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Destinations

World Cruises

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"From the vibrant streets of Asia to the ancient wonders of Europe, the tropical beauty of the Caribbean, and beyond, a World Cruise offers unparalleled experiences and memories to last a lifetime."

What to Expect on a World Cruise

Cruising around the world is the ultimate travel experience, with so many different itineraries and types of trips to choose from. Being able to explore completely different parts of the world from the comfort of a cruise ship, all while taking advantage of a modern cruise ship’s amenities and facilities, is surely an incredible way to spend your free time.

Statue of Liberty - New York
The skyline of New York with the Statue of Liberty in the foreground

World cruises, while they will usually be lengthy, are also sometimes split into shorter segments. This gives you the perfect chance to tailor your trip and ensure it suits your lifestyle and preferences. You’ll usually find that world cruises are most appealing to regular cruisers who are hoping to find that next big adventure, but it’s also the best way to see some amazing areas of the world, including Asia, Europe, Australia and America.

Shibuya - Tokyo
A Nighttime image of Shibuya Crossing in Japan
A view of crystal clear water in the Caribbean

Most world cruises will follow a westbound route, which means you’ll head to the Caribbean and South America, before travelling across to Australia and Asia. Ports of call can vary hugely, but you can expect to stay multiple nights in some of the world’s top cities.

An Aerial view of Dubai at night
A view of Barcelona

What is the weather like around the World?

World cruises are the chance of a lifetime, giving you the opportunity to uncover so many different parts of the world in one trip. It really is an unforgettable voyage, sending you on a great adventure around the globe. From the bustling cities of Europe to the rustic Australian outback, a world cruise will blow you away.

Seeing the world in all its glory can be done in style on a world cruise, whether you’re hoping to encounter incredible wildlife, cultural hotspots or iconic landmarks. You can do it all – dance the Samba in Rio de Janeiro, taste new flavours in Hong Kong or relax in Cape Verde.

Embarking on a world cruise is a truly spectacular way to immerse yourself in everything our world has to offer, while in between destinations you can discover all your ship has to offer, from entertainment to dining. It’s one of the most unique ways to see the most fascinating corners of the globe, all enhanced further by exclusive experiences both onboard and in port.

The world’s weather is as diverse as its landscapes, offering everything from sun-drenched beaches to snow-capped peaks, tropical jungles to arid deserts. In one hemisphere, summer means long, golden days by the sea, while in the other, winter brings crisp air and frosty mornings.

The equator enjoys eternal warmth, with tropical rains that breathe life into lush forests, while further north and south, the seasons change in a steady rhythm—blossoming springs, sun-soaked summers, golden autumns, and cozy winters. Whether you're chasing the Northern Lights in the Arctic, basking under the relentless sun of the Sahara, or enjoying a temperate breeze in the Mediterranean, the world’s weather offers something for every traveler, every mood, and every adventure.

Choosing a World Cruise

So, when it comes to making that all-important decision and choosing your world cruise, just how do you do it?

Here we break down some of the cruise lines that offer a cruise around the world, and what to expect from them.

Hottest World Cruises

Looking for some of the best world cruises around? Check out these itineraries, offering some incredible trips across the continents.

Airlie Beach - Australia
A Landscape view of Airlie Beach in Australia

With some cruises starting from 28 nights and some offering as many as 132 nights, there’s something for everyone here.

Shipwreck Beach - Zante
An Aerial view of Shipwreck beach in Zante, Greece

World Cruise Destinations

When it comes to a world cruise, you can bet no two are the same. Each itinerary aims to transport you somewhere that truly is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and so the destinations will vary per cruise holiday. However, here are just some of the places to look out for on your next world cruise.

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World Cruise FAQs

  • What is a world cruise?

    A world cruise is the chance to go on a longer cruise trip, often encompassing a number of different destinations across the continents. It is a highly convenient and comfortable way to travel the globe, seeing some of the most far-reaching destinations that you might not otherwise have travelled to.

  • How long is a world cruise?

    Average world cruises can last between 3-5 months, but it can vary depending on the cruise line and itinerary. Royal Caribbean’s latest adventure is a 9-month cruise, but you don’t have to commit to that long if you don’t want to. Some world cruise itineraries last around 20 nights, while others can last around 132 nights, giving you the chance to search for the best world cruise that suits you.

  • How many people are on a world cruise?

    The number of people on your cruise will depend on the size of the ship. If you’re hoping for a smaller, more intimate cruise, consider cruise lines such as Fred Olsen. However, it’s worth remembering that you are sharing the cruise for a long time, so you might want a bigger group to mingle with!

  • Can you do a world cruise from Southampton?

    You can indeed! You can set off from and return to Southampton on your world cruise, making travelling the globe even more convenient. Many P&O Cruises depart from Southampton, as do Fred Olsen.

  • Which cruise line is best of a world cruise?

    The cruise line you choose can depend wholly on what you’re looking for on your cruise. Each cruise line will have unique features and amenities, as well as slightly different itineraries, so it’s important to do your research and see which one fits in best with your holiday style!

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