There's nothing worse than finally finding your dream cruise only to realise that it departs 5 thousand miles away! With this in mind, I've devised a list of 4 of the best cruises that depart right here in the UK:
The Hebridean Princess/ Hebridean Island Cruises
Ever thought about taking a cruise around the UK? Probably not, I'll bet. Yet, whilst the UK may not seem like the typical destination for a luxury holiday, its domestic cruise market is surprisingly popular and, in many cases, outstanding value for money.
Cruise itineraries within the UK are very much tailored around some of the most beautiful parts of the British Isles - and there are some fantastic cheap cruises to be had! If you're tempted, consider Hebridean Island Cruises which offer luxury tours of the Western and Northern Isles.
Their ship, The Hebridean Princess, comes from humble beginnings starting life as a Caledonian MacBrayne car ferry. After being refitted as a luxury cruise ship, she has most certainly gone on to bigger and better things!
The Queen famously chartered The Hebridean Princess for a family holiday to celebrate her 80th birthday. Indeed, the ship impressed her so much that Hebridean Island Cruises was later awarded a Royal Warrant for the provision of cruise holidays.
The Hebridean Princess varies its route so you can visit most of the Scottish Islands. The Islands on the West Coast are spectacular, especially the Inner Hebridean Islands - Orkney, Eigg and the Isle of Rum. In fact the Hebridean Island Cruises are, possibly, some of the best ways to see the more remote parts of the British Isles.
Quest for Adventure/ Saga
A great choice for wine enthusiasts, Saga Holidays' "Wine Regions of Europe" cruise gives you the opportunity to expand your palate. They have an excellent series of wine tastings, led by Master of Wine Anne Tupker. The ship's course has been chosen to give passengers the opportunity to visit the vineyards where some of the world's best wines are made.
With stops in France, Spain and Portugal, you'll have plenty of opportunities to soak-up some serious sun! There are also loads of tours to the surrounding historic cities - all included within the initial cost of the cruise.
Saga Holidays tailor their cruises to the over 50's, so this cruise won't be suitable for families or children.
Celebrity Eclipse/ Celebrity Cruises
If you want to go somewhere warm with a little bit of sophistication, the Celebrity Eclipse Europe Cruise is the trip for you. The 14 night cruise will give you plenty of time to explore some of Europe's cultural centres where you will be wowed by the architecture, museums and art galleries - and if you have time, there are plenty of cafes where you can relax and enjoy the famously laid back European lifestyle.
This cruise gives you a chance to see many of the world's greatest cities, including Nice, Rome, Florence and Lisbon, where you can bask in the atmosphere which has inspired some of history's greatest artists.
Independence of the Seas / Royal Caribbean
Scandinavia is a part of Europe that many Britons are unfamiliar with. The Royal Caribbean Eight Night Norway Cruise is the perfect way to remedy this. With stops in five different cities, passengers will be able to explore Norway intensively, and will return with a greater understanding of one of our most important neighbours.
But you'll also get the chance to spend time on one of the largest and most luxurious cruise ships in the world. It features an ice rink, heated swimming pool and a climbing wall, as well as numerous pubs and restaurants. Plenty to keep you occupied between destinations!