Binocular Reviews Home > By Use > Marine Bins > Best Cruising Binoculars
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No matter if you are going on a cruise to Alaska, Norway, the Mediterranean or the Caribbean, a good pair of binoculars is an essential item to add to your packing list and here is my guide to why and which ones you should get:
Whilst many cruise ships have a selection of binoculars for you to use, often those available are not the best quality, get a little worn, can have markings on the lenses and you can never be sure that there will be any left if there is an exciting sighting of whales or dolphins for example.
It is because of these and indeed a number of other reasons that we will cover below that my suggestion is that if you have the space, get yourself a decent pair of binoculars to take on your cruise ship holiday.
Most good quality marine binoculars will have all of the qualities and more that you need. So in many ways they may be ideal and the perfect cruise binoculars for some, but for others they may also be slightly overkill. Let me explain:
Features often found on marine bins like their wide field of view and lower magnification that helps to maintain a more steady view even in rough waters are ideal. But for most people on a holiday cruise, a range finder or digital compass may be of interest but not essential and a floating neck strap that keeps them from sinking will be of no use because even if you drop them overboard, I doubt you would be able to convince the captain to turn the ship around to go and find them!
Most marine binoculars are also fairly large and heavy, which may not be a problem on board, but if you also plan on taking your bins with you when you go out on day trips then you may be better off with a more versatile pair that is also a little smaller and lighter.
So lets take a closer look at all the features that will be important on your holiday, so that you can find the best cruise ship binoculars for your exact needs:
A big consideration for most people when going on a traditional holiday or a safari holiday, especially when travelling by air is the size and weight of their gear as it all has to packed away in their luggage.
However on a cruise ship things are a little different as you have less size and weight restrictions, plus less worries that your baggage will get damaged en route. However that is not to say that you want to carry too many very large and heavy suitcases onto the boat.
Also keep in mind that if you plan on using them when you go on excursions onto land at different locations during your cruise holiday, carrying a large full sized pair along with your camera, map, guide book and other items may not be ideal.
| Full Size | Mid-Size | Compact | |
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| GPO Passion ED 8x42 | Opticron Explorer WA ED-R 8x32 | Swarovski CL Pocket 8x25 Binoculars | |
| Objective Lens: | 42mm | 32mm | 25mm |
| Weight: | 25.8ozs (731g) | 15.5ozs (440g) | 12.2ozs (346g) |
| Length: | 6.0in (15.2cm) | 4.7in (11.9cm) | 4.3in (10.9cm) |
| Width: | 5.1in (13cm) | 4.6in (11.7cm) | 3.9in (9.9cm) |
The larger the objective lens, the more light your binocular can capture and therefore assuming everything else within the optical system is the same, bins with bigger lenses will produce an image with a higher resolution that is potentially brighter in bad light than smaller ones.
However in good light, image brightness and quality will not be a problem even when using small compacts (as long as they are of a good quality). For more on this please see my Complete Guide to the Exit Pupil and this article comparing 8x42 vs 8.5x45 Binoculars both of these articles go into great detail explaining how the objective lens size affects image brightness and quality.
Another aspect to keep in mind when deciding what size to get is that larger and slightly heavier bins can be easier to hold onto and tend to resist moving about a little better. This means that they can be easier to hold steady preventing image shake, which can be very important when standing on the deck of a boat or ship in rough water.
So to sum up:
In terms of size, there really is no right or wrong choice, but what you do decide on should take into account your own personal preferences and needs:
A binocular's field of view (FOV) is essentially a way of describing the width of the image that you see when looking through them and is usually described as a measure at a set distance often at 1000ft or 1000 meters.
A wide FOV makes it more easier it is locate and track objects, which can be very important in many situations where what you are looking for is small and fast moving - so birds for example.
On a ship it will make it easier for you to locate landmarks, other boats and ships as well as any potential marine animals or even birds. However whilst it is advantageous, I would not say that a really wide FOV is critical.
