Everyone wants to visit unique and exotic destinations, though the required planning often turns travelers away. If you're interested in seeing multiple destinations in one trip, a cruise is one of the best ways to do so. Cruises are package deals, which means your fare includes several aspects of your trip. You can add fun activities and excursions at your destination, then sit back and relax while the crew handles all the navigation and logistics. Cruise ships sail to many desirable vacation spots throughout the year.
Discover some of the best cruises this year when planning your next getaway.
What Are the Best Cruises 2023?
Every cruise destination offers something different, allowing you to choose one that suits your interests and travel bucket list. Whether you want a tropical getaway during the winter or a cruise through the Arctic during the summer, there's something for everyone. Consider some of these top cruise destinations when planning your next trip.
The British Isles
Britain has numerous destinations worth exploring, including the coastline. A cruise along the British Isles provides a front-row view of the coast's ruggedly beautiful scenery. You can explore the coastal villages, beaches, history and wildlife with stops in several charming ports. Even if you've traveled to Britain before, a British Isles cruise gives you a fresh perspective and allows you to experience different areas of these countries.
Alaska
Alaskan cruises are an easy way to experience the United States' largest state. These cruises can vary, as there's much to see at this destination. The state is home to a protected waterway network that smaller cruise ships can navigate for the opportunity to travel on fjords and through lush forests with wildlife ranging from humpback whales to brown bears. Other Alaskan cruises include longer on-shore experiences, allowing you to visit natural wonders like Denali Mountain, North America's highest peak.
Regardless of the cruise or tour you take, you're sure to see stunning scenery during all legs of the journey.
The Galápagos Islands
The Galápagos are an archipelago of volcanic rocks and islands located off the coast of Ecuador. The islands are a “living museum” because of the unique species that have evolved to live there. Since the Galápagos is relatively isolated, small to medium-sized cruises only sail to and around the islands. Galápagos Islands cruises typically highlight popular and remote sites around the islands and offer the ability to take excursions through Galápagos National Park.
The Galápagos are also a popular snorkeling destination, as the islands are home to colorful marine life and beautiful waters.
The Danube River
The Danube River flows through or along 10 European countries, including Germany, Croatia and Romania. Danube River cruises offer the opportunity to visit multiple countries and several cities along the river. The cities you might see on your cruise, like Vienna and Budapest, are rich in culture, history, art and much more worth exploring. Cruises through this area typically offer numerous excursions, giving you many opportunities to truly experience the river.
Iceland
Known as the “Land of Fire and Ice,” Iceland has a unique landscape of glaciers and volcanoes. Cruises to this island are best when they allow you to fully explore the towns and nature. From volcanic craters and lava fields to thermal springs and waterfalls, Iceland has numerous mesmerizing sites to experience. While Iceland is near the Arctic Circle, many areas are surprisingly temperate, which makes exploring the towns and natural wonders more enjoyable.
Ireland
Ireland is a popular tourist destination for its rolling countryside, friendly towns and historic castles. Many cruises to Ireland port in Cork, which is a relatively short drive from sights like the Cliffs of Moher and Blarney Castle. Other popular cities to see in Ireland include Dublin and Belfast, where museums, art galleries and bars are abundant. Whether you'd rather walk down cobblestoned streets lined with colorful buildings or wander Ireland's green fields and sea cliffs, this cruise destination offers something for everyone.
Some cruises tour multiple countries in this area, including Iceland, Ireland and Greenland, giving you a taste of all these destinations.
The Caribbean
The Caribbean is one of the best cruise destinations. With numerous islands, beaches and potential excursions, Caribbean cruises are among the best ways to take a tropical getaway. These cruises may take you to one or multiple Caribbean destinations, including the Bahamas, Bermuda, Puerto Rico, Aruba, the Cayman Islands, Jamaica and more. Relax on white sandy beaches or snorkel with tropical fish while soaking up the sun regardless of when you visit.
The Caribbean is also a popular destination because it's relatively close to many ports on the East Coast, making it possible to cruise down for short or extended trips.
Antarctica
If you want a once-in-a-lifetime experience, consider cruises to Antarctica. This continent is mostly uninhabited, so most Antarctic cruises stop at the peninsula that sticks out in the ocean toward South America. Because this destination is so isolated, cruises require an expert crew and specially designed ships. You may be able to take excursions like ice camping, polar scuba diving and snowshoeing, depending on conditions. The icy waters and glaciers are home to millions of penguins and other marine life you would be lucky to witness.
Venice
If you're considering a cruise to Italy, be sure it includes opportunities to explore Venice. As one of the most iconic Italian cities, Venice and its winding canals are well worth your time. You'll find something to marvel at around every corner, like waterfront markets, gondola rides, local artisans and beautiful architecture.
Australia
Australia is a fascinating destination with a little bit of everything. From exploring the outback and wildlife to snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef to enjoying the city life in Sydney, Australian cruises allow you to pick and choose your adventures depending on where and when you go. Because Australia is unique and offers so much to do, it ranks as one of the best places to go on a cruise.
Cruise the World With AAA
As a AAA member, you can access numerous discounted cruise packages. Whether you want to island-hop the Caribbean or explore faraway countries, cruise packages through AAA make planning your next getaway straightforward and stress-free. From arranging flights to providing parking and round-trip transfers, our cruise packages and travel agents ensure you have everything you need.
Explore our cruise options and reach out to our team of travel agents for help planning your dream cruise.
