Best sea cruises 2023

Best sea cruises from Norway to the Galapagos. 2023

Best sea cruises 2023? Find them here.
This comprehensive introduction to some of the very best sea cruises in the world consists of the best and very different ideas for a sea cruise practically anywhere in the world. You will be surprised perhaps, how big sea cruising has become in relatively few years. 30 million people have chosen to cruise the sea while on vacation in 2022, which is 10 million travelers more in 10 years. New sea cruise ships are popping out like popcorn considering the investment required to grow the market. More than 20 new sea cruising ships in 2020. This way of spending your vacation or honeymoon or other celebration at sea, close to all conveniences and onboard services has taken off completely. Browse the whole intro to the major introduction to cruising the sea on vacation or simply click below and go straight to your preferred cruise tour. Enjoy.

Vantage Deluxe

New Zealand - South Island - Queenstown. Beautiful mountains landscape scenery with blue lake. Pacific Islands, Oceania

New Zealand – South Island – Queenstown. Beautiful mountains landscape scenery with blue lake. Pacific Islands, Oceania

Separate cruises posts

 

Tahiti islands landscape seing from cruise ship during sailing

Tahiti islands landscape seen from a cruise ship during arriving at the island

Tahiti Sea Cruises

Tahiti cruises offer some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world with azure waters, magnificent peaks and lush valleys. Luxury cruises in Tahiti can include exploring a lagoon on a glass-bottomed boat, hiking in the mountains for spectacular sea views or shopping for the black pearls of Tahiti. A number of water activities are included in the Tahiti cruise holidays. In addition to this, scuba diving, jet-skiing, snorkeling, parasailing and windsurfing are also very popular fun activities. Vacationers can take a cruise to Tahiti all year round. It is that kind of weather.
Most luxury cruises in Tahiti last from seven to fourteen days. In the case of some luxury cruises in Tahiti, cruisers may have to travel long distances to get to the port of departure. It is suggested that these cruisers arrive in the port city at least one or two days before their cruise to Tahiti, so as to have time to relax and orient themselves before boarding the ship. Many luxury cruises offer hotel packages before the cruise.

Life o Tahiti mount, on the biggest Tahiti island

Life o Tahiti mount, on the biggest Tahiti island

Choose your cruise based on your interest in Tahiti

Cruises in Tahiti are thematic. They offer vacationers the opportunity to indulge in their favorite pastime and deepen their knowledge of a wide variety of topics from fine dining to fine wine, music, culture, and history. Some programs may also include special speakers, famous artist performances, thematic shore excursions and the opportunity to interact with leading personalities in a particular area. Themed cruises are very popular and often sell early.

A cruise in Tahiti is considered an ideal setting for a family holiday. Some cruises are designed with children’s activities, counselors and babysitting services. Many Tahiti cruise lines invite children to travel aboard their ships, although infants and pregnant women are subject to certain restrictions. On the Tahiti cruise lines, which offer comprehensive programs for young people, parents can plan their holidays knowing they can relax and have fun. It’s because their children are cared for, make new friends and have fun.

Many cruise lines offer some sort of insurance to protect their passengers from financial losses in case of unforeseen circumstances. Insurance is not mandatory, however, most cruise lines suggest that cruises buy it. It is important to know in advance all the information you need, including price changes between cruise lines, as well as coverage limits and exclusions.

Visit Tahiti (cool info to the mysterious island)

View of overwater bungalows at Le Meridien Tahiti Hotel at sunset, Pape'ete, Tahiti, French Polynesia

View of overwater bungalows at Le Meridien Tahiti Hotel at sunset, Pape’ete, Tahiti, French Polynesia

Honeymoon Cruise to Tahiti

Romantic trips are also available weekly to the islands of Tahiti. You can take a trip to the South Pacific aboard cruise ships, passengers and super yachts traveling to the heart of the Tahiti islands.

Couples now have a choice of the world’s leading luxury cruise lines that offer balcony cabins and first-class meals exclusively designed for honeymooners. There is no other place like Tahiti where honeymooners can enjoy the time of their life in such luxury, et exotic surroundings. It is also a good story for family and friends: Where did you spend your honeymoon? Tahiti of course.

