In Jules Verne’s 1872 classic, Phileas Fogg announces a bold ambition, one that would inspire many travel enthusiasts, to travel the world on a ship. But unlike Verne’s protagonist, a world cruise doesn’t have to be a ticking bomb. Instead, it is quite the opposite. For the most part, it is without Fogg’s misadventures or the run from Scotland Yard. However, a round-trip around the world is bound to be a change in scenery. Imagine Tim Roth’s “The Legend of 1900” or Doris Day’s debut film and cruise-comedy “Romance on the High Seas.”

World cruises are an excellent opportunity for retired people to travel around the world, meet like-minded people, and form transcontinental friendships. Here is a list of the top three upcoming cruises to look out for.

The Ultimate World Cruise  

Dubbed a “never-before-offered Royal Caribbean adventure,” this 274-night cruise is a round-trip adventure that will start from Miami, Florida. It will cover seven continents, 65 countries, over 150 ports, and 11 Wonders of the World. As you set sail, take a trip to Iguazú Falls, Argentina, the largest waterfall system on the planet. Visit the ancient city of Petra and marvel at the winding canyons where an Egyptian Pharoah is said to have hidden his treasures. Snorkel around the Coral Sea near Queensland and explore the Great Barrier Reef. Marvel at the tropicalised Dutch architecture and shop at the local markets in Willemstad, Curacao.

The Ultimate World Cruise can be customised and offers packages inclusive of business-class airfare and beverage preferences. Flexible pay is also an option.

Dates: December 2023 to August 2024

Reserve your tickets at https://www.royalcaribbean.com/ultimate-world-cruise/

Seaborn Soujourn

This 145-day cruise covers 72 ports, 28 countries, and 20 overnight stays. With UNESCO-partnered tours, this cruise includes trips to World Heritage Sites. Walk through the luminescent caves in Puerto Princesa; admire the 16th-century Shureimon Gate in Okinawa, and witness the Taroko Gorge in Taiwan. If the canvas calls to you amidst sunset silhouettes and azure waters, the cruise has its own Artist in Residence programme. As you deboard at various destinations, dine at restaurants in Sihanoukville, Manila, and Ho Chi Minh City. An exclusive Ephesus event in Kuşadasi is a bonus.

Seaborn Soujourn starts in Los Angeles and ends in Athens. Round-trip business class airfare can be included within a customised package.

Dates: Jan 2024 – May 2024

Reserve your tickets at https://www.seabourn.com/en_US/cruise-destinations/worldcruise/2024-world-cruise.html

Azamara World Voyage  

Azamara is a transcontinental odyssey with ten phases spread across the globe. With over 75 unique destinations, this 155-night cruise is a great way to tick off things on your bucket list. Far from a glimpse-and-go, Azamara offers a well-planned itinerary that aims to offer the best of cultural experiences around many world destinations.

Experience Thailand’s heritage with the Ancient Sukhothai Temple fair. Spend a night at the Acropolis Museum and admire the Parthenon frieze without the crowds. If La Feria De Abril, the April festival in Málaga, had always been on your wish list, this cruise is a great option.

Azamara cruise starts from Fort Lauderdale, USA and ends at Barcelona, Spain. Round-trip business class airfare can be included within a customised package.

Dates: Jan 2024 to June 2024

Reserve your tickets at https://www.azamara.com/azamara-world-cruise