The New Year is the perfect time to get away from it all on a cruise holiday. While the UK is battling through a cold and miserable winter, other parts of the world across the southern hemisphere and the Caribbean archipelago are enjoying a warm and sun-soaked summer. We’ve picked our 15 favourite destinations from these wonderful corners of the world, so read on and find inspiration for your next winter cruise escape.
South America
Buenos Aires
Argentina’s culturally rich capital Buenos Aires is the perfect stopping point on a South American cruise. With plenty of pedestrianised areas, the city is easy to navigate on foot and visitors will find a wealth of charming districts, filled with excellent shops, restaurants and cultural sites.
Rio de Janeiro
The vibrant city of Rio de Janeiro is a hub of Brazilian culture and heritage. From famous beaches which include Copacabana and Ipanema, to the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue overlooking the city from up high, Rio has a timeless allure, drawing travellers back again and again.
Montevideo
Discover both sides of Montevideo – Uruguay’s stunning capital – as you explore the city whilst in port. Uncover Montevideo’s fascinating heritage at the Ciudad Vieja (or Old Town) or take a stroll along La Rambla to admire the spectacular views and inspiring scenery along the city’s bustling waterfront.
Australia/New Zealand/South Pacific
Cairns
Cairns is Australia’s gateway to the Great Barrier Reef – the world’s biggest coral reef system, comprising nearly 3,000 separate reefs alongside 900 islands over an expanse of around 2,300 kilometres. Take a trip from Cairns to see this natural wonder for yourself and explore a truly amazing underwater wonderland.
Auckland
As New Zealand’s most populous city, Auckland is at the centre of the nation’s culture and heritage. Visitors will find a host of wonderful things to see and do, from a walk around the vibrant city centre to browse the region’s many markets and retails parks, to a scenic trip into the city’s beautiful natural surroundings.
Sydney
Sydney is perhaps Australia best-known city and home to a number of world-famous landmarks often featured on many a traveller’s bucket list. See the unique architecture of the Sydney Opera House, climb the iconic Harbour Bridge or head to Bondi Beach to top up your tan or hit the waves on a surfboard.
Papeete
Papeete is the main port of Tahiti and capital city of French Polynesia – the perfect place from which to discover the wonders of the South Pacific on a cruise getaway. From here you can find a wealth of white sandy beaches, providing the perfect place to relax in the region’s abundant sunshine.
Far & Middle East
Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi is a vast and modern city – the largest in the United Arab Emirates. The city’s incredible waterfront, known as the Corniche, stretches for 6km and is a hub of activity, while further inland; visitors will find plenty of impressive historic and contemporary landmarks at which to marvel.
Singapore
Singapore is a truly remarkable city, combining beaches and resorts with local culture and cuisine, as well as blending nature and wildlife with history and museums. This diverse metropolis has so much to offer that a long stay in the city is the only way to experience it all – so a pre- or post-cruise stay is the ideal option.
Ho Chi Minh City
Formerly known as Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City boasts many fascinating historical, religious and architecturally-rich sites, sure to delight and amaze. From the grand Reunification Palace and the impressive Central Mosque to the remarkable Saigon Skydeck – which offers panoramic views across the city – there’s just so much to discover.
Bangkok
Discover a fascinating mix of the old and the new across Thailand’s bustling capital of Bangkok. Visit one of hundreds of historic and beautiful temples located throughout the region, including the Grand Palace, Wat Pho and Wat Arun, or head to the city’s downtown districts to experience the unique and vibrant local nightlife.
Caribbean
St Kitts
While many visitors will stick to the typically beautiful Caribbean beaches of St Kitts, the island’s scenic mountains offer a number of inspiring hiking trails through the thick tropical rainforest. Scuba diving is also very popular in the crystal blue ocean waters that surround this blissful destination.
St John’s
St John’s is the main port and capital of Antigua and Barbuda, situated on the idyllic Caribbean island of Antigua. Antigua has a total of 365 different beaches located along its sun-drenched coastline – one for every day of year – so travellers will be spoiled for choice when it comes to shore side relaxation.
Aruba
Located to the south of the archipelago, Aruba is the archetypal Caribbean destination, complete with secluded white sandy beaches, a stunning tropical climate and a laid-back ambience – perfect for relaxation. Visitors will also discover a wide range of possible activities here, from sailing, kayaking and scuba diving to rock climbing, cycling and jeep safaris.
St Maarten
St Maarten is one of the Caribbean’s most picturesque and beautiful destinations, often featured on cruise itineraries which explore the region. Enjoy some duty free shopping, sample a little local cuisine or simply lay out on the beach in the sun and appreciate the peaceful ambience of this stunning island.
You will find a range of fantastic deals on winter cruises to any of these marvellous destinations at Cruise118.com, or alternatively you can call 0808 1234 118 to speak to our Cruise Concierge team, who will talk you through everything that is currently on offer and guide you through every step of the booking process. So why not start planning your New Year escape today?
Comments: no replies