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Cruises really are for everyone these days, and every market wants to exploit people’s passion for the pastime. But our idea of cruises is still somewhat rooted in the rather stuffy images of old, or perhaps the sometimes excessive ‘floating metropolis’ idea at the vanguard of modern cruising. If excess is your thing (and there really isn’t any reason for it not to be at least once) book yourself on a Cunard cruises behemoth like the Queen Mary II and enjoy the company of in excess of three thousand guests.

We used to think of cruises as within the reach only of the wealthy. Then they seemed to be for the elderly. Now they’re both for every income bracket and for people of all ages. The industry is arguably now focused on providing cruises for family groups and younger couples, but with so many ships out there, this is by no means exclusively true. Singles between the ages of 30 and 40 are one particular niche that many lines actively exploit. Meanwhile, many other ships have a child-free policy.

Destination is also important. If you were to visit your home nation by visiting only its coastal cities, you’d appreciate that you’re only really scratching the outer skin of that nation. This isn’t a bad thing necessarily, but it’s worth considering destinations which operate convenient trips to the interior. By taking a River cruise, you can often get to experience the entire topography of a nation and its neighbours. Nile river cruises are among the most popular, but cruises on the Rhine, Danube and Yangtze are also worth a look.

For Oceania cruises 2011 is set to be a bumper year, and this is one cruise line to watch if you simply cannot decide. Oceania operate in most of the regions of the world with a four ship fleet. A series of medium sized ocean liners, the ships are named Insignia, Nautica, Marina and Regatta. Because of the size of these vessels, you can count on a personalised service that doesn’t get in the way of adequate company. 400 staff are available to tend to the 700 guests on these modern, lavishly furnished vessels.

Hunting online for European sailing holidays?

A sailing holiday can be a great way to enhance your sailing skills whilst relaxing from all the stresses and strains of work and the daily routine. Whilst there are plenty of locations worldwide offering outstanding sailing opportunities to cater to all budgets, there are a couple of destinations that have formed a formidable reputation in recent years for sailing excellence.

If you want to enjoy a sailing holiday in an exotic location not far from home, Croatia is teeming with potential. This country has one of the most awe-inspiring coastlines in Europe, so whether you’re keen to investigate the old world charm of Dubrovnik or the hidden jewels of the Dalmatian Coast, this is one holiday that deserves further exploration.

Whisper it quietly, but one sailing experience without the hassle of a long journey is a trip around the rugged coastline of Northern Ireland; it certainly makes for a fantastic short break. Yes, this trip may not promise the sunshine and azul seas of other European destinations, and you may well have to don your Gill thermal vests and Musto jackets, but it’ll be worth it in the end as you witness imposing sights such as the Giant’s Causeway and the Morne Mountains.

If all you want from a sailing holiday is fantastic weather and total relaxation, a Greek island tour just has to be considered. From Kefalonia to Corfu, friends and family who have been to this area will have their personal favourites, but if time allows, it’s wise to book an extended adventure along this richly rewarding coastline.

Finally, Italy is one country that will stay forever in the memory. From the Amalfi Coast to the Pontine Islands, the Italian coastline is bursting with character, making it seem a little unfair to mark just one area out for special praise. Perhaps the beauty of an Italian trip is the fact it can be interspersed with trips to sites of major historical interest, including Rome, Pompeii and Venice, making for the perfect all-round holiday.

Thai tourism goes from strength to strength with a full calendar of events attracting tourists from all walks of life and many different economic markets. The island of Phuket is key to the Thai appeal: a tropical paradise with the unusual benefit of easy mainland access via two bridges. With its white sandy beaches, lush tropical forests and endless skies, Phuket has ‘tropical paradise’ down to the high level set by Caribbean holidays. You’d also expect positive comparrisons with Mauritius holidays which offer a similarly Indian Ocean-based cultural appeal.

In the grand brochure of Thailand holidays, Phuket is perhaps second only to Bangkok as a tourist destination in Thailand, but it will be naturally preferred by anyone who doesn’t fancy a buzzing metropolis for a holiday destination. When you absolutely have to get away from the harsh domestic weather, visits to the island in Winter will let you take in some fabulous December sporting events. If you’re a serious athlete, you may be attending the Laguna Phuket triathlon which demands 1,800 metres swimming, 5.5 kilometres cycling and 12 kilometres running from participants. There’s a much less grueling six kilometre fun run for anyone who wants to have a go (though book in advance to avoid disappointment).

And then there is Phuket’s Kings Cup Regatta, an event established to celebrate the Thai king’s 60th Birthday. After twenty four years, the Regatta has grown to be the biggest and most popular in Asia, attracting worldwide attention from sailing enthusiasts. With various vessels competing, there are many trophies up for grabs by the different classes. It’s not just fun for boat owners: Spectators and passers-by are inevitably drawn to the water’s edge to see what’s going on. Aside from the exciting of the races themselves, there is usually a substantial harbourside presence to keep spectators impressed and entertained.