116 day cruise around the world

26 countries in 116 days: Princess Cruises will sail its longest cruise ever in 2025

Many cruise lines have seen higher demand for long sailings , and now Princess Cruises is going bigger than ever. The cruise line announced a new 2025 World Cruise that will take guests to 26 countries over 116 days, the longest itinerary in its history, the line said Thursday.

The voyage will take guests to 51 destinations around the world, including the Mediterranean, Central America, Africa, Australia and more on the Island Princess ship, according to a news release .

"We're highly regarded for our World Cruises and our 2025 voyage promises to be one for the ages as our longest adventure ever offered," John Padgett, the line's president, said in the release. "Our expert itinerary planners have assembled an unmatched combination of popular ports and off-the-beaten-path locales for a global journey not found anywhere else."

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When is Island Princess' 2025 World Cruise?

Passengers can sail round-trip from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on Jan. 5, 2025, or from Los Angeles on Jan. 20, according to Princess' website . They can also cruise from Los Angeles to Fort Lauderdale on a shorter 101-day itinerary.

Where will Island Princess' 2025 World Cruise cruise go?

The cruise will take guests to ports across the world, from Honolulu, Hawaii, to Bali and Barcelona, among others, including some firsts for the line. Princess will make its inaugural stops in Bar, Montenegro, and Taranto, Italy, during the sailing, and its first World Cruise visits to Patmos and Volos in Greece, according to the release.

As part of the trip, passengers can visit more than 25 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as the Singapore Botanic Gardens and Croatia's Old City of Dubrovnik , and spend more time in port during an overnight stay in Dubai and more than 10 late-night calls.

How much does Island Princess' 2025 World Cruise cost?

The round-trip option from Fort Lauderdale starts at $20,539, and while the round-trip option from Los Angeles starts at $19,999 per person based on double occupancy, excluding taxes, fees and port expenses, according to the line's website .

Travelers who book the round-trip 116-day itineraries and the 101-day option by May 31 can get some perks, like free round-trip economy airfare for guests in balcony staterooms and first-class flights for those in suites, Reserve Collection or mini-suites; the line's Princess Plus package; $500 per passenger in onboard credit for the first two guests in a cabin and more.

Portions of the voyage are also available to book in shorter installments.

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

MSC World Cruise – The Ultimate 116-day 2025 Around The World Cruise

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Cruise with MSC: on the MSC Magnifica in 2025 – 50 Destinations across 21 countries

Prices start at only $15,199 per person

Experience the ultimate world cruise aboard MSC Cruises’ MSC Magnifica on an unforgettable 116-day journey across five continents, 21 countries, and 50 ports of call. This around-the-world voyage is truly a once-in-a-lifetime bucket list travel experience.

Why Plan Your MSC World Cruise with Culture Discovery

With Culture Discovery Cruises, you can embark on the MSC World Cruise knowing you’ll receive excellent service and curated experiences that go far beyond just booking your travel.

We offer more services for people traveling on World Cruises than anyone you will find, all included in the price of your world cruise.  See why we are the Best Agency for MSC World Cruises .

As an award-winning tour operator since 2006, we don’t just facilitate travel – we are the driving force behind creating authentic adventures. Our own team and infrastructure allows us to deliver unparalleled cruising experiences you won’t find through a typical travel agency.

Table of Contents

Why take an msc world cruise.

An MSC World Cruise offers the ultimate way to see so many different parts of the world in unmatched comfort with destinations in 21 countries. Here are some of the major benefits of booking this cruise around the world:

Visit 5 Continents and Over 50 Ports, From Barcelona to French Polynesia

The 116-day MSC Around The World Cruise will take you to 21 different countries and 104 ports of call ranging from Buenos Aires to Sydney. Some of the major destinations include:

• Rio de Janeiro, Brazil and Buenos Aires
• French Polynesia
• The Australian Coast, and cities like Auckland  New Zealand
• Asia with stops in Thailand and Singapore
• Italy, Spain, and France

You’ll cross between hemispheres getting to experience seasons like summer and winter in the same trip. It’s an unrivaled opportunity to see so many destinations in 21 different countries in one journey.  You will be crossing the Atlantic, the South Pacific Ocean, and The Indian Ocean.

All-Inclusive Luxury Onboard the MSC Magnifica

MSC Cruises offers outstanding amenities and service on board the MSC Magnifica. Spend your days being pampered at the spa, browsing boutique shops, swimming in pools, enjoying shows, working out, and more.

The MSC World Cruise 2025 will take place on the MSC Magnifica ship after a major $200 million renovation. You can expect excellent dining, entertainment, and newly enhanced staterooms and public areas. It’s an all-inclusive luxury experience throughout over 100 days at sea and in port.

15 Port Excursions Included In The Price

15 shore excursions are Included in the price of the world cruise in 2025 at some of the most amazing destinations in the world.  They are:

• Malaga, Spain:  MALAGA CITY TOUR
• Casablanca, Morocco:  CITY TOUR AND HASSAN II’ S MOSQUE
• Rio De Janeiro, Brazil:  SIGHTS OF RIO & SUGARLOAF MOUNTAIN PANORAMA
• Buenos Aires, Argentina:  THE CHARMS OF BUENOS AIRES
• Valparaíso, Chile:  CITY TOUR VALPARAÍSO & VIÑA DEL MAR
• Papeete, French Polynesia  EAST COAST TAHITI
• Auckland, New Zealand:  AUCKLAND MUSEUM AND WATERFRONT SIGHTS 
• Sydney, Australia:  DISCOVERING SYDNEY
• Adelaide, Australia:  PANORAMIC TOUR OF ADELAIDE
• Fremantle, Australia:  FREMANTLE & PERTH ORIENTATION
• Benoa, Indonesia:  HIGHLIGHTS OF UBUD
• Port Klang, Malaysia:  HIGHLIGHTS OF KUALA LUMPUR 
• Colombo, Sri Lanka:  COLOURS OF COLOMBO TOUR WITH TRADITIONAL SHOW
• Aqaba, Jordan:  WONDERS OF PETRA
• Messina, Italy:  MESSINA CITY TOUR

Unique Overnight and Extended Stays

An advantage of the longer MSC World Cruise itinerary is that it offers overnight and extended stays in many of the most desired ports of call. This gives you more time to explore destinations like Rio de Janeiro, Buenos Aires, The Polynesian Islands, and Sydney without having to rush back to the ship.

With extended time in port, you can take part in included shore excursions or venture out to experience places at a more leisurely pace. It’s a way to gain a deeper understanding of local cultures.

The Best Prices

The best service, no added fees, cruise while you sleep between destinations.

One of the best aspects of a world cruise is waking up in a new destination almost every day. The cruise ship handles traveling between ports as you sleep in your comfortable stateroom, and you never feel jet-lag!

You maximize time traveling around the world without having to spend days on airplanes jetting between countries. Simply board MSC Magnifica, and the cruise line takes care of transit logistics for you.

Friendly Atmosphere and Staff

MSC Cruises promotes an interactive, family-friendly ambiance with events and activities that bring passengers together. You’ll meet intriguing people from around the world on a diverse ship. The staff is warm and attentive providing top-notch service.

Flexible Booking for 2025 World Cruises

Booking the voyage with  Culture Discovery Vacations provides flexibility to modify plans while protecting your investment. We will ensure you get the best world cruise experience at an incredible value.

