life at sea cruises destinations

This Three-Year Cruise Visits 148 Countries on All Seven Continents

By Rachel Chang

Sailing around the world in 80 days may be legendary, but sailing around the world in 1,001 days is now a reality. This fall, Life at Sea Cruises ’ inaugural three-year cruise aboard the MV Lara will hit the high seas, taking passengers to 382 ports in 148 countries on all seven continents, all on one epic itinerary.

“The demand for long-term extended cruises has been growing in popularity in recent years,” Life at Sea Cruises CEO Kendra Holmes says. “This, coupled with more people able to work remotely and the increased cost of home ownership and renting showcased an opportunity to offer travelers the chance to embark on an adventure—except, in our case, the vacation doesn't have to end.”

Mixing work and play in this innovative way isn’t just efficient, it also cuts down on the hassle of constantly planning travel to dream destinations one at a time. After all, the 130,000-mile mega itinerary checks off major bucket list sites, including the Great Wall of China, Pyramids at Giza, Rome’s Colosseum, Petra in Jordan, Machu Picchu in Peru, India’s Taj Mahal, Rio de Janeiro’s Christ the Redeemer, and Ecuador's Galapagos Islands . Also on the docket: Yosemite National Park , Victoria Island, and Glacier Bay in North America; Wat Arun Temple, Ha Long Bay, and Pink Beach in Asia; and Ireland’s Giant’s Causeway, France’s Mont Saint Michel, and UK’s Windsor Castle in Europe.

The beauty of the extended voyage is that there isn’t that constant rush to get back to the ship. “Our longer port times truly empower residents to make the most of their time in each port,” Holmes says. “Days-long port times mean that residents can get the most out of each city we visit.”

Another perk is the mindfully curated sailing route (which is especially impressive on this interactive Google Earth map ). “Our itinerary places the MV Lara in the Northern Hemisphere in the summers and the Southern in the winters, so it’s always summer for Life At Sea Cruises,” she adds. Those sunny days include ringing New Year’s Days in Buenos Aires, Papua New Guinea, and the Maldives , and enjoying Valentine’s Days in Colombia, the French Polynesia , and en route to South Africa, as well as being in Asia for the Singapore Food Festival, Mid-Autumn Festival in South Korea, and Gion Matsuri in Japan.

In between the port stops, life on board is packed with possibilities, too. The ship is equipped with a pool deck, gym, spa, and auditorium that will host everything from movie screenings to live performances. International cuisine is offered at its multiple bars and restaurants, ranging from fine dining to casual eats. Daily activities will include dance lessons, karaoke sessions, and yoga practices, among others.

Inside a cabin on the new ship.

While the cruise is, at its core, a three-year getaway, the company realizes the need to stay connected with real life back on land, too. Remote workers can access free high-speed Wi-Fi and use the business center facilities. (Private office space is also available for rent for those who want to run their businesses from the ship.) Also, friends and families can visit by just paying the local port taxes and fees and staying in the cabins for free. Some guest cabins may also be available.

The all-inclusive fare for the three-year getaway starts at $43,860 per person per year, based on double accommodations. (A previously lower rate that started at $38,313 per person per year has already sold out.) Solo travelers will be charged a single supplement fee. Meals and weekly housekeeping are all included, but alcohol outside of dinner, shore excursions, spa services, and other premium services are an additional fee. Basic medical visits are also covered, while dental care, medical procedures, and prescriptions are offered at extra cost.

Operated by Aegan Sea operator Miray Cruises, the 629-cabin MV Lara can accommodate 1,266 passengers, but will only be run at 80 percent capacity. The ship is an upgrade in size from the MV Gemini that was originally announced for this journey back in March, according to CNN . Amid immediate skyrocketing demand, many of those working for the cruise company quit, reportedly because of disagreements over the ship that would be used. (Some of those who defected are now working on a rival cruise called the Villa Vie Residences that embarks on a three-and-a-half-year long itinerary to 420 destinations, starting May 15, 2024, from Southampton, England.)

Now back on track, the Life at Seas 36-month itinerary takes off November 1, 2023, from Istanbul, offering passengers the opportunity to embark in Barcelona on November 5, the Bahamas on November 15, or Puerto Rico on November 18, eventually returning after three trips around the sun to Istanbul on November 1, 2026. 

“Accomplishing a travel feat like this one outside of our voyage would be extremely difficult, logistically and financially,” Holmes says. “If people are interested in traveling the globe while enjoying life at sea, then our voyage is the right choice for them. “

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Epic 3-Year World Cruise Sets Sail This November — What You Need To Know

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Miray Cruises made waves when it announced the 3-year Life at Sea Cruises world voyage on February 27, 2023. In an era of highly sought-after world cruises, this news created a tsunami of excitement and subsequent booking requests. Not only did the cruise have an extraordinary 130,000-mile-plus itinerary, but the entry price of $29,999 per person per year made it alluring to pre-retirees, retirees, remote workers, and adventurous travel lovers wishing to explore the world.

Since that time, some things have changed. These include management turnover, changes in embarkation ports and prices, and the acquisition of a larger ship. Answers to some key questions have been sorted out, but others remain outstanding. 

Here’s what to know about this blockbuster, first-ever Life at Sea 3-year world cruise. 

Newer, Bigger Cruise Ship

Life at Sea Cruises is a new venture launched by Miray Cruises, a subsidiary of Miray International . Headquartered in Turkey, Miray Cruises has owned and operated passenger vessels as a cruise ship hotel management firm. Miray Cruises and U.S.-based Life at Sea Cruises originally planned to operate the history-making, 3-year world cruise with Miray Cruises’ ship, MV Gemini .

According to CNN , some Life at Sea Cruises team members left the company in May as part of a dispute about the ship and other matters, which raised customer concerns. Now, Miray Cruises may have alleviated some of those with the purchase of an alternative ship.

Miray Cruises recently revealed it has obtained a newer, larger ship for its 3-year Life at Sea world cruise. The bigger ship, to be named MV Lara , provides more staterooms and living areas for residents. According to Miray Cruises CEO Kendra Holmes, “The MV Lara was acquired to accommodate the impressive, unprecedented high demand from cruisers who wanted to book the voyage. We wanted to accommodate as many adventurers as possible without compromising on comfort and space on the ship.”

Kendra Holmes told TravelAwaits the MV Lara has 42,289 gross tons, 634 staterooms, and space for 1,268 passengers, although Miray Cruises will only book the ship to 85 percent capacity. She also commented that the vessel is currently sailing in western Europe and will go into dry dock for any needed refurbishments to become the MV Lara by the end of September into the beginning of October. According to the Miray Cruises’ CEO, MV Gemini will remain with Miray Cruises and continue to operate her 3- and 4-day cruises in the Aegean Sea.

Bucket-List Cruise Itinerary

Miray Cruises’ Life at Sea marathon 3-year journey looks impressive. According to Miray Cruises CEO Kendra Holmes, “Life at Sea Cruises is the world’s first and only 3-year cruise and is also the voyage with the most extensive itinerary and the longest port stops.” The planned itinerary created by Robert Dixon includes 382 ports, seven continents, 148 countries, 103 tropical islands, 13 Wonders of the World, and several UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The world cruise will include 288 overnight port stays, with multiple days spent in numerous ports of call. This will allow additional time for travelers to explore a wide variety of destinations and sites. Guests can participate in shore excursions and take part in volunteer and philanthropic activities. According to the voyage’s brochure, Life at Sea also plans to set up tee times and transportation to golf courses in many ports.

Family members and friends are welcome to join residents during the Life at Sea voyage. Miray Cruises CEO Kendra Holmes said, “Residents can host one visitor for up to 30 days and two visitors for up to 7 days per quarter. There will also be cabins available for friends and family to rent for up to 7 days.”

Miray Cruises will offer welcoming events in Turkey for all guests prior to boarding. These special events will take place at the same time as the 100th-anniversary revelries celebrating the forming of the Turkish Republic.

Highly-Inclusive Experience

Passengers enjoy cruising’s highly-inclusive travel style and fares on Life at Sea’s 3-year voyage cover much of the cruise experience. Cruise prices include meals in all dining venues, alcohol with dinner, high-speed internet, entertainment and performances, enrichment lectures and programming, port fees and taxes, housekeeping and laundry services, and business center access. In addition, the ship will feature an onboard hospital offering free medical visits and a team of medical professionals providing 24-hour, on-call services.

Some aspects of the Life at Sea cruise are not included in the fare, which is the case with many voyages. Prices do not include items such as shore excursions, spa services, alcohol served outside of dinner, permanent office space, medical procedures and medications, and some seasonal onboard premium services.

