For travellers with a list of dream destinations, a cruise can offer the perfect, seamless way to experience the world's most spectacular sights. From the icy realms of the poles to the lush heart of the Amazon, setting sail allows you to witness natural and man-made wonders while avoiding the hassles of traditional travel.
Why a Cruise is the Ultimate Bucket List Experience
Rather than the typical Mediterranean or Caribbean beach holiday, these curated voyages are designed for discovery. They provide unique access to remote locations, whether your passion is wildlife, ancient history, or simply traversing vast oceans. Expedition vessels bring you closer to nature, while luxury ships offer immersive entertainment and fine dining as you journey between continents. There are options to suit various budgets, with some premium routes representing a significant but potentially life-changing investment.
Our Top Picks for Lifetime Voyages
Here are nine of the best cruise itineraries to help you tick off those once-in-a-lifetime travel goals.
1. The Iconic Transatlantic Crossing
Embrace the timeless romance of the sea on a classic transatlantic voyage. Cunard's Queen Mary 2 offers iconic sailings between Southampton and New York, featuring several days at sea to fully unwind. Guests can enjoy white-gloved afternoon tea, browse the largest library at sea, watch performances by the Royal Shakespeare Company, and even bring their pet along to stay in the onboard kennels. A departure on 10 June 2026 starts from £799 per person.
2. Wildlife Wonders of the Galápagos
Follow in Charles Darwin's wake on an expedition cruise to the enchanted Galápagos Islands. With Lindblad Expeditions, a 10-day journey begins in Quito before flying to Baltra Island. Onboard experts guide you to encounter giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies, and sea lions, with opportunities for snorkelling in crystal-clear waters. A sailing departing 15 May 2026 starts from £5,382 per person.
3. The Epic World Cruise
Circumnavigate the globe without the hassle of repeated airport check-ins. Azamara's 2027 World Cruise is an epic 188-night journey visiting 37 countries, departing from San Francisco on 5 January 2027. The itinerary includes iconic sights like the Golden Gate Bridge, Statue of Liberty, Panama Canal, and Sydney Opera House. The fare from £45,029 per person includes tips, wifi, drinks, and weekly laundry, plus substantial onboard credit.
4. Exploring the Mighty Amazon
Venture deep into the Peruvian Amazon on a luxurious river cruise with Aqua Expeditions. A seven-day sailing on the Aqua Nera or Aria Amazon vessels includes expert-led excursions to spot pink dolphins, spider monkeys, and sloths. Between explorations, relax in the spa or cinema. A voyage departing 20 June 2026 starts from £8,442 per person.
5. Chasing the Northern Lights
For the best chance to witness the aurora borealis, a voyage along Norway's coast offers dark, unpolluted skies. Havila Voyages' coastal express travels from Bergen to Kirkenes and back, passing through majestic fjords. The captain will alert guests to night-time sightings, and the company promises a free next voyage if the lights aren't seen on a 12-day trip between 1 October and 31 March. Prices start from £1,747 per person.
6. Alaskan Glaciers and Wildlife
Marvel at Alaska's towering glaciers and snow-capped mountains from the deck of a cruise ship. Princess Cruises' 14-day 'Voyage of the Glaciers' aboard Discovery Princess sails through Glacier Bay National Park and past the Hubbard Glacier. The ship features expansive viewing lounges and specialty dining. A departure on 6 June 2026 starts from £2,898 per person.
7. The Untouched Wilderness of Antarctica
Experience the planet's last great wilderness on an Antarctic expedition. Silversea offers a six-day roundtrip from King George Island, sailing the Antarctic Sound amidst floating icebergs. Excursions include guided hikes and zodiac cruises to see penguins and whales. A voyage departing 1 November 2026 starts from £12,040 per person.
8. Culture and History on the Mekong
Discover the heart of Vietnam and Cambodia comfortably on a Mekong river cruise. A 15-night sailing with Riviera Travel departs from Ho Chi Minh City, visiting floating markets, the Cambodian capital Phnom Penh, and the ancient temples of Angkor near Siem Reap. A departure on 26 October 2026 starts from £4,099 per person.
9. Ancient Egypt Along the Nile
Unfold the history of the pharaohs while sailing the River Nile. Viking Cruises' 12-day 'Pharaohs and Pyramids' itinerary includes flights, excursions to the pyramids of Giza, and an onboard Egyptologist. A departure on 17 December 2026 starts from £7,395 per person.
Setting Sail on Your Adventure
Whether your dream is to cross an ocean, witness rare wildlife, or stand before ancient monuments, these extraordinary cruises offer a unique and comfortable path to adventure. With careful planning, you can transform your travel bucket list from a dream into a breathtaking reality.
