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This Cruise Line Just Announced More Than 300 New Voyages — With a 116-night Cruise Around the World

Cunard Line will sail a 116-night itinerary on Queen Anne and a 108-night itinerary on Queen Mary 2.

Courtesy of Cunard

If you've been inspired by the world cruise that's been making the rounds on social media, you have two new itineraries to consider. Cunard Line, a historic British cruise line dating back to 1840, has just announced more than 300 new voyages for the 2025–2026 season — and that includes two world cruises with overnights in cities like Singapore and Sydney.

The first of its world cruises is a 116-night sailing on Queen Anne , Cunard's new ship scheduled to launch in May. The 3,000-passenger ship will depart from Hamburg, Germany, on Jan. 6, 2026, continuing through the Mediterranean and eventually the Suez Canal. From there, Queen Anne will journey through the Middle East before making for Southeast Asia. The itinerary continues to Australia, then loops back through the Indian Ocean with stops at Mauritius and Réunion Island. The final leg brings guests to South Africa; Namibia; the Canary Islands; Madeira; and Southampton, U.K., before disembarkation in Hamburg on May 2, 2026.

The second world cruise is a 108-night sailing on Queen Mary 2. Guests embark in Southampton on Jan. 11, 2026, and immediately sail a transatlantic leg to New York. From there, the ship makes its way south to Curacao before crossing the Panama Canal. After a few stops on the west coast of North America, including Los Angeles and San Francisco, it's time to explore the Pacific islands: Hawaii and French Polynesia are on the docket. After that is a segment sailing to New Zealand and Australia, followed by a journey through Southeast Asia. Next up is the Middle East, a transit through the Suez Canal, and a final leg across the Mediterranean. Guests will disembark in Southampton on April 30, 2026. 

Think more than 100 days on a cruise is a little too much for you? Don't worry —  you can also book shorter segments of the itineraries if any of the destinations pique your interest.

On both Cunard world cruises, you can expect an old-school atmosphere as a nod to the cruise line's heritage. For instance, Gala Nights onboard are a formal affair, and many of them are themed: Roaring '20s, Masquerade Ball, and Black and White, for example. But that doesn't mean the ships lack modern amenities, like onboard WiFi.

Rates for the full world cruises start from $15,967 per person for the 116-night cruise and $16,699 per person for the 108-night cruise ; bookings open in early March.

Related Articles

10 Things I Learned About Cunard’s World Cruises

We recently returned home after nine nights on Cunard’s Queen Victoria.  We were onboard for the first segment, sailing from Southampton to New York.  This was the first segment or leg of Queen Victoria’s 98-night World Voyage.  Our ship and Queen Mary 2 sailed out of Southampton the same night, with the QM2 beginning its world cruise, sailing in the opposite direction!  We have done a leg of the voyage a few times.  We have learned a lot.

• It is iconic. This voyage marks 100 years Cunard has been doing world cruises. During the voyage I interviewed several of the ship’s officers. I learned when the UK National Lottery was launched, the press asked people what they would do with the money if they won. Two of the top answers were “Book a round the world cruise on the QE2” and “Fly on the Concorde.” The round the world cruise has a special place in people’s imagination.
• It’s a bucket list thing…or is it? I would think sailing around the world is something most people would do once, then check off their bucket list and move onto the next item. There are many passengers on the world cruise who take this 3+ month trip as an annual event!  It’s like a club!  They see each other once a year, yet are side by side for those three months.
• It has it’s own language. As you could imagine, our icebreaker question aboard Queen Victoria was “Are you on for the full 98 nights?” We later learned the slang expression among those passengers was “Doing the world.”  “We are doing the world” was their way of saying “We are on for the full 98 nights.”
• It creates it’s own demand. Queen Victoria carries about 2,000 passengers. How many can give up 14 weeks of home life to sail around the world? I guessed about 400, maybe 600. The rest of the cabins would be occupied by people like us, sailing for one of two segments. I was wrong!  On this voyage, 1,200 passengers were “Doing the world.”
• What is a passengers biggest expense? Surprisingly, it’s not their bar bill or internet service. The largest expense for many passengers is booking their next voyage!  The ship has a future booking office onboard. In years past there was always a line. Now it seems they have moved to an appointment schedule. Friends we know who are “Doing the world” booked their 2024 world cruise early in the voyage. Unlike shorter cruises, it seems there are no upgrades and discounting is minimal.
• How passengers save money. Fares for the World Cruise start around $16,000 per person for an inside cabin, double occupancy. Add another $3,000 for a window and a further $5,000 for a balcony, bringing you to $23,000+ per person. Suppose, like us, you enjoy wine and spend $100/day between the two of you. That’s about another $10,000! You need ways to keep costs under control. Cunard charges for it’s Internet package, but Internet at sea can be pretty poor. Some passengers skip Internet access on the ship and visit a McDonalds or Starbucks in each port to catch up on their e-mails! The ship also offers drinks packages and bottle packages at decent prices.
• The world community onboard. The World Cruise passengers have their own dedicated lounge space (in the Winter Garden). If you don’t know everybody already, you need a way to make friends. Cunard has abundant social gatherings. Many are held daily. The solo travelers meet twice a day. I have heard this is wildly popular and the gathering expands in all directions. There are service club meetings, a Christian fellowship gathering and a Womens Institute meeting to name just a few. The trivia sessions, held four times a day (!) draw a huge crowd.
• The cabin party phenomenon. Years ago, we lived in New York City. Back then, going out to the Hamptons on Long Island was what many Manhattanites did to escape the heat. People who buy a “share” in a house, giving them a bed to sleep in every weekend from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Each house would throw a party once during the summer. Summer weekend residents of the other houses would attend. Hosting a party for others became the admission ticket to all the other’s parties! The World Cruise seems to work the same way. A couple will host a cabin party. Many will attend, perhaps spilling out into the corridor. This party gets that couple invited top the other cabin parties held during the 98 night voyage!
• Touring on land. Cunard offers excellent tours in various ports. Many are creative. They are carefully described in terms of degree of strenuous activity. Visiting dozens of ports and buying tours can start to get expensive. We have met people whose strategy is to identify the iconic hotel in the city and book a table for lunch at their restaurant. These seasoned travelers are encyclopedias of good information. We learned going to the bar at Raffles in Singapore and ordering the famous “Singapore Sling” is the thing to do. Since every tourist wants to do it, the drinks are wildly expensive. Having lunch at a different restaurant in the hotel is a luxurious experience and money well spent. We learned the Marina Bay Sands luxury hotel in Singapore (Three towers with the huge deck on top – You saw it in Crazy Rich Asians. ) is breathtaking, but elevator service to get back to ground level leaves something to be desired.
• People are friendly and equal. Your Cunard keycard recognizes your World Club status, but not the category of accommodation you have booked. Friends have told us although the Grill level accommodations have exclusivity, many Grill guests choose to attend the solo traveler gatherings or dining in the main Britannia restaurant from time to time. Generally speaking, we have found I would like to invite anyone we have met on Cunard over to our house for dinner! Staff treat everyone as kings and queens, regardless of the length of their voyage or the cost of accommodation.