Overview of the MSC World Cruise Itinerary

Spanning January to May 2025, the 120-day round-the-world MSC World Cruise itinerary is truly epic. You’ll cross between hemispheres, experiencing tropical destinations along with exotic locales as you allow the ship to take you around the world.

Within this globe-spanning itinerary, MSC Cruises arranges included shore excursions at each port of call along with pre-bookable optional tours for deeper explorations. It’s the most seamless way to see so many bucket list destinations.

Booking the MSC World Cruise

Booking through Culture Discovery Vacations gives you a strong advocate for getting the best deal while providing a seamless booking experience. We’ll handle all the trip-planning details for you.

Reserve Early for Best Offer

Booking an MSC World Cruise early locks in the best cabin selection and pricing. Availability is limited on this popular world cruise itinerary.

Purchase Travel Insurance

Protect your investment by purchasing travel insurance for your cruise. Our advisors can provide recommendations for comprehensive coverage.

Arrange Airfare and Transfers

We can help arrange flights and transfers to the MSC World Cruise cruise departure and arrival ports which are convenient add-ons to complete your trip planning.

Passport and Visa Requirements

Most destinations require 6+ months of passport validity. Visa requirements vary by nationality. Culture Discovery Vacations  will provide guidance to ensure you have proper documentation.

With Culture Discovery Vacations , you benefit from the knowledge of cruise experts who create a seamless, stress-free booking experience. We’ll save you time and money while getting you on the MSC World Cruise of your dreams!

Life on Board MSC World Cruise Ships

MSC Cruises offers a relaxed sophisticated atmosphere on its ships. You’ll enjoy world-class dining, entertainment, amenities and service throughout your voyage. Here’s a glimpse of what life on board is like:

State-of-the-Art Facilities

After a $200 million makeover, the MSC Magnifica  will be ready for the 2025 MSC World Cruise, featuring newly enhanced staterooms, restaurants, lounges, shops, entertainment venues and more. She provides an intimate, elegant setting for experiencing the world.

Alluring Accommodations

From interior to oceanview to balcony, staterooms provide comfortable retreats after full days ashore. Select categories give you closer access to conveniences like lounges, restaurants and promenades.

Mouthwatering Cuisine

The ship’s buffets and main dining rooms provide diverse, made-from-scratch cuisine. Specialty restaurants like a steakhouse, teppanyaki grill, and sushi bar provide added diversity and ambiance.

Spectacular Entertainment

Catch full-scale theater productions in the main show lounge. Enjoy live music, comedy shows, cultural performances, theme parties, guest lecturers, and late night social scenes across venues.

Extensive Enrichment

Join workshops focused on digital photography, arts & crafts, cooking demos, dance classes, language lessons and port lectures to enhance your voyage.

Indulgent Relaxation

Unwind in refined comfort at the full-service spa, saunas, hot tubs, adults-only retreats, and pools lined with sun loungers. Work out in the well-equipped gym and sports areas.

Thrilling Activities

Try the F1 simulator, 4D cinema, bowling alley, F1 race car experience, virtual games, family activities, and outdoor waterpark for non-stop fun.

With so many dining, entertainment and relaxation options, you’ll never be bored on your days at sea. The ship provides the seamless transportation between incredible destinations.

Extend Your Experience with Culture Discovery Vacations

Once you’ve experienced an unforgettable MSC World Cruise, you may want to extend your exploration on a pre- or post-cruise trip. Culture Discovery Vacations provides enriching land extensions and tours to give you a deeper immersion into destinations.

Pre-Cruise Extensions

Add extra days in embarkation cities like Rome, Barcelona, Miami, San Francisco, Sydney, Auckland, and more. Absorb rich history and culture before or after your cruise.

Multi-Day Land Tours

Journey on guided excursions to places like the Pyramids of Egypt, Taj Mahal in India, ancient sites of Israel and Jordan, and the Outback of Australia.

Private Tours

Craft custom private tours and transfers for a personalized experience focused entirely on your interests. We are highly focused on designing a memorable adventure of a lifetime.

Experienced Local Guides

Our extensive connections provide local experts who share insider perspectives on culture, history, and daily life in destinations around the world.

Seamless Logistics

Leave the planning and logistics to us while you simply soak up inspiring places and people. We take care for you like family.

With Culture Discovery Vacations , your whole journey becomes more culturally immersive and meaningful. Contact us to start planning your extended pre- and post-cruise explorations.

Frequently Asked Questions About MSC World Cruises

Here are answers to some common questions travelers have about booking the MSC World Cruise:

We recommend booking an MSC World Cruise 12-18 months in advance if possible. Early booking ensures best pricing, promotions, and cabin availability on these popular sailings.

DINE & DRINK PACKAGE : This cruise includes beverages in the Main on-board restaurants during Lunch and Dinner opening hours and in the Buffet Area during assigned Lunch and Dinner Hours  only . The package includes a variety of wines served by the glass (white, red, rose & sparkling wines), draught beer, mineral water, fountain-soda & fruit juices (by the glass).  Buffet Opening Hours : lunch: 11:30h – 16:00h / dinner: 17:30h – 22:30h.

The package is not valid for use in any speciality restaurant or bars outside of the buffet area. 

LAUNDRY:  30% off All Laundry Services.

ACTIVITIES : A comprehensive activity schedule with theme evenings, language classes, cultural guest speakers and much more.

For the full voyage, starting prices are $15,199 per person double occupancy for an inside cabin. Oceanview and balcony cabins are more expensive, but still one of the world’s best values for a world cruise experience. Additional costs include airfare, excursions, gratuities, and more.

Yes, MSC Cruises offers airfare packages or you can book flights independently. Culture Discovery Vacations also provides airfare quotes and booking assistance.

MSC Cruises automatically adds gratuity charges to your onboard account to cover dining and housekeeping staff. You are welcome to adjust the amount based on level of service. Additional tips for concierge, spa, etc. are at your discretion.

The relaxed sophistication of MSC Cruises attracts more middle-aged to older travelers and fewer children. However they tend to attract a younger average than other world cruises. Their interactive atmosphere encourages mingling across generations.

Travel insurance is highly recommended to protect your investment. Coverage like trip cancellation/interruption, emergency medical and weather delay can give peace of mind.

At Culture Discovery Vacations ,  we are happy to answer all your questions and walk you through the entire booking process for an amazing voyage with MSC Cruises. Feel free to reach out anytime !

The definition of safe is always relative to each person’s comfort level.  The ports the ship stops at are considered to be widely safe place, but always check with the State Department or CDC for more information about each destination

Each cruise line has different policies.  For MSC, we suggest you consult their Terms and Conditions , Passengers Bill of Rights , and Conditions of Carriage for specific details.

MSC takes great care to cater to many special needs.  You can see their full policy here .

Start Planning Your MSC World Cruise Adventure

Embarking on an iconic round-the-world voyage with MSC Cruises is a dream trip for many travelers. With 5 continents, 21 countries, over 50 ports and unforgettable experiences, the MSC World Cruise offers an unrivaled way to see the planet in style and comfort.

Culture Discovery Vacations provides the expertise, connections and services to help you book this once-in-a-lifetime journey seamlessly. We listen to your travel vision and craft your ideal itinerary with exclusive perks and benefits you won’t find elsewhere.

