You already know that it’s about time for a cruise. School’s out, you’ve worked hard so far in 2019, and you’re long overdue for a tan. Now all you have to do is figure out where you want to go with your partner or your spouse.
If you need some inspiration, we’ve got a list of the top cruise destinations of the year.
Whether a Caribbean retreat, a luxurious trip to Europe, or a convenient trip up North America is on your list, we’ve got you covered. These destinations were chosen by Cruise Critic voters and industry experts.
Avignon, France: The Number-One Choice
When Cruise Critic released the winners of their annual Cruisers’ Choice Destination Awards, it revealed voters chose Avignon as the top place to visit on your next overseas adventure.
The city is known for its locally-produced wine and olive oil, as well as a rich history as a former papal seat.
Lavender fields, theatre festivals, and medieval buildings will all greet you as you embark on an adventure to Avignon.
Norway: Best Country With Tons of Options
Want to head north – really north? Norway took four out of five spots on the list of Top-Rated Baltic and Scandinavia destinations. Olso, Flam, Eidfjord, and Geiranger all made the list.
Families and couples can cruise to these destinations to view the Northern lights or just experience a new part of this world.
One reviewer said that Geiranger was beautiful just as a town: “No need to take an excursion – we got off and wandered through this lovely village. The fjord itself sailing in and out is the highlight.”
Norway (and its namesake Norwegian Cruise Line) has become a popular cruise vacation pick, primarily due to the popularity of Disney’s Frozen.
Castaway Cay: Best Family Destination
For those of you who’ve officially pledged your loyalty to the Disney Cruise Line…you must include Castaway Cay on your next big trip.
This private isle in the Bahamas functions exclusively as a port for the Disney cruises. Cruise Critics have voted it as the world’s top cruise-line-owned private island multiple years in a row.
The island has three beaches, two water play areas, and tons of activities everyone in your family are sure to enjoy.
Cozumel, Mexico: Best of Both Worlds
Not sure whether you want to hit the Carribbean or Mexico? Why not both?
Cozumel is an island in Mexico that sits on top of a reef, and legend has it that it’s an island of fertility. Mayans would journey by hand-carved wooden canoe from present-day Playa del Carmen to the island for special rituals.
Cruisers can choose from plenty of reef excursions or eco parks to visit during their stay. There are even sacred canoe crossings available today.
Quebec City: Best Place to Explore in North America
You don’t have to go to the Carribbean or Europe to have a memorable cruise vacation. Quebec City in Canada topped the list for best cruise destination in the United States and Canada regions.
Quebec City combines the romance of France with the friendliness of our northern neighbors. You’ll find many opportunities for breathtaking views and historical exploration. Much of the architecture is inspired by older Europen buildings and squares.
Singapore: Best Place Unlike Any Other
Singapore landed in the fifth spot on Cruise Critic’s lists for most popular destinations. Trust us, the cruise to Asia is worth the majesty that you will encounter upon your arrival.
This is an island, a city, and a country, known for immaculately clean streets and stunning displays of digital art. From street food to high-end eatery, the Singaporean cuisine doesn’t get any better.
Our only piece of advice? Make sure you visit the Gardens by the Bay during the daytime and at night.
Kirkwall, Scotland: Best Trip “Off-The-Beaten-Track”
When travelers think of Scottish destinations, Edinburgh or Glasgow may come to mind. Kirkwall, though, has been gaining some overdue ground in being recognized for its beauty.
Located in the Scottish highlands, Kirkwall boasts a history that goes all the way back to the 11th century.
Visitors can browse on the main shopping street, marvel at the St. Magnus Cathedral, and tour a distillery that takes you back in time.
Bora Bora: Best Classic Destination
Does anything sound more luxurious than a trip to Bora Bora?
This French Polynesian island is still one of the most popular places to visit on a cruise. It was voted the second most popular, losing only to Avignon.
Visitors can enjoy the lap of luxury while scuba diving, walking on white sand beaches, and soaking in the beautiful sunlight.
Still Not Sure Where to Go? Booked a Trip Already? Keep Reading
Once you choose your destination, there is still a lot of reading — and planning — ahead. Even after booking, vacationers should be fully briefed on what to bring, how to prepare, and how to stay safe onboard.
Keep doing your research during this process to ensure the best holiday cruise this year.
About the Author:
Andrew Winston is a partner at the personal injury law firm of Winston Law. For over 20 years, he has successfully represented countless people in all kinds of personal injury cases, with a particular focus on child injury, legal malpractice, and premises liability. He has been recognized for excellence in the representation of injured clients by admission to the Million Dollar Advocates Forum, is AV Preeminent Rated by the Martindale-Hubbell Law Directory, enjoys a 10.0 rating by AVVO as a Top Personal Injury Attorney, has been selected as a Florida “SuperLawyer” from 2011-2017 – an honor reserved for the top 5% of lawyers in the state – and was voted to Florida Trend’s ”Legal Elite” and as one of the Top 100 Lawyers in Florida and one of the Top 100 Lawyers in the Miami area for 2015, 2016, and 2017.
