These 5 Bucket List Cruises Are Worth Every Penny, According to a Travel Guru

Emmy Award–winning Travels with Darley host Darley Newman‘s explored nearly every corner of the globe—and says cruising is one of her favorite ways to see it. Featured often on her show and podcast, Newman loves how cruises can take travelers to remarkable places you simply can’t reach any other way. Newman calls this year “the perfect storm” for cruising’s resurgence. Ships have evolved from floating hotels to “small cities” filled with curated, cultural experiences—and travelers are responding. “People are thinking about their wallets right now,” Newman says. “On a cruise, you know what you’ve paid for ahead of time—and that value really matters.” From multigenerational families to solo adventurers, travelers love the stress-free convenience. And with cruise lines now focusing on accessibility—from wheelchair access to autism-friendly programs—Newman says the experience feels “more inclusive than ever.” From relaxing and romantic European river cruises to ships that offer fantastic fjord views, here are five bucket list cruises she says everyone should do once.

Alaska—The Ultimate Bucket List Cruise

A glacier and lush vegetation as seen from Northwestern Fjord in Kenai Fjord National Park, Alaska.A glacier and lush vegetation as seen from Northwestern Fjord in KenPhoto by jtstewartphoto on Getty Images

An Alaskan cruise tops Newman’s list. “Everyone I talk to, even people who don’t normally like to cruise, has done an Alaskan cruise,” says Newman. “The wildlife viewing is unparalleled.” Having sailed through the Kenai Fjords herself, Darley describes Alaska as “a place you can only truly see from the water.” Glacier viewing, orcas and national park excursions make it her top pick for a once-in-a-lifetime voyage. She recommends Princess Cruises or Seabourn for travelers who want both adventure and comfort.

The Mediterranean—Classic Culture Meets Luxury

The passenger cruise ship Ilma arrives at the French Mediterranean port of Marseille. Photo by SOPA Images on Getty Images

A little bit of history, a little bit of culture and loads of stunning views make the Mediteranean the perfect backdrop for a bucket list cruise, says Newman. “The Mediterranean is magic—especially Italy,” says Newman. “That was my first cruise when I was in high school, and it made me want to do what I do today.” Darley loves that a Mediterranean cruise offers a “variety pack” of culture, food and picturesque ports like Venice. From the Amalfi Coast to Greek islands, it’s all a feast for the senses. For a little bit of luxury, she recommends the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection or Seabourn, noting that “you get to see so many amazing places without ever repacking your suitcase.”

The Galápagos—For Nature and Discovery

Darley calls a Galápagos trip “a once-in-a-lifetime experience” for travelers who crave wildlife encounters and eco-conscious adventures. She highlights the region’s protected ecosystems, small expedition ships and intimate excursions led by naturalists. “Lindblad is a great pick if you want to learn while you travel,” says Newman. “It’s educationally oriented and completely unique.”

The Norwegian Fjords—Epic Scenery in Modern Ships

The luxury cruise ship, NCL Prima, makes a port of call visit at the end of the beautiful Geiranger Fjord in Geiranger, Norway.Photo by KenWiedemann on Getty Images

The Norwegian fjords are spectacular and cruises offer views of their towering cliffs, waterfalls and glaciers that are inaccessible from land. “My colleague Evelyn was just on Norwegian’s Prima ship,” says Newman. “She was texting me photos from the fjords every day—it was unreal.” Darley loves that massive modern ships can dock “right beside the land, beside the fjords,” offering jaw-dropping views even from your balcony. For first-timers, she recommends Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) for its comfortable amenities and creative itineraries. “It’s one of those trips where the landscape steals the show,” she adds.

The Rhine River—Storybook Europe by Water

For views and experiences you just can’t get anywhere else, try a river cruise, says Newman. “River cruising is magical,” says Newman. “You float through these fairytale villages with castles, cheese, beer and wine—it’s like a postcard come to life.” Having cruised from Amsterdam through France, Germany and Switzerland with Uniworld, Darley calls it one of her most memorable experiences. Highlights include biking to vineyards, cognac tastings and “colorful little towns straight out of a storybook.”

Darley’s Tips for Making the Most of Any Cruise

Newman says the key to a great cruise comes down to planning wisely:

Book early—and arrive early. “The boat won’t wait for you,” she warns. “Flights are delayed constantly, so come a day ahead if you can.”
Don’t overplan. “Leave time to sit on your balcony or the deck—sometimes that’s the best part.”
Reserve excursions early. “If you see something you want to do—like biking in Bordeaux or a private vineyard tour—book it right away; they fill fast.”
Explore your options. She’s eyeing Virgin Voyages for its “fresh, fun vibe,” and says she’ll “definitely do another Uniworld river cruise soon.”
Take it slow. “There’s just something about being on the water,” she says. “You see the world differently—and you get to slow down enough to really enjoy it.

This story was originally reported by Parade on Oct 9, 2025, where it first appeared in the Travel section. Add Parade as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

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