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Australia & New Zealand / Aotearoa Cruises

Explore the wonders down under on a cruise to new zealand and australia.

Why Cruise to Australia & New Zealand?

Epic landscapes, colorful cultures and laid-back charm – experience it all on board an Australia & New Zealand / Aotearoa cruise with Princess the #1 cruise line in Australia. We’ll take you to golden beaches, rugged outback, world-class cities and beyond. And on board, delight in  local food and entertainment as our Across the Ditch immersive program brings the very best of New Zealand to you.

Watch our Australia & New Zealand Cruise Videos: Australia & New Zealand

Australia Cruises

Your choice of Australian cruise ports is as grand as the continent itself. Climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge for a breathtaking bird’s-eye view of the Sydney Opera House. Trek through one of the world’s last temperate rainforests in Tasmania, sample award-winning wine in Margaret River and snorkel in the crystalline waters of the Great Barrier Reef or ride camelback on a beach in Broome / Rubibi .

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New Zealand / Aotearoa Cruises

Marvel at the spectacular scenery of Fiordland National Park / Piopiotahi , voted one of the 7 Cruise World Wonders by Condé Nast Traveler . Immerse yourself in Māori culture, see glowworms twinkle in underground caves outside Auckland / Tāmaki Makaurau , stroll the famed Art Deco city of Napier / Ahuriri, and peek into moviemaking magic with The Lord of the Rings tour in Wellington .

The wonders of Australia and New Zealand are like no other! From iconic cruises from Sydney to the coastal beauty of Brisbane / Meeanjin , the rich culture of Melbourne , the famed wine country of Perth (Fremantle) / Boorloo (Walyalup) and Auckland / Tāmaki Makaurau , the land of the Māori, more departures to and from Adelaide / Tarndanya than ever before – each city possesses a vibrant spirit and a unique personality worth discovering.

Princess® MedallionClass®

Explore destinations easily on a MedallionClass vacation. Taking in balcony or top deck views, and don’t want to move? Order drinks that find you. Want to make the most of your time away? Design each perfect day with our interactive activity planner. Hate to wait when boarding or disembarking in port? Choose your preferred arrival window and make gangway reservations. Enjoy more time to connect with the places you sail.

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Soak in Local Flavors and Revel in Rich Traditions

Princess® brings the joy of discovery on board Australia & New Zealand cruises. Experience the sights, sounds and flavors of Australia & New Zealand. Learn a traditional Māori war dance, indulge in authentic Kiwi cuisine, and sip fine wines and spirits from each region.

Food & Beverage on Australia & New Zealand / Aotearoa Cruises

• Enjoy delicious new culinary experiences that highlight the region created exclusively for Princess.
• Our beverage menus include popular regional beer, wine and whisky selections for a taste of local flavors.

Activities on Australia & New Zealand / Aotearoa Cruises

• Watch feature films with a local twist – such as The Lord of the Rings trilogy and The Piano – on deck at our Movies Under the Stars® outdoor theater.
• Join the performers as you learn the legend of the haka, an ancient Māori war dance.
• Celebrate Matariki, a Māori festival marking the start of the Māori New Year, with ceremonial offerings and homage to whakapapa (ancestors), and revel in exciting on-deck parties during our “ Festivals of the World ” celebration.

Discover More Ashore on a Princess® Cruise to Australia & New Zealand / Aotearoa

Australia & New Zealand / Aotearoa Cruise Shore Excursions

Princess Cruises offers a vast array of award-winning excursions, including several Discovery™ and Animal Planet™ Recommended and Exclusive tours that provide unique experiences you’ll never forget, such as snorkeling in the turquoise waters of the Great Barrier Reef or bushwalking in the Blue Mountains.

Australia Cruisetour Vacations

For the ultimate adventure, choose an in-depth Princess Cruisetour Vacation that combines your cruise with a multiple-night land tour. Venture into Australia’s rugged outback for a look at fabled Uluru (Ayers Rock), and later dive into the brilliant underwater colors of the Great Barrier Reef.

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Australia and New Zealand / Aotearoa Cruise Articles

Australia & New Zealand Cruises

Visit iconic landmarks in Australia, strikingly diverse landscapes in New Zealand, and the palm-fringed islands of the South Pacific.

Things to Do in Brisbane Cruise Port for Couples, Singles & Families

Find things to do in Brisbane, Australia, while you're in port.

5 Things to Bring Back from Your Australia Cruise

Wondering what to bring back from your Australia cruise?

