If you picture cruise holidays as a floating retirement home, think again. Today’s cruises come in every shape and size – from huge resort ships with water slides and Broadway-style shows to small expedition vessels heading for the fjords or the Antarctic. Whether you are a young couple, a family with children or a solo traveller, there is very likely a cruise that suits you.
Who are cruise holidays for?
There is no age limit. Solo travellers can meet new people on deck, couples can enjoy a romantic getaway, and families can find ships packed with kids’ clubs, pools and activities. Groups of friends love the mix of relaxation by day and entertainment at night. And yes, retirees still enjoy them too.
The options are huge: days at sea or a new port every morning, warm or cold destinations, calm waters or adventurous routes. The key is to choose the type of cruise, ship and region that match the experience you are looking for.
What is an organised cruise?
An organised cruise is a holiday on the water without the hassle of planning every detail. You unpack once, and your floating hotel takes you from destination to destination. Organised cruises have several clear advantages:
- Comfort: ships are like floating hotels, with a range of cabin types, sweeping sea views and plenty of facilities.
- Food: many restaurants and buffets with different cuisines, so everyone finds something they like – and most meals are included in the fare.
- Entertainment and facilities: pools, spas, shows, sports and activities for all ages.
- Excursions: organised day trips at each port make it easy to explore.
- Value: accommodation, transport, meals and entertainment are bundled into one price.
New to cruising? Our guides to choosing your first cruise and picking the right cabin are a good place to start.
Popular cruise destinations
The Greek islands
One of the most attractive options, and a short hop from Israel. Sailing between the islands combines ancient sites, whitewashed villages, wonderful food and turquoise sea. Many itineraries call at Rhodes, Crete, Santorini and Mykonos.
The Western Mediterranean
Routes along the coasts of Italy, France and Spain combine famous cities such as Rome, Barcelona and Marseille with beautiful smaller ports.
The Norwegian fjords
A favourite for summer cruising, with dramatic cliffs, waterfalls and midnight sun.
The Caribbean and the Bahamas
White beaches, warm turquoise water and island-hopping in the sun, especially popular in the winter months.
New Zealand
A favourite with sailing enthusiasts, with beautiful bays, sounds and calm, peaceful waters.
Tips for your first cruise
- Check what is included: drinks, specialty restaurants, Wi-Fi, tips and excursions often cost extra.
- Book early: the best cabins and prices go first.
- Fly in a day early: if you are flying to the port, arrive the day before so a delay does not make you miss the ship.
- Get insured: make sure your travel insurance covers cruises – see our travel insurance tips.
- Kosher food: some cruise lines can provide kosher meals on request, and there are kosher-organised cruises – ask in advance.
Young couples, families, solo travellers and retirees can all enjoy a cruise. If you want a relaxing holiday with the magic of the sea and nothing to organise, it is an excellent choice. Want to sail without flying? See our guide to cruises from Haifa.
