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2026

Best Cruises in 2026

Iglu Cruise

• 18 min read
Best Cruises in 2026

Top cruise destinations in 2026 and best 2026 cruise deals

Embarking on a cruise holiday is always exciting, and right now, you can book cruises for 2026 that visit some of the most breathtaking destinations and interesting places around the world. From Caribbean cruises during winter that help you chase the sunshine and incredible island-hopping adventures in the Mediterranean to exciting expedition cruises that explore some of the world’s most remote regions, mini cruises perfect for a quick getaway, and luxury escapes where your every want and need is taken care of, there are 2026 cruises for every type of traveller and you’ll already find a fantastic selection of cruise deals and offers to choose from with Iglu Cruise.

However, with so many incredible options available, keeping up to date on all the latest sailings on offer can be tricky – even feel overwhelming at times.

An image of a Celebrity Cruises cruise ship on a sunny day
Celebrity Apex cruising in Santorini

Worry not, though, for Iglu Cruise is here to help. Below, you’ll find a handy guide to some of the most exciting cruises available throughout 2026, and a little information about what to expect when it comes to visiting some of the best cruise destinations around the world. On top of that, we’re also answering some of the most popular questions about cruising in 2026 and highlighting any travel trends going into 2026. So, if you’re just about ready to book yourself a cruise, keep reading to find out more about all the upcoming deals you can choose from!

Contents:

  1. Mediterranean Cruises in 2026
  2. Caribbean Cruises in 2026
  3. Europe Cruises in 2026
  4. North America Cruises in 2026
  5. Norwegian Fjords Cruises in 2026
  6. Middle Eastern Cruises in 2026
  7. Australia & New Zealand Cruises in 2026
  8. Asia Cruises in 2026
  9. Antarctica Cruises in 2026
  10. World Cruises in 2026
  11. Cruises From the UK in 2026
  12. Family Cruises in 2026
  13. Best cruise lines for 2026
  14. 2026 cruise travel trends
  15. Top 2026 cruise questions answered

1. Mediterranean Cruises in 2026

A breathtaking region of the world, rich with fascinating cultures and fantastic cuisines, Mediterranean cruises are popular among UK holidaymakers for a reason – and that’s not even taking into account how close the Mediterranean actually is to the UK, meaning you can comfortably cruise from Southampton if you want to avoid embarking on a fly cruise. This makes it one of the best cruise destinations for 2026. From unforgettable adventures in the Adriatic and the sun-drenched cities of Italy to sailing the Aegean Sea and island-hopping in Greece, the destinations you’ll have the chance to visit on a Mediterranean cruise are known for their warm summers, stunning scenery, incredible ancient landmarks, and delicious food; although, whatever time of year you choose to set sail for the Mediterranean, you’re in for a fantastic holiday.

Amalfi, Italy

Top Picks for the Best 2026 Mediterranean Cruises:

Check out the top 5 accessible Mediterranean cruise ports here ahead of your next adventure.

2. Caribbean Cruises in 2026

Home to stunning white-sand beaches that border sparkling blue seas, verdant forestry and inland areas full of fantastic flora and fauna, and vibrant towns overflowing with incredible cultures and cuisines, it's easy to see why the Caribbean is one of the best cruise destinations for 2026. The perfect place to holiday if you’re chasing winter sunshine, Caribbean cruises often afford you the luxury of visiting a variety of islands in one fell swoop – from Barbados and the British Virgin Islands to Anguilla, the Bahamas, and more. With all the best cruise line private islands here, too, paradise awaits in abundance!

Nassau, Bahamas

Top Picks for the Best 2026 Caribbean Cruises:

If you're wondering how accessible the Caribbean is, we have a list of the top 5 accessible Caribbean cruise ports for you to check out right here.

3. Europe Cruises in 2026

If you’re someone who enjoys city breaks and immersing yourself in new cultures, but you want to make even more of the holidays you take, European cruises are perfect! An incredibly diverse destination, where you’ll have the chance to indulge in a varied selection of cuisines, explore fascinating cities, and even check out some of the top museums to visit during a cruise, an impressive selection of sailings to places like Rotterdam, Cherbourg, Lisbon, and Barcelona are available throughout the year. When it comes to cruising in Europe, you’ll find short breaks, all-inclusive offerings, luxury getaways, and both fly and no-fly cruises to choose from. So, whatever the type of cruise holiday you’re after, you’ll find something to suit sailing to this remarkable continent.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Top Picks for the Best 2026 Europe Cruises:

Find out more about the top 5 accessible European Cruise Ports here.

