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With more than 27.2 million passengers expected on cruise ships this year and an ever-growing number of larger, more luxurious vessels, now is a great time to try cruising. Modern cruises no longer mean bland buffets or crowded, one-size-fits-all itineraries. Today’s lines offer gourmet dining, immersive cultural experiences and access to increasingly unique destinations. Here are seven surprising places you can visit by cruise ship, each offering unforgettable landscapes, wildlife and local flavor. © Dziewul | Dreamstime.com -
Cruises to Japan go far beyond Tokyo’s neon streets. On smaller islands such as Shikoku you can wander olive groves, on Kyushu explore centuries-old ceramic studios, and on Hokkaido visit traditional sake distilleries and coastal fishing towns. These island stops highlight regional traditions and quieter cultural experiences that reveal a different side of Japan. © Kan1234 | Dreamstime.com
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Sihanoukville, Cambodia, sits well off the typical tourist trail and rewards visitors with quiet beaches, excellent diving and fresh seafood. Located on the Gulf of Thailand and more than 150 miles south of Phnom Penh, it’s often included on longer Southeast Asia cruises that combine culture, coastal adventure and marine life viewing. © Eermakova | Dreamstime.com
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The Kimberley coast in northwest Australia represents one of the planet’s most pristine marine and coastal environments. Cruises here showcase dramatic cliffs, biodiverse reefs, mangrove forests and ancient Aboriginal sites. Expedition vessels provide opportunities for guided shore visits and close encounters with the region’s unique wildlife and landscapes. © Philip Schubert | Dreamstime.com
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In the high Arctic, the Svalbard archipelago offers dramatic tundra, iceberg-strewn waters and abundant wildlife including walruses, polar bears, reindeer and whales. Expedition cruises provide shore landings by inflatable raft for close-up viewing, guided wildlife walks and photography opportunities in a stark, powerful landscape. © Ondřej Prosický | Dreamstime.com
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The Azores float in the middle of the Atlantic, offering dramatic volcanic scenery, whale watching, hiking, world-class fishing and unique attractions like extensive lava tubes and terraced volcanic vineyards. The islands’ remoteness creates a quiet, nature-focused travel experience that pairs well with leisurely Atlantic crossings. © Mikalai Holubau | Dreamstime.com
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Punta Arenas, at the southern tip of Chile, is a common stop on South American cruises and a gateway to Patagonia and Antarctic voyages. The port city offers unique wildlife, regional cuisine and adventure activities for those combining cultural exploration with rugged, remote landscapes. © Alejandrozonezv | Dreamstime.com
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St. Petersburg is a highlight of Baltic and Northern Europe itineraries, especially in summer when long daylight hours enhance visits to iconic sites. Cruisers can explore grand palaces, world-class museums and ornate cathedrals while curated excursions provide insight into the city’s rich history and cultural traditions. © Sborisov | Dreamstime.com