Cruise Ship Cabins And Public Spaces

Life at Sea Cruises’ floating hotel will feature a variety of stateroom options. Inside cabins are 145 square feet in size, balcony cabins are 210 square feet, and oceanview cabins range from 140–220 square feet. All staterooms have a queen-sized bed, although there are options for two single beds. A limited number of accessible cabins are also offered.

Since residents will be sailing on MV Lara for 3 years, living spaces are an important aspect of life on board . The ship’s public venues are being redesigned for long-term residence so that passengers will feel at home. Very few images of MV Lara ’s cabins and living spaces are currently publicly available.

According to Miray Cruises’ CEO, MV Lara will have two dining venues for sit-down and buffet meals. A specialty restaurant will be on board for special occasions and the common areas will offer snacks and other treats at all hours. The ship will also feature a spa and wellness center, pool and sun deck, bars and lounges, and a business center.

Rising Cruise Fares

Prices have escalated significantly since Miray Cruises first announced the Life at Sea Cruise. However, the current fares are for staterooms on the newer, larger ship.

When the Life at Sea world cruise opened for bookings on March 1, the base price of the 3-year voyage was $29,999 per person per year based on double occupancy in an inside cabin. Those initial prices are no longer available. After the announcement of the bigger ship, cruise fares were listed at $38,513 per person per year based on double occupancy in an inside stateroom.

Miray Cruises has now confirmed a current starting price of $43,860 per person per year based on double occupancy. When asked about the rising cruise fares, CEO Kendra Holmes stated, “As with any voyage, prices increase at a steady rate, and the sooner residents book the voyage with us, the lower the price will be.”

The cruise line is offering a 15 percent discount on the double-occupancy rate for solo travelers.

Changing Embarkation Ports

Miami, Florida, was originally one of the three available embarkation ports for Miray Cruises’ Life at Sea world cruise. That embarkation port has been eliminated. The three available ports are now Istanbul on November 1, Barcelona on November 5, and Freeport, Bahamas, on November 15.

Since there is no U.S. embarkation port, it appears Miray Cruises will no longer be required to post a Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) performance bond. This may cause concern for some travelers. The FMC bond protects the passenger deposits of guests embarking in the U.S. in the case of cruise operator non-performance.

When asked about the elimination of the Miami embarkation port, Kendra Holmes told TravelAwaits , “Most of our residents chose to embark in Europe. They are either joining us for our planned celebrations pre-sailing in Istanbul or at our second embarkation point in Barcelona. Less than 10 (out of hundreds) residents requested embarkation in Miami.”

Holmes added, “Given this low number and the flexibility of these residents, we moved the embarkation to Freeport, Bahamas, to give us even more days in South America for our itinerary. Sailing straight to Freeport from Europe gives us additional time in Peru, so our residents don’t miss the opportunity to explore Machu Picchu.” 

Travel Insurance Availability

Comprehensive travel insurance is important to consider for any upcoming trips. “We are actively searching for a travel insurance partner but have not yet settled on one,” Holmes said. “We estimate to be able to share more information in the fall.”

Travelers generally consider multiple insurance providers and carefully review each policy’s terms. According to Stan Sandberg, co-founder of TravelInsurance.com , several travel insurers can provide coverage for trips up to $100,000 per person in trip costs, including cruises. Sandberg told TravelAwaits , “Most comprehensive travel insurance policies will max out at 364 days in terms of trip duration. There are standalone travel medical insurance policies that can be purchased for 364 days with the option to renew coverage near the expiration date.”

Sandberg also noted, “While some travel insurers will offer cancellation due to financial default of a travel supplier (such as a cruise line) — and note this applies when a company ceases operations as opposed to entering into a bankruptcy process — many travelers will also consider an optional Cancel For Any Reason upgrade, which allows them to cancel for any reason at all.”

Related Reading: 

• 8 Best Cruise Lines According To Our Readers
• I Just Went On My First Solo Cruise — 5 Reasons I Can’t Wait To Do It Again
• 7 Things I Learned On My First Caribbean Cruise, And Still Follow Almost 30 Years Later

Nancy is founder of the Family Travel Network, launched in partnership with America Online. She serves on the Board of the Family Travel Association and is a consultant and frequent presenter at top travel industry conferences and events. Nancy is a member of the North American Travel Journalists Association and the International Food, Wine, and Travel Writers Association. She was honored with the Family Travel Association's Mike Janes Media Member Award in 2022.

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Discover the first ever three-year world cruise, worth at least £24,925

Author: Lucy Abbott

Published on: 27 February 2023

Updated on: 28 February 2023

Life at Sea Cruises, owned by Miray Cruises, has announced they will open reservations for the world's first and only three-year world cruise on 1 March. Find out exactly what to expect from life onboard for a staggering three years

Fancy travelling the world for under £70 a day? Well, Life at Seas Cruises may have the cruise for you.

Covering more than 130,000 miles and 375 ports across 135 countries and seven continents, this three-year world cruise is set to impress.

MV Gemini will sail to 13 of the 14 Wonders of the World as well as provide two to three days in port at a time so you can explore at your own pace.

Life at Sea Cruises is a cruise product offered by Miral International, who provide hospitality services to cruise companies worldwide for almost 30 years.

The ship will start its three-year sailing on 1 November 2023 from Istanbul (with pickups in Barcelona and Miami).

Life at Sea Cruises director of sales & marketing Irina Strembitsky commented: "Life at Sea Cruises offers the ultimate bucket list cruise without having to sacrifice the comforts of home.

"It’s your home at sea with the world as your backyard."

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Azamara onward makes maiden call to easter island, fred olsen's bolette to sail first world cruise in 2025, seabourn announces 129-day ‘ring of fire’ cruise in 2026, holland america line unveils 'pole-to-pole' grand voyage, the world awaits: ambassador cruise line launches its first ever world cruise, regent seven seas unveils longest world cruise departing in 2026, fred olsen unveils new 2025 world cruise, msc cruises opens sales for 2025 world cruise, viking unveils 2024/25 world cruise itineraries, making it possible to live and work at sea.

In a world where most can work from home remotely, this cruise allows you to live, work, cruise and explore all from one base.

Life at Sea Cruises managing director Mikael Petterson said: “Professionals need connectivity, the right amenities, and the functionality to perform their jobs.

"There is no other cruise product that offers this sort of flexibility to their customers."

The line also states that cruisers may enjoy additional tax benefits when working as an international resident onboard the ship.

MV Gemini – what's onboard

With a capacity of up to 1,074 guests across 400 cabins, MV Gemini aims to create a community of professionals living and working at sea.

Onboard, you can enjoy entertainment, dining options, recreational activities as well as workspace facilities with a business centre featuring meeting rooms, 14 offices, a lounge and a business library.

Away from the office, the ship includes a wellness centre, sundeck and swimming pool.

MV Gemini will also include a 24-hour on-call hospital with free medical visits.

What's more, you can expand your mind with learning and enrichment classes as well as volunteering and philanthropic initiatives.

In terms of cabins, sizes range from 130 square feet for virtual inside and oceanview staterooms to 260 square feet for balcony suites.

Plus - if you are missing your loved ones, you can invite family and friends onboard for free.

Where will you visit on a world cruise?

Visiting 135 counties, there are countless places to list on this world cruise - but plenty of highlights including...

South America and Antarctica

Spanning 98 days, you'll explore the vibrant cities of South America as well as the stunning wildlife of Antarctica.

Caribbean and Central America

Relax on a sandy beach, explore a jungle and navigate bustling cities in the 67 days you'll be sailing the Caribbean and Central America

North America and Hawaii

Next up is 98 days of the rich culture of North America and Hawaii – whether you opt for adventure or a relaxing experience you'll create everlasting memories.

From Tokyo to Seoul, spend 70 days sailing to 23 destinations in North America.

A mighty 206 days will be spent cruising to 71 destinations and 26 countries in the South Pacific. Think Sydney, Melbourne, Fiji and Papua New Guinea - a proper adventure.

Asia and the South China Sea

Open your mind to the flavourful cuisine of Asia and explore 12 countries across 169 days.

From the Atlantic to the Mediterranean traverse the glory of Europe and visit 38 countries across 177 days.

Prices start at £24,925 per year with payment options from £2,066 per month for an all-inclusive sailing with Life at Sea Cruises .

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Lucy is a cruise journalist who has sailed on a variety of ships, from expedition to river – with her favourite being expedition cruising.

Lucy is interested in new sustainable ways to cruise as well as how cruising is becoming accessible for all.

She works together with Kaye Holland to keep the World of Cruising website up to date with all the latest cruise news.

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• Miray's Life at Sea Cruises announces industry's first 3-year...

Miray's Life at Sea Cruises announces industry's first 3-year World Voyage on MV Gemini

The industry's ever-longest/first 3-year World Voyage , offered on MV Gemini ship by Life at Sea Cruises (new travel brand launched by Miray International/shipowner) is setting sail this November and visiting 135 different countries across the globe.

