around the world cruise how much

12 epic around-the-world cruises that will check off all your bucket list travel destinations

Imagine the joys of traveling seamlessly from one bucket list country to another without packing and unpacking, switching hotels, boarding countless flights, or even doing laundry.

Think it's a fantasy? It's actually a world cruise, the nirvana of many oceangoing devotees. As a bonus, most of these around-the-world voyages include enviable perks, like precruise hotel stays, alcohol, shipboard credit, exclusive-access shore excursions — and, yes, laundry service.

Retired, taking a job hiatus or working remotely? A world cruise is a safe, easy and exhilarating way to score a global adventure beyond compare. You might even make new lifelong friends sharing similar interests.

So, pull out your travel wish list and find an itinerary for those coveted destinations.

Here, you can learn more about what's involved in an around-the-world cruise and drool over 12 terrific choices across a range of fares for an incredible monthslong voyage at sea.

What is a world cruise?

Never mind the moniker, a world cruise might visit several continents but not circumnavigate the globe. Cruise lines usually designate one ship (a few offer two) to sail about 100 days or longer — some even sail more than 200 days — without repeating ports.

World cruises traditionally start in January and end around April or May. They sail round-trip from one American city, such as San Francisco or Miami, or offer a choice of starting points on both coasts, making access easy.

What to know about world cruises

With so few world cruises available, book far in advance. Bookings open roughly two years in advance, and some small-ship cruises sell out within hours. You'll need the extra time to make arrangements to leave your home for months. For that reason, this story will focus on 2026 world cruises.

Related: Hot cruises you'll need to book at least 1 year in advance — maybe even 2!

Around-the-world cruise cost

Such lengthy sailings cost plenty. The lines with bigger ships offer the lowest fares, although extra fees for what's not included (such as shore excursions and alcohol) can add up quickly. If contemplating a big-ship voyage, read the inclusions carefully, as they vary among lines.

Luxury vessels bundle many costly amenities into the fare, like business- or first-class plane tickets and luxury hotel stays, and charge the most. They also deliver fine dining, pampering service, glam surroundings and impressive special events. (Silversea Cruises has previously rented out an entire island to entertain its world-cruise guests.)

Thus, expect considerable price differences. Count on spending about $20,000 per person minimum to score an entry-level accommodation on the bigger ships and approximately $80,000 to $90,000 per person for an ultraluxury vessel.

Note that for the poshest lines, "entry-level" might mean a spacious, elegant suite with a veranda. For other lines, the most basic cabin is a small, windowless room.

Read on to discover where you can sail to in 2026 on a world cruise.

World Voyage

Thanks to an overwhelming response to its previous world cruises (2025 is currently sold out), Azamara announced the itinerary for 2026 aboard the 684-passenger Azamara Onward.

Azamara Onward is the newest ship to join the Miami-based line's four-vessel fleet. The ship's size provides an intimate experience and allows it to call on small towns bigger ships can't access.

For 2026, the 155-night, 36-country voyage begins in Miami and ends in Barcelona, with visits to exciting locales in Ecuador, Chile, French Polynesia, New Zealand, Vietnam, Indonesia, Dubai, Greece and others.

Along the way, world cruisers can sample authentic Ecuadorian cuisine; explore the unspoiled beaches and lush parks of Tauranga, New Zealand; and take in the diverse landscape and wildlife of the Galapagos Islands.

The itinerary will include a presailing welcome party, exclusive cultural events, concierge service and other upscale perks.

The 2026 world cruise departs Jan. 6, 2026. Prices start at $85,822 per person for an inside cabin.

World Cruise

If luxury and unparalleled personal service are important to you, consider Crystal 's 2026 world cruise aboard Crystal Serenity .

The beloved upscale line went bankrupt and stopped sailing in 2022. However, luxury tour operator Abercrombie & Kent acquired it and brought it back to life with a $150 million glow-up, starting with 740-passenger Crystal Serenity.

With renovated expansive suites, an array of social areas and nearly one staff member per guest, Crystal Serenity offers ultimate comfort, quality and personalization. Every cabin comes with a butler ready to assist with reservations, laundry and any other needs you have during your global odyssey.

Beginning in Los Angeles and concluding in Civitavecchia, Italy (the port for Rome), the world cruise spans 135 nights with visits to 27 countries. The cruise kicks off with a welcome celebration, and guests can enjoy themed onboard and shoreside events and gala dinners throughout the sailing.

Exciting destinations along the way include Fiji, New Zealand, Indonesia, China, Sri Lanka, Egypt and Greece. Passengers can savor the unspoiled beaches of Fiji, enjoy street food in Sri Lanka's capital city and celebrate like a Greek god on Mount Olympus, among other events.

Custom excursions and pre- and post-cruise tours organized by Abercrombie & Kent are available along the way (for an additional cost).

Departs Jan. 11, 2026. Prices start at $69,120 per person for an ocean-view cabin.

Cunard Line

Explore the world aboard Queen Anne, Cunard's first new ship in 12 years. The 2,996-passenger vessel debuted in May 2024 and will host one of two Cunard world cruise sailings in January 2026. (Queen Mary 2 will also carry travelers across the globe in 2026.)

Queen Anne's 2026 World Voyage will span 116 nights and begin and end in Hamburg, Germany. Along the way, guests can explore historic churches in the Old Town of Lubeck, Germany, a UNESCO World Heritage site; visit traditional Thai and Buddhist temples in Penang, Malaysia; and spy leopards, rhinos and lions at a wildlife reserve in Durban, South Africa.

Passengers will enjoy spectacular new elements on this ship. The vessel's main pool area, The Pavilion, is topped with a gorgeous retractable glass roof that's not just a showpiece. The functional structure will keep poolgoers dry on rainy days.

The 2,691-passenger Queen Mary 2 sails round-trip from Southampton, England, on a 108-night world cruise . During the journey, passengers can witness firsthand the maritime marvel of the Panama Canal, explore the pristine Bay of Islands in New Zealand and tour the tombs of Egypt's ancient kings, among other memorable experiences.

If you're seeking the most luxurious accommodations and exclusive experiences on board either ship, book Princess Grill or Queens Grill suites. Fares include outstanding amenities such as private dining rooms, coffee and specialty tea service, priority boarding, and a private outdoor lounge area.

Queens Grill suite passengers receive butler service, too. However, many lovely inclusions, such as white-gloved servers presenting complimentary daily tea, are available for all guests.

The world cruise aboard Queen Anne departs Jan. 6, 2026. Prices start at $17,999 per person for an inside cabin.

The world cruise aboard Queen Mary 2 departs Jan. 11, 2026. Prices start at $18,789 per person for an inside cabin.

Holland America

Grand World Voyage

Holland America 's 132-night Grand World Voyage on the 1,432-passenger Volendam cruises round-trip from Fort Lauderdale. The enticing itinerary ventures far from Florida to must-visit cities such as Tokyo, Mumbai, Singapore and Istanbul. The ship will also traverse the Panama Canal.

Many included overnights allow opportunities to dive deep into local cultures and experiences. Spend extra time in Rio de Janeiro; Papeete, French Polynesia; Sydney; Safaga, Egypt; and Singapore.

On board, relish music venues like BBC Earth in Concert, where a live orchestra plays before a huge backdrop of spectacular wildlife footage. Step One Dance Company presents works by noted choreographers. Count on a buzzy casino, fine dining at specialty restaurants and a professionally staffed fitness center.

Departs Jan. 4, 2026. Prices start at $30,354 per person for an inside cabin.

Related: A beginners guide to picking a cruise line

MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises offers something a little different with its 2026 World Cruise — a choice of three embarkation ports. Passengers can board in Genoa, Italy; Marseille, France; or Barcelona. They will return to the same port they left from. The 2,550-passenger MSC Magnifica is the home base for the 118-night journey.

The itinerary features port calls at 47 destinations across 33 countries in Europe, South America, the South Pacific, Australia and Asia. Among the cities you'll explore are Barcelona; Cartagena, Colombia; Cabo San Lucas, Mexico; Auckland; Tokyo; Penang, Malaysia; and Aqaba, Jordan (the port for Petra).

Spend your port days exploring New Zealand's Waitomo Caves, ogling at Jordan's ancient site of Petra, and wandering through the historic streets of Melaka and George Town's central old quarter in Penang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Departs Jan. 5, 6 and 7, 2026 (depending on your embarkation port). Prices start at $17,922 per person for an interior cabin.

Oceania Cruises

Around the World Cruise

Travelers can explore the world in style on Oceania Cruises ' newest vessel, the lovely 1,200-passenger Vista . It will sail a whopping 179 nights round-trip from Miami for the line's 2026 world cruise , calling at 101 ports in 43 countries.

Cruisers will also have additional world cruise options for shorter and longer versions of this sailing. You can choose a 119-night cruise departing from San Diego or a 196-night voyage departing from Los Angeles. (The latter technically begins in late 2025.)

Prepare to tear up any bucket list on a cruise this long. You'll start off sailing to a handful of ports in Mexico and the Caribbean, venture to the Brazilian Amazon, explore more of South America, and then head off to Africa and Asia. Australia, New Zealand, Hawaii, Latin America and Europe round out the itinerary before Vista returns to Miami.

Oceania Cruises is renowned for fine dining. Expect to eat and drink exceptionally well on board.

Departs Jan. 6, 2026. Prices start at $63,099 per person for a veranda cabin.

Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises promises an unforgettable journey on its 113-night world cruise sailing from Fort Lauderdale (or Los Angeles, as an alternative embarkation port) on the 2,000-passenger Coral Princess.

World cruisers can visit 28 countries with 52 destinations across six continents. Exciting ports of call include Lisbon; Fiji; Naples, Italy; Hong Kong; and Split and Dubrovnik in Croatia. With late-night stays in 13 ports of call and a Hong Kong overnight, you can relish multiple opportunities to wine, dine and enjoy the nightlife ashore.

Beyond onboard activities typical of a Princess sailing (cooking and dance classes, enrichment programs, and musical productions), passengers can enjoy special activities unique to this voyage. Among them are themed deck parties and special entertainment reflecting the history and folklore of the countries you visit.

You can also expect outdoor movies and onboard wellness features such as a spa and fitness center.

From Fort Lauderdale: Departs Jan. 5, 2026. Prices start at $26,959 per person for an interior cabin.

From Los Angeles: Departs Jan. 21, 2026. Prices start at $27,389 per person for an interior cabin.

Related: Big vs. small cruise ships: Which will I like better?

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Navigate the World

World cruises prove perpetually popular on this ultraluxe line. They often sell out in the blink of an eye.

For 2026, Regent Seven Seas Cruises ' 154-night world cruise on the 700-passenger Seven Seas Mariner will sail round-trip from Miami. This journey will be the line's longest sailing, visiting 77 ports in 41 countries across six continents. The itinerary includes port calls in Guatemala, French Polynesia, Indonesia, India, Mozambique and South Africa. Count on visiting 47 UNESCO World Heritage sites, including Australia's Great Barrier Reef and Robben Island in South Africa.

For all its around-the-world cruises, Regent piles on primo inclusions. First-class flights, unlimited shore excursions, luggage service, an open bar and a visa package are among countless amenities.

If you want to plan beyond 2026, Regent is one of the first cruise lines to announce its 2027 world voyage aboard Seven Seas Splendor . The 127-night sailing departs from Miami and ends in Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy.

The 2026 world cruise departs Jan. 10, 2026. Prices start at $94,999 per person for a veranda suite.

The 2027 world cruise departs Jan. 11, 2027. Prices start at $81,799 per person for a veranda suite.

Related: The best luxury cruise lines for elegance and exclusivity

Ring of Fire

While most world cruises circumnavigate the globe, this itinerary sails around the Pacific. You can explore Busan, South Korea's Beomeosa Temple, with a rich heritage that dates back over 1,300 years. Snorkel the sapphire waters of Bora Bora, French Polynesia. Ogle at the dichotomy of Hong Kong's modern buildings and historic communities.

You'll find many pinch-me moments on Seabourn 's 128-night, 14-country Ring of Fire world cruise in 2026. It takes place on board the 450-passenger all-suite Seabourn Sojourn and sails the long way from Los Angeles to Vancouver, British Columbia. You'll visit 63 destinations, including seven overnights at Auckland; Melbourne, Australia; Hong Kong; and other exciting cities.

On the ultraluxurious vessel, you can expect exclusive VIP celebrations, like a Caviar in the Surf party. (Note that complimentary Champagne and caviar flow freely on board, too, adding to the happy vibe.)

