Sail away to Northern Europe

As the dark nights set in and the Christmas countdown begins, it is that time of year again when we begin to think about our next holiday away.

DFDS Seaways has launched its new Holiday Collection with some inspiring new value for money holiday ideas for 2009. Whether it is a quiet and relaxing cottage holiday by the coast, a romantic river cruise, or fun filled adventure at Center Parcs Europe, DFDS Seaways has something to suit families, couples and groups too.

The new brochure includes an extensive range of ferry inclusive holidays across Holland, Germany, Denmark, Belgium, Sweden and France. What’s more – you have the added convenience of being able to take your own car, so you can take everything you need with you. DFDS Seaways offers the greatest flexibility so you can create your perfect holiday from the range available.

Depart from Newcastle and sail to Amsterdam in Holland – the gateway to Europe. Small and perfectly formed, Holland is an ideal destination for a driving holiday and has very easy access to Germany, France, Belgium and beyond. Alternatively, sail to Esbjerg in Denmark from Harwich and enjoy the picturesque, stunning scenery as you drive onto neighbouring countries such as Sweden and northern Germany.

Best of all with DFDS Seaways’ flexible pricing the earlier you book the less you pay. And there is even up to £100 off holidays when four or more people book up before the end of December 2008. So don’t delay, and if you book online there will be no telephone booking fee to pay.

Highlights of the new brochure:

Activity Holidays - Center Parcs Europe & Danish Activity Centres

Center Parcs Europe have a large number of resorts providing the perfect setting for a great family holiday. Located away from traditional tourist spots with high quality villa accommodation, a Center Parcs Europe holiday offers a diverse range of activities whether you’re looking for action and adventure or relaxation and pampering. DFDS Seaways offer a selection of parcs in Holland, Belgium, Germany and France. Prices are from only £171 per person for a nine-night holiday.

The superb Danish Activity Centres are all located in truly stunning locations near to white sandy coastlines offering a great selection of activities for the whole family and a high standard of accommodation and facilities. New for 2009 is Lalandia Billund by LEGOLAND which boasts a range of indoor and outdoor activities to accommodate all – and its right next to the world-renowned LEGOLAND attraction. While other activity centres cater for those who are looking for a more relaxing experience, with a chance to take in the captivating scenery. Prices are from £229 per person for seven nights.

For more information or to book go to dfds.co.uk/activity

Cottages, Villas & Apartments

Whether you stay on a white sandy beach in Denmark, in the German, Dutch or Belgian countryside, or by a pine-fringed lake in Sweden, DFDS Seaways’ cottage holidays are a breath of fresh air for people of all ages.

With no baggage restrictions, simply pack up the car, sail away and explore the country of choice. Each property has its own unique charm, style and character whether it is a quaint cottage or a well-appointed cotemporary holiday home.

Home from home and the perfect escape for any time of the year, each retreat has been hand picked to ensure that everyone has been catered for. Prices are from £134 per person for nine nights.

For more information and to book go to dfds.co.uk/novasol

River Cruises

This range of holidays has been specifically chosen to offer that something extra to those who love to experience lots of different destinations and learn about the history and culture of new places. With sumptuous dining, stunning scenery and ultimate hospitality, DFDS Seaways’ river cruises, in partnership with Croisi Europe, really do offer a perfect holiday for people looking to explore as well as relax.

Sail to Amsterdam and then embark on a cruise of your choice covering a range of destinations including Holland, Belgium and Germany. Cruise along the delightful Rhine Valley past castles, vineyards and the Lorelei Rock, or visit the harbours of Antwerp and Rotterdam and be overwhelmed by the fusion of flowers at Keukenhof Gardens.

Accommodation, meals on board and entertainment are all included with prices starting from £432 per person for 5 nights.

For more information and to book go to dfds.co.uk/rivercruising

Touring

Independent travellers may want to take a DFDS Seaways self-drive touring holiday. Explore the breathtaking natural beauty of Denmark at your own pace; the freedom of the open road is yours as you take in the delights of this wonderful country. Sample the 11 nights Danish Highlights Tour that takes you from cosmopolitan Copenhagen on to Odense, Aarhus and Aalborg, or alternatively opt for the Jutland Highlights Tour that has a mix of culture and sightseeing along with relaxation as you spend time on the white sandy beaches watching the stunning sunsets. Prices are from £516 per person for 9 nights.

For more information and to book go to dfds.co.uk/touring

With lots to do as you cruise with DFDS Seaways, your holiday really does start the moment you step on board. Simply check-in to your cabin and relax or explore the onboard facilities that await you. Sailings are overnight and all holidays include the outward and return journeys on board one of DFDS Seaways’ cruise ferries in an en suite cabin, giving you two evenings to sample the onboard amenities.

Indulge in some retail therapy as you visit the onboard shops, catch a movie at the cinema or relax with a drink in one of the bars before making your way to dinner. Choose from à la carte dining, a mouth-watering tender steak in the Explorers Steakhouse restaurant or feast on the delicious all you can eat Scandinavian buffet.

For those who are travelling with families – keep your little pirates entertained in the play area where they can have fun in the ball pool and watch videos, and in the school holidays, there is even a Pirate’s Club which means you can have time to relax while your children play.

For information on the full range of holidays from DFDS Seaways or to make a booking go to dfds.co.uk.