5 Incredible Cruise Vacations to Book ASAP
LT Globetrotter
There are a lot of reasons to book a cruise vacation. First and foremost, these types of trips allow you to visit multiple destinations in a short period of time; you can expect to arrive in a new locale every couple days. In addition, today’s cruise ships are full of incredible amenities—we’re talking movie theaters, fitness centers, arcades, comedy clubs, and more. In other words: no moment will go to waste.
From history-filled journeys across Europe to tropical family getaways in the Caribbean, there are a lot of itineraries to choose from. So, what cruise should you go on? We have a few favorites worth considering.
Contents
Go Back in History Aboard Celebrity Beyond
Marvel at the World’s Natural Beauty Aboard Rotterdam
Create Lasting Family Memories Aboard Wonder of the Seas
Discover Cultural Roots Aboard Koningsdam
Shop, Sip, and Savor Aboard Odyssey of the Seas
1. Go Back in History Aboard Celebrity Beyond
Celebrity Beyond may be the newest ship in Celebrity Cruises’ fleet, but the ports of call on this European itinerary are steeped in history. Departing from Rome, Italy, you’ll spend eight days visiting ancient cities, walking cobbled streets, and marveling at centuries-old architecture in Croatia, Montenegro, and Greece before returning to Civitavecchia.
Along the way, the city centers of Kotor, Corfu, and Naples—which have all been deemed UNESCO World Heritage Sites for their cultural and historical significance—will transport you to a different time. As will the 14th-century Dominican Monastery in the walled city of Dubrovnik (we recommend visiting both the church and the museum) and the 1980 smugglers’ shipwreck in Zakynthos.
You’re bound to feel tired after exploring so many historical sites, so make sure to rest and recharge while onboard the Celebrity Beyond. Cruising days are perfect for lounging in the adults-only solarium and pool, relaxing at the spa, and gazing at the Adriatic and Mediterranean seas from the rooftop garden.
Ports of Call
- Rome, Italy
- Dubrovnik, Croatia
- Kotor, Montenegro
- Corfu, Greece
- Zakynthos, Greece
- Naples, Italy
2. Marvel at the World’s Natural Beauty Aboard Rotterdam
While most cruise vacations are popular for their port destinations, your days spent aboard the 984-foot Rotterdam will be among the most memorable. Holland America Line’s Norse Legends itinerary includes two scenic cruises of the country’s famous glacial inlets.
On day three, you’ll sail Hardangerfjord, the fourth-largest fjord in the world. The ship’s decks provide a unique vantage point for this 100-mile journey, which offers views of majestic mountains, waterfalls, and villages. If you look close enough, you might even spot some local wildlife—including reindeer, elks, and mountain foxes—along the shore.
On day five, you’ll find yourself among the sheer rock walls of Geirangerfjord. Inhale the crisp Norwegian air as the boat makes its way inland. Whether you choose to disembark after arriving in the village of Geiranger is up to you; the stunning natural scenery and bustling city center can also be enjoyed from your balcony room.
Ports of Call
- Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Eidfjord, Norway
- Ålesund, Norway
- Geiranger, Norway
- Bergen, Norway
3. Create Lasting Family Memories Aboard Wonder of the Seas
Kids will love this seven-day Caribbean cruise. The ship itself has been designed with young passengers (and passengers who are young at heart) in mind. In addition to luxury suites and staterooms, restaurants, and world-class pools, the vessel has been decked out with waterslides, climbing walls, arcades, a mini golf course, and a 40-foot-long surf simulator.
Of course, the fun doesn’t stop there. An epic adventure awaits at every port city: you can visit theme parks in Orlando, snorkel along the sandy shores of Charlotte Amalie, and fly on the ziplines at Philipsburg’s Loterie Farm nature sanctuary. But it’s Perfect Day at Cococay that travelers are often most excited for.
You’ll spend the second day of your cruise vacation at this private island, which Royal Caribbean International has transformed into a thrilling waterpark. While the kids conquer Daredevil’s PeakSM, North America’s tallest waterslide, adults can soak up the sun at the largest freshwater pool in the Bahamas—complete with a swim-up bar.
Ports of Call
- Orlando, Florida
- Perfect Day at Cococay, Bahamas
- Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas
- Philipsburg, St. Maarten
4. Discover Cultural Roots Aboard Koningsdam
Alaskan cruises are renowned for giving passengers unparalleled access to glaciers and wildlife, but this Inside Passage cruise by Holland America Line offers so much more. Sailing from Vancouver, British Columbia to Ketchikan, Alaska, you’ll enjoy seven full days of breathtaking views and incredible cultural experiences.
Optional port activities give you the opportunity to learn about Indigenous art and traditions, and other local history. In Skagway, for instance, you can choose to visit the Iditarod sled dogs to learn about the origins of dog mushing and then head to the Sixty Mile Dredge to practice panning for gold.
When you arrive in Ketchikan, you can discover the Tlingit, Haida, and Tsimshian nations’ rich cultures. Joining a tour of the Saxman Native Village will allow you to step inside the Beaver Clan House, where you’ll be welcomed by traditional song and dance, as well as a carving center.
If you prefer to stay active while traveling, there’s also plenty of kayaking, hiking, and exploring to be done at each destination.
Ports of Call
- Vancouver, British Columbia
- Tracy Arm Inlet, Alaska
- Juneau, Alaska
- Skagway, Alaska
- Ketchikan, Alaska
5. Shop, Sip, and Savor Aboard Odyssey of the Seas
Looking for a true taste of the island life? Then hop aboard Royal Caribbean International’s Odyssey of the Seas. This Southern Caribbean cruise stops at destinations that are known for their local cuisine. Even Florida, where this ship departs from, is packed full of cocktail bars, surf-and-turf joints, and Latin American-inspired “Floribbean” restaurants that preview what’s to come.
After a couple days at sea, you’ll arrive in Willemstad, Curaçao, where you can feast on authentic dishes like kabritu (curried goat stew) and ayaka (tamale). You can also try local fare in Oranjestad, Aruba, the next port of call on this eight-day itinerary. Due to the city’s multicultural heritage, you can find Argentine meat dishes, Venezuelan arepas (stuffed cornmeal cakes), Dutch cheeses, and a variety of Caribbean stews.
In between meals, you can explore incredible beaches, wildlife preserves, and ancient limestone caverns. But most ports of call on this journey are also known for their shopping. If you’re the type to collect souvenirs, leave time to check out the shopping districts in each city; you can pick up beautiful textiles, jewelry, pottery, and more.
Ports of Call
- Fort Lauderdale, Florida
- Willemstad, Curaçao
- Oranjestad, Aruba
- Perfect Day at Cococay, Bahamas
Ready to set sail? Connect with one of our expert Travel Consultants to start planning your next cruise vacation.
Please note: Travel requirements and health standards are continually changing. Visit our Traveler Resources Hub for important updates and to learn more about the entry rules of your specific destination.
