Taking a cruise has become something of a cliché for many in the 21st Century. But you needn’t settle for the usual when it comes to unique experiences on the open waters. There are plenty of unusual destinations to choose from, as well as unique ways of getting there. If you’re looking for more than being carried from one Caribbean beach to another, here are four suggestions to get you thinking outside the box when it comes to taking your next cruise:
1. Gothenburg to Stockholm, Sweden (4 days, 3 nights). One of the most unique features of this cruise is the boat itself “” The M/S Juno is a “grand old lady” that first launched 1874. She is the world’s oldest registered ship with overnight accommodations. On the cruise, you’ll explore the entire length of the Göta Canal passing through two seas, one river, more canals, eight lakes and 66 locks. You’ll make a grand arrival to the royal capital city of Stockholm as you wind through its lake archipelago.
2. The North Pole, round trip from Helsinki, Finland (14 nights). With the rapid melting of the polar ice cap that’s been documented in recent years, you may want to cross this one off your bucket list sooner than later. Operated by Imperial River Cruises in partnership with Expedition Cruises, you adventure takes place on the 50 Years of Victory, the world’s largest and most modern nuclear-powered icebreaking vessel. The cruise is carefully planned to allow you to explore the delicate Arctic habitat that is home to some of the most endangered species on the planet while minimizing any potential negative impacts.
3. The Black Sea, Turkey (7 nights). Silversea is the company that brings you this Black Sea cruise departs from Istanbul Turkey and makes stops at the Ukrainian ports of Sevastopol, Odessa, Yalta, as well as Constanţa, Romania and Nessebur, Bulgaria. The Silver Spirit vessel itself is the height of luxury. Every cabin is a suite with a walk-in closet, marbled bathroom and full-sized tub. Nearly all the suites also feature a private teak veranda.
4. Punta Arenas, Chile to Ushuaia, Argentina (4 nights). Ushuaia is the world’s southernmost city, located on the very tip of Argentina. You’ll enjoy the stunning natural beauty of such famous areas as Patagonia and Tierra del Fuego. Highlights include exploring Pia Glacier and Glacier alley as well as Cape Horn National Park. If you’re feeling especially adventurous, Ushuaia also serves as the gateway for cruise opportunities extending down into Antarctica. The Cruceros Australis company offers Patagonia trips on their nimble vessels, the Via Australis (built in 2005) and the Stella Australis (built in 2010), modern ships with all the amenities you could possibly need on your adventure.
With such unique and beautiful locations like the four listed here, there’s no reason why your next cruise should be anything less than extraordinary. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your unusual cruise destination today!
About the author: Adam Franklin’s history with writing for the travel industry dates back a decade. When he’s not writing, you can find him reviewing hotels like Scottsdale Thunderbird Suites or working on his upcoming electronic album “Alone in the Sun”.
[Photo Credit: Flickr user Let Ideas Compete]
Related articles
