A world cruise offers a unique opportunity to see more of the world in style. Savour the journey as you travel across multiple continents and sail into countless countries in the luxurious surroundings of a cruise ship. Choose between convenient no-fly voyages that start and end in the UK, or options that involve catching a flight before boarding the ship, allowing you to extend your trip even further with a pre- or post-voyage adventure if you wish. With cruise lines offering an abundance of immersive shore excursions and curated experiences, you’ll have the opportunity to truly get to know the destinations you visit. From guided tours of ancient ruins and visits to iconic attractions to snorkelling through crystal-clear waters and unwinding on remote, sun-kissed shores, there is something to enrich everyone’s journey.
Foodies needn’t worry about missing out on the culinary delights that each location offers, thanks to food-focused excursions and experiences like cooking classes and tastings. Back on board, you’ll likely find a wide range of dining venues, with some cruise ship restaurants offering evolving menus that feature fresh ingredients and local recipes, so everyone has the chance to sample the fantastic flavours of each region.
Many cruise lines offer incredible entertainment programmes and plenty of activities to try, so days at sea are never dull. Whether your ideal day involves lounging by the pool, with a book in one hand and a cocktail in the other, taking a dance class, letting the creativity flow in an art workshop, or enjoying a treatment at the spa, there’s plenty to keep you busy. Evenings might be filled with energetic theatre shows, drinks with new friends at one of the bustling bars, or strutting your stuff on the dance floor as the DJ spins the decks into the night.
From making the most of fantastic onboard amenities to exploring bucket-list destinations, it’s easy to see why world cruises are so popular. Here, we discuss everything you need to know about world cruises, from the best time to book and the best time to set sail, to an idea of the destinations you might visit and the cruise lines that offer these voyages.
When is the best time to book a world cruise?
It’s highly recommended to book a world cruise as early as possible. If you’ve found an itinerary that you’re interested in, it’s important to secure your preferred cabin as soon as you can to avoid disappointment. You might even find special early-bird deals that apply only if you book by a certain date. If you’ve missed out on a launch, it’s still well worth getting in touch to find out what is still available, as your desired cabin or suite could still be free, or you might find another option that suits you even better. Booking 6-12 months in advance should still give you enough time to get everything you need sorted, from packing lists and logistics to organising travel insurance. Last-minute deals on these voyages are rare, so book in advance wherever possible to ensure you don’t miss out.
When is the best time to go on a world cruise?
Where can I sail to on a world cruise?
Discover some of the most captivating destinations in the world as you set sail on a voyage like no other. These extended voyages are the perfect opportunity to tick off bucket-list destinations and explore lesser-known gems.
An itinerary that features USA hotspots might catch your eye, as you picture yourself strolling through the streets of New York City and visiting some of the iconic attractions that the Big Apple has to offer. Or, visiting the home of the stars as you stop in the entertainment capital of the world, Los Angeles. Other popular destinations in the US might include San Francisco, where you can witness the Golden Gate Bridge in all its glory, or Florida, the famous Sunshine State. You might then move on to sun-drenched destinations in the Caribbean, such as Barbados, Aruba, or Grenada. All boasting powdery white-sand beaches and turquoise waters.
As you venture further afield, you might find yourself marvelling at the legendary Sydney Opera House and relaxing on Bondi Beach in Sydney, or enjoying unique wildlife experiences in sunny Brisbane.
Next, your itinerary might reveal the wonders of Asia. You might be dazzled by the bright lights of Tokyo and witness the city’s seamless blend of modernity and history, witness the diverse landscapes of Vietnam, or explore the vibrant Singapore. Your journey might also transport you to the idyllic Maldives or the tropical Mauritius, both home to picturesque beaches and world-class marine life. You might also stop in Cape Town, famed for its delicious wine, thriving culinary scene, dramatic scenery, and unrivalled wildlife-spotting opportunities.
These are just some of the many incredible destinations that you might find yourself visiting.
What cruise lines offer world cruises?
Many of our fantastic cruise line partners offer world cruises. Whether you’re keen on embarking on a full world trip voyage or you’d prefer to sail just a segment of the trip, there is an itinerary and cruise line to suit everyone. You might choose to sail with Azamara Cruises, famed for its Destination Immersion program. Or, you might like to sail aboard one of Cunard’s iconic ships. Foodies might be drawn to Oceania Cruises, which pride themselves on serving the Finest Cuisine at Sea®. Those who enjoy smaller-ship cruising might choose to explore with Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines. Guests seeking an ultra-luxury experience might consider sailing with Regent Seven Seas Cruises or Silversea. If your focus is on having plenty to do on board, Princess Cruises, P&O Cruises, and Celebrity Cruises boast great amenities and exceptional entertainment programmes.