4. North America Cruises in 2026

When cruising in North America, you’ll be met with an incredible variety of landscapes and experiences – all of which complement one another and make this region one of the most unique and rewarding destinations to holiday in. Home to breathtaking national parks and rugged wilderness alongside vibrant cityscapes and stunning beaches, you’ll have plenty of options when it comes to North America cruises. With a wide variety of cruise lines offering sailings to destinations in Alaska and Canada alongside Miami, Los Angeles, and New York (just to name a few of the major cities cruises visit), you’re certain to find an itinerary that suits you – and you're definitely in for an unforgettable adventure. It's easy to see why North America is quickly becoming one of the best cruise destinations in 2026.

Mount Denali (Mount McKinley), Alaska

Top Picks for the Best 2026 North America Cruises:

For more on the top 5 accessible Alaskan ports, check out our blog.

5. Norwegian Fjords Cruises in 2026

If you’re eager to explore all the natural wonders Norway has to offer, a cruise holiday is perfect! You’ll sail right through the Norwegian fjords, having time to admire the breathtaking beauty of the dramatic cliffs and cascading waterfalls this region has to offer, while enjoying an incredible experience on a modern cruise ship. Not only this, but you’ll also be given the chance to explore incredible cities like Oslo, Bergen, and more. It might be a little chilly in Norway, but Norwegian fjords cruises are worth putting a coat on for – you’re in for an unforgettable experience when you set sail in Scandinavia.

Lofoten Islands, Norway

Top Picks for the Best 2026 Norwegian Fjords Cruises:

Find out more about the top 5 accessible Norwegian cruise ports right here!

6. Middle Eastern Cruises in 2026

An area of the world that’s only growing in popularity when it comes to cruising, the Middle East is an amazing adventure with so many incredible experiences to enjoy and idyllic destinations to explore. Whether you spend your days wandering through the vibrant bazaars, marvelling at the magnificent modern architecture, or exploring the wealth of historic sites these destinations are home to, the options are endless on a Middle East cruise, and a rewarding holiday awaits. The warm desert climate of this region also lends itself to unique shore excursions and experiences you won’t find anywhere else, like dune-bashing, camel riding, and more! So, while this may not be the first place you think of when it comes to cruising, the Middle East is quickly becoming one of the best cruise destinations in 2026 and beyond for one-of-a-kind adventures.

Dubai, UAE

Top Picks for the Best 2026 Middle East Cruises:

Want to learn more? Check out our recent blog - Qatar: The Top 7 Things to do in this Remarkable Country

7. Australia & New Zealand Cruises in 2026

Exploring Australasia is a delight, and both Australia and New Zealand have a lot to offer cruisers. Whether you’re looking to admire iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House, or venture into The Lord of the Rings’ Hobbiton film set, there are sensational sightseeing opportunities here. Beyond this, Australasia cruises give you the chance to marvel at remarkable natural wonders like the Great Barrier Reef and Ayers Rock, soak up the sunshine on sandy beaches, and explore vibrant fjordlands. This region is breathtaking, with a welcoming culture to boot. If you’re looking for warm weather in the winter, you won’t regret embarking on an adventure in Australasia.

Mount Cook National Park, New Zealand

Top Picks for the Best 2026 Australasia Cruises:

For more hidden gems, check out the top underrated cruise destinations here!

8. Asia Cruises in 2026

Whisking you away to some of the most awe-inspiring destinations in the world, Asia cruises are full of wonder and excitement – not to mention the sensational food you’ll find in the region! This makes Asia one of the best cruise destinations in 2026 and beyond. Offering travellers a balance of bustling cities like Singapore and Tokyo alongside stunning natural scenery, you’ll enjoy a unique mix of ultra-modernity and traditional culture in Asia; the landmarks here are centuries old, and there are practices still followed that are even older in nations like Thailand and China. You’ll have the chance to bask in the magnificence of Mount Fiji, get to grips with the breathtaking scale of the Great Wall of China, ponder endangered species in the Chengdu Panda Conservation Centre, and take in the incredible marine life of Thailand – among other exciting excursions and experiences. Your adventure in Asia, however you spend it, will be one to remember.

Tokyo, Japan

Top Picks for the Best 2026 Asia Cruises:

The weather in Asia can vary dramatically to what we're used to in the UK, so be sure to check out our guide to packing for different climates ahead of your next adventure.

9. Antarctica Cruises in 2026

If you’re looking for something a little more adventurous when it comes to a cruise holiday, Antarctica cruises are a fantastic option. Expedition cruises, like those that sail to Antarctica, take you to some of the world’s most remote locations – with exciting shore excursions and experiences ideal for intrepid explorers. Home to unique wildlife and jaw-dropping scenery, these adventures often take place on smaller, luxury ships – meaning your onboard experience will be just as memorable as the time you spend ashore. If you’re looking for a once in a lifetime cruise experience, a voyage to Antarctica awaits.

