Named after the Mayaimi tribe that inhabited the area in the 1600s, Miami has skyrocketed to international recognition as the cruise capital of the world. Nestled between Biscayne National Park and Everglades National Park, the incredibly diverse tropical metropolis is equally acclaimed for its stunning sandy beaches, extravagant party scene, street art, natural beauty and glittering skyline. Vibrant, classy, edgy, exciting – Miami is everything you want in a cruise destination and more.

What better way to see the Panama Canal than by cruising through it? Sail in the wake of history as your ship navigates the locks which have been in service more than 100 years and are still functioning flawlessly today. Plagued by difficulties during construction, the final lock system was so effective, it has remained virtually unchanged throughout the years. The entire Panama Canal crossing takes 8 to 10 hours.

Panama City is the thriving, urban metropolis that is the heart and soul of Panama. The largest city in Central America, it is said to rival Miami as being the "Capital City of Latin America." Panama City can be accessed by ship at the nearby cruise ports, Fuerte Amadore and Balboa, or by a boat or train ride from Colon. Situated on the Pacific side of the Panama Canal, the city has benefited from a century of wealth generated by the canal.

Puntarenas is home to Costa Rica’s most important port, and the city has a rich history of shipping, fishing and international trade. Puntarenas has a lot to offer: delicious fresh seafood, inexpensive waterfront cafes, and a beautiful beachside promenade are just some of the things visitors can look forward to. It also lies in close proximity to some of Costa Rica's most beautiful nature. Take a shore excursion to a beautiful waterfall, or bathe in a hot spring on an active volcano. Or hike through a cloud forest for a surreal journey surrounded by mist and dripping vegetation.

Puerto Quetzal is an industrial harbor city and home to Guatemala’s largest and most important shipping port. Directly on the harbor, you will find a small tourist area with restaurants, bars and shops. For those looking for a relaxing day, you don’t have to travel far to find a hammock on the beach. More adventurous travelers may want to travel to the nearby city of Antigua, a charming, Spanish city, and nature lovers won’t want to miss the sparkling waters of Lake Atitlan.

Located at the southernmost point of Baja California, Cabo San Lucas is one of Mexico’s most popular cruise destinations. Its beautiful beaches make it a hot spot for surfing, sunbathing and fishing, and at night it turns into a popular party town. The beautiful weather and luxury lifestyle are particularly attractive for the rich and famous, with many celebrities owning holiday homes here. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a movie star. Cabo’s most famous landmark is El Arco, a natural rock foundation shaped like an arch in the middle of a vast, sandy beach. Be sure to time your visit right – El Arco is only accessible during low tide.

Los Angeles is a star-studded city located in California in the United States. The city is home to numerous famous neighbourhoods such as Beverly Hills and Hollywood, including the iconic sign located in the Hollywood Hills. Those interested in arts and culture should check out Museum Row. Sun-worshippers should head to some of LA's beaches such as Venice Beach with it's famed boardwalk. Looking for some retail therapy? Hit up Rodeo Drive for the best selection of designer labels. The Hollywood region of the city and the Hollywood Walk of Fame should not be missed by movie lovers.

San Francisco is an American city located along the coast of Northern California. San Francisco offers a hilly landscape, complete with cable cars which connect some of the hills and offer panoramic views during the crossing. Many of the buildings in San Francisco are known for their Victorian-style of architecture, while the stand-out landmark for many is the impressive Golden Gate bridge. which is open to pedestrians between 5 am and 6 pm. Visit Wave Organ for views of the notorious Alcatraz Island and listen out as the sea 'plays' the organs every time the waves come crashing in.

Seattle, known as the Emerald City for its surrounding evergreen forests, is the largest city the Pacific Northwest. As impressive as its natural beauty, Seattle’s 10,000-year history dates to the glacial period, carrying with it a rich cultural heritage to discover. With more than 3,000 restaurants and 1,600 cafes producing an incredible range of cuisines, Seattle is a must-visit cruise destination for foodies.