Unlike the relatively ‘safe’ beach holiday option, cruising is a fairly unique style of holiday which until recently has only appealed to a certain demographic. For those who have their reservations, many are still unwilling to try it due to the risks of spending their holiday budget on something which they might not enjoy. But thanks to a range of mini cruises and overnight taster cruises now available – designed for first-timers or those looking for a quick getaway – now could be the perfect time to give it a go.

If you’re open to the idea of cruises 2012 is the ideal time to take the plunge. You’ll find a fantastic selection of short-term itineraries on offer which is an excellent way to ease yourself away from your usual holiday experience and try life onboard, without breaking the bank.
Despite the short nature of these trips you’ll have the chance to visit some cracking destinations and have time to wander around at your leisure, from Bruges and Brussels to Hamburg and Paris. But that’s not all. On a cruise, the ports of call are only part of the story. Aside from seeing and ticking some great places off your list, cruising is all about life onboard. It’s a chance to live it up and enjoy a seriously sumptuous way of life with gourmet meals and endless buffet tables, superb facilities with everything from outdoor pools to spa treatments, and a lively programme of evening entertainment – perfect for getting your holiday off to a bang.

And one of the great things about a cruise holiday is that it doesn’t have to cost the earth. Most cruises come with a range of cabins on a sliding cost scale – so you can plump for the basic interior option, or go all out and choose a balcony cabin or a suite.