Tauranga Shore Excursions: Maori Culture and History Comes Alive

Explore foreign lands when you embark on a Tauranga shore excursions.

10 Melbourne Travel Tips to Help Cruisers Fit in with Locals

These 10 Melbourne travel tips from Princess Cruises will help you experience the best of this iconic Australian city as only a local would.

Fiordland National Park Excursions: Experience the Majesty of New Zealand

Witness the majestic beauty of New Zealand on Fiordland National Park cruise excursions.

See all Australia and New Zealand / Aotearoa articles and videos

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Cruise trends 2023: 6 changes to expect on cruise ships in Australia

A new and improved range of cruise ships is heading Down Under in 2023. From fast internet to on-board tattoo studios, here's what to expect.

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Cruising is well and truly back – it’s peak season right now in Australia and all major cruise lines are sailing the coastlines. With new ships continuing to arrive in 2023, better technology, dedication to sustainability, and a new generation of cruisers, there’s a lot to look forward to.

1. The floating office

One trend we’re going to see more is the concept of the floating office, allowing cruisers to mix work with play. They can switch off and enjoy their holiday but anyone who doesn’t feel like they can fully leave the office also has the option to work at sea thanks to improved technology. Princess Cruises ’ fast internet (the Medallion Class ships have MedallionNet) offers what they call “the ultimate remote workstation: an office at sea”.

Likewise, Royal Caribbean is supersizing internet capabilities across the group’s entire fleet, including Celebrity Cruises, Silversea and Royal Caribbean, by May. Better Wi-Fi gives cruisers of all ages the opportunity to take that longer cruise rather than just a three-day long weekend sailing.

A 28-year-old American tech worker, Austin Wells, has taken it the next level. He plans to be at sea year-round and keep his day job. He’s leased one of 500 apartments on board MV  Narrative , a luxury ship which is being built in Croatia, and plans to see the world while working remotely.

See also: I bought an apartment on a cruise ship, it's cheaper than renting

See also: Big change coming to cruise ships

2. Millennial-friendly ships

Austin also represents another trend – Millennials are keener than ever to cruise. A 2021 study by TripAdvisor and Accenture found that Millennials were more interested in cruising than ever before, with 58 per cent of those polled planning to take a cruise for their next holiday. It could be because they have cottoned on to the fact there truly is a cruise for every taste.

Virgin Voyages has been a game-changer, and this year will mark the cruise line’s debut in Australia, with Resilient Lady heading here in December . We’ll get the opportunity to check out the on-board tattoo parlour, the RockStar suites and a vinyl record store.

Another ship that appeals to Millennials is  Celebrity Edge , which will also make its debut in Australia come December. On board are beautifully designed two-storey villas with plunge pools.

3. Cruises for one

Solo cruising will continue to become a more attractive option, with cruise lines such as Ponant offering deals that banish the single supplement. Dedicated solo travel company Two’s a Crowd offers cruises exclusively for those travelling on their own – no need to share a room with a stranger. Meanwhile, the new Oceania Vista , set to launch in May, will feature dedicated solo cabins (sister brand Norwegian Cruise Lines pioneered purpose-built solo cabins in 2010).

4. Kimberley in the spotlight

Virtuoso , a leading global network specialising in luxury and experiential travel, reports that in 2023 Perth, Broome and Darwin are at the top of the list of domestic locations, strongly supported by the trending demand for a luxury cruise in the Kimberley region of Western Australia. “The revival of travel from this region has only just started,” says Fiona Dalton, Virtuoso’s general manager of Australia and New Zealand.

5. Experiential excursions

Add to this the growing trend in immersive experiences, where travellers learn something new in the process. When it comes to shore excursions, cruisers are seeking personalised experiences taught by passionate experts. From a hosted walk on country in the company of a local Tiwi guide with Coral Expeditions to Italian cooking lessons with a countess in Venice with Viking , it makes for a more meaningful experience.

6. Sustainability at sea - and in port

We’re going to see exciting innovations with cruise lines pursuing more sustainable alternative energy sources. Viking is building ocean ships that will run on hydrogen fuel cells. Silversea Cruises’ Nova-class ships’ hybrid technology utilises fuel cells, batteries and dual-fuel engines that use liquefied natural gas, emitting zero local emissions while in port. Meanwhile, Ponant is developing an eco-designed cruise ship concept that will have no impact on the environment when sailing.

And as Cruise Lines International Association ocean-going cruise lines pursue net-zero carbon cruising by 2050, cruise lines are working with ports to use shore power and switch off engines while in port. According to CLIA’s Joel Katz, Sydney is set to become the first port in the southern hemisphere to offer shoreside electricity at the end of 2024, but more ports and governments around the world are committing to the infrastructure needed to support renewable energy use at berth.

