The Wonder of Nature 

From spotting wildlife from your train to watching life from above on a private helicopter tour, there are many ways in which you can dive into the heart of a destination to ensure you explore its hidden secrets and highlights. With various places to indulge your wanderlust and inspire the nature lovers, here are our best places to seek out the wonder of world and its landscapes while on a cruise. 

Cherry blossoms in Japan 

Japan’s cherry blossom season is a worldwide phenomenon. The stunning display of pink bursts through the cities and towns of Japan has been celebrated across the region for centuries. 

The season resides in Japan, where it holds a very prestigious place in the country’s culture. There are a number of cruise lines which visit this region during the cherry blossom season, just so you can experience it first-hand. One of these cruise lines is Oceania Cruises, with their Land of the Rising Sun itinerary sailing here in peak season to witness the wonder. 

Japanese cherry blossom season differs from region to region, but it typically starts at the end of January to early May. It only lasts one to two weeks in each region due to the delicate nature of the flowers, sometimes less if it’s raining. Our chosen pick for this experience is with Oceania Cruises which sails in April 2024 with a one-night pre-cruise stay in Tokyo, so you can enjoy plenty chances to see this unique flora in person. 

Whale sharks in Australia 

No words can describe your first sighting of the largest fish in the sea. One of the best places in the world to see them is Exmouth in Australia when groups descend on the UNESCO World Heritage site, Ningaloo Reef, to feed. These gentle giants arrive to take advantage of the mass coral spawning that takes place between March and July, during this time Ningaloo’s whale sharks congregate to feed, meaning sightings are virtually guaranteed. 

Komodo dragons in Indonesia 

May in Indonesia offers the chance to witness a real-life Godzilla, the Komodo Dragon. The world’s largest existing lizard exists on only a handful of Indonesian islands and May is a great month to spot them. The dragons are largely visible in open areas but, as it’s also mating season, they can often retreat to forests. The best islands to visit them on are Rinca and Komodo, with the latter also boasting an opportunity to dive with manta rays and walk along pink sand beaches. 

Regent Seven Seas Cruises offer sailings here with an excursion tailored to those seeking a chance to spot these animals in their natural habitat. With the guidance of a park ranger, visit the Komodo National Park and follow footsteps through this UNESCO-listed Biosphere Reserve, looking out for the protected species as you explore. 

Polar bears in Svalbard 

Svalbard is a fantastic place to spot polar bears patrolling the ice, especially during a Polar expedition cruise on a ship that can take you closer to the action. And August isn’t just a great time to push deeper into the Arctic; you can also witness the famous midnight sun, giving you even more time to explore this region’s frozen reaches. 

Geysers and glaciers in Iceland 

Visit the land of ice and fire and relive the legends of Viking lore in their Motherland – Iceland. Let the magic of this country whisk you away as the landscapes and windswept plains play with your imagination. 

Sail to Reykjavik, the world’s most northerly capital city and a hub of Icelandic history and culture. Travel to Thingvellir National Park to peer at the natural wonder of this UNESCO World Heritage site, alongside hot springs, mystical glaciers and picturesque lagoons. See the stunning landscapes change as you travel across the region to see the Gullfoss waterfall, considered to be Iceland’s most beautiful waterfall; the shimmering icebergs of Jokulsarlon Glacial Lagoon; and the famous Blue Lagoon where you can enjoy a relaxing dip! 

Azamara’s Iceland Intensive voyages provide a great overview of this country. Starting Reykjavik, there’s perfect opportunity to stay over and explore the capital before embarking on a journey to see fjords, glaciers and the spectacular landscapes in every port. 

Uluru in Australia 

A sacred place to the Pitjantjatjara Anangu – the Aboriginal people of the area – Ayers Rock is a large sandstone formation which overlooks much of the national park in which it resides. Reaching a height of 863m, it has become an instantly recognisable landmark of the region. 

Many people flock to view the rock, particularly at dawn or sunset, when the red sandstone glows in the light. One of the ways you can experience this with the popular Sounds of Silence dinner. Comprising canapes and chilled wine, enjoy outstanding views of Ayers Rock as the sun sets before tucking into an unforgettable dining experience under the night sky. 

Grizzly bears in Alaska 

May marks the start of the Alaskan summer. The landscape bursts into life, wildlife comes out of hibernation and the first salmon run begins, which means only one thing: grizzly bears. Many bears head to Alaska’s rivers to take advantage of the early swarm, while you could also see them scouring the shore for razor clams at low tide. If you visit during this time of year, you can combine a bear-watching trip with countless other animal sightings and a landscape bursting into life. 

Niagara Falls in North America 

Situated on the border between Ontario, Canada and New York, United States, the Niagara Falls spans a group of three waterfalls: Horseshoe Falls, American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls. The destination is one of the world’s top natural wonders to visit for its picturesque views and experiencing the unmistakable roar of the water as it crashes over the edge. 

There are different views of the falls, depending on the side you’re on. You can visit both during your stay to get the best experience, though the views are much better from the Canadian side. While many cruise lines visit North America, Niagara Falls is situated a little inland from the east coast of the country. There are ways in which you can pair a trip with a cruise, such as our Seabourn package featuring transfers and a three-night hotel stay added after a Canada & New England sailing. Comprising a 5* stay at the Marriott with a view of the falls from your room and a scenic helicopter tour, it’s a great option for those unforgettable moments. 

Discover your luxury cruise experience today and speak to our expert concierge to tailor your perfect holiday.