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Saga Cruises fleet

Spirit of adventure, spirit of discovery, spirit of the moselle, spirit of the danube, spirit of the rhine, spirit of the douro, ms filia rheni ii, ms rex rheni, review of saga cruises.

Saga Cruises (Saga Shipping Ltd, saga.co.uk/cruises) is a British company, luxury cruise brand and division of Saga Group. The company started passenger shipping operations under the travel brand name "Saga Cruises" in 1997, with the purchase of Saga Rose (former NCL ship MS Sagafjord), Saga Rose was the flagship until 2004 when Saga Ruby was bought from Cunard Line (previously named MS Caronia). Saga Travel's CEO is Nick Stace.

The shipowner Saga Group/Saga plc (1951-founded, headquartered in Folkestone, Kent England, UK) is a London Stock Exchange-listed company specializing in travel and insurance. Currently, Saga plc is managed by Mike Hazell (CEO) who in 2024 succeeded Euan Sutherland (2020-23).

Company history and changes

While on its final cruise in the Caribbean, Saga Ruby had one of its generators fail disabling the air-conditioning plant. Then it was decided to cancel the sailing and head for a Western Mediterranean itinerary. Saga Ruby returned to Southampton on Jan. 9, 2014 due to bad weather. While in Funchal Madeira, the ship met up with Saga Sapphire for New Year's Eve fireworks display. Saga Ruby then departed for Gibraltar out of Southampton for the last time on January 10th and was handed over to her new owners on Jan 13, 2014.

In 2005, Saga Cruises introduced the "Spirit of Adventure Cruises" brand. In March 2006, MV Spirit of Adventure (former Orange Melody) entered into service. In 2013, Saga sold the brand.

For summer 2003, Saga Holidays chartered  Minerva  (1989-built) which sailed as "Saga Pearl". Saga Rose was retired in 2009 after a final 37-night Mediterranean voyage. Subsequently, the ship was laid up in  Gibraltar  and scrapped  in China in 2010. In 2014 was acquired Saga Ruby (former NCL ship MS Vistafjord), which last voyage was in January 2014.

Until 2020, Saga Holidays operated two ships under charter - Saga Sapphire and Saga Pearl 2 . The former fleetmate Saga Ruby was built and launched under the name "MS Vistafjord" for NCL/Norwegian America Line. In 1983, the vessel was sold to Cunard, and in 1999 renamed "MS Caronia". In 2004, Cunard sold it to Saga. It was operated as "Saga Ruby" until 2014 when was sold to a Chinese company, renamed "Oasia", operated as a hotel ship until 2017, then scrapped at Alang India .

Earlier in 2009, Saga UK acquired Astoria (Saga Pearl 2). Followed a GBP 14 million drydock refurbishment of the 1981-built vessel. The upgrades included new Veranda Restaurant; new balcony cabins; new Library Lounge; a redesigned Spa, and renovations to both swimming pools. The ship has 126 twin-bed cabins, 25 twin or king-bed cabins, 42 double-bed cabins. Of all staterooms, 20 have balconies and 9 have French balconies. Saga Pearl 2 has 60 single cabins (almost 1/4 of all staterooms). Among Saga's signature trademarks are the shipboard Afternoon Tea service and ballroom dancing. Saga ships departure from UK ports ( Southampton and Dover) on cruises to the Canaries, Baltic, and the Mediterranean. Itineraries range between 7- and 24-days in length.

Saga Sapphire and Saga Pearl 2 were both withdrawn from service/left the fleet after two new ships ( Spirit of Discovery /2019 and Spirit of Adventure /2020) were delivered. In August 2019 was announced that Saga Sapphire will be acquired by ANEX Tours (Turkey's largest travel agency/tour operator), starting operations for ANEX in mid-2020. However, due to the global health crisis in 2020, the 39-year-old liner was officially sold to ANEX Tours in July 2020. Renamed to "Blue Sapphire", it started operations for ANEX in 2021, offering roundtrips from Antalya Turkey to Eastern Mediterranean and Black Sea ports.

• In November 2019, after acquiring Thomas Cook Group's subsidiaries in Germany (Oger Tours, Bucher Reisen and Neckermann) and Russia (Intourist, 1929-founded USSR-Russia travel brand privatized in the 1990s by Vladimir Yevtushenkov), ANEX Tours became the world's second-largest tour operator - after TUI Group. The company's Chairman (Neset Kockar) commented that expects the annual passenger volume to increase to 8 million and the turnover to reach ~EUR 10 billion (~USD 11 B).
• Thomas Cook Group plc (2007-founded / 2019- defunct ) was a British travel group formed by the merger of Thomas Cook AG (British-German, 2001-founded) and MyTravel Group plc (British, 1972-founded). Neset Kockar (ANEX Tours) was the second-largest shareholder in Thomas Cook Group plc - after Fosun International China.

In July 2022, SAGA UK marked the anniversaries of Spirit of Adventure (July 6th) and Spirit of Discovery (July 10th), announcing interesting facts about the boats and their guests. In three full years, Spirit of Discovery navigated ~145,000 NM/nautical miles, completed 48 voyages, visited 273 different destinations, and served 2825 shore excursions. In one year, Spirit of Adventure navigated ~80,000 NM, completed 23 voyages, visited 144 destinations, and served 1617 shore excursions. Both vessels served ~36,9M meals, ~5,7M eggs, ~9,2 tons of lobster, ~13,5 tons of Dover sole, ~190 tons of smoked salmon, ~668,000 bottles of wine. ~12,000 customers used the onboard spas for massages.

In January 2024, Saga Group announced that it is exploring the option of a "partnership arrangement" for its ocean cruise business (including the potential sale of a stake in the division or selling the ships Spirit of Adventure and Spirit of Discovery) to unlock capital. In the period August 1, 2023, through January 29, 2024, Saga Group reported significant revenue growth (10-15%) over the same period in 2022-23, as well as ~30# increase (year-on-year) in revenue from its OCEAN division.

In 2017, Saga UK ordered two new cruise ships with capacity under 1000 passengers, each vessel with a total of 540 cabins and suites. The shipbuilder is Meyer Werft ( Papenburg Germany ). Unlike all previous Saga ships, these two are fully-owned by the company.

The vessels were scheduled for deliveries in 2019 July ( Spirit of Discovery ) and 2020 August ( Spirit of Adventure ). This is a new series of polar-class expedition ships with ice-strengthened hulls. Each costs USD 346 million (GBP 280M / EUR 310M) and has a total of 540 staterooms (cabins and suites), of 100 are single cabins (designed for solo travelers, no single supplement required), which is approx 20% of all cabins. The other staterooms are in categories Standard Balcony, Deluxe Balcony, Mid-Ship Suite and larger suites.

Among the signature venues onboard are the Britannia Lounge (2-level Atrium bar lounge), The Verandah (specialty restaurant) and an outdoor (alfresco dining) restaurant. Each vessel has two swimming pools (indoor and outdoor).

At the end of March 2017 was announced the name selected for the first ship - "Spirit of Discovery" (scheduled delivery June 2019). The second vessel was ordered in September 2017 - "Spirit of Adventure" (scheduled delivery August 2020).