Passengers are able to board for just GBP70 (US$125.21) per night.

Setting sail from Istanbul (Turkey) on November 1st, the 3-year journey across a total of 209,214 km will call at 375 destinations (ports and islands) on the 7 continents. The ship will also be picking up passengers from Barcelona (Spain) and Miami (Florida USA) .

Vacationers will be able to see 13 World Wonders, including India's Taj Mahal, Brazil's Christ the Redeemer in Rio , and Rome 's Colosseum.

MV Gemini is expected to dock for up to 7 nights at a single destination.

Onboard, there are a variety of staterooms to choose from. Fares for the entry-level cabins ('Inside/Outside Staterooms') start at US$3,726 per month for cabins ranging between 130-140 ft2 (12-13 m2). The 'Junior Suites/Balcony Suites' are the most luxurious onboard, ranging 210-260 ft2 (19.5-24 m2), and start at US$9,989 per month, which works out to US$119,294 per year per person.

Travelers can either pay monthly or pay the entire 3 years upfront, with the option to finance the payment. They will not be able to book shorter stays.

The reselling of staterooms is not allowed. Guests (including kids) can visit at any time.

The Around-the-World Voyage is also available in smaller itinerary segments.

• The 206-day "Explore the Mesmerizing Landscapes of the South Pacific & Australia" itinerary visits 71 destinations in 26 countries.
• The 177-day "Embrace Europe's Timeless Charms" itinerary visits 74 destinations in 38 countries.
• The 173-day "Journey to the Heart of North Asia" itinerary visits 54 destinations in 32 countries.
• The 169-day "Cultural Heritage in Asia and the South China Sea" itinerary visits 55 destinations in 12 countries.
• The 98-day "A Journey Through South America and Antarctica" itinerary visits 35 destinations in 11 countries.
• The 98-day "North America & Hawaii" itinerary visits 32 destinations in 8 countries.
• The 70-day "Journey to the Heart of North Asia" itinerary visits 23 destinations in 4 countries.
• The 67-day "Discover the Beauty of the Caribbean & Central America" itinerary visits 29 destinations in 23 countries.

Reservations for Life at Sea's Gemini 3-year voyage open today, March 1st.

Prior to the Life at Sea Cruises service, MV Gemini is scheduled for an extensive drydock refurbishment . During the drydocking will be added a Business Center that consists of 2x meeting rooms and 14x offices (available for rent), Library, Relaxation Lounge, Cafe Bar. The Business Center will be fitted with large LED screens, modern audio-video equipment, printers, Wi-Fi Internet, and will be served by dedicated assistance staff.

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They Sold Everything to Go on a 3-Year Cruise. How It All Unraveled.

The Life at Sea cruise was supposed to be the ultimate bucket-list experience: 382 port calls worldwide over 1,095 days. The only thing missing was a trip-worthy ship.

By Ceylan Yeginsu

Kara and Joe Youssef sold their two apartments, withdrew their life savings, gave up most of their belongings and, in late October, set out for Istanbul for the trip of a lifetime: a three-year cruise around the world, scheduled to depart Nov. 1.

But in late November, after months of behind-the-scenes chaos, the Youssefs were stuck in Istanbul, with the cruise company canceling the trip. It did not have a ship that could handle the journey.

The Turkish company, Miray Cruises, had announced the cruise, called Life at Sea , in March. It claimed it would be the longest cruise ever — 382 port calls over 1,095 days — and a community at sea, with opportunities to explore the globe. Starlink internet and a business center would allow passengers to work remotely.

The cruise seemed ideal for a post-pandemic era, targeting people longing for an escape. With fares starting at $90,000 for an inside cabin and going up to $975,000 for a suite, the trip even seemed like a bargain to some prospective passengers, cheaper than living three years in many cities.

Within the first month of sales, more than half of the ship’s 400 cabins had been reserved. But putting together a cruise of this magnitude is a monumental task, requiring a ship large enough to carry hundreds of people, docking rights around the world and secure funding.

Like a high-seas version of the Fyre Festival, which promised a luxury music concert in the Bahamas and delivered cold sandwiches and makeshift tents, the cruise imploded. It has left people, like the Youssefs, frustrated and confused. Despite promised refunds, only a small portion of the money has been returned so far.

In an interview in December, Vedat Ugurlu, the owner of Miray, blamed a lack of financing and interest for the cruise’s cancellation.

“We tried everything to find a solution, but at the end of the day we couldn’t get the investors and we couldn’t sell enough cabins,” he said.

That has left Ms. Youssef, 36, a former humanitarian worker from Ohio, and her husband sitting in Istanbul with three suitcases and a carry-on, waiting for a refund of $80,000.

“They kept leading us on, making us hold out hope until the very last minute, just days before we were supposed to depart,” she said. “We sold everything we have to make this dream happen. We feel completely defeated.”

A big dream, but no ship to sail on

In June 2022, as the cruise industry was recovering from its pandemic shutdown, Mikael Petterson, an entrepreneur based in Miami, had an idea for a three-year cruise. Long-term cruises are not unheard-of, but they usually last a year at most, because of the logistics involved.

Mr. Petterson had plans to hit destinations all over the world. What he did not have was a ship. Through a broker, he was introduced to Miray International, which had been offering voyages and cruise-operation services since 1996.

Mr. Ugurlu, the owner of Miray, suggested the MV Gemini. He had acquired the 400-cabin, 1,074-passenger vessel in 2019, and had mainly used it for excursions between Turkey and the Greek islands.

Mr. Petterson couldn’t afford to buy the ship, so instead the two groups joined forces. He would do the marketing while Miray took care of operations.

In November 2022, Mr. Petterson signed a three-month contract to develop their new brand: Life at Sea Cruises. He had not seen the Gemini, but said that he trusted Miray’s nearly 30 years of experience.

Kendra Holmes, then vice president for business development strategy at Miray, said the company had not only the vessel but a budget of about $10 million to refurbish it for such a long cruise. It also had the experience and staff required, she said.

Mr. Petterson visited Turkey in December 2022 and saw the Gemini, but said his focus was on design and creating renderings for marketing. He planned to carry out a technical inspection later, he said.

“The cabin configuration was perfect for the pricings and affordability we were marketing,” he said.

On March 1, 2023, Life at Sea began selling space on the cruise, drawing millions of clicks to a newly created website. “It just blew up, and we could barely keep up,” Mr. Petterson recalled.

Many of the prospective passengers had never been on a cruise. Keri Witman, 56, a marketing executive from Cincinnati, was looking for a change, a new community and adventure.

She liked the ability to travel while continuing to work. “This seemed like the perfect opportunity,” she said.

Ms. Witman was one of the first to book in April. She asked a lawyer to look into the company and, after finding no red flags, placed a $5,000 deposit for her $185,120 cabin and put her house up for sale.

Refueling concerns: Is this the right ship?

When Mr. Petterson returned to the Gemini in April, questions were raised about the ship and its itinerary. Could it even hold enough fuel to sail between some of the more distant ports? In an audio note sent to his team, Robert Dixon, the itinerary planner, said he was denied access to the engine room and was told by an engineer that the vessel could not hold enough fuel to cross the Atlantic Ocean on schedule. He also raised concerns about a planned crossing in the South Pacific.

“Even if you spend another $10 million on that ship, I don’t think it is enough to do what we want to do,” Mr. Dixon said in the recording. He declined to be interviewed.

Beyond that, there were questions about Gemini’s size. If the cruise sold out its 1,074 capacity, would there be enough space for people to lounge or work, as many of them planned to do, for three years?

A pizza shop in Orlando

Amid questions about the Gemini, tensions started to build. Mr. Petterson’s team complained that it could not process credit card transactions and lacked an escrow account to secure deposits, as is common in the United States.

Miray had expected the sales team to collect the full fare upfront, but asking for hundreds of thousands of dollars at once was prohibitive. Mr. Petterson introduced an installment plan, which helped boost sales, but caught Miray unprepared. And there was no account in the United States for the sales team to use as it secured reservations.

The head of Miray, Mr. Ugurlu, owned a pizza parlor in Orlando, Fla., and Mr. Petterson said the company asked him to deposit the initial payments into the shop’s account. According to Ms. Holmes, that was suggested as a temporary solution.

Miray pursued other ways to accept payments, including the use of Square, the online payment platform, but after Miray had a dispute with Square, Mr. Petterson, concerned at the lack of secure ways to hold deposits, asked the company to refund all the clients’ deposits. Worried that the cruise was in jeopardy, passengers canceled reservations for at least 25 cabins.

‘We felt very nervous’

In May, amid the turmoil, the Youssefs attended a webinar for prospective passengers, but heard nothing about payment issues. The couple was assured, even on another ship, that the cruise would depart on Nov. 1. On May 6, they put down a $5,000 deposit and were told that a 25 percent payment was due on June 7.

