Sam McLoughlin June 20, 2025

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Fred. Olsen Cruise LinesExploring the world by cruise has never been so popular – and for good reason. Cruises can offer a fantastic blend of luxury and adventure, weaving together some of the world’s most compelling destinations into one seamless journey.

With countless itineraries available, there’s a voyage out there for everyone – whether you’re seeking natural beauty, rich cultural encounters, sun-soaked relaxation, or all this and more.

Yet, we know that deciding on where to set sail can be easier said than done. That’s why we’ve partnered with Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines to bring you 10 exciting cruise destinations.

Plus, until June 25th, Fred. Olsen’s summer sale offers a free drinks package on selected 2025 sailings – as well as special savings for solo guests. To find out more and browse all available cruises, you can visit their website using the button below.

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1. The Azores

The Azores

For exceptional natural beauty on your next cruise, look no further than the Azores. Set adrift in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, this archipelago is home to volcanic peaks, opalescent crater lakes, breathtaking geothermal features, and hiking trails with spellbinding vistas. Free-roaming cows graze in emerald meadows and, in summer, brilliant blue hydrangeas stud hedgerows like jewels.

While the scenery draws most visitors, the cultural offerings are also worth shouting about. Ports like Praia da Vitória are home to historic fortifications and elaborate chapels, offering insights into the islands’ unique history. Make sure to savour the singular cuisine, too, by tasting locally grown pineapples and cozido das Furnas, a stew buried in the ground and cooked with volcanic heat.

2. Estonia

estonia

Estonia’s capital, Tallinn, is emerging as a beloved destination for hidden gem enthusiasts. The port city captures visitors with an enchanting blend of old and new. Autonomous food-delivery robots zip down cobbled streets beneath medieval red-roofed towers. And traditional eateries serving hearty local dishes rub shoulders with high-end, Michelin-recommended restaurants.

Upon arrival in Tallinn, you’ll immediately be struck by the city’s beauty, from the candy-coloured Baroque palaces to the lively market squares. But what truly sets it apart is the fascinating culture. Immerse yourself by taking an authentic Estonian smoke sauna, attending the iconic Song and Dance Celebration in July 2025, or wandering through the fairytale Christmas markets in December.

3. Scotland

scotland

You don’t need to travel far (or even leave the UK) to find extraordinary cruise experiences. With hundreds of unique islands and thousands of miles of spectacular coastline – including sea lochs that thread inland through looming cliffs – it feels like Scotland was made for exploring by ship. What’s more, the Outer Hebrides were named one of the best 2025 travel destinations by National Geographic.

On a Scottish cruise, striking geological formations – like the hexagonal basalt columns at Fingal’s Cave – share itineraries with opportunities to spot wondrous wildlife, including puffins, seals, and porpoises. Foodies can taste Orkney fudge and visit whisky distilleries, culture seekers can take part in Ceilidh dances, and history buffs can learn about Gaelic culture and visit ancient villages.

4. Norway

Norway

A Norwegian cruise offers a series of unforgettable moments. Spring and summer voyages sail through the famous fjords, where glistening waterfalls plunge into glacial waters and dizzying cliffs loom over fruit orchards. On land, you can embrace friluftsliv, the local way of outdoor living, through various outdoor activities, while towns and cities like Vikøyri and Bergen offer sensational culinary experiences.

Alternatively, winter cruises venture into the stark but beautiful Arctic Circle, a hotspot for Northern Lights sightings. A cruise is a great way to see this phenomenon, as ships can be constantly moving and travelling far from artificial light pollution. Other experiences to look forward to on a Northern Lights cruise include wildlife spotting, visiting Indigenous Sami camps, and dog sledding through snow-dusted pines.

5. Morocco

morocco

Morocco is a great choice for relaxing beach holidays and city breaks. Visitors can laze on Agadir’s sprawling beaches or wander Marrakech’s spice-scented streets, tasting rich tagines and sipping refreshing mint tea. But, by exploring this diverse and vibrant country by cruise ship, you can experience all of this and more in a single holiday.

Aside from visiting Marrakech and world-class beaches, cruisers can drop anchor in Casablanca, where ancient traditions mingle with modern conveniences. Here, you can admire Art Deco architecture and discover cinematic spots like Rick’s Cafe. Browse elaborate clothing, intricate homewares, and glittering jewellery in Tangier’s souks, and investigate historic sites like the Kasbah fortress. You can also journey inland to reach the cerulean-painted buildings of Chefchaouen.

6. France

france

France is often overlooked as a cruise destination due to its proximity to the UK, but touring its coasts and waterways is a great way to see it in a new light. Why not cruise the Seine to soak in serene vistas of rolling countryside and chocolate box villages? Don’t miss stopping in at Rouen, which is particularly picturesque at Christmas, when festive markets spring up in the squares.

