Solo and family cruise news

Firsts for singles

Cruising is a very sociable way to travel alone - but until now single travellers have had to struggle with a hefty single supplement at sea. From July travellers on the newly launched Norwegian Epic will be able to enjoy specially-designed studios from £599 for a seven-day cruise, with both Eastern and Western itineraries available. It's a move that's ‘breaking the mould of traditional cruising' says Kevin Sheehan, CEO of NCL.

Each studio stateroom features a contemporary design with full-size bed and separate areas for bathroom, sink and shower. With private access to the exclusive Studio Lounge, it's a great way to meet fellow solo travellers as you cruise.

Firsts for families

In a first for families, NCL is teaming up with Nickelodeon to offer exclusive on-board family entertainment. Families can look forward to character meet and greets - hang out with SpongeBob SquarePants, Dora the Explorer and the rest of the gang - interactive shows like SlimeTime Live!, character breakfasts, dance parties, poolside entertainment and more. Watch out also for speciality Nickelodeon-themed cruises, premieres and other events.

Nickelodeon at Sea will launch on Norwegian Jewel when the ship begins sailing from New York in late April, and on NCL's latest addition to its fleet - Norwegian Epic - when she launches in July.

Starting your journey in New York? Find out what to do in the city here

To book a cruise on Norwegian Jewel, Norwegian Epic or any of NCL's ships, visit www.ncl.co.uk, call 0845 201 8900 or contact your travel agent.

New ship launches in July

The 4,200-passenger Norwegian Epic launches this summer, with a choice of Eastern and Western itineraries as well as the maiden transatlantic voyage from London to New York available now for booking. And this ship is really upping the cruising ante, with accommodation innovations including studios for solo travellers and world-class entertainment from the likes of the exciting Blue Man Group, performing for the first time ever at sea. Other firsts include Nickelodeon family entertainment, Cirque Dreams only ‘big top' at sea and the world's first Ice Bar at sea.

For more information and bookings visit the website at www.epic.ncl.co.uk

14-night Orlando Stay & Cruise from £999
After seven nights in Quality Inn International, Orlando, join Norwegian Epic for 7 nights from Miami to St. Maarten, St. Thomas, Bahamas and Miami. Prices are per person based on two adults travelling and sharing an inside cabin on a full-board basis and includes Virgin Atlantic flights from London Gatwick. Hotel stay on a room only basis and split between pre and post cruise. Based on departures 8 September 2010. Includes all applicable taxes and fuel surcharges which are subject to change.  Visit www.virginholidayscruises.co.uk or call 0871 781 9893 to book.

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