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 oceangoing devotees. As a bonus, most of these around-the-world voyages include enviable perks, like precruise 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.
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 might 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 2026 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 lines with bigger ships 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" might 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 2026 on a world cruise.
World Voyage
Thanks to an overwhelming response to its previous world cruises (2025 is currently sold out), Azamara announced the itinerary for 2026 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 2026, the 155-night, 36-country voyage begins in Miami and ends in Barcelona, with visits to exciting locales in Ecuador, Chile, French Polynesia, New Zealand, Vietnam, Indonesia, Dubai, Greece and others.
Along the way, world cruisers can sample authentic Ecuadorian cuisine; explore the unspoiled beaches and lush parks of Tauranga, New Zealand; and take in the diverse landscape and wildlife of the Galapagos Islands.
The itinerary will include a presailing welcome party, exclusive cultural events, concierge service and other upscale perks.
The 2026 world cruise departs Jan. 6, 2026. Prices start at $85,822 per person for an inside cabin.
World Cruise
If luxury and unparalleled personal service are important to you, consider Crystal 's 2026 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 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 Los Angeles and concluding in Civitavecchia, Italy (the port for Rome), the world cruise spans 135 nights with visits to 27 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 Fiji, New Zealand, Indonesia, China, Sri Lanka, Egypt and Greece. Passengers can savor the unspoiled beaches of Fiji, 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. 11, 2026. Prices start at $69,120 per person for an ocean-view cabin.
Cunard Line
Explore the world aboard Queen Anne, Cunard's first new ship in 12 years. The 2,996-passenger vessel debuted in May 2024 and will host one of two Cunard world cruise sailings in January 2026. (Queen Mary 2 will also carry travelers across the globe in 2026.)
Queen Anne's 2026 World Voyage will span 116 nights and begin and end in Hamburg, Germany. Along the way, guests can explore historic churches in the Old Town of Lubeck, Germany, a UNESCO World Heritage site; visit traditional Thai and Buddhist temples in Penang, Malaysia; and spy leopards, rhinos and lions at a wildlife reserve in Durban, South Africa.
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's not just a showpiece. The functional structure will keep poolgoers dry on rainy days.
The 2,691-passenger Queen Mary 2 sails round-trip from Southampton, England, on a 108-night world cruise . During the journey, passengers can witness firsthand the maritime marvel of the Panama Canal, explore the pristine Bay of Islands in New Zealand and tour the tombs of Egypt's ancient kings, among other memorable experiences.
If you're seeking the most luxurious accommodations and exclusive experiences on board either ship, book Princess Grill 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.
The world cruise aboard Queen Anne departs Jan. 6, 2026. Prices start at $17,999 per person for an inside cabin.
The world cruise aboard Queen Mary 2 departs Jan. 11, 2026. Prices start at $18,789 per person for an inside cabin.
Holland America
Grand World Voyage
Holland America 's 132-night Grand World Voyage on the 1,432-passenger Volendam 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 Rio de Janeiro; Papeete, French Polynesia; Sydney; Safaga, Egypt; and Singapore.
On board, relish music venues like 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, 2026. Prices start at $30,354 per person for an inside cabin.
Related: A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
MSC Cruises
MSC Cruises offers something a little different with its 2026 World Cruise — a choice of three embarkation ports. Passengers can board in Genoa, Italy; Marseille, France; or Barcelona. They will return to the same port they left from. The 2,550-passenger MSC Magnifica is the home base for the 118-night journey.
The itinerary features port calls at 47 destinations across 33 countries in Europe, South America, the South Pacific, Australia and Asia. Among the cities you'll explore are Barcelona; Cartagena, Colombia; Cabo San Lucas, Mexico; Auckland; Tokyo; Penang, Malaysia; and Aqaba, Jordan (the port for Petra).
Spend your port days exploring New Zealand's Waitomo Caves, ogling at Jordan's ancient site of Petra, and wandering through the historic streets of Melaka and George Town's central old quarter in Penang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Departs Jan. 5, 6 and 7, 2026 (depending on your embarkation port). Prices start at $17,922 per person for an interior cabin.
Oceania Cruises
Around the World Cruise
Travelers can explore the world in style on Oceania Cruises ' newest vessel, the lovely 1,200-passenger Vista . It will sail a whopping 179 nights round-trip from Miami for the line's 2026 world cruise , calling at 101 ports in 43 countries.
Cruisers will also have additional world cruise options for shorter and longer versions of this sailing. You can choose a 119-night cruise departing from San Diego or a 196-night voyage departing from Los Angeles. (The latter technically begins in late 2025.)
Prepare to tear up any bucket list on a cruise this long. You'll start off sailing to a handful of ports in Mexico and the Caribbean, venture to the Brazilian Amazon, explore more of South America, and then head off to Africa and Asia. Australia, New Zealand, Hawaii, Latin America and Europe round out the itinerary before Vista returns to Miami.
Oceania Cruises is renowned for fine dining. Expect to eat and drink exceptionally well on board.
Departs Jan. 6, 2026. Prices start at $63,099 per person for a veranda cabin.
