European and Mediterranean Cruise Holidays
Europe is the most visited cruising destination, with historic ports dotted around the coasts and a range of ancient attractions.
There is something in Europe to suit all interests with small ships and sailing ships call at interesting, less-visited destinations, luxury vessels offer 6-star cuisine and amenities, and discovery voyages concentrate on cultural and historic aspects.
Inland, travel the major rivers of Europe including the Rhine and the Danube.
Northern Europe Cruises
The spectacular Norway coast is visited all year, notably by the cruise ferries of Hurtigruten which call at 34 ports on the Norwegian coastal round voyage from Bergen north to the Arctic Circle and around the North Cape. In the summer enjoy the Midnight Sun, and in Winter join one of the hugely popular voyages in search of the Northern Lights – the famous Aurora Borealis.
The stunning scenery of the Scottish highlands and islands can be enjoyed on a small ship from Inverness to the islands including Mull and Skye. Alternatively explore the Baltic and St Petersburg in Russia, with calls at Tallinn, Helsinki and Stockholm.
Mediterranean Cruises
Explore the Greek islands, visiting unique and historic destinations. Take a small ship, megayacht or tall ship to avoid the crowds, calling at smaller islands and coastal ports as well as popular choices including Santorini and Mykonos.
Croatia coast holidays may start in Venice, and usually visit historic Dubrovnik and the scenic bay of Kotor, stunning islands including Hvar and Korcula and uncrowded coastal ports.
The major ports on the French, Spanish and Italian coasts – Barcelona, Livorno, Civitavecchia, and Naples are visited by the larger cruise lines. Smaller ships call at scenic locations such as Portofino and Portovenere in Italy, Monte Carlo, and Cannes in France.
Cruises from the UK
A growing number of no-fly cruises are available from UK ports to Northern Europe, the Mediterranean and the Canary Islands. Ports include London, Hull, Bristol, Leith and Newcastle as well as Southampton and Dover. Some departures travel around the UK and Scottish highlands and islands on unique itineraries.