We treat you like family and give your trip our full personal attention. Take advantage of special promotions, get the best value, and have an advocate in your corner every step of the booking process.

Trust Culture Discovery Vacations to create an experience that goes beyond simply booking travel. We make your MSC World Cruise dream a reality! Allow us to guide you on the exploration of a lifetime.

We offer more services and reasons to book with us than anyone else…

World Cruises by Year

• Wolrd Cruises 2024
• Wolrd Cruises 2025
• Wolrd Cruises 2026
• Wolrd Cruises 2027

World Cruises by Cruise Line & Year

• Azamara Wolrd Cruise
• Azamara World Cruise 2024 (Sold Out)
• Azamara World Cruise 2025
• Azamara World Cruise 2026
• Holland America World Cruise
• Holland America World Cruise 2024
• Holland America World Cruise 2025
• Holland America World Cruise 2026
• MSC Wolrd Cruise
• MSC World Cruise 2024
• MSC World Cruise 2025
• MSC World Cruise 2026
• Oceania Wolrd Cruise
• Oceania World Cruise 2024
• Oceania World Cruise 2025
• Oceania World Cruise 2026
• Princess Wolrd Cruise
• Princess World Cruise 2024
• Princess World Cruise 2025
• Princess World Cruise 2026
• Regent Seven Seas Wolrd Cruise
• Regent Seven Seas World Cruise 2024
• Regent Seven Seas World Cruise 2025
• Regent Seven Seas World Cruise 2026
• Seabourn Wolrd Cruise
• Seabourn World Cruise 2024
• Seabourn World Cruise 2025
• Seabourn World Cruise 2026
• Viking Wolrd Cruise
• Viking World Cruise 2024
• Viking World Cruise 2025
• Viking World Cruise 2026

General World Cruise Information

• Around the World Cruise Reviews
• Best Value World Cruise
• Cheapest World Cruise
• Travel and Cruise World
• World Cruise Blog
• World Cruise Deals
• World Cruise Reviews
• World Cruise Sale

Why Always Book with CDV:

Book cruises with CDV and you can get a credit of up to $10,000 for each cruise to use toward any CDV land vacation!  Click here for more info.

The special and exclusive CDV offers can almost always be combined all with current qualifying national promotions offered by the cruise line, as well as full credit toward cruise line status.

We believe in the concept of Luxury of experience.  This means that our guests are not just looking for bucket list places, but life-changing experiences.  Our passion is making that happen, and to do so, we need to think of each person we deal with as friends and family.  We are not just planning a trip or event or you, but rather a life experience you will talk about long into the future.

Our secret sauce is a mixture of people that truly care about you above the “product,” leading-edge technology, and our carefully cultivated relationships with vendors that have become dear friends.  For us, it is always personal.  Click here to learn more about us and why we are in no way a typical travel agency.

Culture Discovery Reviews:

Peace of mind, always....

• We will always find you the most for what you pay.
• We arrange the best shore excursions with special providers.
• We save dozens of hours of your time, or more.
• Access to special perks on countless Sailings.
• If the price drops, we represent you for price-protection.
• We work with the cruise line to assure everything you need is always taken care of.
• We have first-hand destination experience like no other.
• We fully support you before, during and long after.
• We have direct on-ground support in the USA and Europe.

Get up to $10,000 credit or more when you book with CDV

Book cruises with CDV and you can get credit of up to $10,000 for each cruise to use toward any CDV land vacation!

MSC WORLD CRUISE 2025

Journey into wonder with MSC Magnifica.

Your 2025 around the world cruise is now up for sale.

MSC World Cruise 2025

Journey into wonder with msc magnifica. your 2025 around the world cruise is now up for sale.

Make dreams of travelling the world a reality in 2025 and embark on the journey of a lifetime with MSC Cruises. Unpack once and set sail from January to May on a 116-night epic cruise around the world , visiting up to 50 spectacular destinations in 21 countrie s. MSC Magnifica will journey to hidden gems and iconic sights of 5 continents on this ultimate World Cruise across the water's farthest reaches.

Take a grand Mediterranean tour around Europe, then head to South America via Casablanca and Cape Verde , and explore Rio, Buenos Aires, Falklands Islands, Argentina, the snow-capped mountains of Ushuaia , Chile's Valparaíso and more. Your cruise around the world will then sail into the Pacific for sun-kissed Tahiti, French Polynesia, Cook Islands, before navigating toward the celebrated coastlines of New Zealand and Australia . Discover the pristine beauty of Bali , the buzz of Singapore , the authenticity of Malaysia , the postcard perfection of Phuket , and the cosmopolitan candour of Colombo . The ship will then set course back to Europe via an Arabian escapade through the Red Sea and the Suez Canal to uncover the ancient temples and treasures of Jordan and Egypt .

Port by port, this impressive world cruise will introduce tastes and traditions, cultures and communities, providing a total immersion in the most authentic experiences imaginable. Extended stays, seven overnight anchorages and custom-designed excursions ensure no stone will be left unturned. Whether choosing the complete itinerary or selecting a shorter segment for a tailor-made trip, MSC Magnifica will be the best base to indulge in this desire to cruise around the world. With its perfect combination of traditional craftsmanship, elegant design and relaxed refinement MSC Magnifica promises a journey of a lifetime. Dine at 5 gourmet restaurants, make life-long friends with fellow adventurers over drinks in one of 12 bars and relax in the award-winning spa and outdoor pool.

Enjoy 15 shore excursions as part of the fare and the option to book additional excursions in advance or during the cruise. The fare also features a Dine & Drink Package and a 30% discount on laundry packages. MSC Voyagers Club members benefit from a 5% discount and triple membership points for the selected experience at the time of booking.

Are you ready to fulfil your thirst for adventure with a memorable round the world cruise? Start planning now your MSC World Cruise 2025!

Civitavecchia, Italy - Genoa, Italy

Marseille, France - Barcelona, Spain

Itinerary ports

DAY 1 GENOA

DAY 2 MARSEILLE

DAY 3 BARCELONA

DAY 4 AT SEA

DAY 5 MALAGA

DAY 6 CASABLANCA

DAY 7, 8 & 9 AT SEA

DAY 10 MINDELO

DAY 11, 12, 13 & 14 AT SEA

DAY 15 SALVADOR

DAY 16 AT SEA

DAY 17 & 18 RIO DE JANEIRO

DAY 19 & 20 AT SEA

DAY 21 & 22 BUENOS AIRES

DAY 23 & 24 AT SEA

DAY 25 PUERTO MADRYN

DAY 26 AT SEA

DAY 27 PORT STANLEY

DAY 28 AT SEA

DAY 29 AT SEA

DAY 30 USHUAIA

DAY 31 & 32 AT SEA

DAY 33 PUERTO CHACABUCO

DAY 34  PUERTO MONTT

DAY 35 AT SEA

DAY 36, 37 & 38 VALPARAISO

DAY 39, 40, 41 & 42 AT SEA

DAY 43 HANGA ROA RAPA NUI

DAY 44 & 45 AT SEA

DAY 46 BOUNTY BAY PASSAGE (TRANSIT)