“Cruise lines are determined to be leaders in reducing emissions in the maritime sector and shoreside electricity is an important part of the industry’s pursuit of zero-carbon cruising,” Joel says.

See also: 

The best $100 I’ve spent on a cruise ship

I went to a Virgin Voyages sex advice show

How to choose a cruise: 5 things to consider before you book

When she’s not travelling the world on a cruise ship, music-loving Andrea can be found searching for additions to her record collection in New York or LA. She once sat next to ’90s Maxi Priest on a flight, and has her sights set on a trip to Mexico City – and cruising on Viking Orion.

This three-day family cruise is so good, even the coolest of kids will love it.

From smashed Champagne to bottles of seawater, maritime traditions are steeped in superstition.

Most cruise lines offer an "all-inclusive fare", but what they mean by "all" can vary dramatically.

A dad and daughter cruising extravaganza

Two cruise novices board the Quantum Of The Seas for five days of fun.

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Royal Caribbean Is Headed Back to Australia — and You Can Start Booking Today

Sailings will begin in October 2023.

Royal Caribbean has announced a slew of Australian cruises for 2023 and 2024 a week after the country said it would lift its ban on cruise ships.

The cruise line will sail out of Brisbane and Sydney , embarking on everything from two-night getaways to 19-night voyages, according to Royal Caribbean . The Australia cruises, which will start in October 2023, will sail on the Ovation of the Seas , Quantum of the Seas , and — for the first time — on the Enchantment of the Seas .

"It's thrilling to welcome back two Quantum Class ships Down Under, demonstrating Royal Caribbean's commitment to the region. Plus… we've taken the opportunity to bring Enchantment of the Seas to Australia to offer unique sailings that visit new destinations we know our guests are excited to explore," Gavin Smith, the managing director of Australia and New Zealand for Royal Caribbean International, said in a statement. "We look forward to even more guests, their loved ones, and families creating memories while holidaying with us in several of the most spectacular places on earth."

Sail along Queensland's coast, including a trip to Cairns, which is a jumping-off point for the Great Barrier Reef . Or use Sydney as your base to explore New Zealand's coastline , Hobart, Adelaide, or the stunning South Pacific islands.

Those who board the Enchantment's inaugural season in Australia can visit Kangaroo Island , New Caledonia, and Vanuatu, or plan to celebrate Christmas at sea with an 11-night South Pacific and Fiji Christmas cruise.

Travelers can book a Royal Caribbean Australia cruise starting Wednesday and will receive half-price deposits if they book before April 5.

Australia dropped its ban on cruise ships last week, allowing it to end when it expires on April 17, according to the government . Before the pandemic in 2019, Australia welcomed more than 600,000 cruise ship passengers.

"On the basis of medical advice and with the agreement of National Cabinet, lifting the cruise ban is consistent with the reopening of Australia's international border and shows that we have successfully navigated Australia's emergency response to the COVID-19 pandemic," Minister for Health and Aged Care Greg Hunt said in a statement.

The decision also comes weeks after Australia opened its borders to vaccinated international tourists .

Alison Fox is a contributing writer for Travel + Leisure. When she's not in New York City, she likes to spend her time at the beach or exploring new destinations and hopes to visit every country in the world. Follow her adventures on Instagram .

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Australia Cruises 2024, 2025, 2026

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Australia & New Zealand

Have you ever dreamed of leaving your cares behind and sailing away to a sunny distant land cooled by ocean breezes? Cruises to Australia, New Zealand or the South Pacific could be just the ticket. Our Australia and New Zealand cruises take you on a journey to a special part of the world, where you’ll see spectacular natural wonders—the Great Barrier Reef, New Zealand’s Milford Sound, the volcanoes of Hawaii. You’ll call at fabled islands like Fiji, Nouméa and Tasmania. And you’ll traverse an ocean landscape where impossibly green islands seem to float in blue lagoons clearer than you could imagine.  

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Our Holiday Cruise Deal Guide

On a Royal Caribbean® cruise, you will find seemingly endless opportunities to kick your heels up, tempt your tastebuds and enjoy white-knuckle thrills that leave you craving encores! Whether you are going on a Caribbean cruise, a Mediterranean cruise, a cruise from Australia or any other Royal adventure, our cruise prices include all sorts of fantastic fun—like enjoying most of the ship’s shows and attractions, as well as access to select dining venues. But for more insider tips on how to maximize the value of your voyage, do read on!

