Dubai to Fort Lauderdale

The lure of Dubai is irresistible, from its glittering mega-skyscrapers to its traditional Islamic roots. Dubai’s most iconic sights include the 160-story Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest skyscraper, and the Burj Al Arab Jumeirah, a luxury resort which happens to be shaped like a boat’s sail.

Dubai is all about luxe shopping, high-end boutiques, unique souqs (markets) and cultural institutions like the Dubai Museum. While you’re stopped on a Dubai cruise, you’re meant to live it up on unforgettable excursions like a helicopter tour of the city or a camel ride at the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve.

Fujairah boasts a fascinating past while looking forward to an ambitious and forward-looking future. The port served as a vital trade center for centuries due to its strategic location at the crossroads of Asia, Africa, and Europe and as such it is steeped in traditions, as shown by the well-preserved Al Bidya Mosque, one of the UAE's oldest. Today, Fujairah welcomes travelers with a blend of modernity and heritage. The city's main highlights include the Fujairah Fort, a majestic structure dating back to the 16th century, and the Fujairah Museum, which offers a glimpse into the region's history and culture. Beyond its historical treasures, Fujairah boasts pristine beaches, making it a popular destination for water sports and relaxation. The Hajar Mountains provide a breathtaking backdrop for hiking and exploration.

Situated on a striking cove on the Gulf of Oman, ringed by striking volcanic mountains and guarded by two ancient Portuguese forts, diminutive Muscat is the capital of the Sultanate of Oman. Its architecture is a picturesque blend of Arab, Indian, African and European styles. Look for the sultan's palace at the water's edge, or visit the important national museum.

A day at sea with Crystal can be as relaxed or as engaging as you wish. Begin with breakfast on your veranda, take a walk along the Promenade Deck or spend the morning by the Seahorse Pool before retreating to the Aurōra Spa & Salon for a restorative treatment. Enrichment is always close at hand, with lectures, bridge, creative workshops, dance classes, wellness sessions and opportunities to fine tune skills from photography to golf.

Dining is a highlight throughout the day, from relaxed bites by the pool to elegant dinners at venues such as Umi Uma by Nobu, Beefbar or Waterside. As evening arrives, enjoy live music, theatre entertainment, comedy, social gatherings, cocktails in the lounges or a quiet night in with 24-hour in-suite dining.

Oman's lush southern gem, where fragrant frankincense trees, pristine beaches, and a fascinating blend of Omani and East African cultures create an enchanting and rejuvenating Arabian getaway. Like a magic carpet spread before the sea, Oman's coastal plain is one of the most fertile areas of Arabia. Famous since antiquity as the source of frankincense, Salalah was already a prosperous town when Marco Polo visited it in the 13th century! Inland rise the forbidding Al-Quara Mountains, and the desolate "Empty Quarter" of central Saudi Arabia.

A day at sea with Crystal can be as relaxed or as engaging as you wish. Begin with breakfast on your veranda, take a walk along the Promenade Deck or spend the morning by the Seahorse Pool before retreating to the Aurōra Spa & Salon for a restorative treatment. Enrichment is always close at hand, with lectures, bridge, creative workshops, dance classes, wellness sessions and opportunities to fine tune skills from photography to golf.

Dining is a highlight throughout the day, from relaxed bites by the pool to elegant dinners at venues such as Umi Uma by Nobu, Beefbar or Waterside. As evening arrives, enjoy live music, theatre entertainment, comedy, social gatherings, cocktails in the lounges or a quiet night in with 24-hour in-suite dining.

As the most historic port in Saudi Arabia, Jeddah is packed full of cultural riches. Apart from being the gateway to Mecca, the city is famous for being the burial place of Eve, the mother of humanity. Although the city today buzzes with modernity, the past is very much present, largely thanks to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Old Jeddah where you can stroll the streets lined with beautiful and traditional 19th century architecture.

