Epic Reefs To Icy Glaciers

Sydney, Australia

Filled with beaches, buildings and barbecues, Sydney is a city not to be missed — Australia’s oldest city and one of the most ethnically diverse cities on the globe. This sprawling city is known for its magnificent harbourfront opera house and harbour bridge. Considered one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the Southern Hemisphere, Sydney offers just about everything you could wish for — from famous beaches and wineries, to remarkable landmarks and world-class shopping. Sydney Harbour is the city’s crown jewel and Australia’s busiest waterway, welcoming thousands of recreational, passenger and working ships each year. Cruising under the Sydney Harbour Bridge will take your breath away, as you pass the iconic Sydney Opera House and soak in the unforgettable sights and scenic sunsets!

Sydney, Australia

Filled with beaches, buildings and barbecues, Sydney is a city not to be missed — Australia’s oldest city and one of the most ethnically diverse cities on the globe. This sprawling city is known for its magnificent harbourfront opera house and harbour bridge. Considered one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the Southern Hemisphere, Sydney offers just about everything you could wish for — from famous beaches and wineries, to remarkable landmarks and world-class shopping. Sydney Harbour is the city’s crown jewel and Australia’s busiest waterway, welcoming thousands of recreational, passenger and working ships each year. Cruising under the Sydney Harbour Bridge will take your breath away, as you pass the iconic Sydney Opera House and soak in the unforgettable sights and scenic sunsets!

Whitsunday Islands (Airlie Beach), Australia

Airlie Beach is one of the most picturesque hubs to Australia’s Whitsundays region, home to the Bredl’s Wild Farm where you can cuddle a koala or the Whitehaven Beach where you can enjoy ocean rafting or simply relax and unwind. Like Cairns and Port Douglas, it also offers an incredible ticket to enjoying the Great Barrier Reef in its full glory, except this resort town is relatively smaller and oozes a more laid-back vibe compared to the big-city atmosphere of Cairns. Whilst Port Douglas is a premier base for snorkelling and diving, Airlie Beach is the best bet for surfing, thanks to its calm waters and protected areas.

Cairns (Yorkeys Knob), Australia

Cooktown, Queensland, Australia

Cooktown, located at the mouth of the Endeavour River in North Queensland, is a charming town that wears its history, with lots of statues of Captain Cook and several impressive buildings constructed during the gold mining glory days. Where the nostalgia of the past meets the beauty of nature, this coastal town has no shortage of pristine beaches, breathtaking mountain views and majestic waterfalls. Guests will never have a dull moment here with an array of activities to enjoy, from admiring the scenery from Grassy Hill Lookout to relaxing on the soft sands of Cherry Tree Bay and then taking a refreshing dip in Trevathan Falls.

Darwin, Australia

Darwin is one of Australia's most colourful and exotic capital cities. It’s the gateway to Kakadu National Park and the best place for crocodile encounters. Surrounded on three sides by the turquoise waters of the Timor Sea, the streets are lined with tropical flowers and trees, plus the city enjoys warm and dry winters, and hot and humid summers! Darwin is the best place from which to explore Australia's Top End, with the great wonders of Kakadu and the Kimberley region. Local treasures and multicultural food pack the open-air markets of Darwin – something the city is known for! And at the city’s heart, the Smith Street pedestrian mall is notable for selling Aboriginal arts, crafts, pearls and opals.

Komodo, Indonesia

Come to Komodo, a remote island known for its beautiful mix of rugged landscapes, pristine beaches and overwhelming tranquillity. Wild Komodo dragons, the world’s largest lizard spanning three metres long, exist nowhere else in the world than the UNESCO-protected Komodo National Park. Whilst sighting the dragons is the highlight of any visit to the park, there’s so much you can do in Komodo Island – such as floating on the blue waters inside the Rangko Cave, mingling with the friendly locals in the Komodo village and catching the scenic sunset on a pink beach.

