cruise ship world explorer

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World Explorer

Distinct and comfortable, refined and roomy—these attributes and more describe World Explorer. Not only is it among the fastest ships, but it is also one of the finest, with six tiers of deluxe accommodation. The personal space is exceptional. Every suite has either a private walk-out or French balcony for direct ocean views. World Explorer also delivers plenty of public areas to unwind in after a day outdoors, including the glass-domed Observation Lounge for quiet contemplation and full skyline views, the Explorer Lounge for a drink and a chat, and the library for more intimate relaxing and reading. Presentations and discussions are facilitated in a dedicated lecture theatre.

Health and wellness facilities feature an outdoor track, a small gym and a sauna, plus a spa with change rooms, showers and lockers. For the active adventurers, add-ons include kayaking, camping and stand-up paddleboarding.

Onboard Features : 

• Main Restaurant 
• Glass-domed Observation Lounge 
• Explorer Lounge 
• Lecture Theater
• Wraparound Deck
• Outdoor Track  
• Fitness Center
• Spa & Sauna
• Polar Boutique 

Ship Specifications:  

• Maximum # of Guests: 172 (140 on Antarctic Express itineraries) 
• Staff & Crew: 125
• Ice Class: 1B
• Year Launched: 2019
• Cruising speed 16 knots in open water
• Length 413 feet (126 meters)
• Minimum age: 8 years old
• Height & Weight Requirement for children: must weight a minimum of 64lbs or 29kg and be 48″ or 1.2 m. tall
• Minimum age for adventure options: 16 years old

Ship Gallery

Trips and Rates

Please note, rates are per person in usd.

Single Travelers :

• Can book into a share cabin in the following categories: Triple, Infinity Suite & Veranda Suite
• Can book a twin cabin at solo occupancy at 1.7x the per person share price in Infinity & Veranda Suites and 2x the per person price for all higher categories

Adventure Options :

• Kayaking (full program, multiple paddles): $995/person – requires experience
• Paddling (one-time): $295/person
• Stand-Up Paddleboarding: $295/person
• Camping: $295/person

Antarctic Explorer: Discovering the 7th Continent

cabincount: 6, #ds: 6

South Georgia & Antarctic Peninsula: Penguin Safari

Antarctic express: fly south, cruise north.

cabincount: 6, #ds: 8

Antarctic Express: Fly the Drake

Antarctic express: cruise south, fly north.

cabincount: 6, #ds: 1

cabincount: 6, #ds: 12

Availability & prices are subject to change at anytime. Please contact us for the real time availability & prices.

Cabin Descriptions

Owner's Suite

Located on Decks 5 and 6, and approximately 355 sq. ft. (33 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 110 sq. ft. (10 sq. m) walkout balcony with access from sitting room and bedroom. A separate sitting area with sofa, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower,dual vanity, and bathtub is also featured in each cabin.

Deluxe Suite

 Located on Deck 5, and approximately 334 sq. ft. (31 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 110 sq. ft. (10 sq. m) walk-out balcony with access from sitting room and bedroom. A separate sitting area with sofa, double closets, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin.

Superior Suite

Located on Decks 5 and 6, and approximately 278 sq. ft. (26 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 110 sq. ft. (10 sq. m) walkout balcony with access from sitting room and bedroom. A separate sitting area with sofa, walk-in closet, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin.

Veranda Suite

Located on Decks 5 and 6, and approximately 215 sq. ft. (20 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 55 sq. ft. (5 sq. m) walkout balcony. A sitting area with sofa, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin.

Infinity Suite

Located on Decks 5 and 6, and approximately 270 sq. ft. (25 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a floor-to-ceiling glass French balcony. A sitting area with sofa, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin.

Triple Suite

Located on Deck 6, and approximately 242 sq. ft. (22.5 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 55 sq. ft. (5 sq. m) walk-out balcony. A separate combo sitting area/bedroom with a sofa bed and additional closet is around the corner. A refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin.

YOU DESERVE AN EXPEDITION PLANNED BY EXPERTS.

We value your privacy, privacy overview.

World Explorer

• This ship will take your voyage to the next level with everything you need to enjoy every minute of your time in the Antarctic.
• The wraparound deck features heated seating, allowing for optimal comfort while taking in panoramic views of the Polar Regions.
• The ship uses a clean burning fuel with a low emission factor that conforms to all international regulations and policies.

Launched in 2019, the 413-ft World Explorer is one of a new generation of ice strengthened expedition ships that combines onboard luxury with active exploration of the Antarctic waters. She is distinguished by her sleek design, fast cruising speed of 16 knots, and an impressive range of facilities. She can accommodate up to 172 passengers in a wide choice of spacious comfortable cabins.

The World Explorer cruise ship features six tiers of deluxe accommodation, and the personal space is exceptional. Each cabin is outfitted with all of the essential amenities you’ll need to feel comfortable throughout your voyage, including a private walk-out or Juliet-style balcony for direct ocean views, an ensuite bathroom, refrigerator, hairdryer, smart TV with a state of the art “infotainment” system, thermostat and a safe.

Life On Board

With 130 staff and crew members, you will be made to feel most welcome aboard the World Explorer Antarctica. The family-friendly ship offers plenty of public areas for relaxation, including the splendid glass-domed Observation Lounge with its full skyline views and wildlife watching opportunities.

Specifications

• Guests 172 (140 in Antarctica)
• Staff & Crew 130
• Guide & Crew to Guest Ratios 1:7 & 1:1.1
• Guest to Space Ratio 1:71
• Number of Decks 6
• Number of Cabins 86
• Zodiacs & Loading Bays 18 & 2
• Year Built 2019
• Ice Class 1B
• Length 413.4 ft (126.0 m)
• Beam 62.3 ft (19.0 m)
• Draft 15.4 ft (4.7 m)
• Cruising Speed 16 kn
• Stabilizers Yes

About the World Explorer

The Explorer Lounge is a great choice for a drink and a chat with fellow guests, and the library, with its extensive collection of field guides, photo books and reference books is the place for more intimate reflection and reading. A dedicated theater-style auditorium easily accommodates everyone on board for lectures, presentations, workshops and videos delivered by a team of highly-respected scientists, naturalists, historians, ornithologists, marine biologists, and glaciologists.

There is a strong focus on health and wellness aboard, with facilities including an outdoor running track, and a heated outdoor pool, with a shallow children’s area separated from a deeper saltwater plunge pool. There is also a small gym, a spa with changing rooms, showers and lockers, and a sauna, which is the best place to warm up after a Polar Plunge.

The Polar Boutique is stocked with forgotten essentials, gear and souvenirs. Guides are well trained in spotting wildlife, and during your days at sea, you will want to spend a fair bit of time on deck looking for seabirds and whales.

On Board Dining

The dining room on MS World Explorer is located on Deck 4 and serves three excellent meals per day. The  open seating policy here will encourage you to mingle with like-minded Antarctic explorers and share your experiences. An assortment of freshly baked cookies and/or pastries are offered each afternoon. There is also a selection of hot and cold snacks available in the lounge during cocktail hour.

Breakfasts and lunches are normally presented buffet-style, while dinners are served plated. À la carte meals are made at the time of your order, allowing the chefs to prepare each dish to your individual needs. A well-stocked bar is open from mid-morning into the evening with a selection of premium beers, wines, liquors and spirits.

Excursions are led by a passionate expedition team who will enrich your understanding, make sure you get the most out of your experience and have lasting memories to share. Your days will be packed with multiple landings, Zodiac cruises and optional activities such as kayaking, camping and stand-up paddle boarding at additional cost.

Perfect for curious, adventurous, active singles, couples and families who want to explore pristine environments, embrace the unexpected, and have amazing personal encounters with wildlife. Itineraries for this ship include Antarctica air cruises, where time is saved by flying over the notorious Drake Passage on a charter plane to land at King George Island before exploring the Antarctic Peninsula with the World Explorer.

Owner's Suite

Deluxe suite, superior suite, veranda suite, infinity suite, triple cabin, description, itineraries, antarctic express: fly the drake fly / fly.

• Antarctic Explorer: Discovering The 7th Continent

• South Georgia & Antarctic Peninsula: Penguin Safari (18D)

Departure Dates

• 2024 Departures
• 2025 Departures
• 2026 Departures
• Antarctic Express: Fly The Drake

With this solo traveler deal you can explore some of the most remote, unrivaled wonders of the world without paying any single supplement charges on select cabins. Explore more of the world without paying more than your fellow travelers!

Explore the untamed beauty of this world’s most captivating regions, and save 5% on select voyages to Antarctic. Experience adventure-filled expeditions which immerse you in one-of-a-kind experiences in remote destinations such as the Falkland Islands, and more. Witness epic wildlife, fascinating cultures, and breathtaking landscapes with the best expedition team in the Polar Regions.

Itineraries with Deal

Terms & conditions.

• — Indicates the discount percent offer in effect at the time this record that was updated.
• — Each passenger's full name is required at time of booking in order to initiate a hold, or to process a confirmed booking.
• — Offer applies to voyage only, not applicable to transfer packages, adventure options, additional hotel accommodations, pre/post tours, insurance, flights, or group bookings.
• — If combined with a dollar value discount, this offer will be applied afterwards.
• — Only a hold booking or a confirmed booking can guarantee the offer.
• — No cash value.
• — We keep the right to limit, change or discontinue the promo savings discount offer at any time without notice.

Explore the untamed beauty of this world’s most captivating regions, and save up to 10% on select voyages to Antarctic. Experience adventure-filled expeditions which immerse you in one-of-a-kind experiences in remote destinations such as the Falkland Islands, and more. Witness epic wildlife, fascinating cultures, and breathtaking landscapes with the best expedition team in the Polar Regions.

Explore the untamed beauty of this world’s most captivating regions, and save up to 15% on select voyages to Antarctic. Experience adventure-filled expeditions which immerse you in one-of-a-kind experiences in remote destinations such as the Falkland Islands, and more. Witness epic wildlife, fascinating cultures, and breathtaking landscapes with the best expedition team in the Polar Regions.

Explore the untamed beauty of this world’s most captivating regions, and save up to 25% on select voyages to Antarctic. Experience adventure-filled expeditions which immerse you in one-of-a-kind experiences in remote destinations such as the Falkland Islands, and more. Witness epic wildlife, fascinating cultures, and breathtaking landscapes with the best expedition team in the Polar Regions.

