Sail & Discover: Hays Cruise Picks

White-sand beaches, rum-soaked sunsets, music drifting on warm trade winds… the Caribbean isn’t just one holiday, it’s a whole mood. And our Caribbean Holiday experts are here to help you find your perfect Caribbean fit.

As we ‘sail’ into a brand-new year; 2026 sees the launch of almost 30 new ships into the ever-expanding and exciting world of cruising. With so many to pick from, we’d like to turn the spotlight on our top five new ships and their highlights to hopefully inspire you to set sail in 2026 and beyond.

Imagine a holiday where your children meet their heroes before breakfast, sea days are a quacking good time, and evenings are wrapped in moonlight, Broadway-calibre shows and sparkling deck parties. Sounds like a dream come true? Well, you can stop wishing upon a star... because your perfect holiday has arrived.

If you love the idea of discovering the world without the stress of planning every little detail, you’re going to love our newest travel partner. Say hello to Travelmarvel – the experts in perfectly paced, premium-value holidays designed to help you see more, worry less and truly enjoy the journey.

Oceania Sonata is more than a new ship, she represents a refined evolution of luxury at sea, where thoughtful design, exceptional cuisine and carefully curated journeys come together in perfect harmony. And as anticipation builds for her 2027 debut, one thing is certain: this is a voyage worth waiting for.

This guide will walk you through why 2026 is an exceptional year to see the Northern Lights, the best destinations, some unexpected hidden gems, plus practical tips to help you make the most of your aurora adventure.

In 2027, Riviera Travel sets a bold new benchmark with the MS George Eliot, the world’s first river cruise ship dedicated exclusively to solo travellers. Just you, a beautifully appointed river ship, and Europe unfolding gently beyond the window.

Cruising is a time to plan with intention, and to choose a voyage where every detail feels considered. And with Cunard, so much is already included: elegant staterooms, refined dining, enriching lectures, and the legendary White Star Service that defines life on board.

Cruising is about more than choosing where to go; it’s about how it feels once you’re there. With P&O Cruises, the experience begins the moment you step on board. Add the option to upgrade and save with new all-inclusive packages, and you’ve got a holiday that flows effortlessly from day to night.

If you’ve ever wondered what European river cruising feels, from the people who live and breathe it every day, pull up a deck chair. We’ve just stepped off the sparkling-new MS Riviera Radiance after our very first Conference on the River in Budapest, and we’re still stunned.

Meet Legend of the Seas℠, the dazzling third chapter in Royal Caribbean’s Icon-class saga, a ship rewriting the rules of adventure. She’s bigger, bolder, and brilliantly designed to out-wow even her iconic predecessors.

When Norwegian Cruise Line heads to Australia, something magical happens! So, if you’re craving sun-drenched days, starlit evenings, and a playful mix of culture and coastline, NCL’s Australia sailings deliver all that.