Bali (Benoa), Indonesia

Bali is a tropical hideaway that ticks all the boxes: an adventure-seeker’s paradise, a spiritual sanctuary, a food lover’s dream, and a surfer’s oasis all at once! The gateway to Bali’s eclectic offerings is Benoa — a small yet bustling cruise port that has transformed from a sleepy fishing village into a popular back-packing hotspot. What sets Bali apart from other nearby tropical destinations is Balinese tradition and villagers dedicated to celebrating it. Known as the ‘Island of the Gods,’ this captivating island boasts an imposing cluster of Hindu temples and religious sites, oozing peace and serenity, from the majestic waterfront temples to a mountaintop temple complex. The hundreds of temples, dances, rituals, and crafts linked to their ancient Hindu faith are a living, breathing culture in which visitors are warmly received by the Balinese, who cherish their own identities.

Bali (Benoa), Indonesia

Bali is a tropical hideaway that ticks all the boxes: an adventure-seeker’s paradise, a spiritual sanctuary, a food lover’s dream, and a surfer’s oasis all at once! The gateway to Bali’s eclectic offerings is Benoa — a small yet bustling cruise port that has transformed from a sleepy fishing village into a popular back-packing hotspot. What sets Bali apart from other nearby tropical destinations is Balinese tradition and villagers dedicated to celebrating it. Known as the ‘Island of the Gods,’ this captivating island boasts an imposing cluster of Hindu temples and religious sites, oozing peace and serenity, from the majestic waterfront temples to a mountaintop temple complex. The hundreds of temples, dances, rituals, and crafts linked to their ancient Hindu faith are a living, breathing culture in which visitors are warmly received by the Balinese, who cherish their own identities.

Bali (Celukan Bawang), Indonesia

Celukan Bawang is the main cruise port in Northern Bali, where you can discover the unique black sands of Lovina Beach – a serene and lesser-known gem of the island. For those seeking an authentic natural experience in Bali, go north and be in awe of the mystical Gitgit Waterfall or soak in the healing waters of Banjar Hot Springs. For a cultural experience, take the time to explore the charming coastal town of Singaraja, which was once Bali’s colonial capital.

Surabaya, Indonesia

Set on the Indonesian Island of Java, Surabaya is a vibrant city that mixes modern skyscrapers with canals and buildings from its Dutch colonial past. One of the top attractions in Surabaya is the House of Sampoerna Cigarette Factory, a tobacco museum and cigarette factory housed in a Dutch colonial-style building. The port city also has a thriving Chinatown, where visitors can indulge indelectable fusion cuisine and see Buddhist temples. This sprawling metropolis also prides itself as home to the Suramadu National Bridge, which is one of the longest cable-stayed bridges in this part of the world.  The iconic bridge illuminates at night with bright lights, making it a scenic spot for photos and sightseeing!

Semarang, Indonesia

Located on the north coast of Java and the seaside gateway to the fabled Borobudur, Semarang is the beating heart of Central Java’s multicultural history where you can experience Indonesia's rich and diverse cultural heritage. Borobudur is the world’s largest Buddhist temple, widely considered as one of the seven wonders of the world albeit not making the official list. Affectionately dubbed as the ‘Venice of Indonesia,’ Semarang features an extensive canal network built during the Dutch colonial period. The city’s Old Town area also deeply reflects its colonial heritage, complete with Dutch-style buildings and Chinese shophouses. 

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Nha Trang, Vietnam

Nha Trang, the jewel of Vietnam's beach resort scene, is a much-loved port destination in South East Asia. With its energetic urban centre and pristine white-sand beaches caressed by the shimmering turquoise waters of the bay, Nha Trang is a postcard-perfect paradise! Besides basking on the beach, Nha Trang also offers diving and island-hopping opportunities, with around 25 dive sites and 19 islands off the coast. Mud bathing is an experience not to be missed as Nha Trang uses mineral-rich clay with therapeutic properties. Culture enthusiasts can visit the Long Sơn Pagoda, a Buddhist temple with an enormous, white-washed Buddha statue and a bell tower. Tourists can also enjoy panoramic views of the city from the lush mountains to the offshore islands!

Kâmpóng Saôm, Cambodia

Sihanoukville is the premier beach destination in Cambodia for tourists and Cambodians alike, with golden white sands, tropical islands and mangrove jungles. Otres Beach is among the most-visited beaches around the area, surrounded by tall palm trees providing plenty of shade for a refreshing dip. Independence Beach, also known as Victory Beach, is a unique crescent-shaped beach – complete with breath-taking ocean views and thrilling water sports! A visit to Ream National Park offers pristine mangrove forests rich in wildlife with miles of beaches unmarked by footprints.