There's much to love about Seabourn Sojourn. Its intimate size allows truly personalized service from a polished, attentive crew. Seabourn Square, a living room-like venue, is a magnet for affable passengers who quickly make new friends. Count on superb dining and 24-hour room service among a slew of upscale amenities.

Departs Jan. 6, 2026. Prices start at $86,999 per person for an ocean-view cabin.

Related: Extremely decadent things you can do on a luxury cruise vacation

Silversea Cruises

Silversea Cruises ' 2026 world cruise aboard the ultraluxurious, 596-passenger Silver Dawn takes a different approach. It's designed to visit far-flung and remote ports, often out of season, to avoid the touristy crowds.

This 139-night around-the-world cruise sails from Fort Lauderdale to Lisbon and explores 70 ports in 37 countries. Count on visiting enchanting medieval cities, including Dubrovnik and Hvar in Croatia and Kotor in Montenegro. Wonderfully remote port calls to rarely visited destinations such as Easter Island, with its mysterious moai statues, and Nukualofa, Atuona and Fakarava (a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve) in French Polynesia tempt travelers to come aboard for the long haul.

Silver Dawn is a wowser with a game-changer spa , all-suite accommodations, tux-clad butlers for all passengers and complimentary caviar service anytime, anywhere. Expect many fare inclusions, such as business-class flights, shore excursions and private transfers.

Departs Jan. 6, 2026. Prices start at $87,900 per person.

The Three Oceans

Silversea also offers an 80-destination world cruise for 2027, also aboard Silver Dawn.

Departing from Los Angeles for a 148-night voyage , the ship will visit 35 countries and five continents before ending in Copenhagen. The itinerary features 80 port calls, more than any sailing in Silversea's history, and it will also include 20 new destinations for the line.

Passengers can enjoy extended time in select ports with 11 overnight calls in Honolulu; Cairns, Australia; Colombo, Sri Lanka; Cape Town; and Bordeaux, France, among others.

The Three Oceans cruise departs Jan. 8, 2027. Prices start at $78,900 per person.

Viking World Journeys

Imagine the joy of ticking many bucket list boxes on Viking World Journeys, Viking 's 120-night world cruise on board the 930-passenger Viking Sky in 2026. Book quickly; availability is extremely limited, with many suites and penthouses already sold out.

The Los Angeles-to-London voyage visits 25 countries and 53 ports. The cruise takes a southerly route around Africa, across the Indian Ocean to Southeast Asia and through the Pacific islands (including several stops in Australia and New Zealand) before it swoops up to Hawaii and terminates in California.

Palm-tree ports are plentiful, including Moorea, French Polynesia; Bay of Islands, New Zealand; and Ho Chi Minh City. You'll cross many seas, such as the Tasman, Arafura and Timor, and take your pick of a plethora of possible excursions, including a visit to a Balinese Hindu temple in Indonesia and a tour of the ancient Elephanta Caves in India.

Departs Jan. 5, 2026. Prices start at $54,995 per person for a veranda cabin.

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Around the World Cruise

The journey of a lifetime — on the best world cruise

Embark on an unbeatable World Cruise experience with Princess Cruises and prepare for a journey like no other. Experience a life-changing journey as you set sail aboard our luxurious fleet of amazing cruise ships we know you’ll love. With Princess Cruises, you’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in a world of exploration and discovery, spanning continents and showcasing the richness of diverse cultures and breathtaking landscapes.

Voted “Best Cruise Itineraries” 12-Times

Recommend Magazine

Embark on a Princess World Cruise and experience the globe’s marquis ports and hidden gems. With carefully crafted itineraries to the most sought-after destinations, there’s no better escort to guide you through your travel bucket list than Princess Cruises.

2025 World Cruise From Los Angeles or Ft. Lauderdale

Our longest voyage ever sets sails in January 2025 as Island Princess embarks on an epic 116-day roundtrip World Cruise from both Ft. Lauderdale and Los Angeles, visiting 51 destinations in 26 countries across 6 continents . This adventure includes our first ever visits to historic Bar, Montenegro, and Taranto, Italy. Also maiden for our North American World Cruises are stops to the idyllic Greek islands of Patmos and Volos – for the Monasteries of Meteora.

2025 World Cruise from Auckland, Brisbane and Sydney

Embark on the Crown Princess® for an unparalleled 113-day World Cruise, spanning 40 destinations across 25 countries and five continents. Explore iconic destinations like Tahiti, the historic cities of Europe, vibrant New York City, and the engineering marvel of the Panama Canal. This epic journey covers over 35,000 nautical miles and showcases UNESCO World Heritage sites and must-see attractions. Discover the world with Princess Cruises® and create memories to last a lifetime.

There are more options to explore if you want a shorter itinerary while still be able to visit far-flung destinations. Learn more about our expertly curated itineraries for your next extraordinary adventure.

Why Take a World Cruise?

Collect a world of countless stories as you sail from continent to continent

Adventure of a lifetime

There are a million reasons to take a World Cruise – like exploring 6 continents on 1 voyage – but the reason to book one now is our richest offer yet. Nothing can beat the experience of a World Cruise. The camaraderie among guests, the shared experiences in fascinating ports across the globe, and the parties and celebrations on board and ashore all make this a true adventure that everyone should embark on at least once in their lifetime.

Exclusive experiences

Enjoy special activities unique to this epic voyage. Over 50 international guest entertainers keep you smiling; attend cocktail parties and themed deck parties, watch local folkloric shows, savor special officer dinners, commemorative take-home menus, cooking classes with Princess Cruises Chefs, and much more.

Fresh flavors & global tastes

Our cuisine is designed fresh — prepared from scratch, using regionally sourced ingredients. In addition to the delicious signature dishes that Princess® is known for, you'll be treated to flavors and influences from the traditional cuisines of the destinations you are visiting, bringing a bit of the tantalizing tastes of the world on board.

Unforgettable ports of call

Not only will you encounter some of the world’s most revered sites and cities from Dubai to Sydney, but you’ll also have the opportunity to step ashore in lesser frequented ports, maiden calls, and first-time-ever calls for Princess. Encounter some of the world’s most revered sites and cities from Kuala Lumpur and Sri Lanka to Bali, and Singapore. Volos (Meteora), and Athens.

Now Available: 2025 World Cruises . Learn more

World Cruise Travel Articles

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2024-2026 World Cruises

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Epic Voyages

Sail to the ends of the earth.

The best way to explore the world’s exotic ports and visit far-flung destinations is to take a Princess® Epic Voyage. On these expertly curated and award-winning itineraries, you will visit cities and towns full of character in South America, discover a harmony of ancient wonders and modern metropolises in Asia, see the mesmerizing northern lights, and marvel at the beauty of the Norwegian and Icelandic fjords, or embark on an unforgettable journey that crosses oceans, countries, and continents.

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An around-the-world cruise is often thought of as the pinnacle of a  sailing vacation . Some cruisers treat these multi-month journeys as once-in-a-lifetime trips; others are frequent guests, a world cruise but one piece of their annual travel plans. There are also the enduring tales of older travelers who elect for extended world voyages as an unconventional retirement plan . (Though as onboard WiFi becomes more reliable, it's now possible to work remote from many cruise ships, as well.)

Whatever the reason, the allure of this mode of travel is strong. Why not unpack once, enjoying fairy godmother-like service, exemplary amenities, and always-changing views for months on end? Plenty of cruisers with time and money on their hands do exactly that, choosing an extended at-sea lifestyle for at least a portion of the year. Around-the-world cruises often run from early January through March or April, although new off-season itineraries are being introduced.

If an epic voyage across multiple oceans and continents fits into your future, be prepared to plan the trip far in advance. World cruises have a strong following among cruisers—many of the sailings can sell out up to a year before departure. Travelers can also book shorter “segments” joining the ship for only a portion of the journey, but cruise lines often add significant value-adds to those booking the entire voyage—everything from free business class airfare to other exclusives like special parties and invite-only shore excursions.

Here's everything travelers need to know about taking an around-the-world cruise, including tricks from veteran world cruisers, booking tips, and some of the best itineraries in 2025 and beyond.

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Booking tips for around-the-world cruises

How much is a cruise to go around the world.

World cruises, which may not actually circumnavigate the globe entirely, but are generally in a category that covers at least three continents and lasts from 90 to 150 days, generally start around $140 per passenger per night based on double occupancy. All in all, the cost of 100-plus day world cruise can range from $16,000 to over $800,000 per person, depending on the line and cabin type.

Is an around the world cruise worth it?

That’s certainly subjective, but travelers already accustomed to cruising—who appreciate the amenities of a ship and the lifestyle of a new port to view through the window every few days—will likely consider world cruises good value.

How much does a 180-day cruise around the world cost?

The longest world voyages we found generally lasted up to 140 to 150 days at their upper limits, although Oceania Cruises world cruises can be 180 days or more, starting at $48,799 per passenger.

Advice from frequent world cruisers

Roger Foenander and his partner David Mutton—loyalists to Viking Cruises —note the lack of pressure to see and do things within a tight timeframe on longer journeys, which provides plenty of freedom to relax. That might mean attending onboard enrichment lectures, spending the afternoon playing cards with fellow passengers, or dipping into the onboard spa and sauna before cocktail hour.

Linda Wiseman, who has traveled with Cunard , suggests new faces can help get ahead of any monotony: “In the dining room, we tell the maître d’ not to seat us with another couple who is sailing the whole thing—that way, our seat mates switch every few weeks, and we can meet different people.”

New Orleans-based philanthropist and veteran world cruiser Phyllis Taylor observes that these sailings are a class set apart, without the frenzied pace of shorter itineraries: “The difference between a short cruise and a  world cruise  is night and day, storm and calm, fleeting thought and thoughtfulness. I enter the bar in the evening, in no time my favorite song is being played, my favorite drinks sit before me. I go to dinner and my favorite table is waiting for me, and my waiter has already served the iced water with lemon just as I like it."

But the real value of a world cruise, Taylor says, is the chance to fully immerse in and savor the experience: “With an extended cruise you absorb the lifestyle of life at sea; with the great advantage of having a crew and staff that treats you like royalty.”

The best around-the-world cruise itineraries

You can book world cruises in their entirety or join one leg of the journey for a shorter voyage.

Silversea’s 136-day sailing onboard their newest ship, Silver Dawn , will embark in Tokyo in January 2025. Called Controtempo , the cruise will sail in the opposite direction and season of many world cruises, taking in Japan and China in January before heading to Southeast Asia, Sri Lanka, the Maldives , and Seychelles in February. The ship will spend the spring making its way up Africa’s Atlantic Coast—arriving in the Baltic Sea before cruising to Iceland and Greenland (an uncommon call for World Cruises), then tracing Newfoundland and New England to New York.

Fares start at $77,560 “Port-to-Port” or $79,060 “Door-to-Door,” which includes business class airfare and transfers—including pickups and drop-offs in the traveler’s home city.

Princess Cruises

Most world cruises departing from North America head to sea in January, but in 2026 Princess Cruises will be offering 114-day World Cruises during the northern summer. Departing in early May from Auckland, New Zealand; or Sydney or Brisbane, Australia (mid-autumn in the Southern Hemisphere), the sailings are timed to arrive in Western and Northern Europe during the peak of summer, promising endless sunny days.

The sailing also has a number of long stretches of sea days for cruisers who like time to unwind and enjoy the amenities of the ship, Crown Princess . Some of the longer ocean crossings, like Brisbane to Bali and Colombo, Sri Lanka to Aqaba, Jordan will take a week or longer, while three other ocean crossings are at least four days.

Inside cabins start at $15,588 per passenger or from $22,248 for Princess Plus fares, which includes beverages, WiFi, and onboard gratuities.

Crystal’s land partnerships with parent company Abercrombie & Kent are front and center during their 2025 World Cruise , a 123-night sailing departing from Fort Lauderdale on January 7 onboard the Crystal Serenity —fresh off a complete refurbishment that reduced the total number of cabins, which now all offer butler service in every room or suite category.

With port calls in South America, Africa, India, the Middle East, and Europe, Crystal will offer guests a number of overland packages in partnership with Abercrombie & Kent—think multi-night side trips to the Galápagos Islands , Machu Picchu, the Serengeti, Taj Mahal, or Karnak Temple.

