Cruises
Four countries, five Christmas markets, one magical week in Europe
Eight days, five festive markets – and home well before December 25 to place gifts under the tree? Yes, it can be done.
- by Chrissie McClatchie
Latest
★★★1/2
Ship reviews
On board the cruise giant back in Australia for summer
One of the biggest ships to cruise Australian waters, Quantum of the Seas, manages to (mostly) not feel too crowded, despite having close to 5000 passengers aboard.
- by Craig Platt
Small, remote, exclusive: Eco-friendly cruising is booming in these islands
The Galapagos Islands are a wildlife wonder, and one of the few destinations where passenger ships are getting it right by treading lightly on the environment.
- by Brian Johnston
Adults-only areas on cruise ships are getting bigger and better
If you’re looking for family-friendly holiday options while secretly craving adult me-time, then big cruise ships have the solution for you.
- by Brian Johnston
‘We made some mistakes’: Why ‘sex sells’ failed for Virgin’s cruise line
The association with sex is something Richard Branson’s cruise line is trying to leave behind, though they won’t be letting children on board any time soon.
- by Jenny Southan
★★★★★
Ship reviews
This cruise giant will convert you to the joys of big ships
Despite accommodating up to 3260 passengers, Celebrity Ascent delivers outstanding design and a rich choice of dining and entertainment options.
- by Ute Junker
Port guide: Abu Dhabi, UAE
It might be the conservative cousin of Dubai, but wealthier Abu Dhabi has rolled out ambitious tourism and cultural projects, and is a sight to behold.
- by Brian Johnston
Port guide: Hamburg, Germany
Fast-moving Hamburg is a great trading city with a spectacularly redeveloped waterfront and makes a refreshing change from Europe’s old towns.
- by Brian Johnston
Port guide: Porto, Portugal
Portugal’s second-largest city, once known only for commerce, has acquired new-found fun in lively arts and nightlife scenes, and has a gloriously scenic setting.
- by Brian Johnston
Luxury brand’s big French river-cruise comeback
When Travelmarvel’s one-time charter, MS Van Gogh, returns to France, gastronomy will be a major feature, as is likely with any visit to foodie France.
- by Julietta Jameson
This is luxury cruising’s most relaxed, enjoyable ship
Many luxury ships are filled with rich people who keep to themselves and often look bored. Seabourn Encore is different.
- by Brian Johnston
Original URL: https://www.smh.com.au/topic/cruises-l5k