Cruising is a brilliant way to bring the entire family together, offering unforgettable experiences that appeal to all ages and unparalleled convenience. Opting for a no-fly cruise adds an extra layer of ease, particularly when travelling as a family or with children. You won’t have to navigate a busy airport, deal with luggage restrictions, or spend hours planning an itinerary that features accommodation that suits everyone’s needs and preferences. A no-fly cruise allows you to explore multiple destinations in one seamless journey, combining adventure, discovery, and even a touch of education along the way. Whether you’re uncovering ancient cities, soaking up local cultures, or unwinding on sunkissed beaches, there’s something for everyone. Life onboard caters to all interests, with family-friendly pools, waterslides, and kids’ clubs keeping younger guests entertained while adults can unwind in peaceful lounges, chic bars, and dedicated zones. In this guide, we explore some of the most popular no-fly family cruise destinations and the incredible ships that sail to them, all departing directly from the UK.
Norwegian Fjords
Iona, P&O Cruises
A voyage through the Norwegian Fjords offers an unforgettable mix of natural beauty, culture, and adventure. As you sail past towering mountains, cascading waterfalls, and peaceful villages, you’ll be surrounded by awe-inspiring scenery. At each port of call, take the opportunity to step ashore and explore charming towns, discover local traditions, sample regional delicacies, or join exciting excursions like hiking or kayaking. P&O Cruises offer sailings direct from Southampton aboard Iona, making it a popular choice amongst families keen to explore this breathtaking part of the world.
Onboard, Iona is bursting with facilities and experiences to suit all ages and interests. From the lively Headliners Theatre and The Club House to the stunning SkyDome, the entertainment options are endless. There’s plenty to keep younger cruisers happy too, thanks to dedicated clubs and activities for children and teens. If staying active is on your agenda, head to the Oasis Gym, practice your swing at The Golf Nets, or enjoy a friendly match in the Sports Arena. For those keen on enjoying a more laid-back experience, the Oasis Spa & Salon offers a tempting menu of treatments, while The Retreat provides a serene, adults-only space to unwind in style.
Families can have fun together at the Beachcomber Pool which serves as the perfect setting for both playtime and peaceful moments. Food lovers are in for a treat as well, with 13 diverse dining venues to choose from, offering everything from casual bites to fine dining. Whether you're after adventure or relaxation, Iona has everything you need to make your Norwegian Fjords cruise truly memorable.
Spain, Portugal & France
Celebrity Apex, Celebrity Cruises
Set sail on an unforgettable family adventure with Celebrity Cruises, where sun-soaked itineraries and world-class experiences come together. Aboard the stunning Celebrity Apex, you can explore the very best of Spain, Portugal, and France as you sail directly from the UK. One day you could be soaking up the charm of Lisbon, the next wandering the historic streets of La Coruña, before sharing the timeless romance of Paris with the ones you love the most.
Life on board is just as exciting as the destinations you visit. Whether you’re soaking up the sun on the pool deck or spending a leisurely day at sea, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Be captivated by dazzling theatre productions, unwind in Eden, a unique multi-sensory venue where nature meets performance, or experience the Magic Carpet – the world’s first floating platform at sea, offering incredible views and vibrant social spaces.
Younger guests are well looked after at Camp at Sea, Celebrity Cruises award-winning youth programme. Designed to inspire, entertain, and educate, this thoughtfully curated experience caters to children and teenagers aged between three and seventeen. Activities are grouped by age to ensure that they are the most appropriate and that every young person feels included and engaged. From competing against each other in video game challenges and sports tournaments to participating in dance classes, thrilling science experiments, and themed parties, there is so much to enjoy.
When it’s time to cool off or simply relax, Celebrity Apex boasts two swimming pools. Families can enjoy quality time together by the main pool, with plenty of room to splash around and play together. Adults seeking a quieter escape might choose to retreat to the adults-only pool which serves as the ideal spot to enjoy a peaceful dip, top up your tan as you bask in the sun, or get lost in a good book. Worked up an appetite after enjoying fun in the sun? There are 22 exceptional food and drink venues on board, from casual bites to fine dining, providing something to satisfy every craving. Celebrity Apex offers everything you need to make your family holiday unforgettable.
Italy, Greece & Turkey
Sky Princess, Princess Cruises
Princess Cruises is dedicated to creating unforgettable holidays for guests of all ages. Sailing from Southampton, Sky Princess combines family-friendly features with exciting itineraries, making it a brilliant choice for those looking to explore remarkable destinations together. For the ultimate sun-soaked family holiday, you might choose a voyage that features stops at Italy, Greece, and Turkey. These Mediterranean gems provide everything from ancient ruins and bustling bazaars to beautiful beaches and iconic, world-famous landmarks.
On board, you’ll discover a mix of activities and facilities that have been carefully tailored for children and families, along with dedicated adults-only areas. Whether you’re seeking peace and quiet or a more vibrant atmosphere, Sky Princess has the perfect balance. With four inviting pools on board, Sky Princess offers something for everyone. Families can enjoy splash-filled fun at the Wake View Pool or cool off together at the top-deck main pool, surrounded by loungers and lively atmosphere. For those seeking a bit more peace and quiet, the Retreat Pool provides an adults-only sanctuary, perfect for unwinding with a book or soaking up the sun in serene surroundings. And for a touch of indulgence, head to the Lotus Spa Pool, where calm waters and a relaxed vibe offer the ultimate escape.
As the sun begins to melt into the horizon, the fun is just getting started aboard Sky Princess. Experience some of the most incredible Broadway-style productions at sea in the multi-level Princess Theater, or try your luck at the Vegas-style Casino. Movies Under the Stars®, Princess Cruises’ exclusive open-air poolside amphitheatre, is an absolute must. Get cosy under blankets and snack on freshly popped popcorn as you watch a thrilling blockbuster, side-splitting comedy, or twisty thriller.
The fantastic youth programme is packed with exciting activities to keep young cruisers entertained. With separate clubs tailored to different age groups, children can enjoy tailored fun in a safe, welcome environment. One day, they might be working on creative projects, building rockets, or competing in Olympic-style competitions, whilst the next they could be partaking in talent shows, enjoying a treasure hunt, or stargazing. All of the activities are designed to keep young people engaged and encourage them to make new friends or strengthen existing connections.
Foodies will delight in the incredible range of dining venues and bars aboard Sky Princess. From authentic Italian cuisine to sumptuous steaks and succulent seafood, there’s something to cater to every palate. Sky Princess offers a truly memorable no-fly cruising experience that the whole family will love.
