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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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11 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 ocean-going devotees. As a bonus, most of these around-the-world voyages include enviable perks, like pre-cruise 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.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

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 11 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 may 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 2025 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 bigger ship lines 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" may 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 2025 on a world cruise.

World Voyage

Thanks to an overwhelming response to its 2024 world cruise (which is currently waitlisted), Azamara announced itineraries for both 2025 and 2026, both 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 2025, the 155-night, 37-country voyage begins in San Diego and ends in Southampton, England, with visits to exciting locales in French Polynesia, New Zealand, Indonesia, Italy, France and others.

Along the way, world cruisers can sample authentic Hawaiian cuisine; explore the unspoiled beaches and the lush rainforest on Stewart Island, New Zealand; and visit the world's largest Buddhist temple in Indonesia.

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

The 2026 world cruise sets sail from Miami and concludes in Barcelona. The itinerary for this 155-night expedition features some of the world's most iconic landmarks and sites.

Cruisers will have the opportunity to explore the great pyramid of Kukulcan and other ancient Mayan sites in Chichen Itza, Mexico; wander among Rio de Janeiro's architectural gems and experience the awe of Iguazu Falls in Brazil; sample Peruvian cuisine and soak in the landscape of Machu Picchu in Cusco; scale the Great Wall of China; and enjoy other bucket-list worthy adventures.

The 2025 world cruise departs Jan. 6, 2025. Prices start from $89,001 per person.

The 2026 world cruise departs Jan. 6, 2026. Prices start from $85,141 per person.

World Cruise

If luxury and unparalleled personal service are important to you, consider Crystal 's 2025 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 newly 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 Fort Lauderdale and concluding in Barcelona, the sailing spans 123 nights with visits to 31 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 Belize, Honduras, Argentina, Chile, South Africa, the Seychelles, Sri Lanka, Egypt and Jordan. Passengers can get a close-up look at Argentine tango through performances, 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. 7, 2025. Prices start from $66,200 per person.

Cunard Line

Be among the first to explore the world aboard Queen Anne, the line's first new ship in 12 years. Scheduled to launch in May 2024, the 2,996-passenger ship will take over Cunard 's world cruise duties in January 2025.

Queen Anne's maiden World Voyage in 2025 will span 111 nights, beginning and ending in Hamburg, Germany. Along the way, guests can explore historic churches in the Old Town of Lubeck, Germany, a UNESCO World Heritage site; visit the historic city of Antigua, Guatemala's original capital; and indulge in retail therapy in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia's bustling shopping hub.

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 will act as a showpiece and also a functional structure to keep poolgoers dry on rainy days.

If you're seeking the most luxurious accommodations and exclusive experiences on board, book Princess 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.

Departs Jan. 7, 2025. Prices start from $17,799 per person.

Holland America

Grand World Voyage

Holland America 's 124-day Grand World Voyage on the 1,964-passenger Zuiderdam 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 Kobe, Japan; Hong Kong and Shanghai, China; and Singapore. As a bonus, Zuiderdam will take guests to incredibly remote locales, such as the Amazon.

On board, relish music venues like Billboard Onboard and 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, 2025. Prices start from $24,999 per person.

Related: A beginners guide to picking a cruise line

MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises is doing something a little different with its 2025 world cruise. It's offering a choice of four embarkation ports — Rome and Genoa in Italy; Marseille, France; and Barcelona. Passengers will return to the same port they left from.

The 2,550-passenger MSC Magnifica is the home base for the 116-night journey. The itinerary features port calls at 50 destinations across 21 countries in the Mediterranean, South America, the South Pacific, Australia and Asia. Among the cities you'll explore are Puerto Madryn, Argentina; Rio de Janeiro; Casablanca, Morocco; Colombo, Sri Lanka; Phuket, Thailand; Broome, Australia; and Auckland.

Spend your port days ogling at Genoa's majestic Metropolitan Cathedral of Saint Lawrence and Doge's Palace; exploring the peaceful mountaintop monastery in Montserrat, Spain; and wandering through the restored ceremonial village of Orongo, Rapa Nui (Easter Island), a World Heritage Site.

Departs Jan. 4, 5, 6 and 7, 2025 (depending on your embarkation port). Prices start from $14,469 per person.

Oceania Cruises

Around the World Cruise

The lovely 656-passenger Insignia sails a whopping 200 days from Miami to New York for Oceania Cruises ' 2025 world cruise. It might seem a long way away, but inside cabins and some suites are already waitlisted for the sailing.

Prepare to tear up any bucket list on a cruise this long. The ship begins in the balmy Caribbean islands, ventures to the Brazilian Amazon, explores more of South America and then heads off to Africa and Asia. Australia and New Zealand, Hawaii and Latin America round out the itinerary before Insignia circles back to the Caribbean (different ports on this end) and sails triumphantly back to Miami.

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

Departs Jan. 5, 2025. Prices start from $54,099 per person.

Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises promises an unforgettable journey on its 116-day world cruise sailing from Fort Lauderdale (or Los Angeles, as an alternative embarkation port) on the 2,200-passenger Island Princess.

This ship delivers many onboard activities like cooking and dance classes, trivia contests, enrichment programs and games of basketball, volleyball and tennis on the sports court. A putting green ensures golf games stay sharp.

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

World cruisers can visit 26 countries with 51 destinations across six continents; the exciting port of call include Lisbon; Bali; Naples, Italy; Milan; and Haifa, Israel. With late-night stays in 11 ports of call and a Dubai overnight, you can relish multiple opportunities to wine, dine and enjoy the nightlife ashore.

For 2025, Princess offers two 116-day world cruise itinerary options on Island Princess, one round-trip from Fort Lauderdale and the other round-trip from Los Angeles.

From Fort Lauderdale: Departs Jan. 5, 2025. Prices start from $16,225 per person.

From Los Angeles: Departs Jan. 20, 2025. Prices start from $16,298 per person.

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.

Availability is limited on the 2025 150-night world cruise on the 700-passenger Seven Seas Mariner, sailing round-trip from Miami to San Francisco. This itinerary includes cruising in Antarctica, the Chilean fjords, French Polynesia, Taipei and Bali.

Perhaps because its 2025 sailing is nearly sold out, Regent Seven Seas Cruises is one of the first cruise lines to announce its 2026 world voyage, also on Seven Seas Mariner.

This journey will be the line's longest, sailing for 154 nights and visiting 77 ports in 41 countries across six continents. The itinerary includes three new ports of call for Regent, including Lifou Island and Mare of the Loyalty Islands in the New Caledonia archipelago. 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.

The 2025 world cruise departs Jan. 7, 2025. Prices start from $87,999 per person.

The 2026 world cruise departs Jan. 10, 2026. Prices start from $94,999 per person.

Related: The 9 best luxury cruise lines for elegance and exclusivity

Grand Africa Voyage

Wander the majestic Grandmaster's Palace in Malta. Snorkel the pristine waters along the Sinai Peninsula in Egypt. Ogle the tropical beauty of the 115-island archipelago of the Seychelles. Soak up the beauty of Cape Town from atop Table Mountain.

You'll find many pinch-me moments on Seabourn 's 90-day, 26-country Grand Africa cruise in late 2024 and early 2025. It takes place onboard the 450-passenger all-suite Seabourn Sojourn and sails round-trip from Barcelona. (The line is not currently offering a more traditional world cruise in 2025.)