Yes, “Doing the world” is still on the list of things I would like to do during our lifetime.

See voyages  All Cunard Ships

Cover photo: Cunard Queen Mary 2, courtesy Cunard

Many thanks to  Cunard Line

2 thoughts on “10 Things I Learned About Cunard’s World Cruises”

Bryce, You should have stayed on board with us! As we head into Abu Dhabi next Sunday, we’ve had great weather and port visits! Your article is spot on! The Singapore Sling was $37SD at Raffles (I’d do that again!) I just need to figure out when to retire before booking my next world cruise! Cheers From Table 139!

Bryce, we were doing Southampton to Sydney on the same voyage. 2023 was unusual – there’s normally circa 400 but due to Covid there were three-years’-worth of World Voyagers, hence 1200. Expect the numbers to reduce again. It was so good we are going to do the second half at some point!

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Cunard Announce New Voyages For 2025, 2026 & 2027 In Their Biggest Ever Cruise Launch

Get ready for the biggest launch ever, from Cunard , with over 300 new voyages sailing from September 2025, into 2026 and onto January 2027.

Discover over 300 awe inspiring new voyages on Cunard’s iconic Queens. Norwegian Fjords, epic World Voyages, Caribbean escapes and so much more await. Whether your ideal adventure involves a visit to a bustling metropolis, warm Mediterranean sun or spellbinding glaciers and valleys. With Cunard’s biggest launch ever coming up soon, you’re sure to find the voyage that makes your dream holiday a reality.

Cunard’s biggest launch ever with over 300 new voyages sailing September 2025 to January 2027 now available to book.

Where In The World?

Embark on an adventure like no other with over 300 new Cunard voyages travelling to destinations all over the globe. With everything from Full World Voyages to short European breaks , Cunard offer you the ultimate freedom and choice when it comes to where you want to sail.

Imagine sailing through the Panama Canal on Queen Mary 2 or basking in the perennial warmth of the Atlantic Coast. Seize the opportunity to watch a total solar eclipse from on board a Cunard Queen. Explore the diverse landscapes of Scandinavia or the rich culture and history of the Mediterranean. Or maybe join Queen Elizabeth in the Caribbean as she explores the sun-kissed beauty of this stunning region on a new range of roundtrips from Miami.

Whether you seek adventure or relaxation, their new voyages promise new horizons, and memories that will last a lifetime. Picture yourself lounging on deck, surrounded by boundless ocean horizons whilst enjoying their signature White Star Service. Join Cunard and set sail on journeys of endless possibilities.

World Cruise 2026

With Cunard’s 2026 World Voyages you can take in the grand spectacle of Queen Mary 2 traversing the awe-inspiring Panama Canal for the very first time on a full transit , while Queen Anne ’s new World Voyage itinerary for 2026 brings the promise of exciting exploration. Enjoy overnight stays across the globe and explore destinations like opulent Dubai and cosmopolitan Melbourne by day and night. Roam the vibrant ever-bustling streets of Hong Kong. Ride iconic cable cars in San Francisco, gasp at breath-taking Table Mountain views in Cape Town, sip Singapore Slings in Singapore and so much more.

