Winter sun, northern lights and new ports - where to take a cruise holiday in 2025
Share:
Cruise holidays are becoming increasingly popular as they offer a hassle-free way to explore multiple destinations without the need to constantly pack and unpack. According to the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), 2.3 million people embarked on a cruise in 2023, a significant increase from the 1.7 million the previous year. The Mediterranean and Caribbean remain popular choices, but with ongoing investment in infrastructure, new ports of call are popping up worldwide. Feeling spoilt for choice?.
Here are some of the latest hotspots... The area is attracting more travellers with its intricate architecture, ancient cultures and vibrant souks. Countries like the UAE and Saudi Arabia are investing heavily in Western tourism, building new cruise terminals, ports and private islands. Saudi Arabia alone aims to attract 1.3 million cruise travellers by 2035. Despite issues in the Suez Canal, political stability in other areas is improving.
Celestyal Cruises is branching out with their newest vessel, Celestyal Discovery, which starting from winter 2025 will whisk passengers away on short and sweet escapes around the Arabian Gulf, visiting hotspots like Abu Dhabi, Doha, and Sir Bani Yas Island, with tempting prices from £249pp. Sibling ship Celestyal Journey offers seven-nighters through the same stunning region from a cheerful £429pp.