Guests booking Crystal's full World Cruise will have included Business Class airfare, $1,500 shipboard credit, luggage valet, and airport transfers. Fares start at $66,500 per passenger based on double occupancy in an Ocean View Deluxe stateroom.

Regent's luxury world cruises tend to sell out far in advance.

Regent Seven Seas

Regent Seven Seas Cruises has already opened their 2027 world cruise for booking—and they have a tendency to sell out quickly. It will be the first year a larger Explorer Class ship, the Seven Seas Splendor , will undertake the world voyage, calling at 71 ports en route from Miami to New York in January 2027.

The routing will take the ship from the Caribbean to the Pacific coast of Mexico via the Panama Canal, Hawaii, several ports in French Polynesia (calling twice at both Moorea and Bora Bora), Australia, Southeast Asia, India, the Persian Gulf, the Eastern and Western Mediterranean, and Bermuda before arriving in New York.

Early bookers will get a long list of added amenities, including first class airfare, a pre-cruise gala in Miami, exclusive shoreside experiences in Panama City, Colombo, and Málaga , unlimited shore excursions, unlimited beverages, gratuities, transfers, door-to-door luggage service, and unlimited laundry, dry cleaning, and pressing. Fares start at $91,449 per passenger and go up to $839,999 per passenger for the ship’s most luxurious suite.

Oceania Cruises

Many world cruises depart in January and sail in the 100- to 140-day range, mostly wrapping up by April or May. Oceania’s 180-day world cruises last until midsummer, and are often “true” around-the-world sailings, ending in the same port they first embarked from.

Oceania’s 2025 Global Horizons sailing lasts a whopping 196 days onboard Insignia , roundtrip from Miami. The sailing includes several destinations in the Eastern Caribbean, and—extraordinary for a world voyage—a week of scenic cruising along the Amazon River . The voyage continues in South America before crossing the Atlantic to the remote islands of Tristan de Cunha, a British Overseas Territory, before making landfall again in Namibia , tracing the African coast through South Africa, Mozambique, and the French department of Mayotte (another rare stop for a cruise), island-hopping in the Indian Ocean before calling in India.

The sailing covers a lot of ground in Asia—Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam, Singapore, China, Japan, the Philippines, Brunei, and Indonesia—before cruising the west and south coasts of Australia, New Zealand, New Caledonia, Vanuatu, Fiji, French Polynesia, and Hawaii. Crossing the Pacific to San Diego the ship then hops down the coasts of Mexico and Central America through the Panama Canal before returning to Miami in mid-July.

Oceania’s 2026 Around the World in 180 Days sailing is also roundtrip from Miami. Sailing westbound, the itinerary covers the east and west coasts of South America, the South Pacific, Australia, Southeast Asia, and much of the Middle East before transiting the Mediterranean to spend significant time in northwestern Europe and the Baltic Sea before crossing the far north Atlantic via Iceland and Canada before returning to Miami.

Starting fares for each of the world voyages currently range from $48,799 to to $57,999, including a number of value-adds like roundtrip airfare and airport transfers, plus a number of added onboard amenities.

Matador Original Series

35 around-the-world cruises you can take through 2026.

W hile Royal Caribbean’s Ultimate World Cruise , a nine-month voyage that started in December 2023, made a lot of noise on social media, it’s certainly not the only around-the-world cruise on the market right now. Far from it. There are 35 world cruises departing in 2024, 2025, and 2026 across 11 cruise lines, all with varying itineraries, durations, and prices, allowing you to take your pick. Because if you want to take a very long vacation, or travel while working remotely, there are few better ways than boarding a ship that circumnavigates the globe and stops in dozens of destinations, sometimes even covering all seven continents.

Holland America’s Grand World Voyages

Holland America has two around-the-world cruises (known as Grand World Voyages) scheduled for the next two years:

• A 124-day sailing on board the Zuiderdam that will start on January 4, 2025, in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and end on May 9, 2025, in the same location. The cruise will include stops in 32 countries and will include 10 overnight stays. This around-the-world cruise starts at $24,999.
• A 132-day voyage on board the Volendam that will depart on January 4, 2026, in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and end in the same port. The cruise will include stops in 39 countries across all seven continents, including four days in Antarctica. The starting price is currently unavailable. Bookings for this cruise will open in May 2024.

Viking’s World Cruises

Map: Viking

Viking has no less than five world cruises scheduled for the next two years: two departing in December 2024, two in January 2025, and one in January 2026. The longest of the five is the 180-day (nearly six months) V iking World Voyage I which will start on December 19, 2024, from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and end on June 17, 2025, in New York City. This voyage will cover 37 countries and include stops in the Arctic, namely in Greenland, Svalbard, and along the coast of Norway. This around-the-world cruise starts at $111,999.

Oceania Cruises’ World Cruises

Map: Oceania

Oceania Cruises currently has a total of six around-the-world cruises scheduled for 2025 and 2026, ranging from 120-day to 200-day sailings. Of those six cruises, three will take place on Insignia, and three will take place on Vista, the cruise line’s newest and most luxurious ship. Both these vessels are small ships: Insignia, refurbished in 2018 can carry up to 670 passengers, while Vista, built in 2023, can carry up to 1,200 passengers. The longest of the world cruises offered by Oceania is a 200-day voyage starting in Miami on January 5, 2025, and ending in New York City on July 23, 2025. The trip will cover 38 countries, make 103 stops, and include sailing around the southernmost tip of Africa, Cape Agulhas, to reach the Indian Ocean from the Atlantic Ocean, as well as two days in the magical island of Madagascar. This around-the-world cruise starts at $49,799.

Cunard’s Full World Voyages

Map: Cunard

Cunard, the cruise line operating the famous Queen Mary II, the last transatlantic ocean liner in service, offers seven around-the-world cruises scheduled in the next two years. Six of the seven world cruises currently listed will be taking place on board the cruise line’s newest ship, the Queen Anne, launching in May 2024, and one will take place on board the Queen Mary II. The longest of the world cruises (called Full World Voyages by Cunard) is a 116-day sailing on board the Queen Anne that will depart on January 6, 2026, from Hamburg, Germany, and end in the same port on May 2, 2026. The trip will cover 26 countries, make 37 port calls, include several stops in the Middle East, and will take passengers around the southernmost tip of Africa. This around-the-world cruise starts at $20,118.

Silversea’s World Cruises

Ultra-luxury cruise line Silversea currently has two around-the-world cruises scheduled:

• Controtempo , a 136-day sailing on board the Silver Dawn departing from Tokyo, Japan, on January 13, 2025, and arriving in New York City on May 29, 2025. This cruise will cover 30 countries, make stops in 59 ports, and include port calls in Saudi Arabia and Greenland. The all-inclusive, door-to-door price of this around-the-world cruise starts at $81,900
• The Curious and the Sea , a 140-day sailing also on board the Silver Dawn, departing from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on January 6, 2026, and ending in Lisbon, Portugal, on May 27, 2026. This cruise will cover 37 countries, make a total of 70 port calls, and include a multitude of stops throughout the Mediterranean, in the South Pacific, and on Rapa Nui (Easter Island). The all-inclusive, door-to-door price of this around-the-world cruise starts at $89,900

MSC’s World Cruises

MSC Cruises will take adventurous passengers on two world cruise in the next two years, both of which will take place on MSC Magnifica:

• A 116-night sailing departing from Civitavecchia (Rome) on January 4, 2025, and ending in the same port. This around-the-world cruise will cover 21 countries on five continents, make 50 port calls, and take passengers across the Atlantic with one stop in Cabo Verde on the way, as well as across the Pacific with multiple stops, including one on Rapa Nui (Easter Island). This around-the-world cruise starts at $11,989.
• A 119-day sailing from January to May 2026 departing from Civitavecchia (Rome). This around-the-world cruise will cover 32 countries, include a crossing of the Panama Canal, as well as the Suez Canal, and make overnight stops in Honolulu, Auckland, Sydney, Dubai, and Tokyo, among others. This around-the-world cruise starts at $13,439.

Princess’ Around-the-World Cruises

Princess Cruises has five world cruises scheduled, including two in 2024, two in 2025, and one in 2026, the longest of them being a 116-day sailing on board the Island Princess departing in January 2025. This around-the-world cruise will depart and end from both Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and Los Angeles, California (you take your pick), making 48 port calls in 26 countries across six continents. Passengers will get to cross both the Atlantic and the Pacific oceans during this trip, and will make stops in dreamy destinations like Hawaii, Fiji, New Zealand, Sri Lanka, and more. This around-the-world cruise starts at $24,298.

Azamara’s World Cruises

There are two world cruises currently on Azamara Cruises’ schedule: One in 2025 and one in 2026, and both of them are 155-night voyages.

• The 2025 Azamara World Cruise will start in San Diego, California, on January 6, 2025, and end in Southampton, England, on June 11, 2025. Passengers on board this world cruise will visit 37 countries and spend 46 late nights or overnights in the destinations visited. Port calls include four days in Hawaii, five days in French Polynesia, 10 days in New Zealand, and more. This around-the-world cruise starts at $39,999.
• The 2026 Azamara World Cruise will start in Miami, Florida, on January 6, 2026, and end in Barcelona, Spain, on June 11, 2026. This sailing covers 36 countries and includes 55 late nights or overnights in the port calls. This voyage includes once-in-a-lifetime destinations such as Rapa Nui (Easter Island), Pitcairn Island, Tasmania, Papua New Guinea, and more. This around-the-world cruise starts at $38,999.

Crystal’s World Cruise

Map: Crystal Cruises

Crystal Cruises has only one world cruise planned for the next few years, but it’s an extraordinary voyage full of bucket-list destinations and events. The 124-day sailing on board the Crystal Serenity will depart from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on January 7, 2025, and end in Barcelona, Spain, on May 10, 2025. Passengers on board this around-the-world cruise will get to visit 63 destinations in 31 countries, go through both the Panama Canal and the Suez Canal, visit Rio de Janeiro during Carnival, stop in the remote Atlantic island of St. Helena, and visit Petra, Jordan. The starting price of this around-the-world cruise is not available on Crystal Cruises’ website. We have reached out to Crystal Cruises for more details and will update the piece if we obtain a response.

Fred. Olsen’s World Cruise

Map: Fred. Olsen Cruises

UK-based cruise line Fred. Olsen Cruises has planned an epic 106-night around-the-world cruise for 2025. The Bolette (the largest ship in the fleet, able to accommodate 1,338 guests) will leave the port of Southampton, England, on January 6, 2025, and circumnavigate the globe westward via Cape Horn, the southernmost tip of South America, and Cape Agulhas, the southernmost tip of Africa, until it reaches England again on April 22, 2025. During this trip, passengers will be able to visit remote islands such as Robinson Crusoe Island, Rapa Nui (Easter Island), Pitcairn Island, and St. Helena. This around-the-world cruise starts at $20,493 for an Ocean View cabin with two portholes. The price for the interior cabins are not currently available.

P&O’ World Cruise Holidays

British cruise line P&O has two around-the-world cruises (known as World Cruise Holidays) on their schedule for 2025 and 2026, both of which are complete circumnavigation of the globe on board Arcadia.

• Western Circumnavigation , a 99-night sailing that will depart from Southampton, England, on January 3, 2025 and return to the same port on April 13, 2025. The cruise will include stops in the Caribbean, in Hawaii, in islands of the South Pacific, and throughout Oceania, Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. This around-the-world cruise starts at $12,295.

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What To Expect From Ultimate World Cruise

Get ready to visit all seven continents, 65 countries, over 150 ports of call, and 11 world wonders..

By Robert Schrader | Published on October 18, 2023

1. Are You The Ideal World Cruise Traveler?

Looking at Royal Caribbean's Ultimate World Cruise℠ itinerary, you might be surprised by the sheer volume of bucket-list sites, even if you consider yourself a seasoned traveler. The great explorers of history spent this long — the full cruise lasts 274 days — on a single sailing across the sea, never mind going to all corners of the globe.

Your epic journey around the world, of course, is sure to come with plenty of new-to-you destinations. From world wonders such as the Pyramids of Giza and the Great Wall of China to sun-dappled islands from French Polynesia to Greece, the array and diversity of horizons you sail to is unparalleled. This isn't a cruise — it's the  cruise to top all other cruises.

2. Do You Want To Minimize Flights?

3. Is This Trip Too Good To Be True?

It might sound unbelievable that you'll be able to spread your arms out under Argentina's Christ the Redeemer statue and sip cocktails beneath the Sydney Opera House on the same sailing, but on this epic journey around the world, you can. The key to making the most of each port is to pace yourself — this is a long trip, in the best way possible.

