The luxury and leisure of a cruise around some of the most beautiful places in the world can now be replicated on a small scale for those who are pushed for time. Taking a mini cruise is a fantastic way to experience the glamour and excitment of sailing the oceans in a short space of time.

Some of the world's most beautiful ships are now sailing from Southampton to destinations in Europe for long weekend cruises, visiting one or two special destinations before returning to port in time for the next week. These cruises allow a snapshot at the fantastic experience on board a cruise, hardly travelling any distance to do so, and also benefiting from a low cost.

A mini cruise is a brilliant way to break in to the cruising world - to experience the luxury available on board some of the most spectactular vessels in the world for a few days at a time is enough of a teaser to make anyone want to come back for longer.