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The Reading Deck
Inspire your next great voyage and read our latest cruise news, insights, and immersive travel diaries. Curated by our team of cruise specialists, this is where our expertise meets your passion to explore the world by sea.
Editor's Picks
Explora Journeys Announces Plans for River Cruises
Explora Journeys has announced plans to enter the river cruise market after signing a Letter of Intent for new luxury river ships. The brand plans to bring its Ocean State of Mind philosophy to Europe’s waterways, with sales expected to open in 2027.
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Silversea's new suite categories 2027: what's changing for 2027
Silversea is simplifying its 17 suites into four clear categories: Oceanview, Veranda, Residence, and Villa. From 2027, Residence and Villa guests gain new perks like early spa and dining reservations, private consultations, and exclusive Signature Experiences, alongside all the usual all-inclusive comforts.
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South Africa and Cape Town Cruises
Compare South Africa and Cape Town cruises with Cunard, Seabourn and Silversea. Discover how their itineraries, onboard experiences and inclusions differ, from grand voyages and world cruise segments to dedicated Africa sailings, and find the right option for your next adventure.
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Which cruise lines operate from Dover in 2027?
Discover cruises from Dover in 2027, including the cruise lines sailing from this convenient UK port and destinations across Norway, Iceland, the Baltic, Mediterranean and beyond. Find out about popular routes, parking, transport links and everything you need to plan your no-fly cruise.
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Best cruises departing from Auckland 2027
Discover the best cruises departing from Auckland in 2027, from New Zealand’s spectacular fjords and coastal highlights to Australia and the South Pacific. Explore top luxury cruise lines, popular routes and practical tips to help you plan an unforgettable voyage from Auckland.
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10 reasons to cruise with Oceania
Discover 10 reasons to cruise with Oceania, from The Finest Cuisine at Sea® and included speciality dining to intimate ships, destination-rich itineraries and relaxed elegance. Find out what makes Oceania Cruises a rewarding choice for travellers looking to explore the world in comfort.
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Dom Pérignon Experience Aboard Oceania Vista: Our Review
Step inside the exclusive Dom Pérignon Experience aboard Oceania Vista. From six beautifully crafted courses and rare Champagne pairings to the intimate setting of Privée, discover what makes this unique culinary experience at sea so memorable and whether it is worth the price.
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The best cruise lines for seniors in 2027: accessibility, ease, and elegance
Discover the best cruise lines for seniors in 2027. Holland America, Celebrity, Silversea, and Cunard excel for accessibility, comfort, and elegance. This guide covers medical support onboard, accessible cabin features, booking tips for seniors, and how to find your perfect ship for 2027.
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Cunard Cruise Ship Wedding Packages
Cunard is one of the only cruise lines that can legally marry couples at sea. This guide covers wedding packages aboard Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria, Queen Elizabeth, and Queen Anne: from inclusions to pricing (from £3,600 plus £700 Marriage Licence fee) and booking tips.
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Best 3-Night Christmas Market Cruises
Discover the best 3-night Christmas market cruises from UK ports. Visit Bruges, Amsterdam, and Hamburg markets aboard Cunard, Fred. Olsen, and P&O. Experience festive onboard entertainment, gala dining, and get expert booking guidance from The Cruise Line's Voyage Consultants.
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Latest Blog Posts
Every New Cruise Ship Launching in 2026 (and What’s Coming in 2027)
February 2026
2026 is shaping up to be a landmark year for cruising, with major new ship launches across luxury, expedition and mainstream travel. From hotel brands at sea to hydrogen-powered ships, this guide covers every debut in 2026 and what’s coming in 2027.
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Cruises from Southampton in 2026: Every Ship, Every Cruise Line
February 2026
A complete, no-fly guide to cruising from Southampton in 2026, covering every ship, every cruise line, and every destination on offer. From short mini-cruises to world voyages and ultra-luxury sailings, this is everything you need to know before you book.
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Star Seeker Review January 2026
January 2026
Star Seeker introduces a new era for Windstar, combining four decades of yachting heritage with a modern, exploration-ready design. Intimate in scale yet rich in detail, she delivers refined suites, effortless flow and standout dining at sea.
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Atlas Ocean Voyages Introduces Atlas Adventurer
January 2026
Atlas Ocean Voyages introduces Atlas Adventurer, its first luxury expedition sailing yacht and the debut of the Atlas class. Launching in 2028, she blends sustainable innovation, all suite accommodation and immersive global exploration.
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Lorraine Kelly’s Norwegian Odyssey: Discovering Norway’s Coast with Hurtigruten
January 2026
Lorraine Kelly’s Norwegian Odyssey follows her journey along Norway’s iconic coastline with Hurtigruten, uncovering local culture, wildlife and coastal traditions. The Channel 4 series celebrates slow travel and the communities Hurtigruten has served for over 130 years.
