The best cruise ships for world cruises

For a travel experience that is simply incomparable, a world cruise is an absolute must. Sail across continents and visit diverse destinations in one seamless journey. From the historical landmarks of Europe to the exotic beaches of the South Pacific and the bustling markets of Asia, experience a variety of cultures, cuisines and landscapes on these once-in-a-lifetime voyages. As you tick visiting iconic locations off your bucket list, relax and enjoy the luxurious surroundings of your cruise ship. Onboard, enjoy stylish accommodations, gourmet dining, and a wide range of entertainment and enrichment programmes. Here, we compile a list of some of the best ships for a world cruise and discuss everything you need to know about them. 

Embark on a world cruise on Arcadia and prepare to indulge in exquisite dining options, enjoy impressive entertainment, and relax in rejuvenating spa facilities. One of the most appealing aspects of a world cruise with P&O Cruises is the optimal levels of relaxation and comfort. Arcadia boasts spaces designed with relaxation in mind, allowing you to unwind in style and concentrate on fully immersing yourself in each destination that you visit. 

• Oasis Spa - Deck 9 - Banish any stress or worries that you may have with a trip to Oasis Spa. Escape to this tranquil haven and make the most of the thermal suite, hydrotherapy pool and sauna. You might choose to be pampered at the salon, try one of the many transformative treatments available, or simply unwind on the heated ceramic beds. 
• Neptune Pool - Deck 9 - Is there anything better than relaxing by the pool? Grab your favourite beverage, choose a sun lounger and spend the day enjoying a little downtime. If you start to feel hungry, pop over to Neptune Grill which offers a variety of tasty treats. 
• The Globe - Deck 2 - This circular venue will be your main stop for all things culture aboard Arcadia. Elegant lighting creates a warm and romantic atmosphere making it the perfect location to watch the latest film release or enjoy late-night cabaret. Here, you might also attend an art auction or dance the night away as live musicians perform. 
• Monte Carlo Casino - Deck 2 - Feeling lucky? Stop by Monte Carlo Casino for an evening of thrills. After enjoying a show or a delicious dinner with friends, head into the casino and continue the fun. Adorned with rich fabrics and plush furniture, this venue is loved for its glamorous feel.

As the flagship in the Fred. Olsen Cruise Line fleet, Bolette leads by example. Best loved for her elegance, impressive amenities and welcoming atmosphere, the 1,338-passenger ship is a fantastic option to explore the world. You’ll find an impressive range of dining options, as well as plenty of lounges, entertainment spaces and spa facilities.

• The Earth Room - Deck 5 – Newly added in 2023, the Earth Room is the perfect place to spend time if you’re curious about the wonderful planet we live on. Here, you’ll find a specially selected array of unique books on subjects such as evolution, climate change, fossil fuels and much more. There are also fascinating videos to watch and digital literature to read. 
• The Botanical Room - Deck 5 – Bask in the peaceful surroundings of the Botanical Room. Dedicated to honouring the spectacular beauty of Earth, this lounge has been decorated with lush greens and vibrant yellows. Get lost in books on the various species of flora and plant care or leaf through magazines on gardening and flowers. 
• The Olsen Art Studio - Deck 9 – Get your creative juices flowing with a trip to The Olsen Art Studio. The studio is a bright and airy space brimming with arts and crafts materials. You might decide to take part in guided classes and activities or take the time to work on your own projects. Whether you’re an experienced artist, someone who occasionally likes to draw in their spare time, or someone who would love to get back into artistic pursuits, this is a welcoming space for all to enjoy.
• Neptune Lounge and Balcony - Deck 4 – A visit to Bolette’s two-tiered entertainment venue is guaranteed to make for an evening to remember. From enthralling shows performed by professional artists and performers to enchanting magicians and illusionists, there is so much on offer here. During the day, this space is used for Fred. Olsen’s Signature Experiences. Expect Q&A sessions and fascinating talks and activities, designed to deepen your understanding of the destinations you’ll visit on your voyage, delivered by guest speakers. 

Silver Dawn joined the Silversea fleet in 2022 and has since become a firm favourite. Offering the perfect blend of intimacy and luxury with an extensive amount of choice, it’s clear to see why this ship is such a popular choice for a world cruise. Boasting eight dining options, entertainment facilities and a pioneering wellness programme, you’ll find there’s plenty to keep you busy. 

