How to See the New Seven Wonders of the World on a Cruise

Posted on 2nd Dec, 2025

Global icons: Discover how a well planned sailing can take you to the new Seven Wonders of the World with ease
Seamless travel: Learn how cruise itineraries link major ports with inland marvels through curated excursions and overland tours
Unforgettable experiences: See how ocean travel lets you explore legendary landmarks while enjoying comfort on the way

Seeing the new Seven Wonders of the World on a cruise combines the excitement of exploration with the comfort of life at sea.

Carefully planned itineraries, knowledgeable guides and well organised excursions make it possible to visit these legendary sites while enjoying a stress free journey between ports.

Here is a detailed guide on how to experience each wonder by cruise.

The Great Wall of China

Many Far East cruises call at Tianjin, the port serving Beijing.

From here, guests can join an organised tour to the Great Wall, one of the most impressive feats of ancient engineering.

Popular sections for visitors include Badaling and Mutianyu, where restored watchtowers and walking paths provide both breathtaking views and photographic opportunities.

For cruisers, pre or post cruise hotel stays allow a full day at the wall without rushing.

Some tours include a cable car ride to the top, making it accessible for all ages while providing panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains and countryside.

Petra in Jordan

A call at Aqaba on a Red Sea cruise puts the rose coloured city of Petra within easy reach.

Travellers typically take a coach through the Wadi Araba desert, where the scenery is as striking as the city itself.

The approach through the Siq, a narrow sandstone gorge, builds anticipation before the Treasury appears in all its grandeur.

Guided tours often include the Street of Facades, the Royal Tombs and the Monastery, with time to explore hidden corners and take photographs.

This combination of desert landscapes and ancient architecture makes for an extraordinary day ashore.

Christ the Redeemer in Brazil

Rio de Janeiro is one of the most famous stops on South American cruises.

Ships usually dock near the city centre, giving easy access to the Corcovado Mountain and Christ the Redeemer.

Visitors can take the cogwheel train or a private transfer up the mountain, enjoying sweeping views of Sugarloaf Mountain, Copacabana Beach and the sprawling city below.

Guided tours often include the nearby Tijuca Forest, one of the largest urban rainforests in the world.

Spending a day here lets you combine sightseeing, photography and a taste of Rio’s vibrant culture before returning to the ship.

Machu Picchu in Peru

Cruises along the west coast of South America often include a stop at Callao for Lima, providing access to Peru’s most famous Inca site.

Overland tours tailored for cruisers typically involve an internal flight to Cusco, overnight hotel stays, and guided trips through the Sacred Valley before reaching Machu Picchu.

Visitors can explore the terraced ruins, temples, and ceremonial plazas while learning about Inca engineering and history. Some tours offer sunrise visits or smaller group options to avoid crowds.

This combination of cruise and land travel allows you to experience Peru’s highlights efficiently and comfortably.

Chichen Itza in Mexico

Caribbean and Central American itineraries often include calls at Cozumel or Progreso, both providing access to Chichen Itza.

Excursions commonly cover the pyramid of El Castillo, the Great Ball Court, and the Temple of the Warriors, giving insight into Mayan astronomy, culture and architecture.

Many tours also include a swim in a cenote or a visit to nearby colonial towns, providing a mix of history, nature and leisure.

With travel times carefully planned by cruise operators, guests can enjoy a full day exploring these remarkable sites while returning to the ship in plenty of time.

The Colosseum in Italy

Mediterranean cruises frequently stop at Civitavecchia, the gateway to Rome.

Shore excursions allow guests to explore the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, the Palatine Hill, and nearby piazzas.

Guided tours bring the ancient ruins to life with stories of gladiators, emperors and the rise of the Roman Empire.

Some itineraries include skip the line tickets, giving more time to wander the city streets, enjoy Italian cuisine and take in the historic atmosphere before returning to the ship.

For those seeking a shorter trip, half day excursions are also available.

The Taj Mahal in India

Agra is inland from India’s main cruise ports, but overland programmes make visiting the Taj Mahal straightforward.

Cruises calling at Mumbai or Goa often offer packages including flights, hotel stays and guided visits timed to catch the monument at sunrise or sunset, when the marble glows in changing light.

Tours usually cover the gardens, reflecting pools and the nearby Agra Fort, providing context for one of the world’s most famous architectural masterpieces.

These programmes combine the thrill of ocean travel with the ease of guided sightseeing, ensuring guests make the most of their time in India.

Planning Your Journey

Cruise lines today offer itineraries covering one or more wonders, allowing you to select regional trips or craft a multi continent adventure.

Organised excursions and overland tours are designed to integrate seamlessly with your sailing, providing hassle free access to remote and inland sites.

Many cruises also offer themed trips, such as cultural or photography focused journeys, for those who want to explore each wonder in depth.