Adventure The World Over, Through To 2027

Voyage across a world filled with natural wonders, magnificent cities and intriguing history with Cunard’s new voyages. Discover the majestic beauty of Norway’s fjords, sip on sangria in Spanish cafés or wander striking Scandinavian cities before heading north to search for the fabled Northern Lights. Embark from Southampton or fly out to join your ship in an iconic European city: either way there’s no better way to explore than on board a Cunard Queen. Meanwhile, join Queen Elizabeth on a new season of Caribbean Fly-Cruises sailing roundtrip from Miami . Embrace the chance to soak up crystal-clear waters, calypso rhythms, and delectable cuisine which sets the scene for tropical adventures. Sailing roundtrip from Miami and taking in both the Eastern and Western Caribbean, Cunard’s voyages offer you the chance to embark in the heart of the action and really make the most of your time in these idyllic isles. Spend New Year’s Eve gazing out on the elegant old-world skyline of Lisbon. Let Queen Mary 2 take you on a Transatlantic adventure where you’ll have every opportunity to switch off from the outside world from the moment you step on board. Or be a part of a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to view 2026’s total solar eclipse from the deck of a Cunard Queen (maybe even with a chilled drink in hand).

Whatever you choose, a Cunard voyage makes exploring magnificent destinations all the more enticing!

10% Introductory Saving!

Enjoy a 10% introductory saving on new voyages when you book a Cunard Early Saver or Cunard Fare before 3 June 2024.

Enjoy dream holidays with new Caribbean fly-cruises and full World Voyages. Save 10% on over 300 voyages from September 2025 to January 2027. Experience Transatlantic Crossings via Canada and Iceland. Witness Queen Mary 2’s first Panama Canal transit. Join Queen Anne’s 108-night World Voyage. Maybe you’ll discover Dakar’s ancient medinas or Delos on a tour from Mykonos. See colourful birds in Sri Lanka’s Sinharaja Forest from Colombo. Relax on St Lucia’s white beaches under the sun. Sail on any of Cunard’s four Queens for less. Book now for savings on a Cunard voyage. Whether a seasoned traveller or a first-timer, save 10% on your ocean adventure. Book before 3 June 2024 for this discount.

Plus, Mediterranean Flights from £99pp

Embark on a Mediterranean escape that combines the thrill of adventure with the casual opulence of life on board and benefit from flights from £99 flights on selected Queen Victoria Mediterranean Fly-Cruises of 14 nights or more when you book before 3 June 2024.

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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.

Explore More

First photos: Inside Queen Anne, the stunning new cruise ship from Cunard

Call it a new era for Cunard , the storied cruise brand that operates the famed Queen Mary 2 .

As I saw last week during a brief visit, the 184-year-old shipping company's first new vessel in 14 years, the 2,996-passenger Queen Anne , is more contemporary in its look and feel than the line's three older ships.

It also offers venues that embrace the latest trends of travel and cruising in a way that Cunard ships haven't done before.

For more cruise news, guides and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Now on its maiden voyage, a seven-night trip from Southampton, England, to Spain and Portugal, the $600 million vessel offers more choice in dining and entertainment, more wellness options and more of a focus on onboard celebrations than earlier Cunard ships.

That said, it's also a vessel that holds true to Cunard's longtime point of view — a nod to tradition and elegance that harks back to the grand old days of ocean liner travel.

Here's a first look at the new Queen Anne and its most notable features, mostly in photos. I only had a few hours to explore the vessel before its maiden voyage with passengers. But I'll be aboard a full sailing of the ship later this year for a more in-depth review.

A top deck for all seasons

There's no doubt about it: Queen Anne is the new reigning monarch of the Cunard fleet when it comes to operating in inclement weather — something Cunard ships do often as they circle the world.

At the center of Queen Anne's top decks is The Pavilion, an enormous central pool area that — unlike any other Cunard ship — is topped with a retractable glass roof designed to keep poolgoers warm and dry on cold and rainy days.

It's a retractable glass roof that is not only functional but beautiful — a showpiece for the ship.

Soaring higher and feeling airier than the typical magrodome (as such retractable glass roofs on ships are called), the giant structure above the pool was created by Martin Francis, the United Kingdom-based design wizard who figured out how to make the glass pyramid at the Louvre Museum stay up.

Francis' design uses less steel and more glass than has been the norm for such magrodomes in the past. As I saw during my visit, that allows in a lot of light, even on the dourest of days. It was pouring rain, but the space still felt cheery.

At night, the entire space transforms into a theater under the stars, with dimmed lighting and seating reoriented toward a giant screen.

In addition, one deck up overlooking the pool (and still under the dome), a combination juice bar and cafe (The Pavilion Wellness Cafe) serving healthy dishes awaits health-minded passengers — part of a bigger wellness focus at Cunard.

The Pavilion, meanwhile, is much more than just a covered pool area. Underneath the dome — in addition to a pool, three whirlpools and lounge chairs — there is a bar, a grill for poolside food, a gelateria and a stage for entertainment. The stage will be the home of live and prerecorded "Performances at The Pavilion" musical events.

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Cunard ship

It's a something-for-everyone approach that is part of Cunard's wanting to offer more options and more "activations" on its top decks.

I loved the versatility of the space as well as its design, particularly the mesmerizing blue-and-white checkered tiling of the pool area and the scalloped edge of the deck above — both nods to the art deco design that has been a hallmark of Cunard ships.

Queen Anne's top decks are also home to a forward observation deck with lounge chairs, a paddle tennis court, a putting green and table tennis, and the Sky Bar, an open-air bar with soaring views (an area that was difficult to tour and photograph during my visit due to pouring rain).

