2021 was a strange year. From long lockdowns to red lists and new restrictions, at times it seemed like the country would never go back to normal.

And during Covid restrictions are still in place, the good news is that cruises still set sail Southampton in December, with time left to book.

Cruise companies like P&O, Cunard and Fred Olsen’s all offer great vacations on their unique ships.

CONTINUE READING: The Royal Navy warships HMS Queen Elizabeth, HMS Defender and HMS Diamond return to Portsmouth – live

What could be better than kicking off 2022 than relaxing on the deck of a cruise while fireworks light up the sky?

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Whether you want to escape the bitterly cold English weather or are just looking for some adventure, these New Years cruises are the perfect way to take a break.

1. Transatlantic and Caribbean

Dates: December 13th – January 3rd

You have to be quick if you want to escape to the Caribbean on this 21-day cruise. But what is life without a little spontaneity?

On the luxurious Queen Mary Liner from Cunard, guests will enjoy the festive season on a five-star cruise to New York and the Caribbean.

From the virgin island of Tortola to the lagoons of St. Maarten, the cruise takes you away from the rain and wind of England to the ivory sandy beaches and crystal clear sea of ​​the Caribbean.

Live music, children’s entertainment, and sporting events make this cruise suitable for all ages.

You can find more information about booking here.

2. Canary Islands

Dates: December 18th – January 3rd

If you want to see the sights of Spain and Portugal for 16 days, this P&O cruise is for you.

On the Iona, guests can enjoy Lanzarote’s sunny climate and visit Gran Canaria’s lively capital, Las Palmas.

When it strikes 12 noon on New Year’s Eve, toast your health with a glass of sparkling wine and strap on a pair of dancing shoes to welcome the year 2022.

You can find more information about booking here.

3. Hamburg and Bruges

Dates: December 29th – January 3rd

This family-friendly cruise on Ventura may be short and sweet, but it offers plenty of entertainment on board. The evening performances include theater performances, bands, comedy and cabaret.

There are also a range of spa treatments to indulge in and 12 areas to dine in on board.

Stops in Bruges allow you to explore the canals, cobbled streets and medieval buildings that characterize Belgium.

You can find more information about booking here.

4. Western and Northern Europe

Dates: December 28th – January 4th

This whistle-stop cruise takes you to multiple port destinations including Zeebrugge, IJmuiden, and Le Havre.

The short distances between the ports give passengers four full days to explore the sights of France, Belgium, Holland and Germany.

The medium-sized MSC Magnifica lives up to its name with an on-board theater and the Atlantic City Casino.

With activities for kids and all meals, this cruise is a perfect European getaway.

You can find more information about booking here.

5. Canary Islands Christmas and Fireworks Cruise

Dates: December 20th – January 4th

After a relaxed Christmas party in the sunshine of Cadiz in Spain, guests can celebrate the end of 2021 in the Canary Islands and welcome the New Year in Madeira.

This Fred Olsen cruise also includes destinations such as La Palma, San Sebastian and the capital of Tenerife, Santa Cruz.

With plenty of historic architecture and beautiful beaches to explore, this 15-day cruise on the Bolette will fly by.

You can find more information about booking here.

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Stephen Bates, Internal Comms Maintainer at HMS Defender, reunited with his family