DAY 47 & 48 AT SEA

DAY 49 & 50  PAPEETE

DAY 51 MOOREA

DAY 52 AT SEA

DAY 51 AITUTAKI

DAY 52 RAROTONGA

DAY 53 & 54 AT SEA

DAY 55, 56 & 57 AT SEA

DAY 43 BAY OF ISLANDS

DAY 59 AUCKLAND

DAY 60  TAURANGA

DAY 61 NAPIER

DAY 62 AT SEA

DAY 63 CHRISTCHURCH

DAY 52 DUNEDIN

DAY 65 MILFORD SOUND  & FIORDLAND PARK TRANSIT

DAY 66 & 67 AT SEA

DAY 68 SYDNEY

11 & 12

DAY 69 & 70 SYDNEY

DAY 71 EDEN

DAY 72 AT SEA

DAY 73  MELBOURNE

DAY 74 AT SEA

DAY 75 ADELAIDE

DAY 76 PENNESHAW

DAY 77 & 78 AT SEA

DAY 79 ALBANY

DAY 80 AT SEA

DAY 81 BUSSELTON

DAY 82 FREMANTLE

13 & 14

DAY 83 FREMANTLE

DAY 84 & 85 AT SEA

DAY 86 BROOME

DAY 87 AT SEA

DAY 88 & 89 BENOA

DAY 90 & 91 AT SEA

DAY 92  SINGAPORE

DAY 93 PORT KLANG

DAY 94 PENANG

DAY 95 PHUKET

DAY 96 AT SEA

15 & 16

DAY 97 AT SEA

DAY 98 COLOMBO

DAY 99, 100, 101, 102, 103, 104 & 105 AT SEA

DAY 106 AQABA

DAY 107  SHARM EL-SHEIK

DAY 108 SAFAGA

DAY 109 SUEZ CANAL SOUTH (TRANSIT)

DAY 110 SUEZ CANAL SOUTH (TRANSIT)

DAY 111 ALEXANDRIA

DAY 112 & 113 AT SEA

DAY 114 MESSINA

DAY 107  NAPLES

DAY 116 CIVITAVECCHIA (ROME)

Excursions & Other Services Included

Free excursions.

15 Shore Excursions included, selected Among The Best Excursions Created By MSC Cruises: Malaga, Spain:  MALAGA CITY TOUR  (MAL01W)

Casablanca, Morocco:  CITY TOUR AND HASSAN II' S MOSQUE ( CAS23W)

Rio De Janeiro, Brazil:  SIGHTS OF RIO & SUGARLOAF MOUNTAIN PANORAMA ( RIO02W)

Buenos Aires, Argentina:  THE CHARMS OF BUENOS AIRES ( BUE02W)

Valparaíso, Chile:  CITY TOUR VALPARAÍSO & VIÑA DEL MAR ( VAP01W)

Papeete, French Polynesia  EAST COAST TAHITI ( PPT02W)

Auckland, New Zealand:  AUCKLAND MUSEUM AND WATERFRONT SIGHTS ( AKL02W) 

Sydney, Australia:  DISCOVERING SYDNEY ( SYD07W) 

Adelaide, Australia:  PANORAMIC TOUR OF ADELAIDE ( ADL01W) 

Fremantle, Australia:  FREMANTLE & PERTH ORIENTATION ( FRE02W)

Benoa, Indonesia:  HIGHLIGHTS OF UBUD ( BOA04W) 

Port Klang, Malaysia:  HIGHLIGHTS OF KUALA LUMPUR ( PKG11W) 

Colombo, Sri Lanka:  COLOURS OF COLOMBO TOUR WITH TRADITIONAL SHOW ( CMB21W) 

Aqaba, Jordan: WONDERS OF PETRA ( AQA03W)

Messina, Italy:  MESSINA CITY TOUR ( MES05W)

Other Services included

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MSC Cruises

12 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 12 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.

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

The Three Oceans

Silversea recently announced a new 80-destination world cruise for 2027, also aboard Silver Dawn.

Departing from Los Angeles for a 149-night voyage, the ship will visit 35 countries and five continents before ending in Copenhagen. The itinerary features 80 port calls, more than any sailing in Silversea's history, and it will also include 20 new destinations for the line.

Passengers can enjoy extended time in select ports with 11 overnight calls in Honolulu; Cairns, Australia; Colombo, Sri Lanka; Cape Town, South Africa; and Bordeaux, France, among others.

The Three Oceans cruise departs Jan. 8, 2027. Prices will be available beginning from June 10, 2024.

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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Princess Cruises unveils Epic 116-day World Cruise 2025

Princess Cruises has announced its longest voyage to date for 2025, a 116-day World Cruise covering over 33,500 nautical miles and visiting 51 destinations across six continents.

Guests can choose from two roundtrip options departing from Fort Lauderdale FL on January 5th or Los Angeles CA on January 20th, 2025, with stops in Australia, New Zealand & the South Pacific, the Mediterranean, Central America, Africa, Asia, and more.

Scheduled for the Island Princess ship , this extraordinary journey will also visit for the first time (for the Princess brand) the popular port cities Bar Montenegro , and Taranto Italy , as well as Greece's Patmos Island and Volos (port for the Meteora Monasteries). The voyage will offer access to 27 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Alexandria for historic Cairo and the pyramids, the Singapore Botanical Gardens, the Old City of Dubrovnik , The Ancient Greek City of Ephesus , and The Monastery of St. John and the Cave of the Apocalypse.

Guests can enjoy an overnight stay in Dubai and 11 late-night calls to explore popular destinations like Cartagena, Casablanca , and Sydney . Optional shore excursions include the Hypogeum of Hal Saflieni, Malta’s oldest underground temple and necropolis, and walking in the footsteps of ancient Romans in Cartagena, Spain , and viewing Leonardo da Vinci’s magnificent The Last Supper in Milan (Genoa), Italy .

Early booking benefits are available for guests who book the 116-day roundtrip Ft. Lauderdale or Los Angeles voyages and the 101-day World Cruise option from Los Angeles to Fort Lauderdale by May 31, 2023. These benefits include first-class or economy roundtrip airfare, Princess Plus, onboard spending money, specialty dining, Captain’s Circle Benefits, and a limited-time offer on liners to or from Dubai .

Guests paying in full for the World Cruise by May 31, 2023, will also receive an additional 5% Future Cruise Credit on their cruise fare.

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A New World Cruise Will Take You to 21 Countries on 5 Continents in 4 Months

You can sail for 116 days to 50 destinations. Here's how to get on board.

Courtesy of MSC Cruises

Imagine traveling around the world but only having to unpack once. That dream becomes a reality when you sail on a world cruise . And there's a new world cruise that was just announced this week: MSC Cruises has opened bookings for its 116-night world cruise that will travel to 50 destinations across 21 countries on five continents.

Departing in January 2025, the itinerary begins in Europe, with guests embarking in one of four cities: Rome or Genoa in Italy; Marseille, France; or Barcelona . From there, it continues to Africa, making port in Morocco and the archipelago of Cape Verde. After a transatlantic crossing, the ship will sail around South America, from Brazil to Chile, before heading for Easter Island and Pitcairn Island, the famed location of the mutiny on the H.M.S. Bounty .

