Are you struggling to decide whether you should plan another exciting skiing vacation or finally book that cruise you’ve been dreaming about? Well, the good news is that you can have the best of both worlds.
If the idea of hitting the high seas before cruising down a picture-perfect slope sounds like the perfect vacation, there are more destinations to choose from than you might think.
Top 7 Cruising Destinations for Avid Skiers
Forget the hassle of flying. Instead, explore the many cruise deals to take advantage of that can transport you to snowy slopes and offer an unforgettable journey along the way. Whilst cruising is associated with summer holidays, you can also book smaller boats to cruise around wintery slopes. Of course thought, it's very cold outside and you won't be sunbathing! Let’s look at some of the top skiing destinations that you can reach by cruise ship.
1. Norwegian Fjords (Norway)
The fjords of Norway are a pull all their own, but this is also a top spot for skiing and a growing market for those looking for somethign different but accessible. By heading deep into the fjords, you can hop off to ski slopes near towns like Bergen or Ålesund. Look for cruises that include a stop near Stranda. It's often called the "powder paradise" of Norway, with some of the best off-piste skiing in Europe.
2. Alaska (USA)
Alaska cruises can get you closer to heli-skiing adventures and put you in the center of rugged mountain terrain. Once you arrive, you’ll get to ski untouched slopes straight from a helicopter and have a true wilderness skiing experience. Try and time your cruise for late spring (April/May) to get the best combination of good snow conditions and longer daylight hours for more ski time.
3. South Island (New Zealand)
Winter cruises around New Zealand, especially to ports like Dunedin, give you access to Queenstown and Wanaka, two of the best hubs for unforgettable skiing. It’s best to plan your trip for July to September and consider adding a few extra days to hit multiple ski resorts like Coronet Peak and The Remarkables.
4. Hokkaido (Japan)
Jumping on a cruise to Hokkaido gives you access to some of the world's most legendary powder snow ("Japow"). In particular, resorts like Niseko are famous for their light, fluffy, deep snow. JAPOW is often touted these days, with an average annual snowfalof 25 metres, compared to Europes 5 metres, it's quite extrardinary. If you do decide on this destination, make sure that you pack a powder-specific skiing setup or rent one locally. Japan’s deep snow requires a different style of ski gear compared to typical piste skiing.
5. The French Alps (France/Italy)
Some Mediterranean winter cruises, especially those setting off from Nice, Marseille, or Genoa, offer add-ons or nearby excursions up to the Maritime Alps for a few days on the slopes. Resorts such is Isola 2000 are often frequented by these typesof ski enthusiasts.
6. Chilean Fjords (Patagonia, Chile)
Cruising the Chilean fjords during their winter (June to September) lets you experience the magic of Patagonia and access some incredible Andean ski resorts like Valle Nevado and La Parva near Santiago. It's like skiing on the edge of the world, thanks to the glacier views. This is extremly remote with inredible wildlife and pristine stary nights!
7. Iceland (via Reykjavik)
Icelandic cruises often start or end in Reykjavik, where you can quickly access unique ski areas like Bláfjöll. It’s not about huge vertical drops but rather the landscape. Plus, skiing under the Northern Lights is a surreal experience! Also, rent a car if you can. Ski resorts in Iceland are small but scattered, and driving lets you chase the best weather and snow conditions more easily.
There’s no reason why you can’t get more creative with your journey when planning your next skiing holiday. A cruise is slower and more relaxing, ensuring you feel refreshed for your next adventure.
Tagged with;
