Eight Australians have departed on an epic, 371-day cruise around the world

Eight Australians have embarked on a 371-day voyage that promises to be one of the most ambitious and immersive journeys in modern travel history. Departing from Rome on September 1, 2026, the group will sail aboard the Oceania cruise ship Regatta, part of My Cruises' Explorations by Norwegian program. Their itinerary spans over 230 ports across every continent except Antarctica, taking them through some of the world's most iconic and remote locations. The cruise will conclude in Southampton after nearly a year of travel, marking the culmination of a journey that includes destinations ranging from the icy fjords of Greenland to the sun-kissed beaches of the Caribbean and the dense jungles of the Amazon. The route is meticulously planned to ensure optimal seasonal conditions for each destination. Travelers will witness the cherry blossoms in Japan during spring, the Northern Lights dancing above Norway in winter, and the vibrant Mediterranean landscapes before the summer heat intensifies. Stops include major cities such as New York, Vancouver, Tokyo, Mumbai, Barcelona, and Dublin, alongside less commonly visited spots like Cartagena in Colombia and Banjul, the capital of Gambia. This diverse selection reflects the cruise’s aim to offer both classic and unconventional travel experiences, catering to adventurers seeking depth and authenticity. Michael Middleton, global head of cruise at My Cruises, highlighted the increasing demand for such extended voyages. He noted that Australians, known for their love of travel, are increasingly drawn to world cruises that provide a unique blend of exploration and comfort. “From the Norwegian coast to an African safari and the Amazon rainforest, the combination is something else,” he remarked. The cruise’s design allows travelers to experience multiple regions in a single journey, fostering a deeper connection with each destination. The Regatta is equipped to access areas that larger cruise ships typically cannot, enhancing the sense of discovery and immersion. In addition to this flagship voyage, My Cruises has announced plans for other world cruises in 2027. One option is a 24-night cruise departing from Southampton in October, heading to Cape Town. Another is an eight-night return trip from Singapore in December, visiting Thailand and Cambodia. These shorter options cater to those who may find the 371-day journey too extensive, while still offering a taste of global travel. A second full-world cruise is set to depart from Sydney in February 2027, slightly shorter at 367 days but poised to become the longest cruise ever offered from Australia. The cost of the 371-day cruise starts at $119,990 per person for twin share, a price point that underscores the exclusivity and scale of the adventure. However, the value proposition is compelling, as the package includes return domestic flights, airport transfers, specialty dining, beverages, shore excursion credits, Wi-Fi, and gratuities, all bundled into a single, seamless experience. Travelers avoid the hassle of long-haul flights and the repetitive routine of hotel stays, instead enjoying a consistent home base from which they can explore new locales every day. This model appeals to those seeking effortless luxury and comprehensive coverage of global destinations. The cruise industry continues to evolve, driven by consumer preferences for experiential travel. As more travelers seek ways to see the world without the logistical burdens of traditional travel, world cruises represent a novel solution. While the 371-day voyage is currently the pinnacle of this trend, the availability of shorter options suggests that the market is expanding to accommodate different levels of ambition and budget. With these developments, the future of global travel appears increasingly accessible and integrated, offering unprecedented opportunities for exploration.