1. Tips for finding the best holiday cruise deals.

What could be even sweeter than a Royal Caribbean® cruise? Regardless of your destination, you can snag amazing holiday deals on cruise fares, special onboard experiences, shoreside excursions and more. We offer multiple choices of destinations and cruise lengths, beginning with two night getaways from Brisbane for a quick reset and refresh. Summer cruises make a big splash with the kiddos, while our far-flung escapes to such destinations as the Mediterranean, the Caribbean and Alaska will have you exploring the world’s best.

Wonderful deals can be had if your heart is set on one of these destinations. A little flexibility on travel dates, may allow you to save big on suites and balconies. After all, imagine soaking in the sights while sipping morning coffee from the privacy of your own balcony! It takes your cruise experience to another level. To get hooked up, simply sign up for our newsletter and be among the first to know of the latest offers, including flash sales, deals by destination, onboard spending credits and other irresistible deals. Our kids sail free promotion can add up to sizable savings for a family, while sharp discounts on a second fare is the ticket for couples to enjoy a dream get-away together.

2. Should I plan ahead, or should I wait until the last minute?

It’s an age-old question — does the early bird really get the worm, or are there perks to taking a “wait-and-see” approach? If you’re booking a cruise holiday, you’ll find there are benefits to both strategies. Planning ahead is a great way to score big savings , as Royal Caribbean® often runs early saver deals for guests booking well in advance. It’s also pretty safe to assume prices usually go up as availability goes down the closer you get to your sail date, so booking ahead is a surefire way to lock in a great rate. That said, booking a cruise at the last minute can also yield some unexpected savings, but only if your itinerary hasn’t sold out yet.

If you can be flexible when it comes to your travel dates, you’ll have your pick of unbeatable savings. Popular getaway dates — like the holidays , spring break , and  summer holidays — sometimes see the highest prices (though you might get lucky with a seasonal sale).

3. How to create your all-inclusive experience.

One of the factors that keeps our guests coming back year after year, is the incredible array of top-notch experiences included in their fare. There are exciting activities for young guests and grown ones; delicious dining ; show-stopping entertainment and heart-racing activities . You can occupy your every waking moment with our complimentary offerings, filling your days with thrills, fun and unforgettable moments! We also offer packages for guests seeking all-inclusive dining and beverage options. Our Specialty Dining Package covers meals at some of the finest restaurants in our fleet, epicurean delights that are a can’t-miss for foodies. And if lounging by the pool means holding something tall, fruity and frosty in your hand, our Specialty Beverage Package may be just the thing. It extends unlimited access to drinks, including alcoholic beverages, freeing you up to simply focus on your tan!

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Australia Circumnavigation Cruises

Want to go on a cruise around Australia? That's a "circumnavigation" cruise. Surprisingly, there aren't a lot of these "circle Australia" cruises available. It's a long voyage, and that limits the number of people who have the time to take it. All of the options are listed below.

Australia's major cities are on the coast, so a cruise round the continent is a natural way to explore. The cruises typically depart from Sydney and include stops at Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Darwin and more. Often they go to Tasmania and Bali too.

The map above is of a Holland America cruise round Australia.

February 14, 2024: 34-night cruise around Australia on Royal Caribbean . Round-trip from Sydney (Australia) to Brisbane (Australia), Gladstone (Australia), Cairns (Australia), Darwin (Australia), Exmouth (Australia), Perth (Australia), Esperance (Australia), Adelaide (Australia), Melbourne (Australia), Hobart (Australia), Picton (New Zealand), Lyttelton (New Zealand) and Dunedin (New Zealand).

February 29, 2024: 26-day cruise around Australia on Princess Cruises . Round-trip from Sydney (Australia) to Brisbane (Australia), Willis Island (Australia), Cairns (Australia), Darwin (Australia), Broome (Australia), Geraldton (Australia), Perth (Australia), Busselton (Australia), Albany (Australia), Adelaide (Australia), Melbourne (Australia), Burnie (Australia) and Hobart (Australia).

October 18, 2024: 30-night cruise round Australia on Cunard Line . Round-trip from Sydney (Australia) to Airlie Beach (Australia), Cairns (Australia), Darwin (Australia), Bali (Indonesia), Broome (Australia), Geraldton (Australia), Fremantle (Australia), Albany (Australia), Adelaide (Australia), Melbourne (Australia), Hobart (Australia) and Port Arthur (Australia).

