mini cruise holidays

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The concept of a floating hotel that offers entertainment and sports in addition to lodging and food is tempting, but you are not sure if a cruise is your ideal holiday? Then a mini cruise is just right for you!

River or Ocean

Voyage dates, voyage length, cruise lines, customer review, from/to port, from country, from/to country, includes flight, onboard language.

Itinerary: Barcelona, Genoa, Marseilles, Barcelona

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Reduction of up to 25-50 % in the VARIO and 10-50 % in the PREMIUM rate

Why a mini cruise?

A mini-cruise is ideal if you are not yet sure whether a longer cruise is right for you or if you have a new cruise line in mind and want to experience some of the things it has to offer. Starting at the harbour you then sail (usually at night) towards the destination. During the day you stop at interesting ports in between and have enough time there for sightseeing, shopping or culinary delights.

Although these trips are much shorter, usually about 3 or 4 days, than on a normal trip, you still have all the amenities such as restaurants, bars, entertainment programs, sports activities and much more available. So you get to know the cruise line on a short cruise and know immediately if it suits you. With minimal effort you can appreciate what cruising has to offer.

  Mini cruise worldwide

Taster cruises are offered worldwide, so you are not bound to a particular departure ports. How about a Caribbean cruise , if you have planned a longer vacation there anyway? So you can ideally combine your holiday with a little taster trip. Even Mediterranean cruises and Asia cruises are available. Be inspired to experience the delights of cruising!

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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

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?

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

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Short & sweet: 8 best mini cruises in 2023 & 2024

Mini cruise holidays are becoming much more popular with younger travellers looking to squeeze their getaways into a long weekend – here are eight of the best in 2023 and 2024.

Words by Jeannine Williamson

Short on time, money or simply want a getaway break to unwind? A mini cruise ticks all these boxes. It’s also a great way of dipping a proverbial toe in the water if you’re new to a life at sea, or trying out a cruise line for the first time.

The quickest way to get afloat is on a short cruise from Southampton, or you can head overseas to get your mini cruise fix. Here are some of the options.

Speedy Greek getaway Celestyal Cruises mini cruise

Fancy seeing the most sun-drenched and Instagrammable Greek islands but don’t have oodles of time? You can do it with Celestyal Cruises.

The budget-friendly Greek line has three- and four-night mini cruises that are big on sights. In fact, you’ll likely see more than many people do in a week staying on land.

The round-trip sailings from Athens visit places like uber-trendy Mykonos – keep your eyes peeled and you may well spot some celebs – and the sun-bleached showstopper Santorini.

If you’re feeling a bit more cultural you can explore ancient sites on your mini cruise as well. Back onboard, Celestyal ships provide an extension of the friendly, laid-back Greek lifestyle. They’re not at all stuffy and you can strut your stuff at Greek dance classes, emboldened by the drinks that are included in the fare.

Channel Island hop MSC Cruises mini cruise

Take a two-night mini cruise to Guernsey out of Southampton on MSC Cruises’ big, bold and blingy MSC Virtuosa.

You’ll spend a day in the compact capital St Peter Port where the waterfront is lined with bars and places to eat. Don’t leave without ordering some ice cream made with creamy milk from the island’s doe-eyed golden cows.

On the ship you can sashay up glittering staircases studded with thousands of Swarovski crystals, shop ‘til you drop in designer boutiques and order a drink from Rob , who presides over the Starship Club and is the first humanoid robotic bartender at sea. There are dates to choose from in 2024.

Paint the town red Virgin Voyages mini cruise

Enjoy full-on adult-only fun (wink, wink) on a four-night round-trip sailing from Miami with Virgin Voyages . Virgin revolutionised cruising with ships that reinvented dining , with a street food-style food court, funky cabins with hammocks on the balcony and amazing Rock Star suites equipped with guitars and tables designed to dance on.

Scarlet Lady is a child-free ship where late-night revellers can throw moves in the outsize nightclub, The Manor, and watch festival-like pop-up acts around the vessel.

There’s a stop in cosmopolitan Key West on these mini cruises and a day at Virgin’s private Beach Club in Bimini where you can dive, snorkel or simply chill out in a cabana with another cocktail.

Stylish sundowners Marella Cruises mini cruise

If you can make your holiday stretch to five nights take a look at Marella Cruises ’  Mediterranean Sunsets sailings on Marella Explorer.