A day at sea with Crystal can be as relaxed or as engaging as you wish. Begin with breakfast on your veranda, take a walk along the Promenade Deck or spend the morning by the Seahorse Pool before retreating to the Aurōra Spa & Salon for a restorative treatment. Enrichment is always close at hand, with lectures, bridge, creative workshops, dance classes, wellness sessions and opportunities to fine tune skills from photography to golf.

Dining is a highlight throughout the day, from relaxed bites by the pool to elegant dinners at venues such as Umi Uma by Nobu, Beefbar or Waterside. As evening arrives, enjoy live music, theatre entertainment, comedy, social gatherings, cocktails in the lounges or a quiet night in with 24-hour in-suite dining.

Aqaba, Jordan's only coastal city provides access to the stunning UNESCO World Heritage site city of Petra, located about 129 kilometers (80 miles) away and the desert landscape of Wadi Rum, located approximately 73 kilometers (45 miles) away. If time is tight in you can explore the Aqaba Marine Park, renowned for its vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. History buffs will appreciate the Aqaba Fort, a 16th-century Mamluk castle, and the adjacent archaeological museum housing artifacts from the region.

Luxor, often hailed as the world’s greatest open-air museum, stands on the site of ancient Thebes, the pharaohs’ capital at the height of their power during the 16th–11th centuries B.C. This city is a treasure trove of historical architecture, with the majestic Temple of Karnak and the Valley of the Kings offering a window into ancient Egypt’s grandeur. Luxor Temple, illuminated beautifully at night, provides a stunning backdrop for an evening stroll along the Nile.

Visitors can explore the West Bank’s mortuary temples and tombs, where the art and hieroglyphs remain as vivid as when they were first created. A hot air balloon ride at dawn offers an unforgettable view of the landscape, revealing the full extent of Luxor’s historical sites set against the Nile’s winding path.

Delve into the world of ancient Egypt in Luxor, a treasure trove of historically significant temples, tombs and monuments located on the east bank of the Nile. On the Red Sea coast, this small city offers beautiful beaches and glorious weather, even snorkeling and diving among the offshore reefs. More intriguingly, it serves as the gateway to Luxor on the west bank of the Nile River, where the Valley of the Kings reveals the elaborate tombs and underground mausoleums of pharaohs such as Tutankhamun and Ramses II.

A day at sea with Crystal can be as relaxed or as engaging as you wish. Begin with breakfast on your veranda, take a walk along the Promenade Deck or spend the morning by the Seahorse Pool before retreating to the Aurōra Spa & Salon for a restorative treatment. Enrichment is always close at hand, with lectures, bridge, creative workshops, dance classes, wellness sessions and opportunities to fine tune skills from photography to golf.

Dining is a highlight throughout the day, from relaxed bites by the pool to elegant dinners at venues such as Umi Uma by Nobu, Beefbar or Waterside. As evening arrives, enjoy live music, theatre entertainment, comedy, social gatherings, cocktails in the lounges or a quiet night in with 24-hour in-suite dining.

There are few cities on earth as steeped in history as Alexandria, the city heaves with echoes of ancient greatness. The Great Library, one of the most famous centers of learning in antiquity, symbolizes its intellectual legacy, and, although the original library is no more, the modern Bibliotheca Alexandrina pays homage to this heritage with its stunning architecture and wealth of knowledge. Today the city founded by Alexander the Great in 331 BCE is a vibrant metropolis and nexus of civilizations, offering a both visitors and locals a kaleidoscope of experiences. Head to the Alexandria's shoreline, adorned with historic forts and picturesque beaches, evokes both romance and history. The Citadel of Qaitbay, a medieval fortress on the Mediterranean's edge, was built in the place of the city’s famous lighthouse (one of the original Seven Wonders of the World) stands as a testament to Egypt's maritime past. Stroll along the waterfront, aka the Corniche and you'll find charming cafes, restaurants, and ice cream parlors that invite you to enjoy some of the local delicacies, or pop into the bustling streets of the Souk el-Attarine market for full immersion into local life.