October 26, 2024: 28-day cruise around Australia on Princess Cruises . Round-trip from Sydney (Australia) to Hobart (Australia), Melbourne (Australia), Adelaide (Australia), Albany (Australia), Busselton (Australia), Fremantle (Australia), Geraldton (Australia), Broome (Australia), Darwin (Australia), Cairns (Australia), Willis Island (Australia) and Brisbane (Australia).

November 17, 2024: 35-day Australia circumnavigation cruise on Holland America Line . Round-trip from Sydney (Australia) to Newcastle (Australia), Brisbane (Australia), Airlie Beach (Australia), Cairns (Australia), Darwin (Australia), Komodo Island (Indonesia), Broome (Australia), Exmouth (Australia), Geraldton (Australia), Fremantle (Australia), Albany (Australia), Port Lincoln (Australia), Adelaide (Australia), Kangaroo Island (Australia), Melbourne (Australia), Hobart (Australia) and Port Arthur (Australia).

December 22, 2024: 34-day Australia circumnavigation cruise on Oceania Cruises . Round-trip from Sydney (Australia) to Newcastle (Australia), Airlie Beach (Australia), Cairns (Australia), Cooktown (Australia), Darwin (Australia), Bali (Indonesia), Exmouth (Australia), Geraldton (Australia), Perth (Australia), Busselton (Australia), Albany (Australia), Adelaide (Australia), Kangaroo Island (Australia), Portland (Australia), Phillip Island (Australia), Melbourne (Australia), Burnie (Australia) and Eden (Australia).

March 19, 2025: 28-day cruise around Australia on Princess Cruises . Round-trip from Sydney (Australia) to Hobart (Australia), Melbourne (Australia), Adelaide (Australia), Albany (Australia), Busselton (Australia), Perth (Australia), Geraldton (Australia), Broome (Australia), Darwin (Australia), Cairns (Australia), Willis Island (Australia) and Brisbane (Australia).

November 23, 2025: 28-day cruise around Australia on Princess Cruises . Round-trip from Sydney (Australia) to Brisbane (Australia), Willis Island (Australia), Cairns (Australia), Darwin (Australia), Broome (Australia), Geraldton (Australia), Perth (Australia), Busselton (Australia), Albany (Australia), Adelaide (Australia), Melbourne (Australia) and Hobart (Australia).

How to visit Australia without flying: Holland America launches new Grand Voyage

The long-haul flight can be enough to keep some U.S. travelers from visiting Australia . But a new Holland America Line itinerary will offer an alternate route.

The cruise line’s Grand Australia and New Zealand voyage will sail round-trip from San Diego, California in 2026, taking guests down under and back over 93 days.

"Our Grand Voyages are renowned for connecting guests with the world's most fascinating places while sailing roundtrip from the United States," Beth Bodensteiner, the line’s chief commercial officer, said in a news release . "Our team crafted this itinerary to show guests the parts of Australia and New Zealand they expect to visit, but also included frequently asked for, but rarely visited, ports throughout Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands."

When is Holland America’s Grand Australia and New Zealand voyage?

The cruise will depart on Jan. 4, 2026 aboard the line’s 1,432-guest Zaandam ship.

Where will the cruise sail?

The ship will visit 44 ports in 10 countries. Passengers will make their way to Hawaii first before heading to the South Pacific. The ship will then visit Australia – almost circling the country – and New Zealand, followed by Tonga and French Polynesia on the way back to San Diego.

The itinerary features two days of scenic cruising at the Great Barrier Reef and four late-night departures in Adelaide, Australia and the French Polynesian islands of Moorea, Raiatea and Huahine. Guests will also stay overnight in six ports, including Honolulu, Sydney and Auckland, giving them ample time to explore.

Short vs. long cruises: Which one is right for you?

How much does the cruise cost?

The cruise currently starts at $17,699 per person based on double occupancy, according to Holland America’s website . Travelers who book by June 16, 2025 can get perks like a Surf Wi-Fi package, airport transfers in San Diego, a 3% pay-in-full discount and more thrown in (though they vary by stateroom category).

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

LOCAL UPDATE: Court documents reveal more about shooting that injured DC police officer

8 Top World Cruises for 2023

U.S. News & World Report

May 19, 2024, 8:00 PM

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If your ideal vacation involves spending months sailing around the world — exploring storied, faraway lands and learning the mysteries of ancient civilizations and cultures — then you should consider booking a world cruise. These epic voyages transport guests around the globe to some of the world’s top historical and cultural attractions . You’ll sample locally inspired cuisines from Asia, Europe, South America and other diverse regions, plus enjoy special events on the ship and in port, including expert guest lectures, cultural programs and memorable themed nights. And best of all: You’ll only have to pack and unpack once.