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 Nov. 30, 2024. Prices start from $38,999 per person.

Related: 7 extremely decadent things you can do on a luxury cruise vacation

Silversea Cruises

Controtempo

Silversea Cruises ' 2025 world cruise aboard the ultraluxurious, 596-passenger Silver Dawn looks amazing. The around-the-world cruise is designed to visit far-flung and more remote ports, often out of season, to avoid the touristy crowds.

This 136-day voyage sails from Tokyo to New York and explores 59 ports in 30 countries. Count on visiting enchanting cities, including Istanbul, Naples and Stockholm. Wonderfully remote ports, like Cochin, India; Jeddah, Saudi Arabia; and Nuuk, Greenland, tempt travelers to come aboard for the long haul.

Silversea's world cruises are known for showcasing exceptional special-access events, and this sailing is no different. On this cruise, applause goes to a private tour of Cairo's 500-room Abdeen Palace and an inimitable evening at Versailles in lavish Marie Antoinette style (pre-guillotine, of course).

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. 13, 2025. Prices start from $81,900 per person.

Viking World Voyage II

Imagine the joy of ticking many bucket list boxes on Viking World Voyage II, Viking 's 163-day world cruise on board the 930-passenger Viking Sky in 2025. Book quickly; availability is extremely limited, with many suites and penthouses already sold out.

The Los Angeles-to-New York voyage visits 29 countries and 78 ports.

Palm-tree ports are plentiful, including Moorea, French Polynesia; Bay of Islands, New Zealand; and Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. You'll cross many seas, such as the Tasman, Arafura and Arabian, 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. You can pretty much do it all on this world cruise.

Departs Jan. 5, 2025. Prices start from $74,995 per person.

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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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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.

World Cruises

There is no better way to see the world than on a silversea world cruise.

The world has so much to offer, and so do we. A Silversea World Cruise is the occasion to see our wonderful planet in ultra-luxury . Experience diverse cultures, enjoy unique gastronomy, see iconic sights - each one of our Luxury World Cruises is a singular story that we invite you to join. Sail with us and discover remote and remarkable destinations across all seven seas . See why we have been crowned "Best World Cruise" on multiple occasions. From impeccable service to superb gastronomy and luxurious suites to small ship intimacy , our World Cruises put the excel into excellent. Not forgetting extraordinary events designed to emphasise the beauty of the places you visit, and you have the journey of a lifetime. The world awaits.

The Curious and the Sea - World Cruise 2026

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Experience silversea's world cruise 2026.

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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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Visit 33 Countries and 96 Ports on This 180-day Around the World Cruise Sailing in 2023

Want to see the world in luxury? Here's you chance.

Spending half the year sailing around the world sounds like the dream life, and one cruise company can make it happen in 2023.

Oceania Cruises has just announced its 2023 Around the World in 180 Days voyage is officially open for booking.

The voyage departs from San Francisco on Jan. 15, 2023 and takes travelers on a whirlwind, around-the-world tour of 96 destinations within 33 countries, spread across four continents. In addition to spending nearly six months on a luxury cruise ship and experiencing many fascinating places, guests will also be able to access over 60 UNESCO World Heritage sites.

"We now know how irreplaceable these experiences are and cherish the privilege of travel more than ever," stated Bob Binder, President and Chief Executive Officer of Oceania Cruises, in a statement. "Travel connects us through shared experiences, creates lifelong bonds, and enriches us in ways we never would have imagined. That was the mindset that guided us in crafting this epic around the world voyage for our guests."

Destinations span across South America, Asia, Africa, and North America, as well as opportunities to see Antarctica while cruising Admiralty Bay, Paradise Bay, and Half Moon Island for three full days during the voyage. Over 20 ports-of-call include multi-day stays where guests can enjoy many on-shore excursions as well as five exclusive on-shore events: the Argentinian Cultural Exposition in Buenos Aires; an afternoon at the Boschendal Winery in Cape Town; an evening at Al Maha Desert Dune in the Arabian Desert outside of Dubai where guests take part in the ultimate Bedouin experience featuring tribal music, dance, and falcon show; a Burmese Monk Donation Ceremony in Yangon, Myanmar; and an evening at Vung Duc Cave in the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ha Long Bay outside of Hanoi.

All guests on the voyage will receive their choice of the following options: 64 free shore excursions, a free beverage package, or a $6,400 shipboard credit. In addition, all guests will receive free first-class roundtrip airfare in North America, pre-paid gratuities, onboard medical care, unlimited internet, laundry services, visa package, luggage delivery for guests from the U.S. and Canada, a 1-night pre-cruise luxury hotel stay in the port of embarkation, roundtrip transfers for all guests and for residents within 50 miles from the cruise departure port

Travelers also have the ability to extend their voyage up to a total of 218 days, embarking from San Francisco and Miami and disembarking at either San Francisco, New York, or Miami. Some of these longer voyages begin on Dec. 28, 2022. Fares begin at $41,599 per guest.

For more information on the 2023 Around The World Voyage, visit the Oceania Cruises website .

Andrea Romano is a freelance writer in New York City. Follow her on Twitter @theandrearomano.

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These expansive staterooms include include two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed—our Signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, premium massage shower heads, a host of amenities and an ocean view.

Filled with light from floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a private verandah, these staterooms include a sitting area, two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed—our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, and bath tub with premium massage showerheads.

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These large, comfortable suites feature a spacious sitting area with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a private verandah, two lower beds convertible to one queen-size bed—our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses, and one murphy bed for one person. The bathroom includes a dual-sink vanity, full-size whirlpool bath and shower, and an additional shower stall.

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With floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a private verandah, these spacious suites are flooded with light. They feature a large sitting area and two lower beds convertible to one king-size bed—our signature Mariner's Dream™ bed with plush Euro-Top mattresses. The bathroom comes with a dual-sink vanity, full-size whirlpool bath and shower, plus additional shower stall. Amenities include use of the exclusive Neptune Lounge, a private concierge and an array of complimentary services.

Your Ship: Zuiderdam

Classic nautical finishes, modern amenities and a spectacular art collection make Zuiderdam a continued favorite and the new home for our annual Grand World Voyage. Numerous enrichment and entertainment activities keep guests going from the moment they wake on this cruise ship. When it comes to dining, there are options for everyone, from steak at the Pinnacle Grill to burgers and fries at Dive-In to exquisite Italian cuisine at Canaletto. Hear your favorite tunes all evening long at music clubs, such as the Rolling Stone Lounge and Billboard Onboard.

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Pinnacle Grill

The ultimate steakhouse at sea, with an exceptional menu of Prime steaks, seafood and wine.

Pinnacle Grill is the ultimate steakhouse at sea, where an exceptional menu and impeccable service make for one of finest meals you’ll ever have. The refined menu features a selection of 28-day wet-aged USDA Prime steaks — meticulously chosen to guarantee the finest quality — as well as classic steakhouse dishes and innovative recipes from James Beard Award-winning chef and Culinary Council® member, David Burke. Every dish is exquisitely prepared, beautifully plated and complemented by a vast collection of award-winning wines. Here, your meal is an event unto itself, a celebration of fine dining and a triumph of flavor.

*Meals at Pinnacle Grill are half price for kids 12 years old or under, or free when they order from the kids’ menu.

