cruise line the world

When You Live To Travel ®

Residents of The World experience a Journey of their own choosing across every ocean and every continent on Earth, with extensive time and an unmatched depth of exploration in over 100 ports each year. Itineraries are crafted to maximize Resident experiences at every landing, often spending three days at a single destination. Polar and tropical expeditions are planned each year to provide exploration and access along the planet’s most untamed shores. On colossal glaciers, in ancient castles, at desert oases, and behind closed doors in landmark museums, wineries, and art galleries – all your experiences are led by knowledgeable insiders and outstanding experts in their fields.

• Extraordinary Destinations

The World brings Residents to cultural capitals, cozy villages, and pristine wilds in every corner of the globe each year. With over 100 destinations in each year’s Journey and an average of 3 or more days at each landing, Residents have the opportunity to truly engage and explore. The World Destinations Team knows the passions and favorite pastimes of the Residents as individuals and as a community, and they use this to plan and curate exciting activities and events at every port of call.

• 2024 Journey

With three incredible expeditions, 11 maiden ports, and over 90 destinations, the remarkable 2024 Journey raises the bar – even by The World’s standards. The year begins with a thrilling expedition throughout Antarctica and the Falkland Islands, before heading to ports in South America, East & South Africa, the remote Tristan da Cunha archipelago, the Seychelles, Maldives, and South & East Asia. The final portion of the journey brings extensive exploration of Australia, New Zealand, and the Hawaiian & Pacific Islands, including two extraordinary expeditions in Australia’s Kimberley region, and Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands.

• 2025 Journey

With three in-depth expeditions and more than 90 destinations across six continents, The World‘s remarkable 2025 itinerary promises stunning beauty, adventure, and discovery. The year begins on the western coast of the United States before sailing south to the Sea of Cortez Expedition, Central and South America, Africa, the Caribbean, and the Mediterranean. As the Ship enters the final chapters of its journey, explorers delve into West Papua at Indonesia’s eastern extreme before celebrating the end of their global adventure in Brisbane, Sydney, and Hobart, Australia.

– Resident

The Living Journey Blog

The Living Journey is a collection of journal entries and photographs by our own Residents that offers an exclusive glimpse into their adventures at sea.

Ready to learn more?

Determine whether life aboard The World is the right fit for you. Talk to one of our Residential Advisors today to learn more about this unique lifestyle, details of upcoming Journeys and Expeditions, and ownership opportunities.

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10 Around-the-world Cruises for the Trip of a Lifetime

These world cruises offer the ultimate itineraries.

Elizabeth Rhodes is a special projects editor at Travel + Leisure , covering everything from luxury hotels to theme parks to must-pack travel products. Originally from South Carolina, Elizabeth moved to New York City from London, where she started her career as a travel blogger and writer.

Want to island hop around French Polynesia, visit Africa's incredible cities, and cruise through Asia without ever switching hotels or repacking your bags? An around-the-world cruise provides the ultimate itinerary, packed with exciting international destinations (some even visit hard-to-reach destinations like Easter Island and Antarctica), and luxury cruise lines provide comfortable accommodations, specialty restaurants, and plenty to do on and off the ship.

There are two main things you need before booking a world cruise: plenty of time and some spare cash. Prices range from around $20,000 to upwards of $100,000 per person, and all our top picks are more than 100 days (one is even a whopping 275 days), so they're ideal for retired travelers looking for their next big adventure. Pack wisely for a range of destinations and climates, and get ready for the journey of a lifetime, filled with postcard-perfect destinations and new friends (because you're bound to meet a travel buddy or two after 100-plus days on a ship). If an around-the-world cruise is at the top of your travel list, you'll want to book sooner rather than later — these journeys frequently sell out because many cruise lines only offer a limited number of sailings.

Here are ten of the best around-the-world cruises you can take in 2023 and 2024.

Viking Ocean Cruises

Viking world cruise.

See 28 countries on the 138-day Viking World Cruise from Fort Lauderdale to London. After departing from Florida, the Viking Sky will sail the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea, stopping in sunny destinations before crossing the Panama Canal to reach the Pacific. From there, the ship will visit destinations in Mexico and the continental United States, continuing on to Hawaii, French Polynesia, New Zealand, and Australia. Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, Myanmar, and India are among the ports in Asia, then it's on to the Middle East before traveling to Europe, where final destinations include Italy, Spain, and Portugal en route to London. Fares start at $59,995.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Moments in time: world cruise 2024.

Sail around the world in 132 nights aboard the Seven Seas Mariner on a round-trip journey from Miami. You'll spend the days at sea enjoying the luxury ship's amenities, including the spa and several restaurants and lounges, between stops in destinations like Costa Rica, Mexico, Hawaii, Tahiti, Bora Bora, Fiji, New Zealand, Australia, Indonesia, Singapore, India, UAE, Israel, and Italy, among others. This 2024 world cruise , with fares starting at $73,499, is officially sold out , but you can join a waitlist to be notified of cancellations.

Royal Caribbean

The ultimate world cruise.

