On board for a bargain

The cruise industry post lockdowns is going from strength to strength with some great promotions on offer.

Renowned for its small-ship journeys with next-level fine-dining, Oceania Cruises is celebrating its 20th anniversary. And that only means one thing: gifts for its guests ... in the form of a $US800 ($1147) credit on more than 100 journeys between 2023 and 2025. We have glanced over some of the itineraries where you can use the credit and we're torn between these options: an 18-night voyage from Tokyo to Singapore, with pit-stops at some of Asia's most colourful metropolises, such as Ho Chi Minh City, or a classic Mediterranean cruise from Istanbul to Athens, with visits to gorgeous Greek islands like Mykonos (pictured). Which one would you choose? Don't take too long to decide, though - these gifts are only on offer until March 1. oceaniacruises.com/special-offers/anniversary

Regent Seven Seas Cruises has made a mark in the world of ocean journeys for many reasons - from exquisite cuisine to unparalleled luxury. Now it can add another feather to its cap - irresistible deals. Book before March 15 and you could save up to 40 per cent on select cruises. And if that's not enough, you may also be entitled to suite upgrades. Visit the official website and browse through 12 pages of dream-worthy itineraries. You may be tempted to settle for the 15-night New York to Miami voyage, with a whole day in the sun-drenched city of Hamilton in the Bermuda archipelago. But our heart is set on the glorious cruise departing Lima on December 20 and arriving 21 days later in the vibrant metropolis of Buenos Aires (pictured). What a way to ring in the new year. rssc.com/sale

If you've never heard of Hurtigruten - the Norwegian coastal route, not the cruise line - now would be the time to acquaint yourself with it. Established in 1893, it connects Bergen (pictured) on Norway's south-western coast with Kirkenes on the country's far north-eastern edge. Along the way, there are 34 pit-stops - from charming fishing villages that time forgot to fairytale towns dwarfed by soaring mountains. Experience the magic of this timeless journey with Hurtigruten (the cruise line!), which is celebrating the route's as well as its own 130th birthday with savings of up to $3600 per cabin. The route may be old but there's no sacrificing creature comforts, particularly if you book a cruise onboard Hurtigruten's recently refurbished flagship vessel MS Trollfjord. hurtigruten.com.au

Norwegian Cruise Line has been voted Europe's leading cruise line by the World Travel Awards for the past 15 years in a row. And for good reason: the company offers journeys all over the continent for incredible value. Take, for instance, their seven-day Greek cruise, which will depart Athens on October 15 and visit islands such as Mykonos and Santorini from $2379 per person. Or their 11-day Northern Europe itinerary, which will depart London (pictured) on August 4, 2024, and visit Iceland, Norway and Belgium, with prices starting at $3762 per person. But here's the clincher: book by February 28 and save up to 50 per cent on all cruises as well as enjoy a free beverage package and $US200 ($286) onboard credit per stateroom. Only 10 days to go before the deal expires. Chop, chop! ncl.com