A world cruise circles the globe in one long voyage, usually three to four months or more. Special voyages include grand voyages to a single region, eclipse and event cruises, and themed sailings. These trips suit retirees and other travelers with flexible time who want to see many countries without packing and unpacking.
When to go
World cruises follow a predictable rhythm. Many depart in January and return in spring, which keeps them in warm weather for much of the route.
| When | What to expect | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| January | Most full world cruises depart from Florida, California or Southampton. Many start with the Caribbean or the Panama Canal. | Full world cruises, escaping winter |
| February–March | Ships cross the South Pacific, reach Australia, New Zealand and Asia during their best weather. | World cruise segments in the Pacific and Asia |
| April–May | Voyages cross the Indian Ocean and reach the Mediterranean and Europe in spring. | Segments ending in Europe, return crossings |
| Year-round | Grand voyages, themed cruises and event sailings run when the event or season dictates. | Eclipses, festivals, special interests |
Types of voyages compared
Full world cruise
A full world cruise visits dozens of ports on several continents. Routes vary each year, but many circle the globe westward from the US. Lines run onboard events, guest lectures and gala evenings to build a community over the months at sea.
World cruise segments
Most lines sell segments, sections of the world cruise of roughly two to six weeks. A segment from Sydney to Singapore, or from Dubai to Rome, lets you sample the experience without the full commitment. Plan flights carefully, because segments often start and end far from home.
Grand voyages
These long voyages focus on one region, such as a circle of South America, Africa or the Pacific. They often last 30 to 70 days. They are a good middle ground for travelers who want depth in one part of the world and more time in each port than a standard cruise allows.
Event and themed cruises
Some sailings are timed for solar eclipses, festivals or major celebrations. Others are built around music, food and wine, history or wellness. Event dates are fixed, so these voyages can fill early.
Where cruises leave from
Gateways vary by line and year. Common starting points include Fort Lauderdale, Miami, Los Angeles and Southampton. Segments often begin or end in ports such as Sydney and Singapore.
Which cruise line?
Premium and luxury lines run most world cruises, often on midsize ships that can reach smaller ports.
- Cunard has a long world cruise tradition, with British style and departures from Southampton.
- Holland America Line and Princess Cruises offer world cruises and grand voyages from US ports.
- Viking runs very long voyages with included shore excursions in many ports.
- Oceania Cruises, Silversea and Seabourn offer world cruises with a focus on cuisine and smaller ships.
Packing and travel documents
You will pass through several seasons, so pack for both heat and cool weather.
- Formal and smart-casual wear for gala nights. Many lines offer laundry service, so you need less than you think.
- Enough prescription medicine for the whole trip, in original containers, plus copies of prescriptions.
- Layers for cool ports and lightweight clothing for the tropics.
- Some lines offer luggage shipping from home. Ask your advisor.
You need a valid passport, and many countries require it to be valid for months after you leave. A long voyage may need several visas, and some ships hold passports for clearance. Check current entry requirements for every country on the route, and start early. See our US passport information.
Explore current world and special cruises, or request a quote and an advisor will help you compare routes, segments and lines.