Canaletto is a relaxed setting with authentic Italian cuisine that is best enjoyed when shared.

In Italy, there’s nothing more important than coming together to celebrate the joy of great food. This is the inspiration for our onboard Italian restaurant, Canaletto. Enjoy amazing Italian classics like braised chicken cacciatore al forno, branzino ai ferri or garlic shrimp ravioli. And for dessert: tiramisù, cannoli alla Siciliana, gelato, and more. Including pasta made fresh daily. Buon Appetito!

Meals at Canaletto are half price for kids 12 years old or under, or free when they order from the kids’ menu.

Lido Market

A casual, modern marketplace, Lido Market offers the widest range of food options on board for breakfast, lunch, dinner and a late-night snack.

Explore a world of intriguing culinary possibilities in the Lido Market. Steps from the Lido pool, this modern marketplace includes a curated selection of delicious options that you can grab on the go or have made to order: Breadboard, with freshly baked breads and pastries; Wild Harvest, offering a bountiful selection of hearty salads; Homestead, serving up comfort classics; Distant Lands, featuring global cuisine; Sweet Spot, for ice cream creations and desserts; Roasting Pan, hand-carved meats, fish and other hearty entrees; Perk, freshly brewed beverages and chilled juices; Quench, premium coffee, beer, wine, and soda available for purchase; Rise, savory quiches, croissants and sandwiches, and more.

This casual poolside grill serves up the best burgers at sea, Nathan’s Famous gourmet hot dogs, golden French fries and more.

Dive-In offers a variety of casual culinary classics, using the highest quality ingredients. Enjoy a burger, grilled to perfection and served on a toasted brioche with our own trade-marked secret sauce. Savor a succulent Nathan’s Famous gourmet hot dog with golden French fries. Or choose a grilled chicken breast sandwich or juicy portabella mushroom stack. Dive-In is the perfect spot to dine poolside on the best burgers at sea.

24-Hour Room Service

Enjoy breakfast in bed or an early dinner on your verandah — entrées and more are available whenever you wish.

Sleep in and have breakfast delivered. Enjoy an early dinner on your verandah before an evening excursion. Order a salad, sandwich or entrée any time. Room Service is only a phone call away. All selections are included in your cruise fare unless otherwise noted on the in-room menu.

Explorations Cafe

Our relaxing café with panoramic views is your home for handcrafted espresso drinks during the day and refreshing cocktails in the evening.

At Explorations Café, sink into plush chairs and sofas in a comfortable environment. Sip elegantly prepared espresso drinks and nosh on fresh pastries from the coffee bar. You can also take in fantastic views, catch up on your favorite book or browse the web. 

The Dining Room

Our flagship dining experience is a welcoming and sophisticated setting for an exquisite breakfast, lunch or superb multicourse dinner.

For an elegant breakfast, leisurely lunch or unforgettable multi-course dinner, The Dining Room is your destination. For dinner, choose from classics such as Boneless Lamb Loin en Croute, Rosemary Roasted Chicken, as well as regionally inspired cuisine and artfully prepared vegetarian dishes. 

Crow's Nest

BARS AND LOUNGES

Enjoy cocktails and sunsets in this lounge, featuring panoramic views.

Holland America Line offers you a wide selection of lounges onboard. The panoramic view takes center stage in The Crow's Nest at the top of the ship, where you can relax just about any time of day and enjoy your favorite drink.

Explorer's Lounge

Elegant and refined, stop by for a glass of wine or your favorite cocktail.

The Explorer’s Lounge is an elegant and refined space to enjoy a glass of wine, a cocktail, or your favorite liqueur.

Enjoy cocktails and ocean views while listening to live music.

Holland America Line offers you a wide selection of lounges. This popular bar is at the top of the atrium and is the perfect locale for cocktails and dancing.

Gallery Bar

In this art-themed bar, order your favorite cocktail or try one from our signature cocktail menu.

This sophisticated venue is adorned with an eclectic and whimsical mix of artwork including portraits, landscapes, still life and abstract pieces. Order your favorite cocktail or try one from our signature cocktail menu.

Billboard Onboard

ENTERTAINMENT

Sing along, test your music trivia knowledge, or sit back and enjoy as chart-topping hits fill the room each night.

2 pianos - 60 Years of Chart Toppers - 100s Of Songs.  Sing along, test your music trivia skills or just sit back and enjoy as the hits fill the room each night.

World Stage

World Stage features innovative cruise ship shows and a two-story LED screen that creates a vivid wraparound display.

World Stage, the largest theater on board is home to a variety of performances day and night. Our exclusive EXC® Talk lecture series features captivating regional stories told by local experts and narrated by your Cruise & Travel Director. In the evenings, Step One Dance Company, vocal sensation Cantaré, BBC Earth in Concert and more take the stage.  Koningsdam, Nieuw Statendam  and  Rotterdam  bring the World Stage experience to the next level by surrounding you in spectacular sight and sound with a two-story, panoramic LED screen.

Rolling Stone Lounge

Our 7-piece band brings you the best in rock, pop, country and more.

Dance to your favorite songs with one of the best bands at sea. From rock and pop to country and beyond, we provide the perfect playlist live, each and every cruise.

Onboard Shopping

Enjoy a wide variety of duty-free shopping onboard.

Enjoy a wide variety of duty-free shopping in such signature shops as The Vault, Diamonds and Gemstones by Merabella, which offers the best diamonds at sea, brought to you by Effy.

Fitness Center

Take a class in our professionally staffed Fitness Center.

Stop by the professionally staffed Fitness Center equipped with the latest cardio and weight machines. Try one of our classes on indoor cycling, Pilates and more or work out at your own pace. You can also head out for fresh air and exercise on deck, where you'll find basketball and volleyball courts, and two refreshing pools (available on select ships). Some classes may have a nominal fee.

Holland America Line Navigator

Personalize your cruise experience with our free mobile-friendly tool.

Personalize your cruise experience once you’re on the ship with our free mobile-friendly tool. Plan your daily activities, browse and purchase shore excursions, view restaurant menus, make dining reservations, check your account balance and more. 

Casino Action

The Casino offers games for all levels.

Your Holland America Line ship’s Casino offers a wide array of gaming options. Whether you prefer slot machines or want to try your hand at blackjack or poker, our dealers and staff are available to provide complimentary instruction — and we offer many engaging tournament options. The Casino is only open at sea.

Pickleball at Sea

Enjoy complimentary lessons, tournaments, and courts with amazing top-deck views.

Play the fastest-growing sport in the U.S. with Holland America Line, the exclusive cruise line partner of the Professional Pickleball Association. All our cruise ships feature pickleball courts with amazing top-deck views. The equipment and courts are available for a match anytime, so long as the weather allows. Frequent pickler? Join a pickleball tournament at sea and put your dink shot to the test. Hesitant amateur? Learn the basics at complimentary beginner’s lessons, starting in spring 2023. Commemorative starter kits will soon be available in our retail shops — purchase as gifts for avid players or as souvenirs, so that you can always look back on your pickleball cruise memories.

Kids ages 3 to 17 can enjoy an array of activities. Registration required for children under 13.

