Top Cruise Destinations Overview

You may have heard about the new trend of freestyle cruising, where you can wear what you want, eat when you want (and with whom you want) and, basically, do what you want. After all, this is your vacation. But your biggest choice has nothing to do with whether you eat dinner at six or eight. It is all about where you go.

Cruise lines now sail to all seven continents, dropping anchor in more than 100 different countries, so your destination options are extensive. You can travel to Antarctica, the world's most desolate landmass, or test your birding skills in the Galapagos Islands.

Top cruise destinations are popular for a reason: they are beautiful. Whether you're surrounded by the coral reefs of the Caribbean, the silent monolithic glaciers of Alaska or the engineering marvel that is the Panama Canal, the views will astound you. The Caribbean and Mexico are often the poster-children for cruising. The water is picture-perfect blue, the beaches are entrancing and there is a warm local flavor. Did we mention that the weather is near perfect 360-days a year? Though there will be little time for sunbathing, cruising to Alaska is more popular than ever, and not just for the 60-and-over set. With the threat of global warming, people are coming in droves to see America's final frontier, and the wildlife that lives there. International ports also make the list of popular destinations. A Mediterranean cruise affords the advantages of seeing Europe without any of the hassles of traveling abroad. Toss some dice in Monaco, climb the cliffs of the Italian Riviera and experience the vestiges of early democracy in Athens, all without moving your suitcases. Or embark even further to the Baltics or the Red Sea. These destinations boast the same pristine beaches as the Caribbean, but have an exotic aura all their own.

Each of these destinations offers its own individual charms. What they do share, however, is acclaim and notoriety, so book early to ensure your top pick.