South Korea Cruises

South Korea is a vibrant destination that flawlessly combines ancient traditions with modern innovations, offering a wide range of experiences for every type of traveller. Known for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and delectable cuisine, the country has become a popular cruising hotspot. Fun fact: South Korea is home to the world’s fastest internet speeds and boasts a strong digital culture! Cruising to South Korea allows you to explore its bustling cities such as Seoul and Busan, breathtaking national parks, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites—all while indulging in the luxury and comfort of your cruise ship.

Major Cruise Lines Offering Itineraries to South Korea

• Princess Cruises has a fleet of 17 ships, with 6 dedicated to itineraries including South Korea. The Grand Princess and Enchanted Princess feature an impressive range of onboard activities and entertainment, including cinemas, pools, and themed dining experiences. The Grand Princess also offers serene spa facilities for relaxation after a day of exploration. Most cruises depart from Fort Lauderdale or San Juan, allowing for easy embarkation into the beautiful waters of Asia.
• Holland America Line operates 11 ships, with 3 focused on itineraries to South Korea. The Nieuw Amsterdam and Zaandam are particularly noted for their commitment to culinary excellence, offering a variety of dining options and enriching cultural experiences. Holland America is known for its onboard cooking shows and wine tasting, elevating the dining experience. Departures typically occur from Boston or Fort Lauderdale, ensuring smooth access to this dynamic region.
• Norwegian Cruise Line features a fleet of 20 ships, with 3 that stop at South Korea. The Norwegian Sun and Norwegian Dawn offer a lively, freestyle cruising experience with diverse options for dining and entertainment. Guests can enjoy onboard fun like rock climbing and mini golf. These cruises generally depart from Miami or Los Angeles, ensuring great access points to your Asian adventure.
• Carnival Cruise Line consists of 27 ships, with 1 that offers itineraries to South Korea. The Carnival Splendor features an array of onboard activities, exciting entertainment options, and delicious food choices, making it perfect for families and young travellers. This ship usually departs from Long Beach, providing a convenient embarkation point for exploring this fascinating culture.
• Royal Caribbean Cruises includes 29 ships in its fleet, with 4 focusing on itineraries featuring South Korea. The Explorer of the Seas and Voyager of the Seas stand out for their thrilling activities, such as ice skating and rock climbing, ensuring fun for guests of all ages. Departures generally happen from San Juan or Miami, allowing for smooth transitions into this beautiful destination.

Top Luxury and Small Ship Options for South Korea

• Oceania Cruises has a fleet of 8 ships, with 3 dedicated to itineraries including South Korea. The Riviera and Regatta are particularly celebrated for their luxurious ambiance and exceptional dining options, showcasing a range of fresh, local flavours. Cruisers can expect fine dining experiences paired with a rich variety of onboard activities. Most departures typically occur from Miami or Vancouver, ensuring an exquisite entry into your experience.
• Azamara Cruises operates a fleet of 4 ships, with 2 featuring itineraries that explore South Korea. The Azamara Quest and Azamara Onward emphasise immersive travel experiences, offering late-night port stays that allow for deeper engagement with local culture. Most departures are from Miami or San Juan, facilitating smooth transitions into your exploration.
• Seabourn includes a luxurious fleet of 5 ships, with 2 dedicated to the South Korea itineraries. The Seabourn Quest and Seabourn Ovation stand out for their opulent amenities and personalised service, offering an ultra-luxurious cruising experience. Departures generally occur from Tokyo or Hong Kong, allowing for elegance on your way to discover South Korea.
• Explora Journeys operates 2 ships, both of which offer itineraries featuring South Korea. The EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II focus on luxury experiences, with wellness offerings and exquisite dining options that highlight local cuisine. Departures are generally from the likes of Athens or Singapore, providing elegance from departure to arrival.
• Fred Olsen operates a fleet of 3 ships, with 1 that features itineraries to South Korea. The Borealis is loved for its intimate atmosphere and traditional cruising experience. Departures commonly happen from Southampton or Liverpool, allowing easy access for UK guests eager to explore the multifaceted culture of South Korea.

Top Harbours to Visit in South Korea

• Busan – As Korea’s second-largest city, Busan is known for its stunning beaches and cultural sites. While visiting, don’t miss the picturesque Haeundae Beach or the impressive Beomeosa Temple. Explore Jagalchi Fish Market for fresh seafood and authentic local delicacies, making it a great place to experience the vibrant culinary culture of Busan.
• Incheon – The gateway to Seoul, Incheon is rich in history and modern attractions. Visit the Incheon Chinatown for a taste of local culture, or take a short train ride to explore Seoul’s historic sites, including Gyeongbokgung Palace. The Songdo International Business District showcases impressive modern architecture and urban planning, making it a fascinating contrast to the city’s traditional sites.
• Seoul – The bustling capital of South Korea, Seoul is a vibrant city teeming with history and modern charm. Visit iconic landmarks like N Seoul Tower for panoramic views, explore the historic Bukchon Hanok Village, or shop at trendy districts such as Gangnam or Myeongdong. Enjoy traditional dishes like bibimbap or bulgogi at local eateries.
• Jeju Island – A beautiful volcanic island known for its picturesque landscapes, Jeju offers breathtaking beaches and natural wonders such as Hallasan National Park. Explore the stunning waterfalls, relax on the sandy shores, or indulge in local cuisine, known for its fresh seafood, especially the famous black pig.
• Gyeongju – Often called “the museum without walls,” Gyeongju is rich in ancient history, featuring remarkable sites like Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Enjoy a leisurely bike ride around the historical sites, taking in the beautiful cherry blossoms in spring or stunning foliage in autumn.

When to Cruise to South Korea

South Korea presents a wonderful environment for cruising throughout the year. From January to March, winter sets in with temperatures averaging from -5°C to 10°C, ideal for those wishing to experience the quiet beauty of the islands without tourist crowds. Spring (April to June) sees rising temperatures from 10°C to 25°C, creating perfect conditions for outdoor activities and beautiful blooming landscapes. The summer months (July to September) can be warm and humid, with temperatures between 25°C and 35°C, ideal for soaking in the vibrant cultural events. Autumn (October to December) allows for pleasant weather ranging from 5°C to 20°C, providing an ideal setting for festivals and picturesque scenery.

Costs of Cruising to South Korea

A typical one-week cruise to South Korea usually ranges between £800 and £1,600, depending on the cruise line and the type of accommodation selected. Luxury cruises typically begin at around £2,500 and may increase significantly based on desired amenities. While visiting South Korea, you can expect to spend around £10 to £30 for meals at local restaurants, while drinks may run between £3 to £8, allowing for a taste of local flavours during your stay.

South Korea’s vibrant landscapes, modern innovations, and rich cultural offerings await your exploration! It’s time to book your cruise holiday via Cruise1st and embark on an unforgettable journey across this beautiful region!