Six of the hottest cruise destinations for 2018

Planning your cruises for 2018?  We spoke to the experts to uncover the hot new destinations for the year.  Here’s what they recommend…

The Kimberley is always hot, attracting cashed-up baby boomers and bucket listers, says cruise consultant Kathy Pavlidis of CruiseAbout in Kew, Victoria. Ponant’s gorgeous new ship Le Laperouse will visit the Kimberley for the first time in 2019. Ponant also offers solo rates for single travellers. Le Laperouse will feature the line’s underwater, multi-sensory lounge, where guests can see, hear and feel the passing marine life of the deep seas. APT and Silversea also offer very special itineraries to the Kimberley. Relative newcomers the Baltic and the Dalmatian coast are now red hot among Australian cruisers. The coast is dotted with beautiful locations and an amazing range of fresh seafood. Expedition cruises to the Antarctica and the Arctic are also hot while soft adventure cruises to the Galapagos are also proving to be popular places to visit next year. Crystal river itineraries, with the launch of Crystal Bach, are sparking fresh interest in Europe’s rivers. “There is a growing interest in new ships for many of our clients. Many are baby boomers who are ticking off their bucket list while they are still fit and healthy.’’ she said. She is also seeing more multi-generational families booking a cruise to holiday together in Asia, especially during the school holidays.