Cruises are a a great way to see the world – modern cruise ships are like luxurious floating hotels which deliver their passengers to some amazing places. Cruises can offer great value too, as the fare that you pay includes your accommodation, food, some drinks and entertainment, although you usually have to pay extra for excursions and most drinks. Here are some of the most popular cruise destinations around the world.
Caribbean
If you’re looking for sun, sea and sand, then a Caribbean cruise is right for you. There are more than 7,000 islands in the Caribbean and an astonishing range of ports to stop at, each with its own character. Some of the world’s best beaches are here, but there are also colourful markets, green forests, diverse wildlife and a rich cultural heritage to explore.
Mediterranean
The Mediterranean is one of the most diverse regions in the world and cruising here can give you access to some fantastic cultural experiences in places such as Venice, Athens and Istanbul. Eastern Mediterranean cruises call at ports in Turkey and Greece, Western Mediterranean cruises take in destinations in Italy, France, Monaco, and Spain while Southern Mediterranean cruises call at ports along the coast of North Africa.
Alaska
The vast and beautiful State of Alaska is one of the world’s last great unspoilt wildernesses and is ideal for cruising during the summer months. Cruising here you’ll sail quietly past fjords, glaciers and snow-capped peaks. Look out for bears, eagles, whales, sea lions, dolphins and other native wildlife. Shore excursions in Alaska include adventurous activities such as sea kayaking and glacier trekking.
Baltic
The Baltic Sea is bordered by nine countries and cruising here is a great way to see Northern Europe and Scandinavia, which can be expensive to explore. Most Baltic cruises start from Stockholm or Copenhagen and call at the beautiful Russian city of St. Petersburg, which is quite a tricky place to visit independently, because of visa restrictions. Baltic cruise itineraries include interesting historical cities such as Estonia’s Tallinn, Poland’s Gdansk and Latvia’s Riga,
Norway
Norway’s massive fjords are awe-inspiring natural wonders and cruise ships give you a grandstand view of their majesty. Some of the larger cruise ships are too big to berth at some ports in Norway, so bear this in mind when booking your cruise, and consider a smaller ship. Although summer is the most popular time, you can cruise in Norway all year round – in winter you may even see the Northern Lights.
Where would you most like to go on a cruise, and why?
Wherever you go, be sure to have cruise travel insurance, just in case you need it.
