of discovery, spirit of the moselle, spirit of the danube, spirit of the rhine, spirit of the douro, ms filia rheni ii, ms rex rheni, review of saga cruises.

Saga Cruises (Saga Shipping Ltd, saga.co.uk/cruises) is a British company, luxury cruise brand and division of Saga Group. The company started passenger shipping operations under the travel brand name "Saga Cruises" in 1997, with the purchase of Saga Rose (former NCL ship MS Sagafjord), Saga Rose was the flagship until 2004 when Saga Ruby was bought from Cunard Line (previously named MS Caronia). Saga Travel's CEO is Nick Stace.

The shipowner Saga Group/Saga plc (1951-founded, headquartered in Folkestone, Kent England, UK) is a London Stock Exchange-listed company specializing in travel and insurance. Currently, Saga plc is managed by Mike Hazell (CEO) who in 2024 succeeded Euan Sutherland (2020-23).

Company history and changes

While on its final cruise in the Caribbean, Saga Ruby had one of its generators fail disabling the air-conditioning plant. Then it was decided to cancel the sailing and head for a Western Mediterranean itinerary. Saga Ruby returned to Southampton on Jan. 9, 2014 due to bad weather. While in Funchal Madeira, the ship met up with Saga Sapphire for New Year's Eve fireworks display. Saga Ruby then departed for Gibraltar out of Southampton for the last time on January 10th and was handed over to her new owners on Jan 13, 2014.

In 2005, Saga Cruises introduced the "Spirit of Adventure Cruises" brand. In March 2006, MV Spirit of Adventure (former Orange Melody) entered into service. In 2013, Saga sold the brand.

For summer 2003, Saga Holidays chartered  Minerva  (1989-built) which sailed as "Saga Pearl". Saga Rose was retired in 2009 after a final 37-night Mediterranean voyage. Subsequently, the ship was laid up in  Gibraltar  and scrapped  in China in 2010. In 2014 was acquired Saga Ruby (former NCL ship MS Vistafjord), which last voyage was in January 2014.

Until 2020, Saga Holidays operated two ships under charter - Saga Sapphire and Saga Pearl 2 . The former fleetmate Saga Ruby was built and launched under the name "MS Vistafjord" for NCL/Norwegian America Line. In 1983, the vessel was sold to Cunard, and in 1999 renamed "MS Caronia". In 2004, Cunard sold it to Saga. It was operated as "Saga Ruby" until 2014 when was sold to a Chinese company, renamed "Oasia", operated as a hotel ship until 2017, then scrapped at Alang India .

Earlier in 2009, Saga UK acquired Astoria (Saga Pearl 2). Followed a GBP 14 million drydock refurbishment of the 1981-built vessel. The upgrades included new Veranda Restaurant; new balcony cabins; new Library Lounge; a redesigned Spa, and renovations to both swimming pools. The ship has 126 twin-bed cabins, 25 twin or king-bed cabins, 42 double-bed cabins. Of all staterooms, 20 have balconies and 9 have French balconies. Saga Pearl 2 has 60 single cabins (almost 1/4 of all staterooms). Among Saga's signature trademarks are the shipboard Afternoon Tea service and ballroom dancing. Saga ships departure from UK ports ( Southampton and Dover) on cruises to the Canaries, Baltic, and the Mediterranean. Itineraries range between 7- and 24-days in length.

Saga Sapphire and Saga Pearl 2 were both withdrawn from service/left the fleet after two new ships ( Spirit of Discovery /2019 and Spirit of Adventure /2020) were delivered. In August 2019 was announced that Saga Sapphire will be acquired by ANEX Tours (Turkey's largest travel agency/tour operator), starting operations for ANEX in mid-2020. However, due to the global health crisis in 2020, the 39-year-old liner was officially sold to ANEX Tours in July 2020. Renamed to "Blue Sapphire", it started operations for ANEX in 2021, offering roundtrips from Antalya Turkey to Eastern Mediterranean and Black Sea ports.

• In November 2019, after acquiring Thomas Cook Group's subsidiaries in Germany (Oger Tours, Bucher Reisen and Neckermann) and Russia (Intourist, 1929-founded USSR-Russia travel brand privatized in the 1990s by Vladimir Yevtushenkov), ANEX Tours became the world's second-largest tour operator - after TUI Group. The company's Chairman (Neset Kockar) commented that expects the annual passenger volume to increase to 8 million and the turnover to reach ~EUR 10 billion (~USD 11 B).
• Thomas Cook Group plc (2007-founded / 2019- defunct ) was a British travel group formed by the merger of Thomas Cook AG (British-German, 2001-founded) and MyTravel Group plc (British, 1972-founded). Neset Kockar (ANEX Tours) was the second-largest shareholder in Thomas Cook Group plc - after Fosun International China.

In July 2022, SAGA UK marked the anniversaries of Spirit of Adventure (July 6th) and Spirit of Discovery (July 10th), announcing interesting facts about the boats and their guests. In three full years, Spirit of Discovery navigated ~145,000 NM/nautical miles, completed 48 voyages, visited 273 different destinations, and served 2825 shore excursions. In one year, Spirit of Adventure navigated ~80,000 NM, completed 23 voyages, visited 144 destinations, and served 1617 shore excursions. Both vessels served ~36,9M meals, ~5,7M eggs, ~9,2 tons of lobster, ~13,5 tons of Dover sole, ~190 tons of smoked salmon, ~668,000 bottles of wine. ~12,000 customers used the onboard spas for massages.

In January 2024, Saga Group announced that it is exploring the option of a "partnership arrangement" for its ocean cruise business (including the potential sale of a stake in the division or selling the ships Spirit of Adventure and Spirit of Discovery) to unlock capital. In the period August 1, 2023, through January 29, 2024, Saga Group reported significant revenue growth (10-15%) over the same period in 2022-23, as well as ~30# increase (year-on-year) in revenue from its OCEAN division.

In 2017, Saga UK ordered two new cruise ships with capacity under 1000 passengers, each vessel with a total of 540 cabins and suites. The shipbuilder is Meyer Werft ( Papenburg Germany ). Unlike all previous Saga ships, these two are fully-owned by the company.

The vessels were scheduled for deliveries in 2019 July ( Spirit of Discovery ) and 2020 August ( Spirit of Adventure ). This is a new series of polar-class expedition ships with ice-strengthened hulls. Each costs USD 346 million (GBP 280M / EUR 310M) and has a total of 540 staterooms (cabins and suites), of 100 are single cabins (designed for solo travelers, no single supplement required), which is approx 20% of all cabins. The other staterooms are in categories Standard Balcony, Deluxe Balcony, Mid-Ship Suite and larger suites.