Visit Tahiti and feel the sensation of romance in this unique place. Tahiti has bounced back after political and natural catastrophes. It is a safe place to travel. So give it a chance on a cruise trip. If you are a newlywed couple or if you want to renew your vows and wish to spend another honeymoon, Haiti is a very good place to do so.  You will always want to return to this magical and enchanting place.

Transatlantic passenger terminal in Genoa, Italy

Transatlantic passenger terminal in Genoa, Italy

Transatlantic cruises, the big one

Imagine yourself standing on the deck, watching the Statue of Liberty across the water, with the famous Manhattan silhouette behind it. You may be navigating or mooring to the sound of the group of ships playing on the deck while you enjoy these magnificent views. What a fantastic way to start or finish a transatlantic crossing. If you wish, you can even visit the original Statue of Liberty in Paris at the end of your cruise. Perhaps not a statue as big, but it is nevertheless part of a panorama that deserves a visit.

Perhaps the most iconic cruise in the world is the transatlantic cruise. This legendary crossing has delighted passengers for years. This fascinating crossing will allow you to sail from the American ports to some of the most beautiful cities in Europe, or vice versa if you prefer.

The new Carnival Horizon, the 26th ship for Miami-based Carnival Cruise Line, passes by South Beach in Miami Beach, Fla., on a two-day inaugural cruise Thursday, Sept., 20, 2018. Horizon is cruising on year-round six- and eight-day Caribbean voyages from PortMiami. The 1,055-foot-long vessel accommodates more than 4,000 guests and some 1,450 crew members. FOR EDITORIAL USE ONLY (Andy Newman/Carnival Cruise Line/HO)

The new Carnival Horizon, the 26th ship for Miami-based Carnival Cruise Line, passes by South Beach in Miami Beach, Fla., on a two-day inaugural cruise. The 1,055-foot-long vessel accommodates more than 4,000 guests and some 1,450 crew members.

In America, you can expect to sail from ports like Miami, Port Canaveral and New Orleans. Miami is a truly unique city in America and in the world. The city is a true cosmopolitan city with heavy influences from Latin communities, Jewish Holocaust survivors, a vibrant gay scene, a red-necked America and an endless parade of the rich, famous and beautiful. Take a look at the city’s stunning art deco architecture and you’ll get a truly amazing city.

The New Orleans ‘Big Easy’ has always had its unique style and atmosphere, created by the combination of refined European style and exuberant Latin and Africa cultures. Despite some visible signs of the hurricane that struck in 2005, the heart of the city is still alive and living up to its motto: “Let the good time pass”.

In Europe, you can start or finish your trip to Barcelona or Copenhagen. Barcelona is rightly considered one of the most beautiful cities in the world. This cosmopolitan city is full of restaurants, bars, nightclubs and fantastic shops to entertain you, whatever your length of stay. The city is famous for its breathtaking architecture. You will find many things to see, from the Middle Ages to modernism, to see and to amaze you.

It is often said that Copenhagen is the greenest and most alive city of all of the  Scandinavian cities. The capital city of Denmark offers a captivating mix of old and new with cobblestone squares and medieval buildings alongside the best of Scandinavian design. The city is clean and one of the safest in the world, and it is so easy to get around so it is no wonder that Copenhagen is regularly at the top of the world’s most attractive cities to visit. Actually CNN named it number one place to visit in 2019.

Of course, it’s not just these beautiful cities that you can discover during a transatlantic cruise. Between the cities, you will cross the Atlantic, an experience as exciting as that of Barcelona and New Orleans. At sea, you will fully utilize the facilities of your cruise ship. Cruise ships are essentially floating resorts that offer everything you could want: restaurants, entertainment, spas, activities, swimming pools, bars, quality accommodations and ever-changing landscapes.

Cruising ship on Santorini island in summer time on Aegean sea.

Cruising ship on Santorini island in the summertime on Aegean sea.

Mediterranean cruise

One could explore the ancient Greek and Turkish civilizations, travel to the Holy Land and get drunk in the coastal splendor of Spain, Italy and France. There are some less known destinations for cruises in the Mediterranean region, such as Bulgaria and Croatia. Every day, we wake up to find a new place with new sites to watch. There are many ports from which one could choose to start cruises in the Mediterranean, as well as stopovers throughout the cruise. There are many cruises that depart from Athens and sail around the Greek islands. On the other hand, smaller luxury ships could stay in the islands or, with bigger ships, the cruise could also include larger ports in places like Rome.