The ship has a bumper batch of 10 bars, including the Indigo Bar which is the longest in the Marella fleet , so you can pick your perfect spot for a sundowner. The sailing from Corfu to Malaga includes calls at Alicante and in between there are two days at sea to kick back and enjoy all the onboard attractions.

The lively entertainment scene stretches into the early hours with silent discos and eighties and nineties-themed nights. Other haunts include The Lounge with its colour-changing bar and hot pink piano.

It’s such a perfect day Royal Caribbean mini cruise

Escape the British winter and January blues to soak up some Caribbean sunshine on one of Royal Caribbean’s four-night Bahamas and Perfect Day mini cruises out of Miami.

After a stop in Nassau, where the Straw Market near the docking spot is a great place to pick up inexpensive hats, bags and jewellery, there’s the Perfect Day at CocoCay . Royal Caribbean’s 120-acre private island is jam-packed with things to do including a waterpark where thrill seekers can tackle Daredevil’s Peak, the tallest slide in North America.

The fun continues back on Freedom of the Seas with its FlowRider surf simulator and glow-in-the-dark laser tag area Clash for the Crystal City. There’s a sailing on January 8, 2024, with similar itineraries available year-round.

Chocs away Celebrity Cruises mini cruise

Get your fill of Belgian waffles, chocolate and a glass or two of one of the country’s 1,500 different beers on a four-day mini cruise from Southampton with Celebrity Cruises .

You can also sign up for a chocolate-making demo followed by an all-important tasting. Leaving on August 23, 2024, the Bruges and Netherlands long weekend also includes a trip to Rotterdam.

If you’ve got a head for heights, and want the best views of the city, head up the 180m Euromast which is the highest observation platform in Holland.

You’ll be aboard the stylish Celebrity Apex where you can sip artisan cocktails such as Forbidden in the whimsical Eden bar, sit in flower-shaped chairs and try to resist touching pink ostrich feather ‘trees’.

Sound waves Norwegian Cruise Line mini cruise

Forget having to hunt for your tent and the possibility of downpours and mud by going to a music festival at sea. Norwegian Cruise Line hosts some of the best and as they’re held in the Caribbean sunshine is guaranteed.

If you’re an R&B fan and want to do something different next Valentine’s Day Maxwell’s four-day Urban Hang Suite Cruise leaves Miami on February 10, 2024. Grammy-award-winning artist Maxwell will perform two concerts and will be more live music from the likes of Ledisi, Robert Glasper, Sabrina Claudio, and Musiq Soulchild, plus DJs, comedy and parties.

Norwegian Pearl stops at Nassau and Great Stirrup Cay, the line’s private island Bahamian playground. Back onboard you don’t need to worry about going thirsty as O’Sheehan’s Irish pub is open 24/7.

Push the boat out Cunard mini cruise

Live a posh Titanic-style lifestyle (minus any icebergs and sinking of course) with Cunard . You can get a taste of the luxe line on a budget with one of the mini cruises from Southampton.

Bag a cabin for less than £300 on a two-night jaunt on the flagship Queen Mary 2 departing on October 20, 2023, and immerse yourself in the retro glamour of afternoon tea served by white-gloved waiters.

There’s a stop in Hamburg , one of Germany’s most multicultural cities, where you can join the local beer culture and sip the city’s own pilsner. Need something stronger? Order lutt um lutt , which is beer fortified with fiery schnapps.

Bruges & Netherlands with Celebrity Cruises

Duration: 4 nights

Where: Southampton, UK | Rotterdam, Netherlands | Bruges (Zeebrugge), Belgium | Southampton, UK

Ship: Celebrity Apex

Price: From £593 pp

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12 of the best mini cruises

Looking to set sail for a few days mini-cruises are a great way to make the most out of a short period of time. here are some of the best to book.

W hether you are new to cruising and looking to test the waters, a seasoned cruiser seeking a quick cruise fix, short on time after using up all of your annual leave, or simply searching for a few days of indulgence — a mini-cruise could be the way to go. As the name suggests, a mini-cruise is a bite-sized voyage — think of it as the water equivalent of a city break — that is typically two to four days in length, but less than a week. They can be ocean or river cruises anywhere in the world. They’ll often include a couple of ports of call, with the added bonus of only having to unpack once. Get ready to set sail.

