Has it ever crossed your mind doing a cruise around the world that goes beyond the usual Mediterranean routes? While sun-soaked stops in Italy, Greece, and Spain are always a favourite, there’s a whole ocean of bucket list cruises out there just waiting to take your travel game to the next level.
If you’ve ever dreamed of a once-in-a-lifetime voyage - think glaciers in Alaska, ancient wonders in Egypt, or rare wildlife in the Galápagos - these extraordinary voyages offer more than just pretty ports. They offer memories that last a lifetime.
Let’s explore 7 epic cruise destinations that deserve a spot on your travel bucket list.
1. Galápagos Islands: A wildlife lover’s dream
This is not your average tropical cruise. The Galápagos is one of the most pristine ecosystems on Earth, where animals rule the land and the sea. The islands are remote, wild, and incredibly well-preserved. Most Galápagos cruises use smaller expedition ships, which means a more intimate, eco-friendly experience. Daily excursions include snorkelling with sea turtles, kayaking near volcanic shores, and walking on lava trails that feel otherworldly. It’s educational, wild, and absolutely unforgettable.
Celebrity Cruises is one of the most popular choices, offering year-round Galápagos itineraries aboard purpose-built ships like the Celebrity Flora, designed specifically for this region.
2. Alaska: Glaciers, whales & northern wonders
There’s something magical about sipping coffee on your balcony while cruising past ice-blue glaciers. Alaska is one of the most awe-inspiring cruise destinations out there, offering a front-row seat to nature’s raw power. You can expect to see whales breaching, bald eagles soaring, and bears foraging along the shoreline. Add in charming ports like Ketchikan and Skagway, and excursions like dog sledding or glacier hiking, and it’s easy to see why Alaska is a top bucket list pick.
You’ll find fantastic Alaska itineraries from Celebrity Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean, all offering different styles, from luxurious to family-friendly.
3. Panama Canal: One of the world’s greatest voyages
Watching your ship pass through the Panama Canal is one of those "wow" travel moments. You’ll see the inner workings of one of the greatest engineering feats in history, all while cruising between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
Panama Canal cruises are often two to three weeks long and stop in amazing places like Colombia, Costa Rica, and Mexico. For this incredible journey, consider Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, or Princess Cruises, known for well-rounded itineraries and smooth canal transits.
4. Norwegian Fjords: Peaceful, powerful, and picture-perfect
Norway’s fjords offer scenery so dramatic and surreal, you’ll wonder if it’s even real. Waterfalls tumble down steep cliffs, tiny villages perch on lush hillsides, and the stillness of the fjords makes everything feel serene. Summer is the best time to go, with long daylight hours and the chance to experience the midnight sun.
Top cruise lines here include Princess Cruises, MSC Cruises, NCL, Celebrity, Royal Caribbean, and Holland America Line, all offering stunning itineraries through this incredible part of Northern Europe.
5. Africa to Asia: An epic cross-continent adventure
If you’ve got a sense of adventure (and a bit more time), how about a cruise from Africa to Asia? These longer voyages take you to places like Cape Town, Mauritius, Singapore, and sometimes even the Maldives. While not as common as other routes, these cruises are often part of longer repositioning or world cruise segments.
Look to lines like Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, and MSC for well-planned itineraries connecting these distant parts of the globe in style.
6. Egypt & Jordan: History, culture, and coastline
A cruise through Egypt and Jordan is perfect for history and culture lovers. This 29-day journey offered by lines like MSC Cruises includes unforgettable stops like Petra, Aqaba and Sharm El-Sheikh, plus stunning destinations across Mauritius, Madagascar, and the Seychelles. Walk through the rose-red ruins of Petra, dive into the Red Sea’s coral reefs, and soak in the blend of ancient history and island paradise. With diverse ports and relaxing sea days, it’s a one-of-a-kind adventure.
7. Mexico’s Pacific Coast: Relaxed, colourful, and full of flavour
Sometimes, your bucket list just needs a bit of sunshine. A cruise along Mexico’s Pacific coast is all about vibrant culture, amazing food, and golden beaches. Visit Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta, and Mazatlán, all with their own unique flair. It’s a perfect mix of laid-back luxury and rich cultural discovery.
Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line offer sailings to Mexico and they’re all incredible. The only thing you really need to worry about is which dates to book off from work!
So, which one’s calling you?
Bucket list cruises don’t have to be a dream. With the right planning and a little sense of adventure, these incredible voyages can become real memories you’ll treasure forever. From spotting whales in Alaska to wandering lost cities in Jordan, these cruises turn travel into something truly unforgettable.
Let us know your dream cruise in the comments - or better yet, start planning it. Our awesome cruise team is just one call away at 014081999, ready to help you plan the adventure of a lifetime!