In mid-September 2018 was announced that starting January 2020, Saga's new ships deals will be all-inclusive. Fares include unlimited (shipboard served) house spirits, beers, wines (by the glass) and soft drinks. Company's packages also include:

• UK travel package (to/from departure port), Shuttle bus transfer (to the nearest downtown from the port)
• Onboard gratuities, Porterage
• Onboard Welcome cocktail party
• All onboard meals, afternoon tea, live entertainment
• Unlimited tea and coffee (selected ship venues)
• 24-hour room service
• premium service (2 staff members for 3 passengers)

In early-March 2019, Saga announced that the company's both newbuilds (the sisterships Adventure and Discovery) are all-inclusive. This means that Saga cruise fares are inclusive of specialty restaurant dining, drinks (wine, beer, house spirits, soft drinks), 24-hour room service, Wi-Fi, gratuities, transfer (chauffeur service to/from homeport for cruise passengers based within 250 ml / 402 km distance). Shore excursions remain optional and at additional cost. The cruise company offers complimentary shuttle bus services in all ports where the town/city is over 0,5 km from the ship.

In early-November 2019 was announced the shipbuilding order for Spirit of the Rhine (2021-inaugurated, 192-passenger riverboat). In early-February 2021 started the construction of a second newbuild riverboat - Spirit of the Danube (2022-inaugurated, sistership). Since 2024 is also chartered Spirit of the Douro (2017-built, owned by Mystic Invest via Douro Azul ).

In late-March 2022, Saga announced a 4-ship expansion project for its riverboat fleet, ordering 4x ships (Spirit of the Moselle, Spirit of the Main, Spirit of the Elbe, Spirit of the Rhone), with the first entering service in 2023 and the rest following one vessel per year.

Saga Holidays ocean- and river cruising experience

Saga Cruises offers both Ocean and River cruise travel vacations. All the company's vessels are chartered. The cruising experience is classic, elegant and comfortable. Passengers are able to choose from contemporary amenities such as modern spas, Internet cafes, alternative dining in intimate restaurants. Do not expect shopping centers, casino or lustrous shows - Saga passengers like the relaxed and good-mannered social life. Traditional English tea is served each afternoon; ballroom dancing is presented nightly.

Saga passengers are more adventurous than it might be imagined. They seek a high level of comfort and service while they are careful not to squander pensions on gambling (the reason why there are no casinos on Saga's ships). They also demand fine food, that is well-prepared, from varied menus. Some of the mainstream cruise lines may get away with fortnightly or weekly menu cycles. That wouldn't be welcomed by Saga Cruises customers who are free to stay onboard for back-to-back cruises.

When you are not out or it is one of those lazy days at sea onboard Saga ships, you will be surprised by the great number of onboard activities. You will have the opportunity to join painting or computer classes, keep fit with Pilates and yoga, enjoy swimming, attend a talk from guest speakers. Relax with new and old friends, or look for some quiet time in ships' cozy areas. Other diversions include the beauty salon and spa - go for a pampering treatment or a massage or try the gym - go for a refreshing yoga course. A well-stocked library with thousands of books is also provided. Another choice is using one of the computers and keep in touch with family and friends.

In the evening onboard Saga ships, while heading to the next destination before dining, enjoy an aperitif in onboard bars, or work up with pre-dinner dance classes. At formal nights (one for a week-long cruise, two for a 14-night cruise) enjoy the feeling of occasion. Later take your seat for a show, go dancing, watch a film or socialize with friends - you may even enjoy a nightcap accompanied with live music in the inviting lounges and bars.

On select cruise itineraries, you will be entertained by celebrities. But the best part of all is that with no children on board, kids' games arcades or clubs taking up space, everything aboard is designed for your pleasure.

No matter which Saga ship you choose (ocean or river), each mealtime is going to be an exciting dining experience. Good breakfast is essential when you have a day full of activities - plenty of choices await for you for the day ahead. Choose from a waiter-served meal, the buffet onboard Saga Ruby, or eat out on deck. Opt for full English breakfast brought to the cabin. There are plenty of things to tempt you at lunchtime: choose from the buffet or enjoy a cooked-to-order lunch in the main restaurant.

Afternoon Tea is a daily cruising tradition with tempting cakes, pastries, finger sandwiches. Dinner - the day's highlight - is always waiter-served, one-sitting, sometimes with six courses. A talented team led by the Executive Chef prepares the meals using the finest and freshest/locally sourced ingredients.

Delicious wines from well-stocked "cellars" are recommended from sommeliers who are also on hand. Main courses, including game, fish, meat, vegetarian dishes, are followed with desserts from a selection of souffles, tarts, pavlovas, petits fours. The best of all is that you will never feel rushed to end your meals or have to wait for guests, as flexible arrangements make sure you dine at any time between 7-9 pm.

Saga Cruises customers

The Saga cruise line targets 50-and-older customers and is kids-free. The company sells directly to the public, not counting on travel agents. Allowing traveling companions who are 40+ years old is beneficial to couples who want to cruise together with grown-up families and in-laws, and also to those who need assistance and personal care. Saga's customers are elderly and almost exclusively British, with occasional passengers from Australia, Canada, New Zealand, rarely Japan.

Saga UK provides free chauffeur service (door-to-door) for passengers who live within 75 mi (120 km) of cruise departure ports, and also shared chauffeur for up to 250 mi (400 km) homeport distances. Alternatives include coach and rail transportation, or domestic flights (from the UK) which can be fare-included. Saga also offers free parking to all its cruise passengers.

Saga Cruises enjoys a high repeat booking rate (about 75%).

To attract first-timers, since 2016 Saga offers "Love it First Time". By this initiative, a full refund is guaranteed to anyone who doesn't enjoy the company's cruising vacation product. SAGA UK guarantees that if passengers find that the experience is not for them, they can leave the ship at the next available call port. The "Love it First Time" offer applies only to new bookings and first-time customers.

Saga Holidays fly-cruise deals

For the end of 2017 (November and December), Saga Cruises offered 3 fly-cruises. The 8-, 11- and 12-night itineraries were available for booking with all-inclusive prices starting from around GBP 114 per person. Saga's "flight and cruise" deals are inclusive of airport and seaport transfers, all onboard meals, alcohol (wine by the glass / at lunch and dinner, house-brand spirits, cocktails, draught beers, lager), also soft drinks, afternoon tea, free Wi-Fi and, all onboard gratuities.

Saga Sapphire ship's 8-night "Canary Island Medley" cruise (prices from GBP 897) departed from Southampton on December 8, 2017.

The Saga Pearl 2 's 11-night "Jewels of the Canary Islands" cruise (prices from GBP 1516) departed from Southampton on November 20, 2017.

The Saga Pearl II ship's 12-night "Contrasts of the Canary Islands and Cape Verde" cruise (prices from GBP 1980) departed from Southampton on November 1, 2017.

The Nov 1st voyage included a flight from the UK to Funchal (Madeira), boarding there Saga Pearl 2, and the home flight from Lisbon back to the UK.

(Coronavirus crisis) passenger shipping pause 2020-2021

Due to the COVID pandemic, Saga Ocean Cruises suspended its fleet's passenger shipping operations by cancelling all voyages with pre-scheduled departures in the period March 15, 2020, through early-July 2021.

