More and more of us are taking to the seas in search of adventure, with a few key destinations on our wish lists.
 
According to research carried out by CLIA, the Caribbean is the most popular region for cruising holiday makers, attracting 34% of the market. The Mediterranean comes second with 18% of cruises heading for those waters.
 
But if you think cruise holidays are only for people wanting to head to the Caribbean or the Med, think again. Some cruises take you off the beaten track (or is that ‘wave’?) to more far-flung and unusual locations.
 
If you’d like your next holiday to be less run-of-the-mill, there is definitely a cruise for you. Take out specialist cruise travel insurance before you go and you’ll be ready for anything.
 
Here are seven of the more unusual cruise holiday destinations where you can experience adventure but still holiday in luxury, thanks to your wonderful ship.
 

1 Antarctica

If you’re keen to visit somewhere completely different to anything you’ve experienced before, how about a trip to the South Pole? Roughly twice the size of Australia, Antarctica may have no human life but it is teeming with sea life. Get out the binoculars and do a spot of seal, walrus and penguin spotting as you take in the breath-taking landscapes. Or why not try your hand at dog sledding or a snowmobile safari? The most important thing to remember if you travel to the Antarctic is to leave no trace (and to pack some warm clothes, of course!).

 

2 Faroe Islands

Three words describe the Faroe Islands: rugged, remote and unspoilt. Denmark's self-governing, Atlantic archipelago is made up of 18 volcanic islands between Iceland and Norway. Each one is connected by a series of tunnels, ferries, causeways and bridges. Against a backdrop of sea and moors, the islands are dotted with colourful cottages and wooden churches. It’s a haven for nature lovers and anyone who likes to get away from the tourist trail and explore on their own. The port of Klasvik is home to around 5,000 residents, while the tiny village of Anir has just 16.

3 French Polynesia

Located in the South Pacific, French Polynesia is well known for its turquoise seas, beautiful beaches, volcanic islands and tropical vibes. The five archipelagos are made up of 118 islands, and deserve their reputation as the sparkling gems of the South Pacific. Bora Bora (aka the romantic island) boasts silky stretches of white sand, while Moorea is where Captain Cook first dropped anchor. The waters of French Polynesia have been called the richest aquarium in the world, teeming with reef sharks, rays and colourful fish.
 

4 Japanese islands

When you think of Japan, images of cherry blossom, pagodas and Mount Fuji may spring to mind. But head further south to the country’s archipelago and you’ll be met by a completely different Japanese haven. Its string of sub-tropical islands is awash with white sand beaches, crystal-clear seas and amazing history. Ishigaki is a tropical paradise known for its turquoise waters, palm forests and jungle-covered mountains, while Okinawa (the largest of the southern islands) is the birthplace of karate and a pivotal point in World War II history.
 

5 Russian Far East

Long closed to Westerners, Russia’s Far East has to be one of the least explored destinations in the world. The volcanically-formed Kamchatka peninsula is home to several groups of indigenous people and is packed with bays, waterfalls and rugged landscapes. The sparsely-inhabited Kuril chain is a string of 32 volcanic islands stretching 800 miles and is home to orcas, sea otters, fur seals, bears and foxes. Visitors will also find former Soviet military bases and a unique insight into the history of the area.
 

6 Tristan da Cunha

The British territory of Tristan da Cunha (Tristan for short) is the world’s most remote inhabited island. Located in the middle of the South Atlantic Ocean, it is home to fewer than 300 hardy residents. Its nearest neighbour is the island of St Helena more than 1,500 miles to the north. There is no airport on Tristan, so is only accessible by ship. Cruises to Tristan often coincide with bird breeding seasons (it is home to the Atlantic yellow-nosed albatross, Tristan thrush, and the critically-endangered Tristan Wandering albatross) giving travellers optimum wildlife spotting opportunities.

7 Western Sahara

Ruled by Spain until 1975, Western Sahara is now mainly controlled by Morocco. Along the sparsely-populated area of mostly desert you’ll find the desert city of Dakhla. With plenty of quiet beaches you can spot wildlife, sunbathe, or dabble in kitesurfing or windsurfing. Sightseeing trips include the Assona Mosque and an old Spanish lighthouse (at the top of 240 steps). There are also lots of opportunities for people watching. This is not an easy place to explore over land, which makes cruising the ob
vious choice.
 

Preparing for your next luxury cruise holiday

A cruise holiday is a great way to unwind and see the world in luxury. If you’ve booked a more unusual cruise, you may need to do a bit more preparation before you set off. Think about what you’ll need – for example, special clothing or medication if you are travelling with a medical condition.
 
You’ll also want to ensure you have specialist cruise travel insurance. A standard travel insurance policy may not cover you for this added level of adventure.
 
With cruise travel insurance you are covered for any activities on offer, missed destinations because of bad weather, and pre-existing medical conditions. Cruise travel insurance can also provide cover if you are confined to your cabin due to illness.
 
Insurance policies booked through Insurance Choice can be tailored to suit your individual requirements. At Insurance Choice we can help you find the best price and policy to fit your next luxury cruising holiday.
 
Speak with one of our travel insurance specialists to get a quote today or check out our FAQs for all the answers to your travel insurance questions.