The best time to cruise Japan is during spring (March–May) for cherry blossom season and autumn (September–November) for colourful foliage and mild weather. Spring cruises are especially popular for viewing sakura in destinations such as Tokyo, Osaka and Hiroshima, while autumn offers fewer crowds and comfortable sightseeing conditions.

Japan cruises combine modern cities and ancient traditions. Popular ports include Tokyo (Yokohama), Osaka (gateway to Kyoto), Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Highlights may include historic temples, traditional tea ceremonies, Mount Fuji views, street food markets and seasonal festivals.

For more inspiration, explore our dedicated Japan cruise destination guide.

The ideal time to cruise South East Asia is typically between November and April, when the weather is drier and less humid across destinations such as Singapore, Vietnam, Thailand and Malaysia. This period offers comfortable temperatures for exploring bustling cities, tropical islands and cultural landmarks.

South East Asia cruises often include Singapore, Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh City, Halong Bay, Phuket and Kuala Lumpur. Many itineraries combine vibrant city experiences with UNESCO World Heritage sites, island beaches and rich culinary traditions.

Learn more about itineraries on our South East Asia cruise destination page.

To make the most of your Asia cruise, we recommend sailings that range from 7 to 14 nights, with extended voyages available that combine Japan and South East Asia or repositioning cruises between regions. Shorter sailings are ideal to cover the highlights and great for first-time cruisers, while longer itineraries allow for deeper cultural immersion.

Yes. Asia cruises are well suited to both first-time and experienced cruisers. Ships provide familiar comfort while allowing travellers to explore multiple destinations without the need to unpack at each stop. It’s an easy and efficient way to experience diverse cultures in one journey.

Visa requirements vary depending on your nationality and itinerary. Some destinations may require advance visas, while others offer visa-free entry for cruise passengers. Cruiseabout advisors can provide guidance on the requirements for your specific sailing.

Yes. You can earn and redeem World360 Rewards points on cruise, hotels, tour and more with Cruiseabout. This means you can enjoy exclusive cruise savings now while earning points towards future travel. Our Cruiseabout advisors can explain how World360 Rewards works and how to maximise your benefits on selected Asia cruise departures.

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