Operations resumed in 2021 with Spirit of Discovery (June 27) and Spirit of Adventure (July 26/ Maiden Voyage ). Saga UK requires all passengers to have had both doses of the COVID vaccine before boarding the ships.

All affected bookings received full monetary refund (100% of the fare paid) or 125% refund in FCC (future cruise credit) with rebooking made within 24 months.

Saga UK's "Cruise Price Promise" allows penalty-free cancellation up to 14 days prior departure. All shipboard employees (fleetwide) remained on the docked vessels. Both SAGA ships' berthing location (during the no-sail period) is London-Tilbury Port .

Itinerary of Saga Cruises

(fka "Saga Holidays") SAGA UK's cruise Itineraries and shore excursions are designed mainly for adults. The company has 60+ years of holiday travel experience in Europe. The company used to charter two older boats, but since 2021 operates a small (SAGA Group-owned) fleet of two newbuilds - Spirit of Adventure and Spirit of Discovery .

Saga UK also operates (under time-charter) the following riverboats: Filia Rheni 2 , Amadeus Royal , Amadeus Symphony , Johannes Brahms , Rex Rheni , Dutch Melody (fka River Melody, since 2020) .

Saga Group also owns a fleet of six newbuild riverboats /sisterships - Spirit of the Rhine (2021), Spirit of the Danube (2022), Spirit of the Moselle (2023), Spirit of the Main (2024), Spirit of the Elbe (2025), Spirit of the Rhone (2026).

Since 2024, Saga also charters Spirit of the Douro (Douro Serenity/2017-built) for Douro River voyages in Portugal and Spain.

SAGA's free shuttle bus service is available if you want to explore independently - the shuttle will take you to the nearest city center or town. The service is offered if the distance between Saga ship and the city is over 500 yards. At ports of call, you will have a choice of exciting optional excursions. Saga representatives accompany cruisers on the coach. Saga Cruises company is sending a detailed booklet a few weeks before the cruise which gives the chance for pre-booking. If you prefer so, you can also visit the Tours and Travel Office onboard and Saga staff will book the preferred tours for you, if available.

The organized tours are a great way to see the sights. Saga excursions include transport, entrance fees, services of English-speaking guides. Lunch and refreshments are sometimes also included, so you will enjoy without worrying about costs. All excursions are optional, an additional cost will be added to your account. They are subject to change and availability. Among the highlights detailed on Saga cruises, are some that may be seen only by exploring independently or on optional excursions.

Douro River cruise itineraries

Starting in 2024, Saga offers two itineraries scheduled for Spirit of the Douro - "Lisbon & the Heart of the Douro" and "Douro Explorer".

Saga Douro River cruise fares are inclusive of travel insurance, onboard beverages (between 11 am-11 pm/non-branded alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks), Cruise Director services, return flights and land transfers, Captain’s events (dinner and cocktail reception), onboard Wi-Fi and gratuities, land tours/excursions (Lamego, Figueira Castelo de Rodrigo, Salamanca sightseeing, a quinta dinner, a wine estate tour, Casa de Mateus Palace, Oporto City tour with a wine cellar visit).

The company provides interactive maps and audio headsets for independent shore exploration.

"Lisbon and the Heart of the Douro" itinerary

"Lisbon and the Heart of the Douro" is a 10-night/11-day cruisetour itinerary starting in Lisbon. These voyages are priced from GBP 2520 pp (EUR 2945/USD 3180) and are inclusive of a flight from the UK to Portugal (Lisbon), a 3-day/2-night hotel stay in Lisbon and a domestic flight from Lisbon to Oporto.

• (Day 1) flight UK to Lisbon
• (Days 2-3) Lisbon hotel
• (Day 4) flight Lisbon-Oporto, boarding the Spirit of the Douro ship (overnight port stay)
• (Day 5) cruising from Oporto to Regua and Pinhao
• (Day 6) cruising from Pinhao to Vega de Terron/Salamanca (Spain)
• (Day 7) cruising from Vega de Terron to Barca d'Alva
• (Day 8) cruising from Barca d'Alva to Cais de Espinho and Pinhao
• (Day 9) cruising from Pinhao to Regua and Bitetos
• (Day 10) cruising from Bitetos to Entre-os-Rios and Oporto
• (Day 11) Oporto (debarkation/return flight to the UK)

"Douro Explorer" itinerary

"Douro Explorer" is a 7-night/8-day cruise itinerary starting in Oporto. These voyages are priced from GBP 2180 pp (EUR 2550/USD 2750) and are inclusive of a flight from the UK to Portugal (Oporto).

• (Day 1) flight UK to Oporto, boarding the Spirit of the Douro ship (overnight port stay)
• (Day 2) cruising from Oporto to Regua and Pinhao
• (Day 3) cruising from Pinhao to Vega de Terron/Salamanca
• (Day 4) cruising from Vega de Terron to Barca d'Alva
• (Day 5) cruising from Barca d'Alva to Cais de Espinho and Pinhao
• (Day 6) cruising from Pinhao to Regua and Bitetos
• (Day 7) cruising from Bitetos to Oporto (overnight)
• (Day 8) Oporto (debarkation/return flight to the UK)

"Discovering St James' Way" itinerary

A discovery of ancient pilgrims' route is the highlight of one of Saga's holidays - it runs from southern France over the Pyrenees, ending in Santiago de Compostela. Discover St James (Camino de Santiago) way with Saga. Along the Way, visit ancient cities and villages; do not do the hard work, walking in pilgrims' footsteps. Look out for highlights as Gaudi's fairytale Episcopal Palace; stay in Pamplona - evoked by Hemingway in The Sun Also Rises; taste wine in La Rioja's bodega; see the cathedral cities of Logrono, Burgos, Leon. For 12 nights, prices start at GBP 899. Among the many inclusions are additional cancellation cover and travel insurance, all breakfasts, ten dinners. You will be accompanied by an experienced Saga manager throughout.

Naples to Apulia itinerary

Saga Cruises offer is colors of the South 90-night tour. You will travel from Naples to olive groves of Puglia; stay on Ischia island with subtropical foliage. Discover the beautiful scenery of towns along the way; gain a wonderful insight into the Italian way of life. You will stay in four throughout the tour - five-star hotels on a half-board basis. Enjoy the glorious views of the bay while in Naples; visit Unesco World Heritage; listed dwellings in the Apulia region; enjoy naturally heated spa thermal waters at Ischia hotel. As on many Saga holidays, prices start at GBP 949 and single staterooms - available on selected dates - no extra cost! Join Saga Cruises' team and enjoy tours of Romania, Portugal, the Baltic; go shopping in Greece; join a tour in Croatia; discover Italian Lakes. Additional cancellation cover and travel insurance are one of the money-saving elements that are included in the Saga holidays.

Saga's tours in the USA, Mozambique, and Japan

Let your year to embark on one of the most memorable journeys with Saga Cruises experts. The chances Saga Cruises has the right trip you have been looking for, are quite big. Wherever you want to go into the world and however you want to travel, there's a good chance that Saga Cruises will help. Unlock Japan's mysteries. Stay in Mozambique's authentic bush camps, dare to look over the edge of South Rim in Grand Canyon. Saga Holidays seeks for new destinations and new experiences for the over 50s audience - such are these exciting new tours.

