Cruise Holidays

The length of a cruise can range from one week to one year, depending on the destinations you will be visiting and the route the ship is taking. Be sure to look for a cruise that will suit your schedule. Shorter 2 to 3-day UK or European cruises may suit those who have limited availability.

Consider the activities you would like to undertake and sites you wish to see when booking your cruise. Does lounging in the sun listening to the crash of the waves sound like the perfect holiday or would you rather head for land at each port and explore what the countries have on offer – perhaps visiting a museum or two along the way? Cruises tend to stop over at popular destinations and offer guided tours of famous cities and landmarks. Before booking it may be worth checking the port stops or excursions to make sure they suit your personality. Pre-book any must-do excursions early to avoid disappointment.

Climate is another factor to consider particularly if you are not a fan of the heat. It may be worth carrying out a little research into different climates before deciding which destinations will be best – after all, you don’t want to spend all your time below deck when you could be enjoying picturesque views in the sea breeze.

Some cruise ships leave from a UK port and have onsite car parking (we highly recommend you book a space in advance – some cruise companies will even offer a discount on port parking!) alternatively, you can fly to a destination and catch the ship abroad instead. The latter can be slightly more stressful as you will need to get to the airport, fly to the destination and make it to the cruise ship in time to set sail.

Families

We understand that the best holidays are shared with loved ones and who said cruises are just for adults? Today’s cruise ships are like floating entertainment resorts with swimming pools fitted with slides, wave machines and flumes, surf simulators, sky diving simulators, teen-only discos, cinemas, crèches and kids-only zones!

A cruise will give you and your family the opportunity to create lasting memories, enjoy quality time together and discover the hidden treasures of the world without ever having to hear the dreaded ‘i’m bored’.

Most cruise ships offer kids clubs and teen areas where your little ones, or not so little ones, can relax and network with people of a similar age whilst you and your significant other enjoy a romantic mean and a glass of bubbles – or two.

Don’t forgot you can also book family-suited onshore excursions or enjoy a family meal where you can catch up on the day’s adventures.

Couples

What’s more romantic than watching the sun disappear into the waves whilst clinking glasses with your partner? Cruises are perfect for couples who have an itch for travel, enjoy city breaks, or want to celebrate an anniversary or are simply after a well-deserved break from the real world.

Smaller vessels or adult-only cruises offer a more relaxed atmosphere, giving you and your significant other the opportunity to enjoy the peace and quiet and spend some quality time together.

Whether you want to just lie on the deck during the day and enjoy the on-board entertainment in the evening or fancy heading ashore to explore each destination – a cruise is the perfect way to take that much needed break, without the fuss of a normal ‘hotel holiday’.

Seniors

Just because you’re getting a little older doesn’t mean you should start slowing down! Enjoy the holiday of a lifetime without the hassle of connecting flights and hotel transfers, or maybe you’re just looking to tick off a few of those bucket list destinations and see the sights? Whatever you decide to do, many cruise companies offer senior-only cruises.

If your mobility is a concern, many cruise liners will also offer wheelchair access and assistance across the whole vessel so don’t let your ailments hold you back – look for a cruise company that will suit your needs.

Many companies offer single senior cruises which are usually offered at a discounted price (usually companies will charge you the same price as two people if you book a cabin). These cruises are perfect for people who are looking to relax, meet new people and form lasting friendships – why not dust off your Sunday best and get booking?!

First Time Cruisers

When you hear the word ‘cruise’, we imagine you automatically think of the huge ships seen on television adverts with on-board rock climbing walls, surf machines and no less that five swimming pools; but it’s worth bearing in mind there are other options available. Smaller cruise ships offer a more intimate experience, with some ships offering enough cabins for as few as twelve people.

A cruise is similar to an all-inclusive package holiday, as your accommodation, travel, entertainment and food is included in the overall cost, but some cruises can be pricey. Before you get too carried away looking at cabin suites with private balconies and butlers, it is best to set a budget – that way you will have a rough idea of how much you have to spend and can book your dream cruise accordingly.

Speaking of cost, cruises are notoriously more expensive during the summer months, therefore it may be more suitable to book a cruise to depart in April or May. The climate will still be hot in most countries and you’ll have more money to spend on upgrades or excursions!

The most important thing to remember when booking your travel insurance is a cruise is not like a normal holiday – the hospitals are not as easily accessible and if anything was to go wrong the costs of getting you the help you need can soon mount up…

Some travel insurance policies will cover a cruise as standard, however most will not offer cover for the loss of any associated expenses such as cabin confinement should sickness break out and the Captain declares everyone is to stay in their cabin until told otherwise, and cover for any missed ports or pre-paid excursions that you are not able to make due to adverse weather, a change to the itinerary or cabin confinement. Also, be aware that the definition of a cruise can differ between policies (for example, some insurers will consider a cruise as a pleasure voyage that is 72 hours or longer) so be sure to check the policy wording carefully before purchasing.

Many travel insurance policies will offer a cruise ‘extension’ or ‘add on’ for an additional premium that will cover for additional expenses or alternatively there are specialist cruise policies which are suitable for cruises that are slightly more expensive therefore cannot be adequately covered by an ‘add on’ or ‘extension’. Whichever policy you choose, you should look make sure the insurer also provides cover for your individual needs.

If you have booked excursions or are planning on taking advantage of the onboard entertainment and activities make sure these are also covered under your travel insurance. Most policies will cover a number of activities as standard but those that are a little riskier may require an additional premium.

A. When booking a cruise holiday, you should always make sure you are taking out a suitable travel insurance policy. Most travel insurance policies will not cover a cruise as standard so you will need to either look for one that does or a policy that will offer a cruise extension – this will not only cover your medical expenses but also cabin confinement, missed ports and missed excursions.

A. It is always advised you speak to your GP and travel agent or cruise company if you have a medical condition, particularly if you require specialist equipment. You should also ensure you declare your medical condition to your travel insurer – without the appropriate cover for any existing medical conditions you may be refused boarding at the port.

A. Yes, there are many cruise companies that are specifically designed to cater for families. Most cruise ships now include kids-only areas, crèches, teen discos and numerous activities to keep everyone entertained and with many ports offering excursions, there is plenty to explore! For younger children the Disney cruise comes highly recommended.