Best Cruise Destinations that Aren't the Bahamas

Who doesn’t love the idea of spending time asea? From gorgeous stops at a variety of destinations to spending time in the surf and the sand, there is a wide range of cruises to choose from. When most people think of cruises, they imagine the Bahamas or somewhere else tropical. However, cruise ships travel all over the world and offer all kinds of experiences. The key is to find the one that works for you.

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Canadian and New England Cruises

When you want to go on a cruise but prefer to stay close to home, why not try out a cruise that spans the New England and Canadian coasts? One of the best cruises 2022, these types of cruises are perfect if you like the idea of checking out beaches but also want to learn more about the history and don’t want to be in too-hot weather. There are many options to choose from. You can spend time walking the cliffs in Rhode Island, checking out a Venetian-style palazzo in Boston, or spend a day biking through Acadia National Park before going back to your ship and getting all the benefits of a cruise ship.

European Cruises

European cruises offer plenty to do in their port cities. Start with Barcelona, where you can take in gorgeous views, get lost in the city’s rich history, and of course, check out some of the area’s delicious traditional cuisines. Move on to Rome where you can check out excellent shopping opportunities as well as learn more about the city’s history. River cruises offer unique experiences that travel to vineyards, castles, and even rural villages. With so much to take in while you’re in Europe, the hardest part will be deciding where to start first.

South American Cruises

From excellent shopping to fine dining, to rich history and culture, Souther American cruises have much to offer. Most of the continent’s cruises stop at port cities with gorgeous blue waters and beautiful tranquil beaches. Visit Machu Picchu, check out Incan ruins, or experience the Carnivale of Rio de Janeiro. Climb mountains, learn to tango, tour the Amazon Jungle, or even travel to the Galapagos. The hardest part of going on a South American cruise is figuring out how to fit it all into your itinerary.

Mediterranean Cruises

You can’t go on a Mediterranean cruise without checking out Athens, Greece. On a full-day excursion, you’ll be able to visit the birthplace of democracy, see Acropolis, and spend time inside some of the oldest buildings in the world. Are you a “Game of Thrones” fan? Be sure to book a cruise that stops in Old Town Dubrovnik to see some of the sights that were featured in the hit HBO show. Other areas include Ancient Pompeii and some of the oldest areas of Turkey.

New Zealand and Australian Cruises

New Zealand and Australia also provide lots of opportunities for exploration while you’re on a cruise. If you and your cruise buddies love the nightlife, you won’t be able to skip Brisbane, Australia. The city is famous for its bars, clubs, and restaurants. It offers plenty to do during the day as well, though. Spend your afternoon checking out Parliament House and many other locations throughout the city’s historic center, then head to the rainforests of Canungra Valley. Of course, you’ll want to stop in Melbourne as well. The second most populated city in the country, it’s considered the sporting capital of the world. From Formula One Grand Prix to the Grand Slam Tournament, this port city is a must-do for any sports fan.

Whether you’re cruising in the south during the winter months or heading north when things get warm, one thing is certain: there is no shortage of amazing cruise options all around the world. Stay close to home or check out the other side of the world. Whatever your heart desires, you are likely to find it on a cruise ship.