How to Pick the Perfect Cruise Destination: A Guide for the Indecisive Traveler

Ah, the age-old question: Where should we cruise next? With so many incredible destinations, cruise lines, and itineraries to choose from, making a decision can feel like picking a dessert at the buffet—everything looks good, but what if you choose wrong? Knowing how to choose a cruise can make the process much easier.

Don’t worry. I’ve got you covered. Over the years, we’ve learned a thing or two about selecting the right cruise destination, and it all starts with one simple question:

Step 1: When Are You Traveling?

Before you start daydreaming about your cruise wardrobe (sunhat or beanie?), the first thing to consider is timing. Because nothing kills the excitement of a tropical getaway like realizing you’ve booked during hurricane season, or that your dream Alaska cruise happens to fall during a week of torrential rain. That is why understanding how to choose a cruise is crucial.

So, let’s break it down:

Summer: Escape the Heat, Seek the Glaciers

Some people love summer vacations spent sweating it out in crowded theme parks. We, however, prefer a slightly different approach—one that involves cooler temperatures, breathtaking scenery, and the kind of wildlife encounters that don’t require standing in line for three hours.

• Alaska: If you’ve never done an Alaskan cruise, let me tell you—it’s a bucket list trip for a reason. Imagine sailing past towering glaciers, spotting whales from your balcony, and visiting charming towns where sled dogs are basically celebrities. You can go dog sledding, take a floatplane to a remote lake, or just sip a hot chocolate while admiring the scenery. It’s nature at its finest, and the crisp, fresh air is a welcome break from summer heatwaves. Book an Alaskan cruise here!
• Norwegian Fjords: Like Alaska, but with a European twist. Norway’s fjords are absolutely breathtaking, and the best part? You actually sail through them—no need for long bus rides to see the best scenery. Plus, there’s a good chance you’ll find yourself wandering around an ancient Viking village, eating waffles topped with brown cheese (trust me, it’s a thing), and questioning why you don’t move to a cozy Scandinavian town immediately. Book a Norwegian cruise here!
• Caribbean – That’s not to say you can’t go to the Caribbean or the Mexican Riviera, we just prefer to go someplace much cooler. The average temperature in the Bahamas is 84F in June, with 75% humidity, so it feels hot. We’re from the desert, you know 115F in July with 2% humidity.

Winter: Bring on the Sunshine

When the temperature drops and we’re sick of scraping ice off our windshields, it’s time to head south. There’s something incredibly satisfying about packing swimsuits while everyone else is layering up in winter coats.

• Mexican Riviera (February = Whale Watching Jackpot!)
  If you want to witness one of the most incredible wildlife experiences on Earth, cruise the Mexican Riviera in February. This is when humpback whales migrate to the warm waters off the coast of Mexico, and let me tell you—seeing a humpback whale breach right next to your ship is a core memory kind of moment. These massive, majestic creatures are awe-inspiring, and their playful nature makes for some unforgettable encounters.

And when you’re not watching whales? There are plenty of beaches, tacos, and drinks to enjoy. Book a Mexican Riviera cruise here!

• Caribbean
  Warm weather, crystal-clear water, and that perfect mix of relaxation and adventure—the Caribbean is a go-to winter cruise destination for good reason. Whether you want to snorkel with sea turtles, explore ancient Mayan ruins, or just plant yourself in a hammock with a drink in hand, you really can’t go wrong. Book A Caribbean cruise here!

The biggest challenge? Deciding which part of the Caribbean to visit. The Eastern Caribbean has stunning beaches and charming islands, the Western Caribbean offers great excursions like cave tubing and Mayan ruins, and the Southern Caribbean? Well, that’s where you’ll find some of the most picturesque islands out there.

Step 2: What Kind of Experience Do You Want?

Now that we’ve covered the best cruise destinations by season, let’s narrow it down even further. Ask yourself: What’s the vibe of this vacation?

• Are you craving adventure? If you’re the type who likes to explore, hike, and experience jaw-dropping natural wonders, Alaska and Norway should be at the top of your list. Between glacier trekking, kayaking, and spotting wildlife, there’s never a dull moment.  Some of the Caribbean islands offer fun and excitement like natural rock slides and rappelling.  You can find zip lines on pretty much any cruise.
• Do you just want to relax? If the idea of swaying palm trees, white sand beaches, and bottomless piña coladas sounds appealing, then a Caribbean or Mexican Riviera cruise is calling your name.
• Looking for culture and history? A Mediterranean cruise or a European river cruise might be the way to go. One day you’re touring the Colosseum in Rome, the next you’re touring the vineyards in Provence, and before you know it, you’re walking through a medieval castle in Spain. Book a European River cruise here!

Step 3: Ship Matters (But Not as Much as You Think)

Yes, picking the right ship is important, but let’s be real—the destination is what makes or breaks a cruise. Some ships are loaded with bells and whistles (FlowRiders, roller coasters, escape rooms), while others focus more on culinary experiences and a quieter atmosphere. Check out our article on choosing a cruise line here!

Here’s a quick cheat sheet:

• Traveling with kids? Look for a ship with water slides, kids’ clubs, and plenty of activities.
• More into relaxation? Smaller, quieter ships often have better food and fewer crowds.
• Want a mix of both? Mid-size ships tend to have a little bit of everything without feeling overwhelming.

Step 4: Just Book It (Seriously, You Won’t Regret It)

At the end of the day, there’s no wrong answer when it comes to choosing a cruise destination. Whether you’re sailing past icebergs in Alaska, soaking up the sun in the Caribbean, or watching whales off the coast of Mexico, you’re in for an unforgettable experience. Understanding how to choose a cruise will enhance your experience.

And if you’re anything like us, you’ll already be planning your next cruise before you even disembark.

So, where to next? 🚢✨