The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has eased its travel advice for several destinations across the Middle East, providing reassurance for travellers with plans to visit or transit through the region.
The updated guidance reflects an improvement in the overall security situation. As a result, the FCDO has removed its advice against all but essential travel for a number of popular destinations, including the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain and Kuwait.
The changes will be welcome news for many cruise and holidaymakers. Destinations such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha and Bahrain are not only popular ports of call in their own right but also serve as important travel hubs for flights connecting to Asia, the Indian Ocean and Australasia.
Reassurance for Cruise and Holiday Travellers
The easing of travel advice means many holidays involving the Gulf region can continue under normal travel guidance. For travellers with upcoming cruise holidays or fly-cruise packages that include the Middle East, the updated advice offers additional reassurance that travel plans can proceed as expected.
Airlines operating through major regional hubs have also revealed plans to return to normal schedules, helping to support smooth onward travel for passengers connecting through the region.
Continue to Check Official Advice
While the latest update is encouraging, the FCDO continues to advise travellers to check the latest guidance before departure, as travel advice can change if circumstances evolve.
Travellers should also ensure they have appropriate travel insurance in place and review any policy requirements before travelling.
It is important to note that some countries in the wider region remain subject to separate travel warnings, so travellers should always refer to the latest destination-specific advice for their itinerary.
Supporting You Every Step of the Way
At Bolsover Cruise Club, we understand that changes to travel advice can be concerning. We continue to monitor official updates closely and will keep our customers informed of any developments that may affect their holiday plans.
Viking has announced the delivery of two new river ships, Viking Annar and Viking Fjolvar, further expanding its award-winning fleet and increasing capacity across some of Europe’s most popular waterways.
Built at the Meyer Neptun Werft shipyard in Germany, the two vessels will sail on some of Viking’s most sought-after itineraries, offering guests even more opportunities to explore Europe by river cruise.
Viking Annar to Sail the Rhine, Main and Danube
The 190-guest Viking Annar has been purpose-built for the Rhine, Main and Danube rivers and features Viking’s signature Scandinavian-inspired design.
As part of the cruise line’s acclaimed Longship fleet, the vessel incorporates a range of innovative features, including the popular indoor-outdoor Aquavit Terrace, a patented square bow and spacious suite accommodation.
Guests sailing aboard Viking Annar will be able to enjoy itineraries including Rhine Getaway, Grand European Tour, Passage to Eastern Europe, European Sojourn and Christmas on the Rhine.
Viking Fjolvar Joins the Seine
The 168-guest Viking Fjolvar has been designed specifically for the Seine River and will operate roundtrip sailings from Paris.
One of the ship’s standout features is access to Viking’s exclusive docking location in the heart of the French capital, allowing guests to step ashore just moments from many of Paris’ most iconic attractions.
The vessel will sail popular itineraries including Paris & the Heart of Normandy, as well as the newly introduced Christmastime in Paris & Normandy voyage.
Continued Growth for Viking
The addition of Viking Annar and Viking Fjolvar forms part of Viking’s ambitious long-term expansion plans.
The company currently expects to take delivery of a further 22 river ships by 2028, alongside nine new ocean ships and two expedition vessels by 2031. By 2028, Viking’s river fleet is expected to grow to 114 ships, reinforcing its position as one of the world’s leading river cruise operators.
Ready to book your next Viking river cruise? Speak to our Cruise Experts today or browse the sailings online.
I have just returned to the office following a whirlwind tour of Northern Europe on our annual ‘Lads & Dads Road Trip’. Those of you who have followed my monthly updates over the years will know that, for the past 12 years, two close friends and I have taken a week-long driving adventure across Europe with our sons.
The tradition began in 2014 when my son Oliver was just 13 years old. Our first trip took us to the Belgian Grand Prix at Spa-Francorchamps before heading through the spectacular mountain passes of Switzerland. Fast forward to today, and Oliver is now 25, working within the business, and joining us on what has become a much-anticipated annual tradition. This year’s journey covered more than 2,000 miles and included some fascinating destinations along the way.