Main photo: Coco Cay, Royal Caribbean’s private island

1. MSC Cruises

This family-owned Swiss cruise line, whose fleet of ships counts actress Sophia Loren as godmother, has an extensive array of short cruises to choose from. These range from condensed cruises in the Mediterranean exploring Marseille — a French port city with history and grit — to short breaks in the Caribbean (for those who aren’t averse to folding themselves into a plane for nine hours). Here, itineraries include a full day at Ocean Cay, MSC’s eco-friendly private island in the Bahamas . Back on board, snap a selfie on the cruise line’s signature Swarovski-studded staircases before enjoying all of MSC’s amenities and innovative spaces.

Best for All ages Price £ Family-friendly Y

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2. Royal Caribbean

Calling all Caribbean aficionados! Royal Caribbean explores Nassau, the Bahamas’ only city, and Coco Cay island — the cruise line’s upgraded private island which has everything from water sports to beach barbecues and an aqua park — over a long weekend. The mini-cruise departs Port Canaveral, just 45 minutes east of Orlando airport, aboard Independence of the Seas. Standout features of the Indy include the family-friendly Sky Pad — a virtual reality bungee-trampoline experience — and teppanyaki restaurant Izumi.

Best for 6 months+ Price ££ Family-friendly Y

Formula One fanatics can experience the Monaco Grand Prix as well asexploring the Mediterranean on a mini cruise with Azamara. The upscale brand operates a fleet of four well-appointed, mid-sized ships — with friendly staff who go above and beyond to remember passengers’ preferences. The line’s Grand Prix weekend voyage gives guests the opportunity to enjoy the glitz and glamour of Monaco along with the charms of Saint-Tropez. A late-night stay here, part of Azamara’s commitment to cultural immersion, offers the chance to try tarte tropézienneand shop for souvenirs in the atmospheric old town. Evenings on board have a relaxed informality — save for the line’s signature, poolside “White Night” party.

Best for adults Price ££ Family-friendly N

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4. Riviera Travel

Festive spirit can be found on the water courtesy of Riviera Travel. The river cruise line offers an annual Christmas markets cruise aboard the luxurious MS Oscar Wilde — allowing passengers to spend the festive period in style as they sail through the spectacular Rhine Gorge. Ports of call include Rüdesheim, where Christmas stalls selling everything from gingerbread and mulled wine to tree decorations fill the town’s small squares and streets, and Cologne, renowned for its gothic cathedral and glut of twinkling markets. On board, solo travellers are no afterthought: a number of cabins are set aside for single passengers with no additional supplement.

Best for 12+ Price ££ Family-friendly N

Best river cruises in Europe

5. Virgin Voyages

Sir Richard Branson’s trendy, adults-only cruise line — expect tattoo parlours, drag acts and an app that delivers champagne anywhere on the ship — has launched a series of short sailings, many of them weekend cruises, aboard Scarlet Lady. This fun, feisty ship departs its Miami homeport for Key West, Florida’s quirkiest key, before stopping at Virgin Voyages’ private beach club in Bimini and then enjoying a day at sea, giving you time to sample some of the cruise ship’s 20 restaurants. There’s no formal night — part of the brand’s bid to offer a different experience for cruisers — but there is a “Scarlet Night”, on which passengers (who are known as “sailors”) are encouraged to wear red.

Best for 18+ Price ££ Family-friendly N

6. Emerald Cruises

Small ship expert Emerald provides short sailings along both the Danube and the Rhine, two of Europe’s most scenic rivers, every December on their Star-Ships: expect heated swimming pools that turn into a cinema at night and floor-to-ceiling windows everywhere. A five-night festive jaunt along the Danube could take you Bratislava for baroque palaces, and Budapest for a magical Christmas market in front of St Stephen’s Basilica — onto the dome of which a laser show is projected as night falls. Rhine sailings include a foray to the fairytale streets of Strasbourg, with its cobbled streets and timber-framed houses.

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7. P&O Cruises

Aimed squarely at British travellers, P&O Cruises has an array of mini-cruises sure to suit both boisterous families and those who don’t fancy spending even the smallest amount of time surrounded by shrieking kids. Short breaks aboard Britannia cruise from Southampton to Amsterdam so that little ones can learn more about Anne Frank — before letting off steam with a breathless programme of onboard activities. Elsewhere P&O’s adult-only ships, Aurora and Arcadia, explore Guernsey and Bruges , where cobbled squares, gothic architecture and atmospheric canals compete for passengers’ attention.

