3 NCL ‘coolcation’ cruises to take...

Beat the heat by heading north to Alaska, Iceland or Scotland

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) sailings this summer offer Middle East travellers a welcome chance to beat the heat.

Residents from the region are heading north for ‘coolcations’, elevated getaways to destinations with more moderate climates, open spaces and attractions beyond the beach.

Online travel agency Musafir identified the coolcation trend for UAE travellers in 2025, especially for winter destinations across Europe that offer skiing and other winter sports.

For those looking to escape this summer rather than wait for winter, (NCL) has sailings to suit.

1. 10-day British Isles: Ireland & Scotland cruise
The UK is a top outbound destination from the Middle East during the summer months and a cruise around the British Isles is the best way to admire the diverse coastline, enjoy the sea breeze and visit landmark cities.

The 10-day British Isles: Ireland & Scotland cruise on Norwegian Dawn in August 2025 sails from Southampton, a short journey from London, and calls at Edinburgh, Inverness, Belfast, Liverpool, Dublin, Cork, Portland and returns to Southampton.

As well as the capitals of Scotland, Ireland and Northern Ireland to savour on this four-country journey, Liverpool’s rich maritime heritage, cultural attractions and musical history are sure to be a highlight.

Prices start from US$1,099 (AED4,035) per person and a second guest can travel free of charge.

2. 10-day Northern Europe: Iceland & Norway
From September 2025, travellers can enjoy NCL’s most spacious accommodations on Norwegian Prima, the company’s newest and most innovative ship. Perfect for summer sailings, her expansive open spaces make Norwegian Prima ideal for coolcations.

The 10-day Northern Europe: Iceland & Norway cruise on Prima departs Reykjavik in Iceland and also calls at ports including Isafjordur and Akureyri before heading to Norway and its fjords.

The journey then heads south calling at dynamic Amsterdam, known as the Venice of the North, before Brussels in Belgium and final destination Southampton in England – perfect for extending the holiday with time in London.

Prices start from US$2,299 (AED8,440) per person with kids sailing free on selected dates.

Norwegian Prima in Reykjavik, Iceland

3. 10-day Alaska: Hubbard Glacier, Skagway & Juneau
Travellers looking for a cool cruise further afield should head for the untouched beauty of Alaska.

NCL’s 10-day Alaska: Hubbard Glacier, Skagway & Juneau journey on Norwegian Joy (pictured top) departs from Seattle and explores the so-called Last Frontier. Here passengers can enjoy views of Glacier Bay National Park, kayak the waterways, catch a glimpse of whales and bears, and feast on Dungeness crab.

Sailings during July and August 2025 start from just US$670 (AED2,460) and there is the option to have a second guest free.

All of these NCL cruises offer the More At Sea value-added upgrade, including specialty dining, premium beverages, high-speed wifi and excursion credit at every port.

To partner with NCL, email Rebecca Ransom, Business Development Manager Middle East, rransom@ncl.com, call/WhatsApp: +44 7961 300 729; for more information, visit www.ncl.com