The cruise industry has been forced to reschedule and cancel their plans over the last few weeks due to ongoing travel restrictions brought on by the coronavirus pandemic. But while holidays and cruises might feel like months away for most frequent travellers, many are now taking the chance to plan their post-coronavirus holidays now. And what better way to pick your next destination than following the advice of a cruise captain.
P&O Cruises Captain Wesley Dunlop was captain of the Britannia but was due to move onto P&O’s new ship, the Iona.
However, the coronavirus pandemic has pushed the launch of the new ship back to later this year.
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Captain Dunlop spoke to cruisecritic.com about his top holiday destinations, and the one that ticks all the boxes.
Having travelled around the world, the cruise ship captain has been spoilt for choice when it comes to stunning destinations.
READ MORE: Cruises: Bookings rocket for 2021 despite coronavirus crisis
He also compared the experience of the islands as almost alien-like with stunning volcanic terrain and vineyards.
“You’ll feel like you’ve sailed to another planet”, he explained.
But if sunbathing and beaches aren’t for you then Captain Dunlop recommends Hamburg for a cultural city break.
He described the city as mixing the “old and new” as well as the “unpolished and the glamorous”.
He added: “You never know what you’ll find around any given corner.”
The one destination for him that “ticks all the boxes” is the port city of Valencia on the eastern coast of Spain.
He said: “Valencia has got the lot.
“It’s a great all-rounder, offering impressive architecture, beautiful beaches and mouthwatering food.
“For a hit of architecture, go Gothic at the cathedral or make it modern at the City of Arts and Sciences.
“Craving some sunshine? Park up on La Malvarrosa beach (a local favourite) and feel the sand between your toes.
“And when you’ve worked up an appetite, you can’t miss the opportunity to sample paella in its birthplace — its success is judged by the socarrat, the crispy crust of rice at the bottom of the pan.”
Captain Dunlop added that he hoped P&O Cruises guests were staying safe amid the coronavirus crisis.
He added: “However, by following the Government’s advice, I’m sure it won’t be too long before my fabulous crew and I can welcome you on board and together we can set sail to a destination of unforgettable holiday happiness.”
