Description Passenger Shipping Association Copyright © 2012. Thu, 02 May 2013 12:30:00 Thu, 02 May 2013 12:30:00 http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2013/may/cruise-converts-–-becoming-a-cruise-fan-on-a-family-easter-break.aspx Helen Coop had never considered taking her  family on a cruise  but as it seemed spring and summer were never going to arrive in the UK, she decided that enough was enough and the lure of a last minute  Mediterranean  cruise with  MSC Cruises  proved too much.  Here's Helen's story as a new to cruise convert.... The decision was easy to make -there was still a  cabin  available on MSC's newest ship, the MSC Preziosa, the itinerary and dates were good and  the price was right  - within a matter of days myself, my partner and our two girls aged 5 and 3 were packing our bags. We flew out to Nice and as soon as we landed, we were struck by the light.  "I can see the sun," my 5 year old proclaimed excitedly.  On our transfer to Genoa this was replaced with "I can see the sea" and the sense of excitement only increased as we arrived at the port. None of us were prepared for the sheer scale of the MSC Preziosa, this ship is enormous and dwarfs everything surrounding her.  She is brand, spanking new and quite literally gleams.    However, given her size, the embarkation process is surprisingly effortless and we were soon welcomed onboard.  Glass elevators and sparkling crystal staircases are the first things to catch your eye - together with the warm welcome from every MSC employee that we met. We shot up 8 floors in the afore mentioned lift, found our cabin and the balcony doors were quickly opened.  The great thing about being high up (we were on deck 13) of a ship this size is that you get a bird's eye view of every port you come to. There was no time to savour the sites though as two little voices piped up:  "Can we go swimming, please, please," this mantra was to be repeated frequently over the next week.    My girls were not disappointed, there are three swimming pools onboard (not counting the one exclusively for Yacht Club members) and a fantastic water park which kept them amused for hours.  We could swim in all weathers as one of the pools had a retractable roof and there were never too many people.   Throughout the week we tried and tested them all (frequently) but the family favourite had to be the infinity garden pool - it really was hard to believe we were actually onboard a ship. We were so impressed by everything, the service, the food, the kids club,  the shows  (we managed to go to three) the ease of getting on and off at the  various ports of call  and of course, the swimming pools.   One night, as we sipped our cocktails, my partner turned to me and said: "I'm a free spirit, I shouldn't be enjoying this so much," and that summed up our holiday.  A cruise perhaps wouldn't have been the first family holiday option to spring to our minds, but for a week away where everyone can get some much  required r and r and there are enough activities to keep the whole family happy, you really can't beat it.   http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2013/may/cruise-converts-–-becoming-a-cruise-fan-on-a-family-easter-break.aspx http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2013/may/cruise-converts-–-becoming-a-cruise-fan-on-a-family-easter-break.aspx Thu, 02 May 2013 12:30:00 http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2013/april/the-a-to-z-of-first-time-cruising.aspx If you are new to cruising it can sometimes feel like there is a lot to take in and learn! However, cruising is just like, or perhaps even easier, than planning most holidays. But just to help you out - and have a little bit of alphabet fun! - here is an A-Z of cruising written especially for those considering cruising for the first time.     A is for Activities -Take advantage of a huge variety of facilities and activitieson offer. From ballroom dancing to wine tasting, rock climbing walls to cookery schools, there is something for everyone. B is for Beauty -Cruise ships are now famed for their world-class spa facilities. Guests can treat themselves to a huge range of treatments ranging from specialist deep-tissue massages to bespoke facials that are tailored to specific skin types. C is for Cabins -Cruise ships have a lots of accommodation options available, from excellent value cabins right through to luxury suites. Ask your ACE approved agent for advice when booking to find a cabin that suits you.   D is for Dining -Foodies can expect a fantastic variety of quality cuisine on board a cruise ship. Some ships even offer backstage tours of the galley, the amazing kitchen from which renowned chefs create choice menus paired with the perfect wines by expert sommeliers.   E is for Entertainment -Cruises are renowned for incredible onboard entertainment. Guests can experience celebrity dancing specials, first class cabaret or even dance the night away in onboard clubs with music from top bands and DJ's. F is for Far-flung -From Asia to Alaska, cruise lines travel to a whole host of exciting locations throughout the world. Ports of call include anywhere and everywhere, with Burma, the Mekong, Australia and Russia amongst up and coming destinations. Cruises are the perfect way to explore off the beaten track places with all the comfort of your 'floating hotel'.   G is for Guest speakers -Cruises are constantly innovating with a huge range of fascinating guest speakers. Passengers can meet their favourite authors, study the skies with expert astronomers or even get the inside story from Cold war political specialists. H is for Honeymoon -Cruises are a great choice for honeymoon getaways. Experience the delights of visiting exotic destinations for the trip of a lifetime at an all-inclusive price that won't break the bank. Perfect for newlyweds! I is for Ice skating - Active travellers will enjoy the whole host of sports facilities on cruise ships, from ice skating rinks and golf driving ranges to volleyball courts and even waterslides - there's plenty to keep you occupied! J is for Just you -Cruise holidays are a great option if you are travelling on your own and many ships now offer single cabins at no additional charge. It's a great way to meet people and you'll never be lonely. K is for Kids -Looking for the perfect family holiday? Kids will love the facilities onboard, from dedicated pools and waterparks to child-friendly excursions and activities. Many ships offer early dining times for families or, alternatively, parents can take advantage of the baby-sitter services on offer.   L is for Luxury -Contemporary cruise liners can offer all the luxury and comfort of a top resort. Some luxury suites even come complete with a Jacuzzi. Guests can enjoy everything from private butlers to black-tie caviar beach soirees with French champagne on tap.  M is for Multigenerational -Multigenerational holidays are becoming more and more popular and cruises are a perfect option, with something for every age. Activities can be tailored for family fun or adults can enjoy some downtime whilst kids are whisked off to specialist clubs. N is for New to cruise -Unsure about whether cruising is for you? Visit discovercruises.co.uk for all you ever need to know about a cruise holiday! O is for Onboard services - Cruise ships cater for all needs onboard with everything from laundry services to banks. Many cruises carry specialist medical equipment allowing people with disabilities and those requiring dialysis to enjoy the holiday of a lifetime. P is for Price -Cruise holidays offer excellent value for money and there's a package to suit all budgets. With 'cashless cruising', settle your bill in one payment before disembarkation, so you can relax and enjoy a hassle-free trip. Q is fo r Questions - If you are looking to book a cruise but have questions about your trip, visit www.discovercruises.co.uk for essential information on all aspects of cruising.   R is f or Ride s -R ide the waves on rib boat excursions,jet skis and s peedboats o r ride a bike alongside your river cruiser as it glides along to the next port of call. S is for Sightseeing -River cruises are perfect for getting right into the heart of a city, with small jetties within the centre so all the sites are just a short walk from your ship. T is for Taster -new to cruise? Many cruise lines now offer taster cruises for those who have never cruised before. Close to home and less than five nights, you can escape on a short break and sample a mini cruise experience before committing to a longer holiday.  U is for UK -With a choice of over 650 cruises departing from more than fifteen UK ports, start your holiday as soon as you board the ship without the hassle of lengthy queues, busy airports and baggage restrictions. V is for Variety -Withover forty cruise lines to choose from, ranging from ultra luxury cruise yachts to specialist themed cruises, everyone can find their perfect cruise holiday. W is for Wildlife -Get up close to spectacular wildlife with specialist cruises and day excursions that offer you the chance to see bears, swim with dolphins and spot whales! You can even go on safari with a specialist Botswana river cruise. X is for Xmas -Have a magical Xmasand visiticonic European markets on December river cruise or why not escape the cold British winter and spend Xmas in the Caribbean! Y is for Yangtze River -Get to the heart of a country with spectacular views along the banks of the river. With a range of destinations ranging from the Yangtze River to the Nile, there has never been a better time to try river cruising. Z is for Zumba -Larger cruise ships have an excellent choice of sport and fitness facilities onboard. From Zumba to Yoga, golf to basketball, there is an activity for all ages.   So there it is - 26 reasons why a cruising holiday can be the best decision you've ever made.  http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2013/april/the-a-to-z-of-first-time-cruising.aspx http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2013/april/the-a-to-z-of-first-time-cruising.aspx Tue, 09 April 2013 14:36:00 http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2013/march/sailing-on-southern-seas.aspx   Ships have set sail from Southampton to the sunny climes of southern Europe for hundreds of years - although not always with the intentions of having a nice holiday. In the last two centuries, the city has also become a major hub for transatlantic cruises , which means that today Southampton is one of the best places to get a cruise in the United Kingdom. One of the most popular trips for people heading off from the south coast is to the Western Mediterranean , an itinerary that includes some of the most beautiful and famous cities in the world. First stop, though, is increasingly likely to be the Holiday Inn's Stay Park and Go  just a short hop from the cruise terminal. Affordable and accessible, cruise passengers can save a lot of money and relax in preparation of their cruise in the best possible way with the Holiday Inn offer.  Then it's off down along the coast of Franceto the western Mediterranean. Although the places you can stop vary, nearly all cruises take in Lisbonand Barcelona, two places that you're guaranteed never to forget. First up is Lisbon, souther Europe's most westerly capital point and a unique mix of old and new world charm.Lisbon is a city that drips with history, with evidence of settlements going well back before the Romans arrived in the second century BC. In fact,Lisbon has been a city of global influence almost since that time, with several distinct periods of wealth all of which are reflected in the wonderful and varied architecture, open plazas, and cramped little back streets of the old town. It's a great place to visit and one of the real treats of a western Mediterranean cruise . The other major stopping point is Barcelona, which has been transformed from an industrial provincial town to one of the world's most famous tourist destinations in just a couple of decades. The Sagrada Familia is, of course, a must see, but it's also well worth a trip to Park Guell (where Gaudi lived) to take in a stunning panorama of the city and see more of his work. After a hard day's sightseeing ,Barcelonais also a great place to relax, with world class restaurants opening out onto pedestrianised plazas and a climate that's unbeatable.  So, whatever you're looking for, whether you're young or old or have kids, a western Mediterranean cruise is a great option for a completely unforgettable holiday. http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2013/march/sailing-on-southern-seas.aspx http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2013/march/sailing-on-southern-seas.aspx Fri, 08 March 2013 14:00:00 http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2013/march/psa-cruise-journalism-awards-2013-–-winners-announced.aspx Following the exciting competition, the winners of the prestigious Passenger Shipping Association Cruise Journalism Awards were announced on 5 March at a celebrity studded event in London. Eleven awards were presented including 'best regional cruise feature', 'best river cruise feature' and 'best cruise blog', which was a new category for 2013. The PSA Cruise Journalism Awards celebrate the very best in cruise journalism and acknowledge media who support the cruise industry. Cruise enthusiast and former royal correspondent, Jennie Bond, hosted the awards ceremony which was attended by travel journalists, bloggers and key members of the cruise trade. The 2013 awards were sponsored by Cruise Jamaica.  Journalists fromCruise Critic, Blackpool Gazette, Mail on Sunday, Cruise International, Daily Telegraph, National Geographic Traveller,The Times,The Travel ChannelandCruise Trade Newswere awarded for their work. Lucy Huxley and her team atTravel Weeklyclaimed the prestigious 'contribution to cruise journalism award'.    The awards were judged by a panel of experts led by Lynn Narraway, UK managing director of Holland America Line and Seabourn and chair of the PSA PR committee. Commenting on the awards, Lynn Narraway said:  "We were overwhelmed by not only the number of entries for the PSA Cruise Journalism Awards but also the extremely high standard. The diversity of the features honoured this evening is a tribute to the journalists who continue to support the industry with original and creative stories that celebrate cruise holidays."   The full list of PSA Cruise Journalism Awards winners is as follows: Category: Best Cruise Blog Jamey Bergman,Cruise Critic Blog: Things I wouldn't normally do   Category: Best Online Cruise Feature Adam Coulter,Cruise Critic Article: P&O's Grand Event   Category: Best  Regional Cruise Feature Jim Pybus,Blackpool Gazette Article: Amazing Adventure up The Amazon   Category: Best Lifestyle Cruise Feature Amy Watkins,Mail on Sunday Article: Have a high old time on the Caribbean's 'Tarzan Tour'   Category: Best First Time Cruise Feature Belinda Gannon,Cruise International Article: A Free Spirit   Category: Best River  Cruise Feature Adrian Bridge,Daily Telegraph Article: Tuning into the Rhythm of the River   Category: Best Off the Beaten Track Cruise Feature Ben Lerwill,National Geographic Traveller Article: The Beautiful South    Louise Roddon,The Times Article: Sailing into the unknown   Category: Best Broadcast  Cruise Feature Ged Cleugh, The Travel Channel Article: Cruise Today   Category: Best Trade Cruise Feature Jane Archer,Cruise Trade News Article:  Luxury Cruising - Dispelling the Myths    Category: Best National Newspaper Cruise  Feature James Bedding, Daily Telegraph Article: Strictly Come Cruising   Category: Cruise Jamaica Contribution to Cruise Journalism   Lucy Huxley and her team at Travel Weekly   http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2013/march/psa-cruise-journalism-awards-2013-–-winners-announced.aspx http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2013/march/psa-cruise-journalism-awards-2013-–-winners-announced.aspx Wed, 06 March 2013 17:00:00 http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2013/february/psa-cruise-journalism-awards-nominations-shortlist.aspx The prestigious Passenger Shipping Association Cruise Journalism Awards will take to the stage on 5 March 2013. Following the success of the inaugural event last year, the Passenger Shipping Association, representing 42 river and ocean cruise lines, will be celebrating the very best in cruise journalism and showcasing the wonderful diversity and value of cruise holidays . For the first time, the awards will be supported by a new sponsor, The Port Authority of Jamaica.   