Cruise Guide

 Cruising is one of the fastest-growing ways to holiday, and it’s easy to see why. More and more people are booking cruises every year, and a lot of first-time cruisers end up going again. In fact, around 70 to 80 percent of people who try cruising go on to book another one.

It’s a great way to see destinations and then, if you love them, go back and stay for longer.

But with so many different types of cruises now, it can be hard to know which one is actually right for you. So here’s a simple breakdown to help you figure it out.

Booking Early vs Last Minute

Cruises are being booked earlier now. A lot of the best sailings go 12 to 18 months in advance, especially if you want good cabins or specific dates.

If you book early, you usually get better cabin choice, more itinerary options, and better prices or added extras. If you leave it late, you can still get deals, but you’ll have fewer choices.

European Cruises

 Summer European cruising is very popular at the moment. Although you spend limited time in each port, it’s a good way to see multiple locations.

I would avoid these if you are not travelling with children or teenagers during school holidays, as destinations are often overcrowded due to multiple cruise ships arriving at the same time.

These are best enjoyed in May, June, September, and October.

UK Departure Cruises

A UK departure cruise, usually from Southampton, Tilbury or Liverpool, is all about convenience. No flights, no airports — just turn up and go.

This is a great option for people who do not like flying, are travelling alone, or need assisted travel. It is also a great chance to use all the amenities on the ship.

However, it does mean more sea days and sometimes slightly choppier waters.

Different cruise options

Ocean Cruises Ocean cruises are the big ships with lots going on, including entertainment, restaurants, shows, and activities.

These are great if you like variety and a lively atmosphere. There are also quieter, more adult-focused options available.

River Cruises River cruises are smaller and more relaxed. They focus on scenery, culture, and destinations, and often stay overnight in port.

Expedition Cruises Expedition cruises are for adventure lovers, visiting places like Antarctica, the Arctic, and other remote destinations focused on wildlife and exploration.

Long-Haul Cruises Long-haul cruising opens up destinations such as the Caribbean, South America, Southeast Asia, Australia, and New Zealand.

It involves a long-haul flight, but it is a great way to see these regions without needing a three-month trip. It is always a good idea to add a few extra days for land exploring.

Luxury Cruises Luxury cruising is a completely different experience. It’s smaller ships and a much calmer atmosphere.

Service is normally 6-star and often all-inclusive, including larger suites, excursions, fine dining, and sometimes even your laundry.

Food Onboard

If you love food, cruising is a great option. Food choices are endless, with something for everyone.

Most ships offer a huge choice of dining from buffets to speciality restaurants. Some cruise lines focus heavily on food, offering high-end restaurants with menus created by top chefs. These are often not included and are an extra cost.

Who Each Cruise Line Suits

Families – Royal Caribbean focuses on families. MSC and other lines offer lots of entertainment so you don’t even need to leave the ship.

Disney fans – Disney Cruise Line is the ultimate experience with everything Disney, amazing shows and characters, perfect for families.

Couples – Virgin Voyages (adult-only) and Celebrity Cruises, which is more adult-based but also good for multi-generational travel.

Older generation – Riviera Cruises, Regent and Oceania.

Budget-conscious – P&O, MSC or Marella.

Solo travellers – Virgin Voyages offers great solo rates and organised events. Norwegian Cruise Line has some of the best solo cabins, and Holland America Line is popular with older solo travellers.

Adults-Only Areas Some cruise companies offer adults-only areas onboard such as quiet pools, sun decks, and retreats, including Royal Caribbean, MSC Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line and Princess Cruises.

Cabin Types

 Inside cabins – Cheapest option. Good if you only plan to sleep there.

Ocean view cabins – Natural light.

Balcony cabins – Private outdoor space, very popular.

Suites – More space, luxury, and better service.

What I Can Help With

There is so much choice, and it’s easy to go with the first option you see. I will ask the right questions and match you to a cruise that suits you and your travel companions.

I know the ships and which cabins to avoid (such as near lifts, noisy areas, or places with more movement). I can recommend the best packages, shore excursions, pre- and post-cruise stays, transfers, multi-generational cabins, and adjoining room options.

I will also help with better value extras where available and make sure everything runs smoothly. Basically, I can take the stress out, so you can just enjoy it.

Planning Tips

 Always book a hotel the night before your cruise, and ideally the night after as well.

Pre-book excursions so you don’t miss out.

Pre-book speciality dining if there is somewhere you really want to try.

Think about sea days vs port days and don’t overpack your schedule onboard.

Pricing & Cabin Advice

Watch pricing carefully. The advertised price is usually the cheapest, and extras can add up quickly.

Cabin location matters more than you think — avoid areas under swimming pools, nightclubs, or gyms.

Itinerary Tips: Pick the itinerary, not just the ship. Check visa requirements, time in ports, and number of sea days.

Caribbean cruises are not ideal in summer due to hurricane season, and you may miss ports. If travelling in summer, look at ABC cruises (Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao) to reduce risk.

Final Thought

There is no single best cruise — it depends on what you want from your holiday. Some people want entertainment and busy ships. Some want peace and quiet. Some want food. Some want adventure. Some just want to switch off completely.

If you are looking for a cruise, get in touch and we can start planning.