Explore the untamed beauty of this world’s most captivating regions, and save up to 20% on select voyages to Antarctic. Experience adventure-filled expeditions which immerse you in one-of-a-kind experiences in remote destinations such as the Falkland Islands, and more. Witness epic wildlife, fascinating cultures, and breathtaking landscapes with the best expedition team in the Polar Regions.

Explore the untamed beauty of this world’s most captivating regions, and save up to 30% on select voyages to the Antarctic. Experience adventure-filled expeditions which immerse you in one-of-a-kind experiences in remote destinations such as the Falkland Islands, and more. Witness epic wildlife, fascinating cultures, and breathtaking landscapes with the best expedition team in the Polar Regions.

• — Indicates the free single supplement offer in effect at the time this record was updated.
• — Where indicated, single supplement charges for solo travellers is waived.
• — Solo travelers will be able to book double-occupancy standard cabins for the discounted price of a single berth.
• — The offer is only applicable to standard cabin types; cabins limited and subject to availability.
• — Combinable with other valid promotional offers.
• — Not applicable to group bookings.
• — Each passenger's full name is required at time of booking in order to initiate a hold, or to process a confirmed booking
• — Bookings made before or after the promotion period will not qualify for the savings.
• — We keep the right to limit, change or discontinue the free single supplement offer at any time without notice.

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World Explorer: Ship Details and Overview

The World Explorer, a vessel dedicated to expeditionary travel, is a notable addition to the world of exploration. Launched in 2019, this ship represents a fusion of maritime engineering and adventure-seeking spirit.

Designed with specific capabilities, the World Explorer is recognized for its ice class rating of 1B, which allows it to navigate polar regions, including the Arctic and Antarctic. This rating signifies the vessel's ability to operate safely in ice-covered waters, a critical factor for polar expeditions.

Environmental responsibility is a hallmark of the World Explorer. Equipped with modern technologies such as the Micro Auto Gasification System (MAGS), the ship is designed to minimize its ecological footprint. This commitment to sustainability ensures that your expedition experience is conducted with utmost respect for the fragile environments you will encounter.

As we delve deeper into the details of the World Explorer, you'll discover the vessel's features, amenities, and the remarkable journeys it offers. Wellness and health is at the centre of the ship's design and the World Explorer is currently the only expedition vessel in Antarctica that features an outdoor running track.

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World Explorer Ship Overview

Specifications.

Ship Type: Luxury Expedition Ship

Passengers: 172

Length : 126

Wrap-around deck, lecture auditorium, sauna, spa, gym, library, 2 dining rooms, large rooms, observation lounge

Zodiacs, wifi, kayaks, camping equipment, stand up paddle boards

Cabin Options

Owner's suite, superior suite, infinity suite, veranda suite, on-board facilities, public area facilities.

The World Explorer ship offers a range of facilities to enhance the comfort and enjoyment of passengers during their expedition.

These facilities include multiple dining areas where passengers can savor diverse cuisine, cozy lounges and observation decks with expansive windows for scenic viewing, an onboard library filled with books and resources related to the regions being explored, a wellness center encompassing a gym and spa, and a dedicated lecture hall for informative talks by expedition staff and guest lecturers.

The ship also features ample outdoor deck space for wildlife and landscape observation, a running track, a bar and lounge for socializing, a gift shop for souvenirs and expedition gear, and basic medical facilities in the infirmary.

Additionally, the World Explorer provides limited internet access and communication facilities, along with storage and launching systems for Zodiac boats used during shore landings and wildlife excursions.

Cabin Facilities

All cabins on the World Explorer include the following amenities: Private en-suite bathroom, TV and infotainment system, in-room safe for your valuables, individual climate control, mini-refrigerator for your convenience, and complimentary toiletries and hairdryer. 

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Activities Offered

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World Explorer Expedition Cruise Ship

Intro / overview.

Embark on a thrilling expedition with World Explorer, a cutting-edge expedition ship that redefines the standard for small-ship exploration. With a maximum of 172 guests (just 140 on fly and cruise expeditions), this state-of-the-art vessel ensures a spacious and uncrowded journey, setting the stage for an unparalleled adventure.

Crafted for those yearning for an authentic expedition, World Explorer combines style with functionality for polar exploration. Boasting a fleet of 18 Zodiacs and strategic embarkation points, guests seamlessly join off-ship explorations, enhancing their experience with convenience and flexibility.

Guided by a team of polar experts, World Explorer boasts an impressive guide-to-guest ratio, providing a personalized touch to your journey. Dive into an array of exhilarating activities, including kayaking and camping, curated to elevate your expedition experience.

An iconic feature of the ship is its expansive domed observation lounge, offering the perfect vantage point to immerse yourself in the mesmerising polar scenery. Each cabin has a private balcony, and after a day of exploration, unwind in the outdoor heated pool and jacuzzis—a perfect retreat under the polar skies.

World Explorer Highlights

Premium expedition experience, small group size, large fleet of zodiacs, expert polar guide team, well appointed cabins with balconies, adventurous activity options, modern sustainable explorer ship with a small group size, world explorer key features.

Wraparound Deck

Outdoor Track

Invigorating Outdoor Pool and Hot Tubs

Four Zodiac Embarkation Points

Observation Lounge

Explorer Lounge

Lecture Theatre

Fitness Center

L'Occitane Spa

Polar Boutique

Dining Options on World Explorer

World Explorer Cabins

Located on Deck 6, and approximately 242 sq. ft. (22.5 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 55 sq. ft. (5 sq. m) walk-out balcony. A separate combo sitting area/bedroom with a sofa bed and additional closet is around the corner, and a refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin.

Size (sqf) 242

Occupancy: 1-3

Beds: 1 double or 2 single beds plus a sofa-bed

Class: Standard

Location: Deck 6

Veranda Suite

Located on Decks 5 and 6, and approximately 215 sq. ft. (20 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 55 sq. ft. (5 sq. m) walk-out balcony. A sitting area with sofa, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin.

Size (sqf): 215

Occupancy: 1-2

Bed Config: 1 double or 2 single beds

Location: Deck 5 , Deck 6

Infinity Suite

Located on Decks 5 and 6, and approximately 270 sq. ft. (25 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a floor-to-ceiling glass French balcony. A sitting area with sofa, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin.

Size (sqf): 270

Superior Suite

Located on Decks 5 and 6, and approximately 278 sq. ft. (26 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 110 sq. ft. (10 sq. m) walk-out balcony with access from sitting room and bedroom. A separate sitting area with sofa, walk-in closet, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin.

Size (sqf): 278

Class: Premium

Deluxe Suite

Located on Deck 5, and approximately 334 sq. ft. (31 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 110 sq. ft. (10 sq. m) walk-out balcony with access from sitting room and bedroom. A separate sitting area with sofa, double closets, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin.

Size (sqf): 334

Location: Deck 5

Owner's Suite

Located on Decks 5 and 6, and approximately 355 sq. ft. (33 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 110 sq. ft. (10 sq. m) walk-out balcony with access from sitting room and bedroom. A separate sitting area with sofa, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower, dual vanity, and bathtub is also featured in each cabin.

Size (sqf): 355

World Explorer Deck Plan

How To Plan Your Cruise

Choose from World Explorer's great selection of expedition cruises to explore the Arctic and Antarctica.

Contact our friendly travel experience team to get the best advice on cabins and itineraries and ask any questions you may have.

Before your expedition, we will send you lots of helpful advice about planning your voyage, including the best travel insurance, places to stay before and after your journey, travel requirements and a packing list.

Please make your reservation with our friendly Travel Experience Team. All bookings made through North Pole Cruises receive 100% financial protection, and we include supplier failure insurance at no charge to you for extra peace of mind.

Enjoy your once-in-a-lifetime expedition.

Ship Specifications

172 (140 on antarctic express programs), staff and crew, 2 x rolls royce 9,000 kw hybrid diesel/electric, registration, world explorer cruises.

South Georgia and Antarctic Peninsula Penguin Safari

Ushuaia to ushuaia.

Price from per person

Antarctic Explorer Discovering the 7th Continent

Ushuaia - ushuaia.

Antarctic Express: Fly the Drake Passage Cruise

Punta arenas to punta arenas.

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Your Guide To Exploring The Polar Regions

Expert Aboard: World Explorer Ship Review

My time aboard the World Explorer was active and packed with a spirit of adventure and exploration. With the right conditions at play, this ship is fast, with a cruising speed of 16 knots. Crossing the Drake Passage on my Antarctica cruise , we averaged an impressive 14 knots.

This ship has the ability to get you to your destination quickly, all the while providing a high level of comfort and stability and modern yet simple design. Read on for my full World Explorer ship review, or navigate quickly to the topic of this ship that you’re most curious about.

IN THIS POST – World Explorer Review : A Review of My Cabin World Explorer Cabin Comparison My Review of the Meals Health & Wellness Aboard My Favorite Spaces More Photos & Comments More World Explorer Reviews & Ratings

 A Review of My Cabin – Veranda Suite

I was in Veranda Suite 524 and it was comfortable, quiet and in a great location to get to other decks. It was very spacious, with plenty of room for storage underneath the bed along with two closets and counter space. I was able to control my cabin temperature with ease using the thermostat, which worked very well. The blackout curtains were wonderful for sleeping at night and great for polar trips that experience peak daylight hours.

The room configuration was very functional for my time on board, with the bed area separate from a nice lounge area with couch and desk with chair, which led directly out to a walk-out balcony. Having the balcony was a great feature, as I would often step outside in the morning with coffee and gauge the temperature while enjoying the views.

Staying on Deck 5 was ideal, as I was centrally located with quick access to lounges both above and below me. Going down one deck to the restaurant/lounge area and auditorium was easy. Going up a few decks to the observation lounge and outdoor Deck 7 was great for quickly spotting marine and bird life, and to enjoy some festivities after dinner.

A nice touch in the cabin is the infotainment TV system, where we could track our location, view the daily itinerary and watch the auditorium presentations. When crossing the Drake Passage or in rough sea conditions, this can be especially helpful since the auditorium where presentations are held is located towards the bow of the ship where more movement can be felt.

