When it comes to cruises, there are dozens of popular ports of call throughout the world and some that are just as beautiful and intriguing but not as well known. Compare cheap cruises on the internet for a unbeatable price. These are 10 of the best cruise destinations.
(photo by rsgranne)
1. Tortola, the British Virgin Islands
Tortola is the largest of all the British Virgin Islands and is one of the most beautiful in the Caribbean. The island has a lot of charm and character as well as fabulous West Indian restaurants and white-sandy beaches. Scuba divers are drawn to Tortola’s excellent diving sites and marine parks with Smuggler’s Cove being among the most popular. Many divers come here to see the shipwreck of the Rhone, which met its fate back in 1867.
2. Cape Horn to Cape of Good Hope
This adventurous cruise takes you from South America’s Cape Horn all the way to the Cape of Good Hope, which lies on Africa’s southern tip. The scenery along the way is fascinating. One of the most amazing sights is seeing colonies of king penguins when you sail past Antarctica.
3. Rovinj, Croatia
The Venetians ruled this gorgeous Adriatic island for centuries and it’s easy to see that the Italian influences are still quite visible. For example, bell tower on the island is a replica of the bell tower in Venice’s St. Mark’s Church. Rovinj is now a pretty fishing port and is well worth exploring.
4. Picton, New Zealand
The port of Picton lies on the South Island of New Zealand in Queen Charlotte Sound. The area is filled with close to 700 miles of rugged coastline that’s quite pleasing to the eye. Along with all of the natural beauty you’ll be able to taste some excellent local wines in the area’s vineyards. There’s also a good chance you’ll get to witness some lovable dolphins swimming by in the nearby waters.
5. Maputo, Mozambique
Maputo is the capital city of the eastern African nation of Mozambique. It’s quite an exotic center with a cultural combination of Bantu, Portuguese, Arab, Chinese, and Indian influences. The food is out of this world as are the beaches and scenery. You’ll also find some wonderful traditional arts and crafts when exploring the city’s vibrant markets.
6. Pointe-à-Pitre, Guadeloupe
Pointe a Pitre lies in the Caribbean and is known as Guadeloupe’s biggest city. The city and island offer the best of the old world combined with the best of the modern world. It’s a very charming place that has been influenced throughout the years by African and French cultures. There’s plenty to see and do and the weather’s usually beautiful all year long.
7. Gozo, Malta
Many travellers have heard of Malta, but not of Gozo, which is the second largest Maltese Island. It’s tucked away in the warm Mediterranean waters between Africa and Sicily. There’s plenty to explore on this historic island, such as its splendid sandy beaches, prehistoric temples, and amazing citadel.
8. Skagen, Denmark
This charming Danish resort town has a rich history, especially with writers and artists who come here for inspiration. In the 1800s it was a well known destination because of its beautiful North Sea landscape. It’s a very charming and picturesque spot that’s still as scenic, intriguing, and inspirational as ever.
9. Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
The port of Victoria sits on the Pacific Ocean in western Canada. It offers a relatively mild climate and has numerous parks and colorful gardens on display, such as Butchart Gardens. If you head to the Strait of Juan de Fuca you’ll have a good chance at spotting some of the area’s amazing local whales.
10. L’Anse-aux-Meadows National Historic Site, Newfoundland, Canada
This UNESCO World Heritage site sits on the east coast of Canada in the ruggedly beautiful province of Newfoundland. It has a rich Viking history and is considered to be one of the earliest New World settlements. It’s also well known for its archaeological findings.
