Why You Should Choose A UK Cruise This Summer
After more than a year without cruising for most Brits, this summer is set to see the return of many cruise lines with UK coastal cruises. From luxury voyages to expedition cruises and mega ships packed from bow to stern with activities, entertainment and dining, the perfect getaway awaits. However, we know that you might be nervous about rediscovering your sea legs, so we've put together a list of the top reasons why you should choose a UK cruise this summer. Keep reading to find out more!
1. Cruising Is Tried And Tested COVID Safe
Since the coronavirus pandemic first brought the cruise industry to a standstill, cruise lines have been working tirelessly to ensure that guests and crew will be safe once they return onboard. Following guidance from medical and public health experts, as well as the UK government, enhanced health and safety protocols have been put in place. From pre-cruise health screening and COVID-19 tests, to more frequent cleaning of cabins and public spaces, no self-service buffets and social distancing, you can step onboard knowing that your wellbeing is at the forefront of these new cruises.
2. Cruises To Suit Everyone
While many cruise lines have announced that they will only be welcoming fully-vaccinated guests, there's no need to worry as there are also options for those yet to be vaccinated. Through COVID-19 testing and health screening, cruise lines such as MSC Cruises and Hurtigruten will be able to safely welcome both vaccinated and non-vaccinated guests onboard. Browse all available cruises where the vaccine is not mandatory.
What's more, these enhanced protocols have already allowed cruising to safely return elsewhere in Europe, with MSC Cruises having successfully welcomed more than 30,000 guests back already onboard MSC Grandiosa in Italy since August 2020.
3. Enjoy Amazing Prices and Value
When it comes to many UK Staycations, the costs of travel, food, accommodation and activities can really add up, especially with such limited availability. A cruise, meanwhile, offers all of what you need at fantastic value for money. With all meals included as you'll only have to pay extra for speciality dining, as well access to pools, theatre shows, kids clubs and more for no extra charge, you'll find all of the essentials are included as part of your cruise fare.
What's more, you'll even be able to sail on brand-new ships at amazing prices, including MSC Virtuosa and P&O Iona
4. Fantastic Family-Friendly Holidays
This summer's UK coastal voyages aren't just for adults; they also offer fantastic family cruises. While those aged under 18 are currently unable to be vaccinated, MSC Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean, Disney Cruise Line and Marella Cruises will allow children to sail with proof of a negative COVID-19 test result. With kids clubs, dazzling entertainment and plenty of ways to enjoy your time at sea as a family, this is the perfect holiday to keep guests of all ages happy.
5. Convenient Local Departures
Get your cruise off to a stress-free start with voyages departing from ports across the UK. From Greenock, Newcastle and Liverpool to Dover, Portsmouth and Southampton, you won't have to travel far to meet your ship.
6. Visit New Parts Of The UK
Whether you want the ultimate relaxing cruise, spending several days at sea exploring every corner of your cruise ship, or you'd like to visit ports of call in the UK, there's a coastal cruise for you. If you do choose a cruise with stops in UK ports of call, there's the chance to safely go ashore thanks to cruise line approved shore excursions.
7. Fewer Guests, More Space
In line with government guidance, when domestic cruises return they will be able to operate with up to 1,000 people or 50% capacity, whichever is lower, up until 21st June at the earliest. This capacity limit applies to passengers only, and will ensure the safety of both guests and crew during their time onboard by avoiding crowding, especially at embarkation, disembarkation and at the ships' venues.
8. Do Everything You've Been Missing
Throughout lockdown, we've all had to miss out on doing our favourite things, whether that's going out for a meal, indulging in some retail therapy or enjoying an evening out. Now that restrictions have lifted, there's no better place to do everything you love than onboard a cruise ship. From cookery classes, wine tasting and theatre shows to shops and even hair salons and spas, catch up on all the activities and outings that you haven't been able to do in months on just one holiday.
What's more, thanks to reduced ship capacity when cruises return, you'll be able to enjoy all these activities with fewer crowds. Are you finding it hard to book a table at your favourite pub? Do you have to wait more than a month for the next available appointment at your favourite salon? If this is the case, hop onboard a cruise ship and you won't have to worry about long waits. You'll even get that perfect deckchair by the pool!
9. Dine Out With Ease
We've all missed dining out at our favourite restaurants, but onboard your cruise ship you won't even have to think about cooking your own meals. Whether you're looking for a hearty breakfast, a grab and go lunch, somewhere formal to spend the evening or just a casual family meal, you're spoilt for choice whichever cruise line you choose. Plus, if you want to splash out on something extra special, each ship boasts a selection of incredible specialty restaurants, serving everything from classic British plates with a modern twist to authentic Italian dishes or freshly-made Japanese specialities. With so much choice, and fewer guests onboard, you're bound to get a reservation wherever you please.
10. Plenty Of Choice Still Available
The lifting of restrictions this spring and summer has led to the demand for UK holidays rocketing, meaning some people are struggling to even find somewhere to book. However, as these cruises have just gone on sale, there's still plenty of choice. Whether you're looking for a family getaway or a couple's retreat, you've never cruised before or you're a seasoned sailor, there's something out there that's guaranteed to please.
Now you've read our blog on reasons why you should book a cruise this summer, browse all UK coastal cruises and find the perfect voyage for you.