Some stops along the Ultimate World Cruise℠ will invite more hiking and exploration (Jordan's ruins of Petra, for example), while the colorful waterfronts of European idylls like Bergen, Norway, are better for sitting down for a meal or drink. What makes this vacation unique is the luxury of time and space, which allow you to truly relax and explore many sides of yourself. You might consider yourself a total beach bum as you reach the sandy shores of Oahu but feel like a history buff as you take in the Taj Mahal. You might feel like an explorer as you explore the ruins of Chichén Itzá in Mexico on foot, then opt to take a camel when you reach the Pyramids of Giza.

4. How Much Does It Cost?

As you can imagine, this once-in-a-lifetime epic journey around the world is highly customizable. The ticket price for the 274-night journey ranges from $59,999 per person for an interior stateroom to $117,599 for a junior suite on the 2,476-passenger Serenade of the Seas® .

You might think that if you travel the world for almost a year, you'll need to bring your whole home with you, but this isn't necessarily the case. In fact, you'll want to err on the side of bringing less rather than more. You'll have laundry services (among other complimentary treats)  included in your fare, and can buy almost anything you need at ports. Focus on bringing a basic wardrobe built for laying in different climates, and any special items you know you can't easily buy, as well as medications and other need-to-haves. You won't want forget to pack bathing suits for Mexico, for example, or a coat for colder destinations.

So, is this the best way to travel the world? That's somewhat a matter of personal preference. Sailing the world with many of the same passengers offers an unprecendented bonding experience with like-minded travelers. The guests and crew become very much like a family on a world cruise, which can be a real joy to watch unfold — especially if you follow cruise etiquette and are considerate of others during the voyage. And the itinerary of the Ultimate World Cruise℠ 2023 is so extensive it's almost impossible to imagine. Certainly, if you love cruising and want to see much of the world as possible in one fell swoop, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to check many travel icons off your bucket list.

5. Do You Really Set Sail For ... Everywhere?

It's important to note that you can opt for the whole cruise, or stay onboard for however long you want. Each of four Ultimate World Cruise℠ segments — Americas, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Med and Europe & Beyond — can be booked a la carte, with business class airfare between your home and wherever you start and end included in the price. Or, pick one of the 17 sailings (ranging from nine to 29 nights) that make up the cruise and visit the sites that are most exciting to you.

Then again, if you can find the time, it's tempting to complete most of your bucket list in a single, epic trip when you circumnavigate the globe onboard a cruise ship. The iconic world wonders you'll see are only the beginning on this epic adventure.

Want to learn more? Check out the thrilling itinerary of the Ultimate World Cruise℠ .

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The best around the world cruise deals

Around the world cruises are an experience in themselves, so it’s worth finding the best cruise available and for the best price. if you want to know all about how to book an all-around-the-world cruise for 2024, 2025 or 2026, you're in the right place. so, what is a world cruise find out all you need to know about world cruises below.

Caribbean: Harvest Caye, Cozumel & Roatan

• 7 nights, departs on the 14 Feb 2025
• Norwegian Cruise Line, Norwegian Prima
• 7 nights, departs on the 21 Feb 2025
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World Cruises - Frequently Asked Questions

Are world cruises worth it.

World cruises boast ultimate itineraries, no matter where they go. An adventure of a lifetime, advantages to world cruises include seeing multiple locations all in one go, as well as planned itineraries and onboard activities. World cruises visit some of the world’s most revered sites, and you will only need to pack once in order to see it all. The shared family experiences and parties and celebrations onboard and ashore make for an experience everyone should embark on. Apart from there being plenty to do, they’re also relaxing and often last a long duration of time, which means for a prolonged alleviating escape.

How long does a round the world cruise take?

A round the world cruise is often 90 to 120 days, but the duration of time ranges. With visits to multiple countries, there’s been a trend toward longer sailing times in recent years. The duration of time is definitely something to consider when booking a world cruise.

What should I pack for a world cruise?

As you could be at sea for weeks or months at a time, it is vital to bring variety of clothing options for all types of weather. Weather can be changeable, and it never hurts to prepare for all eventualities, from sun to rain! Of course, cruise ships will do their best to avoid storms and itineraries will be planned accordingly, so no need to worry.

• Sea days – bring a few comfortable outfits, such as shorts and t-shirts or jeans and a jumper
• Dinner and formal nights – dress code may be specific to your cruise line, but bring formal clothing if necessary
• Gym-wear – if you intend to make use of the gym or any hiking excursions, make sure to pack some workout clothes
• Comfortable shoes – there may be a lot of walking involved
• Rain coat and compact umbrella – aside from a regular coat, you may be guaranteed to have at least a few rainy days
• Bathing costumes – you’ll need a few sets
• Medication – you may need to speak to your doctor about obtaining an extra prescription to ensure you have plenty to last you throughout the duration of your trip
• Toiletries – while it is possible to buy these elsewhere, you may not be able to find your favourite brands
• Books & entertainment – bring your hobbies on board with you

What are the best cruise lines for an all around the world cruise?

The best cruise line for you must be tailored to your favourite itineraries, ship size, and ideal price range. Here’s a selection of cruise lines cruising around the world, most of which offer a round the world cruise from the UK.

Around the world cruise Royal Caribbean - offers a 274-night ultimate world cruise with like-minded explorers across all seven continents and 65 countries.

Cunard round the world cruise - offers the greatest of world cruise experiences on larger ships with an international mix of passengers.

P&O world cruise - consists of classic British cruising, offering several ships in a wide variety of sizes.

Princess Cruises world cruise – known for its innovative technology and entertainment.

Fred. Olsen world cruise – known for traditional and welcoming cruising.

How much is a world cruise?

Prices range depending on your cruise line of choice and how long the trip is. Royal Caribbean’s Ultimate World Cruise is currently starting from £45,000, though this is one of the longest cruises. Other options such as 30 to 117 day voyages with Cunard range from £4,289 - £15,019 per person. P&O’s World Cruise 2023 departing from Southampton for 99 nights ranges from £12,449 - £27,039 per person, depending on the type of cabin. Princess Cruises ranges from £12,00 - £14,000, spanning more than 100 days. Fred. Olsen’s 80-day voyage is from £13,999 per person, and its world cruise from Southampton to Liverpool is from £16,199 per person. It is important to note the duration of the cruise, which often correlates with the price.

What is a world cruise?

Cruises around the world offer a vast variety of ideal locations, top-of-the-line itineraries and relaxing experiences.

A world cruise is the ultimate travel experience and itineraries come in a variety of forms. World cruises travel to several countries and continents, so you can expect several sea days, with most itineraries having at least one long stretch of days at sea. World cruises will take you to a number of destinations and cultures to explore.

If you feel daunted by the idea of being away for so long, you don’t have to book an entire world cruise. You can opt for a segment that ranges from two weeks to a month. This is a great sample experience and will help you offset the price of a world cruise, while also committing to a shorter duration of time. You can depart from a nearby homeport, such as Southampton, only embarking on a middle segment and flying home afterwards.

Calling at several continents, world cruises explore incredible destinations including the Norwegian fjords, the Great Barrier Reef in Australia, New Zealand’s Fiordland, Petra in Jordan Petra, the Caribbean and South-East Asia. World cruises offer a great range of places to visit from beaches and historic sites to world wonders.

Country guides for around the world cruises

If you're travelling around the world on a cruise you'll see some amazing places. Our guides will give you the low-down on each region.

In the Mediterranean, ancient civilizations mingle with modern allure, creating a tapestry of…

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7 Incredible Around-the-World Cruises to Book Now

If you have time to spare and want to visit a treasure trove of destinations from the comfort of a ship, these global sailings are well worth the splurge..

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Sail to Hawai‘i, French Polynesia, Singapore, across Asia, and to the Middle East on the all-suite Seven Seas Mariner .

Courtesy of Regent Seven Seas Cruises

In 1922, Cunard Line inaugurated the first world cruise from England that circled the globe in 130 days and visited 22 ports. One hundred years later, the tradition continues—with some variations—and now numerous cruise lines offer these epic voyages.

World cruise itineraries vary widely, and in truth most do not actually completely circumnavigate the globe these days, which is the hallmark of a true world voyage. But regardless of whether they do a full around-the-world tour, they do tackle a large and impressive array of destinations.

Most around-the-world cruises begin in December or January. While you still may find some limited space for the 2022–2023 season, these months-long sailings typically need to be booked well in advance, especially if you want to stay in an upper-level suite. The pandemic has only increased the popularity of these spectacular sailings as travelers try to make up for lost time, hoping to visit a large swath of international destinations in one fell swoop. This is a good time to start planning for a world cruise that is even one or two years away—and to keep an eye out for when epic around-the-world cruises even further out open for bookings.

Given how much time you’ll be spending onboard, the type of ship you choose can make or break your experience. Luxury cruise lines offer posh accommodations on smaller ships with an emphasis on service and typically have many more inclusions (think, freely flowing champagne and caviar). Premium lines are slightly larger ships with more entertainment and good-quality service and food, but they aren’t necessarily as inclusive (you might pay extra for some food, beverages, and services). Big cruise ships offer a greater choice of staterooms, plenty of pools, gargantuan spas, and flashy live shows—you won’t get bored.

Regardless of the cruise line, a world cruise offers the convenience of unpacking only once and a balance of lazy sea days and busy port stops. These cruises are not just about the exotic ports of call; they also are filled with dozens of sailing days, often a week at a time. Cruisers have numerous options during sea days ranging from informative lectures to dance classes, but it’s important that passengers be mentally prepared for the longer stretches of time onboard.

These lengthy voyages aren’t cheap either, but if you’ve yearned to sail the globe in a style surpassing that of famed maritime explorer Ferdinand Magellan and want to earn some serious cruise bragging rights, there are numerous around-the-world cruise options for a range of tastes and budgets.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Best luxury all-inclusive world cruise

The crystal clear waters of Fiji are on the agenda during Regent Seven Seas’ world cruise.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ world cruises on the 700-pasenger Seven Seas Mariner have been known to sell out in hours. The only way to get on the 2023 cruise is via the wait list, and there is very little space on the 2024 and 2025 sailings—keep an eye out for 2026. The round trip from Miami cruise embarking on January 2, 2024, is a 132-night extravaganza that crosses three oceans to reach 31 countries on four continents with such highlights as crossing the Panama Canal, sunning in Hawai‘i and French Polynesia, and sailing to Singapore and across Asia to the Middle East.

The following year’s 150-night sailing, embarking on January 7, 2025, is from Miami to San Francisco and covers South America, the South Pacific, Australia and New Zealand, Asia, and Alaska—25 countries in total. The all-suite Mariner features three specialty restaurants, a spa and fitness center, a heated swimming pool, two whirlpools, a library, and a card room. While the sailings are quite an investment, the cruise fares include almost everything. Fares for the January 2024 sailing range from $73,499 to $199,999, including first-class airfare, some 440 shore excursions, gratuities, and dry cleaning, among other services. The 2025 cruise is priced from $86,999 to $249,999.

Best luxury cruise with a focus on Africa and the South Pacific

Explore the coastline of Senegal on a Seabourn world cruise.

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Space is limited for Seabourn’s extraordinary 140-night 2023 world cruise between Miami and Barcelona, visiting six continents. The itinerary on the 450-passenger Seabourn Sojourn spends quality time in the South Pacific, including a circumnavigation of Australia, and Africa—with port calls in the Seychelles, Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa, Namibia, Benin, Ghana, Togo, Gambia, Senegal, and Cape Verde. Embarkation is January 6, 2023. The line’s 145-day world cruise in 2024 on the same ship sails across the Pacific from Los Angeles and stops in 78 ports in 28 countries, with overnight stays in 20 destinations, with expansive exploration in Australia, New Zealand, and Asia. Embarkation is January 11, 2024.

Passengers are treated to exceptional fine dining via a partnership with celebrity chef Thomas Keller, along with spacious suite accommodations. An array of lectures includes talks focused on the destinations and on current events featuring laudable guest speakers. There are also “shopping with the chef” excursions in select ports to learn about local cuisines and markets. Fares start at $70,499 for the 2023 sailing and range from $79,399 to $294,399 for the posh Owner’s Suite on the 2024 sailing (including airfare, shore excursions, gratuities, butler service, laundry, and dry cleaning).

