How to prepare for the journey and what awaits you on the ship: the perfect guide for a world cruise
Royal Caribbean International, the cruise company that builds the largest ships in the world, has been sailing around the world for a month now, sailing for 274 nights. It's an epic journey that has aroused the admiration of tick-tockers, and some of them have noted that this is enough time to give birth to a child.
"The Serenade of the Seas is one of a dozen or more ships - large and small, super-luxury and less luxurious - that set sail around the world (or a rough approximation of it) every January, with thousands of cruisers participating. Cunard Line has also developed new routes, including two simultaneous round-the-world cruises that will start in January 2026, the Telegraph website writes.
Whether you're a newbie Phileas Fogg with a few cruises under your belt or you've yet to step aboard a ship, here's our ultimate guide to what you can expect from a world cruise - from the cost to what you need to pack for the trip.
Where can I go on a world cruise?
Most round-the-world cruises sail in a westerly direction, taking passengers from the UK or US to the Caribbean, South America, across the Pacific to Australia and New Zealand, then pass through Asia and the Middle East, cross the Suez Canal and arrive in the Mediterranean before returning to their port of departure.
While ports of call can vary, Honolulu and Tahiti are common, and you can expect to spend two days in cities like Sydney, Melbourne, Auckland, Singapore, and Dubai, all of which are on the A-list. Ho Chi Minh City is another favorite, as is Hong Kong. Most itineraries pass through the Panama Canal at the beginning or end of the trip.
A few westbound cruises zigzag through South Africa, Japan and the Indian Ocean, stopping in Cape Town, Yokohama and Osaka.
How much does a world cruise cost?
It doesn't have to break the bank. Opt for an inside cabin and you can spend 99 nights on P&O Cruises' 2025 round-the-world voyage for as low as £9,699 - that's 33 destinations for less than £100 a day. If you have more money in your wallet, Princess Grill cabins on Cunard's Queen Anne start at £39,199 for 111 nights. If you have the means and the desire to really splurge, Silversea and Regent Seven Seas Cruises offer suites from £155,000 for 136 days and £129,929 for 168 nights, respectively. These are not the best rooms on the ships (they are no longer available), but you get almost everything included.
What types of world cruises are available?
Some of the cruises for January 2025 don't actually sail around the world, but still have many destinations.
Crystal bypasses Australia and New Zealand and instead takes passengers on a 123-day journey from Fort Lauderdale in Florida to Barcelona via South America, South Africa, and the Indian Ocean. Seabourn circles the Pacific Ocean, while Silversea goes against the usual rhythm, starting from Tokyo.
Holland America Line offers a traditional round-the-world cruise, as well as a 133-day extravaganza "From Pole to Pole" with a scenic cruise in Antarctica, a trip up the Amazon River and calls in Iceland and Greenland.
Are world cruises different from one- or two-week cruises?
Short-term cruises are a celebration, but on world cruises the ship turns into a village where friendships blossom and gossip rages - imagine St. Mary Mead meets the Midsummer Night's Murders, but without the body count.
Is it possible to do part of a round-the-world cruise?
Most cruise lines offer parts of a round-the-world cruise for those who don't have the time or money for a full round-the-world trip. They can last from two weeks to a month or more - for example, sailing from the UK to Australia or from Asia back to the UK. They usually go on sale after the circumnavigation.
What facilities are available on board?
All cruise ships have main dining rooms and self-service buffets where food is included in the price. There are also swimming pools, spas, gyms, and many bars and lounges on board.
Many ships have specialized restaurants serving everything from steaks to Asian favorites. They are included in the cruise fare on ultra-luxury lines such as Seabourn and Regent Seven Seas Cruises, as well as Oceania Cruises and Viking. On Azamara ships, specialty dinners are free for those staying in cabins, but everyone else pays extra.
What are the sizes of the ships?
The ships offering round-the-world cruises in 2025 range from around 700 passengers (Azamara Onward) to 2,996 (Cunard's new ship, Queen Anne) and 3,223 (MSC Magnifica). There are also many medium-sized ships, such as Nicko Cruises' Vasco da Gama (1,000), Silversea's Silver Dawn (596) and Fred Olsen Cruise Lines' Bolette (1,339). Nicko Cruises' Vasco da Gama has 1,000 beds.
Where do cruise ships moor?
This depends entirely on the port - in some destinations you can get right into the city, while in others it is at some distance. For example, Sydney's main cruise port is located on Circular Quay, right under the harbor bridge. However, if it's a busy day, you may find yourself a little further away, in Johnstons Bay. A similar scheme can be found in Hong Kong. Some cruise lines provide free shuttles between the ship and the main city if it's too far for most people to walk comfortably.
How to choose a ship for a trip around the world?
Make a list of what you would like to see on board and find a suitable ship. You should consider whether you want a large or small ship, with designated seating or an open dining room, elegant formal evenings or something more casual. Also think about whether you want a British ship or an American ship, whether you want all-inclusive luxury or whether you want to pay for everything as you go.
