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This 3-year Cruise Visits 135 Countries on 7 Continents — and It Might Cost Less Than You Pay in Rent

Welcome to the Work From Ship life.

Want to set sail and just keep going? Life at Sea Cruises just announced it’s accepting reservations on its first-ever, three-year cruise, which will travel 130,000 miles, visit 135 countries across seven continents, and stop in 375 ports of call, all aboard the MV Gemini .

At each port, the vessel will stay docked for multiple days to allow its passengers to explore at their leisure. It visits 13 wonders of the world, including Egypt's Pyramids of Giza and Mexico's Chichén Itzá, and more than 100 islands, including numerous Caribbean and Central American visits. The cruise also spends 98 days in South American and Antarctica.

Courtesy of Life at Sea

The ship provides everything one would need to live at sea for several years, including spacious cabins, dining and entertainment options, recreational areas like a wellness center, sun deck, and pool, and plentiful work spaces for those who want to live the digital nomad life at sea. That includes a business center with meeting rooms, 14 offices, and a business library for all Zoom call needs. 

“Professionals need connectivity, the right amenities, and the functionality to perform their jobs. There is no other cruise product that offers this sort of flexibility to their customers,” said Mikael Petterson, the managing director of Life at Sea Cruises, in a statement released to Travel + Leisure .

The ship also has other practical amenities, including a 24-hour hospital, which offers guests free medical visits, learning experiences for guests like lectures and classes, and volunteer opportunities at various ports. 

“Life at Sea Cruises offers the ultimate cruise without having to sacrifice the comforts of home,” Irina Strembitsky, director of sales and marketing, added in the statement. “It’s your home at sea with the world as your backyard.”

The three-year voyage departs from Istanbul on Nov. 1, 2023, with additional pick-ups in Barcelona and Miami later in 2023. Pricing begins at $29,999 per year. The company also offers payment options starting from $2,499 per month, which includes food and beverage. Cabin options range from 130-square-foot interior rooms to 260-square-foot balcony suites. See more about the sailing and make your booking at lifeatseacruises.com . 

This 3-Year Cruise Will Visit 148 Countries on All 7 Continents

The epic journey departs from istanbul in november, with sailings (including accommodations and meals) starting at $38,500 per year..

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Your home at sea: The 1,074-passenger MV Gemini will be where guests “live” throughout the three-year journey.

Courtesy of Life at Sea Cruises

How do you pack a suitcase for a trip that includes ogling emperor penguins in the Falkland Islands, lazing on the beach in Hawai‘i, and spending nights out in major cities like Cape Town and Beijing? It’s a question you’ll have to ask yourself if you sign up for Life at Sea Cruises’ new around-the-world itinerary.

The Florida-based Life at Sea Cruises, a spin-off of ship management company Miray Cruises, recently announced a three-year cruise , during which guests will sail roughly 130,000 miles, stop in 375 ports across 148 countries, and visit every continent.

The vessel will depart from Istanbul, Turkey, on November 1, 2023, before making additional stops (where passengers can also embark) in Barcelona and Miami. In the more than 1,000 days that follow, the ship will explore much of South America, Antarctica, the Caribbean, Central America, the USA (including California, Hawai‘i, Washington, and Alaska), northern Asia, the South Pacific, Australia, countries on the South China Sea and the Indian Ocean, southern and western Africa, and coastal Europe.

The balcony suites feature a queen bed, bathroom, and living room area.

During that time, the sailing will deliver passengers to myriad iconic and UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the pyramids of Giza in Egypt, Machu Picchu in Peru, the Great Wall of China, Rio de Janeiro’s Christ the Redeemer statue, and India’s Taj Mahal.

While other around-the-world cruises typically spend a day or two at each port, the advantage of this much longer sailing is that it will dock for up to seven nights in some larger cities, like Shanghai and Singapore.

The cruise was originally slated to take place on the MV Gemini, which could accommodate up to 1,074 passengers, but due to demand, the company has since switched to the MV Lara , which allows for 1,266 passengers.

Cabin sizes range from 145 square feet for interior staterooms (which include a double bed, a bathroom, and a desk) to 220 square feet for balcony suites (which have an additional living room area).

