Cruising is a great way to see the world in style and comfort. There are cruises to suit all budgets and interests, from luxury river cruises in Europe to family-friendly Caribbean cruises.
Here we outline some of the major world cruise destinations, some great things to so and see, and the major cruise lines that cruise to each of the destinations.
South Pacific Cruises
The South Pacific is home to some of the most beautiful islands in the world, with crystal-clear waters, white-sand beaches, and lush rainforests. Popular destinations include Fiji, Bora Bora, Tahiti, and the Cook Islands.
Highlights of South Pacific Cruises
- Snorkeling and scuba diving: The South Pacific is home to some of the most beautiful coral reefs in the world, making it a great place to go snorkeling and scuba diving. You can see a variety of colorful fish, turtles, and other marine life.
- Relaxing on white-sand beaches: The South Pacific has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, perfect for relaxing and soaking up the sun.
- Exploring lush rainforests: The South Pacific is also home to lush rainforests, which are home to a variety of plants and animals. You can go hiking, kayaking, or take a boat tour through the rainforest.
- Learning about Polynesian culture: The South Pacific is home to a rich Polynesian culture, which you can learn about by visiting villages, attending cultural performances, or taking cooking classes.
- Visiting historical landmarks: The South Pacific has a rich history, and you can visit historical landmarks such as ancient temples, colonial forts, and World War II sites.
- Going on whale watching expeditions: The South Pacific is home to a variety of whales, and you can go on whale watching expeditions to see them in their natural habitat.
Some of the major cruise lines that have South Pacific Islands in their itineraries are; P&O, Princess, Carnival, Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean, and Holland America Line.
Europe River Cruises
Europe is a continent with a rich history and culture, and river cruises are a great way to experience it. Popular rivers include the Danube, Rhine, and Seine.
Highlights of Europe River Cruises
- Explore the history and culture of Europe: Europe is a continent with a rich history and culture, and river cruises are a great way to experience it. You can visit iconic cities such as Paris, Rome, and Budapest, and learn about their history and culture.
- See the beautiful countryside: Europe is also home to some of the most beautiful countryside in the world. As you cruise along the river, you’ll get to see rolling hills, vineyards, and charming villages.
- Go wine tasting: Europe is home to some of the world’s best wines, and many river cruises offer wine tasting excursions. You can sample wines from different regions and learn about the winemaking process.
- Take a bike ride: Many river cruises offer bike rides along the shore. This is a great way to get some exercise and explore the countryside at your own pace.
- Go hiking: If you’re looking for a more challenging activity, you can go hiking in the surrounding hills. This is a great way to get some fresh air and enjoy the scenery.
- Take a cooking class: Many river cruises offer cooking classes where you can learn to make traditional European dishes. This is a great way to learn about the local cuisine and take some of the flavors home with you.
Some cruise lines that provide Europe River cruises are; APT, Scenic Cruises, Travelmarvel, Uniworld, Avalon Waterways, and Viking.
Mediterranean Cruises
The Mediterranean Sea is home to some of the most iconic cities in the world, such as Rome, Athens, and Barcelona. It is also a great place to relax on the beach and enjoy the sun.
Highlights of Mediterranean Cruises
- Explore the ancient ruins of Greece and Italy: The Mediterranean Sea is home to some of the most iconic ancient ruins in the world, such as the Acropolis in Athens and the Colosseum in Rome.
- Soak up the sun on the beaches of Spain and France: The Mediterranean Sea is also home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, perfect for relaxing and soaking up the sun.
- Sample the delicious food of the region: The Mediterranean is known for its delicious food, from Italian pasta to Greek gyros.
- Go sightseeing in charming towns and villages: The Mediterranean is dotted with charming towns and villages, each with its own unique history and culture.
- Go hiking or biking in the countryside: The Mediterranean countryside is a great place to get some exercise and enjoy the scenery.
