I Can Cruise… WHERE?

I Can Cruise Where?

Travel beyond the basics on these six lesser-known itineraries.

By Mike Faust

Cruising truly does open a world of possibilities for modern-day travelers. Hundreds of ships ply the seven seas, reaching every continent across the globe. Many ports are frequented by cruisers each year, mainly throughout the Caribbean, Mediterranean, and Alaska. A number of destinations are emerging as favorites, including Australia, Asia, and the South Pacific. Yet, many cruisers are unaware of a world of unexplored and overlooked ports, many just around the corner from our “typical” cruising spots. Here are six of those uncharted destinations to add to your list.

Iceland

While Reykjavik is quickly becoming the hottest, yet still chilly vacation spot, it’s the rest of Iceland that is gaining its place on cruise itineraries. Several small ship cruise lines have taken to including ports such as Akureyri and Heimaey to their Arctic itineraries. These ports don’t have the name recognition as does Reykjavik, but they offer stunning panoramas of towering fjords, quaint colorful towns, and exciting wildlife around each glacier. For example, cruise lines such as Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Windstar Cruises, and Hurtigruten sail itineraries from Reykjavik around Iceland and to the Baltic Sea.

Greenland

Much like her Arctic neighbor, Iceland, Greenland offers a unique opportunity to sail up close and discover another world. In small communities lining Baffin Bay, you’ll step off of your ship to find yourself immersed in Inuit culture, discovering artifacts left long ago by their ancestors. Along with the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ilulissat Icefjord, crystal-blue icebergs and stunning views of the captivating aurora borealis await you in this enchanting country.

Kenya

While many wouldn’t initially consider Mombasa as a standard port of call, this eastern African city offers something for everyone. Wildlife lovers will find that the city offers easy connections to nearby sanctuaries and wildlife reserves, offering the chance to get up close and personal with some of the wildest wildlife on Earth. Imagine plying through open plains under the watch of Mount Kilimanjaro as you drive alongside galloping antelope, grazing elephants, or the king of Africa — the lion. These safari adventures typically last the entire call in port, offering ample time to photograph the elusive lion or to soak in the experience of riding….

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Now in its 25th year, Porthole Cruise and Travel Magazine is published bi-monthly and available worldwide through digital subscription. It offers the latest news in cruise and travel, with in-depth features on voyages, new ships, the best destinations, readers' picks, onboard cuisine, entertainment, and more!