10 Beautiful Cruise Destinations That Should Be At The Top of Your Bucket List
There is no better way to see a variety of exciting destinations than to take a cruise. In one trip, you can experience several different destinations while having all the travel arrangements, among other essential needs, taken care of. Whether you are a seasoned cruiser or looking to make your first cruise a memorable and unique experience, check out this list to see the top ten best cruise destinations.
After combing through the many cruise ports, this list has selected some of the favourites as well as some of the most unique ports of call.
1. The Bahamas
The Bahamas is one of the most popular and common ports of call for many cruise liners. It is the iconic cruise ship port of call, and to have any other destination on the top of this list would not be right. If you have cruised before then the chances are high that you have already visited the famous Nassau in the Bahamas. If you have, or even if you haven’t yet, you might want to read more about exciting things to do in this iconic port of call.
2. Alaska
In stark contrast to the Bahamas is the breathtaking state of Alaska. Alaskan ports of call are only accessible during the summer months of the year so be sure to book your cruise early. A cruise to Alaska is a special experience, one that will leave you in awe. It is difficult to describe the astounding beauty that is the Alaskan experience. Be sure to book a cruise that includes a trip through the Tracy Arm Fjords or Glacier Bay, where you can stand bundled up on the deck with a cozy blanket and watch the silent beauty of the glaciers. Truly, this is an experience that is worth every single cent. Get ready to change your life with a trip into the great wilderness of Alaska.
3. Croatia, Dubrovnik
One of the favourite European cruise destinations is the stunning city of Dubrovnik in Croatia. This is an oceanside city that will capture your heart and it makes a beautiful backdrop for many ‘Instagram-worthy’ photographs. And, what’s more, if you are a Game of Thrones fan then you will probably already know that it was filmed in Dubrovnik. You will be able to walk along the winding alleys and recognize locations from the series. Furthermore, you can relax on some the incredible beaches, float in the salty water or have a drink along the scenic shoreside.
4. St. Petersburg, Russia
If you are looking for a destination full of culture and color, then make sure you visit St. Petersburg. This is a destination that both river cruises, as well as Baltic Sea cruises, offer. The Hermitage museum is a must-see as well as the Peterhof Palace. As you arrive into the port, you will see the colorful turrets reaching up into the heavens, and you will know that you have an exciting day ahead of you.
5. Quebec City, Canada
Quebec City is one of the most interesting cities that you can visit on a cruise. If you want a glimpse of Europe, but aren’t quite ready to cross the Atlantic Ocean to get there, then book a cruise that makes a stop at Quebec City. This Canadian city has heavy French influence and visitors are treated to both culture and natural beauty as it is perfectly placed at the foothills of the beautiful Appalachian mountains and in the St. Lawrence River Valley.
6. Norwegian Fjords
Another port where you get to witness nature at her finest, the Norwegian Fjords is a port that you will remember for the rest of your life. But beware, if you travel in the cooler months you will need to pack more than a couple sweaters! Be sure to book your cruise between June and August. Cruising through the Norwegian Fjords means you will find yourself looking up at the steep fjords as they loom over the ship. You will feel humbled and a sense of peace as you take in the wonder of this natural land.
7. The Hawaiian Islands
If you are looking for sunshine and a good time, why not take a cruise to the Hawaiian Islands? Most Hawaiian cruises will take you to see several of the islands, which means you will have a chance to see all aspects of this tropical paradise- from volcanic cliffs that drop into the sea to the iconic Waikiki Beach where you can pay homage to the duke, the king of surfing.
8. The Baltic Sea
If you choose to take a cruise along the Baltic Sea, you will be treated to a variety of interesting ports of call like Helsinki, Copenhagen, Tallinn, and Stockholm. These Scandinavian cities will offer you a wonderful opportunity to take in the culture and natural beauty of the area without the crowds of the typical cruise hotspots like the Carribean. Avoid the cold months as it can get icy and book your trip in the months of June, July, and August.
9. The Mediterranean
A Mediterranean cruise is one of the best ways that you can see all of your bucket list destinations in one trip. However, be aware that you will not have much time to explore- usually only one day per city.
Cruising the Mediterranean means that you will be able to visit the Greek Islands, the French Riviera, the Spanish Coast, and the breathtakingly beautiful Italian coastline. All the destinations are incredible to see, which is why they are grouped into one destination for the sake of this list. Take a trip in the warmer months from May to September to soak up the European summer but be aware that some places can be extremely busy during the high season.
10. South Pacific/French Polynesia
Taking a cruise to the South Pacific can mean that you may end up spending long days at sea, but the result is worth it. Imagine waking up after a few days cruising the open ocean to the lush paradise of Bora Bora. This is a destination high on the list for many people, and visiting it as a port of call may just be the perfect way to tick Bora Bora off your bucket list. Whether you want sunshine and cocktails or meandering through ancient cities, this list gathers the best of everything. Take your pick and set sail to the ports of call that can help you make your dreams become a reality. – Travel Feeder