What is a scenic cruise?

A scenic cruise is one with more noteable sights to spot from on deck, as opposed to itineraries with port calls for on-shore exploration. Almost every cruise itinerary offers scenic cruising in some measure, but some destinations, such as Norway or Alaska, are particularly rich in scenery for you to view while on board. Look out for 'cruise-by' ports in your itinerary for any places of note.

What are the best sights on a scenic cruise?

We have several favourite cruise-bys, and some itineraries are richer for scenic cruising than others. Alaska, Norway and New Zealand all offer stunning scenic cruising, with national parks and inlets and bays. Transiting the Panama and Suez Canals are also unique experiences, and are often a bucket-list item for many maritime enthusiasts.

Scenic cruises

Some destinations are best when viewed from the water. Take a stroll on deck or sip a quiet cocktail and experience some of the most stunning scenery this world has to offer, with itineraries including special scenic cruise-bys.

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Our favourite scenic sights

A cruise is a wonderful way to see any number of places around the globe, but some are truly unique when viewed from the sea. Of all the ports and destinations we visit, here are our favourite scenic spots.

Aurlandsfjord, Norway

The stunning Aurlandsfjord is one of the most picturesque fjords in the world. Glide over mirror-like water between towering green hills for ten beautiful miles, before docking in tiny villages for a day of exploration.

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Glacier Bay National Park, Alaska

The crown jewel in our Alaska season, Glacier Bay National Park is sure to take your breath away. See icy-blue glaciers calving and spot Alaskan wildlife in the sea and air, all from the decks of Queen Elizabeth.

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Aerial view of Panama Canal on the Atlantic side; Shutterstock ID 423943960; Invoice Number: -

The Panama Canal

A full transit of the Panama Canal lets you see this incredible waterway in the best possible way. Pass through the locks at either side of Gatun Lake and slowly rise to - and drop from - 26 metres above sea level, in an incredible feat of engineering.

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Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

View the very best of New Zealand from the water. Amongst and beyond the glacier-carved fjords of Doubtful and Milford Sound stand impressive snow-capped peaks, luscious green slopes and forests that are home to unusual and unique species.

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Isle of May, Scotland

As you sail along the edge of the Firth of Forth, you’ll be able to look over the Isle of May. This is home to a magical mix of noisy sea birds and seals, as well as many a Viking or smuggler’s tale. If you're looking for rugged Scottish countryside, this is perfect.

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Cape Horn, southernmost tip of South America. Panoramic view of Cape Horn, Tierra del Fuego Archipelago, Patagonia, Chile, South America

Cape Horn, Chile

Make the fabled rounding of the very tip of South America as you pass Cape Horn, located on the desolate Isla Hornos at the southern end of the Tierra del Fuego archipelago in Chile.

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Scenic destinations

Explore one of the below for a full itinerary of incredible scenery. You may never wish to step ashore!

Alaska

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The British Isles

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The forested slopes and silver waters of Innvikfjorden, Mother Nature’s Wonderland

Norwegian Fjords

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FAQs about scenic cruising

This will depend a lot on your itinerary: a trip through the Panama Canal for example will be much warmer than an Alaska itinerary! If you plan to spend lots of time on deck watching the sights, layers and waterproofs are recommended for most destinations, and especially for cruises during the colder months. Wrap up warm in winter, and protect yourself from the summer sun with sunscreen and hat. Sunglasses (and binoculars) are a wise addition all year round, as you scan the skies and clifftops for wildlife, lighthouses and medieval castles. Lastly, a Cunard cruise wouldn't be complete without a Gala Evening or two, so bring your best dress or suit and be ready to dance the night away.

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