Where to Cruise First—and Where to Go Next: Best Cruise Destinations for First-Time and Returning Cruisers
- Julia Rachel Palmer
- Jul 8
- 4 min read
Whether you're dreaming about your very first cruise or are already planning your next one, choosing the right destination can make all the difference in how you experience life at sea. Some itineraries are perfect for beginners—easy to access, full of variety, and ideal for testing the waters. Others are better suited for travelers who’ve already fallen in love with cruising and are ready to go deeper.
As a travel advisor and lifelong cruiser, I’ve helped match all types of travelers to the perfect cruise—and today, I’m sharing the most popular destinations for both first-time and returning cruisers.
Best Cruise Destinations for First-Time Cruisers
If you’re new to cruising, your top priorities are probably smooth sailing, exciting excursions, and just enough time at sea to enjoy the ship—without getting bored. Here are two destinations I recommend most to my first-time cruise clients:
Alaska
Alaska is an incredible destination to visit by cruise because many of the ports—like Juneau and Ketchikan—are only accessible by air or sea. A cruise lets you experience Alaska’s untamed beauty with ease, from glacier views and dog sledding to spotting whales and bald eagles. Most itineraries include minimal “at sea” days and calm waters, which is ideal if you're unsure about how you’ll feel onboard.
Cruise Line Tip: I almost always recommend Princess Cruises for Alaska. It’s a core part of their brand, and their onboard experience is tailored specifically for this region.
Western Caribbean
With sunny skies, beachy ports, and roundtrip sailings from Florida or Texas, the Western Caribbean is another great choice for first-time cruisers. Ports like Cozumel, Grand Cayman, and Roatán offer everything from snorkeling and ziplining to lazy beach days and Mayan ruins. It’s a more relaxed, tropical introduction to cruising—and often more affordable than other destinations.
Cruise Line Tip: Royal Caribbean is a favorite for these sailings. Their ships are packed with entertainment, dining, and fun for all ages.
First-Timer Concerns (That I Hear All the Time)
If you’re unsure about cruising, you’re not alone! These are the most common questions I hear:
“Will I get bored on sea days?”
Not likely! I often recommend cruises with more port days to ease you in.
“Isn’t it really expensive?”
Cruising can be one of the best values in travel, especially with meals, entertainment, and accommodations included.
“Aren’t cruise ships dangerous?”
Today’s ships are incredibly safe. With advanced stabilization and strict safety protocols, you're not on the Titanic—I promise.
Best Destinations for Returning Cruisers
If you’ve cruised once or twice and are ready to go further, there’s a whole world to explore beyond the basics. These itineraries build on what you already love—adding more culture, adventure, and off-the-beaten-path experiences.
Canada & New England
These cruises are especially popular in the fall, with colorful foliage and charming ports like Bar Harbor and Quebec City. It’s a great next step for those who loved Alaska but want something closer to home.
Southern Caribbean
Looking to explore less-touristed islands? Cruises from San Juan often include stops like Aruba, Bonaire, St. Lucia, and Curacao. Fewer crowds, deeper culture, and postcard-worthy beaches make this a favorite for seasoned travelers.
Adriatic Coast (Croatia, Montenegro, Greece)
Cruising the Adriatic is perfect for travelers who’ve done the Western Mediterranean and want something a bit more under the radar. Think ancient cities, dramatic coastlines, and Mediterranean sunshine.
Hawaii & Transpacific Cruises
One of the most surprising itineraries I’ve ever taken was a Transpacific cruise with five days in Hawaii followed by five days at sea. My husband and I took it for our honeymoon—and while Hawaii was incredible, the sea days were just as memorable. It was the perfect time to slow down, recharge, and enjoy everything the ship had to offer.
European River Cruises
If you’re ready to change the pace, consider a European river cruise. These offer an intimate, immersive way to explore local cultures, food, and history. They’re especially popular for travelers who want to dig deeper without the crowds.
Pairing Cruise Lines with the Right Destinations
Not all cruise lines are created equal—and matching you to the right one is a huge part of what I do. Here are a few of my go-to suggestions:
Alaska: Princess Cruises or Celebrity
Caribbean: Royal Caribbean or Virgin Voyages (depending on vibe and budget)
Europe & Rivers: Celebrity, Viking, or AmaWaterways
Intimate or cultural: Silversea or Oceania
A full blog post on this is coming soon!
Cruise Myths to Let Go Of
“Cruises are just for older people.” → Not even close. Cruise lines are now targeting all generations. Virgin Voyages is geared specifically to Millennial cruisers!
“Sea days are boring.” → Sea days are some of the most relaxing and indulgent parts of your cruise. Cruise lines make sure to keep the activity schedule full!
“All cruises are the same.” → No way. Destinations, ship styles, and onboard cultures vary hugely—and that’s where I come in. We will make sure to choose the right cruise line just for you!
My First Cruise Story
When I was growing up, we started traveling with my grandfather through resorts and bus tours. But after we took our first Princess cruise to Alaska, that all changed. Cruising became our favorite way to see the world—and now, I help others discover that same magic.
Ready to Plan Your Perfect Cruise?
Whether you're sailing for the first time or planning your next big adventure, I’ll help match you to the right cruise line, itinerary, and ship—based on your travel style and goals.
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