By then, Mr. Petterson had left the company. The internal corporate squabbling became public on the app and Facebook page created for the cruise. Mr. Petterson told passengers that Life at Sea was dismantled, and that Miray was refusing to answer critical questions. He urged passengers to complain to U.S. maritime authorities.

Ms. Holmes, of Miray, portrays Mr. Petterson as the loser in a power struggle. “It got to the point where somebody can’t be the captain, so they try to sink the whole ship,” she said. She became chief executive of Life at Sea and began working to reassure passengers.

Confusion and panic set in among the passengers, many of whom had already started uprooting their lives. “We felt very nervous, first sitting through one webinar with the team that left, then with Kendra Holmes,” Ms. Youssef recalled.

But in the weeks that followed, Ms. Youssef said she felt more comfortable as Ms. Holmes and her team hosted daily webinars focusing on getting a new ship.

“Kendra was very convincing and dedicated,” Ms. Youssef said, noting that “she was very realistic, whereas Mikael had promised us the sun and the moon.”

In a webinar on May 31, Ms. Holmes said that the company had decided not to set up an escrow account. She said that it would use another method of protecting passenger deposits, a bond filed with the Federal Maritime Commission, a U.S. agency that helps to regulate ocean transportation. But the bond was never filed.

A new ship and the scramble for investors

In early July, Life at Sea announced that “due to unprecedented demand,” it had acquired a larger 627-cabin ship — to be named the MV Lara. In actuality, the company had put down a deposit and was negotiating to buy the Lara with the help of investors, at a cost Mr. Ugurlu later put at between $40 million and $50 million.

At that time, Mary Rader, 68, a retired social worker from Westchester County, N.Y., asked a travel agency to look into Miray Cruises and was told it was reputable. When a couple offered to transfer their cabin to her at a discounted rate, she took the opportunity, withdrawing $80,000 from her retirement savings.

Ms. Rader made two payments, $50,000 and $35,000, but said she never received a receipt and the couple never received a refund. She eventually got a boarding pass, but on the cruise app, she and the couple were listed in the same cabin.

“This is when I started to see all the red flags, but I was trapped because I had already made the payments,” she said.

In September, the Youssefs sold their apartment to keep up with their cruise payments; others started applying for visas, shipping belongings to Istanbul and making arrangements for their pets.

At that point, although only 111 of the ship’s 627 cabins had been sold, passengers who had signed up were assured that the ship would sail, even with as few as two passengers.

On Sept. 26, the day the payment was due to secure the Lara, Ms. Holmes received a call from Miray’s owner, Mr. Ugurlu, saying the lead investor had dropped out, but that he was working on other candidates. After receiving some cancellation requests, Ms. Holmes posted in the cruise app that, according to the contract’s terms, passengers who canceled now would only receive a 10 percent refund.

By Oct. 27, only days before the cruise’s scheduled departure — and with 30 passengers in Istanbul, ready to board — the company announced the trip had been delayed to Nov. 11 and would depart from Amsterdam. Days later, the departure was postponed again, to Nov. 30.

On Nov. 16, Ms. Youssef learned from a newspaper that the Lara had been acquired by another company. “We were frustrated and felt stuck in limbo, with no information to go on but what we discovered on our own,” she said. Ms. Holmes resigned from Miray the same day.

On Nov. 19, Mr. Ugurlu issued a statement saying that investors had pulled out because of the unrest in the Middle East; the next day Miray confirmed that the cruise was canceled.

Waiting for refunds

A day later, passengers were asked to sign an agreement with Miray, which would spread refund repayments over three months, from December to February. The first deadline passed on Dec. 22, with only some passengers getting any money. Miray said that the delay was caused by banks’ requesting extra documentation.

The Youssefs said on Dec. 28 that they had still not received their refund. For the past month they have been living in a hotel in Istanbul paid for by the cruise company.

“We could soon be homeless,” Ms. Youssef said.

Miray, Ms. Holmes and Mr. Petterson are now separately working on other three-year cruises, to launch next year.

Ms. Rader, the retired social worker, is not hopeful. “I have received nothing yet, but I did not expect to,” she said. “My guess is that the company will be shut down or restructured, and anything I put in cash will never get paid out.”

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2023 .

Ceylan Yeginsu is a travel reporter. She was previously a correspondent for the International desk in Britain and Turkey, covering politics; social justice; the migrant crisis; the Kurdish conflict, and the rise of Islamic State extremism in Syria and the region. More about Ceylan Yeginsu

Come Sail Away

Love them or hate them, cruises can provide a unique perspective on travel..

 Cruise Ship Surprises: Here are five unexpected features on ships , some of which you hopefully won’t discover on your own.

 Icon of the Seas: Our reporter joined thousands of passengers on the inaugural sailing of Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas . The most surprising thing she found? Some actual peace and quiet .

Th ree-Year Cruise, Unraveled:  The Life at Sea cruise was supposed to be the ultimate bucket-list experience : 382 port calls over 1,095 days. Here’s why  those who signed up are seeking fraud charges  instead.

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This 3-year Cruise Visits 135 Countries on 7 Continents — and It Might Cost Less Than You Pay in Rent

Welcome to the Work From Ship life.

Want to set sail and just keep going? Life at Sea Cruises just announced it’s accepting reservations on its first-ever, three-year cruise, which will travel 130,000 miles, visit 135 countries across seven continents, and stop in 375 ports of call, all aboard the MV Gemini .

At each port, the vessel will stay docked for multiple days to allow its passengers to explore at their leisure. It visits 13 wonders of the world, including Egypt's Pyramids of Giza and Mexico's Chichén Itzá, and more than 100 islands, including numerous Caribbean and Central American visits. The cruise also spends 98 days in South American and Antarctica.

Courtesy of Life at Sea

The ship provides everything one would need to live at sea for several years, including spacious cabins, dining and entertainment options, recreational areas like a wellness center, sun deck, and pool, and plentiful work spaces for those who want to live the digital nomad life at sea. That includes a business center with meeting rooms, 14 offices, and a business library for all Zoom call needs. 

“Professionals need connectivity, the right amenities, and the functionality to perform their jobs. There is no other cruise product that offers this sort of flexibility to their customers,” said Mikael Petterson, the managing director of Life at Sea Cruises, in a statement released to Travel + Leisure .

The ship also has other practical amenities, including a 24-hour hospital, which offers guests free medical visits, learning experiences for guests like lectures and classes, and volunteer opportunities at various ports. 

“Life at Sea Cruises offers the ultimate cruise without having to sacrifice the comforts of home,” Irina Strembitsky, director of sales and marketing, added in the statement. “It’s your home at sea with the world as your backyard.”

The three-year voyage departs from Istanbul on Nov. 1, 2023, with additional pick-ups in Barcelona and Miami later in 2023. Pricing begins at $29,999 per year. The company also offers payment options starting from $2,499 per month, which includes food and beverage. Cabin options range from 130-square-foot interior rooms to 260-square-foot balcony suites. See more about the sailing and make your booking at lifeatseacruises.com . 

World's First Three-Year Cruise Collapses

(Updated 3:55 p.m. EST) -- The world's longest cruise is a no-go after months of missteps and sold ships have left the startup company with no vessel and nowhere to sail to.

Life at Sea Cruises , a subsidiary of Turkish ship management company Miray International, opened sales in March for the world's first and only three-year-long cruise. The marathon voyage was set to take place aboard the 19,000-gross-ton ship, MV Gemini. However, CNN reported in May 2023 that the record-breaking voyage had run into difficulties after negotations between Life at Sea Cruise and Miray broke down, resulting in the founding executive team at Life at Sea parting ways with the company.

A former maritime engineer had also raised doubts about MV Gemini, stating the ship could be unsuited for such a voyage, while Miray refuses to name a replacement vessel for those passengers already booked.

The ship was to depart Istanbul on Nov. 1st, with additional pickups in Barcelona and Miami . During the 36-month trek, MV Gemini was expected to cover 130,000 miles, and visit 375 ports across 135 countries and seven continents, including stops in Antarctica's South Shetland Islands. The voyage was later pushed back to December.

Each stop on the world cruise itinerary contained plans for multiple days in port, according to Life at Sea Cruises' original press release.

“Life at Sea Cruises offers the ultimate bucket list cruise without having to sacrifice the comforts of home,” says Irina Strembitsky, Director of Sales & Marketing of Life at Sea Cruises. “It’s your home at sea with the world as your backyard.”

Replacement Cruise Ship Has Also Been Sold

Life at Sea cruises confirmed over the summer that it would no longer operate its World Cruise aboard the MV Gemini, referencing a vessel to be acquired and renamed "Laura".

