royal caribbean cruises from southampton 2024 mediterranean

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Royal Caribbean Mediterranean cruises from $429*

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Royal Caribbean International Mediterranean Cruises

Step back in time when you visit sites like the Acropolis, Pompeii and the ruins of Ephesus with Royal Caribbean. These sites and more dot the landscape of the Mediterranean, acting as a living textbook on ancient times. Of course, the Mediterranean isn’t all about the old. Here you’ll find lively cultures filled with vibrant people making delicious foods, dancing and relaxing on inviting beaches.  It’s the best of both the modern world and the world of the past. Experience this region of the world on a Royal Caribbean cruise. 

Things to Do on a Mediterranean Cruise with Royal Caribbean

Some of Europe’s most glamorous cities combine with beautiful out-of-the-way ports in the Mediterranean. You can see major works of art, try local dishes and explore ancient ruins when you cruise to the Mediterranean with Royal Caribbean. Highlighted below are some of our favorite things to do when cruising the Mediterranean with Royal Caribbean:

• Barcelona and Picasso (Barcelona, Spain) Uncover two of Spain’s most renowned artists, Picasso and Gaudi, on this artistic excursion. You’ll start with a tour of the Picasso Museum. This legendary artist introduced the world to cubism and is considered one of the all-time greatest artists. Then you’ll drive around the city viewing the Sagrada Familia, a church designed by Gaudi that has been in continuous construction since 1882.  

• Dalmatian Coastline and Wine Tasting (Dubrovnik, Croatia) Visit the Dalmatian Coast where you’ll see how local olive oil is made in a horse driven mill. Here you’ll sample cheese, smoked ham and wine. Then you’ll visit the salt pans in the town of Ston which is known for its oysters. Lastly, visit Ponikve to try Peljesac wines.  

• Journey to Lindos (Rhodes, Greece) Drive through Rhodes to get to Lindos with its 4th century Temple of Athena Lindia. Here you’ll see lots of ruins from times gone by and enjoy spectacular views, especially if you climb to the top of the Acropolis.  

• Capri, Sorrento and Pompeii (Naples, Italy) Explore the narrow and picturesque streets of Capri, a seaside resort town, before heading to Sorrento. Here you’ll delight in the cuisine of Italy before your final stop in Pompeii. The ruins of this town were covered in debris from a volcanic eruption in 79 AD, preserving this town for history.  

• The Saffed Kabbalah Experience (Haifa, Israel) Learn about the rituals of Jewish mysticism called Kabbalah in Saffed where you’ll visit synagogues and meet artists who incorporate the Kabbalah into their work. You can also discover what your name means according to Kabbalah’s beliefs.  

• Ancient Ephesus (Kusadasi, Turkey) The ancient city of Ephesus is like an outdoor museum showing you what ancient life was like. This is where Mary, the mother of Jesus, once lived and where Marc Anthony and Cleopatra processed through. Here you’ll see amazing structures filled with history.  

Top 10 Royal Caribbean International Mediterranean Cruises

• Odyssey of the Seas 12 NIGHT GREECE, ITALY & TURKEY CRUISE Departing From Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy (May 2024 - Sep 2025)
• Oasis of the Seas 7 NIGHT WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN CRUISE Departing From Barcelona, Spain (May 2024 - Sep 2024)
• Oasis of the Seas 7 NIGHT WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN CRUISE Departing From Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy (May 2024 - Sep 2024)
• Explorer of the Seas 7 NIGHT ITALY, GREECE & CROATIA Departing From Barcelona, Spain (May 2024)
• Voyager of the Seas 11 NIGHT BARCELONA TO ATHENS CRUISE Departing From Barcelona, Spain (May 2024)
• Odyssey of the Seas 9 NIGHT GREEK ISLES CRUISE Departing From Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy (May 2024 - Aug 2025)
• Explorer of the Seas 7 NIGHT GREEK ISLES CRUISE Departing From Ravenna, Italy (May 2024 - Sep 2025)
• Explorer of the Seas 7 NIGHT GREECE & ADRIATIC Departing From Ravenna, Italy (May 2024 - Aug 2024)
• Odyssey of the Seas 7 NIGHT GREEK ISLES CRUISE Departing From Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy (May 2024 - Sep 2025)
• Voyager of the Seas 7 NIGHT GREEK & ADRIATIC CRUISE Departing From Piraeus (Athens), Greece (May 2024 - Sep 2024)

Royal Caribbean International Mediterranean Departure Ports

Learn more about your potential departure ports for a Mediterranean cruise with Royal Caribbean. Your Royal Caribbean Mediterranean cruise could embark from any of the following cities:

Discover imaginative architecture, impressive Spanish dishes and beautiful excursions into nature when you cruise to Barcelona, the capital of Catalonia.

A cruise to Civitavecchia is a chance for you to hop a quick train to Rome and explore the enormous history through ruins, galleries and The Vatican museums.