- Go swimming, snorkeling, or diving in the crystal-clear waters: The Mediterranean Sea is a great place to go swimming, snorkeling, or diving.
- Take a cooking class: Learn how to make traditional Mediterranean dishes from a local chef.
- Go on a wine tour: The Mediterranean is home to some of the world’s best wines. Go on a wine tour to learn about the winemaking process and sample some of the local wines.
Some cruise lines to consider when looking at a Mediterranean Cruise are; MSC, Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess, Azamara, Holland America Line, Costa, Ponant, Royal Caribbean, Silversea, Cunard, Celebrity Cruises, and more.
Caribbean Cruises
The Caribbean is a popular destination for families and couples alike. There are many all-inclusive resorts and plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained, from swimming and sunbathing to snorkeling and scuba diving.
Highlights of Caribbean Cruises
- Relax on the beach: The Caribbean has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, perfect for relaxing and soaking up the sun.
- Go swimming, snorkeling, or diving: The Caribbean Sea is a great place to go swimming, snorkeling, or diving.
- Explore the islands: The Caribbean is made up of over 700 islands, each with its own unique culture and history.
- Go on a catamaran cruise: A catamaran cruise is a great way to see the islands and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
- Go hiking or biking: The Caribbean islands offer plenty of opportunities for hiking and biking.
- Go shopping: The Caribbean is a great place to shop for souvenirs and locally made goods.
- Attend a cultural event: The Caribbean is home to a rich culture, and there are always cultural events happening, such as festivals, concerts, and dances.
- Try the local food: The Caribbean is known for its delicious food, such as jerk chicken, plantains, and rum punch.
The Caribbean is a popular cruise destination and some of the most popular are; Disney, Carnival, Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess, Holland America Line, MSC, Royal Caribbean, and more.
Transpacific Cruises
Transpacific cruises typically depart from California and end in Hawaii or Alaska. Along the way, you can visit some of the most beautiful islands in the world, such as Bora Bora and Tahiti.
Highlights of Transpacific Cruises
- Visiting exotic islands: Transpacific cruises typically depart from California and end in Hawaii or Alaska. Along the way, you can visit some of the most beautiful islands in the world, such as Bora Bora and Tahiti.
- Snorkeling and scuba diving: The waters of the Pacific Ocean are home to some of the most diverse marine life in the world. You can go snorkeling or scuba diving to see a variety of fish, coral reefs, and other marine life.
- Hiking and exploring rainforests: The Pacific Ocean is also home to some lush rainforests. You can go hiking or take a boat tour through the rainforest to see a variety of plants and animals.
- Learning about Polynesian culture: The Pacific Ocean is home to a rich Polynesian culture. You can visit villages, attend cultural performances, or take cooking classes to learn about the culture.
- Going on whale watching expeditions: The Pacific Ocean is home to a variety of whales, including humpback whales and blue whales. You can go on whale watching expeditions to see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
- Enjoying the onboard amenities: Transpacific cruises typically offer a variety of onboard amenities, such as swimming pools, hot tubs, fitness centers, and casinos. You can also enjoy a variety of dining options, from fine dining to casual buffets.
Transpacific Cruises are considered a journey with multiple cruise destinations. Some cruise lines to consider are; Royal Caribbean, Princess, Carnival, Celebrity Cruises, and more.
Alaska Cruises
Alaska is a land of glaciers, mountains, and wildlife. Cruise ships typically sail through the Inside Passage, which is a narrow waterway between the mainland and the Aleutian Islands.
Highlights of Alaska Cruises
- Glacier viewing: Alaska is home to some of the largest and most beautiful glaciers in the world. You can get up close and personal with these amazing natural wonders by taking a cruise through the Inside Passage or by going on a shore excursion.
- Wildlife viewing: Alaska is also home to a variety of wildlife, including bears, whales, and bald eagles. You can see these animals in their natural habitat by taking a wildlife-watching cruise or by going on a shore excursion.
