Banish the blues with sunshine-filled January cruises

Wednesday, 21 December 2011 3:24 PM

When the turkey leftovers have finally all been eaten, the presents put away and the Christmas tree taken down, it is all too common to find yourself suffering a bout of the January blues. As a result it would be little surprise if you found yourself searching for cruise deals for 2012.

Indeed, the end of the festive season is one reason to feel gloomy but when you add to this the unpleasant weather the month is known for, with ice and snow one day followed by grey clouds and drizzle the next, it is no wonder you are keen to head off on sun-filled January cruises.

Luckily, by booking 2012 cruises now, you can do just that and you will have something to look forward to once Christmas is over.

You will find there are ships departing across the globe, the majority of which are geared up to transport passengers around some of the hottest and most beautiful destinations on earth.

If you really want the chance to escape the daily grind and soak up the sun you could book a place on a cruise that is heading to the Caribbean. This has long been a popular destination with people keen to relax on soft sandy beaches, take a dip in amazingly warm azure waters and top up their tan.

Best of all, by travelling by cruise ship you will be spoilt as you journey from isle to isle, as you take full advantage of the luxurious facilities onboard.

Of course, you may find that January is a particularly busy time for you and if you are unable to take more than a week off, but there are still holidays you can consider.

For instance, over just six nights you can cruise around the Bahamas. This archipelago in the Caribbean is simply stunning and you are sure to come back with a healthy sun-kissed glow as the destination enjoys warm weather all year round.

If you are lucky enough to have more time to spare, you could instead choose to take a break that incorporates far more of the Caribbean, setting off from Miami in Florida, travelling down the coast of Central America and then sailing around the islands.

Another amazing break that won't fail to get 2012 off to a memorable start will see you spend the first few days on dry land in Las Vegas. Here, you will be able to take your time exploring Sin City whether you want to book a seat at a show, dine at one of the luxurious restaurants or try your luck at the blackjack tables.

You will then travel on to Los Angeles to board your ship, which will transport you to Hawaii - where you are sure to have ample opportunity to soak up the sun.

Away from the US, you will discover there are still plenty of cruises to choose from. You can visit destinations as far-flung as Thailand and Vietnam, or Sydney in Australia.

Alternatively, you might wish to go to Dubai and the United Arab Emirates, or stay closer to home and go cruising around the Canary Islands.

You can expect to find sun at all of these destinations, while you will also be able to enjoy getting utterly spoilt onboard your vessel. Cruise shops are renowned for being packed with fun facilities that help give passengers a holiday to be remembered, from spas, swimming pools and Jacuzzis, to live entertainment and gourmet dining.

Top Med destinations for 2012 cruises

If you're planning to head somewhere sunny on a 2012 cruise, consider travelling the Mediterranean. There are so many wonderful locations to visit here, from the fascinating ruins of Greece to the beautiful beaches of Spain, you're sure to find plenty to keep you busy wherever your cruise ship docks!

Luxury cruise in Turkey, 50 per cent off

Sailing aboard the seven-cabin gullet, constructed in traditional Turkish style, guests depart from Fethiye harbour and travel along the coast to Marmaris taking in glorious unspoilt islands. Anatolian Sky Holidays have reduced the price of a week-long luxury cruise aboard the Turkish gullet Seyhan by 50 per cent to just £425 per person, for departures on 23 July.