The choice of cruise routes around the world that shipping companies offer is huge. Some lead to the Caribbean, others to the far north and each has its own charm.
Norway’s fjords
Norway’s fjords fascinate many travellers: More than 1,000 of these inlets reach inland and provide hikers and nature lovers with spectacular views. But a part of the Norwegian fjords can also be traveled on a cruise ship including, for example, the Geirangerfjord.
Australia and New Zealand on a cruise
Have you ever thought about discovering Australia and New Zealand on a cruise? Depending on the route, you will make stops in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane or Auckland and be impressed by the modern architecture, the fascinating culture, and the rich flora and fauna. From the Great Barrier Reef to the Sydney Opera House, there’s something for everyone.
Canada
Canada is a unique country of mountains, lakes and coniferous forests where moose and bears thrive in the wild. With the cruise ship, you sail down either the east or west coast and can combine the trip with a trip to the USA or to Alaska, a unique experience is guaranteed.
A cruise between Thailand, Vietnam
Whether the beautiful beaches of Koh Samui and Phuket or the metropolises of Singapore, Bangkok or Ho Chi Minh City, Southeast Asia has a lot to offer from unique landscapes to modern cities and valuable cultural treasures. On a cruise between Thailand, Vietnam or Malaysia you will get to know numerous facets of this spot on earth and have the wonderful opportunity to convince yourself of the Asian cuisine.
Hawaii
When it comes to Hawaii, many travelers think of flower chains, palm trees and idyllic sunsets but volcanoes such as Mount Kilauea or the Rainbow Falls on the Big Island also appeal to travelers. During a cruise, the various islands that make-up Hawaii can be headed for without vacationers ever having to change accommodation.
Antarctica
Antarctica is one of the most remote but also one of the most fascinating travel destinations. Those who embark on the adventure will be rewarded with impressive ice landscapes and a lot of untouched nature. Tourists should, however, be well-informed before traveling to Antarctica: In a brochure, the Federal Environment Agency points out rules of conduct that are intended to help protect sensitive nature and wildlife. Some cruise companies have specialized in traveling in this region in order to create the most beautiful, safe and environmentally friendly experience possible.
Alaska
Alaska also has a lot of untouched nature with huge mountains, huge glaciers and an impressive animal world. Cruise travelers can be won over by the magnificent landscape at various stops but small coastal towns such as Juneau or the gold-mining town of Skagway are just as worth seeing.
South Seas
Extensive beaches, beautiful bays and a dazzling underwater world: the South Seas make the hearts of many globetrotters beat faster. The travel destinations of many cruise lines include Bora Bora, Tahiti, Moorea or the Fiji Islands, all fantastic holiday destinations that inspire both those looking for relaxation and nature lovers.
Caribbean
The Caribbean is one of the most popular destinations for cruise vacations. On the steamers, you can discover several alluring island states in one go, from the Dominican Republic to Jamaica to the Bahamas. Sun is almost guaranteed, as is turquoise water on beautiful sandy beaches.
Mediterranean cruises
There are also picturesque bays and breathtaking coasts in Europe: on Mediterranean cruises, travelers discover completely new facets of Italy, Spain or France. The Greek islands of Santorini, Mykonos and Corfu can also be easily explored by ship.
Waking up somewhere else every morning, discovering unique landscapes and bodies of water without having to plan a lot yourself, the appeal of a cruise is great for many travelers and the choice of routes is huge. From a few days to weeks on the water, vacationers can choose exactly what they feel like doing.
However, the cruise industry also has a downside here, which travelers should be aware of: climate and environmental protection are still not very important to the shipping companies, as the Naturschutzbund Deutschland eV writes in its latest cruise ranking from 2022. Heavy oil, a toxic, carcinogenic waste product from the oil industry, remains the fuel of choice for many fleets. According to an n-tv report, the shipping company Hurtigruten, based in Norway, is a pioneer when it comes to climate-friendly shipping. The steamers run on marine diesel mixed with 20 percent biodiesel made from food waste. By 2030, emission-free cruises should be possible with the shipping company.
This article was originally published on Frankfurter Rundschau Germany.