Princess Cruises
Princess Cruises promises an unforgettable journey on its 113-night world cruise sailing from Fort Lauderdale (or Los Angeles, as an alternative embarkation port) on the 2,000-passenger Coral Princess.
World cruisers can visit 28 countries with 52 destinations across six continents. Exciting ports of call include Lisbon; Fiji; Naples, Italy; Hong Kong; and Split and Dubrovnik in Croatia. With late-night stays in 13 ports of call and a Hong Kong overnight, you can relish multiple opportunities to wine, dine and enjoy the nightlife ashore.
Beyond onboard activities typical of a Princess sailing (cooking and dance classes, enrichment programs, and musical productions), passengers can enjoy special activities unique to this voyage. Among them are themed deck parties and special entertainment reflecting the history and folklore of the countries you visit.
You can also expect outdoor movies and onboard wellness features such as a spa and fitness center.
From Fort Lauderdale: Departs Jan. 5, 2026. Prices start at $26,959 per person for an interior cabin.
From Los Angeles: Departs Jan. 21, 2026. Prices start at $27,389 per person for an interior cabin.
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.
For 2026, Regent Seven Seas Cruises ' 154-night world cruise on the 700-passenger Seven Seas Mariner will sail round-trip from Miami. This journey will be the line's longest sailing, visiting 77 ports in 41 countries across six continents. The itinerary includes port calls in Guatemala, French Polynesia, Indonesia, India, Mozambique and South Africa. 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.
If you want to plan beyond 2026, Regent is one of the first cruise lines to announce its 2027 world voyage aboard Seven Seas Splendor . The 127-night sailing departs from Miami and ends in Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy.
The 2026 world cruise departs Jan. 10, 2026. Prices start at $94,999 per person for a veranda suite.
The 2027 world cruise departs Jan. 11, 2027. Prices start at $81,799 per person for a veranda suite.
Related: The best luxury cruise lines for elegance and exclusivity
Ring of Fire
While most world cruises circumnavigate the globe, this itinerary sails around the Pacific. You can explore Busan, South Korea's Beomeosa Temple, with a rich heritage that dates back over 1,300 years. Snorkel the sapphire waters of Bora Bora, French Polynesia. Ogle at the dichotomy of Hong Kong's modern buildings and historic communities.
You'll find many pinch-me moments on Seabourn 's 128-night, 14-country Ring of Fire world cruise in 2026. It takes place on board the 450-passenger all-suite Seabourn Sojourn and sails the long way from Los Angeles to Vancouver, British Columbia. You'll visit 63 destinations, including seven overnights at Auckland; Melbourne, Australia; Hong Kong; and other exciting cities.
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 Jan. 6, 2026. Prices start at $86,999 per person for an ocean-view cabin.
Related: Extremely decadent things you can do on a luxury cruise vacation
Silversea Cruises
Silversea Cruises ' 2026 world cruise aboard the ultraluxurious, 596-passenger Silver Dawn takes a different approach. It's designed to visit far-flung and remote ports, often out of season, to avoid the touristy crowds.
This 139-night around-the-world cruise sails from Fort Lauderdale to Lisbon and explores 70 ports in 37 countries. Count on visiting enchanting medieval cities, including Dubrovnik and Hvar in Croatia and Kotor in Montenegro. Wonderfully remote port calls to rarely visited destinations such as Easter Island, with its mysterious moai statues, and Nukualofa, Atuona and Fakarava (a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve) in French Polynesia tempt travelers to come aboard for the long haul.
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.
Departs Jan. 6, 2026. Prices start at $87,900 per person.
The Three Oceans
Silversea also offers an 80-destination world cruise for 2027, also aboard Silver Dawn.
Departing from Los Angeles for a 148-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; and Bordeaux, France, among others.
The Three Oceans cruise departs Jan. 8, 2027. Prices start at $78,900 per person.
Viking World Journeys
Imagine the joy of ticking many bucket list boxes on Viking World Journeys, Viking 's 120-night world cruise on board the 930-passenger Viking Sky in 2026. Book quickly; availability is extremely limited, with many suites and penthouses already sold out.
The Los Angeles-to-London voyage visits 25 countries and 53 ports. The cruise takes a southerly route around Africa, across the Indian Ocean to Southeast Asia and through the Pacific islands (including several stops in Australia and New Zealand) before it swoops up to Hawaii and terminates in California.
Palm-tree ports are plentiful, including Moorea, French Polynesia; Bay of Islands, New Zealand; and Ho Chi Minh City. You'll cross many seas, such as the Tasman, Arafura and Timor, 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.
Departs Jan. 5, 2026. Prices start at $54,995 per person for a veranda cabin.
Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:
- The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
- A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
- The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
- The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
- A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
- 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
- 15 ways cruisers waste money
- The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin
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The Best Yacht Charters You Can Book Around the World
Whether you’re looking for seven decks of entertainment, a family-friendly trip, or a diving-focused Caribbean voyage, you’ll find it here.
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There are few experiences as luxurious and awe-inspiring as a yacht charter . You can explore the world at your leisure, spend quality time with friends and family in an intimate setting, and the service is second to none. We've rounded up the most exceptional new yacht charters to book around the world. They're sure to inspire your next voyage, whether you want to relax along the Amalfi Coast or explore remote corners of the globe.
