Exciting Cruise Ship Destinations for Your Next Vacation
Here’s what you’ll learn after reading this article:
- Cruise adventure seekers can explore destinations like Alaska, known for icy fjords and glaciers, Australia and New Zealand, featuring the Great Barrier Reef and iconic wildlife, and Antarctica, offering unique experiences like iceberg views and polar plunges.
- For relaxing cruise ship destinations, options include Mexico – with its mix of white sand beaches and ancient Mayan ruins, the Bahamas for private beaches and marine life, and Bermuda, featuring pink sand beaches and British-influenced sites.
- Culture and history enthusiasts can choose cruises to Eastern Canada and New England to explore revolutionary history and iconic lighthouses, Southeast Asia to experience Buddhist temples and modern metropolises, or the Western Mediterranean for world-class art, food, and historical sites in Italy, Spain and France.
- Cruises are a great way to see the world and explore new terrains, with an option available for every travel style.
Have the “travel bug”? Discover your next getaway with these top cruise ship destinations. There’s truly nothing like a cruise to feed your wanderlust. The right voyage helps you explore in luxury, enjoying all the comforts of onboard amenities while touring incredible destinations around the world. From tropical cruise destinations to the best river cruises in Europe, there’s a cruise option for every traveler. Choose your own adventure and get ready to set sail on a once-in-a-lifetime journey!
Top Cruise Destinations for Adventure
Cruise vacations are great for travelers who like fast-paced exploration. These destinations are designed for nature lovers and adventurers-at-heart. Cue breathtaking views, thrilling terrain and wildlife like you’ve never seen before.
Alaska
Alaska offers stunning landscapes as you sail through narrow, icy fjords, surrounded by ancient glaciers. Top ports include the gold rush town of Skagway, the capital Juneau, and Ketchikan, the salmon capital of the world! Popular experiences immerse you in the natural beauty of America’s “Last Frontier” - enjoy whale watching tours, unique hiking trails and the breathtaking views of Glacier Bay National Park.
Australia + New Zealand
Voyages exploring Australia and New Zealand combine big cities with majestic natural landscapes. Snorkel at the Great Barrier Reef, visit the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary in Brisbane and view the fascinating architecture of the Sydney Opera House. In New Zealand, don’t miss the popular destination of Rotorua, accessible from the Port of Tauranga. It’s known for its fascinating geothermal activity and living Māori village.
Antarctica
A voyage to Antarctica is an adventure like no other, with majestic icebergs, penguin sightings and polar plunges. Explorers can enjoy kayaking through the icy landscape, mountaineering and even camping on the snow.
Best Cruise Destinations for Relaxation
If you prefer relaxing vacations, these cruises will be right up your alley. Enjoy the slower pace, strolling through beach towns, sampling local cuisine, and soaking up the sun rays. These options also double as the best winter cruise destinations, great for anyone trying to escape the winter chill.
Mexico
Mexico cruise ship destinations mix relaxing beach days with ancient ruins and cultural wonders. Caribbean cruises to this transcontinental nation promise white sand beaches and turquoise waters fit for a postcard. Highlights include cenote swims near the Yucatan coast, ancient Mayan ruins and relaxing on the beaches of Progresso. Mexican Riviera routes are culturally vibrant, with bustling boardwalks and flavorful local cuisine. Experience golden sand, stunning local art and hidden beaches along your journey.
Bahamas
Unplug on your Bahamas cruise and experience the stunning natural landscapes. Immerse yourself in the natural environment, swim with dolphins – or simply relax on private beaches. Check for shore excursions that offer a glass-bottom boat experience, giving you a unique view of the marine life below. Other highlights include swimming with pigs at Exuma, snorkeling through coral reefs, and enjoying fresh Bahamian cuisine by the seaside.
Bermuda
This is a cruise destination sure to impress you – with its pink sand beaches, crystal clear waters and seaside cliff walks. Bermuda combines island life with British heritage, from the cobblestone streets of Historic St. George’s to the underwater wonders of the Crystal & Fantasy Caves.
Top Cruise Destinations for Culture and History
History buffs and culture enthusiasts will appreciate these cruise ship destinations. Complete with rich history, fascinating landmarks and world-class museums, take your pick of these immersive experiences.
Atlantic Canada + New England
A cruise through Eastern Canada and New England features rugged coastlines, iconic lighthouses and charming small-town appeal. Boston is a history lover’s dream, with its Freedom Trail guiding you through America’s revolutionary history. In Atlantic Canada, you can indulge in the freshest seafood, explore the streets that inspired Anne of Green Gables and witness the world’s highest tides.
Southeast Asia
Experience tropical landscapes, ancient cultures and the unique flavors of Southeast Asia. This voyage will take you through the modern metropolis of Singapore, the white-sand beaches of Thailand and the lush rainforests of Malaysia. Highlights include bustling nighttime markets, Buddhist temples and world-class food tours.
Western Mediterranean
A Mediterranean cruise is a masterclass in culture, perfect for foodies, art connoisseurs and history enthusiasts alike. Western Mediterranean voyages will take you through top destinations in Italy, Spain and France. Wander through Florence’s iconic Uffizi Gallery, dine on tapas in Barcelona and relax on the glamorous French Riviera beaches.
Find Your Next Adventure
Cruises are amongst the best ways to see the world, exploring new terrain and visiting destinations only accessible by sea. Best of all, there’s a cruise option for every travel style. Inspired by these exciting cruise ship destinations? Choose your next adventure and find an expert travel advisor to help plan your journey.