Learn about the Greek gods and the early philosophy of Socrates when you visit the incredible ruins left in Athens, Greece. At night, go out and take in the culture with the modern Athenians.

Ravenna, Italy

Art lovers to the front in Ravenna! Incredible mosaic art and ancient architecture grace this small port city, often used as a jump-off point for cruisers looking to spend some time in Venice.

The cruise port of Southampton features tons of diverse attractions that provide insight into England’s culture and storied past, including fortresses, gardens and national parks.

Photo Gallery for Royal Caribbean International Mediterranean Cruises

Flip through our photo gallery of Mediterranean cruising photos from Royal Caribbean. Best of all, this is merely a sample of the sights waiting for you on a Royal Caribbean Mediterranean cruise vacation.

Columns on the Temple of Olympian Zeus

Flamenco Dancers in Cadiz, Spain

Rolling hills & fields of the Croatian Countryside

Couple on a gondola in Venice, Italy

Couple on a hill in Mykonos, Greece

Couple standing on cliffs in Capri

St Peter's Basilica in San Pietro, Italy

View of a canal in Venice, Italy

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Royal Caribbean cruises from Southampton 2024, 2025, 2026

Royal caribbean cruises from southampton are a great way for an event-filled holiday. royal caribbean cruises from southampton tend to sail from april through to october., royal caribbean cruises deals from southampton 2024, 2025, 2026.

Royal Caribbean Cruises from Southampton are generally available from April through until October as outside of that time the ships base themselves overseas.

Royal Caribbean Cruises from Southampton in 2024 are aboard Anthem of the Seas and range from a short 2-night cruise from Southampton to France, 7 night cruises to the Norwegian Fjords and cruises to the Canary Islands and Mediterranean.

Royal Caribbean Cruises are well-known for family fun and the ships have a great number of activities to try. For instance, a Royal Caribbean Cruise from Southampton onboard Anthem of the Seas could entail go-karting, surfing on Royal Caribbean's flowrider, numerous arcade machines and excellent child-care facilities. Entertainment onboard is also excellent ranging from west-end style shows to bespoke performances.

Last minute Royal Caribbean cruises from Southampton and cheap cruises from Southampton do occur and are often promoted close to departure. Keep an eye out for offers with www.worldofcruising.co.uk.

Read more about Royal Caribbean Cruises and their ships

Independence of the Seas

Odyssey of the Seas

Harmony of the Seas

Allure of the Seas

Anthem of the Seas

Quantum of the Seas

Liberty of the Seas

Voyager of the Seas

Icon of the Seas

Oasis of the Seas

Rhapsody of the Seas

Mariner of the Seas

Spectrum of the Seas

Freedom of the Seas

Jewel of the Seas

Navigator of the Seas

Utopia of the Seas

Serenade of the Seas

Explorer of the Seas

Wonder of the Seas

Ovation of the Seas

Radiance of the Seas

Brilliance of the Seas

Symphony of the Seas

Grandeur of the Seas

Adventure of the Seas

Star of the Seas

Enchantment of the Seas

Vision of the Seas

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Search all cruises from Southampton

Discover all cruises from Southampton

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Cruises from Southampton, UK

The Port of Southampton – Cruise Capital of the UK

Cruises 2024

Southampton cruise ship schedule 2024.

Southampton cruise port offers more than 500 voyages in 2024. You can book the classic to New York itineraries from Southampton, voyages north to the magnificent Norwegian Fjords , north-east to the Baltic Sea and majestic St Petersburg , south to the beautiful Canary Islands , south then east to the Western Mediterranean or Eastern Mediterranean .

Cruises from Southampton are easily accessible, thanks to its good rail and road links. The city is located in the England’s south coast central part and has great road and rail links to the other UK cities. The Southampton cruise port comprises two docks – the Eastern and the Western.

Easily find and compare all 2024 cruises from Southampton, England for every major cruiseline. Check itineraries, maps and port-of-call.

P&O Arcadia, Amsterdam & Bruges New Year cruise from Southampton, December 29, 2024

5-day Holiday cruise to Amsterdam and Bruges with P&O Cruises Cruising from: Southampton, UK; Departure Date: December 29, 2024; Cruise Line: P&O Cruises; Cruise Ship: Arcadia; Duration: 5-day cruise; Ports of Call: Southampton, Bruges, Amsterdam, Southampton; Discover the best of Bruges[…]

Cunard Cruises, Southampton to New York, December 15, 2024

7-day Westbound Transatlantic cruise on board Queen Mary 2 Cruising from: Southampton, UK; Departure Date: December 15, 2024; Duration: 7-day cruise; Cruise Line: Cunard Cruise Line; Cruise Ship: Queen Mary 2; Ports of Call: Southampton, New York; Enjoy the best Transatlantic[…]

