Cruise vacations are more popular than ever, and they're constantly expanding their voyage offerings. If you and your family are cruise experts and have traveled to the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, Alaska, and even Mexico, you may believe your cruising days are over. Fortunately, there are plenty of options you haven't explored yet. If you want to take your family on a new cruise, check out this list of unique ideas.
1. Pacific Coast
The Pacific Northwest,
California coastline, and sometimes even western Mexico are popular stops on
this type of cruise. Check out cruises
from San Francisco or Los Angeles, and enjoy the world-class wineries,
museums, restaurants, and famous attractions such as the Golden gate Bridge and
the Hollywood sign.
If you head farther north, you
can see the majestic sequoia trees in northern California, Oregon, and
Washington. The many nature excursions are sure to please all of the
adventurers in your family–such as kayaking, hiking, and even zip lining. While
docked in Seattle, ride 43 floors up to the top of the Space Needle and take in
the breathtaking view, and then head to the Pacific Science Center or the
Seattle Aquarium for some educational fun.
2. Amazon River
Cruises to South American
destinations–such as Argentina, Chile, and Brazil–are pretty popular, yet an
Amazon River voyage is unique because it allows you to cruise the interior of
the continent. The riverboats will take you through the lush rainforest, where
wildlife and plant life are plentiful. Spot rare creatures in their natural
habitat while luxuriating on your suite's private balcony. Plus, an Amazon
cruise is perfect for those who want to experience a cruise but get easily
seasick; the nature of a river cruise is a lot gentler, so count on smooth
sailing.
3. Nile River
If you fell in love with river
cruises while exploring the Amazon River, you're going to love the Nile. If you
have a history buff in the family, do them a favor and take them on this trip!
You'll be able to marvel at the pyramids from your luxurious accommodations and
then disembark and tour them in person. See other attractions such as the
Sphinx and King Tut's tomb while enjoying traditional Egyptian foods and music.
Be sure to visit the Museum of Antiquities, which features a whopping 120,000
artifacts representative of ancient Egyptian culture.
4. Antarctica
Antarctica is an ideal cruise destination if there are any science and nature enthusiasts in your group. Generally, these cruises leave from Buenos Aires, Argentina, or Santiago, Chile, and travel to Ushuaia, Argentina–the southernmost city in the world! After Ushuaia, it's time to journey down to Antarctica and observe many species of whales and penguins in their natural habitats. Perhaps you can also try whale watching long beach during winter and spring to witness the annual Grey Whale migration. Another exciting aspect of cruises to Antarctica is that their route changes due to weather conditions and ice. Take walking excursions or explore the coastline and bays via a zodiac boat.
5. Oceana
Oceana is a region containing
countries such as Australia, New Zealand, and French Polynesia. All of these
countries feature incredible landscapes, breathtaking scenery, and rich history
and culture. In Australia, you'll visit attractions such as the Sydney Opera
House and Sydney Aquarium, as well as the Melbourne Skydeck and the Royal
Botanic Gardens.
Travel on to Aukland, New
Zealand, and marvel at the Harbour Bridge and the Aukland Art Gallery. If
you're a Lord
of the Rings fan, you can tour the gorgeous filming locations featured in
the epic film.
In French Polynesia, you'll see
the famous Tuamotu Archipeligo, which is the largest chain of atolls (islands
made of coral) in the world. You'll also see ancient ruins, volcanoes, and
lagoons–making it the perfect destination for history buffs and nature lovers
alike.
Hopefully, one of these
destinations ignites a new interest in cruising for you and your family! The
world is vast with many places, people, foods, and cultures to experience and
explore. If you want to go off the beaten track and explore new corners of the
globe, a cruise is a perfect way to see the world in style.