Royal Caribbean pulls out all the stops — and there are more than 150 of them — on this 274-night cruise to all seven continents. The itinerary aboard the Serenade of the Seas begins in Miami on December 10, 2023, and visits more than 60 countries, including Brazil, Ecuador, Nicaragua, French Polynesia, the Philippines, South Korea, India, Romania, and Greenland, before ending in Miami on September 10, 2024. Travelers who don't want to commit to the entire cruise can book shorter segments. Fares start at $59,999 for this cruise that gives travelers the opportunity to visit 11 of the great wonders of the world, including the Taj Mahal, the Great Wall of China, and Chichen Itza.

World Cruise 2024

Enjoy 133 days on Silversea's Silver Shadow with this round-trip sailing from San Francisco. During that time, the ship will visit 65 ports in 14 countries, including Fiji, New Zealand, Australia, Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia, Vietnam, China, Japan, and Canada. Fares start at $66,000 for this 2024 sailing, which currently has waitlist availability.

2024 World Cruise: Extraordinary Horizons

Climb aboard the Seabourn Sojourn for a 145-day world cruise from Los Angeles to Athens, visiting 72 ports in 28 countries. The cruise departs Los Angeles and goes to Hawaii, French Polynesia, New Zealand, Australia, Vietnam, Japan, and China — just to name a few places — before ending in Greece. Visit the website for booking details and shorter segments.

Oceania Cruises

Around the world in 180 days.

Travelers on Oceania's 180-day round-trip cruise from Los Angeles to New York aboard the Insignia will see some of the world's most impressive sights. Highlights include stops in stunning French Polynesia, Indonesia, Thailand, Egypt, Spain, France, and Iceland. Fares start at $48,499 for the 2024 sailing .

MSC Cruises

Msc world cruise 2024.

The MSC Poesia will take guests to 56 destinations on this 120-day cruise starting in Rome. Countries visited during this journey include Argentina, Chile, Peru, New Zealand, Australia, Papua New Guinea, Indonesia, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, India, and Jordan. When you're not exploring each port, you can relax in the swimming pools and hot tubs, visit the many restaurants, bars, and lounges, or go to the spa. Fares start at $17,199 per person; find booking details on the MSC website.

Princess Cruises

111-day world cruise.

This round-trip cruise from Los Angeles on the Island Princess will visit 47 ports in beautiful places like New Zealand, Australia, Bali, Sri Lanka, UAE, Egypt, Greece, Italy, Spain, Morocco, Bermuda, Mexico, and more. Fares for this 2024 sailing start at $19,497.

Holland America Line

128-day grand world voyage.

Explore the world on this 128-day round-trip journey from Fort Lauderdale on the Zuiderdam . This cruise's itinerary includes a trip down the Amazon River, stops in the Caribbean, a Panama Canal crossing, and stops in cities like Honolulu, Tokyo, Shanghai, Singapore, Abu Dhabi, Istanbul, and more. Fares start at $23,599 for this 2024 cruise .

Azamara World Cruise

This 155-night itinerary to more than 40 countries kicks off in Fort Lauderdale and finishes in Barcelona. The itinerary features ports for experiencing some of the great wonders of the world, including the Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio de Janeiro, as well as Petra in Jordan and the Colosseum in Rome. Travelers can also choose to join segments of the cruise aboard the Azamara Onward for as few as 10 nights. Fares for this 2024 sailing start at $36,379.

Related Articles

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ms The World

Cruise line ResidenSea (Small Cruise Lines)

ms The World current position

ms The World current location is at China Coast (coordinates 22.29456 N / 114.16710 E) cruising en route to Hong Kong. The AIS position was reported 2 minutes ago.

Specifications of ms The World

•   Review
•   Wiki

ms The World Review

Review of ms the world.

The 2002-built MS The World cruise ship is currently the world's largest privately-owned cruise vessel. The boat serves as a residential community and is owned by its residents. The relatively small group of very very rich passengers are from ~40 countries and most of them actually live on the ship.

The vessel (IMO number 9219331) is currently Bahamas- flagged (MMSI 311213000) and registered in Nassau .

MS The World travels the globe, staying from 2 to 5 days in most ports of call. The Captain changes ports and destinations by vote. Some of the residents live full time while others board the ship periodically throughout the year. The ship's operator is ResidenSea (a company headquartered in Miramar, Florida USA).

Similar "residence cruise ship" concepts are Utopia (2022-built, managed by Utopia Residences), Narrative (2023-built, managed by Storylines Residences), Njord (2025-built, managed by Ocean Residences), Dark Island (2025-built, by Clydebuilt). You can also see CruiseMapper's articles about the residential boat Marquette (USA river cruise ship concept) and How to Buy a Cruise Ship .

MS The World cruise ship

The vessel carries between 100 and 300 residents and their guests. It is owned by 142 different families from 19 countries - approx 50% from North America, 35% from Europe, 15% from Asia-Australia-South America-South Africa. Ship residents plan the cruise itineraries and decide which destinations to visit. Since 2002, the liner is homeported in Port Everglades (Fort Lauderdale, FL USA) . In the period 2002-2018, it visited around 900 different ports and destinations in 140 countries - and each cruise was chosen by the residents.