Bangkok (Laem Chabang), Thailand

Laem Chaebang, the gateway to the charming capital of Bangkok – known as the ‘Venice of the East’ for the many canals that form a web through its streets. From glittering temples that showcase architectural splendour to bright skyscrapers oozing high-end glamour, it’s easy to understand why Bangkok is a world-class city that lures many tourists around the world! Also known as the City of Angels and Venice of the East, the capital city thrills with energy. Set in the heart of Bangkok, The Grand Palace is a complex of buildings that once was the official residence to the Kings of Siam – the former name of Thailand. Lumpini Park is pitched as an inner-city haven and the “Central Park of Bangkok.” It’s the largest and most popular park in Bangkok, spanning 58 hectares of artificial lake, well-manicured lawns, wooded areas and walking paths – perfect for taking a refreshing nature break from the historical temples and high-rises! 

Bangkok (Laem Chabang), Thailand

Laem Chaebang, the gateway to the charming capital of Bangkok – known as the ‘Venice of the East’ for the many canals that form a web through its streets. From glittering temples that showcase architectural splendour to bright skyscrapers oozing high-end glamour, it’s easy to understand why Bangkok is a world-class city that lures many tourists around the world! Also known as the City of Angels and Venice of the East, the capital city thrills with energy. Set in the heart of Bangkok, The Grand Palace is a complex of buildings that once was the official residence to the Kings of Siam – the former name of Thailand. Lumpini Park is pitched as an inner-city haven and the “Central Park of Bangkok.” It’s the largest and most popular park in Bangkok, spanning 58 hectares of artificial lake, well-manicured lawns, wooded areas and walking paths – perfect for taking a refreshing nature break from the historical temples and high-rises! 

Ko Samui, Thailand

If you’re looking to unwind in a place with remote serenity, head to Koh Samui – Thailand’s second largest island, steeped with natural beauty from palm-fringed beaches to dense, mountainous rainforests. Koh Samui is best appreciated by those who want to take a slower, more casual lifestyle. Soak up the sun with a cocktail and feel the upbeat beach vibe in Chaweng Beach – an elongated powdery sand stretch packed with beachfront bars and entertainment shows! Situated at the top of Pom Mountain, one of the highest peaks on the island of Koh Samui, the Secret Garden of Buddha is a passion project created by a retired durian farmer who collected Buddha statues to curate his land property – where he can relax and meditate in solitude and also use as his last resting place.

Singapore, Singapore

Singapore is a city-state steeped with sharp and constant contrasts – packed with ancient shrines and temples in the shadows of skyscrapers, as well as luxury condominiums set against the backdrop of tropical rainforests. This Southeast Asian gem is home to some of the world’s most innovative green spaces, hippest bars and coolest museums! Striking a pose with the iconic Merlion statue is one of the quintessential experiences in Singapore, as well as soaking up the modern city skyline from Singapore Flyer or the Marina Bay Sands Sky Park. Off the shore of the mainland are Sentosa and over 60 smaller islands, most uninhabited, that serve as bases for oil refining or as playgrounds and beach escapes from the city, with attractions like the Universal Studios Singapore and S.E.A. Aquarium.

Singapore, Singapore

Singapore is a city-state steeped with sharp and constant contrasts – packed with ancient shrines and temples in the shadows of skyscrapers, as well as luxury condominiums set against the backdrop of tropical rainforests. This Southeast Asian gem is home to some of the world’s most innovative green spaces, hippest bars and coolest museums! Striking a pose with the iconic Merlion statue is one of the quintessential experiences in Singapore, as well as soaking up the modern city skyline from Singapore Flyer or the Marina Bay Sands Sky Park. Off the shore of the mainland are Sentosa and over 60 smaller islands, most uninhabited, that serve as bases for oil refining or as playgrounds and beach escapes from the city, with attractions like the Universal Studios Singapore and S.E.A. Aquarium.