Among the signature venues onboard are the Britannia Lounge (2-level Atrium bar lounge), The Verandah (specialty restaurant) and an outdoor (alfresco dining) restaurant. Each vessel has two swimming pools (indoor and outdoor).

At the end of March 2017 was announced the name selected for the first ship - "Spirit of Discovery" (scheduled delivery June 2019). The second vessel was ordered in September 2017 - "Spirit of Adventure" (scheduled delivery August 2020).

In mid-September 2018 was announced that starting January 2020, Saga's new ships deals will be all-inclusive. Fares include unlimited (shipboard served) house spirits, beers, wines (by the glass) and soft drinks. Company's packages also include:

• UK travel package (to/from departure port), Shuttle bus transfer (to the nearest downtown from the port)
• Onboard gratuities, Porterage
• Onboard Welcome cocktail party
• All onboard meals, afternoon tea, live entertainment
• Unlimited tea and coffee (selected ship venues)
• 24-hour room service
• premium service (2 staff members for 3 passengers)

In early-March 2019, Saga announced that the company's both newbuilds (the sisterships Adventure and Discovery) are all-inclusive. This means that Saga cruise fares are inclusive of specialty restaurant dining, drinks (wine, beer, house spirits, soft drinks), 24-hour room service, Wi-Fi, gratuities, transfer (chauffeur service to/from homeport for cruise passengers based within 250 ml / 402 km distance). Shore excursions remain optional and at additional cost. The cruise company offers complimentary shuttle bus services in all ports where the town/city is over 0,5 km from the ship.

In early-November 2019 was announced the shipbuilding order for Spirit of the Rhine (2021-inaugurated, 192-passenger riverboat). In early-February 2021 started the construction of a second newbuild riverboat - Spirit of the Danube (2022-inaugurated, sistership). Since 2024 is also chartered Spirit of the Douro (2017-built, owned by Mystic Invest via Douro Azul ).

In late-March 2022, Saga announced a 4-ship expansion project for its riverboat fleet, ordering 4x ships (Spirit of the Moselle, Spirit of the Main, Spirit of the Elbe, Spirit of the Rhone), with the first entering service in 2023 and the rest following one vessel per year.

Saga Holidays ocean- and river cruising experience

Saga Cruises offers both Ocean and River cruise travel vacations. All the company's vessels are chartered. The cruising experience is classic, elegant and comfortable. Passengers are able to choose from contemporary amenities such as modern spas, Internet cafes, alternative dining in intimate restaurants. Do not expect shopping centers, casino or lustrous shows - Saga passengers like the relaxed and good-mannered social life. Traditional English tea is served each afternoon; ballroom dancing is presented nightly.

Saga passengers are more adventurous than it might be imagined. They seek a high level of comfort and service while they are careful not to squander pensions on gambling (the reason why there are no casinos on Saga's ships). They also demand fine food, that is well-prepared, from varied menus. Some of the mainstream cruise lines may get away with fortnightly or weekly menu cycles. That wouldn't be welcomed by Saga Cruises customers who are free to stay onboard for back-to-back cruises.

When you are not out or it is one of those lazy days at sea onboard Saga ships, you will be surprised by the great number of onboard activities. You will have the opportunity to join painting or computer classes, keep fit with Pilates and yoga, enjoy swimming, attend a talk from guest speakers. Relax with new and old friends, or look for some quiet time in ships' cozy areas. Other diversions include the beauty salon and spa - go for a pampering treatment or a massage or try the gym - go for a refreshing yoga course. A well-stocked library with thousands of books is also provided. Another choice is using one of the computers and keep in touch with family and friends.

In the evening onboard Saga ships, while heading to the next destination before dining, enjoy an aperitif in onboard bars, or work up with pre-dinner dance classes. At formal nights (one for a week-long cruise, two for a 14-night cruise) enjoy the feeling of occasion. Later take your seat for a show, go dancing, watch a film or socialize with friends - you may even enjoy a nightcap accompanied with live music in the inviting lounges and bars.

On select cruise itineraries, you will be entertained by celebrities. But the best part of all is that with no children on board, kids' games arcades or clubs taking up space, everything aboard is designed for your pleasure.

No matter which Saga ship you choose (ocean or river), each mealtime is going to be an exciting dining experience. Good breakfast is essential when you have a day full of activities - plenty of choices await for you for the day ahead. Choose from a waiter-served meal, the buffet onboard Saga Ruby, or eat out on deck. Opt for full English breakfast brought to the cabin. There are plenty of things to tempt you at lunchtime: choose from the buffet or enjoy a cooked-to-order lunch in the main restaurant.

Afternoon Tea is a daily cruising tradition with tempting cakes, pastries, finger sandwiches. Dinner - the day's highlight - is always waiter-served, one-sitting, sometimes with six courses. A talented team led by the Executive Chef prepares the meals using the finest and freshest/locally sourced ingredients.

Delicious wines from well-stocked "cellars" are recommended from sommeliers who are also on hand. Main courses, including game, fish, meat, vegetarian dishes, are followed with desserts from a selection of souffles, tarts, pavlovas, petits fours. The best of all is that you will never feel rushed to end your meals or have to wait for guests, as flexible arrangements make sure you dine at any time between 7-9 pm.

Saga Cruises customers

The Saga cruise line targets 50-and-older customers and is kids-free. The company sells directly to the public, not counting on travel agents. Allowing traveling companions who are 40+ years old is beneficial to couples who want to cruise together with grown-up families and in-laws, and also to those who need assistance and personal care. Saga's customers are elderly and almost exclusively British, with occasional passengers from Australia, Canada, New Zealand, rarely Japan.

Saga UK provides free chauffeur service (door-to-door) for passengers who live within 75 mi (120 km) of cruise departure ports, and also shared chauffeur for up to 250 mi (400 km) homeport distances. Alternatives include coach and rail transportation, or domestic flights (from the UK) which can be fare-included. Saga also offers free parking to all its cruise passengers.

Saga Cruises enjoys a high repeat booking rate (about 75%).

To attract first-timers, since 2016 Saga offers "Love it First Time". By this initiative, a full refund is guaranteed to anyone who doesn't enjoy the company's cruising vacation product. SAGA UK guarantees that if passengers find that the experience is not for them, they can leave the ship at the next available call port. The "Love it First Time" offer applies only to new bookings and first-time customers.

Saga Holidays fly-cruise deals

For the end of 2017 (November and December), Saga Cruises offered 3 fly-cruises. The 8-, 11- and 12-night itineraries were available for booking with all-inclusive prices starting from around GBP 114 per person. Saga's "flight and cruise" deals are inclusive of airport and seaport transfers, all onboard meals, alcohol (wine by the glass / at lunch and dinner, house-brand spirits, cocktails, draught beers, lager), also soft drinks, afternoon tea, free Wi-Fi and, all onboard gratuities.