A bins FOV is also connected to it's magnification, which we will go into more detail below:
The main reason for taking a pair of binoculars on a cruise is to get a better view of distant objects, so it is understandable that most people assume that the higher the magnification (more power) the better. But tis is not at all the case and it is possible that you can have too much of a good thing:
Image Shake
The main problem with high powered binoculars on a ship or on any unsteady/moving platform is that as you increase the power, it becomes harder and harder to keep the image steady as any movement you make is progressively magnified in the view through the binoculars. It is for this reason that most purpose built marine binoculars have a relatively low power of around 7x.
If you really want a higher power or if you have unsteady hands, a good option then would be to go for bins that have some sort of image stabilization built within them that can really help. For more, I highly recommend taking a look at the range of Canon Stabilized Binoculars.
Narrow View
As you increase the magnification, your FOV decreases (see field of view above). So whilst optics with a powerful magnification enable you to see loads of detail, the narrow FOV makes it harder to locate objects and you see less of the whole picture.
So to sum up:
With magnification it's not about getting the most powerful pair of binoculars> Rather you have to make a compromise between image detail, seeing the whole picture and being able to get a nice steady view of whatever you are looking at.
So whilst most dedicated marine binoculars will have fairly low powers of 7x, they are often designed to be used on smaller vessels like yachts that move about more, or by captains in very rough seas. Thus on a cruise ship, you should also be able to get away with magnifications of about 8x to 10x.
For the most part, bins come in two main designs/styles that largely depends on the type of prism they use, so you get Roof Prism or a Porro Prism. Once again there is no right or wrong choice but both have unique advantages that once you know, you can make a choice that is better for you:
I also urge you to take a look at the video below:
Not only do I go over some of the main features of the roof prism Hawke Endurance ED Marine 7x32 binoculars, but I also compare them to the Porro prism Steiner Navigator Pro 7x30 binoculars and discuss them main differences between the porro and roof prism shape and what it brings to the table. Both of which I would suggest as being ideal binoculars for cruise ship holidays, but which is best will depend on your personal needs and preferences:
Most people will have a budget in mind on what they feel comfortable to spend on their optics, this will usually relate to your own personal circumstances and how highly you rate the importance of quality versus price.
However if you can just take one pice of advice from this page then please try to keep well clear of very cheap binoculars as you will only be getting something that will disappoint and frustrate you and in some cases you will be better off without any bins at all.
Value for Money
This also does not mean that you have to spend a massive amount either. It is true that some of the very best binoculars can be expensive, but there also some really very good optics out there that will not only add to the enjoyment of your cruise, but you can enjoy using them for many, many years.
To give you more of an idea, take some time to read some of my reviews on BBR as well as this section on the Best Value For Money Binoculars that I have reviewed in different price categories.
Water & Fog Proofing
It is obvious
that you should look for a binocular that is completely sealed and waterproof. Whilst you may not drop them into the water, you may subject them to rain or spray coming off the sea. The seals will also protect the insides from dust and the dry gas (usually nitrogen) that is used inside them to make them fog proof will also prevent the insides from corrosion, which around the sea can be important.
Water Repellent Coatings
Some bins, especially the higher end ones come with special
coatings on the outer lenses that repel water. This is great when using them in light rain or in a spray. These coatings can also make the lenses easier to clean and get water marks off them, which in turn helps them last longer as the glass will need less frequent and less vigorous cleaning.
Eye Relief
If you wear glasses, make sure you get a pair that has enough eye-relief to enable you to keep your glasses on whilst using the bins and still get the full view without any dark rings forming on the edges.
For most eyeglass wearers, this will mean you will need an eye-relief of at least 15mm.
As I mentioned earlier, binoculars specifically designed for marine use tick all the boxes and much more, but they are very specialist and so if you plan on using them on land or taking them on a walk whilst on holiday, you may find many of them a little bulky or cumbersome.
However for those who want compass headings, rangefinders and the best binoculars designed specifically for use on the water then this will be the way to go.
For more on these and for a selection of the best then take a look at my page on marine binoculars.
Below are my personal, hand picked choices that for the reasons mentioned above, I feel make the best cruise ship binoculars:
This instrument from Hawke Sport Optics is far from your typical marine binocular and it is these differences that in my opinion make it an ideal choice for many to take onboard a cruise ship.