Singapore, Singapore

Singapore is a city-state steeped with sharp and constant contrasts – packed with ancient shrines and temples in the shadows of skyscrapers, as well as luxury condominiums set against the backdrop of tropical rainforests. This Southeast Asian gem is home to some of the world’s most innovative green spaces, hippest bars and coolest museums! Striking a pose with the iconic Merlion statue is one of the quintessential experiences in Singapore, as well as soaking up the modern city skyline from Singapore Flyer or the Marina Bay Sands Sky Park. Off the shore of the mainland are Sentosa and over 60 smaller islands, most uninhabited, that serve as bases for oil refining or as playgrounds and beach escapes from the city, with attractions like the Universal Studios Singapore and S.E.A. Aquarium.

Muara, Brunei Darussalam

Muara, Brunei is known for its mosques, virgin rainforest and the world’s largest floating village. Officially known as Muara Town, this picturesque port town is known for its breath-taking beaches, Islamic architecture and its scenic harbour. Muara Beach is a top attraction in the city, where you can enjoy powdery white sand and warm sunshine. Be amazed by the glittery golden domes and minarets of ornate mosques, say hello to the Proboscis monkeys at the Damuan Park and check out the intricately made heirloom sarongs before you go!

Kota Kinabalu (Borneo), Malaysia

The capital of Sabah, Borneo's northernmost state, Kota Kinabalu is wedged between a tropical rainforest and the South China Sea. Many explorers use it as a launching point to venture off and see the surrounding jungle and marine life. Mt. Kinabalu challenges climbers daily, and top diving spots reel in underwater adventurers. The city is made up of a dense grid of concrete buildings built over reclaimed land along the coast. Tucked away in a remote forest in a Kota Kinabalu suburb, Mari Mari Cultural Village is a themed local village showcasing the way of life of native Sabahan tribes.

Palawan (Puerto Princesa), Philippines

Boracay, Philippines

Boracay is a small paradise island in the central Philippines and the ultimate water sports playground. Known for its palm-fringed beaches and high-end resorts, Boracay is one of the most sought-after islands in the Philippines. Amongst the many beautiful beaches in Boracay, White Beach is arguably the most popular – famed for its powdery white sand, turquoise waters and stunning sunset views!  No trip to Boracay will ever be complete without cliff-diving in Ariel’s Point, so be sure to tick this off on your bucket list. For sightseeing, the observation deck atop Mount Luho offers unforgettable views!

Manila, Philippines

Kaohsiung, Taiwan

Kaohsiung is Taiwan’s second largest city and biggest seaport, home to iconic skyscrapers, a scenic central waterway, diverse parks and a floating temple. The Love River, which has seen some recent landscaping, adds to the beauty of the city. Coffee shops along its banks offer good opportunities to view the river’s activities and enjoy a nice breeze. Another tourist hotspot is the Dragon and Tiger Pagodas, a colourful temple that juts out of Lotus Lake. There’s a traditional custom to enter the dragon temple and exit via the tiger side of these two seven-story pagoda towers for good luck!

Hong Kong, Hong Kong

Once-sleepy harbour town that has blossomed into a busy international trade hub, Hong Kong is an island with so much to offer! The island’s glowing skyline, with its ever-growing number of skyscrapers, speaks much of its buzz and glamour. Whilst it's easy to think all the bright lights are the sum of modern-day Hong Kong, you need only walk or board a tram for the short jaunt west to discover a side of Hong Kong that is more traditional but no less high-energy. Tian Tan Buddha, also known as the Big Buddha – is Hong Kong’s most recognisable landmark and the world’s largest Buddha statue. Dubbed affectionately as ‘the happiest place on Earth,’ Disneyland is a place where magic happens, complete with kid-friendly attractions, thrilling adult rides, and spectacular fireworks! Tsim Sha Tsui, at the tip of Kowloon peninsula, is a major tourist hub packed with glitzy shops, first-rate museums, and eye-popping views of the skyline across the water.

Hong Kong, Hong Kong

Once-sleepy harbour town that has blossomed into a busy international trade hub, Hong Kong is an island with so much to offer! The island’s glowing skyline, with its ever-growing number of skyscrapers, speaks much of its buzz and glamour. Whilst it's easy to think all the bright lights are the sum of modern-day Hong Kong, you need only walk or board a tram for the short jaunt west to discover a side of Hong Kong that is more traditional but no less high-energy. Tian Tan Buddha, also known as the Big Buddha – is Hong Kong’s most recognisable landmark and the world’s largest Buddha statue. Dubbed affectionately as ‘the happiest place on Earth,’ Disneyland is a place where magic happens, complete with kid-friendly attractions, thrilling adult rides, and spectacular fireworks! Tsim Sha Tsui, at the tip of Kowloon peninsula, is a major tourist hub packed with glitzy shops, first-rate museums, and eye-popping views of the skyline across the water.

