30 of the most popular types of cruises

Over the last 30 years, cruising has evolved to offer a wide variety of experiences that cater to every type of traveller. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing escape or an adventurous expedition, there’s a perfect cruise for you. Here, we highlight 30 of the most popular cruise types, each offering something unique to make your next journey unforgettable. 

Last-minute cruise deals are an excellent option for those looking for an exciting getaway without the wait. Perfect for travellers who can be flexible with their plans, these cruises offer great savings on departures that are just around the corner. Whether you’re eager to explore a new destination or simply want a spontaneous break, last-minute cruises are a fantastic way to enjoy the experience at a fantastic price. 

Solo cruises are a fantastic way for independent travellers to explore the world while enjoying all the comforts and amenities of a traditional cruise. Designed specifically for those travelling alone, these cruises offer a welcoming, social atmosphere with plenty of opportunities to meet new people, along with specially tailored activities and solo cabins. 

Dreaming of a winter wonderland or a warm weather escape? Christmas cruises offer a magical way to celebrate the festive season, combining jolly cheer with stunning destinations. Picture enjoying a traditional Christmas dinner onboard, with festive lights and decorations surrounding you, all while cruising to beautiful places around the world. 

All-inclusive cruises make for a hassle-free experience, with meals, drinks, entertainment and even excursions (with some cruise lines) included in the price. This means you can relax and enjoy your cruise without worrying about extra costs, allowing you to make the most of every moment onboard. 

Adults-only cruises provide a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere, perfect for those seeking a more tranquil holiday experience. With no children onboard, you can enjoy a more serene environment, with plenty of opportunities for relaxation, refined dining and entertainment tailored to adult tastes. 

No-fly cruises offer a fantastic option for those who prefer to skip the airport and travel by sea right from the start. Whether you’re departing from the UK or another nearby port, these cruises eliminate the hassle of flying and provide a more relaxed, straightforward journey. 

Northern Lights cruises offer a truly magical experience, taking you to the best spots to witness the breathtaking aurora borealis in all its glory. These cruises sail through the Arctic regions, where you can enjoy not only the incredible light display but also stunning landscapes, charming coastal towns and unforgettable winter adventures.

River cruises offer a relaxed and scenic way to explore some of the world’s most beautiful cities and landscapes. Gliding along picturesque rivers like the Danube or the Seine, these cruises provide a more intimate experience, allowing you to dock right in the heart of charming towns and vibrant cities. 

Cruise and rail journeys combine the best of both worlds, offering the relaxing experience of a cruise followed by the adventure of exploring iconic destinations by train. Imagine cruising through the stunning landscapes of Alaska before boarding the luxurious Rocky Mountaineer or sailing through Southern Africa and then experiencing the elegance of Rovos Rail. 

World cruises offer the ultimate journey for those looking to explore multiple continents and experience a variety of cultures in one epic voyage. These long-duration cruises take you to some of the world’s most iconic destinations, from the beaches of the Caribbean to the ancient wonders of Asia. 

Cruise and stay packages offer the perfect balance of a relaxing cruise with the chance to explore a destination further with a stay at a hotel or resort. Whether you’re extending your trip with a few extra nights in a vibrant city like Barcelona or soaking up the sun on a beach in the Caribbean, these packages combine the best of both worlds.

6-star and ultra-luxury cruising offers an unmatched level of sophistication and elegance, where every detail is designed to provide the ultimate comfort and service. With spacious suites, fine dining, personalised excursions and exceptional onboard amenities, these cruises cater to those seeking an exclusive and indulgent experience.

Small ship cruising offers a more intimate and personalised experience, with fewer passengers and more unique, off-the-beaten-path destinations. These cruises allow you to explore hidden gems and smaller ports that larger ships can’t reach, all while enjoying a relaxed, less crowded atmosphere onboard. 

History and culture cruises are perfect for those who want to dive deep into the rich stories and traditions of the world’s most fascinating destinations. These cruises offer guided excursions to historical landmarks, museums and cultural sites, allowing you to explore the heritage of each region in a meaningful way. 

