Welcome to the world of fantastic fly-cruises! If you’re searching for an extraordinary experience that seamlessly combines the convenience of air travel with the luxury and adventure of cruising, this type of holiday is for you!
Fly cruising offers a unique way to explore multiple destinations in far-flung locations. They maximise your holiday time, allowing you to immerse yourself in diverse cultures, uncover breathtaking landscapes, and indulge in unforgettable experiences. But precisely what is a fly cruise, and what places in the world can you embark on one?
In our ultimate guide to fly cruises below, we answer these questions, providing valuable insights on what to expect, where to find the best fly cruises and how to make the most of your fly-cruise holiday.
What is a fly cruise, and what can I expect on one?
On a fly-cruise holiday, you fly from a local airport to a departure port before boarding a cruise ship to begin an exciting holiday sailing to various destinations. The alternative is a no-fly cruise, where you travel independently via land to the port (usually in your home country) to board your ship and begin your cruise.
Fly cruising is an exceptional travel experience with many advantages, making it an enticing option for many cruise guests.
What are the benefits of fly-cruise?
One of the key advantages of a fly cruise is the convenience it offers. Rather than spending days or weeks at sea to reach your desired destination, you can simply board a plane and arrive at the departure port in a matter of hours. This speed allows you to make more of your time off, discovering new locations, local cultures and attractions further afield.
Another benefit of fly cruises is the opportunity to visit multiple destinations in a single trip. Cruise lines create spectacular fly-cruise itineraries designed to take in several enchanting destinations in regions such as the Mediterranean, the Caribbean, Asia and even Australasia.
Discover some of the best fly cruises from the UK
There is a world of possibilities when choosing a fly cruise. With flights from the UK taking you to departure ports worldwide, distance is no longer an obstacle. Here are just a few options for your inspiration:
Fly cruises in the Mediterranean
Take a fly-cruise to the Mediterranean to explore several unique countries in just one trip. You can immerse yourself in the rich history and charm of cities like Venice, Dubrovnik, Seville or Palma de Mallorca, visiting their iconic landmarks and soaking up the fascinating culture.
Then there are the breathtaking landscapes, like the beautiful beaches found all along the coastline and around the islands.
Most leading cruise lines offer fly cruises from the UK to the Mediterranean. For example, there are Princess fly-cruises that take in the coastline of France and Italy. Sailing from Barcelona, you’ll have stops in Marseille, Rome, Florence and Pisa. Or choose a Princess fly-cruise to the Eastern Mediterranean with port stops in the Greek Islands and Turkey.
MSC Cruise is another popular cruise line with a variety of Mediterranean fly-cruise itineraries. MSC fly cruises also take in destinations in Italy and Greece, as well as sailing to Valletta, Malta and Dubrovnik in Croatia.
Fly cruises to the Caribbean
Fly cruises to the Caribbean transport you to gorgeous white-powder beaches, where the welcome is warm like the daily sunshine. Enjoy idyllic island-hopping opportunities, where you can wander alongside crystal-clear waters, enjoy vibrant local communities, and indulge in delicious Caribbean cuisine.
For great water sports and captivating cultural experiences, choose a Western Caribbean fly-cruise to visit places such as Mexico, Jamaica, Cuba and the Cayman Islands. A laid-back vibe can be found with Eastern Caribbean fly-cruises that take in the US Virgin Islands, the British Virgin Islands and the Dominican Republic.
Meanwhile, the Southern Caribbean Islands, which include St. Lucia, Grenada and Barbados, offer incredible scenery and spectacular wildlife.
If you are looking for a fly cruise from the UK, P&O Cruises fly cruises to the Eastern Caribbean have connecting flights from London and Manchester airports to the embarkation port in Barbados.
Meanwhile, Royal Caribbean fly cruises take in the Western Caribbean and include a stop in Miami. This cruise line also offers Caribbean fly-cruises with extended itineraries to Niagara Falls and New York.
Other leading cruise lines that offer some of the best fly cruises to the Caribbean from the UK include Marella Cruises, Celebrity Cruises and MSC Cruises.
Fly cruises to Australasia
Even a cruise around Australasia is within reach with this efficient way of holidaying, giving you a chance to experience the laidback lifestyle down under.
Australasia is a dream destination for many, and fly cruises offer a convenient way to explore this mesmerising region. Depart from ports like Sydney or Auckland, and embark on a journey that takes you to stunning destinations like Queensland’s Great Barrier Reef, Milford Sound – New Zealand’s only fjord, the colonial district of Hobart and the beautiful beach resorts of Port Douglas.
Many fly cruises to Australasia not only take in remarkable destinations in Australia and New Zealand but also sail to islands in the Pacific Ocean and parts of Far East Asia. For example, Cunard fly cruises sail from Sydney to Jakarta, Singapore and Bali. Meanwhile, with a Princess Cruises fly cruise, you can sail from Perth to explore ports in Malaysia and Thailand.
Or opt for a more Australian-focused cruise with their itinerary that includes Sydney, Brisbane, Cairns and Willis Island.
What is a fly-and-stay cruise?
If you’d like to extend your stay in these delightful destinations a little longer, there is always the option of a fly-and-stay cruise. Also known as a fly, cruise and stay holiday, these are a little different from fly cruises as they offer you the opportunity to spend a few extra days in a resort before embarking on your cruise.
Including a pre-cruise stay in your holiday gives you time to fully explore your destination, taking in more of its unique experiences before boarding your ship. And, with the cruise line handling all the logistics between the airport, hotel and cruise port, transfers are seamless and stress-free.
Are fly cruises all-inclusive?
Like any other cruise holiday, the level of inclusivity on fly cruises can vary depending on the cruise line and specific package you choose. Some cruise lines offer all-inclusive options that encompass accommodation, dining, drinks and a range of on-board activities.
With other packages, you may have to pay extra for elements such as speciality dining, alcoholic beverages, spa treatments, and excursions. Therefore, be sure to carefully review the details of your chosen fly cruise package to understand what is included.
Are flights included in cruises?
One of the fantastic things about fly cruises is that flights and transfers are included in the cruise fare. If you wish to fly from a specific airport, there may be a supplement, but this cost is usually added to your cruise fare when booking.
Transfers are also included, and with the cruise line taking care of all your travel from the airport to the ship, the whole experience is typically very straightforward and hassle-free.
What to pack on a fly-cruise
Packing for a fly cruise requires a little more consideration due to the combination of air and sea travel. Make sure you pack a carry-on bag that includes any necessary travel documents, medications, valuables, and a change of clothes.
This will ensure you have everything you need in case your checked luggage is delayed.
In your main suitcase, pack comfortable clothing suitable for both casual days on board and excursions in port. Don’t forget to include swimwear, formal attire for elegant evenings, and appropriate clothing for various weather conditions at your destinations.
Also, remember essentials like sunscreen, toiletries, any electronics or entertainment options you wish to use, and relevant travel adapters.
What happens to your luggage on a fly cruise?
Another advantage of fly cruises is that your luggage is usually transferred directly from the airport to your cruise ship. This service means you don’t have to worry about hauling your suitcases around when switching modes of transport.
Simply drop them off at the designated check-in area, and they will magically appear in your cabin later on.