That ship -- actually the 2003-built AIDAaura -- was just sold to Celestyal Cruises, leaving Life at Sea Cruises once again without a suitable vessel.

Though the Life at Sea website remains active, the company reportedly confirmed it would cancel its round-the-world-journey.

World Cruises Still Operate Under Other Cruise Lines

Other reputable cruise lines still offer World Cruises that will actually set sail.

The world's longest world cruise was offered by Royal Caribbean . The 274-night Ultimate World Cruise is set to sail from Dec. 10, 2023 to Sep. 10, 2024 aboard Serenade of the Seas .

Cruise Critic will update this story as more information becomes available.

© 1995— 2024 , The Independent Traveler, Inc.

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Map: Sail on an epic, 3-year-long 'world cruise' that visits Vancouver at a steal

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While many Vancouverites plan on going on a bucket-list trip after they retire, it isn't always an affordable option. 

The price of month-long vacations can get pretty steep, especially if they are located in highly sought-after destinations or include transportation to various cities or countries — and that's where cruising comes in. 

On virtually any major ocean liner, the cost per diem for the journey goes down the longer that you stay at sea. There are a couple of short repositioning cruises up the Pacific coast that offer comparable per diem prices, but generally the longer the voyage the less you pay. 

For example, a 31-day cruise from Vancouver to Sydney, Australia with Princess Cruises costs $4,366.24 per person including all taxes and fees. This price works out to roughly $140.85 a day. Similarly, a 32-night cruise from Vancouver to Barcelona, Spain with Cunard Cruises costs $3,572.61 per person, which works out to a per diem cost of $111.64. 

Not only do these prices include the cost of your transportation on a beautiful five-star vessel, but it also includes meals, entertainment, snacks and lodging. The only thing it doesn’t factor in is alcohol, but you may opt to purchase a drink package that can reduce the cost of your spending.

Life at Sea Cruises offers a unique retirement option

While it won't last the entirety of your retirement, you can spend a whopping three years at sea covering over 130,000 miles with a new option called  Life at Sea Cruises  by Miray Cruises, owned by Miray International. The voyage takes guests on a quintessential "bucket-list" journey, visiting 13 of 14 "world wonders" — depending on what list of "world wonders" you consult. 

You can view an interactive map of the cruise itinerary  with Google Earth, outlining the route to seven continents with stops in 375 destinations. Guests will sail on the revitalized MV Gemini, which has 400 cabins with room for up to 1,074 passengers.

The "Around the World in 3 Years" cruise disembarks on Nov. 1, 2023, from Istanbul, Turkey's vibrant capital city. It will take guests on a journey through South America and Antarctica, the Caribbean and Central America, Asia, the South China Sea, and through the South Pacific, Australia, Europe and North America.

The cruise will also overnight in Vancouver on July 8, 2024, before it overnights in Victoria on July 9, 2024. After this, it will make its way to Alaska, where it will visit several destinations until Aug. 24, 2024.

Described as "the first reasonably priced, all-inclusive world cruise," prices start at $29,999 per year and include access to all onboard dining options, wine with dinner, soft drinks, juice, tea, coffee, a golf simulator, entertainment, performances, high-speed internet, port fees, taxes, free friends and family visits, gym, laundry and more. 

Find out more information about Life at Sea Cruises online .

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Exploring the High Seas: A Guide to Unforgettable Life at Sea Cruises

Introduction:

Life at sea cruises offer an incredible way to explore the world, combining luxury, adventure, and relaxation. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or planning your first voyage, embarking on a cruise allows you to experience multiple destinations while enjoying an array of onboard amenities. In this blog post, we'll delve into the allure of life at sea cruises, highlighting the key reasons why they are a popular choice for travelers seeking unforgettable adventures.

Captivating Destinations:

Life at sea cruises grant you the opportunity to explore a variety of fascinating destinations. From idyllic Caribbean islands and historical European cities to breathtaking Alaskan fjords and exotic Asian ports, cruises offer a diverse range of itineraries to suit every traveler's preferences. With multiple stops along the way, you can visit several locations without the hassle of unpacking and repacking your bags, making cruises a convenient and efficient way to see the world.

Unparalleled Onboard Amenities:

One of the main attractions of life at sea cruises is the incredible onboard amenities available to passengers. Modern cruise ships are like floating resorts, offering an extensive range of entertainment options, luxurious accommodations, and world-class dining experiences. Whether you want to relax by the pool, indulge in a spa treatment, catch a Broadway-style show, or try your luck at the onboard casino, there's never a dull moment on a cruise ship.

All-Inclusive Convenience:

Life at sea cruises provide a hassle-free vacation experience, thanks to their all-inclusive nature. Most cruise packages include meals, accommodation, onboard activities, and entertainment, allowing you to budget your trip more effectively. This convenience eliminates the need to constantly think about logistics and expenses, enabling you to focus on enjoying your time at sea and exploring new destinations.

Variety of Activities:

Cruise ships cater to a wide range of interests, ensuring there's something for everyone. Whether you're a thrill-seeker, a food lover, a nature enthusiast, or a history buff, you'll find activities and excursions to suit your preferences. From zip-lining and rock climbing to cooking classes and cultural tours, cruises offer an extensive array of onboard and onshore activities that guarantee an enriching experience.

Family-Friendly Fun:

Life at sea cruises are an ideal choice for families, providing a perfect balance of entertainment and relaxation for all ages. Many cruise lines offer dedicated kids' clubs and teen zones with age-appropriate activities, allowing parents to have some quality adult time while ensuring their children are well taken care of. From water parks and mini-golf to movie nights and themed parties, cruise ships are equipped to keep the whole family entertained.

Conclusion:

Embarking on a life at sea cruise offers an unparalleled travel experience filled with adventure, luxury, and exploration. With captivating destinations, top-notch onboard amenities, all-inclusive convenience, a variety of activities, and family-friendly fun, cruises cater to the diverse interests and preferences of travelers. So, whether you're dreaming of basking in the sun on a tropical beach, immersing yourself in rich cultural experiences, or simply relaxing and enjoying the breath taking views of the open sea, a life at sea cruise is sure to create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click here to discover your next cruise!

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Life At Sea Three-Year Cruise Is Set To Sail This November

Despite obstacles and disagreements, Life At Sea Cruises is back on track to set sail this November.

Rafael Peña • Jul 5, 2023

The allure of a never-ending voyage, a perpetual search for an eternal summer, seemed like a travel enthusiast’s fantasy. When Life at Sea Cruises unveiled its ambitious plan for a 36-month cruise in March, featuring cabins starting at $29,999 per person per year with all-inclusive amenities, eager adventurers flocked to secure their spots aboard this extraordinary journey.

However, what initially appeared as a dream come true quickly transformed into a nightmarish scenario in May. Then the project unexpectedly fell short as a portion of the team abruptly departed the company amidst apparent disagreements concerning the ship itself. This unexpected turn led to a wave of passengers withdrawing from the enterprise, casting doubt on the project’s future.

Life At Sea Finds Its Way

Remarkably, it now seems that the tides have turned, and the project is back on track with a grander vessel confirmed for the three-year odyssey. The anticipated launch date remains unchanged, November 1, 2023.

Life at Sea Cruises has now transitioned to full ownership and operation under the capable hands of Miray Cruises, a company boasting three decades of experience navigating the Aegean seas. Miray has been involved as the cruise partner since the project’s inception.

Originally, the MV Gemini, a vessel belonging to Miray, had been designated for the March cruise—an aspect that became central to the breakdown in relations between Miray and certain members of the former Life at Sea executive team. Around 22 team members, including the Managing Director, Chief Technology Officer, and Director of Sales and Marketing, chose to disassociate themselves from the project, as confirmed by Mikael Petterson, the former Managing Director, during an interview with CNN.

Irina Strembitsky, the Sales and Marketing Director, went even further, alleging that an engineer had declared the ship “unseaworthy” and expressed doubts about its ability to withstand a three-year journey. These allegations have since become the core of a defamation case filed by Miray.

Competing Venture In The Works

According to legitimate sources, all 22 departing members have now converged on a competing venture known as Villa Vie Residences. Villa Vie aspires to embark on a world cruise, circumnavigating the globe every three and a half years, as per the information available on its website.

While webinars have been organized to entice potential clients, specifics regarding the chosen vessel and pricing have yet to be divulged. Petterson shared with CNN that his team aims to commence bookings from August onward.

As the saga continues, both Life at Sea Cruises, under its new ownership, and Villa Vie Residences strive to redefine the landscape of extraordinary travel experiences. With resilience and determination, they navigate the challenges of realizing their vision, aiming to captivate the hearts and wanderlust of adventure seekers worldwide.

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It’s full steam ahead for the cruise ship industry after Royal Caribbean hiked its full-year profit guidance on Thursday, saying it expects 60% growth from last year following record bookings during the first quarter.

