Holidaymakers who decide to embark on a cruise holiday for their next overseas adventure will be spoilt for choice when it comes to the destinations available. This is hardly a surprise when you consider that around 70% of the earth’s surface is covered by water. The versatility and variety offered by cruises means that travellers of all persuasions will be able to find something that appeals.
Mediterranean – West
Cruises around the Western Mediterranean are highly popular chocies, particularly for those seeking a short break. These cruises typically visit ports of call throughout Spain, France and Italy. Depending on the specific cruise line’s itinerary, they might also stop in Portugal, Malta, Monte Carlo and Croatia. Cruises around the Western Med can be booked at any time of year, but during the winter months you may find that the cruise ships will substitute the cooler locations, such as France and Italy, with warmer choices, such as the Canaries or perhaps Morocco.
Mediterranean – East
Eastern Mediterranean cruises often include visits to the Greek Isles, Turkey’s Istanbul and Kusadas, eastern Italy, Croatia and ports along the Black Sea, such as the Ukraine and Russia. Holidaymakers will enjoy a good mix of fun in the sun and beach activities alongside the ancient history and cultural opportunities afforded by the various destinations. Most Eastern Mediterranean cruises sail from spring to fall – with the summer high season serving as the busiest time of the year.
Baltic Region and Northern Europe
While often over-shadowed by the sunny Mediterranean, cruises to the less tourist heavy Northern Europe and Baltic provide access to a wide range of cultures and unique scenery. Baltic cruises typically visit Oslo, Copenhagen, Helsinki, Stockholm, St. Petersburg and Tallinn. A cruise is also recommended as the best way to enjoy the beautiful Norwegian fjords. And for a chilly but inspiring trip, you can head even further north with the cruises available around the artic and Greenland.
Transatlantic
Popular routes across the ocean include cruises from the Mediterranean or the UK to Florida or New York. This will often involve a one or two week journey at sea with just a few ports of call along the way. A transatlantic cruise ship will host a variety of activities during the cruising, including cooking classes, movie theatres, planetariums, spas and gourmet restaurants.