The 2027 cruises you need to book
Cruising is a fantastic way of seeing the world, ticking off multiple destinations all in one trip. You could choose a no-fly cruise, departing from a regional UK port meaning your holiday begins right away - and being on board the ship is part of the experience as well as the journey. Board a river cruise ship and sail down some of the world's most beautiful rivers, with scenery and every turn - and feel closer to your destination as you disembark in the heart of smaller villages and towns. Or enjoy the company of experts when you choose an expedition cruise, with fascinating insights and presentations to complement the places you're visiting.
If you're looking to book your next cruise holiday, read on as we share our recommendations for the best cruises to take in 2027.
The romantic Rhine is known for its sensational scenery and the combination of hilltop fairytale villages with art-filled, culture-rich cities. How about combining this with a very special private performance from tenor Russell Watson? You could board the elegant SS Antoinette in Basel on an eight-day cruise in April 2027. The highlight of course, is seeing Russell perform at the atmospheric Trinitatis Church in Cologne. Russell will join guests on board for two days, and also give a talk and Q&A about his life and illustrious career. Plus, book by 31 August 2026 and receive early booking savings on this departure.
Can't make the date?
Cruise the Rhine to scenic Switzerland on a seven-night sailing with multiple departure dates
Venice's lagoons are full of surprises: beautiful islands home to small fishing ports, brightly coloured buildings and narrow alleyways leading to artisan shops. Immerse yourself in Venetian life, as you see local craftspeople upkeep traditions and explore the city of Venice to understand what makes it so special and unique. If you're interested in food and wine, you'll love our eight-day cruise of Venice in April 2027 in the company of chef and TV presenter James Martin. James will join you on board to give a talk and Q&A, as well as curate and cook a very special gala dinner as your cruise comes to an end. Plus, book by 31 August 2026 and receive early booking savings on this departure.
Can't make the date?
Join an eight-day cruise of Venice's islands and lagoons, with numerous departure dates, until October 2027
If it's scenery you're after, a cruise of Norway's coast should be top of your list. If you time your departure right, you could even witness the magical Northern Lights from the deck of your ship. During our 12-day sailing, you'll cruise both northbound and southbound along the coastline, crossing the Arctic Circle to Norway's northernmost point, the North Cape. You'll also pass through more than 100 fjords, calling at 34 unique ports. Hurtigruten have been sailing these waters for over 130 years and if you book by 31 August 2026, you can cruise on selected dates from only £1,999pp. Plus, if there's no recorded sighting of Northern Lights during your trip, you will be given a free 6 or 7 day Classic Voyage the following year.
You can cruise anywhere - from around our own British Isles, to as far as Antarctica or the Galapagos Islands. It all depends what you are looking for from your cruise experience: a river cruise, ocean cruise or expedition cruise all offer something completely different.
If you're looking for a long-haul holiday and to tick experiences off your bucket list, we would recommend cruising through the Mekong between Vietnam and Cambodia, sailing the Ganges and exploring the best of India, including the famous Golden Triangle route, or witnessing Japan during cherry blossom season, when it's at its most stunning.
Alternatively, Europe's rivers are beautiful and allow you to tick off capital cities and charming small villages all in one trip. For first-timers, we would always recommend a cruise of the Danube, while those with an interest in gastronomy and wines would be drawn to Portugal's river Douro or gliding down France's rivers as you explore Bordeaux and the Medoc region.
For a small ship cruising experience, you could even island hop along Croatia's glorious coastline. Joining a maximum of 40 passengers, take in islets, hidden coves and crystal-clear waters.