The observation deck will be more of a destination for passengers than the much smaller games decks that have occupied the top fronts of Cunard's last two ships — in part because of the inclusion of the outdoor bar, which is something Cunard traditionally hasn't built into forward deck-top areas.

The paddle tennis court in the area doubles as a pickleball court, something no Cunard ship has ever had.

Both The Pavilion pool area and observation deck are open to all passengers, as is a second pool area at the back of the ship. There also is an open-air deck area toward the middle back of the ship that is exclusive to passengers staying in the top cabins, known as Queens Grill and Princess Grill suites (more on that in a moment).

A bigger observation lounge

If you're already a Cunard fan, you know that the forward-facing observation lounge — the Commodore Club — is a hot spot on its ships. So you'll surely be excited to know that Cunard has really gone all out with the Commodore Club on Queen Anne.

As I saw during my visit, the Commodore Club on Queen Anne is by far the biggest Commodore Club on any Cunard ship, including Queen Mary 2 (which is a bigger ship than Queen Anne).

Notable features of the Commodore Club on Queen Anne include a "bar in the round" at its back that is designed to be a place to meet new friends; a stage for live entertainment that will include band music, string instrument performers and pianists; and a seemingly endless, 270-degree wall of glass offering views of the sea.

In addition, Queen Anne's Commodore Club is part of a larger complex of adult venues at the top of the ship that also includes the ship's cigar lounge, known as Churchill's; its library; and an expanded area for onboard weddings and other shipboard celebrations.

New wellness spaces

Cunard is leaning into the wellness trend with a new-for-the-line, glass-enclosed Wellness Studio that is just past The Pavilion Pool (it sits under the same glorious glass dome that covers that venue).

While it still wasn't quite done during my visit, the allure of the space was already clear. Even on a rainy day, it was bathed in light and afforded stunning views.

The space will be used for yoga, Pilates, Zumba and line dancing during the day, and there are plans for ballroom dancing classes at sunset.

The Wellness Studio is part of an expansion of wellness areas that also includes the healthy-eats cafe and juice bar in The Pavilion area mentioned above.

The idea, in part, was to get all of the fitness classes that the line normally offers in its fitness area on the inside of the ship up to the top deck, where participants can enjoy natural light and views of the sea all around.

That said, Queen Anne still has a good-sized fitness center and a spa with a thermal pool complex in a lower part of the vessel.

While I didn't see it during my visit, the spa is designed to impress with heated loungers, experiential showers, a reflexology footpath with textured stones, a cold room (a first for Cunard), a large steam room, a Himalayan salt sauna and a traditional sauna. There's also a relaxation room and a wellness suite.

The ultimate Grills zones

If you're a Cunard regular, you know about the Grills. They're the two exclusive restaurants on every Cunard ship for passengers staying in suites.

On Queen Anne, these upscale spaces — the Queens Grill and Princess Grill — come with access to what is the ultimate exclusive retreat area ever conceived for a Cunard ship.

Known as the Grills Terrace, it's a sprawling private outdoor lounge area spans the width of the ship and has plush lounge chairs, two stunning infinity whirlpools overlooking the ocean and waiter service for your every need.

The Grills Terrace sits just above the Queens Grill and Princess Grill restaurants, which are loaded with tables for two (in response to customer demand). That's a big change from the designs of earlier Grills on Cunard ships that often had lots of bigger tables where passengers sometimes were assigned seating with strangers.

In between the two Grills is what just may be my favorite spot on the ship: the Grills Lounge. It's a stunningly designed hideaway bathed in natural light from a skylight that is for the exclusive use of Grills passengers. I love the curvy chairs upholstered in luscious peacock blue fabric surrounding a circular chartreuse seating area. Just behind is a bar that is exclusive to Grills passengers.

The space also has a concierge to help with your every need.

The Queens Grill and Princess Grill dining rooms are open to passengers staying in Queens Grill and Princess Grill suites, respectively. Queens Grill suites are the biggest suites on the ship, starting at 507 square feet. Princess Grill suites (one of which is shown above) measure 302 square feet.

More dining venues

Cunard has never been known for ships that offered oodles of dining options. But that's changing with Queen Anne — and in a big way.

Queen Anne boasts 15 different places where you can grab a bite, more than double the number on the line's other ships.

The options include Aji Wa, a new restaurant concept for Cunard that serves what's billed as a contemporary take on Japanese cuisine and is home to the Sushi and Sake bar. Also new for Cunard is Aranya, an Indian eatery.

Both are extra-charge specialty restaurants, as is Queen Anne's high-end steakhouse, Sir Samuel's — another new concept. A fourth specialty eatery that is new for Cunard, Tramonto, serves Mediterranean dishes meant to be shared.

These four specialty restaurants complement the traditional Queens Grill, Princess Grill, Britannia and Britannia Club restaurants, which are the main eateries for passengers (assigned based on cabin category).

Other places to dine include the Golden Lion pub, a mainstay of Cunard ships. On Queen Anne, it features a new pub menu designed by renowned chef Michel Roux (who also created an exclusive gala menu for the Queens Grill restaurant). The menu will eventually be rolled out to Golden Lion pubs across the Cunard fleet.

