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 various departures
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
Cruise through the Venetian Lagoon on board a luxury river ship. Your seven-night itinerary includes visits to islands such as Burano, Murano, Mazzorbo and Torcello, as well as time to explore the sights of Venice. You'll look forward to a number of exclusive experiences, including an atmospheric lighting ceremony at St Mark's Basilica, the church on Torcello with an art historian and early morning entry to Doge's Palace.
8 days, multiple departures
- Ride Canada's Rocky Mountaineer and cruise Alaska - various departures
- Cruise the Danube and see Europe's artistic delights - various departures
- Discover the magic of the Douro on a wine river cruise - various departures
- Cruise the Mekong River through Vietnam and Cambodia - various departures
- Explore India's Golden Triangle and sail the Ganges - various departures
- Embark on an expedition cruise to Antarctica - various departures
