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West to East: 8 amazing experiences to enjoy on Saga cruises in 2025

Saga cruises 2025 will offer a wealth of exciting adventures next year; here are just some holiday highlights to enjoy in Europe.

Looking for an all-inclusive luxury cruise packed with history, culture and wildlife next year? Saga Cruises is serving up a smorgasbord of amazing itineraries in 2025 onboard the 50+ targeted brand’s boutique ships.

From ancient cities to the freshest Mediterranean seafood, we’ve had a look at some of the cool things you can experience with Saga next year, whether you want to stay west or head east. Get ready to be inspired!

8 amazing experiences to enjoy on Saga cruises 2025

Discover the Western Mediterranean’s historic ports

Set Sail

Historic Ports of France, Spain and Portugal

Duration: 10 nights
Where: Dover, UK | La Pallice (for La Rochelle, France) | Leixoes (for Porto), Portugal | Vigo, Spain | La Coruña | Brest, France | St Peter Port, Guernsey | Dover, UK
Ship: Spirit of Adventure
Price: From £3,640 pp

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Porto

From the cruise port of Leixões, a Saga panoramic excursion brings you to Porto (also known as Oporto), nestled along the Douro River. Look to one side, and there’s Vila Nova de Gaia boasting port wine lodges renowned for producing the city’s famous fortified wine. On the opposite bank lies the UNESCO-listed Ribeira district, where cobbled streets lead to historical gems such as the 12th-century Sé do Porto Cathedral and the neoclassical Palácio da Bolsa. Rabelo cargo boats now offer scenic river cruises and the iconic Ponte Dom Luís I bridge provides majestic views of this riverscape. Oh, and you should probably sample some port during your sojourn.

Vigo

Vigo, a major fishing port in Galicia, features the historic quarter of Casco Vello, where the Plaza de la Constitución showcases charming arcades. This Spanish city serves as a gateway to UNESCO-listed Santiago de Compostela, home to the magnificent 11th-century cathedral believed to enshrine St. James the Apostle. Soak up Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque architecture as you stroll through Vigo’s lively streets, and don’t miss the tasty local seafood: pulpo a la gallega – octopus with potatoes – will tick your Galician delicacy box.

La Coruña

La Coruña’s historic old town awaits on your final Spanish call on this Saga cruise 2025. Meander down its medieval lanes and plazas before taking in Riazor Beach for sun and surf. The UNESCO-listed Tower of Hercules, the oldest operational Roman lighthouse, stands proudly about 13km from the city centre. Dating back to the 2nd century, it highlights Roman ingenuity and offers spectacular views of the Atlantic. Hungry? Roam the city’s tapas bars and feast on local treats before you head back to your ship.

Admire the Eastern Mediterranean’s ancient gems

Set Sail

Turkey and the Eastern Mediterranean

Duration: 22 nights
Where: Portsmouth, UK | Gibraltar | Syracuse, Sicily | Piraeus (for Athens), Greece | Kusadasi, Turkey | Cesme | Canakkale | Mykonos, Greece | Valletta, Malta | Malaga, Spain | Portsmouth, UK
Ship: Spirit of Discovery
Price: From £7,657 pp

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Ephesus

Kusadasi in Turkey serves as a gateway to the ancient city of Ephesus, one of the best-preserved archaeological sites in the world. This remarkable city once thrived as a major centre of trade and culture in the Roman Empire. Visitors can explore the grand Library of Celsus, the impressive Roman theatre, and the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Stroll along the marble-paved streets and you’ll encounter impressive mosaics and remnants of a fascinating past.

Troy

Everyone’s heard of the Trojan Wars epic but few know where Homer’s poem is said to have taken place. The answer? Southwest of the city of Canakkale in Turkey. Here a replica of the Trojan Horse stands as a tribute to the legendary tale of the decade-long siege. Positioned near the ruins of the celebrated ancient city of Troy, this life-sized horse (alas not wooden but made of steel and covered by fibreglass) serves to bring the mythology and history surrounding the tale to life. The nearby archaeological site showcases excavated city walls, temples and structures that tell the story of Troy’s intriguing past. Maybe swot up on the 2004 Brad Pitt or Orlando Bloom film, just to make sure you know the story properly…

Knights of St John fortifications

Malta’s rich history can be admired via the impressive fortifications built by the Knights of St. John (a Catholic military order that cared for the sick and poor). Capital city Valletta – a UNESCO World Heritage site – has various bastions and forts constructed by the order that protected the island from invaders, and today reflects both military power and artistry. The mighty Fort St. Angelo and the imposing Fort St. Elmo are must-visit sites and come with panoramic views. Explore the intricate architecture and learn about the Knights’ legacy in shaping Malta’s culture during your time here.

