Six National Parks to Explore in 2026
Cruise Circle
Want to explore the great outdoors? Here are six national parks to visit in 2026, all accessible by cruise.
Vatnajökull National Park, Iceland
Hailed as one of Iceland’s top attractions (and the largest national park in Europe), the vast and varied Vatnajökull National Park is home to some of the country’s greatest natural treasures: Ásbyrgi canyon, Dettifoss and Svartifoss waterfalls, Laki Crater Row and ‘Anaconda’ Ice Cave. Vatnajökull ice cap (from which the national park gets its name) is Europe’s largest glacier, best explored from nearby Jökulsárlón, a glacial lagoon that sits between the base of the glacier and the Norwegian Sea.
Calanques National Park, Marseille
Easily accessible on a day trip from Marseille, these coves in the South of France have been meticulously carved from craggy limestone over the course of more than 120 million years. Snorkel in the azure waters or take in second-to-none views from one of the countless hiking trails. Head underground to discover hidden grottoes and caves, many revealing petrified waterfalls, stalactites and stalagmites. Prehistoric paintings can be found in some of the caverns, telling tales from 36,000 years ago. It’s a profound feeling to stand in the same spot as these ancient artists.
Galapagos National Park, Ecuador
The very definition of a ‘once-in-a-lifetime’ adventure, a cruise is one of the best ways to see everything this remote Ecuadorian archipelago has to offer. From lava fields to unique species that are only found in the Galapagos, the landscapes here are some of the most extraordinary on the planet. Come face to face with a giant Galapagos tortoise, watch resident sea lions lounge on pristine beaches and witness marine iguana colonies as they sun themselves on volcanic rocks.
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Yosemite National Park, California
A staple poster-child for America’s national parks, soaring granite monoliths, plunging waterfalls and towering sequoia trees are just some of the epic scenery that draw visitors to Yosemite. Fabulously well-maintained and easy to navigate (at least for the big-name natural landmarks), there are free shuttles in the valley and a huge range of activities and tours for every kind of traveller. Half Dome, El Capitan, Yosemite Falls and Mirror Lake are among the most iconic spots, whilst Vernal Fall's Mist Trail and jaw-dropping vista at Tunnel View are not to be missed.
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Glacier Bay National Park, Alaska
Towering mountains, dramatic coastlines, forest-cloaked landscapes, vast lakes and majestic wildlife are all part of Alaska’s DNA. A world-class cruise ship destination, it’s little wonder this pristine wilderness ranks so highly on travellers’ bucket lists. Glacier Bay National Park covers 3.3-million acres and features pride of place on itineraries sailing through the Inside Passage. Besides glacier viewing, visitors can explore more by hiking, kayaking and river rafting, or opt for a more relaxing mode of discovery with a spot of fishing or a comprehensive boat tour.
Cinque Terre National Park, Italy
If you’re after something a little closer to home, head to the pastel-hued, precariously perched fishing villages and dramatic coastlines of La Spezia, Italy. Boasting five in total – Corniglia, Manarola, Monterosso al Mare, Riomaggiore, and Vernazza – you can travel easily between them thanks to a train that traverses a series of repurposed coastal tunnels. Long, sandy beaches, picturesque harbours, cliffside vineyards and spectacular sea views await. Plus, there is 75 miles of footpaths for anyone looking to stretch their legs.