Trans-frontier Trail - Mozambique to Kruger

This 12-night tour will make you discover Greater Limpopo Trans-frontier Park and the rich Portuguese. The three national parks in South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique are protected and form a territory of 36,000 square miles. Mozambique's most beautiful beaches on the Indian Ocean are the place you could swim off, stay in comfortable bush camps and venture bush walks and safaris- for unrivalled opportunities for spotting wildlife. The size of the group is limited to twenty people. Of course, you will be fed well too - seven lunches, all breakfasts, and dinners are price included.

South West Iconic Parks of America

Wide-open spaces, fresh air and relax. Each of the national parks is more spectacular than the last one; the rock formations are impossibly beautiful and multi-colored. Experience Mother Road and what was left of Las Vegas Route 66 - The Strip is the one place to stay if you travel through Nevada. The best way to experience the Grand Canyon is to stay in the park, close to South Rim. Since you will be in the Wild West, probably you will wish to experience the badlands of Painted Desert; see the Sedona formations of red rocks; enjoy scenic cruising along Antelope Canyon; see the limestone spires in Monument Valley.

Saga Mystery Cruise 2018

Captain Horne's Mystery Cruise surprises up to 720 passengers every day for 3 weeks. The intriguing cruise aboard Saga Sapphire left Southampton UK in November 2018 with Captain Stuart Horne promising to keep "everyone guessing as long as possible." He added he would only tell his engineers and navigation team as much as they need to know for fuel management and route planning.

No guarantee where the captain sails but there are all-inclusive drinks and tours as well as entertainment from Syd Lawrence Orchestra on 6 nights. VIP Chauffeur service is guaranteed to and from the port, all included in the fare, along with travel insurance. Another surprise is the array of mystery celebrities/VIP guests on Saga Sapphire.

Ports of call are announced once the ship is berthed, but there is a shore trip included in every port.

The adventure is the last mystery cruise aboard Saga Sapphire and features a choice of table wines at lunch and dinner, as well as house-branded spirits, soft drinks, draught beer, and lager. Afternoon tea, unlimited tea, and coffee in selected venues, welcome cocktail party, free wifi, onboard gratuities, and 24-hour room service are also included.

Saga Sapphire departed Southampton on November 27, 2018. Prices for the 21-night cruise started from GBP 3090 pp (based on double occupancy / 2 people sharing a Twin Cabin).

Itineraries 2021 (cancelled)

Saga UK planned 7 new itineraries for early-2021 (all were eventually cancelled) including an 83-night South America itinerary visiting the Amazon Delta, Punta Arenas , Cape Horn , Rio de Janeiro , Buenos Aires , Montevideo on MS Spirit of Discovery.

This world cruise was the ship's longest and planned to depart from Southampton on January 6, 2021. Prices included chauffeur service to the homeport, balcony cabin, all-inclusive meals and drinks, daily afternoon tea, free wifi, onboard gratuities.

The clockwise South America circumnavigation itinerary had to start with a Transatlantic crossing (UK to Brazil), followed by coastal cruising through the Amazon Delta, Patagonia, Panama Canal , Ecuador, Colombia. From Callao Peru were offered optional tours to Machu Picchu and Galapagos Islands . Overnights were scheduled in Rio de Janeiro , Manaus , Stanley (Falklands) .

Spirit of Adventure had planned in Europe 6 itineraries (January through March 2021) including

• 14-night "Constellations of the Canaries"
• 16-night "A Norwegian Aurora" (Northern Lights cruise) with included Aurora Borealis shore excursion, Rauma Railway through Troll Wall, overnight in Sorrisniva Igloo hotel)
• 15-night "Taste of the Mediterranean" visits Barcelona , Cartagena , and Valencia and includes flamenco dancing, horse show, paella and tapas-making, chocolate and wine tastings.
• 8-night "Scandinavian Rhythms" visits Copenhagen , Frederikshavn , Gothenburg , Odderoya, Kristiansand .

The wellness-themed 16-night "Exotic Morocco and the Canary Islands" itinerary featured outdoor yoga classes, guided hikes, tours in Lisbon and Funchal, Madeira Island .

For Spirit of Discovery was planned an 83-night "South America: A Grand Voyage" (from GBP 17,324 pp) departing from Southampton on January 6, 2021. For Spirit of Adventure were planned the following voyages:

• 14-night Constellations of the Canaries, from GBP 2449 pp, departs January 5, 2021.
• 16-night Exotic Morocco and the Canaries, from GBP 3024 pp, departs January 19, 2021.
• 15-night The Beautiful Canaries, from GBP 2892 pp, departs February 4, 2021.
• 16-night A Norwegian Aurora, from GBP 3117 pp, departs February 19, 2021.
• 15-night A Taste of the Mediterranean, from GBP 2799 pp, departs March 7, 2021.
• 8-night Scandinavian Rhythms, from GBP 1475 pp, departs March 22, 2021.

Summer "Around Britain" 2023 itineraries

In October 2022, Saga added a further 4 round-Britain voyages into its summer 2023 schedule, all with up to 35% off, and timed to coincide with events like the Tall Ships Race and the Rolex Fastnet Yacht Race.

Spirit of Discovery ship departs from London-Tilbury on July 16, 2023, sailing along Britain's south coast, visiting Scilly Isles, Fowey, Falmouth, and Portsmouth, and concluding in Dover. The 8-night itinerary also visits Tresco (Abbey Gardens) and also has a price-included tour of Portland. Guests will have the chance to see the start of the Rolex Fastnet Yacht Race. Prices start from GBP 1819 per person with double occupancy.

On July 24, 2023, Spirit of Discovery starts a 6-night voyage to the Shetland Islands (Dover roundtrip), visiting Invergordon and Scrabster . The itinerary also includes Lerwick as it hosts the Tall Ships race before returning to Dover. Included tours are a visit to John O'Groats and a scenic drive along the Scottish Highlands. Prices start from GBP 1367 per person.

Spirit of Adventure ship departs Dover on August 28, 2023, for a 6-night roundtrip along the Cornish coastline. The itinerary visits Scilly Isles, Fowey, Falmouth, and Portland , with 2 included excursions - a scenic drive along the Dorset coast and a visit to Tresco's Abbey Gardens. Prices start from GBP 1378 per person.

On September 3, 2023, Spirit of Adventure starts a full Great Britain circumnavigation voyage. The 8-night roundtrip from Dover visits Ullapool (fishing town at Loch Broom, Scotland), Isle of Mull , Isle of Staffa 's Fingal’s Cave and volcanic rock formations, and features scenic cruising along the English Channel's Jurassic Coast (UNESCO World Heritage Site). Prices start from GBP 1755 per person.

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29 March 2023, 09:00

Saga launches full range of 2024 ocean cruises

29 March 2023 : This week, Saga has officially launched its full range of 2024 ocean cruises with 48 all-inclusive itineraries now available.

New for 2024, Saga has revamped its UK travel package and the included chauffeur service has now been extended to 300 miles from the departure dock (previously it was 250 miles). Those guests who live further afield and choose to join the cruise via a domestic flight to London or Southampton will also receive a chauffeur service from home to their local airport. They will then be picked up from their flight and driven to the ship, making the whole experience easy and stress-free.

This latest launch of 2024 cruises sees Saga complete the line-up for next year, following its announcement last November of its first ten itineraries , which will take place between January and March 2024.

