Fortunately, there exists a travel niche that caters to all three: cruises experiences that take in famous religious sites. Whether you’re seeking inner peace, historical intrigue, or just an excuse to pack your holiday wardrobe with something other than swimming trunks, these cruises offer something extraordinary for every seeker – spiritual or otherwise.
A Danube Pilgrimage with AmaWaterways
Picture yourself gliding serenely down Europe’s mighty Danube River, stopping off at some of the continent’s most hallowed halls. On an AmaWaterways river cruise, you’ll have the opportunity to visit awe-inspiring sites such as Melk Abbey in Austria, a Benedictine masterpiece perched high above the river, and Esztergom Basilica in Hungary, a cathedral so grand it rivals the Vatican.
These itineraries are perfect for anyone craving a mix of divine beauty and Baroque architecture. Plus, as a Cruise Collective member, you’ll receive £150 off all AmaWaterways bookings. That’s practically a sign from above to book your trip.
Retrace the Footsteps of Saints with Fred. Olsen
If you prefer your spiritual journey served with a side of salty sea air, Fred. Olsen’s regional departures make it easier than ever to embark on a pilgrimage. Set sail from Edinburgh, Livepool, Southampton or Newcastle and arrive in Santiago de Compostela, Spain’s revered pilgrimage site and the final stop on the famous Camino de Santiago. Along the way, you might even discover lesser-known spiritual gems such as the atmospheric monasteries of Northern Portugal.
And here’s the holy grail: Cruise Collective members enjoy 10% off all Fred. Olsen cruises. The money you save could go straight into buying yourself an extra scallop-shell keychain to commemorate your journey.
Northern Lights and Nordic Spirituality with Hurtigruten
Who says spirituality has to revolve around ancient temples and cathedrals? A Hurtigruten expedition to Norway might just be the modern mystic’s dream come true. Travel above the Arctic Circle to witness the ethereal Northern Lights or enchanting midnight sun, often regarded as a spiritual experience in itself, while learning about the rich Sami culture and their deep connection to nature.
With 5% off Hurtigruten cruises for Cruise Collective members, you can invest in an extra pair of thermal gloves and still feel your budget is blessed.
Sacred Scotland with Ambassador Cruise Line
Embark on an enchanting journey with Ambassador Cruise Line to Scotland’s most mystical and sacred sites. Cruise along rugged coastlines to visit the holy Isle of Iona, a cradle of Christianity in Scotland, where the serenity is palpable, and history whispers from every stone. Or explore the ancient standing stones of Orkney, shrouded in myth and spiritual significance.
As a Cruise Collective member, you’ll enjoy 10% off all cruises with Ambassador. It’s the perfect excuse to explore these sacred shores while saving a little divine cash.
Antarctic Wonders and Inuit Spirituality with HX Hurtigruten Expeditions
For those drawn to the raw beauty of the Antarctic, HX Hurtigruten Expeditions offers a unique chance to connect with Inuit culture and its profound spiritual connection to the natural world. Cruise past glacial fjords and untouched landscapes, and perhaps even visit penguin colonies, where the harmony between humans and nature takes on a sacred dimension.
With 5% off HX Hurtigruten Expeditions for Cruise Collective members, this adventure offers not just a spiritual journey, but also a spectacular deal.
The Majestic Mosques of Istanbul with Celebrity Cruises
A voyage with Celebrity Cruises offers the chance to immerse yourself in the majestic, minaret-studded skyline of Istanbul. The Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque) and Hagia Sophia are just two of the architectural wonders that await you. Here, centuries of history converge, and the call to prayer reverberates with a haunting beauty that lingers long after you’ve sailed away.
With Cruise Collective membership perks like exclusive deals on Celebrity Cruises, this spiritual detour will have you thanking the heavens for your savvy planning skills.
Why Choose a Spiritual Cruise?
Beyond the extraordinary destinations, cruises to religious sites offer a unique blend of relaxation and enrichment. Where else can you spend one day meditating in a centuries-old monastery and the next unwinding in a hot tub on deck with a cocktail? These journeys don’t just feed your soul; they pamper it.
So whether you’re a devout pilgrim, a casual seeker, or simply someone who simply appreciates the majesty of human devotion expressed in art and architecture, these cruises promise a journey worth every prayer (and penny).