Holland America Line's youth activities program, Kids Club, offers an array of entertaining events for kids and teens ages 3-17, supervised by a full-time, professionally trained staff. They'll have an opportunity to join other kids their age for arts and crafts, sports, video game competitions, scavenger hunts, challenging team games and themed parties. Note: Kids Club is not offered on cruises of 25-days or longer, including all Legendary and Grand Voyages. We will offer a selection of children’s activities throughout these longer voyages for any children who may be onboard.

124-DAY GRAND WORLD VOYAGE

Recently viewed.

This Three-Year Cruise Visits 148 Countries on All Seven Continents

By Rachel Chang

Sailing around the world in 80 days may be legendary, but sailing around the world in 1,001 days is now a reality. This fall, Life at Sea Cruises ’ inaugural three-year cruise aboard the MV Lara will hit the high seas, taking passengers to 382 ports in 148 countries on all seven continents, all on one epic itinerary.

“The demand for long-term extended cruises has been growing in popularity in recent years,” Life at Sea Cruises CEO Kendra Holmes says. “This, coupled with more people able to work remotely and the increased cost of home ownership and renting showcased an opportunity to offer travelers the chance to embark on an adventure—except, in our case, the vacation doesn't have to end.”

Mixing work and play in this innovative way isn’t just efficient, it also cuts down on the hassle of constantly planning travel to dream destinations one at a time. After all, the 130,000-mile mega itinerary checks off major bucket list sites, including the Great Wall of China, Pyramids at Giza, Rome’s Colosseum, Petra in Jordan, Machu Picchu in Peru, India’s Taj Mahal, Rio de Janeiro’s Christ the Redeemer, and Ecuador's Galapagos Islands . Also on the docket: Yosemite National Park , Victoria Island, and Glacier Bay in North America; Wat Arun Temple, Ha Long Bay, and Pink Beach in Asia; and Ireland’s Giant’s Causeway, France’s Mont Saint Michel, and UK’s Windsor Castle in Europe.

The beauty of the extended voyage is that there isn’t that constant rush to get back to the ship. “Our longer port times truly empower residents to make the most of their time in each port,” Holmes says. “Days-long port times mean that residents can get the most out of each city we visit.”

Another perk is the mindfully curated sailing route (which is especially impressive on this interactive Google Earth map ). “Our itinerary places the MV Lara in the Northern Hemisphere in the summers and the Southern in the winters, so it’s always summer for Life At Sea Cruises,” she adds. Those sunny days include ringing New Year’s Days in Buenos Aires, Papua New Guinea, and the Maldives , and enjoying Valentine’s Days in Colombia, the French Polynesia , and en route to South Africa, as well as being in Asia for the Singapore Food Festival, Mid-Autumn Festival in South Korea, and Gion Matsuri in Japan.

In between the port stops, life on board is packed with possibilities, too. The ship is equipped with a pool deck, gym, spa, and auditorium that will host everything from movie screenings to live performances. International cuisine is offered at its multiple bars and restaurants, ranging from fine dining to casual eats. Daily activities will include dance lessons, karaoke sessions, and yoga practices, among others.

Inside a cabin on the new ship.

While the cruise is, at its core, a three-year getaway, the company realizes the need to stay connected with real life back on land, too. Remote workers can access free high-speed Wi-Fi and use the business center facilities. (Private office space is also available for rent for those who want to run their businesses from the ship.) Also, friends and families can visit by just paying the local port taxes and fees and staying in the cabins for free. Some guest cabins may also be available.

The all-inclusive fare for the three-year getaway starts at $43,860 per person per year, based on double accommodations. (A previously lower rate that started at $38,313 per person per year has already sold out.) Solo travelers will be charged a single supplement fee. Meals and weekly housekeeping are all included, but alcohol outside of dinner, shore excursions, spa services, and other premium services are an additional fee. Basic medical visits are also covered, while dental care, medical procedures, and prescriptions are offered at extra cost.

Operated by Aegan Sea operator Miray Cruises, the 629-cabin MV Lara can accommodate 1,266 passengers, but will only be run at 80 percent capacity. The ship is an upgrade in size from the MV Gemini that was originally announced for this journey back in March, according to CNN . Amid immediate skyrocketing demand, many of those working for the cruise company quit, reportedly because of disagreements over the ship that would be used. (Some of those who defected are now working on a rival cruise called the Villa Vie Residences that embarks on a three-and-a-half-year long itinerary to 420 destinations, starting May 15, 2024, from Southampton, England.)

Now back on track, the Life at Seas 36-month itinerary takes off November 1, 2023, from Istanbul, offering passengers the opportunity to embark in Barcelona on November 5, the Bahamas on November 15, or Puerto Rico on November 18, eventually returning after three trips around the sun to Istanbul on November 1, 2026. 

“Accomplishing a travel feat like this one outside of our voyage would be extremely difficult, logistically and financially,” Holmes says. “If people are interested in traveling the globe while enjoying life at sea, then our voyage is the right choice for them. “

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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MSC Cruises

11 Around-The-World Cruises For An Epic Getaway

"Sailing around the world" sounds so romantic, doesn't it? You're sailing to remote islands with like-minded people while chasing sunsets on a distant horizon. Sure, you can just board a plane to, say, New Zealand, but there's something so pure and patient about maritime journeys. Cruises are like floating resorts, which ease their way over the waves. It's the definition of "slow travel." 

Amazingly, in the modern world of jet-setting travel, round-the-world cruises do exist. Voyagers visit dozens of ports over the course of their odyssey, each with its own landscape, climate, and personality. There are lots of ways travelers can experience "the trip of a lifetime," but this kind of circumnavigation outmatches just about all of them -- and in style. However, there are a few things to consider before investigating such cruises. First, what does it actually mean to sail "around the world?"

Many companies use this phrase — and sail thousands of nautical miles — but only around a single ocean or hemisphere. Even when ships do sail a distance equivalent to the equator (or more), they rarely return to their precise port of origin. Also, these epic  cruise vacations can be pricey ; the kind of dream that merits cashing in a 401K, and the time commitment is also substantial, meaning months on the water. But for diehard cruisers, crisscrossing the planet could easily be worth the time and money, and if this sounds like you, these 11 cruise lines are scheduled to sail around the world.

Read more: The Prettiest Waters Around The World

Viking: World Cruise

For 138 days, passengers frog-hop through the Caribbean, pass through the Panama Canal, make their way to the islands of Polynesia, and skirt Australia, Asia, and Europe before finally dropping their anchor in London. On Viking's World Cruise, you can step ashore in 28 different nations and pick from 57 guided tours. Viking has been a prolific, respected cruise line since its founding in 1997, and this three-quarter circumnavigation sets sail in December 2024, so there's still time to book.

Ships are equipped with spas, luxury dining options, and cabin beds that can be separated or combined, among many other touches. Long before stepping aboard, the Viking website has a virtual 360-degree tour, acquainting future travelers with the ship's staterooms. Viking has thoughtfully put together a reading list to help travelers get a deeper understanding of the countries they will visit, which is especially helpful in little-understood destinations like Moorea and Indonesia. The ship also has a sizable library onboard for further research. This, plus its sophisticated tours and dining options that reflect the culture of each port, may explain Viking's moniker, "the thinking person's cruise." Quality does come at a price, with full passage starting at $59,995.

