If you’re looking to get away on a cruise this summer, there are plenty of amazing options. Cruise lines are currently offering more itineraries than ever, catering to a wide range of travel preferences and styles.
Booking a summer cruise is a great way to see multiple destinations in one trip and make the most of this beautiful time of year. Whether you’re looking for a tropical getaway, a unique cultural experience, or a cruise adventure for the whole family, this cruise vacation list has something for everyone.
With that being said, here are this summer’s 5 best cruise destinations and ships.
1. Mediterranean Cruise
There’s no better way to have a European summer than taking a Mediterranean cruise. Visiting countries like Spain, Italy, Greece, France, Monaco, Croatia, and Cyprus is truly an incredible experience.
From immersing in history by visiting the Acropolis, Vatican City and Pompei to indulging in the sun and sand on a Mediterranean beach, a Mediterranean cruise offers a diverse range of activities to cater to every traveler’s interests.
Prepare your taste buds for a culinary journey like no other. Indulge in the rich flavors of authentic Italian pasta, Spanish paella, and the mouthwatering Greek souvlaki. The Mediterranean promises to serve you some of the most memorable meals of your life.
After a long day visiting a Mediterranean port of call, there’s no better feeling than returning to the cruise ship and enjoying an Aperol Spritz at sail away.
It’s a good idea to take a Mediterranean cruise during the summer as the weather will be beautiful, allowing you to make the most of your days. Furthermore, Mediterranean cruises depart and end in famous European cities, making them very accessible.
Overall, a Mediterranean cruise is one of the best summer vacation options. Whether you want to explore historical cities, eat traditional foods, shop, or enjoy the beautiful beaches, a Mediterranean cruise has something for everyone.
Our Top Picks:
- Sun Princess
- Royal Caribbean Oasis of the Seas
- Norwegian Viva
- MSC Seaside
- Celebrity Equinox
Related: What to Pack for a Mediterranean Cruise – The Ultimate Guide
2. Alaska Cruise
Escape the summer heat with an Alaska cruise, a gateway to a world of breathtaking scenery, diverse wildlife, and beautiful glaciers. An Alaska cruise is a travel adventure that promises to be as unforgettable as it is unique.
Alaska is one of the most popular summer cruise destinations. It is absolutely stunning during this time of year, and with weather ranging between the low and high 60s, you won’t have to worry about heavy snowfalls or cold.
When you embark on an Alaska cruise, prepare for a travel adventure that offers a variety of experiences. From exciting excursions to authentic interactions with the locals, there’s something for every cruise traveller.
From dog sledding to salmon fishing to visiting glaciers up close, these are not just standard excursions. They are unforgettable experiences that make Alaska one of the most unique travel destinations.
When you cruise to Alaska, you’ll have the chance to visit ports of call like Juneau, Ketchikan, Sitka, Skagway, Icy Straight Point, and Seward. Depending on which cruise line you take, you may also have the chance to visit National Parks like Glacier Bay and Hubbard Glacier.
An Alaska cruise is one of the most incredible travel experiences. With many Alaska cruises conveniently leaving from Vancouver and Seattle, this is a stress-free vacation option this summer.
Our Top Picks:
- Holland America Nieuw Amsterdam
- Celebrity Edge
- Royal Caribbean Quantum of the Seas
- Discovery Princess
- Majestic Princess
- Viking Orion
Related: What to Pack for an Alaska Cruise (clothing, gear & essentials)
3. Bermuda Cruise
A Bermuda cruise is the perfect summer cruise destination. Bermuda has something for everyone, ranging from sightseeing, golfing, crystal caves, and the pink sand beaches.
With many Bermuda cruises leaving Cape Liberty in Bayonne and the Manhattan cruise terminal, this is a great summer vacation option. These cruise ports are drivable or very easy to fly into for most American cruise travellers.
One of the amazing parts of visiting Bermuda is its public transportation system. Bermuda is very easy to get around, as a public bus and ferry system is easy to navigate. The buses and ferries are frequent, reliable, and cover most of the island, making it a breeze to explore Bermuda’s many attractions.
When you visit Bermuda, you have to visit the beaches. You’ll find stunning pink sand, crystal clear waters, and amazing rock formations at Horseshoe Bay beach.