Best luxury cruise that includes Iceland and Greenland

Some sights—like the icebergs of Greenland—are best enjoyed from the vantage point of a cruise ship.

Photo by Shutterstock

There is only wait-list space for ultra-luxury line Silversea’s 2023 and 2024 world cruises . If you wait until 2025, you’re in for the treat of a 136-night, 20-country exploration on the 596-passenger Silver Dawn , newly launched in 2022. It’s the largest ship Silversea has ever assigned to a world cruise—a sign of the popularity of the expansive itineraries. The sailing will embark from Tokyo, explore southeast Asia and India, spend quality time in the Middle East, the Mediterranean, and Scandinavia and will then call in Iceland and Greenland. After that, the ship will travel to Canada and New England before ending in New York City. Fine dining and impeccable service are Silversea hallmarks. All passengers stay in a suite with butler service, and Silver Dawn offers an extraordinary opportunity to dive into the cuisine of various cultures with its immersive S.A.L.T. culinary dining and education program.

Space is already limited for the sailing, embarking January 13, 2025, with available fares from $92,000 to $98,000 (fancier suites are booked up), including business-class airfare, some select shore excursions, $1,000 in onboard spending credit per guest, gratuities, butler service, and laundry service.

Oceania Cruises

Best world cruise for UNESCO World Heritage sites

Oceania’s world cruise visits 100 UNESCO World Heritage sites including in Kyoto, Japan.

Upscale line Oceania Cruises has built a big fan base for its expansive 180-day world itineraries. You’ll need to join a wait list for the 2023 sailing from Miami but may have better luck with the voyage embarking Miami on December 29, 2024. The itinerary will take passengers through Central America and west across the Pacific to French Polynesia and the Samoan islands, New Zealand and Australia, with an extensive exploration of Asia. Then it’s off to the Middle East, Europe, Iceland, Greenland, and New England and concluding in New York. There are 24 overnight stops and 100 UNESCO World Heritage sites along the way. Oceania is known for its impressive culinary offerings; the line’s consulting chef is the legendary Jacques Pépin, and menus include expansive vegan and vegetarian options, while cooking classes take place in a real test kitchen. Fares for this cruise start at $48,499 for an inside stateroom and can go as high as $189,999 for an Owner’s Suite, including airfare, internet, gratuities, and laundry, among other amenities.

Viking Cruise

Best world cruise for inclusive value

Circumnavigate the globe on Viking’s epic world cruise.

Courtesy of Viking Cruises

Viking Cruises’ 930-passenger Viking Neptune sets sail on December 22, 2022, on an epic 137-night world cruise from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, to Greenwich, United Kingdom, with explorations of Central America, the California coast, Hawai‘i, French Polynesia, New Zealand, Australia, Asia, the Arabian Peninsula, and the Mediterranean. Overnight stays in 11 ports ensure time to explore and enjoy the local nightlife. You can also board in Los Angeles, for a shorter 120-night itinerary. The ship will sail a similar world cruise route that starts in December 2023. Sister ship Viking Sky will also cover the itinerary with a 120-night sailing departing Los Angeles in 2024. All staterooms on the Scandinavian-designed ships have balconies, and the line presents a value proposition that includes a complimentary tour in every port, complimentary water and soft drinks, and beer and wine with lunch and dinner, and free Wi-Fi. Another Viking perk is one of the best spas at sea with a thalassotherapy pool, steam sauna, dry sauna, snow room, and hot and cold plunge pools. Fares for the 120-day cruises start at $54,995 and at $199,999 for the top-level Owner’s Suite, including airfare.

Cunard Line

Best traditional world cruise

Travel back in time to the golden days of cruising with a world cruise on Cunard’s Queen Mary 2 .

Courtesy of Cunard Line

Cunard Line , the cruise line that started it all, is celebrating its centenary with a 117-night world voyage on the 2,691-passenger Queen Mary 2 ocean liner, embarking from Brooklyn, New York, on January 3, 2023. The itinerary includes Colombo, Singapore, and Hong Kong, replicating the RMS Samaria’s 1923 world sailing, as well as stops in Dubai, Sydney, and Cape Town. In 2024, the ocean liner will set sail from Brooklyn on a 123-night voyage to Africa, Australia, Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and the Mediterranean, with highlights including passage through the Suez Canal. The ship has a planetarium, hosts galas in an extravagant ballroom, and offers a daytime roster that includes dancing, acting, and fencing classes, plus Cunard’s famous white-glove afternoon tea service. Fares for the 2023 sailing are from $21,499; the 2024 sailing is priced from $20,699 for an inside stateroom and from $79,999 for top-category Queens Grill suites.

Holland America Line

Best world cruise for music lovers

Holland America Line’s world cruise sails the Amazon River deep into the Brazilian rainforest.

Holland America Line has more than 50 years’ experience operating around-the-world voyages. The line has a 128-night world cruise that embarks from Fort Lauderdale on January 3, 2024, destined for South America, Asia, the Middle East, and the Mediterranean, with such highlights as overnights in Tokyo, Kobe, Beijing, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Singapore, Mumbai, Petra, and Istanbul. The sailing takes place on the 1,848-passenger Zuiderdam , with a Lincoln Center Stage venue that highlights performances by classical musicians and a Billboard Onboard show featuring some of the most popular hits throughout the decades, as performed by dueling singing piano players. Fares run from $23,799 to $82,899.

Abbreviated world cruises

For those who aren’t able to spend months on a ship and would rather get a “taste” of a world voyage, there is the option with most lines of booking segments of a world cruise. That way, you can pinpoint a destination or region that’s appealing to explore for a month or however much time you have. Example: If you can’t do Seabourn’s entire 145-night sailing in 2024, book the 33-night segment that leaves from Sydney on February 20, 2024, to explore Australia, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Taiwan, with fares from $22,999 to $27,999 (fancier suites are all booked up for this one).

Anita Dunham-Potter contributed reporting. This story was originally published in December 2018, and was updated on September 7, 2022, to include current information.

MSC WORLD CRUISE 2026

Wake up to a world of marvel, discover the msc world cruise 2026 itinerary, start your journey and discover america's beauties.

Your around the world cruise in 2026 starts in Italy , with a grand Mediterranean tour of heritage highlights. Sailing across the Atlantic , you'll discover Madeira 's coastlines and the azure bays of Barbados, Grenada, Bonaire and Curaçao .

Be whisked to South America 's astonishing buzz stopping by Colombia 's emerald shine, sailing through the awe-inspiring Panama Canal to Costa Rica , Nicaragua , Guatemala and Mexico . From there, the US beckons as you encounter San Diego 's and San Francisco .

Feel the Hawaiian vibes, explore Oceania and Asia

MSC World Cruise 2026 continues for a change of pace, plunging into Hawaiian heaven , Tahiti 's Polynesian pleasures and the palm-fringed lagoons of Samoa and Fiji .

Next, you'll make a great escape to New Zealand and Australia 's stunning shores. After stops in Auckland , Sydney and the Australian Gold Coast, you’ll stop by the incredible Great Barrier Reef before heading north to stroll through Manila ’s mystique and soak up Japan 's kaleidoscopic best on Okinawa Island and Tokyo .

Live the Far East charm, be amazed by the Middle East

Once you've savored Tokyo ’s charm, the World Cruise will sail towards South Korea's Busan , the sultry charm of Shanghai and the high-rise heights of Hong Kong . Then tap into even more tropical climes with stops in Vietnam , Singapore , Malaysia and Sri Lanka ’s boundless beaches.

It’s then time to head back to Europe via the Red Sea through Dubai , Oman , and the Suez Canal to uncover the ancient treasures of Jordan and Egypt before stopping by Greece on the return to Italy .

DIVE INTO DISCOVERY: INCLUDED EXCURSIONS AND OVERNIGHTS

The MSC World Cruise 2026 includes 15 free shore excursions designed by MSC Cruises to provide you with the ultimate experience as you journey around the globe.

The World Cruise also includes 7 incredible overnight stays in some of the most iconic destinations of your global odyssey: San Francisco, Honolulu, Auckland, Sydney, Manila, Tokyo, and Dubai.

Your magnificent home as you travel the world

Msc magnifica: the perfect base for your 2026 world cruise.

Indulge in the comfort of MSC Magnifica while adventuring worldwide crossing oceans, cultures and horizons of wonderful beauty. Whether you opt for the complete 2026 World Cruise itinerary or tailor your trip by choosing a shorter segment, the MSC Magnifica is a perfect ship for your adventure. Designed for unbeatable comfort, with cabins meticulously designed to offer you the utmost ease, the ship lives up to its name with its memorably magnificent design that stays true to travel's golden age.

A fabulous destination itself, there’s plenty of opportunity to live life to the full onboard this immaculate home-from-home. Toast new friendships in one of the 12 bars and enjoy stunning meals in one of five gourmet restaurants as you celebrate the flavours of the places you visit. Unwind in the award-winning MSC Aurea Spa and open-air pool complex , be entertained in a 1,200-seat theatre, keep active in the tennis club and gym or take advantage of inclusive drinks and laundry packages.

The best accommodation for your journey

Embarking on an adventure around the world while enjoying the utmost comfort is truly a remarkable experience. MSC Magnifica lives up to its name and ensures magnificently comfortable hospitality offering a wide variety of cabin accommodation for your world cruise. From sea view cabins to suites, there is the perfect accommodation to suit your every need.

A balcony cabin is flawlessly tailored for fully experiencing the phenomenal views your round-the-world journey. Whether its a Premium, Deluxe or Junior balcony, each day, you can gaze upon a different horizon and be inspired by ever-changing skies, all within the captivating sea ambiance.

Treat yourself with our Dining Experience

The 2026 world cruise is not just a stunning odyssey around the globe, but also a journey through the world’s flavors, aromas, and delicacies! Included in the World Cruise is the Dine&Drink package, which allows you to devour a variety of drinks, such as wines, beers, soft drinks, which can be consumed at lunch and dinner in the main restaurant and at the buffet. MSC Magnifica also offers an unparalleled culinary experience, savoring international delights in its 5 gourmet restaurants . Whether you choose to savor the flavors of Asian traditions, from Japanese to Chinese cuisine, or indulge in the recipes of the finest European traditions, from Italian to French cuisine, MSC Magnifica will cater to every palate! Embark on a culinary journey where taste knows no boundaries.

Marvel at the spectacular entertainment

On board MSC Magnifica, entertainment is guaranteed throughout your world cruise, ensuring an inspiring journey of non-stop enjoyment. Be entertained in the magnificent 1,200-seat Royal Theatre , ensuring outstanding shows and live music that will add an extra layer of wonder to the marvels you will experience while crossing continents. Entertainment continues with the panoramic T32 Disco , a fantastic bowling, a thrilling 4D cinema and a range of unmissable onboard activities, from themed parties to language classes. Discover a vibrant atmosphere filled with unforgettable moments and endless opportunities for enjoyment on board MSC Magnifica.

START PLANNING YOUR MSC WORLD CRUISE 2026

EMBARK ON A LIFETIME JOURNEY

msc world cruise 2026 FAQ

Which drink package is included.

The Dine&Drink package is included . This package offers guests the chance to enjoy beverages at the Main restaurant onboard for Lunch and Dinner opening hours, along with the Buffet area during Lunch and Dinner hours only. The package includes a range of wines served by the glass, such as white, red, rose & sparkling wines, draught beer, mineral water, fountain-soda, and fruit juices.

The Buffet area is open for Lunch from 11:30 AM to 4:00 PM and for Dinner from 5:30 PM to 10:30 PM.

Please note that the Dine&Drink package is not valid for use at any specialty restaurant or bar outside of the Buffet area.

Is a discount for laundry services included?

Which activities are included, how long is the 2026 world cruise.

MSC's World Cruise 2026 lasts 118 nights and 119 days , starting on January 5th and concluding on May 3rd. You can choose to book the entire round-the-world tour or a shorter segment: First Segment - January 5th – February 5th From Genoa to San Francisco in 31 night/32 days.

Second Segment - February 5th – March 23rd From San Francisco to Tokyo in 46 night/47 days.

Third segment - March 23rd - May 3rd From Tokyo to Genoa, in 41 night/42 days.

How many overnights are included?

The World Cruise 2026 includes seven overnights :

• San Francisco (United States)
• Honolulu (Hawaii)
• Auckland (New Zealand)
• Sydney (Australia)
• Manila (Philippines)
• Tokyo (Japan)
• Dubai (United Arab Emirates)

Which shore excursions are included?