Next is an adventure in Oceania, from French Polynesia to the Cook Islands, followed by New Zealand and Australia. Then the ship, MSC Magnifica, will sail through Southeast Asia, from Indonesia to Sri Lanka. The next leg of the journey is to the Middle East, with stops at the iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site Petra in Jordan and multiple sites across Egypt, plus a transit of the Suez Canal. Finally, the ship makes its way back to Italy for disembarkation.

The adventure happens aboard the MSC Magnifica, a 3,013-passenger ship with five restaurants and 12 bars and lounges, plus the Aurea spa specializing in Balinese massage, a running track, activities like mini-golf and bowling, and a 1,200-seat theater.

Rates for the 2025 world cruise aboard MSC Magnifica start at $13,199 per person, though you can also join the cruise for shorter segments if you can't commit to the full 116 nights. Included in that rate: food, beverages, 15 shore excursions (though you can always pay for more), and a 30% discount on laundry. If you're ready to have the adventure of a lifetime, you can book now at msccruisesusa.com .

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Princess Cruises Announces Longest Voyage Ever with 116-Day Cruise

Princess Cruises Sends Island Princess on the Line’s Longest Voyage in History 

Princess Cruises has planned its longest voyage ever in 2025. It will be an epic 116-day World Cruise traveling over 33,500 nautical miles, visiting 51 destinations in 26 countries and six continents.

Now open for reservations, this amazing world adventure includes visits to Australia, New Zealand & the South Pacific, the Mediterranean, Central America, Africa, Asia and beyond.

Sailing on Island Princess, the 116-day World Cruise offers two roundtrip options with departures from both Ft. Lauderdale, embarking January 5, 2025, and Los Angeles on January 20, 2025.

This destination dreamers delight also includes Princess’ first-ever visit to historic Bar, Montenegro and Taranto, Italy, along with inaugural World Cruise calls to the idyllic Greek Island of Patmos and to Volos – for the Monasteries of Meteora. 

“We’re highly regarded for our World Cruises and our 2025 voyage promises to be one for the ages as our longest adventure ever offered,” said John Padgett, president of Princess Cruises. “Our expert itinerary planners have assembled an unmatched combination of popular ports and off-the-beaten-path locales for a global journey not found anywhere else.”

All told, Island Princess’s 2025 around the world cruise will provide access to 27 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Included is the cruise line’s return to Alexandria, Egypt for historic Cairo and the pyramids and ancient treasures of Giza.

Additional sites include the Singapore Botanical Gardens, Old City of Dubrovnik, The Ancient Greek City of Ephesus (from Kusadasi) and The Monastery of St. John and the Cave of the Apocalypse (from Patmos).

READ NEXT:  Take a First Peek at Princess Cruises’ New Sun Princess

This unique voyage includes an overnight in ultra-modern Dubai, as well as 11 “More Ashore” late-night calls. These later departures will give guests more time to enjoy exploring the old town of Cartagena, Colombia, shopping in Casablanca or making a toast to the nightlife in Sydney.

With and array of optional shore excursions, guests can tap into their inner Indiana Jones and discover the Hypogeum of Hal Saflieni, Malta’s oldest underground temple and necropolis.

In addition, they can walk in the footsteps of ancient Romans wandering the District of the Roman Forum in Cartagena, Spain and stand in awe before Leonardo da Vinci’s magnificent The Last Supper in Milan, Italy.

World Cruise 2025 early booking benefits are available for guests booking the 116-day roundtrip Ft. Lauderdale or Los Angeles voyages and the 101-day World Cruise option from Los Angeles to Ft. Lauderdale by May 31, 2023.

Princess Cruises Early Booking Benefits

• First-Class or Economy Roundtrip Airfare– guests booked in suites, Reserve Collection or mini-suites fly first class to and from LAX or FLL, while guests booking a balcony stateroom receive free economy airfare. Only valid on flights departing the United States or Canada.
• Princess Plus – gives guests almost 60% off a retail value of $140 if components are purchased separately. The enhanced package includes the Plus Beverage Package, single device wi-fi plan and daily crew appreciation, plus two premium crafted desserts, two smoothies or juices, two fitness classes and free shipping of Medallions prior to cruise.
• Onboard Spending Money – for shopping, shore excursions, spa treatments and more, with $500 per guest (for the first two guests in a stateroom).
• Specialty Dining– each guest can dine at award-winning specialty restaurants up to four times during the voyage without worrying about the cover charge. 
• Captain’s Circle Benefits – as a thank you for their loyalty, Captain’s Circle Members enjoy an extra up to $1,000 USD in savings per guest, good for the first two guests in a stateroom.
• Limited Time Offer on Liners to or from Dubai – guests booking the 51-, 50-, 65- or 66-day World Cruise Liner itinerary options to or from Dubai, receive $200 per guest onboard spending money.

Guests paying in full for the World Cruise by May 31, 2023, will receive an additional 5% Future Cruise Credit on their cruise fare.

Source:  Princess Cruises

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This cruise line just launched 116-day cruise around the world for $13,200

It stops at 50 destinations in 21 countries.

• Kaitlin Gates
• February 23, 2023

If you’ve ever dreamed of traveling around the world, there’s a new cruise setting sail in 2025 that will give you a pretty good taste of what it would be like.

The MSC World Cruise 2025 will travel across three oceans and five continents, stopping in 50 destinations in 21 countries. The cruise takes place aboard the MSC Magnifica from January through May 2025 for a total of 116 nights. Though you’ll be spending a lot of time off the ship, you’ll still be at sea for 57 days.

Travelers can embark on the U.K.-based cruise line’s trip from one of four ports: Barcelona, Spain; Marseille, France; Genoa, Italy; and Rome.

Sailing more than 30,000 nautical miles, the cruise begins with a Mediterranean tour around Europe before heading toward South America, via Casablanca, Morocco, and Cape Verde. There, you’ll visit Rio de Janeiro; Buenos Aires, Argentina; the Falklands Islands; the snow-capped mountains of Ushuaia; Valparaíso in Chile and more.

The cruise then ventures to the Pacific Ocean for Tahiti, French Polynesia and the Cook Islands before heading toward New Zealand and Australia. You’ll also sail to Bali, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand and Sri Lanka. Toward the end of the journey, the ship will head back to Europe through the Red Sea and the Suez Canal to  Jordan and Egypt.

The first stop along the way is 10 days in South America, including an overnight stay in Rio de Janeiro and a visit to Bueno Aires. Next is nearly two weeks in the tropics, followed by five days of sailing.

The ship then heads to New Zealand for eight days before spending 19 days in Australia to visit cities like Auckland and Adelaide. Then passengers will travel to Asia with stops in Singapore and Thailand before spending seven days crossing the Indian Ocean to visit Jordan, Egypt and the Suez Canal.

The ship then heads back to Italy for four more stops, ending in Genoa.

If you’re worried about getting bored on the ship when it’s not docking, have no fear. The 964-foot-long MSC Magnifica has entertainment ranging from a bowling alley to a mini golf course, casino, disco and movie theater.

The cruise costs $13,200 per person, which is about $114 per night. A dine and drink package is included, as are 15 shore excursions at select stops along the way.

MSC’s price is far less expensive than luxury line Silversea’s world cruise in 2025 , which is currently priced at $81,000, or Viking’s current world cruise offerings , which start at $55,000.

Will you be booking a spot on the MSC World Cruise 2025?

