When most people think of cruising, their minds go straight to the sun-soaked ports of the Mediterranean or the South Pacific’s turquoise waters. 

But there’s a whole world of waterways and coastlines that remain under the radar offering just as much culture, adventure and spectacular scenery – minus the crowds. 

From Arctic fjords to jungle-lined rivers, our travel experts share some of the world’s most underrated cruise destinations.

Fjord cruising in Iceland

Often called the Land of Fire and Ice, Iceland’s dramatically rugged coastline is a dream for expedition cruising. Circumnavigating the island reveals black-sand beaches, thundering waterfalls, volcanic landscapes, and shimmering glaciers, all best appreciated from the water. 

Itineraries visit remote fishing villages, the dramatic Westfjords, and wildlife-rich islands where puffins and Arctic terns nest. In summer, long daylight hours allow for whale watching and zodiac landings in secluded coves; in autumn, Northern Lights-focused itineraries search for the elusive, colour-shifting Aurora Borealis.

How to do it: Cruise companies like HX Expeditions, Ponant, and Aurora Expeditions offer itineraries ranging from a 7- to 14-day circumnavigation of Iceland to combined voyages linking Norway, Greenland, or the Faroe Islands. Ships are small enough to navigate shallow harbours and deploy zodiacs for shore excursions.

We suggest: Combining your cruise with a few days in Reykjavik for its geothermal pools, arts scene, and day trips to the Golden Circle. Or, extend north to Norway’s fjords or south to Scotland’s Orkney and Shetland Islands for more wild coastlines.

cruise the wild Amazon River

A river cruise along the Amazon offers a front-row seat to one of the world’s most important, and richest, ecosystems. Travelling deep into the rainforest, you’ll glide past towering jungle canopies, remote villages, and hidden oxbow lakes alive with bird calls. Spot pink river dolphins surfacing beside the boat, watch macaws flash overhead, and search for sloths in the treetops. Expert naturalists lead small-group skiff excursions into narrow waterways where larger vessels cannot go.

How to do it: Aqua Expeditions operates from Iquitos, Peru, while other itineraries like Abercrombie & Kent's and Seabourn sail from the Caribbean or Brazil Cruises typically range from 4 to 12 days, with shorter itineraries focused on wildlife viewing and longer ones covering more of the river’s expanse.

We suggest: Adding a few days in Lima for world-class fusion dining and exploring the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, or hop to the Galápagos for a wildlife experience that pairs perfectly with the Amazon’s biodiversity.

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explore Portugal’s Douro River

Winding through the sun-drenched valleys of northern Portugal, the Douro River is Europe’s hidden gem for slow, scenic cruising. Known for its terraced vineyards and centuries-old wine estates (called quintas), the region blends natural beauty with rich cultural heritage. From the deck, you’ll see golden hillsides, medieval villages, and grand baroque towns, while excursions bring you to wine tastings, olive oil farms, and UNESCO-listed Salamanca across the Spanish border.

How to do it: River cruise specialists like Boutique River Cruises, Tauck, and Scenic operate intimate ships designed for the Douro’s narrower locks and bends. Most itineraries are 7 to 10 days, often starting or ending in Porto, famous for its azulejo-tiled buildings and port wine lodges, and many include Lisbon extensions.

We suggest: Continuing your journey to Lisbon and the fairy-tale palaces of Sintra, or cross into Spain for time in Madrid, Seville, or the coastal charm of Galicia.

cruise The Nile In Egypt

A cruise on the Nile is a journey into the heart of ancient Egypt. Between Luxor and Aswan, the riverbanks are lined with treasures: the sprawling temples of Karnak, the intricately carved Edfu temple, and the tombs of pharaohs in the Valley of the Kings. From your ship, watch feluccas glide across the water as the desert sun sets, bathing the river in gold. Guided tours bring the stories of gods, rulers, and daily life in ancient times vividly to life.

How to do it: Companies like Viking, Uniworld Boutique River Cruises, and Abercrombie & Kent offer Nile cruises paired with stays in Cairo to see the Pyramids and the new Grand Egyptian Museum. Cruise segments are usually 4 to 7 days between Luxor and Aswan, with most packages adding 2–4 nights in Cairo before or after. Ships are small enough to dock close to key sites, with expert Egyptologists on board. Small group tour operators, including including Bunnik Tours and Intrepid Travel, also include cruising or sailing the Nile as part of a larger land-based itinerary.

We suggest: After your cruise, relax at Red Sea resorts like Sharm el-Sheikh, take a side trip to the cosmopolitan city of Alexandria, or head to nearby Jordan to explore Petra and Wadi Rum. A few extra days in Cairo offer deeper insight into modern Egyptian life.the cosmopolitan city of Alexandria or head to nearby Jordan to explore Petra and Wadi Rum.

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cruise The Mighty Mississippi River

Flowing through the heart of the USA, the Mississippi River offers a distinctly American cruising experience. From jazz-filled nights in New Orleans to the blues heritage of Memphis, and from Civil War history in Vicksburg to Mark Twain’s boyhood home in Hannibal, each stop reveals a different chapter of America’s story. The landscapes shift from the bayous and cypress swamps of the south to the scenic bluffs and small towns of the upper river.

How to do it: Viking’s modern ships sail a variety of itineraries, from the short 8-day New Orleans–Memphis Delta Explorer to the epic 15-day St. Paul–New Orleans Great River voyage. Onboard, expect regional cuisine, live music, and enriching talks.

We suggest: Pairing your cruise with a Deep South road trip through Nashville, Atlanta, and Charleston, or spend time in Chicago or along the Gulf Coast beaches before or after your voyage.

Ready to sail somewhere different?

From booking flights to arranging pre- and post-voyage hotels, our travel experts can handle every detail so you can focus on the joy of the journey.

Contact us today and discover a world of cruising beyond the ordinary.