Ambassador: Grand Round The World Cruise

The Ambiance sets off from London, crosses the Atlantic, passes through Panama, and hits Australia, Southeast Asia, Africa, and South America before pinging back to the United Kingdom. Not only do you cross all the major oceans, but you actually cross the Atlantic three times. Most of these destinations are warm-weather ports, including Sydney at the height of summer. Sunscreen and wide-brimmed hats are recommended on this largely equatorial route.

Ambassador is new to the cruise scene, having been established in the United Kingdom in 2021, and Ambiance is its flagship vessel. Passengers will spend their 120-night voyage in extreme comfort, traveling to 24 countries and 34 ports of call, with top-notch dining, live entertainment, and about 35,000 nautical miles in between. If you can live without a porthole, opting for an  inside cabin on the cruise , then passage starts at the budget-friendly price of $8,500 per person, making this Ambassador cruise one of the most economical on this list. You can also add on drink packages and arrange tours in advance or onboard through an agent or the Ambassador app. You can also explore the ship before you travel, thanks to a 360-degree virtual tour. The 2024 voyage sets sail on June 6.

Regent: World Cruise

The 2026 Regent World Cruise starts in Miami and ends in Miami, which makes it convenient to coordinate, especially if you're already based in the United States. Regent Seven Seas Cruises was founded in 1992 and is a respected brand in the industry.

The ship, the Seven Seas Mariner, also lives up to its name with a formidable 154-night itinerary: the Panama Canal, points along Central America, a dozen Pacific islands, Australia, South Asia, East Africa, and two Atlantic islands before returning to Florida. The Mariner arrives in many well-trod ports like Cape Town and Acapulco, but the route also includes locations that most travelers would have trouble pinpointing on a map: Lautoka, Abidjan, and Male are all names cruisers will become familiar with. To really explore these places, Regent organizes a whopping 431 free shore excursions across six continents, 77 ports, and 47 UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Sailing nearly 40,000 nautical miles with world-class spas, dining, and entertainment aboard doesn't come cheap. While you'll need to contact Regent to request specific prices, passengers can expect to pay nearly $100,000 for passage. Regent's World Cruise is considered a luxury-level experience with first-class airfare, gratuities, and 24-hour room service included. If this is your tax bracket, just wait until you see the suites.

Royal Caribbean: Ultimate World Cruise

Royal Caribbean has been taking tourists to far-flung destinations since the late 1960s, and it's now one of the most recognizable cruise companies in the world, so naturally Royal Caribbean would host a round-the-world voyage. But even for seasoned travelers, the Ultimate World Cruise is pretty, well, ultimate. Royal Caribbean's world cruise lasts 274 nights and arrives in no fewer than 60 countries. In other words, you'll spend nine months at sea and personally visit more than a quarter of the sovereign nations on Earth. The saga starts and ends in Miami, where the Royal Caribbean is headquartered, which should make arrangements easy.

The biggest bragging right of all: This cruise touches on every single continent, including Elephant Island and Paradise Bay in Antarctica. You'll find yourself in both Americas, Europe, Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and Australia, plus ports you've never even heard of. That said, unless your soul is fueled by pure wanderlust, this itinerary may sound like a lot of cruising, which may explain why Royal Caribbean has divided the journey into four segments. Cruisers don't have to commit to the entire itinerary; they can easily pick from the quarter that most interests them. 

By the time you read this, a segment may be the only option left, as the next Ultimate World Cruise departs in December of 2023. The segments are significantly more affordable as well. An interior stateroom for the full cruise costs at least $60,000 per person, while a segment starts at $12,500.

Cunard: Full World Voyage

When the Queen Mary 2 departs from New York City on January 3, 2024, it won't return to this same harbor for 123 nights. The itinerary isn't exactly "around the world," but rather a crossing of the Eastern Hemisphere — twice. Passengers traverse the Atlantic to the United Kingdom, then ease their way down the eastern coast of Africa before beelining for Australia. The ship boomerangs back, with many stops in Asia, a shortcut through the Suez Canal, and a tour of the Mediterranean before heading back to the U.S.

The voyage comes at the heels of Cunard's 100th anniversary, making it the second-oldest company on the list. The Queen Mary 2 has been Cunard's flagship vessel since 2004, and the company has mastered hospitality over the past century, with exceptional dining, luxury suites, and Broadway-quality performances by the Royal Court Theatre. Cunard also takes pride in its children's facilities, encouraging families to travel together, as well as the great English tradition of afternoon tea. Most of the budget cabins on the Queen Mary 2 were already booked at the time of this writing, but cabins with balconies are still available, starting at the not-ludicrous price of $16,899 per person. 

Oceania: Around The World In 180 Days

When Junes Verne wrote his novel "Around the World in Eighty Days," his Victorian goal was to travel as quickly as possible. Oceania is now advertising the opposite: This journey takes passengers the long way from Los Angeles to New York City, across the Pacific, around Australia, along the coasts of East Asia, and then up through the Middle East, Mediterranean, Northern Europe, and even Greenland. The itinerary doesn't spend much time in the "global south," so you'll have to visit Africa and South America another time.

The Miami-based Oceania was founded in 2002 and specializes in long-haul cruises, so they know their system well. This cruise may be especially appealing to foodies. The company takes particular pride in its onboard meals as well as in-country Culinary Discovery Tours. Passengers can also take advantage of The Aquamar Spa & Vitality Center, which can orchestrate a special dietary regimen.

Oceania exudes "small-ship luxury" and caps its total number of passengers at 1,250. Everything about the ship is more intimate than found on its larger cousins, from the live entertainment to the duty-free boutiques. If you like a small-town feel, 180 days should be just enough time to meet all your shipmates. If you can't summon the time or (at least) $47,599 by January 2024, the next ship departs in January 2025.

Princess: 111-Day World Cruise

This Princess cruise is another true circumnavigation, starting in Los Angeles and bearing west until the ship arrives back at its original dock. The 111-day cruise starts on January 18, 2024, and includes all three major oceans, both the Suez and Panama Canals, plus 47 ports along the way. The itinerary is light on Asian and African ports and skips South America altogether, but you can still enjoy visits to Australia, the Middle East, and numerous destinations around Europe.

Princess is a hallowed name in the cruise industry. Not only have its ships been sailing the world since the 1960s, but Princess is still one of the most profitable cruise companies in the world. Passengers can expect onboard enrichment programs, award-winning live performances, and rejuvenating treatments at the Lotus Spa. Each port will also bring its own offerings of special excursions, from river rafting to art tours. 

With its dependable quality of service and nearly four-month itinerary, it's remarkable that base bookings start at only $15,498. Better yet, if you want to circle the globe with the whole family, this Princess itinerary is a family-friendly cruise and offers youth programming, which is not always the case. If you miss this one, no worries. Three more, of varying lengths, are slated for January 2025.

Holland America Line: Grand World Voyage

Fort Lauderdale is the beginning and end point for the Zuiderdam, which spends 128 days making a complete circle around the globe. Holland America's Grand World Voyage is true to its name. Passengers travel across the Pacific, Atlantic, and Indian Oceans, making port on five continents. Most of its destinations are clustered around Asia and the Mediterranean, and it skips over Australia. But the Voyage is a rare opportunity to sail up the Amazon River, with visits to inland Brazilian cities most travelers would never think to visit.

