The most popular summer cruises are those short cruises from Seattle to Vancouver and San Diego to Northern Baja California but if you're up for something a bit more exciting then there are plenty of options. You may even want to travel by to reach your cruise just for a little adventure.

Consider travel to Europe since it will have pleasant weather and you can immerse yourself in new cultures. There are small ships that ply the Adriatic and Mediterranean so you can visit Greece and Italy. Embarkation points are popular on the southern coast of France but there are many others including Venice and Dubrovnik.

Also in Europe are cruises in the Scandinavian countries and summer is perfect since the weather is its warmest and most pleasant. The Norwegian Fjords are a highlight of these cruises and they will surely amaze you with quaint villages and cold weather native animals. There are many departures from Helsinki and a popular cruise sails on a 245 passenger ship. You'll eat Nordic cuisine and have shows that highlight native customs and dance.

If cooler climates interest you then there are more options than Scandinavia. There are voyages leaving Reykjavik, Iceland or Syalbar, Greenland. There is an abundance of arctic-like wildlife including polar bears and caribou. These cruises are usually combined with onshore excursions for exploring the flora and fauna of these hidden treasures.

You can head south of the border for something warmer and closer to home. There are many typical cruises that ply the Pacific Coast of Mexico by why not try something more interesting. There are cruises that combine the open seas relaxation and inland exploration. The Yucatan Peninsula is full of history and ruins and cruises combine the crystal blue waters with land excursions. The best time for these trips is early or late summer when the weather is the most pleasant. There are similar trips further south in Belize, Panama and Peru where you can take inland excursions to dense rainforests and ancient ruins.

You can also combine a cruise with a trip to Asia. There are cruises along the Chinese coast or trips around the beautiful islands of Thailand and Malaysia. These areas are generally served by smaller ships that have a more personalized feel.

Wherever you decide to go you're sure to have an exciting and adventurous cruise vacation that you will not soon forget.