Antarctica

Top Picks for the Best 2026 Antarctica Cruises:

If you want to find out more about this type of cruising, check out your top frequently asked questions about expedition cruises answered right here!

10. World Cruises in 2026

If you can’t quite decide where you want to go next on your cruise getaway, why not go everywhere all at once? World cruises are a spectacular way of seeing so many incredible destinations around the globe in one fell swoop; when looking at them, you’ll find some itineraries as short as 30-or-so nights, and some sailings that last over 200 nights! With all your travel, accommodation, food, and entertainment covered by your cruise fare – and itineraries littered with overnight stays in spectacular cities – embarking on a cruise around the world is a stress-free experience and a once-in-a-lifetime adventure you won’t want to miss out on.

Cunard's Queen Anne

Top Picks for the Best 2026 World Cruises:

Want to make the most of your cruise getaway? Here's a run-down of the top historical destinations you can see on a cruise for you to check out.

11. Cruises From the UK in 2026

If you like the idea of a cruise, but you want to avoid flights, cruising from the UK is an excellent option – whether you’re cruising from Southampton, from London Tilbury, or any other one of the available cruises from UK ports. Oh, and you’ll also be able to start enjoying all the fantastic amenities and activities available onboard even sooner! Whether you’re hoping to explore the British Isles and Channel Islands, or venture further afield to destinations in the Mediterranean, Caribbean, and beyond, you’ll find a fantastic variety of cruises departing from UK ports – including Newcastle, Liverpool, Dover, and more.

Southampton, United Kingdom

Top Picks for the Best 2026 Cruises From the UK:

Looking for a wallet-friendly holiday for the future? We have some of the top budget-friendly cruises right here.

12. Family Cruises in 2026

When it comes to treating the family to an exciting holiday, cruising is a fantastic option. With many cruise ships having fantastic family-friendly amenities and activities onboard, welcoming kids clubs perfect for socialising, and food everyone can enjoy, family cruises are a stress-free way of having an unforgettable adventure with your young ones. Whether you want to be sun-soaking in the Mediterranean, island-hopping in the Caribbean, taking in the sights throughout Europe, or exploring the stunning Norwegian fjords – just to name a few options – you’re certain to find an itinerary everyone can enjoy.

Cruising the Caribbean with Disney Cruise Line (and Donald Duck!)

Top Picks for the Best 2026 Family Cruises:

For those of you looking to travel during the school holidays, we have you covered here at Iglu Cruise. You’ll find the latest February half term cruise deals here, offers on summer holiday cruises right here, and Easter holiday cruise deals here. We also have October half term cruises for you to check out, Christmas cruises during the Christmas holidays, and more!

Royal Caribbean is one of the best cruise lines for families, and they're improving three of their most popular cruise ships throughout 2026; to find out more, check out our blog on Royal Amplified 2026 right here.

13. Best cruise lines for 2026

Establishing the best cruise lines for 2026 cruises is complicated, as there are no inherently bad cruise lines, and identifying the best depends a lot on your personal preferences as a cruiser.

For affordable cruises from the UK, P&O Cruises, MSC Cruises, and Norwegian Cruise Line are fantastic options; Ambassador is also a popular choice for cruisers looking to depart from UK ports.

Meanwhile, for luxury and ultra-luxury cruises, Oceania Cruises, Emerald Yacht Cruises, Silversea Cruises, and Explora Journeys are excellent options for 2026 cruises. Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Windstar Cruises, Crystal, and Seabourn Cruises also offer an incredible range of itineraries throughout 2026.

A couple enjoying drinks on an aft-facing lounge area on a luxury cruise ship on a sunny day
Drinks aboard Emerald Sakara

Additionally, the best cruise lines for 2026 family cruises are Royal Caribbean, Disney Cruise Line, and Marella Cruises; however, Celebrity Cruises and P&O Cruises are also excellent options. Virgin Voyages boasts an impressive selection of adult-only cruises, and both P&O Cruises and Marella Cruises feature adult-only ships in their fleet. So, there are plenty of options if you’re looking to avoid children during your cruise.

If you’re still not sure where you want to travel, and too many cruise deals sound too enticing, you might be asking yourself the following question: What are the travel trends in 2026?

The travel trends proving increasingly popular in 2026 are:

  • Wellness travel
  • Digital detox travel
  • Astro-tourism
  • Solo travel

One trend that promises to be a big part of travelling in 2026 is wellness-focused holidays. It’s important to take care of yourself, and sometimes the best way to do that is through spa treatments and sauna sessions. While cities like Baden-Baden, Bath, and Budapest boast an abundance of spas and historic bath houses, cruising is a fantastic way to embrace this leisurely travel trend without limiting your options.

