You can sail without ever leaving the United States this year: the best US cruises to take in 2026
This year looks good for vacations that don’t require a passport. Small towns and big cities alike are commemorating the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The FIFA World Cup is coming to North America. The 100th anniversary of Route 66 boosts the popularity of nostalgic road trips along the 2,448-mile Mother Road.
But domestic cruises should not be overlooked in 2026, where options include coastal sailings, river cruises and Great Lakes voyages. If your vacation plans are likely to bring you closer to home this year, consider one of these US-based cruises.
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Soak up Alaska’s beautiful scenery
The Alaska cruise season runs from May to October, which is the summer vacation season. My family and I had a great time on our Princess Alaska cruise. In addition to the scenery and wildlife – enough to impress everyone in the family, even jaded teenagers – our ship itself offered something different for each of us. From onboard naturalists to the teen club to movies under the stars with popcorn and blankets, there was a range of experiences for all ages.
My personal highlight was the day spent sailing in Glacier Bay National Park, where the pristine landscapes and seascapes resemble a frozen wonderland. The line From the north to Alaska The program brings together Alaska Natives and resident experts, from loggers who can wield an ax with style to mountain climbers who have taken on Denali. It was a great opportunity to get to know some of the people who live in the 49th state.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: Alaska Cruise Tips: When to Go, What to Pack, How to Choose, and More
Sail on a Windjammer in Maine
To savor Maine’s rugged coastal beauty, I suggest a Windjammer cruise. I have spent many summers in this state, where the landscapes constantly take my breath away. Windjammers are traditional large sailing ships propelled by the power of the wind. Cherished by conservationists, they are also a true slice of New England maritime history. There is also no definitive itinerary for each trip, as the next day’s destination is determined the old-fashioned way: by weather, wind and tide.
Each of the nine ships in the Windjammer fleet is individually owned and has a distinct personality, with beauty, grace and speed as its unifying elements. These seagoing vessels carry only a few dozen passengers and a small but competent crew. Windjammers depart from Rockland or Camden from May to October; some are aimed at families while others are more suitable for adults.
I sailed aboard the 22 passenger schooner Stephen Taber with hosts Captain Noah and Jane Barnes. Our days were spent roaming the beaches of semi-secret islands with close-up views of whales, porpoises and eagles. As a passenger, you can help the crew as much or as little as you want; my husband is a seasoned sailor who liked to go to work while I relaxed on deck.
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Take a river cruise in the United States
Not all river cruises meander on European rivers like the Rhine or Danube. There are also many rivers to sail on in the United States, from the Snake River to the Hudson. American Cruise Lines can take you on their fleet of small, American-made ships focusing exclusively on American itineraries.
Immortalized by Mark Twain, the Mississippi River is a symbol of America’s adventurous spirit. American Cruise Lines offers numerous itineraries along the Mississippi, including the popular Complete Mississippi River Experience, traveling the entire length of the river from New Orleans to St. Paul, Minnesota. Shore excursions are led by local guides who are extremely knowledgeable in their field. You’ll stop in Hannibal, Missouri (Twain’s hometown), where every street corner brings his beloved characters, including Huck Finn and Tom Sawyer, to life.
Children are welcome, but keep in mind that guests tend to be baby boomers and there are no activities specifically aimed at little travelers.
LEARN MORE: Not just for adults anymore: 7 kid-friendly European river cruises to consider
Say aloha to Hawaii
The Hawaiian Islands never disappoint. Of course, I’m not the only one who considers Hawaii a dream destination; the islands are popular with everyone from honeymooners to families. The Aloha State has eight main islands, each with its own flavor. Why limit yourself to visiting just one? Cruising gives you the opportunity to visit multiple islands with ease and truly feel the unique beauty and traditions of each.
UnCruise is a way for energetic travelers to explore this tropical paradise. These small ships, with only 22 to 86 guests, can go where larger ships cannot. The emphasis is on nature and away from screens and technology. The ships have kayaks, hiking poles, binoculars and additional equipment to entice you into action mode. UnCruise’s 7-night Hawaiian Seascapes stops at four islands: Molokai, Lanai, Maui and the Big Island. Get ready to dive into the sea and snorkel with manta rays, hike around a volcano, and learn about Hawaiian culture by spending time with locals.
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Explore the Great Lakes by cruise ship
The Great Lakes (Superior, Michigan, Huron, Erie and Ontario) are the largest freshwater ecosystem on Earth and are teeming with natural beauty, wildlife and migratory birds, including the world’s fastest animal, the peregrine falcon. If you’re over 18, you can sail these vast waterways aboard a Viking expedition ship by booking Great Lakes Treasures, a 10-day trip that begins and ends in Milwaukee.
The shores of the Great Lakes touch big cities as well as pristine wilderness. The itinerary features both, with stops in Chicago and Canada’s Fathom Five National Marine Park with its stunning Flowerpot Island rock formations. Even if you’re traveling within Canada, this is a closed-loop cruise, departing and returning to the same U.S. port and staying in the Western Hemisphere, meaning no passport is required.
Expedition cruises are a growing trend, with everyone from multi-generational families to seniors boarding. I have experienced several expedition cruises; they’re very different from a traditional cruise, so don’t expect a zip line, ice rink, or casino. However, if your definition of luxury includes adventure, learning and immersion in nature, it’s a jackpot.
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