Bucket List Cruises to Take Around the World

4 March 2025

Cruising isn’t just a mode of travel; it’s an experience, an adventure, and honestly, one of the best ways to explore the world. Imagine waking up to a new stunning view every day—glaciers one morning, tropical islands the next. The ocean has a way of calling us, doesn’t it? If you’ve ever dreamed about hopping aboard a ship and letting it whisk you away to bucket-list-worthy destinations, this article is going to fuel that wanderlust. Let’s dive into the ultimate list of cruises you need to take before you hang up your suitcase for good.

Why Cruises Make For The Perfect Bucket List Experience

Cruises are like the Swiss Army knife of vacations. They combine adventure, luxury, and convenience in one neat package. No need for countless flights, unpacking and repacking, or stressing about food and lodging. It’s like your floating hotel just happens to take you to some of the most bucket-list-worthy spots on the planet. Plus, there’s something so magical about being out on the open sea—it’s calming, yet exciting, like the world is yours to explore.

Now that you’re on board (pun intended), let’s break down some of the best bucket list cruises that are sure to spark your curiosity and have you googling itineraries in no time.

1. Alaskan Glacier Cruises: The Call of the Wild

If you thought Alaska was all about icy landscapes, think again. An Alaskan Glacier Cruise is the ultimate way to experience the raw, untamed beauty of the Last Frontier. Picture this: towering glaciers, snow-capped mountains, and the occasional orca gliding alongside your ship.

- Cruise Highlights:
- Hubbard Glacier (a massive wall of ice that feels like Earth’s time machine)
- Wildlife spotting (bald eagles, humpback whales, and maybe even a grizzly onshore)
- Ports like Skagway and Ketchikan, where gold rush history meets stunning hikes

Alaska cruises often operate during the summer, so you can enjoy long daylight hours and pleasant weather. A must for nature lovers!

2. Mediterranean Cruises: A Journey Through Time

The Mediterranean is like a living history book, but with better food and sunshine. Imagine hopping from Greece’s sun-soaked islands to Italy’s ancient ruins, and then ending your day sipping wine in the South of France. Sounds dreamy, right?

- Cruise Highlights:
- Santorini and Mykonos, with their iconic whitewashed buildings and turquoise waters
- Rome, where you can toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain or tour the Colosseum
- Barcelona’s stunning architectural gems like the Sagrada Família

It’s a blend of culture, history, and cuisine that feels like a Mediterranean sampler platter.

3. Caribbean Cruises: Your Tropical Paradise Awaits

When you think of cruises, chances are the Caribbean pops into your mind. And for good reason—these cruises are all about kicking back and letting island vibes take over. Crystal-clear waters, powdery sand beaches, rum cocktails in hand... need I say more?

- Cruise Highlights:
- Snorkeling in the Cayman Islands (hello, stingrays!)
- Exploring Mayan ruins in Mexico
- Relaxing on the pristine shores of St. Lucia or Barbados

These cruises are perfect for anyone in need of a tropical getaway with a side of adventure.

4. Antarctica Cruises: The Ultimate Adventure

If you’re feeling really bold (and a bit chilly), an Antarctic cruise is an absolute must for adventure seekers. This is where bucket lists go to level up. You’re not just visiting a destination—you’re experiencing a whole new planet-like landscape.

- Cruise Highlights:
- Glacier trekking and penguin spotting (yes, penguins!)
- Watching whales dive into icy waters
- The surreal beauty of midnight sunsets

Keep in mind, these cruises are more about exploration and less about luxury, but the memories you’ll make will be worth every icy breeze.

5. Asian River Cruises: A Cultural Immersion

Not all cruises are on oceans! Asia’s intricate network of rivers offers a unique way to explore ancient cities, bustling markets, and serene countryside. River cruising is like the quieter, more intimate cousin of ocean cruising—but just as magical.

- Cruise Highlights:
- The Mekong River, winding through Vietnam and Cambodia (Angkor Wat, anyone?)
- The Yangtze River in China, with its jaw-dropping Three Gorges
- Experiencing local life in riverside villages

This is the kind of cruise that feeds both your soul and your travel journal.

6. Galápagos Islands Cruises: Nature at its Best

Let’s talk about the Galápagos Islands—this place is a bucket-list staple for good reason. A Galápagos cruise is like stepping into Darwin’s lab. Every island is a cornucopia of unique wildlife, and the best part? The animals are just as curious about you as you are about them.

- Cruise Highlights:
- Swimming with playful sea lions
- Spotting blue-footed boobies and giant tortoises (yes, they’re as cool as they sound)
- Dramatic volcanic landscapes

This is the kind of trip where you’ll feel like a true explorer, connecting with nature in a way most people only dream of.

7. Norwegian Fjords Cruises: Into the Land of the Vikings

If fairy tales were real, they’d probably be set in the Norwegian Fjords. Gliding through these majestic waterways feels like stepping into a painting. The landscape is otherworldly—waterfalls cascading down cliffs, charming villages nestled in valleys, and the occasional northern lights dancing in the sky.

- Cruise Highlights:
- Geirangerfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Flam Railway, one of the world’s most scenic train journeys
- Hiking and kayaking for active travelers

A Norwegian Fjords cruise is perfect for anyone who loves dramatic scenery and cooler weather.

8. South Pacific Cruises: An Island Hopper’s Dream

The South Pacific is the stuff of daydreams, with its postcard-perfect beaches and laid-back vibe. From the volcanic peaks of Tahiti to the untouched beauty of Fiji, a cruise through this region feels like stepping into a real-life paradise.

- Cruise Highlights:
- Bora Bora, with its iconic overwater bungalows
- Snorkeling in Fiji’s coral reefs
- Learning about Polynesian culture and traditions

This is the kind of cruise where every day feels like honeymoon-level luxury.

9. Around-the-World Cruises: The Ultimate Bucket List Trip

If you’ve got a serious case of wanderlust and a few months to spare, an around-the-world cruise is the granddaddy of all bucket list adventures. This isn’t just a trip—it’s a life experience.

- Cruise Highlights:
- Literally everything (think dozens of countries, multiple continents, and endless adventures)
- Seeing world wonders like the Great Wall of China or the Taj Mahal
- Experiencing different cultures, cuisines, and climates in one epic journey

It’s a commitment (both time-wise and financially), but hey, you only live once, right?

Tips for Choosing Your Bucket List Cruise

1. Know Your Travel Style: Are you an adventurer, a history buff, or a beach-lover? Choose a cruise that matches your vibe.
2. Season and Weather: Some cruises only operate during specific seasons, so planning ahead is crucial.
3. Budget Wisely: Consider all costs—flights to the port, excursions, and maybe a few extra margaritas.
4. Research Cruise Lines: Not all cruise lines are created equal. Some are family-friendly, while others are tailored for luxury or adventure.

Final Thoughts

A bucket list cruise isn’t just about the destinations—it’s about the journey. It’s about watching the sun dip below the horizon, making new friends over dinner, and waking up each day to the promise of something incredible. The world is waiting, and there’s no better way to see it than from the deck of a ship. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your dream cruise today—you deserve it!