Cruise and Maritime Voyages were the first cruise line to start cruising, on a regular turnaround basis, from Bristol – Avonmouth three years ago, after a lapse of some 20 years.

Mike Hall, CMV’s head of marketing, said “We are pleased to say CMV are planning another exciting programme including a 54-night cruise in January to South America. Avonmouth provides, with its ever improving facilities, the ideal starting point for many in the South West, Wales and the Midlands. The cruise terminal continues to offer a fast efficient check in and disembarkation facility. It means our passengers can avoid the often lengthy check-in and disembarkation procedures at airports and the larger ports in the south.”

This year the company has already operated 10 cruises from Bristol - Avonmouth on board Azores. Another eight-night cruise departed on Sunday to Europe with a Summer Gardens and Medieval Cities theme. Other cruises are also planned for later this year.

The terminal will welcome CMV’s legendary and elegant cruise liner Marco Polo in December.

This popular ship, now in its 50th year, has a full programme including a two-week Christmas Canary Islands & Madeira cruise plus a magnificent 54-night cruise to South America departing January 5 and visiting all the leading cities including Rio and Buenos Aires.

Current special price from £3,115pp.

At the end of February, if you are looking for Caribbean sunshine, a 32-night cruise to the West Indies is on offer from £1,965pp.

Marco Polo will continue cruising through until the end of March and then return with more cruises later in 2016.

In 2016 CMV will be renaming the Azores to Astoria. The ship has been a big success for the cruise operator so will once more be seen in the port, but with a new name.

Starting in March the ship will be cruising five different itineraries including The Norwegian Fjords, the Azores (the place) and Madeira, and a Scottish Isles and Faroes voyage.

There are a number of Bristol-based cruises available currently on a ‘Buy one get one free’ deal others with a good early discount for bookings made before July 31, 2015.

If you are not sure if you would like a cruise then CMV has the perfect answer.

Book for lunch on board at £49pp, or dinner at £79 with the option to stay overnight with breakfast from £10pp. Dates available December 18 and 19, with more dates in 2016.

Details of all the latest prices and full details for all these cruises and other itineraries can be found at www.cruiseandmaritime.com and watch the cruise video at www.cruiseandmaritime.tv

All cruises are on a full-board basis with afternoon tea and late night snacks included. Also included in the fares are daytime activities, guest speaker programme, evening entertainment, complimentary tea and coffee (6am - 10pm) and porterage of luggage port/cabin.

Sterling is the on board currency. Quoted prices are subject to limited availability and booking conditions.