Best for Both adults and families, depending on ship Price ££ Family-friendly Y and N, depending on ship

8. Ambassador Cruise Line

This new British operator — the first British cruise brand to debut since 2010 — is launching a range of no-fly, adult-focused mini-cruises in 2023. You could visit Liverpool , famous for its musical heritage and football clubs, or the south-west city of Bristol , which hasn’t lost its ability to wow visitors. If you aren’t convinced that a weekend in the UK can be just as exciting as Europe, take in the tulips in Amsterdam. All of Ambassador’s taster cruises will take place aboard Ambition, sister to Ambience.

Best for 50+ Price ££ Family-friendly N

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9. Tui River Cruises

Travel giant Tui entered the river cruise market in 2021 with three vessels, Tui Maya, Isla and Skyla making up the fleet. Tui Skyla, like its sister ships, has an easy-going, adults-only atmosphere together with two bars, two restaurants and a wellness area with a whirlpool and sauna. It can accommodate 155 passengers on taster cruises calling at three elegant capitals — Budapest, Bratislava and Vienna . Standout shore excursions include a 90-minute concert at the Kursalon, Vienna’s most beautiful concert hall.

10. Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)

If you fancy combining a taster cruise with a land-based stay on America’s east coast, NCL could be the line for you. Norwegian’s colourful ships, Pearl and Joy, have mini-cruises sailing respectively from Boston and New York to the remote island of Bermuda — a place of ​​romantic pale pink sands and ridiculously pretty pastel houses. If Europe is more your bag, Norwegian Epic will whisk you to the likes of Rome and Cannes. There’s plenty to occupy and entertain passengers on board too: Norwegian is known for its entertainment. Expect a mix of Broadway shows as well as a breathtaking blend of Latin and ballroom dance in Burn the Floor.

Best round the world cruises

11. AmaWaterways

Don’t want to go to sea? Try a river cruise. And if you like ticking off European cities, then you’ll love luxury cruise line AmaWaterways’ five-night cruise calling at capital cities, including Budapest and Vienna, along the Danube. Each port of call comes with complimentary excursions such as guided hikes to Bratislava’s Renaissance-style fortress, and bike tours to Klosterneuburg Abbey — a 900-year-old monastery straight out of a fairytale. If that sounds a tad too active, sit back and enjoy a slice of Viennese speciality sachertorte, a rich chocolate cake, in a traditional cafe. There’s also the option to extend your AmaWaterways adventure by adding a pre- or post-programme.

12. Fred Olsen

This long-running, family-owned cruise line operates a fleet of four traditional vessels, each accommodating fewer than 1,400 guests. And, perhaps unsurprisingly, given the brand’s Norwegian roots, Fred Olsen specialises in bite-sized breaks to Norway ’s scenic fjords. Five-night itineraries out of either Edinburgh or Newcastle see Fred’s flagship, Balmoral, head for famous fjords such as Lysefjord, in addition to calling at the beautiful cobbled city of Bergen, where passengers can take the funicular to the peak of Mount Floyen. The excitement continues back on board: there’s nightly entertainment in the Neptune Lounge, four restaurants, two swimming pools and a well-appointed fitness centre (for anyone concerned about the extra calories they’re consuming).

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Mini Cruises

Enjoy a mini cruise from the UK

If you are looking to try cruising for the first time, then a Fred. Olsen mini cruise from the UK may be just what you need. 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 opportunities to discover somewhere new. 

We have a varied selection of shorter sailings and destinations available, and no matter which mini 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; cruise past iconic Scottish islands; discover the fjords of Norway; or simply indulge in 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.

33 Ocean Cruises

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 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
• 1 offer available

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

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 

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

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

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

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

Summertime Norwegian Fjords in Five Nights • L2423

• Experience the natural beauty of Norway in just five nights
• Cruise the serene waters of Nordfjord, Innvikfjord & Lysefjord
• Sail under Pulpit Rock and past the Hornelen sea cliff

One-Night Mini-Cruise • L2425

• One night of Fred. Olsen’s small ship cruising
• Enjoy delicious food, entertainment and personal service
• Relax and sample ocean cruising on  Balmoral

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Greek Island Hopping Cruises

Mini cruises, 7 night cruises, arabian gulf, back to back cruises, cruises from, theme cruises, mediterranean, inclusive cruising, food and drink, know before you go – brochure.

