6


of the of theBESTBEST


QUIRKY SAILINGS d


Tailor-made for an array of interests and hobbies, these eclectic cruises can offer a unique twist on sea adventures, writes Lina Molloholli


emand for novel experiences is soaring. So, lines are stepping up their game and pulling out all the stops to catch passenger attention,


promising experiences that truly transcend the ordinary. Some operators, such as A-Rosa River Cruises, have noted that matching a customer’s interests to a cruise can persuade the cruise-curious to take their first sailing. At the Clia 2024 Riverview Conference, A-Rosa’s UK


and Ireland managing director Lucia Rowe said, “People are interested in so much more than collapsing on the beach – they love spending their time in a meaningful way.” From pyjama parties to stepping into Hercule Poirot’s shoes on a murder mystery cruise, there’s a sailing to match every passion.


travelweekly.co.uk


DESTINATIONS QUIRKY SAILINGS | CRUISE


1


A literary odyssey Bookworms craving an intellectual escape can embark on Cunard’s Literature Festival at Sea, where they’ll meet esteemed authors, historians, poets and journalists on a transatlantic voyage to New York oboard the classy Queen Mary II. The programme of guest speakers is curated by The Times and The Sunday Times Cheltenham Literature Festival, and this year’s line-up includes crime writer Mark Billingham and acclaimed TV writer (and Gavin & Stacey star) Ruth Jones MBE. Passengers can engage in thought-


provoking conversations at Q&A sessions and meet their favourite writers at book signings. Book it: The seven-night Literature Festival at Sea starts at £1,780 per person, departing from Southampton on November 13. The price, which is based on two people sharing a Britannia Oceanview cabin, includes full-board accommodation, transfers and flights back to London. cunard.com


2


PYJAMA PARTY For clients seeking a departure (pardon the pun) from traditional sailings, suggest a Virgin Voyages itinerary. Its four ships – Brilliant Lady, Scarlet Lady, Valiant Lady and Resilient Lady – offer a range of unusual entertainment, from gravity-defying bungee classes to VHS-themed parties. As they step on board, guests are invited to slip into their favourite pyjamas pyjamas – be it fleecy PJs, sexy sleepwear or a onesie – and head to the nightclub to embrace the line’s laid-back atmosphere and dance their first night at sea away. For those after a permanent souvenir, each ship has a branch of Squid Ink – the only tattoo parlour at sea. But they are in high demand, so clients will need to book


their appointments well in advance. Book it: A seven-night Irresistible Med & Rome sailing starts at £1,720 per person, based on two sharing an ocean view cabin, departing Barcelona on September 8. The price covers full board, Wi-Fi and tips. virginvoyages.com


² 4 APRIL 2024 49


±


PICTURE: Still Moving Media LLP


Page 1  |  Page 2  |  Page 3  |  Page 4  |  Page 5  |  Page 6  |  Page 7  |  Page 8  |  Page 9  |  Page 10  |  Page 11  |  Page 12  |  Page 13  |  Page 14  |  Page 15  |  Page 16  |  Page 17  |  Page 18  |  Page 19  |  Page 20  |  Page 21  |  Page 22  |  Page 23  |  Page 24  |  Page 25  |  Page 26  |  Page 27  |  Page 28  |  Page 29  |  Page 30  |  Page 31  |  Page 32  |  Page 33  |  Page 34  |  Page 35  |  Page 36  |  Page 37  |  Page 38  |  Page 39  |  Page 40  |  Page 41  |  Page 42  |  Page 43  |  Page 44  |  Page 45  |  Page 46  |  Page 47  |  Page 48  |  Page 49  |  Page 50  |  Page 51  |  Page 52  |  Page 53  |  Page 54  |  Page 55  |  Page 56  |  Page 57  |  Page 58  |  Page 59  |  Page 60  |  Page 61  |  Page 62  |  Page 63  |  Page 64  |  Page 65  |  Page 66  |  Page 67  |  Page 68