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
