If your group is ready for a cruise that’s more than just sun and sea—one that brings new places, fresh experiences, and shared wonder—then 2026 is the year to set sail. At America’s Best Cruises, we’ve selected five destinations opening new doors in 2026—ideal for groups seeking discovery, connection, and memory-making.
Sail Together, Explore Deeper and Discover These Destinations Ahead of The Crowd
1. The South Pacific – Islands Beyond the Usual
Think far-flung archipelagos where turquoise waters meet untouched forests, friendly villages and pure adventure. In 2026, more cruise lines are introducing itineraries through Fiji, Tonga, the Cook Islands and Vanuatu—places you and your group may not have visited before. These hidden gems mean your voyage becomes a true story of togetherness and exploration.
2. Arctic & Greenland Routes – White Wilderness Meets Ocean Blue
For groups in search of drama, this is it: ice-floes, fjords, towering glaciers, and wildlife that feels etched into memory. In 2026, expedition-style cruises into the Arctic and Greenland region are stronger than ever. Your group could bond over zodiac tours, dog-sled excursions, and those unforgettable views only the far north can offer.
3. African Coast & Remote Indian Ocean Stops – Culture, Shore & Sea
Beyond the typical sun-and-sand ports, 2026 opens more itineraries along Africa’s coast, to Madagascar, the Seychelles, and lesser-visited islands in the Indian Ocean. Your group gets culture, natural beauty, and the feel of “we discovered this together.” Combine coastal towns, wildlife, local markets and sea days to balance rest and exploration.
4. Mediterranean Off-the-Beaten-Path – Beyond the Big Cities
Everyone knows Rome, Barcelona and the Greek islands—but what about smaller ports, hidden bays and coastal villages less travelled? In 2026 many cruise lines will add or expand stops in places like Albania, Montenegro, the Adriatic’s quiet harbors, and island gems with fewer crowds. Your group will roam where others haven’t, sharing moments that seem tailor-made.
5. Latin America & Antarctica Pre-/Post-Cruise Extensions – Big Nature, Big Connection
While Antarctica itself remains a once-in-a-lifetime for many, 2026 offers more Latin America itineraries with bonus pre- or post-cruise stays: Patagonia, Chilean fjords, and remote island clusters. For groups, this means days of sightseeing together and nights of ship-side bonding. You’ll return home not just with photos—but with stories of wild places you explored as a team.
How To Make It Work For Your Group
- Match your pace: Choose destinations that resonate with your crew’s interests—some want deep nature, some want culture, some want light adventure.
- Block your cabins early: Unique destinations fill fast. Booking together ensures you all wake up near each other, head out together, and dine together.
- Mix free days with group-led activities: One big group shore excursion, one mellow day at sea; balance keeps everyone happy.
- Celebrate the discovery: Photographs at sunrise, group toast after a shore day, memories that connect your team beyond home.
- Travel smart: Remote or emerging destinations demand more logistics—choose a travel planner who handles the details so you focus on the joy.
Why This Works Especially for Women & Groups
When women, friends, sisters or travel clubs sail together into destinations less-seen, the shared experience amplifies the memories. It’s not just “we went”—it’s “we discovered”. You’ll laugh about the road less travelled, feel proud of the places you reached, and know you did it together.
Ready to Embark on Something Truly Unique?
Let’s pick the destination that excites your group, lock in the cabins, and begin the countdown. At America’s Best Cruises, we specialize in group journeys into destinations that matter—where discovery meets connection, and memories are made together.
Contact us today — choose your 2026 adventure and let’s make it extraordinary.
Here’s to new horizons, deeper connection and the kind of group cruise that becomes part of your story.