Citadels of Alcazaba

Malaga’s Alcazaba is a sprawling, 10th-century Moorish citadel that dominates the skyline with its chunky ramparts and towers. Built in the 11th century, this fortress offers visitors a peek into the city’s Islamic heritage. Wander through its lush gardens and check out the detailed design plus delightful courtyards and views of the city below. Adjacent to the Alcazaba is the Roman Theatre which remained hidden underground for many centuries until it was discovered in 1951. Heads up, there’s said to be a ghost in the Alcazaba so keep your wits about you!

Experience wildlife watching with Orca experts around the British Isles

Set Sail

The British Isles in Summer

Duration: 10 nights
Where: Dover, UK | Lerwick, Shetland Islands | Stornoway, Isle of Lewis, Scotland | Oban | Douglas, Isle of Man | Belfast, Northern Ireland | St Peter Port, Guernsey | Dover, UK
Ship: Spirit of Adventure
Price: From £5,057 pp

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Wildlife experts from ORCA, Europe’s leading whale and dolphin conservation charity, accompany many of Saga’s cruises around the world, but a voyage circumnavigating the British Isles will help you appreciate the wildlife of our very own shores.

ORCA’s passionate team are dedicated to studying and protecting marine wildlife for future generations and under their guidance, as you explore the Shetland Islands, watch for orcas and the puffins nesting along the cliffs; in Stornoway, keep an eye out for basking sharks and elusive minke whales.

Oban (the Seafood Capital of Scotland no less), offers glimpses of dolphins and seals playing in the waters; Douglas on the Isle of Man is known for its seabird populations, including gannets and razorbills; and finally, Guernsey provides opportunities to spot leatherback turtles and various migratory birds. Thanks to your onboard ORCA pros you’ll gain insight into these beguiling marine ecosystems and the importance of conservation efforts. Best pack those binoculars!

And that’s not all!

Next year doesn’t just overflow with thrilling destination highlights, there’s fabulous entertainment onboard Saga’s ships too, with new shows to look forward to.

‘BBC Studios Presents…Good Bad Billionaire’ is just one super spot of fun on Saga ships. From celebs and CEOS to sport stars and tech titans, find out how the world’s billionaires made their money, and then judge them. Are they good, bad, or just another billionaire? Zing Tsjeng and Simon Jack are the presenters of the podcast which is available on BBC Sounds and also broadcast on BBC World Service. The show has 2.5 million listeners and is equally popular in the UK and the US.

“Zing and Simon will give you an insight into how some of the world’s richest people made their money and what they are doing with it, as well as how they research their podcast and decide who is a good or bad billionaire,” said Saga.

Why should you sail with Saga in 2025?

Launched in 2019 and 2021, Saga’s boutique sister ships are tailored exclusively for discerning travellers, with all prices in UK sterling. Each cruise departs from and returns to either Dover or Portsmouth, eliminating the need for flights. Guests enjoy an all-inclusive experience featuring unlimited wines, beers, premium spirits and soft drinks, as well as shore excursions, wi-fi and gratuities. Speciality dining is included at no extra charge, allowing for a variety of culinary experiences in a relaxed atmosphere. What’s more, on every cruise Saga includes a return chauffeur service to the port, or complimentary parking at the port if you prefer to drive yourself.

Saga’s boutique ships accommodate up to 987 guests and boast spacious cabins, inviting lounges, and expansive outdoor areas, including a lido deck and a wraparound promenade. Every cabin features a private balcony for your comfort and enjoyment.

Book early for 2025 to secure discounts of up to 35 percent, and take advantage of Saga’s Cruise Price Promise, ensuring you receive the best price throughout the 2025 season.

Published 23.10.24