Celebrate your next big occasion—an anniversary, birthday, retirement, or big reunion—at sea. The array of onboard activities and amenities, along with the inclusive ease, make cruise ships an ideal space for groups who want to party together, but also have varying interests. Plus, visiting new places is the perfect way to commemorate your special event.
Here are five cruise destinations to explore now:
Alaska
Once seen as a retiree’s retreat, Alaska is now a hotspot for multigenerational travel. Cruises depart from Seattle, Seward, and Vancouver, stopping at ports such as Sitka, Skagway, and Ketchikan. Late spring through early fall is prime sailing season. Excursion highlights include whale watching, dogsledding, and salmon bakes, and if you really want to experience the Last Frontier, consider adding on a land package to Denali National Park’s more than 6 million acres of tundra, forests, and wildlife. Pro tip: A balcony room is worth the splurge—glacier views are unforgettable.
Caribbean
Year-round Caribbean cruises are a favorite for their flexibility and variety. Choose from Eastern (Bahamas, St. Thomas, Puerto Rico), Western (Mexico, Belize, Jamaica), or Southern (Aruba, Barbados, Curaçao) routes. Plus, many cruise lines now feature private islands with water parks and serene beaches. Excursions throughout the region provide opportunities for both cultural immersion and adventure, ranging from local food tours to snorkeling and jungle ATV rides.
European River Cruises
River cruises offer intimate luxury along inland waterways, reaching charming towns and historic sites. Simply put, they provide access to places ocean liners can’t reach. A Danube cruise might include Budapest, Slovakian villages, and Vienna’s Schönbrunn Palace. Expect wine tastings, pastry workshops, and castle tours along rivers like the Seine, Rhine, and Danube. It’s a slower, richer way to explore Europe’s heart.
Hawai‘i
Hawai‘i cruises sail year-round, and visit all the popular spots, including the Big Island, Kaua‘i, Maui, and O‘ahu. Each offers a distinct vibe—Honolulu buzzes with history and walkable sights, while Kaua‘i and the Big Island enchant with waterfalls and lush landscapes. Water activities abound, and cultural experiences, such as lū‘aus and local treats (hello, shave ice!), make these cruises feel like a warm embrace of ‘ohana spirit.
Mediterranean
The Mediterranean’s warm waters and iconic cities—Athens, Barcelona, Rome, Venice, and more—make it a dream cruise destination. Sail for seven nights or longer and wake up in a new postcard-perfect port each day. Greek islands dazzle with white-and-blue architecture, while Rome offers cobblestone charm and culinary delights. Turkey tempts with bazaars and balloon rides.
Cruises are an ideal way for groups to travel together. Whether you’re celebrating a big birthday (like Interval), hosting a family reunion, or want to get the old gang back together for some good times, Interval Travel’s expert cruise team can make booking a group cruise easy.
And remember, when you book your cruise through Interval Travel, there are no booking fees, and as an exclusive Interval member benefit, you’ll receive up to $200 worth of Onboard Credit per cabin.
