January is one of the most exciting times of the year for the cruise industry. Why? Because it’s the month that cruise lines lift the lid on all the amazing new destinations they’re set to visit over the next 12 months! 2015 itineraries are shaping up to be some of the most exotic and far flung yet, with a galvanising list of new destinations and port calls peppered across the globe!
Oceania Cruises – Boracay Island – The Philippines
Crowned by Travel + Leisure as the “World’s Best Island,” Boracay is the epitome of a beachside paradise. With its pristine white beaches that stretch as far as the eye can see it’s the perfect place to find your own private patch of sand and spend the day relaxing in absolute bliss. Those that prefer a livelier scene can hit up some of the luxurious day spas, snag a bargain at the many street stalls or get sign up for one of the many water sports activities. Restaurants and bars are a great place to meet fellow travellers while and enjoy a fresh coconut after a hard day exploring.
Disney Cruise Line – Norwegian Fjords, Scandinavia
Majestic, ethereal and wonderfully icy, the towering Norwegian Fjords are without a doubt Disney’s most exciting new addition for 2015. As the inspiration for Disney’s hit film Frozen Fjord trips are sure to be a hit with any Ana, Elsa or Olaf loving little one! The itinerary traverses through charming Scandinavian towns, tumbling waterfalls and snowy mountains, with port calls at Stavanger, Alesund, Geiranger, Molde, Olden and Bergen. Thanks to Disney’s fantastic on-board kids programmes it’s a great opportunity for parents to relax, unwind and enjoy a little down time.
Celebrity – Vladivostok, Russia
Perched on Golden Horn Bay, this Maritime Territory capital is brimming with history and intrigue. As the terminus of the world famous Trans-Siberian Railroad and Russia’s principal Pacific seaport it’s a hive of activity. Even in the winter months the port is bustling with icebreakers using the harbour as a base for fishing fleets. While it’s not a conventional cruise ship port of call it’s definitely one of the most original for 2015. Passengers can soak up an abundance of modern world history, from a tour of the S-56 submarine and a visit to the Arsenev Regional Museum to exploring Fort No 7 and day tripping to Russky Island.
Cunard – La Spezia, Italy
Nestled in between Genoa and Pisa, La Spezia is a picturesque town set to emerge as one of Cunard’s most popular Mediterranean destinations. While it plays an important role as one of Italy’s key commercial and military ports its main appeal is its proximity to Cinque Terre. The quintet of quaint coastal villages are now listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and make the perfect day trip for passengers wanting to get a taste of true Italian charm.
Crystal Cruises – Albany, Australia
Located in Australia’s stunning South West coastline, Albany is a hugely popular holiday destination for locals and tourists alike. The old whaling town is teeming with laid back Aussie charm and offers world class activities and attractions throughout the year. Check out the colourful wildflowers, head off on a whale watching tour, sample the region’s award winning wines, soak up the spectacular coastal scenery or try your hand at fishing or sailing.
Want to be one of the first to explore these exciting new ports? Head over to Cruise 1st for the industry’s best deals on a huge selection of itineraries from Oceania, Disney, Celebrity, Cunard, Crystal and more!
Images sourced via Flickr Creative Commons. Credits: Shawn Huang, Storm Crypt, Roberto Faccenda, Sunova Surfboards
