TTG's Guide To Cruise September 2023

I’m fresh off the ship from Virgin Voyages’ Greek Island Glow sailing, and I can confirm it’s worth the hype! Aside from Resilient Lady’s undeniable “wow” factor, the destinations visited are as beautiful as the photos promised me they were; the iconic chalk-white buildings of Santorini, pretty boutique-lined lanes of Mykonos, and the ancient walls of Rhodes leaving a handprint on my heart.

However, I couldn’t help but think how much more enjoyable they’d be if not for the crowds of people. It’s so important cruise lines continue to find more exclusive yet equally charming destinations to avoid overcrowding and protect both the place and the visitor experience. So, what better time to delve deeper into new and unique cruise destinations?

We asked cruise lines to talk to us about the most unique destinations featured on their itineraries and they came forward with everything from private islands and rarely-visited regions to maiden ports of call (p14). Expedition cruising is particularly good for exploring lesser-visited areas, and so we spoke to the newly established Expedition Cruise Network to pinpoint the best place to visit for every month of the year (p12). Plus, we chatted to five travel agents who were able to share stories of their own unique and memorable cruise experiences, as well as tips for replicating this for clients (p6), and to Clia to find out the latest destination trends (p4).

Let this supplement guide you towards selling the most unique sailings, so your clients can have their most extraordinary cruise to date.

Madeleine Barber

Special projects editor

TTG Media