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Planning Summer Vacation? Here's the Year's Best Summer Cruises (2024)

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The summer of 2024 brings a new and exciting era for cruising, marked by fleet expansions, innovative features and exclusive private resorts filled with new attractions. Princess, Cunard, Carnival and Royal Caribbean are all set to dazzle with brand new ships, including Royal Caribbean's record-setting Oasis-class ships. Joining the wave of cruising innovation, Disney Cruise Line introduces its latest magical private island, promising exclusive escapes for families and friends alike.

As school and work holidays approach, the season opens up endless options for memorable summer cruises involving adventure, discovery, and fun. Let's dive into the highlights of what makes the summer of 2024 a landmark season for sailing enthusiasts and first-time cruisers alike.

On This Page:

  1. Cruises in June: Highlights
  2. Cruises-in-July-Highlights
  3. Cruises in August: Highlights

Cruises in June: Highlights

Sun Princess Ship: Summer Sailings in June 2024

Experience a serene voyage aboard the Sun Princess with its Wake View Terrace, offering breathtaking ocean views from the comfort of your cabin.
The brand new Sun Princess, setting sail in June 2024, stands out for its cutting-edge design and luxurious offerings. As a highlight among June cruises, it features expansive decks, panoramic lounges, and an array of dining options that cater to every palate.
This ship is a haven for those seeking relaxation and pampering, with a world-class spa, multiple pools, and private cabanas. Ideal for travelers hunting for June 2024 cruise deals, the Sun Princess combines luxury with adventure, offering unique itineraries to some of the best cruise destination ports including Naples, Barcelona, Marseille, and many more.

Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point: Disney’s Private Island Opens

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Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, launching in June, brings Disney’s enchantment to the high seas like never before. Perfect for families and Disney fans, this cruise offers interactive experiences, character encounters, and themed entertainment that captures the magic of Disney.

Every part, like the special cabins and activities for kids, is carefully planned to make sure everyone has a great time. For those planning cruises in June 2024, Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point is the go-to choice for an unforgettable family vacation that blends Disney’s storytelling with tropical adventure.

Best Place To Cruise in June: ABC Islands

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The Caribbean is one of the best places to cruise in June, offering families warm weather, clear waters, and a mix of adventurous and cultural activities. The region’s June climate is perfect for beach days, snorkeling adventures, and exploring luscious islands, making it a top choice among the best cruise destinations for families seeking a memorable summer getaway.

While the Caribbean hurricane season is a common and pesky concern, you don’t have to sacrifice adventure to stay safe. Steer toward the "ABC" islands of Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao, where you’re guaranteed paradise at the best Caribbean islands to visit in June. These Dutch islands are situated outside of the hurricane belt, offering unique experiences throughout. Enjoy windsurfing with Aruba's steady breezes, world-class diving in Bonaire, and Curaçao's history through its architecture and colorful streetscapes.

The Caribbean's clear waters and lively islands are perfectly complemented by Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean, and Carnival. Celebrity offers luxury with fine dining and exclusive ports, ideal for a refined getaway. Royal Caribbean appeals to adventurers and families with activities like rock climbing and cultural excursions, making it versatile for all types of travelers. Carnival provides a relaxed, fun atmosphere with diverse activities and destinations, suited for those seeking a laid-back vacation. Each line brings its own flavor to the Caribbean, ensuring a memorable experience for every guest.

Cruises in July: Highlights

Utopia of the Seas: Newest Royal Caribbean Ship in the Fleet

Aerial view of Royal Caribbean's Utopia of the Seas with water slides and pools, vibrant deck activities, and the open sea.
Utopia of the Seas, Royal Caribbean's latest marvel, launches in July 2024, setting a new standard for July cruises. This state-of-the-art vessel boasts innovative attractions, including the tallest slide at sea and a robotic bar, ensuring a unique blend of thrill and relaxation. With destinations that are as impressive as its amenities, Utopia of the Seas is ideal for those seeking the best cruises in July, offering an unparalleled adventure for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

Queen Anne: Cunard’s New Ship Adds Contemporary Touch to Timeless Travel

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Queen Anne, Cunard’s newest addition, sets sail in July 2024, bringing timeless elegance to cruises for July. Emphasizing luxury and comfort, this ship features spacious suites, gourmet dining options, and Cunard’s signature white-glove service. Queen Anne is perfect for travelers looking for a sophisticated experience on their cruises in July 2024, offering a blend of traditional cruising with modern amenities and excursions.

