Wanderlust World Wanderlust World By far the most popular destination from the United States is the Caribbean. These cruises are typically labeled Western, Eastern and Southern, according to the ports of call. A Western cruise, for example, typically includes destinations like Montego Bay and Cancun, while an Eastern might include Aruba and the Virgin Islands. Other cruises include European destinations, Mexico, Canada, South America, World Cruises, Voyages through the Panama Canal and Cruises to Nowhere.
Different Cruise Lines have earned different reputations, and as such, are thought to cater to specific groups. Carnival, for example, is known as a "fun ship" and often is associated with college-age adults and children. At the other extreme is Crystal Cruises, often cited as an excellent choice for senior citizens.
Cruises to Nowhere are often one or two nights, while cruises to the Bahamas from South Florida tend to be three or four days. Five-, seven-, eight- and ten-day cruises from the United States often feature a wide array of Caribbean ports of call, while 14-day ones may visit the Panama Canal.
Many cruises, including those that venture through the Panama Canal, are one way. Cruisers either board in South Florida and wind up in Southern California, or vice versa. Also, there are cruises that are one-way between California and Canada and between the United States and Europe.
Some itineraries only operate at a particular time of year. For example, Panama Canal cruises are inoperable during summer months because of the plethora of freight ships during that time of year.