Designed to capture the essence of a traditional British pub with lots of red leather, green leather and wood tone finishes, window mosaic work, banquet seating and a grand bar, the Golden Lion pub on Queen Anne is also notably bigger than sister venues on other Cunard ships.

It's also home to a wall of eclectic art that its designers say offers a nod to the quirkiness of Britain today.

In addition to classic British pub dishes reimagined by Roux and a new Cunard beef burger, the pub offerings will include Cunard brand craft beers and a Bloody Mary menu.

In addition, Queen Anne passengers are able to eat in casual comfort at the Artisans' Foodhall, a new take on the traditional buffet eatery on Cunard ships. It features active food stations instead of traditional self-serve buffet lines.

At each of the stations, a chef is standing by to make a dish just for you, and there are also pre-plated dishes available to grab and go.

The Artisans' Foodhall is also the first casual buffet eatery on a Cunard ship with its own bar, located right in the middle of the room.

Classic Cunard spaces with a twist

As is typical for Cunard ships, Queen Anne features a Grand Lobby with a cascading staircase that makes you feel like royalty as you descend into the ship's interior areas for the evening. But it's a Grand Lobby with a more contemporary design.

Instead of the traditional ocean liner-of-old look of the Grand Lobbies found on Cunard's three other vessels, the space has a fresh modernity with Art Deco-inspired white-and-black marble floors, glass railings and a modern take on the showpiece murals that are a staple of Grand Lobbies on Cunard ships.

Another classic Cunard venue getting a tweak on Queen Anne is the Queens Room, the grand ballroom where Cunard fans traditionally have danced the night away to big band music.

With clusters of modern ball lamps hanging from its ceiling, evoking planets floating in the sky, and a stunning, multicolored marquetry wood floor as a counterpoint, it has a dreamy, make-believe quality that is unlike anything seen before on a Cunard ship.

A large digital screen behind its semicircular stage and high-tech lighting add to its much more modern feel.

The Queens Room is also rounder in its design and more open to its surroundings. Its top level, in particular, is open to an area of boutique stores and the passing traffic of passengers moving between the front and back of the ship.

The Queens Room and surrounding shopping area are curvy in their layouts, with fewer straight-lined walls than you'll find on earlier Cunard ships. It's something of a signature for the design of Queen Anne's public spaces.

Bars, in particular, often are built in a circular motif, a deliberate change from earlier Cunard ships that is aimed at encouraging drinking passengers to interact with each other.

Among the most striking spaces on Queen Anne is the Chart Room, a lounge area with semicircular seating arranged across colorful carpeting with bold circular patterns.

With dark paneled walls and crystal chandeliers, it has an Art Deco sensibility while also feeling contemporary in its design.

Forward of the Grand Lobby and Queens Room, passengers also will find the ship's casino (called Room 1840) and main theater (dubbed the Royal Court Theatre).

The latter venue spreads across two decks.

Bottom line

Queen Anne is ushering in a new era for Cunard with a more contemporary look and feel than the three other vessels in the line's fleet and a broader array of venues that tap into recent trends in cruising. It's the first Cunard ship to have a wide range of alternative dining options with new-for-the-line restaurants focused on Indian, Japanese and Mediterranean cuisine. It's also the first Cunard ship with a top-of-the-ship wellness studio for yoga, Pilates, Zumba and other class-based wellness activities, and it offers several other new wellness offerings. These are all things that Cunard plans to carry through to the older ships in its fleet over the coming years as it revamps the vessels during dry docks.

Still, Queen Anne continues to hold true to what Cunard has long been about — that respect for tradition and elegance that evoke the grand old days of ocean liner travel. Whether you're a longtime Cunard fan or someone eyeing your first cruise with the brand, this is a vessel you'll want to try.

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
• Top ways cruisers waste money on vacation
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

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12 best Panama Canal cruises for a bucket-list trip

A Panama Canal transit is a rite of passage for many cruise lovers. Experiencing this marvel of early 20th-century engineering appeals to those with a wide array of interests, from history and politics to colonial architecture and wildlife. Built by the U.S. government between 1903 and 1914, this 50-mile waterway linking the Atlantic and Pacific oceans revolutionized shipping by creating an expedited route for the transit of cargo and, ultimately, cruise ship passengers.

Panama Canal itineraries are offered by almost every cruise line. Thanks to a 2016 canal expansion project, a third set of locks can now accommodate larger vessels. It's possible to cruise the Panama Canal on ships of all sizes (from 148 guests to more than 3,000) on itineraries that range from a week in the sun to a six-month world cruise.

Some ships sail a full transit of the canal, from the Atlantic to the Pacific or vice versa. These one-way journeys between Miami or Fort Lauderdale and Los Angeles or San Diego visit ports in Central America, South America, Mexico and California.

Others sail only a partial transit, entering the locks from the Atlantic and cruising into Lake Gatun before turning around and exiting again. These itineraries, sailing round-trip from Florida ports, combine the canal experience with island hopping in the Caribbean.

For more cruise guides, news and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

The array of options means that a Panama Canal cruise experience is possible even if you're short on time or have a limited budget — and chances are high that your favorite cruise line offers one or more itineraries. Most sailings attract couples, typically retirees, but if the timing is right, a Panama Canal cruise can also be a great multigenerational experience.

