Spring Gardens by Sea: Cruises for Flower Lovers

Sail into Bloom

There’s something magical about spring — when colours burst back into life and gardens across the world become canvases of nature’s finest displays. Cruising in spring with Ambassador means you can explore some of Europe’s most beautiful floral destinations without the stress of flights or hotel-hopping. Step aboard in the UK, unpack once, and let each new port greet you with blossoms, fragrances and living history.

Here are some of the best spring gardens and floral celebrations you can discover by sea.

Madeira: An Island in Bloom

Madeira is famous for its year-round flowers, but spring is when it truly shines. The island’s annual Flower Festival in Funchal is a kaleidoscope of colour, with parades, carpets of petals, and displays celebrating nature’s bounty.

• Must-See: The Flower Parade, where floats covered in blooms parade through the streets.
• Don’t Miss: The Botanical Gardens of Funchal, home to over 2,000 exotic plants.
• Spring Extra: Walk along the island’s levadas (irrigation channels) for a unique way to explore Madeira’s lush landscapes.

The Netherlands: Tulip Time in Amsterdam

Few places rival the Netherlands in spring. The tulip fields just outside Amsterdam transform into a rainbow-striped wonderland.

• Must-See: Keukenhof Gardens, with over 7 million bulbs blooming each spring.
• Don’t Miss: A canal cruise through Amsterdam, where historic houses are framed by spring blossoms.
• Spring Extra: Cycle around the countryside to see endless rows of tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths.

The Canary Islands: Exotic Botanicals

While better known for winter sun, the Canary Islands also offer bursts of colour in spring. Their subtropical climate means exotic plants thrive, from dragon trees to bougainvillaea.

• Must-See: Jardín Botánico in Puerto de la Cruz, Tenerife’s celebrated botanical garden.
• Don’t Miss: The palm-lined streets of Las Palmas in Gran Canaria.
• Spring Extra: La Palma’s laurel forests, perfect for spring hikes with wildflowers.

Normandy: Gardens of History

Spring brings new life to Normandy’s historic gardens. From castle grounds to seaside towns, this French region blends horticultural beauty with rich history.

• Must-See: Monet’s Garden at Giverny, inspiration for his famous water lily paintings.
• Don’t Miss: The gardens of Château de Canon, blending elegance with French tradition.
• Spring Extra: Explore Bayeux in springtime, where blossoms frame medieval streets.

Scotland: Castles and Colour

Closer to home, Scotland bursts into bloom in spring, with castle gardens and wild landscapes putting on a seasonal show.

• Must-See: The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, home to plant collections from around the world.
• Don’t Miss: Dunrobin Castle Gardens, styled after Versailles, with sweeping sea views.
• Spring Extra: Bluebell walks through Scottish woodlands, a seasonal spectacle in April and May.

A Season of Colour at Sea

Springtime cruising is about more than just warmer days — it’s about stepping into living landscapes where every port greets you with a new palette of colour. Whether it’s tulips in Amsterdam, orchids in Madeira, or bluebells in Scotland, Ambassador brings you closer to nature’s most beautiful displays.

Why Cruise with Ambassador?

At Ambassador, spring is one of our favourite times to sail because it showcases destinations at their most vibrant. Our thoughtfully planned itineraries allow you to visit world-class gardens and seasonal festivals while enjoying the ease of no-fly cruises direct from the UK. With a wide choice of cruise types and options for both 2026 and 2027, there’s always something new to discover in bloom. Take a look at our latest late deals and plan your next spring escape with Ambassador, where affordable quality meets the warmest welcome at sea.