Travellers are searching for cruises in bigger numbers this spring, and the interest in staying closer to home is rising too. New UK search data analysis from Avanti Travel Insurance shows interest in ‘cruise holidays’ climbed around 25% between February and May 2026 (up from roughly 16% over the same period in 2025).
And it’s not just general cruise demand. Google searches for ‘UK cruises’ were essentially flat (0% growth) between February and May 2025, but the same period in 2026 saw an increase of almost 20%, pointing to growing appetite for no-fly cruises.
The timing is telling. With international conflict driving fresh uncertainty for travellers and jet fuel markets under pressure, travel confidence appears to be wobbling. Aviation analytics has suggested that around 13,000 fewer flights were set to operate in May after cancellations and schedule changes, which could be pushing even more holidaymakers to consider trips that don’t hinge on flying.
Cruise expert Mark Barton at Avanti explains the search surge may reflect a shift in travel confidence: people want the ease of sailing from a domestic port and the travel reassurance of cutting out the airport entirely.
“When travel confidence dips, people tend to look for simpler, more predictable journeys. A no-fly cruise can be the cost-effective alternative for travellers helping reduce both air miles and the stress that can come with flight disruption,” says Mark.
Dubbed the best-kept secret, a no-fly cruise lets you skip the airport entirely by sailing from a UK port. “It’s a perfect choice for those who may not feel comfortable flying, or anyone seeking a simpler itinerary without the hassle of too many transfers,” says Mark. “Travel delays can be tricky to navigate, especially when flying to meet your cruise, and let’s not talk about how much the flights can cost.”
No-fly doesn’t necessarily mean no planning, however. Embarkation times are fixed, and ports can be a long drive or rail journey depending on where you live. So, it’s worth treating the trip to the ship with the same care you’d give to catching a flight.
When booking a no-fly cruise, Mark recommends checking a few basics:
- What’s included in your fare (and what isn’t) – gratuities, drinks packages, parking and excursions can all add up and change the true cost, if you’re not careful.
- Travel disruption news – ships won’t wait if you’re delayed on the road or train, therefore, it’s key you know the boarding and check-in times to plan generous buffers.
- Insurance that fits your needs – just because you aren’t flying, having travel insurance is still important. Tailored cruise cover ensures you’re protected for cruises-related extras like missed ports or excursions. This way, you can relax at sea with peace of mind, knowing you’re covered.
- Passport and documentation – many itineraries will still require a passport even if you start and finish in the UK. Make sure your passport and GHIC card are both valid (even when you have travel insurance!)
So, where can you go with no-fly cruises? Mark shares the ultimate escapes that happen right from our beloved UK ports:
European no-fly cruises
For travellers who want a European mini-break without an airport run, many cruise lines offer shorter sailings of just two or three nights. These short trips depart from the UK and take you to some stunning locations – from picturesque Ireland and Scotland to the charming parts of Northern France and the Netherlands.
P&O, for example, offers three-night cruises to Bruges, Belgium. Known as the “Venice of the North,” Bruges is known for its winding canals, quaint cobblestone streets, and irresistible Belgian chocolate shops. It’s an especially magical destination during the winter months when you can enjoy cozy strolls through festive Christmas markets.
For those looking for something a bit more British, P&O also offers trips to St Peter Port, Guernsey, a picturesque island in the English Channel. With charming streets to explore, a military museum, and fantastic seafood restaurants, it’s the perfect destination to unwind.
All of P&O’s short cruises depart from Southampton, meaning you can say goodbye to stressful airport transfers.
Longer Western Europe cruises are also a great ‘beginner’ no-fly option, combining sea days with city stops that are easy to explore independently. Depending on the itinerary, ports can include places like Amsterdam, Zeebrugge, Hamburg, or Cork. Theses often offer a mix of culture, food and sightseeing without the additional cost of flights and transfers.
Mark says: “If you want a European city-break feel but with the convenience of unpacking once, Western Europe and Baltic itineraries can be a strong option. Just check how long the ship is in port and what time it sails, some destinations really reward an early start.”
Luxury cruise lines
If you’re in the mood for some luxurious pampering, there are plenty of high-end vessels departing from the UK to choose from.
One of my top choices for luxury operators is Cunard. Known for its iconic vessels, including the Queen Elizabeth, this line offers everything from short journeys over to Hamburg to a complete world tour.
For the ultimate escape, you can opt for a two-week Mediterranean cruise, where you’ll explore charming cities like Lisbon and Cadiz, and indulge in world-class dining and service. With luxury bars, restaurants, and elegant amenities onboard, you’ll feel like royalty when you set sail.
No matter where you choose, Cunard’s no-fly cruises from Southampton offer a seamless and luxurious journey.
Icelandic and Norwegian Fjords cruises
For travellers seeking dramatic landscapes, a no-fly cruise to the Icelandic and Norwegian Fjords is a fantastic option. Princess Cruises offers a breathtaking 14-day journey through this iconic region, taking you to towns like Flam, where you can enjoy a scenic mountain railway trip to Myrdal. The scenery is nothing short of spectacular – think dramatic fjords, sparkling glaciers, and cascading waterfalls. And if you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights from the deck of the ship.
Whether you’re searching for a short scenic escape or a longer quiet cruise, domestic routes provide a relaxing way to travel. As Barton puts it, “If you can start closer to home, your remove a lot of stress points; meaning your holiday starts when you step onboard, not when you join the airport queue.”
The cruise expert finished by reiterating that travellers should not forget their travel insurance. “When considering the type of cruise you’d like to book and whether it departs from the UK, I highly recommend taking out comprehensive cruise insurance. This way, you can relax and enjoy your holiday with complete peace of mind, knowing you are covered for potential cruise-specific issues,” ends Mark.