The port of Civitavecchia and Rome are the popular places to start a cruise. Enjoy Rome for a day or two and later, take the one-hour bus ride to the port to start the cruise. Almost all major cruise lines operate in and out of Rome for the Mediterranean. Venice cruises also cover all areas of the Mediterranean and allow you to sail on the Giudecca Canal. It is thought to be one of the best effects of the cruise. Each year, around one million people start their cruise in Barcelona and enjoy the shops, culinary architecture and nightlife of Barcelona before leaving for the Mediterranean.

Possible excursions to ports and stopovers during cruises in the Mediterranean include places like Cadiz, Seville and Spain. The cultural capital of southern Spain is another must-see tourist spot. The colorful streets, the architecture and the impressive display of landmarks would certainly make a lasting impression. Athens in Greece is the gateway to very ancient sites like the Acropolis and Hadrian’s Arch. Istanbul in Turkey has its own long history. It has been known as Constantinople and Byzantium. Holidays here might help someone to see things like the incredible Blue Mosque and Topkapi Palace where the Ottoman Turks resided.

Dubrovnik in Croatia is a World Heritage Site and is partially surrounded by ancient walls. A likely outing will include a visit to the Croatian countryside and a city tour. The majority of cruise lines offer cruises in the Mediterranean. It does not matter which cruise company you choose, as long as the destinations are interesting, like on these cruises. Therefore, each individual must make a cruise in the Mediterranean to live his life to the full.

Barcelona

Barcelona and the  western Mediterranean

In the western Mediterranean, you will discover beaches, lively cities and seaside resorts. When embarking on an adventure in the western Mediterranean, cruise ships usually leave impressive places such as Barcelona, ​​Palma, Genoa or Rome.

Mainly bordering Italy, France, and Spain, during a cruise in the western Mediterranean, you will go to ports of call such as the Balearic Islands (including Mallorca, Ibiza, Menorca and Formentera). Italy is another destination. Here you can explore fascinating historical destinations, including Pompeii, Rome and Pisa. Cruises in the western Mediterranean can also include stops in Portugal, Morocco, Monte Carlo, Malta, Croatia and Dubrovnik.

Something for everyone, a Western Mediterranean is a holiday favorite with families and couples.

 

Eastern Mediterranean sea cruises

A cruise in the eastern Mediterranean calls at ports from the Aegean to the Adriatic. The main ports of embarkation and disembarkation in the eastern Mediterranean are Athens, Greece; Istanbul, Turkey and Venice. During your trip to the Eastern Mediterranean, you can explore ancient cities such as Olympia in Greece or Ephesus in Turkey. Dubrovnik and Corfu, located on the Croatian coast, are also popular cruising destinations in the eastern Mediterranean. Greek islands such as Mykonos, Rhodes and Santorini are also popular cruising destinations.

Galapagos Islands - August 24, 2017: Boat riding on the coast of Santa Cruz island, Galapagos Islands, Ecuador.

The Galapagos Islands  Sea Cruises

The Galapagos Islands have always been fascinating since Charles Darwin’s famous work on natural selection among the lava rocks of the 10-million-year-old volcanic archipelago. The Enchanted Islands, as a Spanish hacker has named, maybe your next destination for knowledge and adventure. Take a cruise to the Galapagos with your children and discover the same natural beauty as Charles Darwin, which has been chronicled.

Galapagos giant tortoise

The animals Darwin had seen more than a hundred years ago and which were the subject of his study are still present: finches, sea lions, iguanas and giant tortoises. Dive into the crystal clear waters of the tropical ocean surrounding the chain of 6 islands and 52 smaller islands and islets and watch some dolphins and sea turtles swim nearby.

The volcanic islands are perfect places to explore with your family. There are trails that start on the beaches and lead into the wooded mountains. Some trails are perfect but safe for adventurous kids. Select the path that corresponds to your pace and stamina. There can be no other holidays beneficial to your body and mind

The Galapagos Islands consist of 19 islands off the coast of South America. Because of their proximity to the equator, they can be visited all year round on a luxury cruise.