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Mini Cruises – 3 & 4 Day

Take a well-deserved reprieve with a mini cruise holiday.

Mini cruise holidays in the Mediterranean are the perfect getaway. Whether you want to plan an extended romantic weekend break with your partner or to celebrate a special milestone occasion like a birthday or anniversary, a short cruise in the Med offers unique and authentic experiences that will create fond and ever-lasting memories.

Our 3 or 4 night whirlwind mini cruises enable you to explore beautiful islands and iconic landmarks in the dreamy Aegean. You will visit UNESCO-listed archaeological sites and discover the enchanting cities, towns and villages in the Greek islands. Here, you can immerse yourself in a vibrant culture that celebrates life.

Our 3 or 4 night mini cruises are a cost-effective way to escape the rigors of everyday life without relinquishing your commitments typically associated with a traditional 1-2 week holiday. If you want to see some of the Med’s key highlights in a short space of time, our 3 or 4 night cruises are the perfect solution.

VIP Treatment

If you’re celebrating a special and meaningful event, make it extra special with one of our VIP packages.

We can host your party in a private room and provide special catering from our chef’s gourmet menu and premium wine cellar.

A Customised Experience

Our exclusive mini cruises are designed for couples, singles and families that want a personalised experience.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or wish to fulfil a personal interest, we offer a variety of options so there is something for everyone.

Authentic Experiences

We take you deeper into the culture of the destination we visit so that you get a feel for the vibe of the country and the hospitality of its people.

Experience genuine recipes and immerse yourself in the Mediterranean lifestyle.

Experience Our Award-Winning Hospitality

Cruising the Celestyal Way    

A cruise holiday with Celestyal involves more than an adventure to romantic destinations – we also treat our guests to a wide range of onboard culinary delights, a full program of entertainment and all port charges and gratuities included as standard. If you want to indulge more, our Inclusive cruise adds a complimentary €75 shore excursion discount and select drinks to enjoy with meals. And if you want to go even further, simply upgrade to the Enhance Fare to add a complimentary €150 shore excursion discount, premium drinks package, 25% speciality dining discount, one hour of Wi-Fi access and an optional premium plus drinks package. We believe in total transparency and do not have any hidden charges – so you can plan your vacation budget with confidence.

An Inclusive Experience

COMPLIMENTARY DINING

We know the best recipes are the ones passed down between generations. And we love to share that with our guests. So onboard a Celestyal cruise, you can expect freshly prepared by our local chefs – morning, noon and night!

SELECT DRINKS WITH MEALS

Sit down to an authentic evening meal and enjoy specially selected drinks to go with it. Our dedicated hospitality team know how to make every meal a delicious experience so let them take your taste buds away.

VIBRANT ENTERTAINMENT

Immersing our guests in the local way of life is at the heart of the Celestyal experience. Take Greek dancing lessons from a pro and take the Mediterranean culture home with you. Enjoy a drink with your group as you watch the stars glitter off the Aegean with our front-seat, panoramic horizon bar views. And don’t miss the colour and magic of Cirque Fantastic!

£65 SHOREX EXCURSION DISCOUNT

We can’t wait to welcome you to our beautiful blue world, so when you step foot on the sands of Greece and the Eastern Med, our endless excursion options are designed to take you to the heart of our homeland. As standard, all of our guests enjoy a £65 excursion discount to put towards any of our immersive experiences.

PORT CHARGES & GRATUITIES

With all charges, port expenses and gratuities included in our fares, you can relax knowing we’ve got you covered. We’ll bring your next adventure to you, with no additional fees

Our 2024-2025 brochure has arrived! Download your very own to start planning your Celestyal experience.

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TIS THE SEASON FOR ADVENTURE

Holiday cruises.

Fill the December holidays with tropical, action-packed days and unforgettable memories. Start a new tradition with the biggest holiday cruise celebration at sea.

This year, spend the holidays in a warm winter wonderland with your favorite holiday traditions — plus some epic new ones — onboard the world’s boldest ships. Bring everyone together for Thanksgiving memory-making that the whole family will be grateful for. Sailings in December keep magical Christmas celebrations dancing through your head. And it all culminates in the hottest New Year’s Eve party at sea. So get onboard and deck the holidays with us.

