Cruise Destinations
30 listings
Africa - North & Central
Surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean on one side, and the Indian Ocean on the other, and the Meditterranean Sea along the top, Africa has numerous ports along its coasts with numerous ways to enjoy this large continent. Typically cruises that include Africa are included in itineraties to other regions. For more information, view the cruise guides below: Egypt, Libya and Tunisia are generally associated with the Arabian Gulf & Middle East Cruise Guide. Mediterranean-facing North African countries are associated with cruises in the Mediterranean or Atlantic Islands Cruise Guides. Mauritius, Seychelles and Madagascar are covered in the Indian Ocean Cruise Guides Cruise season: From October/November to April/May.
Read the listingAfrica - Southern & South Africa
This region covers the southern half of Africa - from Senegal on the west, down to South Africa, and up to Tanzania on the east. South Africa & South-East Africa Itineraries: perfect as part of a safari-holiday, these cruises typically cover the region from South Africa (Cape Town or Durban) up to Tanzania. Stops along the way can include Mozambique, Zanzibar and the Indian Ocean Islands. South Africa & South-West Africa Itineraries: cruises along the west coast typically run between Walvis Bay in Namibia and ports in South Africa. This region is also added as a segment of a world cruise, which can include stops higher on the western coast, including Senegal, Ghana, Togo and Cape Verde. Indian Ocean Islands: Trips to the islands of Mauritius, Seychelles and Madagascar sail from Cape Town or Durban. For more information, visit the Indian Ocean cruise guide . Cruise season Cruises based out of South Africa, as well as cruises departing from the UK and World Cruises generally operate in the October to April period.
Alaska
Alaska is a destination full of Native American culture and Russian influence. The geography of Alaska also means that a cruise is simply the best way to experience the range of places, sights and towns of the unique destination. Alaskan cruises offer unparalled access to wildlife – from whales breaching, to birds patrolling the air. You also have the chance to see bears and moose along the shores. The scenery of Alaska is the main attraction – towering mountains, massive glaciers and miles of rainforests. Cruise season: The Alaska Cruise season begins in May and ends in September. Although July and August are the warmest months, autumn and spring are the most fun, the most beautiful and the most cost-effective.
Antarctica
The destination is one of dramatic mountains, glaciers, icebergs and open oceans, providing a picturesque backdrop to the species of wildlife who have adapted to living there. During the short summer months, an amazing abundance of life returns to crowd the headlands and beaches. Many varieties of penguins and seals as well as a huge number of bird species can be seen during your visit. Watching whales is a great bonus. There are two very distinct cruise types to Antarctica – firstly the larger cruise ships that visit are restricted to scenic cruising through the area and generally include a visit to the region combined with longer cruises around the South American coast. Any cruise ship that holds more than 500 passengers may not disembark on Antarctica and is therefore restricted to scenic cruising. However the majority of cruises are by smaller specialty ships that allow passengers to disembark onto the Antarctic islands and the continent itself. These ships tend to be sturdy expedition style ships and do not offer all the luxuries and extras associated with modern cruise ships. These cruises are dedicated to the experience and often feature experts in the region and the wild life who give lectures and lead shore excursions. Visits to the Islands are usually by Zodiac inflatables. The contrasts in temperature are striking as summer in the Falklands and Ushuaia can sometimes be quite warm, while summertime in Antarctica hovers at the freezing mark. Cruise seasons Cruises here operate from October to March in the southern summer months when the days are longer - there are up to 20 hours of daylight in high summer. At the beginning of the season, bull elephant seals can be seen in large numbers. Penguin chicks start to emerge in December. Whales arrive in January and stay until the end of the cruise season.
Arabian Gulf & Middle East
The Middle East is growing in popularity as a cruise destination, due to its guaranteed winter sun, amazing beaches, shopping opportunities and first-class cities steeped in history and culture. Cruises typically run between Egypt and UAE through the Arabian Gulf. African countries typically associated with the Arabian Gulf are Egypt, Libya and Tunisia, while the Middle East ports-of-call include Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Jordan, Oman and Bahrain. Itineraries are usuallly 7 nights and focus on desert adventures, cultural explorations and shopping. Trips that include the Middle East as part of a World Cruise or Repositioning, travel through the Suez Canal from the Eastern Meditteranean past Saudi Arabia. Cruise season: Repositioning trips happen in late October - early November, and late March - early April. The Arabian Gulf cruise season is from December - March, during the cooler winter months.