In the yachting world, Loon is known for an exceptional array of water toys — perhaps the best in her class. There's a FunAir inflatable slide that goes from the third deck straight into the ocean, an in-water pool, and a luxurious 43-foot Everglades tender. You can hop on paddleboards, sea kayaks, Waverunners, or a Seabob to explore nearby islands and coves.
The adventurous can try kite surfing or Lift e-Foil surfboards, which seems effortless when you watch the crew fly past, but is actually quite challenging. Loon is also a scuba diver's dream. The crew has several master divers and dive instructors who can take you out each morning, and they have all of the equipment you need onboard. They can also certify new divers during the trip.
The 180-foot yacht has a staggering 1,100 gross tons of living space, elegant design, and an amiable and attentive crew. Loon has two master staterooms, including a unique one on the upper deck. It has wraparound windows that offer unparalleled views of the surroundings. There are two salons, including one with recliners and a projector for movie night, plenty of spaces for dining alfresco, and an oversized infinity-edge Jacuzzi with a wet bar nearby. Fancy a workout? Loon has a treadmill, exercise bike, rowing machine, and free weights in the beach club. You'll be hard-pressed to find better workout views than this.
The crew is absolutely lovely and specializes in setting up unique experiences. You might have a pizza night on board, a barbecue on a private beach, or sundowners at the Instagram-famous Loon Bar. The crew will even take you to a picture-perfect sandbar and serve you drinks as you loll in the warm water.
Loon is available for charter from IYC in the Bahamas, Caribbean, and Bermuda during the winter months and in the Mediterranean in the summer months. Rates begin at $325,000 a week plus expenses.
Nansen Explorer
For the ultimate Antarctica adventure, you can't beat a voyage aboard Nansen Explorer . This former research vessel has all of the technical features needed to safely explore one of the world's most remote and dramatic landscapes and, thanks to a retrofit in 2021, an ultra-luxe interior design that wouldn't look out of place in St. Tropez. For exploration, Nansen Explorer has an Ice-1A classed 236-foot hull and an ice-experienced captain and bridge team, which means she can go deeper into the ice than other polar-classed superyachts. There's a heli-deck with onboard fueling capabilities, so you can see the vast landscape from the sky, or even go heli-skiing. There are plenty of toys that allow you to get up close and personal with wildlife and nature, including kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, dive equipment, and Zodiacs.
The interiors are so stylish, modern, and well-appointed that you'll forget you're in the middle of Antarctica rather than at a swanky hotel. The ship originally accommodated 60 passengers, but now it holds just 12 guests in seven cabins, including an owner's suite and a VIP suite. Each cabin has large windows that showcase the stunning vistas outside the ship. The sumptuous Scandanavian-inspired decor features shades of grey and white, which reflect the surrounding environment. There's a cozy lounge with a bar and a fireplace, perfect for warming up after an excursion to see penguins or whales.
Nansen Explorer is available for charter from Plan South America in Antarctica. Rates begin at $340,000 a week and are all-inclusive.
Yachting in French Polynesia is always a blissful experience, but Dardanella takes relaxation to the next level with bespoke, wellness-focused charters planned by onboard wellbeing facilitator Ayumi Gallagher. The wellness experience is all-encompassing, including fresh, detoxifying food, mindfulness workshops, yoga sessions, Pilates, meditation, and massages alongside traditional yacht activities, like diving, surfing, and tender safaris exploring the pristine waters and nature of French Polynesia. The captain is also a qualified marine biologist and ecologist, so he's the perfect person to show you this unique environment. There are two dive instructors, 12 sets of dive gear, a Nitrox dive compressor, and underwater photography equipment, so you can capture the beauty underwater, too. As an expedition yacht, Dardanella is well-suited for exploring remote destinations. The 121-foot yacht was refit in 2018 and has five luxurious cabins.
Dardanella is available for charter from 37south in French Polynesia. Rates begin at $100,000 a week plus expenses.
With seven decks, there's something for everyone aboard Wheels . This massive yet elegant yacht measures 249 feet, weighs almost 2,000 gross tons, and has lots of standout amenities including a spacious cinema for eight guests, a huge aquarium, massage room with a dedicated onboard masseuse, air-conditioned gym, and the main salon converts to a disco complete with lights and a smoke machine for those late-night dance parties. The split-level master suite has panoramic views, a study, and plenty of space, and there are four spacious guest suites on the main deck. Outside, there are plenty of relaxation areas, including sunpads, a hot tub, several dining areas and bars, and an enviable water sports area with two Jet Skis, four wave runners, three seabobs, a luxurious tender, and plenty more toys. The crew is very active and can teach you to wakeboard, kitesurf, sail the new Hobie cat catamaran, or scuba dive. They can also lead yoga and fitness classes.
Wheels is available for charter from Fraser Yachts in the Caribbean. Rates begin at $680,000 a week plus expenses.