Pricing, which includes all meals, drinks (both alcoholic and nonalcoholic), laundry, Wi-Fi, gratuities, housekeeping, and port fees, starts at $38,513 and goes up to $98,226 per year based on accommodations. There isn’t the option to do shorter legs; however, it is possible to go in on one room with family and friends and divvy up the costs with who is on the boat at any given time. The company is also offering a matchmaking scheme, where passengers co-own a cabin with another group and split time on board.

For meals, passengers can choose to dine at either of the two main restaurants, visit the café on the pool deck, or order room service. The ship’s amenities include a swimming pool, sun deck, a golf simulator, a fitness center, and a hospital staffed with healthcare providers and a dentist and outfitted with a pharmacy and medical equipment such as X-ray and ultrasound machines and defibrillators. (According to the cruise line, the medical staff “even has the capability to perform certain surgeries.”) For those who want to work from sea, there’s also a large business center (replacing a former casino) with meeting rooms, dedicated office spaces, a library, and a lounge area.

In the past year, as cruisers have returned to the sea with a fervor following the pandemic pause in global sailings, cruise lines have been witnessing incredible demand for around-the-world sailings —one of Oceania Cruises’ 180-day itineraries sold out in 30 minutes last year. Life at Sea Cruises isn’t the only cruise line that has introduced the idea of a multi-year sailing. Another cruise company, Storylines, recently unveiled plans to launch a residential cruise ship, MV Narrative , that will sail indefinitely starting in 2024.

This story was originally published in March 2023 and has since been updated with new information.

You can live at sea from $38,500 a year on this cruise ship that will circle the globe for three years — see inside

• Life at Sea Cruises will operate a three-year cruise around the world starting in November.
• The cruise starts at a little over $38,500 per person per year for a 145-square-foot interior stateroom.
• See what life will be like aboard the roughly 30-year-old MV Gemini.

Travelers who have dreamt of living at sea can finally do so this November.

Life at Sea Cruises will give travelers the opportunity to spend three years on a cruise ship while sailing around the world. Pricing starts at a little over $231,000 per person for the full three-year itinerary.

The vessel will begin its globetrotting affair in Istanbul on November 1, but will also pick up guests in Barcelona and Miami.

The ship has 627 cabins to accommodate up to 1,074 travelers. Throughout the three years, these seafarers will travel over 130,000 miles to 375 ports in 135 countries.

Along the way, they'll see all seven continents while visiting destinations like several of the Wonders of the World; Half Moon Island, Antarctica; Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; and Seoul, South Korea.

Most around-the-world cruises spend several hours or up to two nights at ports of call.

But industry veteran Mike Petterson, the managing director of Life at Sea Cruises and the brainpower behind the new brand, said this isn't enough time to explore larger destinations like Beijing, China.

So instead, the Gemini will dock for up to seven nights in one destination.

This includes one week each in Shanghai and Singapore, which will also double as wet docks. If the ship has to head into a dry dock for repairs, Life at Sea passengers will be put up in a hotel.

Petterson conceived of Life at Sea before the COVID-19 pandemic and partnered with Miray International's Miray Cruises in late 2022 to turn this concept into a reality.

The new company will use Miray's cruise ship workers and the Gemini, one of its three ships.

Throughout the three years at sea, the Gemini will spend 288 overnights at different ports, averaging about two nights per destination.

A trip to any of these locations could cost the typical globetrotter hundreds or thousands of dollars in travel and accommodation fees.

However, passage on Life at Sea's Gemini will alleviate upfront costs for travelers by giving them the option to spread payments out over the course of three years.

But don't expect a glittering new hotel at sea with all the bells and whistles of a novel mega ship.

The upper-premium, 30-year-old vessel was refurbished last year. And the team is now spending an additional $10 million renovating the interior.

Think of the Gemini as a floating city with its own security, medical center, and offices with Starlink WiFi.

Source: Life at Sea Cruises

No city would be complete without a jail and a morgue. Luckily (or unluckily) the Gemini has both.

Cruise lines like Royal Caribbean have seen record-breaking demand for giant cruise ships that can accommodate thousands of travelers.