World Explorer Cabin Comparisons

I was initially drawn to this ship due to its unique feature of every cabin having a balcony. However, it is important to distinguish that not all cabins have a walk-out balcony but rather a Juliet, or French balcony. The Juliet/French balconies are essentially full windows that have a switch to slide the top portion of the window down halfway. You can rest your head and relax your arms on the top of the window once it’s down. There are pros and cons to this style, one pro being the benefit of more interior cabin space. The biggest con is your room can get chilly in polar climes with the window open. But I found, as with most expeditions, I wasn’t spending a lot of time in my room or on my balcony, but instead enjoying the decks and common spaces on the ship. And of course, maximizing my time off the ship.

Some cabin selection tips for World Explorer :

• Deck 5 cabins, mid ship, are ideal since you have access to both hallways/elevators to get to the restaurant/lounge/auditorium on Deck 4, or the upper decks.
• All cabins have balconies; however, the Infinity Suites (circled below) have French-style Juliet balconies. This gives you more interior space to enjoy. Most guests I spoke with that had walk-out balconies used them sparingly.

• Triple cabins are a great option for a family of three (parents plus teenage child for example).
• Each Owner’s Suite bathroom has two (his & her) sinks.
• The walk-out balconies in the Owner’s Suites, Deluxe Suites and Superior Suites are larger than the Veranda’s, at 110 square feet, versus 55 square feet.
• The Owner’s, Deluxe and Superior Suite walk-out balconies have access from two areas within: from the sitting room and the bedroom.
• I highly recommend Deluxe Suites (534 & 535) since they are both in a great location on Deck 5 and are large square-footage wise (comparable to the Owner’s Suite) with some of the same features (large bath, double balcony access).

MORE WORLD EXPLORER DETAILS

See the deck plan, more images and the full list of itineraries aboard this ship

My Review of the Dining & Meals

With an open seating policy at meals, it was great to connect with passengers from all over the world. I was impressed by the fact that our expedition guides would also dine with us, as it made our time together that much more memorable, and you get to really learn more about their passion for exploration.

My favorite dishes aboard were the vegetarian omelet and fresh smoothies for breakfast, and a Moroccan couscous dish for lunch. Dinner was unique in that half the menu options changed each night, while the other half stayed the same. I enjoyed trying many new things, but returning to some favorite classics as well.

Many fellow passengers commented on how good the food was, and I was also impressed. However, snacks or food items were very limited each day. There would be a small plate of pastries in the morning and some pastries/cookies in the afternoon during the “tea time.” It would have been nice to have snack options available during the day, or maybe have items available for purchase in the gift shop. The dining room’s large view windows were also a bonus, and it was not at all uncommon for us to see whale activity or seabirds flying by while sitting down to eat.

The Health & Wellness Focus

It was great to be on board a ship with a focus on health and wellness, and I took advantage of this on my trip. You can choose many options, which include the spa, sauna, pool/jacuzzi, top deck track for walking/running, the gym and salon. My visits often included a brisk walk on the top deck track, which also offers up some stunning views. Twelve laps around the track equates to one mile, and many fellow passengers were clocking a few each day. But I never saw anyone use the pool and it honestly didn’t look too inviting in the polar environment.

I also opted for a few morning sessions in the gym, which had treadmills and dumbbells for use. The gym was frequently used when we were at sea or in between excursions. It was available on a first come, first served basis, and was quite popular with my fellow guests.

Health and wellness even extended to the food, with smoothies offered every morning and well-labeled gluten-free and vegetarian menu options.

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Favorite Outdoor Spaces & Common Areas

The outdoor deck spaces on board were numerous, both at the bow and stern, with various chairs and loungers for use. The many observation areas aboard the World Explorer offered outstanding views for spotting wildlife and enjoying 360-degree views. These areas of the ship were certainly well thought out.

I often found myself outside on Deck 7, along with many other fellow passengers. The guides on board would typically be in this observation area to help answer questions, spot wildlife and entertain us with stories and facts. This deck was also home to an outdoor patio/bar area next to the Jacuzzi and pool, and an indoor lounge that was among my favorite places to be on the ship. I also loved the deep-set windows on Deck 4’s interior spaces; these were quite comfortable perches for the closest views and I even stored my camera on them if sitting by a window at meals.

At the stern of Deck 5, my camera was able to capture the remarkable variety of sea birds that would often be following us. The bow on Deck 5 offered a huge wrap-around heated bench seat, a real treat when capturing wildlife or enjoying the scenery if the weather conditions were less than ideal.

We were offered tours of the Bridge and I really enjoyed viewing this space and seeing the modern technology and how it has come so far since the early days of polar exploration. It was surreal to see all we had and imagine Shackleton navigating this same environment.

Despite my trip being close to full capacity (167 guests out of the 172 capacity), it never felt that way and many times on the outside decks, I did not see anyone else, which lent to the spaciousness factor on board. The ability to offload guests for shore excursions on both sides of the ship also lent an uncrowded feeling and efficiency to the entire trip’s operations.

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More Quark & World Explorer Ship Reviews

This was an awesome adventure. The ship, the expedition team, the staff were all first class. The scenery was incredible and the daily activities and explorations brought us up close and personal to things most people only read about or view in videos and pictures.

This was our 7th continent; an educational adventure in an upscale and safe environment. Exactly the once-in-a-lifetime experience we wanted.

I’m 72 and I was looking for an adventure which was different from the usual European trip of visiting endless museums, palaces, churches, etc. I don’t enjoy crowded venues, mobbed by other tourists. Greenland was not a place that every other traveler visits. This expedition gave me the opportunity to hike in places where no one had stepped foot before, in breathtaking surroundings and yet I didn’t have make any arrangements for sleeping accommodations, dining, tours, etc. AdventureSmith and Quark did it all for me, all I had to do is board the ship!

We had an absolutely perfect trip!! First class from beginning to end. Loved the helicopter rides and the views we were able to experience from high above Greenland. The ship was fabulous. The room was great. Spacious, considering we were on a ship. It had a large window so we could take in all of the spectacular views. The staff was wonderful. The food was excellent. We would definitely travel with Quark again.

I loved this trip exploring South Greenland. We experienced so much in our time aboard and we had great weather during our trip. The scenery was stunning and varied. We spent a lot of time off the ship exploring by zodiac, on foot, paddling, and by helicopter(2x). Exploring by helicopter and making 2 landings in Greenland was an unforgettable experience.

Antarctica is a winning destination...but the fantastic service and attitude of the staff put this trip right over the top! I'm TELLING YOU, this was a FANTASTIC TEAM that I will never forget!

Accommodations Review

The vessel "World Explorer" was an unbelievable ship. It felt like a high end hotel and the service staff made sure everything was "just right".

Meals Review

I am a picky eater so if I didn't like the menu for the day there were plenty of standard choices available. I think I gained a few pounds on the trip.

Itinerary Review

[We most enjoyed]...the education along the way presented by experts, the zodiac landings and other extracurricular activities such as kayaking. All went well and were things I never thought I would experience. I felt very safe and in good hands with a very professional and experienced expedition team.

Crew & Guides Review

This was one aspect that made the trip such a great adventure. The expedition team and ship crew were clearly qualified, competent and had a passion for this type of exploration.

AdventureSmith Explorations Review

Our representative, Justin Massoni, did a great job of making sure we had everything we needed to prepare for the trip. There were no surprises or disappointments. Everything worked out perfectly.

Traveler Advice

Follow the literature provided to bring the right gear, relax and enjoy.

Featured in this Traveler Review

• Antarctic Explorer
• World Explorer
• Justin Massoni

Liked the Albatros Hotel in Ushuaia very much. World Explorer cabins were great too. Loved the balcony on our cabin.

Meal hours were a little short. We never even made it to breakfast and felt sometimes hungry and other times rushed because of limited lunch time. Service at dinner, while very friendly, was extremely slow. If there isn’t enough staff to serve plated dinners promptly, a buffet option would be vastly preferable to seated dinners. Water and other drink service during dinner, likewise, was disgracefully slow. Once I got up and poured my own water from a pitcher at a nearby staff station, which immediately (finally!) brought our server hustling over. He apologized profusely but said his supervisor would get upset if guests self-served. Why not just put a water carafe on each table?

[We most enjoyed]...the zodiac excursions, onboard lectures (Antarctic bird identification, etc.) and live activities (e.g., knot-tying; informal chats with expedition staff, polar experts, and Captain). Sad we didn’t get to visit Port Lockroy, but it was best that we didn’t on our trip due to weather conditions. Wise decision - safety first!

Solon was great! Also very impressed with Ema, Sophia, and many others on the expedition team. Ignacio (“Nacho”) from Penguin Watch was also engaging and informative. Carla at the bars/lounges and our cabin attendant Odile were delightful and incredibly hard-working.

Fellow Travelers Review

Met a lot of interesting new friends. A respectful, interesting, well-educated group!

Andrew Browning was the most responsive and professional travel expert I’ve ever worked with. He told us everything we needed to know.

In retrospect we should perhaps have asked more questions about US/Argentine monetary conversion before we traveled. We struggled with that a little in Buenos Aires, particularly because none of our group speaks Spanish.

• Andrew Browning

We had an Explorer Triple which was roomy enough for three. It had lots of storage. The shower was OUTSTANDING!

A wonderful variety, prepared extremely well and they were able to address specific requests.

I enjoyed the ability to visit hiking sites via the helicopters. I felt like our group was possibly the first people to walk on these locations. The paddle excursion around and among icebergs was a thrill and of course, the various sites for hiking via the zodiacs was always enjoyable. Everywhere seemed to be pristine.

Transportation Review

Clear instructions regarding our Quark connections.

Fellow Passengers Review

I loved meeting my fellow passengers from around the world. Everyone was friendly and fun to be around.

The Expedition Leader explained considerations for the following day’s activities and she always seemed to find a work around if the weather (clouds, ice, etc) didn’t permit the “planned” days activities. She was personable, humorous and very professional. I was wowed by her ability to get things done.

Arielle forwarded us information in a timely manner and was available to answer our questions if they weren’t addressed in the Quark information package.

If you want to go to Greenland via Quark Expeditions, leave your planning to AdventureSmith and Quark, they will ensure your trip is phenomenal.