Taipei (Keelung), Taiwan

With the glittering lights of Taipei – a futuristic metropolis of culture and ideas — sparkling nearby, Keelung is the first calling point for many visitors arriving in Taiwan. While this port city essentially serves as Taipei's ocean gateway, you shouldn’t be too hasty in dashing off to Taipei's neon-lit magic – first it’s well worth spending some time exploring the famous glowing night market, which hums with life each evening and is famous for its local seafood. Once you’ve taken enough of the serene provincial city, then it’s time to experience the bustling energy and iconic skyline of the capital! See the world-famous Taipei 101, which was known to be the world’s tallest building before the birth of Burj Khalifa. A haven for foodies, Ximending is where you can sample some of Taiwan’s best street delights as night markets pop into the alleys once the evening arrives!

Busan, South Korea

White-sand city beaches and hot-spring resorts may not be everyone's first image of South Korea, but these are what Koreans flock to Busan for all year. There are plenty of opportunities for rest, relaxation, retail therapy, and even a touch of glamour every October with the Busan International Film Festival. Busan's beaches are the big summertime draw but there is plenty to be seen year round. Haeundae Beach is one of the popular ones – an urban beach set against the backdrop of skyscrapers. Snap a photo with Busan Tower, visit the Haedong Yonggung Temple overlooking the ocean and explore the kaleidoscopically colourful rows of brightly painted houses in Gamcheon Cultural Village featured in many Korean dramas and films! 

Nagasaki, Japan

Nagasaki, located in Kyushu island, is famous for its exotic, international atmosphere, whose origins can be traced in the history of this port city. It has developed into one of the most important port cities in Japan. The city was the second city after Hiroshima to be devastated by the world’s first nuclear attack towards the end of World War II. Swot up on the city’s history as you explore Nagasaki Peace Park and Nagasaki Atomic Bomb Museum. For those seeking a unique experience, the forgotten Hashima Island serves as an eerie sightseeing spot off the shores of mainland Nagasaki, where you’ll find old industrial sites, ruins of the worker’s quarters, and the “stairway to hell”.

Beppu, Kyushu Island, Oita, Japan

Beppu is a spa-resort town famous for its Onsen, Hot Springs, that are sometimes referred to as the "eight hells of Beppu". Soaking in a traditional Japanese natural hot spring is the best way to rejuvenate after an action–packed day of sightseeing and outdoor adventures. Onsens are not only for unwinding and relaxing, its waters are also famous for its healing and restorative properties. Besides the hot springs, Beppu is also known for its majestic Mount Tsurumi, where passengers can take the scenic cable car ride to enjoy panoramic views of the city.

Kyoto (Osaka), Japan

From Minami's neon-lighted Dotombori and historic Tenno-ji to the high-rise class and underground shopping labyrinths of Kita, Osaka is a city that pulses with its own unique rhythm. Though Osaka has no shortage of tourist sites, it is the city itself that is the greatest attraction. Experience world-class entertainment with family or friends in the Universal Studios Japan set at Osaka’s waterfront; snap a photo with the famed giant billboard of the Glico Man in the vibrant Dotonbori district; and discover Osaka Castle – where blooming cherry blossoms colour the landscape and tell the story of Japan’s unification. The energetic city is also a haven for foodies, renowned for its great food scene and everything delicious served from specialist restaurants up to street food stalls. Takoyaki and Okonimiyaki are some of the most popular snacks that you must sample!

Kyoto (Osaka), Japan

From Minami's neon-lighted Dotombori and historic Tenno-ji to the high-rise class and underground shopping labyrinths of Kita, Osaka is a city that pulses with its own unique rhythm. Though Osaka has no shortage of tourist sites, it is the city itself that is the greatest attraction. Experience world-class entertainment with family or friends in the Universal Studios Japan set at Osaka’s waterfront; snap a photo with the famed giant billboard of the Glico Man in the vibrant Dotonbori district; and discover Osaka Castle – where blooming cherry blossoms colour the landscape and tell the story of Japan’s unification. The energetic city is also a haven for foodies, renowned for its great food scene and everything delicious served from specialist restaurants up to street food stalls. Takoyaki and Okonimiyaki are some of the most popular snacks that you must sample!