Travelers are paying “record ticket prices,” according to Royal Caribbean — despite a recent spate of high-sea deaths and missing passengers reports, including a Florida 20-year-old who jumped off a Royal Caribbean cruise this month.

Soaring demand for vacations at sea has given cruise operators ample room to raise ticket prices as the industry looks to close the pricing gap between more expensive land-based holidays and give their profits a lift.

Royal Caribbean, which operates the Celebrity Cruises, now expects annual profits of between $10.70 and $10.90 per share, compared with its earlier forecast of $9.90 to $10.10.

“Our existing fleet along with our new ships continue to perform exceptionally well, highlighted by the market response to the launch of Icon of the Seas,” CEO Jason Liberty said.

Royal Caribbean’s shares — which have spiked 126% in the past year, were up 2% on Thursday morning, to $139.32.

“I remember owning the stock in 2022 and every client was giving me grief about it,” said Peter Ahluwalia, manager at Belinvest Global Equity Fund that holds Royal Caribbean stocks and chief investment officer at Swiss Partners Group. “We’re turning almost 45% return on equity at the moment, which is quite incredible.”

Overall, the industry which was among the hardest hit during the pandemic, is expected to grow to 39.4 million passengers in 2027 from 31.7 million last year, according to Statista.

The surge in demand comes amid major publicity blows from incidents at sea involving passengers who have gone missing, including the Florida man who jumped overboard on April 4 in front of his brother and father after a night of drinking.

Last December, a 41-year-old Royal Caribbean passenger went overboard on a cruise to the Bahamas. That followed an incident last August involving a 64 year-old woman sailing from Singapore to Malaysia on Royal Caribbean who is presumed to have jumped to her death .

On average, 19 people go overboard on cruise ships every year — and of those, only about four are rescued, according to a 2020 study commissioned by the industry trade group Cruise Lines International Association.

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Imagine yourself on a grand ship, gently sailing across the ocean, greeted by new horizons each morning. Sounds like a dream, right? Well, it's more attainable than you might think. At Cruisebound.com, we're busting the myth that cruising is solely for the well-off. We'll show you how to find fantastic cruise deals that let you sail the seas without breaking the bank.

Understanding Cruise Prices for the Best Deals

Navigating high and low seasons.

Cruise prices aren’t static; they fluctuate throughout the year. The peak season, running from May to August, is when families flock to the seas, driven by school holidays. Come autumn, as the leaves and prices fall, you'll find that off-season cruises are not only more peaceful but also kinder to your budget. It's like finding a secret passage to both tranquility and savings.

Ride the Wave Season: the Best Time for Cruise Deals

Ever heard of the Wave Season? It's the cruise world's version of Black Friday, spanning from January through March. This is when the sea of promotions swell, with deep discounts, generous onboard credits, and more, courtesy of major cruise brands like Royal Caribbean , Carnival , MSC , Princess , Celebrity , and Holland America Line . With such a wide array of choices, finding the ideal cruise at a wallet-friendly price is easier than ever. But these deals are fleeting, so acting swiftly is key.

Explore Special Cruises: Repositioning Cruises

Let's dive into another little insider secret: repositioning cruises. These cruises, mainly occurring in the spring and fall, take unique routes at a fraction of the usual cost and with fewer passengers onboard. It's a more laid-back adventure, offering exceptional value for those seeking a different kind of cruise experience.

Maximize Value with Onboard Package Deals

Delving into cruise pricing means considering onboard package deals, too. Bundling up amenities like Wi-Fi, specialty dining, drink packages, and shore excursion credits can significantly enhance your cruising experience. While these packages might not always represent the lowest fare, they offer considerable savings over purchasing these perks separately.

Tips for Booking

Strategic times to book.

Timing your booking can significantly impact your cruise experience and wallet. Here's the lowdown:

• Peak Seasons and Family Trips : Eyeing a summer cruise or a getaway during school breaks? Demand spikes during these periods, so it’s wise to book well in advance to snag the cabin you want at an affordable price that won’t make your wallet weep.
• Wave Season : It’s worth highlighting the golden window of Wave Season again. If you're flexible with your travel dates, booking your cruise between January and March can unlock some of the year's best deals, coupling substantial savings with sweet perks.
• Special Cruises : Dreaming of exotic destinations or the latest ship? These specialty cruises sell out fast, necessitating early booking. Bucket list sailings to places like Antarctica or the Galapagos can sell out lightning-fast—sometimes within a day of going on sale!
• Luxury Cruises and River Cruises : For those contemplating the plush life on luxury cruises or the intimate charm of river cruising, booking early is your best bet. Prices for brands like Viking , Azamara , Oceania , and Regent Seven Seas tend to climb as departure dates approach, so locking in your reservation early can secure a better rate and ensure your spot on board.
• Last-Minute Deals : For the spontaneous and not-so-particular, last-minute deals (within 90 days sailing) can slash prices dramatically. These are perfect for adventurers open to surprises. However, snagging a deal during peak times might be tricky, and options for specific cabins or itineraries could be limited.

Bundle Your Fare for More Savings

When planning for your cruise, consider bundling your booking with other pre-cruise travel must-haves, like hotels and insurance. When you wrap these up into one neat package on Cruisebound.com, you're not just making life easier; you're unlocking deals that you wouldn't find going solo. It's like finding a hidden treasure chest that stretches your vacation dollars further. Beyond just pre-cruise bundling, the perks of onboard package deals are too good to overlook. These packages can encompass everything from Wi-Fi and onboard credits to specialty dining, drinks, and shore excursion credits. By choosing these bundles ahead of time, you streamline your cruise experience and unlock substantial savings over piecemeal purchases. Cruisebound.com excels in making the hunt for the ideal package deals effortless, ensuring added value and convenience in your cruise planning. Notably, cruise lines like Princess and MSC really turn up the charm with their special deals, making your money work harder for you. Meanwhile, others such as Virgin Voyages and Seabourn take a more inclusive approach, rolling all perks directly into their base fare, offering a seamless and worry-free cruising experience from the get-go.

Choose a Guarantee Cabin

Opting for a guarantee cabin can shave $50 to $100 off the standard price. When you choose a guarantee cabin, you pay for a certain type of room on a cruise (inside, oceanview, balcony, etc.), and you're promised at least that. The catch? You won't know your exact cabin until closer to the sailing date. It's a gamble on your exact room, but you might end up with a pleasant surprise upgrade. It's perfect for the adventurous, but think twice if you have specific needs or preferences.

Finding the Best Deals and Discounts

Leverage loyalty programs.

Joining loyalty programs is a smart move if you're keen on getting the most out of your cruise vacations. At Cruisebound.com, we’ve got a special twist: you can stack our loyalty perks on top of those offered by the cruise lines, maximizing your savings and enjoyment.

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By booking your cruises through us, you'll immediately start reaping rewards . From the moment you complete your first cruise, you'll enjoy benefits such as onboard credits upwards of $500, which grow as you ascend through our rewards tiers: Discovery, Expedition, and Odyssey. These perks come your way every time you sail, with any cruise line.

Pair Up for Extra Perks

When you combine the benefits from Cruisebound’s loyalty program with those from your cruise line, you unlock even more value. This means extra onboard credits, special discounts, and exclusive amenities that make every cruise a bit more special.

Leverage Credit Card Rewards

Don't overlook credit card rewards. Using a card that earns travel points can further reduce your cruise cost or net you onboard perks. Some cards even offer travel booking bonuses, making them ideal for cruise payments.

Use Cruisebound’s Expertise

At Cruisebound.com, we do more than just list deals; we're focused on delivering exceptional value, and we do this at no additional fees to you. Our approach leverages advanced data analytics to not only find discounted cruises but also identify those offering the most bang for your buck. And with our exclusive partnerships, such as with T-Mobile, we’re able to offer additional perks like complimentary Wi-Fi and onboard credits, to enhance your cruise experience even further–all without any extra cost to you. It's our way of ensuring that you get the most out of your vacation dollars, making your cruise experience memorable and affordable.

Stay Connected for the Latest Deals

The cruise industry is dynamic, with new deals and promotions emerging all the time. By subscribing to Cruisebound.com, you consolidate all the latest offers into one place, ensuring you never miss out on a hot deal.

Start Planning Your Cruise Vacation

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Ready for an adventure that won't break the bank? Dive into Cruisebound.com for the best deals, sign up for our alerts, and follow us on social media. The ocean is calling—where will your next journey take you?

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The 5 best kids sail free cruises for 2024 & beyond.

Save on your family cruise with these kids sail free deals.

The Best Kids Sail Free Cruises

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Several cruise lines offer kids sail free promos throughout the year.

If you're angling for an affordable family cruise , you'll be happy to know that several major cruise lines let children sail for free (either regularly or during special promotions). Read on to discover which lines cater to families with kids sail free offers.

