Why taking a cruise is the best way to see the world

We're entering that time of year we like to call "non-stop daydreaming about next summer's travel plans." But we're not just fantasising about one great getaway - we need about five holidays at once. We're craving the adventure that comes with seeing several new cities and experiencing everything in them: swimming in the sea, shopping at local markets, going to famed ruins and eating all of the tasty local delicacies.

But why be confined to one destination when we can see several? A cruise holiday with P&O Cruises means you can do just that.

You're not restricted to visiting one place, and you also have plenty of freedom of choice on board the ship: you can relax in a spa, take in a show, dress up for a delicious meal, practice your golf swing, enjoy a sunny walk on the deck or veg out in front of the TV with your favourite room service order.

And forget whatever you think you know about shore excursions and cruises. With P&O Cruises, you've got ample time on land to do what you like.

Once you're off the boat, the city you land in is your oyster: you can check out the sights and statues in Athens, take a walk through the ruins of the Minotaur's labyrinth in Heraklion, Crete, enjoy sun, sea, surf and seafood in Mykonos and have a history lesson on Ancient Rome in Ephesus, Turkey's historical gem.

Cruising is a relaxing and exciting way to see the world, particularly your favourite European destinations like Italy, Greece, Spain, Portugal, France, Croatia and more.

It's the ideal way to experience a holiday with a bit of everything, allowing you to curate your trip just how you like it. Take in different cultures at different speeds, mix in a bit of sailing and shopping, Zen time with adventure and dining out with de-stressing.

And don't forget the freedom to do what you want, when you want to, exists on board the ship as well, whether you're in the mood for a Michelin-starred meal courtesy of Marco Pierre White or need some TLC with a massage in the Oasis Spa.

Click through the gallery below for a sampler of what your summer holiday next year could look like, taking in the Greek Islands and stopping ashore in Malta, Athens, Mykonos, Ephesus, Katakolon and Heraklion.

Book now and enjoy extra onboard spending money for your trip.

See also: The most incredible cruise ship pools in the world

See also: 50 places to see before you die: The ultimate travel bucket list