A day at sea with Crystal can be as relaxed or as engaging as you wish. Begin with breakfast on your veranda, take a walk along the Promenade Deck or spend the morning by the Seahorse Pool before retreating to the Aurōra Spa & Salon for a restorative treatment. Enrichment is always close at hand, with lectures, bridge, creative workshops, dance classes, wellness sessions and opportunities to fine tune skills from photography to golf.

Dining is a highlight throughout the day, from relaxed bites by the pool to elegant dinners at venues such as Umi Uma by Nobu, Beefbar or Waterside. As evening arrives, enjoy live music, theatre entertainment, comedy, social gatherings, cocktails in the lounges or a quiet night in with 24-hour in-suite dining.

Combining a touch of Venetian beauty with Crete’s rugged landscape and dazzling beaches, Chania is an enchanting welcome to this legendary Greek island. Inhabited since the Neolithic era, Chania is a modern city built over the ruins of the ancient city of Kydonia.

Start your day exploring the old town's labyrinthine alleys, filled with charming shops, cafes, and the 16th-century Venetian harbor. Afterward, visit the Archaeological Museum housed in a former Venetian monastery, showcasing artifacts from the Minoan to the Roman periods. For a more relaxed experience, head to the Municipal Market, a bustling hub of local life where you can taste Cretan delicacies, or relax seaside at Nea Chora beach, a short walk from the old town, perfect for a leisurely afternoon by the sea.

Souda Bay’s huge natural harbour is a spectacular entrance to Greece's largest island, Crete. Packed with beautiful beaches and rich maritime history, Crete is also a treasure trove of well-stocked museums, rich archaeological sites and charming Venetian fishing towns. Ships will dock at the Port of Souda.

Top Things to Do in Souda Bay:

• admire the Arkadi Monastery
• stroll through the Old Town of Chania
• visit a Cretan winery and taste the local wine
• explore Rethymnon and its Fortezza
• visit the Agia Tradia Monastery

This quaint little seaside town on the Ionian Sea is your gateway to Ancient Olympia, where Greek mythology was born and the first Olympiad was held. Excavation of the ruins of Olympia began in 1875, and Olympia was declared a National Park in 1976. Ships will dock at the cruise terminal.

Top Things to Do in Katakolon:

• relax on Kourouta Beach
• tour the ruins of Olympia
• visit the Archaeological Museum of Olympia
• taste some local wine at Mercouri Estate
• visit a traditional Greek olive farm

Founded by the Knights of St. John in the 16th century, the sun-kissed capital of Malta maintains much of its old-world charm, with honey-hued buildings, original bastioned city walls, and beautiful Baroque architecture. Take in the historic details as you explore the city’s cobblestoned streets, stopping to snack on golden, ricotta-stuffed parcels of pastizzi and qassatat. Don’t miss the wonderfully ornate interiors of St. John's Co-Cathedral, where Caravaggio’s masterpiece, The Beheading of St. John the Baptist, sits on display in the Oratory, and soak in sweeping views of Valletta’s Grand Harbour from the pretty Upper Barrakka Gardens.

Bathed in the warm waters of the southern Mediterranean, Tunis is a blend of Maghreb flair and French style. Visit the magnificent Az-Zaytunah mosque, the most sacred religious site in the country. Take a dip in the hot baths, built by the Romans. Or experience the sights and sounds of one of the exotic souks (bazaars).

Bathed in the warm waters of the southern Mediterranean, Tunis is a blend of Maghreb flair and French style. Visit the magnificent Az-Zaytunah mosque, the most sacred religious site in the country. Take a dip in the hot baths, built by the Romans. Or experience the sights and sounds of one of the exotic souks (bazaars).

There is no shortage of beautiful, historical places in Sicily, but Trapani, on the island's west coast, seems to have it all.