• Greenland Explorer: Sail & Soar the Alpine Arctic
• Ultramarine
• Arielle Lightcap

We had an absolutely perfect trip!! First class from beginning to end. Loved the helicopter rides and the views we were able to experience from high above Greenland. The ship was fabulous. The room was great. Spacious, considering we were on a ship. It had a large window so we could take in all of the spectacular views. The staff was wonderful. The food was excellent. We would definitely travel with Quark again.

First rate all the way!

Liked the wide variety at each meal. It was nice to have wine served with dinner. Deserts were fantastic. I liked the fact that you could also order items that were served daily at lunch and dinner. An example would be to get a hamburger at lunch or a grilled chicken breast at dinner. That was nice. Only thing a did not like were the cookies. They were bland.

Wow! So much beauty in Greenland! We LOVED the kayaking amid the huge icebergs. That was our favorite experience. We also LOVED the helicopter rides, especially over the ice sheet. It was jaw dropping! We enjoyed meeting some of the Greenlanders on our stops at the villages. They had a choir which performed for us. It was wonderful.  I'm sure they spent a lot of time practicing. The hikes we took were all great and each one was a little different. We really enjoyed doing the Polar Plunge! It was more fun than I expected. Plus, we received a "badge" showing our Arctic Polar Plunge had been accomplished.  LOVED the shot of Vodka too!

Go! The trip was even better than I expected!

Allison Gordan (Our leader) was incredible!!! She guided this cruise through unexpected weather in order that we could enjoy every aspect of this tour that we had hoped for. We were able to do everything because of her determination to give us the best trip possible. She is a wonderful speaker too. Funny, but professional.  What really impressed me was that she called us by name after a couple of days on the trip. There were 3 of us together, and she got the names right every time. There were 160 guests on this ship. How does she do that?? She certainly made us feel important. Plus, she was so nice to talk to. Answered all of our questions. She was just wonderful. We also really enjoyed her father, Ian Gordan. He was funny, personable, and a true professional. Also, kudos to our Nix, our photographer. She did a great job and fun to be with. Other great staff members included Marla, Alice, Peter, Fabrece, Neil, actually everyone was super great and extremely helpful no matter what we needed.

We met so many great people from Ireland, Australia, England, South Africa, America, Canada. Some of whom I will never forget! 

Everything was perfect! Arielle was fantastic. She was right there anytime we needed anything. Outstanding service and friendly too!

Ultramarine is the culmination of decades of expedition experience built into the perfect expedition platform. The Balcony Suite I was in was comfortable, quiet, and was in a good location to access all parts of the ship. I enjoyed the Common areas of the ship a lot, the Panorama Lounge + Espresso Station, the Bistro for Breakfast and Lunch, the ambassador theater for presentations and briefings and the massive outdoor areas for taking in the views.

I enjoyed Heli Hiking in Prince Christian Sound. We were able to get amazing 360 degree views with multiple fjords, rocky peaks, alpine lakes, and hanging glaciers. The fjords in this area are framed by glacier carved granite domes and spires with some still having glaciers around the tops and in the valleys. Landing on the ice sheet looked like you were landing on the moon with Ice as all you can see in all directions. They had expedition teams members on the ice who gave you a brief intro to the environment and a couple directions about where you could and couldn't go. The landing site they had chosen had solid ice underfoot and small creeks and pools around the immediate area where you could see the most beautiful blue colors of the ice coming through the crystal clear water above. Being on the ice sheet even for a short time was a breathtaking highlight from the trip. The Heli flight back I had a window seat and was able to take some amazing aerial shots of the ice sheet and tidewater glaciers from above on the way back to the ship.

The food aboard was excellent and the service was excellent also. I liked the option to eat at the Bistro for Breakfast and Lunch. It has a great view and is smaller and less busy than the Balena restaurant which is the main one. I think more variety could be offered at the buffets.

This trip has a variety of ability levels and ages. The expedition team did a great job of provided activities for everyone. There were some passengers I enjoyed socializing with more than others but that is to be expected in any group setting.

Ali was our expedtion leader and she was amazing throughout. We had great weather and we were able to accomplish so many activites throughout the voyage. When you think about what it takes to operate so many activities and the amount of staff and resources that takes, it is amazing what they accomplished. I enjoyed interacting with Mauricio, Colin, Nix, Alice, Emily, Juju, Clement, Gordo all from the Expedition team. There were so many aboard and they were all personable and accessible. I enjoyed talking with them at meals or in the lounge as well as on the excursions. Many of the staff had worked with Quark for 10+ years in both Arctic and Antarctica.

Be ready to be flexible and to be active. Luggage requirements for the charter flights were a challenge so plan to pack light and efficient

Antarctica is a winning destination...but the fantastic service and attitude of the staff put this trip right over the top!  Everything ran extremely smoothly and was well organized by coordinators.  I felt well prepared with information and expectations for the trip.  The on-board expedition staff was just great: enthusiastic, filled with expertise, accommodating, and just a joy to be with!

Cheli Larsen (Expedition leader) has a wonderful set of skills: very well versed in all aspects of the trip, fantastic at assessing her customers and their interests, and great at communicating what was going on and why. The customer's frankly all fell in love with the expedition team and it was clear they were all in love with Cheli! Subject Matter experts: Colin, Colin S., Jim, and Damien were a great team. Time spent with them was my best time on the trip! Guides Emma, Marla, Val, and Dave were all exceptional. I don't mean to simply be "gushy" in this feedback; I'm TELLING YOU, this was a FANTASTIC TEAM that I will never forget!  

I felt well prepared for the trip.  Given the guidance I was given, I had all my papers properly organized for the phases of the trip in case I needed to refer to any (reciprocity tax, proof of evacuation insurance, etc.). The logistics went very smoothly. AdventureSmith clearly works with the creme-de-la-creme of Adventure Travel companies. Their selection of Quark Expeditions for this adventure was one that was very well placed. Having AdventureSmith to help me coordinate the logistics and prepare myself helped to ensure everything went extremely smoothly!

Don't take too many clothes!  Bring adequate and make use of on-board laundry!

• Quark Expeditions

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Distinct and comfortable, refined and roomy—these attributes and more describe World Explorer. Not only is it among our fastest ships, but it is also one of our finest, with six tiers of deluxe accommodation.

The personal space is exceptional. Every suite has either a private walk-out or French balcony for direct ocean views.  World Explorer  also delivers plenty of public areas to unwind in after a day outdoors, including the glass-domed Observation Lounge for quiet contemplation and full skyline views, the Explorer Lounge for a drink and a chat, and the library for more intimate relaxing and reading. Presentations and discussions are facilitated in a dedicated lecture theatre.

Health and wellness facilities feature an outdoor track, a small gym and a sauna, plus a spa with change rooms, showers and lockers. For the active adventurers, add-ons include kayaking, camping and stand-up paddleboarding.

• Ice Class Rating: Rated at 1B
• Crew and Staff: 130
• Cruising Speed: 16 knots in open water
• Propulsion: 2 x Rolls Royce 9,000 kw hybrid diesel/electric
• Guests: 172 (140 on Antarctic Express programs)

Fitness Center

Located on Deck 7, fitness center hours are posted at the door, with facilities available on a first come, first served basis.

Ready Rooms

The Mudroom on Deck 3 enables you to comfortably prepare for, and disembark from, Zodiac excursions and shore landings and is conveniently located adjacent to zodiac embarkation points.

Located in the Observation Lounge on Deck 7, the library includes a selection of field guides, picture books and reference books.

Observation Lounge

The glass-domed Observation Lounge on Deck 7 is a comfortable spot to relax and enjoy panoramic polar views.

Explorer Lounge

On Deck 4, the Explorer Lounge is used for special functions and events, and where you can grab a cup of complimentary coffee or tea. The Observation Lounge on Deck 7 is a comfortable spot to relax and enjoy panoramic polar views.

Polar Boutique

If you forgot any essentials or need a little souvenir from your voyage, the Polar Boutique on Deck 4 is our onboard gift shop. Opening hours will vary based on the daily expedition activities. Gifts and souvenirs are great to bring home as mementos of your polar expedition. In addition to small souvenirs, our Polar Boutique offers a selection of expedition gear, including base layer clothing, waterproof pants, gloves and more.

Deck 7 features a large heated outdoor pool, surrounded by deck space, and flanked by two hot tubs.

L'Occitane Spa

The spa is located on Deck 7 and offers massages, facials, and hand and foot treatments using L’Occitane products.

Indulge in health & wellness amenities like the Sauna located on Deck 7 which also has a corresponding change room and shower.

There is one dining room located on Deck 4. If there is one constant at sea, it is that you’ll enjoy delicious meals on a daily basis.

Lecture Theatre

Our theater-style auditorium on Deck 4 can easily accommodate everyone on board, so it serves as our main hall where presentations and videos are provided for your education and enjoyment. 

Outdoor Track

The Outdoor Track on Deck 8 offers a great way to stay active while aboard World Explorer; get your steps in while also enjoying the stunning landscapes and wildlife viewing opportunities the Polar Regions have to offer.

• Deck 8 offers a wraparound deck to take in panaromic views of the Polar Regions; various areas also feature heated seating, allowing for optimal comfort while out on deck.
• Micro Auto Gasification System (MAGS) is the industry-leading system that converts waste into energy at the site that it’s generated. MAGs eliminates the environmental impact of waste transportation, offering an innovative sustainability feature that exceed all industry standards.​
• World Explorer features two state-of-the-art Rolls Royce hybrid-electric engines , significantly reducing its environmental impact on the Polar Regions.

Cabin Options

Located on Deck 6, and approximately 242 sq. ft. (22.5 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 55 sq. ft. (5 sq. m) walk-out balcony. A separate combo sitting area/bedroom with a sofa bed and additional closet is around the corner, and a refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin.

Size (sqf): 242

Occupancy: 1-3

Bed Config.: 1 double or 2 single beds plus a sofa-bed

Class: Standard

Location: Deck 6

Infinity Suite

Located on Decks 5 and 6, and approximately 270 sq. ft. (25 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a floor-to-ceiling glass French balcony. A sitting area with sofa, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin.

Size (sqf): 270

Occupancy: 1-2

Bed Config.: 1 double or 2 single beds

Location: Deck 5 & Deck 6

Veranda Suite

Located on Decks 5 and 6, and approximately 215 sq. ft. (20 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 55 sq. ft. (5 sq. m) walk-out balcony. A sitting area with sofa, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin.