The articles, features and blogs make fantastic reading and offer a wealth of information for those considering a cruise holiday.   Get involved with the action and follow @discovercruises #cruiseawards for results on the night Full shortlist for the PSA Cruise Journalism Award Category: Best Online Cruise Feature Sue Bryant,Daily Telegraph Article : The best new River cruises in 2013   Adam Coulter,Cruise Critic Article : P&O's Grand Event   Teresa Machan,Daily Telegraph Article: Sound of Music through the fjords   Category: Best National Newspaper Cruise  Feature Frank Barrett Mail on Sunday Article : Dropping in on Gracie   James Bedding, Daily Telegraph Article: Strictly Come Cruising   Peter Hughes,Daily Telegraph Article : Sod ageing get adventuring   Leslie Woit,The Independent Article : More than bare necessities   Category: Best Lifestyle Cruise Feature Terry Ramsey,The Times Article: How to roll a vine leaf at sea   Lucy Vickery,The Spectator Article: Surprising Serenity   Amy Watkins,Mail on Sunday Article: Have a high old time on the Caribbean's 'Tarzan Tour'   Category: Best River  Cruise Feature Jane ArcherWhich? Travel Article: Go with the Flow   Adrian Bridge,Daily Telegraph Article : Tuning into the Rhythm of the River   Jessica Tooze,Cruise International Article: Romance of the Rhine   Category: Best First Time Cruise Feature Belinda Gannon,Cruise International Article : A Free Spirit   Julia Rogers,AspirebyTravel Weekly Article: To Russia with Love   Fiona Whitty,Sunday Mirror Article : Wahaay Anchor   Category: Best Broadcast  Cruise Feature Ged Cleugh, The Travel Channel Article : Cruise Today (June Cruise Today)   Gareth Davis and Julie Peasgood, The Travel Channel Article : Voyages to Antiquity.   Nina Nannar, ITV1 Evening News Article: Cunard's Three Queens Jubilee Tribute   Category: Best  Regional Cruise Feature Jonathan Grun, Syndicated on PA Wire. Article : Atlantic Voyage of Discovery   Jim Pybus,Blackpool Gazette, Hull Daily Mail, Leeds ConfidentialandLondon Confidential Article : Amazing Adventure up The Amazon   James Powell, Press Association Article : The Only Way Is Opera   Category: Best Trade Cruise Feature Jane Archer,Cruise Trade News Article:  Luxury Cruising - Dispelling the Myths   Jane Archer,Travel Weekly Article:  A Family Affair   Phil Davies,Travel Weekly Article: Mickey Magic in the Med   Category: Best Off the Beaten Track Cruise Feature Sue Bryant,Daily Telegraph Article: Never a dull moment in the tropics   Ben Lerwill,National Geographic Traveller Article : The Beautiful South   Louise Roddon,The Times Article: Sailing into the unknown   Category: Best Cruise Blog Jamey Bergman,Cruise Critic Blog : Things I wouldn't normally do   Simon Busch,Travelzoo blog Blog : Tales of a cruise virgin   John Honeywell,Captain Greybeard Mirror Blog Blog : Arrive by river and stay on a cruise ship. The best way to see Burma   Category: Contribution to Cruise Journalism To be announced at the awards ceremony.   http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2013/february/psa-cruise-journalism-awards-nominations-shortlist.aspx http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2013/february/psa-cruise-journalism-awards-nominations-shortlist.aspx Wed, 27 February 2013 16:00:00 http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2013/february/bethlehem,-jerusalem-and-that-wall.aspx In her early life, Lynn Houghton travelled extensively but always fit it around work before deciding to write full time. She now travels on assignment blogging about, writingabout and photographing cruise, nature, culture and food. Born in Canada, she grew up in California but now resides in London with her husband. Visit Lynn's blog  Lynnstheone.com   On this fascinating trip, Lynn delves into the world of Bethlehem on a  once in a lifetime excursion with Celebrity Cruises.  Bethlehem, Jerusalem and That Wall - Not exactly like the former Berlin Wall and Checkpoint Charlie, but perhaps more like the border crossing between North and South Cyprus, I am trying to find something to compare with the militarized zone and containment wall I have just passed through. Travelling from Jerusalem into Palestinian Bethlehem (which, translated, means bread bakers) to visit the supposed site of Jesus' birth, I was amazed to see machine gun toting young soldiers at the gate's entrance. The wall dividing Jew and Palestinians is about 25 ft. high and surrounded by menacing barbed wire. Without realising it, the officials and military of Jerusalem provide an opportunity for graffiti artists and citizens to express their disgust and anger at being kept out of this holy city. Our tour guide did say that though the threat of terrorism is still very high the secret service monitor young hostile dissidents very closely and have been very effective at stopping them before they can carry out violent acts. I imagine to keep the peace there may be no choice but to have a barbed wired concrete barrier and secret police. I didn't like to bring it up, but Jewish terrorists killed a British ambassador and many others before 1948. But as I was travelling with a group of Americans, I wasn't sure they would appreciate that fact. All is fair in love and war? It was fascinating to visit the grotto where Jesus was reputedly born. The church built to stand over the spot was constructed during the crusades. Unfortunately, it is in quite a state of disrepair with dirty columns and distressed mosaics clashing with the ornate Greek Orthodox golden lanterns and religious iconography that also appeared quite ancient. The queue to go down into the grotto was long and the experience of descending very slowly down the steps into a narrow passageway was somewhat claustrophobic. The place of Jesus' birth is marked by a 14 point cross in honour of the Via Dolorosa and the place where there may have been a manger has several hanging lanterns which doesn't give it much of a feeling of authenticity. Still, overall, I found the excursion to be excellent and particularly enjoyed the Bedouin lunch put on by Patra Tours which are contracted by Celebrity Cruises. http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2013/february/bethlehem,-jerusalem-and-that-wall.aspx http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2013/february/bethlehem,-jerusalem-and-that-wall.aspx Mon, 25 February 2013 13:00:00 http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2013/february/burma-for-beginners.aspx In her early life, Lynn Houghton travelled extensively but always fit it around work before deciding to write full time. She now travels on assignment blogging about, writingabout and photographing cruise, nature, culture and food. Born in Canada, she grew up in California but now resides in London with her husband. Visit Lynn's blog  Lynnstheone.com   Burma for Beginners  - "You beautiful, Lady", said the local woman, indicating my long hair. Nothing could have surprised me more than this remark. She was wrapped in a longyi (long skirt) with a small child anchored to her hip and her cheeks smeared with Tanaker, the traditional Burmese make-up. I hadn't expected to hear English in a rural village this far from the capital of Yangon and was even more surprised to get a compliment. See Lynn is up to now on Twitter @lynnstheone I looked around and found myself surrounded by scruffy and enthusiastic children pushing discs of Tanaker sun bloc gently into my hand. We had been instructed not to purchase from impromptu vendors but it was hard to resist. I knew I would have to pick up the pace to find Zaw, our tour guide. It would be easy to get lost in this crowd of people. "Wait up!" I yelped, stumbling over a bicycle and a basket of fruit, before finally catching up with the rest of my group. Having only arrived in Burma yesterday, it had been a very early start to get on a flight bound for Bagan, the 11th century capital, which is an optional excursion offered by  Voyages to Antiquity. Flying over this ancient valley, the Irrawaddy River curves and snakes its way through the landscape. The day would be mesmerising: Golden Buddhas, pagodas and pyramids litter this part of Burma. It is a visual bonanza as there are over 2,000 of these structures. One of the most amazing places I have ever seen.  There was even an intriguing display of extreme hairstyles with knots and twists in the newly built archaeological museum. "What does this signify?" I asked our tour guide. Zaw explained, "The exhibit is about a long held belief here in Burma. We believe men show strength through their right hands while women's power comes from having long hair." Perhaps this explained the local woman's comment? Our  ship  had only arrived into Yangon, the capital of Burma, the afternoon before. Fishermen had waved at us from their wooden boats and other local Burmese had been on the dock and lining the shore, all appearing equally excited to see us. Their garb was colourful and their happiness genuine all this excitement was completely contagious. I couldn't wait to disembark. On making my way through the remarkable city, I was amazed at the vibrant Chinatown interspersed with European colonial buildings. I spotted a sign declaring 'Warmly Welcome Take Care of Tourists'. This is a loose translation of bama shan-chin, a reference to the Burmese standard of conduct in caring for any guests or tourists. I was eager to see the famous golden Schwedagon. After dutifully removing my shoes, I was allowed to enter the complex. Birds flew overhead and I marvelled at the sight of the 100ft golden stupa. I listened to the tolling of temple bells while worshippers poured water over tiny Buddhas as an exercise of purification. Entire families were relaxing in the shadows as dusk descended while hundreds of candles were lit. "Relax and enjoy the beauty of the Stupa which is Buddha's gift!" exclaimed Thi Thi, our guide and instructor. It was truly magical. http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2013/february/burma-for-beginners.aspx http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2013/february/burma-for-beginners.aspx Wed, 13 February 2013 00:00:00 http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2013/january/river-cruise-news-go-with-the-flow-and-try-river-cruising-in-2013.aspx 2013 will be the year to take a river cruise as the increase of no single supplement cruises and the first ever all inclusive river cruise products offer unbeatable value for those wanting to experience the sites from a totally different perspective. With over 30 new itineraries on offer and five new ships there is a wider choice than ever to suit all tastes and budgets. Whether it be taking in the breathtaking landscapes whilst meandering along some of the world's best known rivers or exploring the culture and heritage of the many featured cities along the way, there is something for everyone on a river cruise. Here's our pick of some of the most exciting developments going on this year.   AmaWaterways launches its first Seine cruises, two new ships and four new itineraries This year will see a host of new cruises from AmaWaterways with its first ever cruises on th e Seine, two new ships and four new itineraries in France and Portugal. New ship AmaPrima will debut in April 2013 on the Danube and the Rhine, and the AmaVida will launch on the Douro in March. AmaPrima, a 164-guest river cruiser, will feature spacious rooms, most with twin balconies, a heated swimmingpool, and free use of on board bicycles. AmaVida will also have a sun deck swimming pool, fitness centre and spa and will cruise two new itineraries on the Douro. www.amawaterways.co.uk     Avalon Waterways set to expand with two luxury 'suite' ships Avalon Waterways will take delivery of two new 'suite' ships in May 2013. These new ships will contain two new decks of suites designed to provide guests with every luxury. The new Panorama Suite, 30 percent larger than the industry standard, boasts a king-size bed, designer marble bathroom and floor to ceiling windows. The new ships will also feature several lounges with outside viewing areas, a bar and dining room, hairdressing salon, a 'Sky Deck Jacuzzi' and an open-air bistro. www.avaloncruises.co.uk .   Scenic Tours goesall-inclusive and launches a new ship Scenic Tours has become the first river cruise line to offer all-inclusive cruises covering all meals, unlimited drinks and even a personal butler service for every guest. 2013 will also see the launch of a new ship, Scenic Jewel, on Rhine and Danube itineraries whilst all current ships on the same rivers will be refurbished. Scenic Tours will also be expanding its European itineraries with a series of new cruises on the Rhône plus over 20 new excursions across all cruises with activities such as a private dinner and concert at the Rastatt Palace or a visit to the Hockenheim Formula 1 Track in Heidelberg . www.scenictours.co.uk   The River Cruise Line adds new four star cruises and announces selected no single s upplement cruises The River Cruise Line has announced that several of its cruises will run with no single supplement in 2013. This offer is available for a wide range of trips including a five day Rhine cruise, a Christmas 2013 Venice cruise and a Christmas 2012 Seine cruise. Plus, The River Cruise Line will be introducing a selection of four star cruises, onboard the Ms Switzerland II, and four, brand new cruise itineraries. New cruises for 2013 will take in a selection of iconic European destinations including Amsterdam as well as destinations further afield Berlin such as Russia and the Mekong Delta. www.rivercruiseline.co.uk Tauck to drops single supplements on all 2013 European river cruises Tauck has announced that it will not be charging single supplements on its 2013 European river cruises, saving solo travellers substantial amounts on hundreds of cruise options. Plus, Tauck will also be launching two new itineraries on the Rhône, one with a family focus and a second looking at the art and culture of southern France. www.tauck.com 15 new river itineraries from Shearings Shearings has launched its new river cruise brochure, and will be offering 15 new itineraries in 2013. New routes include 'Exploring Eastern Europe' taking in both Prague and Berlin for the first time. Guests will be offered even greater flexibility with a bigger network of luxury coaches allowing for travel from over 300 joining points. www.shearings.com     http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2013/january/river-cruise-news-go-with-the-flow-and-try-river-cruising-in-2013.aspx http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2013/january/river-cruise-news-go-with-the-flow-and-try-river-cruising-in-2013.aspx Tue, 08 January 2013 00:00:00 Discover Cruises http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2012/december/our-pick-of-the-best-cruise-offers-from-the-january-sales.aspx It's cold outside, you've opened all your presents and counted down to New Year 2013 - what now? Relax and take advantage of the January sales from your armchair, we've hunted high and low and found the very best summer holiday deals for 2013 whether you're looking for a beach holiday, adventure break or foodie cruise we've found the ideal summer holiday 2013 escape for you. Here's our round up of the best cruises deals for summer 2013:  1.       