Cruise ships often feature impressive spa facilities and treatment rooms where you can enjoy everything from massages, facials, pedicures, and more. With some of the top cruise line spas out there right now found aboard cruise ships sailing to all four corners of the world, you’ll have no trouble embracing wellness-focused travel when cruising in 2026, and still have the opportunity to travel wherever you want!

A woman lying down on a massage table in a spa with wide windows showing open ocean
MSC Cruises' Aurea Spa

Staying active is also an essential part of personal wellness, and open-water swimming is one activity that boasts numerous health benefits. If you want to stay active but also avoid the treadmill, you’ll find out more about lake swimming in our guide on where to swim in Europe here.

You’ll also find that digital detox travel is an evolving travel trend that’s shaping up to be a popular option for many throughout 2026. Something that encourages you to disconnect from the digital world, reducing your screen time to be present in the world around you, this type of holiday has been known to improve sleep, mental clarity, and face-to-face relationships with loved ones. While completely ditching technology may be tricky on a cruise, this type of holiday can be a fantastic way to embrace this growing travel trend, thanks to the low mobile connectivity at sea and the fact that onboard Wi-Fi internet access is often an additional cost on cruises. So, you’ll actually be saving money when you stick your phone in aeroplane mode and reconnect with the real world.

Other cruise travel trends to watch in 2026 include astro-tourism, which involves travelling to observe phenomena such as the Northern Lights and lunar eclipses, and solo travel. While solo travellers have been welcome on cruise ships for some time now, more and more major cruise lines are introducing unique accommodations and onboard events to support those exploring the world alone. Be sure to check out the latest solo cruise deals to find some of the most interesting sailings available aboard cruise lines that specifically accommodate solo travellers.

An image of the nothern lights in Norway, with green streaks of light through the night sky
Aurora Borealis between two fjords in Tromsø

As for astro-tourism, you’ll find upcoming Northern Lights cruises here, and a deep dive on why you should book a solar eclipse cruise right here. It’s sometimes hard to appreciate the stunning beauty of the night sky at home, thanks to light pollution; thankfully, cruising makes this a lot easier.

15. Top 2026 cruise questions answered

What's the best time to book a 2026 cruise?

Yesterday, really. With 2026 cruises proving increasingly popular, the earlier you can book your cruise, the better. Not only will booking early ensure you’re actually able to embark on the cruise of your choice, but you’ll also have more options when it comes to choosing the perfect stateroom for you. Booking as soon as possible also ensures you have the most amount of time to actually prepare for your adventure; travel documentation like visas and vaccinations is vitally important when travelling abroad, and packing last-minute can be stressful.

What is the best month to cruise in 2026?

When it comes to the best time to go on a cruise in 2026, the month you should choose depends wholly on where you’re cruising to.

For the Mediterranean and Europe, cruising during the summer months is never a bad thing; however, this is considered the peak season for these destinations, so opting for itineraries either side of this season – April to May and September to October – is a great option for those after a more laid-back holiday experience.

Meanwhile, when cruising to Asia, Australasia, the Middle East, and the Caribbean, the winter months prove the most popular – and for good reason. With weather conditions more favourable during this season, you’ll find more cruises to choose from when travelling to these destinations between December and April.

If you're thinking even further into the future, be sure to check out our guide to the best cruises in 2027 right here!

What is the cheapest month to cruise in 2026?

Establishing the cheapest month to cruise in 2026 depends heavily on the destination you’re travelling to throughout the year; the cheapest months to cruise are determined by each destination’s peak cruise season, so travelling outside of this is a great way to enjoy cheaper cruise fares. For the Caribbean, this is between September and November. Meanwhile, for the Mediterranean, this is April to May and September to November. Asia cruises can be cheaper during the summer months, and cruises to the Norwegian Fjords are more affordable during the transitional seasons of spring and autumn.

It’s also a good idea to keep an eye on major sale periods when booking cruises, if you’re looking to cut down on costs. This includes Black Friday sales in November, Wave sales in January, and other sporadic flash sales throughout the year.

Book Your 2026 Getaway with Iglu Cruise Today

Ready for an adventure? From Short Breaks and All-Inclusive holidays to Family Cruises and Luxury getaways, there are so many itineraries to choose from in 2026, you're certain to find a cruise to suit your preferences and needs. We also have more on dream cruises for your 2026 travel wish list here, if you're looking to tick some of those off in the future!

If, though, you want to prepare yourself a little more for cruising in the future, be sure to check out these blogs from the Iglu Cruise team while you browse the latest cruise deals and offers.

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