Offers

Cruise Holidays: Exclusive Access to Amazing Deals

We're thrilled to announce an exclusive partnership that brings you unprecedented access to some of the most extraordinary cruise holidays at unmatched prices.

Through our strategic alliance with renowned cruise specialists Imagine Cruising, we can now offer you exclusive access to a unique portfolio of cruise holidays, deals that simply cannot be found anywhere else at these remarkable prices.

A Partnership Built on Excellence

This groundbreaking collaboration represents more than just another booking arrangement; it's a carefully crafted alliance between three industry leaders committed to delivering exceptional value and unforgettable experiences. Our reputation for personalised service, combined with Barrhead Travel's extensive industry purchasing power and Imagine Cruising's carefully curated collection of premium voyages, creates an unparalleled offering for cruise enthusiasts like you.

What makes this partnership truly special is its exclusivity. These extraordinary deals are available exclusively through this unique three-way relationship, allowing you as our valued client to gain access to cruise experiences and pricing that no other local travel agency can match. It's a significant advantage that demonstrates our commitment to securing the very best opportunities for you.

Extraordinary Experiences at Unbeatable Prices

The portfolio of available cruises reads like a wish list of dream destinations and luxury experiences. From all-inclusive Celebrity voyages showcasing Japan's iconic Mount Fuji and China's ancient wonders, to ultra-luxury Silversea expeditions combining India's Golden Triangle with China's cultural treasures, these aren't merely holidays; they're the bucket list journeys you've been dreaming of.

Particularly exciting are the comprehensive packages that extend far beyond traditional cruising. You can embark on adventures that seamlessly blend ocean voyaging with immersive land experiences: complimentary escorted tours through Vietnam and Cambodia's historic sites, luxury rail journeys through Switzerland's Alpine splendour, or exclusive access to Peru's magnificent Machu Picchu.

The variety is equally impressive, catering to your diverse preferences and travel styles. If you're an adventure seeker, you can explore the pristine wilderness of the Galápagos Islands, whilst if you prefer luxury, you might choose the sophistication of Cunard's Mediterranean voyages or the exclusivity of Transcend Cruises' ballroom serenade experiences along the Danube.

Value That Simply Cannot Be Matched

Perhaps the most compelling aspect of this partnership is our guarantee that these prices represent the absolute best available in the market. You can book with complete confidence, knowing you're securing not just extraordinary experiences, but doing so at prices that cannot be beaten elsewhere.

This pricing advantage stems from the unique nature of our partnership arrangement. Our exclusive relationship with Barrhead Travel and Imagine Cruising creates economies of scale and negotiating power that individual bookings simply cannot achieve. These savings are then passed directly to you, ensuring you receive maximum value for your budget.

The financial benefits are substantial. Many packages offer you savings of up to £1,800 per couple, transforming luxury cruise holidays from aspirational to achievable. When you consider that these packages often include elements typically requiring separate bookings, such as premium hotel stays, escorted tours, and specialty rail journeys, the overall value proposition becomes even more compelling for you.

Our Commitment to Your Exceptional Experience

This partnership doesn't just deliver outstanding prices; it maintains the high service standards you've come to expect from us. Every booking benefits from our personalised approach, ensuring that your cruise experience is tailored to your individual preferences and requirements.

The comprehensive nature of these packages means you'll enjoy seamless, stress-free travel experiences. From the moment you book with us through to your final journey home, we'll coordinate every detail for you. Whether it's arranging your pre-cruise hotel accommodations in exotic locations, coordinating complex multi-country itineraries, or ensuring smooth transfers between cruise ships and guided tours, we'll manage all the logistics expertly on your behalf.

Your Exclusive Advantage

This partnership marks an exciting new chapter for us at ETW Travel, reinforcing our position as leaders in delivering exceptional travel experiences. By securing exclusive access to Imagine Cruising's portfolio, we've created a significant competitive advantage that directly benefits you, our valued client.

The timing couldn't be better, as the cruise industry experiences renewed enthusiasm. We know you're seeking meaningful, comprehensive experiences that offer both luxury and value, and this partnership delivers exactly that combination for you.

Why Choose ETW Travel for Your Next Cruise Holiday?

