What’s a Christmas cruise like?

In this jolly, seasonal cheer,

Your next Christmas voyage is near,

Docking at Christmas markets with their warmth and gifts,

You’ll discover the European joy that exists.

For some of us, we get to the first hints of winter and that’s enough for us to pack our suitcase and get away from our home to enjoy a holiday or cruise over Christmas! Yet, for others, going on a holiday during this time may be a break away from tradition. Whichever rings true to you, here’s what to expect if you go on a cruise over Christmas.

Cruises fully embrace the Christmas atmosphere and are filled with an upbeat, exuberant, celebratory schedule. You’ll find many special activities, such as Christmas Karaoke, children’s discos, Winter Wonderland with many games and a visit from Father Christmas.

Onboard, the deck will be adorned with decorations for the season, with humongous Christmas trees, garlands around the public areas and gingerbread houses. The best part is that you can enjoy the majestic decorations without putting them up yourself – or a visit to the loft! It is encouraged that you decorate your cabin door, some passengers put up fairy lights or stockings, which are great for entertaining others and make their cabin cosy and recognisable.

Another notable feature is the glorious banquets that are produced! You can dine for your Christmas dinner with some of the best culinary food to satisfy your palette. Many cruise liners present a three-course meal, ensuring the whole family is well-catered for. If you’ve travelled with a large party, the crew can rearrange the seating layout so you can enjoy the celebrations together.

A Christmas spent aboard will be a pristine and delightful time for the whole family, you will create memories which will last a lifetime and make you reconsider your traditions.

Travelling aboard a Christmas cruise will allow you to see some of Northern Europe’s most comforting and charming markets, as some cruises stop close to notable destinations. These ports of call will ring with the Christmas Spirit and allow you to peruse leisurely. Here are some of the most popular destinations.

Bruges, in Belgium, is a 25 minute taxi ride from the Zeebrugge port. It is worth visiting as it is a magical, medieval destination. Bruges is like a fairytale Christmas market with horse-drawn carriages, sparkling light trails, gleeful ice-skating rinks and inclusive celebrations that are open to all religions. The markets are cosy and intimate, with pretty wooden chalets surrounding the ice rink. A steep walk up to the belfry and you’ll be overlooking the stunning views of the illuminating medieval city.

Rotterdam is an exciting city in the Netherlands; situated next to Amsterdam, it can often be missed. However, its vibrant cultural scene and festive events add to a rich, festive season. Rotterdam’s specialities include its Dutch stroopwafels, Rotterdam cheese, local craft beers and artisanal chocolates. The exhibitors display many unique products, which range from creative and traditional goods to secondhand items. As expected, you can visit Santa in his glowing grotto, which would be the perfect pass time for little ones.

Considered one of the best Christmas markets in France, Le Havre is a picturesque and authentic setting, with a giant fir tree set up outside the town hall square and a large Ferris wheel that lights up the area. The warm and festive atmosphere will charm you as you indulge in cakes, mulled wine and beautiful illuminations. The market huts sell everything from handicrafts to local products and unique presents and are very popular with visitors and locals. Le Havre also has many special programs for children, from musical entertainment to pony rides and street shows, perfect for adding the Christmas magic to their visit! Additionally, Le Havre is one of Santa’s favourite routes to pass through on his sleigh.

What could be more authentic than going to a German Christmas market? Hamburg is a city rich with traditions and markets to visit! The wooden stalls sell everything from handmade items, wooden products, personalised trinkets and Christmas decorations. You can get a German bratwurst, drink punch or eat roasted almonds from one of the many food stalls and feel warm and cosy from the stall’s bright lights.

Deciding to spend Christmas with your loved ones on a cruise will guarantee a festive and indulgent Christmas for all of the family. Cruises are always luxurious and elegant holidays, however, there’s something extra special about going during the festive season.

We hope you have the most wonderful time! Xx