Once the port for the Elymian settlement of Eryx, the city became a Carthaginian naval base in 260 BCE before the Romans took it over in 241 BCE. It thrived through the Middle Ages, and much of the medieval old city remains intact. Discover the historic center with its narrow alleys, small shops, and cozy trattorias. Once you've worked up an appetite, find a shady terrace and sample the morning-fresh seafood washed down with a glass of local Marsala wine. The area is one of the most important coastal wetlands, providing sanctuary to many migratory birds. Head to the salt flats at the Riserva Naturale Saline di Trapani e Paceco, just three miles from the port, where white pyramids of salt and pink flamingos create a colorful, striking scene.

Of course, no trip to Sicily would be complete without a dip in the sea; surrounded by turquoise waters, pristine sands, and rugged coastline, Trapani's beaches are a delight for sun worshipers.

The Aeolian archipelago - a name derived from "Aeolus," the god of the winds - is situated off the north coast of Sicily and consists of seven islands, the largest of which is Lipari. The main town, also called Lipari, is both charming and historic, with a largely reconstructed Norman church and a fine archeological museum and park. It is thought that people have lived on the island since 5,000 BC, though not always peacefully. Lipari was a Carthaginian naval base during the first Punic War, fell to Roman forces in 251 BC, and saw a 1544 visit by Barbarossa. His ransack of the town prompted the addition of massive city walls atop the ancient Greek acropolis. Since the 9th century, the island was also a favorite target of pirates, whose raids sent residents scurrying to the protective walls of the acropolis. Today, all is quiet on the Aeolian front, with the only raids being that of friendly visitors on the hunt for souvenirs or descending on beautiful Ponente Beach for an afternoon in the sun.

Famous for its stunning views of the Tyrrhenian Sea and the nearby island of Capri, its vibrant cultural and culinary scene, and its convenient and beautiful location as a starting point for exploring the stunning Amalfi Coast, Sorrento surely has a lot to offer the happy traveler who finds themselves here. The views are legendary; the town's cliffside position offers spectacular vistas that have captivated visitors for centuries while the food is off the scale delicious. Sorrento's culinary offerings are a delightful journey through the flavors of the Amalfi Coast, where freshness and simplicity define the cuisine, allowing the region's high-quality ingredients - and culinary creative talent - to shine. If you can tear yourself away from the restaurants, cafes and gelatarias, then take a stroll through the pretty streets. Sorrento's history spans centuries of civilization and cultural influence, with origins tracing back to the ancient Greeks, and layers of Roman, medieval, and Renaissance influence wocen into the tapestry of daily life.

A day at sea with Crystal can be as relaxed or as engaging as you wish. Begin with breakfast on your veranda, take a walk along the Promenade Deck or spend the morning by the Seahorse Pool before retreating to the Aurōra Spa & Salon for a restorative treatment. Enrichment is always close at hand, with lectures, bridge, creative workshops, dance classes, wellness sessions and opportunities to fine tune skills from photography to golf.

Dining is a highlight throughout the day, from relaxed bites by the pool to elegant dinners at venues such as Umi Uma by Nobu, Beefbar or Waterside. As evening arrives, enjoy live music, theatre entertainment, comedy, social gatherings, cocktails in the lounges or a quiet night in with 24-hour in-suite dining.

The ancient capital of the Western World and the centre of Christianity for nearly 2,000 years, Rome provides an inexhaustible feast of historical and cultural landmarks to explore. Visit the ruins of the Forum and the Colosseum, view the splendours of the Sistine Chapel, throw a coin into the Trevi Fountain or climb the Spanish Steps, once the heart of Rome's Bohemian Quarter.

Don't forget to treat your taste buds to the delights of authentic Roman cuisine, which is as captivating as the city's ancient wonders. Indulge in creamy gelato, savour the perfection of al dente pasta, and relish the thin, crispy crust of Roman-style pizza. Buon Appetito!

Many passengers use Civitavecchia as a stepping stone to the ancient wonders of Rome, which are a mere hour or so away by train or road. But with its pretty piazzas, strollable seafront promenade, and bustling open-air markets, the historic fishing port is a destination unto itself. Highlights include the impressive 16th-century Forte Michelangelo, built to defend the harbor from pirate raids; the mineral-rich Ficoncella Thermal Baths, beloved by locals and visitors alike; and the beautiful Baroque architecture of Cattedrale di San Francesco and Santa Maria dell’Orazione. Don’t leave without sampling the fresh, local seafood, preferably washed down with a glass of crisp Frascati.