In an industry where differentiation often comes down to marginal improvements, this partnership represents a genuine game-changer for you, offering exclusive access, unbeatable pricing, and extraordinary experiences that set us distinctly apart from the competition.

When you book your cruise holidays through ETW Travel, you're not just securing a fantastic deal; you're gaining access to experiences that no other travel agency can offer you at these prices. We're proud to bring you this exclusive opportunity and look forward to helping you create the cruise holiday of your dreams.

Contact us today to discover how you can take advantage of these exclusive cruise holidays that are available nowhere else but through ETW Travel.

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Cruise Holidays 2026: Your Expert Guide to the Year's Most Exciting Voyages

By ETW Travel - Your Cruise Specialists

As we look ahead to 2026, the cruise industry is preparing to launch its most ambitious fleet of new ships yet, alongside innovative itineraries that promise to transform how we experience the world's oceans. At ETW Travel, our team of cruise specialists - each with extensive first-hand experience across multiple cruise lines and ships - is thrilled to share what makes 2026 such an extraordinary year for cruise holidays.

Whether you're a seasoned sailor or contemplating your first voyage, this comprehensive guide will navigate you through the most exciting developments in cruising, from groundbreaking new vessels to destinations that venture far beyond the typical tourist trail.

New Ships Setting Sail in 2026: Innovation Meets Luxury

The Mega-Ships: Engineering Marvels at Sea

Royal Caribbean's Legend of the Seas (July 2026) The third vessel in Royal Caribbean's revolutionary Icon Class, Legend of the Seas will accommodate 5,600 passengers in what promises to be another floating city of wonder. Following in the wake of Icon of the Seas, currently the world's largest cruise ship, Legend will feature more than 40 bars and restaurants, seven pools, and the return of the full-scale water park that has become synonymous with Royal Caribbean's commitment to family entertainment. The Crown's Edge, a hybrid ropes course and thrill ride, alongside Royal Bay (the largest pool at sea), will ensure this ship lives up to its legendary name.

MSC World Asia (December 2026) Set to become the largest cruise ship launching in 2026, MSC World Asia will welcome an astounding 6,762 guests. This floating mega-resort isn't merely a ship; it's a destination in itself, complete with shopping boutiques, multiple entertainment venues, and an extensive water park. Launching from Barcelona, this behemoth represents MSC's continued push to blend European sophistication with family-friendly amenities on an unprecedented scale.

Norwegian Luna (March 2026) As the second Prima Plus Class vessel, Norwegian Luna will carry 3,571 passengers and showcase Norwegian's signature innovations, including the Aqua Slidecoaster, Glow Court, and the heart-stopping 10-storey Drop free-fall slide. With 35 cabin categories and a Caribbean-focused maiden season from Miami, Luna epitomises Norwegian's 'freestyle cruising' philosophy whilst pushing the boundaries of onboard entertainment.

Boutique Luxury: Intimate Excellence

Four Seasons I (January 2026) The luxury hotel brand's inaugural ocean vessel marks a significant moment in cruise history. With capacity for just 190 guests across 11 suite categories, Four Seasons I promises the intimacy of a private yacht with the amenities of a world-class resort. Notably departing from the all-inclusive model, dining and drinks (except breakfast) aren't included, allowing for a more à la carte luxury experience across 11 dining and bar venues.

Orient Express Corinthian (June 2026) Perhaps the most anticipated debut of 2026, the Orient Express Corinthian will become the world's largest sailing yacht, featuring the first-ever rigid sail propulsion system created specifically for the brand. Carrying just 108 guests on four- to six-night French and Italian Riviera cruises, this vessel promises to redefine luxury cruising with its blend of heritage elegance and cutting-edge sustainability.

Seven Seas Prestige (December 2026) Regent Seven Seas Cruises launches its new Prestige Class with this 822-passenger vessel, boasting one of the industry's best space-to-guest ratios. With 434 spacious suites and Regent's renowned all-inclusive luxury, Seven Seas Prestige represents the pinnacle of traditional cruise elegance combined with contemporary sophistication.

