Escape the Ordinary: Unique Cruise Routes You'll Love

Japan

As an island nation, there's no better way to explore Japan than by sea. Major cruise lines often combine Japan with calls to other countries in the region, offering a unique blend of destinations.

Kochi, Nagoya and Mt. Fuji from Norwegian Cruise Lines is a perfect example. This 11-day cruise sets sail from Taiwan, then includes seven stops in Japan. For sheer variety of experiences, the itinerary is hard to beat. From the bustling port of Keelung to the stunning beaches of Ishigaki, from Shigira hot springs to Kōchi Castle, from Kobe's famous culinary scene to the iconic Mount Fuji. Round off your trip in Tokyo, the fascinating metropolis unlike any other on earth.

And of course, with Norwegian, you enjoy flexibility, luxury and unforgettable experiences included in the exclusive More at Sea™ package.

Australia

It's no surprise that most cruise passengers in the world come from the United States, followed by Germany and the UK. But next come the Australians, and they certainly have some great cruise options right at home. Coral Expeditions, based in Queensland, are pioneers in sustainable, nature-based travel. Their vessels are designed with shallow drafts, letting them launch expeditions without needing to anchor, thereby minimizing the impact on delicate coral reef ecosystems. Supplies are sourced locally, with an emphasis on fair trade and sustainable suppliers.

Best of The Kimberley and Tiwi Islands is an 11-day cruise around the Kimberley region of northwestern Australia. It is often described as one of the world's last great wilderness areas. This trip combines reefs and waterfalls, rainforests and mangroves. The highlight is a visit to the Tiwi Islands to experience the rich culture and warm welcome of the Tiwi people. They have been custodians of the island for millennia, and are known now for their striking geometric art and love of Australian rules football.

The Amazon

Expedition and exploration cruises are the fastest-growing segment of the market. Travelers are demanding journeys that take them beyond traditional cruise routes to more remote destinations such as Antarctica and the Arctic, the Galápagos Islands, the Amazon and lesser-visited parts of Southeast Asia. With a focus on sustainability and education, many expedition cruises feature onboard scientists and lecturers to deepen passengers' understanding of the regions they explore.

Aqua Expeditions' eight-day Amazon cruise is a prime example. This amazing cruise takes you to the birthplace of the Amazon. You can fish for piranhas, hike with expert guides, stargaze in pristine sky and spot pink dolphins, spider monkeys and toucans. But you don't sacrifice luxury and comfort while on board. The 20-suite ship Aqua Nera boasts a gym, plunge pool, spa and games room — and floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows so you never forget where you are.

Around the globe

And if you just can't decide which region of the world you want to cruise — well, why not do all of them? Oceania Cruises offer a range of epic sailings that take you all round the world on their small but luxurious ships. On their World Odyssey cruise, you depart from Los Angeles and arrive in Miami 28 weeks later after circumnavigating South America, heading westwards across the Pacific through to the Indian Ocean, transiting the Suez Canal and crossing the Mediterranean to Western Europe and finally crossing the Atlantic via Iceland to the east coast of Canada and the USA. Serious bucket list material.

Viking Ocean Cruises and Regent Seven Seas also offer round-the-world cruises – 26 weeks and 24 weeks respectively. As always with cruising, it comes down to which company floats your boat. Go with Oceania's flexibility and top-notch dining. Viking's cultural immersion and educational experiences, or Regent Seven Seas' fully inclusive, no-expense-spared experience.

Day trip

• Many expedition cruise ships have an open-bridge policy, allowing passengers to enter the bridge to observe operations and ask questions. On some cruises, engine room tours are also offered.

• Note that some of the smaller expedition cruise lines operate a "no key" policy for safety reasons. This means you can lock your cabin from the inside but not when you leave it.

• Optional excursions on expedition cruises – such as Zodiac landings, kayaking and hiking — require a reasonable level of fitness and mobility.

Japan

For meat lovers, a stop in Kobe isn't complete without tasting its world-famous marbled beef. Restaurants like Mouriya Honten serve it teppanyaki-style on a flat griddle.

When in Nagoya, enjoy Japan's distinctive pub culture at an izakaya, where you can sample local specialties such as Nagoya-style chicken wings (tebasaki).

The Kimberley region of Australia

The Kimberley has a long history of pearl farming, and many local restaurants serve pearl meat — a rare seafood delicacy.

While in the beach town of Broome, grab a pint at the famous Matso's Brewery, which offers craft beers infused with flavors like mango.

The Amazon River

Explore the unique flavors of Amazonian cuisine, including the paiche, one of the biggest freshwater fish in the world. Traditionally salted and dried like bacalao, it's then steamed and served with rice or yuca.

Or visit the floating restaurant Al Frio y Al Fuego in Iquitos, where dining is as much about the unique setting as the flavors!