The 2026 cruises you need to book
Cruising is a fantastic way to holiday - ticking off multiple must-visit destinations in one trip. There are so many options for travellers too - from relaxing river cruises on board boutique ships, to large ocean liners that resemble floating hotels, and for the curious, expedition cruises in the company of experts. You could choose a no-fly cruise, with days at sea to unwind and get to know the facilities of the ship; or a fly cruise taking you straight to the starting point of your itinerary.
If you're looking to book your next cruise holiday, read on as we share our recommendations for the best cruises to take in 2026.
Join top chef and TV presenter James Martin on an eight-night cruise of Norway's coastline. From Tromsø, head north and cross the Arctic Circle to Honningsvåg, gateway to the North Cape. From here, the ship will travel back southbound to Alta, Narvik, scenic Åndalsnes and historic Bergen. You'll be joined by an expedition team and during the voyage, hear from James Martin, who will also deliver an on board cooking demonstration.
9 days, departing 29 October 2026
Can't make this date? You'll love our 12-day Norway's Northern Lights cruise with departures running until December 2026
Discover the sights of spring in the Netherlands, in the company of award-winning gardener and presenter Adam Frost. Your five-night Rhine cruise will start in Cologne, travelling to three ports of call in the Netherlands: Rotterdam, Amsterdam and Utrecht. Springtime is a lovely time of year to visit as the flower fields begin to bloom and you'll visit the iconic Keukenhof Gardens with Adam Frost, who will be joining you for the duration of the cruise. He will also give an insightful talk and Q&A, where perhaps you'll pick up some tips for your own garden.
6 days, departing 23 March 2026
Japan is well known for its contrasts: from ancient shrines and temples to futuristic cities; but it's equally as famed for its cherry blossom, known as Sakura. You could embrace traditions, culture and the ritual of Hanami on a two-week long cruise from Tokyo. Each spring, millions of Japanese residents and visitors wait with anticipation for the first buds of the pink cherry blossom and you'll be able to experience it firsthand. Further highlights include a poignant visit to Hiroshima, the picturesque gem of Aomori and Hokkaido, known as Japan's wild west.
15 days, departing 29 March 2026
Board a stylish boutique ship with no more than 40 passengers as you join a Croatian coastal adventure. Departing from Split, you'll spend a week exploring the coves, islands and islets along the Dalmatian coastline. Discover Croatia's prettiest towns and cities, including Hvar and Dubrovnik; visit lush National Parks; and look forward to a number of included tours and activities. Due to the small ship size, you'll drop anchor in hidden coves and during these scheduled swim stops, leap from the ship's swimming platform directly into the crystal-clear waters.
8 days, departures between May and October 2026
- Ride Canada's Rocky Mountaineer and cruise Alaska - various departures until September 2026
- Cruise the Danube and see Europe's artistic delights - various departures until November 2026
- Discover the magic of the Douro on a wine river cruise - various departures until November 2026
- Cruise the Mekong River through Vietnam and Cambodia - various departures until December 2026
- Explore India's Golden Triangle and sail the Ganges - various departures until December 2026
- Embark on an expedition cruise to Antarctica - various departures until March 2027