To help you choose which world cruise is right for you, U.S. News has compiled a list of some of the best sailings that are available to book for 2025. Keep in mind: If you’re interested in a world cruise that is fully booked, you shouldn’t lose hope. When trips are booked this far in advance, there are usually some cancellations; you may be able to get on a waitlist through a travel adviser or by contacting the cruise line directly. Otherwise, if you’re ready to book your tickets and set sail on the trip of a lifetime, consider one of these 11 upcoming world voyages. (Note: All starting rates were accurate at the time of writing.)

Viking Ocean Cruises: Viking World Voyage I

Viking Ocean Cruises’ epic 180-day voyage on Viking Sky departs from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, in December 2024 and ends in New York in June 2025. The cruise is nearly sold out, including the least expensive Veranda Stateroom at $79,995 per person. Guests will visit 37 countries on six continents and have 83 guided tours in far-flung locales, from the South Pacific to Asia to the Middle East. Cruisers will also have overnights in some of the world’s most fascinating cities, including London, Istanbul and Singapore.

This world cruise includes Viking ‘s mostly all-inclusive amenities. Fares cover all meals; wine, beer and soda at lunch and dinner; one complimentary excursion in every port; free Wi-Fi access; access to the spa and fitness center; enrichment lectures and destination performances; and other amenities. The line also runs world cruise promotions that may cover free business airfare and transfers, shore credits, shipboard credits, a beverage package and other perks.

A shorter, 138-day segment of the world cruise is also available. This voyage has the same departure date and port as the 180-day option, but guests will disembark on May 6, 2025, in London. This cruise includes ports of call in 28 countries and 57 guided tours. The lowest fare is $59,995 per person (double occupancy) for a Veranda Stateroom.

Holland America Line: 124-Day Grand World Voyage

In January 2025, Holland America Line will sail simultaneous world cruises of longer than 120 days for the first time in the line’s history: this 124-day sailing and a 133-day “Pole-to-Pole” Grand World Voyage. The shorter 124-Day Grand World Voyage sails round-trip from Fort Lauderdale.

The extensive itinerary on the 1,964-passenger Zuiderdam features 32 countries and 10 overnight stays, as well as bucket list destinations like Machu Picchu, Easter Island and the Great Barrier Reef. The voyage includes a Panama Canal transit and stops in exotic destinations such as several islands in French Polynesia. Travelers will also visit ports of call in Australia, Asian countries like Indonesia and Sri Lanka, African destinations such as Madagascar and Tanzania, places in Western Europe like Italy and France, and many others. After traveling to so many incredible destinations on this itinerary, the ship crosses the Atlantic Ocean and returns to Florida.

Holland America offers a limited-time promotion where guests will receive a Surf Wi-Fi package, prepaid gratuities and other amenities when they book this voyage.

MSC Cruises: World Cruise

The world cruise voyage on the 3,223-passenger MSC Magnifica departs round-trip from Genoa (Portofino), Italy, in January 2025 for a 116-night voyage around the globe. This incredible journey with MSC Cruises includes 52 ports of call, with stops in southern France; Spain; Morocco; ports in South America; Cape Verde, Africa; and more. Guests will also visit the Falkland Islands, the dreamy isles of Tahiti, the Cook Islands, New Zealand, Australia, numerous Asian countries and Egypt before returning to Italy.

Cruise fares include 15 complimentary shore excursions, as well as the Dine & Drink package that features a selection of wines, draught beer, sparkling water and other nonalcoholic beverages in the main restaurants and the buffet during lunch and dinner. There is also a 30% discount on laundry services. Cruisers will enjoy themed evenings, guest speakers and language classes while on board.

Oceania Cruises: Around the World in 180 Days

This extensive 180-day world voyage with Oceania Cruises aboard the intimate 670-passenger Insignia embarks from Miami in January 2025. The sailing includes 89 ports in 32 countries across five continents, 46 accessible UNESCO World Heritage Sites and 21 overnight stays.

This cruise, with its unique east-to-west circumnavigation, features incredible cultural and immersive experiences across the globe. Guests will cruise the Amazon River in Brazil and visit bustling South American cities like Rio de Janeiro and Buenos Aires, Argentina. Then, they’ll set sail for alluring locales in destinations like Namibia, South Africa, Mozambique, the Maldives, India, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Cambodia, China and more. Other destinations on the long journey include New Caledonia; Mystery Island, Vanuatu; Fiji; American Samoa; French Polynesia; and Hawaii. Guests disembark in San Diego in July 2025.