Saga Sapphire ship's 8-night "Canary Island Medley" cruise (prices from GBP 897) departed from Southampton on December 8, 2017.

The Saga Pearl 2 's 11-night "Jewels of the Canary Islands" cruise (prices from GBP 1516) departed from Southampton on November 20, 2017.

The Saga Pearl II ship's 12-night "Contrasts of the Canary Islands and Cape Verde" cruise (prices from GBP 1980) departed from Southampton on November 1, 2017.

The Nov 1st voyage included a flight from the UK to Funchal (Madeira), boarding there Saga Pearl 2, and the home flight from Lisbon back to the UK.

(Coronavirus crisis) passenger shipping pause 2020-2021

Due to the COVID pandemic, Saga Ocean Cruises suspended its fleet's passenger shipping operations by cancelling all voyages with pre-scheduled departures in the period March 15, 2020, through early-July 2021.

Operations resumed in 2021 with Spirit of Discovery (June 27) and Spirit of Adventure (July 26/ Maiden Voyage ). Saga UK requires all passengers to have had both doses of the COVID vaccine before boarding the ships.

All affected bookings received full monetary refund (100% of the fare paid) or 125% refund in FCC (future cruise credit) with rebooking made within 24 months.

Saga UK's "Cruise Price Promise" allows penalty-free cancellation up to 14 days prior departure. All shipboard employees (fleetwide) remained on the docked vessels. Both SAGA ships' berthing location (during the no-sail period) is London-Tilbury Port .

Itinerary of Saga Cruises

(fka "Saga Holidays") SAGA UK's cruise Itineraries and shore excursions are designed mainly for adults. The company has 60+ years of holiday travel experience in Europe. The company used to charter two older boats, but since 2021 operates a small (SAGA Group-owned) fleet of two newbuilds - Spirit of Adventure and Spirit of Discovery .

Saga UK also operates (under time-charter) the following riverboats: Filia Rheni 2 , Amadeus Royal , Amadeus Symphony , Johannes Brahms , Rex Rheni , Dutch Melody (fka River Melody, since 2020) .

Saga Group also owns a fleet of six newbuild riverboats /sisterships - Spirit of the Rhine (2021), Spirit of the Danube (2022), Spirit of the Moselle (2023), Spirit of the Main (2024), Spirit of the Elbe (2025), Spirit of the Rhone (2026).

Since 2024, Saga also charters Spirit of the Douro (Douro Serenity/2017-built) for Douro River voyages in Portugal and Spain.

SAGA's free shuttle bus service is available if you want to explore independently - the shuttle will take you to the nearest city center or town. The service is offered if the distance between Saga ship and the city is over 500 yards. At ports of call, you will have a choice of exciting optional excursions. Saga representatives accompany cruisers on the coach. Saga Cruises company is sending a detailed booklet a few weeks before the cruise which gives the chance for pre-booking. If you prefer so, you can also visit the Tours and Travel Office onboard and Saga staff will book the preferred tours for you, if available.

The organized tours are a great way to see the sights. Saga excursions include transport, entrance fees, services of English-speaking guides. Lunch and refreshments are sometimes also included, so you will enjoy without worrying about costs. All excursions are optional, an additional cost will be added to your account. They are subject to change and availability. Among the highlights detailed on Saga cruises, are some that may be seen only by exploring independently or on optional excursions.

Douro River cruise itineraries

Starting in 2024, Saga offers two itineraries scheduled for Spirit of the Douro - "Lisbon & the Heart of the Douro" and "Douro Explorer".

Saga Douro River cruise fares are inclusive of travel insurance, onboard beverages (between 11 am-11 pm/non-branded alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks), Cruise Director services, return flights and land transfers, Captain’s events (dinner and cocktail reception), onboard Wi-Fi and gratuities, land tours/excursions (Lamego, Figueira Castelo de Rodrigo, Salamanca sightseeing, a quinta dinner, a wine estate tour, Casa de Mateus Palace, Oporto City tour with a wine cellar visit).

The company provides interactive maps and audio headsets for independent shore exploration.

"Lisbon and the Heart of the Douro" itinerary

"Lisbon and the Heart of the Douro" is a 10-night/11-day cruisetour itinerary starting in Lisbon. These voyages are priced from GBP 2520 pp (EUR 2945/USD 3180) and are inclusive of a flight from the UK to Portugal (Lisbon), a 3-day/2-night hotel stay in Lisbon and a domestic flight from Lisbon to Oporto.

• (Day 1) flight UK to Lisbon
• (Days 2-3) Lisbon hotel
• (Day 4) flight Lisbon-Oporto, boarding the Spirit of the Douro ship (overnight port stay)
• (Day 5) cruising from Oporto to Regua and Pinhao
• (Day 6) cruising from Pinhao to Vega de Terron/Salamanca (Spain)
• (Day 7) cruising from Vega de Terron to Barca d'Alva
• (Day 8) cruising from Barca d'Alva to Cais de Espinho and Pinhao
• (Day 9) cruising from Pinhao to Regua and Bitetos
• (Day 10) cruising from Bitetos to Entre-os-Rios and Oporto
• (Day 11) Oporto (debarkation/return flight to the UK)

"Douro Explorer" itinerary

"Douro Explorer" is a 7-night/8-day cruise itinerary starting in Oporto. These voyages are priced from GBP 2180 pp (EUR 2550/USD 2750) and are inclusive of a flight from the UK to Portugal (Oporto).

• (Day 1) flight UK to Oporto, boarding the Spirit of the Douro ship (overnight port stay)
• (Day 2) cruising from Oporto to Regua and Pinhao
• (Day 3) cruising from Pinhao to Vega de Terron/Salamanca
• (Day 4) cruising from Vega de Terron to Barca d'Alva
• (Day 5) cruising from Barca d'Alva to Cais de Espinho and Pinhao
• (Day 6) cruising from Pinhao to Regua and Bitetos
• (Day 7) cruising from Bitetos to Oporto (overnight)
• (Day 8) Oporto (debarkation/return flight to the UK)

"Discovering St James' Way" itinerary

A discovery of ancient pilgrims' route is the highlight of one of Saga's holidays - it runs from southern France over the Pyrenees, ending in Santiago de Compostela. Discover St James (Camino de Santiago) way with Saga. Along the Way, visit ancient cities and villages; do not do the hard work, walking in pilgrims' footsteps. Look out for highlights as Gaudi's fairytale Episcopal Palace; stay in Pamplona - evoked by Hemingway in The Sun Also Rises; taste wine in La Rioja's bodega; see the cathedral cities of Logrono, Burgos, Leon. For 12 nights, prices start at GBP 899. Among the many inclusions are additional cancellation cover and travel insurance, all breakfasts, ten dinners. You will be accompanied by an experienced Saga manager throughout.