Arctic (Iceland, Greenland & Spitsbergen)
Cruises are generally centred on Iceland, Spitsbergen or Greenland. There is a lot to explore, polar bears, walrus, seals, and even Arctic foxes haunt the ice edge, while millions of seabirds breed and raise their young on ledges and barren islands. Inuit tribes live in settlements in Greenland and Russia's far North. Intineraries: Larger cruise ships include a trip to the Arctic North as a segment of their Scandinavian Cruises, usually to Spitsbergen. Expedition-style and speciality ships allow passengers to disembark onto remote areas of the Sub Arctic islands, in particular Iceland and Greenland. These ships tend to be sturdy expedition style ships and do not offer all the luxury and extras associated with modern cruise ships. These cruises are dedicated to the experience and often feature experts in the region and the wild life who give lectures and lead shore excursions. Cruise seasons The High Arctic is best explored in May to September, as the pack ice recedes. Some cruise lines do have offerings in winter, despite freezing temperatures, due to the increasing popularity of the northern lights and winter activities.
Asia & Far East
Ancient temples, great Buddha statues, bustling cities, forests and wildlife are just some of the experiences to be enjoyed in Asia. East Asia Cruises: Japan, China and Korea. South-East Asia Cruises: Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia, Burma (Myanmar), Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore and Hong Kong. South-West Asia: India, Sri Lanka & Maldives . Visit our cruise guide on this destination. Expedition Cruises: Travel to the South China Sea, study orangutans and other wild and rare critters, visit less-traveled areas including the Mekong River in Vietnam, the rarely seen sights of Borneo in Malaysia, and remote islands in Indonesia. Cruise seasons East Asia cruises are best in winter, when the weather is cooler and the rainy season has passed. South-East Asia cruises are usually scheduled from November - March.
Australasia & South Pacific Islands
The cruise region of Australasia includes Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific Islands (such as Fiji, Bora Bora, Tahiti and Samoi). Cruise Types Major cruise lines offer itineraries along the Australian coast and often include the Islands of Noumea and Vanuatu from Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane. These cruises are scenic, and most do not offer water-based excursions. Specialty cruises, generally in small ships with passenger numbers ranging from 10 to 100 allow passengers to explore Australia’s diverse coastline. These cruise destinations include the Great Barrier Reef or alternatively Australia’s Top End (northern Australia) with cruises operating from Darwin to Broome; and around Tasmania. Cruise Seasons Larger ship and Barrier Reef cruises are available year round, the Speciality cruises are seasonal. Tasmanian & New Zealand cruises operate in the Southern summer (November to March) while Top End cruises operate in the winter months (April to October). South Pacific cruises are extremely popular with increasing numbers of ships domiciled in or visiting the region each year.
Bahamas
The Bahamas consist of over 700 islands and cays, most of which are uninhabited, covering over 100,000 square miles of the Atlantic Ocean between South Florida and Hispaniola. Grand Bahama Island is a unique destination. It allows visitors to combine a cosmopolitan vacation at a world-class resort with the charm of historical fishing villages and undiscovered ecological treasures. It has one of the world`s largest underwater cave systems, three national parks, endless beaches, emerald green water and enchanting marine life. Nassau, capital city of The Islands of The Bahamas, resides on New Providence Island, neighbour to Paradise Island. This island pair maintains a distinct blend of international glamour and tropical ease, giving travellers freedom to do everything or nothing at all. Cruises here are generally 3, 4 or 5 day escapes from the east coast cities of the US. The region is serviced by many of the major cruise lines who now dedicate ships to this market. 7 day cruises will include either Bermuda or Florida. Cruise seasons All Year round. Rainy season is from May - October, but is fleeting. The hurrican season is from August - November.
