The image of cruise holidays as stuffy, overcrowded, and solely for retirees is officially over. Today's voyages offer a dynamic, hassle-free gateway to adventure, appealing to everyone from young couples to multi-generational families. With packages often bundling flights, meals, and world-class entertainment, setting sail is becoming the smart choice for 2026 holiday planning.
The New Era of Cruising: Value and Variety for All
Social media influencers and viral deals are fuelling a major resurgence in cruise popularity, showcasing the incredible diversity on offer. Mike Graham, the TikTok sensation known as 'Mr Cruise' and an expert for Destination2, confirms the shift. "We have definitely seen a trend of more multi-generational families on cruises, especially since Covid," he says. "Adults-only cruises are also very popular, offering a more relaxed vibe which appeals to young couples."
Modern ships are like floating resorts, packed with amenities. "If you’re a family they’ve got all the aqua parks and kids clubs, and if you’re an adult there’s theatre, live music, comedians and all sorts of different dining experiences," Graham explains. An added bonus is more evening port stops, allowing passengers to experience a destination's nightlife and atmosphere.
Top Cruise Picks for 2026: Budget to Luxury
Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned sailor, here are standout itineraries to suit every wallet and wanderlust.
Budget-Friendly Adventures
For a short, affordable introduction, Royal Caribbean's weekend getaway to Paris is ideal. Departing from Southampton on 29 May or 12 June 2026, the two-night cruise aboard Liberty of the Seas starts from £349 per person. You get a full day in Paris from 7am to 9pm on Saturday, with standard drinks and buffet food included.
Seeking winter sun? The Barcelona & Mediterranean Medley cruise with Destination2 offers incredible value. Departing 29 January 2026 on the innovative MSC World Europa, this seven-night, full-board voyage starts from £566 per person and includes return flights and a Barcelona hotel stay. The itinerary covers Marseille, Genoa, Rome, Messina, and Valletta in Malta.
Mid-Range Marvels
Dreaming of Greek islands? The Best of Greece cruise aboard Royal Caribbean's Brilliance of the Seas departs 30 August 2026. Priced from £831 per person (including flights and a hotel), it visits Mykonos, Santorini, Crete, and Katakolon, starting and ending near Athens and Rome.
For families, the Eastern Caribbean & Perfect Day cruise on the new Star of Seas is action-packed. Departing 8 February 2026 from Orlando (from £1,289 per person), it features a stop at Royal Caribbean's private island, CocoCay, plus St. Thomas and St. Maarten.
Luxury & Unique Experiences
Beer enthusiasts can celebrate International Beer Day (7 August 2026) on Riverside Luxury Cruises' Hops & Heritage voyage. The seven-night river cruise from 29 July 2026, aboard Riverside Debussy, starts from £3,094 per person (solo occupancy included). It journeys through Switzerland, France, Germany, and the Netherlands.
For an immersive cultural expedition, explore Colombia with AmaWaterways. The Enriching Journey Through Colombia, departing 5 September 2026 on AmaMagdalena, starts from £4,389 per person. The trip includes a private carnival celebration in Barranquilla and visits to the UNESCO site of Mompox and Cartagena.
Setting Sail on Your 2026 Holiday
The message from the industry is clear: there's a perfect cruise for every type of traveller in 2026. By leveraging package value, targeting the right itinerary, and booking ahead, you can secure a memorable holiday that combines relaxation, adventure, and incredible value. The golden age of cruising is here, and it's more accessible than ever.
