Royal Caribbean Announces Ultimate World Cruise

Around the world in 274 days! Yes, you read that correctly. The latest offering from Royal Caribbean is a record-setter with the announcement of their inaugural Ultimate World Cruise. This epic voyage will visit all seven continents, over 150 destinations, 65 countries, and the opportunity to visit 11 great wonders of the world. 

According to Royal Caribbean, this journey is the longest and most comprehensive world cruise available. The voyage will take place onboard Serenade of the Seas, sailing roundtrip from Miami on December 10, 2023, through September 10, 2024. 

“This is the world cruise of world cruises,” said Michael Bayley, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean International. “Now more than ever, people have resolved to travel the world and make up for lost time. Royal Caribbean is making that a reality with the ultimate vacation that welcomes those seeking adventure and exploration to taste, dance, and dream with us around the world. To travelers asking themselves where they should go next, we say everywhere.”

Guests can choose to sail on the full Ultimate World Cruise or choose from any of the four expeditions covering the Americas, Asia-Pacific, the Mediterranean, and Northern Europe:

Round the Horn: Americas and Antarctica Expedition (December 10, 2023 - February 11, 2024)

Spanning three continents, this 26 destination journey begins in Miami and travels the Caribbean, and then heads to glacier-studded Antarctica and around Cape Horn. Travelers will visit four of the world’s wonders along the way in Central and South America, including Chichen Itza in Cozumel, Christ the Redeemer, in Rio de Janeiro, Iguazu Falls near Buenos Aires, and UNESCO World Heritage Site Machu Picchu in Peru. This leg departs in sunny Los Angeles, California.  

Wonders of Asia and the Pacific Expedition (February 11, 2024 - May 9, 2024)

Action-packed, this voyage leg offers three continents, 40 destinations, three wonders. Port stops include the Hawaiian Islands and the crystal clear waters of Moorea and French Polynesia. The thrills continue with an exploration of New Zealand and Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. Next on the itinerary is beautiful Bali, Indonesia, followed by two of the most iconic manmade world wonders, the Great Wall of China and India’s Taj Mahal. You will also stop in gems of the South Pacific – from Vietnam to Malaysia. Finally, they are rounding out the expedition in Japan, with the distinctive culture in Tokyo, street food in Osaka, and the tropical beaches of Okinawa.

Middle East Treasures and Marvels of the Med Expedition (May 9, 2024 - July 10, 2024)

This exciting leg features visits to three continents, 44 destinations, and four world wonders. This expedition brings many of history’s greatest mysteries, myths, and legends to life, beginning in Dubai. Travelers will visit ancient sites, including Jordan’s lost city of Petra, the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt, the Temple of Artemis in Ephesus, and the Colosseum in Rome. Stops also include Greece’s Olympia,  once a sanctuary site to honor Zeus and the location of the first Olympic games. Then, the journey continues to even more destinations known for their storied history — like Split, Croatia, and Cannes and Provence in France.

Capitals of Culture (July 10 - September 10, 2024)

The final leg features three continents and 40 destinations. The final part of the Ultimate World Cruise is an immersive, cultural experience that begins in the Mediterranean and heads north. At travelers’ fingertips is the opportunity to discover Barcelona’s brilliant architecture, including Antoni Gaudi’s famed Sagrada Familia and whimsical Park Guell, and savor new flavors across continents — such as an indulgent lunch in a Parisian bistro and a dinner of tagine and mint tea in Morocco. Museums, theaters, and galleries line the streets of St. Petersburg, Russia, while larger-than-life fjords await in Norway. Finally, guests can reflect on their epic voyage in the geothermal waters of the Blue Lagoon in Iceland before visiting New York on their way back to Miami.

Bookings for the entire Ultimate World Cruise open for sale starting today, with an exclusive one-week window through October 26, 2021, for Royal Caribbean’s Crown & Anchor Society Diamond status members and above. Guests booking the entire voyage will enjoy world-class perks such as business class air, premium transfers, and an evening event the night prior to the cruise with accommodations at a luxury 5-star hotel. Additionally, Crown & Anchor Society Platinum status members and above will receive a bonus Seven New World Wonders shore excursion package and other perks, including a Deluxe Beverage package, VOOM Wi-Fi, laundry service, and more.

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