Bermuda
Bermuda is actually an archipelago of small islands that are the remains of an ancient volcano. Lush green trees, shrubs, and lawns blanket these subtropical islands. Bermuda is about 570 miles off the coast of North Carolina. Cruises here are generally 2-3 day escapes from the east coast cities of the US. The region is serviced by many of the major cruise lines some of whom now dedicate a ship to this market. 7 day cruises include Florida or The Bahamas. Cruise seasons April - November. High season is June - July. Hurricane season is from August - October, but there is generally only one hurricane a year.
Canada & New England
Colonial history, rugged coastlines and charming coastal villages - cruises to Canada are perfect for family cruising, with convenient homeports, historic seaports and unforgettable scenery and sea life. Most cruises are 7 nights duration and visit Canada’s Atlantic islands, cruises that go down the St Lawrence to Montreal and Quebec are 10 to 12 days. Most cruises are on the major cruise lines but there are a few smaller specialty cruises that operate. Cruise seasons Canada and New England cruises operate in summer and autumn to enjoy the warmer weather and in particular, the spectacular fall foliage. The season is from May to October with the majority of departures being in August and September.
Caribbean & West Indies
The Caribbean is the most popular cruise destination in the world, offering white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, great shopping and an exciting mix of cultures. There are 3 main Caribbean cruise destinations - eastern, western and southern. Eastern Caribbean This area comprises the British & US Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico and St Maarten, and often include the Bahamas (which isn't stricly speaking Caribbean). Cruises are generally for 7 nights with 3 days at sea and 3 in ports and so offering a very relaxing style of cruise. The Islands here are smaller and shore excursions here are more geared to beach and water activities. Western Caribbean This cruise area includes the Mexican and Central American ports on the Gulf of Mexico as well the islands of Grand Cayman, Jamaica and Hispaniola. These cruises offer more history and culture along with the beach and water activities. Western Caribbean cruises include short 4 night escapes with the longer 7 night cruises. Southern Caribbean This area includes the islands east and south of St Maarten - Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao. The region is less well known and well cruised as the East and West Caribbean but includes a set of islands that still have a very evident colonial heritage. The French Dutch and English all played their part in forming the different characters of these islands which include Trinidad, St Croix, St Vincent, St Kitts Aruba, Grenada and more. Extended Caribbean These cruises are generally 14 nights long and are usually a mix of East and West Caribbean itineraries offering a wider variety of Islands and cultures. Often Cruise lines will offer special deals that combine two 7-night cruises to form an extended cruise. Cruise seasons High season is December - March. April & May are the shoulder seasons. Hurricane season is from June - October.
EU - Atlantic & Canary Islands
The Atlantic Islands comprise the Canaries and Madeira and are located off the North West coast of Africa / Southwest of Spain. Popular for their year-round sun and warm weather. Cruises that focus only on the Canary & Atlantic islands are usually 7 nights long. The Canaries are often included as a segment of Mediterranean, North African and Transatlantic cruises. Cruise Season Year-round.
EU - Baltic, Scandinavia & Fjords
The Baltic Sea allows travellers to visit a range of Scandinavian and Baltic countries and encompass a huge variety of cultures and history. While many cruises just operate within the Baltic some also include a visit to the Norwegian Fjords. Destinations include Russia, Denmark, Norway, Finland and Sweden, as well as Estonia and Latvia. Some cruises may extend up to the Arctic*. Itineraries range from 7 nights, to 14 nights. *For cruises that focus primarily on the Arctic, please visit our Arctic Cruise Guide . Cruise season Cruises generally commence in late Spring (April/May) and the season ends in September.
EU - British Isles
The British Isles is a geographical term (not nationality). It is made up of Great Britain, Ireland and all the outlying islands like Isle of Man, Hebrides, Orkney Isles, Shetland Isles and the Channel Islands. Despite their small size, the British Isles offer a diverse cruise experience - beautiful coastlines dotted with castles, rolling green landscapes, dramatic mountains, and cities rich in culture and heritage. The region is serviced by both large and small cruise ships. Larger ships cover more distance and give passengers a taste of different destinations, while smaller cruise ships tend to concentrate on one area in more depth - especially Scotland. Itineraries range from short 3-4 days to 14 days. Cruise seasons The cruise season is from May to September to take advantage of the longer days and warmer weather. Some cruiselines to operate year-round.
