Cruises are normally seen as long, luxurious affairs that last for weeks and - cheap cruise offers notwithstanding - sport a hefty price tag.
However, there are ways and means of sampling the on-board experience for less money and over a shorter period of time than a standard cruise holiday.
Mini cruises typically last for between three and six days and set sail from the UK - although it is also possible to fly to a foreign port and depart from there.
Such taster cruises may prove attractive to those looking for ideas for a short holiday that won't cost too much - and for those who are just curious about what a cruise actually involves.
Typical mini cruises explore the UK and Ireland, western Europe and several destinations that are located further afield.
Some take in just one location before sailing back home - eg you can sail to Paris where you stay for two nights before leaving for the UK - while others fit several stops into the space of a few days.
If you head away on a western European mini cruise, you might take in destinations such as Cherbourg, Zeebrugge, Rotterdam, Cork, Tenerife, Ibiza Funchal and Barcelona.
Elsewhere, you can head away on a fly-and-cruise trip to the likes of the US and Mexico, although these tend to be longer than the average mini cruise at around five or six nights.
Whatever option you choose, you will be able to experience just what it is like to sail for longer, complete with the ship's various amenities and entertainment and the regular stops that are made at different destinations.
The only difference from a traditional cruise will be the price - depending on the type of accommodation you choose and where you go - and duration, making mini cruises the ideal option for those on a tight budget and with not much time to spare.
Who knows - you could end up loving the experience so much that you'll just have to book a full-length holiday as soon as you step off the ship.