Carnival Jubilee: Carnival's Newest Ship Brings a New Wave of Fun

Carnival Jubilee's "Ultimate Playground" with roller coaster, water slides, and pools on a sunny day at sea.
Carnival Jubilee, Carnival’s latest fun ship, also sets sail into its first summer in July 2024, promising an action-packed vacation for those on the lookout for vibrant cruises in July. From water parks to live entertainment and family-friendly activities, Jubilee is designed to provide endless fun for guests of all ages. Highlighting Carnival's commitment to excitement and value, Jubilee stands out among the best cruises in July for its lively atmosphere and array of onboard experiences.

Best Place to Cruise in July: Alaska

Holland America's Westerdam cruising Glacier Bay, Alaska with icebergs and mountains.
Alaska is one of the best places to cruise in July, offering spectacular views of glaciers, wildlife, and endless daylight for exploration. This month allows travelers to experience the unique wonders of calving icebergs, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking fjords, making it an ideal time for adventure and nature enthusiasts to explore Alaska's rugged beauty and cultural richness. The mild July weather also enhances outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and sightseeing, ensuring that visitors can comfortably enjoy the vast wilderness and the scenic splendor of Alaska's landscapes.

Holland America and Princess Cruises are both top picks for the best Alaskan cruise line, renowned for their voyages to Alaska. These cruises take you close to Alaska's huge glaciers and abundant wildlife, giving you a full Alaskan adventure. With unique journeys and activities centered around Alaska's breathtaking landscapes, Holland America to Alaska and Princess Cruises in Alaska provide the best Alaska cruise experiences, making them ideal choices for Alaska cruises July 2024.

Cruises in August: Highlights

Seven Seas Grandeur: Newest Regent Ship is the Epitome of Sailing in Style

Regent's Grandeur Compass Rose Restaurant with elegant tree-like pillars and sophisticated dining setup.
Seven Seas Grandeur is Regent's testament to luxury and exclusivity, making it a contender for the best cruise in August. With its all-suite accommodations, inclusive excursions, and fine dining, this ship offers an intimate and lavish experience. Its smaller size allows for access to unique ports, ensuring that guests enjoy a blend of well-known and off-the-beaten-path destinations. Seven Seas Grandeur is the epitome of elegance and comfort, making it one of the best cruises to take in August for those seeking a truly opulent journey.

Icon of the Seas: Royal's Record-Breaking Mega Cruise Ship

Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas cruise ship sailing from Perfect Day at CocoCay at sunset.
Icon of the Seas, Royal Caribbean's newest addition in August 2024, redefines family vacations with its innovative design and array of onboard activities. As a pioneer in entertainment and leisure, this ship features groundbreaking amenities like the largest water park at sea, virtual reality bungee trampolines, and spacious family suites.
It's designed to cater to adventurers of all ages, making it an excellent choice for a cruise in August 2024. For families and thrill-seekers looking for the best cruises to take in August, Icon of the Seas offers an unforgettable escape filled with excitement and relaxation.

Best Place to Cruise in August: Norway

Cruise ship sails through Norwegian fjord, with sunlight filtering through lush mountains.
Norway is by far the best place to go on a cruise in August. The fjords look amazing, and the weather is nice and mild. You'll see incredible sights like tall cliffs, waterfalls, and beautiful green waters. Plus, in August, you can expect the midnight sun in the Arctic Circle, where it remains light all day and night.

For those eager to explore the breathtaking sights of Norway, Azamara, Viking Ocean Cruises, and Norwegian Cruise Line stand out as the best Norway cruises 2024. These lines specialize in navigating the stunning fjords, offering itineraries that highlight Norway's most iconic sights. Experience the remote beauty of North Cape, the historic charm of Bergen, and the awe-inspiring views from Pulpit Rock.

Ports of call provide a deep dive into Norway's rich culture and spectacular landscapes, ensuring the best Norway cruise experience. With their emphasis on cultural immersion and scenic exploration, these cruise lines promise an enriching journey to the heart of Norway, making them the perfect options for the best cruise for Norway.

Sail into Summer Now

Family enjoying a playful run on the beach during a Carnival summer cruise excursion.
As the sun sets on our guide to the best summer cruises of 2024, the perfect cruise awaits you. Whether you're drawn to the pioneering giants of Royal Caribbean, the enchanting experiences of Disney, or the luxury and elegance of Princess and Cunard, this summer offers a variety of options for cruisers. Compare cruises, find exclusive deals, and set sail into summer with Cruisebound.

Ready to set sail?