The 2026 World Cruise includes the following 15 free shore excursions :

Funchal, Portugal : PANORAMIC CABO GIRAO & RIBEIRA BRAVA (FUN18W) Cartagena, Colombia : CARTAGENA HISTORICAL WALKING TOUR & SHOPPING (CAR07W) Puerto Limon, Costa Rica : THE TORTUGUERO CANALS (PLI02W) Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala : MARVELS OF COLONIAL ANTIGUA (PRQ01W) San Francisco, United States : SAN FRANCISCO & GOLDEN GATE BRIDGE (SFO02W) Honolulu, Hawaii : PEARL HARBOR (HDH01W) Auckland, New Zealand : AUCKLAND MUSEUM & CITY SIGHTS (AKL02W) Sydney, Australia : DISCOVERING SYDNEY (SDY07W) Manila, Philippines : MARVELLOUS METRO MANILA, OLD AND NEW (MNL01W) Tokyo, Japan : A GLIMPSE OF TOKYO (TYO01W) Da Nang, Viet Nam : HISTORIC HIGHLIGHTS OF DA NANG (DNG10W) Port Klang/Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia : HIGHLIGHTS OF KUALA LUMPUR (PKG11W) Colombo, Sri Lanka : COLOURS OF COLOMBO TOUR WITH TRADITIONAL SHOW (CMB21W) Dubai, United Arab Emirates : NEW WONDERS OF DUBAI (DXB01W) Heraklion/Crete, Greece : KNOSSOS PALACE AND SHOPPING (IRK02W)

Which Terms & Conditions apply to the MSC World Cruise 2026?

The product will not be combinable with the Promo Target Discounts (Brochure); The product will not be combinable with Claims Discount Vouchers; The laundry discount will be not combined with other similar discounts and with onboard packages Regular or Express;

Single Surcharge: 180% Inside Outside Balcony and 200% Suite; Find below Cancellation Policy related to the MSC World Cruise - full itinerary and the relative sell cruises:

Booking Flexibility: Name change permitted; Change departure date: Any change request related to the World Cruise shall be permitted exclusively for another World Cruise and, in such case, will trigger the loss of the non refundable deposit equal to 15% of the price of the Package paid by the passenger.

For general bookings terms & conditions, inclusions, cancellation charges and other information please click here .

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World Cruises

This is CruiseMapper's World Cruise schedule where you can compare itineraries, departure dates, ports, and destinations. For more detailed information on "Around The World" cruise ships - just follow the ship links from the below table. This page is integrated with our Suez Canal cruise ship transits and Transatlantic cruises ( repositioncruises.com ).

Vacationers on cruises around the world are able to experience culture-rich opportunities while sightseeing on multiple continents. Combine exciting land tours with leisurely days at sea. Fulfill your dreams and book a world cruise to explore the globe!

You are not alone in your dream to discover what lies there, beyond the horizon... It has been a part of human nature since immemorial time. It was not until 1922 when the first passenger circumnavigation was made by Cunard Line that adventurous souls could follow Magellan's way around the world.

"Around the World Cruise"

"Around The World" cruises are the perfect voyages for those who want it all. This type of cruise vacations is an opportunity to explore beautiful landscapes, diverse cultures, and wildlife on earth. As they last as long as 110 days, dock at upwards of thirty ports, round the world cruises take guests to the globe's most exciting destinations in comfort and style. Another option for travelers who think it's much time at sea is taking just an itinerary section (one of the smaller segments), so as to explore one region only.

Cruisers who look for stunning landscapes, histories, exotic wildlife, fine beaches, or first-class cuisine are certain to find the ideal destination on round the world itineraries. The main World Voyage attraction is that they allow you to visit far-flung destinations in one package, for example- the Mediterranean & the South Pacific, without the typical travel drawbacks. Go and see exotic locations, and then return to your ship for dinner and entertain yourself. And imagine this goes on and on for so many days... Sounds like perfectly splendid to me!

Around The World voyages itinerary routes

• Australia - Sydney Harbour; tropical Queensland; the Great Barrier Reef;
• the Pacific - Pacific islands; the islands of Fiji, French Polynesia & Hawaii;
• Asia - Vietnam coastline, rich with monuments & temples;
• the Middle East - heading through the Suez Canal at Egypt - Aqaba, Luxor, Muscat. The alternative route- down Africa's east coast with stops at Cape Town or Mombasa;
• West America - the cosmopolitan USA cities; the ports of Mexico, with ruins of ancient Mayan cultures.
• South America - the Brazilian rainforest; the magnificent city of Rio de Janeiro.
• Europe - Athens- the ancient capital, and the architecturally amazing Barcelona.

List of popular cruise ports on Around The World voyages

Round the World voyages usually from some of the world's largest major port cities, such as Southampton , Tilbury-London , NYC New York , Los Angeles , Miami , Fort Lauderdale , Sydney Australia . A lot of cruise vacations run from Singapore or Sydney to Pacific islands, west to Europe, and around the Asian ports, either round Africa (via Cape Town) or through the Suez Canal (transition) . Some of the lines take guests west, down the USA coast through the Panama Canal (transition) , after which- across to Dubai . If you are interested in the subject of the world circumnavigation in general - this is the Wikipedia article about it.

Shorter around the world itineraries (segments) may start in Melbourne Australia , Brisbane Australia , Singapore , Hong Kong China , Cape Town (South Africa) .

Is the World Cruise cost worth it?

There are people who really love the endless lazy days at sea with little to do. For others, the joy of cruising is to be able to visit different new places all around the world in a short time.

What about Around The World cruise ship offers, then? Will you survive after experiencing all the long days at sea (for example, an Australia-Southampton sector lasts 40 days)? If your answer is "not sure", better book two shorter voyages instead- thus you'll have more call ports and more new impressions. Just look carefully at the new-issued itineraries before you book a world cruise.

The atmosphere onboard Round The World cruise ships is very different from Mediterranean or Caribbean cruise vacations, so choose the world cruise line very carefully! Lots of people believe that you have to be old enough and retired to set sail on a Grand Voyage. True, and not so true. There are plenty of still working people onboard who have persuaded employers to give some months off. And all of them are mid-class and above, and most of them are really really really affluent.

Before committing to a World Voyage of three or more months away from home, bear in mind a few things first:

• World Cruises deals present a great chance to see interesting parts of the globe, but better work out the number of sea days included in cruise deals, first. With more ports of call in your itinerary, you will be swept off your feet by the exotic sites and forget to think about the long days at sea in between.
• If you don’t have the money and time for sailing all the way around, better book a segment! Companies have an amazing organization - some passengers get off here, others board there.
• Around-the-world cruises attract older people just because they have the time (and money, of course) to be away for several months. Do you want to show the kids new cultures? Forget about world cruising and book two shorter cruises instead!
• The irony about "Around The World" voyages is that actually they don't sail fully round the world. On the other hand, it is true that these voyages, lasting from more than seventy, and up to 116 nights, offer vacationers the chance to see diverse cultures wrapped into one single voyage. Even those who cannot commit to a full voyage can participate through the popular "segment" option, ranging from a week to more than one month.
• Most "world cruise ships" usually start their Grand Voyages in January and the itineraries end in March-April-May. However, after Australia became a hot ship travel vacation destination in 2015, some of the companies offer roundtrip "World Cruise" deals from Sydney Australia. These itineraries often start in May, and even in July.

World Cruises 2024-2025-2026 ships schedule

Note: In the following table, all links are internal (CruiseMapper) redirecting to the ship’s itinerary schedule where you can compare dates and prices per person (double occupancy rates).

At the following tag-link are listed all CruiseMapper's news related to world voyages .

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Grand World Voyages

There’s no trip in the world like an around the world cruise. Holland America Line Grand Voyages invite passengers to deeply connect with every destination. Guests of these superb world voyages will luxuriate in exceptional cuisine from renowned chefs, an enhanced enrichment program, and exclusive entertainment. Come see why travelers vote these expeditions as the best around-the-world cruises.

Featured Itineraries

2025 Grand World Voyage

Unveil intriguing islands, spectacular cities & jaw-dropping landscapes. Bask in Northern Africa’s majesty & Western Europe’s old-world wonders.

2025 Pole-to-Pole Grand Voyage

Journey from the otherworldly landscapes of Antarctica to the windswept coastline of Norway’s North Cape with 28 countries and 66 ports in between.

2026 Grand World Voyage

Explore all seven continents, no international fights required. Voyage includes 9 overnights in spectacular ports like Bali, Singapore & Lisbon.

2026 Grand Australia Voyage

Embark on a transpacific voyage from San Diego through the wonders of Australia, New Zealand & the South Pacifc. Explore more on 6 overnights including Hobart, Sydney & Auckland.

Now’s the Time to Secure Our Best Offer for a 2026 Grand Voyage

Grand world voyage featured ports.

Benoa (Denpasar), Bali, Indonesia

Puerto Montt, Chile

Alexandria (Cairo), Egypt

Featured shore excursions.

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Around-the-World Cruises: 10 Must-Know Things About These Trips of a Lifetime

Imagine seeing the planet — the entire planet — all in one journey. That’s exactly what an around-the-world cruise can offer.

Forget sailing for a week to the Caribbean. These trips can be gone for weeks, and sometimes months, as they sail from port to port, cross oceans, and explore ports of call that are almost never visited by other cruise ships.

As the popularity of cruising has boomed, so too has interest in these trips. Passengers now have their choice of a surprising amount of sailings across multiple cruise lines.

Of course, more sailings means more choices. You can now take sailings ranging anywhere from a few weeks (for a partial around-the-world journey) all the way to 200-day trips that circumnavigate the globe.

Of course, as you would expect taking one of these cruises, it’s a very different experience than what you’d get from a more traditional cruise. Even if you’d taken lots of sailings across multiple lines, the nature of sailing for such an extended period means that some things are extremely different.

Here are several things you should keep in mind about sailing on a worldwide cruise.

Expect to Be Gone for 100+ Days to Truly Go Around-the-World

If there’s one thing to know about a worldwide cruise, it’s that you should expect to clear your schedule. A full around-the-world trip will take at least 100 days, give or take two weeks. We’ve even found some trips of 200 days. During that trip you’ll make stops in dozens of ports as you trek from continent to continent and ocean to ocean.

Want a shorter trip? Around-the-world trips usually have shorter segments that you can also book. So while the complete cruise might take 110 days to circumnavigate, there could be an 18-day segment or a 45-day segment that you could book during that larger trip.

If you’ve never sailed for longer than a week, these shorter segments might be a good way to “dip your toe in the water” to see if such a cruise is right for you.

Only a Handful of Cruise Lines Offer Around-the-World Cruises

Don’t think that taking an around-the-world cruise is going to be on just any cruise line. Most of the big lines like Carnival and Royal Caribbean don’t offer these cruises. Instead, you’re most likely going to be on smaller, luxury lines like Oceania, Regent, and Crystal Cruises.

One larger line that does offer extended worldwide trips is Princess. If you’re worried about how the experience will be aboard a particular cruise line, Princess offers shorter trips that you can take to get a feel for the experience without committing to going on a full around-the-world cruise.

You’re Going to Visit Smaller Ports

Is stopping in Cozumel or Nassau not really you cup of tea? If not, then you might love taking an extended worldwide trip. While some major ports are visited, many are smaller, out of the way places that aren’t as heavily visited by cruise ships.

For instance, a trip that visits South America will visit Buenos Aires and Rio de Janeiro, but it also Porto Belo, Puerto Madryn, Buzios.

Never heard of these spots? That’s exactly the point. Around-the-world cruises give you the opportunity to explore places where few other travelers visit, giving you a real view of the culture of a region instead of just catering to cruise ships.

Some Cruise Lines Included Lots of Extras

Depending on the cruise line and your specific deal, worldwide cruises often throw in a lot of extras. Of course, these extended trips aren’t cheap but getting freebies can make your cruise a lot more comfortable. It’s also nice not to have to worry about being nickeled and dimed when you’re on a cruise ship for a month or two.

For instance, we found deals on Oceania Cruises that include your choice of free shore excursions, free beverage package, or free onboard credit with your cruise. Their deal also took care of gratuities, onboard medical care, free Internet, and more.

Not every line will have these free, but these sorts of deals are out there.

Be Prepared for Smaller Ships

Many of the headlines about cruising revolve around the newest — and biggest — ships. If you’re used to the mega-ships, know that around-the-world cruises are going to be on smaller vessels. After all, there aren’t near as many people taking 60-day cruises across the Pacific as people taking a week to sail the Caribbean.