• S.A.L.T. Lab - Deck 4 - This interactive space allows guests to dive deeply into local culinary heritage as talented chefs share insights into how the particular region’s food is central to its culture. Engage in fascinating workshops, lectures and cooking demonstrations. Expect an immersive experience that gives your journey a magical, new dimension.
• Panorama Lounge - Deck 9 - Deck - Whether you’re searching for a peaceful place to watch the world go by, a spot to socialise with new or old friends, or an evening venue to enjoy your favourite cocktail, the Panorama Lounge is the perfect venue to spend time in. As evening rolls around, enjoy music performances from pianists or the in-house DJ.  
• Venetian Lounge - Deck 5 - There’s nothing quite like an evening spent watching a spectacular show. Marvel at captivating full-scale productions, as well as incredible feature films. Inspired by the golden age of glamour, you can expect a stylish and intimate setting perfect for an evening of dazzling sights. 
• Observation Library - Deck 11 - For many, nothing is as peaceful as being surrounded by books. The Observation Library is set on the highest level of the ship and offers striking ocean views. Borrow a book from the in-house library and spend an afternoon getting lost in a gripping read in a cosy setting. Or, you might decide to flick through the papers before simply sitting back and enjoying the view.

As the newest ship in the Cunard fleet, Queen Anne seamlessly blends classic with contemporary. You can expect to enjoy much-loved signature spaces from across the fleet. Plus, make the most of incredible new dining and entertainment experiences, wellness facilities and much more. With so much to enjoy, you’ll find that there’s plenty to keep you busy onboard Queen Anne as you sail around the world.   

• The Golden Lion - Deck 2 - A warm and welcoming ambience awaits at the onboard pub. Boasting an impressive selection of ales - including Cunard exclusives - and wines from around the world, sit back and sip your favourite tipple as you enjoy live entertainment. If you’re feeling peckish, this venue is home to a menu designed by two Michelin-starred chef Michel Roux.
• Mareel Wellness & Beauty - Decks 10 and 11 - Experience an oasis of calm with soothing treatments, nourishing food and serene surroundings. With state-of-the-art equipment, expert therapists and luxury treatments, visit the Mareel Wellness & Beauty centre and rejuvenate your senses. 
• Panorama Pool Club - Deck 9 - Soak up the sunshine at the stylish Panorama Pool Club as you sail to the next exotic destination. You might choose to start your day with a refreshing dip in the pool or nab a sunlounger and get lost in a good book. Enjoy tasty al fresco nibbles and freshly shaken cocktails throughout the day as DJs and live bands provide poolside entertainment. 
• Bright Lights Society - Deck 2 - Providing a truly immersive experience, an evening at Bright Lights Society is one that you’ll want to relive over and over again. From the moment you step inside the venue, prepare to be mesmerised by the opulent setting and electric atmosphere. Enjoy world-class entertainment from talented performers and dazzling musicians. 

Seven Seas Mariner offers the opportunity to enjoy a world cruise adventure from the comfort of an ultra-luxury cruise ship. With a 696-passenger capacity, you’ll enjoy a staff-to-guest ratio of almost 1:1 ensuring that your every need is met. From spacious suites and outstanding dining options to incredible wellness facilities and evenings filled with music and fun, prepare for a cruising experience that you’ll never forget with Regent Seven Seas Cruises. 

• Constellation Theater - Decks 5 and 6 - Visit this phenomenal venue for high-energy performances created and produced by Regent’s expert Broadway choreographers and directors. Prepare to be awe-struck by these vibrant shows. Spread over two decks, this lavish venue boasts plush seating and opulent surroundings.
• Horizon Lounge - Deck 6 – Horizon Lounge is an ideal spot to sit back, relax and listen to talented live musicians who play at various times throughout the day. A firm favourite for those keen on enjoying an expertly crafted cocktail or an after-dinner drink.
• Prime 7 - Deck 5 – For an incomparable dining experience in a truly luxurious setting, visit Prime 7. Serving classic steakhouse favourites with a modern twist, this restaurant is certainly not one to be missed. After a day spent working up an appetite by making the most of the onboard amenities or venturing out on exciting shore excursions, savour succulent steaks, sumptuous seafood and mouthwatering sides. 
• Serene Spa & Wellness™ - Deck 7 – Enrich your travel experience with Serene Spa & Wellness™. Indulge in restorative treatments and services that aim to soothe both the body and mind. Escape to this tranquil onboard retreat and prepare to have any worries pampered away. The wide array of services includes massages, facials, body wraps and much more. There are even exclusive treatments that have been curated especially for the cruise line. 

Still wondering if a world cruise is for you? Read next: 5 reasons to book a world cruise