far east cruises feb 2024

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Asia Cruises

Discover the allure of unique culture and history on an asia cruise, explore the wonders of asia.

Exciting experiences and extraordinary adventures await as you cruise Asia with Princess. Discover the mystical beauty, ancient traditions, lush tropical forests, beautiful beaches, mythological legends and tranquil retreats on your cruise to Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam and more.

Now Booking 2025-26 Asia Voyages

Experience the beautiful harmony of ancient wonders and modern metropolises, asia cruise departure ports, cruise from singapore.

Relish the convenience of sailing roundtrip from one of the world’s great cities, where the primary language is English. Singapore’s mixed culture is a mesmerizing mix of Buddhist temples, British-inspired Victorian buildings, Arab souks and ultra-modern skyscrapers, and is easily accessible via Changi Airport, a well-connected airhub.

Cruise to Hong Kong

Take in the spectacle of one of the world’s great travel destinations at dusk from the seat of a vintage double-decker tram. Journey to Tai O, “Hong Kong’s Little Venice,” for a look at a fishing village built atop stilts. Pay homage to the extraordinary bronze Tian Tan Buddha statue at the Po Lin Monastery; at 111-feet high, it’s the world’s largest outdoor Buddha and draws visitors from all over the world.

Cruise from Australia & New Zealand

Extend your Southeast Asia and Japan vacation with adventures in one of these unique home ports: Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth and Auckland. From Aboriginal Dreamtime stories to New Zealand’s elaborate Māori tattoos, expansive cityscapes and breathtaking landscapes, each port possesses its own unique culture, lifestyle, excitement and charm.

Let Your Asia Cruise Journey Begin

Lifestyle & culture.

Ride the Ngong Ping cable car up to one of the world's tallest Buddha (Tian Tan Buddha) perched on Lantau's Ngong Ping hill in the Po Lin Monastery. Learn Kung Fu with a renowned Shaolin master at the Hong Kong Shaolin Wushu Cultural Center.

Photo: Folkloric dancer in South Korea

Natural wonders & landscapes

Taroko Gorge is composed of the world’s deepest marble canyon, as well as many stunning rugged cliffs and subtropical forests. The Beitou region is the most famous area for mineral soaking due to its proximity to Taipei, as well as the sulphuric quality of its waters. A 15-minute hike from Shin-Kobe Station leads you to Nunobiki Falls (Kobe) and Miharashi Observatory offering stunning views of the city.

Photo: James Bond Island in Phang Nga Bay National Park

Unique experiences on Asia cruises

Travel like a local in a rickshaw, tuk-tuk, pedicab or sampan. The enchanting palace is the perfect place to take in the beauty of the island as it sits in the middle of an artificial lake surrounded by groves of trees. Browse Hong Kong's famed Stanley Market, one of the world's great bazaars. Explore Ho Chi Minh City, home of the Cu Chi Tunnels, an intricate network of connecting underground passageways used by Viet Cong guerrillas during the Vietnam War.

Photo: Batu Caves in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Onboard enrichment on Asia cruises

There’s a reason why Princess® is acclaimed as “Best Cruise Line for Enrichment” by  Cruise International  (UK). We create a completely immersive experience from the moment you step aboard. Throughout your cruise, you’ll have the chance to embrace the colors, flavors and traditions of your vacation destination with programs such as a Hong Kong variety show or Chinese Crosstalk Comedy. Our enrichment programs offer enlightening courses and regional offerings, like the opportunity to learn more with local experts with our Encounters with Discovery at SEA speaker series.

Photo: Solo performer singing on stage.

Asia cruise shore excursions

Be dazzled at the views from Hong Kong’s funicular railway as it transports you to the summit of Victoria Peak. Sip a Singapore Sling at the famed Raffles Hotel. Catch some rays on the sun-drenched beaches of Nha Trang. Experience it all on board Princess Asia cruises

Landmarks & Cultural Masterpieces

Just north of Nha Trang on the bank of the Cai River you will vind Po Nagar Cham Towers; the original wooden structure was replace by stone & brick in 784. A must see for guests visiting Ho Chi Minh City is Thien Hau pagoda, located in the heart of the city. The intricate 19th century temple is dedicated to the goddess Thien Hau; believed to travel the oceans on a mat and ride the coulds to save those in peril on the high seas.

Photo: Angkor Wat in Cambodia was constructed in the 12th century

Art & museums

Admire the prayer hall and gilded domes of the great Sultan Mosque, considered one of the most important and sacred mosques in Singapore. Soak up China’s incredible 8,000-year history at the National Palace Museum in Taipei.

Photo: The Temple of the Reclining Buddha in Bangkok, Thailand

UNESCO World Heritage sites

Only 30 minutes from Ho Chi Minh City is Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park the 2nd of Vietnam's natural UNESCO World Heritage sites. The Park is home to the world's largest cave and masive network of underground rivers including Paradise Cave, the longest dry cave in Asia. The Singapore Botanical Gardens is the first UNESCO Heritage Site in Singapore offering tours and educational programs for nature lovers of all ages.

Photo: Ancient ruins of Ayutthaya, Thailand

Asia Cruise Travel Articles

Learn about the ancient temples, bustling cities, vibrant markets, and traditional villages you'll experience on cruises to Asia & India.

Singapore: A Rich Cultural Hub for Meaningful Asia Vacations

Asia vacations evoke images of far-off, exotic lands, and Singapore is no exception.

Africa Vacation Trivia: 10 Historical Facts about Cape Town

Cape Town is the capital of South Africa. Learn all about its rich history before your next Africa vacation.

Immerse Yourself in Culture as You Cruise to Japan

Experience the Japanese culture, food, and entertainment on your cruise to Japan before you even arrive.

Five Places Travelers Can't Miss in Taipei on an Asian Cruise

Located just off the coast of China, the city of Taipei is an incredibly rich and diverse hub to explore on an Asian cruise vacation.

Travel, Airfare, & Hotels: Let Princess Get You There

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Remove the hassle from air travel and give yourself the gift of flexibility, time and a thicker wallet with Princess EZair flights. We negotiate lower rates with the airlines, allow you to modify your flight up to 45 days prior with no penalty and protect you if your flight is late or canceled.

EZair flight quotes are available on our cruise search result details pages.

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We get you where you need to go

Let Princess pick you up from the airport and take you directly to your ship or hotel when you arrive, even if you didn't book your airfare through us. A uniformed Princess representative meets you at the airport after you've retrieved your luggage and transports you directly to your ship or hotel without you having to worry about the logistics of navigating a new city.

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Stay longer and relax

Extend your cruise vacation, and simplify your travel plans with a hotel stay at the beginning or end of your cruise. With a Cruise Plus Hotel Package, a Princess representative meets you at the airport and pier, transporting you to and from your hotel. The package includes the cost of your hotel stay, transportation, luggage handling and the services of the representative.

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Princess Cruise Vacation Planners are a dedicated resource to help you every step of the way through the planning process of your cruise vacation. And the best part is, they are absolutely FREE!

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BEST CRUISES IN 2024-2025: WANDER THE WORLD WITH ROYAL CARIBBEAN

Published on - June 17, 2021 at 1:35 pm

GO WILD ON NEW CRUISES TO ALASKA

SPEND A WEEK IN THE TROPICS

It’s no secret that Royal Caribbean® offers epic  Caribbean  cruises. And each year, it finds new ways to raise the bar. True to form, the 2024-2025 cruise season will be the boldest yet for island hopping, with more than 20 world-class ships sailing to the top-rated shores of the  eastern ,  western  and  southern Caribbean .  Like Grand Cayman, Jamaica, Aruba and the award-winning private island Perfect Day at CocoCay . In 2023, the fleet’s newest addition, Wonder of the Seas ℠ , launches 7-night adventures from Port Canaveral. Both Fort Lauderdale and Miami welcome  Symphony of the Seas®  and Oasis of the Seas®  for bolder shore exploring across the tropics' most iconic islaes. Plus, Oasis of the Seas®  and Odyssey of the Seas ℠  hit Fort Lauderdale with sailings to Perfect Day at CocoCay on nearly every itinerary. Meanwhile, Harmony of the Seas® offers thrills of Oasis Class proportions from Galveston.