Our trip began in Ypres, where we visited Hill 62, Sanctuary Wood and Tyne Cot Cemetery before attending the moving Last Post Ceremony at the Menin Gate. From there, we travelled north to Hamburg, where one of the highlights was a tour of the Airbus factory, offering a fascinating insight into the production of the latest A320 aircraft. It is an experience I would highly recommend to anyone visiting the city.
Continuing north, we visited Laboe to explore the remarkably preserved U-995 submarine before enjoying an excellent evening in the beautiful Hanseatic city of Lübeck. Turning south towards home, we stopped in Schwerin, home to one of Germany’s most dramatic castles. While the interior was slightly underwhelming, the castle itself, its gardens and the historic town more than made up for it.
Enjoying refreshments in Bruges
The picturesque Schwerin Castle
Our final stop was Bruges, a beautiful medieval city and the perfect place to enjoy a few drinks together before heading our separate ways. However, before returning home, we made one final visit to Bergen-Belsen Memorial near Hanover. Having previously visited Auschwitz and Dachau, we knew it would be a moving experience, and Bergen-Belsen was no exception. These sites serve as powerful reminders of history and leave a lasting impression on all who visit.
Returning to the Cruise Centre, we are still very much in launch season. With Cunard’s Summer 2028 programme now available, the standout product has undoubtedly been the highly anticipated Four Queens event cruises. As expected, demand has been exceptional, with several of the key sailings selling out quickly and availability now becoming increasingly limited across the collection. These voyages have proved immensely popular with our Cruise Club Members, and it was particularly pleasing to see that we were able to secure so many clients onto their preferred sailings.
In recent days we have also welcomed the Princess Cruises 2028 Europe programme launch. This exciting collection features more than 290 new sailings, visiting around 120 destinations across 37 countries. Interest from our Cruise Club Members has been particularly strong, with many guests keen to secure their preferred itineraries and accommodation well in advance. There is still time to book these fantastic new itineraries and, with such a wide choice of ships, destinations and cruise durations, the programme offers something for every type of cruiser. You can view the full collection here.
The pace of new releases shows no sign of slowing down, as Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines prepares to release a new collection of autumn and winter 2027 sailings. The new sailings will go on sale tomorrow, 16 June, and will feature 22 itineraries ranging from Northern Lights cruises and cultural voyages in Europe to winter sunshine escapes in the Caribbean, including a selection of fly-cruise options aboard Balmoral.
Fred. Olsen has become increasingly popular with many of our Cruise Club Members in recent years, thanks to its smaller ships, traditional style of cruising and convenient departures from ports around the UK. One aspect that guests particularly appreciate is the comprehensive pre-departure information provided several weeks before travel, including a detailed guide, luggage labels and supporting documentation designed to make the journey as straightforward and stress-free as possible. The launch will also feature a no single supplement offer on selected sailings, alongside Fred. Olsen’s Price Promise. This means that guests booking a Freedom Fare within the first four weeks of a cruise going on sale will receive either a cabin upgrade or onboard credit if an equivalent cabin on their sailing is reduced in price later, providing additional peace of mind when booking early.
There is also exciting news from Cunard, with plans now confirmed for a major refurbishment of Queen Mary 2 in 2027. I know just how special this ship is to so many cruise guests. As the world’s last true ocean liner, she occupies a unique place in the industry, and I am pleased to see continued investment in the flagship. The refurbishment will introduce new accommodation and a range of enhancements while carefully preserving the elegance, character and sense of occasion that have made Queen Mary 2 such an icon of modern cruising.
Before I finish, I would also like to share some positive news from closer to home. Bolsover Cruise Club has recently been shortlisted for three prestigious Agent Achievement Awards, including Cruise Agency of the Year and Best Agency to Work For. I am also particularly pleased to see one of our own team members, Phoebe, shortlisted in the Agency Support Team Member of the Year category.
These awards are highly respected within the travel industry and reflect the dedication, professionalism and passion of our entire team. Recognition like this is never achieved by one individual alone, and I am incredibly proud of everyone here at Bolsover Cruise Club. Of course, none of it would be possible without the continued loyalty and support of our Cruise Club Members, so I would also like to thank each and every one of you for choosing to book your holidays with us.
