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$23.99 (as of September 15, 2024 12:30 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)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
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.
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 domestic vacation destinations
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.
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.
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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