Inside the €775,000-a-Week Superyacht That Was the Talk of Monaco Yacht Show
It's not uncommon for yacht charterers to "upgrade" their yachts year after year, chasing newer and bigger boats, which is makes Big Sky 's number of repeat bookings even more impressive. The 157-foot yacht has been a charter favorite since 2010, and she recently underwent a refit leaving her in immaculate condition. Big Sky can accommodate 10 guests in five staterooms, including a full-beam master that spans the width of the yacht, and there's plenty of room onboard to relax, including the main salon with large windows and a state-of-the-art TV system. The sky lounge is perfect for entertaining — it has an onyx bar and sliding windows that make you feel as if you are outside. Of course, if you do want to relax outdoors, there are three teak decks with space for dining and a large sundeck with a Jacuzzi, sun pads, couches, and a bar.
Big Sky is available for charter from Northrop & Johnson in the Bahamas. Rates begin at $180,000 a week plus expenses.
This glamorous new superyacht caused quite a stir when she debuted at the Monaco Yacht Show in September 2021. It's rare for a brand-new superyacht of this size to be available immediately for charter, so book your trip on Tatiana early. This 263-foot yacht can accommodate up to 12 guests, who are guaranteed impeccable service from the 20 crew members. She has a great selection of water accoutrements and a stunning design with a large amount of interior space, including a deck dedicated to the owner's suite. There are also two VIP staterooms, four double cabins, and a twin cabin. While away any rainy days in the movie room or shooting some pool. Tatiana also has a fabulous beach club with a large bathing platform, bar, and outdoor lounge.
Tatiana is available for charter from IYC in the Bahamas, Caribbean, and Bermuda during the winter months and in the Mediterranean in the summer months. Rates begin at €775,000 a week plus expenses.
Nour El Nil Meroe
Step back in time aboard Nour El Nil Meroe , a traditionally inspired Egyptian yacht full of modern amenities and luxurious design. Meroe is available for charter through Black Tomato, a top luxury travel company known for its expertly curated trips with exclusive experiences and a focus on local culture. Meroe is styled like a classic dahabiya boat, with authentic decor featuring whitewashed walls and linens alongside Parisian decor details. The VIP cabins have floor-to-ceiling windows that overlook the Nile — we can't think of a more fabulous way to have breakfast in bed — while the other cabins have large windows. The shaded roof terrace has plenty of spots for lounging and dining alfresco, and there's a cheery indoor salon with red-and-white striped decor and cozy couches. On your charter, you'll slowly sail down the Nile River from Luxor to Aswan. You can charter just the yacht voyage or book the Ultimate Egypt trip , which includes adventures on land as well as the yacht charter (think: private tours of the pyramids, exploring temples, or taking a jeep safari around Siwa).
El Nil and the Ultimate Egypt trip can be booked through Black Tomato . Rates begin at $5,800 a person.
The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection
One of 2022's most anticipated travel launches is the new The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection . While this is technically a small-ship cruise, every element has been designed to make you feel as if you are aboard a superyacht. The fleet will ultimately have three custom-built yachts, each with 149 suites. However, in 2022, the collection will launch with their first luxury vessel: Evrima . The suites all have private terraces, which isn't something you can expect aboard even the largest superyacht. And of course, the amenities are incredible. It has a beautiful spa, stunning marina terrace (set up like a yacht beach club), an infinity-edge pool, a large gym, and plenty of entertainment. The dining options are seemingly endless, including the main restaurant, the Evrima Room, S.E.A., which features a menu by acclaimed chef Sven Elverfeld of Aqua, Talaat Nam, a Southeast Asian spot, and several casual options.
The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection's inaugural voyage is set for May 2022 and pricing is dependent on the itinerary. Learn more about the trips here .
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Everything You Need to Sail Around the World (by an expert)
Wanting to sail around the world is a wonderful plan requires dozens of items and skills. For a clear overview, we have compiled a one-stop-shop article that will push you miles towards your goal. Here are the things necessary to successfully circle the globe on a sailboat - the tangible and the intangible ones.
What do you need to sail around the world? You will need a route, a bluewater sailboat, enough money, time, the necessary paperwork, and equipment (i.e. water maker, electricity generator, satellite phone, power-free autopilot). You'll also need proper safety training, mental and physical preparation, and you will need to be prepared to do plenty of research.
There are many items hidden under each of these categories, so let's have a closer look.
Everything you need to sail around the world:
A well-prepared route, a reliable bluewater sailboat, $500 - $1,000 per month per person, travel documents (passport and visas, boat registration, port clearance), cruising equipment recommended by other cruisers, the proper safety equipment, the appropriate safety training, proper preparation to prevent poor performance, time: between 1-3 years, the right mindset to handle mental demands, research of expected sailing situations.
This list is not detailed to the last windproof jacket and a high SPF cream. Such an article would be fifty times the length. Rather it is a wide, birdseye view of categories you need to think about and research so that you can build your checklist.
There are more ways to skin a cat, and there are more ways to sail around the world. Since each of those ways requires a different approach in terms of necessary skills, sailboat, equipment, provisions, time, and crew, the first step should be planning your route.
7 Best-Known Routes for Sailing Around the World (with Maps)
You don't need to be especially detailed, outlining every stop on a precisely defined route. I'm talking about a general idea of what you want from the journey because this will influence the items on the following list.
Are you looking to simply tick circumnavigation off your bucket list, wanting the most straightforward, fastest way? Is this more of a world traveler's dream, and you want to visit beautiful places along the way and don't mind making a few stops on the way, even if that extends the trip duration by months? Or do you perhaps have specific stops in mind?