And arriving in 2024, Icon of the Seas ℠   brings a first-of-its-kind Royal Caribbean® adventure for the whole family with sailings to eastern and western Caribbean islands, including stops at the cruise line’s private destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas. But that’s not all — you’ll also be able to chase adventure through the tropics onboard fleet favorites Vision® , Serenade® , Grandeur® , Jewel® and Voyager of the Seas ®.

TURN YOUR WEEKEND INTO AN ISLAND GETAWAY

TAKE VACATION TO THE NEXT LEVEL FROM THE NORTHEAST

GO LONG ON THRILLS FROM LOS ANGELES

ADVENTURE ACROSS EUROPE

WANDER FURTHER TO FAR-FLUNG DESTINATIONS

2024 CRUISES

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Ultimate world cruise.

Pick a corner of the globe and explore every inch of it on the 2024-2025  Ultimate World Cruise ℠ — the most epic cruise to ever set sail. Explore 150+ destinations and 11 World Wonders across seven continents. Or, for a shorter adventure, choose any of the four Ultimate Cruise segments.

Each voyage of 60+ nights dives deeper into every destination with comprehensive, immersive itineraries that call at ports both large and small. Venture across three continents on the Ultimate Americas Cruise , from the postcard-perfect shores of the Caribbean to South America and the wildlife-studded shores of Antarctica as you round Cape Horn. Or follow your dreams and explore the Far East and Down Under on the Ultimate Asia Pacific Cruise , an unparalleled adventure across Asia, Australia, India and the South Pacific.

For history buffs, the Ultimate Middle East and Med Cruise is a journey back in time, your chance to delve into history’s greatest mysteries, myths and legends as you uncover ancient sites in Dubai, Egypt, Greece, Italy and more. And if you're a castle-chasing greenery-gazing wanderer, the Ultimate Europe and Beyond Cruise offers an immersive cultural exploration, from Barcelona and Paris to Morocco en route to Scandinavia and beyond. Whichever segment you choose, get ready for a journey that’s worlds away from ordinary.

Wherever you’re looking to wander over the next couple of years, you can explore the world’s most incredible destinations with your next cruise — all while making memories in between shores on ships brimming with innovative thrills, spectacular  cruise entertainment , delicious  dining experiences , and more. Explore all our upcoming itineraries on our 2024-2025 cruise page , and stay tuned for more adventures later this year.

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Far East Cruises

Book your Far East cruise and discover exotic Asia, a destination of well-known jewels and hidden gems, with Japan, China, Hong Kong, Vietnam, Cambodia and the Philippines in the north, through to Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia and Thailand in the south. A vast area for exploration, this is still in many ways a new destination for cruises, which are the perfect way to discover the diverse scenery and wide variety of culture on offer. The Far East is always a popular destination for world cruises, which will generally include calls to Hong Kong, Tokyo, Beijing & Bangkok - less frequently visited ports visited include Manila, the East Coast of Malaysia.

When to Visit? The tropical climate means the best time to visit is between November and February.

Below is just a selection of Far East cruise deals, contact The Cruise Specialists for more!

Best of Japan

Celebrity Millennium

• Classic Drinks & Wi-Fi package available. Call for pricing

Fukuoka & Nagasaki

Spectrum of the Seas

• Award winning ships & spectacular entertainment
• Fun for all the family

Circle Japan

Diamond Princess

Southern Islands & Sea of Japan

Nagasaki & Fukuoka

World Cruise Liner - London (Dover) to Sydney

Coral Princess

Kumamoto & Fukuoka

Darwin to Broome (Kimberley)

Silver Cloud Expedition

• All Inclusive Silversea Expeditions with onboard lectures, complimentary expedition gear and more.

Hokkaido & Circle Japan

Fukuoka & Kumamoto

Broome (Kimberley) to Darwin

Nagasaki & Kagoshima

World Cruise Segment - New York to Sydney

Grand Japan with Nebuta Festival

Grand Japan with Nebuta & Summer Festivals

Grand Japan with Nebuta, Kumano Fireworks & Summer

Darwin to Fremantle (Perth)

Northern Explorer - Sydney to Perth (Fremantle)

Northern Explorer - Brisbane to Perth (Fremantle)

China is a destination unlike any other, a contrast of ancient and modern with a fast-paced, ever changing economy where mega-cities rise and the world comes to trade situated next to ancient temples and monuments to a life that for most is long gone, but for others remains the everyday. No visit to China is complete without a trip to the Forbidden City or Great Wall of China, both easily accessible when you call into Tianjin for Beijing. Head south from here & inland to the legendary Terracotta Army at Xi'an.

Modern, bustling Japan is a technicolour dream of new technology and action-packed cities, all informed by Japan's unique culture and traditions, dating back generations. A call into Tokyo is a visit to a futuristic city full of life; take the bullet train to Mount Fuji, see the world from the Tokyo Skytree or visit the past at the Senso-ji temple. Other Japan ports of call include Kyoto, famed for it's Buddhist temples, gardens and imperial palaces or remote Okinawa, home to karate, white sand beaches and its own, distinct culture.

Cultured and historic, the neighbouring countries of Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam are uniquely rewarding and exciting destinations. Thailand is, of course, famed for its cuisine which is popular the world over, but there is so much more to this stunning country, from the modern heart of Bangkok to the rice paddies and tropical forests and gleaming, golden Buddhas dotting the landscape. There is gold on the beaches too on the sands of Phuket, while Vietnam has the limestone cliffs and dramatic vistas of Halong Bay in stark contrast to Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) where recent conflicts are remembered and glistening new buildings erected.

In Cambodia the past is always present, both recent and ancient. Shianoukville is the main coastal port, where white sand beaches and a laid-back atmosphere prevail. To really get to the heart of Cambodia take a Mekong river cruise, which will enable you to see all three exotic countries along with historic Angkor Wat, one of the largest religious monuments in the world.

Playful, adventurous Indonesia has over 8,000 inhabited islands (and a further 9,000 uninhabited) which means it is a land of vast coastlines, stunning beaches and countless quaint harbours and deep, blue sea. Visit Malaysia on your Far East cruise via Port Klang for Kuala Lumpur, a city of skyscrapers and history - from the Petronas Towers to the iconic, red pillared Thean Hou Temple & Moorish architecture, this is a destination containing something for everyone.

See some more Destinations from The Cruise Specialists!

Africa Cruise

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Eastern USA & Canada

Indian Ocean

Mediterranean

Dubai & Emirates

Northern Europe

Pacific Ocean

Panama Canal

South America

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APRIL SALE:   Discover and book at   up to 60% off!

Far East River Cruises

Find a River Cruise that explores Far East. There are 319 cruises to choose from, that range in length from 1 days up to 40 days. The most popular month for these cruises is October, which has the most tour departures. Considering other destinations? Check out all river cruises .

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250+ river cruises through far east with 166 reviews.

• River Cruise
• Sightseeing

Fascinating Vietnam, Cambodia & the Mekong River with Bangkok (Southbound) 2024

A wonderful fascinating trip. Fellow travellers great. Cruise director excellent. Horrified by the plastic rubbish in Cambodia. Would reccommend it.

Fascinating Vietnam, Cambodia & the Mekong River with Hanoi, Ha Long Bay & Bangkok (Southbound) 2024

Amazing experience with flawless service. Our guides in Vietnam and Cambodia were so informative and open with their knowledge and history. The staff on the Saigon ship made the experience so lovely and truly took care of us.

