Top 10 Cruise Destinations in the World Right Now

From heart-pounding Alaskan glaciers to balmy Caribbean beaches, cultural immersion in ancient wonders to adrenaline-pumping adventure across uncharted waters – you name it, this list has it all. 

And the best part? This isn't just a generic "top 10" list. We've handpicked these destinations based on current trends, insider knowledge, and what's truly setting the cruise world ablaze right now.

So, ditch the confusion and get ready to set sail towards unforgettable experiences. Let’s dive into our list of top 10 cruise destinations and discover the perfect cruise for you to create memories that will last a lifetime!

1. Alaska

Source: Cruise Critic

If you’re after a scenic cruise to wild extremes, Alaska arguably will be your best option. Cruises to the “Last Frontier” of America usually start from cities like Seattle and Vancouver. On the way, the ships will stop at some epic locations such as the Tracy Arm Fjord, Glacier Bay National Park, the Inside Passage, Juneau, and Skagway. This is also one of the top cruise destinations for wildlife watching, including everything from bears and eagles to orcas and sea otters.

2. Norway

A cruise on the Norwegian coast is nothing short of breathtaking. Winding in and out of towering fjords, sometimes home to picturesque fishing villages, you will get to see Norway’s fantastic natural beauty up close. This is a cruise that is epic every season of the year, summer brings long days and wonderfully green scenery, while winter is great for watching the Northern Lights.

3. The Mediterranean

Source: Escape

When it comes to the hottest cruise destinations, it’s hard to imagine a better place to go than the Mediterranean. This large secluded sea had served as the birthplace of civilization and probably the first area that connected different cultures. This cruise will take you to places like the beaches of the Greek islands, the wonders of Ancient Rome, cities such as Barcelona, Monaco, Venice, and Dubrovnik, and a plethora of other places of interest.

4. Japan

Japan may be an interesting surprise on a list of the best cruise destinations, but it definitely deserves its place. In fact, you’ll hardly find a more varied cruise within one single country. A country of fascinating contrast, Japan has the mesmerizing crowds of Tokyo but also the tranquility of mountain retreats. You’ll get to see volcanoes and lakes, a myriad of temples, and towering skyscrapers. If you’ve never visited Japan before, this is the perfect time to explore the colors, cultures, and flavors that define this exciting country.

5. The Caribbean

Arguably one of the best cruise destinations the Caribbean continues to live up to its status. The place leads to visualizations of vast white beaches, slouching palm trees, and turquoise waters. With more than 700 islands, islets, and cays, the Caribbean offers saturated landscapes and crystalline coastlines along with a myriad of unique experiences, and cultures. This makes this place all the more awesome. 

Usually, cruises to the Caribbean are divided into Western and Eastern Caribbean. While the former focuses on Mexico and the Central American coast, the latter sails to places such as the Virgin Islands,  St. Maarten, Curacao, and Bonaire.

6. Hawaii 

Another top cruise destination in the world today is Hawaii. This world-popular archipelago in the middle of the Pacific Ocean is the epitome of a sun, sea, and sand vacation. Cruising around the Hawaiian Islands involves everything from volcano excursions and sampling local cuisine to enjoying Polynesian traditions and visiting iconic Waikiki Beach.

7. Baltic Sea

A less-visited corner of Europe, the Baltic Sea is relatively small in the northeast of the continent. But just because it’s not as popular as the Mediterranean, that doesn’t mean it’s less worthy of a visit. The place is cool, calm, and charming and offers you the chance to see some breathtaking locations. Many gorgeous historic cities dot the shores of the Baltic Sea, including Stockholm, Riga, Tallinn, and Helsinki. A Baltic Sea cruise also generally includes a visit to stunning St. Petersburg, Russia’s capital of culture and the arts.

8. Danube River

Europe’s most iconic river, the Danube River flows through no fewer than ten different countries on its way from Germany’s Black Forest to the Black Sea. Hence, a Danube River cruise is one of the greatest cruises you could ever take. Today. It’s considered one of the world’s best cruise destinations.

9. British Isles

Source: Bolsover Cruise Club

There are many reasons why British Isles is one of the absolute best cruise destinations. But, the main ones are the variety of landscapes, from the Scottish Highlands to the White Cliffs of Dover, iconic cities like London, Liverpool, Dublin, and Glasgow, and the countless castles and museums that are truly worth visiting.

10. Mekong River

The Mekong River is one of Asia’s most impressive waterways, fed by Himalayan snow and meandering for 2,700 miles to its mouth in South Vietnam. It flows through a total of six countries and is the lifeblood of countless people. With a Mekong River cruise, you will get to see a whole stunning variety, from Buddhist temples to POW camps and genocide museums, from busy cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Phnom Penh to sleepy riverside villages.

So there you’ve it, these 10 are the top cruise destinations in the world right now, as we see it. If you think there’s another place that belongs on this list, let us know in the comments below!

Frequently Asked Questions 

Q. Is Princess a good cruise line?

Whether Princess Cruises is a good cruise line for you depends on your individual preferences, however, Princess Cruises is known for an array of onboard options, and an environment of exceptional customer service. They offer a traditional cruise experience with a focus on relaxation, comfort, and personalized service. This appeals to travelers who prefer a refined and sophisticated atmosphere. On the other hand, Shore excursions offered by Princess Cruises can be pricey as well. So it’s important to do your research. 

Q. What is the largest cruise ship?

As of January 2024, Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas is the world's largest cruise ship. The ship heads to the dock during its first arrival in PortMiami on Jan. 10, 2024.

Q. What is the number 1 cruise ship?

Icon of the Seas (Royal Caribbean) is currently the largest cruise ship in the world with 250,800 gross tons, launched in January 2024. It boasts 7 swimming pools, 6 water slides, and various entertainment options.

Q. What is Asia's best cruise destination?

The Philippines has proudly secured the title of Asia's Best Cruise Destination 2023 at the prestigious World Cruise Awards.