Cruise lines where kids sail free

Holland america line, norwegian cruise line, royal caribbean international, costa cruises, msc cruises.

Find your perfect cruise

Courtesy of Holland America Line

Deal: Holland America Line is offering a "Kids Cruise Free" promotion on select itineraries in 2024. The offer applies to several itineraries including Hawaii , the Caribbean and the Panama Canal; to qualify, children must be 18 or younger and cruising as third and/or fourth guests in the same cabin as adults. As with similar promotions, taxes and port fees are still required for each child's sailing.

Family-friendly perks: Amenities onboard Holland America ships include kids clubs and youth programs, as well as shore excursions oriented to families with little ones in tow. Plenty of stateroom options can also accommodate larger bookings. The Nieuw Statendam and Koningsdam ships, in particular, feature oversized staterooms with beds for four, a large sitting area and a spacious veranda.

Book a Holland America Line Cruise on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Deal: Norwegian Cruise Line lets third and fourth guests cruise free on select itineraries throughout the year. Cruises to which this promotion applies are offered all over the world, including bucket-list destinations like Alaska and the Mediterranean .

Some of the itineraries that qualify for free third and fourth guests also come with complimentary amenities like an unlimited open bar, specialty dining, shore excursions and/or complimentary Wi-Fi. Additionally, some of the itineraries include generous discounts on the total cruise cost , as well as free airfare for a second guest (when booked through the cruise line).

Family-friendly perks: With Norwegian's all-ages kids clubs, family dining, entertainment and activities included in one bundled rate, planning a kid-approved vacation with the cruise line is a breeze. Many Norwegian ships also feature an array of family-friendly staterooms with plenty of extra space. For example, the luxurious Norwegian Prima offers a two-bedroom family villa with a large balcony in "The Haven" – its exclusive area for VIP guests.

Explore Norwegian Cruise Line deals on GotoSea.

Michel Verdure | Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Deal: Royal Caribbean offers a "Kids Sail Free" deal several times each year, allowing children 12 or younger to cruise free provided they are the third guests (or beyond) staying in the same cabin as at least two paying adults. The only catch is that blackout dates apply – typically during holiday and school breaks.

Family-friendly perks: There's a reason so many families choose Royal Caribbean ; kid-friendly amenities range from age-specific programming to zip lining at sea. The line's  exclusive island for cruisers , Perfect Day at CocoCay in  the Bahamas , is also a big hit with young passengers thanks to its waterslides and splash areas.

Compare Royal Caribbean cruise itineraries on GotoSea.

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Courtesy of Costa Cruises

Deal: Costa Cruises may not be as popular as some other cruise lines on our list, but it's a worthwhile option for cruisers looking to sail through Europe, the Middle East or South America. The cruise line allows kids traveling as third or fourth guests to sail for free with two adults in the same cabin, and this promotion applies to passengers ages 2 to 17. This offer is valid on all sailings offered by the line, many of which feature destinations in desirable ports along the Mediterranean such as Barcelona , Marseille and Rome .

Family-friendly perks: Costa Cruises vessels offer abundant family-friendly amenities, from water parks to arcades to mini golf. Kids clubs are available for children ages 3 to 11, and they provide entertainment like arts and crafts, themed parties, and games galore. A teen zone also hosts cruisers ages 12 to 17 who want to mingle, sing karaoke and play group sports when ships aren't in port.

Find a Costa Cruises deal on GotoSea.

Courtesy of MSC Cruises

Deal: MSC Cruises lets children younger than 18 cruise for free on select itineraries, depending on the ship's capacity. (Other exclusions or eligibility requirements may apply.) Kids must be the third or fourth guests traveling in the same cabin as their parents (at least two adults) for the deal to be valid; note that any port fees and taxes still apply to children's fares.

Family-friendly perks: MSC Cruises offers a variety of leisure activities and amenities designed specifically for kids. On board, youngsters can take advantage of perks from water parks with slides and swimming pools to Broadway-style shows and interactive dinners. The line also hosts fun family excursions and a "Lego Experience On Board" event on every cruise. In addition, there are a myriad of amenities for parents to enjoy while the youngest passengers are occupied by one of five dedicated kids clubs.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Holly Johnson is a seasoned travel writer who has covered family travel and cruises for more than a decade. Johnson has traveled with her family to more than 50 countries, and her many trips have included cruises all over the world. Johnson lives in Indiana with her two children and her husband, Greg.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Cruises for Babies & Toddlers
• The Best Cruises for Teens
• Do You Need a Passport to Cruise?
• How to Get Your Child a Passport
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

Top Resorts Where Kids Stay Free

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A company is turning former cruise ships into floating hotels — see inside its largest 'floatel'

• Bridgemans ServicesGroup operates a fleet of former cruise ships turned into hotels. 
• Its "floatels" are designed to house workers during long-term projects.
• See its largest 652-cabin floatel with a game room and buffet.

Some old and unwanted cruise ships meet their demise at ship-breaking yards , where they are disassembled and sold for scrap.

Other vessels find a more fortunate fate, receiving a second chance to do what they already do best: serve as floating hotels.

Canada-based Bridgemans Services Group buys and charters former cruise ships to turn into "floatels," outfitted with standard cruise amenities like daily housekeeping, buffets, and relaxing lounges.

But the ships aren't designed to transport tourists from one destination to another anymore. Instead, companies turn to Bridgeman when they need to house workers for a long-term project, whether it be the construction of an offshore wind farm in Europe or the shooting of a major film in a remote destination.

Floatels can accommodate workers in remote destinations where hotels might not be an option.

In more metropolitan areas, Bridgemans says its ships could lessen the stress an inundation of workers might have on the local housing market.

And once they are no longer needed, the vessels depart and "leave no trace behind," the company said.

Over the last decade, Bridgemans has deployed its ships for 15 projects on every continent, Brian Grange, the company's president, told Business Insider.

Grange said that its deployments — most often for liquified natural gas companies — last for an average of two years.

In the past, it has also provided accommodations for MSC Cruises at its Ocean Cay private island and housing for more than 1,000 workers in the Philippines' on a project for the Manila International Airport during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The company's three ships range from 150 to 652 cabins.

The floatel operator acquired its largest ship, the 561-foot-long MV Isabelle X, in 2023.

In its past life, the 35-year-old vessel sailed around the Baltic Sea as one of Estonia-based Tallink Gruipp's cruise ships.

But gone are its days of leisurely cruising. The 35,000 gross-ton ship is now on its first deployment in Howe Sound, just north of Vancouver, where it's housing more than 600 workers who are building Woodfibre LNG's "net zero" LNG export facility.

Isabelle X underwent a six-month retrofit before it was sent to Howe Sound.

The process included updating the ship's cabins and adding amenities like a game room and an 8,000-square-foot gym.

The latter two are especially important: "We need to make sure we delineate between work and home," Grange told BI. "We have to create a social environment on board these vessels that makes it attractive for workforces around the world."

During their free time, workers can play billiards, relax in the outdoor lounge, or use the ship’s WiFi to catch up on social media.

The sports lounge has large television screens, while the games lounge has darts, ping pong tables, and air hockey.

The 'quiet lounges' are the go-to space for people who need to unwind after a long work day.

Or, they could recharge and catch up on the latest shows in their cabins, which all come with desks, storage, and 32-inch televisions.

Like a typical cruise ship, Bridgemans' vessels have buffets with live cooking stations, a dessert bar, and the occasional themed night.

The ships' chefs tailor their menus to the demographic and dietary restrictions of the workers on board, the company's president told BI.

Residents can expect at least four protein options, plenty of veggies, and handmade bread and desserts.

Unlike most cruise lines, Bridgemans can pre-purchase all the food it needs before deployment.

Grange says this allows the ships to maintain food quality and consistency in remote locations.

Remember that deployment in the Philippines during COVID-19? He said the ship had packed almost 800 tons of food ahead of the project.

He wouldn’t disclose the cost to rent one of Bridgemans’ floatels.

But he did note that the cost of a cabin on the Woodfibre LNG project in Howe Sound is comparable to a hotel room in nearby Vancouver, as is the case with most of its projects near major cities.

The company’s most recent acquisition, the 150-cabin Diamond XI, is currently being retrofitted and would be ready for deployment this year.

According to the company's president, the vessel is small and high-end, likely to be used for sporting events and movie shoots.

It could also be the start of a greater expansion: He hopes to add two or three more vessels to its fleet in the next five years.

"The world has opened up to this as a valued alternative to housing," Grange told BI.

Who knows, the next time you see a cruise ship off the coast, there's a slim but possible chance it could be housing workers — not vacationers.

• Main content

7 best cruises for seniors who love to travel by sea

T he best senior cruises mix adult-focused onboard activities with fascinating destinations ashore. No two retirees want the same thing from their travels. However, generally, most seniors have time to dedicate to longer itineraries.