Finally, to all of you setting sail in the coming weeks, I wish you a wonderful holiday and bon voyage. We look forward to helping many more of you discover the world by sea as we head into what promises to be a very busy and exciting summer.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is getting underway, and, for the first time in the tournament’s history, the world’s biggest sporting event will be hosted across three nations. The United States, Canada and Mexico will all be hosting matches, as some of the most exciting cities in North America welcome football fans from all over the world.
But what does this have to do with cruising, we hear you ask? As it happens, many of the destinations preparing to welcome supporters from around the globe also serve as gateways to some of North America’s most spectacular cruise holidays.
From the glacier-carved wilderness of Alaska to the historic coastline of New England, to the sun-soaked shores of the Caribbean and Mexico, there’s no shortage of ways to cruise your way around the 2026 World Cup host nations.
So, whether you’re a football fan or simply looking for inspiration for your next football-inspired getaway, here’s how cruising can take you to the heart of the World Cup, long after the final whistle has blown.
Miami: Where the World Cup Meets the Caribbean
If there’s one city that perfectly combines the excitement of the 2026 World Cup with the appeal of cruising, it’s Miami. As one of the tournament’s host cities, the Florida hotspot will be welcoming football fans from around the globe, but it has long been a favourite among cruise travellers.
Home to one of the world’s busiest cruise ports, Miami serves as the gateway to countless Caribbean adventures, with ships departing for destinations including the Bahamas, Jamaica, Grand Cayman and Mexico.
Yet the city itself is well worth exploring before you set sail. From the palm-lined shores of South Beach and the colourful Art Deco buildings of Ocean Drive to the vibrant culture of Little Havana and the lively waterfront atmosphere of Bayside Marketplace, Miami offers plenty to discover both on and off the water.
Whether you’re arriving for a World Cup match or embarking on a Caribbean cruise, Miami is a destination that knows how to make an impression.
Discover your next cruise from Miami >> CLICK HERE
Vancouver: The Gateway to Alaska
For a continent as vast as North America, it should come as no surprise that its cruise experiences are equally diverse. Vancouver showcases a completely different side of the region, serving as the gateway to Alaska’s spectacular wilderness.
Set between the Pacific Ocean and the Coast Mountains, Canada’s largest cruise port combines a cosmopolitan city atmosphere with some of the most spectacular natural scenery in North America. As one of Canada’s World Cup host cities, Vancouver will enjoy its moment in the global spotlight, but cruise travellers have long recognised its appeal.
For many, Vancouver is synonymous with Alaska cruises. Watching the city skyline disappear behind snow-capped peaks as your ship sails north is an unforgettable start to any voyage. It is also the ideal place to explore the scenery of the western seaboard aboard Rocky Mountaineer.
Vancouver also lends itself perfectly to a Cruise & Stay holiday. Before embarking on your Alaska cruise, why not stroll through Stanley Park, explore Granville Island or sample the city’s renowned culinary scene. It’s little wonder that many travellers choose to spend several days here before their cruise begins.
Experience the best of Vancouver with a Princess cruise and Rocky Mountaineer >> CLICK HERE
False Creek, VancouverStar Princess in Alaska
Seattle: An Alternative Route to Alaska
Alongside Vancouver, Seattle has become one of the main gateways to Alaska.
The city will host World Cup matches against a backdrop of mountains, waterways and evergreen forests, so if you’re yet to be swayed by the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest, this could well be the answer.
There are so many things to see and do here before your Alaskan adventure. Spend a couple of days exploring Pike Place Market, taking in the views from the Space Needle or enjoy the city’s thriving food and coffee scene.
Once you embark your cruise, it’s likely your ship will journey through the Inside Passage. Expect plenty of striking scenery, including towering glaciers, breaching whales and some of the most dramatic landscapes on Earth. For many cruisers, Alaska remains a true bucket-list destination, and Seattle provides the perfect starting point.
Why not set sail from Seattle? Browse the sailings here.
