With 1.2 million British taking a cruise in 2006 it seems that more people than ever are choosing this type of holiday. It’s also double the number who took a cruise just a decade ago.

Value for money

Many people perceive cruise holidays as expensive but in reality they are fantastic value for money with almost everything included once you are on board.

Luxury

A cruise holiday is the ultimate luxury holiday where you can lie back, enjoy exceptional cuisine and top quality service in elegant surroundings.

Work out or pamper yourself

Most ships have excellent spas and fitness centres where you can work off some of those extra calories in the gym and then relax in the Jacuzzi before choosing an uplifting beauty treatment.

Discover the world

Cruising is the easiest way to see more of the world during each holiday. During your cruise there will be a number of escorted shore tours that you can purchase. Alternatively, release your sense of adventure and go it alone.

Facilities and entertainment

Ships have a choice of restaurants and these range from fine cuisine to American style diners. Shopping facilities are good onboard the larger ships but you will also be spoilt for choice if your ports of call include cities such as Barcelona, Florence, Rome or Nice to mention but a few. In the evening, nightclubs, theatres, live music and comedy shows will keep you well entertained.

Family fun

Many cruise ships provide kids clubs and a wealth of activities. Some will amaze you with what is on offer from rock-climbing walls, ice-skating rinks and basketball courts to teenage nightclubs, talent shows and sports tournaments. Cruise holidays are available to cater for children from 6 months to 17 years.

Adults only

A cruise offers the perfect family holiday, but if you want to escape the buggies and tantrums then an 'Adult Only' ship will be the ideal choice for you.

Duration

Cruises start from 2-3 nights and range right through to world cruises of 100 nights or more. Itineraries generally include days at sea which means you have no choice but to enjoy what  the ship has to offer. For people with less time to spare you can reach far away places with a flight to join your cruise.

Tracey Holt is an independent travel consultant and can book you a cruise holiday whilst sitting in the comfort of your own home. Tracey can also book land holidays in addition to river cruises.

Call 0800 432 0291
or email
traceyholt@gocruise.co.uk
www.gocruise.co.uk/traceyholt