The unique idea about ms The World ship belongs to Knut U. Kloster- his family has a long history in the cruise ship industry. The hull of the new vessel was built by Oresundsvarvet Shipyard (Landskrona, Sweden) and towed to Fosen Mekaniske Verksted (Rissa, Norway) for completion. Cruise ship The World was launched in the spring of 2002, and in October 2003 was delivered to the residents.

MS The World is environmentally friendly ship - the first of its size to burn marine diesel, not heavy bunker fuel, which allows the ship to call in areas banned for burning heavy fuel. The World ship is also the first to feature Scanship unique wastewater cleaning system - in it wastes are filtered by a flotation system.

In January 2016, Wartsila Corporation announced that the residential ship The World will be retrofitted with Wartsila Advanced Wastewater treatment system and Wartsila Nacos Platinum system for navigation and external communication purposes.

The Wartsila Advanced Wastewater solution replaces an existing system and keeps the vessel in full compliance with IMO's (International Maritime Organization) requirements concerning the prevention of pollution from ships.

Ship statistics

• Identification (IMO number): 9219331
• Flag-state (port of registry): Bahamas (Nassau)
• Shipowner: The World Resident Holdings Ltd (TWRH), with subsidiaries "The World of Residensea II Ltd" and "ROW Management Ltd". Since January 2022, the company's CEO is Thomas Wolber, the COO is Karl Muhlberger.
• Operator: ResidenSea (address: "14471 Miramar Parkway, Miramar, FL 33027, USA", tel: +1 (954) 416-3644). Original owner - Knut Kloster Jr (the former chairman of "Royal Viking Line" and NCL - "Norwegian Cruise Lines").
• Ordered in 2000
• Laid down in 2001
• Launched in March 2002
• Builder: Fosen Mek. Verksteder (Rissa, Norway)
• Cost to build: USD 266 million
• A total number of cabins : 198, with 165 apartments, types - from Studio to 3-Bedroom Suite.
• Weight/Tonnage: 43,524 GT
• Dimensions: Length: 196,35 m (644,2 ft), Width/Beam: 29,8 m (98 ft), Draft: 6,7 m (22 ft)
• Speed: 18,5 knots (34,3 kmh / 21,3 mph)
• Capacity: 150-200 passengers, 250 crew/staff

The ship has 12 decks (6 with apartments), Helideck (1x helicopter pad), 2 swimming pools, 1x Tennis Court, 2x Putting Greens (Mini-Golf Courses), 5x restaurants. The Helideck (deck 7 forward) is used in cases of emergencies and also for private helicopter landings (arrivals/departures of apartment owners and their guests).

The vessel is managed by the US company ROW Management Ltd (Fort Lauderdale FL).

Shipboard dining options - Food and Drinks

The World ship has facilities that are similar to the ones onboard a regular vessel but also has some unique due to residential nature. As to its dining options, four are the main restaurants onboard: East (serving Asian delights), Marina (serving seafood, rotisserie specialities, prime steaks), Portraits (serving haute cuisine- menus reflect every culinary port flavours), Tides (serving Mediterranean cuisine, Northern Italian flair).

Six restaurants are available onboard the World cruise ship- they supplement the kitchens in most of the apartments and dining ashore. The World Ship restaurants offer different light options- these cater to special requests, vegetarian, or diabetic diets. Onboard dining is not complimentary (included in the apartment's annual fee)

Fredy's Deli (serving tea, coffee, salads, sandwiches, pastries, includes a gourmet market with fresh local products), Pool Grill (poolside venue, serving light meals, salads, burgers), The Garden (tea room and bar lounge).

The diverse selection of bars and cocktail lounges onboard ms The World includes:

Cigar Club (English-style cognac and smoking bar), Lobby Bar (serving wine and champagne, bourbons, signature cocktails), Marina Bar (full-service bar offering wines and signature cocktails), Pool Bar (serving light and fresh lunch/dinner), Quantum Night Club (offering international liquors and alcoholic beverages), Regatta Bar (with a spectacular view!).

Shipboard entertainment options - Fun and Sport

All you can wish onboard The World cruise ship: two swimming pools, water sports retractable marina, jogging track, full-size tennis court, paddle tennis court, golf facilities (with golf simulator), driving ranges, full-service fitness centre (exercise classes, personal trainers, saunas).

The World ship Spa "Clinique La Prairie" is spacious (7000 ft2 / 650 m2) following Asian traditions which date back centuries. The Spa offers an ambience and luxury for the ultimate escape. Guests and residents can be pampered with a menu of relaxation treatments including aqua spa, body massages and scrubs, hair treatments, aesthetics, facials, make-up services, hand-, nail- and foot treatments, tropical rain mist and waxing.

