Five travel firsts you can only experience on a cruise

Whether it's the Northern Lights, romantic castles on the Rhine or glaciers in Greenland, if you have a bucket list of must-sees, did you know that there are some destinations that absolutely must be experienced afloat?

We've spoken to the experts at Saga Cruises to find out the five unforgettable travel firsts that are even better onboard.

1. See the Northern Lights in Norway

Chase the Northern Lights

Northern Lights shine in the sky above the water's edge — Image credit: Shutterstock/Jamen Percy

Witnessing the Aurora Borealis paint the Arctic sky is an experience etched in every adventurer's bucket list.

Saga’s Excursion Manager, Simon Giles, says: “Catching that first glimpse of light in the sky is a magical moment and something I’ll never forget!”

Hop aboard Saga's all-inclusive Norway cruise for your chance to see the lights from the ocean, a truly spectacular way to see this natural wonder. Yes, you can technically see the Northern Lights from anywhere, but the advantage of being at sea is that the ship can sail past any cloud cover that could be blocking your view of the display. Being at sea also means it's perfectly dark, the optimal conditions for witnessing the Northern Lights.

That’s not the only wonder you could see while on board - there's a chance you might also spot whales and dolphins. From majestic humpbacks breaching the surface to curious dolphins riding the waves, being aboard a boat offers the perfect vantage point to observe these incredible creatures in their natural habitat.

How to take a photo of the Northern Lights

For capturing the Northern Lights, opt for a DSLR or mirrorless camera from brands like Nikon, Canon, Sony, or similar. Avoid small point-and-shoot cameras or most smartphone cameras, as they often have small sensors that lack manual settings. If using a smartphone, consider apps like Northern Lights Photo Taker, but bear in mind results may vary depending on your phone's capabilities.

2. Visit the Pyramids at Giza

Enjoy a full day tour to see one of the Seven Wonders of the World

The Pyramids at Giza are testament to ancient Egypt's architectural brilliance and rich history. Join a day tour from the cruise port in Alexandria and you'll get to experience the huge iconic limestone structures.

The Great Pyramid of Khufu is the largest of the three, though the Pyramid of Khafre appears taller thanks to its elevated position. The Pyramid of Menkaure completes the trio. As well as the three pyramids, visitors can explore the smaller tombs and mastabas belonging to ancient nobles and officials.

You'll get to see the enigmatic Great Sphinx guarding the plateau – his gaze stretches towards the rising sun, symbolising strength and wisdom.

Don't miss the markets nearby, offering local crafts, food and souvenirs to take home.

3. Come face-to-face with Decelebus on the Danube

Historic delights on the Danube

Decebalus statue and entrance in Mraconia gulf on Danube — Image credit: Shutterstock/Claudiu Paizan

Imagine a titan carved from stone, his gaze piercing the Danube like a king surveying his domain. That's Decebalus, the last king of Dacia, frozen in eternity on a cliff face at the Iron Gates, where Romania meets Serbia.

He's not just any statue, mind you. He's the tallest rock sculpture in Europe, a colossal head soaring 141 feet (43 metres) above the water, his weathered features etched with the echoes of ancient battles and timeless defiance.

To truly experience it, you have to navigate the Danube's currents, feel the spray against your face, and watch as the king's face comes into view.

When’s the best time to cruise down the Danube?

While it's a majestic journey any time, two seasons truly shine: spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October). Spring paints the Danube in pastel hues, while you’ll be able to witness the grand spectacle of Vienna's Spring Festival. Come autumn, and Danube is transformed into a fiery tapestry of crimson, gold, and amber trees. Both times are out of season so you’ll also have less of the tourist crowd to fight again. No matter your preferred season, Saga River Cruises offers a variety of itineraries to suit your style.

4. See fairytale castles on the Rhine

Cruise into a real-life storybook

The castle in Cochem, Germany overlooking the Rhine — Image credit: Shutterstock/SCStock

A journey through the Rhine region is like stepping into a fairytale, where medieval fortresses perch atop vineyard-covered hills. One of the most impressive of these is Eltz castle (or Burg Eltz), which erupts from the 230-feet-high cliff face, like something straight out of a Disney movie.

Cochem Castle, perched like a crown jewel on a steep hill overlooking the winding Mosel River, is an architectural masterpiece. You can quite easily imagine fire-breathing dragons flying around its towers while knights rescue damsels from the high windows.

Seeing the castles from the river is an entirely different experience. While exploring them on foot unveils intricate details and history, witnessing their fairytale grandeur looming over the water is pure magic. And as this part of Europe is famous for its wine, you can sip a glass or two on deck, while you take in the castle magic.

5. Experience Iceland's natural splendour

Cruise through impressive fjords

Fjord in Iceland — Image credit: Getty Images

Experience the incredible natural scenery of the island of fire and ice as you navigate the 47-mile-long fjord, Eyjafjörður in Iceland.

You'll need to leave the ship to see the Godafoss waterfall, but it's definitely worth it. Dubbed the 'waterfall of gods', it's one of the country's most iconic natural treasures - think a miniature Niagara Falls - situated in the northeastern region of the country.

As you travel south you can enjoy an overnight visit to the capital of Reykjavik, Iceland’s oldest permanent settlement and gateway to the famous Blue Lagoon. The mineral-rich waters make it a favourite spot for a rejuvenating dip.

What to pack for Iceland

Despite the Spirit of Discovery sailing to Iceland in July, temperatures are still a little chilly, around 13C (55°F) in the daytime, falling to 3°C (37°F) at night. Therefore it’s always good to pack base layers, preferably made of merino wool, as well as the normal woolly sweaters. Waterproof outer layers and sensible shoes – preferably hiking boots – are also recommended.