From the Mekong Delta to the Angkor Temples (port-to-port cruise) (13 destinations)

Mr chien Nguyen was our guide on the Mekong cruise on the indochine from hochi min city to cambodia, to luang starting on 2/10/23. Knowledgeable Fluent in English Friendly And concerned about our safety always. He was a 5* guide - the best in this trip

From the Mekong Delta to the Temples of Angkor & Hanoi and Halong Bay (port-to-port cruise) (18 destinations)

We travelled CroisiEurope from Hanoi (Halong Bay) to Ho Chi Min then crusing the Mekong River to Siam Reap. We have done several river and ocean cruises and this was up there with the best! Great food, great boat and facilities, great tours with flexibility. We were impressed that at each stop we had local tour guides, one each for english, spanish and french speaking guests. All the staff, guides and directors were great and happy to help with any issues. How good is a Halong Bay sunset?! Would definitely recommend CroisiEurope and TourRadar - the online support tool for TourRadar means that you get a response to the smallest of queries within 24 hours. We'll be back.

Journey along the Mekong - Tan Chau > Phnom Penh (15 destinations)

Journey along the Mekong - 7 night cruise

• Christmas & New Year

Mekong Delta Odyssey: From Siem Reap to Hanoi 14-Day

That the overall experience was 'good' has everything to do with the fact that both my wife and I became severely ill during our journey. We had to reschedule and we missed some essential highlights during those two weeks in Cambodia and Vietnam. But... when it comes down to the work from Legend Travel Group, the review is definitely 'EXCELLENT'!! The follow-up, the assistance, the re-scheduling, including other flights, the guides and drivers, the constant fixing from 'Mr. Danny': superb work. We want to thank the whole team from Legend Travel Group for the fantastic job they did. We can advise them to anyone wanting to visit those two countries. Thanks a lot!!! Johan Persyn and Greet Decreus Belgium

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.
• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

Cambodia To Vietnam By Waterway In 16 Days - Deluxe Private Tour

Long Pham was a major influence in ensuring that our tour was enjoyable ,stress free and full of memorable experiences.He was hand if we needed help..The tour did what it said it would.We were on a private tour and the Hotels, drivers ,and guides were of the highest quality.how tour met our everyneed and we experienced the real Asia It was a 5star all the way.well Realistic asia

Deluxe Vietnam Aqua Life In 11 Days - 4 Stars and 5 Stars Option - Private Tour

I’m always a smooth traveler and this is definitely an unique way to see Vietnam. The trip had run smoothly throughout and the most highlight part is Mekong Cruise, I have never slept so well.

Mekong Delta Adventure: Siem Reap to Hanoi 12-Day

It was amazing! We were lucky, perhaps , to be the only couple on that tour, and we were treated like royalty. Everything was well organised and on schedule. The guides were very attentive and took good care of us. There was one hotel that didn't match what we expected but the remaining ones were pretty much clean, cosy and friendly. Thank you so much for this opportunity!

Riches of the Mekong 2024

Charms of the Mekong 2024

Treasures & Temples of Vietnam & Cambodia - 7 or 9 night cruise (Start Hanoi, End Siem Reap)

Hanoi - Halong Bay 02 Days overnight on Cruise

Great organization, nice tour guides and a lot of fun and tasty food:)

Wonders of Vietnam, Cambodia & the Mekong - 7 or 9 night cruise

River cruises in far east reviews, travel styles.

• 10 Best River Cruise Companies (with Reviews)

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• Cruise Destinations

Far East & Indian Ocean Cruises

Some of the most ancient and mysterious cultures of the world await you on a Cruise to the Far East.

Choose a departure range of up to 1 month if you have not selected a specific cruise line or Choose a departure date range of up to 3 months if you have selected a specific cruise line

Far East and Indian Ocean Cruise Offers

Find all the best Far East and Indian cruises with Cruise Direct

1. Best of Japan

Celebrity Millennium 12 nights 26 Jul 2024

• Classic Drinks & Wi-Fi package available. Call for pricing

2. Best of Japan

3. Circle Japan with Nebuta Festival

Diamond Princess 9 nights 27 Jul 2024

4. Circle Japan with Nebuta & Summer Festivals

Diamond Princess 10 nights 05 Aug 2024

5. Best of Japan

Celebrity Millennium 12 nights 07 Aug 2024

6. Best of Japan

7. japan explorer with kumano fireworks.

Diamond Princess 10 nights 15 Aug 2024

8. Best of Japan

Celebrity Millennium 12 nights 19 Aug 2024

9. Best of Japan

10. japan explorer.

Diamond Princess 10 nights 25 Aug 2024

11. Best of Japan

Celebrity Millennium 12 nights 31 Aug 2024

12. Best of Japan

13. best of japan.

Celebrity Millennium 12 nights 12 Sep 2024

14. Best of Japan

15. osaka, kobe & tokyo.

Spectrum of the Seas 7 nights 15 Sep 2024

• Award winning ships & spectacular entertainment
• Fun for all the family

16. Seattle To Tokyo

Quantum of the Seas 14 nights 30 Sep 2024

17. Tokyo To Singapore

Quantum of the Seas 13 nights 15 Oct 2024

18. Northeast Asia

Celebrity Millennium 11 nights 18 Oct 2024

19. Northeast Asia

20. osaka, kobe & tokyo.

Spectrum of the Seas 7 nights 02 Nov 2024

21. Thailand & Vietnam

Celebrity Solstice 12 nights 03 Nov 2024

22. Thailand & Vietnam

23. spice route cruise.

Anthem of the Seas 14 nights 07 Nov 2024

24. Far East Discovery

MS Noordam 14 nights 10 Nov 2024

25. Vietnam & Thailand

Celebrity Solstice 12 nights 15 Nov 2024

26. Vietnam & Thailand

27. singapore to brisbane.

Quantum of the Seas 12 nights 19 Nov 2024

28. India, Sri Lanka & Thailand

Celebrity Millennium 14 nights 23 Nov 2024

29. India, Sri Lanka & Thailand

30. thailand & vietnam.

Celebrity Solstice 12 nights 27 Nov 2024

31. Thailand & Vietnam

32. india, sri lanka & thailand.

Celebrity Millennium 14 nights 07 Dec 2024

33. India, Sri Lanka & Thailand

34. indonesia discovery.

MS Noordam 14 nights 08 Dec 2024

35. Vietnam & Thailand

Celebrity Solstice 12 nights 09 Dec 2024

36. Vietnam & Thailand

37. best of japan holiday.

Spectrum of the Seas 9 nights 20 Dec 2024

38. Bali, Malaysia & Thailand Holiday

Celebrity Millennium 12 nights 21 Dec 2024

39. Thailand & Vietnam

Celebrity Solstice 12 nights 21 Dec 2024

40. Bali, Malaysia & Thailand Holiday

41. thailand & vietnam, 42. far east discovery.

MS Noordam 13 nights 22 Dec 2024

43. Vietnam & Thailand

Celebrity Solstice 11 nights 02 Jan 2025

44. Bali,Malaysia & Thailand

Celebrity Millennium 12 nights 02 Jan 2025

45. Vietnam & Thailand Cruise

Anthem of the Seas 10 nights 02 Jan 2025

46. Vietnam & Thailand

47. bali,malaysia & thailand, 48. thailand & vietnam.

Celebrity Solstice 12 nights 13 Jan 2025

49. Thailand & Vietnam

50. bali, malaysia & thailand.

Celebrity Millennium 12 nights 14 Jan 2025

Ports of Interest

Port of bangkok, beijing port, colombo port, ho chi minh port, hong kong port, port of komodo island, maldives port, mumbai port, nha trang cruise port, penang port, phuket cruise port, shanghai port, singapore port, port of vladivostok, far east & indian ocean in detail.

Cruise to the mysterious east, full of mystical charm and tradition, every day offering a new experience.

Visit the Golden Temples or the Floating Market of Bangkok. Relax on the white sandy beaches of Thailand. Explore the bustling ports of Hong Kong and Singapore.

Whatever you’re looking from the Far East, you’ll be sure to find it.

Far East & Indian Ocean Weather

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22 Night Far East Cruise

Best known for the Pacific Princess on the Love Boat, Princess Cruises has been a leading name in cruising and visits a wide range of destinations.