Source: Insider

But Life at Sea is taking a more scaled-down approach to the floating hotel.

Seafarers will have access to typical cruise ship amenities, which include four lounges, a golf simulator, and a sundeck with a pool.

For meals at sea, passengers can dine at one of the two primary dining rooms, the restaurant on the pool deck, or order food anywhere on the ship using its app.

But unlike the average cruise vessel, the Gemini will also have amenities like a robust business center and a hospital with a pharmacy and dentist.

Like any all-inclusive cruise, these extras — including hospital visits — won't come at an additional cost.

These around-the-world cruises are often booked by retirees.

But Petterson says Life at Sea is targeting an incrementally younger demographic: pre-retirees, generally people between 55 to 65 years of age.

To accommodate the remote workers, the business center — which will replace the ship's casino — will have meeting rooms, offices, and a library.

Days at sea with no land in sight is inevitable for transoceanic itineraries: Travelers on the Gemini will have at least 300 of these sailing days.

To stave off boredom, travelers can spend their days around the ship's lounges, attending seminars and shows, or resting in their cabins.

Source: Life at Sea

The cheapest and smallest stateroom measures 130 square feet and starts at $90,000 per person for the three-year trip.

Like any cruise ship, interior staterooms can feel dingy.

To prevent this, these cabins will come with screens that will display a live view of the ocean, creating a virtual "window."

For those looking to spend more cash, the most expensive cabin — a suite with a balcony — will run travelers nearly $330,000 in total.

Source: Life At Sea Cruises

These staterooms pale in comparison to the over 1,000-square-foot suites on several modern cruise ships.

But according to Petterson, at least they're more affordable: "It's meant more for the mass market and retirees as opposed to doctors with trophy wives."

Travelers can either pay monthly or pay the entire three years upfront with the option to finance the payment.

However, they can't book shorter legs of the trip. It's all three years or nothing.

For those with commitment issues, there's also the option to divide travel with another passenger, taking turns spending time on the ship.

Three years without seeing friends and family can be a long time. Luckily, they're welcome as well.

They can either crash on a roll-in bed in a resident's stateroom, stay in a guest cabin, or stay in a passenger's stateroom while they are off the ship.

Reservations for Life at Sea's Gemini open on March 1.

Petterson says the company already has about 20 people who are ready to book.

Launching sales seven months ahead of the journey may seem risky for an industry that often relies on bookings a year in advance.

Source: Insider  

However, Petterson, a self-described "optimist," expects the ship will sail at an over 55% occupancy rate at any given time as world cruises have skyrocketed in popularity over the last two years.

Over the last few years, around-the-world sailings have been booking well despite the long-term commitment.

For travelers like retirees and remote workers, this extended life at sea promises peaceful afternoons and the opportunity to slowly travel the world with minimal planning.

Monthslong around-the-world cruises have been selling in record time in 2021 and 2022.

Source: Insider , Insider

But for travelers who'd rather spend years vacationing at sea, there's also Storylines, Victoria Cruises Line, and now Life at Sea.

Source: Insider , Insider  

Victoria Cruises Line's Victoria Majestic, a former Holland America Line vessel, will begin sailing around the world indefinitely in May…

…while Storylines' residential cruise ship, the MV Narrative, will begin its own nonstop circumnavigation in 2025.

Some floor plans on the Narrative are already sold out, a testament to the rising success of these floating condominiums.

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Epic 3-Year World Cruise Sets Sail This November — What You Need To Know

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Miray Cruises made waves when it announced the 3-year Life at Sea Cruises world voyage on February 27, 2023. In an era of highly sought-after world cruises, this news created a tsunami of excitement and subsequent booking requests. Not only did the cruise have an extraordinary 130,000-mile-plus itinerary, but the entry price of $29,999 per person per year made it alluring to pre-retirees, retirees, remote workers, and adventurous travel lovers wishing to explore the world.

Since that time, some things have changed. These include management turnover, changes in embarkation ports and prices, and the acquisition of a larger ship. Answers to some key questions have been sorted out, but others remain outstanding. 