The World Ship offers countless services and amenities- expeditions and land programs, unique art gallery, chapel, library, concierge, Medical Center, theatre, night club, video-on-demand. For onboard entertainment, there are also classes offered in topics such as navigation, dance, language, cooking, music, computers, arts and crafts, photography. There is also a boutique, a small grocery store and delicatessen.

The World provides each residence with Internet access! Passengers are able to stay connected in their "Office Away From Home" with no need to interrupt exploring the Globe. The World ship residents are able to "stay connected" through phone and Internet capabilities in their shipboard home offices, to conduct business effectively from the comfort of own residences while exploring numerous cultures and destinations on the continuous global journeys. Telephone and internet services on The World cruise ship allow resident owners to go on with their businesses efficiently from wherever the World ship happens to be.

ms The World cruise ship apartments (cabins)

The World ship's 165 Residences ranging in types from Studios to 3-Bedroom Penthouses and 6-Bedroom Penthouse Suite (for up to 12 passengers). All staterooms have been sold, but there are a number of Residences which are available for resale and some for rental. In 2020 was announced that Residence 801 (3-bedroom, 3-bathroom, wraparound balcony apartment aft on deck 8 ) is for sale.

There are also additional annual maintenance fees based on apartments' square footage. The cruise ship provides 40x studios, 19x 1-Bedroom and 2-Bedroom Studio Apartments, 106x 2-Bedroom and 3-Bedroom Apartments, 88x Suites. Prices vary and are based on size, deck location, decor, market conditions.

Four of the world's most renowned interior design companies have been contracted to shape styles and design The World ship's 2- and 3-bedroom apartments and public rooms. Names list includes Nina Campbell (UK), Juan Pablo Molyneux (JP Molyneux Studio), Di Pilla (TMT Design), Yran & Storbraaten (maritime design).

ms The World ship prices - apartment cost, rentals, fees

First of all, this is a modern big cruise ship you can actually live on. Well, you and me probably not, but celebrities like Arnold Schwarzenegger and Madonna, for example, own suites on it. So if you can afford the below apartment prices, you'll buy yourself the pleasure to enjoy a celebrity company - once and awhile. The choice includes 165 top-luxury apartments, ranging in category from studios to 3-bedroom suites.

Studios cost - USD 600,000 (initially sold at USD 90,000). Two-Bedroom (Ocean Residence) apartments cost - USD 2-3 million. Suites cost ~USD 12-13 million (initially sold at USD 6 million).

Short-term rentals - you can rent some of MS The World's apartments (depending on category) for between ~USD 550 Studio (per person per night, min for 5 days) and ~USD 20,000 (Suite rentals, per month). Some Ocean Residences are also available for rent - at ~USD 2100 a day. Discounts are available for repeat customers.

Future apartment owners on The World should also know that ship service fees (depending on the property) start from USD 60,000 and go up to USD 300,000 a year. These fees cover onboard service staff/crew, fuel, maintenance (including drydocking ), port charges, food and beverages. USD 8 million is the entry fee. This amount of money buys you a lease expiring in the distant 2052. As to the maintenance fees mentioned above - they are ~5-6% of the Apartment's sale price. As to the ship's occupancy - it rarely goes above 200 passengers (owners and their guests).

The ResidenSea company has the policy of not revealing who the clients/buyers are, but they assure that MS The World doesn't have residents with criminal records. Latest news confirms that all the ship's Studios and 3-Bedroom apartments are sold out. But there's always a chance some owner to decide to sell, right? And to sweeten the deal, they advertise that you can enjoy on The World ship - for absolutely free - Spa treatments at "Clinique La Prairie", to shop at the Graff's Boutique or to leisurely play at the ship's Mini-Golf Course. If you are a prospective buyer, you also must submit a list of your assets, which will be duly verified by the ResidenSea's accountants and lawyers.

The World ship is a tax haven - for everybody willing to spend most of the year at sea, away from home. Living on this vessel has tax implications because you're absent for a certain time in a year in your country (tax laws in your home country still apply).

Next table shows ResidenSea brochure (source) pricing on apartments for sale in 2016-2018 and the property's annual maintenance fee.

Nest are shown rental prices (per night in USD, rates 2018) for:

• Studio (sized 290-330 ft2 / 27-31 m2) - $1850
• Studio (sized 330-335 ft2 / 31 m2) - $1800
• Studio (sized 620-845 ft2 / 58-79 m2) - $2400
• 1-bedroom apartment (sized 580-675 ft2 / 54-63 m2) - $2,200
• 2-bedroom apartment (sized 870-1010 ft2 / 81-94 m2) - $2,800
• 2-bedroom apartment (sized 1105 ft2 / 103 m2) - $3100
• 2-bedroom apartment (sized 1135-1390 ft2 / 105-129 m2) - $3300
• Penthouse Suite (sized 2470-3240 ft2 / 229-301 m2) - $6,100

Keep in mind that the owners actually purchase a property with a finite lifetime (the projected lifespan for passenger ships is between 30-40 years) and eventually, this vessel will be dismantled ( scrapped ). This means that The World ship's apartments are in reality leased for 30-40 years.