Saga is committed to offering early bookers the best deals, so these new cruises are launching with up to 35 per cent off the full price. Saga also offers a price promise , whereby if the price of the cruise ever drops, guests who have paid the higher price will get the value difference.

Highlights for Spirit of Discovery will include:

• A 12-night all-inclusive Exploring Spain and Western France cruise departing 28 April 2024 from Portsmouth. For the first time, Saga will visit Douarnenez , a small port town with an active sardine fishing and canning industry. It has an attractive town-centre, known as the Quartier du Vieux, with 18 th century houses, churches and chapels. Douarnenez’s picturesque waterfront has a choice of cafes and restaurants, and there are coastal paths including one to the Plomarc'h Natural Site with traditional fishing cottages and an archaeological area. The cruise will also visit Bordeaux, home to a former royal square, Place de la Bourse, and the Cailhau Gate, a 15th-century defensive gateway dedicated to Charles VIII. It wouldn’t be a trip to Bordeaux without a visit to one of the prestigious estates for a wine tasting. This cruise also visits La Pallice – the ‘Sleeping Beauty’ castle in La Roche Courbon. And finally the cruise visits Bilbao and its modern Guggenheim Museum, which contrasts sharply with the city’s medieval quarter and 19th-century industrial heritage. Prices start from £2,799 per person for a standard balcony cabin (based on two sharing).
• An 18-night all-inclusive Greenland and Iceland Wilderness Explorer cruise departing on 10 July 2024 from Dover. In Iceland, guests will experience the sights of Reykjavik including the Golden Circle and the remote West Coast from Isafjordur. From there they will cruise to three remote settlements in southern Greenland: Qaqortoq which is the largest town in southern Greenland with brightly coloured wooden homes; Narsarsuaq, the gateway to exploring the Qoroq Ice Fjord with its stunning blue icebergs, and Nanortalik, ‘the place of polar bears’. Departing Greenlandic waters, Spirit of Discovery will travel through the incredible Prince Christian Sound, a narrow passage where glaciers reach down towards the sea, before calling into Akureyri in the north of Iceland for opportunities to visit Godafoss Waterfall and spot whales in the surrounding fjord. Prices start from £4,999 per person for a standard balcony cabin (based on two sharing).
• Spirit of Discovery will be heading to the Canary Islands for the festive season. Leaving Portsmouth on 19 December 2024, the Christmas in the Canary Islands all-inclusive cruise will visit Leixoes (for Oporto), Cadiz, Las Palmas, Santa Cruz (Tenerife), Santa Cruz (La Palma), Arrecife, Funchal and Lisbon. Prices start from £5,116 per person for a standard balcony cabin (based on two sharing).

Highlights for Spirit of Adventure include:

• A 22-night all-inclusive Athens and the Greek Islands cruise departing on 17 April 2024 from Portsmouth, which, for the first time for Saga, will visit Hydra with its picturesque amphitheatre of stone mansions built in the 18th and 19th centuries by merchant captains. Nowadays, celebrities, artists and the yachting set are drawn to the island with its combination of traditional and glamorous bars and restaurants. Other highlights from the cruise include a visit to the small fishing village of Katakolon, which is considered the gateway to the mystical site of Ancient Olympia. This tour will visit the site where the first Olympiad was held in 776 BC and the Temple of Zeus, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. Athens is also included in this cruise with a visit to the Acropolis and a drive past Constitution Square, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the Olympic Stadium. The ship also stops in Argostoli from where you can visit Fiskardo village for lunch with a view towards Ithaki. Prices start from £6,114 per person for a standard balcony cabin (based on two sharing).
• A 12-night all-inclusive Scandinavian Gems cruise departing Dover on 30 May 2024 (also repeated on Spirit of Discovery on 4 August 2024). This cruise will visit Sweden, Denmark, Lithuania, Germany and Norway and some of their lesser-known ports, including, for the first time, Gudhjem in Bornholm, Denmark. This tiny fishing port with a population of around 750 people has a cosy atmosphere and plenty of shops, boutiques and cafes. Guests can also explore the island of Bornholm or take the ferry across to the fortress island of Christiansø. This cruise will also visit Klaipeda in Lithuania with its German and Scandinavian architecture, lovingly restored half-timbered buildings, and beautiful local countryside. Guests will also have the chance to visit Copenhagen, home to three Royal Palaces, and the Aarhus Museums. Den Gamle By (the old town) is one of the finest open-air museums in Europe and provides a glimpse into Danish life through the centuries, while the AROS Museum is a vast Art Museum with a large collection of works. A stop in Gothenburg includes a vintage tram ride to the Hagg District, one of the oldest neighbourhoods, with well-preserved houses lining the cobbled streets. Prices start from £3,018 per person for a standard balcony cabin (based on two sharing).
• For Christmas, Spirit of Adventure will be heading to the Caribbean from Portsmouth on 6 December 2024 for a 30-night all-inclusive cruise. The Festive Celebrations in the Caribbean cruise will include: Barbados with its lively Capital of Bridgetown; St Lucia with the Piton mountains and Creole culture; Grenada the ‘Isle of Spice’; the lesser-known Dominica with lush rain forests, gorges and waterfalls; the tiny island of Nevis; Tortola, the largest of the British Virgin Islands and the ever-popular island of Antigua, where the ship calls in Christmas Eve. Christmas Day will be spent at sea and Spirit of Adventure will anchor off Funchal to see the New Year in. Prices start from £8,106 per person for a standard balcony cabin (based on two sharing).

Saga has also been delighted with the response from its advanced registration guests to a new Israel and Ancient Egypt cruise, which is already nearly full. Guests are able to register in advance with the cruise line to ensure they secure their first choice of itinerary and cabin. This 24-night cruise departs Dover on 9 September 2024 and will visit Gibraltar, Syracuse (Sicily), Souda (for Chania in Crete), Rhodes Town (Rhodes), Antalya (Turkey), Paphos (Cyprus), Ashdod (Israel), Haifa (Israel), Alexandria (Egypt), Valletta (Malta) and Ceuta (Spain) before returning home. There are limited cabins still available, so guests wishing to secure this cruise should call Saga on 0800 051 3355 to enquire about availability.

Also back by popular demand are a range of seven short round-Britain cruises. These include: Spring in Southern Ireland, departing on April 8 on Spirit of Discovery and visiting Bantry Bay and Cobh (prices from £1,147 pp); two Guernsey, Isles of Scilly and the Cornish Coast cruises departing on Spirit of Adventure on 11 June and Spirit of Discovery on 5 July 2024 (prices from £1,182 pp), and a Summertime in the British Isles cruise departing 16 June on Spirit of Adventure (prices from £2,676 pp).  

And, of course, Saga guests can also choose from a range of other popular cruises throughout the year to destinations such as the USA, the Mediterranean, Norway (and the Northern Lights), Africa, the Caribbean and the Canary Islands.

In addition to the complimentary chauffeur service, Saga’s boutique ocean cruises are all-inclusive with no hidden costs on-board either. Saga Cruises come with all dining and house drinks including a selection of cocktails, draft beers and lagers, wines, spirits, mixers and soft drinks. New for 2023 and in response to guest feedback, a selection of premium label spirits are also available at no additional cost. Wi-Fi, gratuities, fitness facilities, 24-hour room service, sightseeing tours in selected ports, entertainment (from lectures to recitals to shows), porterage of luggage, shuttle buses to nearest town centres and travel insurance are also included.

