What does “cruise” mean to you? While it may bring to mind traditional images of a gleaming white-sand beach, a bustling little Mediterranean harbour or a lazy cruise down the Rhine, gazing up at the castles, innovative cruise companies are going beyond the usual and expected with some exciting new destinations.

ASIA

Asia is a hot ticket for river cruising, which is very popular these days. Cambodia and Vietnam are leading the way with cruises on the Mekong and stops that feature Siem Reap, for the stunning Angkor Wat, and exotic Ho Chi Minh City. India is also up and coming as a hot river-cruise destination. Look for industry-leading Uniworld to be sailing the Ganges in 2016

ICELAND

Iceland’s investment in infrastructure is good news for people who’ve had this intriguing northern hot spot on their cruise wish list. The construction of a large new pier in Reykyavik has attracted Princess, Ponant, Holland America, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line and Disney, which have all announced cruises to the island nation

NORWAY

Norway will see Disney sailing its waters for the first time in 2015 on seven- and nine-night fjord cruises inspired by the movie Frozen. Several brand-new vessels will also be cruising in Norway, including the Viking Star, P & O’s Britannia, and Windstar’s Star Legend

AUSTRALIA

Australia has seen massive growth in cruising in recent years. Among the numerous cruise lines embracing what that amazing country has to offer is P & O Cruise Line, which plans to base three vessels in Australia year-round.

THE MIDDLE EAST

The Middle East is booming. Record numbers of vessels are visiting both Abu Dhabi and Dubai, with planned infrastructure improvements to Abu Dhabi’s port boosting the appeal of that exotic city even higher.

Contributor: David Massie