Size (sqf): 215

Superior Suite

Located on Decks 5 and 6, and approximately 278 sq. ft. (26 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 110 sq. ft. (10 sq. m) walk-out balcony with access from sitting room and bedroom. A separate sitting area with sofa, walk-in closet, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin.

Size (sqf): 278

Class: Premium

Deluxe Suite

Located on Deck 5, and approximately 334 sq. ft. (31 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 110 sq. ft. (10 sq. m) walk-out balcony with access from sitting room and bedroom. A separate sitting area with sofa, double closets, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin.

Size (sqf): 334 

Location: Deck 5

Owner's Suite

Located on Decks 5 and 6, and approximately 355 sq. ft. (33 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 110 sq. ft. (10 sq. m) walk-out balcony with access from sitting room and bedroom. A separate sitting area with sofa, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower, dual vanity, and bathtub is also featured in each cabin.

Size (sqf): 355

Additional Cabin Information

Some of the ship’s largest cabins are on Deck 5: the 355 sq.-ft. (33 sq.-m) Owner’s Suites, which—in addition to the 110 sq. ft. (10 sq. m) walk-out balcony—have one double or two single beds, plus a separate sitting area that includes a state of the art “infotainment” system. Other suites on Deck 5 are the 278 sq. ft. (26 sq. m) Superior Suites, which also feature a state-of-the-art “infotainment” system, as well as a 110 sq. ft. (10 sq. m) walk-out balcony which guests can access from their sitting room and bedroom. There are also the 270 sq. ft. (25 sq. m) Infinity Suites, with a floor-to-ceiling glass French balcony, and the 15 sq. ft. (20 sq. m) Veranda Suite that includes a walk-out balcony.

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VESSEL REVIEW | World Explorer – Mystic Cruises opts for hybrid power on Portugal’s first polar expedition ship

West Sea Shipyard in the city of Viana do Castelo in northern Portugal has delivered World Explorer , a new DP-capable polar expedition vessel ordered by local owner Mystic Cruises.

Measuring 126 by 25 metres and with a draught of only 4.7 metres, World Explorer also has the distinction of being the first polar expedition vessel to be built in Portugal, having been designed and built following the owner's decision to expand into the small-ship expedition cruise market.

The vessel has been fitted out with luxury cabins that could accommodate 200 passengers as well as additional berths for 111 crew and specialist staff. Amenities include a restaurant, a café, a pool with bar, a casino, a smoking lounge, a spa with sauna, and a gym.

Although World Explorer is smaller than most of its contemporaries in the polar expedition vessel category, the vessel's size nonetheless gives it an advantage in that it could execute manoeuvres more accurately even without assistance from tugs – an attribute that is undoubtedly useful when navigating through areas with unprepared ports such as those in the Arctic and Antarctic regions.

The newbuild has been fitted with a Rolls-Royce hybrid propulsion system that consists of two C25:33L8P 2,665kW main diesel engines, a C25:33L6 2,000kW electric auxiliary engine, two 2,000kW PTI/PTO units, rudders, propellers, and bow thrusters. A cruising speed of 16 knots will be used for normal operational sailings.

Aside from the Rolls-Royce propulsion components, World Explorer has also been fitted with a pair of Schottel SPJ 82 aft-mounted pump jets that have been installed flush into the hull and are to be used in place of the main propellers when sailing in shallow waters. The jets allow the vessel to cruise at five knots while generating very low noise and vibration levels, thus making these ideal for use in areas that have fragile marine ecosystems teeming with wildlife.

The hybrid propulsion system had been requested by Mystic Cruises to ensure that World Explorer 's carbon and noise emissions would have only a minimal adverse environmental impact as it visits some of the world's most remote destinations.

For manoeuvring, the crew may utilise a Rolls-Royce Poscon system that acquires measurements from the thrusters, main propellers, rudders, and sensors and applies the necessary adjustments to the propulsion by means of a simple joystick.

World Explorer was designed to provide a full expedition cruise experience for its passengers. It achieves this with the aid of underwater cameras for observing marine life in their natural habitat, a 4.5-metre glass dome from which passengers could get a clear view of the nighttime skies and other natural sights such as the famed aurora borealis, and onboard space for inflatable boats and their associated launch and recovery facilities.

The deck equipment also includes a refueling setup built specifically for the vessel's complement of inflatable boats. Due to the explosive nature of the petrol used to power these smaller boats' engines, a number of safeguards have been installed. These include a gas detection system, a dedicated ventilation system, and supporting equipment made from explosion-proof material.

World Explorer 's navigation and communication aids were supplied by JRC. Redundant communications systems have been fitted for use during polar circle navigation while a multi-spectral FLIR camera and a forward-mounted 3D sonar are available to help the crew avoid surface and sub-surface obstacles when sailing in remote regions.

Mystic Cruises had expressed tremendous satisfaction with World Explorer 's capabilities that the company has since placed orders for six additional near-identical sisters. West Sea is expected to deliver all six additional ships by 2024.

Click here for the other news, features and reviews comprising this month's Passenger Vessel Week.

Related Stories

World Explorer Makes Inaugural Call at Port of Montréal

• September 10, 2024

The World Explorer made its inaugural call at the Port of Montréal on September 8, 2024. 

To commemorate the occasion, a traditional plaque exchange took place between Montréal Port Authority’s Jean-François Belzile and Captain Dmytro Ashanin.

The ship, which can accommodate 200 guests, departed the port the following day.

Currently operating Rivages du Monde’s 2024 cruise program along Canada’s St. Lawrence River, the World Explorer will transition to its winter season in Antarctica for Quark Expeditions after the cruise season concludes in October.

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Passenger (Cruise) Ship, IMO 9835719

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The current position of WORLD EXPLORER is reported 2 min ago by AIS. The vessel is en route to the port of Quebec, Canada , and expected to arrive there on Oct 9, 12:00 . The vessel WORLD EXPLORER (IMO 9835719, MMSI 255806193) is a Passenger (Cruise) Ship built in 2019 (5 years old) and currently sailing under the flag of Madeira .

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WORLD EXPLORER current position and history of port calls are received by AIS. Technical specifications, tonnages and management details are derived from VesselFinder database. The data is for informational purposes only and VesselFinder is not responsible for the accuracy and reliability of WORLD EXPLORER data.

World Explorer

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DELUXE - Located on Deck 5, and approximately 334 sq. ft. (31 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 110 sq. ft. (10 sq. m) walk-out balcony with access from sitting room and bedroom. A separate sitting area with sofa, his & hers closets, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower and his & hers sinks is also featured in each cabin.

SUPERIOR SUITE - Located on Decks 5 and 6, and approximately 278 sq. ft. (26 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 110 sq. ft. (10 sq. m) walk-out balcony with access from sitting room and bedroom. A separate sitting area with sofa, walk-in closet, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin.

VERANDA SUITE - Located on Decks 5 and 6, and approximately 215 sq. ft. (20 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 55 sq. ft. (5 sq. m) walk-out balcony. A sitting area with sofa, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin.

INFINITY SUITE - Located on Decks 5 and 6, and approximately 270 sq. ft. (25 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a floor-to-ceiling glass Juliet balcony. A sitting area with sofa, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin.

TRIPLE CABIN - Located on Deck 6, and approximately 246 sq. ft. (23 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 55 sq. ft. (5 sq. m) walk-out balcony. A separate combo sitting area/bedroom with a sofa bed and additional closet, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower is also featured in each cabin.

OWNER'S SUITE - Located on Decks 5 and 6, and approximately 355 sq. ft. (33 sq. m) in size, these cabins have one double or two single beds, and a 110 sq. ft. (10 sq. m) walk-out balcony with access from sitting room and bedroom. A separate sitting area with sofa, refrigerator, TV, state of the art “infotainment” system, and private bathroom with shower, his & hers sinks, and bathtub is also featured in each cabin.

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Vessel Type: Expedition Ship

Length: 126 metres

Passenger Capacity: 176

Built: 2017

Distinct and comfortable, refined and roomy—these attributes and more describe World Explorer. Not only will it be among our fastest ships, it will also be one of our finest, with six tiers of deluxe accommodation.

The personal space is exceptional. Every cabin has either a private walk-out or Juliet balcony for direct ocean views. World Explorer also delivers plenty of public areas to unwind in after a day outdoors, including the glass-domed Observation Lounge for quiet contemplation and full skyline views, the Explorer Lounge for a drink and a chat, and the library for more intimate relaxing and reading. Presentations and discussions are facilitated in a dedicated lecture theatre.

Health and wellness facilities feature an outdoor running track, a small gym and a sauna, plus a spa with change rooms, showers and lockers. For the active adventurers, add-ons include kayaking, camping and stand-up paddleboarding.

Blending high design with total functionality, World Explorer is all set to be your home away from home on the seas.

- All cabins have exterior views and private bathroom facilities

- TV and safe in every cabin

- Individual temperature controls

- Electrical supply: 220v

- Chef-prepared meals (all meals and daily snack included)

- One dining room with unreserved seating

- Bar staffed by a professional bartender serving a selection of soft drinks, juices, liquors, spirits, beer and wine, which can be charged to your shipboard account

- Comfortable lounge area for reading or relaxing with a cup of coffee

- Observation decks for spotting wildlife and enjoying the ever-changing polar landscape

- Polar library stocked with a large collection of polar books, and games

- Pool & sauna

- Spa facilities and wellness program

- Lecture theatre

- Polar Boutique

- Ship-to-shore satellite communications with email and wireless Internet access

Activities:

- Zodiac Cruising (included)

- Kayaking (additional charge)

- Camping (additional charge)

- Standup Paddleboarding (additional charge)

World Explorer

To see discounted cruises on this ship, use the Find a Bargain box on the left.

Distinct and comfortable, refined and roomy—these attributes and more describe World Explorer. Not only will it be among Quark's fastest ships, it will also be one of its finest, with six tiers of deluxe accommodation. Every cabin has either a private walk-out or Juliet balcony for direct ocean views. World Explorer also delivers plenty of public areas to unwind in after a day outdoors, including the glass-domed Observation Lounge for quiet contemplation and full skyline views, the Explorer Lounge for a drink and a chat, and the library for more intimate relaxing and reading. Presentations and discussions are facilitated in a dedicated lecture theatre. Health and wellness facilities feature an outdoor running track, a small gym and a sauna, plus a spa with change rooms, showers and lockers. For the active adventurers, add-ons include kayaking, camping and stand-up paddleboarding.

