12 Best Cruises in the World

Cruise holidays enable holidaymakers to easily access a vast number of new and interesting places.  A holiday should be a break from every day life, a chance to relax and unwind and get away from all the stresses back home.

A cruise is no ordinary holiday.  Many people have different ideas about what a holiday should involve – many want nothing more than soaking up the sun, but others would prefer more activities and action.  Choosing a cruise is a fantastic way of pleasing all members of the family – or alternatively a great way of whisking someone away for a romantic getaway!

Live in a large, floating hotel

Nowadays, cruising is a relatively affordable option, and the range of cruises available show that there really is something for everyone.  The choices are endless – from the Mediterranean to the Caribbean, or even Alaska!

One of the most tangible benefits of a cruise holiday is the nearly all-inclusive cost.  The range of facilities and activities on-board are vast, and the variety of time options can range from a few days to a few weeks, or more.  From the moment you step on deck, you can let all your pressures remain on land!

Round-the-world cruises have grown in popularity, and most cruise lines are adding them as options to their itineraries.  Let’s look at twelve examples of the best cruises in the world!

1 – The Canary Islands are one of the most popular cruise destinations in the world for British tourists. The “Fortunate Isles” boast great beaches, vibrant resorts and all year-round sun. Costa Cruises explore Las Palmas, Santa Cruz De La Palma, Funchal and Agadir, to name a few.

The canary islands have the bluest of seas

2 – Dubai is the largest section of the United Arab Emirates by population.  The emirate is also an incredible cruise destination, taking in a dazzling mix of traditional buildings and modern architecture.  The cruise ship Oriana from P&O Cruises explores the country known as the Pearl of the Arabian Gulf.

Head to Dubai, you can also ski!

3 – Far East Cruises sail into Asia and the Orient, totally immersing travellers with the incredible contrasting cultures, soaring skyscrapers and serene paddy fields.  Azamara Cruises effortlessly take on incredible places such as Bangkok, Singapore, Manila, Kuala Lumpur and Hong Kong!

Experience the thrill or the orient!

4 – P&O Cruises (cruise ship Oceana) explore Norway. The number of nights varies, depending on how long you would like to witness the natural beauty and unspoilt landscapes.  Along the west coast, the cruise ship passes around the stunning Fjords where Viking long ships were once moored.  Norway is a breathtaking country which experiences 24-hour daylight during the summer.  Many of the cruises focus purely on the incredible Fjords.

Fancy a cold holiday?

5 – Baltic cruises explore one of the most fascinating regions in the world.  The Baltic Sea has played a crucial role in the development of modern Europe, and subsequently the world as a whole.  Costa Cruises take travellers to some of the most cultured cities in Europe, such as Copenhagen, Tallinn, St Petersburg, Helsinki, and Stockholm.

Ever considered a Baltic trip?

6 – Hawaii Cruises explore paradise – sun, sand, sea and tropical temperatures – in the comfort and luxury of a cruise ship.  Princess Cruises explores the islands of Oahu, Kiribati, Maui, Kauai and Ensenada.  Passengers are also able to visit the major island cities of Kona and Hilo, which are situated on opposite sides of the island.

This is more like it – Hawaii!

7 – The Caribbean region is one of the top holiday destinations in the world.  It is famous for its picture postcard paradise, white sands and perfect climate.  A cruise around the many stunning areas and beaches are the ultimate for any cruise holidaymaker! The sun shines all year round but the islands are also lush and green.  In addition to the region’s famous beaches, there are also a number of distinctive cultures, colourful histories and fascinating places to visit.  Princess Cruises explores places such as Barbados, Antigua, Granada and St Lucia!

I’d rather go in those big boats than that blue one

8 – Nile cruise holidays hold something extra special.  There are few places on Earth which are on a level historically with Egypt. Full of magic, the Nile cradles one of the world’s most ancient civilisations.  Tourists flock to see what Egypt has to offer, and so why not enjoy trips to the Pyramids, Pharaoh’s temples and incredible museums from the luxury of a cruise ship.  A Nile cruise is a perfect way to see the historic sites as most of them are located on the banks of the river!  Traveline Cruises does just that, allowing its passengers an insight into the power of ancient Egypt.

Go all ‘Poriot’

9 – Transatlantic Cruises are a great way of journeying across the Atlantic Ocean to America, allowing passengers to explore cities such as Boston and New York. Cruise lines such as Fred Olsen Cruises offer great itineraries between two continents. Today, the transatlantic cruise remains an outstanding, elegant holiday.

Hark back to the glory days of sea travel. Without the scurvey

10 – Alaska Cruises offer an extraordinary experience. The vast ice kingdom of Alaska is unlike any place on earth. The diversity of wildlife is immense – from Polar bears to humpback whales!  The glaciers and snow encrusted mountains also offer many incredible photo opportunities.  Princess Cruises take passengers on an adventure like no other.

You may see Sarah Palin hunting

11 – Why not try an African Cruise? Cruises call at South Africa’s Port Elizabeth, Durban or the Garden City of Cape Town.  If you’re in search of the “Big Five” animals (rhino, elephants, buffalo, lions and leopards) then it’s possible to take safari trips to really explore the country!

Explore the sea and the land

12 – Last but not least, Australia and New Zealand Cruises! These cruises offer holidaymakers some picturesque landscapes and incredible views. From the Great Barrier Reef to Sydney, or Auckland to Milford Sound, there is something for everyone. In Australia you can swim and snorkel, or even explore the rainforest.  New Zealand’s landscape offers contrast to that of Australia, with the geysers of Rotorua and the peaceful Bay of Islands. The variety of activities on offer and sights to see mean you will never be at a loss for experiences in these destinations. Cosmopolitan cities such as Sydney and Auckland are packed with opportunities to create great times to remember.

Cruising around Australia?

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