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7 Of the most unusual cruise journeys

BY READERS DIGEST

1st Jan 2015 Travel

7 Of the most unusual cruise journeys

For most people, cruises conjure up images of long days sunbathing on deck, trips to sunny beaches, and classy black tie dinners. But there are some really odd cruises out there.

Strictly Come Dancing themed cruises

P&O have added a touch of glitz to some of their cruises by giving them a Strictly Come Dancing theme.

Guests can enjoy sun-drenched Mediterranean destinations during the day, and dazzling entertainment at night, with plenty of opportunities to see the professionals up-close. During the days at sea, you can take to the dance floor, with teachers on hand to show you the steps, and there's an optional showcase at the end of your trip where amateurs show off the skills they've learned. 
 

Poker cruises

On the Ante Up Poker Cruise, you can practice your poker face and try your luck against dozens of other enthusiasts, all while soaking up the sun on a beautiful Royal Caribbean ship.

Staffed by professional dealers and managers, there will be plenty of opportunities to sharpen your skills at free poker games, mingle at the cocktail parties, and enter multiple tournaments, with the cruise taking place on many routes through the Caribbean and USA. 
 

Disney cruises

Here's one for the kids and the young at heart—Disney now offer their own cruises, with each ship thoughtfully themed around their most famous movies, and entertainment that will thrill any Disney lover.

Once the adults are thoroughly sick of the cartoon fun, they can drop the kids off at one of the on-board clubs and enjoy a night out, with many ships offering bars and a grown-up dining option.
 

Murder mystery cruises

Those who can't get enough of Agatha Christie novels and detective shows might enjoy taking part in a murder mystery cruise. The Magna Carta, a luxury hotel barge that offers short cruises on the Thames, offers a three-day murder mystery cruise, which also takes in some of London and the surrounding area's most ghoulish sites, for a truly terrifying cruise experience.
 

Christmas cruises

If you're sick of dry turkey and arguments over the remote, a Christmas cruise might be the escape you're looking for.

Each line has its own celebration plans, but generally you can expect trips to winter sun destinations, specially decorated cruise ships, traditional dinners on Christmas day, and lots of themed entertainment to get you into the Christmas spirit.
 

1970s cruise

The decade of flares, disco, and glitter has been perfectly captured by Fred Olsen Cruises who offer a three night '70s Party Cruise that leaves from Southampton. Guests can enjoy a special gala dinner with live entertainment, the chance to dance, and plenty of cocktails, before relaxing in Bruges and recovering from their decadent night on-board.
 

Nudist cruise

If you never know what clothes to pack on your cruise, then consider packing none at all. American company Bare Necessities specialise in nudist cruises around the world, with no need to dress for dinner. From trips around the Caribbean, to cultural European tours, there's something for everyone, and the specialist guides will include many stops at nude beaches.

However, you will need some clothes for days spent onshore, and a lot more sun cream than usual.

 

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