EXPLORE AVAILABLE HOLIDAY CRUISES

Enjoy the ultimate holiday celebration with loved ones this festive season.

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MAXED OUT IN NEW TRADITIONS

A holiday at sea is filled with epic new traditions in the making. Onboard, have a blast hanging ten on the FlowRider®* or gasping in awe at a high-diving AquaTheater spectacular. And on shore, you’ll be glad you ditched the cold for extra bold experiences from ATV jungle treks to underwater snorkel discoveries and more.

tropical holiday fun

You don’t need snow for plenty of whoa this December. Choose an island-hopping getaway for winter fun under the sun. All of the best holiday cruises for families spend one glorious day at CocoCay.

DASH THROUGH THE WHOA

It’s the most thrilling time of the year — with exclusive adrenaline-pumping experiences you won’t find on any other cruise line. Try skydiving right on deck, take on The Perfect Storm℠ waterslides and more!

REVELRY AND RIVALRY

Holiday time is family time. Discover incredible ways to take togetherness — and competitive spirit— to new heights. Cheer each other on while scaling the signature Rock Climbing Wall, or see who’s brave enough to plunge down the tallest slide at sea, Ultimate Abyss℠.

PUTTING THE SEA in seasonal favorites

Holidays onboard are decked out with everything you love most about the season. Gather 'round for a sumptuous Thanksgiving dinner — without lifting a finger. Wander through a winter wonderland as the Royal Promenade comes alive with Christmas cheer. Ring in the New Year with a massive balloon drop plus sensational beats. And that’s just a taste of the celebrations in store. 

HOME STYLE HOLIDAYS

Pack your appetite — all your favorite flavors of the holiday season are onboard. Savor mouthwatering Thanksgiving staples like oven-roasted turkey and old-fashioned pecan pie. And  Christmas dinner classics, like honey baked ham and homemade sides.

LIGHTING UP THE SEA

Whether you celebrate Christmas or Hannukah, you’ll find your most treasured holiday traditions at sea — with festive tree and menorah lighting ceremonies on every sailing in December.

NEW WAYs TO NEW YEAR

Ring in the new year with an enchanting countdown to the massive balloon drop. Plus, score an invitation to the hottest New Year’s Eve party at sea, where jam-worthy live music starts the year on just the right note.

STRESS-FREE HOLIDAY BLISS

Need a no-pressure family getaway? A romantic beach adventure for two? Whatever style you're looking to celebrate in, you'll cruise through this year's holiday season stress-free.

FAMILY FUN FOR EVERYONE

Make sure you stop at  Perfect Day at CocoCay  for an action-packed adventure that everyone will love. Kiddies can splash to their heart's content at Splashaway Bay or head to the swashbuckling Captain Jill's Cannon for the ultimate pirate experience. See who's brave enough to conquer all 13 waterslides at  Thrill Waterpark , or relax along the  Oasis Lagoon . Get the whole family together on a hot air balloon ride and make holiday memories to last a lifetime.

BABY, IT'S NOT COLD OUTSIDE!

All you want for Christmas is a tropical vacation? Get away from holiday pressure and expectations with a romantic December cruise to the Caribbean! Explore local traditions together, swim in secret waterfalls and unwind on powdery Caribbean sands. Romantic beach picnics are just the beginning of your holiday escape.

SPEND THE HOLIDAYS ON THE BOLDEST CRUISE SHIPS AT SEA

Incredible is on the itinerary when you set sail on one of our Oasis Class cruise ships. Get your adrenaline fix with two onboard water slides, a wave park and the only boomerang slide at sea. Dash through the seas and launch into the holiday spirit with themed parties and daily shows. 'Tis the season to indulge! Enjoy one of our specialty restaurants where you'll find traditional favorites and new holiday-themed dishes and delights.

EXPLORE OUR LARGEST CRUISE SHIPS

GET INTO THE HOLIDAY SPIRIT

The ship's crew is there to make sure you have the best holiday cruise. At the start of your voyage, take part in the time-honored tradition of lighting the massive ship's tree. Join Santa's hardest working elves for the ultimate Christmas celebration and a surprise Christmas giveaway. Get up on deck for a festive walk in support of World Wildlife Fund's Arctic programs, presented by Coca-Cola. Decorate your own gingerbread cookies and unleash your creativity with DIY ornament classes.

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