Top 5: Cruise ships

Adventure of the seas

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Queen Elizabeth

The Queen Elizabeth
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Earlier this month, the Queen launched Cunard’s third ship, the Queen Elizabeth, on its maiden voyage to the Canary Islands. Hailed as a return to the golden age of cruising, the liner offers ornate art deco interiors, evening balls, tea dances and jitterbug nights recalling the opulence of the 1930s and 1940s. Over 70 per cent of cabins offer balconies, with room for just over 2,000 passengers across 16 decks.

Norwegian Epic

Norwegian Epic ship
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Of all the luxury liners, Norwegian Epic’s unique on-board activities are ideal for families. The ship boasts the only at-sea water park, a rappelling wall, a -8 °C (17 °F) ice bar, and two bowling alleys. In addition, a teen center, PlayStation zone, and karaoke will keep kids happy, whilst parents can enjoy big name entertainment from The Blue Man Group as well as a myriad recreation options such as a first-rate spa, and free-style dining options. This winter, Norwegian Epic will offer voyages around the Virgin Islands before switching to the Med from next May.

Adventure of the Seas

Adventure of the seas
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One of the world’s biggest cruise ships, Adventure of the Seas balances luxury with innovation. Expansive recreational options include ice skating, mini-golf, rock climbing and basketball. The main hub of the ship is the Royal Promenade where passengers can experience Main Street USA or knock back a lager in a replica British pub. A spectacular, three-story dining room offers wine and cuisine from around the world. With space for more than 3,000 passengers, the ship will offer Mediterranean cruises from Malaga, Spain until the end of November, before switching to eastern Caribbean itineraries.

Crown Princess

The Crown Princess
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Crown Princess is the “jewel” of the Princess Cruises fleet, and is renowned for offering quality and sophistication. It offers the perfect romantic getaway or relaxing escape. The Sanctuary is an adults-only space featuring an indoor/outdoor spa, dining options, and light entertainment. The Crown Princess also has a freshwater pool and a sun-lit, piazza-style atrium with a wine tasting room. Next spring, Crown Princess will embark on a 27 day voyage from Fort Lauderdale to London before starting a series of British Isles and Iceland cruises.

Celebrity Solstice

Celebrity Solstice
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Celebrity Solstice is for passengers who prefer sophistication over glitz. Spa-lovers should book the AquaClass stateroom for easy access to the on-board spa, preferential booking for treatments and reserved seating in the Blu restauarant specialising in healthy meals. Other on-board facilities include the rooftop lawn club, a new addition that offers bowling and a putting green. This winter, Celebrity Solstice will offer Caribbean sailings around Puerto Rico.