Holland America began as a shipping and passenger line in the mid-19th Century, and its history of cruising is nearly as old as the concept. The flagship Zuiderdam is a luxury vessel with a swimming pool and sizable theater. It also boasts several diverse dining areas, including the Pinnacle Grill steakhouse, the Italian-themed Canaletto, and the à la carte Lido Market. There's Billboard Onboard, a special room for trivia nights and karaoke, as well as World Stage, a presentation space with a wraparound LED screen. Bookings start at the more expensive rate of $22,499 for an inside cabin, and the 2024 voyage will set sail on January 3, 2024, but you can expect additional Grand World Voyages to be slated in the coming years.

Azamara: World Voyage

Formerly part of the Royal Caribbean fleet, Azamara is now an independent company taking its own journeys. The 2025 World Voyage begins in San Diego and sails westward, across the Pacific, to Australia, Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and the Mediterranean, before passengers disembark in Barcelona. The World Voyage doesn't quite girdle the globe, stopping just short of the Atlantic Ocean, and the only stop in Africa is Giza. But this 155-night expedition should satisfy almost any traveler, especially with its 40 countries and 22 overnights.

Unlike many world cruises, Azamara has divided its full itinerary into segments with clear geographic themes, such as "South Pacific Jewels" and "Mediterranean Icons." These titles can help turn experiences into coherent narratives. For example, "Ancient Pathways" draws a historic and economic line between Mumbai and Athens, along with all ports in between. These themes are coupled with thoughtful excursions, which are often scheduled around local holidays and festivals. The World Voyage for 2024 appears to be sold out, but the 2025 edition sets sail on January 5. Passage starts at a princely $39,999.

Freighter Cruises

Some of us want to keep it simple. No need for late-night show-stoppers, cocktail parties with hundreds of strangers, or daring bets at the roulette wheel. "Freighter cruises" have gone by many names over the years, such as "banana boats" and "cargo cruises," but passengers have hitched rides on commercial ships since the dawn of seafaring. These accommodations come in many forms, and you do have to share your vessel with stacks of massive shipping containers; still, you can expect a comfortable cabin and regular meals, along with friendly and respectful crewmembers from around the world. For travelers with a Jack London streak, the freighter cruise feels raw and adventurous.

The Freighter Travel Club was founded in 1958, and companies like Maris Freighter Cruises and Voyage en Cargo have booked passengers on commercial vessels for years. Maris has arranged round-the-world itineraries in the past, and multi-week journeys are common, as enormous loads are floated from one nation to the next. The pandemic took its toll on this niche industry, and most of these journeys do not precisely travel around the world. But when they're in operation, freighter cruises usually cost a little over $100 per day, and savvy travelers have flexibility in their bookings.

Miray Cruises: Life At Sea

Sure, cruising is fun, but what if you want to turn your ship into a semi-permanent address? Life at Sea Cruises promises three years of luxury seafaring, with stops in 140 countries across all seven continents. By the time you're done with these 382 ports, you'll have more photos to sort through and stories to share than most people will amass in a lifetime.

That sounds life-changing, but we'll have to see whether it's too good to be true. Life at Sea is a brand-new enterprise from Miray Cruises, and the maiden voyage has been fraught with delays. However, at the time of this writing, Life at Sea should get underway by the end of 2023, and most full-voyage passengers should already be sailing by 2024. If all goes well, there are four scheduled embarkation options for travelers who want to hop aboard later on, and more will likely be scheduled.

One of the problems has been the ship itself. For a while, the purchase of the ship was in limbo, pushing back the original sail date. However, the MV Lara now seems ready to sail. The medium-sized vessel has space for 1,266 passengers, with a range of cozy cabins, a wellness center, and a pool deck, among many other amenities. Travelers committed to living at sea for three years should get a lot out of their floating home. Life at Sea is a dreamy concept, so let's hope for calm waters once it finally sets sail. 

Read the original article on Explore .

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A 6-month cruise that will sail around the world in 2024 with tickets starting at nearly $50,000 sold out in 30 minutes — see what it'll be like on board

Norwegian Cruise Line Holding's Oceania Cruises has unveiled a 180-day 2024 around-the-world cruise.

Staterooms and suites range from about $48,500 to nearly $174,000.

The cruise sold out in 30 minutes, according to the cruise line.

If sailing around the world is at the top of your bucket list, Oceania Cruises has the perfect trip for you.

The Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings brand has unveiled its latest "2024 Around the World in 180 Days" world cruise starting at $48,500 per person, giving travelers the chance to circumnavigate the globe.

Source: Oceania Cruises

Oceania Cruises has become known for its grand six-month sailings, and so far, customers have been loving them.

Months at sea may seem monotonous, but these cruises have recently become a hot option for travelers.

Monthslong cruises sold out in as fast as three hours throughout 2021, and Oceania is no exception.

Source: Insider

Oceania's previously announced 2023 six-month world cruise sold out in one day.

And this 2024 itinerary was even more successful: The upcoming sailing, which will hit 96 ports across 34 countries, sold out within a record breaking 30 minutes, according to Oceania Cruises.

Almost half of the bookings came from people new to the brand, while a little over 40% of passengers sailing on the ongoing 2022 world cruise also booked the 2024 itinerary.

Passengers on the upcoming 2024 global cruise will get to spend their half-year sailing the world aboard Oceania's 684-guest Insignia vessel, which will also be used for the 2023 world cruise.

The cruise will start in Los Angeles before heading west towards stops like Hawaii, New Zealand Australia, Japan, Vietnam …

… India, Oman, Greece, France, and Iceland before finally ending in New York.

The 180-day cruise will also include 24 overnight stays in countries like Myanmar, Singapore, Thailand, and Indonesia.

Folks without their sea legs may shudder at the thought of sailing for six months, but the Insignia has plenty of onboard venues to keep passengers entertained, including a spa, art workshops, putting greens …

… bars, a casino, a pool, and a library.

Guests looking to splurge could've booked one of Insignia's suites ranging from $101,500 to up to $174,000.

Or they could've added on one of the "Grand Voyages," four 72 to 82-day extensions aboard other vessels. These supplements are an additional $15,200 to $21,200.

This price tag may seem hefty, but at least it comes with half of your year planned out for you, roundtrip airfare, laundry, and internet.

Read the original article on Business Insider

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A TikToker Shares A Day At Sea On The Viral 9-Month World Cruise

Madison Schwetje is living the Suite Life on Deck.

It’s one thing to go on a cruise for four or five nights, but guests currently traveling on the Serenade of the Seas have committed themselves to sailing around the world for nine months straight. Royal Caribbean’s Ultimate World Cruise, which set sail on Dec. 10, has taken over TikTok — or CruiseTok — with users following those on board like they’re cast members in a reality show.

A fan favorite among the Ultimate World Cruise guests is Madison Schwetje ( @madisonworldtravler ), who is cruising with her entire family, including her sister Brooklyn . Not only is she seeing the world while sailing the seas, but Madison is also studying online as a full-time student at the University of Central Florida (UCF). For those with wanderlust, she’s living the dream.

I enjoy having others online share these once-in-a-lifetime experiences with me.

When the Serenade of the Seas first set sail, the 274-night itinerary included seeing 11 World Wonders and more than 60 countries. Though the ship has had to make a few schedule changes along the way, Madison tells Elite Daily, “This trip is already such an amazing experience.”

Getting to share her travels with everyone on TikTok through daily vlogs with more than 4.5 million views has only made Madison love the Ultimate World Cruise more. The Pi Beta Phi sorority sister says, “I pride myself on making positive content, and I enjoy having others online share these once-in-a-lifetime experiences with me.”

