Top 7 Most Scenic Cruises Around The World

Have you ever considered setting sail on one of the most scenic cruises in the world? These journeys promise breathtaking views, unique experiences, and memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you dream of exploring snow-capped mountains, crystal blue waters, or historic towns lit by the golden sun, there’s a perfect cruise destination waiting for you. Let’s explore the top 7 most scenic cruises around the globe that you might just want to add to your travel bucket list.

Top 7 Most Scenic Cruises

Top 7 Most Scenic Cruises Around The World

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Norwegian Fjords Cruise

Features: Cascading Waterfalls, Majestic Mountains, Clear Waters

Imagine sailing through narrow fjords flanked by towering mountains and dotted with cascading waterfalls. A Norwegian Fjords cruise offers such a picturesque and mesmerizing landscape that it feels straight out of a fairy tale.

Key Ports: Bergen, Flam, Geiranger Fjord, Sognefjord

Stop at charming towns like Bergen, where colorful wooden houses line the waterfront. Visit Flam and its famous railway for spectacular views. Sognefjord, the longest and deepest fjord, and the Geiranger Fjord, renowned for its beauty, are also must-visit spots.

Tour Option: “Norway in a Nutshell” – Train and Ferry Journey

“Norway in a Nutshell” is a fantastic tour option for those who want a blend of train and ferry travel through Norway’s most scenic routes. This tour combines a journey on the famous Flam Railway with a fjord cruise that showcases the best of Norway’s stunning landscapes.

Best Time: May to September

To witness the fjords in all their glory, plan your journey between May and September. During these months, the weather is milder, and you have a better chance of clear, beautiful views.

Sailing Cruise in the Mediterranean

Experience: Classic Clipper Ships, Tall White Sails, Intimate Ports

Step aboard a classic clipper ship with tall white sails and embark on a Mediterranean adventure. These smaller ships can access hidden coves and ports that larger vessels simply cannot reach, offering a more intimate and exclusive experience.

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Key Ports: Greek Islands, Amalfi Coast, Dalmatian Coast, French Riviera

Your journey might take you to the sun-kissed shores of the Greek Islands, the stunning cliffs of Italy’s Amalfi Coast, the historic ports of the Dalmatian Coast, and the glamorous beaches of the French Riviera.

Key Ports Highlights
Greek Islands White-washed houses, crystal-clear waters
Amalfi Coast Dramatic cliffs, historic towns
Dalmatian Coast Rich history, beautiful beaches
French Riviera Glamour, luxury, and pristine beaches

Best Time: Early Fall or Spring/Summer for Fewer Crowds

To avoid the summer crowds but still enjoy lovely weather, consider cruising in early fall or spring/summer. The temperatures will be pleasant, and the ports less crowded.

Unique Feature: Smaller Ships Access Hidden Coves and Smaller Ports

The smaller size of clipper ships allows them to navigate into secluded areas and smaller ports, giving you the exclusive delight of uncovering hidden treasures along the Mediterranean coast.

Top 7 Most Scenic Cruises Around The World

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French Polynesia Cruise

Features: Crystal Blue Waters, Lush Islands, White Sand Beaches

Set sail through the idyllic paradise of French Polynesia, where you’ll be greeted by crystal-clear waters, lush green islands, and pristine white sand beaches.

Key Stops: Tahiti, Bora Bora, Moorea Island

Your voyage will likely include stops at Tahiti, known for its vibrant culture and natural beauty; Bora Bora, often called the “Pearl of the Pacific“; and Moorea Island, with its dramatic landscapes and tranquil charm.

Key Stops Highlights
Tahiti Cultural experiences, lush landscapes
Bora Bora Stunning lagoons, luxurious resorts
Moorea Island Dramatic mountains, beautiful beaches

Activities: Snorkeling, Swimming with Stingrays, Visiting Pearl Farms

Each island offers unique activities like snorkeling in coral gardens, swimming with gentle stingrays, and visiting local pearl farms where you can learn about the cultivation of Tahitian pearls.

Best Time: Any Time; Dry Season from May to October

French Polynesia is a year-round destination, but the dry season from May to October offers the best weather for outdoor activities.

