10 Ports That Every Cruise Enthusiast Should Visit

Cruising is one of the best ways to see the world. It’s such a low-stress adventure. All you have to do is arrive at the ship, wait for your luggage to be delivered to your cabin, unpack, sit back, and relax. 

So, if now’s your time to get out there and see the world, we can definitely make the case for doing it in style on board a floating city. In a world full of wonder, we’ve selected ten ports of call that should be added to your bucket list.  

Sitka, Alaska

Sitka might not be the first name that comes to mind when you think of cruise ports, but that’s exactly what makes it so unique. Nestled between snow-capped mountains and the wild Pacific, this Alaskan gem has a cozy, small-town feel and an unexpected mix of cultures, thanks to its Russian roots. You can spot onion-domed churches just minutes away from nature trails as bald eagles swoop overhead.

If you have the time, book a wildlife tour or hike through Sitka National Historical Park. If you love seafood, this is the place to sample some king crab or smoked salmon from a local shack. One of the best things about Sitka is that there are no big crowds here – just you and some of the best scenery the Last Frontier has to offer.

Athens, Greece

Athens is the kind of place that makes you want to wear linen pants and quote Plato. Yet, even if you’re not into philosophy, you’ll be impressed by the sheer depth of history here. Cruising into Piraeus, the port of Athens, is like entering the gateway to the ancient world. You’re less than an hour from the Acropolis, and we can promise you that standing in front of the Parthenon is as incredible as you’d imagine.

You can wander the Plaka neighborhood, filled with charming alleyways, cafés, and local shops. In terms of snacks, don’t miss an opportunity to try some souvlaki, or grilled meat on a skewer, followed by a warm, honey-drenched loukoumade, or Greek donut. Athens is one of those cities where even a casual walk feels like a history lesson wrapped in sunshine and gold.

New Orleans, Louisiana

Rolling into New Orleans on a cruise is like sailing straight into a party. From the second you hit the dock, you’ll hear jazz music floating through the air, smell spicy Creole dishes, and feel the energy of a city that knows how to live. The French Quarter is a short taxi ride from the port and matches the pictures we’ve seen all our lives – balconies draped in beads, street performers, and maybe even a tarot reading if you’re feeling bold.

But, don’t just stick to Bourbon Street. Stroll through the Garden District to see some showstopping homes, hop on a streetcar, and grab a plate of beignets and café au lait from Café du Monde. This is one of those ports that you’ll consider revisiting, because one afternoon is never enough.

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

Abu Dhabi is sleek, sophisticated, and full of surprises. Cruising into this futuristic skyline from the Persian Gulf feels like you’re arriving on another planet. The city mixes modern luxury with deep-rooted Emirati culture, and you’ll notice it everywhere from the architecture to the hospitality.

You absolutely cannot miss the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. It’s jaw-droppingly beautiful and feels peaceful even when it’s packed. If you have time, visit the Louvre Abu Dhabi or take a desert safari ride over those golden dunes. Food-wise, try some shawarma, or meat in a pita, or go upscale with a rooftop meal overlooking the city. In the end, you’ll find that Abu Dhabi is utterly glam, with a massive side of adventure.