Seven Cruises that Take You to the Most Beautiful Parts of the World

With a cruise vacation it is now more possible than ever to explore some of the most gorgeous and exotic locations across the globe. From the rivers of Europe to the islands of the South Pacific, the only restriction on where you can go is an accessible waterway.

The great thing about a cruise is that all the planning is done for you. There is no need to book multiple hotels and arrange for transportation between destinations because your transportation is your hotel!

Here are a few ideas for exciting cruises to beautiful places. Don't be afraid to consider something that is a little off the beaten path. You never know what you might find there.

1. Australia/New Zealand Cruise

This exciting cruise departs from Sydney and sets sail off into the Pacific. One of the exciting features of this trip is a stop at the gorgeous Isle of Pines. This New Caledonian island is often called "l'ile la plus proche du paradis" which translates to "the closest island to paradise." The Isle of Pines is primarily famous for the great snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities in its pristine lagoon.

Another destination on this tour is the capital city of New Caledonia, Noumea. This often-overlooked city has more days of sunshine than any other Pacific Island capital. This works out great because of all the city's fantastic beaches! This cruise is a great way to see some gorgeous places that you probably never heard of before.

2. Europe/North Sea

Many European cruises take advantage of the waters of the Mediterranean, but this cruise departs from London and explores the cities of the North Sea!

After a stop in Brussels, you will set sail to Copenhagen, the capital and largest city of Denmark. This gorgeous and historical city has one of the best quality of life ratings of any city in the world. It is also incredibly environmentally friendly. Over a third of the city's residents commute to work by bike and the water in the harbor is so clean you can swim in it!

This cruise also has stops in Helsinborg, Sweden and Oslo, Norway. It is truly an unbelievable opportunity to explore the diverse cities and people of the North Sea.

3. Europe/Mediterranean Cruise

Of course if you haven't gone on a cruise of the Mediterranean, you should know that it is popular for a reason. The waters, sights, and people of the Mediterranean Sea are unlike anywhere else in the world.

This particular cruise leaves Malaga, Spain and has its first stop in the city of Ajaccio, Corsica. As the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte, this city is rich in history and ready to be explored.

Next it is off to the southern coast of France, specifically the Provence region. This area is renowned for its mild climate, music, food and wine. This short cruise packs in a great deal of beauty, history, and culture.

4. Mexican Riviera Cruise

Cruises of the Caribbean parts of Mexico are common, but vacationers are just now starting to rediscover the Pacific coast of Mexico. This cruise leaves San Diego and explores the Mexican Riviera.

One of the most exciting stops on this trip is the Mexican city of Mazatlan. The waters off the coast of this tropical city are renowned as amazing sport fishing territory. The city itself is a haven for cultural exploration.

There is a booming classical music scene and the main through street, the Calle Constitucion, is closed in the evenings on the weekends. This is so that natives and tourists alike can explore the arts, cuisine, and nightlife of the city center.

5. Alaska Cruise

Cruises of the Alaskan coast are a great way to see some gorgeous scenery. As a special treat, this cruise skirts the coast of the Hubbard Glacier, the longest tidewater glacier in Alaska.

The Alaskan town of Sitka is another highlight of the trip. Kayaking day trips are offered and they are a great way to get a closer look at Alaska's dynamic coastline. Hiking trails are also abundant near Sitka. If you are looking for a cruise that is rife with outdoor opportunities, then you can't go wrong with an Alaskan tour.

6. Asia Cruise

Cruises throughout the Indian Ocean are also becoming more popular. This cruise leaves Hong Kong and has its first stop at the island city of Sanya. This town has gorgeous tropical beaches and is actually the training ground for China's beach volleyball team.

The town itself is full of exciting things to do and see. There is a butterfly museum, a shell aquarium, and an amazing 108-meter statue of Guan Yin. It is one of the tallest statues in the world and it took six years to complete. Sanya and the other destinations on this trip have ample opportunities for either relaxation or exploration.

7. Southern Caribbean Cruise

With more and more people discovering the joys of a cruise vacation, the number of destinations is growing as well. Even though the Caribbean has always been a big area for cruises, cruise companies are now branching off to explore new destinations within the Caribbean.

Castries, the capital of Saint Lucia, is one town that has greatly benefited from the tourism boom. When your ship docks there are taxis readily available to take you on tours of the city. You can even tour it on a water taxi! One of the most exciting sites in Castries is the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception. It is the largest church in the Caribbean and a can't miss on this trip!

The world is full of beautiful places, interesting people, and fascinating cultures. A cruise isn't the only way to explore the world, but it is one of the easiest and most exciting ways to see places you've only dreamed of.

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