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World Explorer deck plans

Deck layouts, review of facilities, activities, amenities.

World Explorer deck plan review at CruiseMapper provides newest cruise deck plans (2024-2025-2026 valid floor layouts of the vessel) extracted from the officially issued by Quark Expeditions deckplan pdf (printable version).

Each of the World Explorer cruise ship deck plans are conveniently combined with a legend (showing cabin codes) and detailed review of all the deck's venues and passenger-accessible indoor and outdoor areas. A separate link provides an extensive information on World Explorer staterooms (cabins and suites), including photos, cabin plans and amenities by room type and category.

MS World Explorer cruise ship deck plans show a total of 98 staterooms, 8 decks (6 passenger-accessible, 3 with cabins), Observation Lounge (with surrounding outdoor terrace), Explorer Lounge (multi-purpose, full-bar venue), Library, Lecture Theatre (Auditorium), aft Dining Room Restaurant (with outdoor terrace), Boutique Shop, Lobby area (Reception Desk, Cashier's Office, two entrance areas), Wellness facilities (outdoor Jogging Track, Gym, Sauna, Spa, Hairdresser), Sun Deck with outdoor heated swimming pool (saltwater, with a separate shallow pool area for kids), Helideck (aft top-deck helipad).

Deck layouts

Deck 03 - tendering-cabins, deck 04 - lobby-dining-lounge, deck 05 - cabins, deck 06 - bridge-cabins, deck 07 - spa-pools-sundeck, deck 08 - helideck, deck 09 - topdeck-aerial view.

World Explorer deck plans are property of Quark Expeditions . All deck layouts are for informational purposes only and CruiseMapper is not responsible for their accuracy.

'Nothing can prepare you for 9 months': Guests reflect on Royal Caribbean world cruise

• The Ultimate World Cruise, which departed from Miami in December, garnered widespread attention in the weeks following its departure.
• The 274-night cruise visiting more than 60 countries allowed the ship to visit a wide range of destinations.
• The trip didn’t always go as originally planned, either. Royal Caribbean rerouted the vessel earlier this year and there was even a flooding.

Get more news like this delivered to your inbox by signing up for our Travel newsletter here .

Audrey Martucci had never been on a cruise before booking a nine-month sailing with Royal Caribbean International .

The travel was one appeal, but the 60-year-old had another motivation. Her husband, Joe, had “no intention” of retiring, according to Audrey. “And so when the travel agent contacted us, and he called me, my first thought was, ‘Well, this will mean that you'll retire, so I'll say yes to this cruise,’” she said, laughing.

She and Joe – an avid cruiser – took a few sailings to warm up for the Ultimate World Cruise , which departed from Miami in December. “But nothing can prepare you for nine months,” said Joe, 67.

The Orlando, Florida, couple, who are now both retired, dove into travel. They sold their car, and their nephew moved into their house while they made the Serenade of the Seas ship their home.

The 274-night cruise visiting more than 60 countries garnered widespread attention in the weeks following its departure. Dispatches from passengers went viral on TikTok, amplified by other users recapping the latest developments and subsequent media reports.

Ahead of the sailing’s conclusion on Tuesday, USA TODAY spoke with several guests about what it was like spending nearly a year sailing around the world.

‘This ship was going places that I’d never been’

The length of the cruise allowed the ship to visit a wide range of destinations. That was a big draw even for guests like Joe Martucci, who had traveled extensively for work. “This ship was going places that I’d never been,” he said. Those included Buenos Aires, Argentina – allowing him and Audrey to see the sun rise over Iguazu Falls – and Copacabana Beach in Brazil.

Adita Larson, a guest from Houston, said Antarctica was her favorite destination. “You can't video and you can’t photograph how beautiful it is to stand in front of those icebergs and see them right in front of your eyes so close,” said the 64-year-old.

Royal Caribbean also curated experiences for passengers. Brandee Lake, 47, had been to the Great Wall of China before, but the cruise line offered an exclusive tour of the Badaling section this time around. “So, it was super exciting to have it basically private for our group,” said Lake, who was previously based in Los Angeles. “Like, when does that happen?”

She also seized opportunities to set out on her own. When the ship skipped a stop in Madagascar due to a storm, for example, Lake flew there herself for a brief visit.

But visiting even the most exciting places can take a toll after a while. The ship’s Europe segment that began in July was quite port-heavy, with only a handful of sea days in the first couple of months. Larson said many folks on board complained of being “exhausted.”

“It’s a blur,” she said. “We don’t know where we were yesterday; we don’t know where we’re going tomorrow.”

The Martuccis echoed the sentiment. At one point during the cruise, a friend of theirs stayed behind while their partner took a shore excursion. “And I remember coming back and saying to Joe, ‘You can do that? We don’t have to go?’ ” Audrey recalled. “That was, like, a huge revelation to me.”

At the beginning of the cruise, they said many guests “hated” days without any stops. “Now we’re all like, ‘Oh my god, a sea day. This is so good,’ ” she said.

The trip didn’t always go as originally planned, either. Royal Caribbean rerouted the vessel earlier this year amid continued attacks in the Red Sea, for example. Rather than transiting through the Suez Canal, the ship sailed an alternate path around Africa.

Lake said canceled ports during the voyage served as a “reminder to be flexible.”

“I think if I learned anything, it’s to expect the unexpected,” she said.

The ship also saw flooding in parts of the ship amid rough weather off the coast of South America in January, and the line confirmed the death of a passenger in February.

Story continues below.

‘Just like any other community’

Cruise ships are often described as cities at sea, and the Ultimate World Cruise fostered a neighborly sense of camaraderie, passengers said. 

“I mean, obviously, it’s just like any other community,” said Lake. “You have the people that you are really close to, some of them are acquaintances, maybe some that are not your people, but nothing wrong. It’s just, you have your group that you naturally gel with.”

Outside of roughly 650 Ultimate World Cruise guests, the sailing was also sold in segments, bringing new folks into the mix every couple of months or so. If passengers ever need space, Audrey Martucci said, they can find solace in their cabins. “Or there’s lots of spaces on the ship that you can go and hide,” she said.

And while the Martuccis took pains to prepare themselves for the trip – they even scoped out the ship during one of their practice cruises – spending so much time with one another was a change. “We went from him working full time to all of a sudden, we're in these small quarters together all the time, and we've done it,” she said. “So, anything else is going to be a breeze now.”

“And you haven’t tossed me overboard,” Joe added.

Guests help each other out, too. Larson said there is a group chat on Facebook where passengers can ask for items they need or post things they no longer want to exchange with one another.

Lake advised anyone thinking about taking a world cruise to pack light – a lesson she learned from experience. She brought three large suitcases, a rolling carry-on bag and a backpack. “I pared it down, and it's still just too much,” she said. “It's kind of like your own closet: you really only wear about 10% to 20% of it.”

While she felt she had too many shoes and rarely wore her accessories, other items like cubbies for the closet came in handy.

Still, the logistics of managing life can be more complex on a ship. Larson pointed to her condominium, which suffered minor damage during Hurricane Beryl . “So not being there to deal with things like that,” she said. “Of course, we could have gone home, but it wasn't that huge of an emergency.” She found other tasks, like paying bills, easy to keep up with online.

The Martuccis even managed to buy a car remotely, so they’ll have one when the cruise ends, and a home in Audrey’s native Scotland, where they plan to spend summers. “We’ve been able to function,” said Joe.

As for whether they got tired of the food, Joe said, “It's just like at home, you open your refrigerator and go, ‘That's all we have,’ and you decide to go out instead of eating (at home). You kind of get that feeling sometimes.” But he emphasized that compared to the earlier cruise they took on Serenade of the Seas, the culinary team “upped their game” for the nine-month sailing.

What is a world cruise?: It's not a 'shoot-from-the-hip decision'

Going viral

The attention the cruise received online caught passengers like the Martuccis off guard. They originally planned to share videos with their kids, who suggested they post on TikTok . Their follower count jumped from “almost none” to nearly 100,000 within a week, according to Joe.

“We fell into it, and we got caught up in this daily video,” Audrey said. “But it’s been great.”

Lake, who has been chronicling her trip online as well, echoed that, calling the experience a “surprise.” She and the Martuccis both noted they had been recognized by strangers on board.

Larson didn’t have a TikTok account when she boarded the ship, but she’s had fun sharing videos from the trip. She hopes to continue doing so back on land, “especially after we get home, the adjustment after nine months of being away from home, and sleeping on a bed that's not rocking anymore.”

Nine months at sea hasn’t soured them on travel. Larson has nearly 30 cruises booked, the first of which takes place in October. Lake, who gave up her apartment and a job in advertising and marketing to travel full-time, plans to start a new profession, organizing group trips.

The Martuccis also have many travel plans, including a family cruise on Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas in January. “We're not going to let the grass grow under our feet,” said Joe.

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

The Key Points at the top of this article were created with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and reviewed by a journalist before publication. No other parts of the article were generated using AI. Learn more .

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Woman who's done entire journey on world's longest cruise shares how much it cost

Amike has been travelling on the seven continent cruise for a whopping nine months.

Lucy Devine

A woman who set sail on the world's longest cruise ship has revealed how much it cost her.

Most people head on cruise holidays for a couple of weeks at the most, but one woman has actually been travelling for 274 days, across seven continents .

Content creator Amike Oosthuizen is onboard Royal Caribbean's Ultimate World Cruise, and she's one of the 2,000 people who have committed to travelling the world for a whopping nine months.

Argentina, Brazil, Miami, the Bahamas and even Antarctica are just some of the cruise's stop-off points as it promises to visit every corner of the globe.

“It’s always been a dream of my family to travel the world ,” the 26-year-old, from Cape Town, South Africa, told The Sun.

“And my dad saw an article all the way back in 2020, advertising the cruise, and wanted to do it with us, knowing he’d have retired by now.

“We were all obviously very excited but we didn't think it would ever happen.”

With such a mammoth journey, many people are wondering how much the cruise has set Amike back financially . And as you can imagine, it was a lot.

We're talking tens of thousands of pounds and the equivalent of a hefty house deposit.

Even though the trip of a lifetime will sound like a dream to so many, it will set you back a whopping £55,200.

