Going on a Mini Cruise

Going on a mini cruise is a cost effective way to travel around Europe, and the rest of the world whilst seeing the many cities and enjoying the relaxing environment and comprehensive entertainment of a cruise ship. 





Who goes on a mini Cruise?

They are popular with people of all walks of life and all ages. Families and couples both enjoy this type of holiday.  Flying can be stressful for many people, - you have the hassle of security and the worry of how to keep your children entertained in a confined space. The wealth of facilities and activities on board are great to keep everyone entertained. Some people also get nervous flying (I know I do) and prefer to travel in other ways when possible. A cruise is a relaxing way to travel whilst seeing all the sights.



A panoramic view of Paris - image courtesy of www.shutterstock.com

Many couples enjoy the luxury and romance of a mini cruise, after all who wouldn't be impressed with a cruise to France, stopping off in the city of love, Paris, or a trip to Amsterdam with it's canals and flower market.  Mini cruises are popular with the older generation too, as a cruise is relatively hassle free, so great for a relaxing break. Some companies offer an all inclusive option with all your food and drinks included and this can be great for those who on a budget.

To a seasoned traveller like me the appeal of a cruise is the fact you can visit many countries and cities in one trip.  One day you maybe in Bruges having a tour of a chocolate factory, the next in cultural Amsterdam visiting the museums and clog makers and the next in Berlin visiting the historic sites and the Christmas markets. A cruise is a brilliant way of seeing many different countries in a short space of time.




One of Berlin's Christmas markets - image www.shutterstock.co.uk

What's on board?

The majority of mini cruise lines, have a variety of activities and facilities on board ship. Facilities include well stocked bars and lounges, restaurants, cafes, children's play areas, kids club, some even having a cinema or casino.  Wi-fi may be available too, which is useful to keep in touch with family or work.  Most ships have shopping facilities and in some countries duty free shopping is available. Entertainment is often available, from singers to dancers and comedians, with many cruise lines having great entertainment on board.

Excursions

There are usually a number of excursions offered whilst the ship docks, and although you may have to pay for these separately, these are often worth doing as they are planned well and give you a whistle stop tour of a city or town before you move onto the next place. Whether you are visiting an historic site such as Waterloo, or shopping in one of the many Christmas markets a well planned excursion will be the perfect opportunity for taking photos, grabbing lunch in a local tavern and soaking up the culture. 

So if you fancy a mini cruise, why don't you check out some of the quality cruise companies such as Fred Olsen and don't forget to let me know where you are going next!

Have you ever been on a cruise? Have you visited Europe's Christmas markets? Which is you favourite European destination?

* PR Collaboration - all words and opinions are my own

18 comments

  1. Ooh! I had never considered seeing the Christmas markets via a cruise. I have a tough time choosing a city to visit for the markets and usually don't end up going to any :D. This is an excellent solution!

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    1. Yes I thought so too Angela. I went to Prague Christmas markets last year but would love to try a mini cruise to go to Berlin or Amsterdam Christmas markets.

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  2. I have never been on a mini cruise before - but it does seem like a great way to see new places especially the Christmas markets.

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  3. I've always wanted to go to Christmas Markets this sounds a perfect way to do it

    AliceMegan

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    1. Hopefully you will get the chance to go one day.

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  4. I would love to go on a mini cruise around Europe :D Such a great post. Bookmarking for future reference xx

    Louise

    Confessions of a Secret Shopper

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    1. Let me know if you do get the chance to go Louise!

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  5. I've not been on a cruise of any sort, but it sounds like a brilliant hassle free way of seeing the sites.

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    1. I think that is a major plus point. I know flying is incredibly stressful for me and this seems such an easy way to travel.

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  6. Love to do a mini-cruise, especially with the 4 year old, that would be a good experience for both of us.

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    1. There is so much entertainment on board ship these days and you haven'y got the confinement of a plane.

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  7. I would love to go on any type of cruise but I know hubby won't. He doesn't like the water :(

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    1. Awe that's a shame Michelle. Where would you like to go?

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  8. I'd quite like to try a cruise - my mum used to love them and went on a few, as you say a good way to see lots of new places. There's no way my OH would though

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    1. I think they used to cater well for the older generation in the past, but now they are for everyone, and families love the facilities on board for children.

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  9. A cruise...i would so love to go on one!

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