Med cruises from £549pp with Holland America Line - book before end of Jan Holland America Line has launched a special 'Sail and Save' offer for bookings made by the end of January 2013, meaning now is the time for savvy travellers to snap up their 2013 cruise holiday.  The premium cruise line is offering week-long Mediterranean cruises from just £549pp cruise-only and ex-UK cruises from £599pp, plus: Reduced cruise fares for third and fourth guests, sharing a stateroom with two full-fare adults Savings on combined back-to-back itineraries, known as 'Collector's Voyages' Free car parking for customers in an ocean-view stateroom or above sailing from Dover A worry free deposit, allowing changes to ships, sailing dates, promotion codes and staterooms up to 90 days prior to departure or the final payment due date  Our favouritecruises featuring in the sale include:   Seven night Mediterranean Glamour cruise from £549 per person, cruise only Holland America Line is offering a seven night Mediterranean Glamour cruise onboard the ms Ryndam from £549 per person, cruise-only, this spring. Departing  from Barcelona on 16 April 2013, this cruise calls at Monte Carlo, Livorno (Florence / Pisa), Civitavecchia (Rome), Palermo in Sicily and La Goulette (Tunis) before returning to Barcelona. Ocean view rooms are available from just £599 per person, and third and fourth guests start from just £199 per adult and £99 per child. This price includes seven nights' accommodation, all meals, snacks, teas, coffee and water. Fly/cruise fares start from £741 per person including scheduled flights from London and transfers, subject to availability. Seven night ex-UK Norwegian Fjords cruise from £599 per person For those wanting to avoid the airports, Holland America Line has a seven night cruise to the Norwegian Fjords onboard the ms Ryndam from £599 per person. Departing from Dover on 4 May 2013, this cruise calls at Bergen, Flam, Alesund and Eidfjord before cruising Hardangerfjord and then returning to Dover. Ocean view rooms are available from just £699 per person and include free parking at Dover. This price includes seven nights' accommodation, all meals, snacks, teas, coffee and water. Subject to availability. 22 night Mediterranean & Iberian Collector's Voyage from £1,599 per person Holland America Line is also offering a 22 night Mediterranean & Iberian Discovery Collector's Voyage onboard the ms Eurodam from just £1,599 per person cruise-only. This cruise has a superb itinerary - departing from Civitavecchia on 29 April 2013, it calls at Kerkira (Corfu), Katakolon (Greece), Thira (Santorini), Kusadasi (Ephesus) in Turkey and then overnights at Piraeus (Athens). The ship then continues to Messina, Naples, Cartagena, Malaga, Cadiz (Seville), Lisbon, Vigo, St Peter Port (Guernsey) and Zeebrugge (Brussels) before disembarking in Copenhagen. Third and fourth guests start from £466 per adult and £266 per child. This price includes 22 nights' accommodation, all meals, snacks, teas, coffee and water. Fly/cruise fares start from £1,865 per person including scheduled flights from London and transfers, subject to availability. 14 night ex-UK Jewels of the Baltic cruise from £1,199 per person Discover more of Europe on an 14 night Jewels of the Baltic cruise onboard Holland America Line's ms Ryndam from £1,199 per person. Departing from Dover on 18 May 2013, this cruise calls at Copenhagen, Warnemunde (Berlin) and Tallinn before overnighting in St Petersburg. The ship then continues to Helsinki before overnighting in Stockholm. It then cruises the Stockholm Archipelago and calls at Visby in Sweden before returning to Dover. Ocean view rooms are available from just £1,399 per person and include free parking at Dover. This price includes 11 nights' accommodation, all meals, snacks, teas, coffee and water. Subject to availability. For more information or to book, contact Holland America Line on www.hollandamerica.co.uk or call 0843 374 2300  2.      Book now with Cunard and if the price drops they'll give you the difference!  Seven nights from £799  Cunard is focusing on its Vantage Fares , which have a price promise built in so that early bookers can be confident, should the price of the voyage booked subsequently fall, that the reduction will be automatically made up to them in the form of complimentary on board spending money or an accommodation upgrade.  The Price Promise acts like a kite-mark for holiday value. Vantage Fares mean also entitle you to: Free on board spending money of £50-£130 per person per day Free car parking at Southampton OR Free coach transfers to the ship in Southampton OR free airport parking (for holidays beginning and ending in the same place)  Low deposit - only 10% instead of the standard 15% (when bookings made by 28 February 2013) Flybe regional airfares to Southampton airport from £159 per person return, including flights from Manchester, Edinburgh, Glasgow and Belfast.  The best Vantage Fares bargains we found were: Lead fares start from £799 per person for seven-nights in the Fjords (Queen Victoria30 Jun-7 Jul 2013); from £999 per person for 12-nights in the Mediterranean (Queen Elizabeth19 Apr-1May 2013); and from £939 per person for seven-nights crossing the Atlantic from Southampton to New York aboardQueen Mary 2(26 Apr-3 May 2013).  www.cunard.co.uk   3.     Norwegian Cruise Line launches 'Early Booking Spectacular '  - book before 14 February, prices from £756pp  Guests booking before 14 February 2013 can benefit from reductions of up to £500 per stateroom on selected sailings of three nights or more between April 2013 and April 2014. Itineraries in the 'Early Booking Spectacular' include:   A seven-night Transatlantic from Southampton to New Yorkfly-cruise on board Norwegian Breakawaydeparting a UK airport 30 April 2013. Travelling: Southampton (UK) - New York (USA).Priced from £947 per person based on 30 April 2013 departure(includes flights to London) A seven-night Greek Isles from Venice fly-cruise on board Norwegian Jade departing UK airport various dates between 4 May and 12 Oct 2013. Travelling: Fly UK / Venice (Italy) - Corfu (Greece) - Santorini (Greece) - Mykonos (Greece) - Katakolon (Olympia, Greece) - Venice (Italy).Priced from £756 per person based on 4 & 18 May 2013 departure.* Flights from Manchester. A seven-nightWestern Mediterranean from Barcelonafly-cruise on boardNorwegian Epicdeparting a UK airport various dates between 5 May and 13 October 2013. Travelling: Fly UK / Barcelona (Spain) - Naples (Pompeii, Italy) - Civitavecchia (Rome, Italy) - Livorno (Florence/Pisa, Italy) - Marseille (Provence, France) - Palma (Majorca, Spain) - Barcelona (Spain) / Fly UK.Priced from £862 per person based on 6 & 13 Oct 2013 departure.* Flights from Manchester.  4.    Secure your cruise with just a £50 deposit with MSC Keep it Simple sale , until 31 January - seven night Med cruises from £599pp MSC cruises has a whole section of their website dedicated to their new Keep It Simple sale, which offers customers just that - sale prices and itineraries that are simple to understand and easy to book. Book before 31 January and put down a deposit as little as £50 What's more, if you book online you can save an additional 5% Here's our pick of the best 'Keep it Simple' offers:   MSC Preziosa - 7 Nights: Genoa, Naples, Messina, La Goulette, Barcelona, Marseille, Genoa from £599pp MSC Sinfonia - 7 Nights: Genoa, St Tropez, Palma de Mallorca, Mahon, Olbia, Salerno, Genoa from £599pp MSC Splendida - 7 Nights: Genoa, Marseille, Barcelona, Valencia, Tunis, Civitavecchia, Genoa from £599pp MSC Orchestra - 7 Nights: Genoa, Civitavecchia, Palermo, La Goulette, Ibiza, Villefranche sur Mer, Genoa from £599pp MSC Armonia - 7 Nights: Venice, Ancona, Kotor, Corfù, Gythion*, Argostoli, Dubrovnik, Venice from £599pp MSC Divina - 7 Nights:Venice, Bari, Katakolon, Izmir, Istanbul, Dubrovnik, Venice from £599pp MSC Fantasia - 7 Nights: Venice, Bari, Katakolon, Santorini, Piraeus, Corfu, Venice from £599pp  5.     Book before 31 January and save £600 per cabin with Voyages to Antiquity The View of Jerusalem : Cairo to Istanbul,  16 Night Voyage - 31 March 2013 from just £2,450 This amazing package offers a saving of up to £600 per cabin and also includes:  Scheduled economy class airfare All meals on board Aegean Odyssey Selected shore excursions as detailed in itinerary Lunch on full day excursions All gratuities for restaurant and cabin staff on board Selected wine with dinner (beer or soft drinks if preferred) on board In-depth lecture programme featuring expert guest speakers Transfers between airports, hotels and Aegean Odyssey abroad† Porterage of luggage to/from your cabin Includes a two night hotel stay in Cairo, one night hotel in Luxor, and a two night hotel stay in Istanbul. The Isles of Greece: Istanbul to Athens, 12 nights - 14 April 2013 from just £1,795 This cruise offer is a saving of £600 per cabin and includes:  Scheduled economy class airfare All meals on board Aegean Odyssey Selected shore excursions as detailed in itinerary Lunch on full day excursions All gratuities for restaurant and cabin staff on board Selected wine with dinner (beer or soft drinks if preferred) on board In-depth lecture programme featuring expert guest speakers Transfers between airports, hotels and Aegean Odyssey abroad† Porterage of luggage to/from your cabin A two night hotel stay in Istanbul  For those booking this cruise in cabin grades A-D (available from £3.450) Voyages to Antiquity is also offering free flight upgrades, so even more incentive to book early! 6.  Super Saver deals from Princess Cruises - Seven night cruises from £699pp Princess Cruises has a huge range of New Year offers for summer 2013, check out their Super Saver page to find the one for you. The best value fares we found are:   Seven day France and Spain round trip - £699pp, departing May 2013 Calling at Barcelona, Spain | Monte Carlo, Monaco | Florence/Pisa (Livorno), Italy | Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy | Naples, Italy (for Capri and Pompeii) | Corsica (Ajaccio), France | Gibraltar Canary Islands round trip from the UK , Eleven nights from £799, departing 30 April 2013 Calling at: Gran Canaria (Las Palmas), Canary Islands | Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Canary Islands | Lanzarote (Arrecife), Canary Islands | Madeira (Funchal), Portugal | Vigo, Spain (for Santiago de Compostela) Norwegian Fjords round trip From the UK - £799, Departing 1 September 2013 Calling at Bergen, Norway | Flaam, Norway | Olden, Norway | Hellesylt, Norway | Geiranger, Norway | Stavanger, Norway 7. 30% off 10 night cruise from Lisbon to Reykjavik  with Ponant - was £3,598, now £2,519  Departing from Lisbon on 13 July 2013, this ten-night cruise onboard brand new ship Le Soléal calls at Leixoes (Portugal), Glengarriff (Ireland), Galway (Ireland), Killybegs (Ireland), Iona (Scotland), Tobermory (Scotland), Heimay (Vestmann Islands, Iceland) before disembarking in Reykjavik. The cruise costs from £2,519 cruise-only including 10 nights' accommodation, all meals from dinner on the day of embarkation to breakfast on the day of disembarkation, mineral water, tea, filter coffee, white, red and rose wines served with meals. There is no end date to this sale; it's simply subject to availably, which means it's first come first served. So book quickly!     Have you found a better cruise deal for 2013? Let us know over on our Discover Cruises Facebook Page     http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2012/december/our-pick-of-the-best-cruise-offers-from-the-january-sales.aspx http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2012/december/our-pick-of-the-best-cruise-offers-from-the-january-sales.aspx Tue, 01 January 2013 00:00:00 Discover Cruises http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2012/december/holland-america-line-develops-a-brand-new-flower-to-celebrate-140th-birthday!.aspx We've all been there, struggling to find a birthday present for the person that has everything - why not find a world renowned master flower grower to develop a new type of flower especially for them?! Well that's just what the premium cruise line Holland America Line has done to celebrate its forthcoming 140 th birthday in 2013.    The cruise line, which is well known for its excellent cuisine, large rooms and suites, is partnering with the world-famous Keukenhof Spring Gardens in the Netherlands to develop an exclusive tulip to mark the celebrations.   Master grower Jan Pennings, exhibitor at Keukenhof Gardens , chose to create a white feathered variety to honour the company, which was originally founded in Rotterdam on 18 April 1873 as a transatlantic cargo and passenger company.     The tulips are scheduled to bloom in spring 2013 and an official christening and naming of the new tulip will be held at Keukenhof in April 2013 - watch this space for more news and pictures   Known as the Garden of Europe, Keukenhof is the world's largest flower garden, situated near Amsterdam, in the Netherlands.  Approximately seven million flower bulbs of 1,600 varieties are planted annually around the park. Keukenhof is only open for two months per year, from 21 March through to 20 May, and attracts more than 800,000 visitors from around the world.   What do you think this special flower should be called? Leave us some ideas; we'd love to put your suggestions forward! Who better to pick a name than the cruising community itself?  For more information or to book a cruise with Holland America Line visit www.hollandamerica.co.uk or call 0843 374 2300   http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2012/december/holland-america-line-develops-a-brand-new-flower-to-celebrate-140th-birthday!.aspx http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2012/december/holland-america-line-develops-a-brand-new-flower-to-celebrate-140th-birthday!.aspx Wed, 19 December 2012 00:00:00 http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2012/october/dispelling-cruise-myths.aspx   Emma Gray , is 22 year old Scottish girl, with a serious passion for cruising and travelling. She has been on 13 cruises, with 6 different cruise lines - visiting 26 countires in total!         Emma is a blogger and founder of the new cruise blog www.emmaonboard.com See what Emma is up to now on Twitter @EmmaOnboard and Facebook   Cruise Holidays . What connotations do these words conjure up for you? Elderly couples shuffling around a ballroom before retiring to bed at 10:30pm? Endless hours of boredom when sailing between ports? Cramped and claustrophobic stateroom accommodation? Bland food? All of the above? This couldn't be further from the truth. In today's world cruise holidays have evolved into something much larger, and undoubtedly more appealing. Gone are the days when evening entertainment consisted of mellow games of bridge and the gentility of lounge music. Although these activities are available if you want them, they have largely been replaced with glitzy west end style theatre performances, ice shows and pulsating nightclubs where you can dance until the wee small hours. With all these activities to offer, plus a dizzying multitude more, cruises are no longer the preserve of the middle aged. There are events and options to suit people of practically every age and taste. Cruise companies are appealing to an increasingly younger, more exciting market by creating cruise ships which are more like luxury floating cities than ocean-going liners. In the morning you could be working out in a fully equipped gym, swimming in the pool, relaxing on deck or playing mini golf. By afternoon you could find yourself drooling over a cooking demonstration, be ensconced in the library, rock climbing or boutique shopping. In the evenin g you could find yourself enjoying a mouth-watering dinner, watching a movie under the stars, enjoying a live band or chuckling along to a comedian. The possibilities are endless , and modern ships offer up such an array of different options that it's often hard to know what to do first!Cruise holidays are a great option for families with young children as the on board facilities to keep them entertained are endless. Video arcades, rock climbing walls, their own parties, dinners, lunches, teen meet ups, their own private space on board and much more. The idea that you'll be confronted with bland and boring food while on your cruise holiday is also another massive misconception.  