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Princess Cruises has unveiled its longest 116-day world cruise as extended itineraries continue to see 'record' success

• Princess Cruises unveiled its longest itinerary yet, a 2025 116-day world cruise to 51 locations.
• Extended and around-the-world cruises have seen "record-breaking" booking success.
• Cruise lines like Oceania Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, and now Princess have been capitalizing on this trend.

Travelers have been craving longer cruises now more than ever before.

And in response, cruise lines — from smaller luxury companies to cruising giants — have been unveiling more extended itineraries to "record breaking" success.

Source: Insider

From a one-month transoceanic cruise to a nine-month circumnavigation of the globe, travelers now have plenty of options for these longer sailings.

Booking a similar around-the-world or extended vacation using planes, trains, cars, and hotels instead of a cruise ship could be a complicated logistical nightmare.

But on a cruise vessel, all of the destinations, planning, food, and accommodations are already included.

There's no need to transfer airports or unpack and repack between hotels.

All the traveler has to do is sit back, take a nap on the pool deck, and wait for the ship to sail from destination to destination.

And this more relaxing form of extended travel has been catching the eyes of cruise fans.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises unveils its around the world cruises and extended "grand voyages" annually.

And for five years in a row, the cruise line has seen "unprecedented demand" for its global cruises, which consistently sell out in "record time."

Regent has also been breaking its own records for the length of its itineraries.

Its most recently announced $95,000 to $266,500 per person global cruise — 154-night itinerary roundtrip from Miami in 2026— will be its longest sailing yet.

This shatters the previous record set only one year prior when Regent unveiled its 150-night 2025 world cruise, which was fully reserved before it even opened for bookings.

Source: Insider , Regent Seven Seas Cruises

New-to-brand travelers made up over one-third of bookings for this 2025 cruise, a spokesperson told Insider in an email.

This ratio of returning to new travelers is the same for Oceania Cruises' currently underway 2023 world sailing, a spokesperson for the Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings' brand told Insider.

The Oceania cruise departed for its circumnavigation of the world in mid-January and will complete its journey in July.

Those travelers were lucky to have snagged a spot. The 180-day cruise sold out in under a day, a spokesperson told Insider …

… noting that Oceania has "significantly" increased its number of other extended voyages.

It's "as if [travelers are] making up for time spent at home [during COVID-19]," a Silversea spokesperson told Insider in an email.

Like Regent Seven Seas and Oceania, Silversea Cruises has seen "strong demand" for its extended cruises.

This year the Royal Caribbean Group brand will operate five-times more 21 days and over itineraries compared to 2019, a testament to the demand it's been seeing.

And it's not just the little guys — some of the world's biggest cruise brands are capitalizing on this boom as well.

On April 6, Princess Cruises announced its 2025 116-day world cruise itinerary.

Source: Princess Cruises

Princess unveils world cruises almost annually but this 2025 sailing aboard the Island Princess will be its longest yet.

The global vacation will stop in 51 locations across 26 countries and 33,500 nautical miles ...

... bringing travelers to destinations like 27 UNESCO World Heritage Sites and several new to the brand or world cruise destinations.

Just two months prior, budget friendly Carnival Cruise Line also unveiled one of its longest cruises yet, a 31-day transpacific journey in 2024 starting at $3,450.

Source: Insider , Insider

It's one of Carnival's 150 "long cruises" now available for booking, a spokesperson told Insider.

But a month at sea is nothing compared to MSC's recently announced 116-day 2025 world cruise.

Almost one-third of the bookings for this 2025 cruise have come from Americans, the most of any nationality, a spokesperson told Insider.

And there's a good chance the cruise could be fully booked come 2025: MSC's global itineraries have consistently sold out since its first one in 2019.

But so far, no around the world itinerary will top the length of Royal Caribbean's upcoming 274-night Ultimate World Cruise setting sail in December starting at $61,000.

In the first week bookings opened in 2021, 70% of suites and staterooms were claimed.

At the time, Michael Bayley — the cruise line's president and CEO — believed the Ultimate World Cruise would sell out.

Now nine months out, there's still some interior and ocean view staterooms left while all of the balcony staterooms and suites have already been reserved.

The nine-month cruise will be segmented into four shorter portions that can individually be booked.

But half of the booked customers have committed to the nine months at sea. Let's just hope they — along with the rest of these extended cruise fans — have sea legs.

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116 Night World Cruise

Best known for the Pacific Princess on the Love Boat, Princess Cruises has been a leading name in cruising and visits a wide range of destinations.

Take an extensive, incredible voyage filled with everything from scuba excursions in the Caribbean to camel riding through the sand dunes of Egypt—choose a World Cruise.

With incredible weather, delicious fare and some stupendous attractions, you will find that Fort Lauderdale’s Port Everglades is one of the most attractive ports in the entire US.

• Island Princess - Passenger Capacity:  2,200 (double occupancy) Year Built: 2003 Last Refurbished: 2017

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116 Night World Cruise sailing on the Island Princess

Departure dates: jan 2025 - jan 2025.

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Princess Cruises announces 116-day world cruise stopping in 26 countries

(Gray News) - If you want to see the world (and don’t mind being on a cruise ship for almost a full four months), then this trip is for you!

Princess Cruises just announced a new 2025 world cruise that will take passengers to 48 ports in 26 countries over 116 days.

While Princess Cruises has offered 100-plus day world cruises before, the cruise line says this is the longest itinerary in its history by several days.

The voyage will set sail on Jan. 5, 2025, from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and will include stops in Mexico, Hawaii, Fiji, New Zealand, Australia, Indonesia, Dubai, Egypt, Greece and Italy – just to name a few.

Guests also have the option to join the ship when it stops in Los Angeles on Jan. 20, 2025, but you will miss the Central America stops that are covered in the first 15 days.

The cruise will end on May 2, 2025, in Fort Lauderdale.

This once-in-a-lifetime trip won’t be cheap – tickets start at about $20,000 per person.

For tickets, the full itinerary and more info, visit Princess Cruise’s website here .

Copyright 2023 Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved. CNN Newsource contributed to this report.

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This Luxe New Cruise Will Stop in 80 Destinations Around the World, From Fiji to Norway

Silversea's 149-day journey will begin in los angeles on january 8, 2027., rachel cormack.

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One of the smallest cruise ships in Silversea ’s fleet will carry out the line’s biggest global voyage.

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“Garnered over 30 years of operations, our destination expertise will enable our guests to discover the very best experiences in ultra-luxury cruise travel,” Silversea president Bert Hernandez said in a statement.

Travelers will then cruise the Indian Ocean, visiting Bali, Semarang, Singapore, Colombo, the Maldives, Seychelles, Reunion, and Cape Town, to name but a few notable destinations. Highlights of this leg include a visit to the Great Barrier Reef, a sunset river cruise to Victoria Falls, a safari experience in South Africa, and a trip to the Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve on the island of Praslin.

Silversea says the accommodation in port has been selected to enhance the experience in each destination, with stays in destinations such as Honolulu, Cairns, Bordeaux, and more. You’ll also spend longer in port than any other World Cruise. Ship life won’t be bad, either. Guests can indulge in soothing wellness treatments and moreish culinary experiences as they discover the world.

Silversea will open an exclusive pre-sale for the Three Oceans World Cruise to Venetian Society members on June 20, while general sales will open on June 27 (with quotes available upon request).

