CRUISING LETS YOU SEE MORE
This summer’s Mediterranean cruises have it all – here’s why
THERE’s always been a sense of glamour and excitement about the sun-drenched cities and coasts of Europe. The place names alone reflect the golden age of travel and adventure. From the French Riviera and the casinos of Monte Carlo to the sunsets of Santorini, the monuments of Athens, the markets of Barcelona and the cafés of Capri, there’s a wonder that attracts visitors from around the world. And in Europe’s calm Mediterranean waters there are always new sights to see, new experiences to embrace.
But just how easy is it to experience the very best of Europe in style? Choose the perfect European cruise and it’s very easy indeed. Forget about checking in and out of different city-centre hotels every time you reach a new destination. Just step on to a floating boutique hotel at the start of your adventure. Unpack once and make your stateroom your home. Then let friendly staff take care of every detail so you can enjoy every moment of your holiday.
Sounds too good to be true? It’s not. European cruises are the unsung heroes of the holiday world. They’re the secrets that allow passengers to see more than almost anyone else. And they keep getting better.
FEEL LIKE A LOCAL
THIS summer you can find short or long cruises that take you to each of the Mediterranean’s most famous cities. But there are cruises that take you further, too. So don’t think the joy stops with the Grand Canal in Venice or tiny tavernas of the perfect Greek island. The fabulous ‘Islands of Dalmatia’ cruise from small-ship specialist Emerald Waterways is just one example of the extra insights on offer this summer. As well as Croatia’s historic ports and their café culture, you can visit the jewel-like St Stephen’s Cathedral on the island of Hvar. You can take a guided tour of Unesco-protected Dubrovnik. You can gaze out across ‘secret islands’, before choosing a fully escorted EmeraldPLUS experience to see how islanders on Brač keep the ancient art of stonemasonry alive.
Travellers say it’s often the excursions and extra experiences that bring their Mediterranean trips to life. And with five-star cruise companies such as Norwegian Cruise Lines and Emerald Waterways, you can enjoy as many or as few as you choose: it’s your holiday, after all. And get ready for some surprises. Cruise companies find the best, English-speaking guides for their tours.
They find people whose enthusiasm for their country and its history shine through. You’ll get a feel for local life, as well as all the big-ticket sights. You can get under the skin of each town or city.
Better still, there’s always more to come. Back amid the security of your ship, you can relive each day’s memories while you sail effortlessly to your next destination. Fans of Mediterranean cruises say they love knowing they almost always wake up to a new view. Sail as you sleep and not a single moment of your holiday is wasted.
SUPERB FACILITIES
LIFE on board the perfect Mediterranean cruise is equally good. Expect superb facilities, fine dining, five-star wines and fabulous staff. With NCL there are sparkling spas for relaxing treatments. There are incredible facilities for children, if you’re travelling as a family (as well as kids’ entertainers: ask about interconnecting staterooms and suites). There are places to exercise or to just curl up with a good book.
The true beauty of this year’s cruise schedules is that they work for first-time travellers, and for those who’ve holidayed in Europe for years. There’s always something new to see or learn in the Mediterranean. So, look at the latest destination lists. You’ll take a short flight to the city where your cruise will begin. You’ll have staff on hand to help transfer you to your ship. And as you settle into your room, you’ll have nothing left to do but relax. It’s the perfect holiday. On offer now, for summer 2020 and beyond.
>> FEATURED CRUISE: The Islands of Dalmatia. Seven nights, from £1,695pp. To find out more, visit emeraldwaterways.co.uk