7x32 Configuration
Not the most powerful binocular out there, but combining the 7x magnification with 32mm lenses it produces exit pupils that are almost 4.6mm in diameter (32÷7) which is ample for a mid-sized instrument, which in combination with their good quality optics and coatings helps ensure you are presented with a bright image, even in poor light conditions.
This slightly lower magnification also makes it easier to maintain a more steady, shake-free view, which on a moving platform like a boat or ship is important.
With their moderate 7x magnification, tough waterproof housing and aquaphobic coatings these are designed specifically for uses out on the water.
The Steiner Navigator Pro 7x30 binocular is an excellent choice for almost all marine uses, be that speed boating, sailing, yachting or indeed Kayaking and canoeing. For most cruise ship holidays, the marine specific features may be a little overkill in many cases, but even so, their relatively small size makes them easy to pack into your luggage and carry about the ship and it is good to know they will be more than fine should the weather turn bad.
I have to say that these Savanna WP binoculars from Opticron and in particular the 6x30 configuration combined with using Porro prisms that give it their traditional-looking binocular body shape was a real revelation to me this year.
I actually chose them as one of the instruments to take along with me on a Kayaking trip as their somewhat unique setup made them perfect for this. But it also makes them ideal for a whole host of other uses and I highly recommend them as a low-cost option for observing wildlife in places like forests or for backyard birding, taking to sporting events, or stashing in your bug-out bag. As well as this they are great for children or anyone with unsteady hands.
6x30 Configuration
Combining a very moderate 6x power with 30mm lenses makes for an interesting combination and I am somewhat surprised that it is not more commonly found: Firstly it produces 5mm exit pupils (30÷6) which is more than decent and for a mid-sized instrument is actually large, which along with quality optics and coatings play a big part in maintaining a bright image in low light conditions.
As well as helping produce a larger exit-pupil the lower power also makes it easier to maintain a more steady, shake-free view.
Porro Prisms
Whilst not as compact, at this lower price point Porro prism binoculars like these are often optically superior, delivering brighter, better quality views when compared to lo- cost roof prism binoculars. For the reasons why see Cheap Binoculars – Is a Roof or Porro Prism Best? and I found these Opticron Savanna WP binoculars to be an excellent case in point as they produce a remarkably bright image considering the small 30mm lenses and in my opinion, the quality is easily amongst the best in this class and matches that of far more expensive instruments.
If these hand-selected choices are not quite what you want, also see below where I have listed a selection of what I consider to be good binoculars to take on a cruise. I have split them up into in the three main size categories as some people may prefer smaller models that are not only easier to pack, but better for taking out with you on any day excursions:
These larger bins will take in more light, producing a better quality image and will perform better in low light, but will take up more space in your luggage and may not be ideal if you decide that you want to take them off the ship when you stop off at any ports on the way on an excursion or day trip.
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Updated, the new mid priced 8x42 Eagle Optics Denali binocular comes with upgraded coatings and a higher quality prism. You also get a closer minimum focus and even more eye-relief, making them an ideal all-round instrument and perfect for the eye-glass wearer. Price: (3/6) Mid Priced Binoculars | |||||||||||||||
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These mid-high level open bridge 8x42 binoculars from Opticron feature phase corrected roof prisms with their own Oasis coatings that they proudly say has a transmittance of more than 99%, which easily beats most bins that use aluminium or silver mirror coated prisms for a brighter, higher resolution view. Other highlights include a very long eye-relief and 4 stage twist-up eye-cups, a water & fog proof body that is tripod adaptable and much more... Price: (4/6) Mid-High Value Binoculars | |||||||||||||||
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Aimed at the more price conscious user, but who still want a high quality instrument, the Celestron Trailseeker binoculars come with an impressive array of features. A fully sealed Magnesium alloy body, with metal twist-up eye-cups protect high quality and fully multi-coated optics that include phase and dielectric coated BaK-4 prisms to offer a performance that easily surpasses their price tag and thus almost all of their direct competition. Price: (3/6) Mid Priced Binoculars | |||||||||||||||
