The worst part of any cruise isn't finding your landlegs after so long at sea, nor is it trying to go easy with the unlimited drinks package. No, the worst part of any cruise is trying to decide on a destination! Do you go for a river cruise to experience local culture, or enjoy the solitude of the open ocean?
What if you didn't have to choose?
The Ultimate World Cruise
That's exactly what's on offer with Royal Caribbean's Ultimate World Cruise. Spanning 9 months, this cruise takes passengers to all 7 continents (yes, including Antarctica), 60 countries, and 8 wonders of the world. It certainly isn't cheap, but can you really put a price tag on that sort of experience?
Where else are you going to have the opportunity to see the Great Wall of China, Machu Picchu, and the Colosseum all on the same voyage? If you've ever wanted to see the world without worrying about logistics and airfare, the Ultimate World Cruise is the best way to do so. If you don't want to commit to the whole 9 months, that's fine too; the cruise is divided into 4 segments which can be booked individually.
For retirees, families who want to give their children a hands-on opportunity to learn about the world, or anyone bitten by the travel bug, this cruise proves that you truly can have it all. Given the extended passage and close quarters, it isn't far-fetched to believe that friendships could blossom between like-minded cruisers...or, perhaps, something more.
However, don't go reaching for that credit card just yet! The inaugural sailing of the Ultimate World Cruise has already come and gone. Serenade of the Seas left port on December 10, 2023, and returned on July 10, 2024.
Future World Cruises
So, why are we writing about something that's already over? For starters, Royal Caribbean generated a lot of press before the Serenade of the Seas even dropped anchor, with many people speculating that the close quarters and long sailing time would lead to drama worthy of any reality television show. Give that passengers narrowly avoided both volcanic activity in Iceland and an earthquake in Taiwan, interpersonal drama was likely the least exciting part of the voyage!
Even before the cruise was underway, it was already a massive success. Don't be surprised if you see more sailings in the future, or if other cruise lines try to replicate Royal Caribbean's success. With every day the ship was at sea, the anticipation only grew.
The Ultimate World Cruise was a viral sensation from the moment it was announced. Given the hefty price tag per passenger, we're sure that it more than recuperated operating costs. The first Ultimate World Cruise may have sailed, but we're sure it won't be the last.
Given the scope of the cruise, it simply isn't feasible for Royal Caribbean to run this cruise every year. The ultimate world cruise requires a huge amount of foresight both on the part of the crew and the passengers themselves. While there currently aren't any itineraries on Royal Caribbean's website, keep your eyes peeled for sailings in the next few years.
