Mini-Cruises Departing from the UK

Mini-Cruises Departing from the UK

Providing a taste of small ship cruising experience and a chance to savour the cultures of two captivating cities, this five-night cruise makes for a perfect short break. Visiting Belgium, you’ll enjoy a scenic journey along the Western Scheldt River before docking in the heart of Antwerp, closer to the city’s attractions. Head ashore and you’ll soon discover highlights such as the iconic Cathedral of Our Lady, traditional Belgian chocolate shops, Grote Markt and the legendary Diamond District, where you can not only see some of the world’s greatest gems but help to polish a rough diamond too.

Then it’s on to the Netherlands, where you will once again be close to the centre of one of Europe’s most attraction-packed cities, Amsterdam. An abundance of attractions, from Anne Frank House to the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum, await just a short distance from the gangway. Don’t miss the chance to explore iconic canals and marvel at the magnificent architecture of the UNESCO-listed Canal Ring. Perhaps see the sights by bicycle, or opt for a romantic canal boat tour in the evening.

 

What’s Included?

  • Comfortable, stylish cabins and suites equipped with a Smart TV, hairdryer, tea and coffee making facilities, a fridge and individually controlled air conditioning
  • A tempting choice of cuisine every day throughout your cruise – with five-course à la carte dinners, casual breakfast and lunch buffets, late-night snacks and much more
  • Unlimited, self-service tea and coffee available 24hrs at selected venues, complimentary afternoon tea* with sandwiches and cakes, and in-room sandwiches and snacks
  • A full programme of evening entertainment, including cabaret shows, comedy, dancing and live music
  • Full use of on board leisure facilities, including swimming pools, Jacuzzis and gym
  • A wide choice of engaging on board activities and lectures throughout the day
  • All UK port taxes (where collectable in advance)
  • Luggage porterage between your cabin and the drop-off/pick-up point
  • Formal welcome and/or Captain’s Drinks Party and Gala Buffet
Day 1 - Southampton, United Kingdom

Depart late PM

Day 2 - Antwerp, Belgium

Arrive early PM. Belgium’s charming, medieval city of Antwerp is the country’s biggest port and often recognised as its capital of cool. It has proved an alluring city for centuries, attracting lovers of art, fashion and, of course, diamonds – over 80% of the world's rough diamonds pass through the city's famous diamond district at some point or other. Renowned for its charm and sparkle, Antwerp was one of Europe’s principle cities in the mid-16th century and has maintained the essence of its medieval past, despite severe bombing during World War II. A riverside fortress and numerous intriguing cobbled streets are overshadowed by the 123m high tower of the imposing Cathedral of Our Lady, the biggest church in Benelux. Its construction started in 1352 on the site of a 10th century chapel, but like many medieval religious buildings, it took several centuries to complete. The cathedral interior has four altarpieces by Peter Paul Rubens, a legendary artist from the Baroque era. The Royal Museum of Fine Arts is dedicated to Rubens and houses many of his finest works, along with those of other Flemish masters.

Day 3 - Antwerp, Belgium

Depart early PM

Day 4 - Amsterdam, Netherlands

Arrive early AM, depart Late Night. Golden Age canals lined with elegant merchant homes is the familiar backdrop for the Netherlands' historic capital, Amsterdam. Established in the 17th century with the construction of the River Amstel dam, this celebrated port offers everything from treasure-packed museums and antiquarian bookshops to chic boutiques and convivial cafés. Equally, art is never far away in this hub of uber-creative design. One noticeable thing about the city is that, some 150 years after its industrial heyday, Amsterdam is once again awash with producers. Amsterdam has some 40 museums, and the Museum Quarter boasts three of the most famous: the Rijksmuseum has paintings from Rembrandt, Vermeer and Frans Hals; the Van Gogh Museum; and the Stedelijk Museum of Modern Art, displays work from Manet to Picasso. The Anne Frankhuis where Anne Frank and her family hid from German troops during the World War II, is an experience many visitors seek.

Day 5 - Southampton, United Kingdom

Arrive early AM

ONE-NIGHT CRUISE

FROM ONLY £179pp

Fabulous one-night cruise from Newcastle to Rosyth aboard Balmoral. Perfect for first time guests, as well as regular cruisers looking for a relaxing night away from it all, this ‘taster cruise’ is sure to whet your appetite for a longer cruise adventure.

Although there are no exotic destinations on your itinerary and your time on board will be shorter than usual, having the chance to enjoy all of the benefits of cruising on board a smaller, more intimate ship will ensure this short escape is relaxing, rewarding and memorable from the moment you step aboard. You can indulge with delicious five course dinners prepared and cooked to perfection by our expert chefs; take in the extra special live entertainment and musical performances in the show lounges; feel the sea breeze and watch the stars out on deck; and dance into the early hours. Enjoy it all before retiring to the ample space of your room or suite for a comfortable night’s sleep.

No matter how you choose to make the most of your time on board, you’ll share the same experience with your friends, family and fellow guests that you would on any other sailing. And, as usual, the friendly staff will be on hand to take care of everything and provide personal, attentive service throughout your journey north.

Day 1 – Newcastle, United Kingdom

Not only is Newcastle one of Britain’s greatest and most vibrant cities, it is also a fantastic starting point for a cruise. With its excellent road and rail connections to the rest of northern England, Scotland and beyond, and its large, comfortable passenger lounge, the Port of Tyne is the perfect place to set sail on your relaxing holiday.

Day 2 – Rosyth (Edinburgh), United Kingdom

The port of Rosyth lies just over the River Forth in Fife, about 11 miles from Edinburgh.  Scotland’s historic capital is one of the U.K.’s finest cities,  combining beautiful architecture, engrossing cultures and an extensive heritage; in short, it’s a must-visit destination.

From the UNESCO-listed Old Town & New Town districts within the city centre to the lush parks and rolling hills on the outskirts, Edinburgh is a city that begs to be explored, offering something for everyone.

To see some of Scotland’s most famous and beautiful sights, be sure to explore the historic Old Town which is home to the city’s magnificent castle, the famous Holyrood Palace (Royal residence of Her Majesty the Queen, when she is in Scotland) the parliament building and St Giles Cathedral. Or, if you prefer to indulge in a little retail therapy, you can wander the high-end stores and independent boutiques that line Princes Street, George Street and other areas in the New Town.

Edinburgh is also renowned for its annual celebrations and events, including the world-famous Military Tattoo, the Edinburgh Festival and Fringe and Hogmanay (New Year’s Eve).

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