Best Destinations to Experience on a Cruise
I’ve often said what has made me uninterested in cruises is that I like to explore a place on land. The idea of stopping in port only for a half or full day has never quite made sense to me - I want the immersion that comes with spending multiple days in a destination and getting to know it on foot or via public transportation.
But there are some destinations around the world that might just be better experienced from a cruise ship - including one that I’m set to sail into later this year.
Alaska
One of the most popular ways to see Alaska is via cruise ship - it’s how most first-time visitors experience the 49th state. Cruising allows you to see the impressive Alaskan landscape from afar, spot wildlife along the way, and have time to stop in some of the more unique ports along the coast. The cruise serves as an entry into Alaska without having to figure out how you’ll get around on land, which can sometimes be challenging, Although many of the cruise lines offer similar itineraries in Alaska, you may find some of the smaller expedition ships traveling through the Inside Passage or to areas that the larger ships cannot reach.
It’s also possible to add on time pre or post cruise to explore Alaska on land and a popular way to do so is via train. The Alaska Railroad can take you from Anchorage to Denali or Seward, or even to Fairbanks. The trains operate year round and offer an easier voyage than trying to drive.
Norwegian Fjords
Glide through towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and serene villages in one of the world’s most dramatic landscapes. The best time to take a cruise in Norway is May to September when you’ll have milder weather and longer days.
Enjoy front-row seats to incredible vistas while cruising Norway’s dramatic fjords. Serene waters, rugged cliffs rising from the sea and unlimited outdoor adventures await your discovery. View Europe’s largest mainland glacier in Jostedalsbreen National Park, located outside Måløy. Enjoy a boating tour of Hardangerfjord — one of the world’s longest fjords — and hike through lush forests to towering waterfalls.
You’ll stop in unique port cities such as Ålesund, famous for its stunning art nouveau architecture and natural beauty. See the rich history of Bergen and in Oslo, explore the city’s historic roots with a visit to the Viking Ships Museum which includes three well-preserved Viking-era burial ships.
Galapagos Islands
In a previous post about traveling to the Galapagos, I mentioned that it’s possible to visit by land or via cruise ship. And while either option will offer an incredible opportunity to experience the islands and see the unique wildlife, cruises are often thought to be the better way to see the islands as they offer a means of getting around the Galapagos more easily.
A benefit of the cruise trip is that you will easily be able to travel around various islands in the archipelago and see more of the Galapagos. And if you are mostly focused on activities like snorkeling, diving, kayaking, or whale watching, being on an expedition ship might be ideal for you. Cruises are great for couples or small groups and can also be good for families. And keep in mind that the ships sailing in the Galapagos are small - most have fewer than 16 passengers - so you won’t have the ‘standard’ cruise experience.
Tahiti
When I think of Tahiti, I immediately think of overwater bungalows on crystal clear blue water. I don’t immediately think about cruise ships here, but there are a few cruise lines that offer itineraries around Tahiti and the Society Islands which can give you a totally different experience than just staying in a hotel.
A cruise offers the advantage of visiting multiple islands within French Polynesia easily, experiencing diverse landscapes and cultures across the region. Taking a cruise in Tahiti will allow you to visit several islands like Bora Bora, Moorea, and Tahiti itself within a single trip, whereas a hotel stay would be confined to one island or require more extensive travel between islands.
There are a number of cruise lines operating in French Polynesia and each offers a totally different type of travel experience. For those seeking a more luxurious and intimate cruise, opt for Windstar’s 148-passenger ship which will take you to some of the lesser known parts of the archipelago. The cruises are ideal for divers and snorkeling enthusiasts who want to get out into the far reaches of French Polynesia.
And finally…Antarctica!
As one of the world’s most remote destinations, visiting Antarctica is not easy and going via cruise is the best way to see the continent. Cruises to Antarctica are immersive, adventurous, and educational experiences. Expect to see all of the wildlife from the ship or during excursions while on the zodiacs: penguins, whales, seals, and more.
Your excursions will take you kayaking around glaciers or hiking on the Antarctic Peninsula. And since many of the ships sailing in Antarctica participate in research, you can conduct citizen science projects while on board. You’ll also find that the expedition ships in Antarctica are staffed with naturalists and scientists so you’ll have the opportunity to learn while on board as well as during your excursions.
Similar to the Galapagos, the ships going to Antarctica are smaller so you’ll have the added benefit of an intimate cruise experience, getting to know your fellow travelers over a cocktail or at dinner…or just relaxing on board after a full day of adventure.
Ready to plan your next cruise or curious about one of these destinations? Contact us and we can help you get started planning your next incredible getaway.