Here are a dozen of the best Panama Canal cruises to consider.

Holland America's 14- to 17-night Panama Canal cruises

Holland America offers a variety of Panama Canal cruises , but the most popular itineraries span 14 to 17 nights. They offer a full transit between Fort Lauderdale or Miami and San Diego, Seattle or Vancouver, British Columbia, or vice versa and are offered on multiple ships, including Koningsdam, Zuiderdam, Zaandam, Eurodam and Nieuw Amsterdam. These sailings call on Cartagena, Colombia; Puntarenas, Costa Rica; Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala; and Huatulco and Puerto Vallarta or Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. Longer sailings also call on several Caribbean islands.

Who should go : Holland America ships sailing a full transit are popular with retired couples who appreciate the cruise line's consistency and good value. All four ships accommodate between 1,432 and 2,650 passengers and offer signature onboard experiences that include the Greenhouse Spa and the World Stage for evening production shows. The larger Eurodam, Koningsdam and Nieuw Amsterdam feature additional specialty dining options, such as Tamarind and Nami Sushi, as well as popular music venues B.B. King's Blues Club and Billboard Onboard.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises' 16-night Los Angeles-to-Miami cruise

Regent Seven Seas Cruises ' newest ship, Seven Seas Grandeur, debuted in November 2023 and will transit the Panama Canal on several occasions in the next few years. The 16-night Miami-to-Los Angeles (Dec. 13-29, 2024) and 16-night Los Angeles-to-Miami (Jan. 8-23, 2025) transits offer luxurious all-inclusive pampering, plus port calls in Ensenada, Cabo San Lucas and Acapulco, Mexico; Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala; Corinto, Nicaragua; Panama City; Cartagena, Colombia; and George Town, Grand Cayman.

Plan even further ahead for Grandeur's 22-night Miami-to-Los Angeles transit (Jan. 3-25, 2026) to enjoy additional Caribbean ports of call. From Jan. 25 to Feb. 9, 2026, the ship will sail a 16-night Panama Canal transit from Los Angeles to Miami with an itinerary similar to the 2024 and early 2025 cruises.

Who should go : This itinerary can be a wonderful splurge for a couple seeking to celebrate a milestone anniversary or birthday in a memorable way on a luxurious new ship. Prices start at a hefty $10,099 per person for a spacious balcony suite, but they also include airfare, transfers, gratuities, dining and beverages, Wi-Fi and shore excursions — meaning you'll hardly have any other vacation expenses.

Related: The 9 best luxury cruise lines for elegance and exclusivity

Celebrity Cruises' 11-night Panama Canal & Southern Caribbean cruise

For a Panama Canal experience that begins and ends in Fort Lauderdale, Celebrity Cruises ' 11-night Panama Canal & Southern Caribbean itinerary is a great option. There's still time to book the Dec. 2, 2024, cruise or the half-dozen almost identical sailings that follow through April 2025. All sailings are aboard the 3,260-passenger Celebrity Beyond and visit Cartagena, Colombia; Colon, Panama; Oranjestad, Aruba; Kralendjik, Bonaire; and George Town, Grand Cayman (Willemstad, Curacao, replaces Grand Cayman on some 2025 sailings).

Who should go : Celebrity Beyond and its Edge-series sister ships appeal to millennials, Gen Xers and young-at-heart baby boomers who appreciate innovative design, entertainment and dining options. The ships are geared toward couples or groups of friends, but families with older teens might also enjoy the onboard vibe. There are no splash pools or waterslides for younger kids, although calls on three Caribbean islands offer aquatic fun.

Windstar Cruises' 7-night Costa Rica & Panama Canal cruise

To explore the Panama Canal region in a relaxed manner aboard an intimate motorized sailing yacht or small ship, check out Windstar Cruises' seven-night Costa Rica & Panama Canal itinerary. Bookable on more than a dozen dates from November 2024 through March 2026, the itinerary is offered aboard 148-passenger Wind Star or Wind Spirit (in 2024 and 2025) and 312-passenger Star Pride (in 2026). The ship will travel from Colon, Panama, to Puerto Caldera, Costa Rica (or vice versa), transiting the canal. Passengers can visit Panama City and Isla Parida in Panama, plus Golfo Dolce and Quepos (for Manuel Antonio National Park) in Costa Rica.

Who should go : Fans of small-ship cruising who enjoy a casual onboard ambience, are interested in nature and wildlife and wish to sample the regional flavors of Central America should consider a Windstar cruise . All accommodations on the sailing yachts are in snug yet well-designed staterooms with windows but no balconies. Wind Star and Wind Spirit are cozy and social four-deck ships, each featuring a pool and pool bar, a lounge and two restaurants. Star Pride is the better option for those who prefer a more spacious suitelike cabin with a balcony and a larger bathroom.

Related: Big vs. small cruise ships: Which will I like better?

Silversea's 18-night Fort Lauderdale-to-Los Angeles cruise

Silversea Cruises ' 18-night Fort Lauderdale-to-Los Angeles transit aboard 596-passenger Silver Moon offers a luxurious and leisurely way to experience the Panama Canal along with top ports in four countries and 10 sea days. The itinerary includes Cartagena, Colombia (where the ship overnights); Puntarenas, Costa Rica; Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala; and Puerto Vallarta and Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. The sailing takes place from April 1 to 19, 2025.