Naples to Apulia itinerary

Saga Cruises offer is colors of the South 90-night tour. You will travel from Naples to olive groves of Puglia; stay on Ischia island with subtropical foliage. Discover the beautiful scenery of towns along the way; gain a wonderful insight into the Italian way of life. You will stay in four throughout the tour - five-star hotels on a half-board basis. Enjoy the glorious views of the bay while in Naples; visit Unesco World Heritage; listed dwellings in the Apulia region; enjoy naturally heated spa thermal waters at Ischia hotel. As on many Saga holidays, prices start at GBP 949 and single staterooms - available on selected dates - no extra cost! Join Saga Cruises' team and enjoy tours of Romania, Portugal, the Baltic; go shopping in Greece; join a tour in Croatia; discover Italian Lakes. Additional cancellation cover and travel insurance are one of the money-saving elements that are included in the Saga holidays.

Saga's tours in the USA, Mozambique, and Japan

Let your year to embark on one of the most memorable journeys with Saga Cruises experts. The chances Saga Cruises has the right trip you have been looking for, are quite big. Wherever you want to go into the world and however you want to travel, there's a good chance that Saga Cruises will help. Unlock Japan's mysteries. Stay in Mozambique's authentic bush camps, dare to look over the edge of South Rim in Grand Canyon. Saga Holidays seeks for new destinations and new experiences for the over 50s audience - such are these exciting new tours.

Trans-frontier Trail - Mozambique to Kruger

This 12-night tour will make you discover Greater Limpopo Trans-frontier Park and the rich Portuguese. The three national parks in South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique are protected and form a territory of 36,000 square miles. Mozambique's most beautiful beaches on the Indian Ocean are the place you could swim off, stay in comfortable bush camps and venture bush walks and safaris- for unrivalled opportunities for spotting wildlife. The size of the group is limited to twenty people. Of course, you will be fed well too - seven lunches, all breakfasts, and dinners are price included.

South West Iconic Parks of America

Wide-open spaces, fresh air and relax. Each of the national parks is more spectacular than the last one; the rock formations are impossibly beautiful and multi-colored. Experience Mother Road and what was left of Las Vegas Route 66 - The Strip is the one place to stay if you travel through Nevada. The best way to experience the Grand Canyon is to stay in the park, close to South Rim. Since you will be in the Wild West, probably you will wish to experience the badlands of Painted Desert; see the Sedona formations of red rocks; enjoy scenic cruising along Antelope Canyon; see the limestone spires in Monument Valley.

Saga Mystery Cruise 2018

Captain Horne's Mystery Cruise surprises up to 720 passengers every day for 3 weeks. The intriguing cruise aboard Saga Sapphire left Southampton UK in November 2018 with Captain Stuart Horne promising to keep "everyone guessing as long as possible." He added he would only tell his engineers and navigation team as much as they need to know for fuel management and route planning.

No guarantee where the captain sails but there are all-inclusive drinks and tours as well as entertainment from Syd Lawrence Orchestra on 6 nights. VIP Chauffeur service is guaranteed to and from the port, all included in the fare, along with travel insurance. Another surprise is the array of mystery celebrities/VIP guests on Saga Sapphire.

Ports of call are announced once the ship is berthed, but there is a shore trip included in every port.

The adventure is the last mystery cruise aboard Saga Sapphire and features a choice of table wines at lunch and dinner, as well as house-branded spirits, soft drinks, draught beer, and lager. Afternoon tea, unlimited tea, and coffee in selected venues, welcome cocktail party, free wifi, onboard gratuities, and 24-hour room service are also included.

Saga Sapphire departed Southampton on November 27, 2018. Prices for the 21-night cruise started from GBP 3090 pp (based on double occupancy / 2 people sharing a Twin Cabin).

Itineraries 2021 (cancelled)

Saga UK planned 7 new itineraries for early-2021 (all were eventually cancelled) including an 83-night South America itinerary visiting the Amazon Delta, Punta Arenas , Cape Horn , Rio de Janeiro , Buenos Aires , Montevideo on MS Spirit of Discovery.

This world cruise was the ship's longest and planned to depart from Southampton on January 6, 2021. Prices included chauffeur service to the homeport, balcony cabin, all-inclusive meals and drinks, daily afternoon tea, free wifi, onboard gratuities.

The clockwise South America circumnavigation itinerary had to start with a Transatlantic crossing (UK to Brazil), followed by coastal cruising through the Amazon Delta, Patagonia, Panama Canal , Ecuador, Colombia. From Callao Peru were offered optional tours to Machu Picchu and Galapagos Islands . Overnights were scheduled in Rio de Janeiro , Manaus , Stanley (Falklands) .

Spirit of Adventure had planned in Europe 6 itineraries (January through March 2021) including

• 14-night "Constellations of the Canaries"
• 16-night "A Norwegian Aurora" (Northern Lights cruise) with included Aurora Borealis shore excursion, Rauma Railway through Troll Wall, overnight in Sorrisniva Igloo hotel)
• 15-night "Taste of the Mediterranean" visits Barcelona , Cartagena , and Valencia and includes flamenco dancing, horse show, paella and tapas-making, chocolate and wine tastings.
• 8-night "Scandinavian Rhythms" visits Copenhagen , Frederikshavn , Gothenburg , Odderoya, Kristiansand .

The wellness-themed 16-night "Exotic Morocco and the Canary Islands" itinerary featured outdoor yoga classes, guided hikes, tours in Lisbon and Funchal, Madeira Island .

For Spirit of Discovery was planned an 83-night "South America: A Grand Voyage" (from GBP 17,324 pp) departing from Southampton on January 6, 2021. For Spirit of Adventure were planned the following voyages:

• 14-night Constellations of the Canaries, from GBP 2449 pp, departs January 5, 2021.
• 16-night Exotic Morocco and the Canaries, from GBP 3024 pp, departs January 19, 2021.
• 15-night The Beautiful Canaries, from GBP 2892 pp, departs February 4, 2021.
• 16-night A Norwegian Aurora, from GBP 3117 pp, departs February 19, 2021.
• 15-night A Taste of the Mediterranean, from GBP 2799 pp, departs March 7, 2021.
• 8-night Scandinavian Rhythms, from GBP 1475 pp, departs March 22, 2021.