A day at sea with Crystal can be as relaxed or as engaging as you wish. Begin with breakfast on your veranda, take a walk along the Promenade Deck or spend the morning by the Seahorse Pool before retreating to the Aurōra Spa & Salon for a restorative treatment. Enrichment is always close at hand, with lectures, bridge, creative workshops, dance classes, wellness sessions and opportunities to fine tune skills from photography to golf.

Dining is a highlight throughout the day, from relaxed bites by the pool to elegant dinners at venues such as Umi Uma by Nobu, Beefbar or Waterside. As evening arrives, enjoy live music, theatre entertainment, comedy, social gatherings, cocktails in the lounges or a quiet night in with 24-hour in-suite dining.

Past, present, and future converge in the Catalan capital – a place steeped in centuries of history but with a palpably youthful spirit. From the Roman ruins and maze-like medieval streets of the Gothic Quarter to the wonderfully whimsical architecture of Antoni Gaudí, and the Modernist masterpieces of the Picasso Museum and Fundació Joan Miró, there are treasures old and new at every turn. The city’s dining scene is an attraction unto itself: keep it low key with plates of paella and jugs of sangria by the seafront, snack on jamón ibérico and fried seafood in the street markets, or indulge in Michelin-starred tasting menus.

Nestled along the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean Sea, on Spain’s southeastern Costa Blanca lies Alicante. Long hailed for its beautiful beaches, historical landmarks, vibrant culture, and Mediterranean charm, Alicante is far more than a sum of its parts. Inquisitive visitors will find a mix of historical sites, modern amenities, and natural beauty, making it an appealing location for travelers looking to explore the coastal regions of Spain. Visitors wanting to top up their tans should head to Playa del Postiguet, which provides an oasis of relaxation against a backdrop of the azure sea. If you are after a taste of local life, then head along the Explanada de España, a palm-lined promenade, where you’ll see groups of friends converge to stroll, sip coffee, and bask in the Mediterranean sun. But it is not all fun in the sun - the town’s history is interwoven with civilizations that have left their mark such as the Santa Barbara Castle, perched atop Mount Benacantil, is a testament to the city's strategic significance over the centuries.

To arrive at this old fishing port on the Costa Tropical is to instantly fall into an Iberian trance. The air is fragranced with jasmine, the walls are laced with the clashing scarlet and magenta blooms of bougainvillea and hibiscus. Warmed by the winds off Africa and cradled by the Sierra Nevada, this corner of Spain is mild and sunny even in the winter months. Mango and avocado thrive here, as does sugarcane, which gave this place its nickname, Little Cuba (make sure to try the local rum). Boats glide in and out daily to add the fruits of the sea to the menus at local restaurants and bodegas with fresh ingredients for tapas – a tradition which was invented here in Andalucia. Stroll for 45 minutes (or take a bus or taxi) to the Old Town, find a shady spot beneath the spreading palms in the Plaza Espana, and sit back and sample some of the regional delicacies. Start with a refreshing gazpacho, then select gambas pil pil (shrimp sizzling in chili oil), Padron peppers, patatas bravas, and seafood croquetas... washed down with a chilled glass of Tinto de Verano, the red wine of summer, and a lighter, less touristy choice than sangria. Afterwards, there are lengthy stretches of golden sand near the port on which to snooze off your decadent lunch before heading back to the ship.Exploring the Alhambra in nearby Granada, taking in the sea and mountain views from the clifftop Balcony of Europe in nearby Nerja, birdwatching in the Charca de Suárez wetlands.