P&O Iona, Northern Europe from Southampton, December 7, 2024

7-day cruise to Hamburg, Rotterdam, Zeebrugge and Le Havre with P&O Cruises Cruising from: Southampton, UK; Departure Date: December 7, 2024; Duration: 7-day cruise; Cruise Line: P&O Cruises; Cruise Ship: P&O Iona; Ports of Call: Southampton, Hamburg, Rotterdam, Zeebrugge, Le[…]

P&O Ventura, Spain & Portugal from Southampton, December 5, 2024

12-day cruise to Spain and Portugal with P&O Cruises Cruising from: Southampton, UK; Departure Date: December 5, 2024; Cruise Line: P&O Cruises; Cruise Ship: Ventura; Duration: 12-day cruise; Ports of Call: Southampton, Vigo, Lisbon, Cartagena, Malaga, Gibraltar, La Coruna, Southampton; Discover[…]

P&O Aurora, Mini Cruise Southampton to Amsterdam, December 5, 2024

4-day mini cruise to Amsterdam, Netherlands with P&O Cruises Cruising from: Southampton, UK; Departure Date: December 5, 2024; Cruise Line: P&O Cruises; Cruise Ship: Aurora; Duration: 4-day cruise; Ports of Call: Southampton, Amsterdam, Southampton; Discover the best of Amsterdam in[…]

P&O Arcadia, Bruges mini cruise from Southampton, November 25, 2024

3-day Belgium mini cruise to Bruges (Zeebrugge) with P&O Cruises Cruising from: Southampton, UK; Departure Date: November 25, 2024; Cruise Line: P&O Cruises; Cruise Ship: Arcadia; Duration: 3-day cruise; Ports of Call: Southampton, Bruges, Southampton; Discover the best of Bruges in[…]

P&O Ventura, Canary Islands from Southampton, November 23, 2024

12-day cruise to Madeira, Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote and Lisbon with P&O Cruises Cruising from: Southampton, UK; Departure Date: November 23, 2024; Cruise Line: P&O Cruises; Cruise Ship: Ventura; Duration: 12 nights; Ports of Call: Southampton, Madeira, Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote,[…]

P&O Ventura, Amsterdam & Bruges from Southampton, November 18, 2024

5-day mini cruise to Amsterdam and Bruges with P&O Cruises Cruising from: Southampton, UK; Departure Date: November 18, 2024; Cruise Line: P&O Cruises; Cruise Ship: Ventura; Duration: 5-day cruise; Ports of Call: Southampton, Amsterdam, Bruges Southampton; Discover the best of Bruges[…]

Cunard Cruises, Southampton to New York, November 13, 2024

7-day Westbound Transatlantic cruise on board Queen Mary 2 Cruising from: Southampton, UK; Departure Date: November 13, 2024; Duration: 7-day cruise; Cruise Line: Cunard Cruise Line; Cruise Ship: Queen Mary 2; Ports of Call: Southampton, New York; Enjoy the best Transatlantic[…]

P&O Iona, Canary Islands cruise from Southampton, November 9, 2024

14-day cruise to Madeira, Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Cadiz and Lisbon with P&O Cruises Cruising from: Southampton, UK; Departure Date: November 9, 2024; Cruise Line: P&O Cruises; Cruise Ship: Iona; Duration: 14-day cruise; Ports of Call: Southampton, Madeira, Tenerife, Gran Canaria,[…]

P&O Ventura, Spain & Portugal from Southampton, October 19, 2024

7-day cruise to Vigo, Lisbon, Porto and Cherbourg with P&O Cruises Cruising from: Southampton, UK; Departure Date: October 19, 2024; Cruise Line: P&O Cruises; Cruise Ship: Ventura; Duration: 7-day cruise; Ports of Call: Southampton, Vigo, Lisbon, Porto, Cherbourg, Southampton; Discover the[…]

MSC Euribia, Northern Europe from Southampton, October 18, 2024

7-day cruise to Hamburg, Rotterdam, Zeebrugge and Le Havre with MSC Cruises Cruising from: Southampton, UK; Departure Date: October 18, 2024; Duration: 7-day cruise; Cruise Line: MSC Cruises; Cruise Ship: MSC Euribia; Ports of Call: Southampton, Hamburg, Rotterdam, Zeebrugge, Le[…]

P&O Aurora, Norwegian Fjords from Southampton, October 17, 2024

12-day cruise to Andalsnes, Tromso, Alta and Haugesund with P&O Cruises Cruising from: Southampton, UK; Departure Date: October 17, 2024; Cruise Line: P&O Cruises; Cruise Ship: Aurora; Duration: 12-day cruise; Ports of Call: Southampton, Andalsnes, Tromso, Alta, Haugesund, Southampton; Embark on[…]

Cunard Queen Mary 2, Southampton to Hamburg, October 13, 2024

2-day mini cruise to Hamburg, Germany with Cunard Cruises Cruising from: Southampton, UK; Departure Date: October 13, 2024; Duration: 2-day cruise; Cruise Line: Cunard Cruise Line; Cruise Ship: Queen Mary 2; Ports of Call: Southampton, Hamburg; Discover the best of Hamburg[…]

