When is a cruise not a cruise?
Hull-based National Holidays has been ordered not to repeat an advert in which it described a ferry crossing as an island cruise.
Advertising watchdogs said the coach operator had misled customers when it promoted a mini-break as a ‘Scotland All Inclusive & Island Cruise’.
The operator’s website described the ‘cruise’ as ‘a sensational adventure exploring the sea lochs, inlets and islands, taking in the majestic scenery and a true adventure in search of dolphins, minke whales, porpoises, seals and the amazing marine world [sic] life to be found around these beautiful Scottish island [sic]".
However, the Advertising Standards Authority upheld a complaint against the company when it admitted the cruise was just a return crossing on a public ferry.
National Holidays claimed the description accurately reflected the excursion and it provided a link to the Caledonian Macbrayne Ferries’ website, which contained the claim ‘Cruise the Sound of Mull’.
Linsey McNeill
Editor Linsey McNeill has been writing about travel for more than three decades. Bylines include The Times, Telegraph, Observer, Guardian and Which? plus the South China Morning Post. She also shares insider tips on thetraveljournalist.co.uk
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