T here are some incredible meals to be enjoyed at sea . Famous and world renowned chefs have restaurants on board many cruise ships. Examples include Gary Rhodes, Marco Pierre White and Atul  Kochhar, who all have restaurants offering such delicious and inventive cuisine that you'd never know you weren't on land.   The idea that you'll feel confined within an oppressive environment on board is also a great cruise myth. Today's modern ships are impeccably designed to give the feeling of space at all times. You'll be surprised just how much you feel like you're simply inside a beautiful, and very large, hotel! There is usually plenty of outdoor space on the ship's decks where you can enjoy a dose of healthy sea air and even work on your tan!                      Cruise holidays have truly moved beyond the common misconceptions that were perhaps true in the past. It's a unique style of holiday that can appeal to all different tastes and age ranges. Why not book a cruise today and see just how surprised you might be… http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2012/october/dispelling-cruise-myths.aspx http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2012/october/dispelling-cruise-myths.aspx Thu, 15 November 2012 00:00:00 http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2012/october/russell-watson-talks-concerts-and-cruises.aspx In the run up to his exciting sailings with P&O Cruises , Russell Watson talks concerst and cruises with Discover Cruises.   Is perform ing  on a cruise ship any different to other  performanc es? Whether the concert is at the Sydney Opera House, Carnegie Hall, at The Vatican or in a working men's club - and I have performed at all of them -  it's always about providing the best performance I can.       What has been your  best experience on a cruise ship ? I love tennis and so it has to be playing my favourite game on the high seas.   Do you have a favourite  port of cal l? Sydney is a fabulous city and I love New York . European cities such as Barcelona, Florence and Venice are always inspiring but there's nowhere quite like my home city of Manchester - nothing beats being in the crowd for a Manchester United home game.   Have you ever been on a cruise holiday? I have performed on a cruise ship but have yet to sample the delights of a cruise holiday.   What is the first thing you do when you board a ship? Head up on deck to get a feel for the ship and lungfuls of fresh, sea air.   W hat would be your greatest journey? I love being with my family and friends, so I'd want them with me. I was really impressed by the beauty of Malaysia when I visited, and I love Japan so perhaps a tour of  Asia  to take in the sights, sounds and smells would be a great adventure.     Russell will be performing an  intimate show  for just 200 guests onboard the luxurious, six-star all inclusive Seabourn Legend as part of a seven night cruise of the   Mediterranean .       Visit www.pocruises.com  or www.cruiseoffers.com   for more information. If you would like to visit any of the places that Russell has talked about, visit www.discovercruises.co.uk  and find out how to make it happen for you with a cruise. http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2012/october/russell-watson-talks-concerts-and-cruises.aspx http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2012/october/russell-watson-talks-concerts-and-cruises.aspx Thu, 01 November 2012 00:00:00 Discover Cruises http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2012/september/it-all-happens-on-a-cruise!.aspx Some may think cruising is all about sunbathing, eating and, well, sailing. Think again. There is a huge range of weird and wonderful things to get up to on a cruise from lassoing reindeer to driving a tank.  Cruising  is a holiday which affords incredible choice and virtually every type experience is possible. Here are some of our top cruising experiences - so get out there and  find your greatest journey !   Spice up your life with incredible  adventure experiences  on specialised cruises  Be inspired by polar bears, go dog sledging and even lasso reindeer on an Arctic cruise with Hurtigruten . Break the ice and watch penguins undisturbed in their natural habitat on the most undiscovered continent, visit Antarctica with  Hapag-Lloyd Cruis es H Discover the volcanic island where Napoleon was banished with  RMS St Helena  is the RoyalMail Ship which services this island thousands of kilometres off the African coast.  Get up close and personal with the African wildlife on a Zambezi safari cruises. Watch elephants and crocodiles from the water with   Amawat erways.                                                       Explore the vast expanses of the Amazon rainforest and join expert guides on a jungle trek with   Regent Seven Seas Cruises  or cool down and sail into the darkest seas of Northern Europe with Princess Cruises .  Here you can witness the most spectacular view of the Northern Lights with almost no light pollution to interrupt this amazing light show. Get your pulse racing with  Royal Caribbean International  and go mountain biking in the Arcadia National Park in Maine, USA and for a truly once in a lifetime experience why not go bear watching on a float-plane in Alaska on the ultimate excursion with  Oceania Cruises    Try the unexpected Play with the ultimate boy's toys with  Crystal Cruises   whose  excursions  include tank driving in Dorset and even flying in a fighter jet.  Get into cold war politics with  Avalon Waterways  who even have ex-UN diplomacy experts onboard. Explore the undiscovered  Douro River  with  Shearings Holidays . This stunning Portuguese river is one of the least known by British travellers but is well worth a sun soaked visit.  Volunteer holidays are becoming more and more popular travellers can also go on a charity and volunteer focused cruise with  eWaterways   Fancy visiting Shanghai? Ever fancied travelling in a side-car? Well now passengers can kill two birds with one stone and go on an amazing Shanghai side-car experience with  Silversea    It's more than just  eating ... Dying to go on a cookery course? Cruises can give passengers unprecedented access to first class chefs and facilities with  Holland America Line  offering paella lessons in Palma de Majorca and Sicilian cooking lessons in Palermo whilst  Tauck  river cruises offer classes at the Alain Ducasse culinary school in Paris. Some may think that they will end up putting on weight on a cruise - but cruises can actually be a great alternative to healthy holidays and bootcamps.  Celebrity Cruise  offers specialised meal, health spa and wellness programs on selected cruises.     Family fun for all the  family   Airports can be stressful particularly when travelling with the very young or very old, so why not try a no-fly cruise with  Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines  and  Cruise & Maritime Voyages  for easy travelling with all the family. A Christmas cruise can be the ultimate way to get into the festive spirit. Pick up the best presents with a  Saga cruise   Get educational and bring history to life for the kids with trip to Egypt or a cruise through the historical Mediterranean with  Voyages to Antiquit y and Titan Travel with Uniworld www.titantravel.co.uk   Cruises offer a huge range of entertainment for toddlers, children and teenagers with everything from kids clubs to night clubs and water parks on board.  Norwegian Cruise Line  and  Carniv al C uise L ines  are experts at keeping kids happy and entertained.  All inclusive cruises are a great way to keep control of spending and ensure that the family can have all the ice creams they want!  Costa Cruises  and  Island Cruises  have a variety of packages and all inclusive cruises making sure guests only spend what they are happy with. Worried about kids staying in their own or the price of two rooms?  MSC Cruises  has special family rooms and rates for families with children under the age of 18. Parents can make their children's dreams come true - take a  Disney Cruise  and meet every childhood hero and budding Broadway talent can be nurtured on a cruise with expert teachers - kids love  Thomson Cruise's  stage school.   Luxury  all the way Every fancied your very own butler? Well why not take a cruise and get waited on hand and foot. Scenic Tours  offers private butlers on their luxury river cruises. Travelling in luxury doesn't have to mean forgoing adventure.  Companie Du Ponant  specialises in luxurious expedition cruise to far-flung locations all over the world including Antarctica.   We all like a bit of decadence - so why not eat caviar on silver platters served by tuxedo clad waiters standing in the surf on a beautiful beach?  Seabourn  can make this happen for you. Hobnob with the rich and famous and go on a cruise which can boast the ultimate royal connections with  Cunard Line .  To make beach dreams come true  SeaDream Yacht Club  will serve  perfectly cooked lobster on the beach at sunset with drinks butlers to remember your favourite tipple. For those who have everything,  Azamara Club Cruises  provides its staff with special English butter training to ensure every detail of breakfast is absolutely perfect  - now that is luxury.   Want to have a  trial run ? Taster and mini cruises - these short cruises can be anything from one to five nights and are perfect for dipping into cruise holidays before committing to a longer holiday.  Check out  CroisiEurope  to get some mini river cruise ideas.   Big is not necessarily better Cruises do not have to be on large ships with strict timetables. Many ships are small and very informal offering guests complete independence and choice. Why not try  Classic International Cruises   for a totally relaxed experience.   Variety is the spice of life - get to know multiple  destinations One of the best things offered by a cruise is the chance to visit multiple destinations in one trip and often this includes island hopping to little known places visitors are otherwise unlikely to see.  P&O Cruises  has some fantastic Car ibbean island hopping itineraries on offer. Cruises are actually a great way of getting intimate with a destinationwith specialised shore excursions to help visitors get under the skin of each port of call.  APT Boutique River Cruises  helps guests meet the locals and visit traditional homes in Russia.                                             http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2012/september/it-all-happens-on-a-cruise!.aspx http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2012/september/it-all-happens-on-a-cruise!.aspx Tue, 02 October 2012 00:00:00 http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2012/september/join-the-world-famous-russell-watson-for-an-intimate-concert-at-sea.aspx As Greatest Journeys go, this has to top the bucket list! Concerts at Sea has arranged an intimate show for just 200 guests onboard the luxurious, six-star all inclusive Seabourn Legend as part of a seven night cruise of the Mediterranean . Between Nice, Marseille, Valencia, Mallorca, Valencia, Barcelona and Rome guests can enjoy spa treatments, yoga classes, enrichment lectures and wine tasting or even take advantage of the ship's own marina which can be deployed for sailing, kayaking, snorkelling and waterskiing. The highlight of the indulgent seven night experience is an exclusive once in a lifetime opportunity to watch Russell Watson live in concert whilst sailing from Barcelona to Valencia in a venue like no other. The concert will then be followed by a gourmet gala dinner hosted by Russell himself.  With only 100 cabins onboard make sure you're one of the 200 guests onboard for this intimate event. Visit www.concertsatsea.co.uk for more information or for more information the Seabourn Legend visit www.seabourn.com We've been lucky enough to secure an interview with Russell Watson this month ahead of his embarkation - head on over to our Facebook page and let us know what you'd like us to ask him and we'll be sure to pass on your questions! http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2012/september/join-the-world-famous-russell-watson-for-an-intimate-concert-at-sea.aspx http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2012/september/join-the-world-famous-russell-watson-for-an-intimate-concert-at-sea.aspx Tue, 25 September 2012 17:00:00 Discover Cruises http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2012/september/cruising-with-children-holiday-heaven-or-holiday-hell.aspx Lisa Goodmurphy is a lawyer living near Toronto, Canada who left the corporate world to stay home with her two daughters, Katie and Emma (now aged 15 and 9).  Badly bitten by the travel bug years ago, Lisa considers herself fortunate that her family is equally enthusiastic about exploring the world.  Here she tells us why she chose a cruise for her family holiday this year. You can read about her family's travel adventures on her blog at  www.gonewiththefamily.com There was a time when cruising was considered an adults-only vacation but that perception is quickly changing as mainstream cruiselines welcome families and parents discover that  cruising with kids  can be quite an attractive vacation option.  Our first cruise was a multi-generational Caribbean one and I was a reluctant participant but our entire family loved it!  We have since been on several cruises and I now believe it is one of the most family-friendly vacations that we take. The ease of travel is one of the greatest benefits for harried parents who might not otherwise consider foreign travel with their kids due to the logistics of transporting family and luggage from point A to point B.  On a cruise they can unpack once and have the ship transport the family to several destinations.  Mainstream cruiselines also have great facilities for the kids with fun and educational programming that provides them with an opportunity to have social time with their peers and which allows parents to spend some time together without the kids.   Families that have picky eaters are grateful for the familiar food choices that will please their kids and the extensive onboard entertainment options means that there is no chance that anyone will ever announce that they are bored.  The hardest part of cruising is deciding where to go as the options include a wide range of worldwide destinations and there is no need to limit family cruising to the Caribbean.  Last summer we cruised in the  Eastern Mediterranean  which is a fantastic destination for families for several reasons.   History  -  Mediterranean cruises include ports that will bring ancient history and civilizations to life for everyone in the family.  In Athens, Greece a family can visit the Acropolis to see the Parthenon and other temples; in Kusadasi, Turkey travel to Ephesus to experience one of the best-preserved classical cities in the Mediterranean (or in the words of our younger daughter "see where Cleopatra used to hang out"); and in Rome stroll through the Forum and imagine gladiators doing battle in the Colosseum.  Seeing these ancient sites makes a far greater impact than reading about them in a text book. Culture  - Kids on a Mediterranean cruise will benefit from the general exposure to other languages and ways of life while visiting countries such as Italy, Greece, Turkey, Spain, France and Croatia.  