Book now for a Winter Cruise

LONDON, October 11, 2012 /PRNewswire/ --

• Winter cruises remain a popular option
• Early booking recommended to avoid disappointment
• Thomas Cook offers cruise deals for winter passengers

Leading travel operator, Thomas Cook, is urging passengers to take advantage of winter cruise deals as early as possible this year.

According to the Cruise Line International Association (CLIA), the number of individuals taking a cruise rose by 10% between 2010 and 2011 with total cruise passenger numbers finally topping 20 million. This means those hoping to take a cruise this winter could be faced with high levels of competition from other prospective travellers so planning ahead to ensure you get the cruise deal you want is a good option.

Booking early

According to the travel operator, booking early could ensure you get the holiday you deserve at a fair price. Early bookers with companies such as P&O Cruises, Cunard and Princess Cruises are not penalised for their cruise coming down in price later in the year, with any difference being credited back in on board spending money. With plenty of destinations to choose from, such as Northern America, Europe and the Mediterranean, a winter cruise can be taken for as long or as short as you want.

Just as important as the destination is the type of cruise holiday you plan to take. Thomas Cook offers a vast range of options - ensuring you find the perfect winter cruise holiday.

Cruise and Stay

A great option for winter travellers, cruise and stay holidays combine the best of both worlds. Part of your holiday will be spent aboard a fantastic cruise ship with the remainder spent in excellent hotel accommodation. You can choose to spend the first part of your holiday on land, returning home via cruise, or vice versa.

Mini Cruise

Ideal for those looking for a quick winter break, mini cruises last for just a few days and are the perfect weekend treat. This is a nice option for those looking for a short respite from the stresses of everyday life.

Choosing your cruise liner

There are many different cruise liners to choose from, with Royal Caribbean cruises offering exciting on board activities including rock climbing and ice skating to P&O Cruises offering the authentic British feel, a home away from home - there really is plenty of variety.

Choosing your cruise ship is key to your cruise experience and with the selection that the market offers, there is bound to be the perfect cruise for you. You may want to experience the 6* All Inclusive luxury of a Regent Seven Seas cruise on board Navigator or perhaps the thrilling on board activities offered by Royal Caribbean International's Oasis of the Seas.

Other popular cruise lines include Celebrity Cruises and Princess Cruises, known for their impressive guest to staff ratios and Norwegian Cruise Line that champions their freestyle cruising experience. Whatever you fancy there are plenty of fantastic deals available through Cruise Thomas Cook - there couldn't be a better time to book.

Thomas Cook Children's Charity  is committed to making dreams come true for sick and disadvantaged children in the UK & Overseas - to find out more about the work we do visit our website.

SOURCE Thomas Cook