14 amazing cruises setting sail in 2015

Not only will 2015 see the launch of a number of spectacular new cruise ships, but the opening of new routes will make some of the world’s most remote places significantly more accessible.

We asked some of the travel world’s top cruise experts to share their picks for the hottest cruise itineraries of 2015 and the ships that will be sailing them.

Alaskan Dream Cruises

In 2015, cruise ships will be pushing deeper into the wilderness than ever before, and this particular sailing offers some great wildlife-spotting opportunities on a smaller boat.

“This Alaskan Dream Cruises sailing includes complimentary shore excursions designed to showcase true Alaskan adventures and the native heritage,” says Annie Scrivanich, senior vice president of Cruise Specialists.

“Departures coincide with seasonal changes and animal migrations for the best weather and animal viewing opportunities. If you’re only going to visit Alaska once, this itinerary is your best bet.”

Alaskan Dream Cruises: Baranof Dream, +1 855 747 8100, from $4,399 per person

Windstar Cruises: Star Breeze

The latest addition to Windstar Cruises’ fleet, Star Breeze has fans of European cruises particularly jazzed.

Among the top picks is the 10-day Sicilian Splendors cruise, which takes in Rome, Catania, Valletta, Gozo, Trapani, Sorrento and Capri.

“We’re all very excited about the new Windstar Star Breeze,” says Scrivanich.

“This new power yacht holds a maximum of 212 guests and provides new opportunities for those looking for a European cruise on a smaller ship.”

Windstar Cruises: Star Breeze, +1 206 733 3005, from $4,449 per person

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“There is a growing focus on fitness and wellness, both through facilities on board and excursions ashore, such as Crystal Cruises’ excursions for runners,” says Edwina Lonsdale, chief executive of Mundy Cruising.

Crystal Cruises: Crystal Symphony, +1 310 785 9300, from $3,845 per person

MORE: 10 top destinations to visit in 2015

Azamara Club Cruises: Bali & Great Barrier Reef

The introduction of this new 14-night cruise of Bali and the Great Barrier Reef is another indicator of a cruise trend we’ll see in 2015.

“Australia and New Zealand cruises are becoming more popular,” says Sean Keddy, cruise expert at travel agency Love Holidays.

“I suspect this is mainly due to an increased interest from the local markets, but this does allow passengers from Europe and the U.S. more choice and competitive pricing.”

Azamara Club Cruises: Azamara Quest, +1 305 341 0206, from $4,277 per person

Crystal Cruises: Northwest Passage

Sometimes tropical destinations just don’t do it for would-be cruisers. For those who have some cash to splash, there’s Crystal Cruises’ new 32-day Northwest Passage cruise, which will set sail in 2016.

It starts in Alaska and finishes in New York, getting there via Nunavut, Greenland and Maine.

“For those interested in a genuine Alaska cruise experience, this itinerary offers a great blend of scenic highlights, wildlife viewing opportunities, off-the-beaten-track excursions and unique ports of call,” says Scrivanich of Cruise Specialists.

Crystal Cruises: Crystal Serenity, +1 310 785 9300, from $22,865 per person

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