Summer "Around Britain" 2023 itineraries

In October 2022, Saga added a further 4 round-Britain voyages into its summer 2023 schedule, all with up to 35% off, and timed to coincide with events like the Tall Ships Race and the Rolex Fastnet Yacht Race.

Spirit of Discovery ship departs from London-Tilbury on July 16, 2023, sailing along Britain's south coast, visiting Scilly Isles, Fowey, Falmouth, and Portsmouth, and concluding in Dover. The 8-night itinerary also visits Tresco (Abbey Gardens) and also has a price-included tour of Portland. Guests will have the chance to see the start of the Rolex Fastnet Yacht Race. Prices start from GBP 1819 per person with double occupancy.

On July 24, 2023, Spirit of Discovery starts a 6-night voyage to the Shetland Islands (Dover roundtrip), visiting Invergordon and Scrabster . The itinerary also includes Lerwick as it hosts the Tall Ships race before returning to Dover. Included tours are a visit to John O'Groats and a scenic drive along the Scottish Highlands. Prices start from GBP 1367 per person.

Spirit of Adventure ship departs Dover on August 28, 2023, for a 6-night roundtrip along the Cornish coastline. The itinerary visits Scilly Isles, Fowey, Falmouth, and Portland , with 2 included excursions - a scenic drive along the Dorset coast and a visit to Tresco's Abbey Gardens. Prices start from GBP 1378 per person.

On September 3, 2023, Spirit of Adventure starts a full Great Britain circumnavigation voyage. The 8-night roundtrip from Dover visits Ullapool (fishing town at Loch Broom, Scotland), Isle of Mull , Isle of Staffa 's Fingal’s Cave and volcanic rock formations, and features scenic cruising along the English Channel's Jurassic Coast (UNESCO World Heritage Site). Prices start from GBP 1755 per person.

Saga Cruises related cruise news

SAGA Cruises to introduce new riverboat (Spirit of the Moselle) in 2025

SAGA Cruises is set to enhance its river cruise offerings with the introduction of a newbuild boat in July 2025 - Spirit of the Moselle...

Saga Group (UK) might sell its ocean cruise division

Saga Group UK has confirmed that it is exploring forming a "partnership arrangement" for its ocean cruise division. The travel and insurance group...

100 passengers on SAGA's Spirit of Discovery injured during distressing incident in the Bay of...

SAGA's vessel, Spirit of Discovery, encountered difficulties amid formidable maritime conditions characterized by "gale force winds and nine-meter...

SAGA's Spirit of Adventure ship forced to divert to Cornwall due to Storm Ciaran

Last week, adverse weather conditions associated with Storm Ciaran forced the SAGA UK's ship Spirit of Adventure to alter course and dock in Falmouth...

Portsmouth UK boasts new sustainable cruise terminal

After an 18-month construction period, Portsmouth International Port proudly accommodates visitors from the ship Spirit of Discovery by Saga Cruises...

Saga UK's ship Spirit of Discovery hosts special Coronation celebrations

Saga Cruises announced it was incredibly proud that Camilla, Queen Consort was the Godmother of its ocean ship, Spirit of Discovery and in honor of...

Guernsey UK to receive 95 cruise ship calls this season bringing 147,260 passengers to the island

Guernsey Island (St Peter Port, Channel Islands UK) is set to welcome 95 cruise ship calls during the current season, which is an increase compared...

Saga Cruises launches 2024 river itineraries with a new ship, Spirit of the Douro

Saga River Cruises has released their 2024 itineraries with up to 25% off for early bookers. The company has also experienced a 37% increase in pre...

5 cruise ships to visit Port Dover (England UK) for the first time in 2023

With new waterfront facilities, such as a stunning marina expected to open soon, plans for future expansion of the terminals, and a sustainable...

Fred Olsen Balmoral ship's 78-day South America and Antarctica cruise starts Portsmouth UK's 2023...

2023 will see Portsmouth Port UK (England) host more maiden calls/welcome back cruise companies, as it continues to strengthen its place as the first...

•   show more news

• Competitions
• Destinations
• Find a Cruise
• News and Interviews
• Travel Insurance
• Port Guides
• GDPR and Privacy Notice

13 charming UK destinations you can visit on a cruise

Cruises from UK soil not only make travelling a heck of a lot easier but they also visit a wealth of British and Irish gems, some of which you may never have visited.

In association with:

Cruise from UK ports and you’re saved the stress of flying abroad, plus you get to discover more of your own country. Trust us, there are beaches here to rival the Mediterranean, history to match the Aegean and landscapes to equal the Baltics – and yes, you can still enjoy glorious sunshine (provided the weather plays ball).

If that wasn’t enough to persuade you that a cruise is a good way to see the British Isles, over-50s, luxury line Saga Cruises currently has fabulous savings – up to 30 percent off! – across two of its UK cruises, complete with plenty of intriguing ports of call (some famous, some you’ll be amazed aren’t more famous), included excursions and all-inclusive food and drink !

To book these no fly cruises around the UK and get up to an additional £700pp off simply call Saga Cruises to book the discount and quote “Sailawaze” when you call the contact centre on 0808 304 8538.

Saga UK cruises

Great british explorer.

• Up to 30 percent off plus up to an additional £400pp off when you phone
• 3 included excursions

Duration: 10 nights Where: Dover, UK | St Peter Port, Guernsey | Falmouth | Isles of Scilly | Belfast, Northern Ireland | Liverpool | Holyhead, Wales | Fishguard | Dover, UK Ship: Spirit of Adventure Price: From £2,784 pp

West Coast Explorer: from Orkney to Ireland

• Up to 25 percent off plus up to an additional £700pp off when you phone
• 4 included panoramic excursions plus ORCA wildlife experts onboard

Duration: 14 nights When: Dover, UK | Kirkwall, Orkney Islands | Ullapool, Scotland | Belfast, Northern Ireland | Holy Loch, Scotland | Greencastle, Ireland | Killybegs | Bantry Bay | Cobh (Cork) | Falmouth, UK Ship: Spirit of Adventure Price: From £3,775 pp

Where do cruises from UK go?

We’ve rounded up 13 of the loveliest destinations you can enjoy on Saga Cruises from the UK in 2024.

Ireland and Northern Ireland

Cruise from the UK and be inspired by the world-famous geological wonder, the Giants Causeway [below, right], with its awe-inspiring hexagonal basalt columns, on an excursion from Belfast, or dive into maritime history at the Titanic Experience (no Kate and Leo included). If going it alone is more your thing, explore the city independently with the convenience of Saga’s complimentary shuttle bus; wander through the welcoming streets and pause at traditional pubs for a refreshing pint of Guinness. After all, it’s a lovely day for a Guinness.

