5 Reasons More Travellers Are Choosing Cruises

Leonor Resende • 22 June 2026

For many travellers, a cruise is no longer just a holiday,  it's an experience that combines multiple destinations, exceptional value, world-class entertainment, and the convenience of unpacking only once. Whether you're dreaming of exploring the Mediterranean, discovering the Norwegian Fjords, soaking up the Caribbean sunshine, or experiencing iconic cities along the way, cruising offers a unique way to see the world.



Over the past few years, more and more Irish travellers have discovered the benefits of cruising, making it one of the fastest-growing holiday choices. Modern cruise ships are designed to cater to every type of traveller, offering everything from fine dining and luxurious spas to family-friendly activities, live entertainment, and unforgettable shore excursions.

If you've never considered a cruise before, or you're wondering why so many people book cruise holidays year after year, here are five reasons why cruising could be the perfect choice for your next adventure.

1. Visit Multiple Destinations in One Trip 

Why choose one destination when you can wake up somewhere new almost every day?

One of the biggest advantages of cruising is the opportunity to visit multiple destinations in a single holiday. Instead of spending precious time travelling between cities or checking in and out of different hotels, your accommodation travels with you.

You can wake up in a new destination almost every morning, exploring fascinating cities, picturesque islands, and cultural hotspots, all without ever having to repack your suitcase. It's one of the most efficient and enjoyable ways to see the world.

2. Incredible Value for Money 

When comparing holiday options, many travellers are surprised by how much is included in a cruise. Accommodation, transportation between destinations, daily entertainment, dining options, and access to an incredible range of onboard facilities are all part of the experience.

With fewer unexpected costs and so much already covered before you travel, cruising offers fantastic value while delivering a premium holiday experience.

3. Resort-Style Living at Sea 

Modern cruise ships are floating resorts designed to cater to every type of traveller. From luxurious spas and swimming pools to live theatre productions, speciality restaurants, fitness centres, water parks, and family-friendly activities, there is always something to enjoy on board.

Whether you want action-packed days or complete relaxation, you can tailor every day to suit your mood. The beauty of a cruise is having endless options without ever leaving the ship.

4. Stress-Free Travel 

For many travellers, relaxation begins the moment they step on board. There's no need to worry about navigating unfamiliar transport systems, arranging transfers, or carrying luggage from place to place.

Everything is organised for you, allowing you to focus on enjoying the journey rather than managing logistics. It's a style of travel that offers peace of mind while still delivering incredible adventures and experiences.

5. There's a Cruise for Everyone

Whether you're travelling as a couple, family, group of friends, or solo traveller, there is a cruise to suit every travel style.

Adventure seekers can explore Iceland, Alaska, or the Norwegian Fjords. Sun lovers can enjoy the Mediterranean or Caribbean. Food enthusiasts can indulge in world-class dining, while culture lovers can immerse themselves in fascinating destinations rich in history and tradition.

No matter your travel preferences, cruising offers a unique balance of discovery, comfort, and unforgettable memories.

Ready to Set Sail?


With incredible destinations, outstanding value, luxurious facilities, and effortless travel, it's easy to see why more Irish travellers are choosing cruises than ever before.

Whether you're planning your first voyage or you're already a seasoned cruiser, there's never been a better time to discover the world by sea. At Barters Travelnet, we're here to help you find the perfect cruise for your travel style, budget, and bucket list. Our team can guide you through the different cruise lines, itineraries, and cabin options to ensure you get the most out of your holiday.


✨ Unpack once, explore endlessly!


Ready to book?

Call us on 021 485 1711  or email info@travelnet.ie — or click here to explore our current offers.

riviera rose new ship

Riviera Travel’s New Ships

by Elizabeth Leonard • 6 May 2026
Riviera Travel’s New River Cruise Ships A Fresh Take on European River Cruising If you’ve been looking into European river cruises recently, chances are you’ve come across Riviera Travel — and for good reason. They’ve built a strong reputation for delivering well planned itineraries, beautiful ships, and an easy, relaxed way to explore Europe. And now, with the introduction of their newest Riviera Travel river cruise ships, that experience feels even more refined. The latest additions to the fleet — MS Riviera Radiance and MS Riviera Rose — mark an exciting new chapter, with MS Riviera Resplendence and MS Riviera Reflection set to follow. Together, they represent a thoughtful evolution of Riviera’s river cruising experience in Europe, bringing a fresh, modern feel onboard while staying true to what makes their journeys so popular. One of the first things you’ll notice is the design. The interiors feel bright, elegant, and contemporary, with a real attention to detail throughout. There’s a sense of space in the main lounge, with panoramic windows designed to make the most of the views, while the dining areas feel refined yet relaxed — somewhere you’ll genuinely look forward to spending time each evening. The cabins are just as impressive. Many feature French balconies, allowing you to fully enjoy the ever changing scenery on a Danube river cruise, a Rhine river cruise, or even a journey along the Douro River cruise route. You’ll also find thoughtful touches like comfortable seating areas, well designed bathrooms, and clever storage that makes settling in feel effortless from the start. Onboard, the layout has clearly been designed with comfort in mind. There are inviting social spaces for a drink or a coffee during the day, as well as quieter corners if you want to unwind with a book or simply watch the scenery pass by. The sun deck is another highlight — an ideal spot to take in the views as you sail through some of Europe’s most scenic stretches.

