It may still feel like Christmas is only just over, but these winter months are in fact the best time to start thinking about your travels for the rest of the year. If you’re dreaming about far-flung destinations and are pulling together imaginary travel plans in your head to help escape the wintery weather, our cruise deals, including last minute package deals during the summer months, might be just the thing you’re looking for.

Hopping on board a cruise can feel like ten holidays in one, thanks to the change of location and scenery every day. Even a short trip to the Mediterranean could be the break from reality that you’re looking for. Packages to this region are very affordable when you book with us here at Cruise Nation, beginning at just £199 – ideal for people planning an adventurous trip on a budget.

Western Mediterranean

For a short haul break, a western Mediterranean cruise can take you from stunning cosmopolitan cities such as Barcelona and Naples to historic culture centres including Rome and Venice. This type of trip is ideal for any style of holidaymaker.

Couples looking for a romantic break will find themselves taken by the beauty of Venice’s charming canals and winding streets. Take the time to duck out of the busy tourist filled areas and explore the places that only the locals know – small eateries, hidden churches and quirky boutiques. Did you know there are over 400 bridges in the city? The Ponte de Chiodo is one which is definitely worth seeking out, looking like it almost defies gravity with its lack of parapets.

 

Barcelona

Families with young children will enjoy the sandy beaches of southern Spain as well as the activities available on board. Our cruises make for an ideal family holiday as mum and dad enjoy the excitement of a new destination every day and the kids can run wild in a safe environment on board.

Even solo travellers will find exhilarating trips provided by the cruise line with activities including tours of cultural sites like the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona or arranged tours of local eateries, bars and nightlife.

Eastern Mediterranean

Cruises in the Eastern Med are often overlooked for more popular destinations, but our Mediterranean cruises can offer just as much, if not more, than trips anywhere else in the world. This area boasts not only incredible history, but also fresh and tasty local dishes and fantastic sunshine almost year round.

Our cruise packages in this area will allow you to explore the hidden gems of the Adriatic – spots not usually explored by the average tourist, and all at an excellent value for your money. The rugged coastline of Turkey, with hotspots Izmir and Bodrum, is well regarded by sun seekers, or head further east to Istanbul to visit one of the largest and most cultured cities in Europe, straddling the border of Asia on the Bosphorus. Our smart packages include flights and hotel stays at your destinations so that everything is rolled into one, meaning you don’t need to worry about the stress of trying to book everything separately.

Panorama of Istanbul from the Galata Bridge, Turkey.

The advantage of taking a cruise around the Eastern Mediterranean means that you can sample the culture of each city. Get a taste of Slovenia in Koper, a city with a rich and colourful history, ruled by the Roman Empire, the Venetian Republic and Yugoslavia over time, each of the cultures combing to make it the city it is today. Experience Greek island hopping with sun-filled days in Corfu, Mykonos and Santorini. Or even relax on board, letting the wonders of this ancient seascape pass you by.