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Ten Cruise Destinations You Can Tick Off Your Bucket List

Beccy Miller
1. Iguazu Falls - Argentina / Brazil

The stunning Iguazu Falls are a chain of hundreds of waterfalls, almost 3 kilometres in length. Set between the border of Argentina and Brazil, the power of the thundering falls, cascading across the landscape is a sight you will never forget.  Both sides claim they offer the best views of the world’s largest expanse of waterfalls; the Brazilian side offers more breathtaking panoramic views, whilst the Argentine side has more viewing points, allowing you to get up close and personal with this natural wonder.

2. The Northern Lights - Arctic Circle

The ethereal Aurora Borealis appears high in the sky between 60 – 75 degrees latitude, which covers parts of Canada, Alaska, Russia, Norway, Sweden, Finland, and all of Iceland. They are formed when solar wind particles flowing from the sun collide with air molecules in our atmosphere and the energy then transfers to light. 

They are mostly green in colour, although vivid purples, pinks, and reds can be seen merging with them. Best viewed between November and February, a cruise is actually the perfect place to view them, as the lack of light pollution out at sea makes for some stunning displays.

3. The Great Barrier Reef - Australia

ariel view of the barrier reef

The Great Barrier Reef is the largest coral reef system on our planet. Comprised of over 3,000 individual reef systems, these beautiful coral cays are teeming with marine life and offer lots of different activities, such as snorkelling, diving or, if you prefer not to get wet, viewings on glass-bottomed boats. Plus, stunning white sandy beaches for you to relax on.

Listed as one of the Seven Wonders of the Natural World, it is actually the only living thing on earth that is visible from space.

4. Big 5 Safari - South Africa

Most of us dream of seeing beautiful and majestic animals such as elephant, rhino, lion, buffalo, and leopard, out in the wild. Often hunted, many reserves now work to ensure the conservation of these incredible animals. 

There are lots of places you can do this but we recommend Cape Town, with its beautiful views of Table Mountain and a game reserve less than two hours away from the city.

5. Alaska - North America

It can be overwhelming trying to plan a trip to Alaska, as there are so many things to see and do. Taking on this vast state works well on a cruise; it allows you to discover all of the must-see highlights which make a trip to Alaska the ultimate bucket list experience. 

With towering glaciers, an abundance of wildlife, and chances to hike through breathtaking national parks, all you need to bring is a sense of adventure.

6. Holy Land - Israel

the wailing wall

One of the oldest cities in the world, Jerusalem, and the surrounding areas offer you a cultural experience you will be hard-pressed to beat. It's a sacred holy city to Jews, Muslims and Christians, endured conflict and has been sacked and rebuilt several times in its long history.

With sites such as the Wailing Wall, the Dome of the Rock and The Church of the Holy Sepulchre to explore, you will feel like you have stepped back in time as you wander these ancient streets. 

7. Chilean Fjords & Antarctica

On your way down to visit the southernmost continent in the world, why not cruise the stunning Chilean fjords around the Cape Horn, giving you a wonderful chance to witness creaking glaciers and a host of marine life? 

Antarctica itself is a vast, white landscape made up of several ice shelves and inhabitable, with only scientists spending short periods of time at research stations. With its unique eco-system, (there are no trees!) over 100 million birds nest there and it's home to penguins and killer whales. Seeing these wonderful creatures in the wild is something you will never forget.

8. Ha Long Bay - Vietnam

Vietnam

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is made up of thousands of limestone karsts towering up out of the sea, through hundreds of little inlets. The name in Vietnamese means 'descending dragon' and as you sail through you will understand why.

Many of the residents of this tropical paradise live in floating villages of boats upon the water and will serve you seafood and fish from makeshift restaurants, a truly unique experience. 

9. Santorini - Greek Islands

Officially named Thira, this famous volcanic Greek Island is in the southern part of the Aegean Sea. Famous for its dramatic views, with sugar-cube-like houses with bright roofs, you can see why people want to make sure they visit it at least once in their lives. 

The walk up to its highest villages can be arduous, but it is oh-so-worth-it when you look down at the sparkling ocean below and can be forgiven for thinking you are on top of the world. 

10. Panama Canal - Panama

The Panama Canal is one of modern engineering's greatest feats. Built as a trade route to stop ships having to circumnavigate treacherous shipping lanes around North and South America, the canal links the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. 

Cruises that allow transit of the canal (or partial transit!) also offer the chance to discover lush rainforests, sandy Caribbean beaches, and bustling Latin towns. 

Which of these take your fancy? Let us know.

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