Oceania’s “ simply MORE” offer for the world cruise includes two-for-one cruise fares; round-trip airfare and transfers; $8,200 in shore excursion credit; free Champagne, wine and other beverages; complimentary specialty dining; and unlimited Wi-Fi access.

Princess Cruises: 116-Day World Cruise

There are two embarkation options for Princess Cruises ‘ 116-day cruise in January 2025. Guests can choose the earlier date departing from Fort Lauderdale or join the ship later in the month in Los Angeles. Both voyages aboard the 2,200-passenger Island Princess include 43 ports of call, with the earlier voyage transiting the Panama Canal before reaching Los Angeles.

Highlights include stops in Hawaii, Fiji, New Zealand, Australia, Mauritius, South Africa, Namibia and Cape Verde. Then, it’s off to exciting ports in the Mediterranean, such as Greece, Turkey, Croatia and Montenegro. After visiting magical European cities like Rome and Florence in Italy, the ship heads to southern France, Spain, Morocco and the Canary Islands before sailing across the Atlantic to Florida. Guests on the later voyage will then transit the Panama Canal and visit Colombia, Costa Rica, Guatemala and Mexico before disembarking in Los Angeles.

Azamara: World Voyage

Azamara’s 2025 world voyage embarks in January 2025 from San Diego aboard Azamara Onward . The immersive journey includes 10 segments covering 37 countries, 15 overnights and 31 late stays in port before disembarking in Southampton, U.K.

Guests will be treated to a kickoff welcome party in San Diego, 13 exclusive cultural events, round-trip business class airfare, a pre-cruise hotel stay, all transfers and a $4,000 onboard credit. In addition, the price covers the line’s Experience More Essentials Package, which offers a $3,000 credit for shore excursions, unlimited Wi-Fi access for one device and an upgraded premium beverage package for two guests. Azamara ‘s pricing also includes food, drinks, gratuities, concierge service, weekly laundry and more.

Highlights of the itinerary include ports of call in the stunning islands of Hawaii, French Polynesia, American Samoa and Fiji. You’ll also visit New Zealand, Australia and a wide variety of Asian destinations, including Indonesia, Singapore, the Philippines, China, Vietnam, Thailand and India, before sailing to the Middle East, the Adriatic and the Mediterranean. After an extended time in Europe, the ship will disembark in the U.K.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises: Navigate the World (Away in Wonder)

In January 2025, 700 guests will call Regent’s Seven Seas Mariner home for its 150-night Navigate the World cruise. The ship sails from Miami to San Francisco across three oceans, visiting 97 ports of call in 25 countries over five continents. Stops include enchanting destinations across South America and idyllic islands like Bora Bora and Moorea in French Polynesia. The extensive Regent Seven Seas Cruises voyage will also take guests to places like Australia, New Zealand, Indonesia, Thailand, Japan, South Korea, China, Vietnam, the Falkland Islands, Alaska and more.

Two new ports of call for the line are Muroran on the Japanese island of Hokkaido and the remote Robinson Crusoe Island off the coast of Chile. The voyage also includes a crossing of the infamous Drake Passage and three days of scenic cruising along the Antarctic Peninsula . The cruise fare covers up to 395 complimentary excursions, meals, open bars, and other amenities and perks. Guests will also have access to exclusive shoreside experiences in several ports, such as the “Li-Khe & Thai Tradition” in Bangkok and “A Maori Engagement” in Auckland, New Zealand.

Crystal: World Cruise

Crystal’s 123-night world cruise embarks from Fort Lauderdale in January 2025 aboard its 740-guest luxury ship, Crystal Serenity . The Crystal voyage will transport passengers to 62 destinations in 31 countries around the globe, including Caribbean islands, Mexico, South American destinations like Argentina and Brazil, and African countries such as Mozambique and Kenya. Guests will also visit far-flung locales like the Seychelles and Maldives before sailing on to destinations in the Middle East, including Oman, Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Jordan. After visiting Greece and several ports in Italy, the ship will disembark in Barcelona in May 2025.

Exclusive onshore events during the voyage include an evening of “Tango Through the Ages” in Buenos Aires, Argentina; a Sri Lankan extravaganza with dinner and a traditional Kandyan Ves dance performance; and “An Evening with the Gods on Mt. Olympus” in Athens, Greece.

