The 15 Best Cruise Ship Destinations in the World

Alaska: Glacier Bay*

Part of one of the world’s largest international protected areas, Glacier Bay National Park offers visitors spectacular views of constantly changing glaciers, as well as a chance to see rainforests and wildlife, including grizzly bears, bald eagles and humpback whales. While large cruise ships can’t dock in the bay, many spend several hours sailing through.

*Rankings from the Cruisers’ Choice Destination Awards 2016 by CruiseCritic.com.

Asia and South Pacific: Mystery Island

The calm, clear waters and coral reefs surrounding this tiny, uninhabited island off the Vanuatu archipelago is an ideal spot for swimming and snorkeling. Walking the circumference of the islet takes just 20 minutes.

Australia and New Zealand: Sydney

Cruisers to Sydney, Australia, get to take in world-famous architectural landmarks such as the Opera House and Harbour Bridge, located in the heart of the city. There are also several nearby beaches that offer both natural beauty and high-end shopping and dining.

Baltics & Scandinavia: St. Petersburg

This historic Russian City, founded more than 300 years ago by Peter the Great, boasts magnificent palaces, churches and the famous Hermitage Museum. Its opera and ballet houses offer world-class productions.

British Isles and Western Europe: Amsterdam

A wonderfully walkable city, Amsterdam allows cruisers to hop off their ships and spend the day enjoying strolls along the cobblestone streets and canals. The city’s world-famous cafes cater to tourists who need to stop for a bite between shopping and exploring its memorable museums.

Private Islands: Castaway Cay

This 1,000-acre island, owned by the Walt Disney Company, serves only passengers of Disney Cruises. There’s enough to do for free here that you won’t have to pay for for additional excursions.

Eastern Caribbean, Bahamas & Bermuda: St. Maarten

Shopping and the beaches are the main attractions on the Dutch side of this classic Caribbean island. Those looking for something different can find horseback riding and hiking.

Eastern Mediterranean: Venice

One of the most beautiful and romantic cities in the world, experiencing Venice on a gondola is an experience that can’t be duplicated. The city’s bistros serve up seafood and other Italian fare that can fuel a day spent shopping or touring iconic sites like St. Mark’s Square.

European River: Paris

In addition bucket-list destinations like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre, the City of Lights offers visitors a romantic and metropolitan experience with opportunities for sightseeing, shopping, and fine dining throughout the city.

Hawaii: Kauai

Known as the “island of discovery,” Kauai offers visitors an array of natural beauty, from white sand beaches to breathtaking mountains. Hanalei Town on the island’s north shore offers visitors a chance to take in some local culture with its art galleries and ukulele concerts.

Mexican Riviera & South America: Puerto Vallarta

This city on the Bay of Banderas is popular not only with tourists but with sea animals as well. It draws Pacific dolphins as well as hundreds of humpback whales every winter. Puerto cruisers can spend the day on the beach or enjoying the Malecón, a 2,900-foot boardwalk linked with restaurants, boutiques and other attractions.

South Caribbean: Bonaire

Located 50 miles off the coast of Venezuela, Bonaire has long emphasized eco-tourism and celebrating its natural beauty. That focus makes it a prime destination for snorkelers and scuba divers. The island has more than 60 official dive sites and boasts more than 350 fish species.

U.S. and Canada: San Francisco

This global tech hub is also a mecca for tourists, who pack into the cable cars traversing its famously hilly streets and flock to sites like the Golden Gate Bridge and the “painted ladies” houses. Other notable attractions include Chinatown, Fisherman’s Wharf and historic Alcatraz Island.

Western Caribbean and Riviera Maya: Cozumel

As many as eight cruise ships a day visit Mexico’s largest Caribbean island. In addition to snorkeling and scuba diving, the island offers ways to experience the wildlife, such as jungle trail hikes and sea turtle sanctuaries.

Western Mediterranean: Barcelona

The Barri Gòtic (Gothic Quarter) in this beautiful, cosmopolitan city is the perfect place to enjoy a traditional tapas meal and a pitcher of sangria. For those looking for a different experience, riding the Tramvia Blau train to the top of Tibidabo mountain pays off with an amusement park overlooking the entire city.