Expert-approved: The best summer cruises 2025
Summer 2025 is shaping up to be an monumental season for cruising, with brand-new ships, exciting itineraries, and expanded offerings across the globe. From Royal Caribbean’s highly anticipated Star of the Seas to Disney Fantasy’s first-ever summer in Europe, cruise lines are rolling out innovative ships and bucket-list-worthy destinations. Meanwhile, Alaska remains a top summer escape, and the Mediterranean and South Pacific continue to offer iconic itineraries.
To help you plan your ideal getaway, we’ve rounded up the top summer cruise highlights for June, July, and August 2025—plus expert tips on where to sail and when to book.
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1. Best cruises in June: Highlights
Carnival Adventure: A bold start down under
Debuting in March 2025, Carnival Adventure—formerly known as Pacific Adventure—marks an exciting expansion for Carnival Cruise Line in Australia. This debut follows Carnival’s acquisition of P&O Cruises Australia, effectively doubling Carnival’s presence in the region with both Carnival Adventure and its sister ship, Carnival Encounter. Offering a dynamic mix of high-energy entertainment, diverse dining, and the brand’s unpretentious atmosphere, Carnival Adventure is set to sail its signature fun to the South Pacific.
With a capacity for 2,636 guests, Carnival Adventure boasts 21 dining venues, keeping popular P&O favorites like Waterfront, Luke’s Bar & Grill, Angelo’s, and Dragon Lady, to ensure a wide range of flavors to satisfy every palate. Guests can sip and socialize at eight bars and nightclubs, daredevils can zipline and abseil through Edge Adventure Park, and wellness enthusiasts can unwind at the full-service Elemis Spa.
Carnival Adventure will sail from Sydney, offering a variety of South Pacific itineraries to breathtaking destinations like New Caledonia, Vanuatu, and Fiji. These itineraries offer a once in a lifetime opportunity to experience pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rich island cultures in the region.
For U.S.-based travelers, Carnival Adventure presents a unique opportunity to explore the South Pacific’s most stunning locales. While it may require a long-haul flight from Los Angeles to reach its homeport in Sydney, the chance to cruise through some of the world’s most picturesque islands makes Carnival Adventure an enticing choice for cruisers looking for a bold new cruising experience in summer 2025.
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Disney Fantasy’s European debut
For the first time ever, the Disney Fantasy will spend the summer in Europe, making 2025 a landmark year for Disney Cruise Line. From May to late July 2025, the ship will take 5-night to 12-night European sailings out of Barcelona, Spain, and Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy. These itineraries will whisk guests away to some of the most stunning destinations in Northern Europe and the Mediterranean, including a highly anticipated 12-night voyage through the Greek Isles.
As Disney expands its presence in Europe, this sailing season provides a rare opportunity to experience the Disney Fantasy beyond its traditional Caribbean routes. Guests can enjoy immersive cultural shore excursions for the entire family, spectacular themed onboard entertainment, and Disney’s signature service in some of the world’s most storied ports.
For those planning a late summer getaway, the Disney Fantasy will reposition to Southampton, UK, from late July to September, offering shorter sailings to Spain and Norway.
While a transatlantic flight is required, U.S. travelers from the East Coast can reach Barcelona, Rome, or Southampton in just six to nine hours—making a European cruise easily accessible. Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins in the Mediterranean, charming coastal villages in Norway, or sipping sangria along Spain’s stunning shores, Disney’s first-ever European summer season is shaping up to be a once-in-a-lifetime voyage worthy of a fairy tale ending.
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🏆 Best place to cruise in June 2025: The Mediterranean
While Disney Cruise Line is making headlines in the Mediterranean, it’s not the only cruise line ramping up offerings in the region. June 2025 marks the official start of peak Mediterranean cruising season, with nearly every major cruise line expanding itineraries to showcase the region’s diverse coastlines, rich history, and world-class cuisine.
Whether you're sailing on a family-friendly adventure, a luxury retreat, or an in-depth cultural exploration, the Mediterranean is the ultimate cruise destination to kick off summer 2025.
Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, Princess, Norwegian, MSC, and Azamara all feature new and expanded Mediterranean sailings, catering to every travel style you can imagine. While Western Mediterranean itineraries highlight the cultural treasures of Spain, France, and Italy, Eastern Mediterranean sailings transport guests to the sun-drenched Greek Isles, Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast, and the historic wonders of Turkey.
The Disney Fantasy’s inaugural Mediterranean summer includes 5-night to 12-night voyages, featuring an exclusive 12-night Greek Isles itinerary, while Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises are offering longer, immersive journeys that blend iconic ports like Rome, Athens, and Barcelona with hidden gems along the Adriatic and Aegean Seas.
At Mediterranean ports, families will find kid-friendly history and adventure. Interactive gladiator experiences in Rome’s Colosseum, hands-on Greek mythology tours in Athens, and beach days in Santorini or Barcelona ensure fun for younger travelers while immersing them in European culture and history.
June is also the perfect month for Mediterranean cruising, thanks to its warm yet comfortable temperatures (mid-70s to mid-80s °F), long daylight hours, and a bustling festival season. Cruisers can explore ancient ruins in Athens, sip wine at Tuscan vineyards, relax on Mykonos’ white-sand beaches, or wander through the medieval streets of Dubrovnik—without the full crowds of late summer.
For those seeking a luxury Mediterranean experience, Oceania Cruises' Allura, debuting in July 2025, will offer an upscale, intimate atmosphere with gourmet dining, destination-focused itineraries, and a smaller passenger count, making it a perfect choice for travelers looking for a refined, immersive cruise through Europe.
With expanded sailings from major cruise lines, the Mediterranean in June 2025 offers an unbeatable mix of history, culture, and coastal charm—making it the ideal way to kick off summer at sea.
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2. Best cruises in July: Highlights
MSC World America: Caribbean cruising elevated
Making its highly anticipated debut in April 2025, MSC World America is set to modernize Caribbean cruising with its bold design, cutting-edge amenities, and eco-conscious innovations.
As the second ship in MSC’s World Class, this futuristic vessel will be fully LNG-powered, feature a dedicated adults-only district, and introduce hair-raising attractions like The Cliffhanger swing ride and a 10-deck dry slide. With 13 restaurants, 20 bars and lounges, and the fleet’s largest-ever kids’ space, MSC World America brings sleek European design to the Caribbean, offering a dynamic resort experience for the entire family.
In July 2025, MSC World America will sail 7-night and 14-night Caribbean itineraries from Miami, alternating between Eastern and Western Caribbean routes. Guests will explore stunning destinations like Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, San Juan, St. Thomas, Cozumel, and Roatán, experiencing everything from versatile beaches and marine reserves to vibrant cultural excursions.
With MSC’s signature blend of immersive onboard experiences and unique port calls, MSC World America is one of the most exciting new cruise options for summer 2025.
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Cunard’s Queen Elizabeth returns to Alaska refreshed
Cunard’s Queen Elizabeth is set to return to Alaska in summer 2025 with a fresh new look following an extensive refurbishment in Singapore. This elegant enhancement will revitalize the ship’s signature spaces, blending timeless luxury and modern sophistication on their voyages through the Last Frontier.
Among the most notable updates, the Grills Suites and Restaurants will receive refined decor and upgraded furnishings, elevating Cunard’s signature luxury experience. Meanwhile, public spaces like the Garden Lounge and Panorama Pool Club will be redesigned to enhance comfort and panoramic viewing opportunities for admiring Alaska’s breathtaking landscapes. With an updated hull design and mechanical improvements, the ship will also sail more efficiently and smoothly, ideal for navigating the glacial waters of Alaska.
Following the makeover, Cunard Queen Elizabeth will begin a series of Alaska cruises departing from Seattle, offering 7-night to 12-night sailings through some of the region’s most scenic routes. Queen Elizabeth itineraries will take guests to Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan, with majestic scenic cruising through Glacier Bay National Park and other awe-inspiring fjords. The ship’s elevated open-air decks, glass-enclosed observation areas, and luxurious lounges will provide views of calving glaciers, towering peaks, and abundant wildlife.