Nagoya, Japan

Nagoya, the centre of the automotive industry, is where you’ll find all the big name factories such as Toyota, Mitsubishi and Honda! It’s a gateway to a myriad of family-friendly attractions like Legoland Japan and the famous Ghibli Park inspired by the Studio Ghibli films set just outside of the city. Culture enthusiasts can take a tour of the Nagoya Castle, the first castle to be designated a National Treasure in Japan, or visit the Buddhist Osu Kannon Temple. Nagoya is also home to several famous museums such as the Railway Museum and Science Museum. 

Tokyo (Yokohama), Japan

South of Tokyo, Yokohama was once Japan’s main gateway to the outside world as it’s one of the first Japanese ports opened in foreign trade. From a sleepy fishing village, it was transformed into a vibrant city and now the capital and most populous city in the Kanagawa Prefecture. The city prides itself on being home to the largest chinatown in Japan, packed with Chinese restaurants and shops selling food and souvenirs. A refreshing stroll awaits in Sankeien Garden, a vast traditional Japanese-style garden perfect for reconnecting with nature. Yamashita Park is another popular spot for unwind and relaxing, offering plenty of space for picnics while soaking up the panoramic waterfront views and the stunning city skyline.

Tokyo (Yokohama), Japan

South of Tokyo, Yokohama was once Japan’s main gateway to the outside world as it’s one of the first Japanese ports opened in foreign trade. From a sleepy fishing village, it was transformed into a vibrant city and now the capital and most populous city in the Kanagawa Prefecture. The city prides itself on being home to the largest chinatown in Japan, packed with Chinese restaurants and shops selling food and souvenirs. A refreshing stroll awaits in Sankeien Garden, a vast traditional Japanese-style garden perfect for reconnecting with nature. Yamashita Park is another popular spot for unwind and relaxing, offering plenty of space for picnics while soaking up the panoramic waterfront views and the stunning city skyline.

Kodiak, Alaska, United States

Homer, Alaska, United States

Anchorage, Alaska, United States

Icy Strait Point, United States

Icy Strait Point is situated 22 miles southeast of the Glacier Bay National Park. The port is centred around the restored salmon cannery, which now houses a museum, local arts and crafts shops, restaurants, and a mid-1930s cannery line display. Outside is one of the world’s largest and highest zip lines at 5,330 feet long, featuring a 1,300-foot vertical drop — a thrilling ride with fantastic views of the surrounding mountains and ocean. If you're looking for more relaxing mountain top views, book a gondola ride that will whisk you up into the mountains for some leisurely hiking and stellar sightseeing. Icy Strait Point houses several restaurants, where visitors can dine on freshly caught seafood while taking in the waterfront views. A range of excursions are available at Icy Strait Point catering primarily to cruise ship passengers, from Alaska Native dance performances to bear viewing and whale watching.

Ketchikan, Alaska, United States

Overlooking the Inside Passage, Ketchikan is one of the most popular cruise destinations in Alaska and is often the first port of call on most northbound itineraries. This city has no road system and is only accessible by air or sea, so you can enjoy remote tranquillity away from the hustle and bustle. It is famed for its idyllic scenery, salmon cuisine, lush island setting and colourful totem poles. The city remains as an ancestral home to the indigenous Tlingit people, carvers of the world’s largest totem pole collection, which you can catch sight of throughout the area. Complete your trip by sampling the native trophy salmon, freshly caught from Ketchikan’s lake-filled backyard – Tongass National Forest.

Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

Vancouver is a delicious juxtaposition of urban sophistication and on-your-doorstep wilderness adventure. This bustling coastal city in Canada is renowned for its natural beauty and cultural diversity. Where serene mountains and ocean views meet the city rush and the arts, Vancouver offers the best of everything! It is full to the brim with museums and galleries, including Vancouver Art Gallery and Museum of Anthropology. The city’s crown jewel is Stanley Park, a huge green oasis amidst Vancouver’s bustling cityscape – complete with old-growth cedar forests and surrounded by water views and sandy beaches.