EU - Mediterranean
Mediterranean cruises are ideal for those who love art and antiquities, history and culture, and religious architecture. The Mediterranean has cruises from virtually every major cruise line. While there are many cruise types and cruise lengths to choose from the major distinction is whether a cruise is an Eastern or Western Mediterranean cruise or an extended cruise. The Eastern Mediterranean is the area that covers the Adriatic coast of Italy & Croatia, Greece, Turkey and the Black Sea. Some cruises may extend into the Holy Land and Egypt. The Western Mediterranean is the area from the west coast of Italy and covers France, Spain and North Africa including the Atlantic coast of Morocco and the Canary Islands. Extended Mediterranean cruises are more than just a combination of east or western Mediterranean cruises. The size of the Med and the range of major ports allows cruise lines to offer a huge range of 10 to 14 day (and longer) itineraries. Cruise seasons The main season is from March to October to take advantage of the longer days and warmer weather, but there are options available all year round.
Galapagos Islands
The Galapagos Islands are located 600 miles west of Ecuador and offer some of the most spectacular wildlife found anywhere in the world. With a massive diversity of flora and fauna on 13 major islands, 8 smaller islands and 40 islets, each stop has its own distinct character, with vastly differing wildlife, climate and terrain. Cruising the Galapagos Islands is a wonderful way to explore this unique natural environment. The Galapagos National Park has a 15-day route for cruise lines, during which they cannot visit the same site twice. Cruiselines can use part of the route, or the whole segment - and itineraries range from 7 days to 15 days. Land-based and water-based activities are done during the day, with navigation to the next site at night. Cruises tend to be very structured, as the focus of these cruises is interacting with nature. Cruise seasons Year-Round. High season: mid-June to early September and mid-December to mid-January. Expect high occupancies. June - November: Cooler weather, mostly overcast, but rain is rare.. Marine Life is abundant, making it a good time to snorkel, though you may require a wetsuit to keep warm. December - May: Warmer weather and calmer waters. Light rain can fall for a short period during the day, but it is the sunniest period. During this time, the flowers come into bloom and sea turtle nesting occurs. Note that the weather can be very hot in February and March.
Hawaii
Hawaii has become the new cruise destination with a number of ships now docking here on their way through the Pacific. Visit all the major Hawaiian Islands: Oahu has a reputation for having the most consistently beautiful weather – light trade winds and 82°F almost year round. Cosmopolitan Honolulu features fantastic dining, world-class shopping, historic landmarks and glamorous Waikiki Beach. Maui has been voted the best island in the world – for six years in a row. This tropical paradise has it all: hundreds of spectacular beaches, cascading waterfalls, voluptuous jungles bursting with colour and birdsong, dramatic volcanic craters and small, charming Hawaiian towns. Cruises visit both Lahaina and Kahului Larger than Hawaii’s other main islands combined, the Big Island of Hawaii is spectacularly diverse in both landscapes and activities. Pristine beaches, curious lava formations, the earth’s tallest sea mountain and the world’s most continuously active volcano all make this island a completely unique adventure. Hilo is its main port. Kauai offers a different kind of paradise – more low-key and pristine, and somehow more authentic. A Kauai rule states no building can exceed the height of a coconut tree, so the skyline is dominated by swaying palms, majestic mountains and almost daily rainbows. Locally based cruises are 7 nights while cruises that start on the West Coast are generally 14 to 15 nights duration. Occasionally the local cruises do longer itineraries that include Fanning Island in Kiribati. Cruise season Some cruise lines may offer year-round cruises, but the majority sail to Hawaii in winter. December - May (winter months) is high season. May - June and November - Mid-December are the shoulder seasons. April, September and October offer Hawaii as part of a repositioning itinerary, so good deals can often be found.
India, Sri Lanka & Maldives
For travellers who are interested in cosmopolitan cities, exotic landscapes and colonial history, a cruise down India's coast is a luxurious and relaxing way to see India. Visit Porbandar, the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi, see the Bollywood mansions of Mumbai and uncover the treasures of Goa. Shorter trips focus on India, while longer itineraries include Oman, Sri Lanka and Maldives, as well as The Seychelles. Oman: Departing from Muscat, you will spend 2 days sailing across the Arabian Gulf to India Sri Lanka: Explore the cities of Sri Lanka, shaped by Hindu, Buddhist, Muslim and European influences Maldives: The perfect destination to relax, snorkel, swim, dive and fish under the tropical sun Seychelles: Explore vast lagoons and coral reefs and encounter some extraordinarily beautiful tropical scenery For more information on the Indian Ocean Islands , visit our cruise guide on this destination. Cruise season Most cruises avoid the Monsoon and pass through here between September and May.