Galapagos Islands - August 26, 2017: Landscape of the Lava tunnels of Isabela Island, Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

Galapagos Islands. The landscape of the Lava tunnels of Isabela Island, Galapagos Islands, close to Ecuador

In addition to idyllic scenery and good weather, the main attraction of the Galapagos Islands is the vast array of species with which you interact. A cruise to the Galapagos is the perfect way to discover these islands and all that they have to bring. A luxury cruise will take you to the islands where you can see the biodiversity with your own eyes, and you will understand why the Galapagos Islands deserve their title of UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Group of Galapagos penguins on a rock in Santiago Island, Galapagos Island, Ecuador, South America.

  1. Galapagos tortoise

Surviving most humans, Galapagos tortoises live well over 100 years. They are the largest species of turtle and can weigh up to 400 kg with an exceptional length of 5 feet 9. These turtles can be spotted on seven islands during Galapagos cruises. You will notice subtle differences between turtles, each island bringing its own environmental touch – a major factor noted by Darwin, who influenced his work entitled “The Origin of Species.”

  1. Galapagos Penguin

These are the only penguins you will find in the northern hemisphere. Your best chance to see both characters on foot during your luxury cruise is when you stop at Fernandina Island or on the west coast of Isabela.

  1. Galapagos Fur Sea Lions

As unique as the turtles and penguins of the Galapagos, the Galapagos fur-bearing sea lions are the smallest in the world. During your cruise to the Galapagos, these legged mammals can be observed lazing on the lava rock or on the beaches.

  1. Galapagos marine iguana

The Galapagos cruises give you the opportunity to see Galapagos marine iguanas, the only marine iguanas in the world. These marine creatures are found on all islands and, like the Galapagos turtles, their shape and size vary from island to island.

  1. Galapagos Dolphins

Nicknamed the most friendly species in the world, dolphins are far from being a rare sight on a Galapagos cruise. The west coast of Isabela is widely regarded as the best place to watch dolphins, bottled bottlenose dolphins being the most reported.

So follow in the footsteps of Darwin and embark on your own Galapagos cruise to admire the breathtaking Galapagos landscape and discover the wildlife on your own. You are bound to cherish the memories you will gain during this fantastic adventure trip

The riverboat Queen Violeta cruising along the River Amazon in Peru.

The riverboat Queen Violeta cruises along the River Amazon in Peru.

Amazon River Cruise

A cruise in the Amazon is the ultimate adventure in the jungle. From the endless green carpet of the treetops that make up the tropical forest to the exotic wildlife that inhabits the waters of the mighty Amazon River, an Amazonian cruise will reveal an impressive ecosystem both captivating and educative.

If you have always wanted to see flocks of pink dolphins in their natural habitat, or discover unique medicinal plants found nowhere else in the world, an Amazon cruise could be right the type of vacation you are looking for!

By choosing your Amazon cruise, you will find that you are presented with two distinct choices of cruising vacation. If you are looking to visit the Amazon since comfort of a large luxury cruise liner, Amazon cruises from the city of Manaus in the heart of Amazon Rainforest is ideal.

Manaus, at the confluence of the Negro and Amazon rivers represents the furthest point upstream of this great Amazon cruise the liners can venture. Here, the Amazon is 11 km wide, and it’s the main port from which many cruise ships depart.

The second Amazon cruise option offers travelers the opportunity to explore the head of the Amazon River in Eastern Peru. Here, about 6,000 km west of the river exit point in the Atlantic Ocean, the Amazon the ecosystem is at its most diverse .

The river is much narrower here so the Amazon cruise ships are smaller, taking the form of river boats capable of not containing more than 50 or 60 passengers. The preferred departure port and The return on a Peru-Amazon cruise is located in the city of Iquitos.

Most passengers arrive in Iquitos by plane on an internal flight of Lima – the capital of Peru.

An unforgettable adventure No matter where you cruise on Amazon what you will see and hear along the way will dazzle entertain and often make you speechless! You could take in a shore excursion where you will meet a local shaman in a remote area Amazon village, or maybe you will go hiking in the jungle quest to discover rare species of plants and animals.

From the cruise ship also the Amazon is full of surprises! Imagine come face to face with the world’s smallest monkey, swing to a tree branch near your boat, or watch the hypnotic display of a six-foot golden Dourada glittering one of the most beautiful freshwater fish in the world. It really does to make for an unforgettable experience.

russia river cruise

Russia river cruise

Russia River Cruise, now that was a new one?

