We were all new to cruising at some point (how we managed before we discovered the joy of cruising, I will never know) and had the difficulty of deciding where to actually go. If you are struggling to decide on your first itinerary, then my blog today may be of help to you. These are 5 of the most popular regions and five that are ideal as your first cruise choice. The Caribbean is my favourite!

United Arab Emirates

Discover the best of the Middle East with an eight-day cruise to the UAE. Starting your adventure in the desert metropolis of Dubai, you’ll enjoy a hedonistic mix of shopping, great food and fun-filled attractions. Leave this extravagance behind, and you’ll take in the slower pace of Oman’s Muscat. This ancient city is home to a treasure trove of historic sights which offer an authentic taste of the region.

Next, move onto Abu Dhabi, also known as the Arabian Jewel, where towering skyscrapers meet beautiful Islamic landmarks. With an itinerary guaranteed to overwhelm the senses, it’s the perfect introduction to cruising.

Canary Islands

Why limit yourself to just one island when you can visit several in one trip? With each island offering something unique, a cruise of this spectacular archipelago is a feast for the senses. Tenerife is your first port of call – a sun-kissed paradise with a huge array of attractions. Spot dolphins on a guided boat tour, see the spectacular Mount Teide and dine al fresco at one of the many tapas bars. From here you’ll travel to La Gomera, Lanzarote and even Morocco if you choose an extended route.

Central America

Many Central American itineraries begin in Jamaica’s laidback Montego Bay. In a region known for its reggae, rum and palm-fringed coastline, it’s a relaxing start to an adventurous cruise. A favourite amongst the culture vultures, this expedition will include stops at Belize and Honduras before finishing in Mexico. Aside from colonial architecture and natural wonders, visitors can marvel at some of the most impressive ancient sights in the world. You’ll visit countless Mayan ruins hidden away in the jungle before relaxing in Mexico’s Costa Maya.

Western Mediterranean

What better way to visit the many cosmopolitan cities of Europe than aboard a floating city? It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity to see lots of iconic landmarks whilst relaxing under the Mediterranean sun. Although there are plenty of stopovers to choose from, a combination of Spain, Italy and France is sure to impress.

Highlights include the mouthwatering tapas of Majorca’s Palma, a chance to snap the perfect photo of the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa, a trip to ancient Pompeii, and the beauty of the glitzy French Riviera at Villefranche. Finally, pay a visit to the sunny sands of Palamos, where you can easily visit Barcelona.

Caribbean

Find your own slice of paradise on a tour of the Eastern Caribbean. The most popular cruise destination on the planet offers an unbeatable mix of great weather, picture postcard beaches and thrilling on-shore excursions. Your introduction begins on the sun-kissed island of Barbados, famed for its water sports and laid-back charm. The untamed beauty of the British Virgin Islands is your next port of call. The adventurous shouldn’t miss a day trip through the Sage Mountain National Park, a tropical oasis also home to the islands’ highest point. From here, glamour awaits as you travel to St Kitts and Antigua. Explore the sights, indulge in duty free shopping and sip on rum cocktails.

Choose an itinerary from any one of these remarkable sight-seeing cruises, and your first voyage should be one to remember. Have questions about taking your first cruise? Then my cruise FAQ’s may help!