MS The World itinerary

How is the cruise ship The World itinerary decided upon? The itinerary route is selected through a voting process by the Resident community and it is based on the personal interests of residents and the best sea routes. The World ship itinerary is usually determined two years in advance by the Captains, Resident Itinerary Committee, and the Director of Itinerary and Destination Planning.

Cruise ship The World sails to various destinations and all kinds of regions- and these are continuous and worldwide! The World cruise ship journeys focus on extended stays- of average three days in each port, thus ensuring that residents and guests have enough time to explore destinations. Unlike most cruise ships, ms The World spends twice as many days in call ports as at sea.

From the Canary Islands and Madeira, you will cross the Atlantic ocean and enjoy the Caribbean warmth, feel the excitement of passing through the Panama Canal! Then you can enjoy the way along the west coast of South America and island-hop across the Pacific to New Zealand. Papua, New Guinea and Solomon Islands are next on the expert-led expedition. The most exotic Asian spots are waiting for you to discover. The Sea of Okhotsk wildlife expedition is also rare. Another interesting experience while aboard The World cruise ship is visiting not only South Korea- you will be able to visit North Korea as well!

ms The World ship itinerary as ports, countries, destinations

• Europe, Transatlantic, Caribbean
• Funchal, Madeira - Portugal, Los Cristianos, Tenerife and Las Palmas, Canary Islands- Spain, Guadeloupe, Iles de Saintes and St. Barts- France, San Juan- Puerto Rico, New Orleans- USA.
• Caribbean, South America
• Tampa- USA, Progreso- Mexico, Belize City- Belize, Bocas del Toro- Panama, Panama Canal Transit, Flamenco Island (Panama City), Isla Saboga- Panama, Esmeraldas and Guayaquil- Ecuador.
• Pacific Islands
• Callao- Peru, Easter Island- Chile, Raivavae, Papeete, Moorea, Huahine and Bora Bora- French Polynesia.
• South Pacific
• Aitutaki and Rarotonga- Cook Islands, Norfolk Island- Australia, Bay of Islands, Auckland, Great Barrier Island, Napier, Wellington, Nelson, Kaikoura, Lyttelton and Akaroa- New Zealand.
• Australia New England
• Port Chalmers, Dunedin, Stewart Island and Fjord Cruising- New Zealand, Sydney, Brisbane, Hamilton Island, Port Douglas andCairns- Australia.
• Solomon Islands Expedition, Port Moresby- New Guinea, Dili- East Timor, Kupang, West Timor, Benoa, Bali, Surabaya and Palau Karimunjawa- Indonesia.
• Semarang (Borobudur), Jakarta, Krakatoa- Indonesia, Singapore, Tioman Island- Malaysia, Kuching- Malaysia, Muara- Brunei, Labuan Island, Kota Kinabalu and Sandakan- Malaysia, Boracay Island and Manila- Philippines.
• Keelung (Taipei)- Taiwan, Naha, Okinawa, Amami, Kagoshima, Nagasaki, Kanazawa, Hakodate and Otaru (Sapporo)- Japan, Sea of Okhotsk Expedition- Russia.
• Otaru (Sapporo)- Japan, Vladivostok- Russia, Tokyo, Yokohama, Nagoya, Shingu and Kobe- Japan.
• Takamatsu and Hiroshima- Japan, Busan, Sanji, Cheju and Incheon- South Korea, Dalian and Tianjin (Beijing)- China, Nampo- North Korea, Nanjing and Shanghai- China.
• Zhenhai (Ningbo), Hong Kong and Sanya, Hainan Island- China, Ha Long bay (Hanoi), Chan May (Hue and Da Nang), Nha Trang and Saigon - Vietnam.
• Phu Quoc- Vietnam, Sihanoukville (Phnom Penh)- Cambodia, Ko Samui- Thailand, Pattaya and Bangkok- Thailand, Redang Island and Kuantan- Malaysia, Phuket and Phi Phi Island- Thailand, Malacca- Malaysia, Singapore.

ms The World - user reviews and comments

Photos of ms the world.

ms The World ship related cruise news

3 cruise ships berth at Port Cochin (India) in a single day

3 cruise ships, including ms The World, Phoenix Reisen's Artania, and Ponant's Le Champlain, called at Port Cochin (India) early on Tuesday morning...

3 cruise ships with ~11000 passengers arrive at Khalifa Bin Salman Port (Bahrain)

3 cruise ships arrived at the Khalifa Bin Salman Port (KBSP) at the end of 2022, carrying 11000+ tourists. The BTEA (Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions...

MS The World cruise ship calls at Greenock/Glasgow (Scotland)

The currently largest residential cruise ship MS The World arrived on Sunday, August 28th, at one of Scotland's largest cruise ports. The 644-ft...

The World Residences at Sea is 3rd cruise line to sign port agreement with Hawaii

The Hawaii Department of Transportation Harbors Division signed another port agreement with a cruise company to restart operations in Hawaiian waters...

