From Port to Present
The Magic of Holiday Cruising
By Dionne Roberts
Holiday cruises have a certain magic you can’t quite capture on land — part glittering celebration, part grand adventure. Think twinkling lights strung across sun-drenched decks, gourmet holiday feasts where you never have to lift a finger, and the bliss of unpacking just once while the world’s most festive ports come to you.
The best part? Instead of shoveling snow or sitting in airport lounges, you’re gliding toward your next destination with a champagne flute in hand, warm sea breezes mingling with the scent of gingerbread from the ship’s bakeshop. Each day brings a new postcard-perfect harbor, all dressed up for the season.
Here are three unforgettable holiday cruise experiences that will have you singing carols from the balcony of your stateroom:
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San Juan, Puerto Rico glows with both tropical warmth and centuries-old tradition. The cobblestone streets of Old San Juan sparkle with holiday lights, while salsa rhythms and parranda carols spill out from lively plazas. Sip coquito — Puerto Rico’s creamy coconut holiday drink — and browse artisan markets for handwoven crafts.
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Barcelona, Spain turns its famous boulevards into winter wonderlands. The Fira de Santa Llúcia market, dating back to 1786, bursts with nativity figurines, handmade ornaments, and the sweet scent of turrón. Stroll beneath illuminated Gothic spires before returning to your ship for a multicourse holiday dinner under the stars.
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Honolulu, Hawaii blends holiday cheer with aloha spirit. The Honolulu City Lights festival dazzles with enormous Christmas displays and a towering tree, while hula performances and Hawaiian music keep the celebration going. Trade snow for sand as you toast the season with a mai tai on Waikīkī Beach.
Whether you choose the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, or the South Pacific, a holiday cruise offers the perfect blend of festivity and freedom. No cooking, no cleaning, no logistics — just the joy of the season, framed by ocean horizons.
This year, let the world’s most beautiful coastlines be your holiday backdrop. After all, the best way to deck the halls might just be on the decks themselves.
Dionne Roberts, MCC, VTA
Foster Perry Travel
888-878-5863
(888-TRVLTME)
