World
Is a world cruise
right for you?A world cruise is ideal for 60-plus travelers who are affluent and time rich - and who seek a slow paced experience with lots of sea days.
However, a world cruise would not be your oyster if:
- You would be bored spending months on the same boat and with more or less the same passengers.
- You can only afford a small inside cabin and you would be very uncomfortable living out of a small, windowless space for several months.
- You prefer to cruise with a mainly under-60 crowd.
- You plan to bring children (they would likely be bored).
- You have health issues that conflict with going on a multi-month cruise. Sometimes you'll be far out to sea (several sailing days away from the nearest land hospital or emergency evacuation helicopter service).
- You are not 100% sure you will be able to begin or complete the cruise. Unless you have the proper insurance, cancelling a world cruise booking can be expensive, even if you do it a couple of months prior to embarkation.
More world cruise tips & insights
When to go
Most world cruises depart in mid-winter, typically from December to February. January is the most popular month.
All inclusive?
When comparing cruise rates, check whether these costs are included or considered extras:
- Alcoholic beverages
- Gratuities
- Port charges
- Fuel charges
Cruise length
The majority of world cruises last between 90 and 130 nights. One takes 145, another 335 nights.
Cruise variations
Each cruise line has its own world cruise variation - and usually alters it slightly from year to year.
Itineraries
- Some world cruises are more port-intensive while others offer a higher percentage of sea days. The first is more adventurous, the second, more relaxing.
- Have time or money constraints? You can usually book a segment of a world cruise.