Bring the Far East and the oriental treasures it holds a little closer with a cruise to Southeast Asia and India.

Tokyo is a dazzling city where you might be overwhelmed at first by its modernity but will find lots of interesting subcultures in its various neighborhoods.

• Diamond Princess - Passenger Capacity: 2,670 (double occupancy) Year Built: 2004 Last Refurbished: 2019

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22 Night Far East Cruise sailing on the Diamond Princess

Departure dates: sep 2024 - mar 2025.

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7 amazing cruise itineraries to book in 2024

I don't know about you, but each year, as the weather turns cold, I start daydreaming about getting out of Dodge — or, in my case, Pennsylvania. My mind wanders to cruises that will take me to places where the temperature is warmer, but I also take a hard look at the (exceptionally lengthy) list of places I'm longing to visit.

After digging through what's new for 2024, I've come up with a shortlist of sailings that I think are noteworthy. They range from a standard Bahamas voyage with a new twist and an extended Alaska sailing that includes a foray across the Arctic Circle to more far-flung destinations in the Asia-Pacific region.

Dream on, dear reader, and add these to your list of 2024 cruise itineraries.

Note: All prices listed are per person, based on double occupancy, unless otherwise noted. Fares do not include taxes and fees.

For more cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Seabourn's 'Kimberley Expedition: Waterfalls and Wandjinas' itinerary

Last year, the Australia and New Zealand cruise region gained momentum following the pandemic shutdown. In 2024, the hardly populated Australia region of The Kimberley is gaining popularity. Luxury cruise brand Seabourn will be offering a series of six 10-night voyages between Broome and Darwin on expedition vessel Seabourn Pursuit during what will be early winter in the southern hemisphere.

The line's " Kimberley Expedition: Waterfalls and Wandjinas " will take passengers to places along the coast few passengers are able to visit to see the stunning teal waters and horizontal waterfalls of Talbot Bay, sample wines in the Hunter River Region and check out nature preserves in Wyndham.

Details: The first sailing, from Darwin to Broome, embarks on June 12. The final voyage, from Broome to Darwin, departs on Aug. 1. Prices start from $6,134 per person ($613 per person, per night), double occupancy, for the July 2 cruise. All accommodations are suites with balconies.

Celebrity's 'Best of Japan' and 'Vietnam and Thailand' cruises

The number of voyages in Asia was trending upward notably prior to 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic brought cruising in the region to an extended halt. And it's once again on the rise. Following that curve, Celebrity Cruises will be running new 11- to 13-night Asia sailings in 2024 on two ships — Celebrity Millennium and Celebrity Solstice — that bring stops in Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong, Vietnam and Thailand.

What's notable about the offerings is that they will aim to immerse passengers further into the destinations by including overnights in a total of 11 ports across all itineraries. That means more time to explore Hanoi's Old Quarter as the sun sets, indulge in nighttime gastronomy in Hong Kong, visit one of Bangkok's many markets, or learn why Osaka is known for street food.

Details: Celebrity Millennium's " Best of Japan " cruises run from early mid-March to early October. At press time, the least expensive fares — for a 12-night sailing — start from $1,330 per person ($111 per person, per night) for an inside cabin. It travels round-trip from Yokohama and visits Hiroshima, Pusan and other ports, including Osaka, where the ship will overnight.

Celerbrity Solstice's Vietnam and Thailand cruises kick off in mid-January and run through March. The ship will resume them again in the fall of 2024 and run through the winter season. Prices start from $1,255 per person ($105 per person, per night) for an inside cabin. The voyage sails from Hong Kong to Singapore with stops in Da Nang and Koh Samui, plus overnights in Hanoi and Bangkok.

SeaDream's 'Yachting the Adriatic & Greek Isles' sailing

Here's one to put on your radar if you're looking to book — but not necessarily sail — in 2024. It's a new Mediterranean itinerary that doesn't start up for nearly three more years, in 2026. The SeaDream routing brings stops at seven ports that are rarely visited by cruise passengers. During the seven-night voyages, there will be calls at Primosten, Croatia; Cesme, Turkey; Cetubal, Portugal; and Kythira, Kythnos, Syvota and Tinos, Greece — making these sailings unique and well-suited to anyone who loves the region but who's looking for new places to experience.

SeaDream's small ships, each of which carries just 112 people, are able to reach locales about which passengers on megaships can only fantasize. Couple that with excellent service, and you'll be visiting the Our Lady of Loretto statue in Primosten, touring the Cesme Castle and lounging on stunning Greek beaches from a home base that puts you squarely in the lap of luxury.

Details: An itinerary that includes three of the seven new ports is the 11-night " Yachting the Adriatic & Greek Isles " itinerary from Venice, Italy, to Athens, Greece, departing on Aug. 8, 2026, on SeaDream I. Prices start from $10,399 per person ($946 per person, per night) for a room with a porthole view.

Holland America's 'Alaska Arctic Circle Solstice' Legendary Voyage

Alaska is an absolute must for anyone who enjoys the vastness of untouched wilderness, the wildlife it houses and adventurous pursuits it provides. (Think whale-watching, hiking on glaciers and salmon fishing.) However, Holland America 's Westerdam is hosting a 28-day sailing that's anything but your standard cruise to the Last Frontier .

Passengers will visit the usual Alaska ports, such as Ketchikan, Sitka and Juneau, with scenic sailing through the Inside Passage, past Hubbard Glacier and to Glacier Bay. But they can also expect less-common stops at places like Nome, Kodiak, Anchorage (with an overnight) and Homer. Plus, about halfway through, this cruise crosses the Arctic Circle — a rite of passage for many travelers.

Details: Holland America's 28-day " Alaska Arctic Circle Solstice " cruise — one of the line's Legendary Voyages, known for longer durations and a unique mix of port calls — sails June 9-July 7, round-trip from Seattle. Inside cabins start from $5,299 per person (about $189 per person, per night).

Silversea's summertime French Polynesia cruises

Another consideration for future travel is Silversea Cruises , which is featuring its first full-summer season in French Polynesia in 2026. Silver Whisper will offer two immersive itineraries, including overnights, across 17 voyages between April and September.

Passengers can choose seven-night sailings that visit idyllic favorites like Tahiti, Moorea and Huahine and which also include overnights in Bora Bora. Or, they can cruise for twice as long by selecting a 14-night voyage that calls on the same ports as the seven-night option but with Fakarava, Nuku Hiva, Fatu Hiva, Atuona and Tahuata added.

Details: Silversea's seven-night voyages begin April 6, 2026, and start from $5,650 per person ($808 per person, per night) for an ocean-view cabin.

The line's 14-night sailings start on April 20, 2026. Fares start from $10,450 per person ($747 per person, per night) for ocean-view accommodations.

New Bermuda voyages on Carnival Venezia

Beginning in May of 2025, Carnival Cruise Line 's Carnival Venezia will sail a series of eight four- and five-night cruises to Bermuda from New York. These itineraries are notable because the line is aiming to increase its presence there but also because the style of the ship is new to even most of the brand's most dedicated passengers.

In 2022, Carnival announced its Costa by Carnival concept after revealing it would be transferring ships from its Costa sister brand to the Carnival fleet. Now, when travelers visit the Gibb's Hill Lighthouse or check out the island's renowned pink-sand beaches during a sailing on Carnival Venezia, they can enjoy both the Italian style of the ship and Carnival's fun atmosphere and high service standards.

Details: Voyages kick off on May 22, 2025. Prices start from $429 per person ($108 per person, per night) for an inside cabin on a four-night cruise departing Sept. 18, 2025.

Disney Cruise Line's Lighthouse Point itineraries

Disney Cruise Line 's new Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point , a private destination on the Bahamian island of Eleuthera, is set to open in June with a three-night preview sailing on June 6 aboard Disney Magic. Following the initial voyage, the line will run regular three- to seven-night voyages to Lighthouse Point on Disney Magic, Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream.