Either way, you will want to know what your expected journey is. A quick look on a globe will instantly hint to many approaches. Various approaches will differ not only in the overall length, which impacts the time needed but also in the distance between the stops, impacting the provisioning system and how far from the warm equator you will be, which impacts the kind of clothing you will need.
The safest sailing route around the world uses the trade winds You want to stay as close to the equator as possible, but you also want to avoid the following 5 places if you can. We've listed the safest and fastest sailing routes for you. Also read: The Safest Sailing Routes Around the World (Which to Avoid)
Let's get this out of the way first - you don't need a large boat to circumnavigate the world. Larger boats are comfier and faster, but technically not necessary. The smallest sailboat to circle the globe had around 21 feet. We have written many times about small boats that are great liveaboards, so it is possible. Your comfort level, partially dependent on how many people will go with you, is individual.
If you are in a money-saving mode, it pays off to get a smaller boat, but one in good condition, instead of a larger one requiring more maintenance.
But as mentioned before, since your route's character influences your needs greatly, if speed is what you are looking for, as well as long crossings without stops, requiring more spare parts and provisions, a bigger boat is what you will need.
Either way, it needs to be a boat with offshore capabilities. Not a weekend cruiser.
Many people think sailboats are super expensive We did the research, and it turns out you can get a capable bluewater sailboat for just $3,000 . However, it isn't for everyone. Here's the cheapest bluewater sailboat
The short answer is - prepare to typically pay around $500 - $1,000 per person per month when sailing with the sky being the limit, of course.
Here's a breakdown that will apply to you if you are a cost-efficient person:
Breakdown of cruising costs per month:
| Monthly Expense | Percentage | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Food | 25% | $250 |
| Maintenance | 20% | $200 |
| Insurance | 15% | $150 |
| Cruising fees | 7% | $70 |
| Mooring fees | 6% | $60 |
| Satellite phone | 6% | $60 |
| Fuel | 5% | $50 |
| Discretionairy | 16% | $160 |
Roughly 25 percent of your budget will be for food . Eating out is not included.
Around 20 percent will be spent on maintenance (though this varies depending on the state you got your boat in). This means sail and rigging maintenance, yearly haul out and antifouling, electrical and winch malfunctions, engine spares, water filters, and so on.
Approximately 15 percent will be spent on insurance - unless you are against that whole concept.
About 7 percent will be spent on cruising fees , such as permits, visas, and check-in fees. Panama canal costs north of $1,000, and so does entering Ecuador. New Zealand, on the other hand, will set you back merely tens of dollars.
Around 6 percent will be needed for mooring fees , though only if you anchor whenever possible.
A similar amount will be needed for a basic satellite phone plan for communication and weather reports and various sim cards to connect to the internet, when possible.
Fuel varies, but 5 percent is not an unreasonable amount to expect to spend on it.
The rest will be spent on a range of expenses - various clothing, eating out, flashlight batteries, sunglasses you keep drowning, and all that jazz.
The percentages will vary from person to person, but they are not the most important part of the above breakdown - rather, it is the expense list since these are the things and items you will have to pay for, and thus you should know about them beforehand.
Just as before, the kind of trip you have in mind will determine many of the costs. Antifouling might not be needed if you are going at it non stop and are done within months. That $1,000 for the Panama canal won't be necessary if you venture around South America and the infamous Cape Horn. And venturing through Suez, Red Sea, and the Gulf of Aden will require extra security expenses.
And of course, if you are paying $1,000 monthly, the overall expenses will differ whether this is a three-year travel journey or you are doing a Vendée Globe style circumnavigation.
Sailboats are cheaper than you might think We've compared thousands of sailboat listing prices for four different budgets. There are a lot of costs involved with owning a sailboat. Learn everything there is to know about ownership costs with our comprehensive overview. Read all about sailboat ownership costs
Boring? Yes. Necessary? Also yes. Except for those of you who will make the trip non-stop without visiting any country, you may need your passport and sometimes valid visas.
Then there is your boat registration and port clearance. Boat insurance policy is a must in some places, where they won't let you in without third party liability or personal liability.
Sometimes you will need your MMSI number and proof you have AIS capability. Having a few copies of passport-sized photos of the crew helps too - as well as plenty of photocopies of all documents. You will save yourself some running around, trying to find a copy machine.
Here are the licenses you'll need for sailing the world You'll need lots of documents for some places, and none for others. William sailed the world for 8 years and made an overview of all documents you'll need and the documents you can leave at home. Read all about international sailing licenses
Your actual checklist will be a mile long, but here are several things worthy of extra mentioning. These items came from quite extensive research where numbers of circumnavigators, both racers, and cruisers, were asked to name items they found the most useful. Safe to say, they all named more or less the same set of things.
Now, unless you plan on staying so close to the shore most of the time that you might as well make the trip in a car, you will need plenty of water. Full tanks probably won't cut it. You will need to make your own, probably from seawater.
Electricity generator
The same applies to electricity. Whether you will choose a hydro generator, solar panels, or a wind turbine, you will quite probably need a way to generate some power.
