If you’re thinking of taking your first cruise, you might be overwhelmed by the choices of destinations, ships and itineraries. But don’t worry, we’re here to help you find the perfect cruise for your travel style and budget. In this blog post, we’ll share with you five amazing cruise itineraries for first-timers, with specific route and cruise line recommendations. Whether you want to explore the Caribbean, Alaska, Europe or beyond, there’s a cruise for you!
- Bahamas
One of the most popular and convenient cruise destinations for first-timers is the Bahamas. You can find short and affordable cruises to this tropical paradise from several U.S. ports, such as Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Port Canaveral and Jacksonville. You’ll get to enjoy the white-sand beaches, turquoise waters and colorful culture of Nassau, Freeport and private islands like CocoCay and Half Moon Cay. Plus, you’ll have plenty of time to experience the fun and amenities on board your ship. We recommend Royal Caribbean for its mega-ships that offer everything from water slides and zip lines to Broadway shows and robot bartenders. You can also try Carnival for its lively atmosphere and family-friendly entertainment. - Eastern Caribbean
If you want to see more of the Caribbean, consider an Eastern Caribbean itinerary that will take you to several islands in one trip. You can sail from Florida or San Juan, Puerto Rico, and visit ports like St. Thomas, St. Maarten, Antigua, Barbados and more. You’ll get to experience the diversity of cultures, cuisines and landscapes that the Caribbean has to offer, as well as enjoy activities like snorkeling, hiking, shopping and sightseeing. We recommend Celebrity Cruises for its modern and elegant ships that offer a premium experience without breaking the bank. You can also try Princess Cruises for its destination-focused approach and relaxed vibe. - Western Mediterranean
If you’re looking for a more cultural and historical cruise destination, the Western Mediterranean is a great option. You can sail from Barcelona, Rome or Venice and visit ports like Marseille, Florence, Naples, Cannes and more. You’ll get to see some of the most iconic landmarks in Europe, such as the Sagrada Familia, the Colosseum, the Leaning Tower of Pisa and the French Riviera. You’ll also get to taste some of the best food and wine in the world, as well as immerse yourself in the art and architecture of each port. We recommend Norwegian Cruise Line for its freestyle cruising concept that lets you dine when and where you want, as well as enjoy a variety of entertainment options on board. You can also try MSC Cruises for its European flair and stylish ships. - Alaska
If you’re looking for a more adventurous and scenic cruise destination, Alaska is a must-see. You can sail from Seattle, Vancouver or Anchorage and visit ports like Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan and more. You’ll get to witness the stunning beauty of glaciers, mountains, forests and wildlife that Alaska has to offer, as well as enjoy activities like whale watching, dog sledding, kayaking and hiking. You’ll also get to learn about the history and culture of the native Alaskans and the gold rush era. We recommend Holland America Line for its classic and refined ships that offer a comfortable and elegant way to explore Alaska. You can also try Royal Caribbean for its innovative ships that feature glass-domed observation lounges and virtual balconies. - Rhine and Danube Rivers
If you’re looking for a more intimate and immersive cruise experience, river cruising is a great option. You can sail on the Rhine and Danube rivers in Europe and visit ports like Amsterdam, Cologne, Vienna, Budapest and more. You’ll get to see some of the most charming towns and villages in Europe, as well as some of the most impressive castles and cathedrals. You’ll also get to enjoy included excursions that will take you to local attractions, museums and markets. We recommend Viking River Cruises for its modern and spacious ships that offer a high level of service and quality. You can also try Avalon Waterways for its panoramic suites that feature wall-to-wall windows that open to create a balcony.
These are just some of the amazing cruise itineraries for first-timers that you can choose from. Of course, there are many more options out there that will suit your preferences and budget. The best way to find your perfect cruise is to do some research online or talk to a travel advisor who can help you compare different cruise lines and itineraries. No matter which cruise you choose, we’re sure you’ll have a wonderful time on your first cruise!