Port Antonio (Jamaica) welcomes ms The World

The resort town of Port Antonio (the capital city of Jamaica's Portland Parish) on Sunday morning, November 7, received its first cruise ship in 2...

MS The World residential cruise ship departs Falmouth UK

Following 16 weeks in Falmouth UK, MS The World cruise ship bid bon voyage to the cruise port. Home to some of the richest people in the world, the...

Ocean Rebellion activists target The World cruise ship in Falmouth harbour

A group of 40 protestors from the local Extinction Rebellion group in Cornwall UK took to the sea to protest the environmental impact of cruise...

The world's largest privately-owned cruise ship to lay up in Falmouth UK

The world's largest privately-owned (residential) cruise ship - MS The World, is currently cruising from the Mediterranean en-route to Falmouth...

Operations Begin at Ilocos Cruise Port

Operations have begun at the renovated Ilocos Cruise Port close to the northern tip of Luzon, the Philippines' largest island. Over the holidays, the...

Tillberg Design of Sweden to Redesign Key Areas on The World

In March-April 2019, the largest privately-owned residential ship on the planet, The World - Residences at Sea, completed an extensive revitalization...

•   show more news

ms The World Wiki

On August 18, 2012, MS The World started a Northwest Passage cruise from the USA to Greenland ( Nome Alaska to Nuuk Greenland ). The epic voyage ended on September 12, 2012. The ship was carrying a total of 481 passengers (residents) and crew. During the 26-day cruise, the ship traveled over 5500 ml (8900 km), following the route of Roald Amundsen (link to the Hurtigruten ship), who was the first sailor completing the voyage in 1906.

On January 28, 2017, the cruise ship broke the world's record for the most southerly navigation. The vessel reached Bay of Whales (Ross Sea, Antarctica) - coordinates 78°43.997'S and 163°41•421´W. The record was for cruising the furthest south any passenger ship has ever sailed. The record was achieved at 10:41 hrs (New Zealand time). During the Antarctica itinerary, the ship carried 145 passengers (residents and their guests) and 272 crew. The ship was commanded by its Captain Dag Saevik. The itinerary's length was over 5000 nm (5755 ml / 9260 km). Among the few passenger vessels that have made the voyage to this remote part of Antarctica is Akademik Shokalskiy (1982-built Russian ice-strengthened expedition ship). The Russian Federation-owned vessel was chartered by the Heritage Expeditions company. On February 2016, it reported reaching 78°43.971'S.

In April 2016, during the scheduled drydock refurbishment , the cruise ship was retrofitted with two new-generation systems manufactured by Wartsila Marine - Advanced Wastewater (treatment plant) and Nacos Platinum (navigation and external communication). Wartsila Hamworthy Membrane BioReactor (MBR) is a sewage treatment technology facilitating the grey’ and ‘black wastewater management. It also monitors discharges to the sea. The technology is based on biological degradation and membrane separation.

The ship's last drydock refurbishment was in 2019 at Navantia Shipyard ( Cadiz Spain ). The 35-day project (March-April) was supervised by Blue Water Shipping AS - 1972-founded, Denmark-based company specializing in road and marine transport and logistics. TDoS (Tillberg Design of Sweden) was supervising the redesign of several key shipboard areas, including East Restaurant (Pan-Asian), Fredy’s Deli (Barista, Cafe, Lounge, Marketplace, Buffet Counter), The World Boutique (shop), The World Showroom, The World Spa & Wellness Center (Spa, Beauty Salon, Gym, Pilates Studio).

The new navigation and automation system Nacos Platinum (hardware and software platform) is a combination of voyage planning, monitoring and track control. It reduces the workload for navigation officers and improves safety. The system also includes Dynamic Positioning and an ice radar. The World cruise ship is powered by Wartsila marine diesel engines (both main and auxiliary), respectively, two 12-cylinder and three 8-cylinder.

All four corners, one epic voyage.

The Ultimate World Cruise

The most epic world cruise ever to set sail.

Get ready to see the world in a whole new light — introducing the Ultimate World Cruise onboard Serenade of the Seas®. You can spend 274 nights bonding with like-minded explorers over global discoveries across all seven continents. Or pick a corner of the globe and explore every inch of it on one of four Ultimate World Cruise℠ segments — each an immersive voyage of 60+ nights. Connect with countless distinct cultures, soak up the most spectacular landscapes on Earth, and marvel at World Wonders that showcase mankind’s boundless imagination.

Or call your local travel advisor . For more information, call the Ultimate World Cruise Contact Line at 800-423-2100.

Dive deeper into the world's wonders

Ultimate world cruise.

Visit 150+ destinations and 8 World Wonders, across 7 continents and 60+ countries. The Ultimate World Cruise features four distinct segments that traverse the globe in one incredible journey.

