A round the world cruise is a dream come true for many travelers. It’s an opportunity to explore different countries, cultures, and cuisines while enjoying the luxury of a cruise ship. But one of the most common questions that people have when planning a round the world cruise is how long it takes.
The answer to this question depends on several factors such as the route of the cruise, the number of ports visited, and the duration of each port stay. Generally, a round the world cruise takes anywhere from three months to a year. Let’s take a closer look at some of these factors.
Route
The route of the cruise plays a significant role in determining its duration. Some round the world cruises follow an eastward route, starting in Europe and ending in Asia or Australia. Others follow a westward route, starting in North America and ending in Europe or South America.
Eastward Route
If you’re taking an eastward route, your journey will typically start in Southampton or London. From there, you’ll travel through Northern Europe before crossing into Russia and Asia. You’ll then make your way down to Australia or New Zealand before heading back up to Southeast Asia and India.
This route typically takes around 100-120 days, depending on how many ports are visited along the way.
Westward Route
If you’re taking a westward route, your journey will typically start in North America (usually Miami or Los Angeles). From there, you’ll head south towards South America before crossing over to Africa and then making your way up through Europe before returning back across the Atlantic to North America.
This route usually takes around 110-130 days, again depending on how many ports are visited along the way.
Ports Visited
The number of ports visited also plays a significant role in determining the duration of a round the world cruise. Some cruises may visit as few as 20 ports, while others may stop at over 40.
If you’re looking to take a shorter round the world cruise, you’ll want to look for one that visits fewer ports. However, keep in mind that this may mean missing out on some incredible destinations.
Duration of Port Stays
Finally, the duration of each port stay can also impact the overall duration of your round the world cruise. Some ports may only be visited for a day or two, while others may offer longer stays.
If you’re looking to spend more time exploring each destination, look for a cruise that offers longer port stays. However, keep in mind that this may mean spending less time at sea and potentially missing out on some onboard activities.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a round the world cruise can take anywhere from three months to a year depending on several factors such as the route of the cruise, number of ports visited and duration of each port stay. It’s always best to research multiple options before selecting one and ensure it aligns with your travel goals.