Greencastle

From the UK cruise port of Greencastle take a short drive to the historic city of Londonderry where guests can opt for a Saga Cruises guided tour to absorb the city’s history or go solo on independent exploration. Walk along the well-preserved 17th-century city walls for good views and uncover the city’s troubled past at the Museum of Free Derry and the Tower Museum. The Guildhall, Peace Bridge and Bogside murals are other Greencastle highlights.

If you think something fishy is going on in Killybegs, that’s because it’s Ireland’s largest fishing port. It also serves as the gateway to County Donegal, so Saga guests on cruises around the UK can explore the scenic beauty of the region and admire the enduring traditions of rural Ireland. The majestic Slieve League Cliffs are among the highest sea cliffs in Europe (and the perfect chance to stretch sea legs) while Donegal Town is known for its medieval castle. For beaches (see, we told you) there’s Dunfanaghy and Rossnowlagh.

Make like a Hobbit and follow the famed Ring of Kerry – one of Ireland’s most renowned scenic driving routes – during your no fly UK cruise stop at Bantry Bay, or embark on a small group boat trip to Whiddy Island where you can feast on locally caught mussels. Bantry itself is home to a colourful waterfront lined with shops, cafes and pubs, while historic Bantry House, a stately mansion, overlooks the bay.

Cobh, with its candy-hued harbour and impressive St Colman’s Cathedral is a delightful destination on cruises around the UK and guests have the freedom to explore Cobh independently. Alternatively, passengers can opt for a guided tour of the nearby city of Cork [below, left]. Here highlights include St. Fin Barre’s Cathedral, a Gothic Revival masterpiece; Cork City Gaol, a former prison turned museum; and Shandon Bell Tower. There’s even a Butter Museum if you want to… spread out the fun.

Ullapool is a pretty fishing town on the shores of scenic Loch Broom – one of the least spoilt natural environments in the country. On your Saga cruise from UK turf it’s a brief tender ride ashore to explore the Northern Highlands from here and walking routes are plentiful thanks to rocky coasts, mountains and long inland footpaths. Keep an eye out for seals, otters and seabirds by the loch; fishing is excellent, too.

Over in Kirkwall, UK cruise passengers can discover such ancient sites as the Stone Age Skara Brae – one of Europe’s best-preserved Neolithic settlements – and the magnificent red sandstone St. Magnus Cathedral [below, left]. The ruins of the nearby Bishop’s and Earl’s Palaces are also worth a look. Another option is to take a ferry to the island of Hoy to delve into First and Second World War history and spot The Old Man of Hoy – the towering sandstone sea stack is one of the most famous landmarks in Orkney.

Great British Explorer is the only Saga cruise in 2024 that visits Wales so this is a particularly exciting port of call. In the small town of Fishguard visitors can learn about the failed French “last invasion” of the 18th century (so-called because it was the most recent attempt to invade the British mainland by a foreign military force). Nearby Pembrokeshire gems include Tenby [above, right] (relax on the golden sands of South Beach and Castle Beach, and stroll around the harbour studded with colourful Georgian houses) and St Davids. The latter is the smallest city in the UK and home to the majestic St Davids Cathedral.

From Holyhead Saga cruise excursions lead into the North Wales’ outdoor adventure capital of Snowdonia National Park [below, left]. Here guests can ride the Ffestiniog Heritage Railway, a narrow-gauge heritage railway dating back to the early 19th century, complete with vintage carriages and steam engines. Alternatively head to South Stack and visit the lighthouse perched on the cliffs (look out for puffins, guillemots and razorbills), enjoy coastal walks or take a short hike to the summit of Holyhead Mountain. Let’s leave trekking 1,085m-high Mount Snowdon for another time, shall we?

Another perk of the Great British Explorer cruise around the UK is that it calls into Falmouth [above, right] during Falmouth Week on August 16, 2024. Visitors can expect live music, street performances and sailing races during the maritime festival. Aye, aye sailor! Elsewhere, check out the historic Pendennis Castle, visit the National Maritime Museum and tuck into fresh local seafood.

Liverpool, another city steeped in maritime history, is extremely accessible for Saga UK cruise passengers. Moments away from the port is the restored Royal Albert Dock area, home to the Maritime Museum, Tate Gallery and Beatles Story Museum. Don’t miss the impressive architecture of the Liver Building and maybe pop by the Cavern Club, The Beatles’ regular gig venue during the early 1960s, albeit now rebuilt. Air guitar sessions optional.

St Peter Port, Guernsey

St Peter Port, Guernsey is a recent addition to Saga’s Great British Explorer itinerary. Explore the town’s historic sites, including Castle Cornet and Hauteville House, the former residence of Victor Hugo. Take a break in waterfront cafes, shop in boutiques along the cobbled streets and enjoy the picturesque views of the English Channel. Fun fact, Guernsey also has excellent butter…

Scilly Isles

August is a super time to enjoy the Scilly Isles on a cruise from the UK. Saga voyages include boat transfers to Tresco Abbey Gardens (with entrance included) where holidaymakers can explore the world-renowned botanical garden independently. Established in the 19th century, the gardens are set within the ruins of a Benedictine Abbey and are known for their collection of exotic plants. Tresco additionally offers beautiful coastal walks and local art galleries, while kayaking, paddleboarding and sailing in the crystal clear waters are popular pursuits.

Who needs the Greek Islands?

Related Cruises

• Departs from Dover
• Saga Cruises
• Spirit of Adventure
• Departure date: 09th May 2024

Scilly Isles and Western Britain

• Departs from Portsmouth
• Spirit of Discovery
• Departure date: 28th May 2024

Scandinavian Gems: May

• Departure date: 30th May 2024

Guernsey Isles of Scilly and the Cornish Coast: June

• Departure date: 11th Jun 2024

Summertime in the British Isles

• Departure date: 16th Jun 2024

Icelandic Discovery

• Departure date: 22nd Jun 2024

Best P&O Cruises holidays from Southampton

P&O Cruises from Southampton go far and wide from UK shores, south to the Mediterranean and north to the Mediterranean.

Top 5 cruise ships sailing from the UK in summer 2024

UK cruises are having a red-hot summer in 2024 as a raft of incredible cruise ships are set to, well, set sail from Southampton and Portsmouth.

9 new Virgin Voyages Resilient Lady cruises from the UK in summer 2024

Virgin Voyages’ Resilient Lady cruise ship sparked much excitement when it was announced she would be sailing from Portsmouth, England in 2024 – here are the top UK cruises on sale now.

Become the first to know about win-a-cruise competitions, on-trend holiday inspo and don’t-miss travel advice from the experts.

Ahoy there!

