From the rainforest-lined shores of Papua New Guinea to the frozen tundra of Greenland, here are seven secret solo cruise destinations you didn’t know existed!

When you feel the need for a smaller, quiet sailing yacht instead of a luxurious monster liner, then you need to ditch the crowds and get off the beaten cruising track with a solo adventure to the edges of the world.

Cruising doesn’t have to mean packed ports and touristy shore excursions to crowded hotspots. Look a little further afield, and you’ll find little-known cruises taking in destinations as far flung as Papua New guinea, the Faroe Islands and even Greenland.

To inspire you to travel out of your comfort zone, here are seven secret solo cruise spots that will encourage you to venture away from the well-trodden harbours, and into the unknown of the deep blue sea. Keep reading, to find out more!

1.Papua New Guinea

Papua New Guinea? Yes! A cruise to one of the world’s least visited countries presents an extraordinary opportunity to explore the Melanesian culture of a region rarely seen by travellers. Embarking on a cruise here means venturing into a land where over 800 languages are spoken, and tribal traditions flourish amidst modern influences. Cruises typically depart from Australian ports such as Cairns or Brisbane, making this a surprisingly simple way to see Papua New Guinea.

Itineraries might feature destinations such as Alotau, known for its historic WWII sites, and the Trobriand Islands, famed for their unique social structures and traditions. Stops at Rabaul offer views of active volcanoes and war history, while Madang is celebrated for its scenic beauty and diving spots. The Sepik River region provides a glimpse into traditional riverine village life, and Tufi is known for its fjords and snorkelling opportunities. Milne Bay, with its tranquil islands and coral reefs, is another highlight.

Read more: 11 Ways Travel Can Change Your World

2. Faroe Islands

A cruise to the Faroe Islands offers a unique chance to visit one of the North Atlantic’s most rugged and remote archipelagos. Cruises to the Faroe Islands typically depart from northern European ports such as Copenhagen or Reykjavik, providing relatively easy access to this isolated, self-governing territory.

Nominally part of the Kingdom of Denmark, the Faroe Islands are known for their dramatic landscapes and Norse heritage. Tórshavn, the capital, is typically the first port of call. Here, you can explore the history of the old town, Tinganes, with its historic wooden buildings and the National Museum of the Faroe Islands. From Tórshavn, excursions often include a trip to Kirkjubøur, the islands’ most significant historical site, where you can see the ruins of the 13th-century Magnus Cathedral.

The island of Vágar is another popular stop, home to the Múlafossur Waterfall in the village of Gásadalur. The island also offers access to Sørvágsvatn, the largest lake in the Faroe Islands, which dramatically appears to float above the ocean. Eysturoy is the second largest island, featuring the striking village of Gjógv, which known for its picturesque harbour and natural gorge. Here, visitors can hike to the summit of Slættaratindur, the highest peak in the Faroes, for panoramic views.

3. Albania

Cruising the Albanian coastline is an intriguing way to see one of the Adriatic’s most up-and-coming destinations. I’ve been talking about visiting Albania for years (I first visited way back in 2015, and have been twice since) and now that cruises depart from major European ports, including Dubrovnik in Croatia or Corfu in Greece, there’s no reason to hold back.

Saranda is often the first port of call. Renowned for its beautiful beaches and proximity to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Butrint, here, travellers can explore ancient ruins dating back to Greek and Roman times, or just drink cocktails in the beach clubs.

Further north, the port city of Vlorë provides access to the Albanian Riviera. This area is famous for its crystal-clear waters and coastal villages such as Dhërmi and Himarë, where you can visit pristine beaches and experience traditional Albanian cuisine in the burgeoning agrotourism scene. Finally, a stop in Durrës, Albania’s largest port, reveals the country’s rich history through landmarks like the Durrës Amphitheatre and the Byzantine Forum.

Read more: How Many Countries in the Mediterranean? Everything You Need to Know.