Some have saved their money to enjoy a more premium cruise ship experience, but all are happy to snap up a cruise deal or find a promotion offering increased value from their cruise booking.

How did we choose the top cruises for seniors? We prioritized cruise lines that target couples and adults, rather than families, as well as cruise ships with fine dining, grownup entertainment and plenty of opportunities to socialize. We looked for destination-intensive cruises offering immersive cultural opportunities, bucket-list itineraries and a range of sailing lengths.

We dismissed the huge ships with their whiz-bang top-deck attractions, although these are ideal for grandparents on a multigenerational holiday with family. We also skipped the small expedition ships that require a level of physical fitness not all seniors possess.

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

Based on those criteria, here are the seven best cruise lines for seniors who love to travel and are looking to spend more time at sea.

Viking 's 930-passenger ocean ships top our list of the best cruises for seniors because they are designed specifically for an adult crowd. No one younger than 18 is allowed on board, and all the programming is created with passengers aged 50-plus in mind.

These cruises are ideal for academic-minded seniors. Viking chairman Torstein Hagen says that he set out to create "the thinking person's cruise," and lectures and other destination-specific programming are the main form of entertainment on board. That doesn't mean Viking cruises are boring, though. In fact, the crowd-pleasing ABBA tribute show in the theater is not to be missed.

Viking ships are comfortable, homey oases done up in sophisticated Scandinavian decor.

Itineraries are focused on getting senior cruisers to key attractions around the world, including UNESCO World Heritage Sites, with a shore excursion each day included in the cruise fare. Thrifty retirees will appreciate the "no nickel and diming" philosophy and cruise fares that cover everything except cocktails and spa treatments.

Complimentary dining includes a specialty Italian restaurant and the Chef's Table, with its rotating tasting menus themed around international cuisines.

Related: What's included in your cruise fare?

Also recommended for the senior and baby boomer crowd are Viking's river ships in Europe , Vietnam and Egypt (among other destinations) and the line's expedition products in Antarctica and on the Great Lakes , which have similarities to the ocean ships, including the all-inclusive pricing.

Windstar Cruises

Windstar 's small sailing ships and motorized yachts range from 148 to 342 passengers. Although kids 8 and older are allowed on board, you are unlikely to see many on these upscale vessels. Most Windstar cruisers are active seniors who come as couples, pairs of friends or solo travelers, looking for a destination-rich experience on ships where they won't feel lost in a crowd.

Windstar has two classes of ships. Older couples celebrating a milestone anniversary should choose a sailing ship, with its vast open deck space and picturesque sails that set the mood for romance. Seniors who prefer more personal space should seek out the 312-passenger motorized yachts with their all-suite accommodations.

Related: A beginner's guide to picking a cruise line

Cruise highlights on all ships include an outdoor deck party with a lavish buffet and late-night conga line, as well as meals created by James Beard Foundation-affiliated chefs. (Windstar partners with the prestigious culinary organization.)

Because of their small size, all Windstar ships can visit quiet harbors and out-of-the-way places that big ships can't in destinations like Tahiti, the Mediterranean and the Caribbean .

Azamara Cruises

With four nearly identical ships holding fewer than 700 passengers each, Azamara has carved out a niche catering to well-traveled seniors looking to cruise in clubby surroundings.

The line's cruises are best for seniors who don't want to splurge on a fancier luxury product but still want an upscale level of ambiance, service and amenities. While kids aren't banned, the line makes clear on its website that it "discourages" passengers younger than 18.

Azamara passengers appreciate the boutique hotel-like decor, which includes faux fireplaces in the impressive libraries, called The Drawing Room on each vessel.

The line's destination-focused itineraries in Europe and elsewhere spend more time in ports than average ships, staying overnight in key destinations. This is ideal for passengers who want to explore on their own. The line also offers a complimentary "AzAmazing Evenings" program on every cruise. They feature cultural performances ashore in amazing destinations, such as Turkey's ancient city of Ephesus.

Related: 5 best adults-only cruise lines

Holland America

Holland America is one of the best cruise lines for seniors because it hits the sweet spot with its midsize ships. Carrying 2,668 passengers or fewer, these vessels offer big-ship amenities but lack the more over-the-top waterslides and thrill attractions found on megaships. The line is a great choice for baby boomers and older seniors who wish to enjoy the line's alternative dining options, casinos and choice of entertainment.

An older crowd does not mean a sedate group. Holland America hosts live music in a big way. Passengers dance the night away at venues that include B.B. King's Blues Club, featuring some of the best live bands at sea. Explorations Central (EXC) programming is designed to educate passengers about the destinations they visit, and a fun roster of other onboard pursuits includes a winemaking experience with Chateau Ste. Michelle.

The ships are also particularly accessible. Many staterooms offer roll-in showers and other assistive features. Vessels also are equipped with a lift system for pools and tenders.

Related: The 4 classes of Holland America ships, explained

In addition to one-week cruises in the Caribbean and Alaska (the line's specialty), Holland America explores South America, the South Pacific and other destinations around the globe. The line also offers months-long world cruises.

Senior travelers with a penchant for traditional cruising will find Cunard 's ocean liners to be a top cruise option. Founded in 1840, the cruise line has a long legacy and is proud of its less casual vibe, which includes nightly dress codes. Go old-school with dress-up galas held in real ballrooms with high ceilings and twinkling chandeliers. Gentlemen hosts are on hand if ladies need a dance partner.

Those same ballrooms host daily afternoon tea, complete with finger sandwiches and scones with cream, served on fine china by white-gloved waiters. Other refined onboard activities include watching shows in Queen Mary 2's onboard planetarium, attending lectures by guest speakers, fencing, taking art classes and enjoying classical concerts.

Not everyone stays in a fancy suite, but seniors ready to splurge should book either Queens Grill or Princess Grill rooms for upscale accommodations and meals served in exclusive, intimate restaurants.

QM2 is the only ship that offers regular transatlantic service between Southampton, England, and New York. The 2,081-passenger Queen Elizabeth and 2,061-passenger Queen Victoria spend time in Europe and other destinations, and all three ships offer world cruises around the globe. When it debuts in 2024, the line's 3,000-passenger Queen Anne will also sail in the Mediterranean.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Retirees who have worked hard and are ready to treat themselves right will find that Regent Seven Seas Cruises is one of the best cruises for seniors looking for luxury.

The cruise line brags of operating the most luxurious ships afloat. It's hard to argue that point, especially on the line's latest ship, $545 million, 746-passenger, all-suite Seven Seas Grandeur. The ship boasts a football field's worth of marble, an impressive art collection and one of the most expensive suites at sea — a Regent Suite, which is priced at $11,000 per day, per couple.

Other high-end lines, such as Seabourn and Silversea , operate intimate ships with extraordinary service, accommodations and cuisine. However, Regent differs with its shore excursion-inclusive, one-stop-shopping fares and grand European hotel ambience — especially on the sister ships Seven Seas Splendor and Seven Seas Explorer.

Related: 12 best all-inclusive cruise lines

The other Regent ships are well-maintained 480- to 684-passenger older vessels. On all, if you don't feel like going to one of the restaurants, you can stay in your bathrobe and order a meal served course by course in your suite.

Also, except for summer and holiday periods, you are unlikely to find kids on board.

Regent sails to some 450 ports of call around the world, including world cruise itineraries, so senior travelers can find sailings to all the destinations they've been waiting to explore.

Oceania Cruises

Wellness-focused seniors love Oceania Cruises ' 648- to 1,210-passenger ships for their spa and fitness center and healthy food options. Foodies are drawn by the inspired dining. PBS host and cookbook author Jacques Pepin has a French bistro on the line's two largest ships, Marina and Riviera, and he's one of the line's culinary advisors. All the line's ships include impressive steakhouses , and some feature Red Ginger, an extraordinary modern take on Asian cuisine, as well as other eateries.

The ships provide an appealing country club-like ambiance, which is upscale without being fancy. Older passengers tend to be the sort who like to entertain themselves, though they might be distracted by the standout attraction of a real cooking school where expert chefs give classes on Marina and Riviera.

As a nod to solo travelers, the line is in the process of adding solo cabins designed and priced for one.

Oceania is known for destination-focused itineraries in the Caribbean, Alaska and Europe, among other places. Most are 10 nights or longer; world cruises are up to 180 days.

Bottom line

You'll find seniors on nearly every cruise line out there. Some older travelers are looking to explore the world, while others prefer cheap trips to beachy destinations.

Everyone's top choice will be different, but we think these seven lines represent the best senior cruises. They prioritize an adult-focused onboard experience and destination-intensive itineraries more readily accessible to retirees.

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
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• 12 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise

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.

• [email protected]

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