Ordinary on the Map, Unforgettable in Real Life

by Leonor Resende • 23 April 2026
Not every place makes a good first impression. Some destinations look quiet on the map, unremarkable in photos, and easy to overlook when compared to Europe’s better‑known cities and regions. They don’t promise instant wonder or dramatic scenery, they don’t shout for attention, in fact, they can seem so familiar that you wonder whether they’re worth the trip at all. And yet, these are often the places that surprise us the most. Once you arrive, expectations begin to fall away. You stop searching for highlights and start noticing moments instead: the rhythm of daily life, the way people interact with their surroundings, how time feels different when nothing is urging you forward. Slowly, almost without realising it, the place begins to matter. This is the kind of travel that doesn’t reveal itself all at once, it unfolds through small details, unplanned pauses, and experiences that don’t always fit neatly into an itinerary. By the time you leave, you understand something important: the places that felt ordinary before the trip are often the ones that stay with you longest afterward. Europe is full of destinations like this, quiet, understated places that reward curiosity rather than expectation. These are some of them.
blue danube river

Discover Riviera Travel River Cruises: Itineraries, Excursions & Current Offers

by Elizabeth Leonard • 21 April 2026
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Travel the World’s Biggest Music Festivals

by Leonor Resende • 14 April 2026
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The Ultimate Malta travel guide: Top Attractions & Hidden Gems

by Kelly Collins • 1 April 2026
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Find Your Perfect Holiday Based on Your Personality

by Leonor Resende • 27 March 2026
Choosing a holiday is more than deciding on a place to visit, it’s choosing the version of yourself you want to step into for a little while. Some people come alive on high mountain trails, others find their joy floating in warm turquoise seas. Some feel energised exploring new cultures, while others crave nothing more than sunshine, good food and the simple luxury of slowing down. Travel isn’t one‑size‑fits‑all. It’s personal. It’s emotional. It’s a reflection of you. And that’s why the best holidays aren’t picked at random, they’re chosen by discovering what kind of traveller you truly are. Are you the adventurer? The luxury seeker? The family memory‑maker? The culture lover? Or the dreamer ready to explore a far‑flung corner of the world? When you match your personality to the right holiday style, something magical happens: the anticipation grows, the excitement builds, and suddenly the journey feels like it’s already begun. So let’s dive in. Let’s explore the escape that suits your spirit, the holiday that feels like it was created with you in mind. Your perfect match is waiting…and it might just surprise you.

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by Kelly Collins • 25 March 2026
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by Leonor Resende • 25 March 2026
Imagine Cork Airport not as a terminal, but as a hallway lined with doors, each one opening onto a completely different world. Behind one door: golden beaches warmed by the Canary sun. Behind another: cobblestone streets, cafés buzzing with conversation, and the soft glow of city lights reflecting off canal water. Further down, a hidden gem on the Adriatic coast invites you to slow down, wander, taste, and explore. No matter what type of traveller you are, sun chaser, culture seeker, foodie, or adventurer, Cork’s direct flight network now connects you to the places you’ve been dreaming about. Here are six of the most inspiring destinations you can reach in just one flight. Step through any door you like.
Rocky coastline with green mountains meeting the blue ocean under a bright sky.

Madeira: The Island That Feels Like Five Destinations in One

by Leonor Resende • 12 March 2026
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Open suitcase with hat, sunglasses, headphones, camera, phone, and clothing on a bed.

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by Leonor Resende • 5 March 2026
Summer 2026 is just around the corner, and travellers are already dreaming of sunny beaches, cultural getaways, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you're planning a short city break, a family holiday, or a luxury escape, knowing which European destinations are trending this year can help you plan the perfect getaway. From the postcard-perfect cliffs of Santorini, Greece, to the medieval charm of Dubrovnik, Croatia, the rustic beauty of Calabria, Italy, the cultural energy of Bilbao, Spain, and the year‑round sunshine of Tenerife, Europe is full of extraordinary places waiting to be explored this summer. In this guide, we’ll take you through some of the hottest destinations of 2026, complete with insider tips, must‑see attractions, and ideas to help you plan the perfect summer getaway.