Honeymoon cruises offer the perfect romantic getaway, combining luxurious surroundings with stunning destinations. Whether you’re relaxing on a private balcony, enjoying candlelit dinners or exploring exotic ports, these cruises provide an intimate and unforgettable experience for newlyweds. 

Mini cruises are perfect for those looking for a quick getaway without committing to a longer journey. Typically lasting just a few days, these short cruises offer a great way to explore nearby destinations, enjoy onboard entertainment and unwind without taking too much time off. 

Arts and entertainment cruises are a fantastic choice for those who love to immerse themselves in culture while at sea. Featuring world-class performances, art exhibitions and workshops, these cruises offer a unique blend of creativity and relaxation. 

Scenery and wildlife cruises offer an unforgettable opportunity to explore some of the world’s most breathtaking natural landscapes while spotting incredible wildlife along the way. From the icy shores of Antarctica to the lush rainforests of the Amazon, these cruises provide an immersive experience where nature takes centre stage. 

Southern Lights cruises offer a rare and magical opportunity to witness the breathtaking aurora australis as they dance across the night sky. Sailing through the southern hemisphere, these cruises take you to remote destinations like Tasmania and Antarctica, where the spectacle of the Southern Lights can be seen in their full glory. 

Cruises from the UK offer a convenient and hassle-free way to set sail without the need for flights. Departing from major ports like Southampton, Dover, Liverpool, London Tilbury, Newcastle and Portsmouth, these cruises take you to a wide range of destinations across Europe, the Caribbean and beyond, all while allowing you to enjoy the comfort of your ship.

Family cruises are the perfect way to enjoy a fun and relaxing holiday with loved ones of all ages. With a wide range of kid-friendly activities, family entertainment and spacious accommodations, these cruises cater to everyone - from toddlers to grandparents. 

Gourmet cruises are a dream come true for food lovers, offering a refined culinary experience throughout your voyage. With world-class chefs, gourmet dining options and special food-focused excursions, these cruises allow you to indulge in the finest cuisines from around the world. 

Adventure cruises are perfect for thrill-seekers and nature lovers who want to explore some of the world’s most remote and rugged destinations. Whether you’re kayaking through glacier-carved fjords, trekking through rainforests or diving into the deep blue to discover marine life, these cruises offer an exciting mix of exploration and adrenaline. 

Sports cruises are designed for fans who want to experience major sporting events in style. These cruises take passengers to exciting tournaments, such as Grand Prix races or golf tours. With exclusive access to events, themed entertainment and expert commentary onboard, sports cruises perfectly combine travel with your love of sports.  

New to cruising? These cruises are specially designed for first-time cruisers, offering a more relaxed and welcoming experience as you get familiar with life at sea. From helpful staff and onboard guides to easy itineraries and stress-free amenities, these cruises make it simple and enjoyable to embark on your very first voyage. 

Activity cruises are perfect for those who love to stay active while exploring new destinations. These cruises offer a variety of exciting excursions and onboard activities, such as hiking, cycling, yoga and water sports, allowing you to keep moving while enjoying stunning views and immersive experiences. 

Transatlantic cruises offer a classic and leisurely journey across the Atlantic Ocean, connecting Europe and North America. These cruises typically span several days, providing ample time to relax and enjoy the onboard amenities while taking in the vast, open sea. 

Multigenerational cruises are designed to bring together family members of all ages, offering something for everyone, from young children to grandparents. With a wide range of activities, family-friendly amenities and flexible accommodations, these cruises make it easy for families to bond while exploring new destinations. 

Expedition cruises offer a thrilling way to explore some of the world’s most remote and untouched destinations. With expert guides and smaller, more agile ships, these cruises take you off the beaten path to places like the Arctic, Antarctica or remote rainforests, where you can experience nature up close and personal. 

Couples cruises offer a romantic and intimate getaway for two, providing a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure and luxury. With special amenities like couples’ spa treatments, private dinners and intimate excursions, these cruises are designed to create lasting memories for you and your partner.