The Best Cruise Destinations You Need To Visit This Year
There’s nothing quite like cruising. From the moment you step on board, the stress of everyday life starts to melt away. You unpack once, settle in, and let the world come to you.
Every morning brings a new horizon, a new place to explore, and, all the while, you have everything you need right on the ship – good food, ocean views, and that peaceful rhythm of life at sea.
Cruising lets you cover serious ground without any of the hassle. One day you’re snorkeling in the Caribbean, and the next you’re walking through ancient ruins or wandering cobbled streets in a European city. Whether you’re looking to relax, explore, or try something completely new, there’s a cruise itinerary out there for you.
To help you plan your dream vacation, we’ve rounded up ten amazing cruise destinations – five classic favorites and five that are a little more off the beaten path. From glacier-filled fjords to sun-soaked beaches, here’s where to go and why these spots are worth sailing to.
The Caribbean Islands
The Caribbean is the poster child for cruising, and for good reason. With hundreds of islands scattered across crystal-clear waters, it offers a mixture of cultures, cuisines, and coastlines that never get old. From the reggae rhythms of Jamaica to the French charm of St. Martin, each port has its own personality.
When you dock, there’s no shortage of fun to be had. Snorkeling around coral reefs, ziplining through rainforest canopies, and taking catamaran rides at sunset are all on the table.
Don’t skip the historic towns, though – places like San Juan in Puerto Rico have colorful old quarters full of colonial architecture, cobbled streets, and local dishes you’ll still be dreaming about when you’re back on board. To help you choose your corner of paradise, here are the top Caribbean islands you need to visit this year.
Alaska
Alaska isn’t your typical sun-and-sand cruise destination, yet it’s absolutely unforgettable. Cruising through glacier-filled fjords with snow-capped mountains on either side will feel like something out of a movie. Plus, this rugged part of the United States has a rich history tied to Indigenous cultures, the gold rush, and wild frontier exploration.
When you step off the ship, be sure to sign up for an excursion like dog sledding, kayaking past icebergs, or scenic train rides through the mountains. If you’re a wildlife lover, you can go whale watching or search for bears and bald eagles. To help you get there, here’s more on how to plan the perfect cruise to Alaska.
The Mediterranean
The Mediterranean is one big open-air museum with sunshine and gelato on top. Cruises often stop at ports like Barcelona, Rome, Athens, and the Greek Isles. This gives you the chance to explore thousands of years of history without ever unpacking your suitcase.
When you step off the ship, you could be climbing the Acropolis, wandering the ruins of Pompeii, or sipping wine in a Tuscan vineyard by the afternoon. Art, architecture, and food are the big draws here, and the onshore excursions often feel like mini-adventures through time. If you’re a culture lover, this cruise route will be a dream come true.
Bahamas
Just a hop, skip, and a jump from Florida, the Bahamas have long been a go-to cruise destination for anyone looking for a quick tropical escape. These islands were once a haven for pirates in the 17th century and, now, they’re a paradise of white sandy beaches and aquamarine waters.
When you arrive, you’ll find plenty to do, like snorkeling over shipwrecks, exploring sea caves, and visiting the famous swimming pigs of Exuma. If you’re cruising with the kiddos, a day at a private cruise line island (like Royal Caribbean’s CocoCay) will offer a mix of beach lounging and waterpark thrills. And, to help you choose, here’s every Royal Caribbean Cruise ship, ranked.