Satellite Phone
Whether it is about safety concerns, or wanting to be able to stay in touch, this is a must. You shouldn't set sail without a reliable weather report. There are many options,, including satellite internet, thanks to which you will be able to be online wherever you are. If you are unsure where to start researching a solution for you, Iridium GO! is among popular choices.
And if Elon Musk's Starlink kicks off as promised, global satellite internet will be an affordable thing for anyone.
Good Bimini
If you are a holiday cruiser kind of person or if you usually sail in areas without much strong sunshine, this might not come to mind when compiling your checklist. But the ability to be in the shade while being on deck will prove crucial.
So make sure your bimini is solid, has a few good years ahead of it, and covers what it needs to, without the need for makeshift solutions consisting of hanging towels and clothes around you to protect you from the low, afternoon sun.
Downwind Sails
The value of good downwind sails that will propel you forward even in light winds is undeniable, though not always do they find themselves on a sailor's checklist. If you plan a long journey, you will appreciate them since conditions won't always be favorable.
Power-free Autopilot
Autopilots will save you lots of headaches when on long stretches, especially if you do things short-handed. But the classical ones use a lot of power. So look into solutions like Hydrovane, which will take a lot of work off your hands.
AIS Transponder
Not only is this a good thing to have for obvious reasons, but it is also mandatory in some areas and will save you money on certain insurance plans.
There are many sailboat cruising essentials There's lots more you'll need, and plenty you hadn't thought of if you're a first-time cruiser. We've listed them all for you. Read all about cruising essentials
A liferaft, enough lifejackets, and harnesses. As for the liferaft, preferably one that isn't out of date - yes, that is a mishap way more common than you'd think. As for the lifejackets, preferably ones with a crotch strap and a sprayhood, as well as a light, reflective element, and a whistle. And as for the harnesses, preferably a three-point one. A grab bag with an EPIRB, basic survival items, and some provisions should be at the ready as well.
A well-stocked medical kit is a good idea too. Even something as simple as a plaster goes a long way when there is no place to buy it for thousands of miles around.
If you are unsure about what belongs in a solid safety kit checklist, consult, for instance, the ARC's safety equipment requirements - this event is meant for cruisers, not super experienced racers, so it lists everything you might need without supposing you will MacGyver your way out of any tricky engineering situation.
U.S. Coast Guart recommends this safety equipment We've created a full of the safety equipment required by the U.S. Coast Guard, which is a great starting point for beginning cruisers. Read all about safety equipment
If there is a screw on the boat, have the tool to unscrew it, no matter the shape. A power drill, spares, wires, lines, patches, glue, pliers, a knife, a hammer… go wild. These items aren't particularly costly, so make sure there is a toolbox on the boat with anything you can dream of putting in it.
Get a head-start by using our recommended tools You just need a couple of basic tools to be properly prepared. Over the years, we've recommended products that are well-priced but reliable. Check out our favorite tools
Offshore Sail Repair Kit
This should be in the above category, I suppose, but let that one belong to the boat, while this one tends to the sails. Of course, you should have some spare sails, but incremental wear and tear is an inevitable part of long term sailing, so be prepared to mend here and there.
Fishing Gear
For obvious reasons. I'm not saying you will find yourself stranded in the middle of the Pacific, with no food left, reliant only on what you fish out of the ocean, but if you want to save on food, have it as fresh as it comes and have a backup plan just in case, a good bit of line with some hooks and baits will come in handy.
To leave the tangible category, here's something many overlook and never need. But if it all hits the fan, you will wish you wouldn't have. In other words, it pays off to rehearse various emergency situations, using the equipment you would, including fully inflating your liferaft.
It may sound a bit boring, and yes, perhaps you won't need it (let's hope), but much is at stake when you do.
You can learn most for free from home There are lots of free or cheap online courses that will teach you the fundamentals. Check out our course recommendations
If there is a time when you want to take advantage of the ultra-organized, obsessive part of your brain, it is before you depart.
In other words, have a detailed preparation plan. Have a detailed journey plan with all the distances and entry prices and necessary documents in it. This should be done to such details as general grocery prices in various areas. Many sailors, after crossing the Atlantic, arrived in the Caribbean, cursing themselves for not stocking up on groceries back in the Azores because food in the Caribbean is so bloody expensive.
Make no mistake; this isn't really about money. If you don't mind paying extra, that's fine. But this is mostly about the mindset of a person that prepares well for all the little eventualities and has two back up plans for if XYZ happens.
The kind of a mindset that will have spare parts for everything, two copies of maps on paper, and the will to power through the logistics of it all.
The Vendée globe racers do it in under three months, the world cruisers who are in a hurry in a bit over a year, but most take two years and up, to take advantage of good seasons and to get the most out of every location they visit.
You can sail the world in around 3.5 years How long it will take you depends on your goals. We've compared three sailing speeds to see how long it will take you . Find out how long it will take you
I'm not a fan of articles telling you how sailing is tough and why it probably isn't for you since only those belonging to the big boys club can enter. If circling the world on a sailboat is what you want, then circling the world on a sailboat is what you will get.