Expedition Excellence: Adventure Refined

Emerald Kaia (April 2026) Emerald Cruises' third ocean yacht will be their largest, accommodating 128 guests in cabins that are 10% larger than those on sister ships. The expanded 5,500-square-foot Sky Deck with spa pool and indoor Sky Lounge, plus a new Observation Sun Deck at the bow, promises intimate luxury whilst exploring the Mediterranean, Adriatic, Aegean, and even the Seychelles.

Viking Mira (June 2026) Viking continues its relentless expansion with Mira, offering the same Scandinavian elegance and cultural immersion that have made Viking synonymous with sophisticated river and ocean cruising. With a capacity for 998 guests, Viking Mira maintains the line's commitment to destination-focused itineraries without sacrificing onboard comfort.

Extraordinary Itineraries: Beyond the Beaten Path

Solar Eclipse at Sea: A Celestial Spectacle

One of 2026's most remarkable cruise opportunities centres around the total solar eclipse on 12th August. As the path of totality crosses from the Arctic through the Atlantic, several cruise lines have crafted special voyages to witness this celestial phenomenon:

• Virgin Voyages' Valiant Lady offers a 15-night 'Eclipse in the Land of Fire and Ice' round-trip from Portsmouth, combining the eclipse experience with stops in Dublin, Iceland, and Scotland.
• Seabourn Ovation provides ultra-luxury eclipse viewing amongst Iceland's dramatic fjords and the Faroe Islands.
• Hurtigruten Expeditions takes it further, positioning guests in Northeast Greenland National Park—the world's largest national park—to witness the eclipse surrounded by glaciers and Arctic wildlife.

Uncharted Territories: Where Few Have Sailed

Swan Hellenic's Cultural Expeditions Swan Hellenic's 2025-2026 programme includes maiden calls to 34 exclusive locations rarely visited by mainstream tourism. Highlights include:

• Elmina, Ghana: A window into West Africa's complex cultural history
• Loango National Park, Gabon: Where pristine beaches meet lush rainforests
• Ilha Baia dos Tigres, Angola: An island of rare beauty and historical significance

Ponant's Hidden Japan (April 2026) Le Jacques Cartier's unique expedition between Osaka and Kagoshima explores western Kyushu's natural gems and ancestral heritage, including picturesque villages in the Seto Inland Sea, a region steeped in myth and historical significance that most tourists never see.

Great Lakes Renaissance 2026 marks a record year for Great Lakes cruising, with seven cruise lines and ten ships offering these uniquely North American voyages. Exploring destinations like Michigan's Mackinac Island and Wisconsin's Door County provides a fresh perspective on the continent's inland seas.

Extreme Antarctica: The Ultimate Frontier

For the truly adventurous, 2026 offers unprecedented access to Antarctica's most remote regions:

• Quark Expeditions' Ultramarine ventures into the Weddell Sea, using twin helicopters to reach Emperor penguin colonies at Snow Hill, one of the rarest wildlife experiences available.
• Scenic Eclipse II explores East Antarctica's barely-touched shores, following the routes of early explorers.
• Le Commandant Charcot's Semi-Circumnavigation: A 29-night odyssey from Hobart to Cape Town via the French Southern and Antarctic Lands, visiting regions so remote they remain unclaimed by any nation.

First-Time Cruiser? Your Perfect Starting Point

At ETW Travel, we understand that choosing your first cruise can feel overwhelming. Based on our team's extensive experience, here are our top recommendations for cruise newcomers in 2026:

Best Cruise Lines for First-Timers

For Families: Royal Caribbean: Their mega-ships offer something for everyone, from toddlers to grandparents. The sheer variety of activities means there's never a dull moment, whilst the range of accommodation options suits all budgets. Consider their shorter Caribbean itineraries from Florida for a taste of cruising without committing to a lengthy voyage.

For Couples: Celebrity Cruises: Celebrity's 'Modern Luxury' approach combines sophisticated design with exceptional dining and service. Their Edge Series ships (Beyond, Ascent, Apex, and Edge) offer stunning accommodations and innovative features, including the Magic Carpet - a moving platform that serves multiple functions at different deck levels.

For Flexibility: Norwegian Cruise Line: Norwegian's freestyle cruising removes the formality traditionally associated with cruising. No fixed dining times, no formal nights (unless you want them), and a relaxed atmosphere make it perfect for those who prefer to holiday on their own terms.

