The best fly and cruise holidays
Start your ocean adventure with a flight from East Midlands Airport
Hop aboard for your next holiday
Fancy seeing the world from the deck of a cruise ship? Travelling by sea is a wonderful way to visit several different countries in the same trip, and you can enjoy a wide range of activities during your time on the ocean, or simply relax by the pool. It’s often usual to start your cruise by travelling somewhere first to meet your ship, so why not extend your holiday with a few days of sightseeing first?
We’ve rounded up a few of the most popular cruise ports you can fly to from East Midlands Airport.
Barcelona
The capital of Catalonia boasts an extensive cruise port that welcomes thousands of holidaymakers every day. It’s well worth spending a few days in this stylish city before you embark on your voyage.
Wander along La Rambla, the famous tree-lined boulevard, stock up on snacks in the bustling Mercat de la Boqueria, and explore Gaudi’s incredible Park Güell. Don't miss landmarks like the breathtaking La Sagrada Familia, an abundance of top tapas restaurants, and examples of Barcelona’s distinctive architecture, which can be found almost everywhere you look.
Palma
Palma de Mallorca is a popular departure port for cruise ships in the Mediterranean, offering a wide range of itineraries and cruise lines. The island's capital is a winding labyrinth of cobbled lanes and baroque churches set against a backdrop of azure sea and mountains. This place has it all: history, culture, great shops, a thriving nightlife, and a fair climate all year round.
Palma de Mallorca Cathedral is one of the most beautiful in Europe, offering a magnificent view of the city and the sea from its rooftop terrace. Why not start your cruise holiday with some sunshine, sand, and sangria? Book now >
Dubrovnik
The cruise season here runs between late May and early October, with ships departing from nearby Gruz Harbor to sail holidaymakers around the Dalmatian Coast and the Mediterranean Sea. Spend a few days soaking up the atmosphere of this ancient city. If you walk the two-kilometre-long city walls, you’ll be rewarded with incredible views of the Old Town and the Adriatic Coast.
The food in Dubrovnik is also excellent with lots of pretty restaurants serving delicious seafood dishes and excellent local wine. Can you think of a better way to get into the holiday spirit? Book now >
Paphos
On the southwestern coast of Cyprus, 50km west of Limassol, you’ll find this picturesque cruise port. The larger cruise ships are unable to dock here, so it’s a charming starting place for smaller luxury liners. Several key local attractions can be found within easy reach of the harbour, and there are regular buses, so it’s easy to get around.
Next to the harbour, you’ll find Paphos Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with spectacular mosaics and artefacts. Start your holiday by relaxing on a beautiful beach, exploring ancient ruins, or simply watching the boats in the harbour from a restaurant terrace. Book now >
Corfu
Several cruise lines operate from Corfu, and it’s a popular departure point for voyages around the Eastern Mediterranean. The dock is about a mile west of the Old Town, so it’s a great opportunity to spend a few days exploring the historic centre and the Old Fortress.
This small Greek island has a lot to offer, from charming cobbled streets, Venetian architecture, and fascinating museums, to great local restaurants and a lively nightlife. Book now >
Tenerife
Santa Cruz de Tenerife is one of the largest and busiest cruise ports in Spain. There are plenty of opportunities to explore this stunning volcanic island through paid excursions or via public transport. It’s also worth doing some shopping as the tax-free status means you could pick up some great bargains on luxury goods.
In Parque Marítimo you’ll find seawater pools, terraces, and restaurants. Next to that, there’s the Palmetum, a 12-hectare botanical garden with Europe’s largest palm collection and amazing panoramic views of the Auditorio and the port area. Book now >
Las Palmas
As the gateway to the Atlantic, there are two cruise ports in La Palmas; Las Palmas City Centre Docks and the Santa Catalina Point Docks. It’s the first chapter in your transatlantic journey, and a lovely place to start your adventure.
Most visitors have only stayed in the beach resorts in the south so have never visited Gran Canaria’s capital. Six kilometres from the dock lies Las Palmas Old Town which has a gorgeous market hall. Other top attractions include museums, parks and beaches. And you’re never too far from a golf course here if you fancy a round before your cruise. Book now >
Naples
Board your ship in Naples to enjoy a holiday sailing round the Mediterranean, but before you depart, why not enjoy a few days soaking up the sights, sounds, and tastes of one of Italy’s oldest cities?
The birthplace of pizza has wonderful architecture, fascinating ancient ruins, ornate churches, impressive monuments - and excellent coffee. Must visit landmarks include the catacombs and the nearby ruins of Pompeii. Book now >
Fly straight into the heart of some of the world's finest cruise destinations.
Whether you're looking to holiday in a Caribbean paradise or enjoy a Mediterranean adventure, there are plenty of destinations reachable by East Midlands Airport.
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