Cruise lines are constantly looking to expand their horizons by included new and emerging ports to their itineraries. New ports open up a world of new possibilities to cruisers, and cruise line’s relish the chance to offer their guests new experiences once ashore. Read on to learn more about what’s on offer in some of the latest ports to become available on cruise itineraries.
Rethymnon, Crete
The historic, quaint and beautiful town of Rethymnon is one of the newest and lesser known ports on the Greek island of Crete. Now available on an ever-increasing number of itineraries, the town is the perfect place to enjoy a peaceful and scenic escape on this sun-drenched island destination.
There is plenty to keep visitors busy in the town of Rethymnon, including miles of picturesque sandy coastline on which to unwind in the sun. The region’s natural beauty also extends to the many tranquil parks and impressive gorges scattered throughout the town, home to olive trees, small churches and friendly local people. Rethymnon’s culture and history is also on display in the region’s charming Old Town, which contains building dating back to the 16th century and an ancient fortress which overlooks it.
Haikou, China
The tropical coastal city of Haikou is located in southern China on the northern tip of Hainan Island. Increasingly available to travellers on Far Eastern itineraries, the city boasts a plethora of exciting thing to see and do in order to gain an insight into the area’s heritage and culture, as well as chance to appreciate the region’s stunning natural beauty.
Haikou’s most prominent historical sites include the impressive Wugong Temple constructed during the Ming dynasty, the ancient Tomb of Hairui which covers an area of over seven acres and Xiuyung Battery – a 19th century coastal fortress. In terms of natural attractions, Haikou is home to the excellent Haikou Shishan Crater Cluster National Geological Park – a volcanic cluster of 40 volcanoes and 30 caves – as well as the scenic Dongzhai Harbor Mangrove Natural Reserve Area. Haikou’s beaches are also worth visiting, offering a place to unwind in the sun or enjoy a range of thrilling water sports just offshore.
Bintulu, Malaysia
Bintulu is situated on the Malaysian coast within the Sarawak region of the country, around 600 kilometres from Kuching. The town is split up into a number of different districts, each one containing a fantastic array of attractions and sightseeing opportunities for travellers to enjoy.
For an authentic experience of local culture, make a trip to Kampung Jepak, a traditional Malaysian fishing village separated from the main town by Sungai Kemena. Alternatively, a trip to the bustling Pasar Utama and Pasar Tamu Bintulu markets is a great way to pick up some traditional produce or souvenirs. Kuan Ying Tong Temple and Masjid Assyakirin Mosque are also well worth visiting, or alternatively, you could simply relax on the local Tanjung Batu Beach.
Falmouth, Jamaica
Another of the newest ports to be featured on cruise itineraries, Falmouth is located on Jamaica’s coastline between the popular resorts of Ochos Rios and Montego Bay, offering an alternative to the usual Jamaican destinations. In addition to the relaxing Caribbean beach lifestyle on offer here, Falmouth also boasts a fascinating history on display throughout the port.
Walking tours of the many historic sites within Falmouth are particular popular with visitors. With an expert guide, you can embark on a tour of the region, visiting a number of fascinating historic churches and houses. Falmouth boasts an abundance of natural beauty too, in the form of cascading waterfalls, tropical forests and, of course, golden sandy beaches.
Mahajanga, Madagascar
A world of wonderful wildlife awaits travellers in Mahajanga, one of the latest Madagascan cruise ports to be added to the itineraries of selected cruise lines. A wealth of fascinating local culture and history, alongside a profusion of areas of stunning natural beauty, can be found in the town and its surrounding areas, just begging to be explored.
Madagascar’s main appeal is its unique wildlife, as many species found locally are endemic to the island and can be found nowhere else on Earth. From Mahajanga, travellers can take advantage of excursions to observe this amazing wildlife up close for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, not available anywhere else on the planet.
Image credits:
Lapplaender, Geo Swan – wikimedia.org
Anna Frodesiak, Da flow – wikipedia.org
Jorge in Brazil – flickr.com
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