Or maybe, deep down, we simply enjoy flirting with danger from the safe distance of a cruise ship. Whatever the reason, cruising to Earth’s volcanic wonders combines the thrill of the untamed with the comfort of a Michelin starred restaurant that's within stumbling distance of a swimming pool, gym and theatre.

Iceland: Fire and Ice and Everything Nice

Iceland’s volcanic landscapes make you feel like you’ve landed on another planet—albeit one with excellent Wi-Fi and particularly out-there Eurovision entries for some reason. Your cruise will likely dock in Reykjavík, the gateway to this fiery playground. From here, head to the Blue Lagoon, a geothermal spa fed by volcanic hot springs that’s practically mandatory for any Icelandic sojourn.

For the more adventurous, there’s Þríhnúkagígur (good luck pronouncing that after a glass of wine at dinner), a dormant volcano where you can descend into the magma chamber. Yes, into the belly of a volcano; it's equal parts safe and surreal.

See Iceland with Hurtigruten...

Sicily: The Great Showman of the Mediterranean

Sicily’s Mount Etna is the undisputed king of Europe’s volcanic scene. It puffs and rumbles with such regularity that it’s practically part of the island’s weather forecast. Most cruises will dock in Catania, a city that’s essentially grown immune to Etna’s dramatics, having been rebuilt countless times after eruptions. But rest assured, volcanologists monitor every detail of the volcano and its activity so, it is safe to visit (though you should only ascend with an experienced and professional guide).

A trek up Etna’s slopes offers lunar landscapes, steaming craters, and the chance to say, “I climbed an active volcano and lived to tell the tale.” If hiking isn’t your thing, there’s the Etna Wine Route, where the volcanic soil produces wines with an extra kick. Sip a glass of Etna Rosso while admiring the view, and you’ll start to understand why the locals have learned to live with the threat of a little lava.

Explore Mount Etna's slopes with Fred. Olsen...

Vesuvius: The Sleeping Giant of Italy

No volcanic voyage would be complete without a nod to Mount Vesuvius, the infamous giant that buried Pompeii and Herculaneum in AD 79. Today, it looms quietly over the Bay of Naples, its peaceful demeanour belying its catastrophic past. Cruise itineraries often include a stop in Naples, the perfect gateway to this legendary volcano—and the world’s best pizza, if you're in need of extra motivation.

A hike up Vesuvius is part natural wonder, part history lesson, and part workout (you’ll earn that pizza). The trail takes you to the edge of the crater, where you can peer into the abyss and marvel at the sheer power that once levelled entire cities. On a clear day, the views from the summit are breathtaking, stretching from the Bay of Naples to the island of Capri. Just be warned: Vesuvius has a knack for hiding in a shroud of mist, so pack your sense of humour if the views decide to play hard to get.

Back at ground level, a visit to Pompeii is a must. Wandering through the eerily preserved streets, you can’t help but feel a little humbled. It’s a haunting reminder of nature’s power.

See the best of Vesuvius with Celebrity Cruises...

Hawaii: Lava and Aloha

Hawaii’s volcanoes are like the benevolent elders of the volcanic world—constantly creating new land while offering some of the most spectacular scenery on Earth. Cruises here often stop at Hilo on the Big Island, the jumping-off point for Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

Kilauea, the star of the park, is one of the most active volcanoes in the world. You can hike through lava fields, peer into steaming craters, and marvel at the alien landscapes created by recent eruptions. And if Madame Pele, the Hawaiian goddess of fire, is feeling generous, you might even witness the awe-inspiring sight of molten lava flowing into the ocean. And don’t miss a visit to the Jaggar Museum (sadly, norelation to Mick), where you can learn about volcanic science and maybe pick up a souvenir.

See Hawaii with Regent Seven Seas Cruises...

A Word on Volcanic Etiquette

When visiting volcanic sites, there are a few unwritten rules: don’t take lava rocks, don’t roast marshmallows over molten lava (it’s been done, and no, it doesn’t taste better), and absolutely don’t ignore safety warnings. Volcanic landscapes are awe-inspiring, but they’re also unpredictable. 

Whether it’s Iceland’s icy fire, Sicily’s simmering slopes, or Hawaii’s molten magic, these volcanic destinations remind us of the Earth’s raw power and beauty. And as you watch the horizon for the next plume of smoke or glowing lava flow, one thing is certain: this is a cruise you’re never likely to describe as “lukewarm.”