Cruising set for a huge comeback in 2022

After two summers of restricted travel and testing the world opening up again couldn’t be more welcome. With cruises allowing you to see big bites of the world in one trip, all while enjoying beautiful accommodation and amenities, they are set to return as the hot ticket for travel in 2022.

World cruises are set to be hugely popular next year - cruise lines are reporting incredible sell-out rates as travellers look to really make the most of new-found freedom post-Covid. Many people have been lucky enough to save money during the pandemic and now have more to splurge on bucket-list trips.

Whether you’re looking for a once in a lifetime trip, a relaxing break with as many spa treatments as possible or fun for the family, the 2021 Wave Awards has revealed the best cruise companies, destinations and cruise experiences you need to book next year.

Organised by Real Response Media the publishers of World of Cruising magazine and www.worldocruising.co.uk, the Wave Awards celebrate the very best of the UK’s cruise industry. They recognise and reward excellence and innovation in a business that is continuously evolving to deliver an exceptional experience, both on board and ashore. And with more than 82,000 votes cast across the public voted categories, an increase of 13,000 from 2019, this is the ultimate list in the best of the best in cruising.

The Wave Awards Cruising Winners:

Best Cruise for Family Fun – Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean International are the one-stop-shop for all things family fun. The Wave Awards 2021 winner for Best Family Cruise Line has activities galore for the kids to indulge in and specially designed areas for the imagination to run wild. With onboard dedicated areas for play and the tallest slide at sea available, the family will have a blast together between beautiful locations.

Best Cruise for Solo Travel –Saga Cruises

Saga Cruises is the Wave Awards 2021’s winner Best for Solo Travellers and it is easy to see why with their clear focus on individuals, chauffeur service to make transportation easier and a range of events to mingle with other solo travellers on-board.

Best Cruise for Wellness – Seabourn

For some a holiday is a time of adventure and excitement and for others it is a time to recentre and find inner calm. Onboard Seabourn’s cruise ships there are uniquely crafted wellness sessions for travellers looking for a wholesome dose of zen. Each ship of the Wave Awards 2021 Best for Wellbeing and Spas winner has a mindfulness living coach who is a certified yoga and meditation instructor.

Best Cruise Destination – Greece

Beating off a whole host of beautiful destinations around the world, Greece was chosen by public vote to be the number one destination. Described as “simply paradise” it is easy to see why Greece won the accolade, with its beautiful Mediterranean shoreline, abundance of sunshine and deceptively close location.

Best Cruise for Entertainment – Marella Cruises

The Wave Awards 2021 winner for Best for Entertainment has everything necessary for a good time. Marella Cruises are known for bringing the fun and flare of the local culture onboard to provide daily excitement for their travellers. Ships have a variety of spaces to delight those on board – with casinos, show lounges and open air cinemas available.

Best Cruise for Cuisine – Oceania Cruises

When it comes to culinary delights the Wave Awards 2021 winner Best for Cuisine is sure to put on a worthy spread. The cuisine on Oceania Cruises was judged to be “spectacular”. With chefs inspired from delicacies around the word the food onboard will awaken your taste buds and take you on a journey of flavour.

Best Cruise Excursion Programme – Regent Seven Sea Cruises

For travellers craving authentic local experiences Regent Seven Sea Cruises has you covered. Their Go Local and Small Group Tours create unique trips for their passengers where they can step off the ship and truly engage in the culture around them. Excursions include being hosted for a traditional Spanish meal in a local’s home and visiting artisans and craftspeople practicing centuries-old skills.

Best Value for Money Crusie – Saga Cruises

Saga Cruises was also the Wave Awards 2021 winner for Best-Value-For-Money Cruise Line, a must for both family groups and individuals. They have unique experiences and services for pinch-me prices that won’t skimp on the wow factor that many people are looking for as they head to the seas once again.

Other big winners on the night included: