Red and blue fireworks in Lake Como on New Years Eve

Christmas & New Year Cruises

Make the festive season one to remember, one enjoyed without all the usual stress and strain, on an escape to the warmer, sunnier climes of the Canaries. Experience the special Fred. Olsen festivities from the moment you embark Borealis, with four days at sea to settle in, indulge and revel in all the excitement as you sail south. On Christmas Day, wake up knowing you won’t have to worry about a thing; your ship’s attentive staff will take care of everything as you enjoy the day’s fun, food and festivities. Boxing Day will be spent as sea too, perfect for a day of recovering from your Christmas indulgences; perhaps relax out on deck with the sea breeze on your skin, or in one of your ship’s comfortable lounges with your favourite drink in hand.

After a magical Christmas, you’re in for four consecutive days of Canarian highlights as the year draws to a close. The lunar-like landscapes and volcanoes of Lanzarote are yours to explore, with Arrecife serving as your gateway to Timanfaya National Park and mighty Fire Mountains, and spectacular beaches await at Gran Canaria, home of the oasis-like sands of Maspalomas. At Tenerife, the Canaries’ most famous volcanic site awaits too; you’ve ample time to take in Mount Teide on tour from Santa Cruz. You’ve opportunities to explore verdant forests and seek out volcanic wonders aplenty on La Gomera too. After the Canaries, it’s on to Madeira for a fabulous New Year’s Eve. Take the day to explore the unique levada walking trails; opt to visit the Cabo Girão sea cliff for unspoilt Atlantic Ocean views; or join a local orchid specialist to find out more about the Garden Island’s famous floral blooms. By evening, it’s back on board Borealis for another unique celebration, culminating with a chance to witness one of the world’s largest New Year’s firework displays at midnight.

Our Christmas & New Year Cruises

Christmas in Amsterdam
Buy One, Get One Half-price
New
Christmas Markets in Normandy and the Netherlands from Tilbury (A12731)
France, Netherlands
Explore charming Christmas markets in Normandy and the Netherlands with time in Honfleur and Amsterdam, plus seasonal cruising and festive onboard cheer.
  • Browse traditional Christmas markets in Honfleur’s picturesque old town.
  • Enjoy time to explore Amsterdam’s festive lights, shops and winter treats.
  • Relax on board with seasonal entertainment and cosy comforts.
  • Logo

    6 days from £499 pp

  • Dates Available

    12 December 2027

  • Duration

    6 days

  • Depart From

    London Tilbury

  • Operator

    Ambassador

  • Ship

    Ambience

Shutterstock 345403775 Amsterdam
Buy One, Get One Half-price
New
Yuletide Delights: Amsterdam Escape from Tilbury (A12734)
Netherlands
Sail from London Tilbury to festive Amsterdam on a short Yuletide escape. Enjoy Christmas lights, markets, and seasonal charm in the Dutch capital.
  • Depart from London Tilbury.
  • Sail across the North Sea to Amsterdam.
  • Wander Amsterdam’s twinkling Christmas markets.
  • Logo

    3 days from £229 pp

  • Dates Available

    19 December 2027

  • Duration

    3 days

  • Depart From

    Tilbury

  • Operator

    Ambassador

  • Ship

    Ambience

Las Palmas, Gran Canaria
Buy One, Get One Half-price
New
Christmas and New Year Voyage to Canaries and Madeira from Tilbury (A22735)
Spain, Morocco, Gibraltar
Celebrate Christmas and New Year on a no-fly cruise to the Canary Islands, Morocco and Gibraltar. Sail from Tilbury and enjoy festive fun at sea.
  • Spend Christmas at sea and ring in the New Year in Casablanca.
  • Explore four Canary Islands, including Tenerife, Lanzarote and Gran Canaria.
  • Visit the historic ports of La Coruna and Gibraltar.
  • Logo

    17 days from £2,389 pp

  • Dates Available

    20 December 2027

  • Duration

    17 days

  • Depart From

    Tilbury

  • Operator

    Ambassador

  • Ship

    Ambition

Bruges Christmas Markets
Buy One, Get One Half-price
New
Holiday Magic: Rotterdam, Amsterdam and Bruges from Tilbury (A22732)
Netherlands, Belgium
Enjoy a festive cruise from Tilbury to Rotterdam, Amsterdam and Bruges. Discover Christmas markets, canals and continental cheer on this no-fly holiday.
  • Cruise into Rotterdam and admire its striking architecture and riverside markets.
  • Discover Amsterdam’s light displays, canals and Christmas atmosphere.
  • Visit Bruges and enjoy its famous festive markets.
  • Logo

    5 days from £399 pp

  • Dates Available

    09 December 2027

  • Duration

    5 days

  • Depart From

    Tilbury

  • Operator

    Ambassador

  • Ship

    Ambition

Antwerp, Belgium
Buy One, Get One Half-price
New
Belgian Christmas Markets from Tilbury (A22733)
Belgium
Cruise from London Tilbury to Belgium’s Christmas markets, including Antwerp and Bruges, on a festive three-day winter getaway.
  • Depart from easy-to-reach London Tilbury.
  • Enjoy a river cruise through festive Antwerp.
  • Explore the Christmas charm of Bruges.
  • Logo

