Imagine exploring the world while unpacking just once. A world cruise offers this unique opportunity, with voyages spanning from 90 to nearly 200 days, allowing travellers to visit multiple continents and iconic destinations like the Panama Canal and the Great Wall of China. Whether you prefer budget-friendly options or ultra-luxury experiences, various cruise lines cater to different tastes, but be mindful that longer sea time often means higher prices. Key considerations include cabin selection and what's included in the fare, such as wifi, excursions, tips, and even flights. Booking early is crucial, as the best cabins can sell out years in advance. Here is a detailed look at the top world cruises for 2027 and 2028.
Best Value Global Cruise: MSC Cruises
Sail aboard the recently renovated MSC Magnifica, which accommodates 2,550 passengers and features an upscale MSC Yacht Club, a new spa, and a gym. This 132-night journey begins in Genoa and includes a memorable transit through the Panama Canal. The fare covers 15 free excursions, extended shore stays, and seven overnight stops in cities like Rio de Janeiro, Buenos Aires, and Sydney. Additional perks include a 30% discount on laundry services. For those seeking shorter trips, segments of 34 or 51 nights are available. Departure is on 5 January 2027, with prices starting from £16,069 per person.
Best for Traditional Cruising: Cunard
Experience classic sailing with Cunard aboard the Queen Victoria, which hosts 2,061 passengers. This 109-day voyage starts and ends in Southampton, ideal for British travellers, and includes unique stops in Dakar, Senegal, and Manila, Philippines. Enjoy white-gloved service, ballroom dancing, and strict evening dress codes. Shorter legs are offered, along with theatre shows and an onboard library. World voyage guests receive commemorative gifts, cocktail parties, a gala dinner ashore, a personal concierge, and access to a private lounge. Departure is on 10 January 2027, from £12,899 per person.
Best for Culture: Viking
Embark on a cultural journey with Viking, departing from LA and heading into the Pacific towards Australia. This cruise includes an excursion in every port across 27 countries, plus 15 overnight stays at UNESCO World Heritage sites like the Great Barrier Reef and the Statue of Liberty. The fare covers business class flights, a drinks package, wifi, and complimentary spa access. The voyage concludes in London. Departure is on 14 January 2028, from £44,490 per person.
Best for Longest World Cruise: Azamara
Azamara offers the longest world cruise at 188 nights aboard the Azamara Quest, which carries 710 passengers. Departing from San Francisco, it visits 37 countries, 103 destinations, and five continents, featuring 50 late-night stays and 15 overnight stops, including Tokyo and Cartagena. The small ship size allows access to smaller ports, such as the Kiel Canal in Germany and Shanghai's Bund. The journey ends in Copenhagen on 12 July, providing a winter departure and summer return. Departure is on 5 January 2027, from £44,242 per person.
Best for Luxury: Regent Seven Seas
Indulge in 141 days of luxury with Regent Seven Seas aboard the Seven Seas Splendor. Departing from Miami on 11 January 2027, this cruise covers 40 countries and six continents with 71 ports of call, ending in New York. Everything is included: wifi, tips, drinks, spa access, and shore excursions. Penthouse suite guests enjoy a personal butler, and with 567 crew serving 750 guests, service is exceptional. Prices start from £72,619 per person.
Best for British Touch: P&O Cruises
P&O Cruises' Arcadia, with a capacity of 2,094, embarks on its longest-ever world cruise in 2028, lasting 124 nights. It departs from and returns to Southampton, visiting all four corners of the globe. Enjoy British touches like afternoon tea with scones, Marco Pierre White's Ocean Grill, and Sindhu restaurant serving British-Indian cuisine. Highlights include an overnight stay in San Francisco and a Panama Canal transit. Departure is on 6 January 2028, from £17,789 per person.
Best for Premium Price: Princess Cruises
Princess Cruises offers a 129-day world cruise aboard the Coral Princess, focusing on the Pacific region to keep costs down. Departing from Ft Lauderdale and ending in Los Angeles, it visits 60 ports across the globe, with extended time in Australia, New Zealand, and Asia. The 2,000-passenger ship features outdoor movie screenings and wearable technology for navigation and ordering. Departure is on 6 January 2027, from £15,819 per person.
In summary, world cruises provide an unparalleled way to see the world, with options ranging from affordable to opulent. By planning ahead and considering your preferences, you can find the perfect voyage for 2027 or 2028.