Cunard Queen Mary 2, Southampton to Hamburg mini cruise, October 13, 2024

4-day mini cruise to Hamburg, Germany with Cunard Cruise Line Cruising from: Southampton, UK; Departure Date: October 13, 2024; Duration: 4-day cruise; Cruise Line: Cunard Cruise Line; Cruise Ship: Queen Mary 2; Ports of Call: Southampton, Hamburg, Southampton; Discover the best[…]

MSC Euribia, Northern Europe from Southampton, October 11, 2024

7-day cruise to Hamburg, Rotterdam, Zeebrugge and Le Havre with MSC Cruises Cruising from: Southampton, UK; Departure Date: October 11, 2024; Duration: 7-day cruise; Cruise Line: MSC Cruises; Cruise Ship: MSC Euribia; Ports of Call: Southampton, Hamburg, Rotterdam, Zeebrugge, Le[…]

P&O Ventura, Canary Islands cruise from Southampton, October 5, 2024

14-day cruise to Madeira, La Palma, Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Cadiz and Lisbon with P&O Cruises Cruising from: Southampton, UK; Departure Date: October 5, 2024; Cruise Line: P&O Cruises; Cruise Ship: Ventura; Duration: 14-day cruise; Ports of Call: Southampton, Madeira, La Palma,[…]

P&O Britannia, Canary Islands cruise from Southampton, October 4, 2024

14-day cruise to Madeira, La Palma, Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Cadiz and Lisbon with P&O Cruises Cruising from: Southampton, UK; Departure Date: October 4, 2024; Cruise Line: P&O Cruises; Cruise Ship: Britannia; Duration: 14-day cruise; Ports of Call: Southampton, Madeira, La[…]

P&O Arvia, Mediterranean from Southampton, September 29, 2024

13-day cruise to La Coruna, Valencia, Marseilles, Barcelona and Cadiz with P&O Cruises Cruising from: Southampton, UK; Departure Date: September 29, 2024; Cruise Line: P&O Cruises; Cruise Ship: Arvia; Duration: 13-day cruise; Ports of Call: Southampton, La Coruna, Valencia, Marseilles, Barcelona,[…]

P&O Iona, Canary Islands cruise from Southampton, September 21, 2024

14-day cruise to Madeira, Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Fuerteventura, Lanzarote, Cadiz and Lisbon with P&O Cruises Cruising from: Southampton, UK; Departure Date: September 21, 2024; Cruise Line: P&O Cruises; Cruise Ship: Iona; Duration: 14-day cruise; Ports of Call: Southampton, Madeira, Tenerife, Gran[…]

P&O Arvia, Mediterranean from Southampton, September 15, 2024

14-day cruise to La Coruna, Valencia, Marseilles, Barcelona, Alicante and Cadiz with P&O Cruises Cruising from: Southampton, UK; Departure Date: September 15, 2024; Cruise Line: P&O Cruises; Cruise Ship: Arvia; Duration: 14-day cruise; Ports of Call: Southampton, La Coruna, Valencia, Marseilles,[…]

Cunard Cruises, Southampton to New York, September 15, 2024

7-day Westbound Transatlantic cruise on board Queen Mary 2 Cruising from: Southampton, UK; Departure Date: September 15, 2024; Duration: 7-day cruise; Cruise Line: Cunard Cruise Line; Cruise Ship: Queen Mary 2; Ports of Call: Southampton, New York; Enjoy the best Transatlantic[…]

P&O Ventura, Canary Islands cruise from Southampton, September 14, 2024

14-day cruise to Madeira, La Palma, Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Cadiz and Lisbon with P&O Cruises Cruising from: Southampton, UK; Departure Date: September 14, 2024; Cruise Line: P&O Cruises; Cruise Ship: Ventura; Duration: 14-day cruise; Ports of Call: Southampton, Madeira, La[…]

P&O Iona, Norwegian Fjords from Southampton, September 14, 2024

7-day cruise to Stavanger, Olden, Alesund and Haugesund with P&O Cruises Cruising from: Southampton, UK; Departure Date: September 14, 2024; Cruise Line: P&O Cruises; Cruise Ship: Iona; Duration: 7-day cruise; Ports of Call: Southampton, Stavanger, Olden, Alesund, Haugesund, Southampton; Witness[…]

P&O Ventura, Mini Cruise Southampton to Amsterdam, September 10, 2024

4-day mini cruise to Amsterdam, Netherlands with P&O Cruises Cruising from: Southampton, UK; Departure Date: September 10, 2024; Cruise Line: P&O Cruises; Cruise Ship: Ventura; Duration: 4-day cruise; Ports of Call: Southampton, Amsterdam, Southampton; Discover the best of Amsterdam in[…]