Nor do I like articles that speak of all the miseries you will have to endure, articles whose authors low key boast about how they don't have any issues enduring said agonies. They make sailing seem like something unattainable for the everyday man, an exclusive activity for those with warrior blood in their veins, which is just unnecessarily elitist.
That being said, know what you are getting into. Know what it means to sleep on a boat for months, know the limits (and perks) regarding comfort, using the bathroom, showering, preparing and eating food…
Also, know the physical and mental demands of operating a sailboat for months and know of its dangers.
Be aware of how you feel about spending lots and lots of time either alone or in the company of whomever you want to sail with.
How to get there? A regatta in 50 degrees Fahrenheit, high winds, and bad weather is a great start. Getting aboard a sailboat as a crew member, ideally not an island hopper, but one aiming for longer stretches, is a great continuation. Reading blogs and watching vlogs from various sailors helps too, as it virtually introduces you to situations and ideas you might not have thought of.
If I was to decide on a single way to get into the mindset you need, it would be joining an ARC fleet for an Atlantic crossing. Not just for the sailing experience, but because their events are fantastically structured, and you will understand what a long journey means logistically.
It is very much possible to go around the world in a sailboat. Yes, it takes preparation and an adventurous mind, but in the end, it is nothing but a set of specific tangible and intangible parts that, if you have under control, you will likely succeed.
And since there are not many greater adventures available on Earth, what better thing to spend time on preparing for than this?
Fair winds.
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You may also like, the sailing seasons around the world (with map).
Knowing the sailing seasons around the world help you to plan your trip well. I've made a list of sailing conditions around the world, so you know where to go when.
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Around-the-World Cruises: Everything Travelers Need to Know About These Epic Voyages
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An around-the-world cruise is often thought of as the pinnacle of a sailing vacation . Some cruisers treat these multi-month journeys as once-in-a-lifetime trips; others are frequent guests, a world cruise but one piece of their annual travel plans. There are also the enduring tales of older travelers who elect for extended world voyages as an unconventional retirement plan . (Though as onboard WiFi becomes more reliable, it's now possible to work remote from many cruise ships, as well.)
Whatever the reason, the allure of this mode of travel is strong. Why not unpack once, enjoying fairy godmother-like service, exemplary amenities, and always-changing views for months on end? Plenty of cruisers with time and money on their hands do exactly that, choosing an extended at-sea lifestyle for at least a portion of the year. Around-the-world cruises often run from early January through March or April, although new off-season itineraries are being introduced.
If an epic voyage across multiple oceans and continents fits into your future, be prepared to plan the trip far in advance. World cruises have a strong following among cruisers—many of the sailings can sell out up to a year before departure. Travelers can also book shorter “segments” joining the ship for only a portion of the journey, but cruise lines often add significant value-adds to those booking the entire voyage—everything from free business class airfare to other exclusives like special parties and invite-only shore excursions.
Here's everything travelers need to know about taking an around-the-world cruise, including tricks from veteran world cruisers, booking tips, and some of the best itineraries in 2025 and beyond.
This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.
Booking tips for around-the-world cruises
How much is a cruise to go around the world.
World cruises, which may not actually circumnavigate the globe entirely, but are generally in a category that covers at least three continents and lasts from 90 to 150 days, generally start around $140 per passenger per night based on double occupancy. All in all, the cost of 100-plus day world cruise can range from $16,000 to over $800,000 per person, depending on the line and cabin type.
Is an around the world cruise worth it?
That’s certainly subjective, but travelers already accustomed to cruising—who appreciate the amenities of a ship and the lifestyle of a new port to view through the window every few days—will likely consider world cruises good value.
How much does a 180-day cruise around the world cost?
The longest world voyages we found generally lasted up to 140 to 150 days at their upper limits, although Oceania Cruises world cruises can be 180 days or more, starting at $48,799 per passenger.
Advice from frequent world cruisers
Roger Foenander and his partner David Mutton—loyalists to Viking Cruises —note the lack of pressure to see and do things within a tight timeframe on longer journeys, which provides plenty of freedom to relax. That might mean attending onboard enrichment lectures, spending the afternoon playing cards with fellow passengers, or dipping into the onboard spa and sauna before cocktail hour.
Linda Wiseman, who has traveled with Cunard , suggests new faces can help get ahead of any monotony: “In the dining room, we tell the maître d’ not to seat us with another couple who is sailing the whole thing—that way, our seat mates switch every few weeks, and we can meet different people.”
New Orleans-based philanthropist and veteran world cruiser Phyllis Taylor observes that these sailings are a class set apart, without the frenzied pace of shorter itineraries: “The difference between a short cruise and a world cruise is night and day, storm and calm, fleeting thought and thoughtfulness. I enter the bar in the evening, in no time my favorite song is being played, my favorite drinks sit before me. I go to dinner and my favorite table is waiting for me, and my waiter has already served the iced water with lemon just as I like it."
But the real value of a world cruise, Taylor says, is the chance to fully immerse in and savor the experience: “With an extended cruise you absorb the lifestyle of life at sea; with the great advantage of having a crew and staff that treats you like royalty.”
The best around-the-world cruise itineraries
You can book world cruises in their entirety or join one leg of the journey for a shorter voyage.
