Bolsover Cruise Club: The UK’s Favourite Cruise Specialist

When it comes to planning an unforgettable cruise holiday, few names carry as much recognition and trust in the United Kingdom as Bolsover Cruise Club. With decades of experience, countless industry awards, and a reputation for unmatched customer service, the company has become a cornerstone in the cruise travel industry. From humble beginnings to being crowned the UK’s top independent agent for P&O Cruises for over three decades, Bolsover Cruise Club has truly earned its place as the nation’s favourite cruise agent.
This article takes an in-depth look at the history, services, expertise, and customer reputation of Bolsover Cruise Club, offering readers a complete overview of why it continues to stand out in a competitive travel market.
History and Background of Bolsover Cruise Club
From a Local Agency to a National Brand
Bolsover Cruise Club traces its origins back to 1968, when it was founded in Derbyshire. Initially a general travel and estate agency, the business evolved over the years to meet the changing demands of holidaymakers. By the early 2000s, the focus had shifted almost entirely to cruise travel, leading to the official rebrand as Bolsover Cruise Club.
Decades of Award-Winning Service
One of the most impressive accolades associated with the company is its record with P&O Cruises. Bolsover Cruise Club has been named the Top UK Independent Agent for P&O Cruises for more than 30 consecutive years, a remarkable achievement that demonstrates its consistent excellence. In addition, the business has been recognised by the British Travel Awards, TTG, and the Wave Awards, cementing its reputation across the wider travel industry.
Services Offered by Bolsover Cruise Club
Ocean and River Cruises
Bolsover Cruise Club specialises in both ocean and river cruise holidays. Customers can choose from itineraries that sail across the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Baltic, or as far as Alaska and Australasia. River cruises cover destinations such as the Danube, Rhine, and Douro, offering more intimate journeys through some of Europe’s most beautiful landscapes.
Partnerships with Leading Cruise Lines
The agency works with more than 30 major cruise operators. These include household names such as:
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P&O Cruises
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Cunard Line
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Princess Cruises
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Royal Caribbean International
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Celebrity Cruises
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Norwegian Cruise Line
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MSC Cruises
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Seabourn
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Azamara
This extensive list means customers have access to a wide variety of ships, routes, and price points.
Cruise and Stay Packages
Beyond standard cruise bookings, Bolsover Cruise Club also offers “cruise and stay” arrangements. These packages combine cruises with additional elements such as flights, hotel stays, and transfers, giving travellers a seamless holiday experience from start to finish.
Expertise and Experience
Over 17,000 Nights at Sea
Collectively, the team at Bolsover Cruise Club has spent over 17,000 nights at sea. This equates to more than 46 years of cruising experience, an impressive figure that highlights the depth of knowledge available to customers.
Specialist Advice
The company places great emphasis on personal service. Customers are often paired with a dedicated cruise consultant who will guide them through the booking process, ensuring that every detail is taken care of. Staff are trained in specific sectors of the market — from luxury voyages to expedition cruises — allowing them to provide tailored recommendations based on individual preferences.
Customer Reviews and Reputation
Positive Feedback
Bolsover Cruise Club enjoys a Google rating of 4.4 stars based on nearly 400 reviews, which indicates strong customer satisfaction. On platforms such as Trustpilot, the agency scores even higher, with praise directed towards the professionalism, friendliness, and patience of its staff. Many reviewers highlight the fact that they never feel rushed, and that staff go the extra mile to ensure the booking process is smooth.
Criticism and Challenges
As with any large company, not all reviews are glowing. Some customers have raised concerns over communication or the pressure of sales targets, but these represent a minority of opinions. The general consensus remains overwhelmingly positive, and repeat bookings are a testament to the trust clients place in the agency.
Headquarters and Company Information
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Headquarters: Chesterfield, Derbyshire, with a dedicated cruise centre in Barlborough.
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Address: 6 Lindrick Way, Barlborough, Chesterfield, S43 4XE.
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Phone: +44 1246 819 819.
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Wedsite: https://www.bolsovercruiseclub.com
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Industry: Travel arrangements, specialising in cruises.
Why Choose Bolsover Cruise Club?
Trusted by Generations
With more than half a century in business, Bolsover Cruise Club has earned trust not only through awards but also through the loyalty of its customers. Many clients return year after year, valuing the continuity of service and the reassurance that comes from dealing with true experts.
Competitive Prices and Exclusive Offers
The agency is able to provide competitive pricing thanks to its strong relationships with cruise lines. Exclusive offers and added-value extras, such as on-board credit or loyalty discounts, are often available to customers who book through the company.
Human Touch in a Digital Age
While online booking platforms dominate the travel sector, Bolsover Cruise Club continues to thrive by offering something that computers cannot: genuine human expertise. The ability to speak to a real consultant who has first-hand experience of cruising is an invaluable benefit for those planning complex itineraries or once-in-a-lifetime voyages.
Future Outlook
Adapting to Changing Travel Trends
The cruise industry has seen rapid changes, from evolving customer expectations to increasing demand for sustainability. Bolsover Cruise Club remains well positioned to adapt to these trends, thanks to its established reputation and commitment to innovation.
Continuing the Legacy
Having been founded in 1968, the company’s history already spans more than five decades. With a strong foundation, ongoing awards, and a dedicated team of specialists, there is every indication that Bolsover Cruise Club will continue to thrive in the years ahead.
Conclusion
Bolsover Cruise Club has grown from a small Derbyshire travel agency into the UK’s leading cruise specialist. With a track record of award-winning service, extensive industry partnerships, and an unwavering focus on customer care, it stands out as a trusted name in cruise travel. Its reputation is not built solely on marketing claims but on real expertise, evidenced by over 17,000 nights at sea and countless satisfied customers.
For anyone considering a cruise holiday, Bolsover Cruise Club offers not only competitive pricing but also the reassurance of dealing with experts who understand every nuance of life at sea. In a market where choice can be overwhelming, this combination of experience, reliability, and personal service makes Bolsover Cruise Club the ideal partner for planning the perfect voyage.