How to choose a cabin for a trip?
The most luxurious ships have deluxe cabins, mostly with balconies. On the rest of the ships, you can choose cabins without windows, with ocean views (a window that does not open), with a balcony, and suites.
It is tempting to choose the cheapest option. But don't! On most ships, this means an interior cabin without a window, which may be suitable for a week or two, but not for several months. Instead, spend your money on the biggest and best cabin you can afford, because this will be your home away from home. It doesn't have to be a suite, although that would be nice, but a private balcony where you can escape from other travelers from time to time is a good investment.
Cabin location is another important consideration. Cabins at the front take the brunt of a rough ride; those lower in the center of the ship are more stable. Cabins near the elevators can be noisy as people come back to bed late at night, while cabins in the back are convenient for restaurants as they are always at the aft of the ship.
Are there any all-inclusive cruises around the world?
All meals in the dining room, self-service and poolside grilling are included, as well as entertainment. After that, all companies do things differently. Choose Silversea or Regent, and almost everything will be included in the price - flights, transfers, shore excursions, drinks, gratuities, Wi-Fi and much more.
Oceania Cruises includes flights, transfers, Wi-Fi, gratuities, drinks at lunch and dinner, and credit for excursions, while MSC Cruises and P&O Cruises include gratuities. Spa treatments are always extra, regardless of who you are traveling with; some ships also charge for the use of thermal suites and participation in fitness classes.
Who will be your fellow travelers?
World cruises attract mostly retirees who have the time and money for a several-month trip. Most of them will be experienced cruisers, but you will probably also meet a few people who have never set foot on a ship and for whom a world cruise is a dream come true.
On P&O Cruises and Fred Olsen Cruise Lines, you'll be almost exclusively with Brits; on Cunard, a mix of Brits and Americans; on MSC, Europeans, including many Italians; and most Germans on Nicko Cruises' Vasco da Gama. On other ships, most North Americans are expected.
How mobile do I need to be?
All cruise ships have elevators and can accommodate scooters, but their number may be limited. Those with poor mobility should consider a smaller ship to do less walking once on board. Getting on tenders (small boats used when the ship cannot dock) to go ashore and navigating some destinations (especially those with poor infrastructure) can also be challenging for people with reduced mobility.
Is traveling around the world a good retirement plan?
So far, no one has come up with a round-the-world trip lasting one year. Royal Caribbean came closest with its nine-month cruise. However, you can put two six-month round-the-world cruises from Oceania Cruises together. It will be an expensive year, but if you can afford to see the world for 12 months while being waited on hand and foot, then why not?
What is an average day on board like?
At sea days on world cruises soon fall into a gentle routine of waking up, eating, sleeping, and participating in activities such as dance lessons, cooking demonstrations, book clubs, talks, lectures, and swimming. Evenings usually include a few drinks with new friends and a live evening show.
Breakfast is usually served from about 6:30 am in the buffet (a little later in the main dining room) until mid-morning, when it turns into lunch. At 16:00 it is time for afternoon tea. Dinner starts around 18:00, but sometimes earlier.
On port days, the first excursions usually depart between 8 and 9 am to make the most of the morning or afternoon. If you are doing your own thing, take your time.
Do I have to go ashore in every port?
Everyone can do whatever they want: join a tour, go ashore on their own, or stay on board and enjoy the peace and quiet when most people are off exploring.
What kind of excursions are there?
They are extremely diverse: from touring the city or scenic sights by bus to practicing yoga on the beach. Oenophiles can go wine tasting, and foodies can sign up for a cooking class on the beach. More diverse options can be combined, such as rafting, snorkeling, nights at the opera, visits to national parks, and more. Silversea and Regent include most excursions, while Viking includes one free basic excursion in each port. Oceania Cruises provides passengers with a cruise credit of up to $8,200 (£6445) per cabin that can be used for excursions.
Will you be able to eat whenever you want?
Most cruise lines around the world offer an open dining system that allows passengers to eat whenever they want. Cunard, Holland America Line, Royal Caribbean and P&O Cruises have an open seating system, but also offer assigned seating for those who prefer it. On formal nights, there will be a dress code in the main dining room.
Is there any entertainment on the ship during the cruise?
Entertainment is one of the most important components of a world cruise, as it keeps the ships rocking (at least figuratively) late into the night. A local troupe of singers and dancers will put on live performances most nights, and singers, comedians, musicians and magicians will fly in and out to keep the entertainment program fresh and varied.
Do I need to fly to the ship?
It all depends on the cruise you choose, the company you are traveling with, and your departure point. If you prefer to keep it simple, Fred Olsen Cruises, Cunard, and P&O Cruises all offer round-the-world cruises that start and end in the UK. Aside from the fact that it will be easy to get to and from the port, you will have the added bonus of not having to worry about overpacking as you can take as much on board as you want.
Can I travel alone?