Several of the ports of call also provide the opportunity to visit some of the world's great museums, art galleries and cultural sites such as the Vatican, the Blue Mosque, or the Uffizi Gallery and hiring a kid-friendly guide can dial up the fun factor.  Our family also enjoyed learning more about local traditions at a  pizza-making  class in Sorrento and a hands-on  pottery demonstration  in Istanbul. Spectacular Weather and Beautiful Beaches  - Summer time in the Mediterranean is spectacular and there isn't the risk of hurricanes that there is in the Caribbean.  Selecting a cruise that includes stops in the Greek Islands will pretty much guarantee some fabulous family beach days.   Food   - There are few places in the world where the food is as good as it is in the Mediterranean.  Pasta, pizza, gelato - it doesn't get much better than this and even the pickiest of eaters is going to be thrilled with the selection. Cruising is a great way to vacation with kids and the  Mediterranean  can be the perfect place to start. Facebook  -  http://www.facebook.com/GoneWithTheFamily1 Twitter  -  http://twitter.com/GoneWithFamily Pinterest  -  http://pinterest.com/gonewithfamily/ Google+  -  https://plus.google.com/u/0/110812682907095181730/posts http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2012/september/cruising-with-children-holiday-heaven-or-holiday-hell.aspx http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2012/september/cruising-with-children-holiday-heaven-or-holiday-hell.aspx Mon, 17 September 2012 16:32:00 Discover Cruises http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2012/september/sydney-and-new-york-tie-for-top-place-as-our-favourite-cruise-port-do-you-agree.aspx Two of the world's iconic cruise destinations, Sydney and New York , are revealed as this year's favourite cruise ports in a new "Greatest Journey" survey, published to mark National Cruise Week (Sept 15-23). The  YouGov survey, commissioned by the Passenger Shipping Association, showed these top two cruise destinations favourites, with 13% of the vote each, edging out the perennially popular Venice into third place favourite (10%), with  Rome and Singapore next, also tied at 6% each, narrowly beating Barcelona at 5%, and  Cape Town at 4% The survey asked in depth about respondents' ideas of what defines a "great journey", and why they would like to embark on one as well as asking about the main attractions of cruising... Check out more fascinating results below in our National Cruise Week themed inforgaphic. Or if all this talk about cruising has got you itching to embark on your own 'Greatest Journey' why not head over to our exclusive National Cruise Week offers page where you can find discounts of up to 75% - hurry though, many of the offers are valid for this week only!  http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2012/september/sydney-and-new-york-tie-for-top-place-as-our-favourite-cruise-port-do-you-agree.aspx http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2012/september/sydney-and-new-york-tie-for-top-place-as-our-favourite-cruise-port-do-you-agree.aspx Sun, 16 September 2012 09:00:00 http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2012/september/itv1s-loose-women-to-give-away-a-cruise-a-day,-all-next-week.aspx As if there wasn't enough excitement about National Cruise Week , with massive discounts to be announced tomorrow, Saturday 15 September, we've also teamed up with ITV1's Loose Women to give away a cruise a day courtesy of our cruise members, MSC Cruises ; Thomson Cruises ; Saga Holidays ; Carnival Cruise Lines and Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines . Up for grabs everyday next week, Monday to Friday,  will be a fabulous cruise for four people as well as £1,000 spending money, so tune in to ITV1 at 12:30 to be in with a chance of winning or visit ITV.com/loosewomen http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2012/september/itv1s-loose-women-to-give-away-a-cruise-a-day,-all-next-week.aspx http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2012/september/itv1s-loose-women-to-give-away-a-cruise-a-day,-all-next-week.aspx Fri, 14 September 2012 16:00:00 Discover Cruises http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2012/september/the-offers-you’ve-all-been-waiting-for,-exclusive-to-national-cruise-week-–-discounts-of-up-to-75.aspx We've spent months working with our many cruise members to come up with the very best deals for National Cruise Week . We've all been sworn to secrecy until today, when National Cruise Week starts with a bang and we're delighted to announce our greatest value cruise deals for National Cruise Week 2012, with savings of up to £3,000pp and over 75% off luxury cruises, whilst added value offers include free upgrades, free flights and free champagne. Take a look at the offers below and get in touch with your local ACE ( Association of Cruise Experts ) travel agent to make your booking - but hurry many of these offers are for National Cruise Week only and must be booked by 23 September 2012.   Great savings: Save over 75% on luxury cruises with SeaDream Yacht Club Make the most of outstanding savings in 2012 with luxurious SeaDream Yacht Club . Enjoy a magical 20 night Caribbean journey this November now from only £6,995pp (fly-cruise with Mundy Cruising) down from £28,720pp. Great savings can also be found on a 12 night Mediterranean sailing this October and on a 20 night Amazon odyssey in February 2013. www.seadream.com  Call 0800 783 1373 for more information on discounts with operator partners.   Up to 50% off Oceania Cruises - savings of up to £3,334 Make incredible savings of up to £3334 on selected 2012 and 2013 Oceania Cruises . Savings of up to 50% can be enjoyed on cruises visiting a range of destinations from Asia to the Grenadines and everywhere in between. Plus, up to $1000 onboard credit, free flights, free meals and soft drinks can also be enjoyed on these special sailings. www.OceaniaCruises.com   £1,000 off cruises with Voyages to Antiquity   - now from £3695pp Save up to £1000 per cabin with Voyages to Antiquity on selected 2012 and 2013 cruises. Sail Istanbul to Venice from only £1,2950pp and benefit from no single supplements or explore South East Asia and Angkor Watt from £3695pp. www.voyagestoantiquity.com  Save over £800 with P&O Cruises P&O Cruises is offering special 'getaway' prices on a range of cruises this winter. Enjoy a 24 night transatlantic Caribbean cruise from £1,299pp, down from £2,139pp or explore the Atlantic coast for £599pp, down from £819pp. www.pocruises.co.uk  Luxury for less - £960 off winter sailings with Cunard - now from £449pp Enjoy a luxury cruise for less with Cunard this National Cruise Week. Save up to £960 on a wonderful selection of winter 2012 European sailings with itineraries taking in Venice and Istanbul or the Christmas markets of Sweden and Denmark. Prices start from £449pp. www.cunard.co.uk   Save up to £929 with AmaWaterways - now from £929pp Explore the rivers of the world in 2012 and save up to £929pp with AmaWaterways . Cruise down the Mekong from £2,399pp and save £500 or sail from Amsterdam to Budapest on a 14 night cruise and save £929pp. www.amawaterways.co.uk  25% off northern lights cruises with Hurtigruten - now from £756pp Sail from the land of the midnight sun and see the northern lights and save up to 25% on 2013 sailings with Hurtigruten . Prices start from £756pp and offers are valid for bookings until the end of September. Also to celebrate 120 years of Hurtigruten, the cruise line is offering £120pp onboard credit, on bookings made during National Cruise Week, on its 2013 spring and autumn flight-inclusive 'Classic Round Voyages.' Prices starting from £1648pp www.hurtigruten.co.uk   Rhine to Switzerland for £450 less with The River Cruise Line - now 595pp Save up to £450 on ten day October Rhine to Switzerland river cruises with The River Cruise Line . Explore the romantic Rhine Gorge of Germany, the scenic Alsace region and the slopes of Switzerland for only £595pp, full board. This also includes free regional coach departures from a number of points across the UK, the ferry from Dover to Calais and the onward coach journey to join the cruise ship in Andernach.  www.rivercruiseline.co.uk Book during National Cruise Week and save £400 with Norwegian Cruise Line Norwegian Cruise Line is giving guests the chance to make savings of up to £400 per stateroom when booking during National Cruise Week. Valid on departures before April 2013, offers are available on a great range of itineraries from the 12 night 'Grand Mediterranean from Barcelona and Venice' voyage to the 15 night 'Panama Canal from Los Angeles and Miami' cruise. www.ncl.co.uk 50% off French River Cruises this October with eWaterways Enjoy a stunning river cruise through the French countryside now from £639 per person, down from £1,279 per person. www.ewaterways.co.uk Save £300 on a fully inclusive Rhine cruise with Shearings Make the most of fantastic offers on autumn and Christmas river cruises from Shearings and save over £300 on fully inclusive Rhine cruises or £100 per couple on 2013 Moselle sailings. Shearings also has exclusive ocean sailings in 2013, these no-fly cruises explore the best of northern Europe for as little as £719pp. www.shearings.com Extravagant luxury for less with Seabourn - Caribbean Islands from £2,795 Experience the small ship extravagance of Seabourn for less without forgoing any of the signature Seabourn luxury touches. Go on an 'Indonesian Odyssey' from £2,899pp or discover hidden Caribbean islands from £2,795pp in 2013. www.seabourn.co.uk New York, Florida and The Bahamas for just £1,039pp with Carnival Cruises Make dreams come true with Carnival Cruises greatest value offers. Enjoy Caribbean cruises from only £999pp or why not get glamorous with a round trip fly-cruise from New York to Florida and the Bahamas from £1,039pp? Also, book now and get some great extras, including $150 onboard credit for select Baltic and Mediterranean sailings, plus free parking in Dover on ex-UK sailings. www.carnivalcruise.co.uk  Join the Ocean Sun Festival with Hapag-Lloyd Cruises for just £2,990pp Join Hapag-Lloyd Cruises on their unique 'Ocean Sun Festival' cruise for fans of classical music. This music festival cruise is held against the backdrop of the Mediterranean ports is on offer for a great £2,990pp. www.hl-cruises.com Savings of up to £300 with Saga Saga is offering a range of great savings on wonderful European cruises. Save £300 on a 22 night Mediterranean voyage now from £3369pp or why not try a four day min-cruise from Dover from £644pp, with savings of £100. www.saga.co.uk/cruises      Greatest value offers: Free flights, transfers and parking on offer with Royal Caribbean International Explore Scandinavia, Russia or the sunny Caribbean with Royal Caribbean International and enjoy all sorts of special extras including $100 onboard credit per stateroom, free balcony upgrades on selected 2012 and 2013 sailings and free regional flights, coach transfers or car parking on selected ex-UK sailings. www.royalcaribbean.co.uk Free upgrades and South Amercia Cruises from £899pp with Holland America Line Benefit from a whole host of free upgrade offers across a range of cruises from Holland America Line . Discover Australia and the Pacific or South America from only £899pp or stay closer to home and take a no-fly cruise from Dover to the Baltic seas from £699. www.hollandamerica.co.uk £130 free onboard credit with MSC Cruises Exclusive to bookings made during National Cruise Week, MSC Cruises is offering free onboard credit for any 2013 cruise. Discover the highlights of northern Europe on ex-UK sailings and enjoy up to £130 free onboard credit. www.msccruises.co.uk Free balcony upgrades, transfers and onboard credit with Celebrity Cruises Journey through Europe and the Mediterranean with Celebrity Cruises and make the most of $100 free onboard credit per stateroom, free balcony upgrades on selected 2012 and 2013 sailings, free coach transfers or car parking and subsidized regional flights on ex-UK 2013 sailings. www.celebritycruises.co.uk Free Champagne and a VIP welcome from Compagnie du Ponant Compagnie du Ponant is offering a VIP welcome aboard with a complimentary bottle of champagne in each stateroom for all bookings made during National Cruise Week, for travel until 30 September 2013. Quote 'VIP NCW' on the phone to benefit from the offer. www.ponant.com / 0800 980 4027 More than £300 worth of free upgrades with Thomson Cruises Exclusive for National Cruise Week, Thomson Cruises is offering a range of winter 2012 and summer 2013 value added cruise deals. Journey all over the world in 2012 and enjoy free upgrades worth over £300 or sail next summer and make the most of free, all-inclusive  upgrades, free parking at the Port of Tyne and Harwich and £100 onboard credit per couple. Offers apply to specific sailings and dates. thomson.co.uk/cruise Free L'Occitane toiletries worth £180 from Regent Seven Sea Cruisers who make a new booking on any 2013 Regent Seven Seas cruise between 15 - 23 September will receive a 'his and hers' gift set from L'Occitane worth £180, including the award-winning 'Immortelle Precious Cream'.  To claim the L'Occitane gift set, guests can simply call 023 8068 2155 or email marketing@rssc.co.uk once the booking has been made with their new booking reference. www.rssc.com   A cruise holiday offers something for everyone - families , singles , seniors , first-time cruisers , honeymooners and groups - so jump aboard for National Cruise Week www.discovercruises.co.uk Contact the individual cruise lines for terms and conditions.    