The Most Exciting New Cruise Itineraries in 2025

08.01.2025 - 23:59 / cntraveler.com

To celebrate the new year, cruise lines have begun to debut fresh cruise itineraries for the 2025 sailing season. With stops in ports like Mompox, Colombia, and Qingdao, China, lines like Amawaterways and Viking Cruises are furthering their reach, and showing travelers how fundamental the past is to the cultivation of present day destinations.

In addition to new routes, we're seeing a ton of just-built ships making inaugural sailings to beautiful destinations across the Caribbean and along the Florida coast. Whether you want to head to one of the world's most popular destinations or venture off the beaten path, there really is a cruise itinerary waiting for every type of traveler.

And best of all, the new year also brings with it new deals. January through March is a cruiser's favorite time of year: wave season. It's a chance for travelers to score major savings on cruises sailing throughout the whole year. As you prepare to book, don't forget to check and see if any of these exciting new cruise routes are on sale.

The streets of Guatapé, Colombia.

Amawaterways has been accepting reservations for its highly anticipated, first-of-its-kind itinerary departing from both Cartagena and Barranquilla in 2025 to sail down Columbia's longest river, the Magdalena. The seven-day sailing will explore Colombia's deep cultural history with a spotlight on music and food. In addition to the new route, there will be two new ships—the 60-passenger AmaMagdalena and 64-passenger AmaMelodia—that each boast 30 staterooms and suites with balconies, a main restaurant, a fitness center with three spa treatment rooms, and a sun deck with a relaxing whirlpool.

The Viking Yi Dun docked in Shanghai.

Japan has been a sought-after destination for the last few years, with Tokyo a particularly popular city thanks to its innovative hotels and unique fashion sense. Viking Cruises has curated six new itineraries with Japan and China at the center, with sailings starting in September 2025. On the Viking Yi Dun, a 930-passenger ship, itineraries include immersive onboard experiences and regional cuisine. One of the longer voyages is the 15-day Jewels of Japan & China itinerary where cruise-goers make nine stops from Beijing to Tokyo in pursuit of the history, culture, and cuisine of the Far East. If Hong Kong or Beijing have always been on your bucket list, opt for the 20-day Classic China Discovery cruise starting September 5. Travelers are immersed in traditional Chinese customs while sailing the East China Sea and the Yellow Sea.

Le Commandant Charcot's sunroom.

Explore the Great White North on a 13-day cruise from Saint-Pierre and Miquelon to Quebec City. Ponant has crafted the Le Commandant Charcot to withstand and excel in the harsh