Considering a European Cruise next year? There is no time to waste as the cruise market is hot right now and the cruise itineraries for Europe 2019 are filling fast. Here are a few tips on how to get started...

First things first: Start by looking at which area in Europe you want to cruise, particularly ports that are a must see or cities that you absolutely don’t want to miss out on. The Mediterranean cruise season runs from April through November. Northern Europe and Baltic cruises have a shorter season running from May to September, while the warmer Greek islands and Canary Islands see cruise ships between March and December.

Select the cruise line or style of ship: Selecting the right cruise line can be a bit like speed dating! It would just take too long to really get to know each cruise line, however you want to find a way to select the cruise line or ship that bests fit your personality and what you enjoy in life!  While cruise lines try to persuade travelers they can offer an all-things-to-all-people onboard experience, we're increasingly seeing them carve out distinctive lifestyle niches. What size of ship do you want to be on, do you want all-inclusive, family friendly, luxury?  

Choose an itinerary: This can be a daunting but exciting task, particularly for first time cruisers. The cruise you select needs to suit your holiday expectations, how long do you want to cruise, do you want culture and big cities, or beaches, windsurfing and parasailing? Would you rather stop at a different port each day or kick back during several days at sea?

Airfare specials to get you there: Now you have decided on your ‘perfect’ cruise you need to secure your flights to get there.  We always recommend that you plan to arrive to the embarkation port at least the day before your cruise departs. The ‘Early Bird’ European sales start in September/October so now is the perfect time to talk to us about securing your European flights as well. We have some fabulous airfare specials on a number of airlines.

Contact one of our expert cruise consultants to help you narrow down your cruise options and prepare a Europe holiday itinerary for you.

Quay Cruise, your local cruise experts - phone 09 477 0212 or come and visit us at 2/49 Apollo Drive, Mairangi Bay. Parking available, expert advice and great coffee!

Check out a couple of Oceania European Cruise itineraries below. Barcelona to Venice (a great itinerary for a new cruiser) and Oslo to London (for a seasoned cruiser looking for a unique itinerary). 

Oceania Cruise lines - O’Life Promo – Sale ends 30 September 2018

Includes gratuities & Internet PLUS pick ONE of the below:

- Three free standard shore excursions per person
- USD$300.00 shipboard credit per person
- House Select Beverage Package per person (Selected beer and wine at lunch and dinner)