What Are the Best Cruise Destination?

Caribbean

Highlights: White sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life, and tropical islands.

Popular Ports and Activities:

• Nassau (Bahamas):
• Atlantis Paradise Island: Explore the marine habitats, waterpark, and casino.
• Cable Beach: Relax on the pristine beach or enjoy water sports.
• Blue Lagoon Island: Swim with dolphins and sea lions.
• Shopping: Duty-free shops offering jewelry, perfumes, and local crafts.
• St. Thomas (US Virgin Islands):
• Magens Bay: One of the world's most beautiful beaches.
• Charlotte Amalie: Explore the historic downtown area with colonial architecture.
• Coral World Ocean Park: Marine park with sea turtles, sharks, and underwater observatory.
• Drake's Seat: Scenic viewpoint overlooking Magens Bay.
• San Juan (Puerto Rico):
• El Morro and Castillo de San Cristóbal: Historic forts with panoramic views.
• Old San Juan: Cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and vibrant nightlife.
• El Yunque National Forest: Tropical rainforest with waterfalls and hiking trails.
• Bioluminescent Bay: Kayak in glowing waters at night.
• Cozumel (Mexico):
• Chankanaab National Park: Snorkeling, diving, and swimming with dolphins.
• Mayan Ruins of San Gervasio: Explore ancient Mayan archaeological site.
• Playa Mia Grand Beach Park: Water park and beach resort with activities for all ages.
• Palancar Reef: Renowned diving and snorkeling spot.

Mediterranean

Highlights: Historical sites, picturesque coastal towns, delicious cuisine, and diverse cultures.

Popular Ports and Activities:

• Barcelona (Spain):
• La Sagrada Familia: Iconic basilica designed by Antoni Gaudí.
• Park Güell: Gaudí's colorful park with unique architecture.
• Las Ramblas: Famous street for shopping, dining, and street performances.
• Gothic Quarter: Medieval streets with historic buildings and churches.
• Rome (Italy):
• Colosseum: Ancient amphitheater and symbol of Rome.
• Vatican City: St. Peter's Basilica, Sistine Chapel, and Vatican Museums.
• Roman Forum: Ruins of ancient Rome's political and social center.
• Trevi Fountain: Baroque fountain where visitors toss coins for good luck.
• Athens (Greece):
• Acropolis: Ancient citadel with the Parthenon temple.
• Plaka: Historic neighborhood with narrow streets and traditional tavernas.
• National Archaeological Museum: Vast collection of Greek antiquities.
• Temple of Olympian Zeus: Ruins of a massive temple dedicated to Zeus.
• Venice (Italy):
• St. Mark's Basilica: Ornate cathedral with Byzantine mosaics.
• Grand Canal: Main waterway with gondola rides and stunning architecture.
• Rialto Bridge: Historic bridge with shops and scenic views.
• Murano and Burano Islands: Famous for glassmaking and colorful houses.
• Dubrovnik (Croatia):
• City Walls: Walk along the historic walls for panoramic views.
• Old Town: Medieval streets, churches, and palaces.
• Lokrum Island: Scenic island with botanical gardens and a monastery.
• Game of Thrones Tours: Visit filming locations from the popular TV series.

Alaska

Highlights: Majestic glaciers, stunning wildlife, and breathtaking natural scenery.

Popular Ports and Activities:

• Juneau:
• Mendenhall Glacier: Hike to the glacier or take a guided tour.
• Whale Watching: Excursions to see humpback whales and orcas.
• Mount Roberts Tramway: Scenic tram ride with hiking trails and views.
• Glacier Gardens Rainforest Adventure: Unique botanical gardens and tours.
• Ketchikan:
• Totem Bight State Park: View totem poles and learn about Native Alaskan culture.
• Creek Street: Historic boardwalk with shops and museums.
• Misty Fjords National Monument: Boat or plane tours of the scenic fjords.
• Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show: Entertaining lumberjack competition.
• Skagway:
• White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad: Scenic train ride through mountains.
• Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park: Explore the history of the gold rush.
• Chilkoot Trail: Historic trail used by gold rush prospectors.
• Dog Sledding: Experience dog sledding on a glacier.
• Glacier Bay:
• Glacier Viewing: See massive glaciers calving into the sea.
• Wildlife Watching: Spot seals, sea otters, and bears.
• Kayaking: Paddle through icy waters for a close-up view of glaciers.
• Ranger Programs: Learn about the park's ecology and history from park rangers.
• Sitka:
• Sitka National Historical Park: Totem poles and cultural exhibits.
• Fortress of the Bear: Wildlife sanctuary for rescued bears.
• St. Michael's Cathedral: Historic Russian Orthodox church.
• Sea Kayaking: Explore the coastal waters and marine life.

Northern Europe and the Baltic

Highlights: Historic cities, rich cultures, and scenic coastlines.

Popular Ports and Activities:

• Copenhagen (Denmark):
• Tivoli Gardens: Historic amusement park with rides and gardens.
• Nyhavn: Colorful harbor with restaurants and bars.
• Amalienborg Palace: Home of the Danish royal family.
• The Little Mermaid: Iconic statue based on Hans Christian Andersen's fairy tale.
• St. Petersburg (Russia):
• Hermitage Museum: One of the largest and oldest museums in the world.
• Peterhof Palace: Grand palace and gardens known as the "Russian Versailles."
• Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood: Ornate church with colorful domes.
• Catherine Palace: Extravagant palace with the famous Amber Room.
• Stockholm (Sweden):
• Gamla Stan: Historic old town with cobblestone streets and medieval buildings.
• Vasa Museum: Maritime museum featuring a 17th-century warship.
• Skansen: Open-air museum showcasing Swedish culture and history.
• Drottningholm Palace: Residence of the Swedish royal family.
• Tallinn (Estonia):
• Old Town: Well-preserved medieval town with cobblestone streets.
• Alexander Nevsky Cathedral: Orthodox cathedral with striking architecture.
• Toompea Castle: Historic castle and seat of the Estonian Parliament.
• Kadriorg Palace: Baroque palace built by Peter the Great.
• Helsinki (Finland):
• Suomenlinna: Sea fortress and UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Helsinki Cathedral: Iconic white cathedral overlooking Senate Square.
• Market Square: Vibrant market with local food and crafts.
• Temppeliaukio Church: Unique church built into solid rock.

South Pacific

Highlights: Exotic islands, vibrant coral reefs, and pristine beaches.

Popular Ports and Activities:

• Bora Bora (French Polynesia):
• Lagoon: Snorkeling and diving in the clear blue waters.
• Mount Otemanu: Scenic hikes and breathtaking views.
• Matira Beach: Beautiful white sand beach.
• Overwater Bungalows: Luxurious accommodations with direct lagoon access.
• Suva (Fiji):
• Colo-i-Suva Forest Park: Rainforest with hiking trails and waterfalls.
• Fiji Museum: Exhibits on Fijian history and culture.
• Suva Municipal Market: Bustling market with fresh produce and local crafts.
• Kava Ceremonies: Traditional Fijian cultural experience.
• Port Vila (Vanuatu):
• Mele Cascades: Stunning waterfalls and swimming holes.
• Ekasup Village: Cultural tour of a traditional Melanesian village.
• Hideaway Island: Snorkeling and diving at the marine sanctuary.
• Underwater Post Office: Unique diving experience to send a postcard.
• Auckland (New Zealand):
• Sky Tower: Observation deck with panoramic views of the city.
• Waiheke Island: Wine tasting and scenic beaches.
• Auckland Museum: Maori cultural exhibits and New Zealand history.
• Rangitoto Island: Volcanic island with hiking trails and lava fields.
• Sydney (Australia):
• Sydney Opera House: Iconic performing arts venue with guided tours.
• Sydney Harbour Bridge: Climb the bridge for spectacular views.
• Bondi Beach: Famous beach with surfing and coastal walks.
• Taronga Zoo: Zoo with a variety of Australian wildlife.