Rachel Cormack is a digital editor at Robb Report. She cut her teeth writing for HuffPost, Concrete Playground, and several other online publications in Australia, before moving to New York at the…

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Passenger who jumped from world’s largest cruise ship fell 90 feet to his death: staffer

T he passenger who jumped from the world’s largest cruise ship on Sunday fell a staggering 90 feet to his death, sources said – and staff on board knew exactly what had happened practically before he hit the water.

The man, who has not been identified, jumped from the running track on the fifth level of Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas on the first day of its week-long voyage, a security team member told The Post when the ship returned to Miami Saturday morning.

Each deck is about 20 feet high, so the man fell from approximately 90 feet, the staffer explained.

The man’s body was transported via van to the Miami-Dade County Medical Examiner’s Office, according to crew members.

Cops also met the ship and took statements at the docks, and they retrieved a copy of the surveillance footage of the fatal incident.

When the man jumped on May 26, the overboard detection system was activated almost immediately – prompting onboard staff into action, the security team member continued.

“We knew what had happened literally seconds after he hit the water. The protocol is that we’re supposed to immediately make visual contact to see if we can spot him,” the source said, noting that one guard also saw the man jump on a security camera feed .

“It’s the captain’s call whether to stop and turn around, and he did,” he added.

Once the alert was sounded, the ship’s specialized security team prepared to take a rescue boat out to pick up the man.

The rest of the security team was stationed at predetermined lookout spots to do a 360-degree scan of the surrounding waters, while the Coast Guard was also briefed and immediately sent out an aircraft to the site, according to the crew member, who asked not to be named.

While the potential rescue got underway, the Icon of the Seas’ medical team was put on high alert.

The ship had paramedics, nurses, former ER doctors, and even a surgeon on board – as well as all the lifesaving medical equipment one typically finds in a small hospital, a member of the ship’s medical team told The Post.

The man was likely not alive when he was recovered from the water , the source added.

The doctor on board pronounced him dead once his body was transported to the medical bay, according to the crew member.

The passenger’s body was then stored in the on-board morgue, which is equipped with eight drawers.

There were no other fatalities on-board during the week-long voyage, which stopped in Honduras, Mexico and the Bahams, the medical team member said.

An onboard care team assisted the man’s family in the days after the incident, they explained to The Post.

The loved ones had the option of staying on the ship or flying home – though most bereaved families opt to stay with their relative’s body, the source noted.

The other passengers disembarking the massive ship – which holds up to 7,600 guests and 2,350 crew members – said they mostly went about their business for the rest of the cruise, though there was a prayer circle in the man’s honor.

“I didn’t know him but I felt horrible about it,” says Janine Pernell, a passenger from Atlanta.

Pernell was one of about 20 people who attended the small memorial that was held on the running deck.

“We just all held hands and prayed that the family would find comfort and peace. There were a lot of tears. We felt like it was all we could do,” she lamented.

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The Alternative to Huge Cruises? 3 Masts, 28 Sails and Wind Power.

We checked out the 136-passenger Sea Cloud Spirit on a Mediterranean cruise. In this era of gargantuan ships, its elegant clipper design, wooden decks and relatively small size stands out.

By Ceylan Yeğinsu

From the bridge of the three-masted windjammer, the Sea Cloud Spirit , the captain called out the words we’d all been waiting for.

“Let’s set the sails!” he cried, after turning off the engines, while maneuvering to maintain an optimum angle for his 18 deckhands to climb into the shrouds and unfurl the ship’s 44,132 square feet of sails by hand.

Like acrobats, the crew scurried up the masts to the upper topgallant sails that rose nearly 200 feet above us. The ship’s captain, Vukota Stojanovic, later insisted that none of it was for show. “Whenever there is an opportunity to sail, we sail,” he said.

For the next hour, the crew hauled the ropes until the 28 sails were billowing in the wind, propelling the 452-foot-long ship — the world’s largest passenger sailing vessel on which the sails are raised by hand — toward its first port of call, Portofino, Italy.

At a time when cruise lines are packing their ever-more-gargantuan ships with water parks and basketball courts, the 136-passenger Sea Cloud Spirit, with its old-fashioned clipper design and wooden decks, stands out. It is the newest ship from the Hamburg-based Sea Cloud Cruises , and while it is the company’s biggest, Sea Cloud said it wanted to leave space for passengers to connect to the surrounding elements.

“Wherever you are on the ship, it feels like you are sitting on the water,” said Amelia Dominick, 71, a retired real estate agent from Cologne, Germany, who was on her third cruise onboard the Sea Cloud Spirit.

I had arrived for a four-night “taster sailing” from Nice, France, to the Ligurian region of Italy, designed to entice passengers to sign up for a longer cruise. Here’s what I found.

The ship and cabins

The Spirit has many comforts and luxuries, including a fitness center, library, hair salon and a spa with a Finnish sauna that overlooks the sea. The deck layouts are spacious, with nooks carved out for privacy and relaxation.

Sixty-nine spacious cabins have windows that open onto the sea. My room, a junior suite on the third deck, had two large arched windows, mahogany tables, a balcony and a comfortable couch and armchair. The marble bathroom was lavish, with a gold-plated sink and large jetted bathtub.

The elegant interior design is inspired by the original Sea Cloud, built in 1931 for Marjorie Merriweather Post, the American heiress of the General Foods Corporation, with glossy wooden panels and gold trimmings. The Sea Cloud was the largest private sailing yacht in the world before Post handed it over to the U.S. Navy for use as a weather-reporting vessel during World War II. The four-mast, 64-passenger ship has since been restored to its former glory and will sail across the Aegean and Adriatic this summer.

The experience felt authentic — even before the sails were set — with a detailed safety drill. On most cruises, the drill entails a safety video and signing in at an assembly point. But here, passengers put on their life jackets and walked through emergency scenarios that included rationing food supplies and fishing from the lifeboat.

Each day, the sails were set, even during heavy rain and wind speeds over 30 knots. Guests wanting to participate in the rigging are usually invited to do so, but the weather conditions made it too risky for this sailing.

“It was amazing to watch the work go into putting the sails up and down and to experience the wind power pulling the ship so fast without the engines,” said Malte Rahnenfuehrer, a 50-year-old psychologist from Zurich, who was traveling with his partner and two children.

The captain

It is rare for cruise passengers to see the ship’s captain after the initial welcome drinks or gala dinner. But Capt. Vukota Stojanovic was omnipresent throughout the cruise, from setting sails to lifeguarding to mingling with guests.

Originally from Montenegro, Captain Stojanovic piloted container ships for years. When he was asked to consider helming the original Sea Cloud nearly 10 years ago, he hesitated because he had no experience sailing. Even after he learned the ropes — and there are 340 ropes (known as running rigging) on the vessel — he was unsure. “I grew to love the sailings, the boats, the crew the lifestyle, but I still felt I belonged on container ships,” he said. “It would be a big adjustment, especially because I would have to shave every day,” he joked.

Eventually, he accepted the opportunity and worked tirelessly to learn how to sail and operate the ship. Today, he keeps an “open bridge” policy, allowing passengers to visit the control room, even when he is wrestling with the wind.

“The crew and the passengers are all part of the experience, and I like to meet people and receive their feedback,” Captain Stojanovic said.