The island will feature a dedicated family beach and water play area, an arts and culture pavilion focused on Bahamian culture, 20 family cabanas, an adults-only beach and a selection of shore excursion options.

Details: Prices for itineraries that include Lighthouse Point start from $624 per person ($208 per person, per night) for a three-night cruise on Disney Magic. The cruise departs Nov. 5 and sails from Fort Lauderdale's Port Everglades to San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Have cruise questions? TPG has answers:

• Banned items: What not to pack for a cruise
• Man overboard: Why do people fall off cruise ships?
• What is baked Alaska, and why is it paraded around cruise ships?
• What are the largest cruise ships in the world?
• What is a gentleman host on a cruise?
• What is the Jones Act and how does it affect cruise ships?
• What is a lido deck on a cruise ship?
• What's a cruise cabin guarantee and will it save you money?
• What's the difference between a cruise concierge and a butler?

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

City Sightseeing Moscow Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour with Optional Cruise

• Hop-on or hop-off at any of Moscow’s main highlights
• Views of Moscow from an open-top, double-decker bus
• Learn about the city with recorded commentary
• Visit Red Square, Alexander Gardens, and more
• Bus pass inclusions: 48 or 72 hour bus pass + walking tour
• Boat pass inclusions: 60 minute boat trip + walking tour
• Bus & Boat pass inclusions: 48 hour bus pass + 60 minute boat trip + walking tour
• Vouchers valid for 12 months
• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Food and drinks, unless specified
• Location Name: The route begins at Red Square but you can board at any stop
• Wheelchair accessible
• Stroller accessible
• Near public transportation
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Red Route runs from 10:00am - 6:00pm, every 25 minutes. Duration - 60 minutes. First stop - Bolotnaya Square.
• Most travelers can participate
• Green Route runs from 10:00am - 6:00pm, every 60 minutes. Duration - 120 minutes. First stop - Bolotnaya Square.
• Orange Route (currently suspended) runs from 10:30am - 6:30pm, every 30 minutes. Duration - 140 minutes. First stop - Museum of Cosmonautics
• Walking tour runs daily at 10:45am. Duration - 2 hours 30 minutes. Meeting point - Next to monument of Saints Cyril and Methodius.
• Boat tour operates 5th May - 20th October, from 11:30am - 6:30pm. Duration - 60 minutes. Meeting point - Zaryadye Park Pier.
• Mobile and paper vouchers are accepted for this tour.
• Vouchers can be redeemed at any of the stops along the routes.
• Vouchers are valid for 12 months
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

• DebbJ 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Great way to get oriented to Moscow We started our Moscow experience with the hop on hop off. It was a great way to get orientated to the city. The additional optional tours were also good, we did the Metro tour which I highly recommend, we also paid for the Kremlin tour. The hop on hop off has three different lines all included. Only fault was the bus was sometimes full and you had to wait for the next one which was about 15 minutes (in the cold). Read more Written January 6, 2020
• UmaDelhi 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles 2 days are required Very very good audio guides- the voice quality was also good and also the anecdotes of history were brilliant. Russia is truly beautiful Read more Written September 1, 2019
• BeverleyT 0 contributions 1.0 of 5 bubbles Boat trip - TERRIBLE We got on the bus, but couldn’t buy a 1 day ticket. They suggested we do the 1 hour boat trip and said they would drop us to the dock. 1) they dropped us in the wrong place 2) they were lost because of the marathon Then the boat, after we finally found it: 1) stinking fumes, actually gagging 2) no commentary, in fact, no interaction unless you begged 3) offered us 2 for 1 icecreams as they had melted and refrozen as the fridge gets turned off at night Honestly, we enjoyed the afternoon in the boat but spent all of it laughing at just how awful it was!!! The worst thing in Moscow! Read more Written August 18, 2019
• niruDurbs 0 contributions 3.0 of 5 bubbles Not the best value for the price The ticket is quite expensive and covers three different routes in a 24 hour period. The red route is quite exciting and takes about an hour. The bus comes every 10 to 15 minutes. However the other two routes take about two hours each and buses come every 30 to 40 minute period. If the bus is full then you have to wait at the stop for the next bus. So personally I feel that not much can be seen this way. I definitely was not impressed. However it must be noted that one can learn a lot about the history of Moscow Read more Written July 3, 2019
• IrishCueTravel 0 contributions 1.0 of 5 bubbles SLO Motion Not all their fault , but if you plan on trying this Attraction be patient! Traffic is a big problem first and foremost. But to add additional unnecessary delays; the bus stops at each site for 15 minutes at a time or More ! I gave up half way through ( 45 minutes) ; and walked back to the starting point in 10 minutes! Read more Written June 4, 2019
• michael g 0 contributions 1.0 of 5 bubbles Worst hop on/hop off EVER Waited for 40 minutes in the cold rain for a bus that never came... unacceptable. Traffic is so bad that when on a bus the previos day it was barely moving. My advice-get a subway pass and a good travel guide book and do sightseeing on your own! Read more Written October 24, 2018
• Rebecca J 0 contributions 3.0 of 5 bubbles Boat element was excellent We purchased a ticket online for the boat and bus for 2 days. The boat element was wonderful, we saw some amazing parts of Moscow along the river side. The bus element was very disappointing as it only started at 10am and was finished by 6:30pm. It was extremely warm when we were there and it would have been great to do the tour in the cool of the day. There was also no air conditioning in the down stairs part of the bus. They also turned away passengers at one of the stops as the bus was full and there was not another bus for 40 minutes. Read more Written September 26, 2018
• Monismith2014 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles it was very enjoyable it was very interesting seeing things we saw walking around from the bus. so much more to see. we had a lot better view of the attractions from the height of the bus.also the bus was reasonable slow which gave us time enough for photos. it stopped at sparrow hill for 10 minutes for picture taking Read more Written September 20, 2018
• fati666222 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles The best way to see Moscow We did both routes but if you have little time then only do the red route.Its very informative and it takes you to the important sights.The staff on the bus are very friendly and helpful. Read more Written August 20, 2018
• adolfo17 0 contributions 3.0 of 5 bubbles The worst hope-on hope-off service I've ever seen Diffiult to understand the route maps and stops. Staff wouldn't help either. Lengthy stops. No air conditioning. Read more Written August 4, 2018
• Peter F 0 contributions 3.0 of 5 bubbles Two Routes There is a short red route which depending on the traffic takes about an hour. The route is generally around the Red Square area. The ear phones were small and sometimes the commentary did not link up with the sites you were seeing. The green bus takes you on a longer route and ours took two and a half hours due to the heavy traffic. I would not recommend this trip unless it is raining or you want to fill in time. The sights we saw were nothing outstanding with plenty of time at certain stops for photos. Also the driver stop for a bite to eat at one stop. Read more Written July 30, 2018
• Bernardo P 0 contributions 1.0 of 5 bubbles Boat Trips Moscow, Russia Yesterday, I booked a boat trip with the GetYourGuide.com web page and was totally horrible, didn’t have audio guide as it shows on the picture-Nobody Talk-. The girl on the picture-light blue bag-ask for 100 Rubles for show her the QR Code while I had the Booking and PIN number cause she must see the vessel name-Didn’t say nothing and after she said board any vessel. I suggest take the trip and pay on site, avoid fake internet pages, there are many other services with a lot of entertainment, don’t take this ones. Read more Written July 14, 2018
• Kathrynowl91 0 contributions 3.0 of 5 bubbles Good way to see some sites We usually do these tours when we travel. They get you round and you see the sight . The traffic is quite heavy so it is a bit slow but there is not a lot they can do about it. We only did the red route. Just a note people don’t queue here when the bus comes it’s a bit of a free for all. Read more Written July 13, 2018
• Daniyal91 0 contributions 3.0 of 5 bubbles Was Ok.! Started our tour of moscow from here, We had got the 2 Day Pass with the boat ride. The route and the map was good but not well managed. The bus didn't stop at many points. Were were unaware a couple of times at what point we were and missed them. Headphones and maps were provided. Would recommend one should check out the route map before going and decide which places to stop in advance, this way one can manage and enjoy the tour more and us it more effectively.! The boat ride was Ok, a little crowded. No guide provided, just a boat ride with restaurant service Read more Written July 12, 2018
• WilliamDyer 0 contributions 1.0 of 5 bubbles Poor service on boat and too many waiting times on buses For the price, you should expect at minimum English speaking tour guides with decent experience, but at least in my case that did not happen both in buses and boats. And in the boat even tough we were 90% English speaking tourist at least, the tour guide spoke 95% of the time in Russia, and only 3 sentences in English, I really counted how many times she spoke in English. And at the end she asks us if we have any questions? Of course I told her I couldn’t ask her anything since I didn’t understand 95% of what she was saying. The boat tour is not worth it, just take the bus that would be my advice. Second minus is the waiting times, in the boat they made us wait an hour before it departed, and in many stops with the buses waiting times of 20-30 minutes. I actually think I lost that day around 2 hours doing nothing. Be careful. Read more Written July 10, 2018

