Have you considered taking a cruise for your next vacation? You aren’t alone. 28.5 million people took a cruise in 2018.
Don’t book your standard cruise that you’ve been on before this time around. Consider one of these eight cruise ideas to give you and your family an experience of a lifetime. Each destination has something unique to offer, and you’re sure to find one that speaks to who you are as a traveler.
So which one of these cruise ideas gets you itching to book your next trip?
1. Asia
If you’re looking to experience a beautiful culture and ancient civilizations, why not explore Asia? You could hop on the new Ocean Explorer ship from Vantage and start your epic adventure in Hong Kong. Learn more about this new ship from the Avid Cruiser.
Many cruises that make their way through Asia include UNESCO World Heritage Sites as a part of their itinerary at every port. You’ll see temples, parks, gardens, markets, and modern cityscapes.
2. European River Cruise
If you’re looking to eat and drink your way through a cruise, then you need to consider a European River Cruise. These cruises make their way across Europe from Bordeaux to Vienna. You’ll have the opportunity to taste wine from some of the most prestigious wine regions in the world.
Many of these cruises feature excursions centered around visiting wineries and tasting local delicacies. You can even buy wine and bring it back to the ship with you. Enjoy it on board, or bring it home to have a taste of your cruise at home.
3. Mediterranean
You belong in the Mediterranean if the food on your cruise is a priority. You’ll be able to sample the tapas in Barcelona, fresh pasta in Rome, the sticky sweet flavors of baklava in Greece, and Bouillabaisse in Marseille. Prepare to eat and drink your way through each port as you immerse yourself in the local cuisine.
It won’t be all about the food, though. There are plenty of local cities, museums, and historical sites for you to burn off all of those extra calories.
The most popular time to cruise the Med is from May through September. The weather is sunny and warm, making it perfect for exploring.
4. Caribbean
There’s no denying that one of the most popular cruise destinations is the Caribbean islands. Almost every international cruise line has at least one ship that heads to one of these tropical islands.
How can you deny the beauty of the crystal clear turquoise water and pearlescent white-sand beaches? It’s like walking into a travel ad or the perfect Instagram photo from your favorite influencer.
The destination might be an obvious one, but it’s well worth it for the warm weather and a long list of available activities. You and your family could do everything from snorkeling to zip lining.
Summer is the most popular time to go as the weather and water are at their warmest, and schools are on summer vacation. Don’t be afraid to go off-season and escape the cold winter temperatures of your hometown.
5. Nile River
If you’re looking to immerse yourself in history on your cruise, then there’s no better trip then down the Nile River. You’ll see more temples and historical sites than you can count as you make your way from Luxor to Aswan.
To make the most of your experience, look for a cruise that offers expert guides. This will let you learn about the rich history while you sip your mint tea.
6. Baltic Sea
Do you sometimes wish your cruise ship spent a bit more time in port? Then consider a cruise through the Baltic Sea. Some ships will spend as many as three nights in St Petersburg.
To get the most out of your trip, plan to visit in June. This is when Russians enjoy almost continuous daylight. This time of year is called the White Nights.
Other popular destinations in the Baltic are Copenhagen, Helsinki, and Stockholm. The biggest decision you’ll need to make is whether you’ll leave from a British port or one directly in the Baltic. Cruising from Britain will add time to your travels as you make your way to and from the Baltic, but it’ll allow you to see some extra sites.
7. Galapagos Islands
Taking a cruise to the Galapagos Islands will be like nothing you’ve experienced anywhere else in the world. The area is highly protected, so the ships moving through these waters need to be environmentally friendly. The ships are smaller, and many are catamarans.
Your trip will focus more on wildlife and adventure experiences. Plan to go kayaking, snorkeling, and hiking. You’ll see tropical penguins, sea lions, monster tortoises, iguanas, and the blue-footed boobie.
8. Alaska
Cruises in Alaska are during the state’s summer months, even though many wouldn’t consider the weather to be your typical “warm summer”. Despite this and the weather’s unpredictability, cruising in Alaska allows you to see some of the most impressive views of nature.
You’ll have an opportunity to see glaciers, whales, and a wide variety of land animals. Be sure to bring your camera with a quality zoom. Your iPhone camera just won’t cut it here.
Consider These Cruise Ideas for Your Vacation
If you’re ready to start planning your next cruise, consider one of these eight destinations. To help you choose between these cruise ideas, begin by figuring out what’s most important to you.
If you want to experience history and culture, then look to Asia or the Nile River. If heading to the beach is essential, then you can’t go wrong with the Caribbean. If food and wine are your priority, then a European river cruise or one through the Mediterranean is ideal.
Browse our blog for more travel ideas to help you plan the perfect vacation.
