The Best Cruise Itineraries for Wildlife Enthusiasts in 2023 !
Onique Campbell
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The Best Cruise Itineraries for Wildlife Enthusiasts in 2023
From spotting rare species of birds to watching sea turtles hatch, there's no shortage of unforgettable moments on these cruises. In this guide, we'll share with you the top cruise itineraries for wildlife enthusiasts in 2023, so you can plan your perfect adventure.
Choose Your Topic:
- Antarctica, South Pole: Glide through iceberg-filled waters and spot seals, whales, and rare seabirds on the white continent.
- Galapagos Islands, Ecuador: Cruise to a variety of islands where you can find some of the most amazing animals, including giant tortoises, marine iguanas, and blue-footed boobies.
- Alaska, USA: Navigate glaciers and fjords to spot trumpeter swans, bald eagles, and bears from the comfort of your ship.
- Panama Canal, Panama: Reach the heart of the tropics on an adventure through the canal and nearby islands, home to an abundance of tropical wildlife.
- Caribbean: Visit unspoiled islands, cays, and reefs teeming with colorful birds and fish, along with manatees, sea turtles, and dolphins.
- Costa Rica: Sail Costa Rica’s Pacific coastline to witness sea turtle nesting grounds, national parks with plenty of wildlife, and unusual species like sloths and tamarins.
- South Africa: Follow the coast to witness penguins, sea lions, and baleen whales, or spot the Big Five in Kruger National Park.
- Amazon River, Brazil: Embrace nature on a cruise down the world’s biggest river, home to thousands of species of plants and animals.
- Nile River, Egypt: Move past the breathtaking banks of the Nile to the Valley of the Kings and the ruins of Karnak, observing the wildlife that thrives in the shadows of the ancient monuments.
- Inside Passage, Canada: Cruise through British Columbia spotting orcas and humpback whales along with bald eagles, brown bears, and sea otters.
- Mekong River, Vietnam: Make your way from Cambodia to Vietnam on a scenic cruise - explore small villages and experience traditional markets, spotting rare river dolphins, langurs, and cormorants along the way.
- Murray River, Australia: Enjoy the river’s beauty and the unique wildlife species, including Murray turtles and blue-billed ducks.
- The Great Lakes, USA & Canada: Cruise through the world’s largest group of freshwater lakes, observing the local fauna, such as beavers, deer, and wolves.
What are the essential items to pack for a wildlife-focused cruise?
- Binoculars
- Rain gear (jacket, pants and rubber boots)
- Hat and sunscreen
- Waterproof camera
- A professional field guide
- A few snacks for the journey
- Comfortable clothing for both hot and cold temperatures
- Bin/ Canvas bags for collecting seashells and other souvenirs
- A notepad and pen for making notes and sketching
- Flashlight - For night excursions
How can you prepare for encounters with animals while on a cruise?
- Learn about the local wildlife: Before embarking on your cruise, research the types of wildlife you may encounter near your port. Knowing the common habitats and behaviors of these animals can help you keep your distance if necessary.
- Bring a camera and binoculars: Having a camera and binoculars can help you observe animals from a safe distance, allowing you to capture perfect pictures without having to get close.
- Wear the right attire: Dress in bright colors and avoid anything with deep, dark shades, as they can make you resemble a predator. Opt for clothing that blends in with your surroundings, like neutral or pastel tones.
- Use caution on shore excursions: Stick to the group that you are travelling with during shore excursions, avoid chasing or feeding animals, and always comply with the instructions of your tour guide.
- Follow the regulations: Obey any ‘no waking’ rules or regulations on the water, as this can startle animals and may make them attack. Also, stay out of any areas marked as wildlife reserves.
- Remain calm: If you happen to run into an animal, stay calm and do not approach them. Back away slowly, remember to not make any sudden movements, and make as little noise as possible.
What are the benefits of booking a wildlife-focused shore excursion during a cruise?
- Interaction with Nature: A wildlife-focused shore excursion gives you a chance to get personal with some of the planet's most majestic creatures. From birds and sea creatures to mammals and reptiles, you're likely to encounter a wide variety of wildlife on a shore excursion.
- Learned Knowledge: Shore excursions provide a unique opportunity to learn something new. Naturalists or experts in the region will often provide unique insight into the animals, as well as information about the region's ecology and environment.
- Admire Nature: A shore excursion offers an up-close-and-personal look at the local wildlife of a specific area, allowing for moments of admiration and awe that you can't simply get from inside a ship.
- Unforgettable Memories: A wildlife-focused shore excursion is a memory you won't soon forget. Witnessing animals in the wild, hearing from experts, and being surrounded by a natural setting can be experiences that stay with you for years to come.
- Support Local Preservation: Shore excursions are a great way to support local conservation efforts. Many of these excursions involve a portion of your money going toward the wildlife you've encountered, helping to ensure their survival and success in the future.
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