During the cruise in Russia, you will learn many Russian customs and traditions. One of the traditions is the locks of love. Russian couples recently married have a long tradition of Italian weddings. They would hang a padlock on a bridge after writing their name or their initials and throw the key for their love to be locked forever. Some couples use two interlaced locks, each bearing their name/initials. In addition to the lovers, family members and close friends have also put such locks in these places, to lock their relationship forever.

You will embark on a cruise from Moscow, Russia where city officials built a romantic tradition, where couples write their names on a padlock fix it to the tree and lock it.

Padlock-Tree, Moscow

Padlock-Trees, Moscow

One of the traditions is the padlocks of love. Russian couples recently married will hang a padlock on a bridge after writing their name or their initials and throw the key for their love to be locked forever. Some couples use two interlaced locks, each bearing their name/initials. In addition to the lovers, family members and close friends have also put such locks in these places, to lock their relationship forever.

The next stop of your cruise in Russia is Yaroslavl. In 2010, the city celebrated its millennium. Yaroslavl is famous for the beauty of its embankments. The embankments of the Volga and Kotorosl, from the church of the prophet Elijah until you return to the monastery of the Transfiguration, constitute a magnificent walk of 1.5 km. On the way you can admire the view of the Church of St. Nicholas, the miracle worker, one of the first stone churches of Yaroslavl, built in 1622. There is a lookout on the quay of Volga where the newlyweds of Yaroslavl come to tie their love wick and throw the key in the Volga.

The Volga Cruise in Russia visits Kostroma, where the streets are like a central square in a classical 18th and 19th century configuration, where you can see medieval peasant houses and the golden dome of the Ipatievsky monastery, as well as the museum. In Kiev, you will find love locks on a pedestrian bridge on Volodymyrsky Uzziz, near the National Philharmonic Hall, and in Odessa, on the bridge “Stepmother”.

For many people who join cruises in Russia, one of the best way to visit the city is to take a private tour, alone or with a small group of friends interested in the same areas. If you want to see as much as you can from the Hermitage Museum and the Winter Palace – and you could spend days there and not see everything! – Your private guide will take you there directly. If you are particularly interested in the Cold War, Russian cuisine, or art and culture, a private tour will allow you to focus exclusively on your interests and avoid the feeling of being chained from A to B. Private tour operators in St. Petersburg can also organize your visa-free landing in Russia, as well as queue tickets for the Hermitage and for any concerts you would like to see.

Carribbean cruises

Caribbean cruises

Caribbean sea cruises

White sand, warm water, tropical drinks … the Caribbean can be an ideal place to relax and escape the monotony of the office. A vacation in the Caribbean can be the reward you deserve for your long hours of work.

A Caribbean cruise may already be in your mind, but you still cannot know what to expect. Cruise ships also have the facilities and services found in high-class hotels. Of course, you want to spend your holidays relaxing. You want an environment-related holiday, a holiday with an active nightlife and of course a holiday with dinner in a first-class restaurant. All of these are included in the cruise vacation packages in the Caribbean.

Now, how do you envision an ideal vacation? Is living with nature a good idea for you? Maybe you want to go shopping in a first-class department store. Or maybe opt for discos and noisy and active bars? Anyway, whatever your choice, a cruise in the Caribbean provides them all.

Cruises in the Caribbean are one of the most popular vacation cruises worldwide. The island offers a fantastic mix of contemporary and natural landscapes that offers an exciting mix in this regard.

If you love the view of nature and want to live a fabulous vacation in a tropical paradise island, the Caribbean cruise is an ideal holiday for you.

The Caribbean cruise will usually take you to a place of abundant flora, beautiful beaches and thick forests. Among the best resorts, you will absolutely have the chance to experience luxury.

You will also see the natural world in its entire splendor, whether in Puerto Rico, where you can admire the thick rain forest, or at Bonaire, where flamingos are reserved. The Caribbean climate is ideal for swimming, snorkeling or just to relax on the beach. It is a perfect place for all nature lovers and adventurers.

A cruise in the Caribbean has its particular appeal and distinctive appeal. The island itself has a temperate climate, teeming with world-class seaside resorts, superb sea life, stunning coral reef and stunning sea views. A shopping spree is also an attractive feature, which includes rates without tax.