Another unique attraction that is worth visiting in Bermuda is the Crystal Caves. Located in Hamilton Parish (a short ferry ride from the cruise port), Crystal Caves features soaring stalagmites and icicles of white limestone dripping from the ceiling.
If you’re looking for an extra special cruise experience, consider booking a two—to three-day itinerary in Bermuda. Staying overnight in a cruise port offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the destination, including its vibrant nightlife.
Our Top Picks:
- Norwegian Joy
- Royal Caribbean Liberty of the Seas
- Carnival Venezia
Related: What to Pack for a Bermuda Cruise: The Ultimate Guide
4. Norway
Taking a cruise to Norway is a very different cruise experience. However, the summer is the perfect time of year to take a Norwegian fjords cruise.
The Norwegian Fjords are known for their towering mountains, cascading waterfalls, and steep cliffs. Cruising through these natural wonders is a truly magical experience, offering a perspective exclusive to cruise travelers.
On a Norway cruise, you’ll visit small historic cities, experience stunning landscapes, and eat authentic Norwegian cuisine. Furthermore, you’ll see stunning glaciers, diverse wildlife, and incredible tundras.
From thrilling kayaking adventures to immersing yourself in the rich history of Viking museums, a Norwegian fjords cruise offers a diverse range of experiences to suit every cruisers taste.
One of the many advantages of planning your Norwegian fjords cruise during the summer is the phenomenon of the midnight sun. This natural wonder ensures extended daylight hours, allowing for more sightseeing and exploration during your evenings at sea.
Norwegian Fjords cruises tend to leave out of Rotterdam or South Hampton. These cruise ports are very accessible, especially during the summer.
Our Top Picks:
- Holland America Rotterdam
- Celebrity Silhouette
- Celebrity Apex
- Sky Princess
- Cunard Queen Anne
5. Caribbean and Bahamas Cruise
If you’re looking to book a fun, convenient, and enjoyable summer cruise, consider a Caribbean or Bahamas cruise. These are the most popular year-round cruise itineraries for a reason.
It’s hard to beat a Caribbean cruise’s relaxation and laid-back vibe. From enjoyable beach days to grabbing a drink at a local bar and enjoying authentic Caribbean food, a Caribbean cruise is a wonderful travel experience.
One of the key advantages of a Caribbean cruise is the flexibility it offers in terms of itineraries. Whether you’re planning a leisurely week-long trip or a quick 3-day getaway, there’s a perfect itinerary waiting for you.
Furthermore, a variety of cruise lines visit the Caribbean during the summer, so it’s easy to find the perfect cruise ship for your travel style.
Whether visiting St. Thomas, St. Marteen, Aruba, or a private island cruise line, you will have an enjoyable cruise vacation. The cruise ports in the Bahamas and Caribbean are easy to get around, with plenty to offer!
If you’re considering a Caribbean cruise this summer, it’s important to note that hurricane season extends from June to November. However, rest assured, the Southern Caribbean islands are statistically less prone to hurricanes than their Eastern counterparts, ensuring a safe and enjoyable cruise experience.
Our Top Picks:
- Royal Caribbean Icon of the Seas
- Celebrity Beyond
- MSC Seascape
- Disney Fantasy
- Virgin Valiant Lady
- Carnival Mardi Gras
Related: What to Pack for a Caribbean Cruise
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Final Thoughts on Top Cruises to Take this Summer
Whether you’re planning a beautiful Mediterranean cruise, a relaxing Caribbean cruise, or an adventure in Alaska, there’s no denying that cruise vacations are a great way to travel during the summer.
As someone who has cruised many times during the summer, you can’t go wrong with these cruise itineraries. With the wide variety of cruise lines, ships, and amazing itineraries, you’re guaranteed to find a cruise that fits your travel needs for this summer.
Are you planning a cruise this summer? Please let me know in the comments below.
Happy Cruising!
Ethan
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Author Bio: Ethan Schattauer has been cruising with his family since he was four years old and has been on more than 30 cruises. As a frequent traveler, Ethan shares his unique perspective on what cruising is like from a young person’s perspective. Ethan also writes about men’s fashion, travel and college advice on the website WhatToWearMen.com.