P&O Iona, Norwegian Fjords from Southampton, September 7, 2024

7-day cruise to Stavanger, Olden, Alesund and Haugesund with P&O Cruises Cruising from: Southampton, UK; Departure Date: September 7, 2024; Cruise Line: P&O Cruises; Cruise Ship: Iona; Duration: 7-day cruise; Ports of Call: Southampton, Stavanger, Olden, Alesund, Haugesund, Southampton; Witness[…]

Royal Caribbean, Spain & France from Southampton, September 1, 2024

7-day cruise to La Rochelle, Bilbao, La Coruna and Le Havre on board Anthem of the Seas Cruising from: Southampton, UK; Departure Date: September 1, 2024; Duration: 7-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Anthem of the Seas; Ports of[…]

P&O Arvia, Mediterranean from Southampton, September 1, 2024

14-day cruise to La Coruna, Palma de Mallorca, La Spezia, Marseilles, Barcelona and Cadiz with P&O Cruises Cruising from: Southampton, UK; Departure Date: September 1, 2024; Cruise Line: P&O Cruises; Cruise Ship: Arvia; Duration: 14-day cruise; Ports of Call: Southampton, La[…]

P&O Arcadia, Spain, Portugal & Guernsey from Southampton, August 27, 2024

7-day cruise to Vigo, Lisbon, Porto and St. Peter Port with P&O Cruises Cruising from: Southampton, UK; Departure Date: August 27, 2024; Cruise Line: P&O Cruises; Cruise Ship: Arcadia; Duration: 7-day cruise; Ports of Call: Southampton, Vigo, Lisbon, Porto, St.[…]

Royal Caribbean, Spain & France from Southampton, August 25, 2024

7-day cruise to La Rochelle, Bilbao, La Coruna and Le Havre on board Anthem of the Seas Cruising from: Southampton, UK; Departure Date: August 25, 2024; Duration: 7-day cruise; Cruise Line: Royal Caribbean; Cruise Ship: Anthem of the Seas; Ports of[…]

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Can You Take Days Off Without Pto?

Yes, by using holidays, weekends and unpaid time for vacation.

By Robert Schrader | Published on April 19, 2024

For those who prioritize adventure in their lives, no amount of exploration is enough. As the year progresses, travel-lovers might wish they had more paid time off while asking themselves, "Can you take days off without PTO?" For some, this is a key question because of the sheer number of items they hope to check off their bucket lists. Others want to be able to hit the road — or the open sea — without depleting days they need for family holidays such as Thanksgiving. Read on for strategies to maximize your travel experiences without depleting your vacation time.

How Much Unpaid Time Off Can I Take?

How much time you can take off work depends not only on your company and the terms of your employment but also on the needs of your team and the demands of your job. If you're an accountant, taking unpaid time off might be a taller order in March than it is after tax day has passed. Likewise, if you work on a small team and have a colleague out on leave, you might not be able to take unpaid time off at all. Some jobs may also let you work on a company holiday and use that time off on another date that fits better into your vacation plans.

When you ask, "Can you take days off without PTO?" the answer isn't always a clear-cut "yes" or "no." It could be that your unpaid time off is conditional. Perhaps you'll need to finish a project before you go, make yourself available for a virtual presentation or be willing to answer client emails if the volume becomes too much for your co-workers. Finally, your supervisor will probably consider how much time you've had off before granting your request. If you've been absent a lot (whether due to an illness, childcare responsibilities or for bereavement), it might be more difficult to get time off.

Leverage Long Weekends And Holidays

One of the best travel tips, regardless of whether you take paid or unpaid time off, is to always leverage weekends and holidays. For example, let's say your job gives you Good Friday and the Monday after Easter off. By adding a day or two on either side of this window (whether paid or unpaid), you can give yourself a vacation of up to a week in length, even though you're only taking off a few days. This can be valuable if there's a limit to the number of days you can take off at any one time.

If you cannot take unpaid time off, you might still be able to take a short trip. There are plenty of places within the United States (as well as in Canada and Mexico) where you can jet off on a Thursday or Friday and get back in time for work on Monday or Tuesday morning. Depending on your ability to overcome jet lag and what flights depart from the city you live in, you might even be able to swing a weekend trip to Europe.

You can also choose to take a cruise if you only have a long weekend or holiday weekend available. There are many cruises (especially to the Caribbean , Gulf of Mexico and Pacific Coast of Mexico) that last three or four days. Whether over a holiday weekend, such as Memorial Day or Labor Day, or because of a "summer Friday," this can be plenty of time to get away.

At the end of the day, enjoying a vacation without taking time off is not as insurmountable a challenge as it may seem, particularly if you can strike a balance between relaxation and productivity. Again, there's also the possibility of leveraging flexible work arrangements in order to convince your boss to agree to one of your proposals. That said, it's advisable to set clear boundaries about what work you will and won't do during your vacation.

