84 REGIONAL SPOTLIGHT: NORTH AMERICA From the warm turquoise waters of the Caribbean to the glaciercarved fjords of Alaska, North America offers one of the world’s most varied and rewarding cruising landscapes. A vast range of cruise itineraries, offered by multiple cruise brands, allow guests to explore the many different sides of the continent, connecting them with its natural beauty and cultural diversity. The Caribbean remains the cornerstone of world cruising, with 43 per cent of all cruise passengers embarking on a cruise to the region in 2024 according to Cruise Lines International Association’s State of the Cruise Industry Report 2025. Itineraries depart from major US homeports such as Miami, Port Canaveral and Galveston, offering guests an easy route from city skylines to palm-lined beaches. “These itineraries are successful because they strike a perfect balance between accessibility, affordability and variety,” says Ugo Savino, senior director of deployment and itinerary planning at Carnival Cruise Line. “North American guests love that they can embark from ports close to home and enjoy a mix of sun-soaked beaches, vibrant culture and relaxed sea days.” The region’s appeal extends beyond the convenience of its homeports. The rich diversity of Caribbean destinations – from the colourful Dutch architecture of Curaçao and the cobblestone streets of Old San Juan to the unspoilt bays of St Lucia – allows guests to experience multiple cultures and landscapes within a single voyage. With a wide range of itineraries available across The Bahamas and the Eastern, Western and Southern Caribbean, cruise lines can offer guests everything from short introductory sailings to extended voyages visiting multiple island nations within one trip. “The short getaways to The Bahamas are especially appealing for first-time cruisers, while longer Caribbean voyages attract repeat guests looking for a broader experience,” says Savino. Sailing north along the Eastern Seaboard, Canada and New England A continent of contrasts North America’s varied landscapes and vibrant destinations continue to make it one of the most compelling regions for cruising. Alex Smith finds out more Photo: Carnival Cruise Line Guests can explore one of the world’s last wildernesses on a cruise to Alaska
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