For example, Princess Cruises sails the Pacific Princess, which is “only” about 600-feet long and carries about 700 passengers. Oceania’s Insignia, which sails a 200-day cruise, is about the same size.

Now, not every cruise ships that sails worldwide cruises is this size, but in general the ships are much smaller than the new mega-ships that are introduced each year. This will give you a better opportunity to get to know your other passengers as you’ll be spending lots of time with just a few hundred people.

Worldwide Cruises Can Help Handle Visas

If you were traveling on your own to a country requiring a visa, then it’s up to you to figure everything out that you need. On a worldwide cruise, you at least have some help. The cruise line will be knowledgeable on what you need to do to get all squared away before you travel.

That makes it much easier to navigate the complex web of rules and requirements for visiting so many countries on a worldwide trip.

Worldwide Cruises Are A Great Way to See Tons of Different Places (Without Getting Exhausted)

Even if you were to book a land-based tour that lasted the same length of time as an around-the-world cruise, there’s no way that you’d be able to visit the wide variety of places you’ll see when you sail.

The biggest issue with traveling around the world is transportation. Flights, buses, and trains are an exhausting way to get from place to place. But with a ship, you can move from port to port without the same hassles.

While you dine, visit with other passengers, or sleep comfortably in your bed, you’re taken to your next destination. That’s much better than having to try to sleep in an airplane seat as you fly from country to country. It leaves you feeling refreshed as you greet each day with a new port of call.

Worldwide Cruises Are Expensive, But Can Be a Great Value

First things first, don’t think that your around-the-world cruise is going to be light on your pocketbook. An Owner’s Suite on a 200-day trip aboard Oceania Cruises can run upwards of $160,000 — per person — before taxes and fees. Obviously there are cheaper cabins available, as well as less expensive cruise lines.

As a rule of thumb, you can expect to spend at least $10,000 for two people to sail on a cruise that’s at least a month long. Prices can rise dramatically from there depending on cabin type, cruise line, and length of trip.

There’s no denying that the cruises are pricey, but when you compare them to the cost of airline tickets, hotels, food, and more that it would cost you to replicate the trip on your own, it’s actually not that bad of a deal.

In fact, if you want to truly travel the world, it’s likely among the cheapest ways to do so while still being in comfort.

Homesickness Can Be a Real Thing

The good news is that the Internet has made communicating back home easier than ever. Meanwhile, Internet service is available on the ship, as well as in port. That makes it easier than ever to keep in touch back home.

Even so, you should be prepared to have some homesickness when you’re on an extended worldwide cruise. Away for so long means you will inevitably miss some of the people back home. And even if you can keep in touch, don’t forget about the comforts of home. Sometimes you miss your favorite shows, or your neighborhood restaurant, or even the taste of your coffee at home.

Keep this in mind and realize that bringing some creature comforts with you on your cruise can make you feel a little better and not so far from home when you’re on the other side of the world.

You Should Definitely Get Help With Booking

So many things today are done completely online, including buying a cruise. And while you might have booked a shorter cruise completely online, we’d suggest having a travel agent or speaking with a booking agent with the cruise line to get your trip scheduled.

Around-the-world cruises are a much bigger investment of time and money than a traditional trip and there’s a lot that you might have questions about.

The good news is that every cruise line and booking agency will have people that can help guide you through the booking process, tell you more about the trip, and answer any questions you might have. We suggest getting help before you booking to make sure you know what to expect before you book that ticket.

Have more questions about what it’s like to sail around the world on a cruise? Let us know in the comments below.

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A residential around-the-world cruise is delayed again — and waiting buyers won't get free hotels anymore

• Villa Vie's residential cruise ship has been delayed yet again as the company awaits a certificate.
• The ship was initially scheduled to set sail on its never-ending around-the-world cruise in May.
• In the interim, Villa Vie said it will no longer pay for its would-be residents' accommodation.

Villa Vie Residences' highly anticipated residential around-the-world cruise has been delayed yet again from its original May target date, it told waiting customers on Monday.

The company also said it can no longer afford to pay for its would-be residents' accommodations near the ship, which has remained stuck in Belfast, Northern Ireland, for almost four months.

Villa Vie Odyssey has been readying to embark on a never-ending vacation that would circumnavigate the world every 3 ½ years, stopping at 147 countries and 425 destinations along the way — all while providing travelers with the comforts of a traditional cruise.

Dual occupancy cabins start at $120,000, with an additional monthly fee of $1,750 per person.

The highly anticipated vessel was initially scheduled to set sail in May following the company's acquisition of Fred Olsen Cruise Lines' more than 30-year-old Braemar vessel, now renamed Villa Vie Odyssey. However, issues like the aging ship's rudder stocks and certifications have since delayed its departure.

Mikael Petterson, the founder and CEO of Villa Vie, told Business Insider in an email in early September that his "best guess" is that Odyssey would set sail on September 9 or 10, noting that it was still a "moving target if it's either of those days."

But come September 9, instead of embarking on their around-the-world journey, buyers were notified of yet another delay .

The residential ship recently completed its highly anticipated sea trials, a milestone "test drive" for cruise liners. However, in the memo to customers, Petterson told would-be residents that the vessel was still awaiting its Passenger Ship Safety Certificate, which is necessary to set sail.

"We are truly at the end of the tunnel and can finally see the light," he said.

Since May, more than 100 Villa Vie buyers have stayed in the UK in anticipation of the ship's departure. Residents can spend their days on Odyssey but aren't allowed to stay overnight. In the interim, the company had provided shuttles to and from the ship, food, drinks, excursions, and lodging — or a daily per diem for those who "choose to do their own thing."

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That is, until Monday. In the memo, Villa Vie has asked its residents to pay for their own accommodations for the next seven days "or so" until the floating condominium receives full certification.

Since the initial delay, Petterson told BI that Villa Vie had paid almost $2 million for its buyers' hotels. "I wouldn't say it's crushing, but it does compound the stress of still not having launched and still not making revenue," he said.

For some would-be tenants, like Angela and Stephen Theriac , this announcement means they'll have to leave the UK, where they've been since Odyssey's initial departure date in May, to return to the US.

"Seven days is a lot in Belfast," the couple said in a video posted to their YouTube channel, MidLife Cruising . "The prices are a minimum of $200 a night. It's cheaper for us to fly back to the US."

Watch: Inside the world's biggest cruise ship that just set sail

• Main content

'Nothing can prepare you for 9 months': Guests reflect on Royal Caribbean world cruise

• The Ultimate World Cruise, which departed from Miami in December, garnered widespread attention in the weeks following its departure.
• The 274-night cruise visiting more than 60 countries allowed the ship to visit a wide range of destinations.
• The trip didn’t always go as originally planned, either. Royal Caribbean rerouted the vessel earlier this year and there was even a flooding.

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Audrey Martucci had never been on a cruise before booking a nine-month sailing with Royal Caribbean International .

The travel was one appeal, but the 60-year-old had another motivation. Her husband, Joe, had “no intention” of retiring, according to Audrey. “And so when the travel agent contacted us, and he called me, my first thought was, ‘Well, this will mean that you'll retire, so I'll say yes to this cruise,’” she said, laughing.

She and Joe – an avid cruiser – took a few sailings to warm up for the Ultimate World Cruise , which departed from Miami in December. “But nothing can prepare you for nine months,” said Joe, 67.

The Orlando, Florida, couple, who are now both retired, dove into travel. They sold their car, and their nephew moved into their house while they made the Serenade of the Seas ship their home.

The 274-night cruise visiting more than 60 countries garnered widespread attention in the weeks following its departure. Dispatches from passengers went viral on TikTok, amplified by other users recapping the latest developments and subsequent media reports.

Ahead of the sailing’s conclusion on Tuesday, USA TODAY spoke with several guests about what it was like spending nearly a year sailing around the world.

‘This ship was going places that I’d never been’

The length of the cruise allowed the ship to visit a wide range of destinations. That was a big draw even for guests like Joe Martucci, who had traveled extensively for work. “This ship was going places that I’d never been,” he said. Those included Buenos Aires, Argentina – allowing him and Audrey to see the sun rise over Iguazu Falls – and Copacabana Beach in Brazil.

Adita Larson, a guest from Houston, said Antarctica was her favorite destination. “You can't video and you can’t photograph how beautiful it is to stand in front of those icebergs and see them right in front of your eyes so close,” said the 64-year-old.

Royal Caribbean also curated experiences for passengers. Brandee Lake, 47, had been to the Great Wall of China before, but the cruise line offered an exclusive tour of the Badaling section this time around. “So, it was super exciting to have it basically private for our group,” said Lake, who was previously based in Los Angeles. “Like, when does that happen?”

She also seized opportunities to set out on her own. When the ship skipped a stop in Madagascar due to a storm, for example, Lake flew there herself for a brief visit.

But visiting even the most exciting places can take a toll after a while. The ship’s Europe segment that began in July was quite port-heavy, with only a handful of sea days in the first couple of months. Larson said many folks on board complained of being “exhausted.”

“It’s a blur,” she said. “We don’t know where we were yesterday; we don’t know where we’re going tomorrow.”

The Martuccis echoed the sentiment. At one point during the cruise, a friend of theirs stayed behind while their partner took a shore excursion. “And I remember coming back and saying to Joe, ‘You can do that? We don’t have to go?’ ” Audrey recalled. “That was, like, a huge revelation to me.”

At the beginning of the cruise, they said many guests “hated” days without any stops. “Now we’re all like, ‘Oh my god, a sea day. This is so good,’ ” she said.

The trip didn’t always go as originally planned, either. Royal Caribbean rerouted the vessel earlier this year amid continued attacks in the Red Sea, for example. Rather than transiting through the Suez Canal, the ship sailed an alternate path around Africa.

Lake said canceled ports during the voyage served as a “reminder to be flexible.”

“I think if I learned anything, it’s to expect the unexpected,” she said.

The ship also saw flooding in parts of the ship amid rough weather off the coast of South America in January, and the line confirmed the death of a passenger in February.

Story continues below.

‘Just like any other community’

Cruise ships are often described as cities at sea, and the Ultimate World Cruise fostered a neighborly sense of camaraderie, passengers said. 

“I mean, obviously, it’s just like any other community,” said Lake. “You have the people that you are really close to, some of them are acquaintances, maybe some that are not your people, but nothing wrong. It’s just, you have your group that you naturally gel with.”

Outside of roughly 650 Ultimate World Cruise guests, the sailing was also sold in segments, bringing new folks into the mix every couple of months or so. If passengers ever need space, Audrey Martucci said, they can find solace in their cabins. “Or there’s lots of spaces on the ship that you can go and hide,” she said.

And while the Martuccis took pains to prepare themselves for the trip – they even scoped out the ship during one of their practice cruises – spending so much time with one another was a change. “We went from him working full time to all of a sudden, we're in these small quarters together all the time, and we've done it,” she said. “So, anything else is going to be a breeze now.”

“And you haven’t tossed me overboard,” Joe added.

Guests help each other out, too. Larson said there is a group chat on Facebook where passengers can ask for items they need or post things they no longer want to exchange with one another.

Lake advised anyone thinking about taking a world cruise to pack light – a lesson she learned from experience. She brought three large suitcases, a rolling carry-on bag and a backpack. “I pared it down, and it's still just too much,” she said. “It's kind of like your own closet: you really only wear about 10% to 20% of it.”

While she felt she had too many shoes and rarely wore her accessories, other items like cubbies for the closet came in handy.

Still, the logistics of managing life can be more complex on a ship. Larson pointed to her condominium, which suffered minor damage during Hurricane Beryl . “So not being there to deal with things like that,” she said. “Of course, we could have gone home, but it wasn't that huge of an emergency.” She found other tasks, like paying bills, easy to keep up with online.

The Martuccis even managed to buy a car remotely, so they’ll have one when the cruise ends, and a home in Audrey’s native Scotland, where they plan to spend summers. “We’ve been able to function,” said Joe.

As for whether they got tired of the food, Joe said, “It's just like at home, you open your refrigerator and go, ‘That's all we have,’ and you decide to go out instead of eating (at home). You kind of get that feeling sometimes.” But he emphasized that compared to the earlier cruise they took on Serenade of the Seas, the culinary team “upped their game” for the nine-month sailing.