For Value: MSC Cruises: This Italian line offers remarkable value without sacrificing quality. Their newer ships feature stunning design, excellent Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, and family-friendly amenities. The Yacht Club suites provide a ship-within-a-ship luxury experience at competitive prices.

For UK Departures: P&O Cruises Nothing beats the convenience of sailing from Southampton, avoiding airports entirely. P&O's British-focused cruising includes familiar touches whilst exploring everywhere from Norwegian fjords to the Mediterranean. Their newest ships, Iona and Arvia, showcase the line's evolution whilst maintaining its distinctive British character.

Ideal Itineraries for First-Time Cruisers

Short Tasters (3-4 nights): Perfect for testing the waters, these brief escapes let you experience cruise life without a significant time commitment. Royal Caribbean's Perfect Day at CoCoCay or Norwegian's Great Stirrup Cay private island experiences offer controlled, enjoyable introductions to cruising.

Classic Caribbean (7 nights): The quintessential cruise experience combining multiple islands, consistent weather, and calm seas. Eastern Caribbean itineraries typically include family-friendly ports like St. Thomas and St. Maarten, whilst Western Caribbean focuses on history and adventure in Cozumel and Jamaica.

Mediterranean Highlights (7-10 nights): For culture enthusiasts, a Western Mediterranean cruise visiting Barcelona, Rome, and Florence delivers maximum historical impact with minimal planning required. These itineraries offer the perfect blend of sea days and port exploration.

Norwegian Fjords (7-12 nights): Breathtaking scenery accessible from UK ports makes this an ideal choice for those seeking natural beauty without long flights. The calm waters and spectacular vistas create unforgettable memories whilst remaining close to home.

Essential Advice for First-Time Cruisers

Drawing from our team's collective decades of cruise experience, here's what we wish every first-time cruiser knew:

Before You Book

• Consider the ship size: Larger ships offer more amenities but less intimacy; smaller ships access unique ports but have fewer onboard options
• Location matters: Inside cabins offer value; balconies provide private outdoor space; suites deliver extra perks
• Book dinner reservations early: Speciality restaurants fill quickly, especially on sea days
• Research the dress code: Most lines have relaxed, but some maintain formal nights

Onboard Wisdom

• Pace yourself: You can't do everything. Choose activities that genuinely interest you
• Arrive a day early: Flight delays won't cause missed embarkations if you're already there
• Budget for extras: Drinks, specialty dining, spa treatments, and extras add up
• Explore the ship early: Learn the layout whilst it's less crowded on embarkation day
• Don't overpack: Cabins have limited storage; laundry services are available

Shore Excursion Insights

• Book popular tours early: Small group experiences and unique activities sell out quickly
• Consider independent exploration: In safe, easily navigable ports, you'll save money and avoid crowds
• Return time buffer: Ship-sponsored excursions wait for delayed groups; independent travellers risk being left behind
• Local currency: Have small bills for taxis and vendors; cards aren't accepted everywhere

2026: The Year to Set Sail

As cruise specialists who've experienced the evolution of cruising first-hand, we can confidently say that 2026 represents a watershed moment for the industry. The combination of innovative new ships, expanded expedition options, and itineraries that push geographical boundaries creates unprecedented choice for travellers.

Whether you're drawn to the engineering marvels of Royal Caribbean's Legend of the Seas, the intimate luxury of Four Seasons I, or the adventure of Antarctica's Emperor penguins, 2026 offers your perfect cruise. The industry's continued investment in sustainability, with LNG-powered vessels and advanced waste management systems, means you can explore the world's oceans with greater environmental consciousness.

For first-time cruisers, there's never been a better moment to take the plunge. The variety of ships, itineraries, and price points means everyone can find their ideal introduction to cruising. From three-night tasters to month-long expeditions, from party ships to peaceful sanctuaries, the only challenge is choosing which adventure to embark upon first.

At ETW Travel, our experienced team stands ready to match you with your perfect 2026 cruise. Having personally sailed on many of the ships and visited the destinations we recommend, we offer insights that go beyond brochures and websites. We understand that choosing a cruise is about more than comparing prices; it's about finding the experience that will create your perfect holiday memories.

