Without a doubt, cruising is one the best ways to enjoy a much-needed vacation. While you’re aboard the ship, all of your needs are taken care of, and the name of the game is always relaxation – and maybe having a little too much fun here and there. But, the other great benefit of cruising is the opportunity it affords you to check out a bunch of different destinations all in one trip!
That’s why it’s important to always consider the itinerary when you’re booking a cruise. As you look through it, try to figure out if you’ve already been to all of the places on it. If so, maybe you might want to look at a different cruise, as seeing more and more diverse places is definitely a joy…
In fact, as you’re checking those cruise itineraries, why don’t you consider some of the ports that we’ve pulled together on the list below. These 8 ports are ones that largely fly under the radar, but that have much and more to offer, especially as compared to the more popular an ubiquitous ports of call. What are they? Well, let’s find out!
1. Sarande (Albania)
You might not think of Albania when you’re thinking of a Mediterranean port of call, but Sarande will change all of that.
2. The Architecture
People with a love for architecture will find much and more to marvel at as they walk the streets that display a diverse array of architectural styles.
3. How to Get There
Many leading cruise lines have started offering itineraries that include Sarande, including Cunard, Holland America and Princess.
4. Little Bay (Montserrat)
Having finally recovered from a devastating volcano eruption, cruise lines have begun returning to this beautiful destination.
5. Great Excursions
One thing that makes visiting this destination so special is the incredible inland excursions one can take.
6. How to Get There
With many cruise lines beginning to include Montserrat, it’s been Windstar that’s been leading the charge.
7. Sir Bani Yas (U.A.E)
While the Emirates are known for their astonishingly modern cities, it’s Sir Bani Yas that’s known for its natural beauty.
8. The Wildlife
Ships that stop here always include incredible excursions to the island’s nature preserve where all kinds of animals can be seen.
9. How to Get There
If you’d love to check Sir Bani Yas out, then you’re best bet at the moment is checking Celebrity’s offerings.
10. Semerang (Indonesia)
There’s much and more to see on this incredibly island including the world’s largest Buddhist temple.
11. How to Get There
Cruise lines offering itineraries that include Semerang include Holland America and Seabourn.
12. Thursday Island (Australia)
What’s been making this awesome destination increasingly popular is it’s totally unique culture.
13. How to Get There
Many leading cruise lines are adding this incredible destination to their itineraries next year, including Azamara and Silversea.
14. Nanaimo (British Columbia)
With the Vancouver Islands becoming increasingly popular, it’s perhaps Nanaimo that offers the best access to what you’ll want to check out.
15. How to Get There
Virtually any cruise line offering trips to the Vancouver Islands will be sure to make a stop here.
16. Florena (Galapagos)
The reasons to check out the Galapagos islands are obvious. The impressive diversity of flora and fauna is second to none.
17. How to Get There
In terms of offering cruises that include this port and the rest of the Galapagos Islands, Celebrity Cruise Lines has been leading the way.
18. Akureyi (Iceland)
Instead of heading to the increasingly popular Reykjavik, why not give this lesser known Icelandic port a try?
19. A Smaller City
While Akureyi is Iceland’s fourth largest city, it’s actually home to some truly awesome dining, nightlife and other attractions.
20. How to Get There
A number of different cruise lines include this port upon their itineraries, including National Geographic’s and even Disney’s.