From the sunny shores of the Mediterranean to the diverse coastline of Australia, there are many world-famous and consistently popular ports across the globe – travelled to by droves of cruisers every year. There are, however, a number of unsung but equally exciting remote destinations available on voyages with the ultra-luxury cruise lines represented by SixStarCruises.co.uk. The following places are some of the world’s most remote and obscure locations that you might not have even considered visiting. Read on to find out why you should!
Pitcairn Islands
The Pitcairn Islands are perhaps one of the world’s most remote and rugged destinations, located in the middle of the vast South Pacific Ocean. Despite their isolated nature, the islands are accessible on a number of voyages during the year, mainly docking in only inhabited island in the archipelago – Pitcairn Island – although excursions are available to the nearby Henderson Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to several species of endangered birds.
They are many other wonderful excursion possibilities on the islands, including a trip to Bounty Bay to see the wreck of the famous HMS Bounty, well-known for its illustrious mutiny. There are also plenty of bird-watching hotspots and hiking trails to discover, perfect for travellers with an interest in wildlife and ecology.
Antarctica
Home to one of the harshest environments on Earth, Antarctica is an ideal destination for the most intrepid and adventurous of travellers. Several cruise lines operate voyages to this icy continent, allowing guests the opportunity to set foot where very few people have ever set foot before. A trip to Antarctica often requires the use of Zodiac vessels, which carry passengers to the region’s remote ports, many of which are inaccessible to larger cruise vessels.
The icy landscape of Antarctica is a truly amazing and inspiring sight. You may even get the chance to observe some of the well-known polar wildlife, including penguins and whales. Travellers with an interest in the history of polar exploration should also make the trip to Scott’s Hut, the historic shelter of renowned explorer Robert Falcon Scott, which has been frozen in time for over a century.
Greenland
Greenland is often overlooked as a holiday destination, but this vast and largely uninhabited nation boasts some of the world’s most impressive and dramatic scenery – well worth seeing if you get the chance. Located to northeast of North America, large parts of Greenland lie within the Arctic Circle, which means weather conditions can often be adverse. Although the country is still formally part of the Kingdom of Denmark, it was granted self-government around 35 years ago.
Greenland’s imposing glaciers and icebergs are astounding to behold, alongside the native wildlife which can be observed across the region, including whales, seals, reindeer and polar bears. Hiking, dog-sledding and mountain climbing are also popular across Greenland because of the areas unique and astonishing frozen landscape.
Papua New Guinea
Located on the eastern side of the island of New Guinea, Papua New Guinea is one of Oceania’s most spectacular and unspoilt destinations, home to ancient tribes with truly unique local cultures and customs. According to recent studies, an incredible 848 different languages have stemmed from the island, 12 of which no longer have any living speakers.
There are plenty to activities to get involved with whilst in Papua New Guinea, including scuba diving in the beautiful reefs that surround the island, bird-watching over 700 species of tropical colourful avian wildlife and hiking through the dense jungle, filled with intriguing sights. Fishing and surfing are also popular along Papua New Guinea’s stunning coastline.
Oman
Often overshadowed on Middle Eastern cruises by its illustrious neighbours, including the theistically significant nation of Israel and the dazzling city of Dubai, Oman is a wonderful and intriguing cruise destination, showcasing some of the very best historical and cultural attractions anywhere in the Middle East. Oman’s capital city of Muscat is sometimes incorporated within Middle Eastern itineraries and boasts a collection of wonderful landmarks, including ancient forts, intricate palaces and historic mosques.
Oman is also famous for its scenic desert valleys – known locally as wadis. Wadi Shab, located around 100 kilometres south of Muscat, is one of the most beautiful and well-known of these wadis, with its shimmering pools and deep caves. Wildlife watching is also a particular popular activity for visitors to Oman, as well as other active pursuits such as rock climbing, hiking, camel racing and night safaris.
Image Credits: Taro Taylor – wikipedia.org