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Japan in cherry blossom season is one of the most beautiful things you can witness. In this guide, we walk you through what sakura season is really like, the best places to see the blossoms from south to north, and why travelling by cruise is one of the best ways to catch the flowers at their peak. We also hear from our Japan specialist Heather, who has been there herself and knows exactly how to make the most of it.
Glaciers calving into icy fjords, grizzlies fishing for salmon, and a train ride through the heart of the Rockies. Discover how Alaska's wild coastline and Canada's iconic peaks come together in one journey aboard Celebrity Solstice and the Rocky Mountaineer.
Discover the many ways to travel to Antarctica, from fly-in expeditions and classic sea crossings to combined journeys through South America. Learn what to expect across the season, from early wildlife activity to peak summer and late-season exploration of the White Continent.
In this article, we invite you to discover a 15-day cruise itinerary that journeys from the vibrant city skyline of Hong Kong through the coral-blue seas of the Philippines, across the lush, rainforest-covered landscapes of Malaysia, and on to Singapore, the so-called “Garden City”. It’s a journey designed for discovery, where wildlife encounters, protected sanctuaries and tropical rainforests come together, while also offering time to explore vibrant coastal cities and remote island landscapes.
A 17-night expedition cruise from Darwin to Fremantle reveals some of Australia’s most remote and untouched coastline. Travelling through the Kimberley, Buccaneer Archipelago and Montgomery Reef, the journey continues along the Coral Coast to Ningaloo Reef, Shark Bay and the Abrolhos Islands. Along the way, you’ll encounter tidal waterfalls, ancient Aboriginal rock art, abundant wildlife and isolated islands that remain rarely visited and are only accessible by sea.
From the tropical islands of Southeast Asia to the vast Australian outback, this all-inclusive adventure combines a 21-night Silversea expedition through Southeast Asia with a rail journey from Darwin to Adelaide. Cruise through the Philippines, Borneo, and Indonesia with Silversea before crossing the Australian outback aboard the legendary Ghan. Experience extraordinary wildlife, rich cultural encounters, and stunning landscapes, all framed by world-class luxury and service.
Embark on an extraordinary North Atlantic expedition, sailing from Scotland’s Highlands to Iceland’s dramatic volcanic fjords. Along the way, explore windswept islands, Viking ruins, lochs, and fjords, while discovering remote landscapes where nature reigns. Curated by the Ultimate Cruising team, this journey combines their deep regional expertise with carefully arranged experiences. Immerse yourself in rich history, abundant wildlife and striking scenery across the Hebrides, Shetland, the Faroe Islands and Iceland. Travel with confidence on a journey designed to be inspiring.
Venture into the heart of Antarctica aboard Ponant’s expedition ships. Choose from itineraries that explore the iconic Antarctic Peninsula or the far-reaching Weddell Sea, where icebergs, glaciers, and wildlife unfold at every turn. With expert-led shore excursions, zodiac trips, and small-ship exploration, these journeys offer rare access to remote landscapes, intimate encounters with penguins, seals, and whales, and a deeper understanding of one of the planet’s most untouched regions.
French Polynesia is full of quiet surprises, from turquoise lagoons to volcanic peaks and villages shaped by centuries of life at sea. Viewed from the deck of a ship, the islands slowly reveal their beauty, each one more enchanting than the last. Aboard Le Jacques Cartier, travellers discover remote corners of the Pacific while enjoying the comfort and ease of a truly intimate voyage.
Forget the cliché that French Polynesia is only for honeymooners. Aboard Le Paul Gauguin, this South Pacific paradise welcomes families, friends, multi-generational travelers and couples ready for a memorable escape. Explore turquoise lagoons, white-sand beaches and authentic villages while enjoying luxury, comfort and personalized service. With hidden coves, cultural experiences and a gentle pace, every moment on board and ashore is designed to create lasting memories.
My journey began in Broome—an Australian frontier town where time moves a little slower and stories of the past still linger in the warm air. Known for its rich pearling history and magnificent natural beauty, Broome offers a blend of relaxed charm and visual spectacle: golden sunsets over Cable Beach, the surreal Staircase to the Moon, and treasures for every pearl lover. It’s the perfect bookend—at either end—of your Kimberley cruise.
At Ultimate Cruising, we love creating holidays that are anything but ordinary. We ask ourselves what would make a trip truly unforgettable — the kind that stays with you long after you’ve come home — and then we design it. Our World Affairs series is exactly that: a fascinating blend of luxury cruising, inspiring guest speakers, and exclusive access to some of Europe’s most historic and thought-provoking sites. It’s perfect for travellers who enjoy comfort, curiosity, and a deeper connection to the places they visit.
In 2027, a once-in-a-lifetime voyage awaits. Aranui Cruises, long celebrated for connecting travellers to the heart of French Polynesia, is launching its brand-new ship, Aranoa—and with it, an extraordinary journey to Pitcairn and the Gambier Islands, some of the most remote and fascinating destinations in the South Pacific. Will you be among the first on board?
For many, Antarctica is the ultimate travel dream—raw, untouched, and unlike anywhere else on earth. But for some, the prospect of crossing the infamous Drake Passage can be daunting. That’s why Silversea’s 6-night Antarctica fly-cruise offers such a remarkable alternative. By flying directly into King George Island, you skip the roughest seas of the Southern Ocean and arrive in the heart of Antarctica refreshed, excited, and ready to explore. Find out more.
If you’ve ever loved the idea of cruising but found the pace of a new destination every day just a little too rushed, Regent Seven Seas' new Immersive Overnights Collection may be your perfect escape. Imagine an itinerary designed to let you slow down, linger a little longer, and truly immerse yourself in each port. Instead of arriving in the early morning and departing late afternoon, these cruises overnight in port allowing you more time to explore and savour the destination at a slower pace.
Every now and then we meet a partner and think, “Ah, this is made for our travellers.” Tauck is one of those partners. Not because of a shiny brochure or a clever tagline, but because they offer trips that we know will meet every expectation of our customers. Find out why!
Discover Tahiti with Paul Gauguin Cruises. Small-ship luxury, exclusive islands, and all-inclusive experiences. Book with Ultimate Cruising for bonus offers!
Sail 14 nights with Ponant through Tahiti, Tuamotus & Marquesas, then enjoy 2 nights in a Moorea overwater bungalow. Book by 29 Sep 2025 for bonus perks!
Discover French Polynesia with Ponant in two unique styles: the authentic Tahitian charm of Le Paul Gauguin and the refined French elegance of Le Jacques Cartier. Explore the Society Islands, Tuamotus, Marquesas, Cook Islands, and beyond on an unforgettable luxury cruise experience.
Set sail with PONANT aboard Le Jacques-Cartier to explore French Polynesia’s Tuamotus, Gambier Islands, and the legendary Pitcairn Island. Experience untouched lagoons, rich Polynesian culture, authentic island life, and indulgent luxury on this once-in-a-lifetime voyage.
A heartfelt thank you for participating in our recent survey. Your feedback has been both humbling and insightful, and it’s helping us shape an even better future for Ultimate Cruising. Here’s what you told us:
We often get asked whether it’s worth the extra money to upgrade a cabin from the lead-in standard cabin grade to a balcony. While this is an individual preference, personally we believe it’s usually worth the extra money. Here’s why:
Travelling with friends can be a ton of fun but sometimes you still need your own space. We have the answer!
Sometimes a cruise itinerary comes along and everyone in our office goes “ohhh I’d love to do that one!” This is one of those cruises!
