Budget airlines have signaled potential cuts to winter flight routes this year, citing increasing jet fuel costs. EasyJet announced in September that it would reduce its capacity by approximately 1.3 to 1.4 million seats, while Ryanair has revised its 2027 traffic target downward.
In response to these developments and concerns about rising airfares, alternative travel methods for accessing winter sunshine are gaining attention. Travelers can opt for no-fly cruises, ferry journeys, or train routes to reach destinations that offer warmer climates.
No-Fly Cruises to Morocco and the Canaries
For those seeking sunshine without flying, cruises offer a viable alternative. Several cruise lines provide routes from UK ports to destinations like Morocco and the Canary Islands. For instance, Fred Olsen offers a 16-night cruise from Liverpool to Spain and Morocco in November, starting at £2,199 per person, and a 12-night Morocco journey from Southampton in February from £1,399 per person. P&O offers a 16-night cruise from Southampton to Spain, Madeira, and the Canary Islands in October for £999 per person, with a 14-night December route including Tenerife, Cadiz, and Lisbon available for £799.
Agadir, Morocco, offers winter temperatures with daily highs around 23C (73F), providing an escape from colder climates. The Canary Islands, popular for their warmth in cooler months, see December highs of 22C (72F), making them an attractive destination for a Christmas escape.
Rail Travel to Spain and the French Riviera
Train travel presents another option for reaching sunny European destinations. A journey starting with the Eurostar from London to Paris allows travelers to connect to high-speed trains bound for Spain. Barcelona, with November highs of 18C (64F), and Valencia, experiencing October highs of 24C (75F) and November highs of 19C (66F), are accessible via this route.
The French Riviera can also be reached by train. After taking the Eurostar to Paris, travelers can board the TGV to cities like Nice or Marseille, which experience November temperatures around 18C (64F). These cities can serve as bases for exploring the region, which offers a more tranquil experience in the cooler months. Events such as Beaujolais Nouveau Day in mid-November and the Monte Carlo Jazz Festival (November 18-29) add to the appeal of the French Riviera during this period.
Ferry Services to Northern Spain
Ferry services from the UK also provide access to continental Europe without flying. Brittany Ferries operates a service from Portsmouth to Santander or Bilbao in Spain, with the crossing taking approximately 32-33 hours over two nights. Prices for this route start at £158. Bilbao, which sees October highs of 22C (72F) and November highs of 17C (63F), is noted for its gourmet food and cultural attractions, offering a quieter alternative to more bustling Spanish cities.