Onboard Queen Elizabeth, guests will experience Cunard’s signature White Star Service, curated enrichment programs, and refined dining, making every moment at sea as memorable as the destinations themselves.
Queen Elizabeth’s newly refreshed interiors, world-class service, and panoramic-ready design make it one of the most refined and immersive ways to experience Alaska in summer 2025.
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🏆 Best place to cruise in July: Alaska
Alaska shines as the top cruise destination for July 2025, offering long daylight hours, comfortable summer temperatures, and unparalleled wildlife encounters. As peak season for Alaskan cruising, July delivers the perfect mix of mild weather, rich native culture, and glorious natural wonders, making it the ideal time to explore America’s Last Frontier by sea.
Cruising through Alaska’s Inside Passage is like stepping into a timeless wilderness, where towering glaciers crack and calve into icy waters, whales breach in the distance, and bald eagles soar over misty fjords and dense spruce forests. Ports like Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan offer a variety of ways to explore, from dog sledding across a glacier and kayaking through secluded fjords to immersing yourself in Alaska’s rich Indigenous heritage through cultural tours and storytelling.
For breathtaking scenes only visible from the water, Glacier Bay National Park and Hubbard Glacier deliver memorable scenes, where cruisers will witness historic ice formations and dramatic landscapes from the comfort of their stateroom or observation lounges.
July is also prime time for wildlife encounters, with humpback whales, orcas, sea lions, and grizzly bears thriving in the region’s summer abundance. Nature lovers can watch salmon runs in full swing, see brown bears fishing along riverbanks, and spot grand moose wandering through the wilderness.
Leading the way for luxury Alaska cruising in 2025, Cunard’s newly refurbished Queen Elizabeth returns with refreshed interiors, enhanced observation areas, and world-class service, offering a refined way to experience the Last Frontier. Meanwhile, Celebrity Edge brings contemporary luxury to the region, while Holland America and Princess Cruises continue their legacy of in-depth Alaskan exploration with expert-led excursions and immersive cultural experiences.
Whether you’re looking for a classic ocean liner experience, immersive expedition, or an upscale retreat at sea, Alaska in July 2025 promises breathtaking scenery and everlasting memories.
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3. Best cruises in August: Highlights
Star of the Seas: The next Icon of vacations
Launching in August 2025, Star of the Seas is Royal Caribbean’s second Icon Class ship, bringing an expansive waterpark, cutting-edge entertainment, and multi-generational experiences to Caribbean cruising.
Star of the Seas 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries from Port Canaveral, Florida, all include a stop at Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean’s private island packed with thrill rides, overwater cabanas, and the tallest waterslide in North America.
Related: Best cruise private islands for your next cruise
On Eastern Caribbean sailings, guests will visit St. Thomas and St. Maarten, home to stunning beaches, world-class snorkeling, and lively cultural centers. Western Caribbean itineraries feature Costa Maya, Cozumel, and Roatán, where travelers can explore Mayan ruins, coral reefs, and lush rainforests.
Onboard, Star of the Seas offers some of the most innovative attractions at sea. The Category 6 Waterpark, the largest at sea, features six record-breaking slides, while Crown’s Edge combines a suspended ropes course with a daring zip line over open water. The Ultimate Family Townhouse spans three decks with a private slide, movie room, and direct access to Surfside, a dedicated family zone.
For entertainment, the AquaDome transforms from a tranquil oceanfront lounge during the day to a high-energy performance venue at night, featuring aerial acrobatics, immersive shows, and high-diving stunts.
With next-level onboard experiences and exciting Caribbean destinations, Star of the Seas is set to be one of the biggest cruise launches of summer 2025.