Antarctica Cruise

Highlights: Abundant Wildlife, Snow-Covered Wilderness, No Actual Ports

Journey to the end of the world where you’ll experience the untouched beauty of Antarctica. This remote destination is home to an array of wildlife and pristine snow-covered landscapes, offering an adventure of a lifetime.

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Key Stops: South Shetland Islands, Deception Island, Lemaire Channel

On your Antarctic cruise, expect stops at the South Shetland Islands, known for their dramatic ice formations; Deception Island, with its unique volcanic crater; and the Lemaire Channel, often referred to as “Kodak Gap” for its photogenic beauty.

Key Stops Highlights
South Shetland Islands Dramatic ice formations, wildlife sightings
Deception Island Volcanic landscapes, unique geological features
Lemaire Channel Narrow passage, breathtaking ice-clad mountains

Unique Aspect: Smaller Vessels Allow for Closer Exploration with Landing Crafts

Smaller expedition vessels are used for Antarctic cruises, which enable closer exploration using landing crafts. This gives you the chance to step foot on the continent and witness wildlife up close.

Best Time: Mid-November to March; Penguin Chicks Viewable Mid-January to March

The Antarctic cruising season runs from mid-November to March when temperatures are more manageable, and wildlife is abundant. For a special treat, visit between mid-January and March to see adorable penguin chicks.

Windjammer Cruise in Maine

Features: 19th-Century Tall Ships, Wind-Powered Travel

Sail along the picturesque coast of Maine aboard a windjammer, a 19th-century tall ship that sails entirely under wind power. Experience a blend of historical charm and natural beauty on this unique cruise.

Experience: Traditional Sailing Schooners, Changing Itineraries Based on Captain’s Decisions

Windjammer cruises offer a flexible experience with itineraries that can change based on wind conditions and the captain’s discretion. This creates a truly adventurous and unique voyage.

Unique Activities: Lobster Bake, Island Explorations

Enjoy quintessentially Maine activities such as a traditional lobster bake on a secluded beach and explorations of small, charming islands.

Best Time: End of May to October

The best time to embark on a windjammer cruise in Maine is from the end of May through October, when the weather is pleasant and the natural beauty is at its peak.

Glacier Bay National Park, Alaska Cruise

Features: Ice Walls, Tidewater Glaciers, Snow-Capped Mountains

An Alaska cruise through Glacier Bay National Park promises views of massive ice walls, stunning tidewater glaciers, and imposing snow-capped mountains that dominate the landscape.

Unique Experience: Active Calving Glaciers, Diverse Marine Wildlife

Witness the awe-inspiring sight of active calving glaciers, where massive chunks of ice break off and plunge into the sea. The area is also rich in marine wildlife, including humpback whales, seals, and sea lions.

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Best Time: May through September

The best time to visit Glacier Bay National Park is from May through September when the weather is favorable for cruising, and wildlife is more easily spotted.

A Scenic River Cruise in France

Location: Provence, Along the Rhône River

Sail through the sun-drenched region of Provence, France, along the serene Rhône River. This river cruise offers a sublime blend of natural beauty and cultural richness.

Highlights: Sun-Drenched Vineyards, Historic Towns, Lavender Fields

Enjoy the picturesque views of rolling vineyards bathed in sunlight, historic towns with deep-rooted traditions, and vibrant lavender fields that perfume the air.

Key Ports: Avignon, Arles, Viviers

Your journey might include stops in Avignon, known for its historic Papal Palace; Arles, a city steeped in Roman history and art; and Viviers, with its medieval charm.

Key Ports Highlights
Avignon Papal Palace, historic architecture
Arles Roman history, artistic heritage
Viviers Medieval streets, old-world charm

Enhancements: Visits to Local Wineries, Guided Tours of Historical Sites

Enhance your river cruise experience with visits to local wineries, where you can taste some of the finest French wines, and guided tours of historical sites that bring the region’s rich past to life.

Best Time: April through October

The ideal time to savor a river cruise in Provence is from April through October, when the weather is mild and the landscapes are in full bloom.

Setting sail on a scenic cruise is one of the most spectacular ways to travel. From the majestic fjords of Norway to the tranquil waters of French Polynesia, each of these destinations offers unique beauty and memorable experiences. Whether you’re drawn by the allure of towering glaciers, crystal blue seas, or historic towns, there’s a perfect scenic cruise waiting just for you.

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