But we imagine it's pretty spectacular, if you have the cash.

“I know it's super-expensive coming on the trip," Amike added. "But I think, back home , you would have paid a lot to live this standard of life, eating like you eat here and drinking takeaway coffee and cocktails each day, and then obviously travelling as well."

“There is so much food , and the food is really good. There's waffles and pancakes and all the good stuff here.

“I have a good balance - if I really crave it I'll have it, but I try not to over eat because back home I would've never eaten even three meals a day, and as much food as here, because I was really busy with work and here there's just food all the time."

With the cruise coming to an end today (10 September), Amike has shared a tour of the room she's been living in for the last nine months.

"I can't believe I'm here making this video, the ultimate world cruise is finished in just two days," she said. "Today, we pack up a room and it is so sad... it has been such an amazing journey."

In the clip, Amike shared a tour of their room, revealing how they dried their washing and how many suitcases they took on the trip.

Royal Caribbean call the cruise a 'hemisphere hopping expedition of a lifetime' exploring sites including Machu Picchu in Peru, the Great Wall of China, the Colosseum in Rome, The Taj Mahal in India and the Great Barrier Reef in Australia.

If you don't fancy doing a full 274 days, you can also choose one of four 'segments of the world' each consisting of a 60-night sailing.

You can find out more about Royal Caribbean's Ultimate World Cruise here .

Topics:  Travel , Cruise Ship , World News

• Cruise passengers who spent £75,000 on world cruise that still hasn't left port break down £3,500 a month cost
• Woman who lives on cruise for free shares the four things she can’t do while on ship
• Woman half way into world's longest cruise shares the worst thing onboard the ship
• True cost of world’s longest cruise that lasts for nine months straight and what it gets you

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Carnival cruise ship hits ice in Alaska, passenger says ‘it's a Titanic moment’

“if we die, it was damn well worth it,” passenger cassandra goskie said in a video shared on tiktok.

A Carnival cruise ship hit a piece of ice while sailing in Alaska, prompting passengers to compare it to a new age “Titanic moment.” Following the incident last week, the hull of the Carnival Spirit was assessed, and no damages were found, the company said in a statement. Despite grazing “an errant piece of drifting ice last Thursday,” the ship continued on its current seven-day cruise. The vessel will arrive at its last destination in Seattle, Washington, on Tuesday.

Carnival cruise ship hits ice, passenger calls it ‘Titanic moment’

The company explained in a statement to Fox Business that the ship was undamaged after hitting the piece of ice while sailing in Tracy Arm Fjord, Alaska. “The vessel continued on its cruise and there has been no impact to operations,” the company added. Despite the ship not sustaining any damages and being set for final docking in Washington, netizens' reactions took a dramatic turn on social media.

ALSO READ: What is 'God of Chaos'? Astronomer updates risk of giant asteroid hitting Earth in 2029

“If we die, it was damn well worth it,” passenger Cassandra Goskie said in a video shared on TikTok and the private Carnival VIFP Club Members Facebook group. “It’s a Titanic moment,” Goskie added in the video captioned, “Carnival did an AMAZING job of keeping all the passengers and staff safe and updated.” “Oh, we are hitting it,” she can be heard saying in the video as other passengers looked over the side of the ship. “Damn.”

ALSO READ: Tom Brady's broadcasting debut draws mixed responses from NFL viewers

Some of the passengers flocked to X, formerly Twitter to narrate their experience and share photos of the incident. A user shared photos of the ship taken by their local meteorologist, along with the message, “From April Futrell “Good evening James! We are on the carnival spirit and hit an iceberg just outside of Sitka and Tracy arm fjord! Here’s some pictures! We are safe and after assessing for damage we are back on track headed to Skagway!””

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Everything You Need to Know About Silversea’s 2026 World Cruise

• world cruise

A world cruise, by its nature, is the definition of a trip of a lifetime. You’ll see and do more in one sailing than you can imagine, even knowing this itinerary begins in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., and ends in Lisbon, Portugal. Spending months away from home requires forethought and planning. After all, can you fill a prescription in the South Pacific or find your favorite moisturizer in Egypt? And how do you pack?

Here you’ll find detailed answers and information about preparing for this unique journey. From choosing the right cell phone plan to wondering how chefs keep the cuisine fresh, day after day, this guide to World Cruise 2026 will put most of your concerns to rest — and get you excited about the extensive list of unusual destinations and special events. And yes, by the way, laundry is included.

World Cruise 2026: The Curious and the Sea

Each year, Silversea’s epic world cruise carries a theme that shapes the journey. For 2026, “The Curious and the Sea” label refers to the history-making expeditions of explorers as they sought to map uncharted territory and understand other cultures. The cruise culminates, fittingly, in Portugal, the homeland of many famous explorers, including Vasco da Gama and Ferdinand Magellan.

Destinations: The Curious and the Sea

This unique will visit more than six dozen destinations, including 26 that are probably new to Silversea’s Venetian Society loyalty members. These destinations are as varied as Bari, Italy and Nouméa, New Caledonia. The ports of call cover 37 countries and six continents, from Australia and India to the Polynesian islands of Tonga and Vanuatu. Take a look at the  segment-by-segment maps  for World Cruise 2026.

Silversea’s 2026 world cruise departs Jan. 6 from Fort Lauderdale and culminates on May 27 in Lisbon. The voyage is divided into nine segments that total 140 days, including 62 days at sea.

The cruise will be aboard Silversea’s Silver Dawn, which debuted in 2022. The 596-passenger ship boasts a Roman baths-inspired spa and wellness area; the renowned S.A.L.T. (Sea and Land Taste) culinary program; a creative entertainment offering; and the line’s hallmark touches, from butler service to top-shelf cocktails and caviar.

Bookings for the  2026 world cruise  with Silversea opened to Venetian Society members on June 14, 2023, and to the public on June 22. Despite the 2.5-year lead time, these cruises often book up far in advance. Inclusions when you book this cruise include business class airfare and private transfers, $1,000 in onboard credit per guest and one complimentary Otium spa treatment each.

Not included: meals at specialty restaurants such as  La Dame  or  Kaiseki ; personal training sessions; spa treatments beyond the one included; some premium shore excursions; purchases in the boutique or gambling in the casino.

Pre-cruise logistics

Passports and visas

Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond the date of the last port you visit (many countries require at least six months validity for admission). You’ll be in good shape if your passport is valid at least through the end of 2026. World travelers also understand that obtaining visas can be an obstacle course, but luckily, Silversea includes a visa package with this particular cruise that can help reduce red tape.

Vaccinations and precautions

For a trip of this breadth, you will want to visit a travel clinic to check on medications you may need or vaccinations that are required. Before that, check with your primary care physician to be sure that your routine vaccinations are current, including tetanus. The rabies vaccine is optional, but not uncommon for world travel. To embark on a Silversea vessel, all passengers must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 at least two weeks before departure; boosters are recommended.

Health care and insurance

When it comes to standard health insurance, travel insurance, medical evacuation clauses and filling your prescriptions for four months away, you must have this sorted out well before embarkation.

If you don’t have a travel insurance plan that covers medical evacuation, buy one. This kind of policy is designed for emergencies in far-flung places (some of the ones you will be visiting) and should include being air-lifted to the closest hospital on the mainland. Silversea has a doctor on board, but the cruise line does not cover the cost of medical emergencies or prescription refills, which can be difficult to find in some countries.

Have a conversation with your doctor about what you need to stay healthy and functioning for one-third of the year at sea. This includes obtaining months’ worth of prescription medications, and over-the-counter remedies for common ailments such as heartburn, nausea or upset stomach. Some physicians will prescribe a broad-spectrum antibiotic that could be helpful to have on hand.

Money matters

You can order foreign currency from your bank, but given that 37 countries are involved, your best bet is to take some nations-specific cash with you. Trying to keep track of dozens of different monetary units, some you might only need for a day, can be a hassle.

Make sure you have a couple of credit cards that do not charge foreign transaction fees and ideally reward travel purchases. A debit card attached to your bank account is also helpful for withdrawing local currency from an ATM.

In both cases, alert your credit card provider and your bank that you will be traveling to various countries for several months. That should help prevent your account from being frozen because of what the institution may deem “suspicious activity.” Keep these cards close at hand and your pin numbers private. (Note that some banking institutions require a four-digit card number.) If you suspect that you have misplaced a card or are a victim or fraud, call to freeze your own account right away.

Dedicate some time before this big trip to making sure your technology — mobile phones, tablets and any other electronic devices — are in working order and that you have a phone and data plan that make sense for you.

For such an extended trip, you’ll want to consider buying a travel-specific SIM card and/or a mobile hotspot that gives you better access to high-speed Wi-Fi. Silversea world cruisers have unlimited premium Wi-Fi for up to two devices per person.

With a strong enough Wi-Fi signal, VOIP — Voice Over Internet Protocol or a voice call over a Wi-Fi signal like your ship’s — is possible. Common services that use VOIP include WhatsApp (app required) and FaceTime if you have an Apple product. T-Mobile has a great built-in international plan with its standard service and some easy upgrades. Some destinations will be just too far-flung to expect reliable cell or Wi-Fi signal.

Securing your home

Maybe you live in a gated or residential community, or someone will still be at the house to keep everything running, but chances are you might be leaving your home empty during your 140-day cruise. This requires a few logistical measures on your behalf before departing.

Consider putting a hold on your mail while you’re gone. If not, sign up for the U.S. Post Office’s  Informed Delivery  service that shows what is being delivered each day.

Do your plants need watering? Will your sidewalk need shoveling if it snows? Make sure you hire someone — or have incredible friends — to be on call for any maintenance or emergencies (burst pipe) while you are halfway across the world.

Pets are not allowed onboard, so start researching well-rated kennels that will board your dog or cat long term. Or you can strike a deal with a dependable friend or family member with whom the pet might be more comfortable. Birds or reptiles might be harder to place in a formal facility.

Smart home security systems, including the  Ring camera and doorbell , are now almost ubiquitous. These services function off an app and require Wi-Fi but might be able to provide some peace of mind while you are so far from your front door. In any case, a trustworthy human to occasionally check on your property and valuables may be the most reliable choice in the end.

Packing for a World Cruise

How much can I bring on board?

