‘We’ve never had it so good’

Cruise lines are offering a tempting line-up of cut-price offers and special promotions, hailed as the best ever, writes Sara Macefield

While some mass market players in the cruise world have cut prices – drastically in a few cases – others have incorporated extra value with cabin upgrades, complimentary drinks, free Wi-Fi and speciality dining. Several companies are also offering cut-price or free flights and overnight hotel stays.

In a bid to reassure customers who may be wary of booking amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, deals are offered with low deposits and flexible booking conditions permitting cancellations 30 days or less before departure. “We’ve never had it so good when it comes to offers and deals,” said James Cole, founder of travel agency Panache Cruises, which launched in 2020. “There are some phenomenal bargains, especially for this year.”

Here are some of the best.

ISLAND DELIGHTS IN THE

CARIBBEAN

Sparkling turquoise waters dotted with lush tropical islands and dazzling whitesand beaches may sound like the stuff of dreams, but this West Indies voyage from Norwegian Cruise Line turns them into reality. Imbibe the unspoilt beauty of the British Virgin Islands, sample the Spanish-Caribbean vibe of the Dominican Republic, and visit the private island of Great Stirrup Cay where you can sip cocktails, tuck into fish tacos and try out the watersports. One-week round-trip Eastern Caribbean cruise departs Miami on May 8 2022, reduced from £1,129pp to £809pp. For £99pp, guests can add up to five benefits, including free drinks, speciality dining and Wi-Fi (0333 241 2319; ncl.com).

MEDITERRANEAN MAIDEN

SEASON

Sophisticates searching for stylish surroundings can revel in Celebrity Cruises’ newest ship Celebrity Apex, unveiled last year but yet to carry guests. This Mediterranean escape combines the glories of Provençal France at Marseille and the high-octane glamour of the French Riviera at Villefranche, with Ibiza’s chilled laid-back vibe and the Italian classical charms of Florence and Pisa, a coach ride from the port of La Spezia.

One-week Spain, France and Italy voyage from Barcelona to Civitavecchia (Rome) departs July 10. From £1,378pp, including drinks and Wi-Fi; package comes with flights under Celebrity’s airfare promotion, valid until March 1 (0800 441 4054; celebritycruises.co.uk).

SUITE DREAMS FROM SYDNEY

Enjoy a taste of the suite life with Regent Seven Seas Cruises as part of the luxury line’s “largest suite upgrade promotion in its history”, with two-category upgrades included on all bookings made by Feb 28. After spending this long, cold winter living the lockdown life, plot your escape early next year to the balmy Southern Hemisphere summer on a voyage to remember from Sydney to Bali that promises diving trips on the Great Barrier Reef, crocodile tours in the Northern Territory and coming face to face with Komodo dragons in Indonesia.

The 16-night Kangaroos, Koalas & Dragons cruise departs Jan 19 2022. From £9,939pp, including flights, shore excursions, three-night port stay, drinks and Wi-Fi (02380 682280; rssc.com).

FAMILY FLAVOURS OF THE MED

Fancy a family beach trip in the Greek islands, a history lesson amid the ancient ruins of Pompeii or striking the best selfie pose in the billionaires’ playground of Monte Carlo? Nothing illustrates the Mediterranean’s appeal to all ages better than a cruise, and this voyage adds Montenegro’s breathtaking scenery in Kotor to the mix, along with