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

City Sightseeing Moscow Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour with Optional Cruise provided by City Sightseeing Moscow

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• Daily housekeeping
• Complimentary 24-hour room service
• Elemis Aromapure soap, lotion, shampoo
• Luxurious bathrobes
• Hair dryers, makeup mirrors
• Generous storage
• Fresh fruit upon request
• Ice service
• TV with On Demand movies, programming

Two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed—our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, premium massage shower heads and a host of amenities are featured in these comfortable staterooms.

These expansive staterooms include include two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed—our Signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, premium massage shower heads, a host of amenities and an ocean view.

Filled with light from floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a private verandah, these staterooms include a sitting area, two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed—our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, and bath tub with premium massage showerheads.

Signature Suite

• Whirlpool bath

These large, comfortable suites feature a spacious sitting area with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a private verandah, two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed—our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, and one murphy bed for one person. The bathroom includes a dual-sink vanity, full-size whirlpool bath and shower, and an additional shower stall.

Neptune Suite

• Premium bathrobes, slippers
• Fresh flowers
• One-Touch concierge service
• Whirlpool bath (suite dependent)
• In-suite coffee, espresso
• Complimentary laundry
• Pre-dinner hors d'oeuvres served in suite
• Welcome glass of sparkling wine
• Priority boarding for tender ports, priority dining/seating requests, special disembarkation service
• High tea in suite on request
• Exclusive tote bag

With floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a private verandah, these spacious suites are flooded with light. They feature a large sitting area and two lower beds convertible to one king-size bed—our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses. The bathroom comes with a dual-sink vanity, full-size whirlpool bath and shower, plus additional shower stall. Amenities include use of the exclusive Neptune Lounge, a private concierge and an array of complimentary services.

Your Ship: Noordam

Named for the Northern compass point, Noordam dazzles with museum-quality art and lavish staterooms. Guests of this Vista Class ship will have their pick of onboard activities. Sing along to your favorite hits at Billboard Onboard. Enjoy a Pilates class at the Fitness Center. Or savor the delights of one of our specialty restaurants. The Pinnacle Grill serves the juiciest steak at sea and Canaletto beckons with tantalizing Italian dishes.

• 1924 Guests
• 936 ft. Length
• 105.8 ft. Width

Dining & Onboard Activities

Each day on board offers delicious dining options, world-class entertainment and enriching activities

Pinnacle Grill

The ultimate steakhouse at sea, with an exceptional menu of Prime steaks, seafood and wine.

Pinnacle Grill is the ultimate steakhouse at sea, where an exceptional menu and impeccable service make for one of finest meals you’ll ever have. The refined menu features a selection of 28-day wet-aged USDA Prime steaks — meticulously chosen to guarantee the finest quality — as well as classic steakhouse dishes and innovative recipes from James Beard Award-winning chef and Culinary Council® member, David Burke. Every dish is exquisitely prepared, beautifully plated and complemented by a vast collection of award-winning wines. Here, your meal is an event unto itself, a celebration of fine dining and a triumph of flavor.

*Meals at Pinnacle Grill are half price for kids 12 years old or under, or free when they order from the kids’ menu.

Canaletto is a relaxed setting with authentic Italian cuisine that is best enjoyed when shared.

In Italy, there’s nothing more important than coming together to celebrate the joy of great food. This is the inspiration for our onboard Italian restaurant, Canaletto. Enjoy amazing Italian classics like braised chicken cacciatore al forno, branzino ai ferri or garlic shrimp ravioli. And for dessert: tiramisù, cannoli alla Siciliana, gelato, and more. Including pasta made fresh daily. Buon Appetito!

Meals at Canaletto are half price for kids 12 years old or under, or free when they order from the kids’ menu.

Lido Market

A casual, modern marketplace, Lido Market offers the widest range of food options on board for breakfast, lunch, dinner and a late-night snack.

Explore a world of intriguing culinary possibilities in the Lido Market. Steps from the Lido pool, this modern marketplace includes a curated selection of delicious options that you can grab on the go or have made to order: Breadboard, with freshly baked breads and pastries; Wild Harvest, offering a bountiful selection of hearty salads; Homestead, serving up comfort classics; Distant Lands, featuring global cuisine; Sweet Spot, for ice cream creations and desserts; Roasting Pan, hand-carved meats, fish and other hearty entrees; Perk, freshly brewed beverages and chilled juices; Quench, premium coffee, beer, wine, and soda available for purchase; Rise, savory quiches, croissants and sandwiches, and more.

This casual poolside grill serves up the best burgers at sea, Nathan’s Famous gourmet hot dogs, golden French fries and more.

Dive-In offers a variety of casual culinary classics, using the highest quality ingredients. Enjoy a burger, grilled to perfection and served on a toasted brioche with our own trade-marked secret sauce. Savor a succulent Nathan’s Famous gourmet hot dog with golden French fries. Or choose a grilled chicken breast sandwich or juicy portabella mushroom stack. Dive-In is the perfect spot to dine poolside on the best burgers at sea.

24-Hour Room Service

Enjoy breakfast in bed or an early dinner on your verandah — entrées and more are available whenever you wish.

Sleep in and have breakfast delivered. Enjoy an early dinner on your verandah before an evening excursion. Order a salad, sandwich or entrée any time. Room Service is only a phone call away. All selections are included in your cruise fare unless otherwise noted on the in-room menu.

Explorations Cafe

Our relaxing café with panoramic views is your home for handcrafted espresso drinks during the day and refreshing cocktails in the evening.

At Explorations Café, sink into plush chairs and sofas in a comfortable environment. Sip elegantly prepared espresso drinks and nosh on fresh pastries from the coffee bar. You can also take in fantastic views, catch up on your favorite book or browse the web. 

The Dining Room

Our flagship dining experience is a welcoming and sophisticated setting for an exquisite breakfast, lunch or superb multicourse dinner.

For an elegant breakfast, leisurely lunch or unforgettable multi-course dinner, The Dining Room is your destination. For dinner, choose from classics such as Boneless Lamb Loin en Croute, Rosemary Roasted Chicken, as well as regionally inspired cuisine and artfully prepared vegetarian dishes. 

Crow's Nest

BARS AND LOUNGES

Enjoy cocktails and sunsets in this lounge, featuring panoramic views.

Holland America Line offers you a wide selection of lounges onboard. The panoramic view takes center stage in The Crow's Nest at the top of the ship, where you can relax just about any time of day and enjoy your favorite drink.

Explorer's Lounge

Elegant and refined, stop by for a glass of wine or your favorite cocktail.

The Explorer’s Lounge is an elegant and refined space to enjoy a glass of wine, a cocktail, or your favorite liqueur.

Enjoy cocktails and ocean views while listening to live music.

Holland America Line offers you a wide selection of lounges. This popular bar is at the top of the atrium and is the perfect locale for cocktails and dancing.

Billboard Onboard

ENTERTAINMENT

Sing along, test your music trivia knowledge, or sit back and enjoy as chart-topping hits fill the room each night.