Silver Moon is one of four Silversea ships to feature the S.A.L.T. (Sea and Land Taste) program, which combines regionally inspired dining in S.A.L.T. Kitchen, cooking classes and demonstrations in S.A.L.T. Lab with culinary-inspired shore excursions.

Who should go : Silversea's clientele is mostly mature couples with a luxury mindset and an appreciation for elevated dining with a strong regional focus. They also appreciate the cruise line's all-inclusive ease. An almost three-week itinerary such as this is likely to attract retirees seeking an extended warm-weather escape.

Related: The 10 best cruises for couples seeking romance and together time at sea

Carnival Cruise Line's 8-night Panama Canal cruise from Tampa

Experiencing the Panama Canal doesn't have to be time-consuming or budget-busting. Carnival Cruise Line 's eight-night Panama Canal from Tampa itinerary offers a round-trip, partial-transit sailing aboard the 2,124-passenger Carnival Legend and Carnival Miracle. The ships call in Limon, Costa Rica, and George Town, Grand Cayman. Itineraries are available on several dates in 2024 and 2025, and cruise fares begin at under $900 per person.

With multiple pools (including the adults-only aft Serenity Pool), a WaterWorks aqua park, the Camp Ocean kids club and a wide array of restaurants, these ships offer enough diversions for sea-day fun, even at half the size of Carnival's newest megaships.

Who should go : Carnival's action-packed ships and affordable cruise fares appeal to families, friends and couples of all ages who enjoy a lively onboard ambience and casual complimentary dining options (including a Guy Fieri burger venue).

Related: The best cruise lines for families

Seabourn's 34-night Caribbean Gems & Panama Canal cruise

For a one-way Panama Canal transit that visits 12 countries (St. Barts, Guadeloupe, Dominica, St. Kitts and Nevis, the British Virgin Islands, the Dominican Republic, Curacao, Colombia, Panama, Costa Rica, Guatemala and Mexico) and offers 15 relaxing and luxurious days at sea, consider Seabourn 's 34-night Caribbean Gems & Panama Canal cruise. The 450-guest Seabourn Sojourn will sail from Miami to Los Angeles, departing in November 2025.

You'll enjoy beach time as you island hop in the Caribbean, while calls on Golfito and Puntarenas in Costa Rica offer access to eco-adventure. Visits to Puerto Quetzal in Guatemala and Puerto Chiapas and Huatulco in Mexico feature excursions focused on pre-Spanish-colonial culture, coffee cultivation and more, while a call on Cabo San Lucas offers whale watching, deep-sea fishing or tequila tasting opportunities.

Who should go : Work-from-anywhere entrepreneurs and retirees who enjoy the luxury and refinement of small-ship cruising will enjoy this monthlong Panama Canal transit. Seabourn Sojourn pampers its guests with attentive service, elevated cuisine and all-ocean-facing suites featuring walk-in closets and spacious marble bathrooms. Seabourn's all-inclusive cruise fares also cover gratuities and complimentary wines and spirits.

Princess Cruises' 12-night Panama Canal with Costa Rica & Caribbean cruise

While Princess Cruises does offer several longer ocean-to-ocean Panama Canal itineraries, its popular 12-night Panama Canal with Costa Rica & Caribbean cruises conveniently sail round trip from Fort Lauderdale on more than 20 dates in 2024, 2025 and 2026.

What's more, you can choose between two ships: the 3,140-guest Caribbean Princess or the 3,080-guest Emerald Princess. In addition to the partial transit, these sailings call on several Caribbean islands, including Aruba, Curacao, Jamaica and Grand Cayman, as well as Cartagena, Columbia; Limon, Costa Rica; and Colon, Panama.

Who should go : Couples who enjoy a ship with a more traditional vibe and families with kids who are content to participate in interactive learning activities and nature-based adventure (versus waterslides) will enjoy this cruise. Princess ships are known for their Movies Under the Stars screenings, multiple pools, specialty dining options, such as Sabatini's Italian Trattoria and The Salty Dog Gastropub, and Crooners piano bar.

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Princess Cruises ship

Norwegian Cruise Line's 12-night South America: Peru, Colombia & Ecuador cruise

There's no "Panama Canal" in this itinerary's name, but Norwegian Cruise Line 's 12-night South America: Peru, Colombia & Ecuador cruise (Feb. 27-March 11, 2026) does a full canal transit as it sails from Miami to Lima, Peru. The 2,402-passenger Norwegian Jade will visit historic Santa Marta and Cartagena in Colombia; Panama City; Manta, Ecuador; and Trujillo and Lima in Peru.

Who should go : Couples and friends interested in experiencing not just a Panama Canal transit but some of the top coastal experiences along the Pacific coast of South America should choose this itinerary. Norwegian Jade is an older, smaller vessel that was refurbished in 2022 and features a top deck more conducive to sunning than thrill rides. The ship also has a surprising number of restaurants for its size: two main dining rooms, a buffet restaurant, a pub-style bar and grill, an Asian restaurant and an outdoor grill on a complimentary basis, plus six specialty dining venues (including a steakhouse and venues showcasing French, Italian and Japanese cuisines) for an added fee.