New York: An Iconic Departure Port
New York City is iconic in every sense of the word. It has been at the heart of transatlantic cruises for centuries, and has really made a name for itself as one of the world’s most sought-after city break destinations.
It’s hardly surprising that the Big Apple is one of the host cities for the 2026 World Cup. The city and surrounding New Jersey area will host some of the tournament’s most anticipated matches, attracting football fans from across the world. For cruise travellers, however, New York offers one of the most memorable sail-aways anywhere on the planet, whether you’re on a transatlantic voyage or setting sail for the wonders of Canada and New England.
There is something special about standing on deck as your ship glides past the Statue of Liberty, offering spectacular views of Manhattan’s iconic skyline. It’s a departure that rivals any landmark arrival.
While football fans focus on the action in Mexico’s host cities, cruise travellers often discover a different side of the country altogether.
Across both the Caribbean and Pacific coasts, Mexico has become one of cruising’s most popular destinations. Ports such as Cozumel and Costa Maya offer access to ancient Mayan ruins, colourful local markets and idyllic beaches, while Pacific Coast destinations provide opportunities to explore charming towns and dramatic coastal scenery.
Mexico’s rich culture, warm hospitality and world-famous cuisine make it a highlight of countless itineraries, whether you’re sailing through the Caribbean or along the Mexican Riviera.
For many travellers, a cruise offers the perfect introduction to a country that rewards repeat visits time and time again.
The best of the Mexican Riviera awaits >> CLICK HERE
Cruise the World Cup 2026 Destinations
The final whistle may signal the end of the tournament, but it could also be the start of your next adventure. Whether you’re inspired by Vancouver’s gateway to Alaska, Miami’s connection to the Caribbean or the culture and coastline of Mexico, Bolsover Cruise Club can help you experience these iconic destinations for yourself. With award-winning service, expert cruise knowledge and a huge choice of itineraries from the world’s leading cruise lines, there’s never been a better time to discover the World Cup host nations by sea.
Virgin Voyages has unveiled the full comedian line-up for its highly anticipated UK Comedy Fest sailing, bringing some of the biggest names in British comedy on board Valiant Lady for a week of laughs at sea.
Departing Portsmouth on 20 August 2026, the seven-night roundtrip cruise will combine stand-up performances, late-night comedy shows and exclusive entertainment with visits to Bruges, Amsterdam and Hamburg.
The announcement follows the success of Virgin Voyages’ inaugural comedy-themed sailing from New York earlier this year.
Who’s Performing at the Virgin Voyages 2026 Comedy Cruise?
Leading the line-up are some of the most recognisable names from the world of British comedy, including Lucy Beaumont, Babatunde Aléshé, Desiree Burch, Milton Jones and Seann Walsh.
Known for their appearances across television, radio, podcasts and live tours, the headline acts will perform throughout the voyage as part of a programme designed to bring a festival atmosphere to life at sea.
The supporting cast is equally impressive, featuring Jack Skipper, Louise Young, Travis Jay, Laura Smyth, Matt Richardson, Kae Kurd, Aurie Styla, Darren Walsh and Ken Cheng, alongside performances from improv favourites Impro Allstars.
Lucy BeaumontMilton Jones
A Comedy Festival at Sea
Virgin Voyages describes the sailing as a celebration of British comedy, combining world-class stand-up with the line’s signature adults-only cruise experience.
Guests can expect a packed schedule of performances ranging from sharp observational comedy and storytelling to satire, improv and late-night sets. The comedy programme will be complemented by all the dining, entertainment and nightlife experiences already included on board Valiant Lady.
From cocktails in The Manor to evenings spent watching live performances, the cruise aims to deliver a festival-style atmosphere throughout the voyage.
While comedy may be the headline attraction, guests will also have the opportunity to explore three popular European destinations.
The itinerary includes calls in Bruges, Amsterdam and Hamburg, allowing travellers to combine city sightseeing, culture and cuisine with a week of premium entertainment at sea.
Limited Availability Expected
As a themed sailing featuring an exclusive line-up of comedians, demand is expected to be strong.
