A compass to cruising

Douro River Cruise – solo travellers looking for adventure

Wendy, Travel Advisor at Tritton Road Travel in Lincoln, recently experienced a river cruise through Portugal and Spain with Riviera Travel.

Long associated with slower styles of travel, river cruises are becoming a top choice for travellers who are seeking flexibility, adventure and relaxation.

With no sea days, a river cruise is perfect for those wanting to tick off multiple destinations in one trip.

Wendy said: “The ship was incredible; new, clean, spacious, bright and very welcoming. There was everything I needed in my cabin from a king-sized bed to a French balcony, perfect for watching the beautiful scenery go by.

“Inside the restaurant there was a great variety of delicious meal options for everyone and free drinks station available. My favourite meal was the chefs signature dinner – goats cheese, soup, scallops and steak – and I also loved the Portugal Pastel de Nata, an egg custard tart pastry.

“There was also a sundeck with plenty of comfortable sun loungers and a small pool. We had beautiful weather, and these facilities were perfect for winding down after lots of exciting exploring.

“My favourite excursion was the historic city of Salamanca, in northwestern Spain, known as the Golden City. The cathedral was a particular highlight – it was absolutely breathtaking and only cost around 10 euros to visit. It’s also two cathedrals in one, which was interesting to learn about; when the old cathedral became too small, it was preserved while also building a new one.”

TUI Marella – families

Cruises aren’t just for couples or retirees – they’re becoming ever more popular for families with children of all ages! With safe environments, built-in entertainment and opportunities to explore new countries together, you’ll dock with a holiday to remember.

Frankie, Travel Consultant at Carlton Centre in Lincoln, travelled around Cyprus, Turkey and Greece for seven nights with operator TUI, and has shared why this is the idyllic cruise for families…

Frankie said: “I would highly recommend this cruise to families trying out a holiday different to a hotel resort for the first time, especially because it’s all inclusive, meaning you don’t have any other extra costs to worry about.

“The entertainment is perfectly directed towards families as there’s so much onboard to give children an unforgettable experience including a rock-climbing wall, a gamer zone, movie nights, fantastic live shows, a mini golf course and more!

“There are so many catering options, so you don’t need to worry about having picky eaters. Options range from the Gallery 47 Italian restaurant to the Piccaddilly’s gastropub-style restaurant serving British classics, in addition to the Islands buffet restaurant, so there’s lots to keep everyone happy.

“My biggest tip for more fun and less stress would be to make sure you book your excursions through Marella as this ensures your transfers work alongside the port timings, and you’re protected for delays to get back to ships on time.”

Fred Olsen, MS Balmoral – couples and singles looking for relaxation

Offering comfort, convenience and relaxing adventure, cruises are one of the most popular choices for retirees and older couples.

Laura, Branch Manager at Sleaford Travel, and her mum booked a seven-night Dutch Tulips cruise with Fred Olsen, sailing on the MS Balmoral.

Laura said: “I didn’t see any children on board and the cruise felt very catered towards older guests. The evening entertainment was fantastic with classical musicians, bridge tournaments, shuffleboard, gardening talks, bingo and more.

“Every excursion is perfect for holiday makers who crave stunning culture and history during their travels. In Rotterdam we saw the beautiful Kuekenhof Tulip Farm where over 7 million bulbs are planted each year, while in Hamburg we experienced the Miniatur Wunderland, exhibiting the world’s largest model railway and a working model airport.

“Options at mealtimes were fantastic with 10 restaurants to choose from including five-course dining, an oriental tearoom and the Thistle Restaurant serving buffets and late-night snacks.

“The staff on board were extremely friendly and I couldn’t fault the level of service they provided. We had a change in itinerary due to industrial action in Antwerp, so we stopped in Cherbourg as an alternative and they kept us fully informed the whole time.”

Are you on board with a cruise, or maybe need further guidance to a voyage most suited to you? Pop into your local Lincolnshire Co-op travel branch today and speak with our experts!