If you’re thinking about taking a cruise holiday, there are plenty of destinations to choose from. Cruising has become more accessible over recent years, and the choice of ships and itineraries is now broader than ever. The world’s most popular cruise destinations stand out for several reasons, but primarily because they appeal to such a wide variety of people. Some cruises cater specifically to luxury-seekers, family travelers and those who want to explore at their own pace. A cruise can be as relaxing or adventurous as you want it to be. Read on for our guide to the world’s most popular cruise destinations.
Alaska
The northernmost cruise destination of all is Alaska. The average temperature in the summer is just 16 degrees Celsius, but that doesn’t seem to put off cruisers. It may even add extra appeal for many. The White Pass and Yukon Route Railroad has been operating in Alaska since 1898, and is one of the world’s most scenic rail journeys. It’s a great way to get a taste of the rugged wilderness from which cruise ships operate, but with the convenience of having your destination already decided. Alaska is a destination for cruise lovers of all kinds.
Caribbean cruises
The Caribbean is one of the most popular cruise destinations in the world. It’s a great choice for family travelers, with plenty of kids clubs and activities on offer. The Caribbean is also an ideal destination for those who want to get a bit of sun on their cruise. The Caribbean has a subtropical climate, so you can expect warm weather year-round. There’s a wide range of cruise options in the Caribbean, from one-day excursions to longer trips. The Caribbean has beautiful beaches, lots of culture, and plenty of shopping opportunities. Caribbean cruises often call at more than one port, which gives you a great chance to explore the region and see more than just the beach. You can choose a Caribbean cruise that visits the Caribbean’s biggest and most popular destinations. Alternatively, you can select a cruise that takes you to less-visited destinations, such as the Dominican Republic, Guadeloupe, or the Bahamas.
Mediterranean cruises
The Mediterranean is one of the world’s oldest and most culturally rich cruising destinations. It’s a great destination for those who want to explore maritime history while also seeing amazing architecture, art, and nature. You can choose between shorter, one-week cruises and longer voyages that run for as many as 12 nights. Mediterranean cruises can also be combined with a stay in a nearby city, which opens up even more opportunities for exploring. The Mediterranean is a fascinating region with a great deal of history, culture, and architecture to explore. Cruise destinations include some of the world’s most well-known cities, such as Barcelona, Barcelona, Lisbon, and Rome. Other popular Mediterranean cruise ports include Nice, France; Athens, Greece; and Venice, Italy.
Pacific cruises
If you’re looking to get away from it all, the Pacific Ocean is a great place to start. Pacific cruises depart from Asian cities and ports, and the Pacific’s vastness means you’re unlikely to encounter many other cruisers. Pacific cruises are often in smaller ships, and focus on luxury and comfort. You may have a smaller range of excursions on a Pacific cruise, but the onboard activities will be just as luxurious. When it comes to choosing a cruise along the Pacific, there are plenty of options. Cruises operate primarily between Asian capitals, such as Beijing, Shanghai, and Tokyo. You may also find a few Pacific cruises that travel to Australia or New Zealand.
River cruises
The Amazon, the Yangtze, and the Mekong are just a few of the great rivers you can cruise. If you’re after an adventurous cruise that’s a world away from the cruise ships of popular imagination, then a river cruise is the way to go. The close-knit shipboard community, the slow pace and the prevalence of excursions on boats and in canoes and kayaks make river cruises a very different experience. When choosing a river cruise, there are many factors to take into account. Do you want to travel in a small ship or something larger? What excursions do you want to be offered? What’s the climate like along the river you want to travel to? How many fellow travelers are you looking for on your cruise?
Summary
Cruises are great for those who want to get away for a few days and see new places but don’t have the time (or budget) to book a trip that lasts longer than a week or two. Most cruise lines offer a variety of destinations and itineraries, so you’re sure to find one that fits your needs. Cruising is an increasingly popular way to see the world, and the destinations we’ve listed are just a few of the most popular cruise destinations. From the northernmost region of Alaska to the Amazon River in South America, there are cruises to suit all tastes and all budgets. Whether you want to relax in the Caribbean or discover the wonders of the Mediterranean, there’s a cruise out there for you.