Ready to Book Your 2026 or 2027 Cruise Adventure?

The cruise lines are already accepting bookings for their 2027 season, let alone 2026, and with the excitement surrounding new ship launches and unique itineraries, popular sailings are filling quickly. Early booking not only secures your preferred cabin and sailing date but often includes attractive incentives like onboard credit, drinks packages, or reduced deposits.

Contact ETW Travel today.

5 Best Family Holiday Resorts in Europe for 2026

Discover where discerning families are heading next summer – from Greece’s award-winning coastline to Sardinia’s sporting paradise.

Looking for something a bit special for your 2026 family holiday? Somewhere that goes beyond the usual beach-and-buffet experience? You’re not alone. More families than ever are seeking destinations that combine genuine luxury with proper family-friendliness – places where the kids are genuinely welcomed rather than merely tolerated.

We’ve done the legwork and rounded up five exceptional European resorts that deliver exactly that. These aren’t your typical package holiday destinations. Think Michelin-starred dining alongside supervised kids’ clubs, pristine Blue Flag beaches with watersports for all ages, and the kind of thoughtful touches that make parents wonder why they didn’t discover these places sooner.

Here’s where we’d book for 2026.

1. Sani Resort, Halkidiki, Greece

Best for: Families who want everything in one place

There’s a reason Sani Resort has been named the World’s Leading Family and Beach Resort for seven consecutive years – and once you arrive, you’ll understand why.

Set across a privately owned 1,000-acre ecological reserve on the Kassandra peninsula, Sani comprises five distinct hotels clustered along 7 kilometres of pristine Blue Flag beach. The Aegean Sea sparkles in front of you; pine forests stretch behind. It’s the kind of setting that makes you exhale the moment you step off the transfer.

What sets Sani apart is how seriously it takes both luxury and family life. Parents can dine at restaurants helmed by Michelin-starred chefs (there are 26 dining venues across the resort) while the children are happily occupied at age-appropriate clubs. The sports facilities are genuinely impressive too – the Bear Grylls Survival Academy teaches kids everything from fire-lighting to raft-building, whilst the Rafa Nadal Tennis Centre and Chelsea FC Foundation Academy offer professional-level coaching.

For 2026, newly renovated suites at Sani Asterias offer private pools and butler service for families wanting the ultimate upgrade.

Flight time from UK: Approximately 3 hours to Thessaloniki
Best for ages: All ages, with dedicated clubs from infants to teens
Don’t miss: The annual Sani Gourmet Festival in May, bringing world-renowned chefs to the resort

2. Martinhal Sagres, Algarve, Portugal

Best for: Families with babies and toddlers

If Martinhal Sagres didn’t exist, someone would need to invent it. This is a resort purpose-built for families from the ground up – and it shows in every thoughtful detail.

Perched within a protected natural park overlooking Martinhal Beach on Portugal’s western Algarve coast, the resort offers a choice of stylish hotel rooms and contemporary villas, all designed with families firmly in mind. But it’s the service philosophy that truly stands out. The Baby Concierge helps parents plan everything from babysitting to the best local restaurants. The welcome pack includes nappies, toiletries and baby food. And the crèche accepts little ones from just six months old.

For older children, age-specific clubs run throughout the day (and into the evening during summer), featuring everything from beach football to surfing lessons. Parents, meanwhile, can slip away to the Finisterra Spa knowing their children are genuinely enjoying themselves rather than being merely supervised.

The Telegraph recently named Martinhal Sagres one of the world’s fifty greatest hotels – a recognition that speaks volumes about what this resort gets right.

Flight time from UK: Approximately 2.5 hours to Faro
Best for ages: Particularly brilliant for under-5s, though excellent for all ages
Don’t miss: The sunset from As Dunas restaurant, watching the kids play on the beach below, whilst enjoying fresh seafood

3. Forte Village, Sardinia, Italy

Best for: Active families who love sport

Sprawling across 116 acres of tropical gardens on Sardinia’s southern coast, Forte Village isn’t so much a resort as a self-contained world. With eight hotels, 21 restaurants (including venues by three-Michelin-starred chef Heinz Beck), and a staggering array of activities, this is the destination for families who never want to hear “I’m bored.”

