U L T U R A

GULF STATES

CWindstar’s “Sparkling Sand & Cities of the Persian Gulf” cruise spends 10 days in the region. Travelers stay comfortable aboard the all-suite Star Legend, which added two new dining venues during its recent renovation. Shore excursions include a 7th-century monastery in the UAE and a souk in Bahrain. Formula 1 fans can book the Prix du Monde addon in Abu Dhabi, which includes premium seats and race analysis from F1 sports broadcaster Bob Varsha. From $2,999, windstarcruises.com

LFRANCE

Scenic Luxury Cruises and Tours’ 11-day “Spectacular South of France” itinerary on the Saône and Rhône rivers features truffle hunting, winetasting, and a cooking demonstration at a three-star Michelin restaurant. But the pièce de résistance, to crib a French phrase, is the option to meet the owners of a family-run olive farm, tour their property, and learn their family recipes in a hands-on cooking class. Back on the 149-guest Scenic Sapphire, the last night of the trip is celebrated by bringing a local pâtissier on board. From $6,995, scenicusa.com

MADAGASCAR & THE INDIAN OCEAN

On Ponant’s “Adventure in Madagascar” trip, guests learn about endemic species and meet the people who call the region home. Highlights include the opportunity to spot lemurs and a visit with the Vezo people, some of the last “sea nomads” in the world. The 15-night expedition cruise docks at the Seychelles, Madagascar, Mauritius, and Réunion. From $9,770, ponant.com

United States

Viking’s “Grand Mississippi Voyage” takes a leisurely 22 days to float from the delta of New Orleans to St. Paul, Minnesota. The 386-guest Viking Mississippi has sleek staterooms and airy public areas, and excursions include Cajun feasts and Civil War battlefield tours. From $17,999, viking.com

DID YOU KNOW?

75% of cruise ships will be able to use sustainable fuels once those fuels are available at scale.

AmaWaterways’

“Captivating Rhine” cruise takes in views of Strasbourg, France.

DISPATCH FROM THE DECK