Finding the right cruise liner to book for your next holiday may seem daunting, what to consider first? Let us help you out! While things like the weather, your budget and your vacation time are all crucial, we think your first port of call (pardon the on) is to decide WHAT you'd like to do first and foremost.
You may very well want to swim the crystal clear waters of the Greek Islands, but if your holiday happens to fall in December, you may be wiser to book a Caribbean cruise instead.
If however, you'd like to sail the high seas and visit a few historical sites, a cruise through the Mediterranean will be just perfect, even in winter.
Now it's time to multi-task! Following is our guide to the very best cruise destinations in the world, as well as hints as to the best time of the year to visit.
What we suggest, is that you first choose which corner of the globe you'd like to explore first, and take it from there.
Bon Voyage!
THE MEDITERRANEAN COAST
If you're looking for a varied cruise destination, then head on down to the most gorgeous coastline in the world: the Mediterranean.
Popular cruise ports in Spain, Portugal, France, Italy, Greece and Croatia (among others) offer fantastic opportunities for the discerning traveler.
You can spend your days sunbathing on the Greek Islands, or exploring ancient Roman ruins in Italy.
Take a day trip to the Island of Capri or get hopelessly lost in Venice. Whatever your heart desires... the Mediterranean is where it will find it.
Best time to visit:
Anytime between May and October are considered ideal for a Mediterranean cruise.
While temperatures can rise considerably in August, this nook offers plenty of refreshing swimming options!
Cruise deals abound for the low season and, if your budget is restricted, this is still a fantastic option.
You may not be able to swim, but cities like Venice, Split or Barcelona can be infinitely more romantic on a cloudy winter's day.
Who takes you there?
Royal Caribbean and Holland America specialise in western Mediterranean itineraries, with average cruises lasting one week. Princess Cruises and P&O Cruises cover the Mediterranean extensively and will take you from Portugal, to Turkey and back in two weeks.
THE CARIBBEAN
If a tropical Shangri-la is what tickles your fancy, then don't look past cruising the Caribbean Islands in style.
Turquoise waters, superlative beaches and natural wonders await you in every port. Here, you can climb volcanoes, spend afternoons zip-lining through rainforest, or spend your days in the depths of the ocean diving through wrecks and coral reefs.
The Caribbean enjoys year-long perfect temperatures and attracts millions of tourists each year with its idyllic setting, friendly locals and delectable cuisine.
Best time to visit:
There are many reasons why the Caribbean Islands are so popular with cruisers, the weather being one of them; it is simply heavenly all year long! Look out for special cruise deals and be assured that a Caribbean cruise will be perfect no matter when you choose to go.
Who takes you there?
Royal Caribbean is the areas most popular visitor, with many different luxury liners scouring these tropical waters; P&O Cruises, Holland America and Celebrity Cruises also make a splash during the popular summer sailing season.
Itineraries and trip duration can vary considerably, and you'll find cruises starting from North America, Central America, and even Southampton!
A transatlantic cruise, culminating in an island hopping week-long trip would rate as one of the best cruising experiences of all time.
ALASKA
For a cruising experience of a different kind, head to Alaska on your next vacation and experience this incredible country.
Perfect for those looking for more active break, on-shore excursions include dog sledding and kayaking through the fjords.
From the comfort of your top deck you can keep a look out for whales and, when close enough to the shore, bears and bald eagles too.
The stark contrast of the sometimes unforgiving terrain, and the sheer beauty of Mother Nature, provides scenery unmatched anywhere in the world.
Best time to visit:
Alaska cruise season is, for obvious reason, during the northern summer. Cruises usually run between May and September, the first and last month offering the best deals around.
Who takes you there?
Celebrity Cruises can take you on a one week voyage from Vancouver to Seattle, while Norwegian Cruise Line service a round trip from Seattle.
Princess Cruises offer both a one and two week trip starting from Whittier.
THE MIDDLE EAST
The Middle East is one of the most enticing holiday destinations in the world. The exotic culture, and exquisitely unique settings, provides a sensory overload second to none.
Dubai is renowned for its world-class shopping and entertainment venues, including the Mall of the Emirates (complete with indoor ski centre), Ferrari World (for the adrenalin junkies) and two traditional Souks for all your shopping needs.
Dubai is also where you can spend an afternoon fooling around desert dunes in 4WDs! Desert safaris are by far the most popular activity here, and one which shouldn't be missed.
Middle East cruises also include stops in the Red Sea town of Aqaba (for superlative diving) and the northern Egyptian coast to explore the ancient archeology of the area.
Best time to visit:
The Arabian Gulf can get extremely hot, so it is advisable to avoid the hot summer months of June through September.
We're not just talking sticky and uncomfortable hot either; summer temps can easily reach 50 degrees Celsius and it makes being outdoors nearly impossible.
This is perfectly fine if you intend on exploring Dubai's shopping malls for the entire duration of the trip!
Who takes you there?
Royal Caribbean runs a gorgeous Middle Eastern tasting trip which lasts 7 nights (starts & ends in Dubai), while Celebrity Cruises do a relaxing 12 day cruise from Dubai to Singapore.
Seabourn Cruises offer an exotic extravaganza, perfect for those with a little more time up their sleeves. Their 30 day journey will take you from the Middle East, to India and Asia!
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