Virgin Voyages has positioned the cruise as a one-of-a-kind experience that combines the atmosphere of a comedy festival with the luxury, dining and entertainment for which the cruise line has become known.
With some of the UK’s most popular comedians performing on board and limited cabin availability, guests interested in joining the sailing are encouraged to book early.
Book the Virgin Voyages Comedy Cruise with Bolsover Cruise Club
Virgin Voyages’ UK Comedy Fest sailing offers something truly different for 2026, combining award-winning comedians, adults-only cruising and a destination-rich European itinerary.
As a leading Virgin Voyages partner, Bolsover Cruise Club can help you secure your preferred cabin aboard Valiant Lady before this exclusive sailing sells out.
Click here to see the full details or book online.
Travelling the world doesn’t have to come with an enormous price tag. Whether you’re planning a luxury cruise holiday, a family getaway, or a last-minute escape in the sun, there are plenty of simple ways to make your travel budget go further.
From booking strategies and onboard spending tips to smart packing and destination planning, a little preparation can help you save significantly without compromising your holiday experience.
Here are 10 practical travel tips that can help you save money before and during your next trip.
Book Early – Or Be Flexible
One of the easiest ways to reduce travel costs is by booking at the right time. Early booking offers often provide access to lower fares, added extras, and better cabin choices, particularly on popular cruise lines and peak-season sailings.
At the same time, flexibility can also lead to savings. Travellers who are open to different departure dates, destinations, or cruise ships can often take advantage of late deals and discounted fares.
Avoiding school holidays and peak travel periods can also make a significant difference to overall costs.
Compare What’s Included
The cheapest holiday isn’t always the best value. When comparing cruises or package holidays, it’s important to look beyond the headline price and consider what’s included.
Some cruise fares may cover:
Drinks packages
Wi-Fi
Gratuities
Excursions
Speciality dining
Flights and transfers
Luxury and premium cruise lines often include far more within the initial fare, helping travellers avoid unexpected onboard spending later.
Set a Daily Spending Budget
One of the best ways to save money while travelling is by setting a realistic daily budget before you leave.
It’s easy for small purchases, coffees, cocktails, souvenirs, taxis, or excursions to add up quickly throughout a trip. Having a rough daily allowance can help you stay aware of your spending without feeling restricted.
This can be especially useful on cruises, where onboard purchases are often charged directly to your cabin account and can accumulate surprisingly fast.
Save Money on Shore Excursions
Cruise excursions can be convenient, but they’re not always the cheapest option.
In many ports, travellers can save money by:
Exploring independently
Using local transport
Booking smaller local tours
Walking around the destination without a formal excursion
However, organised tours can still offer excellent value in destinations where transport is more complex, or attractions are spread out.
Avoid Expensive Travel Extras
Extra charges can quickly increase the cost of any holiday.
Before travelling, it’s worth checking:
Airline baggage fees
Cruise drink package prices
Mobile roaming charges
Travel insurance options
Airport transfer costs
Packing carefully can also help avoid unnecessary spending once you’re away. Forgotten toiletries, chargers, or clothing items often cost far more when purchased in tourist areas or onboard cruise ships.
Use Free Activities and Facilities
Many travellers overlook how much is already included within their holiday.
Cruise ships, in particular, offer a huge range of complimentary entertainment and facilities, including:
Swimming pools
Fitness centres
Live shows
Sports courts
Cinema screenings
Quiz nights and activities
Families booking family cruise deals can often enjoy days of entertainment onboard without spending extra money.
Similarly, many destinations offer free walking tours, beaches, museums, parks, and cultural attractions that allow travellers to experience more while sticking to a budget.
Be Smart With Food and Drinks
Food can become one of the biggest travel expenses if you’re not careful.
On cruises, most meals are included, making it easier to avoid overspending than on land-based holidays. Main dining rooms, buffets, and casual eateries often provide excellent variety without additional charges.
Travellers looking for tips to save money on a cruise should also consider:
Limiting speciality dining visits
Bringing refillable water bottles where permitted
Checking drinks package value before purchasing
Taking advantage of included dining venues
When travelling ashore, eating slightly away from major tourist attractions can often result in better food at lower prices.
