There are still plenty of cruise deals available for half-term getaways.

A week gives you plenty of time to experience new and old cruise ships and to explore a variety of destinations.

It may be getting colder in the UK, but you could sail into the Mediterranean sun in October or even go further afield with a Caribbean cruise.

Read more: The best cruise deals for winter sun

If you fancy a bucket list trip, there are also expedition voyages to the Galapagos Islands.

Many cruise ships will have kids' clubs, waterslides and pools to keep your youngsters entertained while parents can relax in hot tubs, bars and adult-only areas.

There will also be family-focused fun activities on board such as quizzes, games, delicious food and top quality entertainment to help the kids bring plenty of memories back to school.

Here is our pick of the top half-term cruises.

You won't have to worry about check-in times and airport delays on this sailing with P&O Cruises, as UK-based travellers get the convenience of departing from Southampton, and your holiday begins as soon as you are onboard.

The itinerary includes stops in northern Spain, visiting La Coruna, Bilbao and Vigo, where temperatures can still hit 20 degrees, even in October.

Sailing on Iona, kids can enjoy the swimming pool and splash zone in the sunshine, and the cinema if it rains.

Adults can escape to the onboard gin distillery and enjoy live music curated by Gary Barlow at the 710 Club.

The vessel offers modern touches through its decor and artwork, coupled with the traditions of Cunard such as its white-gloved afternoon tea.

This seven-night sailing explores the Iberian coast and has a stop in Vigo and an overnight stay in Lisbon.

Guests also get three sea days to enjoy the ship. There is an outdoor pool for sunny days and one with a retractable roof in The Pavilion if it rains.

The vessel joined Icon of the Seas as the world's largest cruise ship in August and offers the largest waterslides and waterparks at sea, as well as 40 restaurants and bars to drink and dine in.

The port stops on this Caribbean voyage are as exciting as the ship, with opportunities to see beautiful beaches, architecture or just to sip the local rum. Plus, there is a Perfect Day at CocoCay stop on the cruise brand's private Bahamas island.

Every day can be a school day, even in half-term. Spend a week on an expedition sailing with Celebrity Cruises to discover the unique residents of the Galapagos Islands, including giant tortoises and penguins.

When not exploring the islands or snorkelling in the sea, you can enjoy the hot tubs and lounge aboard Celebrity Flora.

There are also educational spaces and a naturalist lounge for explorers keen to learn more about the region.

This is a big budget bucket list trip but the memories may be worth saving for. Every cabin is a suite on the ship, guaranteeing great views, plus there is an outdoor stargazing area.

Departing from Genoa aboard MSC Splendida, this voyage offers the chance to shop on La Rambla in Barcelona. Then experience the mix of modern and Romano-Nyzantine architecture as well as street art in Marseille, before returning to the Italian city, where you can sample the local pesto.

Launched in 2009, Splendida is one of MSC Cruises' older ships but is packed with fun activities, including waterslides and an F1 racing simulator.

Explore four Caribbean islands including Norwegian Cruise Line's private destination Great Stirrup Cay, where you can climb the 19th century lighthouse, go zip lining or enjoy the waterpark.

This seven-night sailing takes place on the cruise brand's newest ship, Norwegian Aqua.

Guests can enjoy features such as the Slidecoaster, the world's first hybrid roller coaster with a water slide, and an interactive digital sports complex called Glow Court.

6 best family cruise deals for last-minute October half-term holidays