Escorted cruising made easy, memorable, and personal
By John Ferguson
There’s something truly special about going back to where it all began. Independence of the Seas was the very first cruise ship I ever sailed on, so to be back on board for my 72nd cruise was a personal highlight – and even better to be sharing the experience with a fantastic group of Thorne Travel customers on our 12-night Discover the Canaries escorted cruise.
As always with our escorted cruises, we took care of everything from start to finish. We travelled in comfort on our luxury coach to Southampton, where our team was on hand to help everyone get checked in and settled for the journey ahead. From there, we stayed on board with our customers throughout the cruise – answering questions, offering support, and simply being there when needed. And of course, we were with them on the journey home too.
Stunning Ports and Shore Highlights
This itinerary was filled with variety – a real mix of culture, sunshine, and relaxation. Our focus on port-close experiences meant customers could enjoy each destination with ease, without needing long transfers or excursions.
* Bilbao – Just a short stroll or shuttle from the port took us to the city centre, where customers explored charming streets, enjoyed riverside walks, and sampled traditional pintxos in the historic Casco Viejo (Old Town).
* Tenerife– Docking right in Santa Cruz, many guests took a relaxed wander around the capital’s shops, cafés and markets – all just minutes from the ship.
* Lanzarote – In Arrecife, the port area offered easy access to the waterfront promenade, small beaches, and local shops – ideal for a laid-back afternoon.
* Madeira – In Funchal, we were docked within easy walking distance of the beautiful marina, gardens, and old town – perfect for sampling local delicacies and soaking up the atmosphere.
* La Coruña – The ship docked right in the heart of the town, making it easy for our group to visit the historic centre, browse local boutiques, or take a scenic walk to the iconic Tower of Hercules.
It was lovely to see how well everyone got on – friendships blossomed, and the laughter was non-stop! This is what makes our escorted cruises so special. They’re absolutely perfect for those who are new to cruising or travelling solo, but equally enjoyable for seasoned cruisers who just like the added support and sociable atmosphere.
Why Cruise with Thorne Travel?
We don’t just book cruises – we sail them. With our first-hand experience, attention to detail and award-winning service, you can relax knowing you’re in the best hands. Thorne Travel is proud to be Scotland’s Top Travel Agency 2025, and I’m delighted to be a multi award-winning cruise and travel expert, helping people find the perfect holiday time and time again.
This trip was a brilliant reminder of why I love what I do – and I can’t wait for the next one! We’ve got a fantastic selection of escorted cruises lined up for 2026 and 2027, and they’re already proving popular. If you’ve been thinking about cruising but aren’t sure where to start – or just fancy having everything taken care of – then get in touch. We’d love to welcome you aboard.
Thorne Travel – the experts in escorted cruising. Making travel personal.
