Still on the fence about whether a cruise holiday is for you? Want to give it a go but don’t know where to start? Worry no more! Help is at hand from cruise lines which have created tailored options to meet the needs of those ‘yet to cruise’.
This may be in the form of a taster cruise, starting from three to five nights, or for those wanting a cross between a cruise and land-based break, there are sailings available that place a bigger focus on the destination, with the option to spend longer on shore allowing passengers to fully immerse themselves.
Each cruise line has its own style and amenities and with such a wide range of destinations to explore, first time cruisers have never had it so good. Cruise Lines International Association has provided a round-up of the best itineraries suited for cruise first timers.
See the best of the Greek islands in a weekend
Greek specialist, Celestyal Cruises, is the only cruise line operating three and four night cruises around the Greek islands. From Athens you’ll sail on the Celestyal Olympia, promised to be authentically Greek from the food and wine to the on board entertainment. Stopping off to enjoy the beautiful beaches of Mykonos, Pathmos, Crete and Santorini, the short trips and mid-sized ships are great for those looking for a first experience to cruising.
Three night European mini-cruise getaway
Boutique cruise line Azamara Club Cruises has launched its 2016 three night weekend getaway voyage. Departing from Civitavecchia in Rome in August, sailing on to St. Tropez and Santa Margherita, discerning travellers will have the opportunity to get under the skin of three European cities with tours and excursions exclusive to Azamara. Excursions include enjoying homemade mozzarella with the owners of a buffalo farm in Campania, to sipping Champagne whilst the sun sets over Capri.
Fred’s Five-Night Fjords
Fjords Specialists, Fred. Olsen’s five-night cruise around Norway only travels from northern ports such as Newcastle, meaning those new-to-cruise needn’t fly. Incorporating Bank Holidays, this trip requires just three day’s annual leave and is the perfect way to sail deep into the heart of the majestic Fjords. Guests can discover the views of the Kjosfossen Waterfall and the surrounding landscapes of the Briksdal Glacier, as well as the charming village of Olden.
Try your hand at tomato throwing in Valencia
Sailing around the Rivera’s of Italy, France and Spain, the real highlight of Seabourn’s 10 day Rivera’s and Spanish Splendours cruise is visiting the city of Valencia. Although many wish to explore the great architectural landmarks of the city, some may want to take a short scenic drive to Brunol where the famous La Tomatina tomato throwing festival takes place. Resulting in everyone covered head to toe in tomato pulp, La Tomatina is a frenzied but thoroughly enjoyable experience.
Sail Scandinavia
Setting sail from Southampton, Princess Cruises’ Scandinavia trip is great for those not wishing to fly. Visiting timeless cities and taking in the natural splendour of Brussels, Copenhagen, Helsingborg and Oslo, this seven day cruise allows guests to experience the on board offerings, whilst also enjoying time in destinations with the opportunity to spend a night in Copenhagen before returning to the ship.
Visit the famous ports of the Mediterranean
On board Thomson Discovery’s Highlights of the Mediterranean, guests will sail from Palma stopping off at all the best beaches in Corsica before heading to the historical cities of Civitavecchia and Florence where guests can weave through the streets of the Gothic Palace and see the Ponte Vecchio. Travelling on to the relaxing cost of St Raphael, there is the chance to also visit the luxury lands of St Tropez and Cannes.
Rhine mini-cruises
Embarking in the beautiful city of Amsterdam, Shearing’s River Cruises take in the scenery of Holland before reaching the lively German cities of Dusseldorf and Cologne. Over the course of just three nights guests will visit the cities canals in Amsterdam and explore the highest point in Dusseldorf, the TV tower, capturing the panoramic views of the bustling cosmopolitan city.
Gems of the Danube
Guests can indulge in an eight day river cruise from Budapest to Nuremberg with Scenic Cruises. Enjoying the architectural elegance of the cities, guests can find themselves walking the towns of wealthy merchant houses around Regensburg or have the chance to enjoy the musical heritage in Vienna, with an evening concert featuring Strauss.
Experience New Year in Cambodia
Experience the festivities of New Year in Cambodia next April on board a luxury river cruise from APT. Travelling along the Mekong River, this 15-day cruise will take guests to the temples of World Heritage-listed Angkor Archaeological Park near Siem Reap and the bustling stalls and French Colonial architecture of Saigon, immersing themselves in the daily rituals of life along the Mekong.
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