Travel During Shoulder Season
Travelling just outside peak holiday periods is one of the most effective ways to save money while still enjoying excellent weather and fewer crowds.
Shoulder-season travel often means:
Lower cruise fares
Cheaper flights
Reduced hotel prices
Less crowded destinations
Mediterranean cruises in spring and autumn can offer particularly good value, while Caribbean and Canary Islands sailings outside major holiday periods can also provide excellent savings.
Visiting the Caribbean during shoulder season can lead to lower fares
Join Loyalty Programmes
Many travel companies and cruise lines reward repeat travellers through loyalty schemes.
Frequent cruisers may receive:
Priority boarding
Complimentary drinks
Wi-Fi packages
Cabin upgrades
Discounts on future bookings
If you cruise regularly, joining loyalty programmes can lead to substantial long-term savings and added benefits.
Research Before You Travel
One of the simplest money-saving travel tips is also one of the most effective: research your destination in advance.
Understanding local transport, currency exchange rates, attraction prices, and dining options can help you avoid unnecessary spending once you arrive.
Cruise travellers can benefit from researching ports before sailing, particularly when deciding whether independent exploration may be cheaper than organised tours.
A little preparation often leads to a smoother and more affordable holiday overall.
Make Your Travel Budget Go Further With Bolsover Cruise Club
Travelling doesn’t need to be expensive to be memorable. With careful planning, smart booking strategies, and a little research, it’s possible to enjoy incredible holidays while keeping costs under control.
Whether you’re searching for luxury escapes, affordable family cruise deals, relaxing winter sun cruise deals, or your next adventure at sea, these simple travel tips can help you make the most of your budget without missing out on the experience.
The key is finding the right balance between saving money and still enjoying everything your holiday has to offer.
Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines has unveiled an exciting new themed sailing for 2026, bringing together dance enthusiasts, festive celebrations and special guest appearances from two of the UK’s best-known names in dance.
The new five-night ‘Celebration of Dance at Sea’ cruise will sail aboard Borealis from Southampton on 13 December 2026, calling at Amsterdam and Honfleur before returning to the UK on 18 December.
This exciting dance-themed cruise will celebrate all things dance, with a touch of festive sparkle. You’ll be joined on board by Olivier Award-winning choreographer Dame Arlene Phillips and professional dancer Ian Waite for special events, including ‘An Audience With’ sessions and meet-and-greets, while Ian will also host an exclusive masterclass. This special sailing brings together ballroom, Latin, line-dancing and so much more.
What’s Included in Fred. Olsen’s ‘Celebration of Dance at Sea’?
This cruise has been designed as a celebration of dance at sea, featuring a variety of dance styles, performances, workshops, themed events and social dancing opportunities across the voyage. The cruise is intentionally not centred around one single discipline or dance community but instead aims to create an inclusive experience for dancers, enthusiasts and general guests alike. The programme will combine:
A featured Borealis Show Cast production show (Fiesta) & evening performances from visiting artistes
A themed-evening (Gatsby-inspired party night)
Live ship-wide music
Guest interviews and meet & greets
Interactive daytime activities and events such as dance-themed gameshows, musical bingo and dance-trivia
Book Early for the Best Choice
The cruise goes on sale on 4 June 2026, with fares starting from £499 per person. Interior, Ocean View, Suite and Single cabins are all available.
Guests booking early can also benefit from Fred. Olsen’s Freedom Fare Price Promise. Available for bookings made within the launch period, the offer provides either a complimentary upgrade or onboard spending money if the fare for the same cabin grade is later reduced.
With two major dance personalities on board, a festive atmosphere and a programme designed to appeal to dancers and non-dancers alike, this unique themed sailing is likely to prove popular with Fred. Olsen guests looking for something a little different in 2026.
Book with Bolsover Cruise Club
Bolsover Cruise Club can help you secure your place on this exciting new themed sailing from Southampton. With limited availability expected for this unique event, guests looking to sail with Dame Arlene Phillips and Ian Waite are encouraged to book early to secure their preferred cabin and take advantage of launch offers while available.