Don't Forget About School And Other Jobs

If you're a solo traveler, planning your next trip can be simple. If you manage to get time off, whether paid or unpaid, you can make your trip happen. If you're traveling with a partner, however, or with school-age children, you'll need to do more preparation.

Can you take days off without PTO? This is a relatively easy question when referring to a job, but not always when you need to factor in children's school schedules. It usually makes sense to first plan trips around school holidays before you try to schedule your own time off from work. Some schools have stricter absence policies than others, so you'll want to check the regulations before you book flights and a sailing. It's easier to take a preschooler out of school than it is to yank a high school student away from their academics and activities (especially one with sports or other commitments), so take any kids' ages and responsibilities into consideration.

Make A Short Trip Feel Long

Even if you won't be able to cruise for many days, there are ways to make your vacation feel longer. One great travel tip to improve relaxation is to fully disconnect. While you might decide to purchase an onboard Wi-Fi package in case of emergencies, turning off notifications (especially for emails and text-based services) will remove connections to many obligations from your life, allowing you to live more fully in the present moment.

You can also use the days of your cruise as an opportunity to enhance daily routines you need to stay focused and healthy at home. For example, while you might continue to wake up early on your cruise to exercise or meditate, you can also indulge in daytime naps whenever you feel like it, or have a cocktail — or two! — by the pool. Small indulgences taken steadily throughout your trip can make the travel experience feel like more of a break from the ordinary.

Choosing your destination carefully is also a travel tip that can help your vacation feel more relaxing. Picking an itinerary with more chill time and less sightseeing makes a big difference. Spending a few days on a beachy, island paradise — especially if you call on Perfect Day at CocoCay® and book an overwater cabana, where anything can be delivered to your lounge chair the moment you want it — can make you feel like you're halfway around the globe in the South Pacific instead of right off the coast of the mainland United States. In turn, booking a European cruise — with plenty of sightseeing and historical sites to explore — might make you feel accomplished but not any more refreshed than when you left home.

Even if you only end up having a few days at sea, that's plenty of time to find amazing adventures. From modifying routines and getting yourself into cruise mode to silencing distractions (especially those related to work) and being strategic about the destination you choose, the will to travel is often more important for an unforgettable experience than the particulars of the trip.

Your Next Getaway Is Closer Than You Think

As you browse cruise options, you might ask yourself "can you take days off without PTO?" Another travel tip to consider is taking partial days off or working during business hours on your cruise and having evenings free to dine, connect and celebrate with your partner or loved ones. Some jobs might even allow you to shift your hours when you're traveling, getting up early or working late in order to take advantage of time in cruise ports with your family or friends. This can be especially beneficial when you're working around school vacations and taking your own job requirements into consideration.

As a result, the answer to the question is "yes" in most cases. The key, no matter your circumstances, is being strategic — both in terms of using weekends and holidays to your advantage, as well as using your time wisely as you travel. Your next trip doesn't have to wait until next year.

Written By ROBERT SCHRADER

Robert Schrader is a writer, photographer and one of the web's original travel bloggers. In 2009 he launched his blog  Leave Your Daily Hell , which has taken him to nearly 100 countries, and has since spun off niche sites focused on Japan, Thailand, Taiwan and Italy. Robert seeks to inform, inspire, entertain and empower travelers through his work, which has been featured in in-flight magazines and digital media outlets around the world. He's excited about travel's post-pandemic rebirth, and in particular the cruise industry's comeback!

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Top 10 cruises for Canadians in 2024

Canada is a country of cruisers according to Virtuoso’s 2024 Luxe Report, which gathers information from its network of travel advisors who arrange travel for a typically affluent clientele. Cruise sales in 2023 rose 48% above 2022, with the trend proceeding in 2024, said Una O’Leary, Canada GM for Virtuoso Travel. Highlighting adventure cruising as a top trend for Canadian travellers, the report notes Canadians are willing to travel great distances for dream experiences.

As one who has reviewed cruise ships and myriad itineraries since 1990, the question I’m most often asked is: What is the best cruise?

Well, that depends on your lifestyle preferences, available time, budget, and where you wish to go. My choice of 2024’s best – or most desirable – cruise ships afloat are: Atlas World Voyager, Crystal’s Symphony and Serenity, Cunard’s Queen Anne arriving in May, Explora Journeys Explora I with Explora II arriving soon, Oceania Vista and sister Allura launching soon, Regent Seven Seas Grandeur, Seabourn’s Venture and Pursuit, and Silversea’s Silver Nova and Silver Ray launching soon.

As global horizons brim with exciting destinations, the newest itineraries beckon intrepid cruisers to view rarely-seen vistas and wildlife, experience awesome adventures, or immerse themselves in local culture. Here are ten itineraries sure to spark bragging rights.