    4 days from £299 pp

  • Dates Available

    13 December 2027

  • Duration

    4 days

  • Depart From

    Tilbury

  • Operator

    Ambassador

  • Ship

    Ambition

Honfleur harbour in Normandy at night
Buy One, Get One Half-price
New
Festive Flavours of Honfleur and Cherbourg from Tilbury (A22734)
France
Sail from Tilbury on a festive mini cruise to Cherbourg and Honfleur. Enjoy French Christmas charm, markets and cosy harbours on this no-fly getaway.
  • Explore the pretty harbour town of Honfleur, full of festive charm.
  • Visit Cherbourg with its seasonal lights, markets and cafés.
  • Soak up a continental Christmas atmosphere just days before the holidays.
  • Logo

    5 days from £399 pp

  • Dates Available

    16 December 2027

  • Duration

    5 days

  • Depart From

    Tilbury

  • Operator

    Ambassador

  • Ship

    Ambition

Antwerp, Belgium
Free case of wine
New
Festive France and Belgium from Southampton (L2640)
France, Belgium
Experience festive charm with extended stays in Rouen and Antwerp, sailing the scenic Seine River, and exploring Christmas markets filled with local treats and twinkling lights.
  • Sail the scenic Seine, enjoying the French countryside and picturesque riverside villages.
  • Wander Rouen's medieval streets, famous for timber-framed houses and the stunning Rouen Cathedral.
  • Explore Antwerp’s historic centre, art, architecture, and festive Christmas Markets with local treats.
  • Depart From

    Southampton

  • Operator

    Fred. Olsen

  • Ship

    Balmoral

Lisbon, Portugal
Half-price drinks packages
New
Christmas & New Year Voyage to Spain and Portugal from Tilbury (A22639)
Portugal, Gibraltar, Spain
Visit the vibrant cities of Lisbon and Cadiz, explore historic sites around Gibraltar, and enjoy a break from the cold amidst the warm Mediterranean climate and sunshine.
  • Explore the coastal beauty of Gijón, a lively Spanish city with rich cultural heritage and seaside charm.
  • Visit Portimao on the Algarve, followed by Seville via Cadiz, where Andalusian culture and stunning architecture shine.
  • Wander through Lisbon, Portugal’s colorful capital, known for its vibrant neighbourhoods and historic landmarks.
  • Logo

    16 days from £1,701 pp

  • Dates Available

    21 December 2026

  • Duration

    16 days

  • Depart From

    London Tilbury

  • Operator

    Ambassador

  • Ship

    Ambition

Hamburg Christmas Market, Germany
Free case of wine
New
German Christmas Markets from Southampton (L2641)
Germany, France
Celebrate the festive season with a cruise to Hamburg’s Christmas Markets and the picturesque town of Honfleur.
  • Sail to Hamburg, home to one of Germany's most renowned Christmas Markets, with an overnight stay to soak up the festive atmosphere.
  • Wander through Rathausmarkt in Hamburg's Town Hall Square, where twinkling wooden huts offer handmade crafts, ornaments, and festive treats.
  • Warm up with glühwein and indulge in traditional specialties like lebkuchen, bratwurst, and roasted chestnuts.
  • Depart From

    Southampton

  • Operator

    Fred. Olsen

  • Ship

    Balmoral

Arrecife, Spain
Free case of wine
Canary Islands Christmas with Lisbon in New Year from Portsmouth (S2533)
Portugal, Spain, Canary Islands
Experience a festive Canary Islands cruise with Newmarket Holidays, exploring Tenerife, Lanzarote, and Lisbon’s New Year fireworks.
  • Discover the Canary Islands' natural wonders, from Tenerife’s Mount Teide to Madeira's towering Cabo Girão sea cliff
  • Experience Canarian culture with traditional music and dance, Malvasía wine tastings, and the vibrant beach lifestyle
  • Bring in the New Year with a stunning fireworks display in Lisbon, specially timed for your visit
  • Depart From

    Portsmouth

  • Operator

    Fred. Olsen

  • Ship

    Borealis

Funchal, Portugal
Free case of wine
Canary Islands Christmas and Funchal Fireworks from Liverpool (T2528)
Canary Islands, Portugal, Spain
Celebrate Christmas in the Canaries with Newmarket Holidays, exploring dunes, volcanoes, and enjoying Funchal’s New Year’s fireworks.
  • Discover the Canaries’ natural beauty, from Maspalomas’ golden dunes and Mount Teide to the volcanic valleys of Caldera de Taburiente
  • Enjoy a taste of Lanzarote with wine made from the unique Malvasía grape, and browse La Palma’s calado canario lace
  • Celebrate the New Year with Funchal’s spectacular fireworks display and enjoy dolphin watching and beach relaxation
  • Depart From