MSC Cruises has unveiled an exciting programme of no-fly sailings from Southampton for Summer 2028, with MSC Meraviglia returning to the UK to offer a diverse collection of cruises to some of Europe’s most sought-after destinations. The new season includes voyages to the Norwegian Fjords, Canary Islands, Baltic Sea, Spain, Portugal, France, Morocco and a brand-new Football Championship Cruise.
Bookings open on Tuesday, 29 June 2026, so this is the ideal time to secure your 2028 holiday.
Why Book Early?
While 2028 may seem a long way off, some of the most popular itineraries and cabin categories are expected to sell quickly.
Booking early gives guests the widest choice of accommodation, from Interior and Balcony cabins to the exclusive MSC Yacht Club suites. Those looking to travel with family or friends can also secure cabins close together, while guests seeking specific deck locations or premium experiences will benefit from booking before availability becomes limited.
MSC Cruises is also offering reduced deposits from £50 per person, making it easier than ever to secure a future holiday. Early bookers can additionally take advantage of MSC Voyagers Club savings and exclusive benefits, including additional discounts for guests booking more than nine months in advance.
A no-fly cruise removes the need for airport queues, baggage restrictions and long-haul travel. Guests can arrive at the port by car, rail or coach, unpack once and wake up in a new destination throughout their holiday.
For many UK cruisers, it’s one of the most relaxing ways to start a holiday, with the adventure beginning the moment they step on board.
Explore Europe’s Most Popular Cruise Destinations
The Summer 2028 programme offers something for every type of traveller.
Nature lovers can sail to the dramatic Norwegian Fjords, where towering mountains, tranquil waterways and picturesque villages create one of Europe’s most spectacular cruising regions.
Those seeking sunshine can choose from a selection of Canary Islands sailings, combining Madeira, Tenerife, Lanzarote and Gran Canaria with visits to Vigo and Lisbon.
The Baltic Sea itineraries showcase charming Scandinavian cities including Copenhagen, Aarhus and Skagen, while Spain and Portugal cruises blend historic cities, Atlantic coastlines and cultural highlights.
For guests looking for longer voyages, selected Spain and Morocco cruises offer up to 14 nights exploring destinations such as Bilbao, Malaga, Ibiza, Tangier and Cádiz.
A brand-new Football Championship Cruise will also debut in June 2028, allowing guests to enjoy a cruise holiday while following one of the biggest sporting tournaments of the year from the comfort of the ship.
Date
Area
Nights
Itinerary
Interior (pp)
Balcony (pp)
Suite (pp)
08 May 28
Canary Islands
12
Southampton, Vigo, Funchal, Gran Canaria, Tenerife, Lanzarote, Lisbon, Southampton
£1,283
£1,825
£4,901
20 May 28
Spain & France
7
Southampton, Gijon, La Rochelle, Bilbao, Cherbourg, Southampton
Southampton, Gijon, La Rochelle, Bilbao, Le Havre, Southampton
£917
£1,202
£2,689
Why Sail on MSC Meraviglia?
MSC Meraviglia remains one of MSC Cruises’ most popular ships and is a sister ship to MSC Virtuosa, a firm favourite with UK cruisers. Accommodating more than 5,600 guests, she combines contemporary design with a wide range of entertainment, dining and family-friendly facilities.
Highlights include the stunning Galleria Meraviglia, topped by a spectacular LED sky dome, as well as the exclusive Carousel Productions at Sea shows, which blend acrobatics, music and theatre in a purpose-built venue.
Dining options range from included restaurants and buffets to speciality venues, including Ocean Cay seafood restaurant. Families are particularly well catered for thanks to dedicated kids’ clubs, a Polar Aquapark, bowling alley, arcade and even Formula 1 simulators.
Guests seeking an elevated experience can opt for the MSC Yacht Club, offering private facilities, butler service, premium drinks, Wi-Fi and priority embarkation as part of an all-inclusive luxury experience.
