Mirella Pandjaitan
Oct 15, 2025
Ever dreamed of waking up to an endless view of the open sea, or sipping a cocktail on the deck as the sun sets on the horizon? That’s the magic of a cruise vacation.
It might be the best vacation you’ve ever had. Imagine unpacking just once, but waking up in a different destination almost every morning. That’s the magnificence of cruising; it’s a holiday where the journey is just as incredible as the places you visit.
A cruise combines luxury, convenience, and adventure—all in one floating resort. It’s also a great value. Your accommodation, meals, transport between destinations, and most entertainment are all included in one price, making it easy to budget and fully enjoy your trip without unexpected costs.
Cruise as a solo traveller, a couple seeking romance, or a family looking for hassle-free fun. Either way, cruising takes the stress out of planning and replaces it with pure excitement.
Things to do on board
Depending on the cruise line you opt for, the ships are similar to mini cities at sea, packed with world-class facilities.
While you enjoy some alone adult time, the little ones will be supervised and entertained in absolute fun at kids’ clubs, teen lounges, game zones, and splash parks. Cruises are a hit for all ages, after all. Therefore, no excuses for relaxing and recharging! Unwind in the spa, soak in a hot tub with ocean views, or enjoy a quiet moment with a book on your private balcony. Many ships also offer adult-only pools and relaxation zones for total peace of mind.
Get active! Try a rock-climbing wall, go ice-skating, hit the gym, or join a morning yoga session on deck. Some ships even have surf simulators, water parks, or zip lines. With plenty of time aboard, you can optimise it wisely to learn and explore. Take part in cooking classes, wine tastings, photography workshops, or talks by guest lecturers and naturalists, depending on your cruise route.
Cruise ships feature boutiques with duty-free shopping. Shop and stroll around the stores selling the latest apparel, jewellery, skincare, and souvenirs. All of that shopping will get you famished. Cruises cater to every taste. Dine around the world at gourmet restaurants, casual buffets, and speciality dining. One night you’re savouring sushi, the next night it’s Italian fine dining bathed in starlight. Afterwards, be entertained with Broadway-style shows, live music, stand-up comedy, and movie nights under the stars.
7 cruise destinations to consider
Set your background against tropical islands or icy glaciers in one luxurious journey. Ready to set sail? The world is waiting. Below are seven destinations that promise once-in-a-lifetime adventures.
Alaska
Think cruising is just for warm-weather getaways? Think again. The land of glaciers and incredible wildlife, aka Alaska, is a breathtaking alternative with its icy fjords, majestic glaciers, and encounters with wildlife you’ll never forget.
Must-visit ports:
1. Juneau – Take a helicopter ride to a glacier or meet a team of huskies
2. Ketchikan – Watch wild salmon swim upstream in scenic rivers
3. Skagway – A historic town with Wild West charm and stunning mountain views
Recommended cruise lines: Princess Cruises, Holland America, or Norwegian Cruise Line
Antarctica
A true adventurer at heart must embark on the ultimate expedition to the ends of the earth: Antarctica. Cruise through pristine, icy landscapes where penguins and seals roam freely, and where every view looks exactly like a painting.
Must-visit ports:
1. Antarctic Peninsula – Meet penguins in their natural habitat
2. Paradise Bay – A breathtaking scene of glaciers and icy mountains
3. Ushuaia, Argentina – The southernmost city in the world and your starting point
Recommended cruise lines: Quark Expeditions, Silversea, or Hurtigruten for the ultimate polar adventure
Dubai and The Arabian Gulf
Dubai is more than just skyscrapers. It’s a gateway to luxurious cruising, blending the mystery of the desert with the allure of the sea.
Must-visit ports:
1. Abu Dhabi, UAE – Visit the stunning Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
2. Dubai, UAE – Home to world-famous malls and record-breaking buildings
3. Muscat, Oman – Explore traditional souks, desert landscapes, and clear waters
Recommended cruise lines: MSC Cruises, Costa Cruises, or Celebrity Cruises for a VIP experience
Norway
Norway feels similar to a real-life fairytale. Its dramatic landscapes, from deep fjords to cascading waterfalls, make it one of the most scenic cruise destinations in the world.
Must-visit ports:
1. Bergen – A charming, colourful city with Viking history
2. Flam – Take the legendary Flåm Railway for one of the most beautiful train rides on Earth
3. Geiranger – Home to the iconic Geirangerfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Recommended cruise lines: Hurtigruten, Holland America, or Seabourn for an exclusive experience
Southeast Asia
Looking for something exotic and budget-friendly? Southeast Asia delivers with its abundant cultures, stunning beaches, and world-renowned cuisine.
Must-visit ports:
1. Bali, Indonesia – The perfect mix of culture, nature, and relaxation
2. Phuket, Thailand – Gorgeous beaches and a vibrant nightlife scene
3. Singapore – A modern metropolis with futuristic attractions
Recommended cruise lines: Royal Caribbean, Star Cruises, or Silversea
The Caribbean
What is a tropical paradise that never goes out of style? The Caribbean. This classic destination has everything sunseekers desire: crystal-clear waters, powdery white beaches, and laid-back island ambience, perfect for all ages.
Must-visit ports:
1. Cozumel, Mexico – Dive into colourful reefs or explore ancient Mayan ruins
2. Nassau, Bahamas – Snorkel or swim with pigs in the Exumas
3. St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands – A shopping haven with duty-free perks
Recommended cruise lines: Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, or Disney Cruise Line (perfect for families)
The Mediterranean
Looking to combine iconic landmarks, mouthwatering food, and jaw-dropping coastlines? The Mediterranean is your answer. One cruise lets you hop between countries, cultures, and centuries of history.
Must-visit ports:
1. Barcelona, Spain – Feast on tapas while admiring Gaudí’s architecture
2. Rome, Italy – Explore the Colosseum and treat yourself to authentic gelato
3. Santorini, Greece – Famous for its whitewashed houses and blue-domed churches
Recommended cruise lines: MSC Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, or Viking Ocean Cruises for a premium experience