Top cruise destinations for 2026

Fancy going on a cruise this year? You are not alone. With 2026 already well underway, the cruise industry is heading into one of its busiest and most exciting periods yet. Brand new ships are launching, fresh itineraries are opening up, and there is a huge variety of destinations to choose from – many of them perfect for making your Instagram feed look really good.

Cruising in 2026 is about more than simply getting from A to B. It is about experiences. Cruise lines are leaning into deeper cultural itineraries, more immersive shore excursions, and adventurous routes that go far beyond the usual hotspots. Expedition cruising is booming, and classic routes are being refreshed.

So put the kettle on and let's have a look at where you should be setting sail in 2026.

Our top picks: the best cruise destinations for 2026

With so many itineraries on offer, a few destinations are really setting the pace for 2026. Here are the cruise routes worth putting at the top of your list.

For the sun seekers: the Caribbean

The Caribbean remains a firm favourite, and for good reason. But in 2026, this classic cruise region is getting a fresh lease of life. One of the standout ships to watch is Royal Caribbean’s Utopia of the Seas, which is bringing shorter, high-impact itineraries that are ideal if you want plenty of sunshine without using up all your annual leave.

There is also a noticeable shift towards Southern Caribbean routes. Instead of sticking solely to the usual ports, more itineraries are focusing on destinations such as Grenada, St Lucia, and the Dutch Antilles. These islands deliver the white-sand beaches you expect, but with added depth in culture, food, and scenery – often without the same level of crowds.

Best time to visit: December to April offers the driest weather, although shoulder months like May and November can be excellent for value.

Why the Caribbean stands out in 2026:

• Consistently warm, reliable weather
• Easy flight access from Dublin and Cork
• Ideal for families and first-time cruisers
• New ships and updated onboard experiences
• A wide mix of island cultures and landscapes

For the culture lovers: the Mediterranean

If history, food, and art are high on your travel wish list, the Mediterranean continues to deliver. Both Eastern and Western Mediterranean itineraries are striking a great balance between iconic cities and lesser-known ports, allowing you to experience the classics without feeling rushed.

Western Mediterranean highlights include:

• Rome (Civitavecchia) for ancient history and Vatican City
• Barcelona for Gaudí’s architecture and world-class tapas
• The French Riviera for glamour and coastal scenery
• Palma, Mallorca, for a blend of beaches and old-town charm

Eastern Mediterranean favourites include:

• Athens (Piraeus) and the Acropolis
• Croatia’s coastline, including Split and Dubrovnik
• Turkish ports such as Kusadasi, gateway to the ruins of Ephesus
• Greek islands like Santorini and Mykonos

These itineraries are particularly appealing if you enjoy guided excursions, local food experiences, and destinations where every port has a story to tell.

For the adventurers: expedition and wilderness cruises

For holidaymakers looking to do something truly memorable, 2026 is an excellent year to think beyond traditional cruise routes. Expedition cruising continues to grow in popularity, offering smaller ships, expert-led excursions, and access to some of the most remote places on Earth.

Alaska: the last frontier

Alaska cruises in 2026 are placing a strong emphasis on glaciers and wildlife. The best itineraries include at least two glacier-viewing days, with destinations such as Glacier Bay and College Fjord high on the wish list. Along the way, you may spot humpback whales, sea otters, bald eagles, and even brown bears.

Top tip: Shore excursions such as helicopter tours and dog sledding sell out quickly, so it is worth booking early.

Antarctica: the ultimate bucket-list cruise

Antarctica is unlike any other cruise destination. Small expedition ships, usually carrying between 100 and 200 passengers, offer zodiac landings, close encounters with penguin colonies, and landscapes that feel completely untouched. It is a significant investment, but for many holidaymakers, it is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that lives up to the hype.

The Galápagos Islands: a natural wonder

Cruising the Galápagos focuses on conservation and biodiversity. Expect guided excursions, snorkelling with sea lions, sightings of giant tortoises, and birdlife you will not find anywhere else in the world.

For scenery lovers: the Norwegian fjords and Northern Europe

If breathtaking landscapes are your priority, Norwegian fjord cruises are hard to beat. Towering cliffs, dramatic waterfalls, and peaceful fjords make this one of the most visually impressive cruise regions in the world

Northern European and Baltic cruises offer a different kind of beauty, combining natural scenery with historic cities such as Stockholm, Tallinn, and Helsinki. Many itineraries include overnight stays, giving you time to explore without the pressure of rushing back to the ship.

How to choose the right cruise for you in 2026

With so many cruise regions and itineraries to choose from, narrowing down the right option can feel a little overwhelming. The key is to think about what you want most from your trip and how you like to travel.

Consider your travel style

• Relaxed: Look for itineraries with plenty of sea days, spa facilities, and beach-focused ports.

• Active: Choose cruises with adventure-led shore excursions or ships offering activities like climbing walls and fitness programmes.

• Culture-focused: Mediterranean and Baltic cruises are ideal, particularly those with overnight stays in major cities.

• Family-friendly: Caribbean and Mediterranean routes tend to offer the best onboard facilities for children and teenagers.

• Couples: Smaller ships and destinations like the Greek islands or the Norwegian fjords can feel more intimate.

• Solo holidaymakers: Some cruise lines now offer dedicated single cabins and social programmes.

Don’t forget your cruise cover

When planning a cruise, it is easy to focus on destinations, ships, and excursions, but it is just as important to think about whether you have appropriate cover in place. Cruising can involve situations that are not always included in standard travel insurance, so it is worth checking this before you travel.

Unlike a typical holiday, cruises involve fixed departure times, multiple countries, and time spent at sea. That is where specialist cruise cover can be particularly useful.

Examples of cruise-specific situations that may be covered include:

• Missed port departures, such as when a shore excursion runs late
• Itinerary changes due to weather conditions
• Cabin confinement if you become unwell onboard
• Unused shore excursions if you are unable to disembark
• Emergency medical situations while at sea

Cover will always depend on the policy you choose and your individual circumstances, so it is important to review the Policy Wording for full details of what may be covered.

Ready to start planning?

With so many standout cruise routes available in 2026, now is a great time to start planning your next adventure. Whether you are drawn to Caribbean sunshine, Mediterranean culture, or the dramatic landscapes of Alaska and the Norwegian fjords, there is a cruise out there to match your travel style.

When you are ready to book, you may also want to consider whether you have suitable travel insurance in place. We offer options designed to suit a wide range of holidaymakers, helping you focus on enjoying your cruise with added peace of mind.