Book with Bolsover Cruise Club
As one of the UK’s leading cruise specialists, Bolsover Cruise Club is ready to help guests secure their place on MSC Meraviglia’s exciting Summer 2028 programme.
Whether you’re dreaming of the Norwegian Fjords, the Canary Islands, Spain and Portugal or a longer Mediterranean adventure, booking early gives you the best opportunity to secure your ideal itinerary and cabin choice.
Cunard has announced plans for a Queen Mary 2 refit in 2027, bringing new staterooms and a series of enhancements to its iconic flagship.
Scheduled for March 2027, the programme of updates will introduce 30 new staterooms and refresh selected areas across the ship, ensuring Queen Mary 2 continues to deliver the elegant ocean travel experience that has made her one of the most celebrated ships in the world.
For Cunard fans, it’s exciting news. More than two decades after her maiden voyage, Queen Mary 2 remains the world’s only ocean liner in regular service and continues to be synonymous with classic transatlantic cruising.
What’s Changing During the Queen Mary 2 Refit?
The headline enhancement is the addition of 30 new staterooms, expanding the accommodation available on board from May 2027 onwards.
Alongside the new accommodation, Cunard has confirmed that selected areas of the ship will also be enhanced as part of the wider programme. While full details are yet to be announced, the work is designed to ensure Queen Mary 2 continues to offer the high standards of comfort, service and elegance guests have come to expect.
As further information is released, we’ll update this page with the latest details.
Why Queen Mary 2 Remains One of the World’s Most Famous Ships
Since entering service in 2004, Queen Mary 2 has become a true icon of modern cruising.
Purpose-built for ocean crossings, she offers a different experience to many contemporary cruise ships. Her wide decks, grand public spaces and classic Cunard traditions have earned her a loyal following, particularly among guests who enjoy the famous Transatlantic Crossing between Southampton and New York.
From afternoon tea in the Queens Room to evenings spent in the Commodore Club watching the Atlantic roll by, a voyage on Queen Mary 2 is as much about the journey as the destination.
Will the Queen Mary 2 Refit Affect Sailings?
No. Cunard has confirmed that the enhancement programme has been carefully scheduled and will not impact the ship’s published sailing programme.
Guests booked on voyages before the March 2027 refit will sail on Queen Mary 2 in her current configuration. The new staterooms and enhancements will begin appearing on sailings from May 2027.
Looking Ahead to a Refreshed Queen Mary 2
The announcement forms part of Cunard’s continued investment in its fleet and guest experience.
While the addition of 30 new staterooms is the biggest confirmed change so far, further details about the wider enhancements are expected in due course. For guests considering a future Cunard voyage, the prospect of refreshed spaces aboard one of the world’s most iconic ships only adds to Queen Mary 2’s enduring appeal.
We’ll continue to share updates as more details of the Queen Mary 2 refit are revealed.
Book Queen Mary 2 with Bolsover Cruise Club
Few ships capture the imagination quite like Queen Mary 2. Whether you’re dreaming of a classic Transatlantic Crossing, a voyage to the Norwegian Fjords or an unforgettable World Cruise sector, Cunard’s flagship continues to offer one of the most distinctive travel experiences at sea.
With the Queen Mary 2 refit set to introduce new staterooms and refreshed spaces from 2027, there’s never been a better time to experience this iconic ocean liner for yourself. Explore our latest Queen Mary 2 sailings and discover why she remains one of the most celebrated ships in the world.
The British Travel Awards celebrate the very best in the leisure travel and tourism industry – and we’re thrilled to announce that we’ve been nominated once again!
We’re proud to be in the running for ‘Best Travel Agency for Cruise Holidays’ and we would love your support. As the UK’s largest consumer-voted travel awards, the winners are chosen entirely by you, our valued customers.
Being nominated is an incredible honour, but we need your votes to help us secure a win.
Everyone here at Bolsover Cruise Club is incredibly proud to be nominated. We’d like to thank you once again for your ongoing support – we simply couldn’t do it without you.
How to vote:
Simply click the link below and press submit – it’s as easy as that!
