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It’s not just the ship that’s important on an ocean voyage: there are also opulent churches, colourful markets and pristine beaches to visit along the way.
A shore excursion is a great way to explore a destination when you dock. But which cruise lines do them best?
Only one ocean cruise line clinched the full five stars for its excursions, while other providers managed a respectable four. All are Which? Recommended Providers, meaning your time on board is sure to be equally memorable.
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The only cruise line to score top marks for its excursions, Noble Caledonia is also loved for its interesting itineraries and small, intimate ships. The luxury brand’s biggest vessel sleeps just 150 passengers, calling at far-flung destinations including the Antarctic, Japan and the Seychelles.
This accolade is even more impressive when you consider that excursions are included in the headline price. Choices are varied: one 15-day Caribbean voyage includes a walking tour of colonial walled city Cartagena in Colombia and a boat ride on the Costa Rican Amazon spotting monkeys, sloths and toucans in the surrounding rainforest.
One happy customer told us: ‘The captain, crew and expedition team went out of their way to ensure we saw the best possible flora, fauna and scenery… all trips were part and parcel of the cruise - no extra costs. One of the best expedition cruises we have ever been on.’
The best ocean cruise lines overall - as rated by you
Marketed as an ultra-luxury all-inclusive cruise line, Silversea sails all seven continents with a butler service and champagne on tap. Excursions aren’t part of the package, unless you’ve booked an expedition cruise or the all-inclusive plus fare - which includes credit towards port tours.
These include S.A.L.T. Experiences: immersive trips into local food and drink - from a wine tasting in Bordeaux to visiting the smokehouses of the Swedish countryside.
Other Silversea excursions transport passengers to natural wonders or iconic landmarks at each port of call.
One passenger praised the ‘up-close views of sealife’ during their voyage, with another describing the excursions as ‘convenient, well-organised and an enriching way to experience the local culture’.
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Offering cruises that run the length of Norway’s coastline, Hurtigruten doesn’t have glitzy cabaret nights or boutique stores. The focus is on giving passengers an authentic experience with educational presentations about the local history and wildlife.
The more than 130 expeditions - from snowshoeing in Tromsø to dog sledding and king crab fishing in Kirkenes - follow suit. Activities vary depending on the season, whether you’re hunting the Northern lights in winter or enjoying summer’s midnight sun.
One passenger praised Hurtigruten’s expeditions, saying: 'Excellent local guides, or for some stops, excursions led by the ship's expedition team. A strong emphasis on scientific and environmental aspects with lots of opportunities for wildlife watching.’
Sailing worldwide to North and South America, the Caribbean, Europe, Africa and Southeast Asia, Viking’s adult-only small ships are able to visit less crowded harbours - which means more interesting excursions too. Passengers are offered one free excursion at every port - from a rum distillery tour in St Lucia to a wood carving demo in Bali.
More elaborate jaunts cost extra, like Viking’s ‘privileged access’ tours: giving guests exclusive access to museums and palaces after hours.
One guest told us that the guides were excellent, the locations interesting and the tours unhurried. Another said that the standard was ‘exceptional’, showcasing ‘the culture, history and natural beauty of each destination’.
Read our full reviews of Noble Caledonia Ocean Cruises, Silversea, Hurtigruten and Viking Ocean Cruises.