A Silver Shore baggage valet will assist with two bags of up to 50 pounds each, per guest, or 100 pounds of stuff per person for your 20-week expedition. That limit does not include carry-on luggage such as a purse, backpack or duffel bag. Sometimes less is more, especially if you’re looking to purchase a lot of souvenirs during your travels. Be reasonable!

How do you pack for a world cruise?

First things first: Don’t try to pack for all 140 days. You’re going to want to stick to versatile clothing items (pants you can dress up or down, or a sundress that is easily gussied up) as well as tried-and-true staples in your wardrobe. Scan destinations for average weather during the time you’ll be there, and pack for comfort. Even if Egypt looks toasty, the ship is air-conditioned, so you’ll need a light sweater, a jacket and a windbreaker at various points during the trip. Layers are better than bulk. Pack plenty of socks and underwear.

It’s not the time to buy brand-new shoes and see if they work out onboard the ship. If you decide to stock up on some new gear before embarking, do so at least a few weeks in advance. This gives you time to break in any new footwear.

There will be some formal evenings, especially on Silversea’s marquee world cruise events, but practicality is the running theme here. If you’re dining among ruins at night, leave the stiletto heels in your suite (or at home). Certain religious or cultural dress codes may require women to cover their heads, shoulders or knees; out of respect, always adhere to any local dress codes.

Reversible swimsuits; classic dresses or dress shirts in neutrals; nice leggings that can pull double duty are ways to game the packing system. Dressing up the mighty black dress or well-tailored suit jacket, by buying scarves or pocket squares, pashminas or ties in ports along the way, is fun. And these double as mementos.

Despite Silversea’s lenience about how much you pack, there are some restrictions. For example, no full-face snorkel masks from home. Be sure to read through the fine print before you take something prohibited that could have made space for something else.

How does laundry work?

Laundry service is included in your world cruise fare. There are self-service launderettes onboard if you miss the experience of doing your own. These services are arranged through your butler.

The on-board experience

Does my cabin choice matter.

All rooms onboard Silver Dawn are suites, starting at 335 square feet with a large picture window for ocean views called a Vista Suite. Most suites feature a full, private balcony and luxurious amenities. Expect a pillow menu, plush robe, stocked mini bar, luxury bath products and Champagne upon arrival, no matter which suite you are booked in.

Other premium offerings on Silver Dawn include  Otium spa-inspired experiences , facilitated by your butler, including a balcony hot chocolate service; premium sunbathing experience; or an indulgent drawn bath.

A ship suite may be smaller than a full house or condo, but the entire ship is your oyster. You’ll find ample public spaces where you can relax and unwind. After all, you will be spending so much time on shore tours that you will probably be tired from your explorations and ready to climb into bed.

Will I be with the same passengers all the time?

Some cruisers will embark along with you in Fort Lauderdale and leave as cruising family four months later in Lisbon. Some guests, however, book world cruise segments or partial world cruises. This means that at eight points along the way, other guests may join the voyage or leave it. Think of it as a change of scenery and the possibility of dinner companions throughout your lengthy holiday.

Will food choices begin to repeat?

If you’re wondering whether salmon will be on the menu more than once during this months-long sailing, yes, it will. But Silversea and its food and beverage teams work tirelessly to plan the menus for these world cruises so there is as little repetition as possible across venues and throughout the days and weeks.

The entire crew will get to know you, as well as your preferences (and most importantly, dietary restrictions) from Day 1. Likewise, after dining at each venue multiple times (and there are eight to choose from, not including room service, plus the S.A.L.T. program), you will get to know the best spot for that steak, sushi or salad, depending on what you’re craving.

The 2026 cruise is offering its guests two exclusive  S.A.L.T. dining experiences  ashore, included in the cruise fare.

What role will S.A.L.T. play in World Cruise 2026?

Silversea’s distinct  Sea and Land Taste program  will thrive on the 2026 World Cruise . The S.A.L.T. Kitchen will create 80 distinct menus based on places visited. A rotating lineup of visiting chefs, regional food experts and authors will come aboard to teach a variety of S.A.L.T. Lab classes and also will take up residencies, offering intermittent lectures.

Besides hands-on culinary experiences (onboard and ashore) as well as the distinct itinerary-inspired epicurean menus, the S.A.L.T. Bar transforms local flavors into liquid form. With more local wines offered than ever before, as well as beers and exclusive spirits, guests can sip on regional beverages as well as attend tastings hosted by sommeliers and mixologists. About 70 custom and regionally inspired cocktails will be featured on the 2026 World Cruise.

How can I stay in shape onboard?

Endless weeks of rich cuisine can take their toll. You are likely to stay active just from exploring the many ports you’re visiting, but if you would like to take a more organized approach to your routine, Silver Dawn’s fitness center comes complete with free weights, machines and cardio equipment. Personal training and classes are offered for an additional fee. Guests can also do laps in the onboard pool or jog the top-deck track to keep the blood pumping. Don’t forget about the sauna and steam room.

What will entertainment be like on the ship?

During sea days or days spent onboard, guests can count on enrichment, including lectures, wine tastings and cooking classes. Activities will rotate in and out throughout the trip.

The Venetian Lounge is host to musical and theatrical performances from a variety of onboard cast members and visiting artists, including production shows and operatic performances. Cabaret-style seating keeps the atmosphere intimate, even when the offering is a first-run feature film.

Silver Dawn has a small casino if you’re inclined to test Lady Luck, and there are occasional late-night dance parties in the Panorama Lounge. You can choose from among a half-dozen bars and lounges for a little libation and conversation.

How are holidays and events celebrated?

The 2026 World Cruise kicks off after the New Year, but no matter what hallmark holidays or religious observances you recognize from January to May, there will be a way to celebrate them onboard. From Valentine’s Day to Passover, your crew is dedicated to making each memory and occasion special. This includes special food and drink. Nondenominational services are typically held onboard on Sundays. Catholic, Protestant or Jewish clergy will be brought onboard when possible for select holidays.

Celebrating a birthday, anniversary or another milestone onboard? Notify Silversea (or allow your travel advisor to do so) at least a month before departure to arrange the proper festivities.

How will I keep in touch?

Nearly everyone travels with mobile devices, so you need not rely on the costly satellite phone service onboard the ship, unless for some reason it’s the only option. Be sure to bring information on your phone plan, including contacts for troubleshooting. Staff is available once you’re onboard to walk you through connecting your phone, laptop or tablet to the free shipboard Wi-Fi.

As for organizing calls with friends and family, leave them with a printout of your scheduled itinerary, so they can have an idea of where you are and when. Time zones will change many times throughout your journey, and it will be hard to keep track.

On an iPhone, you can add the destinations and time zones where your friends and family live by going to Clock > World Clock. This is a convenient shortcut when you’re guessing whether your sister-in-law is awake to chat.

The Wi-Fi onboard should be solid, but it will change depending on your location and how many people are accessing it at the same time. It should be a strong enough signal to browse the internet, send a text or an email, but not always reliable for a video call. Manage expectations.

What happens in case of emergency?

Things happen. A storm could brew, a political event could take place that might prevent you from entering a country or from Silversea deeming it safe. The encouraging thing about a cruise ship is that it moves and is generally flexible about schedule changes (as should you).

Many storms can be avoided; ports can be replaced or skipped if there is a threat. Someone could get sick onboard and be sent home. Silversea is equipped to handle these emergencies — especially on a lengthy cruise.

Spending time ashore

How many overnights are there?

There are nine sets of overnights on the 2026 world cruise: Callao (Lima), Peru; Easter Island; Auckland, New Zealand; Hobart, Tasmania; Singapore; Cochin/Kochi, India; Mumbai, India; Safaga (Luxor), Egypt; and Antalya, Turkey.

What kind of exclusive events can I expect?

Silversea’s unmatched world cruise promise exclusive events. Watch this space for information, but all are guaranteed to be unique.

Are overland programs offered?

There are three optional overland programs during Silversea’s 2026 World Cruise. These immersive overland tours incur an additional fee.

Uzbekistan (April 16-25)

Depart Mumbai for nine days exploring this unusual country, from the historic commercial hub of Tashkent to the UNESCO heritage site of Bukhara.

Luxor, Egypt (April 26-31)

From the port of Safaga, guests will spend five days seeing the iconic ancient wonders of Egypt, including the Pyramids of Giza, the Temples of Luxor, the Valley of the Kings and yet another cruise — the one along the Nile River.

The Balkans (May 11-14)

Learn about the complicated history of Yugoslavia with a three-day overland trip to Serbia. Centered in Belgrade, guests will visit museums, temples and local towns to connect with residents.

Are shore excursions included?

One shore excursion per port, per day, is included for each guest onboard a Silversea world cruise. Shore excursions range from active hikes or snorkel and dive trips to guided walking tours and local workshops. While your plans — or whims — may certainly change, it’s a good idea to browse through these detailed offerings prior to boarding to select the tours you are most passionate about joining to secure a spot.

Of course, you can never predict how you might feel on any given day, but timing some relaxation and recovery between all your active exploits is its own preventative maintenance. This is vacation, after all.

Must I get off at every port?

No. A voyage lasting four months is a marathon, not a sprint. Even though you might be confident about booking a full-day excursion in each new port, your body might signal that it needs a break. Listen to your body.

Despite how thrilling a World Cruise experience can be, you are human and will no doubt need some downtime to rest. It might be prudent to schedule these rest periods, if possible, around destinations and events that you don’t want to miss. On the other hand, world cruises do factor in plenty of sea days, so there are plenty of opportunities to chill out.

Is it safe to explore independently?

Silversea would never take guests to a destination it deemed unsafe. The cruise director, shore excursions team and other staff onboard are your go-to experts for best practices in every port. Recommendations are also made on each daily program.

Some larger cities could be overwhelming to navigate, but not expressly dangerous, while smaller island nations may prefer you stick with your guides on an organized tour rather than wander into private or protected lands. When in doubt, use common sense.

What happens if the ship skips a port?

Sometimes weather or other unforeseen events mean your ship might have to skip a port. It’s unusual, but not unheard of, especially with about nearly six dozen ports of call. The cruise contract you sign when you book outlines the possibility of these types of cancellations. There is typically no refund. Any paid shore excursions or other experiences booked in a port that’s missed will be refunded to your account.

Ready to learn more about one of the best world cruises you can book?  Find more information here .

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