A Caribbean cruise will offer you a selection of trips ranging from two days to a long trip. It depends only on the selection you want to have.

Caribbean cruises are generally divided into three, eastern, western and southern Caribbean. If you want to make short trips to the Southern Caribbean, you’ll leave Puerto Rico, Aruba, or even Barbados. Longer trips may depart from the United States, while the western cruise will depart from the Gulf of Mexico, normally from Florida, Alabama or Louisiana.

Cruises in the Caribbean are ideal for family cruises, especially during school holidays. The holidays will be the busiest time for the cruise. If you plan to go on a cruise in the Caribbean, plan it in advance and book it in advance.

All the best cruise lines give some cruise schedules in the Caribbean. You will get an exceptional dining experience, helpful staff and a beautiful view of nature. You will also have the opportunity to rest on the deck, enjoy the fun centers and earn more money in Vegas-style casinos.

The Caribbean cruise will also offer you remarkable hidden harbors and serene bays. This will take you to a quiet and peaceful world outside your hectic daily life.

The Caribbean cruise will allow you to see the attractiveness and quality of each place you visit. To allow you to see this beauty, stay silent as an observer of all the natural resources that surround you.

If you are looking for a relaxing vacation with a lot to offer, it is likely that a Caribbean cruise is your solution.

Panema cruises

Panama cruises

Panama Sea Cruise

The sea, the sun and beautiful places are what cruises are. There is something in a cruise that makes the adventure of visiting new places and cultures more fun and exciting. Perhaps it is the idea of ​​being on the high seas and discovering the invisible regions of the world that seduce all explorers.

If you are planning a visit to Panama, the best way to do this is on a Panama cruise. After all, the country is bordered on both sides by bodies of water, the North Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. One of the country’s greatest treasures is its magnificent and exotic marine life. And where can you a better experience, but cruise?

There are many cruises and cruise ships to choose from. You must first decide where you want to board the ship. If you live in a port, like Vancouver or San Francisco, from where the trip begins, you can start your adventure from your hometown. Alternatively, you can choose the port from which you wish to embark and spend a few days exploring it.

There are many types of cruises, such as those that are more formal and those designed specifically for families. Choose a cruise that meets your requirements and fits your perfect cruise project. You can choose a cruise of a week or a cruise of more than fifteen days. You must also decide if you want to end your cruise in Panama and go to the interior of the country or limit yourself to the coastal areas.

A cruise to Panama also often includes a stopover in Costa Rica and you will also enjoy seeing the country. Of course, finally, your budget for the cruise will also play a vital role in your choice of cruises. Most cruises in Panama stop in some of the most beautiful parts of the country. This would include stops at San Blas Islands, Isla de Coiba, Panama Canal, Golfo Dulce, Corcovado National Park, and Darien.

One of the wonderful things about a cruise is that you do not have to worry about organizing your trip, food and accommodation details. Plus, you do not have to worry about getting on a plane or train to get from one place to another. This helps make your vacation really relaxed and enjoyable. The cost of a cruise in Panama depends on many factors, including the duration of the cruise, accommodation, and services.

Best time to go on a cruise to Pamana

The tourist season in Panama starts in September and ends in April. The winter months are relatively dry, while the summer months are rainy. You must also decide the time of your cruise according to the type of climate you prefer. January and February can be quite hot during the day, while April is relatively cooler. If you are interested in diving and whale watching, look for the best season for these activities. Regardless of when you choose to go on a cruise to Panama, you can rest assured that it will be an experience of your life.

If you want to take a short cruise to discover what it means to cross the Panama Canal, you can also do it. You can also embark in one of the chosen ports and decide to continue your holidays in the countries of Central America.

A cruise to Panama is a wonderful way to arrive in this wonderful tropical paradise. There are many cruises to choose from and you are sure to find the one that suits you best.

Cruising with Royal Caribbean

Canary islands cruise

Canary islands cruise

Canary Islands Sea Cruises

If your aim for taking a cruise is to enjoy some sunshine, voyages that call at destinations in the Canary Islands are likely to be perfect.

The group of islands, which are part of Spain but located off Africa’s north-west coast, have a great climate, with long, sunny days and soaring temperatures during the summer. Even during the winter, rain is rare and it is more than warm enough to enjoy an afternoon on the beach or sightseeing outdoors.

