The best cruises to take in 2024
Are you thinking about your holidays next year and wondering what adventures might lie ahead? If you're hoping to tick off bucket-list destinations in a convenient and comfortable way, a cruise might be the perfect way to do it.
A cruise can take many forms. For some, it's a chance to get away from the stresses of everyday life and relax as you make the most of the facilities on board your home at sea. Many cruise ships now include excellent spa facilities, and pools or hot tubs on the decks so you can kick back and watch the world go by.
For others, a cruise might be a chance to get a little more adventurous. Some cruises on smaller ships allow you to tuck into coves and dock at locations that are hard to reach by other means, allowing you a really immerse experience in the country you're visiting. River cruises can be a great way to get to know a country, stopping off at various cities, towns and villages as you go.
Our cruises cover all of these - from cultural odysseys along the world's best rivers, to expedition cruises to remote islands, and relaxing trips to beautiful sunkissed shores. Take a look at our selection of top cruises for next year to help you decide.
Cruise the Venetian Lagoon on the luxury river ship, the S.S La Venezia and meet top chef Angela Hartnett. Discover Venice' top attractions and enjoy visits to Torcello, Chioggia, Murano and more. Michelin-starred chef Angela Hartnett joins you for part of the cruise, with a Rialto food market tour and an exclusive onboard cooking demonstration.
Full details: Cruise the Venetian Lagoon with Angela Hartnett
Join a wonderful cultural voyage along the Mekong, one of Asia's most important rivers. Before boarding the Mekong Jewel you'll have two days in Ho Chi Minh City, where you can witness ancient history melding with modernity in Vietnam's largest city and there'll be 13 immersive excursions included in your itinerary as you sail, including the archaeological site of Angkor.
Another cruise in Asia which will leave you with memories for a lifetime, this adventure around Japan will show you the tranquil temples and picturesque old towns alongside the bright lights and technical innovation of ultra-modern cities of this beautiful country. You'll be travelling at the height of cherry blossom season, when trees around Japan are covered in spectacular pink blossoms.
On this sixteen-day immersive tour of Peru, you'll explore the Andes and the Amazon Rainforest and have the chance to spot some of the countries unique and diverse wildlife. You'll spend two nights in the cosmopolitan capital, Lima and discover the former Inkan civilisation site of Machu Picchu.
This cruise really is the adventure of a lifetime, taking you to corners of the planet that few have had the chance to explore. Jaw-dropping scenery and wonderful wildlife await as you sail to the icy wilderness of Antarctica and enjoy landings with an expert expedition team, who'll tailor your excursions based upon the conditions.
Discover the delights of the Douro River on this eight-day all-inclusive river cruise on board an elegant ship. This gorgeous, sun-kissed region of Portugal is the world's oldest demarcated wine region and you'll explore the rolling hills and terraced vineyards from your ship and visit peaceful villages to get a taste of local life.
Sail along Norway's stunning coastline aboard the stylish MS Kong Harald ship and have the chance of witnessing the mystical Northern Lights. Wildlife photographer and cameraman, Doug Allan, will join the cruise for a few days to give an insightful talk and Q&A session. He will also accompany you on a special Arctic Coastal walk and share his expert photography tips along the way!
Island-hop around the scenic Outer Hebrides with Monty Halls. Enjoy scenic ferry trips crossing from Mallaig to Lochboisdale and Benbecula. Here you'll have the opportunity to spot diverse wildlife. Explore the islands of Eriskay, Vatersay and Barra, renowned for their pristine sandy beaches and visit historical monuments like the Standing Stones of Callanish, the Norse Mill at Shawbost, and the Black Houses at Gearrannan.
Foodies will relish the opportunity to meet one of the nation's favourite chefs, James Martin on this eight-day luxury cruise of the Venetian Lagoon. Not only will you enjoy exclusive access to some of Venice's most-loved sights including the Doge's Palace and St Mark's Basilica, but back on board, James will host a private Q&A session about his life and career and give a talk as well as curating and cooking a special gala dinner. With excursions, cultural enrichment and on board entertainment included, this is a sailing not to be missed.
Voyage Norway's spectacular coastline on this 12-day voyage on a Hurtigruten expedition ship sailing in the company of expert guides. Sail through glacial fjords, past towering mountains and spot incredible species of wildlife. A highlight of the trip is the chance to witness the etheral beauty of the Aurora Borealis combined with stargazing opportunities as you sail through the Arctic Circle.
Sail aboard the luxurious S.S. La Venezia ship on this exclusive eight-day river cruise of the Venetian Lagoon. You'll have exclusive access to iconic landmarks, including an atmospheric lighting ceremony at St Mark's Basilica and early morning entry to Doge's Palace.
A highlight of the trip is the company of celebrated chef and MasterChef judge Monica Galetti, who'll give a special talk, and Q&A and join you on a trip to Chioggia's vibrant local market.
Island-hop between some of the most picturesque ports of the Adriatic including the historic walled city of Dubrovnik. Discover the sun-drenched landscapes of Hvar and soak up the cosmopolitan atmosphere in the stylish resort of Split with its elegant waterfront. Sail on MS Equator, a boutique and luxurious ship with a maximum of 40 passengers and embark on an unforgettable eight-day Croatia cruise adventure along thr breathtaking Dalmatian coastline.
Explore some of Europe's most enchanting Christmas markets on a luxurious river cruise. Browse traditional chalet huts for handcrafted Christmas gifts and sample festive delicacies. Discover several of Germany's best cities including Cologne, Frankfurt and Koblenz on this festive four-night Rhine River cruise.
