Top 10 Best Boat Journeys in the World
While air travel gets us from point A to Z quickly, it often skips the stunning sights in between. Boat journeys offer an unparalleled way to immerse yourself in a destination—frequently the best or only method to truly experience it. Discover ten of the world's most exceptional boat trips, curated for adventure seekers and nature lovers.
1. Fjords, Norway
Image by Maltesen
Norway's iconic Hurtigruten ferry has connected coastal villages and towns for over a century. Eleven modern vessels depart year-round from Bergen, heading north to Kirkenes before returning. Opt for the 11-day round trip visiting 34 ports with side-trip options, or cruise select stretches. Highlights include dramatic fjords, midnight sun islands, medieval monasteries, and Art Nouveau towns.
2. Halong Bay, Vietnam
Image by Maria Hsu
Glide through the emerald waters of Halong Bay amid 3,000 limestone karsts, dotted with beaches, grottoes, and bird-filled forests. Over 300 boats depart from Bai Chay Tourist Wharf for UNESCO-listed waters. Choose 4-8 hour day tours or recommended overnight cruises for deeper exploration.
3. Amazon River, South America
Image by Bruno Girin
Stretching over 6,200 km (3,853 mi) from Peru's highlands to Brazil's Belém, the Amazon carries one-fifth of Earth's freshwater—12 times the Mississippi's flow. Hammock aboard a cargo boat from Manaus to Belém (Brazil) or Trinidad to Guayaramerín (Bolivia), passing jungle and villages in 4-6 days.
4. Franklin River, Australia
Image by robynejay
Rafting Tasmania's wild Franklin River in a World Heritage wilderness is for experienced adventurers only (December-March, 8-14 days). Start at Collingwood River (49 km/31 mi west of Derwent Bridge) and end at Gordon River with prearranged pickup, navigating floods amid ancient flora and fauna.
5. Quetico Provincial Park, Canada
Image by Loimere
Canoe Ontario's pristine lakes in this 4,800-sq-km (1,853-sq-mi) park, embodying Canadian wilderness. Spot moose, fish, and explore 1,500 km (932 mi) of remote routes via guided or self-guided trips combining paddling and camping.
6. Kerala's Backwaters, India
Image by Sarah and Iain
Navigate Kerala's lagoons, lakes, canals, and rivers lined with palms and fishing nets. Traditional wooden boats offer an 8-hour cruise from Alappuzha to Kollam (Alleppey to Quilon), stopping at the Matha Amrithanandamayi Mission, home to a renowned female guru.
7. Milford Sound, New Zealand
Image by katclay
Milford Sound's sheer cliffs and rainy serenity make it New Zealand's top fiord. 1-2 hour cruises from the wharf spot wildlife like yellow-eyed penguins; overnight options cover the full 22 km (14 mi) with kayaking.
8. Island-Hopping, Greece
Image by Gavin Gilmour
Greece's 1,400+ islands boast Europe's longest coastline. Ferry-hop from lush Ionian isles to rocky Cyclades via super ferries or local boats, experiencing diverse scenery.
9. Disko Bay, Greenland
Image by ilovegreenland
Ilulissat overlooks a 40-km (25-mi) ice fjord calving 20 million tonnes daily. Cruise among blue-streaked icebergs (seven-eighths submerged) on guided tours from well-equipped vessels.
10. Galápagos Islands, Ecuador
Image by cdorobek
1,000 km (620 mi) offshore, cruise the Galápagos for encounters with sea lions, penguins, and blue-footed boobies. Options range from yachts to cruise ships; motor sailers (up to 20 passengers) offer 3-day to 3-week itineraries.