Environment

Sea Cloud Cruises aspires to take a “gentle” approach, using wind power to drive its ships wherever possible, even if that means changing course for optimal weather conditions. When sailing is not possible, the Spirit has two diesel-electric engines that run on low-sulfur marine diesel fuel. The company is also working with ports that have shore power capabilities to plug into the local electric power.

Onboard, there is an emphasis on reusable bottles and paper straws, and crew members separate solid waste to be compacted and removed when in port.

Excursions and Activities

We made stops in Portofino, San Remo, Italy, and St.-Tropez, France, anchoring offshore and getting to land by tender — a contrast to the big cruise ships with their loud horns and thick plumes of exhaust spewing from their funnels.

For passengers wanting to take a dip (there is no pool), the crew marked an area in the water with floats and an inflatable slide. The water was frigid, but many passengers took the plunge from the swimming deck. Guests could also take “Zodiac Safaris” around the ship to get views of the vessel from the water.

Excursions ranged from food and wine tours to e-biking and beach trips. In Portofino, passengers were free to explore the sights independently, including the Castello Brown Fortress and the lighthouse on Punta del Capo rock. There was ample time to eat meals on shore as the ship did not depart until 11 p.m. Over the summer, the Sea Cloud Spirit will sail to Spain, Portugal, France and the Azores, among other destinations. On Nov. 11, she will depart for St. Maarten in the Caribbean for the winter.

Wherever the vessel goes, said Mirell Reyes, president of Sea Cloud Cruise for North America, the company tries to “stay away from the crowds and ports where big cruise ships spit out 6,000 passengers.”

Summer prices, which include food and beverages, range from $3,995 for a four-night sailing in a superior cabin to $9,420 for a veranda suite. Seven-night sailings cost between $6,995 and $16,495.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

Ceylan Yeginsu is a travel reporter for The Times who frequently writes about the cruise industry and Europe, where she is based. More about Ceylan Yeğinsu

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Everyone you know is going on a cruise

­­­ Lots of people will be getting their sea legs this summer.

Ports have been packed with cruise ships over the last few years, as vacationers flock to ever larger vessels and operators race to accommodate a surge in post-pandemic bookings — many of them from first-time passengers. The industry expects even more this year.

Benjamin Xiang, a San Francisco-based flight attendant, went on his first cruise last August, setting aside his reservations about “cruise people” and a type of trip he’d imagined would be “not my travel style.”

Taking advantage of a Virgin Voyages promotion that let him use credit card points to cover the $2,500 bill, Xiang booked a weeklong, all-inclusive, adults-only cruise from Barcelona, with stops at Mallorca, Ibiza and along the French Riviera.“I invited my best friend, we prepaid a $600 bar tab, and we were like, ‘We’ll just hang by the pool, read a book or something,’” said Xiang, 35. “Turned out we partied every single night and had a blast.”

He’s among the many cruise newbies who’ve helped power the industry’s recent growth. Some 27% of cruise passengers over the past two years have been first-timers, up 12% from the prior two-year period, according to the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), a trade group.

Turned out we partied every single night and had a blast.

Benjamin Xiang, 35, San Francisco

“Will I go back? I think yes,” Xiang said. “Will I pay this time? Yes.”That’s exactly what cruise operators are hoping for, and so far they’re getting it: 82% of all cruisers say they’ll book again, CLIA’s latest report found.

After welcoming 31.7 million passengers last year, 7% more than in 2019, the industry expects volumes to swell to 34.7 million by the end of 2024. Experts say a combination of newcomers, repeat bookers and younger travelers are powering the uptick.

Like Xiang, many first-time cruisers are groups of friends traveling together, said Jennifer Klaussen, who owns Sundari Travel in Malibu, California.

“Once they get on a cruise and realize it’s not what they thought it would be, they’re usually interested in future cruises and diverse destinations,” she said, adding that newer operators have managed to “reduce the stigma associated with cruising — that it’s only for the elderly.”

Passengers under age 40, including kids, made up around 42% of cruisegoers last year, up from 35% in 2019, according to CLIA. While the average age of a cruise customer is 46 industrywide, millennials now make up nearly the same share — 22% — as baby boomers and Gen Xers, who each comprise 24%.“The cruise industry has been hard at work to launch new ships and experiences that are attractive to a younger, newer demographic,” said Colleen McDaniel, editor-in-chief of Cruise Critic, “whether that’s a big, new ship with eye-catching attractions for families, or more bucket-list-worthy experiences like sailings in the Galapagos or Antarctica.”

The cruise industry has been hard at work to launch new ships and experiences that are attractive to a younger, newer demographic.

Colleen McDaniel, editor-in-chief of Cruise Critic

Amenities don’t hurt either, said Nathan Rosenberg, chief brand officer at Virgin Voyages, which began sailing only in 2021, as the cruise industry rebounded from the pandemic. “Millennials and Gen Z love the fact that everything is included. Think meals foodies would love, tips covered, Wi-Fi to stay connected and a ton of fitness classes,” he said.Vessels are getting bigger to handle the growing demand.

In January, Royal Caribbean Group launched Icon of the Seas — currently the world’s largest cruise ship, with 20 decks, 40 restaurants and room for more than 7,000 passengers and 3,000 crew members.

The company, meanwhile, reported a 16% increase in new cruisegoers between this year and last across its various cruise lines. Nearly half of all Royal Caribbean guests are millennials or younger, CEO Jason Liberty said on the company’s first-quarter earnings call.

Similarly, Norwegian Cruise Lines CEO Harry Sommer told CNBC earlier this month, “We appeal obviously to older customers, but millennial and Gen Z is the fastest-growing segment of our cruising right now.”

Cruises generally aren’t cheap, though, and Sommer noted that the company’s target customer is middle- or upper-income. As consumer spending cools down across much of the economy, Americans are adjusting their summer vacation plans to fit their budgets.The share of travelers put off by steep prices hit 32% in Deloitte’s annual summer travel survey , up sharply from 24% last year. But more affluent vacationers still seem eager to shell out on everything from first-class airfare to luxury train trips , as the industry continues to push premium offerings .

“More higher-income travelers are headed to cruises,” whereas “lower-income travelers are going camping,” the Deloitte report, released Tuesday, said. (“RV trips are up across the board,” it added.)

That doesn’t mean cruise passengers aren’t paying attention to price.

Jaclyn Groh will be going on her first cruise in March 2025, sailing around the Caribbean. The 34-year-old therapist and social work professor at Ohio State University in Columbus typically takes her family on boat trips on a lake, beach visits, “and of course the occasional Disney adventure for the kiddos,” said Groh.

While some of her friends have done family cruises, she’s never been interested in the largest cruise ships because they seem “overwhelming.” But in shopping around for a vacation next year for just her and her husband, Groh said her travel agent’s description of the packages available won her over.The smaller Explora II vessel she opted for has a “boutique feel that we love,” she said. And it’s priced about the same as the resort in Curaçao where the couple will be celebrating their 10th anniversary this fall. That week on land will run about $6,500, while the cruise comes to about $6,700.

“The price seems very reasonable for all of the inclusions, and yet with the cruise we will get to experience so many new locations and excursions,” said Groh, who’s looking forward to “a perfect combination of resting in luxury and adventuring.”

Harriet Baskas is an NBC News contributor who writes about travel and the arts.