7 Great Cruise Destinations Around the World – Go Beyond the Ordinary
Escape the ordinary and embark on a journey to discover the world's most captivating cruise destinations beyond the usual Caribbean ports. From the vibrant streets of Singapore to the icy landscapes of Antarctica, there's a whole world waiting to be explored by river and sea.
Here are seven remarkable cruise destinations that offer adventure, beauty, and unforgettable experiences.
Singapore
Singapore ranks highly with all types of travelers, whether they’re flying in and experiencing the marvel that is Changi Airport, or whether they come in via an Asian cruise.
It’s not just the cleanliness and orderliness of Singapore that appeals to travelers, or the high numbers of English speakers; it’s the shopping, the architecture, the street food, and the high-tech landscapes that can turn urban spaces into forests of multicolored lights.
Venture into the heart of Singapore's cultural districts like Chinatown, Little India, and Kampong Glam to witness the city's rich heritage. Explore iconic landmarks such as Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay, and Sentosa Island.
Want to cruise to Singapore? Cruises that take in Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia, and Sri Lanka often include Singapore. Check the itineraries, or search “Singapore Cruises.”
Also see: Top 8 Travel Destinations in Asia
Vienna
Vienna is at the epicenter of the European river cruise boom, but it’s been a world-class destination for centuries. Whether you’re interested in music (Vienna Opera House), art (the Vienna Art Museum), architecture (the 14th District), or food and drink (just try to leave Vienna without trying a Sacher Torte – we dare you), Vienna has the ability to leave you endlessly captivated.
With its rich cultural offerings and picturesque river views, Vienna beckons travelers to immerse themselves in its timeless allure.
Vienna offers multiple options for river cruisers, including cruises that head northwest toward Munich and southeast toward Budapest. Either way, you can’t go wrong.
Find another trip: The 5 Best Places to Visit in Germany
The Nile
If you like river cruises but have a hankering for something different, it’s hard to top a river cruise of the Nile. Whether you start at Luxor or Aswan, you’ll see an endless panorama of temples, ruins, and people going through the daily motions of making a living from one of the world’s most fabled waterways.
Marvel at the colossal statues of Abu Simbel and delve into the mysteries of the Valley of the Kings. Witness bustling markets and cruise aboard a traditional felucca to discover hidden gems along the riverbanks.
Another bonus: Many Nile cruises include day excursions with admissions to temples, pyramids, and other historic sites, saving you the hassle of buying separate admissions and trying to figure out the best deals that will let you see everything you want to see.
With Egypt's rich history unfolding before your eyes, a Nile cruise promises an unforgettable voyage of discovery.
Tahiti
Maybe the most romantic cruise destination on the planet, Tahiti is served by a variety of cruise ships ranging from ultra-basic (cruising on a freighter, anyone?) to ultra-luxurious. You can even take a Tahitian cruise on a four-masted sailing ship!
Savor the tranquility of Tahiti's outer islands, where secluded beaches and turquoise lagoons invite blissful relaxation. Dive into vibrant coral gardens teeming with marine life or embark on a hiking adventure through lush rainforests. Experience the warmth of Tahitian hospitality through traditional dance performances and cultural demonstrations.
Many of the cruise ships serving Tahiti are smaller, meaning you can really get to know your fellow travelers as well as your destinations. Activities include snorkeling, scuba diving, surfing, and swimming with whales (!), in addition to programs that immerse you in Polynesian culture.
With its idyllic landscapes and laid-back atmosphere, Tahiti captivates cruisers seeking paradise found.
Alaska
The Inland Passage (aka Inside Passage) has long been a favorite of domestic cruisers, and for one very good reason: The sights are incredibly beautiful. There’s nothing in North America that can match a cruise to Glacier Bay, for the fjord-like vistas complete with calving glaciers, the chance to see wildlife ranging from bears to killer whales, the spectacular mountains, the untouched forests, and more.
Immerse yourself in Alaska's frontier spirit as you kayak through icy fjords or embark on a helicopter tour over glacier-carved valleys. Keep your camera ready for sightings of breaching whales, playful sea otters, and majestic bald eagles.
To see more of Alaska (and you should!) pair a cruise with a train trip to Denali National Park, and plan some time around Anchorage, one of the country’s truly beautiful (and underappreciated) cities.
Read more: What to Pack for an Alaskan Cruise and the Best Ports to See
Norway
Norwegian ports of call are some of the world’s most popular with tourists, for multiple reasons: They’re as welcoming as they are beautiful – and you can see them all on a North Atlantic cruise.
Explore charming coastal towns like Bergen, Ålesund, and Tromsø, where colorful wooden houses line the waterfronts. Hike to cascading waterfalls, paddle through serene fjords, or embark on a thrilling husky sled ride in the Arctic wilderness. Whether chasing the aurora borealis or soaking in the stunning scenery, Norway's natural wonders never fail to enchant.
Especially popular when the days are longest, in late June and July, North Atlantic and Arctic cruises range from simple jaunts around Scandinavia to London-based cruises to lengthy excursions that start in Canada and follow the path of the Vikings. Many of these include stops in Greenland, the “new Iceland,” as well as … uh, the old Iceland.
Boat size ranges from small to medium, giving you ample opportunity to get to know your fellow cruisers. Just remember to pack sweaters and rainwear.
Antarctica
Antarctic cruises are the perfect cruise for adventure lovers. Most combine ambitious shore excursions with smaller, rugged boats that make up in practicality what they may lack in sumptuousness.
Why would people travel to the bottom of the world on a converted icebreaker? To see penguins, for one thing – but also to see some of the world’s wildest places before they change fundamentally.
Step ashore on remote Antarctic islands to witness colonies of Antarctic wildlife in their natural habitat, from bustling penguin rookeries to lounging seals. Traverse icy terrain alongside experienced expedition guides and learn about the continent's fragile ecosystem. Capture breathtaking photographs of pristine ice formations and expansive polar vistas under the endless Antarctic sky.
Antarctic cruises aren’t cheap and aren’t for everyone. And because of their remote destinations, they really need to be insured (a statement which actually goes for every cruise destination on this list).
See more: The Best Countries to Visit for Breathtaking Ecotourism
Travel protection from Generali Global Assistance can help protect your cruise investment in case you have to cancel or interrupt your trip. It can also help with lost luggage, medical emergencies, and medical evacuation. All that can really help save the day when the going gets tough on your cruise. Get a quote today.
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