Guests can view and book these 2024 cruises at saga.co.uk/2024-cruises or by calling 0800 051 3355.

Selected destination images are available here , and cruise ship images here .

For journalist enquiries, please contact: [email protected] .

March 29, 2023

Amanda Allan

Notes to editors

Notes to editors:

• *Prices listed include the percentage discount of up to 35 percent off the full fare, but discounts will drop as cabins are sold so it pays to book early.
• 20 per cent of Saga’s ocean cabins are designated for solo travellers only. These guests can book a range of cabins from standard through to super, deluxe and a suite and also receive discounts of up to 35 per cent if they book early.
• Please check saga.co.uk/cruise for terms and conditions.
• All prices correct at time of publishing and based on two sharing.
• All cruises and pricing subject to availability.
• Saga is fully ATOL and ABTA protected.

SHP Spirit of Discovery EXT 13484f Cropped

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Saga Cruises

Are you seeking a luxurious cruise experience aboard a small, intimate ship? If so, look no further than Saga Cruises.

Offering exclusive, sophisticated cruises for over-50s since 2003, Saga Cruises has quickly risen to prominence as one of the world’s most recognisable cruise lines. Drawing on their vast experience in providing discerning travellers with unforgettable land-based holidays, Saga’s expertise is evident in every element of each cruise.

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Depart from the UK and explore!

One of the many things that make Saga a desirable proposition is that nearly all of their sailings depart from th e UK . Leaving from either Dover or Southampton, Saga is a great choice should you wish to avoid flying to an overseas embarkation port. Plus, with complimentary door-to-door transfers (or free port parking) included, it really couldn’t be easier.

The destinations visited by Saga are largely European based and, as such, offer an array of itineraries in the Mediterranean, British Isles and the Baltic . Each itinerary is designed to offer a healthy mixture of relaxing sea days and excursion-laden visits to a spectacular range of ports. When exploring ashore, you will have the opportunity to explore independently or join a guided tour that can focus on anything from ancient history to the local food and wine.

Saga Cruises – Great for Solo Travellers

Saga Cruises are a hugely popular choice with solo travellers . The line’s small ships mean you can become immediately familiar with your new surroundings and the onboard staff are excellent at catering for guests who are cruising alone. Throughout each sailing, solo travellers are giving the chance to attend exclusive events, mealtimes and activities. More often than not, these can result in forging friendships that last far beyond the duration of the cruise.

In terms of accommodation, Saga Cruises offer more ‘solo’ staterooms and suites than any other cruise line. Each solo grade of accommodation is equipped with everything you will need for a pleasant ocean cruise, including an en suite bathroom, vanity desk and television (with DVD player). Sage will also provide you with your own cabin steward, who will be on-hand 24 hours a day.

What’s included with Saga Cruises?

Not only do Saga Cruises offer a fantastic onboard experience – but they are also all-inclusive. On every cruise with Saga, you can look forward to having the following included in your cruise fare:

• Start your cruise in style with return transfers from your home to your departure port within a 250-mile radius.
• Alternatively, if you would prefer to make your own way to the port, take advantage of inclusive travel by rail, coach or port parking.
• Balcony accommodation
• All onboard meals, including snacks, afternoon tea and dining in speciality restaurants.
• Complimentary wine served with lunch and dinner.
• Onboard gratuities
• 24-hour room service
• Free onboard internet access (selected areas only)
• Travel insurance (optional)

In addition to these inclusions, Saga will also provide a complimentary shuttle service in most ports of call and all onboard entertainment.

If you would like further information regarding Saga Cruises or if you wish to receive a quote for a future sailing, please contact our Voyage Consultants on 0800 008 6677 . Alternatively, make an online enquiry for your preferred cruise.

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Last-minute holidays

Enjoy a great value late getaway.

Fancy escaping to sunnier climes and don’t want to wait? You’re in the right place. Here’s where you’ll find our specially selected last-minute holidays, all departing from the UK and offering the brilliant Saga value you know and love. Whether you’re after a spontaneous short haul break or looking to journey a little further afield, there’s a huge range of exciting destinations to choose from.

Our late deals span all-inclusive beach holidays , exhilarating tours and lots more besides – not to mention both group and independent travel – so you’re guaranteed to find something to suit you. So, why wait? Rest and relaxation or an expertly planned adventure? Find your perfect last-minute holiday with Saga below.

Fly for free saving up to £500pp*

offer ends in

1 d: 21 h: 49 m

HOTEL HOLIDAYS

Juan de la Cosa

Fly for free with savings of up to £500pp at this hotel.

From £ 695 per person *

*Ts&Cs apply.

Montenegro and the Dubrovnik Riviera

Fly for free with savings of up to £350pp on this holiday.

From £ 1,125 per person *

Alua Illa de Menorca

Fly for free with savings of up to £250pp at this hotel.

From £ 625 per person *

Hotel Kaktus Albir

From £ 695 per person

GROUP TOURS

Adriatic Coastal Explorer

From £ 1,535 per person

Dalmatian Island Explorer

From £ 2,135 per person

32 d: 21 h: 49 m

Hotel Port Denia

4 weeks for the price of 3.

From £ 1,575 per person *

Universal Hotel Perla

From £ 795 per person

Enotel Lido

From £ 3,095 per person *

Wild Borneo

From £ 3,265 per person

Magic of the Nile

From £ 2,515 per person

*All prices include advertised discounts, offers subject to availability. Fly for Free offers available on highlighted holidays for selected departures where current discounts are higher than the cost of the air fare. Juan de la Cosa : advertised lead price based on 1 May 2024 departure with saving of £250pp, highest saving of £500pp available for 14 night duration on 14 May 2024 departure. Alua Illa de Menorca : advertised lead price based on 15 April 2024 departure with saving of £250pp, highest saving of £450pp available for 21 night duration on 22 April, 6 May 2024 departure. Montenegro and the Dubrovnik Riviera : advertised lead price based on 9 May 2024 departure with saving of £350pp, highest saving of £500pp available on 30 May 2024 departures.

With the widest choice of holidays and travel experiences than ever before, you can now personalise your trip so you are in complete control. All this is backed up by the high-standards and service you’d expect from Saga.

70 years’ experience

Experienced travellers have been enjoying great value Saga holidays for over 70 years.

Peace of mind

You’re in safe hands with Saga. We’re an ABTA member and your holiday is ATOL protected.

Great value

We’re constantly monitoring prices and negotiating the best deals with our travel partners.

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Cruise Q&A: Beginner’s guide to Saga Cruises

Author: [email protected]

Published on: 19 October 2017

Updated on: 13 November 2020

Booking your first cruise can be a stressful and intimidating experience. Deciding where and when to go, is only the beginning of it. How do you pay? What sort of cabin should you choose? How do you find out about hidden extra costs? Do I need to pack any formal clothes? There is quite a

Booking your first cruise can be a stressful and intimidating experience. Deciding where and when to go, is only the beginning of it.