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Norwegian Aqua innovates with Prima Plus class
Launching in April 2025, Norwegian Aqua is Norwegian Cruise Line’s first Prima Plus Class ship, crafted to immerse guests in panoramic ocean views with floor-to-ceiling glass walls, spacious sun decks, and outdoor lounges. The ship is a haven for thrill-seekers and relaxation enthusiasts alike, featuring the highly anticipated Aqua Slidecoaster—a groundbreaking hybrid roller coaster and waterslide that twists and turns over the sea, delivering heart-pounding excitement and breathtaking views. Guests can explore a diverse culinary landscape with options ranging from elegant fine dining to vibrant international marketplaces, all while enjoying Norwegian’s signature Freestyle Cruising flexibility.
For August 2025, Norwegian Aqua will set sail on Bermuda itineraries from New York City, transporting guests from to the quaint charm of island life. These sailings include overnight stays at the Royal Naval Dockyard, allowing travelers to unwind on Bermuda’s famous pink-sand beaches, dive into turquoise waters teeming with marine life, and explore the island’s rich colonial history and vibrant culture. Whether opting for a 5-night mini-vacation or a 7-night immersive journey, guests will have ample opportunities to experience everything from guided snorkeling tours and sunset catamaran cruises to savoring local delicacies at waterside cafes.
With its cutting-edge design, unparalleled onboard thrills, and beautifully curated Bermuda escapes, Norwegian Aqua is poised to redefine summer cruising in 2025.
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🏆 Best place to cruise in August 2025: Bermuda
As hurricane season peaks in the Caribbean, Bermuda stands out as a top late-summer cruise destination, offering stunning pink-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a rich history—all outside the hurricane belt. With 76 cruise ship calls scheduled between June and August 2025, a record-breaking season, Bermuda is now more accessible, thanks to expanded itineraries and major infrastructure upgrades like the Kings Wharf Pier extension.
Cruise lines are doubling down on Bermuda, with Norwegian, Carnival, and Royal Caribbean increasing sailings. Carnival Venezia will offer 4-day weekend escapes and 5-night cruises, perfect for a short but immersive island getaway. Meanwhile, Bermuda’s popularity will continue into 2026, with Norwegian Jewel introducing a Philadelphia-to-Bermuda route—the first in over a decade—further expanding accessibility for East Coast travelers.
For families, Bermuda is more than just beaches—it’s a paradise for adventure. Kids will love exploring the Crystal Caves, helmet diving at Snorkel Park, and even set sail pirate-themed boat tours in St. George’s. With a mix of fun, history, and natural beauty, Bermuda is an ideal choice for a family-friendly cruise getaway. Nature lovers can dive into Bermuda’s preserved coral reefs or take part in eco-conscious marine conservation experiences.
With easy access, world-class golf, family-friendly attractions, and duty-free shopping—plus the security of being outside the hurricane zone—Bermuda remains a top cruise destination for summer 2025 and beyond.
Related: 10 alluring reasons to cruise to Bermuda this year
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When to book your summer 2025 cruise
Summer is peak cruise season, with high demand due to school breaks and limited cabin availability. Booking early—ideally 12+ months in advance—is the best way to secure your preferred itinerary, cabin, and pricing, especially for Alaska, the Mediterranean, Bermuda, and the Caribbean.
If you haven’t booked yet, the best deals typically appear between Black Friday and Wave Season (January–March). Most discounts and perks (like reduced deposits, onboard credits, and free drink packages) get snatched up by the end of February, but you can still find last-minute Wave Season deals through March.
Waiting until the last minute? Itineraries with high demand (family-friendly cruises, peak summer sailings) sell out fast, leaving fewer options. However, flexible travelers can sometimes find last-minute markdowns on remaining cabins.
Bottom line: Book as early as for the best value and selection, by March.
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Sail into summer now
With a lineup that combines pioneering new ships, refreshed classics, and innovative itineraries, summer 2025 is your season to set sail on the ultimate adventure. Whether you’re enticed by Carnival’s bold new offering, the rejuvenated elegance of Cunard’s Queen Elizabeth, or the family-friendly innovation of Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas, there’s a cruise experience tailored just for you. Compare itineraries, secure exclusive deals, and plan your summer escape with Cruisebound.