Saga Launches UK Cruises From June 27

• March 29, 2021

Saga Cruises has launched its summer 2021 UK cruise program with four all-inclusive itineraries to choose from: ‘Scottish Highlands and Islands,’ ‘Great British Isles Adventure’ and ‘Northern Isles to the Fjords’ will all be hosted by Spirit of Discovery while, for the first time, guests can also book the ‘The Inaugural Cruise on Spirit of Adventure’, Saga Cruises’ brand-new boutique ship.

This was announced in a press release.

“We know how much our guests want to get traveling again so we are delighted to be launching our all-inclusive, round-Britain Summer cruise itineraries taking in destinations from the Orkney Islands to the Norwegian Fjords,” Nigel Blanks, the CEO of Saga Cruises said. “The inaugural cruise of our brand-new boutique ship, ‘Spirit of Adventure’ will be a real highlight. Like Spirit of Discovery, she has a spacious feel and every detail has been designed with our guests in mind, from the modern, contemporary feel to the fantastic range of facilities and our incredibly high service standards.”

“I can confidently say that our guests are in for a really exceptional experience and they can board with peace of mind, knowing we take their health and well-being incredibly seriously. We are asking all our guests to have had both doses of the Covid-19 vaccine prior to joining our cruises and, as they rightly expect, all necessary precautions and the highest standards of cleanliness will be observed onboard,” he added.

Guests will be able to choose from four all-inclusive itineraries over five travel dates:

•  Scottish Highlands and Islands departing Tilbury on June 27, 2021, aboard Spirit of Discovery for six nights calling at Lerwick on the Shetland Islands, followed by Scrabster and Invergordon before returning to Tilbury. Sight-seeing tours of Lerwick and Invergordon are included. All cabins feature a balcony and prices start from £1,154 per person.
• Great British Isles Adventure departing from Tilbury on July 11, 2021, aboard Spirit of Discovery for 14 nights, calling at Falmouth, Holyhead, Belfast, Greenock, Ullapool, Kirkwall, Orkney Islands, Newhaven and Newcastle and disembarking back in Tilbury. Sight-seeing tours of Belfast, Kirkwall, Edinburgh and Newcastle are included. All cabins feature a balcony and prices start from £3,375 per person.
• From the Northern Isles to the Fjords departing from Tilbury aboard Spirit of Discovery on July 3, 2021, or July 25, 2021, for six nights, calling at Kirkwall in the Orkney Islands, cruising Sognefjord in Norway, Lerwick in the Shetland Islands and Stornoway followed by Scrabster in Scotland before returning to Tilbury. Sight-seeing tours of Kirkwall and Lerwick are included. All cabins feature a balcony and prices start from £1,539 per person.
• The Inaugural Cruise on Spirit of Adventure departing Tilbury on July 26, for 15 nights and heading to Newcastle, Newhaven, Dundee, Kirkwall, Orkney Islands, Ullapool, Cruise St Kilda, Greenock, Belfast, Douglas, Holyhead, Bristol and Falmouth before disembarking in Dover. Sight-seeing tours of Newcastle, Edinburgh, Belfast and Bristol are also included. All cabins feature a balcony and prices from £3,458 per person.

As a gesture of thanks for their loyalty, guests whose Saga Cruises had been canceled due to Covid were proactively offered the option to rebook on to the British Isles cruises prior to them going on general sale on March 29.

The Spirit of Adventure and the Spirit of Discovery are both small by today’s ship standards, hosting a maximum of 999 guests each. They have a modern, contemporary look and feel and offer guests the choice of five restaurants, bars and entertainment facilities including the signature Britannia lounge with a dance floor and live entertainment, theatre, salon and sports amenities. Outdoor facilities include an observation deck, impressive wraparound promenade and terrace, pool, games area, sports court and deck games.

These new summer cruises all include a choice of complimentary UK travel to and from the port including a private door-to-door chauffeur service up to 250 miles each way, car parking near the port, domestic flights or standard class rail or coach travel.

There are no hidden costs onboard either, the cruise line said. Saga Cruises come with all dining and house drinks including a selection of wines with lunch and dinner, Wi-Fi, onboard gratuities, fitness facilities, 24-hour room service, sightseeing tours in selected ports, entertainment (from lectures to recitals), porterage of luggage, shuttle buses to nearest town centers and travel insurance with up to £5m coronavirus cover included. All of this backed up by the Saga Cruise Promise – in the event that a cruise price is reduced guests will be given the value of the difference back.

Health and wellbeing are at the forefront of the planning for the resumption of services, the cruise line said. Saga is asking all guests to have had both doses of the Covid-19 vaccine prior to boarding the ships and the company’s dedicated health and safety team are ensuring rigorous standards are set and adhered to onboard.

Cruise Industry News Email Alerts

• Breaking News

Get the latest breaking  cruise news .  Sign up.

54 Ships | 122,002 Berths | $36 Billion | View

Highlights:

• Mkt. Overview
• Record Year
• Refit Schedule
• PDF Download
• Order Today

• 2033 Industry Outlook 
• All Operators
• Easy to Use
• Pre-Order Offer
• Advertising
• Cruise News
• Magazine Articles
• Quarterly Magazine
• Annual Report
• Email Newsletter
• Executive Guide
• Digital Reports

Privacy Overview

• Fact sheets
• Images & reports
• Get in touch

02 April 2024, 10:24

Saga Launches 2025 Ocean Cruises

02 April 2024 : Saga has officially launched its 2025 boutique ocean cruises programme, with 47 all-inclusive itineraries sailing aboard sister ships, Spirit of Adventure and Spirit of Discovery.

There are plenty of new experiences, itineraries and ports-of-call available - as well as a new nationwide chauffeur service - across Saga’s new 2025 season of all inclusive no-fly cruises.  Highlights include more unforgettable experiences, such as tuk-tuk tours, which have been expanded to feature on 20 cruise itineraries and offer guests the option to explore the cities of Lisbon, Oporto, Split and Valencia by this unique mode of transport.

New ports-of-call for Saga ships in 2025 include the Croatian island of Korcula on the Dalmatian

Coast and also Helsingør in Denmark’s North Zealand, which offers the ideal opportunity to visit Kronborg Castle, immortalised by Shakespeare as the home of Hamlet.

Also new for 2025, Saga’s chauffeur service is now nationwide, so guests will be picked up from home across the UK mainland at no extra cost.

2024 was Saga’s fastest selling season ever, and some cruises sold out very quickly, so Saga is committed to offering early bookers for 2025 the very best deals, therefore, these cruises are available now with up to 35 per cent off the full price. Saga also offers a price promise, whereby if the price of the cruise is reduced, guests who have paid the higher price will get the value of the difference.