Dec 10th – Feb 11th

Ultimate Americas Cruise

Feb 11th - May 9th

Ultimate Asia Pacific Cruise

May 9th - July 10th

Ultimate Africa & Southern Europe Cruise

July 10th - Sep 10th

Ultimate Europe & Beyond Cruise

Chichén Itzá, Cozumel, Mexico

Christ the Redeemer, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Iguazu Falls, Buenos Aires, Argentina

Machu Picchu, Lima, Peru

Great Barrier Reef, Cairns, Australia

Great Wall of China, Beijing, China

The Taj Mahal, Cochin, India

The Colosseum, Rome, Italy

Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Berlin, Germany

Copenhagen, Denmark

New York, New York

Dec 10th 2023 – Feb 11th 2024

Venture across Three Continents

36 Destinations, 64 Nights

Arica, Chile

Your once-in-a-lifetime journey begins December 2023, embarking from in Miami on the first segment of the Ultimate World Cruise℠ — the Ultimate Americas Cruise. Go from postcard-perfect Caribbean shores—including the ABC islands —to viewing abundant wildlife like sea lions, penguins and whales roaming glacier-studded Antarctica as you round Cape Horn. Along the way, discover World Wonders in South America, including man-made marvels and extraordinary natural phenomena.

Take in the largest Art Deco sculpture in the world, Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro. Behold the largest waterfall system on the planet, Iguazú Falls near Buenos Aires. And explore Machu Picchu, one of the most iconic symbols of Peru’s ancient Inca heritage. Then sail up to the Yucatàn Peninsula to discover hidden coves and dramatic rock formations along Land’s End in Cabo San Lucas before exploring Ensenada.

Feb 11th 2024 - May 9th 2024

Far East. Down Under. And up for anything

40 Destinations, 87 nights

Taj Mahal, India

Venture miles from ordinary in Australia and Asia on this leg of the Ultimate World Cruise SM . Explore Hawaii and discover the crystal-clear waters of Mo’orea and Tahiti in unspoiled French Polynesia. Set out for Australia’s Great Barrier Reef — the only living thing on the planet that’s visible from space. Trek from pristine natural beauty in Bali to one of the most iconic man-made World Wonders, the Great Wall of China. And discover the unparalleled culture and modern architecture of Tokyo, then take in one of the most breathtaking sights in the world — The Taj Mahal.

May 9th 2024 - July 10th 2024

Beauty beyond belief

Ultimate Africa & Med Cruise

39 Destinations, 63 Nights

Walvis Bay Sandwich Harbour

Explore the orange sand dunes of the world’s oldest desert in Namibia. Bask in the beauty of idyllic beaches in Cape Town. And hike mist-topped rainforests along the Ivory Coast. Plus, go back in time as you wander through the Colosseum in Rome and get lost in the Venetian-style streets of Corfu.

Then your journey continues to even more destinations known for their storied history — like the fortified walls of Split, Croatia and the cobblestoned streets of Barcelona, Cannes and Provence.

July 10th 2024 - September 10th 2024

Set a course for the north

40 Destinations, 63 Nights

Blue Lagoon, Iceland

The final leg of the Ultimate World Cruise is an immersive cultural exploration starting in the Med heading north. Discover Barcelona’s brilliant architecture, including Gaudi’s Sagrada Família. Savor flavors across continents — like a dinner of tagine and mint tea in Morocco.

Go from taking in fjords in Norway to biking through Copenhagen. Finally, experience another natural marvel — the other-worldly geothermal seawater at The Blue Lagoon in Iceland before stopping in New York and Perfect Day at CocoCay on your way back to Miami.

Amenities Included in your entire adventure

Join us for the entire Ultimate World Cruise, you’ll enjoy exclusive perks and amenities — all included in your adventure. So you can complement back-to-back discoveries onshore with all your favorite comforts onboard, plus thoughtful touches to elevate every moment.

*New World Wonders Shore Excursions included for Crown & Anchor® Society Platinum members & above

Business Class Airfare

Premium Transportation Between Airport, Hotel and Ship

Pre-cruise Hotel & Gala

New World Wonders Shore Excursion*

Deluxe Beverage Package

Wash & Fold Laundry Service

VOOM Surf & Stream

A World Wandering Fleet Favorite

Designed with acres of glass offering panoramic vistas of sea, sky and land, Serenade of the Seas® is the perfect ship for scenery-scoping. Take in captivating views of Norway’s majestic fjords, gaze at glaciers in Antarctica, and soak up the sun and the sights while cruising through French Polynesia. In between adventures onshore, you can unwind poolside or tee off on the mini golf green. Settle in for dazzling entertainment or dance until dawn beneath the stars. And with top-notch restaurants onboard, every meal turns into a global taste-tour that’s as immersive as your Ultimate World Cruise.

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Machu Picchu, Peru

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Cruise Details & Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Ultimate World Cruise?

The Ultimate World Cruise is a never-before-offered Royal Caribbean adventure that takes you on a 274-night journey around the world from December 10, 2023 – September 10, 2024. The adventure begins and ends in Miami, Florida, visiting all 7 continents, 65 countries, 150 ports of call, with 16 overnights and 8 World Wonders. More than 40 of the ports you’ll visit are either rarely available on our other itineraries or brand new to Royal Caribbean, so get ready for the exploration of a lifetime. Book The Ultimate World Cruise early to ensure the best accommodation throughout the entire voyage.