Below, Madison shares what a typical (and not-as-dramatic-as-you-may-think ) day is like on the Serenade of the Seas , from waking up to the sun rising over the Pacific Ocean to studying for classes in one of the ship’s cafes.

A Typical Sea Day Morning Filled With Working Out & Sunbathing

6 a.m.: I enjoy getting an early start to my day and catching the sunrise. My first alarm goes off at 6 a.m., and by 6:30 a.m., I am out the door and ready to start my day. I am obsessed with skin care, so I’ve been trying to add new products from around the world into my morning routine.

Every stop so far has been filled with its own experiences that have made it extremely special. The Caribbean was filled with fun days in the sea, and South America was a region of the world that I had never visited before. Experiencing the beautiful cultures, delicious food, and kind people has been priceless, but today, we aren’t stopping in any ports.

It’s a sea day, and my first stop on the ship is to head up to Deck 12 to watch the sunrise over the Pacific Ocean.

7 a.m. : About an hour after I wake up, it’s time for my daily workout, which is mainly a mix of lifting and cardio. What I love the most about exercising on the ship is the view from the gym. It is surrounded by windows, so you can see the water.

8:30 a.m.: After my workout, I fuel up at the coffee shop with a vanilla latte, then head back to my stateroom to change into my bathing suit.

Once I’m ready, I head up to Windjammer, the buffet on the ship, to eat breakfast. I normally have an omelet and yogurt with fresh juice. It’s sooo refreshing.

9 a.m.: Every sea day morning, there is a 45-minute Zumba class out on the pool deck, which is an amazing energy booster. Once I’m sufficiently warmed up and sweaty , I jump into the pool to cool off.

10 a.m.: I spend about an hour and a half reading out on the pool deck. This has easily become one of my favorite sea day activities.

As a souvenir, I will go into a bookstore when we’re in port and ask the bookseller their favorite book. I take their recommendation and ask them to sign their name along with where we are in the world. This has become a tradition for me that I love.

On one of our stops, I visited a used bookstore. I asked the bookseller for any recommendations they had. With it being a used bookstore, everything was pretty random, but the first novel she pulled off the shelf was my favorite book of all time: Captain Corelli’s Mandolin .

Over the summer, I visited the Greek island where the movie was filmed. It is a very special film for me and my family. The cover of the book was different from my original copy, so I had to get it. I am now able to reread one of my favorite stories, and I have a very special memory of finding this copy.

11:30 a.m.: Lunchtime! I eat lunch with my family and friends while we talk about all the different topics that fill our time together. Through this experience, other guests and crew have become like our new family.

Editor’s note: Meet cute alert! Through this trip, Madison and her sister frequently run into fellow creators, like Christian Hull , Little Rat Brain, and Brandee Lake .

A special moment we all shared was when we were in Rio for New Year’s Eve, and we got to experience ringing in 2024 together. Meal times have become one of my favorite times, because I spend it with the people I am closest with.

An Afternoon Spent Studying For Class In One Of The Ship’s Coffee Shops

12:30 p.m.: After lunch, it’s back to my room for a shower before getting ready for the rest of the afternoon. I love to use Glossier, Patrick Ta, and Charlotte Tilbury for my everyday makeup routine (not #sponcon).

1 p.m.: Ah, yes, another latte run at the coffee shop (the caffeine obsession is real). Then it’s full speed ahead to find one of the open tables around the ship to begin my workload. I am currently a full-time student at the University of Central Florida.

I enjoy being in school, and doing it while seeing the world has been one of the most incredible experiences.

I am majoring in health sciences, and I plan on starting nursing school in the fall; I would like to become a travel nurse. I enjoy being in school, and doing it while seeing the world has been one of the most incredible experiences. If I can use my nursing degree to help others while continuing to travel, that would be the dream.

Despite being away from campus and working remotely, I don’t have any FOMO for things going on at UCF. I am so eager and excited to be on this journey with my family, who are the closest people to me.

Plus, I can study with friends who are also in school on the ship. We handle our workload while also looking forward to our upcoming ports of call. I cannot wait to see Asia, Africa, and Europe.

2 p.m.: During this time, I can usually be found wrapping up school assignments, creating videos, or dealing with logistics back home. The Wi-Fi on board the Serenade has never failed me (so far).

4:30 p.m.: I return to my cabin to change again. Tonight is extra special because it’s a formal night on board, which calls for suits, ties, cocktail dresses, or even evening gowns if you’d prefer.

Editor’s note: On a typical three- to five-day cruise, there might be one formal night; on a seven-day cruise, there are usually two; on ~two-week cruises, there are usually three or four.

5 p.m.: Snacking before dinner is a must. My sister and I love to spend this time in the lounge chatting with other passengers on board.

One of the largest accomplishments of this trip so far was making it to Antarctica, and I will never forget going into Paradise Bay and enjoying the scenery with everyone else.

A Fun Formal Night With Dinner, Dance Parties, & Shows

6 p.m.: One of the best times on the ship is when dinner opens. There is a small dance party with a song relating to the theme for the night. One night, we had an ’ 80s-themed party , where the guests all dressed up. It is so much fun to dance with the crew and chefs before we eat dinner.

Another reason this is one of my favorite times on board is the food. It’s amazing, and I have been able to try and eat a variety of dishes every day.

7:30 p.m.: There is a Broadway-style show in the theater after dinner. As a family, we have enjoyed attending these shows throughout our voyage. We look forward to show times and love to support the cast.

8:15 p.m.: My sister and I head to the pub and a few of the other bars around the ship to enjoy the formal night festivities.

9 p.m.: There is always something going on around the ship, such as live music in the centrum, so my sister and I join our friends for yet another fun night.

11 p.m.: As the night ends, I head back to my stateroom once more and get ready for bed. I am excited to some rest in before another sea day tomorrow.

I have met so many people, experienced numerous cultures, and had the most amazing time.

This entire trip has been such a learning experience. I have met so many people, experienced numerous cultures, and had the most amazing times in Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Peru... all the way to the end of the world in Ushuaia.

We’ve had such an enriching time so far — and we’re not even halfway through the entire experience.

This as-told-to has been condensed and edited for clarity.

Swing ride 160 feet above the water coming to MSC Cruises' new ship in 2025

MSC Cruises’ new ship will have a swing set on board – but not the kind you’d find on a playground.

Cliffhanger, a new ride launching on forthcoming U.S. flagship MSC World America next year, will allow guests to swing out over the ocean 160 feet above the water, the cruise line revealed Tuesday. The four-seat ride uses mechanical arms to lift guests beyond the 22-deck ship’s edge, where they are propelled back and forth.

The line is billing the attraction as the only over-water swing ride at sea. MSC Cruises USA President Rubén A. Rodríguez said Cliffhanger is a “natural next step,” following attractions on its other ships like Seascape’s Robotron .

“It’s the first time we’re taking thrill-seekers out past the deck and over the water, and we know they’ll love it,” he told USA TODAY in an email. There will be an added charge for the ride, but pricing details were not yet available.

Cliffhanger will be part of Family Aventura, one of seven districts on the 2,614-stateroom ship. The area also features The Harbor, an outdoor park area with a high ropes course, a playground inspired by the lighthouse at the line’s private Bahamas destination Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve and more.

