Luxury cruises provide an opulent way to explore the world’s most beautiful destinations, offering first-class service, gourmet dining, and exclusive experiences. Whether it’s traversing the Mediterranean, exploring the icy landscapes of Antarctica, or sailing through the Caribbean, luxury cruises offer an indulgent way to experience the world from the comfort of a lavish ship.
Here are some of the best luxury cruise destinations, activities to enjoy, and the best times to set sail:
1. Mediterranean – Greek Isles & Amalfi Coast
Imagine walking amongst the ruins of the Parthenon atop the citadel Acropolis. Slowly and intently make your way across the terrace to view the Setting Santorini Sun. Explore the streets of Sorrento as the Shadows cast their moving creations against the Stuccoed Walls of this charming coastal town… Discover the Isle of Capri and find out why ancient Roman Emperors vacationed on the Amalfi Coast.
Top Activities: Shore excursions to ancient ruins (e.g., Pompeii, Athens), exploring charming villages, private yacht charters, gourmet dining, wine tastings, cooking classes.
Best Time to Cruise:
Spring (April-June): Mild temperatures, fewer tourists, and picturesque landscapes.
Fall (September-November): Warm weather, great for exploring, with fewer crowds than peak summer.
2. Caribbean – Private Island Resorts & Tropical Retreats
Most people who have visited the Caribbean are familiar with the island of St. Barthélemy (a.k.a. “St. Barts”) in the French West Indies.
Even though it’s not technically “private”, the cost of getting there and the price tag to stay there generally keeps it restricted to the 1%. That fact alone makes it seem almost private.
Top Activities: Snorkeling, scuba diving, spa treatments, private beach excursions, visiting exclusive islands, kayaking, and lounging on white sand beaches.
Best Time to Cruise:
Winter (December-April): Ideal for escaping colder climates with warm weather and calm seas.
Summer (June-August): Great for family-friendly cruises, though it’s hurricane season (be sure to check itineraries).
3. Alaska – Glacier Bay & Inside Passage
Alaska’s Glacier Bay area is home to the community of Gustavus, gateway to Glacier Bay National Park, a top destination for wildlife and glacier viewing.
Independent travelers can access Glacier Bay from the nearby town of Gustavus. This charming village has visitor services, lodges and guest houses, restaurants, art galleries, and tour operators that lead kayaking, flightseeing, wildlife viewing, fishing, and boat tours.
Top Activities: Glacier viewing, whale watching, wildlife safaris, heli-hiking, kayaking in fjords, cultural experiences with Native Alaskan tribes.
Best Time to Cruise:
Summer (May-September): Peak season for wildlife sightings, mild weather, and stunning landscapes.
Late Spring/Early Fall (May-June & September): Fewer crowds and lower prices, though weather can be cooler.
4. Antarctica – Expedition Cruises to the Frozen Continent
Expedition cruise vessels are a world apart from your average ocean cruise liner; small, agile and exclusively designed for intrepid exploration, built to withstand the most extreme environs and climatic conditionsaround the Southern Ocean.
Top Activities: Wildlife spotting (penguins, seals, whales), ice hiking, polar plunge, kayaking, zodiac boat excursions, and visiting scientific research stations.
Best Time to Cruise:
Summer (November-March): The only time cruises operate to Antarctica, with the best chances of wildlife sightings and favorable weather conditions.
5. Northern Europe – Scandinavian Fjords & Iceland
Northern Europe exudes a special magic during summer, and Seabourn introduces you to the region’s charms on a series of ultra-luxury sailings with an expedition-style flair.
Top Activities: Scenic cruising through fjords, visiting Viking heritage sites, exploring medieval towns, wildlife spotting, hiking, and enjoying the Midnight Sun (in summer).
Best Time to Cruise:
Summer (May-August): Long daylight hours and pleasant temperatures for exploring cities and remote coastal towns.
Fall (September-October): Fewer tourists, though cooler weather and the potential for autumn foliage in Scandinavia.
6. South Pacific – French Polynesia & Fiji
French Polynesia is a well-liked vacation spot for honeymooners and couples because of its romantic ambiance. Fiji is another well-liked vacation spot, renowned for its stunning beaches, pristine oceans, and opulent resorts. The two most visited islands are Vanua Levu and Viti Levu
Top Activities: Snorkeling, diving, private island getaways, Tahitian cultural performances, spa treatments, and exclusive beach picnics.
Best Time to Cruise:
Dry Season (May-October): The best time to visit for clear skies, calm seas, and perfect snorkeling/diving conditions.
Wet Season (November-April): Tropical rain showers, but fewer tourists and discounted rates.
7. Australia & New Zealand – Great Barrier Reef & Fiordland National Park
From mountains to sand dunes, turquoise seas to glacial lakes, Australia’s and New Zealand’s stunning landscapes and natural geography is amazing whichever corner you decide to explore.
Top Activities: Snorkeling/diving at the Great Barrier Reef, nature walks in Fiordland, exclusive wine-tasting experiences, luxury beachfront dining, and visiting iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House.
Best Time to Cruise:
Spring & Summer (December-February): Ideal for warm weather and outdoor activities in Australia and New Zealand.
Autumn (March-May): Perfect weather for exploring, especially in New Zealand’s fjords.
8. Asia – Southeast Asia & The Philippines
Asia has enchanted and bewildered visitors for ages. The continent’s combination of energetic cities, traditional architecture and exotic landscapes will overwhelm and delight your senses.
Top Activities: Shore excursions to temples and cultural sites (e.g., Angkor Wat in Cambodia), luxury shopping, spa retreats, private cooking classes, and relaxing beach time in the Philippines.
Best Time to Cruise:
Dry Season (November-April): The best time for tropical weather in Southeast Asia, ideal for beach and cultural explorations.
Monsoon Season (May-October): Avoid monsoon season as it can cause unpredictable weather.
9. South America – Amazon River & Patagonia
Amazon River cruises take adventurous explorers on one of the world’s most rewarding wildlife expeditions. Journey deep into the heart of the largest rainforest on Earth on a boat trip down the Amazon, a mystical realm of boundless biodiversity where physical and spiritual worlds entwine, a primeval domain still ruled by the jaguar, home to giant snakes, towering trees and uncontacted tribes hiding in plain sight.
Top Activities: River cruising, wildlife watching (monkeys, sloths, caimans, and birds), visiting indigenous villages, exploring Patagonian glaciers, and hiking through national parks.
Best Time to Cruise:
Amazon (November-May): Lower water levels for easier river navigation and better wildlife sightings.
Patagonia (December-March): The summer months are best for exploring Patagonia’s remote wilderness.
10. Indian Ocean – Seychelles & Maldives
The idyllic islands of the Indian Ocean including the Seychelles, Maldives and Mauritius, and explore the fascinating coastlines of India and Sri Lanka on small ship cruises.
The islands of the Indian Ocean are the perfect getaway destination – no news, no shoes, just palm trees, white sand beaches and a chance to relax and unwind. Superb snorkelling and diving opportunities are endless.
Top Activities: Snorkeling, diving, private island excursions, sunset cruises, spa experiences, and romantic dinners on the beach.
Best Time to Cruise:
Dry Season (May-October): Ideal for clear skies, calm waters, and warm temperatures.
Wet Season (November-April): Fewer crowds and discounted rates, though the region may experience some tropical showers.