Such fine weather has helped to make many of the islands in the archipelago popular holiday destinations, particularly with people who like to spend their break doing little more than working on their tan. But beautiful beaches are not the only attraction, as there is a rich culture to enjoy and a spectacular volcanic landscape to explore.

Book Canary Islands and West Africa cruises and the itinerary is likely to include a stop at the port city of Las Palmas on Gran Canaria.

Las Palmas is packed with historic buildings, such as the Palacio Regental and the beautiful Santa Ana Cathedral, as well as being within easy traveling distance of some idyllic formal gardens.

Take a trip out to Palmitos Park and you will be able to spend a relaxing afternoon in the sun strolling through the botanical gardens and visiting the bird sanctuary, where you will see such exotic species as pelicans and toucans.

Tenerife is another great place to visit during a Canary Islands cruise. It may be best known for its bars and packed beaches, but it also has some spectacular terrain to explore in the national park around the snow-capped Mount Teide volcano – which is Spain’s highest mountain.

If you are looking for something a little lazier to do while in Tenerife, why not spend a few hours at the lively markets in Santa Cruz before boarding a catamaran for a whale-watching trip?

Lanzarote is another island best known for its beaches, but with stunning scenery to see inland. The rugged volcanic landscape has a strange beauty and you are sure to enjoy visiting the La Geria region, which is home to a number of wineries.

Choose the right Canaries cruise and you will also have the opportunity to head off the usual tourist trail and explore some of the smaller islands. You may just be surprised by the unspoiled beauty of the countryside on La Gomera and the spectacular churches of La Palma.

 

France barge cruise

 

France Barge River Cruises

A sea cruise is a wonderful experience, no doubt, and a riverboat cruise can also be a fun vacation. But neither of them come close to a luxury barge cruise in France. The question is, what is the difference between French river cruises and other types of cruises?

First, France is absolutely the ideal place for cruising. It is the ideal place for art, architecture, romance, culture, wine, and gourmet cuisine. You can have all this by gently gliding on the Seine through Paris and up to Normandy, on the Rhone by sunny Provence, along the Canal de Bourgogne in rustic Burgundy, through the wetlands of Camargue or on the majestic Canal du Midi in Languedoc. There is also the Loire Valley with its abundance of Renaissance castles, as well as the regions of Alsace and Champagne.

Barge cruise offers the chance to discover the local culture. The pace is slow, and the distances traveled are short. In addition, a barge can navigate narrow, man-made canals and travel to places where the largest river cruisers could never dream of reaching. For this reason, it is the ideal way to venture on less-traveled routes in the depths of the countryside. Once there, you will have plenty of opportunities to stroll through picturesque villages, where the smiling faces of locals welcome you. It is also common to walk along the towpath of the canal and visit small vineyards to meet the winemaker and taste their wine. And, it’s not uncommon to come across a local market filled with unusual items typical of the area.

You can “make” your own cruise. Most barge cruises have defined routes. They go up the river one week and come back the other way. But the barges are usually small (4 to 15 passengers), a charter is easy to organize.

There are themed cruises for private groups or families, and they can be organized to suit your needs and interests. Wine, golf and cycling are the most popular themed cruises, but there are many more: chocolate and wine in Burgundy, art and painting in Provence, Mediterranean gardens in the south of France ‘are part of the options.

And one of the barge’s claims to fame is cooking. The culinary experience is the heart and soul of a barge cruise. Every day, the chef prepares special gourmet meals using fresh local and seasonal products. Delicious local wines are associated with your meals. And cheeses are always part of the menu, of course. Every effort is made to keep your taste buds happy all the time. On some of these boats, drinks are included in the package.

The barge cruise is truly an experience of relaxation and rejuvenation. For many people, this is a unique event that inevitably leaves loving and romantic memories.

This is the good life, far from the pressures of modern life. Imagine drifting gently into pastoral landscapes, through historic towns, under ancient stone bridges or past medieval mansions and castles while sipping a local vintage. Paradise!

To follow: List of 10 biggest, most relevant Cruise Lines and suggestions for each mentioned destination how to go (sep. 2019) 

Sea cruises information

Man sightseeing on small raft amongst beautiful Icebergs at Antarctica.

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