- Hiking and camping: Alaska is a great place to get outdoors and enjoy the natural beauty of the state. There are many hiking trails and camping spots to choose from.
- Fishing: Alaska is a great place to go fishing. You can fish for salmon, halibut, and other fish in the ocean or in the rivers and lakes.
- Kayaking and rafting: Alaska is a great place to go kayaking and rafting. You can explore the fjords, glaciers, and rivers of the state.
- Explore Alaska’s Native culture: Alaska is home to a variety of Native Alaskan cultures. You can learn about these cultures by visiting Native villages, attending cultural events, or taking a cultural tour.
- Relax and enjoy the scenery: Alaska is a beautiful state with stunning scenery. You can relax and enjoy the scenery by taking a cruise, going for a walk, or simply sitting on the deck of your ship.
Alaska as a cruise destination is on the top of many peoples bucket list. Cruise lines include; Holland America Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess, and Celebrity Cruises.
Antarctica Cruises
Antarctica is the last continent on Earth and is home to a unique wildlife, including penguins, seals, and whales. Cruise ships typically sail along the Antarctic Peninsula, which is the northernmost part of the continent.
Highlights of Antarctica Cruises
- See penguins, seals, and whales: Antarctica is home to a unique wildlife, including penguins, seals, and whales. You can get up close and personal with these animals on zodiac cruises or kayaking excursions.
- Explore the icy landscape: Antarctica is a land of glaciers, icebergs, and snowfields. You can go hiking, camping, or snowshoeing on the glaciers, or take a boat ride through the icebergs.
- Learn about the history and science of Antarctica: Antarctica is a fascinating place with a rich history and unique ecology. You can learn about the history of exploration in Antarctica, or the science of climate change.
- Take in the stunning scenery: Antarctica is a beautiful place with stunning scenery. You can enjoy the views from the ship, or go on a helicopter or plane tour to get a bird’s-eye view.
- Relax and enjoy the peace and quiet: Antarctica is a remote and peaceful place. You can relax and enjoy the peace and quiet, or simply take in the beauty of the natural surroundings.
Antarctica is a an expedition cruise destination and cruise lines include; Ponant, Silversea, National Geographic Lindblad, Scenic Cruises, and Seabourn.
Panama Canal Cruises
The Panama Canal is one of the greatest engineering feats of the 20th century. It connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, and cruise ships can pass through it in either direction.
Highlights of Panama Canal Cruises
- See the engineering marvel of the Panama Canal: The Panama Canal is one of the most impressive engineering feats in the world. It cuts through the Isthmus of Panama, connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
- Savor the tropical climate and scenery: The Panama Canal is located in a tropical climate, with lush rainforests and beautiful beaches.
- Visit the bustling city of Panama City: Panama City is a modern city with a rich history. It is home to the Panama Canal, as well as many other attractions, such as the Panama Museum of Art and the Panama Canal Museum.
- Go hiking or biking in the rainforest: The Panama Canal is surrounded by rainforests, which are a great place to go hiking or biking.
- Go swimming, snorkeling, or diving in the clear waters: The Panama Canal is located in the Pacific Ocean, which is a great place to go swimming, snorkeling, or diving.
- Learn about the history and culture of Panama: Panama has a rich history and culture, which you can learn about by visiting museums, taking tours, or talking to locals.
Cruse Lines that include Panama Canal are; Holland America Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess, and Celebrity Cruises.
Planning Your Cruise
Here are some additional tips for planning your cruise:
- Decide on your budget and what kind of experience you’re looking for.
- Do your research and compare different cruise lines and itineraries.
- Book your cruise early to get the best deals.
- Pack light so you can move easily around the ship.
- Be sure to bring your passport and any other necessary documentation.
- Relax and enjoy your cruise!
There’s an infinite number of cruises, river cruises, cruise lines, ports, destinations and itineraries available. Ask your Vacation Rewards® Travel Specialists to help select the right cruise for you.
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