Where to go on a cruise that is the question… Having paraphrased the classic, I want to offer a topic for conversation. And everything seems to be simple, point your finger at a spinning globe or a world map hanging on the wall and choose a place to visit. But not everything is so simple.
Cruise companies are paying more attention to popular destinations and routes. Demand is being studied and more favorable offers for tourists are being formed. New ships are being built for a specific market segment. They correspond to the desires of travelers and the conditions of the region where this or that liner will plow the sea.
Popular cruise destinations
Let’s look at popular cruise routes for CIS citizens and determine what time of year, where to go and what to visit. I’ll conditionally divide the most popular ones into 5 directions:
- Mediterranean
- Northern Europe
- Caribbean Sea
- Persian Gulf
- Southeast Asia
Mediterranean cruises
Perhaps the most popular, and most importantly accessible, routes take place in this warm region. This destination is chosen by both those who like to soak up the sun and people with an interest in the history of the old lady of Europe.
Most of the voyages in the Mediterranean Sea are operated by two Italian cruise companies MSC and Costa. Their prices are reasonable and their service is at a decent level. Children are considered to be young people under 18 years of age and if they travel with their parents, it is practically free.
This region is good to visit in the summer, you can enjoy all the delights of the upper sun deck. For those who are interested in city tours — spring and autumn are more comfortable seasons. In addition, prices are lower.
Countries in the region: Spain, France, Italy, Malta, Montenegro, Greece
Northern Europe and Norwegian fjords
The direction to the countries of Northern Europe, Scandinavia and specifically the Norwegian fjords is quite popular. Medieval cities, Gothic architecture, the culture of ancient knights – all this awaits you on cruises in this region.
Norwegian fjords are bays among rocky mountains. A unique phenomenon in nature! It is worth seeing at least once in your life. As well as the Northern Lights in the same places, which you can catch from October to March. Well, heat lovers are recommended to come in summer.
The same Italian companies MSC and Costa operate flights in this direction.
Countries of the region: France, England, Belgium, Holland, Germany, Norway, Denmark, Finland, Baltic countries, Russia.
Caribbean
People associate cruises in the Caribbean with the beautiful sea, palm trees, white beaches and amazing ships. And for good reason! That’s all true.
More than 7 000 islands are located in this region. The temperature does not drop below 25 degrees even in winter. Spend the winter holidays with your family enjoying the summer.
The leading Caribbean cruise companies are Royal Caribbean, Carnival and MSC. You can use the services of four ships of the cruise company Disney Cruises and visit the island with attractions owned by this company.
Countries and islands of the region: USA, Mexico, Cuba, Honduras, Puerto Rico, Bahamas, Haiti, Jamaica, Grenada, Barbados
Persian Gulf
The Gulf countries are distinguished by their culture, architecture and customs. East is a delicate matter! Russian tourists are familiar with this region from the city of Dubai. Most sea cruises start and end from this city.
UAE, like most countries in the region — a country friendly to us. A visa is not required to visit the Gulf countries, which makes Russian tourists very happy.
Cruise companies Aida, Costa Cruises, MSC Cruises, Royal Caribbean will help you get acquainted with the culture and traditions of this destination.
Countries in the region: UAE, Oman, Bahrain
Cruises in Southeast Asia
The most exotic places are, perhaps, in this part of the world. The climate here is warm and special. Two successive seasons rule in this direction:
- Rainy season from May to October
- Dry season from November to April
The region is very large and the seasons can vary in one direction or another. Snow-white beaches will greet you in traditionally popular resorts in countries such as Sri Lanka, the Philippines, Thailand.
Ancient temples and pagodas of Vietnam, Laos, Burma, and Cambodia are best visited in March. And you will find cherry blossoms starting in April in the cities of Japan.
Cruise lines Holland America, Princess Cruises, Silversea and Royal Caribbean will help you enjoy the local flavor, taste the food, and experience the entertainment of the region.
These are the most popular cruise destinations on our beautiful planet!
Sergey Buslaev
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