Asia

Highlights: Rich cultural heritage, modern cities, and exotic landscapes.

Popular Ports and Activities:

• Singapore:
• Gardens by the Bay: Futuristic gardens with Supertree Grove and Cloud Forest.
• Marina Bay Sands: Luxury hotel with an infinity pool and observation deck.
• Sentosa Island: Resort island with beaches, theme parks, and entertainment.
• Chinatown: Historic district with temples, markets, and street food.
• Little India: Vibrant neighborhood with colorful shops and eateries.
• Hong Kong (China):
• Victoria Peak: Panoramic views of the city and harbor from the Peak Tram.
• Hong Kong Disneyland: Theme park with rides, shows, and parades.
• Tsim Sha Tsui: Shopping and dining district along the waterfront.
• Ngong Ping 360: Cable car ride to the Tian Tan Buddha and Po Lin Monastery.
• Temple Street Night Market: Bustling market with street food and shopping.
• Bangkok (Thailand):
• Grand Palace: Complex of royal buildings and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha.
• Wat Arun: Riverside temple with a distinctive spire.
• Chatuchak Weekend Market: One of the world's largest markets.
• Chao Phraya River Cruise: Scenic cruise with views of historic landmarks.
• Floating Markets: Unique shopping experience on boats selling local goods.
• Ho Chi Minh City (Vietnam):
• Cu Chi Tunnels: Network of underground tunnels used during the Vietnam War.
• Ben Thanh Market: Central market with local products and souvenirs.
• War Remnants Museum: Exhibits on the Vietnam War.
• Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica: French colonial cathedral.
• Saigon Opera House: Historic building with performances and tours.
• Tokyo (Japan):
• Shibuya Crossing: Famous pedestrian scramble and shopping district.
• Asakusa and Senso-ji Temple: Historic temple and traditional shopping street.
• Meiji Shrine: Shinto shrine surrounded by a forested park.
• Tokyo Tower: Observation decks with city views.
• Ginza: Upscale shopping district with boutiques and restaurants.

Antarctica

Highlights: Remote and pristine landscapes, unique wildlife, and icebergs.

Popular Ports and Activities:

• Ushuaia (Argentina):
• Tierra del Fuego National Park: Hikes, wildlife viewing, and scenic train rides.
• Beagle Channel: Boat tours to see sea lions, penguins, and scenic vistas.
• End of the World Museum: Exhibits on local history and exploration.
• Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse: Iconic lighthouse on a small island.
• Various Landing Sites on the Antarctic Peninsula:
• Wildlife Watching: See penguins, seals, whales, and seabirds in their natural habitat.
• Ice Trekking: Guided hikes on glaciers and ice fields.
• Kayaking: Paddle among icebergs and alongside wildlife.
• Zodiac Excursions: Small boat trips for close-up views of ice formations and wildlife.
• Scientific Lectures: Learn about Antarctic ecology, geology, and history from experts.

South America

Highlights: Diverse cultures, historic sites, and natural wonders.

Popular Ports and Activities:

• Buenos Aires (Argentina):
• Recoleta Cemetery: Famous cemetery with elaborate tombs and mausoleums.
• La Boca: Colorful neighborhood with street art, tango performances, and historic buildings.
• Teatro Colón: Renowned opera house with guided tours.
• Plaza de Mayo: Historic square with government buildings and monuments.
• Rio de Janeiro (Brazil):
• Christ the Redeemer: Iconic statue with panoramic views from Corcovado Mountain.
• Sugarloaf Mountain: Cable car rides and scenic vistas.
• Copacabana and Ipanema Beaches: Famous beaches with vibrant atmospheres.
• Sambadrome: Venue for Rio's famous Carnival parades.
• Valparaiso (Chile):
• Historic Quarter: Colorful houses, street art, and funiculars.
• La Sebastiana: Museum dedicated to poet Pablo Neruda.
• Plaza Sotomayor: Central square with historic buildings and monuments.
• Artillería Hill: Scenic viewpoint and naval museum.
• Montevideo (Uruguay):
• Ciudad Vieja: Historic old town with colonial architecture and markets.
• Mercado del Puerto: Famous market for Uruguayan cuisine and barbecues.
• Rambla: Waterfront promenade with beaches and parks.
• Plaza Independencia: Main square with historic landmarks.
• Lima (Peru):
• Historic Center: Colonial architecture, churches, and plazas.
• Larco Museum: Collection of pre-Columbian art and artifacts.
• Barranco District: Bohemian neighborhood with galleries, cafes, and street art.
• Miraflores: Coastal district with parks, shopping, and restaurants.

Australia and New Zealand

Highlights: Stunning coastlines, vibrant cities, and unique wildlife.

Popular Ports and Activities:

• Sydney (Australia):
• Sydney Opera House: Guided tours and performances at the iconic venue.
• Sydney Harbour Bridge: Bridge climbs for panoramic views.
• Bondi Beach: Popular beach with surfing and coastal walks.
• Taronga Zoo: Australian wildlife and conservation programs.
• Melbourne (Australia):
• Federation Square: Cultural precinct with museums, galleries, and events.
• Royal Botanic Gardens: Extensive gardens with walking trails and picnicking spots.
• Queen Victoria Market: Historic market with food, crafts, and souvenirs.
• Great Ocean Road: Scenic coastal drive with iconic landmarks like the Twelve Apostles.
• Auckland (New Zealand):
• Sky Tower: Observation deck with views of the city and surrounding areas.
• Waiheke Island: Wine tours, beaches, and outdoor activities.
• Auckland War Memorial Museum: Exhibits on New Zealand history and culture.
• Rangitoto Island: Volcanic island with hiking trails and scenic views.
• Wellington (New Zealand):
• Te Papa Tongarewa: National museum with interactive exhibits.
• Wellington Cable Car: Scenic ride to the Botanic Garden and lookout.
• Cuba Street: Vibrant street with cafes, shops, and street art.
• Weta Workshop: Tours of the studio behind the Lord of the Rings films.

The Arctic

Highlights: Unique wildlife, remote landscapes, and spectacular natural phenomena.

Popular Ports and Activities:

• Reykjavik (Iceland):
• Blue Lagoon: Geothermal spa with mineral-rich waters.
• Golden Circle Tour: Visit Þingvellir National Park, Geysir geothermal area, and Gullfoss waterfall.
• Hallgrímskirkja: Iconic church with panoramic city views.
• Northern Lights Tours: Winter excursions to see the aurora borealis.
• Svalbard (Norway):
• Polar Bear Watching: Guided tours to spot polar bears and other Arctic wildlife.
• Glacier Hikes: Trekking on Svalbard's glaciers.
• Snowmobile Safaris: Explore the Arctic landscape by snowmobile.
• Longyearbyen: Visit the northernmost settlement with museums and cultural sites.
• Greenland:
• Ilulissat Icefjord: Boat tours to see massive icebergs and glaciers.
• Kangerlussuaq: Gateway to the Greenland Ice Cap with hiking and wildlife viewing.
• Nuuk: Explore Greenland's capital with museums and cultural sites.
• Dog Sledding: Traditional mode of transport across the Arctic landscape.
• Northern Canadian Ports:
• Churchill (Manitoba): Known as the "Polar Bear Capital of the World."
• Baffin Island: Remote island with stunning landscapes and wildlife.
• Nunavut: Indigenous culture and Arctic wildlife experiences.
• Northwest Passage: Historic exploration route with breathtaking scenery.