How do you pay? What sort of cabin should you choose? How do you find out about hidden extra costs? Do I need to pack any formal clothes? There is quite a bit to consider. But fear not, we’ve gathered some of the most frequently asked questions to make the process as easy as possible.

How old do I need to be to travel with Saga?

From relaxing hotel stays and scenic river trips, to cultural escorted tours and memorable ocean cruises, the varied collection is a perfect choice for anyone over 50 (a travelling companion can be over 40).

How much of a deposit will I have to pay?

For ocean cruises, Saga require £200 per person or 15 per cent of the cost of the holiday, whichever is greater, up to a maximum of £1,000 per person.

How do your discounts work?

On all Saga cruises, the company set aside a number of cabins within each grade at a discounted fare, with the highest discount of 35 per cent available on selected grades. These cabins are sold on a first come, first served basis. As cabins are sold, the discount begins to reduce and continues to reduce until those selected cabins are sold.

This means that the earlier you book, the higher the chance of securing a greater discount. You’ll find the latest prices on the website. During busy periods for booking holidays, the early booking discounts can reduce rapidly. When promoting new cruises for the first time, Saga contact customers on the advance registration list first, allowing them to secure the cabin of their choice and benefit from the best savings.

What if the price goes up after I’ve booked?

Once you have booked we will not add any additional cost to your holiday unless you select any extras. This is regardless of what happens to fuel prices, exchange rates or any other factors that might influence the holiday cost. So, you can sit back and look forward to your break without the worry of paying more!

What are Inside/Outside Guarantees?

The traditional way to book a cruise is to reserve your cabin number at the time of booking. However, if you’ve decided what type of cabin you want but don’t have a preference for a particular cabin or bed configuration then the Inside/Outside Guarantees could be good for you.

It means that you are guaranteed the minimum grade cabin in the category shown, just not the specific cabin. This will be allocated to you later on, sometimes as you embark the ship. If you choose not to accept your allocated cabin, which could be located anywhere on the ship, this is treated as a cancellation. There is a chance of an upgrade although this is subject to cabin availability and in no way forms part of this offer.

Can you cater for special diets?

Fine dining is an integral part of the cruising experience and Saga can cater for most dietary needs as long as let them know in advance. You can make Saga aware of your requirements at the time of booking.

Are your cruises suitable for single travellers?

There are many reasons why cruising with Saga is a fantastic way to holiday for solo travellers – from the small ships with their sociable and friendly atmosphere to the spacious cabins, fantastic value and onboard activities exclusively for solo travellers.

Is there a loyalty club?

Everyone who cruises with Saga for more than 35 nights is automatically rewarded with free membership of the Britannia Club. This brings an array of benefits, ranging from exclusive special offers, a dedicated booking line and a quarterly newsletter. There’s an extended chauffeur service, priority boarding and even a free cruise depending on your level of membership. There are five levels: Bronze, Silver, Gold, Sapphire and, for guests who sail over a thousand nights, the prestigious Diamond tier.

So whether you’re already a member of the Britannia Club, or just need a few more nights on board to qualify, choosing your next cruise is another step towards lots of additional delights!

What is the tipping policy?

If you are cruising on one of Saga’s own ships, gratuities and service charges are all included in the price of your cruise, so there is no need for you to budget for these costs once you arrive on board.

Can I pre-book my shore excursions?

We will send you excursion information 6-8 weeks before departure along with prices so you can plan and book your trips ashore in advance. You will be able to do this online.

While we would advise you to pre-book your excursions due to limited availability, it is also possible to arrange these on board through the Travel and Tours office.

How many formal nights can I expect on my cruise?

Not all cruises will have formal nights but generally you can expect 1-2 for every seven nights spent on board. On formal nights, it is impossible to overdress! A glamorous long dress and sequined shrug or pashmina are perfect partners for an elegant champagne dinner and a tuxedo and bow tie are the ultimate in sophistication (although a dark suit or dinner jacket would also be just fine!).

Are there laundry facilities on board?

Saga Sapphire and Saga Pearl II have well-equipped self-service launderettes on board. Alternatively, you may wish to use the laundry service for a charge instead.

Lush Islands In Spring

• 14 nights, departs on the 31 Mar 2024
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Seven Seas Splendor
• Miami, Florida, , , + 12 more

Asian Wonders & Arabian Delights

• 20 nights, departs on the 05 Apr 2024
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Seven Seas Navigator
• Laem Chabang, Laem Chabang, Ko Samui, + 18 more

North Pacific Passage

• 18 nights, departs on the 13 Apr 2024
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Seven Seas Explorer
• Tokyo, Hitachinaka, Miyako, Iwate, + 16 more

Whale Watching Expedition

• 7 nights, departs on the 01 May 2024
• Vancouver, British Columbia, , Ketchikan, Alaska, + 5 more

Ocean Air & Spanish Flair

• 14 nights, departs on the 10 Apr 2024
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Seven Seas Grandeur
• New York, New York, , Kings Wharf, + 12 more

Saga Cruises

Featuring design cues, cuisine and levels of service you expect in the world’s finest boutique hotels, Saga’s state-of-the-art ocean cruise ship, Spirit of Discovery, launched in 2019. Offering world-class speciality restaurants, stunning contemporary design and outstanding service, the Spirit of Adventure will be embarking on her inaugural season in 2021.

These brand-new sisters are smaller ships carrying no more than 999 guests, and thanks to clever interior design, are spacious inside. Beautifully designed with guests in mind, an array of grand public rooms includes a showstopping theatre, five restaurants, and large outside areas. A private balcony for every cabin is included, along with all-inclusive drinks and speciality dining. These are all the hallmarks of the boutique cruising experience which you can look forward to on every Saga Ocean Cruise.

Featured Cruises

Saga ocean itineraries.

Our Cruise Expert

Gary Buchanan has sailed the Seven Seas during his 33-year career as an award-winning specialist cruise writer. Author of four books about cruising, he regularly contributes to prestigious newspapers such as The Telegraph and magazines including American Express Departures. He is a pundit on all things cruise and is looking forward to enhancing the content library for Panache Cruises.

Gary Says...

“Hurtigruten has been operating Norwegian coastal voyages since 1893. Their fleet of 18 vessels includes MS Roald Amundsen and MS Fridjof Nansen - superb new ships which I have no hesitation in recommending for expedition cruising. I also have fond memories of the classic sailings to and from Bergen visiting serene fjords, quaint fishing villages and charming towns along Norway’s western coastline - or the magical Northern Lights cruises.”

What's included with your Saga Cruise?

Treatments, beverages, specialty dining and some shore excursions are all available at an extra cost.

Things to do onboard

Dining and drinks onboard

Spirit of Adventure's fine dining restaurant and music venue, The Supper Club combines international cuisine with live entertainment. Open for pre-dinner drinks, expect relaxing dining throughout the evening. With its own grand piano and stage, it's perfect for our line-up of guest musicians on every cruise.

Spirit of Discovery features two specialty restaurants as well as its Grand Dining Room. ‘Coast to Coast’, showcases modern seafood cuisine, while ‘East to West’, offers a range of traditional Western and vibrant Eastern dishes.

Spirit of Adventure features two specialty restaurants as well as its main Dining Room and the cabaret Supper Club. ‘Khukuri House’ is an exquisite Nepalese restaurant inspired by Ghurka heritage, while ‘Amalfi’ offers high-end Italian cuisine and mouth-watering Mediterranean dishes.

