1. Louisiana – Cruise Down the Mighty Mississippi
There’s no better way to experience the deep history and culture of the South than by taking a riverboat down the Mississippi. Cruises from New Orleans feature jazz music, Cajun cuisine, and stops at historic plantations and Civil War sites. Feel like you’re stepping back in time as you glide past Southern mansions, Spanish moss-draped trees, and live oak canopies.
2. Alaska – Cruise Through the Last Frontier’s Wild Beauty
Nothing compares to Alaska’s breathtaking glaciers, majestic mountains, and wildlife-filled landscapes. Whether it’s cruising past Glacier Bay’s ice fields or spotting humpback whales from the deck, an Alaskan cruise offers adventure and nature in one trip. Plus, there’s a good chance of witnessing the Northern Lights if you go in late summer or fall.
3. New York – Glide Past the Skyline and Lady Liberty
A cruise from New York lets you take in one of the most famous skylines in the world from the water. Picture yourself cruising by the Statue of Liberty, watching Manhattan’s iconic skyscrapers light up at dusk. Some cruises even head up the Hudson River in the fall for stunning views of the autumn foliage in New York and New England.
4. Florida – Discover the Everglades and Caribbean Charm
Florida’s coastline gives you the best of both worlds: balmy beach vibes and rich wildlife. Sail through the Everglades to spot alligators or explore the Keys for colorful coral reefs and laid-back island life. Florida’s cruises also offer easy access to the Caribbean, making it a gateway to nearby tropical getaways. Who needs airport lines when paradise is a boat ride away?
5. California – Sail Through Wine Country and Coastal Wonders
From the sparkling waters of San Francisco Bay to the vineyards of Napa and Sonoma, California cruises are pure relaxation. Wine-tasting excursions, whale watching, and scenic stops at ports like Monterey and Santa Barbara make it perfect for those who want to soak up the sun, sip some of the world’s best wines, and see the stunning Pacific coastline—all in one trip.
6. Hawaii – Island Hop in Paradise
Hawaii cruises are the ultimate in tropical bliss without the need for island-hopping flights. Cruise from Honolulu and explore multiple islands, each with its unique charm. See volcanic landscapes on the Big Island, lush waterfalls on Kauai, and the scenic beaches of Maui, all while only unpacking once.
7. Washington – Sail Through Puget Sound and the San Juan Islands
The Pacific Northwest’s stunning scenery and rich marine life make Washington cruises truly unique. Cruise through Puget Sound and the San Juan Islands to spot orcas, explore charming coastal towns, and immerse yourself in lush forests. Whether it’s kayaking, whale-watching, or just relaxing on deck, this is an ideal trip for nature lovers.
8. Maine – Explore the Rugged Beauty of New England
New England cruises, particularly around Maine, offer charming coastal towns, historic lighthouses, and, of course, mouth-watering lobster. The rocky coastline and quaint fishing villages provide a scenic backdrop, and fall is especially beautiful with vibrant foliage. Maine cruises combine small-town charm with rugged beauty, and the seafood is unbeatable.
9. South Carolina – A Southern Coastal Gem Awaits
Cruising from Charleston, South Carolina, gives you a taste of true Southern hospitality and scenic coastlines. Charleston’s charming historic district, coastal views, and barrier islands are perfect for slow-paced exploration. With stops along the Intracoastal Waterway, you’ll also have opportunities to enjoy beaches, birdwatching, and even sea turtle sightings.
10. Oregon – Cruise Through the Columbia River Gorge
Oregon’s Columbia River Gorge is a nature lover’s paradise, with stunning waterfalls, deep canyons, and lush forests. Many cruises sail from Portland and offer wine-tasting excursions, hiking, and chances to explore the scenic gorge. The Columbia River is packed with history, too, as it’s the route that Lewis and Clark famously traveled.
11. Texas – Discover the Gulf Coast from a New Angle
Texas may not be your first thought for cruising, but the Gulf Coast has its own laid-back charm. Cruises from Galveston offer views of the warm Gulf waters, access to white sandy beaches, and stops at exciting destinations like Mexico and the Caribbean. It’s a relaxing and sun-soaked journey that lets you experience Texas’s unique coastlines.
12. Rhode Island – Sail into the Ocean State’s Seaside Magic
Rhode Island may be the smallest state, but it’s big on coastal charm. Cruises departing from Newport let you explore historic mansions, quaint seaside towns, and the gorgeous Narragansett Bay. Rhode Island cruises often venture into New England’s scenic waters, offering a tranquil escape with ocean breezes and a chance to see the iconic New England lighthouse-dotted coast.
