2016 really does have something to offer for everyone!

The start of a new year is always an exciting time in the cruise industry and this year is no different in many repects. The cruise lines know that once the festive season is over many people’s thoughts turn to holidays for the coming year so they pull out all the stops to entice people to book with their line rather than a competitor.

You name it, you can have it in 2016 – Free Drinks, Free Parking, Free Flights, Buy One Get One Half Price, Free WiFi, complimentary Upgrades, On Board Credit. Sounds like a minefield to the uninitiated doesn’t it but fear not, that is what I am here for, to guide you through the maze of offers and help you choose the right cruise for you. Don’t hesitate to give me a call on 0800 408 6084 or drop me an email to [email protected] if you need some help and I will be delighted to do so.

In addition to all the New Years offers we now have some really exciting news, something we always look forward to – new ships! This year has an abundance, and there really is something to please everyone. Whether you are a fan of all singing all dancing, family friendly ships, or smaller luxury ships, or even if you fancy unleashing your inner explorer, the cruise lines can cover all bases.

April will see three brand new ships launched. Firstly the Holland America Koningsdam which will carry 2650 passengers. This cruise line offers quality and comfort along with 5* dining. The ships are family friendly too and will sail all around the world each year rathe than just in and out of one port.

Next we see the launch of the third of Royal Caribbeans Quantum Class ships, Ovation of the Seas. Definitely family friendly with many innovative features on board such a bionic bars, sky-diving simulators and a wealth of dining and entertainment experiences on offer.

The third ship to launch in April is one of particular interest to me, being a huge fan of Viking river cruises, the Viking Sea. This will be the second of Vikings Ocean going ships to launch and carrying only 930 passengers she will offer a more niche cruising experience for those who prefer to avoid the hustle, bustle of the larger ships.

In May the much anticipated launch of the Carnival Vista will take place. Another family orientated cruise ship which will sail in the Med this summer. Definitely worth considering for those looking for a fun-packed, lively cruise experience.

June will see the launch of this years largest cruise ship, the third Oasis Class ship from Royal Caribbean, Harmony of the Seas. She will carry just under 5500 passengers. Having cruised on Oasis of the Seas I was pleasantly surprised how ‘uncrowded’ she felt. With the seven different ‘neighbourhoods’ on board she really will be able to offer something for everyone what ever type of cruise experience they prefer.

July sees the launch of this years most luxurious cruise ship, the Regent Seven Seas Explorer. Style, luxury, sophistication, gourmet dining – this ship has it all, and will delight even the most discerning cruiser.

The final new ship launch of 2016, and we will have to be patient with this one, is not until December. Another luxury ship and the smallest ship to launch in 2016, the Seabourn Encore who will carry just 630 passengers. Seabourn offers one of the highest space ratio’s per guest and the staff to guest ratio is almost one to one. Both of these factors will ensure a superb cruising experience, not to mention the gourmet food on offer.

So there you have it. There really is a new ship to suit almost everyone’s requirements in 2016, and not so many mainstream ones I’m glad to say. I think we have seen more than enough of those in recent years so it’s great to see something different on offer.

I, for one, am really looking forward to this year. I get the feeling it’s going to be a vintage! Don’t forget to get in touch if you need any help at all with cruising. I am looking forward to speaking to you already!

Happy Cruising Folks!