1. Viking’s Paris & Heart of Normandy

This 8-day Seine River cruise loops from Paris to Rouen in Normandy, giving guests a glorious sense of the historic river that influenced French art, culture, cuisine, and history. Viking’s longships dock and overnight in the heart of the City of Light, in view of the Eiffel Tower, where elation bubbles over Olympic ceremonies.

Viking’s included excursions give an excellent view of Paris’ essential sites, plus a visit to Napoleon’s Chateau Malmaison. Stops along the Seine include medieval villages and dreamy Giverny for the house and gardens where Impressionist artist Claude Monet painted his cycle of water lilies. From the Gothic city of Rouen, guests visit the Normandy Beaches – marking the 80th Anniversary of D-Day on June 6, 2024 – as well as Allies’ cemeteries, museums and historic sites. Optional excursions include visits to ancient Honfleur and Versailles Palace.

2. Cunard’s British Isles Festival Voyage

Cunard celebrates the new Queen Anne – the world’s most anticipated cruise ship, arriving in May 2024 – with a 14-night British Isles Festival Voyage that circumnavigates the British Isles from Southampton, England with calls at Ireland and Scotland.

Every port offers chances to experience active adventure and historic culture. From Belfast, the Giant’s Causeway and Titanic Trail. From Cobh, Blarney Castle and Cork sites. Sites include Isle of Sky, Orkney Isles and Glasgow’s best. Edinburgh options include Edinburgh Castle, Holyrood Palace and Royal Yacht Britannia. Along the way: golf heaven at St. Andrews, and plenty of Whiskey distilleries for Single Malt aficionados.

3. Silversea’s Antarctica Bridge

Silversea’s expedition cruises offer two ways to reach the White Continent. Fly the “ Antarctica bridge ” from Punta Arenas, Chile over Drake Passage to King George Island, Antarctica, to embark on Silver Endeavour.

Or cruise from Puerto Williams , Chile – the world’s southernmost populated town – across Drake Passage on a course that includes Falkland Islands and South Georgia en route to Antarctica. As Antarctica itineraries are guided by weather and ice conditions, trust the captain to navigate through ice and icebergs to calm bays and isles where you can safely kayak or take Zodiac rides to accessible landings.

Cruising Antarctica, you’re destined to be awestruck by the pristine beauty, thriving wildlife including whales, seals, and various penguin species. And if you brave a polar dip in frigid waters, you earn a lifetime of bragging rights.

4. Seabourn’s Beyond The North Cape

Seabourn high Arctic expedition including Svalbard Seabourn Venture’s 12-Day Svalbard – Beyond The North Cape takes guests on the ultimate Arctic adventure, starting north of the Arctic Circle in Tromso, Norway and ending in Edinburgh, Scotland. Norway’s coast and islands are rich in birdlife, wildlife, and dotted with fishing villages and places sacred to Norwegian heritage.

Thrills abound on kayak and Zodiac jaunts among icebergs and through scenic fiords, and exhilarating hikes over tundra landscapes thriving with small plants and flowers. The remote Svalbard archipelago is a unique haven for polar bears, as well as seals, walrus and humpback whales. If conditions allow at Longyearbyen, guests may join an optional submarine dive.

5. Regent Seven Seas’ Epicurean Spotlight

Seven Seas Grandeur’s 10-day Epicurean Spotlight voyage from Athens to Barcelona focuses on tantalizing gastronomies of countries fringing the Mediterranean Sea, with opportunities to meet celebrated chefs, dine in Michelin-starred restaurants, visited famed wineries, learn culinary secrets, and visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

From Piraeus, Greece (port for Athens) Seven Seas Grandeur calls at Bozcaada and Istanbul, Turkey; Taormina, Sicily; Sorrento for Capri, Italy; Civitavecchia to access Rome, Italy; Cannes and Marseille, France, before disembarkation in Barcelona.

6. Oceania Cruises’ Kiwi & Aussie Majesty

Oceania Regatta’s 15-day itinerary from Auckland, New Zealand to Sydney, Australia mingles active escapades through stunning nature and wildlife with indulgent culinary and wine experiences, while introducing guests to vibrant local cultures, both Aboriginal and modern.

This excellent itinerary offers excursions to New Zealand’s best sites within a time frame impossible by a land tour. From Auckland, it runs to Rotorua, Napier, Picton, Christchurch, Dunedin, Bluff and cruising Milford Sound fiords before crossing the Tasman Sea to Australia for calls at Melbourne and Tasmania en route to Sydney.

7. Crystal Symphony’s Land of the Rising Sun

Crystal Symphony’s 11-day itinerary  from Hong Kong to Yokohama, port city for Tokyo, takes guests on an immersive journey through the history and delights of Asian culture, both ancient and modern.

Starting in Hong Kong, the voyage continues to Keelung, Taiwan en route to a comprehensive tour of Japan. Notable ports of call include tropical Miyako-Jima, Naha Okinawa, Kagoshima, Kochi, and Kobe, prior to overnighting in Yokohama for excursions to Tokyo.

