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Cruises

This festive Viking cruise takes in five of Europe’s most atmospheric Christmas markets in one eight-day itinerary.

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
Quantum of the Seas is one of the largest ships to cruise Australian waters.
★★★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
View of an underwater crater at Pinnacle Rock in the Galapagos Islands.

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
The adults-only Solarium on board Royal Caribbean’s Quantum of the Seas.

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
Scarlet Night party on Virgin Voyages… The cruise line courts a younger demographic.

‘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
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Celebrity Ascent.
★★★★★
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
Take in Abu Dhabi’s futuristic architecture as you sail into Zayed Port.

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
Hamburg and the Elbe River.

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
Scenic Azure and the Dom Luís Bridge, Porto.

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
Lower prices, more flexibility … Rhone River, Avignon.

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

Original URL: https://www.smh.com.au/traveller/topic/cruises-l5k