As the nights begin to draw in and the weather starts to cool down, thoughts are now turning to winter and the festive season. If the usual cruise jaunt to warm weather climes like the Canary Islands or the Caribbean doesn't feel festive enough, consider a trip north instead. From a river cruise around the famous Christmas markets of Europe to authentic reindeer racing in Norway, there's plenty of fun to be had at sea that doesn't involve the usual Caribbean cruise itinerary.
We've selected four great cruise options to give you some inspiration from November through to February, and one that even takes place over Christmas itself. Take a look.
Reindeer Races in Norway with Hurtigruten
When: 2 February, 2010
What: Head off to northern Norway for a fantastic cruise this winter. The seven-day cruise begins with a two night pre-voyage trip to the annual Reindeer Racing championships and the Sami Day celebrations (the date when the native Sami Congress first came in 1917). Competitors try to stay upright on skis behind their reindeer as they gallop down the snow-covered streets.
The cruise will then begin onboard Hurtigruten's Midnatsol. The Norwegian ship will call along the coast as it heads south, crossing back over the Arctic Circle, and down to Bergen.
Why: Reindeer racing is definitely one of those once-in-a-lifetime events. And the chance to see the fjords in the winter light is a nice twist on the normal Norway cruise.
Watch out for: Hurtigruten isn't a facility-packed cruise line -- there is a casual vibe onboard and the ships are more about the surroundings, scenery and interaction with other travellers, rather than casinos, bars and restaurant options.
To book: For U.K. travellers, the price for this trip starts at £975 per person; it can be booked at hurtigruten.co.uk. For U.S. travellers, the price is $2,699 per person; it can be booked at hurtigruten.us.
Festive River Cruise in Paris
When: 19 December, 2009
What: If you fancy a trip to Paris this year, Uniworld's River Baroness will be sailing a seven-night cruise along the Seine. The cruise begins in the French capital and heads along the river with visits to Les Andelys and Rouen. The ship then cruises back to Paris where it will spend four days -- giving you the chance to explore the city on ship-led excursions, and return to the comfort of the ship for the evening.
On Christmas Eve, you will take a tour of the city and on Christmas Day itself, you can watch a spectacular light show at the Eiffel Tower.
Why: The towns along the Seine are packed with tourists during warmer months; on a Christmas cruise you'll get to experience French villages, not to mention Paris itself, as a local.
Watch out for: If you are looking to visit a large mix of ports, you need to be aware that this cruise is mainly focused on Paris and surrounding river ports. Also, be warned that if the weather isn't great in Paris, river vessels like the River Baroness -- although comfy and elegant -- don't have the facilities of the mega ships (such as vast spas or theatrical shows) so be prepared to make your own entertainment!
To book: The price for this trip starts at £1,695 per person for U.K. travellers (including travel from London). For more information, visit titanhitours.co.uk. For U.S. travellers, prices start at $1,999 for a cruise-only fare. For more information, visit uniworld.com.
See the Baltic in Winter with P&O Cruises
When: 8 December, 2009
What: Head to the Baltic this December for a pre-Christmas 10-night cruise on P&O's Arcadia. Leaving from Southampton, the ship will visit Hamburg, Oslo, Copenhagen, Amsterdam and Brugge. All of these cities offer great shopping and Christmas markets for crafts, food and other gifts.
Why: As part of this cruise, you will get a full day and evening in Hamburg and two full days in Copenhagen -- a must-see is Tivoli Gardens -- the fairytale-inspired park is great for getting in the Christmas mood with its Christmas market and a festive light show.
Watch out for: It is going to be cold in the Baltic! Be sure to bring your coats, scarves ands gloves for this trip! Also beware, that Arcadia is an adult-only ship.
To book: The price for this cruise starts at £899 ($1,430) per person for an outside cabin (with obstructed view). For more information or to book, visit pocruises.com.
Traditional Transatlantic Crossing with Cunard
When: 11 November, 2009
What: Get a jump on holiday shopping in New York by travelling on Cunard's last Atlantic crossing of 2009: Queen Mary 2 sails from Southampton.
Why: Queen Mary 2, one of the world's largest ships, was not only designed to handle rough seas (which are a potential at this time of year) it was also created with a multitude of indoor activities and attractions should the weather chase you indoors.
Watch out for: Remember this is not a port-intensive cruise -- there will be six days at sea on this cruise.
To book: For U.K. travellers, Gills Cruise Centre is offering a cruise-fly package from £979 per person. For more information, visit Gills Cruise Centre. For U.S. travellers, prices for a cruise-only start at $995 per person. For more information and to book, visit cunard.com.