The sports academies here are the real deal. Children can train at facilities run by Real Madrid, Chelsea FC Foundation, and various Olympic-standard coaches. There’s fencing, boxing, rugby, tennis – if your child has sporting ambitions, Forte Village will nurture them. And if they’re more interested in waterslides? The Aquapark delivers brilliantly.

Parents aren’t forgotten either. The Acquaforte Thalasso & Spa is genuinely world-class, whilst evenings at the 5,000-seat Forte Arena might feature anything from opera to international pop acts (Duran Duran played here in 2025).

It’s worth noting that Forte Village sits at the premium end of the market – this is Italian luxury at its most polished, and prices reflect that. But for families wanting an unforgettable holiday where every need is anticipated, it delivers magnificently.

Flight time from UK: Approximately 2.5 hours to Cagliari
Best for ages: Particularly good for 6-16-year-olds who’ll make the most of the academies
Don’t miss: Children’s Wonderland – a dedicated complex with pools, play areas and supervised activities

4. Sun Gardens Dubrovnik, Croatia

Best for: Culture-loving families wanting beach and history

Sometimes you want a resort holiday with substance – somewhere you can relax by the pool but also explore genuinely significant historical sites. Sun Gardens Dubrovnik delivers both brilliantly.

Located just eleven kilometres from Dubrovnik’s UNESCO-listed Old Town (easily reached by water taxi or shuttle), this contemporary resort offers the best of both worlds. The stylish rooms and suites look out over the Adriatic, the Marco Polo Kids’ Club keeps children entertained for hours, and the beach is perfect for lazy afternoons. But when you’re ready for adventure, one of Europe’s most remarkable cities awaits.

Walking Dubrovnik’s ancient walls with the family, exploring the locations where Game of Thrones was filmed, taking a boat to the car-free island of Lokrum – these experiences create the kind of holiday memories that last a lifetime.

The Sports Academy deserves special mention, offering coaching in everything from tennis to sailing for children aged 7-15. And when the kids are occupied, parents can retreat to the spa or enjoy a sundowner at one of the resort’s restaurants.

Flight time from UK: Approximately 2.5 hours to Dubrovnik
Best for ages: Families with children old enough to appreciate some history (7+)
Don’t miss: The water taxi to Dubrovnik Old Town – arriving by sea is the most atmospheric approach

5. Maslina Resort, Hvar, Croatia

Best for: Families seeking boutique luxury and natural beauty

For families wanting something more intimate than a mega-resort, Maslina Resort on the Croatian island of Hvar offers a different kind of luxury altogether.

Opened recently to considerable acclaim, this boutique five-star property sits within landscaped gardens overlooking the Adriatic, surrounded by lavender fields and vineyards. The design philosophy emphasises connection with nature – rooms feature organic materials and muted colours, the restaurant champions produce from the resort’s own gardens, and wellness is woven throughout the experience.

Children are welcomed warmly here, though the atmosphere is naturally quieter than larger resorts. Families with slightly older children (think 8+) who appreciate beauty and tranquillity will find this particularly appealing. Activities include cycling through Hvar’s remarkable landscapes, kayaking in hidden coves, and exploring the charming old towns scattered across the island.

The transfer experience is worth mentioning – private speedboat transfers from Split or Dubrovnik turn the journey into an adventure rather than a chore.

Flight time from UK: Approximately 2.5 hours to Split, then speedboat transfer
Best for ages: Families with children 8+ who appreciate a slower pace
Don’t miss: A day trip to Stari Grad, one of the oldest towns in Europe

Planning Your 2026 Family Holiday

The best resorts book early for summer 2026 – particularly for school holiday dates. If any of these destinations have caught your eye, we’d recommend speaking to your travel agent sooner rather than later to secure preferred room categories and flight times.

All five resorts offer family suites or interconnecting rooms, making them suitable for larger families. And whilst prices vary considerably (Forte Village sits at the premium end; Sun Gardens offers excellent value), each delivers genuine quality and proper family focus.

Your 2026 summer holiday awaits.

For more inspiration and to start planning your family escape, contact ETW Travel today.