http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2012/september/the-offers-you’ve-all-been-waiting-for,-exclusive-to-national-cruise-week-–-discounts-of-up-to-75.aspx http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2012/september/the-offers-you’ve-all-been-waiting-for,-exclusive-to-national-cruise-week-–-discounts-of-up-to-75.aspx Fri, 14 September 2012 00:01:00 Discover Cruises http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2012/september/tell-us-about-your-greatest-journey-and-win-an-amazing-seven-night-cruise-with-royal-caribbean.aspx To celebrate National Cruise Week , we've teamed up with Royal Caribbean and The Daily Mail to launch a 'Greatest Journey' travel writing competition. We're inviting you to tell us about your Greatest Journey in no more than 500 words to be in with a chance of winning a seven night Mediterranean holiday for two in summer 2013 courtesy of Royal Caribbean International. The article must be up to 500 words and will describe a great journey / holiday / travel experience. We are looking for genuine accounts of recent trips or holidays on land or seathat have made a lasting impact. Acclaimed novelist Mavis Cheek will be heading the judging panel to choose the winning article. National Cruise Week takes places between 15-23 September and with a focus on great cruise itineraries, thousands of worldwide destinations and the host of experiences available onboard - we want to hear about other great journeys and life changing travel experiences. Please email your greatest journeys to mygreatestjourney@fourbgb.com before the end of National Cruise Week! Read more about the competition on Mail Online   Terms & Conditions. http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2012/september/tell-us-about-your-greatest-journey-and-win-an-amazing-seven-night-cruise-with-royal-caribbean.aspx http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2012/september/tell-us-about-your-greatest-journey-and-win-an-amazing-seven-night-cruise-with-royal-caribbean.aspx Wed, 12 September 2012 10:00:00 Corinne McDermott, Have Baby Will Travel http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2012/september/smooth-sailing-–-our-first-cruise-on-the-disney-fantasy.aspx For our family, it was a big first. Even though we've traveled extensively, the one type of travel we hadn't done was cruising. I was a little scared, truthfully - scared we'd be seasick, scared I'll feel trapped - turns out I should have been scared my kids would like it too much. We were fortunate to be invited on a preview sailing of Disney Cruise Line 's newest cruise ship, the Disney Fantasy, and I can say with certainty that the boat lives up to its name. Since we've stayed at some pretty nice all-inclusive resorts, the idea of most things being included is not new to us, and we've been on some pretty amazing Disney vacations. However, this is a twain that you want to meet, as the quality and attention to detail that Disney puts forth in all their efforts is definitely on display at sea. The finishings are beautiful, the staterooms are pristine, the food was delicious (and plentiful!), but above all - the staff was so wonderful. It's difficult to pinpoint what our favourite part of the trip was. I have the fondest memories of our servers, Brett and Jorge, cutting up my son's dinner and feeding him broccoli. Which he ate! The rotational dining plan on Disney cruises means your restaurants change each night but the staff comes with you. My husband's favourite day was our port at Disney's private island, Castaway Cay. Our lazy day of sand castle building by the brilliant blue Caribbean Sea was also a highlight for me. My six-year-old daughter abandoned us for the Oceaneer's Club (included kids' programming for children aged 3-12) every chance she got, and even though he was not yet three, my son still talks about the fireworks - as a part of the Pirate Party and also the great shows taking place in the Walt Disney Theatre. It's safe to say our Disney cruise blew my kids' minds. While they've loved every trip we've gone on, this one seems to stand out as one they really hope to repeat. At least twice a week my son puts in a request for the "Boat House." I'm sure one day we'll be back. Corinne McDermott is mum to Megan and Riley, and founder of Have Baby Will Travel , an award-winning website with a mission to inspire, motivate, and help families travel with babies, toddlers, and young children. Connect with her on Facebook and Twitter http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2012/september/smooth-sailing-–-our-first-cruise-on-the-disney-fantasy.aspx http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2012/september/smooth-sailing-–-our-first-cruise-on-the-disney-fantasy.aspx Mon, 10 September 2012 12:30:00 Discover Cruises http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2012/september/five-days-to-go-until-national-cruise-week-(15-23-september).aspx National Cruise Week is the ideal time to consider a cruise holiday with companies and travel agents providing a great range of special offers and added value incentives on both ocean and river cruises. Check back on Saturday 15 September when we'll be annoucning the best offers from across the cruise industry especially for National Cruise Week. We're bound to secrecy until Saturday but can tell you that we've got cruise deals with savings of over £3,000 as well as a host of incentives from free upgrades to hundreds of pounds of free onboard credits. ACE accredited travel agents up and down the country are holding 'afternoon tea' to celebrate the fifth National Cruise Week, so why not drop in for tea and cake and plan your next cruise break. Or if you're new to cruising why not drop in and be inspired! Find your nearest ACE afternoon tea here http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2012/september/five-days-to-go-until-national-cruise-week-(15-23-september).aspx http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2012/september/five-days-to-go-until-national-cruise-week-(15-23-september).aspx Mon, 10 September 2012 11:30:00 Mariana Calleja http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2012/august/cruising-first-time-or-not,-prepare-for-unusual-experiences!.aspx Mariana Calleja is a Costarican travel writer & founder at  TravelThirst "Cruising? Hmmm...never thought of it before."   That was my head talking when I was offered for the first time a cruising experience. I had never ever thought of going on a cruise before. Why? No idea. So...why not! This might have happened to many people out there. Cruising isn't always a first travelling option since we think it is always a lot more expensive than the usual air or land travel. But we never really stop to think on the total (and real) amount of a trip when it involves flight tickets or any other transportation, accommodation, meals and sightseeing just to mention the basics. Of course we always get to spend more than this, even if we are travelling on a budget style. The departure day came and there I was, ready with my backpack, going into an unknown experience throughout the southern Caribbean islands, all new for me. Hard to explain the feeling of imagining the boat, right before getting onto an actual one!   So an 8-day ride started. Going first through boarding process where we were given our boarding tickets, room-access keys, tags, news and offers onboard. Then walking to the bridge and straight inside. You just got to see the inside yourself...(sigh). ONBOARD After a couple of hours on board and before departure, all passengers are usually called to assist the "emergency/safety practice". Let the experiences begin! Between this and a welcome party for all guests, a cruise simply turns into a heavenly vacation just getting you started into this culture. Culture? Yes, I believe cruising can almost be considered some kind of culture. It's a complete whole new world inside a ship. So many nationalities in one and only space sharing it all: the food, the languages, the music, the destinations. Both guests and staff are in one amazing tune...I have never experienced something with such perfection and timing in my travels than while cruising. And really, I'm not exaggerating this. Those who have cruised before can confirm my words. Some might say one day in a port is not enough time to know a place. True. However it all depends on the ports or destinations you choose. I believe small destinations such as islands or seaside towns can definitely give you plenty of time to discover the place in one day. But remember there is a lot more to cruising. The entire experience will give you more than only ports and sightseeing. You will get experiences as simple and amazing as getting to know a cruise ship room, or how it's like to sleep on a cruise for several nights, the ship's dancing movement overseas all the time (unforgettable), the ambience and people's attitude all over the place. Is all quite diverse, no matter if someone explains this to you, it will be different and memorable when you taste it yourself. Fortunately, there are cruises for all kind of tastes and ages. You will always find the one for you, whether it's a friend or family trip, honeymoon, just getting lost or even a retirement one. I can assure that cruising is nothing like anything you have ever experienced before. After trying one, you will only get thirsty for more and the memories you will get can never be replaced or erased from your head, not to mention the people, the good times...there's too much about cruising. On port or on board, you will have anything you can imagine. They offer a wide range of unusual experiences even on board, such as visiting some of the ship's kitchens or any other restricted area for all those curious travellers like me. I even even bungee jumping with only sea views while in the air...once again, unique!  Seems like I just got thirsty for more cruising again and hoping you do too! If you have never thought of this idea, then get working on it already. I promise you will remember my advice and you won't ever regret it.  Fancy taking a cruise but need to know more? Discover Cruises is a one stop shop for great cruise advice  Check out TravelThirst: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TravelThirst Twitter: https://twitter.com/TravelThirst Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/travelthirst/ Foursquare: https://foursquare.com/travelthirst Google +: http://goo.gl/xporp Vimeo: https://vimeo.com/travelthirst Linkedin: http://www.linkedin.com/profile/view?id=46018844&trk=tab_pro http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2012/august/cruising-first-time-or-not,-prepare-for-unusual-experiences!.aspx http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2012/august/cruising-first-time-or-not,-prepare-for-unusual-experiences!.aspx Fri, 24 August 2012 13:00:00 Monica Stott http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2012/august/portugals-historic-porto.aspx Monica Stott is the Social Media Manager for  Travel Bloggers Unite  and travel blogger at The Travel Hack    The beautiful city of Porto is the second largest in Portugal and was built along the Douro  river estuary in the 4 th  century. Porto is a UNESCO World Heritage Site thanks to the historic and cultural sights that fill the city and make it such a unique place to visit. Porto prides itself on being "the noble, faithful and invincible city" and earned the reputation through a strong resistance against Napoleon's troops in the Peninsular War. The locals still live up to this motto and prove that there may be some truth in the Portuguese saying, "Porto works, Braga prays, Coimbra studies and Lisbon gets the money." The city had a rustic yet modern vibe and the different areas have their own unique style and atmosphere. In the centre of town you can find grand baroque style buildings that dominate the skyline with their impressive architecture. The quaint buildings along the river couldn't be more different; their once bright colours have weathered in the sun and they create a tall, slim mismatch of crooked houses. Porto is also home to some stunning and modern buildings that prove this ancient city is bang up-to-date with stylish architecture. The Casa de Musica and the Porto Vodaphone Building are both examples of unique design that bring together the old and new in Porto. There are countless churches to explore and you will find the insides are just as impressive as the outside. Igreja de Sao Francisco is one the most famous Gothic churches with an intricately designed interior with baroque guilt woodwork painted a dazzling gold. The Ponte de D. Luis is the metal bridge that arches over the Douro River and is the iconic symbol of Porto and connects the city with Vila Nova de Gaia. One of the best places to see Porto is by crossing the bridge and seeing the stunning views from a 17 th  century monastery, Seera do Pilar, which stands on a hill just above the bridge. You can't leave Porto without tasting some of the local delicacies and one thing you will find in every restaurant is code. The Portuguese joke that they have 365 different recipes for cod and would happily eat it every day of the year. A more traditional meal is a hearty tripe based dish called Tripas a moda do Porto.  Fancy the Douro youself? Why not visit our European rivers destination page and find out more.  http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2012/august/portugals-historic-porto.aspx http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2012/august/portugals-historic-porto.aspx Thu, 23 August 2012 13:00:00 Jennifer Nixon http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2012/august/bangkoks-floating-markets-–-james-bond-style.aspx Jennifer Nixon is the founder of Scarlet Wonderland, a colourful lifestyle blog following her cultural, hilarious and down-right ridiculous travel tales from all corners of the globe… here she tells us about one of her most memorable travel experiences - on the floating markets of Bangkok  "I thought we were going on a speed boat?"I hissed at my friend as I tentatively clambered into the bright red canoe."...like James Bond; that's what she said didn't she?! This is just a shell... with an engine." "Shush", she hissed back, the boat rocking dangerously as she climbed in,  I'd been looking forward to this experience all day; after months of reading guide books and far too many detours, I was finally about to see the famous floating markets of Bangkok!  Ning; our self-proclaimed guide, had spent the day describing how we would reach our destination in style:"We're taking a speed boat"she said,"Just like James Bond"she said... being completely dense on the ins and outs of the films, it goes without saying that the rickety looking canoe wasn't quite what I'd envisaged when "speed boats" and "James Bond" were thrown together in a sentence.   I grasped hold of the edge and peered over the side at the muddy water, wondering what on earth I was thinking by entrusting my life to  But there was no time to reconsider as, with a sudden jerk that nearly saw my camera hurtling into the water, we were on our way; blasting down the river with the wind in our hair... ...and it was amazing! I can categorically say that the trip to the markets was one of the most unique and downright fabulous experiences I've had. Whizzing past the residents homes was the perfect way to catch a glimpse of the Bangkok culture in it's true glory whilst basking in the beautiful scenery that you would believe existed just miles from the big city.  The markets themselves were a hive of activity; the sound of people haggling for goods echoed off the water, the rich colours blended together to create a masterpiece and the smells of unrecognisable foods filled the air. It was like nowhere I'd ever been before,and I couldn't get enough. Drunk on the atmosphere, I began my haggling frenzy - all the time thinking how I was going to convince my friend to give me some of her luggage allowance. The floating markets are so far removed from anywhere I've ever been before, and having the chance to view the Thai culture at its rawest is something I think everyone should experience. Read more about Jen's experiences in Thailand at www.scarletwonderland.com follow her on twitter @scarletWLand on keep up on facebook.com/scarletwonderland If you're as enchanted by the bustling rivers that run through Asia as Jen, why not think about a river cruise, whether it's Thailand, Vietnam or Cambodia you're sure to have the experience of a lifetime.  http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2012/august/bangkoks-floating-markets-–-james-bond-style.aspx http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2012/august/bangkoks-floating-markets-–-james-bond-style.aspx Mon, 06 August 2012 19:00:00 Paul Corbett http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2012/august/new-zealand-–-the-adventure-capital-of-the-world.aspx Paul Corbett is the founder of MyPostcardFrom . A web developer with a passion for travel, Paul has circumnavigated the world three times and still ranks New Zealand as one of his greatest ever travel experiences. There's nothing more rewarding when travelling than to immerse yourself in foreign cultures. Eating different cuisines, following local traditions and experiencing new adventures are all integral to leaving home whether it's for a two-week holiday or a yearlong backpacking trip around the world. However, eventually you'll yearn for familiarity, a sense of being back home in comfortable surroundings. Being from the UK we found that place in New Zealand. It's difficult to get any further from the UK than the opposite side of the globe and New Zealand, yet still feel as though everything around you reminds you of home. We'd based ourselves in the main hub of Auckland towards the top of the North Island. For six months we got to know the city's nooks and crannies from the leafy suburbs around the base of Mt Eden and One Tree Hill to the outlying islands in Waitemata Harbour, Rangitoto and Waiheke. Our favourite places lay along to coastline of the North Shore. Catching the ferry across the harbour to Devonport and making our way up to the quiet sandy beaches of Mairangi Bay and Browns Bay is a memory that will last a lifetime. Heading south through the North Island is a mix of adventure and history.  