Cruising into the autumn sun

OLD AND NEW

Trace the roots of early Christianity on this cruise with Voyages of Discovery (0844 488 0906/voyagesof discovery.co.uk). Visit sacred cities and ruins in Turkey and Greece including Ephesus and Pergamon’s ancient acropolis.

Voyager docks overnight in the pretty harbour of Antalya on the Turkish Riviera. Stroll around the charming old quarter with its narrow streets and wooden houses.

On board, historians will deliver lectures while guests can also enjoy al fresco dining before the voyage ends in Piraeus, Greece.

A 12-night In The Footsteps Of St Paul cruise from £999pp (two sharing), full board. Price includes return flights from Gatwick. Departs Istanbul, October 21.

COLOURFUL KALEIDOSCOPE

Wrap up warm and celebrate autumn in eastern America, where leaves turn a stunning range of colours.

From Quebec all the way to Florida with Holland America Line (0843 374 2300/ hollandamerica.co.uk) you’ll see the countryside at its best.

Cruise the Saint Lawrence River where forested mountains meet the shore, the dramatic Saguenay Fjord and the wild coast of Nova Scotia.

Pack your walking shoes for a day in Acadia National Park in Maine. Alternatively take a cable car up Cadillac Mountain for sweeping views, tour historic lighthouses by catamaran or take a trip on a lobster boat.

Eurodam is a comfortable, mid-sized ship popular with couples, families and foodlovers, who can tuck into ranch beef and fresh seafood in the Pinnacle Grill, attend wine tastings and join a master class in the Culinary Arts Centre.

A 15-night Atlantic Coast cruise from £1,932pp (two sharing), full board. Price includes return flights from Heathrow and one night’s pre-cruise hotel stay. Departs Quebec, October 12.

STRETCH IT OUT

Salute the sun during this yoga cruise around Spain and Morocco on a traditional tall ship. Each day starts with ashtanga yoga on the deck of Star Clipper’s (0845 200 6145/ starclippers.co.uk) Star Flyer, under billowing white sails.

After ports of call including Casablanca, take a more tranquil stroll when you reach Malaga on an excursion around the exquisite gardens at Granada’s Alhambra Palace.

Throughout the week hone your yoga moves with classes to suit all levels. As well as exercise the cruise also focuses on wellbeing. Highly-regarded yoga expert Christel Vollmer also gives complimentary lectures on health and nutrition.

With just 170 passengers Star Flyer is more private yacht than cruise ship. Antique prints, teak decks and polished brass give it an ancient mariner feel, while modern luxuries include two pools and fine dining.

A seven-night Spain and Morocco cruise from £1,699pp (two sharing), full board. Price includes return flights from London and all yoga activities. Departs Malaga, October 12.

FOLLOW THE SUN

A total solar eclipse takes place on November 3 and, weather permitting, the captain of Saga Sapphire will position the ship in a prime viewing spot off the west African coast.

Those wanting to escape the autumnal chill for warmer shores can join this month-long cruise that sails from Southampton to Tenerife. The ship will also visit the Cape Verde islands.