Instead of driving around Europe and getting stuck in traffic jams, have you ever thought about a cruise? There are many companies, offering different packages. With a wide range of choice and budget, Thompson, P&O, Oceania, Virgin Holidays, Planet Cruise and many others all offer summer and winter cruises.
1) Many Countries in a Week
One of the main advantages of a cruise is that if offers the possibility of seeing many countries in just one trip. All without the hassle of moving luggage from hotel room to hotel room and without the expense of individual trips. For example the Treasures of the Mediterranean cruise from Thomson Dream starts off in Palma, then goes to Trampani in Sicily, Naples, Civitavechia (for Rome), Ajaccio in Corsica, Palmas in Spain and then back to Palma. For those that fall in love with the Eternal City, you can always go back for a weekend trip and stay in one of the many Rome apartments for rent.
2) No additional flights
By starting and finishing a cruise in the same place, you avoid having to fly to different countries. This saves you time and money with going to the different airports. It also means that your holiday starts as soon as you go onboard and settle into your cabin.
3) Great Value
Cruises are great value as all food and drink are very often included in the price. There are usually great deals if you book early and many companies offer promotions at the last minute. A cruise round the Mediterranean can work out cheaper than you think.
4) Family Friendly
There are many activities for children on the boat. There is a kids’ camp and a pool on board. Some ships have a mini water park as well, along with a cinema and other activities. It is great entertainment for parents and children alike.
5) Discover New Destinations
Cruises are a great way to see new destinations and places that would be more difficult to get to individually. The Mediterranean has a wide variety of ports to visit, more than would be possible on a single trip to Europe.
6) Travel on your own
Cruises are good for people travelling on their own as there are plenty of opportunities to socialise with the other passengers on board. There are some companies such as P&O Cruises who have single cabins without the single supplement fee. The River Cruise Line does not have a single supplement fee for its Rhine Cruise, Christmas in Venice and Christmas in the Seine cruise.
7) Gourmet Food
Food is an important part of a cruise and is of the highest standard. There is a wide range of choice and many different types of restaurants on board. Some cruises offer gourmet restaurants such as The White Room, which is directed by Marco Pierre White. The cruise ship Oceania, which sails from Istanbul to Athens, has 6 fine dining restaurants.
8) Keep Fit
Although many cruise ships have all you can eat restaurants, they also have a number of fitness and well being centres , where classes are held and cosmetic treatments are available. There are also therapy pools, steam rooms and saunas on board, allowing you to have your own mini spa break.
Photo from smartertravel.com