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High end binoculars from Opticron utilizing many quality components and coatings that combine well to supply you with an equally good user experience and view to match. Highlights include a very long eye-relief, phase corrected and dielectric coated prisms helping to deliver a sharp, bright image. Price: (4/6) Mid-High Value Binoculars | |||||||||||||||
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By combining the highest quality optical components and coatings with their technical expertise, there is no denying that these Swarovski's produce an image that is unsurpassed. Add to this their tried and tested exterior and the inclusion of their new FieldPro package and you really do have a special pair of optics. So If you are looking for the ultimate pair of 42mm binoculars, then you will most certainly not be disappointed with the Swarovski EL 8.5x42 binoculars. These are for me now the reference point and by which all others need to aspire towards. Price: (6/6) Expensive Binoculars | |||||||||||||||
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Note: If you are on a reasonably tight budget and want a full sized instrument also take some time to check out my guide and recommendations on Binoculars For Alaska Cruise under $200 / £
Below are a selection of what I consider to be the best Mid Size binoculars for cruises that I have reviewed. These to me make the ideal compromise between portability and image brightness and quality:
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Quality mid-sized waterproof and fog-proof binoculars that feature the comfortable open bridge design and come with high quality optics that include Bak-4 phase coated roof prisms and fully multi-coated lenses.
Price: (4/6) Mid-High Value Binoculars | |||||||||||||||
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For a mid-sized binocular, the 8x32 Opticron Discovery is ultra compact and lightweight, has a very wide field of view and extremely minimum close focus. Add to this good quality optics and a mid range price point and you have an instrument that is ideal in a very wide range of uses and thus will appeal to a huge selection of users. Price: (3/6) Mid Priced Binoculars | |||||||||||||||
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A very lightweight and compact open bridge body that is tough as well as fog and waterproof do a great job of protecting the high quality optics contained inside these Snypex binoculars. Components like Apochromatic lenses with ED Glass Lens Elements, fully multi-coated optics and Phase Coated, BaK-4 Roof Prisms all combine to produce an image of stunning clarity and brightness that is a match to any in this class. Price: (4/6) Mid-High Value Binoculars | |||||||||||||||
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These high performance, mid-size Snypex binoculars offer the user greater image detail at longer ranges and are an ideal instrument for travel, safaris, hunting and general nature and wildlife observation. Top specification optical components include APO lenses with ED glass elements, Bak-4 Dach roof prisms with phase correction and dielectric coatings that ensure the best possible views... Price: (4/6) Mid-High Value Binoculars | |||||||||||||||
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Very high quality mid-sized 10x32mm binoculars that will appeal to the enthusiast and serious user and makes an ideal high end optic for any travel related adventure including safaris, hiking or backpacking. Major highlights include an extremely high level of optical components that combine well to produce an image of superior quality. Add to this a very wide field of view, great close focus distance and plenty of eye-relief and many other features... Price: (4/6) Mid-High Value Binoculars | |||||||||||||||
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If having a small lightweight bin is very important to you, then take a look at the compacts below that I feel will make ideal cruise ship binoculars, especially for those who want to carry them about wherever they go:
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A compact binocular that the Transformers would be proud of! The Pentax VD 4x20 can be split in half and thus converted into two 4x monoculars, which in turn can be placed end-on-end, transforming it once again into a mini-sized, but powerful 16x Spotting Scope! Price: (3/6) Mid Priced Binoculars | |||||||||||||||
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Small, lightweight, and versatile monocular when combined with the complete kit easily converts into an 18x microscope. Highlights include an extremely wide field of view, very close minimum focus distance, plenty of eye relief, and a unique shape and rocker focus mechanism making it both comfortable and very easy to use in just one hand. Price: (3/6) Mid Priced Monocular | |||||||||||||||
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With an extremely wide field of view and low power, these small, easy to carry Vixen binoculars offer a unique view of the stars and complete constellations. This along with their exceptional low light capability also make them and excellent choice as a high quality pair of opera or theatre glasses and a host of other uses. Price: (3/6) Mid Priced Binoculars | |||||||||||||||
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Price & Where to Buy
Price & Where to Buy
