Blog >New-to-cruise > Why Cruise And Stay Holidays Are The Ultimate Way To Travel

19 Nov 2025 | By Roman Bode-Asa In New-to-cruise

Why Cruise And Stay Holidays Are The Ultimate Way To Travel

Cruise and Stay Deals

Cruise and stay holidays are quickly becoming one of the most popular ways to see multiple destinations making traveling the world a more exciting and flexible experience. Combining the freedom of a land based holiday and the best parks of a cruise, this unique style of travel is a favourite for people who want more than a traditional cruise experience. Whether you are seeking adventure, culture or pure relaxation as a seasoned traveller or looking to see what cruising has to offer as a first time cruiser, cruise and stay packages offer a perfect blend of leisure and immersion.

What are Cruise and Stay Packages?

A cruise and stay holiday is exactly what it sounds like, a holiday package that combines a cruise sailing with a stay on land. These packages allow travellers to enjoy a few days on land at a destination of choice before or after enjoying the luxury and entertainment on board a cruise. For example, you might spend a few days in New York or Miami and explore the city before boarding a Caribbean cruise for a perfect blend of a city break and tropical paradise. Experiencing the historic city of Rome a few days before or after sailing on a Mediterranean cruise gives the appeal of multiple holidays in one. You can find cruise and stay packages that combine 5 star hotels, transfers, local excurisons, cruise and other luxuries, ensuring a smooth and convenient holiday experience while giving you a lot of flexibility. For a hassle free holiday, cruise and stay holidays from the UK are perfect for post cruise exploration while avoiding Airport lines.

Cruise And Stay Holidays vs Traditional Cruises



While traditional cruises are still the most popular option and are a perfect option for travellers that want to see multiple destinations in a short period, they often restrict the time spent on each destination to a few hours. Cruise and stay holidays provide a more immersive travel experience with multiple days on land, giving travellers the opportunity to explore cities, beaches and attractions in more depth. This extended time ashore, unlike a traditional cruise where sightseeing can feel rushed, means you can explore local landmarks, dine at authentic local restaurants and experience more on land at a relaxed pace. Cruise and stay holidays give you more value for your fare, by combining two holidays together, you can cross off multiple destinations off your bucket list without breaking the bank. Additionally, cruise and stay packages appeal to a wider audience and are ideal for couples on adult-only cruises seeking romance, families who want a mixture of adventure and relaxation on family cruises or solo travellers who prefer flexibility. Whether you want to enjoy the nightlife in Barcelona, take a wine tour in Santorini or visit historical landmarks in Athens, these holidays offer the best of both worlds, the excitement of cruising and the freedom of a land holiday.

Best Destinations To Explore On A Cruise And Stay Holiday

One of the biggest appeals of cruise and stay holidays is the wide range of destinations available to you. Here are some of the most popular regions for you to consider.

 

North America

 

Explore popular bustling cities like San Francisco, Miami or start in New York City where you can explore iconic landmarks like Central park, the Statue of Liberty, Broadway or visit world class museums before boarding a cruise. Onboard an Alaska cruise you can stay in Juneau or Ketchikan to see the towering glaciers on a tour, view the wildlife and indigenous cultural events. Extend your trip to Canada Visit Banff for an adventure or Quebec and Vancouver to enjoy a mix of French-inspired charm. See the best of Mexico cruises as you snorkel, go on boat excursions or enjoy local cuisine before you depart on your cruise.

 

Australasia

 

Set sail on a cruise along the stunning coastlines of Australia and New Zealand, then extend your stay in Sydney, Melbourne, Auckland or Queenstown on board cruise and stay holidays. Onshore, you can climb the harbour bridge, visit popular local markets, take a ferry to manly beach or enjoy harbour cruises to nearby islands. In New Zealand, enjoy activities like bungee jumping in Queenstown, see Fiordland national park or enjoy Maori cultural experiences in Rotorua. For a more unique Australiasia cruise experience, explore Tasmania rugged wilderness, the cultural heritage of Fiji or the volcanic landscapes of Vanuatu.

 

Europe & The Mediterranean

 

A Europe cruise through Italy, Greece, or Spain can be paired with hotel stays in iconic cities like Athens, Barcelona or Rome. Visit the Colosseum, Vatican City, local trattorias and try local Italian cuisine in Rome, while you visit the ancient city of Athens, you can explore Acropolis and vibrant Plaka. Barcelona offers bustling markets, great food and Gaudi beaches. Extended stays allow you to experience unique nightlife and the relaxed pace of Mediterranean life.

 

Caribbean

 

Cruise between charming islands like Saint Lucia, Antigua and the Bahamas, then spend days onshore at one of the popular resorts. Enjoy pristine beaches, tropical hikes, snorkelling in coral reefs and local culinary delights with fresh seafood and tropical fruits. For a more different adventure, visit lesser known islands like Grenada and Dominica and enjoy rainforest hikes and hot springs. A longer stay allows you explore local music, cuisine and traditions

 

Asia & Indian Ocean

 


Explore popular destinations like Singapore, Phuket, Dubai or the Maldives after a cruise through Southeast Asia or the Indian Ocean. On a Dubai cruise, marvel at the burj khalifa, go on a desert safari or enjoy luxury shopping around the city. Unwind in overwater villas, snorkel in crystal -clear lagoons and experience serene island life as you explore the Maldives. Phuket is home to stunning beaches where you can relax, go on temple beaches and take traditional cooking classes. In Singapore, you can enjoy the gardens by the bay and little districts. See more unique destinations like Sri Lanka or the Seychelles, its tea plantations, ancient temples, pristine beaches and rare wildlife on an Asia cruise and stay.

Benefits of Booking Cruise And Stay Holidays

  • Flexibility - Choose how long to stay at sea and on land for the perfect itinerary
  •  In-Depth Exploration - Experience what each destination has to offer with extended stays
  • Value for Money - Cruise and stay holidays often include flights, hotel stays, transfers and meals for the perfect price.
  • Convenience - Every aspect of the holiday is arranged which reduces the stress of planning multiple elements of the trip
  • Variety - Enjoy the excitement and luxury of a cruise with the adventure of a land based holiday in one journey.

This combination of adventure, comfort and exploration makes cruise and stay holidays a unique holiday. Browse our hand picked cruise and stay packages for the best price guaranteed.

Cruise and Stay Deals

Published 19th November 2025, Last updated 11th December 2025
By Roman Bode-Asa In New-to-cruise

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