What is the starting price for the Ultimate World Cruise and its 4 individual segments?

Ultimate World Cruise Starting Price

Considering all that’s included in your 274-night Ultimate World Cruise fare, you’ll enjoy an incredible value. No matter which stateroom you choose, your fare includes Ultimate World Cruise complimentary amenities like business class airfare, pre-cruise hotel and gala, Deluxe Beverage Package, gratuities, VOOM internet package, wash and fold laundry service, and more.

*Taxes, fees, and port expenses of $4,667 USD per person are additional and are subject to change at any time. All starting prices listed are per person, in USD, cruise only, based on double occupancy and are subject to change at any time.

Ultimate World Cruise Segments Starting Price

Considering all that’s included in your Ultimate Cruise segment fare, you’ll enjoy an incredible value. No matter which stateroom you choose, your fare includes Ultimate Cruise segment complimentary amenities like Deluxe Beverage Package, gratuities, VOOM internet package, and wash and fold laundry service.

*Taxes, fees, and port expenses are additional and are subject to change at any time. All starting prices listed are per person, in USD, cruise only, based on double occupancy and are subject to change at any time.

What are the 8 World Wonders the Ultimate World Cruise and the four Ultimate Cruise segments will visit, and on what dates?

Ultimate Americas Cruise: December 10, 2023 – February 11, 2024

Chichen Itza: via Cozumel Dec 13, 2023

Christ the Redeemer: via Rio de Janeiro Dec 31, 2023

Iguazu Falls: via Buenos Aires Jan 5, 2024

Machu Picchu: via Lima Jan 29-30, 2024

Ultimate Asia Pacific Cruise: February 11, 2024 – May 9, 2024

Great Barrier Reef: via Airlie Beach and Cairns March 13-14, 2024

Great Wall of China: via Beijing April 7-8, 2024

Taj Mahal: via Cochin May 1, 2024

Ultimate Africa & Med Cruise: May 9, 2024 – July 10, 2024

Colosseum: via Rome July 1, 2024

Ultimate Europe & Beyond Cruise: July 10, 2024 – September 10, 2024

There are no World Wonders visited during this Ultimate Cruise segment.

What benefits are included when booking the Ultimate World Cruise or one of the four Ultimate Cruise segments?

Guests who join us for the entire Ultimate World Cruise will receive the following inclusions:

Embarkation Amenities

Round-trip business class airfare

Pre-cruise hotel and gala

Premium transfers between airport, hotel and ship

Onboard Amenities

Deluxe Beverage Package for entire voyage

VOOM Wi-Fi internet for entire voyage

Gratuities for entire voyage

Wash and fold laundry service

Our Crown & Anchor Society guests who hold Platinum status and above will also receive the exclusive benefit of included excursions to the 7 New World Wonders.

Guests who join us for one of the four Ultimate Cruise segments will receive the following inclusions:

Deluxe Beverage Package for entire segment

VOOM Wi-Fi for entire segment

Gratuities for entire segment

Wash and fold laundry service for entire segment

Will I receive the same stateroom for the entire duration of my Ultimate World Cruise or Ultimate Cruise segment?

Our Ultimate World Cruise team will ensure that you get the same stateroom for the entirety of the cruise when purchased within the exclusive booking window through November 2021. If you are purchasing your Ultimate World Cruise after the Ultimate Cruise segments have opened for sale, our team will work with you to make every effort to secure the same stateroom for your entire time onboard, based on the remaining available inventory.

What is the payment schedule for the Ultimate World Cruise and the four Ultimate Cruise segments?

To reserve a stateroom on the Ultimate World Cruise or one of the four Ultimate Cruise segments a non-refundable deposit is required. Final payment must be received by Royal Caribbean 180 days prior to cruise departure. For bookings created within 180 days prior to cruise departure, final payment must be received within 48 hours of booking.

How long do I have to place my deposit for the Ultimate World Cruise or one of the four Ultimate Cruise segments?

If outside of final payment, our Ultimate World Cruise and Ultimate Cruise segment guests are able to place a two-week hold to lock in their preferred stateroom and price before deposit is required. Your deposit must be placed within the two-week offer period to secure your selected stateroom.

Are there travel insurance options available on the Ultimate World Cruise or the four Ultimate Cruise segments?

There are travel insurance options available to guests who meet certain qualifications. For more information, please call 800-423-2100 or contact your Travel Advisor.

Why are the Ultimate World Cruise and the four Ultimate Cruise segments only offered as nonrefundable?

Our Ultimate World Cruise and the four Ultimate Cruise segments are a unique adventure that has never before been offered by Royal Caribbean and we want to ensure that our guests who are committed to sharing this experience with us receive priority placement. To preserve this unique experience, all sailings onboard Serenade of the Seas from December 10, 2023 – September 10, 2024, will be offered as exclusively nonrefundable.

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