If you are planning to go on a cruise this year, or if you have never been on one, then it is time to seriously consider a European cruise vacation!

There are many reasons for this: The first and obvious reason is the choice of incredible destinations available for sight-seeing tours. Whether it is beautiful sandy Mediterranean beaches, breath taking fjords of Scandinavia, or the chance to marvel at ancient ruins, a European cruise can offer it all. The second reason is of course the journey itself - The Cruise. You will get to climb aboard some of the most luxurious and exotic ships to take this journey. It doesn't always have to break the bank either, If luxury ships sound a little expensive there are much more affordable options such as discount cruises, which can of course be just as fun.

European cruises are a great way to relax with family and friends while seeing the world - sound wonderful doesn’t it! However there are a few things that need to be looked into before committing and making reservations and packing your bags: Some cruises cater to families - the reality of this meant that these cruises are tailor made for people who have children. The ships will have amenities on board to keep children and parents happy and the solo traveller or slightly older traveller may want to avoid this cruise, unless they love the jovial screams of kids of course...!

Other cruises are more suited for couples going on their honeymoon or couples looking for some time together, as well an ever growing number of over 50's cruises. Generally you'll find that the destinations will reflect the different choices available.

Going for a European cruise is not always about the fun and games available within the cruise liner - you could say it is a combination of education and entertainment. When you stop at all the different ports, you will learn about the culture, traditions, food and history of the place you have taken port in. Although if your palate or constitution isn't too keen on trying other foods, accommodation and meals take place on the boat, so you can rest assured that you will be able to eat to your heart’s content!

Once you reach a particular destination, for example Rome, there will be excursions made available for you to go sightseeing and soak up some of the culture and ambience within the city. These are called shore excursions and you will be able to see all the cathedrals, monuments and museums that are to be found on the tourist trail.

European cruises also include river cruises. This is done because many places are not accessible with bigger liners. Therefore smaller boats are taken to see the out of the way places - which often hold the greatest intrigue. The most popular river boat cruises take place on the Seine, Danube and the Rhine.

Of course another way to go for a European cruise, and by far one of the most popular, is by taking a luxury cruise. These cruises can be seen as 5 star hotels on water! They will serve delicious gourmet food, put on world class entertainment and make available state of the art amenities. This is a perfect way to take in the sights and sounds of Europe.

So take the stress out of your holiday - let someone else worry about food, accommodation, travelling and planning and enjoy the sights and new friends you'll meet.