What is a world cruise?: It's not a 'shoot-from-the-hip decision'

Going viral

The attention the cruise received online caught passengers like the Martuccis off guard. They originally planned to share videos with their kids, who suggested they post on TikTok . Their follower count jumped from “almost none” to nearly 100,000 within a week, according to Joe.

“We fell into it, and we got caught up in this daily video,” Audrey said. “But it’s been great.”

Lake, who has been chronicling her trip online as well, echoed that, calling the experience a “surprise.” She and the Martuccis both noted they had been recognized by strangers on board.

Larson didn’t have a TikTok account when she boarded the ship, but she’s had fun sharing videos from the trip. She hopes to continue doing so back on land, “especially after we get home, the adjustment after nine months of being away from home, and sleeping on a bed that's not rocking anymore.”

Nine months at sea hasn’t soured them on travel. Larson has nearly 30 cruises booked, the first of which takes place in October. Lake, who gave up her apartment and a job in advertising and marketing to travel full-time, plans to start a new profession, organizing group trips.

The Martuccis also have many travel plans, including a family cruise on Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas in January. “We're not going to let the grass grow under our feet,” said Joe.

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

The Key Points at the top of this article were created with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and reviewed by a journalist before publication. No other parts of the article were generated using AI. Learn more .

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Breaking news, ultimate world cruise has finally ended, and passengers are ‘exhausted’: ‘nothing can prepare you for 9 months’.

Sea ya later!

Royal Caribbean’s nine-month Ultimate World Cruise that quickly went viral is finally coming back to port after what was the adventure of a lifetime for some 650-some travelers who paid between  $59,999 to $117,599 .

“Nothing can prepare you for nine months,” Joe Martucci, 67, told USA Today of the grand voyage to 60 countries that hopped across South America, Antarctica, China, Madagascar and many more far-flung destinations. The extended excursion was set to end on Tuesday.

“It’s always been a dream of my family to travel the world,” 26-year-old South African cruise passenger Amike Oosthuizen  previously told  The Sun.

Even dreams can be tiring, though. Houston voyager Adita Larson described the time at sea as “exhausting.”

Other travelers, like 47-year-old Brandee Lake, said there weren’t too many lulls in the water. She described the three-quarters of a year as rapidly moving.

“It’s a blur,” Lake told USA Today. “We don’t know where we were yesterday; we don’t know where we’re going tomorrow.”

Packing-wise, she even said her three large suitcases plus carryons were too much.

“I pared it down, and it’s still just too much,” Lake said. “It’s kind of like your own closet: you really only wear about 10% to 20% of it.”

Martiucci added that it quickly felt like home as well, and he could even do major tasks like buying a car remotely for use afterward.

“We’ve been able to function,” he said.

The cruise, which departed Miami last December, became a major hit on TikTok as couples like Joe and Audrey Martiucci documented their day-to-day life on board. The couple became a worldwide sensation under their account Spendingourkidsmoney .

@spendingourkidsmoney #drakepassagetok #drakepassageslide #royalcaribbean #cruising #explore #WorldCruise #UWC #Serenadeoftheseas #cruise #cruisedad #UltimateWorldCruise #traveltiktok #travel #cruisemum #9monthcruise #cruisemom ♬ original sound – Cruisemum&dad

“We had people messaging us to say, ‘Thank you so much for taking me along on this journey,’” Audrey told CNN , recalling that fans greeted them during a stop in Halifax, Canada.

Even those who kept up with the happenings from dry land amassed their own TikTok following , like Beth Anne Fletcher of the United Kingdom.

“If you’re interested in travel and you’re also interested in psychology and people, what more could you want?” she told CNN, mentioning that folks on the cruise went out of their way to meet her while in Southampton, England.

@livingmy_bethlife The FINAL DAY of the Nine Month Ultimate World Cruise is HERE!! I’m not ok and yes I did cry my eyes out making this recap for you. But I just want to say Thank you so much to all of you who have followed along, to the new friends that I have made and for the most incredible experience a girl could ever have on social media. NOW WHAT??? Also forgive me if I haven’t tagged everyone 🫣 #ultimateworldcruise #ninemonthcruise #cruisetok #royalcaribbean #shiphappens @Royal Caribbean @brooklyntravelstheworld @madisonworldtraveler @Anthony Antoine @Cruisemum&dad @Brandee Lake @Shannon Marie @Bobbi @Angie @Little Rat Brain @Andrew & Ale Kenney @Singing Sailor @Gigi @PMSN @Traveltheworld.withus @the.ultimate.world.cruiser @drjennytravels @✨ND✨ @FrugalVagabond @Adita @PoutineMeetsSushi @Renee @amikeoosthuizen @atseawithashleigh @Marc Sebastian @Christian Hull @Chrissy50andcranky @Nadine Bower @Lindsay @Lauren ♬ Outro by m83 – 𝙡𝙤𝙡𝙖

“It was such a surreal day because we have been talking about these people for this long, and then to actually spend time with them, it was like being with old friends,” Fletcher said.

Lake agreed that making friends was a bit of a natural process, too. “I mean, obviously, it’s just like any other community,” she said.

“You have the people that you are really close to, some of them are acquaintances, maybe some that are not your people, but nothing wrong. It’s just, you have your group that you naturally gel with.”

Even if things weren’t so hunky-dory and people wanted alone time, “there’s lots of spaces on the ship that you can go and hide,” Audrey Martucci told CNN. Plus, a person’s cabin always got the job done.

The trial cruise — which endured some hardships and hijinks from Hurricane Beryl, a passenger death, rumors of swinging couples and rerouting due to military fighting in the Red Sea — was enough of a hit for Royal Caribbean to announce a new journey, according to RoyalCarribeanBlog.org .

Not only that, but they are preparing for a reunion cruise next summer in Alaska on the same vessel from the global voyage, the Serenade of the Seas.

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9-Month World Cruise Ends Today as Passengers Admit They're 'Exhausted' and Grateful for ‘Beautiful’ Voyage

Royal Caribbean’s Ultimate World Cruise officially ended on Tuesday, Sept. 10 after it sailed for 274 nights and visited more than 65 countries

Natalia Senanayake is an Editorial Assistant, Lifestyle at PEOPLE. She covers all things travel and home, from celebrities' luxury mansions to breaking travel news.

Ultimate World Cruise passengers are officially saying goodbye to the Serenade of the Seas after an epic nine-month journey.

For almost a year, the cruise’s famous passengers have documented the highs and lows of the lengthy sailing, from the moment it departed from Miami on Dec. 10, 2023. Nine months later, the passengers are finally back on solid land Tuesday, September 10, and having mixed feelings.

Some revealed to USA Today that they were “exhausted” at certain points of the voyage, but are still grateful for the experience. The sailing consisted of four legs, stopped in over 65 countries and made its way to all seven continents, so it’s understandable that some cruisers felt drained during the long trip.

“It’s a blur,” one of the ship's Tiktok famous passengers, Adita Larson , said of the journey, especially the cruise’s Europe leg. “We don’t know where we were yesterday; we don’t know where we’re going tomorrow," she added.

Some cruisers recall their friends being so wiped out from all the ports of call that they decided to sit out certain shore excursions and rest on the ship. Others recalled changing their minds about the once-dreaded "sea days" and instead looking forward to a relaxing day on the open ocean. 

Jeff Greenberg/Universal Images Group via Getty

Despite the 274-night adventure tiring cruisers like Larson out, it brought them to destinations that were absolutely “beautiful,”  she notes — especially the icebergs in Antarctica. 

“You can't video and you can’t photograph how beautiful it is to stand in front of those icebergs and see them right in front of your eyes so close,” she told the outlet.

She also noted the sense of community that formed among passengers, as there were about 650 longterm Ultimate World Cruisers in addition to new passengers coming in and out with every leg.

The social media-savvy cruiser says she plans to continue documenting her life, “especially after we get home, the adjustment after nine months of being away from home, and sleeping on a bed that's not rocking anymore."

Royal Caribbean

While Royal Caribbean gave travelers a once-in-a-lifetime experience, the cruise line did face some unexpected challenges regarding itinerary changes due to political unrest and unsafe conditions in some regions, and when they confirmed the death of a passenger in February. 

Never miss a story — sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from juicy celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. 

In January, cruiser Brandee Lake opened up about the updates that were made to the original voyage .

"The itinerary has changed a bit a couple of times. Because when we first signed up, Russia and Ukraine were on it," Lake told PEOPLE at the time. " Israel was also on [the itinerary], and now it's not."

Courtesy Brandee Lake

Royal Caribbean confirmed to PEOPLE in January that it was going to cancel the original itinerary through the Red Sea and Suez Canal in May to keep its passengers and crew members safe. Cruisers ended up voting on a more “scenic route” that would navigate around Africa and add many new ports of call.

Passengers began preparing to re-enter land-lover life last week.

Another famous passenger, Dr. Jenny, who goes by drjennytravels on TikTok, has been documenting the ups and down of the entire journey. Last week, as she counted down the final days, she opened up about how “bizarre” it is to see the voyage come to an end.

Dr Jenny Travels/TikTok

“Look at this,” she said in a  TikTok  shared on Tuesday, Sept. 3. Pointing to a sign on a cabin door, she continues, “Seven days left. This is in my hall for the World Cruise and as you can see — look at all the luggage out here.”

“This is just bizarre. We have watched people put their luggage out here as they’ve come and gone, but now this is us. This is World Cruisers,” she says of the last people on board, adding that it was a “sad day" for her.

According to various Tiktokers, rumors of a second world cruise are already swirling on board, but Royal Caribbean has not yet made any announcements about another voyage.

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Woman who's done entire journey on world's longest cruise shares how much it cost

Amike has been travelling on the seven continent cruise for a whopping nine months.

Lucy Devine

A woman who set sail on the world's longest cruise ship has revealed how much it cost her.

Most people head on cruise holidays for a couple of weeks at the most, but one woman has actually been travelling for 274 days, across seven continents .

Content creator Amike Oosthuizen is onboard Royal Caribbean's Ultimate World Cruise, and she's one of the 2,000 people who have committed to travelling the world for a whopping nine months.

Argentina, Brazil, Miami, the Bahamas and even Antarctica are just some of the cruise's stop-off points as it promises to visit every corner of the globe.

“It’s always been a dream of my family to travel the world ,” the 26-year-old, from Cape Town, South Africa, told The Sun.

“And my dad saw an article all the way back in 2020, advertising the cruise, and wanted to do it with us, knowing he’d have retired by now.

“We were all obviously very excited but we didn't think it would ever happen.”

With such a mammoth journey, many people are wondering how much the cruise has set Amike back financially . And as you can imagine, it was a lot.

We're talking tens of thousands of pounds and the equivalent of a hefty house deposit.

Even though the trip of a lifetime will sound like a dream to so many, it will set you back a whopping £55,200.

But we imagine it's pretty spectacular, if you have the cash.

“I know it's super-expensive coming on the trip," Amike added. "But I think, back home , you would have paid a lot to live this standard of life, eating like you eat here and drinking takeaway coffee and cocktails each day, and then obviously travelling as well."

“There is so much food , and the food is really good. There's waffles and pancakes and all the good stuff here.

“I have a good balance - if I really crave it I'll have it, but I try not to over eat because back home I would've never eaten even three meals a day, and as much food as here, because I was really busy with work and here there's just food all the time."

With the cruise coming to an end today (10 September), Amike has shared a tour of the room she's been living in for the last nine months.

"I can't believe I'm here making this video, the ultimate world cruise is finished in just two days," she said. "Today, we pack up a room and it is so sad... it has been such an amazing journey."

In the clip, Amike shared a tour of their room, revealing how they dried their washing and how many suitcases they took on the trip.

Royal Caribbean call the cruise a 'hemisphere hopping expedition of a lifetime' exploring sites including Machu Picchu in Peru, the Great Wall of China, the Colosseum in Rome, The Taj Mahal in India and the Great Barrier Reef in Australia.

If you don't fancy doing a full 274 days, you can also choose one of four 'segments of the world' each consisting of a 60-night sailing.

You can find out more about Royal Caribbean's Ultimate World Cruise here .

Topics:  Travel , Cruise Ship , World News

• Cruise passengers who spent £75,000 on world cruise that still hasn't left port break down £3,500 a month cost
• Woman who lives on cruise for free shares the four things she can’t do while on ship
• Woman half way into world's longest cruise shares the worst thing onboard the ship
• True cost of world’s longest cruise that lasts for nine months straight and what it gets you

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