With such a fantastic range of cruise destinations, few places in the world offer the sheer variety of scenery, cultures and climate as does Europe.

And with many of the world’s leading lines including sailings direct from UK ports, it’s a hassle-free holiday option giving you great value.

Itineraries range from short breaks to France or around the British Isles to longer cruises in the Mediterranean, to the Canary Islands, up to the Baltic Sea or along the breathtaking fjords of Norway.

There are amazing deals offered throughout the year on cruises in Europe and a selection of superb ships to choose from, all of which also makes it perfect for those wanting to try a cruise for the first time.

Sun lovers have flocked to the Canaries on cruise liners for decades, heading for the beautiful beaches and year-round warmth of this charming island group.

Others choose the colourful and charismatic port cities like Barcelona, Cadiz, Marseilles, Naples, Ajaccio and St Tropez visited by ships cruising the Western Mediterranean.

Journey further east into this great sea and you can reach the historically significant sites of Venice, Athens, Ephesus, Istanbul, Odessa and Egypt on a culture-rich holiday of a lifetime.

For a stunningly beautiful contrast a cruise towards the Arctic Circle rewards the discerning cruise guest with some of the most awe-inspiring scenery anywhere in the world as the glacial coastline of Norway offers up its splendours to ships venturing along the country’s magnificent fjords.

Baltic cruises will take you to the beautiful Danish capital, Copenhagen before continuing onwards to view the ornate architecture of St Petersburg as well as visits to such interesting cities as Riga, Talinn and Gothenburg.

P&O,  Costa, Cunard, Holland America,  Carnival and Princess are just some of the world-leading lines offering cruises to a variety of great European destinations.