Onboard Accommodation

At the heart of every luxury boutique hotel are the bedrooms: your own haven to relax while enjoying your own personal space. And with an average floor plan of 215 square feet as standard, there’s quite a bit of space to enjoy. Beautifully boutique, each one has a balcony as standard.

Each ship includes:

• Standard Twin
• Twin Deluxe
• Mid Ship Suite
• Forward Suite
• Standard Single
• Superior Single
• Deluxe Single
• Single Suite

Spirit of Discovery also offers

• Adapted Standard Twin
• Adapted Twin Deluxe
• Adapted Junior Suite

Spa, Health and Wellness

A sumptuous sanctuary for relaxation, The Spa is a place of beauty, delight and wellbeing. Designed in neutral tones with warm colours, this wellness retreat exudes a timeless elegance. Featuring six treatment rooms, a thermal suite, and salon, Saga’s signature spa concept is an all-encompassing collection of curated moments.

The thermal suite boasts its own 200-foot vitality pool, steam room, infrared sauna, and heated lounge chairs.

Enjoy bespoke fitness programmes and yoga classes on board the ship.

The Spirit of Adventure also boasts a top deck sports court, a digital golf simulator called The Bunker, and traditional deck games.

Excursions, Entertainment and Activities

Curl up with a book in Saga’s traditional library, which features over 3,500 volumes.

Enjoy a colourful show in the epic Playhouse theatre, or alternative entertainment in the Britannia Lounge where you can dance the night away. This can include guest musicians and singers, classical concerts, and soloists. The Club by Jools Holland on board the Spirit of Discovery also offers live shows from musical ensembles.

A dedicated craft area, where you can enjoy a range of classes and workshops, from jewellery-making to papercraft. Expert teachers and artists will be on board most cruises, instructing and assisting. The Craft Room offers the opportunity to learn new skills, make new friends, and enrich your cruise experience.

Enrichment Programmes

Explore Ashore is an exciting service led by Saga’s on-board team of experts, brimming with local knowledge and ready to provide independent and personalised travel advice. There is an extensive programme of shore excursions included on your Saga Ocean Cruise, but Explore Ashore is much more than that. Bespoke tours created with the guest in mind, this programme of enriching, small-group excursions enables cruisers to discover secrets most tourists don’t see. Explore Ashore excursions are only available to plan and book on board; visit the designated desk on board and the team will be more than happy to assist.

Sustainability

Saga quantifies and reports their organisational GHG emissions in alignment with the GHG Protocol, which includes alignment with the Scope 2 Guidance (reporting Scope 2 purchased electricity using both the location-based and the market-based methodology).

Saga Cruises Ships

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Saga hit by £61m loss as Covid takes toll on tours and cruises

Travel and insurance firm cut more than a third of its workforce in 2020

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Saga, the travel and insurance company for the over-50s, has revealed it made a £61m loss before tax last year after the Covid-19 pandemic prevented it from operating its tours and cruises and forced it to refund customers.

The company cut more than a third (36%) of its workforce during 2020, as it moved to slash costs, while it also raised £150m from shareholders in September.

The group is ready to restart its tours and cruises as soon as government restrictions allow and reported that there is significant pent-up demand from customers who want to travel.

In January, Saga became the first UK travel operator to tell cruise and holiday customers that they must be fully vaccinated to travel with them this summer.

Passengers who want to travel on Saga tours or cruises will be required to show a letter from their GP or their vaccination card to show that they have been inoculated against Covid-19, with two doses if required, at least 14 days before departure. They will also need to take a Covid test at the departure terminal.

Saga Group’s chief executive, Euan Sutherland, said the company had received “great support” for its two-vaccination policy for travel customers.

“Customers want to be comforted and cautious, and have extra peace of mind around tours and cruises,” he said.

“We don’t tend to send a lot of customers away in peak months of July and August, our customers tend to avoid those months, so it gives us a longer window and greater margin of error for the pandemic settling down.”

Asked whether it supported vaccination passports, the company said it would wait to see what the government introduced.

Saga reported pent-up demand among its customers for travel later in the year and said its cruises were 78% booked for this season, while its holidays were 83% booked for this year.

Total cruise bookings at Saga for 2021-22 and 2022-23 have reached £154m so far, compared with £128m at the the same point last year, which Saga says is a 20% improvement.

Sutherland said the company was retaining high levels of customers, with a majority of cruise-goers opting to receive vouchers rather than a refund, demonstrating their loyalty to the brand.

“Looking ahead, while we are mindful of economic headwinds and the potential ongoing impacts of Covid 19, it is clear that there is significant pent-up demand among our customer base, the vast majority of whom have now been vaccinated and are ready to enjoy post-lockdown freedom,” Sutherland said.

The group has made significant savings in marketing and administrative costs, which have helped it to reduce the rate it is burning through cash to about £6m a month, from closer to £8m.

More favourable debt repayment terms have been renegotiated for two of its newest cruise ships, including one it received in September 2020, to give it more financial flexibility.

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Saga cruises back to growth as over 50s return to the high seas

S aga, the UK’s specialist in products and services for people over 50, has reported a jump in revenue and profit off the back of higher demand for its holiday packages .

The company told the market this morning that underlying revenue for the year to the end of January had risen 13 per cent to £732.7m, and trading earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, and amortisation (EBITDA) had jumped 26 per cent to £116.5m.

However, despite the higher revenue and EBITDA figures, Saga still reported a loss before tax of £129m for the year, although this was much improved on the -£272.7m loss reported for fiscal 2023. The group’s underlying profit before tax was £38.2m, up 146 per cent compared to the prior year.

The biggest drag on the company’s results was its insurance business, which has been a headache for years.

Insurance Broking reported an earned underlying profit before tax of £39.8m, compared with £71.5m in 2023. The year-on-year decline of £31.7m was driven by the “challenging insurance environment and, in particular, the impact of net rate inflation.”

Insurance Underwriting reported an underlying loss before tax of £1.4m, a fall of £12.1m compared to 2023’s levels. Due to a “sustained level of claims inflation,” the firm’s underwriting combined ratio – a measure of underwriting profitability – improved marginally from 117.1 per cent to 120.5 per cent.

On the other hand, Saga’s ocean cruise business roared back to life with underlying profit before tax hitting £35.5m , compared to an underlying loss after tax of £0.7m in the previous year. Revenue at the ocean cruise business rose 28 per cent overall.

Mike Hazell, Saga’s chief executive officer, said: “Ocean Cruise had an outstanding year and, as a result, we far exceeded our initial earnings targets, while River Cruise and Travel both returned to profit for the first time since the pandemic.”

He added: “While our Insurance business continued to be hindered by challenging conditions, with inflationary headwinds…we are investing in price to improve our competitive position and stabilise our policy volumes and early signs indicate that this is delivering the expected benefits.”

“I am confident in our strategic direction, which underpinned by the strength of our brand, allows us to continue to serve our unique customer base. Our decision to accelerate our partnership strategy will provide us with a capital-light route to growth, reducing debt and delivering long-term sustainable value for all our stakeholders,” Hazell summarized.

Saga U-turn on selling underwriting business as insurance division hit by hikes