6 cruise experiences everyone needs to have once
While today’s cruises can take you to just about anywhere in the world, there are a few cruises experiences that every cruiser agrees are must-dos. From Alaska to Antarctica and everywhere in between, here are six cruise experiences everyone has to take at least once.
1. Alaska
The largest state in the US is a cruising paradise. Most ships will travel along the Inside Passage, one of the most scenic waterways in the world, and will sail through immense fjords and into spectacular bays. Much of this region is almost inaccessible from land, so cruising allows you to get to remote ports you wouldn’t otherwise be able to visit. Head ashore for adventurous activities like dog sledding or floatplane fishing tours.
2. Sydney Harbour
We might be a bit biased, but we think Sydney Harbour is one of the (if not the) finest in the world. Sailing into or out of the harbour on a cruise ship is magical. Make sure you’re standing out on the deck, preferably with a glass of champagne in hand, as the Harbour Bridge and Opera House come into sight.
3. Norwegian Fjords
Norway has more than 25,000 kilometres of coastline, the majority of which is made up of narrow winding fjords than run inland from the ocean. These dramatic landscapes, soaring cliffs, rolling mountains and tiny fishing villages are best seen from a ship. It’s regarded as one of the most beautiful journeys in the world and the warmth of the Norwegian people makes it even more extraordinary. It’s also one of the best places in the world to spot the elusive Northern Lights – if you’re lucky.
4. European Christmas Markets
River cruising in Europe generally only runs throughout the summer, so it’s a very special experience to wind your way through the continent in winter. Then add to that pulling up in the centre of cities decorated with twinkling fairy lights and giant Christmas trees, and you have something really amazing. European Christmas Markets are a long standing tradition in Germany, the Netherlands, France and Austria, where you can happily wander amongst the stalls, drinking mulled wine and soaking up the atmosphere.
5. French Polynesia
The island of French Polynesia might just be the most beautiful in the world. They look like a child’s drawing of a tropical paradise – white sand, clear blue ocean and waving palm trees. On a cruise you can wind your way through the many islands, stopping off to swim at secluded beaches, visit local villages and climb dormant volcanoes.
6. Antarctica
There is no other way to see the White Continent and a cruise there is something you will never forget. The crossing over the notorious Drake Passage from South America can be rough, but it will all be worth it once you set eyes on your first towering iceberg. Antarctica is one of the world’s few remaining wilderness areas and you will get to see penguin colonies made up of thousands of birds and migrating whales cruising through the freezing waters.
Have you checked any of these of your cruise bucket list? Share your cruising experience with us in the comments below.
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