What's New in Cruising? Exploring Unique Cruising Experiences

by Mike Bringhurst, Designer Travel

Here at Designer Travel it seems we run into people who either love cruise travel or hate it. If you are the latter, this article is for you. Cruise travel is changing and leaning towards smaller boutique cruise ships offering a more intimate and unique experience. Whether you love cruise travel or not you owe it to yourself to read on and see what you may be missing.

When you think of cruising, the image that often comes to mind is a floating city filled with thousands of passengers, bound for sun-soaked beaches and bustling ports. However, cruising isn’t just about the colossal ships and mainstream destinations. There are many other types of cruises that offer unique and intimate experiences, far removed from the crowds. Here’s a closer look at three alternatives to the traditional cruise experience: river cruises, adventure cruises, and private yacht charters. There are other options for sure, but here are a few that are a great start to mixing it up on your next cruise vacation.

River Cruises: Intimacy and Immersion

River cruises have seen a surge in popularity as travelers seek more personal and immersive experiences. Unlike their ocean-going counterparts, river cruises provide a closer connection to the destinations they visit. The ships are smaller, often carrying fewer than 200 passengers, allowing for a more relaxed and intimate atmosphere. There are classes of river cruise lines that can offer various levels of luxury and different lines focus on different things, such as culinary arts, active itineraries and Christmas markets to name a few.

One of the main draws of river cruising is the ability to dock in the heart of cities and towns, offering easy access to local culture and attractions. Imagine waking up to the sight of Budapest’s stunning Parliament building or stepping off your ship directly into the historic center of Strasbourg. These experiences are what make river cruises so special.

Top River Cruise Destinations

Europe: The rivers of Europe are arguably the most popular for cruising. The Danube, Rhine, and Seine rivers offer routes through picturesque landscapes dotted with castles, vineyards, and medieval towns. Highlights include the Wachau Valley in Austria, the romantic scenery of Germany’s Rhine Gorge, and the art and history of Paris along the Seine.

Asia: For those looking to explore further afield, Asia’s rivers are equally captivating. The Mekong River flows through Vietnam and Cambodia, offering a glimpse into the rural life and ancient temples of Southeast Asia. The Yangtze River in China provides an opportunity to see the Three Gorges, one of the most dramatic and scenic areas in the country.

Africa: Africa’s Nile River cruise allows travelers to step back in time and explore the wonders of ancient Egypt. From the Pyramids of Giza to the temples of Luxor, a Nile cruise is a journey through history.

Adventure Cruises: The Call of the Wild

For the intrepid traveler, adventure cruises on smaller, more specialized vessels offer access to some of the world’s most remote and pristine environments. These ships are designed to navigate challenging waters and can reach places that larger ships simply cannot. Some adventure cruises are on ice-breaker ships and some are just smaller in size with customized ramps and hulls to get you into shallow harbors or onto the ice shelf.

Antarctica: The Ultimate Adventure

One of the most extraordinary adventure cruises is a voyage to Antarctica. This icy continent is a destination like no other, and getting there requires a ship capable of breaking through ice and handling extreme conditions. Icebreaker ships, specifically designed for these voyages, provide a safe and comfortable way to explore this frozen wilderness.

An Antarctic cruise offers unrivaled wildlife encounters, with opportunities to see penguins, seals, and whales in their natural habitat. The landscape itself is awe-inspiring, with towering icebergs, vast glaciers, and snow-capped mountains creating a breathtaking backdrop for your journey.

Other Adventure Cruise Destinations

The Arctic: Similar to Antarctica, the Arctic offers rugged beauty and unique wildlife. Cruises to this region often focus on exploring the fjords of Norway, Greenland’s glaciers, and the remote islands of the Svalbard archipelago.
The Galápagos Islands: Known for their unique biodiversity, the Galápagos Islands are a haven for nature lovers. Small expedition ships allow for close encounters with wildlife, including giant tortoises, marine iguanas, and blue-footed boobies.

Private Yacht Charters: Customized Luxury on the Water

If you’re looking for a truly bespoke cruise experience, chartering a private yacht offers the ultimate in luxury and personalization. Ideal for family reunions, milestone celebrations, or gatherings of friends, a yacht charter allows you to tailor your itinerary and activities to suit your group’s preferences.

Yachts can accommodate groups of 8-30 people, providing an intimate and exclusive setting. With a private chef, personalized service, and the freedom to explore secluded coves and hidden beaches, a yacht charter is the epitome of luxury travel.

In many cases the price of a yacht charter can be comparable to a luxury cruise line and offer unparralled experiences.

Popular Yacht Charter Destinations

The Mediterranean: The Mediterranean is a favorite for yacht charters, with its crystal-clear waters and charming coastal towns. The French Riviera, the Greek Isles, and the Amalfi Coast are just a few of the stunning destinations you can explore at your own pace and the destination that has been Croatia! It is amazing and perfect for private charters.

The Caribbean: The Caribbean offers a myriad of beautiful islands to discover. From the vibrant culture of the Bahamas to the tranquil beaches of the British Virgin Islands, a Caribbean yacht charter promises sun, sea, and relaxation.

Southeast Asia: For a more exotic experience, the waters of Southeast Asia provide a diverse range of destinations. Explore the limestone karsts of Thailand’s Phang Nga Bay, the pristine beaches of the Philippines, or the cultural treasures of Indonesia’s Bali and Komodo islands.

Conclusion

While the allure of large cruise ships is undeniable, there are numerous other ways to enjoy the magic of cruising. River cruises offer intimate and immersive experiences through some of the world’s most beautiful waterways. Adventure cruises provide thrilling journeys to the planet’s most remote regions. And private yacht charters deliver personalized luxury and freedom like no other. Whichever you choose, these unique cruising options promise unforgettable memories and a fresh perspective on travel.

Any travel is good travel, and there certainly are great times to be had on the bigger, fancy cruise ships and many love them, but how about next time you mix it up and make your next vacation even more memorable.

At Designer Travel, we are cruise experts and will put in the time to get to know you, your family and your group so that we match the best type of cruise and destination. Whatever type of cruise you choose call us to help you plan a pre or post cruise tour. Our specialty is planning out your perfect custom itinerary. Give us a call at 801-935-8652, email us at in**@de******************.com or book a discovery call to start planning. Let’s go cruising!!