4. East Greenland

A solo cruise  is an excellent vacation choice for anyone looking to set foot upon the lesser-trodden shores of East Greenland. Another of the world’s least visited regions, cruises typically depart from Icelandic ports such as Reykjavik or Akureyri, before making the journey across the Denmark Strait to reach Greenland’s rugged east coast.

The first stop is often Tasiilaq, the largest town in East Greenland. Nestled amidst breathtaking fjords and towering mountains, Tasiilaq provides a glimpse into Greenlandic culture and Inuit traditions. You can explore the local museum, which offers insights into the region’s history and art, or take guided hikes to experience the Arctic landscape.

Further along the coast, the village of Kulusuk offers opportunities to witness traditional Inuit lifestyles. Here, travellers can see demonstrations of dog sledding and kayaking, integral aspects of the local heritage. The nearby ice fjords and glaciers present dramatic scenery, with chances to see icebergs up close.

A highlight of the cruise is navigating the Scoresby Sund, the world’s largest fjord system. This area is known for its spectacular ice formations, wildlife, and remote settlements. Shore excursions may include zodiac cruises to explore hidden bays and hikes to vantage points offering panoramic views of the ice-filled waters.

5. Western Turkey

Departing from major ports like Istanbul or Izmir, Turkish cruises typically explore the Aegean Sea, where you’ll find a fascinating blend of ancient ruins, historic harbours and modern cities. Kuşadası, serving as the gateway to the ancient city of Ephesus, is an excellent first port of call. Here, you can journey inland to see the well-preserved ruins of this once-great city, including the Library of Celsus and the grand Theatre.

Further south, the port town of Bodrum is infamous for its nightlife, while the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus offers a glimpse into the ancient world. Stops at Marmaris provide opportunities to explore a modern marina surrounded by turquoise waters while the idyllic Datça Peninsula is home to unspoiled beaches and traditional Turkish villages. Finally, the ancient city of Troy near Çanakkale, steeped in legend and history, provides a fitting end to any cruise.

Read more: Places to Visit in Turkey!

6. Indonesia

With 17,000 islands to choose from, a cruise could well be the best way to visit the most remote destinations in Indonesia. Bali (the Island of the Gods) is a common starting point, but there are many lesser-visited islands in the archipelago to explore.

Komodo Island, famous for its eponymous dragons, offers a chance to see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. The surrounding Komodo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is also renowned for its exceptional diving and snorkelling opportunities, featuring coral reefs teeming with manta rays.

Lombok, w here stunning beaches are overlooked by simmering Mount Rinjani, provides a mix of adventure and relaxation. The Gili Islands, just off Lombok’s coast, are popular for their crystal-clear waters and laid-back atmosphere, perfect for diving, snorkelling, and sunbathing.

The culturally rich island of Java, with stops at Yogyakarta, allows travellers to explore the magnificent Borobudur and Prambanan temples, both UNESCO World Heritage sites. Further east, Raja Ampat is a diver’s paradise, boasting some of the richest marine biodiversity in the world.

7. Mozambique

A cruise along the coast of Mozambique is a unique journey through the Indian Ocean’s waters, revealing a blend of unspoiled beaches, biodiverse marine life, and rich cultural heritage. Departing from ports such as Maputo or the island of Madagascar, cruises provide an intimate exploration of Mozambique’s diverse and picturesque coastline.

The capital city, Maputo, often serves as the starting point. Here, travellers can explore architectural highlights like the Maputo Fortress, or cultural attractions like the lively FEIMA arts and crafts market.

Further north, the Bazaruto Archipelago is a highlight of any Mozambique cruise. This group of islands, part of a national park, offers pristine beaches, clear waters, and some of the best diving and snorkelling spots in the world. Ilha de Moçambique, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is another key stop. This tiny island is rich in history, with its colonial-era architecture, ancient forts, and churches. The island’s blend of African, Arab, and Portuguese influences provides a fascinating cultural experience.

Read more: How Many Countries Are in Africa? Everything You Need to Know.

There you have it, 7 secret solo cruise destinations you didn’t know about. Where will you be travelling to first?