2 pianos - 60 Years of Chart Toppers - 100s Of Songs.  Sing along, test your music trivia skills or just sit back and enjoy as the hits fill the room each night.

World Stage

World Stage features innovative cruise ship shows and a two-story LED screen that creates a vivid wraparound display.

World Stage, the largest theater on board is home to a variety of performances day and night. Our exclusive EXC® Talk lecture series features captivating regional stories told by local experts and narrated by your Cruise & Travel Director. In the evenings, Step One Dance Company, vocal sensation Cantaré, BBC Earth in Concert and more take the stage.  Koningsdam, Nieuw Statendam  and  Rotterdam  bring the World Stage experience to the next level by surrounding you in spectacular sight and sound with a two-story, panoramic LED screen.

Rolling Stone Lounge

Our 7-piece band brings you the best in rock, pop, country and more.

Dance to your favorite songs with one of the best bands at sea. From rock and pop to country and beyond, we provide the perfect playlist live, each and every cruise.

Onboard Shopping

Enjoy a wide variety of duty-free shopping onboard.

Enjoy a wide variety of duty-free shopping in such signature shops as The Vault, Diamonds and Gemstones by Merabella, which offers the best diamonds at sea, brought to you by Effy.

Fitness Center

Take a class in our professionally staffed Fitness Center.

Stop by the professionally staffed Fitness Center equipped with the latest cardio and weight machines. Try one of our classes on indoor cycling, Pilates and more or work out at your own pace. You can also head out for fresh air and exercise on deck, where you'll find basketball and volleyball courts, and two refreshing pools (available on select ships). Some classes may have a nominal fee.

Holland America Line Navigator

Personalize your cruise experience with our free mobile-friendly tool.

Personalize your cruise experience once you’re on the ship with our free mobile-friendly tool. Plan your daily activities, browse and purchase shore excursions, view restaurant menus, make dining reservations, check your account balance and more. 

Casino Action

The Casino offers games for all levels.

Your Holland America Line ship’s Casino offers a wide array of gaming options. Whether you prefer slot machines or want to try your hand at blackjack or poker, our dealers and staff are available to provide complimentary instruction — and we offer many engaging tournament options. The Casino is only open at sea.

Pickleball at Sea

Enjoy complimentary lessons, tournaments, and courts with amazing top-deck views.

Play the fastest-growing sport in the U.S. with Holland America Line, the exclusive cruise line partner of the Professional Pickleball Association. All our cruise ships feature pickleball courts with amazing top-deck views. The equipment and courts are available for a match anytime, so long as the weather allows. Frequent pickler? Join a pickleball tournament at sea and put your dink shot to the test. Hesitant amateur? Learn the basics at complimentary beginner’s lessons, starting in spring 2023. Commemorative starter kits will soon be available in our retail shops — purchase as gifts for avid players or as souvenirs, so that you can always look back on your pickleball cruise memories.

Kids ages 3 to 17 can enjoy an array of activities. Registration required for children under 13.

Holland America Line's youth activities program, Kids Club, offers an array of entertaining events for kids and teens ages 3-17, supervised by a full-time, professionally trained staff. They'll have an opportunity to join other kids their age for arts and crafts, sports, video game competitions, scavenger hunts, challenging team games and themed parties. Note: Kids Club is not offered on cruises of 25-days or longer, including all Legendary and Grand Voyages. We will offer a selection of children’s activities throughout these longer voyages for any children who may be onboard.

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Middle East latest: Israel orders new evacuation in 'dangerous combat zone' in northern Gaza

The Israeli army has told people to leave in an area of northern Gaza close to where Israeli tanks made a new incursion overnight. Listen to a Daily podcast on how the conflict is worsening Yemen's humanitarian crisis as you scroll.

Tuesday 23 April 2024 21:59, UK

• Israel-Hamas war
• Israel orders new evacuations in northern Gaza
• Claims Israeli troops buried Palestinian bodies 'baseless and unfounded', IDF says 
• The big picture : What you need to know about the conflict in the Middle East right now
• Listen to the Sky News Daily above and  tap here  to follow wherever you get your podcasts

We'll be back tomorrow morning with more updates on the Israel-Hamas war.

The Israel-Hamas war had left students in the US divided, with protests and arrests taking place across the country's educational establishments.

It's clear that positions are entrenched, views are polarised and emotions are very high.

Here, our US correspondent Mark Stone speaks to protesters...

People in Khan Younis who have been searching for their loved ones in the mass graves discovered in Khan Younis have been speaking to the Sky News team on the ground.

Moayed Suleiman Mahmoud Mustafa, 14, whose family was killed in airstrikes, told our team that he found his mother's body in one of the graves and buried her yesterday.

He is still looking for his sister, father and his cousin. 

The teenager said: "I only found my mother, we buried her yesterday. I am now looking for my sister, my father and my cousin.

"We took my mother from here and we buried her in our cemetery."

People in Gaza "want to rest", he said.

"We don't want to be living like that, we want to live," he added.

"There is no life. This is all for nothing. I feel sad, lonely, alone in the world."

Reem Zaydan said she was still searching for her son and believed he had been killed in January

"The day my son was martyred, I knew he was martyred without anyone telling me. A mother's instinct," she said.

"My son was displaced in an area, and he used to always contact us after any strike or anything. When Khan Younis in its entirety was besieged, he did not call us, unlike every other time.

"I have been coming here for days. Every day, I come from 6am until 2pm. I come from Rafah city and head to the same place. Once they finish their work, I go home."

Karima al-Ras, 55, who lives in Khan Younis, said she had found her son after two months of searching for him.

"Today, I came at 6am when I found my son, Ahmad," she said.

"His father died when he was 12, and I raised him. I gave him an honourable life. I made him study mechanical engineering. Cars would come to our doorsteps and he would fix them. Ahmad was beloved by everyone."

The IDF has called claims they buried Palestinian bodies "baseless and unfounded".

The military said the operation in the area of Nasser Hospital was to locate hostages and missing persons, and bodies "buried by Palestinians in the area of Nasser Hospital were examined". 

"The examination was carried out respectfully while maintaining the dignity of the deceased. Bodies examined, which did not belong to Israeli hostages, were returned to their place," the IDF said.

By Tom Cheshire, Ben van der Merwe and Sam Doak, Data and Forensics Unit

Israel has denied accusations that it buried Palestinians in a mass grave, following the discovery of more than 300 bodies in the courtyard of a Gaza Strip hospital.

The discovery of hundreds of bodies in the courtyard of Khan Younis's Nasser hospital prompted the Hamas-run government to accuse Israel of digging the graves "to hide its crimes".

The UN says it is investigating claims that some of the bodies had their hands bound and were stripped of clothing.

You can read the Data and Forensics team's full investigation here...

The US Senate has advanced a $95bn aid package for Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan towards the final vote, the final step before sending it to the White House for Joe Biden to sign into law.

One of the bills provides $61bn for Ukraine, a second $26bn for Israel and a third $8.12bn "to counter communist China" in the Indo-Pacific. 

It comes after the House of Representatives abruptly ended a months-long stalemate and approved the assistance in a rare Saturday session.

Joe Biden has promised to sign it into law as soon as it passes the Senate.

The risk of famine throughout Gaza, especially in the north, is "very high," Washington's special regional envoy for humanitarian issues has said this evening.

David Satterfield told reporters that Israel must do everything possible to facilitate efforts to avert a famine and called for more to be done to get aid to those in need, particularly in the north.

For context : Israeli strikes intensified across northern Gaza today and Israel ordered new evacuations in the area.

An Israeli army spokesperson said people are being urged to flee from the Beit Lahia area in the region's northeast.

The area lies a short distance from Beit Hanoun city, where Israeli tanks made a new incursion overnight.

Benjamin Netanyahu is "a failure who belongs in jail", the Palestinian president has said.

Earlier, Mr Netanyahu said on X he had hosted soldiers for the beginning of the Jewish holiday of Passover. 

