Seven seas sailings: Our top five must-see ocean cruise routes
Wish-list experiences, island-hopping adventures and moments of pure relaxation await on the open ocean – but which sailing routes stand out among the rest?
There’s something special about ocean cruising. While lifelong memories can be made by land, sea and air, exploring the world on the open ocean offers a unique perspective that just can’t be enjoyed any other way. Better yet, that’s not even to mention the added convenience and entertainment you’ll enjoy onboard your liner, either! From quintessential beach retreats on the glorious Caribbean to whale-watching on the Inside Passage and Arctic Ocean, the beauty of ocean cruising is that there is, quite literally, something for everyone!
With so many options to choose from, though, it can be tricky to narrow your dream cruise down to just one choice. That’s why, in celebration of yesterday's World Ocean Day, we’ve been thinking about all things ocean cruise and our favourite spots to explore on the water. With that in mind, here are five of our favourite spots across the world’s oceans and the routes which promise the best bang for your buck!
The Azores, The Atlantic Ocean
A classic route amongst veteran cruisers, the Azores are a firm favourite among nature-lovers and casual beachgoers, and with a glimpse of the local scenery, it’s not hard to see why. Set in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, away from the bustle of mainland Europe, this idyllic string of islands promises wonder at every turn. With an exquisite equatorial climate, this string of idyllic Atlantic islands boasts picturesque coastal vistas, expansive crater lakes and towering volcanic peaks. As a major historic waypoint for trans-Atlantic journeys, the islands also encompass a unique cultural heritage underpinned by a vibrant range of international influences.
The Inside Passage, The Pacific Ocean
Perhaps not the first location that springs to mind for Pacific cruising, North America's Inside Passage is no less impressive than the warm-weathered alternatives further south. From the region’s vast forested uplands, known for their rich biodiversity, to its whale-rich glacial fjords, this popular Alaskan route promises some of the finest animal-spotting opportunities at sea. What’s more, with shore excursions to the charming frontier towns that oversaw the height of the Klondike Goldrush, there’s never a dull moment on the North Pacific.
Iceland, The Arctic Ocean
With this year’s World Ocean Day theme in mind, ‘Wonders: Sustaining what sustains us’, Iceland is a destination which undeniably fits the bill. Boasting magnificent coastal landscapes, fjord-like valleys and a lively collection of native sea life, the Land of Ice and Fire has been a favourite amongst cruise enthusiasts for years – and for good reason! Pair memorable inland highlights, from iconic blue lagoon to lively Reykjavik, with first-class amphibious tours of the country’s Arctic wonders with an breath-taking Icelandic cruise.
Curacao, The Caribbean Sea
Few destinations embody the Caribbean’s lively atmosphere quite like Dutch-inspired Curacao, a colourful island nation off the coast of Colombia. Visitors can soak up the sun on pristine white-sand beaches, swim amongst the local marine life with scuba tours of the islands’ shallow coral reefs or feel the lively rhythms of the colonial-era towns that dot its shores. Whether you’re a culture buff or a devout beach dweller, a stop on beautiful Curacao is a must for any Caribbean cruise.
Santorini, The Aegean Sea
Known for the award-winning vineyards that line its fertile volcanic landscapes, Santorini ranks amongst the Aegean’s most popular holiday hotspots and epitomises the beauty of the Greek archipelago. From its traditional, white-washed buildings and acclaimed wineries to its colourful, red-pebbled beaches and dramatic underwater calderas, there’s plenty to admire about this glittering Mediterranean outpost. The island’s two main towns, Fira and Oia, are ideal choices for a day’s exploration ashore and there really is no better way to get a taste for the local culture than with a stop at one of their delightful family-run tavernas.
Make memories on the open ocean with Newmarket Holidays
Whether you’d prefer to balance your time at sea with memorable moments ashore, or are in your element on the open ocean, we’ve got the perfect option for you. Check out our brand-new Tour and Cruise page for a combination of wish-list experiences both inland and at sea, or explore the award-winning itineraries of our trusted cruise partners. As ever, our friendly holiday planners are just a phone call away and are on hand to help book your dream holiday, or simply chat through your options. For more information on our full itineraries, visit our cruise page.