Some highlights from the 2025 programme include:

- A 21-night all-inclusive Croatia and Gems of the Mediterranean cruise departing 22nd May 2025 from Dover.  This cruise to the Adriatic offers guests a stop on Spain’s Costa Tropical to visit Motril, en route to Malta and its capital, Valletta, before exploring the historic coastal cities of Croatia, including the island of Korcula - a brand new port of call for Saga this year - then Split and the UNESCO-listed Diocletian’s Palace, as well as UNESCO-listed Dubrovnik with its ancient fortifications. It will also cruise along the scenic Bay of Kotor and the opportunity to stroll the medieval streets of the fortified town of Kotor, where Romanesque churches sit alongside Venetian mansions. And finally, the cruise visits the Greek ruins of Sicily and iconic Rock of Gibraltar on the return journey.  Prices start from £7,069 per person for a standard balcony cabin (based on two sharing).

- A 49-night all inclusive Caribbean and Central America Discovery cruise departing Portsmouth on  6th January 2025.  This cruise contrasts the Caribbean and Central America, cruising from one tropical island to the next, before visiting the ancient Mayan ruins and dense rainforests of Central America and then onto the USA.  After the transatlantic crossing via Madeira, Spirit of Discovery visits the Caribbean islands of St Lucia, Barbados, Bequia and the Dutch Caribbean islands of Willemstad and Oranjestad.  The voyage continues to Central America to visit UNESCO-listed Cartagena and Colón, before the chance to experience the rainforests and banana plantations of Puerto Limón, beaches of Honduras and archaeological treasures of Belize City. Progreso, on Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, offers a gateway to the iconic Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza.  The cruise will also visit the Gulf of Mexico to the Texan city of Galveston, from where guests can visit the world-renowned Houston Space Station with its NASA spacecraft, before following the Mississippi River for an overnight stay in New Orleans, birthplace of jazz and renowned for its Creole cuisine and French Quarter, as well as Miami and the opportunity to visit the famous Everglades National Park.  There is an overnight stop in Bermuda, where UNESCO-listed St George’s became an English settlement in 1612, and call at the scenic Azores archipelago on the return journey.  Prices start from £16,128 per person for a standard balcony cabin (based on two sharing).

There are also new itineraries that sail around the British Isles, from Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly to the Highlands of Scotland and Belfast in Northern Ireland. These itineraries are the ideal staycation with a difference and include:

- A 10-night all-inclusive Island Hopping in the British Isles cruise departing Portsmouth on 5th May 2025.  This cruise showcases the heritage and dramatic scenery of the British Isles, calling first into Guernsey with its 18th-century towers and unique World War Two fortifications.  The cruise then crosses the Irish Sea to visit Northern Ireland’s cultural capital of Belfast, where the RMS Titanic was built, before voyaging along the Welsh coast to visit Holyhead, gateway to exploring the Isle of Anglesey and Snowdonia National Park. From the Isle of Man, the cruise then heads to Ullapool, located on the shores of Loch Broom, and the remote Orkneys, home to the famous Neolithic site of Skara Brae. Prices start from £2,968 per person for a standard balcony cabin (based on two sharing).

Saga guests can also choose from a range of other popular cruises throughout the year to destinations such as the Mediterranean, Norway (and the Northern Lights), Africa, the Caribbean and the Canary Islands. 

Saga’s boutique ocean cruises are all-inclusive with no hidden costs on-board and guests also have the benefit of the new complimentary nationwide chauffeur service between home and Dover or Portsmouth.

Saga Cruises come with all dining and house drinks including a selection of cocktails, draft beers and lagers, wines, spirits, mixers and soft drinks, including premium label spirits available at no additional cost. Wi-Fi, gratuities, fitness facilities, 24-hour room service, sightseeing tours in selected ports, entertainment (from lectures to recitals to shows), porterage of luggage, shuttle buses to nearest town centres and travel insurance are also included.

Guests can view and book these 2025 cruises at saga.co.uk/2025 or by calling 0808 273 6463.

Selected destination images are available here , and cruise ship images here .

Sarah Lloyd-Morrison

Notes to editors

Saga is a leading provider of products and services primarily tailored for customers over the age of 50 in the UK. The Saga brand has been carefully developed over the past 60 years to become one of the most recognised and trusted brands among UK consumers over 50. Saga is synonymous in the UK with the over 50s market and is recognised for its high-quality products and services. These include cruises and holidays, home and motor insurance, savings and share dealing and the UK’s award-winning Saga Magazine.

SHP Split Tuk Tuk Adriatic DMC EXT 19774

Saga cruises back to growth as over 50s return to the high seas

S aga, the UK’s specialist in products and services for people over 50, has reported a jump in revenue and profit off the back of higher demand for its holiday packages .

The company told the market this morning that underlying revenue for the year to the end of January had risen 13 per cent to £732.7m, and trading earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, and amortisation (EBITDA) had jumped 26 per cent to £116.5m.

However, despite the higher revenue and EBITDA figures, Saga still reported a loss before tax of £129m for the year, although this was much improved on the -£272.7m loss reported for fiscal 2023. The group’s underlying profit before tax was £38.2m, up 146 per cent compared to the prior year.

The biggest drag on the company’s results was its insurance business, which has been a headache for years.

Insurance Broking reported an earned underlying profit before tax of £39.8m, compared with £71.5m in 2023. The year-on-year decline of £31.7m was driven by the “challenging insurance environment and, in particular, the impact of net rate inflation.”

Insurance Underwriting reported an underlying loss before tax of £1.4m, a fall of £12.1m compared to 2023’s levels. Due to a “sustained level of claims inflation,” the firm’s underwriting combined ratio – a measure of underwriting profitability – improved marginally from 117.1 per cent to 120.5 per cent.

On the other hand, Saga’s ocean cruise business roared back to life with underlying profit before tax hitting £35.5m , compared to an underlying loss after tax of £0.7m in the previous year. Revenue at the ocean cruise business rose 28 per cent overall.

Mike Hazell, Saga’s chief executive officer, said: “Ocean Cruise had an outstanding year and, as a result, we far exceeded our initial earnings targets, while River Cruise and Travel both returned to profit for the first time since the pandemic.”

He added: “While our Insurance business continued to be hindered by challenging conditions, with inflationary headwinds…we are investing in price to improve our competitive position and stabilise our policy volumes and early signs indicate that this is delivering the expected benefits.”

“I am confident in our strategic direction, which underpinned by the strength of our brand, allows us to continue to serve our unique customer base. Our decision to accelerate our partnership strategy will provide us with a capital-light route to growth, reducing debt and delivering long-term sustainable value for all our stakeholders,” Hazell summarized.

Saga U-turn on selling underwriting business as insurance division hit by hikes