Here’s what to know about this blockbuster, first-ever Life at Sea 3-year world cruise. 

Newer, Bigger Cruise Ship

Life at Sea Cruises is a new venture launched by Miray Cruises, a subsidiary of Miray International . Headquartered in Turkey, Miray Cruises has owned and operated passenger vessels as a cruise ship hotel management firm. Miray Cruises and U.S.-based Life at Sea Cruises originally planned to operate the history-making, 3-year world cruise with Miray Cruises’ ship, MV Gemini .

According to CNN , some Life at Sea Cruises team members left the company in May as part of a dispute about the ship and other matters, which raised customer concerns. Now, Miray Cruises may have alleviated some of those with the purchase of an alternative ship.

Miray Cruises recently revealed it has obtained a newer, larger ship for its 3-year Life at Sea world cruise. The bigger ship, to be named MV Lara , provides more staterooms and living areas for residents. According to Miray Cruises CEO Kendra Holmes, “The MV Lara was acquired to accommodate the impressive, unprecedented high demand from cruisers who wanted to book the voyage. We wanted to accommodate as many adventurers as possible without compromising on comfort and space on the ship.”

Kendra Holmes told TravelAwaits the MV Lara has 42,289 gross tons, 634 staterooms, and space for 1,268 passengers, although Miray Cruises will only book the ship to 85 percent capacity. She also commented that the vessel is currently sailing in western Europe and will go into dry dock for any needed refurbishments to become the MV Lara by the end of September into the beginning of October. According to the Miray Cruises’ CEO, MV Gemini will remain with Miray Cruises and continue to operate her 3- and 4-day cruises in the Aegean Sea.

Bucket-List Cruise Itinerary

Miray Cruises’ Life at Sea marathon 3-year journey looks impressive. According to Miray Cruises CEO Kendra Holmes, “Life at Sea Cruises is the world’s first and only 3-year cruise and is also the voyage with the most extensive itinerary and the longest port stops.” The planned itinerary created by Robert Dixon includes 382 ports, seven continents, 148 countries, 103 tropical islands, 13 Wonders of the World, and several UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The world cruise will include 288 overnight port stays, with multiple days spent in numerous ports of call. This will allow additional time for travelers to explore a wide variety of destinations and sites. Guests can participate in shore excursions and take part in volunteer and philanthropic activities. According to the voyage’s brochure, Life at Sea also plans to set up tee times and transportation to golf courses in many ports.

Family members and friends are welcome to join residents during the Life at Sea voyage. Miray Cruises CEO Kendra Holmes said, “Residents can host one visitor for up to 30 days and two visitors for up to 7 days per quarter. There will also be cabins available for friends and family to rent for up to 7 days.”

Miray Cruises will offer welcoming events in Turkey for all guests prior to boarding. These special events will take place at the same time as the 100th-anniversary revelries celebrating the forming of the Turkish Republic.

Highly-Inclusive Experience

Passengers enjoy cruising’s highly-inclusive travel style and fares on Life at Sea’s 3-year voyage cover much of the cruise experience. Cruise prices include meals in all dining venues, alcohol with dinner, high-speed internet, entertainment and performances, enrichment lectures and programming, port fees and taxes, housekeeping and laundry services, and business center access. In addition, the ship will feature an onboard hospital offering free medical visits and a team of medical professionals providing 24-hour, on-call services.

Some aspects of the Life at Sea cruise are not included in the fare, which is the case with many voyages. Prices do not include items such as shore excursions, spa services, alcohol served outside of dinner, permanent office space, medical procedures and medications, and some seasonal onboard premium services.

Cruise Ship Cabins And Public Spaces

Life at Sea Cruises’ floating hotel will feature a variety of stateroom options. Inside cabins are 145 square feet in size, balcony cabins are 210 square feet, and oceanview cabins range from 140–220 square feet. All staterooms have a queen-sized bed, although there are options for two single beds. A limited number of accessible cabins are also offered.

Since residents will be sailing on MV Lara for 3 years, living spaces are an important aspect of life on board . The ship’s public venues are being redesigned for long-term residence so that passengers will feel at home. Very few images of MV Lara ’s cabins and living spaces are currently publicly available.

