MSC’s 24 super ships offer families the chance to enjoy floating multi-gen holidays at sea with a European vibe. Sunseekers are spoilt for choice with a wide range of destinations, including the Caribbean, Bermuda, Europe and Asia. Because the ships are big, you’ll find plenty of places to sunbathe by the multiple pools, but even better is the chance to spend a day at Ocean Cay, MSC’s private island in the Bahamas. Here you can swim, sunbathe and snorkel in the crystal-clear sea. It’s the perfect spot to top up your tan and post a few envy-inducing Instagram shots. Onboard, there’s a slew of restaurants, bars and entertainment, including fun rides such as Jaw Drop – the longest dry-slide at sea – and the Cliffhanger on MSC World America, which swings you scarily over the side of the ship!

Oceania Cruises boasts eight small, luxurious ships. Well known for its wonderful cuisine and destination-rich itineraries, it is increasingly becoming popular with art lovers, too. On its newest ship, Oceania Allura, you’ll find an immersive digital-art experience. Featuring 30 celebrated artworks from 14 artists, the tour – accessible via an app – guides you around the ship to discover the diverse works in various mediums. And if you fancy trying out your own artistic skills, head to the Artist Loft (available on four of Oceania’s ships) for complimentary art lessons from experts. 

The world’s largest river-cruise line, Viking’s river ships all feature tasteful Scandinavian-style interiors, onboard libraries and a combined indoor-outdoor Aquavit Terrace overlooking the front of the ship. The aim is to appeal to curious travellers and culture vultures who want to take a deep dive into destinations. You’ll enjoy great cultural enrichment with onboard experts, lectures and daily excursions all included – the Nile cruises have an Egyptologist accompanying guests on excursions. Image: White Rain Productions

If you’ve never travelled solo before, river cruising is one of the best ways to take the plunge. Riviera Travel sets aside several cabins that don’t carry a single supplement for solo travellers on each cruise, as well as offering dedicated cruises for singles each year. It’s a great way to make new friends. Image: Getty Images

This British cruise line offers family-friendly cruises all year round at reasonable prices, with destinations including the Mediterranean, northern Europe and the Caribbean. On board P&O’s seven ships, passengers of all ages can enjoy great entertainment, including live music, stand-up comedy and theatre shows, with lively evening events, including karaoke, silent discos and locally themed parties. For ‘Take That’ fans, don’t miss the chance to see Greatest Days: The Official Take That Musical when you’re cruising. On shore, guests on P&O’s Caribbean fly-cruises can enjoy live cooking demonstrations from local chefs and try kayaking and off-road buggy tours in Saint Kitts and Barbados.

For five-star cruises to some of the world’s most exotic destinations, look to Scenic’s Eclipse and Eclipse II discovery ships. The company is known for its adventurous, expedition-style travel (think onboard submarines and helicopters), with cruises to far-flung destinations like Antarctica and the Arctic, as well as warmer places including the Caribbean and South America. Image: Getty Images