He said an empty chair had been left in the centre of the table and on it were the photos of all 133 hostages who are still in Hamas captivity. 

"I am committed to returning all the abductees home," he said.

Responding, Mahmoud Abbas said: "Stop lying, Netanyahu. 

"You have failed to return someone in more than 200 days. Your government has failed. You failed the Israeli people. You are a failure and belong in jail."

Palestinian health authorities have accused Israeli forces of killing a Palestinian man and wounding two people, including a child, during raids in the occupied West Bank city of Jericho and adjacent refugee camps.

The man had been standing outside his house in Jericho city, watching troops as they carried out a raid but had not been involved in any fighting, according to his uncle.

The Palestinian news agency WAFA said the two wounded, including a child, were hit by bullets during a separate incident in the Aqabat Jabr refugee camp, just outside Jericho.

We have been reporting today on mass graves discovered near Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis, southern Gaza.

Our  Middle East correspondent Alistair Bunkall says now that Israeli forces have withdrawn from some areas in Gaza people are starting to uncover many of the dead.

"There have been accusations, including from the United Nations, that some of the bodies were found bound and gagged - the implication being that Israeli forces might have executed some of the Palestinians," he says.

"However, the Israeli military - in a statement released to us - has strongly refuted that. They've said it is baseless and unfounded.

"They say in some limited cases they dug up some bodies when intelligence led them to believe that some of the hostages might have been buried there.

"Having not made any of those discoveries they then respectfully reburied the bodies.

"I would add to that and say our team in Gaza has been to the site of the mass grave in recent days and we ourselves have not heard any accusations that any of the bodies have been found bound and gagged." 

Displaced Palestinians have been sheltering in a UNRWA-affiliated school in Deir al Balah, in the central Gaza Strip.

The scenes come as Israel bombarded northern Gaza overnight in some of the heaviest shelling in weeks, causing panic amongst residents and flattening neighbourhoods.

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Something about Moscow: a new look at a great city – archive, 1959

26 February 1959 : Michael Frayn writes about the Russian capital while covering Harold Macmillan’s 10-day visit to the USSR

Moscow, 25 February It is a pity Mr Macmillan had to be out of town to-day for talks at his dacha. He leaves for Kyiv and Leningrad to-morrow and all he can have seen of the Russian capital so far – unless he creeps out of his house in Pomerantsev Lane at night disguised as a muzhik – is a flickering of flashbulbs and a hovering of journalists.

Today in the crisp February cold, with a few snowflakes falling out of a grey sky, it was bracing weather for a stroll round town. Moscow is a city which needs to be seen – to be believed as much as for any other reason. “Why do they have such high walls round the Kremlin, Mummy?” the Moscow child is supposed to ask his mother. “To keep the robbers in, dear,” replies mother. The really intelligent mother might say, however, “To keep the Soviet architects out.” For the Kremlin, with its three onion-domed cathedrals, is almost the only relic of roaring old Moscow – and almost the only object left in the city which it is not painful to look at.

Great, but ugly With a population of some eight million, Moscow is one of the world’s great capitals. Was there ever another capital so blindingly ugly, so devoid of taste or style, and so dull? The best bits are probably the slums around Novoi Alekseyevskaya Street – old timber houses of one and two storeys leaning drunkenly in the snow and due for clearance if they do not fall down of their own accord first. But the majority of the city’s housing consists of apartment blocks of indeterminate age. Everywhere the paint is coming off the window frames and the window frames off the hinges. Inside them, there are often two families to a room, communal kitchens, and no baths.

The housing problems have always been a millstone round the Muscovite’s neck. But things have got noticeably better the last few years – conservative sources reckon that three out of 10 families have been rehoused since 1956. The skyscraper blocks of flats lined with marble and speckled with steeples to which Soviet architecture sank a few years ago (dragging with it human taste to what must be its lowest watermark ever) were found to be too expensive – to the resounding credit of Soviet accountants, and the authorities have now switched to building enormous apartment blocks which are free of any evidence of design whatsoever.

These have sprung up fastest and thickest in the south-western district of the city, the so-called “New Moscow”. Here the uniform blocks, built in a curiously depressing grey brick stretch as far as the eye can see; and the forest of power cranes is still at work. It is an odd experience seeing slums actually being built in front of one’s eyes. But inside they are light and equipped with bathroom, lavatory, and kitchen, which probably counts for more than setting with the Muscovites.

“You’ll be lucky” But it is still extremely difficult to find accommodation. The noticeboards which are to be found on nearly every street carry many advertisements offering to exchange rooms (“Exchange room with all conveniences 12 square metres in Kazan for a room in Moscow”). But few are offering accommodation for those with nothing to exchange. The ones that do, look sinister – “Offer part of a room near Metro station. All conveniences except bath.” Two women who are searching the advertisements demand suddenly: “What do you want to exchange, young man?” “I haven’t got a room in Moscow.” They laugh derisively “You’ll be lucky,” they say.

The noticeboards are interesting windows of Moscow life. They are covered with offers of jobs. There are advertisements, too, inserted by private individuals who want to teach English, typing for the blind, theoretical mechanics, and dress-making. There are also plenty of signs of the new rich – the intelligentsia; demands for a daily help and even for servants to live in. One offers “350 roubles a month (about £9 at a reasonable rate of exchange). Separate room. References essential.”

The signs one sees in the streets offer another perspective: “Sputnik Cafe” on the Lenin prospect in the south-west district; a significant absence of any names at all on what used to be the Lubyanka, now the headquarters of the KGB – the secret police; few hoardings everywhere: “Don’t Cross in Front of the Bus – It’s Dangerous”, “Save Time – Try Powdered Soups”, “Save Money”, “Work and Live in the Communist Way”.

Eating out In the centre, the buildings are all marble magnificence. But the true Moscow lies farther out. A good way to see it is to take a stroll along the rather slummy Baumanskaya Street. In the scruffy “Dietary Dining Rooms” here you can buy about five roubles’ worth of meal tickets from the cashier, exchange them at the self-service counter for a sloshy meal and eat alongside men in suits and ties.

Farther down the road is a beer shop. Here everyone is in fur hats and felt boots, drinking beer and eating bread and cheese. A sign on the wall says: “‘It is forbidden to bring and consume spirits.” A man buys a paper cup of cherry juice with his beer, empties it into the ashtray, and fills it from a half bottle of vodka which he takes out from under his coat. In the corner two very drunken men are holding one another up, kissing each other’s cheeks, and explaining to anyone who will listen, “We haven’t seen one another for 23 years.”

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There are far fewer drunks on the streets now than there were two years ago and the swarms of beggars who used to shove the raw stump of their amputated arms in your face have disappeared. There is far more traffic on the wide streets, too. There are still peasants up from the country for a few days and their appearance has changed very little since the last century.

Smell of Russia There is something about Moscow which grips one in spite of all the seaminess of the place. Perhaps it is just the unforgettable smell of Russia. A combination, it seems, of stale smoke, sweat, pickled cucumber, and cheap scent which goes wherever Soviet rule extends – to Russia’s embassies abroad, even to her aircraft. Perhaps it is the spirit of the people still profoundly Slavonik which bursts forth in the supreme brio of the ballet dancers at the Bolshoi and in the intense, humility of the thousands of Muscovites, many of them old and bent, who pack the churches every Sunday to chant the Orthodox mass and bow their foreheads to the ground, rapt in the service, surrendering all hope of any high station in life simply by being there.

Anyway, whatever it is, Moscow has plenty of admirers. There is a fountain in Sverdlovsk Square in front of the Bolshoi theatre into which people throw coins and wish that they may come back to Moscow. Now the fountain is silent and choked with snow, but in summer the water is full of 10 kopek pieces. Anyone who is prepared to pay 10 kopeks for the privilege of returning to Moscow must think something of the place.

For a report on the results of the visit see Further blow to hopes based on premier’s visit: cool company in Kremlin .

• From the Guardian archive
• Moscow holidays
• Michael Frayn
• Harold Macmillan

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