8. Explora Journey’s Cinematic Shores and the Panama Canal 

Explora 1’s leisurely, 19-day itinerary from Los Angeles to Miami, called Journey from Cinematic Shores and the Panama Canal An Extended Journey takes guests on a superbly luxurious voyage to San Diego; Mexico’s Cabo San Lucas, Mazatland and Puerto Vallarta en route to Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala.

From there, guests visit Puntarena, Costa Rica before crossing the iconic Panama Canal. After stopping in Panama City, the cruise continues to Cartagena and Santa Marta Columbia before arriving in Miami.

9. Holland America Line’s Yukon + Denali

As Alaska celebrates its 65th anniversary of statehood, many lines offer special cruises. Holland America Line’s 14-day Yukon + Denali cruise on ms Kongingsdam offers the most exciting combo of sea and land experiences, with chances to view the Northern Lights. From Anchorage, guests overnight in Alaska’s Denali National Park before visiting Fairbanks.

After flying to Dawson City, Yukon for another overnight, they continue to Whitehorse, northern Canada’s largest city, then on to Skagway to embark on the Alaska route to see Glacier Bay and Ketchikan. The cruise continues through the Inside Passage to Vancouver, British Columbia.

10. Icon of the Seas’ Caribbean Adventure

The world’s biggest ship, Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas is a destination unto itself. Loaded with spectacular options for thrill-seekers and families with kids, Icon is conducive to intergenerational bonding, as grandparents can easily retreat to secluded, adult-only pools and lounges.

The Miami-based Icon sails year-round, seven-day Caribbean itineraries Eastern routes include Philipsburg, St. Maarten; Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, and Basseterre, St. Kitts & Nevis. Western routes include Puerto Costa Maya, Mexico; Roatan, Honduras, and Cozumel Mexico. Each itinerary includes a day at the line’s private island called Special Day at Coco Cay, where kid-free types can hide away at an adult-only pool and beach.

P&O Cruises 2026 Summer Collection – On Sale Soon!! More details here >>

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Which Royal Caribbean Ships Are Sailing From Southampton in 2024?

Ahoy, adventure seekers and cruise enthusiasts! Get ready to embark on a journey of a lifetime as Royal Caribbean  sets sail from Southampton in 2024 with Anthem of the Seas and Serenade of the Seas. These two magnificent ships promise an unforgettable experience, combining luxury, innovation, and excitement on the high seas.

Anthem of the Seas

The Anthem of the Seas , a Quantum-class ship, is a true marvel of modern cruise engineering. Boasting 18 decks of entertainment, dining, and relaxation, this ship offers an array of activities to suit every taste. From adrenaline-pumping thrills to serene moments of relaxation, the Anthem is designed to cater to a diverse range of passengers.

Entertainment Extravaganza:

The Anthem of the Seas is home to the groundbreaking Two70 lounge, where cutting-edge technology meets world-class entertainment. With its floor-to-ceiling windows spanning three decks, Two70 provides breathtaking views by day. It then transforms into a mesmerising entertainment venue by night. Spectacular shows featuring state-of-the-art robotics, stunning visuals, and live performances will leave guests in awe.

Thrills on the High Seas:

For the thrill-seekers, Anthem boasts the North Star, a glass observation capsule that extends over the edge of the ship. This provides unparalleled 360-degree views of the surrounding ocean. The SeaPlex, the largest indoor active space at sea, offers activities ranging from bumper cars to roller skating, ensuring non-stop fun for guests of all ages.

Serenade of the Seas

While the Anthem of the Seas is a technological wonder, the Serenade of the Seas is a vision of elegance and sophistication. This Radiance-class ship is designed for a more intimate and relaxed cruising experience, perfect for those seeking a balance between adventure and luxury.

Spectacular Dining:

Indulge your taste buds with Serenade’s diverse culinary offerings. From casual cafes to specialty restaurants, the ship promises a gastronomic journey around the world. The Main Dining Room offers a refined atmosphere for more formal occasions, while the Windjammer Cafe serves up a variety of international cuisines in a more laid-back setting.

Panoramic Views and Serenity:

Serenade of the Seas provides a more intimate experience with its stunning glass-walled Solarium, offering breathtaking views of the ocean. Guests can unwind in the whirlpools or lounge in the tranquil setting of the adults-only Solarium pool, creating the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Setting Sail from Southampton:

Royal Caribbean sailing from Southampton in 2024 is fantastic news. The port of Southampton serves as the perfect launchpad for these incredible voyages. As one of the UK’s most historic and vibrant cities, Southampton offers a seamless blend of maritime heritage and contemporary attractions. Passengers can explore the city’s rich history, visit museums, or simply soak in the atmosphere of the bustling waterfront before embarking on their cruise adventure.

For more information about Royal Caribbean sailing from Southampton in 2024, call us 02380 658 386 . In the meantime, browse our selection of Royal Caribbean cruise deals .

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