How to pack for an around the world cruise
Picking the right cruise for you
A world cruise is more than just a vacation—it is a life-defining milestone. This month, the industry buzz is centered on the highly anticipated 2028 releases from Cunard and MSC.
For the first time in years, the world cruise landscape offers a fascinating choice between “The New Standard” and “The Timeless Return.” Whether you are looking for the modern sophistication of a brand-new flagship or the nostalgic elegance of a classic ocean circumnavigation, 2028 is shaping up to be an extraordinary year on the high seas.
The Cunard Duo: A Masterclass in Luxury
Cunard has truly stolen the spotlight by announcing two distinct World Voyages for 2028. This is a rare opportunity to choose your preferred direction and ship personality while maintaining the gold standard of “White Star Service.”
1. Queen Anne: The Western Circumnavigation
The newest jewel in Cunard’s crown, Queen Anne, will embark on her first-ever full World Voyage in 2028. Sailing westward from Hamburg, Germany, this 114-night journey is the perfect choice for the modern traveler who appreciates contemporary design blended with heritage.
- The Vibe: Chic, boutique-inspired interiors, and a reimagined wellness program.
- The Route: Highlights include a full transit of the Panama Canal, the sun-soaked shores of Honolulu, and overnight stays in Sydney, Hong Kong, and Cape Town.
- Why it shines: You get to be part of history on Cunard’s newest ship, enjoying elevated dining concepts that you won’t find anywhere else in the fleet.
2. Queen Elizabeth: The Grand Eastern Return
For the first time since 2018, the beloved Queen Elizabeth returns to a full global circumnavigation. Sailing eastward, this 113-night voyage caters to those who love the classic, art-deco-inspired elegance that defined the golden age of travel.
- The Vibe: Sophisticated, intimate, and deeply traditional.
- The Route: This itinerary focuses heavily on the exotic allure of Asia and Africa, featuring maiden calls in the Caribbean before heading toward South Africa, Singapore, and Japan.
- Why it shines: It is a nostalgic return to form. For many of our clients, nothing beats the “Queen’s Room” ballroom and the sense of community found on this particular ship.
The MSC World Cruise: A Different Perspective
We have also seen the release of the MSC 2028 World Cruise on MSC Magnifica. While this 115-night voyage offers an impressive breadth of destinations—spanning 29 countries including unique stops like Easter Island and the Cook Islands—it provides a very different onboard experience.
MSC is known for its high-energy, Mediterranean-style atmosphere. While they offer an incredible “Dine & Drink” package and 15 included shore excursions to entice travelers, the level of intimacy and refined service differs significantly from the Cunard experience.
Expert Insight: Many travelers are drawn to MSC for the price point and the expansive itinerary. However, for a 100+ night journey, the amenities, guest-to-staff ratio, and “quiet luxury” found on Cunard often prove to be the better value for those seeking a truly seamless, prestigious lifestyle at sea.
Which 2028 Voyage is Yours?
Choosing a World Cruise is a deeply personal decision. If you need help deciding which voyage fits your travel style, we are here to help you sift through the noise to find the one that really suits you. On a journey of this length, you deserve an environment designed specifically for the long-haul traveler—providing a ‘home away from home’ that is sophisticated, spacious, and undeniably world-class.
Ready to book your World Cruise or want more details about planning your bucket list journey around the world? Click the button below to schedule your complimentary World Cruise consultation with your World Cruise Advisor.
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