A day at sea with Crystal can be as relaxed or as engaging as you wish. Begin with breakfast on your veranda, take a walk along the Promenade Deck or spend the morning by the Seahorse Pool before retreating to the Aurōra Spa & Salon for a restorative treatment. Enrichment is always close at hand, with lectures, bridge, creative workshops, dance classes, wellness sessions and opportunities to fine tune skills from photography to golf.

Dining is a highlight throughout the day, from relaxed bites by the pool to elegant dinners at venues such as Umi Uma by Nobu, Beefbar or Waterside. As evening arrives, enjoy live music, theatre entertainment, comedy, social gatherings, cocktails in the lounges or a quiet night in with 24-hour in-suite dining.

Striking, atmospheric and delightfully unspoilt, the streets of the Azorean capital are lined with historic mansions and houses, blazing white against the cobalt sky, edged and decorated with traditional black basalt stone. A fantastic destination for wildlife lovers, in spring and summer boats head out of here each morning to spot the dolphins, whales, and sea turtles making their way through the Atlantic waters. But the city’s three lush botanic gardens, beautiful Azulejo tiling in the ornate churches, and shorefront boardwalk lined with boutiques and restaurants, makes it ideal to visit at any time of year.

Don’t be fooled by Horta’s isolated location in the Atlantic on the Azorean island of Faial – for centuries, this fascinating city has seen many come and go, playing host to sailors of every stripe, from intrepid explorers to pleasure seekers and naval seamen. The historic tangle of streets, which winds around former merchants’ houses and statuesque churches, bookended in time by the 16th-century defensive walls and the gleaming contemporary marina, is perfect for exploring on foot. Horta’s rich, seafaring heritage is best experienced with a sunset GT at the world-famous Peter Café Sport – a bar that has been welcoming sailors to the island since 1918.

A day at sea with Crystal can be as relaxed or as engaging as you wish. Begin with breakfast on your veranda, take a walk along the Promenade Deck or spend the morning by the Seahorse Pool before retreating to the Aurōra Spa & Salon for a restorative treatment. Enrichment is always close at hand, with lectures, bridge, creative workshops, dance classes, wellness sessions and opportunities to fine tune skills from photography to golf.

Dining is a highlight throughout the day, from relaxed bites by the pool to elegant dinners at venues such as Umi Uma by Nobu, Beefbar or Waterside. As evening arrives, enjoy live music, theatre entertainment, comedy, social gatherings, cocktails in the lounges or a quiet night in with 24-hour in-suite dining.

Formerly a strategic base for Britain’s Royal Navy, this Bermudan port is now a bustling hub with historic buildings and wharves that house art galleries, craft markets, boutiques, and restaurants. There are endless treasures to be discovered: uncover Bermuda’s fascinating past at the National Museum , dive among shipwrecks and colorful coral reefs in the warm waters surrounding the island, explore the dramatic limestone formations of Crystal Caves, and stroll the distinct blush-pink-sand beaches that Bermuda is famous for. End your day the Bermudan way – with a punchy rum swizzle cocktail.

A day at sea with Crystal can be as relaxed or as engaging as you wish. Begin with breakfast on your veranda, take a walk along the Promenade Deck or spend the morning by the Seahorse Pool before retreating to the Aurōra Spa & Salon for a restorative treatment. Enrichment is always close at hand, with lectures, bridge, creative workshops, dance classes, wellness sessions and opportunities to fine tune skills from photography to golf.

Dining is a highlight throughout the day, from relaxed bites by the pool to elegant dinners at venues such as Umi Uma by Nobu, Beefbar or Waterside. As evening arrives, enjoy live music, theatre entertainment, comedy, social gatherings, cocktails in the lounges or a quiet night in with 24-hour in-suite dining.

City meets sea in the coastal metropolis of Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Soak up the sun along vast swaths of pristine white sands, take a scenic boat tour through palm-fringed canals, shop your way along the famous Las Olas Boulevard, and sip refreshing craft beers along the Fort Lauderdale Ale Trail. When it comes to dining, you’re spoilt for choice: from fresh seafood with a waterfront view to Michelin-approved pizza, there’s mouthwatering cuisine at every turn.