Oceania's 16-night Miami-to-Los Angeles cruise

Oceania Cruises ' 1,200-passenger Vista — which debuted in May 2023 as the first new-build ship in Oceania's fleet in more than a decade — will offer back-to-back, 16-night Miami-to-Los Angeles (Jan. 8-24, 2025) and Los Angeles-to-Miami (Jan. 24-Feb. 9, 2025) itineraries. Both sailings visit six countries with port calls that include George Town, Grand Cayman; Cartagena, Colombia; Puntarenas, Costa Rica; Corinto, Nicaragua; Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala; and Acapulco, Cabo San Lucas and Ensenada, Mexico. (The second sailing visits San Diego instead of Ensenada.)

Who should go : Oceania's newest ship offers a great compromise between a small and medium-size vessel and is ideal for those seeking a premium cruise experience with casual sophistication. Older couples especially will appreciate the ship's elegant cabin decor in soft hues of wheat and seagrass, mix of grand and intimate spaces and wide array of dining options. (Two new and noteworthy venues on Vista include Ember for inventive American cuisine and Aquamar Kitchen for wellness-focused breakfast, lunch and dinner.) A more immersive mixology program features curated cocktail menus, indulgent pairing experiences and specialty beverage carts.

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on an Oceania Cruises ship

Cunard's 26-night Southampton-to-San Francisco cruise

Cunard's brand-new 2,996-passenger ship Queen Anne, which debuts in May 2023, will make both its first transatlantic crossing and its first Panama Canal transit on this historic 26-night Southampton-to-San Francisco sailing (Jan. 9-Feb. 4, 2025). The ship will first cross the Atlantic and then overnight in New York before calling on Aruba, transiting the canal and visiting Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala and Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. It will conclude with an overnight in San Francisco.

The winter transatlantic crossing might not be right for everyone, but the second half of this voyage explores warm-weather destinations with plenty of relaxing sea days for sunning, reading, taking dance lessons and enjoying expert lectures.

Who should go : British cruise line Cunard appeals mainly to older travelers who savor the line's formal traditions. This cruise is for you if you enjoy afternoon tea, dressing up for dinner, gala evenings and dancing to big-band orchestras. This particular itinerary appeals to retirees who wish to visit several cruise regions in one sailing.

Viking's 180-day World Voyage

For the ultimate cruise indulgence, Viking's 180-day World Voyage I includes a Panama Canal transit (on Christmas Day, no less) as 930-passenger Viking Sky cruises from Fort Lauderdale to New York City (Dec. 19, 2024-June 17, 2025). This round-the-world cruise will visit 37 countries as guests enjoy Viking Sky's modern Scandinavian interior decor, soothing LivNordic Spa, two pools (including one with a retractable roof) and six onboard restaurants. Pricing includes airfare, gratuities and complimentary wine and beer with lunch and dinner.

If this longer voyage is sold out, consider the 138-day Viking World Cruise (departing Dec. 19, 2025), also on Viking Sky. This sailing, which travels from Fort Lauderdale to London (Greenwich), visits 28 countries and transits the Panama Canal on the eighth day.

Who should go : With cruise fares that start at $79,995 and $59,995 per person, respectively, these extended adventures at sea require a luxury budget. Viking 's base clientele is mostly retired or close-to-retirement-age professionals who enjoy the cruise line's focus on educational enrichment (via onboard lectures) and serene ambience (there's no casino, and the nighttime vibe is on the quiet side).

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
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

Search ends for missing crew member who disappeared during around-the-world voyage, report says

• A crew member from an Ambassador Cruise Line ship was reported missing at sea.
• The ship was sailing from Lisbon to Tilbury, England when the crew member disappeared.
• The search has now been called off, the BBC reported.

The search for a missing cruise ship employee who disappeared during an around-the-world voyage has ended, BBC News reported.

The Indian crew member was reported missing after breakfast on Friday morning while the ship was off the coast of Cape Finisterre, northwestern Spain.

The "Ambience" ship had been sailing from Lisbon to Tilbury, England, on the final leg of a 120-night trip when the employee disappeared.

Staff on the Ambassador Cruise Line ship then carried out a sweep of the vessel before it rerouted and sailed back through its previous route.

The ship is now on its way back to the UK, per the BBC.

Related stories

An Ambassador Cruise Line spokesperson told the outlet: "Our immediate priority is to provide full support to all crew members closely affected by this incident."

"Ambassador is committed to the safety and wellbeing of all our crew and guests. The search for the missing person is ongoing and remains our utmost priority," they continued.

"We are deeply saddened by this incident and our thoughts and prayers are with the friends and family of our colleague at this difficult time," they added. "Specialist support will be offered to all crew affected by today's events."

Ambassador Cruise Line, which describes itself on its website as "Britain's premium value no-fly cruise line," is based in Purfleet, Essex, and operates from eight regional UK ports.

Ross Klein, an international authority on the cruise ship industry, previously told Business Insider that he believed cruise ship safety rules were outdated, noting that there had been no substantial changes to safety measures since the Cruise Vessel Security and Safety Act of 2010.

"I think legislation has been dreadfully inadequate," he said.

"Going on a ship today would be like going on a ship in 1990. There have been no improvements. Railing heights are the same," he added.

Business Insider has reached out to Ambassador Cruise Line for comment

Watch: Sub taking tourists to see the Titanic goes missing

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