Wed. Dec 25th, 2024

Love Christmas? Why Not Try a Christmas Market Cruise…

Brits love visiting a Christmas Market around the festive season. Delicious food and drink and beautiful decorations are some of the reasons why Christmas markets are so popular.  

 

According to Google Trends data, searches for “Christmas Markets” in the UK have increased by 354% in the last 30 days, with many people flocking to major destinations such as Edinburgh, Manchester and London.  

However, if you’re looking for a unique Christmas experience, why not consider a Christmas market cruise, where you can combine your love for Christmas markets with a unique travel experience all whilst sailing the seas and visiting multiple destinations.  

Dave Mills of Iglu Cruise said: “A Christmas Market cruise is a great way to travel and explore Europe during one of the most magical times of the year. From P&O Cruises to Fred. Olsen and MSC Cruises, many cruise lines offer Christmas Market sailings in November and December. With Black Friday coming up, now is the perfect opportunity to take advantage of some fantastic offers.”

 

Iglu Cruise has also revealed three things you can expect on a Christmas Cruise:

 

1. Quality Entertainment

 

On board a Christmas Cruise you’re guaranteed to find fabulous entertainment, making your voyage an unforgettable experience. From live bands playing all your favourite Christmas tunes to theatre performances with highly trained singers, dancers and performers, there’ll be plenty of entertainment to be found onboard. 

 

You will also find a variety of events and parties onboard your ship. The sailaway parties are a great way to kick off your journey, with live music and dancers getting the atmosphere going. You may also find Christmas-themed quizzes and themed nights, for those who love a Christmas party. Just make sure to pack your favourite festive outfit. 

 

2. World Class Food and Drink

 

Christmas is all about indulging in your favourite dishes and a cruise ship offers delicious delicacies from every corner of the world. Globally-inspired menus, crafted by Michelin-star chefs, will enrapture your taste buds, whilst you feast on whatever food you fancy. You’ll find American steakhouses, fresh seafood and sushi, contemporary French cuisine, Italian delights, British classics and more.

 

As well as delicious food, an array of drinks will be available too. Refreshing Christmas cocktails and a selection of craft beers and award-winning wines can all be tasted during your voyage. You’ll find plenty of places to grab a drink located throughout the ship, ranging from lively cocktail bars to cosy corners where you can relax in peace. 

 

3. Spa and Wellness Facilities

 

Whilst you’ll find plenty of lively entertainment on your cruise, you’ll also find the time for some rest and relaxation whilst using the spa and wellness facilities onboard. At the thermal suites, you’ll find infrared saunas and steam rooms to keep you warm as well as swimming pools, both indoor and outdoor, and jacuzzis dotted around the ships. 

 

At the fitness centre, you’ll find state-of-the-art weight machines and cardio equipment, as well as fitness classes, yoga, meditation and breathing classes, designed to help you relax. Or if you’re looking to treat yourself, onboard salons and barbers can accommodate you to help you feel your best. Here you’ll be able to find personalised treatments, from cutting, colouring, and styling, as well as other services such as manicures, pedicures and more. 

 Iglu Cruise’s Christmas Market Sailings:

 

MSC Cruises: Christmas Markets in Northern Europe 

 

6 December 2024 (7 nights)

Departing from Southampton

Visiting Rotterdam, Bruges and Le Havre (Paris)

From £327 pp

 

Ambassador Cruise Line: Festive Getaway and Markets 

 12 December 2024 (7 nights)

Departing from London Tilbury

Visiting Amsterdam, Antwerp, Rouen and Honfluer

From £382 pp

 

Fred. Olsen Cruise Line: European River Cities & Christmas Markets 

 

16 December 2024 (6 nights)

Departing from Southampton

Visiting Antwerp and Rouen

From £538 pp

 

P&O Cruises: Northern Europe Cruise Break 

 

7 December 2024 (7 nights)

Departing from Southampton

Visiting Hamburg, Rotterdam, Zeebrugge and Le Havre (Paris)

From £580 pp

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By Penny McCarthy

Penny McCarthy is a seasoned entrepreneur and co-founder of Parents News UK, a pioneering publication launched in 1993 to serve the needs of busy parents in Southwest London. Alongside her husband, Fergus McCarthy, Penny played a crucial role in the rapid expansion of the printed edition, which grew from a local startup to a widely circulated monthly publication with a reach of 192,000 copies across Kent, South London, and beyond. Under Penny’s leadership, Parents News quickly became a trusted resource for families, providing valuable information on education, entertainment, sports, and family-friendly events. Her vision helped the publication extend its influence with franchises in Northern Ireland and Cornwall, catering to a growing demand for accessible, family-oriented content. In 1997, recognising the importance of digital media, Penny spearheaded the launch of Parents News UK Online. The website initially mirrored the content of the printed editions and has since evolved into a comprehensive online resource for parents, achieving significant popularity with up to 700 daily hits. In 2017, the publication transitioned fully to an online platform, continuing to inform and engage families across the UK. Today, Penny remains deeply involved in the ongoing success of Parents News UK, focusing on innovative advertising opportunities and future growth plans. Her dedication to supporting families through accessible and practical content has made Parents News a cherished name in households across the country.

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