We caught a glimpse of glowworms in the caves of Waitomo, relaxed in a natural hot spring jacuzzi overlooking the lake in Rotorua and studied the art deco buildings of Napier on the east coast, rebuilt in the 1930s following a devastating earthquake. Another favourite pastime was the hours spent prawn fishing in Taupo. As boring as it sounds the everlasting memory of one of our captured creatures leaping from the bucket and scrambling back into the water makes us laugh just at the thought. Rolling green fields lead you to the capital of Wellington located at the far south of the island. We never struggled to find a place to grab a coffee or a tasty meal in the city and our only disappointment was that we didn't find the time to explore every floor of the stunning Te Papa Museum. In stark contrast to the North Island is the towering snow capped mountains of the South Island. In Kaikoura we rose early in the morning to spot sperm whales popping up from the ocean floor and attempting to grab that picture perfect moment of the tail of a descending whale with the mountainous backdrop. Throughout our journey in the South Island we were never far away from the mountain ranges and no more so than the night we spent in the shadow of New Zealand's tallest peak, Mt Cook. The mist had descended over the tip but the following morning we were rewarded with the sun shining over the magnificent view. The far southwest of the island held it's crowning glory. The drive to Milford Sound is one of the best journeys we have ever made. Full of greenery, gurgling streams, the single lane Homer Tunnel to the finale as we descended through the mountains to the Sound. A boat trip along the water got us closer to towering waterfalls and the sleepy seal residents. From the relaxation of Milford Sound to the excitement of the small town of Queenstown. It has a reputation as the adventure capital of the world and they are not wrong. We spent five days at the lakeside location in which we skiied in The Remarkables, skidded through canyons on a jet boat and, our favourite moment of our New Zealand journey, rafted the white water of the Shotover River. New Zealand may seem an island on the far side of the world, yet there was so much familiarity about the country. So while looking for new cultures, new tastes and new adventure we stumbled on a country that felt very much like home. Read more about Paul's adventures in New Zealand on his blog My Postcard From on twitter at @mypostcardfrom or find him on facebook/ mypostcardfrom . Don't have six months to explore? Why not take a cruise around New Zealand and take in all the sights in one trip? Visit our destinations page to find the right cruise for you.  http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2012/august/new-zealand-–-the-adventure-capital-of-the-world.aspx http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2012/august/new-zealand-–-the-adventure-capital-of-the-world.aspx Fri, 03 August 2012 19:30:00 Dawn Jordan http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2012/august/untouched-arctic-wilderness,-exploring-the-crown-of-arctic-norway-under-the-midnight-sun.aspx Dawn Jordan is Cruise Director at Bath Travel and was chosen to join Hurtigruten on a short trip to The Svalbard on the southern fringe of the Arctic Ocean. She sailed on MS Nordstjernen , one of Hurtigruten's smaller ships, ideal for exploring the snow trimmed, islands half way between Norway and the North Pole. As we flew into Longyearbyen, the "capital " of Svalbard, there was a layer of low hanging clouds but they did not detract from the fantastic view of the wonderful snow capped mountains and glaciers below.  Although Longyearbyen is the largest settlement in the islands, it is very small, full of colourful houses and shops and you can walk from one end to the other in around 15 minutes. When outside the towns people carry flares and weapons for protection against polar bears and our expedition leaders onboard carry them on all zodiac landings. You are safe from polar bears inside the town and people visiting from outside of the town's confines have to leave their weapons with the shopkeepers before entering any of the stores!!  We stayed overnight in the Spitsbergen Hotel and even though we had black out curtains, you can still see some of the light shining through - it was the middle of June, so it was the time of the Midnight Sun where you can enjoy 24 hours of daylight.  The next day we boarded our ship, settled in our cabins and sailed away whilst eating a very delicious lunch. In fact all of the meals were wonderful and an added bonus of sailing in those waters is that the ship is duty free so the cost of a drink is affordable!  All of the staff on board were really friendly and knowledgeable and couldn't do enough to make the experience as good as possible. Birdlife is in abundance in Svalbard and you can see Arctic Terns, Fulmars, Guillemots, Kittywakes, Puffins and Eider Ducks to name but a few. On our second day the Captain spotted a polar bear on an island, so everyone deserted their lunch in order to watch it and to take as many photo's as possible! We saw loads of Minky Whales one of which put on a great show as he thrashed the water with his tail. We sailed all the way to Moffen Island (80degrees north) which is a National Park and saw dozens of Walruses some of which were frolicking in the water not far from the ship. We also visited Barentsburg, a Russian mining town and Ny Alesund where the most northerly post office is found. Every day we saw huge Glaciers and icebergs that were floating only feet away for our ship. At two in the morning we sailed into the Magdelenefjorden, one of the most beautiful in Svalbard.   Every day we made Zodiac landings accompanied by the expedition leaders who talked about the surroundings, wildlife and ecology. By taking this voyage on the MS Nordstjernen  we had a better opportunity to get closer to the wildlife, have more landings than usual and get to know our fellow travellers better  than we would have done had we travelled on a bigger ship. I have such wonderful memories and photos and even though I was only on the ship for three nights it felt much longer as I experienced so much and most importantly saw a Polar Bear! - a dream come true. A Spitsbergen Explorer Voyage around the West Coast costs from £2494pp in summer 2013 including nine days full board on the ship. http://www.hurtigruten.co.uk/Voyages/Svalbard 0844 448 7601 www.hurtigruten.co.uk http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2012/august/untouched-arctic-wilderness,-exploring-the-crown-of-arctic-norway-under-the-midnight-sun.aspx http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2012/august/untouched-arctic-wilderness,-exploring-the-crown-of-arctic-norway-under-the-midnight-sun.aspx Fri, 03 August 2012 19:00:00 http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2012/july/cruise-through-the-alphabet.aspx Did you know that a record 1.73m people are expected to cruise in 2012? What is it that appeals to so many people? Is it the 1000 plus ports that can be visited, the opportunity to see the northern lights in the Norwegian Fjords, snorkelling the crystal clear waters of the Caribbean or learning something new? Or perhaps its the amazing assortment of onboard activities from luxury spas, water parks and gourmet restaurants or if you revel in the more sedate pace of life the chance to gently float past the lights of Paris or Prague or venture further afield to The Amazon or Mekong Delta on a river cruise? Whatever floats your boat, see our AZ guide to cruising - there is bound to be something that appeals we promise! A  is for All-Inclusive - great meals, plenty of entertainment, accommodation and different exciting destinations are all included. Log onto www.discovercruises.co.uk to see the huge choice of companies and destinations. B is for the British Isles - Never underestimate the beauty of Britain's coastlines. Whether it's the White Cliffs of Dover or Scotland's rugged Shetland Islands, a cruise can show off our island's highlights. Classic International Cruises and Cruise & Maritime Voyages are amongst those offering British Isles cruises. C is for Celebrities onboard - "Sea" the stars when you choose to cruise! From TV personalities to actors, politicians, footballers, singers and models, cruising attracts stars from across the globe, whether travelling as VIP guests, are renowned lecturers or musicians and chefs. Hurtigruten and Costa Cruises are among the long list offering chance to mingle with celebrities! D is for Deals - Cruising is a great holiday choice all year round but there are some amazing deals around, particularly during National Cruise Week 15-23 September.   E is for Egyptology - A Nile River cruise is so much more than a conventional holiday. From the magical Temples of Karnak and Luxor to the stunning Valley of The Kings, the burial place of The Pharaohs - what an itinerary! Try Quest for Adventure , Silversea or Hapag- Lloyd .  F is for Frozen Planet -Choose to cruise the stunning regions of Arctic and Antarctic and see, feel and experience this extraordinary world for real. Log onto www.saga.co.uk/cruising or www.celebritycruises.co.uk for starters. G is for Galley - Celebrity chefs often grace the high seas, with current food stars on several ships including Marco Pierre White, Gary Rhodes, Nobu Matsuhisha, Todd English and Charlie Palmer. There are a number of cruises to try including P&O Cruises or Cunard . H is for History -Visit the world's most famous historical sights including the ancient civilisations of Greece, Turkey, Mexico and others. Or take a river cruise along the Russian Waterways and visit Red Square or sail the Yangtze and visit the ancient temples in China. Try Avalon Cruises . I  is for Ice - Join the ranks of explorers and travel to Antarctica to spot whales and penguin chicks and discover this incredible continent using specially designed inflatable landing craft. Princess Cruises www.princess.com or Holland America Line www.hollandamerica.co.uk are good places to start. J is for Jungle - Expedition cruises are the perfect way to explore the jungles of the globe. Destinations include South America and the Amazon, Australian and Asian jungle destinations. If you fancy a jungle zip wire try Azamara Club Cruises www.azamaraclubcruises.co.uk K is for Kids - Cruises are great holidays for kids...and their parents! Onboard activities are run for children of all ages by dedicated, qualified staff; giving parents worry free time to relax. All kids love Disney so log onto disneycruise.disney.go.com/  or try any of the major cruise lines, all cater brilliantly for kids. L is for Lido Deck - The Lido Deck is the outdoor facilities and swimming pool area, usually on or near the top deck of a cruise ship. An amazing variety of facilities can be found here including outdoor movie screens. Log onto www.discovercruises.co.uk to find out what's happening on board. M is for Mini-Cruise - With the same range of entertainment, dining options and leisure facilities, these cruises offer great value for money and can last anywhere from two to five nights. Titan Travel or MSC Cruises are amongst numerous companies that offer mini breaks. N is for No-Fly Cruise - More people than ever before are choosing the no-fly option and sailing from a British port to great destinations including Russia, Scandinavia, the Norwegian fjords, Iceland, the Mediterranean America and closer to home, the coast of Britain and Ireland. Lots of companies will offer ex UK departures including Crystal Cruises , and Seabourn . O is for Options - Cruising can be a fabulously flexible holiday where you can do what you want, when you want. Many itineraries include optional excursions which give passengers the freedom of choice to either go ashore and explore, or stay on board and relax. P is for Passenger Shipping Association - This association has 40 cruise line members and is home to Discover Cruises, the one stop shop for all things cruise www.discovercruises.co.uk Q is for Quintessentially British - there are some things so recognisably British to be enjoyed including afternoon tea with scones, a pint in the pub and a butler to serve the champagne and caviar. Follow in the footsteps of royalty by sailing on the Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria or Queen Elizabeth with Cunard . R is for River Cruising - River cruising takes you to the centre of stunning cities and towns along the world's waterways in a relaxing manner. There are eight river cruise members to consider including eWaterways and Shearings Cruises . S is for Spa - Most ships host an onboard spa, health and beauty centre so if you want a quick manicure before a formal night or a personalised treatment programme, there is something for everyone. T is for Travel Agents - visit an ACE accredited travel agent who has the knowledge and expertise to find exactly the right cruise for you. ACE agents can be found throughout the country - click here to find your local agent . U is for Ultra-Luxury - Cruising can provide the ultimate luxury holiday where the entire onboard ambience is refined and personal. Ultra-Luxury ships are smaller with a higher crew-to-passenger ratio - some even offer private butlers! Amongst the Ultra Luxury providers are Seadream www.seadream.com, Regent Seven Seas Cruises , Seabourn or Compagnie du Ponant . V is for Venice - Revel in its uniqueness and take in the exquisite cultural experiences of this city before heading out to either explore the cultural sights of the Italian coast or relax in the glorious Mediterranean sunshine. So many of the cruise companies offer itineraries featuring Venice including Royal Caribbean and Silversea . W is for World - A world cruise is the ultimate travel experience. Unpacking just once, spend months visiting dozens of countries experiencing the best of destinations across the globe. P&O Cruises , Cunard and Costa Cruises all offer round the world itineraries. X is for Xtras - Different cruise lines offer different 'extras' to make the experience perfect for you. Benefit from inclusive alcoholic beverages with meals, spa treatments or perhaps shore excursions. Or arrange air or coach transfers, or door-to-airport pick-up etc. Simply check with your cruise operator when booking. Y is for Yacht - If you fancy a cruise that is more intimate, peaceful and luxurious then choose a yacht or a small ship. Several companies specialise in small luxury cruises including Hapag-Lloyd Cruises ,  Seabourn and SeaDream Yacht Club . Z is for Zanzibar - The exquisite 'Spice Island' off the coast of Tanzania is a fabulous destination on several Indian Ocean itineraries. Explore the historic market town, go on a dhow safari or spice tour and relax on white sandy beaches - Oceania Cruises operates to Zanzibar.   http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2012/july/cruise-through-the-alphabet.aspx http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2012/july/cruise-through-the-alphabet.aspx Sat, 28 July 2012 19:00:00 http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2012/july/learn-something-new-on-a-cruise.aspx We all like to learn something new and it's never too late to pick up a new skill or knowledge; so how about becoming a whisky aficionado or wine connoisseur? Or perfecting your hosting skills, learning about the life of a spy or even giving your child the opportunity to tread the boards? All these things are available on a cruise holiday - so what are you waiting for! Thomson Cruises runs an onboard stage school on every ship, perfect for showbiz whizz kids looking to improve their skills with three two hour workshops during a seven night cruise. The series of workshops are priced at £35 per child with cruises prices starting from £673pp.  