Many France cruise itineraries also include Honfleur, a pretty town on the river’s estuary, where colourful timber-framed houses fringe the harbour. It’s a great place to discover the region’s Viking history and sample Normandy’s gastronomical delights, such as fresh oysters and cheese. From here, you can also take a day trip to Caen, which is celebrating its millennium this year with plenty of exciting events.

7. Turkey

Turkey

Many of Turkey’s best sights are by the coast, so it’s ideal for a cruise. Expect ancient ruins, white-sand beaches, iridescent lagoons, spellbinding harbour towns, and vibrant cities. Istanbul is a must-visit, with its intoxicating blend of Eastern and Western influences. Spend your stay hunting for souvenirs in bazaars, unwinding in traditional hammams, and marvelling at iconic monuments like the Hagia Sophia.

For seaside glamour, choose a cruise itinerary with resorts like Kusadasi and Bodrum. When you aren’t swimming in sparkling coves or sampling fresh seafood and meze in harbourside restaurants, fascinating historical sites await. Highlights include the Greek city of Ephesus and the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world.

8. Iceland

Iceland

Rugged and windswept Iceland is a treasure trove of natural marvels. Here, geysers erupt from the volcanic earth and waterfalls tumble down mountainsides into shimmering glacial pools. Turquoise lagoons simmer with geothermal heat, and icy tides spill onto black sand beaches. In winter, the Northern Lights also trace the sky with luminous shades of blue, pink, and green.

Icelanders’ connection with this unique land is palpable in everything they do – from local delicacies like hákarl (fermented shark) to Reykjavik’s towering Hallgrímskirkja church, whose design was inspired by naturally occurring hexagonal basalt columns. Top things to do in Iceland include whale watching, discovering Viking history and Nordic folklore, and intrepid activities like glacier hiking and ice caving.

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    Iceland, Faroe Islands, Northern Ireland & 2 more | 13 nights

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  • Whales & Wonders of Iceland

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    Reykjavík - Pass Látrabjarg - Crossing the Arctic Circle - Eyjafjörður - Akureyri - Grundarfjörður - Runavik

    Norway, Iceland & Faroe Islands | 9 nights

    Departs from Liverpool on the ship Borealis.

    Departs: 10 Aug 2027

    Includes taxes and fees

    From £1,799pp

9. Latvia

Latvia

Another fascinating Baltic destination to consider for your next cruise is Latvia – particularly the capital of Riga. Upon disembarking, you’ll be swept away by its beauty. Expect lush parks with bubbling water features, hundreds of Art Nouveau buildings in every shade of the rainbow, and centuries-old church spires standing watch over chattering beer gardens.

By day, the labyrinthine alleys of the Old Town offer plenty of medieval curiosities, art galleries, and quaint cafés where you can sip Black Balsam, the country’s national drink. Though, stay until dusk to experience some of the quarter’s famous nightlife. The Riga Central Market is also a must-visit for foodies and, if you’re feeling intrepid, why not explore the city by kayak on the canals and rivers?

10. Portugal

portugal

It’s easy to see why Portugal is a staple stop on many Mediterranean cruises. Dramatic sandstone cliffs tower over dazzling beaches in the south, while the picturesque Douro snakes through vineyard-draped valleys in the north. Cities like Lisbon offer cosmopolitan excitement, while Madeira is home to sub-tropical forests and awe-inspiring mountainscapes.

This year is a great time to visit Portugal. The enchanting hilltop hamlet of Sintra, within day-tripping distance of Lisbon, is celebrating 30 years of UNESCO World Heritage status with various events – from outdoor adventures to escape rooms and music performances. In the capital, the Macam Modern Art Gallery has recently opened, featuring over 600 Portuguese and international artworks.

Final thoughts…

Final thoughts

From underrated Baltic destinations like Estonia and Latvia to sun-kissed classics like Turkey and Portugal, we hope this list of exciting cruise destinations has inspired your next voyage.

Whether you dream of searching out the Northern Lights, sifting through stalls in the bazaars of Istanbul and Tangier, or immersing yourself in unique festivals in Tallinn and Normandy, unforgettable experiences abound in 2025.

To browse voyages, head over to the Fred. Olsen website using the button below. Until June 25th, Fred. Olsen’s summer sale is offering a free drinks package on selected 2025 sailings – as well as special savings for solo guests.

Find a holiday

Have you been to one of these destinations? Or has this list inspired you? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below.

Sam McLoughlin

Sam McLoughlin is a Senior Lifestyle Writer at Rest Less. He joined the editorial team in 2021 after completing his Master’s degree in English Literature, Culture, and Theory at The University of Sussex. He enjoys writing about careers, books, sports, travel, and pretty much anything that his editor will let him have a crack at, but his favourite part of the job is interviewing inspiring people – from activists and CEOs to later life career changers. In his spare time, Sam enjoys climbing, snowsports, and going to see live music.

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