    Liverpool

  • Operator

    Fred. Olsen

  • Ship

    Bolette

Arrecife, Lanzarote
Free case of wine
Christmas in the Canaries from Tilbury (A12532)
Portugal, Spain, Canary Islands, Fort de France, Morocco
Celebrate Christmas in the sun with Newmarket Holidays. Explore vibrant cities and stunning landscapes on this festive adventure to the Canary Islands.
  • Discover Lisbon, a vibrant blend of historic landmarks and modern allure, before celebrating Christmas Day at sea
  • Explore the exotic allure of Casablanca and the unique volcanic landscapes of Arrecife, Lanzarote.
  • Visit the Canary Islands, with stops in Santa Cruz de Tenerife and Las Palmas, offering sun-soaked beaches and lively cultural experiences.
  • Logo

    19 days from £2,949 pp

  • Dates Available

    20 December 2025

  • Duration

    19 days

  • Depart From

    London Tilbury

  • Operator

    Ambassador

  • Ship

    Ambience

Funchal, Portugal
Free case of wine
New
Canaries Christmas and Funchal Fireworks from Southampton
Spain, Portugal, Canary Islands
Escape to the Canary Islands for a festive cruise with Christmas Day at sea, New Year’s Eve in Madeira, sun-soaked beaches, vibrant towns, and an overnight stay in Lisbon.
  • Celebrate the New Year in Madeira and enjoy the stunning fireworks display in Funchal.
  • Explore the historic old town of Cádiz, relax on beautiful beaches, and immerse yourself in the city’s rich cultural heritage.
  • Unwind on Maspalomas Beach, known for its stunning sand dunes, crystal-clear waters, and serene atmosphere perfect for relaxation.
  • Depart From

    Southampton

  • Operator

    Fred. Olsen

  • Ship

    Balmoral

Leknes, Norway
Free case of wine
In Search of the Northern Lights at Christmas from Southampton (L2534)
Norway
Join a Christmas cruise to Norway with Newmarket Holidays, chasing the Northern Lights and exploring Arctic wonders from Narvik to Tromsø.
  • Experience the magic of the Northern Lights, with chances to witness this natural wonder
  • Embrace the Arctic lifestyle with snowshoe hiking, snowmobiling, and husky sledding across Norway’s winter landscapes
  • Connect with the Sámi community, hearing captivating tales inside a warm lavvu tent for an authentic cultural experience
  • Depart From

    Southampton

  • Operator

    Fred. Olsen

  • Ship

    Balmoral

Las Palmas, Gran Canaria
Free case of wine
New
Canary Islands Christmas and Cadiz New Year from Liverpool (T2630)
Spain, Canary Islands
Enjoy a festive escape to the Canary Islands with vibrant traditions, stunning beaches, and local cuisine throughout the journey.
  • Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Cádiz, where fireworks and local traditions light up the night with festive cheer.
  • Relax on Tenerife’s beaches or take a catamaran tour to spot dolphins along its scenic coastline.
  • Admire La Palma’s clear skies for stargazing and stunning landscapes, perfect for outdoor adventures.
  • Depart From

    Liverpool

  • Operator

    Fred. Olsen

  • Ship

    Bolette

Cadiz, Spain
Half-price drinks packages
Sunshine Christmas in Spain, Portugal and Morocco from Tilbury (A22535)
Portugal, Spain, Morocco, Gibraltar
Celebrate this Christmas on an exciting voyage to the shores of North Africa and the Iberian Peninsula.
  • Start your festive adventure in Vigo, Spain, before celebrating Christmas Day at sea with all the trimmings provided by our crew.
  • Explore the rich cultures of the Iberian Peninsula and North Africa with stops in Cádiz, Gibraltar, Tangier, Casablanca, and Lisbon.
  • Discover Spanish charm, Portuguese elegance, and Moroccan allure through vibrant ports and unique cultural experiences.
  • Logo

    17 days from £2,049 pp

  • Dates Available

    21 December 2025

  • Duration

    17 days

  • Depart From

    London Tilbury

  • Operator

    Ambassador

  • Ship

    Ambition

Lisbon, Portugal
Half-price drinks packages
New
Christmas & New Year Sailing to Spain and Portugal from Tilbury (A12637)
Portugal, Spain, Gibraltar
Exchange the chilly winter air for ocean breezes and sandy beaches on this relaxing sailing to Spain and Portugal.
  • Discover the vibrant charm of Porto via Leixões, known for its lively atmosphere and world-famous wines.
  • Stroll through the elegant streets of Lisbon, Portugal’s capital, filled with historic landmarks and stunning views.
  • Explore Spain’s Costa del Sol with visits to sun-soaked Almeria and Málaga, followed by the iconic Gibraltar and its famous Rock.
  • Logo

    15 days from £1,862 pp

  • Dates Available

    20 December 2026

  • Duration

    15 days

  • Depart From

    London Tilbury

  • Operator

    Ambassador

  • Ship

    Ambience

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