Brittany Ferries’ twice-weekly service linking Portsmouth and Plymouth to Santander in Spain has gained a reputation over the last 30 years for the high standards of comfort, dining and entertainment to be enjoyed on board. Now the company has joined forces with leading marine conservation charity ORCA to offer passengers a fascinating insight into the whales and dolphins of the Bay of Biscay - one of the world’s most important habitats for these amazing animals.

Afloat in France operates bespoke cruises with a fleet of five deluxe barges namely Napoléon, Alouette, Hirondelle, Amaryllis and Fleur de Lys, which glide on some of the most beautiful inland waterways of France. Each péniche-hotel is individual in design and lavishly appointed, can accommodate four to 12 guests and offers high quality dining and tailor-made six night itineraries beginning on Sundays.