Become a whisky aficionado or wine connoisseur with classes and tastings from eWaterways whilst cruising around Scotland or the UK to France, Portugal and Spain. Prices start from £919pp. Learn to be the perfect host with Crystal Cruises with their food, wine, baking, mixology and hosting courses on their Caribbean cruises. Prices start from £1520pp. Carrying on with the foodie theme, chocoholics can learn the art of chocolate making on a Thomson ship or "Discover a Taste of France" on Tauck Cruises with renowned chef Alan Ducasse And if you really want to get the brain cells moving there are countless opportunities to learn new languages, learn about European politics, antiques, history dating back to the Byzantium era. Cunard ,  Avalon Waterways ,  Fred Olsen and  Silversea are all good places to start when looking to learn something new. http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2012/july/learn-something-new-on-a-cruise.aspx http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2012/july/learn-something-new-on-a-cruise.aspx Sat, 28 July 2012 18:40:00 http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2012/july/ex-uk-destinations.aspx So, you don't want to fly? It has never been easier to depart on a cruise from the UK. There are currently over 650 cruises scheduled to depart from over ten UK ports to destinations all over the world. Get down to Dover Arctic Circle and Norwegian Sea - Join Princess Cruises in 2013 on its 'land of the midnight sun' itineraries taking in Spitsbergen, Kirkenes the Arctic Circle - visit www.princess.com Channel Islands, Spain and Bordeaux - This autumn Seabourn will be exploring the 'harbours of western Europe' from St. Peter Port, Guernsey to Bordeaux, Gijon in Spain and finishing in Lisbon. For more information visit www.seabourn.com Oslo and Amsterdam - For the first time since 2008, Carnival Cruise Lines will be sailing out of the port of Dover in June 2013. Join Carnival on a 12 night Scandinavian cruise visiting Oslo, Hamburg, Amsterdam and Zeebrugge. For more information visit www.carnivalcruise.co.uk Eidfjord and Bergen - Discover 'Norse legends' with Holland America Line's seven night 2013 cruise which visits Bergen, Flam, Alesund and Eidfjord before spending a day of scenic cruising through the Hardangerfjord. For more information visit www.hollandamerica.com Copenhagen, Reykjavik and Boston - Throughout 2013, Crystal Cruises will be exploring the globe with cruises exploring the British Isles and Northern Europe whilst 'voyages of the Vikings' goes all the way to Boston. For more information visit www.crystalcruises.co.uk La Rochelle, France and Aviles, Spain - Join Fred. Olsen and explore the wine regions of Bordeaux and Rioja with tours to Bilbao and overnight stay in Bordeaux. For more information visit www.fredolsencruises.com Easy peasy from Edinburgh Portugal and Spain - Explore the World Heritage Sites of Iberia this autumn with Fred. Olsen on a 12 night cruises. For more information visit www.fredolsencruises.com Iceland - Journey north to Iceland and the Faroe Island from Edinburgh with Cruise & Maritime Voyages on an 11 night discovery cruise next spring. For more information visit www.cruiseandmaritime.com Get going from Greenwich Isles of Scilly and Dublin - Hurtigruten's one off May 2013 departure from London discovers the best of the UK including Cobh, Dublin, the Isle of Man, Iona and Staffa in the Hebrides, the Isle of Skye, and the Orkney Islands. For more information visit www.hurtigruten.co.uk Fort William - Follow the 'route of Britannia' with Seabourn and visit the UK's highest number plus Leith (Edinburgh), Invergordon, Kirkwall, the Isle of Skye, Londonderry, Isle of Man and Dublin. For more information visit www.seabourn.com Hurry to Harwich Bergen and Eidfjord - make the most of autumn with Thomson Cruises and explore the Norwegian Fjords stopping in Eidfjord, Flam and Bergen. For more information visit www.thomson.co.uk/cruise Amsterdam - make the most of Fred. Olsen's unique 'Bobby Robson Memorial Cruise' in 2013 which is in aid of the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation and travels from Harwich to Amsterdam, returning to Newcastle. For more information visit www.fredolsencruises.com Finland, Estonia and Sweden - Royal Caribbean International's 2013 toasts the top of Scandinavian and Russian waterways with destinations including Copenhagen, Stockholm, Helsinki, Tallinn, Gothenburg, and St. Petersburg. For more information visit www.royalcaribbean.co.uk Head off from Hull Oslo and St Petersburg - Experience fjords, the Baltic and Scandinavian cities with Cruise & Maritime Voyages on a variety of autumn 2012 and 2013 cruises. For more information visit www.cruiseandmaritime.com Alight in Liverpool Russia, Scotland and Jersey - Enjoy two Cruise & Maritime Voyages cruises from Liverpool explore the Baltic Sea and St. Petersburg or the British isles calling in Scotland, Jersey and the Isles of Scilly. For more information visit www.cruiseandmaritime.com Cork and Dublin - Get to grips with Ireland on Fred. Olsen's mini 'Dublin and Cork Discovery' cruise, visiting Cobh, Cork and staying overnight in Dublin. For more information visit www.fredolsencruises.com Nipping off from Newcastle (Tyne) Geirangerfjord & Flåm - Take a classic Norwegian Fjords cruise from Newcastle with Cruise & Maritime Voyages for more information visit www.cruiseandmaritime.com Russia, Germany and Estonia - Join Fred. Olsen and discover the 'palaces of Stockholm & St. Petersburg' whilst cruising to Copenhagen, Tallinn, St. Petersburg, Stockholm, and Kiel in Germany for more information visit www.fredolsencruises.com Potty about Portsmouth Molde, Tromsø, and Finnmark - 'Search for the Northern Lights' with Fred. Olsen and explore Molde, Tromsø, Alta (Finnmark), Kristiansund, and Bergen in winter 2013. For more information visit www.fredolsencruises.com Sail away from Southampton Norway and Ireland - Discover the beauty of the northern British Isles with Oceania Cruises and roundtrip cruises visiting Scotland, Norway and Ireland. For more information visit www.oceaniacruises.com Seville and Dubrovnik - Princess Cruises sail all over the Mediterranean, taking in a large variety of destinations including Seville, Dubrovnik, Florence, Corfu and Gibraltar. For more information visit www.princess.com St Maarten and St Lucia - Holland America Line's ultra exotic 32-night Caribbean Odyssey round trip from Southampton is the perfect winter sun explorer cruise. It takes in Caribbean islands, Trinidad, Barbados, Spain, Portugal and more. For more information visit www.hollandamerica.com Scotland, Channel Islands and Ireland - Enjoy a best of British ten night cruise with luxury liner Regent Seven Seas, seeing the sights the sights of Leith, Invergordon, Kirkwall, Portree, Dublin, Cardiff and St Peter Port. For more information visit www.rssc.com Norwegian Fjords and Canary Islands - Celebrity Cruises offers a great selection of Mediterranean, Scandinavian and Azores holidays with Baltic itineraries expanding in 2013. For more information visit www.celebritycruises.co.uk Provence and Corsica -find adventure on the seas with Royal Caribbean International's seven, 14 and 16 night cruises taking in a diverse range of Mediterranean ports from Provence to Corsica and Cádiz to Le Harve. For more information visit www.royalcaribbean.co.uk Netherlands and Stavanger - MSC Cruise's 2013 Southampton roundtrips runs from May until September with a great range of itineraries sailing through the Netherlands, Norway, as well as the Mediterranean. Prices For more information visit www.msccruises.co.uk Andalsnes and Romsdalsfjord - Join P&O Cruises this winter and visit the wonderful fjords on northern Europe with ports of call including Bergen, Andalsnes, cruise in Romsdalsfjord, Olden, cruise in Nordfjord and Stavanger. For more information visit www.pocruises.co.uk Venice and Split - Catch some late summer sun with Cunard's Queen Victoria on a 16 night 'Adriatic Discovery' voyage which will call at Cadiz, Katakolon, Corfy, Split, Venice, Dubrovnik and Malaga. For more information visit www.cunard.co.uk Monte Carlo and Barcelona - 2013 will see Crystal Cruises exploring the colourful coats and Western Europe visiting the glamorous destinations of Cartagena, Barcelona, Monte Carlo and Florence. For more information visit www.crystalcruises.co.uk Gothenburg, Helsinki and Tallinn - get the best of the Baltic with Thomson Cruises in 2013 with a 14 night cruise which explores Oslo, Gothenburg, Stockholm, Helsinki, St. Petersburg, Tallin and more. For more information visit www.thomson.co.uk/cruise Tripping off from Tilbury Copenhagen and Stockholm -Join holland America Holland America Line's 16 night Baltic Explorer and Kiel Canal next June cruise taking in Copenhagen, Warnemunde, Tallinn, St Petersburg, Helsinki and Stockholm. For more information visit www.hollandamerica.com Lisbon and Madeira - Head for the heat of Lisbon, Azores, Madeira and Oporto next August with Cruise & Maritime Voyages on a 15 night cruise. For more information visit www.cruiseandmaritime.com http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2012/july/ex-uk-destinations.aspx http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2012/july/ex-uk-destinations.aspx Sat, 28 July 2012 13:00:00 http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2012/july/have-a-cruise-cuppa!.aspx If you are looking to book a cruise, there will not be a better time than during National Cruise Week 15th - 23rd September. We may have talked a lot in previous blogs about ACE Travel Agents but they really are a mine of information and the best starting point to book a cruise especially if you are an undecided first timer. If you want to sit down and chat about which is the right cruise choice for you, hundreds of ACE member travel agents are holding an afternoon tea events during National Cruise Week. In many agencies you will get the chance to chat, as well as a cup of tea and maybe a slice of cake, sandwich or a cupcake or two thrown in! Log onto www.discovercruises.co.uk; to find your local travel agent. http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2012/july/have-a-cruise-cuppa!.aspx http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2012/july/have-a-cruise-cuppa!.aspx Sat, 28 July 2012 12:00:00 http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2012/july/my-girlfriend-loves-cruising.aspx My girlfriend loves cruising - she loves the ships, she loves the food, she loves the sea and, most of all, she loves waking up in a different place every day and exploring. Now, in most other contexts those things would all sound quite fun but I just don't like the idea of cruising. Why would I want to be stuck on a boat all day with a lot of old people I don't know? So, for years I have been resisting her attempts to book us a cruise holiday - we've been all over Europe, to the Caribbean, to Mauritius but never on a cruise ship. Then, a few months ago, she came up with her trump card: a trip to the Norwegian Fjords (top of both of our holiday hit lists but too expensive), travelling from Dover on a cruise line known for its quality, and for a price that I just couldn't argue with me. I let my defences down and five minutes later she was triumphantly waiving our booking confirmation in the air! As we drove into Dover a few months later and saw the ship we were to call home for seven days - Holland America Line's Ryndam - I have to say, I was worried. It looked huge, despite my girlfriend's protestations that it was mid-sized. However, I couldn't complain about the embarkation process. We parked next to the ship, our suitcases were whisked away and 20 minutes later, we were getting onboard. Our room, despite being at the cheaper end of the scale, was really spacious and the stewards who looked after it were fabulous. We once found a monkey made out of a towel hanging from our mirror, just to amuse us! The ship itself was really comfortable - although slightly too American in decor for my taste, it had lots of great nooks and crannies so you never felt like there were that many people onboard. The food was, for the most part, outstanding. I was expecting a similar kind of fare to that served in all-inclusive hotels. How wrong I was. This was good, independent hotel standard and obviously had someone with a bit of flair compiling the menus, which were often unusual and had great flavour combinations. There was the occasional hiccup but nothing to spoil our enjoyment. I thought we'd be made to sit with other people as well but we never did - we were down for 'As You Wish' dining, meaning that we could opt for a table for two and eat when we liked so long as there was a table available. One night we ate in Holland America Line's Pinnacle Grill restaurant, where you have to pay a little bit extra, but it was seriously worth it. We both had the best steak we'd ever tasted there - mine was a whopping 20 oz! - whilst the views of the sea from the restaurant added to the ambience. The onboard activities also surprised me. I thought we were going to be treated to some cheesy shows and, although they did exist, there were also some great things to do on sea days, from cooking demonstrations to fitness classes. My favourite was wine tasting. We took a course with the cheery cellar master, Jean François, who taught us the difference between new and old world wines, which foods work with which wines, and the difference the glass shape makes to the taste of the wine. Although I was pleasantly surprised by the onboard experience, it still wouldn't bring me back time and again, but the chance to see so many fabulous destinations in one cruise would. The Fjords were magnificent. Everything we expected and more. We were lucky with the weather, the sun shone every day, but I think it still would have been beautiful regardless. The first day, we woke up surrounded by mountains in Eidfjord and spent the day walking the various hiking trails around the town, until we had to abandon our final attempt as the vertical climb through a pine forest was just too scary and we needed a cup of tea! Our trip took us to elegant Alesund with its beautiful island landscape, the larger city of Bergen with its medieval houses and Gerainger, a tiny little village at the end of the stunning Geraingerfjord. Each and every day, we would have a good breakfast, then head off and hike up the tallest hill we could find - who said cruising piles on the pounds? The scenery was absolutely blissful and a lot of the time we didn't even see anybody from the ship. If you're fit, healthy and enjoy exploring, it is so exciting to find yourself in a new place every day and not have to drive to get there. It never struck me before how much time we normally waste driving around on holiday, but it was this aspect of cruising that would bring me back. We didn't feel the need to book any shore excursions, preferring to travel independently. The one shore excursion that we did choose was an exhilarating rib boat ride right up to all of the waterfalls and mountain farms in the Geraingerfjord. The other thing that made our holiday unique was the chance to cruise down the Fjords themselves. My complaint against cruise holidays was always that I'd feel restricted and hemmed in, but as you're sailing through the towering Fjords with the wind in your hair and the sun on your face, the very opposite is true. Cruising is complete freedom. Just don't tell my girlfriend I said that. http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2012/july/my-girlfriend-loves-cruising.aspx http://www.discovercruises.co.uk/blog/posts/2012/july/my-girlfriend-loves-cruising.aspx Fri, 27 July 2012 15:00:00