Crystal’s cruise fares are all-inclusive and cover meals (including dinner at chef Nobu’s Umi Uma); all beverages, including premium wines and spirits; luxurious amenities; butler service and gratuities; and 24-hour in-suite dining. Additional benefits with the world cruise include a business class airfare allowance or credit; $1,500 in shipboard credit; private transfers; luggage valet; exclusive onshore events; themed evenings on the ship; an exclusive gala dinner; a send-off celebration; and other perks.

Cunard Line: Maiden World Voyage (Queen Anne)

Cunard Line’s 111-night Maiden World Voyage aboard the new 3,000-passenger Queen Anne departs round-trip from Hamburg, Germany, in January 2025. The new ship, the 249th vessel to sail under the Cunard flag, debuted in May 2024. The addition of Queen Anne to the fleet marks the first time since 1999 that Cunard will have four ships sailing at sea. Highlights of the historic journey include spectacular beaches, dazzling cities and cultural sites, with stops in North and South America (including Mexico and Hawaii), New Zealand, Australia, Asia, the Middle East, Europe and more.

Meals in the main dining room, most onboard entertainment, gala evenings, afternoon tea and other activities are included in the cruise fare. Full World Voyage benefits also encompass a welcome reception, cocktail parties, a special shoreside event, use of a private lounge, the services of a World Voyage concierge, a commemorative gift, onboard credit and prepaid gratuities.

Travelers who are interested in booking a portion of this Cunard Line world cruise can opt for a voyage lasting between 17 and 107 days. These segments include routes like New York to Sydney; San Francisco to Auckland; Sydney to Hong Kong; and more.

Silversea Cruises: Controtempo

Silversea’s 2025 world cruise, Controtempo, embarks in January 2025 from Tokyo aboard the ultra-luxury 596-guest Silver Dawn . The voyage includes 60 ports in 34 countries on the line’s flagship. Guests of the journey from Tokyo to New York will have immersive bespoke events created exclusively for the cruise, including an incredible gala dinner, a “sky-high” extravaganza in Singapore, a Bollywood experience, a Marie Antoinette-inspired evening at Versailles and a private tour of an Egyptian palace.

Highlights of this Silversea Cruises itinerary are numerous ports of call in Asia, including Japan, China, Thailand and India, as well as stops along the west coast of Africa before the ship sails on to Western Europe. In France, guests can sip fine wines in Bordeaux and visit the magical walled city of Saint-Malo in Brittany. After sailing to Northern Europe to visit the cities of Stockholm and Oslo, Norway, Silver Dawn will then call on the Faroe Islands, Iceland and Greenland before heading to Canada and the East Coast of the U.S. The ship will disembark in New York in May 2025.

Silversea’s fares are all-inclusive and include luxurious suites, pre-and post-cruise benefits, all food and beverages, butler service, shore excursions, and other perks with the line’s door-to-door service.

Holland America Line: 133-Day Grand Voyage: Pole-To-Pole

Holland America’s 133-day grand voyage is believed to be the first-ever pole-to-pole round-trip sailing from the U.S. The voyage aboard the 1,432-passenger Volendam will sail from Fort Lauderdale to the Dominican Republic, Colombia and Costa Rica before transiting the Panama Canal. Other ports of call in South America include Ecuador, Peru and Chile, where guests will get to experience scenic cruising in the Chilean fjords. The journey also offers a once-in-a-lifetime chance to cross the infamous Drake Passage and see the surreal beauty of Antarctica.

After a stop in the Falkland Islands, the ship will return to South America with calls in Argentina, Uruguay and Brazil. After several ports of call in Africa and the Canary Islands, Volendam sails to Spain, Portugal, France, Belgium and the Netherlands. The ship will then navigate the waterways in Northern Europe, the North Cape, Iceland, Greenland and Canada, before sailing along the East Coast of the U.S. toward Florida.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has sailed on nearly every type of cruise ship built, including the newest megaships, paddle-wheelers on the Snake and Columbia rivers, traditional masted sailing yachts, and an 18-stateroom river ship on the Mekong River in Vietnam and Cambodia. She has also cruised on a small luxury expedition vessel in Antarctica, crossing the notorious Drake Passage twice. Pratesi covers the travel and culinary industries for major publications including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

— Bucket-List Cruise Itineraries

— The Top Cruises for Seniors and Retirees

— The Top Transatlantic Cruises

— Cruise Packing List

— The Best Cruise Insurance Options

More from U.S. News

How to Find Last-Minute Cruise Deals

18 Cruise Essentials for Your Next Trip

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8 Top World Cruises for 2023 originally appeared on usnews.com

Update 05/20/24: This article was published at an earlier date and has been updated with new information.

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