Discover the World’s Hidden Wonders

On their way to iconic destinations, World Cruises often stop at some of the most far-flung and rarely-visited places on Earth.

From islands so remote they feel like the end of the world, to places of such unimaginable beauty it’s hard to believe they even exist. These hidden gems become traveler favorites and with good reason, as these off-the-beaten-path destinations renew our sense of curiosity and adventure and remind us that the joy of travel is often rooted in the unexpected.

Highlights of 2019 World Cruises

Let’s take a look at some of the highlights you can expect around the world from our World Cruise partners in 2019.

Click chart to see larger image.

With years of experience hosting World Cruises for Cruise Specialists, our Voyage Hosts* are passionate about sharing their insider knowledge with fellow travelers. Here’s what they have to say about several upcoming remote-yet-captivating destinations:

Stanley, Falkland Islands

Viking Ocean Cruises, 2019
Four hundred miles off the coast of southeastern Argentina, this wind-swept outpost of the British government is famous for its rugged terrain and incredible wildlife.

“In addition to the abundant wildlife, there’s lots of history. Christ Church Cathedral, Stanley Cemetery and the Falklands War Memorial are all good places to visit right in town,” say Voyage Hosts Wendy and Steve Bodenheimer.

Robinson Crusoe Island

Viking Ocean Cruises, 2019
“Picture yourself visiting a remote island, 400 miles west of Chile, with mountainous and undulating terrain. This is Robinson Crusoe island, where you can learn the history of the stranded sailor who was marooned here for four years in 1704, and thought to be the inspiration of the Robinson Crusoe story.

There’s a small town, where you can enjoy the unspoiled landscape, sample fresh grilled octopus and lobster, and although it’s a steep hike, we recommend the uphill trail leading to the El Yunque Picnic Area and nature trail, which has wonderful views in every direction,” say Wendy and Steve.

Tristan Da Cunha, St. Helena

Crystal Cruises, 2020
OR Jamestown, St. Helena Island
Crystal Cruises, 2019
Princess Cruises, 2019
Tristan da Cunha is an anticipated maiden port for Crystal Cruises in 2020 and considered the most remote inhabited island in the world. It sits in the South Atlantic, about halfway between South America and Africa, 1,200 miles away from the actual island of St. Helena (also a tiny island).

On the island of St. Helena, Kevin LaGraff and Susan Atkins recommend climbing the 699 steps up Jacob’s Ladder. The views are lovely, and you can bargain with a taxi driver to take you back down, saving your knees for another challenge.

Malé, Maldives

Crystal Cruises, 2020
Silversea, 2019
Approaching Malé, the capital city of the Maldives, by cruise ship is a sight to remember, recount Lynn and Buddy Lewis. “The small island is surrounded by stunning turquoise water, which is enhanced by the town’s colorful buildings. After docking, we took a ferry to a sparsely populated island to enjoy swimming with the locals. This is an exotic place in the middle of the Indian Ocean.”

Easter Island, Chile

Holland America Line, 2019
Viking Ocean Cruises, 2019
Several of our Cruise Specialists staff have been to Easter Island and can vouch that spending a few hours with the towering moai statues makes this tender port well worth the stop. Suggestions: consider a horseback ride to experience this remote island from a different perspective.

Lucia and Henk Barnhoorn say the Rano Raraku crater, the largest depository of moai on the island, is hands down the must-see site. Voyage Host Tom Mullen recommends planning ahead for a car and driver, if possible, as rental options may be scarce.

Salalah, Oman

Cunard (Queen Mary 2), 2019
Regent Seven Seas Cruises, 2019
Oceania Cruises, 2019
According to Tom, the Lost City of Ubar, sometimes known as the “Atlantis of the Sands,” is an interesting place to go during a port call in Salalah. An excursion to Ubar might include a four-wheel drive – and then, as Tom says, “just let your imagination take over.”