Indian Ocean Islands & Mauritius
The Indian Ocean Islands are a cruise destination on their own, or as a segment of Africa or Asia (India) cruise itineraries. These islands of paradise include Mauritius, The Seychelles, Madagascar and Zanzibar. Longer itineraries include Maldives. White sandy beaches, azure blue waters and dense tropical forests are just some of the reasons to visit. For itineraries that include Africa: Mozambique, Tanzania and South Africa are visited. Visit our Southern Africa Cruise Guide for more information. For itineraries that include Asia: India, Sri Lanka and Oman are visited. Visit our India Cruise Guide for more information. Cruise Season: Most cruises are May - December, but year-round cruises may be on offer depending on itinerary.
Mexican Riviera
The Mexican Riviera stretches thousands of miles down Mexico’s Pacific coast from the Californian border all the way to Guatemala. Mexican ports located on the Gulf of Mexico are visited by Western Caribbean cruises. This cruise destination offers a range of experiences: from beaches and water-based activities, to cultural and historical towns. It is also a popular destination for art-lovers and foodies. Itineraries range from short 3-night trips, to long 12 night trips. Mexico is sometimes included in Panama Canal itineraries. Cruise Season An all-year destination, Mexico and surrounding areas are blessed by balmy weather throughout the year, though August and September can be hotter and more humid. Some cruise lines have ships based here all year while others base ships here for the September to April period before moving them to Alaska or Europe.
Panama Canal & Central America
Panama and Central America is a region of the world that has long been legendary in the annals of exploration. The Panama Canal is a manmade marvel and cruise ships transit this during the day so you can enjoy the spectacle of the great locks and the Panama countryside. The Panama Canal should be on everyone`s list of must-see places. Ninety years after its completion, this link between two great oceans is as amazing as ever. A number of cruise lines run a series of cruises through the Panama Canal which vary from shorter 7 night cruises up to the more traditional 14 night cruises that sail from Florida to the West Coast. The longer cruises include visits to ports in the Caribbean and the Mexican Riviera in their itineraries. Repositioning and World cruises also transit the Panama Canal offering passengers a great opportunity to view the marvel that is the Canal as well as visit the region. Cruise seasons Most cruises sail in the Northern winter months from October to April.
River Cruising - Africa
A river safari cruise on the Chobe river in Botswana is a unique way to view wildlife in Africa. These cruises are usually aboard the Zambezi Queen (an upscale boat) or the Pride of Zambezi (a houseboat), which are chartered by the various cruise companies operating in this area. Cruises are generally 2 to 4 days, and are the perfect addition to a Southern African safari trip. The other cruise option in Africa is the Nile in Egypt. Cruises are the ideal way for you to experience the Nile river, and the monuments which line the shore. The best time to cruise the Nile River is from October to April. Cruises vary in length from 3 to 7 days.
River Cruising - Asia
Asia is home to many remarkable rivers. River cruises offer an experience of a lifetime - a chance to explore the rich diversity of Asian cultures, traditions, religion and people. Road travel in these areas can be slow and unpleasant, and in many cases river cruises are a practical alternative. The length of the cruises differ - some as little as 4 days, while others are as long as 18 days. Cruising through Vietnam and Cambodia on the Mekong River is an unparalleled experience: the biodiversity along its banks is second only to the Amazon River. The Yangtze river in China is the ideal way to see the cradle of China civilization. A river cruise along the Irrawaddy in Burma (Myanmar) will take you from Mandalay (an important Buddhist spiritual centre) to Bagan (a World Heritage site with around 3,000 pagodas, temples and Buddhas, including the world’s largest reclining Buddha). The Ganges River Cruise is the ideal way to see India - take in the sites, explore the history and enjoy the cuising - all from the comfort of your boat.