Other districts on the ship include Galleria, home to dining venues, shopping and games “at the heart of the ship,” and Zen Area, an adults-only zone at the vessel’s stern where guests can enjoy music, catch some sun and take a dip in twin pools, according to an earlier news release .

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World America will debut in April 2025 and spend its inaugural season sailing Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises from Miami.

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

I sailed on Royal Caribbean's 2 largest cruise ships. They were shockingly similar for the $1,000 difference

• Royal Caribbean operates many of the cruise industry's biggest ships.
• Icon of the Seas  launched in January, dethroning its predecessor, Wonder of the Seas, as the world's largest.
• Here's how the two mega-ships compare in size, neighborhoods, amenities, dining, cabins, and costs.

Icon of the Seas, Royal Caribbean's new mega-cruise ship darling, was deemed a success before it was even built.

In January, the highly anticipated vessel — complete with more than 40 bars and restaurants, a six-slide waterpark, and a waterfall — set sail, dethroning its less than two-year-old precursor, the Wonder of the Seas , as the world's largest cruise ship.

Before its debut, Michael Bayley, the president and CEO of Royal Caribbean International, had already repeatedly called Icon its "best-selling product" yet. The company experienced its largest booking day ever when reservations opened for Icon of the Seas more than a year before its launch, it said

Despite all of this fanfare, you might be surprised by how similar it is to its predecessor.

I've sailed on both ships. Let's see how Icon and Wonder compare in six categories: size, neighborhoods, amenities, dining, cabins, and costs.

Both ships stunt the size of their competitors.

Wonder of the Seas debuted in 2022 as the then-world's largest cruise liner, measuring 235,600 gross-tons, 1,188 feet-long, and 18 decks-tall. The ship can accommodate up to 9,288 people, including 2,204 crew.

Icon of the Seas is, comparatively, 13,063 gross-tons heavier, eight feet longer, and two decks taller. It can sail up to 9,950 people, including 2,350 crew, although it's 52 feet less wide than its predecessor.

Both vessels feel more like amusement parks than traditional cruise ships.

Royal Caribbean invited me on complimentary, non-revenue sailings on both ships: two nights on Wonder in late 2022 and three nights on Icon in January.

I spent most of my time lost, overwhelmed, and exhausted.

It's no surprise both ships are operating weeklong itineraries this year. Any less, and you might not have time to experience all the activities and restaurants on your list.

Like other Royal Caribbean ships, Wonder and Icon have eight 'neighborhoods' that serve separate purposes.

The new ship shares three of Wonder of the Seas' neighborhoods : Central Park, Royal Promenade, and Suite.

Icon's other five — Thrill Island , Surfside, Hideaway, Chill Island, and AquaDome — are a first for the cruise line.

Many of the ships' amenities overlap, but in differing quantities.

Wonder has three waterslides. Icon has a six-slide waterpark complete with rafting and racing options.

Both have increasingly popular cruise amenities like decks-long dry slides, mini-golf courses, rock climbing walls, and playgrounds.

But instead of Wonder of the Seas' zipline , Icon of the Seas has Crown's Edge, a thrilling agility course with a small zipline that leaves travelers dangling 154 feet above the ocean.

Wonder’s Boardwalk neighborhood was my go-to.

Boardwalk delivered exactly as it had promised: an open-air space grounded by wood-planked floors, a hot dog stand, a sweets store, and kitschy, colorful decor.

Icon of the Seas' Surfside , designed for families with young children, felt like its closest dupe.

Both neighborhoods had a carousel, an outdoor playground, and family-friendly dining. But Surfside was more toddler-friendly, as suggested by the children's water play area and nighttime story readings.

On to entertainment: Both mega-ships have ice skating performances and exciting multi-disciplinary shows at the AquaTheater.

But travelers who enjoy musicals at sea will want to stick to Icon.

Unlike its predecessor, the new ship shows a rendition of Broadway hit "The Wizard of Oz" — Munchkins, a puppet Toto, and a 16-piece live band included.

The layout of Icon's amenities were better than its cousin.

Some of Wonder of the Seas' enticing outdoor amenities — like the surf simulator, zipline, and mini-golf course — are clustered on the deck above and away from the pools and water slides.

This layout might be difficult for parents with children who bounce from one activity to the next. Wouldn't it be easier to have all of these outdoor extras near each other, or at least on the same deck, for parental supervision purposes?

This is where Icon of the Seas excelled: All its exciting open-air activities were adjacent.

The rows of pools flowed perfectly into Thrill Island's waterpark , rock climbing walls, mini-golf course, and Crown's Edge.

The best part? The adult-only Hideaway — which flexes an infinity pool club with a DJ — is right behind Thrill Island, creating a clear separation between parents and their children without being too far from each other.

'Free' options like the buffet and build-your-own tacos and burritos bar are available on both ships.

But you won't find the larger vessel's five-stall food hall or mini-golf-adjacent finger food stand on Wonder.

As expected, Icon of the Seas has more dining options than its predecessor, although there are some overlaps.

Wonder of the Seas has 11 bars and 21 dining venues (9 complimentary and 12 upcharged).

Icon of the Seas has eight more bars, four more complimentary restaurants, and three more specialty dining choices.

Nor will you find the new ship’s plush $200-a-person Empire Supper Club on any other cruise liner.

The multi-course dinner, paired with cocktails and live music, stunts the cost of either vessel's other dinner options.

But if you love Johnny Rockets, you’ll be disappointed by Icon of the Seas.

Restaurants like the popular burger chain and Southern comfort-inspired Mason Jar are only on Wonder of the Seas. Fine by me: My fried chicken at Mason Jar was as dry as a desert.

The younger ship doesn't have Wonder's robot bartender-armed bar either. It does, however, have new watering holes with dueling pianos and live jazz.

Surprisingly, Wonder of the Seas has 65 more cabins than its new cousin.

But several of Icon's 28 stateroom categories are a first for the cruise line.

This includes the new family infinite balcony cabin, which has a small bunk bed nook for children.

Royal Caribbean assigned me an ocean-view balcony stateroom on both ships.

My Wonder of the Seas' cabin was 20 square-feet smaller than the one on Icon. But my bathroom on the latter was so tiny, I accidentally elbowed the walls at almost every turn.

Sailing on the world's largest cruise ship doesn't mean you'll have the world's largest cabin after all.

Wonder and Icon are both operating seven-night roundtrip itineraries from Florida to the Caribbean.

In 2024, Wonder of the Seas is scheduled for year-round sailings from Port Canaveral to the Caribbean and Royal Caribbean's private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay , starting at $700 per person.

Icon of the Seas is spending its first year in service operating nearly identical itineraries but from Miami instead. The cheapest 2024 option is $1,786 per person.

That's a difference of more than $125 per person per day.

"Bookings and pricing for Icon of the Seas can only be described as 'iconic,'" Naftali Holtz, the CFO of Royal Caribbean Group, told analysts in February.

Icon of the Seas’ name speaks for itself.

If your family is looking for a jam-packed kid-friendly cruise with enough amenities to stay entertained for a week, both ships are a great option.

But if you're a seasoned mega-ship-cruiser looking to experience something new, Icon of the Seas is your best bet.

They may be similar, but no other behemoth cruise liner has a waterpark for children and a pool club for adults just dozens of feet from each other.

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