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Oceania Sonata: A New Era of Refined
January 2026
Oceania Sonata debuts in 2027 as the first ship in Oceania Cruises’ new Sonata Class. Designed for adults-only luxury, she offers exceptional space, beautifully reimagined suites and innovative dining experiences at sea.
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Windstar Cruises Launches Star Seeker on Her Maiden Voyage
January 2026
Windstar Cruises’ Star Seeker has embarked on her maiden voyage, marking the line’s first purpose-built newbuild in over 30 years. Designed for just over 220 guests, the all suite yacht introduces new accommodation, enhanced onboard features and a fresh chapter in Windstar’s small ship cruising.
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Windstar Names Libby Anschutz Godmother of Star Seeker
December 2025
Windstar Cruises has appointed Libby Anschutz as Godmother of its new all suite Star Seeker yacht, ahead of the Miami christening in January 2026. Her role marks an important moment for the expanding small ship fleet, with sister Sarah set to name Star Explorer in London in May 2027.
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Wind Surf Review July 2025
November 2025
Wind Surf feels like a private sailing yacht, offering warm hospitality, elegant spaces and a relaxed intimate atmosphere. Staterooms are well designed, dining is excellent and the crew deliver personalised service. With peaceful lounges and a friendly small ship culture, it is ideal for understated luxury at sea.
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What Does All-Inclusive Mean on a Luxury Cruise?
November 2025
All inclusive luxury cruising removes the stress from travel, with fine dining, premium drinks, Wi Fi, entertainment and even excursions often included. Spacious suites and seamless service define the experience, letting you unwind completely and focus on the journey rather than the bill.
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Queen Mary 2 Ship Visit
November 2025
Stepping aboard Cunards Queen Mary 2 felt like entering a golden age of ocean travel. From elegant staterooms to a superb lunch in Britannia Restaurant, the ships timeless style and exceptional service shone throughout my visit. Queen Mary 2 left a lasting impression and I am already dreaming of returning.
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Into The Wild - Alaska Cruise Review 2025
November 2025
I had long dreamed of Alaska’s wild beauty. Sailing from Vancouver on Oceania Riviera, I explored Ketchikan, Juneau and Haines, watched whales rise from the water and glaciers tower around me, and felt the wonder of true wilderness. Alaska exceeded every hope and left me eager to return.
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Lord of the Highlands Review August 2025
August 2025
Experience Hebridean Island Cruises aboard Lord of the Highlands, a 38 guest small ship sailing the Caledonian Canal. Enjoy Scottish charm, exceptional dining and memorable excursions from Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh. A perfect choice for luxury travellers seeking an intimate way to explore Scotland.
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Choosing the Right Ship for Your Galapagos Cruise
August 2025
Explore the top ships for a Galapagos adventure, from luxury choices like Silver Origin to classic expedition vessels such as Santa Cruz II. With strict environmental rules, selecting the right small ship is essential. This guide helps you find the Galapagos vessel that suits your travel style.
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Explora Journeys - Everything You Need to Know (Expert Tips)
August 2025
Explora Journeys offers refined luxury cruising with all suite ships, exceptional dining and a truly relaxed atmosphere. This guide covers the ships, suites, dining and destinations, with insight from our Voyage Consultant Jess. A perfect choice for travellers seeking all inclusive luxury at sea.
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Oceania Allura Review July 2025
July 2025
This first look review of Oceania Allura highlights her elegant design, exceptional dining and relaxed, quiet luxury. Spacious suites, serene open decks and warm service make her an inviting choice for modern travellers. A beautifully crafted ship that showcases the best of Oceania Cruises.
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5 Things to Know Before Cruising to Antarctica
July 2025
Antarctica is one of the most remote and remarkable places on Earth, offering wildlife, silence and landscapes unlike anywhere else. With insight from our Voyage Consultant Ashley, who has sailed there twice, this guide shares essential tips to help you prepare for an unforgettable Antarctic journey.
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Oceania Cruises Updates Dress Code from September 2025
July 2025
Oceania Cruises has introduced an updated dress code that balances elegance with comfort. From 1 September 2025, the new guidelines offer clearer, more flexible daytime and evening attire while preserving the refined, relaxed atmosphere guests expect across the fleet with ease and confidence. Now
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Windstar's Star Explorer Is Debuting in Late 2026-27
July 2025
Windstar Cruises will debut its newest yacht, Star Explorer, in the Mediterranean from winter 2026. Offering off season sailings with overnight stays, festive port calls and generous launch offers, these itineraries combine small ship charm with immersive European winter experiences.
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Jane McDonald Sets Sail with Scenic and Emerald Cruises in New Channel 5 Series
June 2025
Jane McDonald returns to television in 2026 with From Pole to Pole, a new Channel 5 series following her journey from Antarctica to the Arctic. Filmed aboard Scenic Eclipse and Emerald Sakara, the series blends remote exploration, ultra luxury cruising and unforgettable destinations.
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