Cruise holidays

First, think about your destination and itinerary. Do you prefer the sun-drenched shores of the Caribbean, the historic harbours of the Mediterranean, or the scenic channels on a European river cruise? Your chosen itinerary will influence ship size, speed, and how many ports you’ll visit each day.

Cabin type matters. A balcony cabin offers private views and fresh air, while interior cabins are often the most economical. For special occasions, a suite or junior suite can provide extra space and premium perks. Also review what’s included in your fare, meals, entertainment, tips, and specialty dining can vary between operators.

Consider onboard amenities and extras. Some deals include drinks packages, specialty dining, shore excursions, or on-board credits that can make a big difference to your overall experience. If you’re booking a family cruise, look for kid-friendly activities, dedicated clubs, and flexible dining options to keep every day smooth and enjoyable.

Flexibility and price protection are important. Last-minute cruise deals can offer substantial savings, but they may come with limited availability of cabins or dining times. Early-booking discounts reward those who plan ahead, often with the best cabin choices and preferred itineraries.

Ocean cruises continue to be a favourite, with itineraries spanning the Caribbean, Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the Baltic, and Alaska. Caribbean cruises are ideal for families and sun seekers, while the Mediterranean blends ancient cities with stunning coastlines. For those who want to slow down and soak in the scenery, river cruises along the Danube, Rhine, and Douro offer intimate experiences and elegant shore visits.

If you’re seeking luxury and expansive ship experiences, look at premium and luxury cruise lines offering all-inclusive packages, larger suites, and exclusive excursions. Expedition cruises add a sense of adventure to remote destinations, while British and European itineraries on UK-based or international ships bring familiar comfort with new horizons. River cruises, often shorter and more intimate, are perfect for first-timers who want culture-rich days with easy, relaxed evenings on board.

Start by aligning your budget with your destination. Caribbean and Mediterranean itineraries may offer more inclusions, while certain river cruises price in with fine dining and guided tours. Decide on the cabin class that suits your comfort level and check if the deal includes drinks, tips, specialty dining, or excursions. A balcony cabin can enhance your experience on long sea days, while a well-located mid-ship cabin can reduce motion and noise.

Review the ship’s amenities and shore excursion options. Some ships emphasize family-friendly activities, while others focus on wellness, spa, or enrichment programs. If you plan post-cruise stays or pre-cruise city breaks, look for packages that combine a hotel stay with your cruise to maximise value and convenience.

Consider fly-cruise packages if you’re traveling from the UK. These bundles can save you time and provide coordinated transport, flight schedules, and transfer options. Always check visa and health requirements for your ports of call and ensure you have appropriate travel insurance for cruises and excursions.

Enhance your cruise with add-ons like pre- and post-cruise hotel stays, airport transfers, and guided shore excursions to maximise every port visit. Choose from beverage packages, specialty dining, spa credits, and Kids Sail Free promotions where available. For travelers packing light, consider luggage sets, travel adapters, and waterproof bags to protect valuables during wet port days.

To stay organized, keep a detailed packing list, including sunscreen, pharmacy essentials, motion sickness remedies, and a universal charger. Our cruise listings often feature bundles that combine cabin, excursions, and onboard credits, helping you secure a complete and value-packed travel experience.

UK travelers often choose lines like P&O Cruises, Cunard, and Saga for familiar accents, onboard comfort, and packaged itineraries that suit shorter or longer voyages from Southampton, Dover, or other regional ports. Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, Costa, and Princess offer a wide range of itineraries, from short city breaks to immersive world cruises. Depending on your priorities, budget, luxury, family activities, or adults-only spaces, there’s a ship and a deal waiting in our Wowcher UK listings.

Plan your ports of call and shore excursions in advance to maximise time ashore. Reserve dining experiences during peak times and take advantage of any included entertainment, shows, or enrichment programs onboard. Stay flexible on weather-influenced itineraries and enjoy the onboard atmosphere, ships offer everything from casual lounges to world-class entertainment, ensuring every day is memorable on your Cruise Holidays.

Ready to book? Explore our latest Cruise Holidays deals on Wowcher UK, compare itineraries, check inclusions, and secure your next voyage with confidence. Whether you’re seeking a sun-drenched Caribbean escape, a culturally rich Mediterranean voyage, or a peaceful river cruise through Europe, you can find value, variety, and inspiration all in one place.

Q: What is included in a typical cruise fare?

A: A typical cruise fare covers your accommodation, standard meals in main dining venues, entertainment, ship amenities, and port taxes. Some fares include beverages, specialty dining, gratuities, or shore excursions, while others require add-ons. Always check the inclusions listed in the Wowcher UK deal to understand exactly what you are paying for and what may be extra.

Q: Are river cruises better for first-time cruisers?

A: River cruises are often ideal for first-timers due to their smaller ships, more intimate experience, and easier port-to-ship logistics. They typically offer immersive cultural experiences and well-paced itineraries with guided tours. If you prefer a quieter pace with frequent, memorable port visits, river cruising could be a great starting point in your Cruise Holidays journey.

Q: How do last-minute cruise deals work?

A: Last-minute deals are discounted fares for departures occurring soon. They’re ideal for flexible travelers who can adapt to available cabins and itineraries. Availability is limited, and some inclusions or dining times may be restricted. Always verify terms and conditions, and look for deals that include value-added options like on-board credits or included excursions.

Q: What should I pack for a cruise?

A: Pack a mix of casual daytime outfits and smart-casual evenings, a light jacket for breezy sea days, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, a hat, and travel adapters suitable for international sockets. If you have special needs or plan shore excursions, bring any required medications, seasickness remedies, and copies of important travel documents. Check your specific itinerary for port requirements and climate variations.

Q: Can I find family-friendly cruise deals on Wowcher UK?

A: Yes. Look for family-friendly itineraries, kids sail free promotions, and cabins suitable for families. Many lines offer dedicated kids’ clubs, teen zones, and flexible dining to keep every member of the family engaged. Compare options, price inclusions, and excursion choices to choose a family-friendly Cruise Holidays that suits your crew.