Silversea’s 136-day sailing onboard their newest ship, Silver Dawn , will embark in Tokyo in January 2025. Called Controtempo , the cruise will sail in the opposite direction and season of many world cruises, taking in Japan and China in January before heading to Southeast Asia, Sri Lanka, the Maldives , and Seychelles in February. The ship will spend the spring making its way up Africa’s Atlantic Coast—arriving in the Baltic Sea before cruising to Iceland and Greenland (an uncommon call for World Cruises), then tracing Newfoundland and New England to New York.
Fares start at $77,560 “Port-to-Port” or $79,060 “Door-to-Door,” which includes business class airfare and transfers—including pickups and drop-offs in the traveler’s home city.
Princess Cruises
Most world cruises departing from North America head to sea in January, but in 2026 Princess Cruises will be offering 114-day World Cruises during the northern summer. Departing in early May from Auckland, New Zealand; or Sydney or Brisbane, Australia (mid-autumn in the Southern Hemisphere), the sailings are timed to arrive in Western and Northern Europe during the peak of summer, promising endless sunny days.
The sailing also has a number of long stretches of sea days for cruisers who like time to unwind and enjoy the amenities of the ship, Crown Princess . Some of the longer ocean crossings, like Brisbane to Bali and Colombo, Sri Lanka to Aqaba, Jordan will take a week or longer, while three other ocean crossings are at least four days.
Inside cabins start at $15,588 per passenger or from $22,248 for Princess Plus fares, which includes beverages, WiFi, and onboard gratuities.
Crystal’s land partnerships with parent company Abercrombie & Kent are front and center during their 2025 World Cruise , a 123-night sailing departing from Fort Lauderdale on January 7 onboard the Crystal Serenity —fresh off a complete refurbishment that reduced the total number of cabins, which now all offer butler service in every room or suite category.
With port calls in South America, Africa, India, the Middle East, and Europe, Crystal will offer guests a number of overland packages in partnership with Abercrombie & Kent—think multi-night side trips to the Galápagos Islands , Machu Picchu, the Serengeti, Taj Mahal, or Karnak Temple.
Guests booking Crystal's full World Cruise will have included Business Class airfare, $1,500 shipboard credit, luggage valet, and airport transfers. Fares start at $66,500 per passenger based on double occupancy in an Ocean View Deluxe stateroom.
_2023-10-03_19-22-32.jpg "travel around the world in a yacht")
Regent's luxury world cruises tend to sell out far in advance.
Regent Seven Seas
Regent Seven Seas Cruises has already opened their 2027 world cruise for booking—and they have a tendency to sell out quickly. It will be the first year a larger Explorer Class ship, the Seven Seas Splendor , will undertake the world voyage, calling at 71 ports en route from Miami to New York in January 2027.
The routing will take the ship from the Caribbean to the Pacific coast of Mexico via the Panama Canal, Hawaii, several ports in French Polynesia (calling twice at both Moorea and Bora Bora), Australia, Southeast Asia, India, the Persian Gulf, the Eastern and Western Mediterranean, and Bermuda before arriving in New York.
Early bookers will get a long list of added amenities, including first class airfare, a pre-cruise gala in Miami, exclusive shoreside experiences in Panama City, Colombo, and Málaga , unlimited shore excursions, unlimited beverages, gratuities, transfers, door-to-door luggage service, and unlimited laundry, dry cleaning, and pressing. Fares start at $91,449 per passenger and go up to $839,999 per passenger for the ship’s most luxurious suite.
Oceania Cruises
Many world cruises depart in January and sail in the 100- to 140-day range, mostly wrapping up by April or May. Oceania’s 180-day world cruises last until midsummer, and are often “true” around-the-world sailings, ending in the same port they first embarked from.
Oceania’s 2025 Global Horizons sailing lasts a whopping 196 days onboard Insignia , roundtrip from Miami. The sailing includes several destinations in the Eastern Caribbean, and—extraordinary for a world voyage—a week of scenic cruising along the Amazon River . The voyage continues in South America before crossing the Atlantic to the remote islands of Tristan de Cunha, a British Overseas Territory, before making landfall again in Namibia , tracing the African coast through South Africa, Mozambique, and the French department of Mayotte (another rare stop for a cruise), island-hopping in the Indian Ocean before calling in India.
The sailing covers a lot of ground in Asia—Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam, Singapore, China, Japan, the Philippines, Brunei, and Indonesia—before cruising the west and south coasts of Australia, New Zealand, New Caledonia, Vanuatu, Fiji, French Polynesia, and Hawaii. Crossing the Pacific to San Diego the ship then hops down the coasts of Mexico and Central America through the Panama Canal before returning to Miami in mid-July.
Oceania’s 2026 Around the World in 180 Days sailing is also roundtrip from Miami. Sailing westbound, the itinerary covers the east and west coasts of South America, the South Pacific, Australia, Southeast Asia, and much of the Middle East before transiting the Mediterranean to spend significant time in northwestern Europe and the Baltic Sea before crossing the far north Atlantic via Iceland and Canada before returning to Miami.
Starting fares for each of the world voyages currently range from $48,799 to to $57,999, including a number of value-adds like roundtrip airfare and airport transfers, plus a number of added onboard amenities.
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