A cruise holiday is an incredible experience, taking you to some of the most stunning destinations in the world, all while travelling in style onboard a luxury vessel.
With much of the world open now post-Covid, cruise ships are once again sailing the globe, so the options of where to go stretch from pole to pole and coast to coast.
Trying to decide where to sail to next? Check out our top 5 picks for the most amazing 2023/24 cruise destinations.
Antarctica
Cruises to Antarctica are becoming increasingly popular as people seek to escape the humdrum of ordinary life and become an adventurer in this remote, challenging, but extremely remarkable continent.
Make no mistake, temperatures will be freezing cold, and there can be a lot of sailing involved between destinations. However, you will be wonderfully rewarded with unique experiences of discovering mesmerising wildlife, such as penguins, seals and whales, and breathtaking scenery of pristine glaciers and snowscapes.
Many leading cruise lines offer itineraries to Antarctica, including Celebrity Cruises, Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, Holland America Line, Royal Caribbean and Silversea. These depart from a whole range of locations, including no-fly cruises from the UK.
Japan
Japan may be well-known for its vibrant, cosmopolitan cities and up-to-the-minute technology and entertainment, but it also offers a distinctly serene side. Made up of thousands of islands, Japan has spectacular coastlines, remote national parks and snow-capped mountains, not to mention the notoriously beautiful seasonal cherry blossom.
Meanwhile, sitting happily alongside the cities’ towering skyscrapers, you’ll discover fascinating temples steeped in ancient culture and traditions.
Cruise lines, including Cunard, Holland America Line, Celebrity Cruises, Princess Cruises and Norwegian Cruise Line, offer itineraries of various lengths around Japan.
The Rhine
For something a little closer to home yet still utterly magical, a cruise along the Rhine River will deliver numerous cultural and natural delights.
Many Rhine River cruise itineraries take in several countries, including Germany, France, Switzerland and Holland, so you’ll have the opportunity to experience a range of different intriguing places all in one trip.
Explore majestic architecture in cities such as Cologne, Basel and Strasbourg and UNESCO World Heritage sites like the Rhine Gorge.
As you meander through this ever-evolving landscape, you’ll also discover imposing castles, revealing mystical folklore, and inviting vineyards with acclaimed wine to sample. And, if you choose to travel around Christmas, the charm of these magnificent cities will be further elevated by their festive winter markets.
Enjoy a river cruise along the Rhine River with cruise lines such as Emerald Waterways, Avalon Waterways, Uniworld River Cruises and Fred. Olsen River Cruises.
Norwegian Fjords
The Norwegian Fjords are nothing short of awe-inspiring. The deep sapphire waters, rising gorges and dramatic waterfalls, rushing down from their glacial sources, will leave you mesmerised as your vessel roams the landscape.
Be sure to include Geirangerfjord and the Seven Sisters Falls on your itinerary. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, it is the ‘jewel in the crown’ in this majestic landscape. Another cruise favourite is a Flåm railway trip, which offers visitors a unique and captivating perspective over the fjords and across the snow-topped mountains.
Discover the Norwegian fjords on cruise lines including Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, Princess Cruises and MSC.
The Caribbean
The Caribbean will always be a cruise holiday favourite. The almost guaranteed sunshine, powder sands and clear, warm turquoise waters are a draw for anyone seeking a relaxed and idyllic break. It offers great variety too.
With cruise lines sailing around the various islands, it’s possible to wake up to a new, colourful culture and gorgeous setting every day. Visit the Bahamas for the best pink sand beaches and straw markets, the Turks & Caicos Islands for immense snorkelling or Jamaica for its laid-back reggae vibe.
The list goes on, with each group of islands offering something wonderful to enjoy.