Cruises are great for solo travelers, as you'll have a family of fellow passengers waiting for you. Shore excursions can help relax those who are afraid of traveling alone; a world cruise simply offers more time for friendships to blossom. It's not uncommon for friendships to be forged during these trips, and groups return together again and again. Fred Olsen is a favorite among solo travelers, as its ships have many cabins and suites without additional services. P&O Cruises and Cunard have cabins with sprinklers on their ships. Nicko does not have cabins for single travelers, but their single supplement is only 20 percent.
Can I stay active?
All ships have complimentary gyms with high-tech equipment so passengers can run, lift weights, stretch, and take steps towards fitness. There are also classes (for an additional fee) for those who need a Mr. Motivator-style coach to get them going. There are also outdoor jogging tracks for those who want to enjoy the sea view while keeping fit.
Will I get seasick and is there a doctor on board?
Ocean cruise ships are not allowed to go to sea unless there is a doctor on board. When it comes to seasickness, some people feel sick if the sea feels like a mill, while others can enjoy a five-course dinner during a storm and wonder what all the fuss is about. Vessel stabilizers (similar to small arms protruding from the hull) help keep the vessel on an even keel, but if you're prone to seasickness, keep pills handy or try patches. Some people swear by them.
Should I use a travel agency?
We recommend it. It's a big purchase and you want to make sure it's done right. Agents specializing in cruises know their stuff and will help you find the ship, itinerary, and cabin that's right for you. They can also arrange flights if necessary, take care of your booking in general, and intervene if there are any problems. Many of them can also secure better prices from cruise lines and may offer a few small benefits of their own.
What do I need to take with me on my trip?
You'll need something for casual evenings as well as for formal evenings if your ship provides them; although many companies nowadays offer formal wear as optional, so you can join in or not depending on your personal preference.
You'll also need a variety of clothes for warm, cold, and wet weather. If you're cruising from the UK in January, it might be chilly leaving Europe, while the Caribbean will be warm, Australia will be hot, and Asia might be steamy but also in the midst of the rainy season.
Instead of packing, use accessories to give new life to clothes you've worn many times and plan to replenish your wardrobe while traveling. There is a laundry room on board and usually self-service washers and dryers so you can keep track of your laundry.
If you're cruising from the UK, there are no baggage restrictions; if you're flying to or from the ship, you should consider the airline's weight limits.
The five best world cruises
Ring of Fire World Cruise. Duration: 129 days. Cruise company: Seabourn
Sailing from Los Angeles to Vancouver in 2026 across the Pacific Ocean, the Seabourn cruise circumnavigates most of New Zealand and Australia, and calls at several ports in Japan. It crosses the equator twice and includes overnight stays in Melbourne, Hong Kong and Yokohama.
Booking: World Cruise "Ring of Fire: Hidden Gems" departs from Los Angeles. From £ 73,709 including drinks and gratuities; January 6, 2026 (0344 338 8615; seabourn.com).
In the footsteps of Napoleon. Duration 106 nights. Cruise line: Fred.Olsen
Following a route similar to that taken by the explorer Magellan in 1519, Bolette is embarking on a journey west from Southampton to Australia and back in 2025. The ship calls at Robinson Crusoe's Chilean island and St. Helena, where Napoleon was exiled in 1815.
Book it: The exploratory round-the-world voyage departs from Southampton. From £12,499; January 6, 2025 (01473 746 175; fredolsencruises.com).
Doing things differently. Duration: 124 days. Cruise line: Holland America
Why follow the standard westbound route from Fort Lauderdale when you can zigzag a bit? After passing through Asia, the Zuiderdam sails south across the Indian Ocean to Cape Town for a couple of nights, and then through Tanzania, Kenya and the Suez Canal to the Mediterranean.
Book it: The Grand Round the World departs from Fort Lauderdale. From £24,549; January 4, 2025 (0344 338 8605; hollandamerica.com).
A journey of discovery. Duration: 121 days. Cruise line: Viking
Overnight stays in Auckland, Sydney, Bali, Ho Chi Minh City, Singapore, Yangon, Colombo and Mumbai await you on Viking Sky's 2025 round-the-world voyage, sailing west from Los Angeles to Greenwich, London.
Book now: Viking's round-the-world voyage departs from Los Angeles. From £42,990 including flights, gratuities and beverages with lunch and dinner; January 5, 2025 (0800 298 97 00; vikingcruises.co.uk).
Down Under Wonder. Duration: 116 days. Cruise line: Princess
Transit through the Panama and Suez Canals, five calls to Australia and a day of scenic cruising near Fiordland National Park in New Zealand aboard Island Princess.
Book: Around the world voyage to the west departs from Fort Lauderdale or Los Angeles. From £14,649; January 5, 2025 (0344 338 8670; princess.com).
Travel Wise previously wrote about Fred Olsen Cruise Line, which is charting a new course by announcing two ambitious grand voyages planned for 2026. These voyages will give passengers the opportunity to explore some of the most remote and famous places around the world.