According to Miray Cruises’ CEO, MV Lara will have two dining venues for sit-down and buffet meals. A specialty restaurant will be on board for special occasions and the common areas will offer snacks and other treats at all hours. The ship will also feature a spa and wellness center, pool and sun deck, bars and lounges, and a business center.

Rising Cruise Fares

Prices have escalated significantly since Miray Cruises first announced the Life at Sea Cruise. However, the current fares are for staterooms on the newer, larger ship.

When the Life at Sea world cruise opened for bookings on March 1, the base price of the 3-year voyage was $29,999 per person per year based on double occupancy in an inside cabin. Those initial prices are no longer available. After the announcement of the bigger ship, cruise fares were listed at $38,513 per person per year based on double occupancy in an inside stateroom.

Miray Cruises has now confirmed a current starting price of $43,860 per person per year based on double occupancy. When asked about the rising cruise fares, CEO Kendra Holmes stated, “As with any voyage, prices increase at a steady rate, and the sooner residents book the voyage with us, the lower the price will be.”

The cruise line is offering a 15 percent discount on the double-occupancy rate for solo travelers.

Changing Embarkation Ports

Miami, Florida, was originally one of the three available embarkation ports for Miray Cruises’ Life at Sea world cruise. That embarkation port has been eliminated. The three available ports are now Istanbul on November 1, Barcelona on November 5, and Freeport, Bahamas, on November 15.

Since there is no U.S. embarkation port, it appears Miray Cruises will no longer be required to post a Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) performance bond. This may cause concern for some travelers. The FMC bond protects the passenger deposits of guests embarking in the U.S. in the case of cruise operator non-performance.

When asked about the elimination of the Miami embarkation port, Kendra Holmes told TravelAwaits , “Most of our residents chose to embark in Europe. They are either joining us for our planned celebrations pre-sailing in Istanbul or at our second embarkation point in Barcelona. Less than 10 (out of hundreds) residents requested embarkation in Miami.”

Holmes added, “Given this low number and the flexibility of these residents, we moved the embarkation to Freeport, Bahamas, to give us even more days in South America for our itinerary. Sailing straight to Freeport from Europe gives us additional time in Peru, so our residents don’t miss the opportunity to explore Machu Picchu.” 

Travel Insurance Availability

Comprehensive travel insurance is important to consider for any upcoming trips. “We are actively searching for a travel insurance partner but have not yet settled on one,” Holmes said. “We estimate to be able to share more information in the fall.”

Travelers generally consider multiple insurance providers and carefully review each policy’s terms. According to Stan Sandberg, co-founder of TravelInsurance.com , several travel insurers can provide coverage for trips up to $100,000 per person in trip costs, including cruises. Sandberg told TravelAwaits , “Most comprehensive travel insurance policies will max out at 364 days in terms of trip duration. There are standalone travel medical insurance policies that can be purchased for 364 days with the option to renew coverage near the expiration date.”

Sandberg also noted, “While some travel insurers will offer cancellation due to financial default of a travel supplier (such as a cruise line) — and note this applies when a company ceases operations as opposed to entering into a bankruptcy process — many travelers will also consider an optional Cancel For Any Reason upgrade, which allows them to cancel for any reason at all.”

Related Reading: 

• 8 Best Cruise Lines According To Our Readers
• I Just Went On My First Solo Cruise — 5 Reasons I Can’t Wait To Do It Again
• 7 Things I Learned On My First Caribbean Cruise, And Still Follow Almost 30 Years Later

Nancy is founder of the Family Travel Network, launched in partnership with America Online. She serves on the Board of the Family Travel Association and is a consultant and frequent presenter at top travel industry conferences and events. Nancy is a member of the North American Travel Journalists Association and the International Food, Wine, and Travel Writers Association. She was honored with the Family Travel Association's Mike Janes Media Member Award in 2022.

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• Miray's Life at Sea Cruises announces industry's first 3-year...

Miray's Life at Sea Cruises announces industry's first 3-year World Voyage on MV Gemini

The industry's ever-longest/first 3-year World Voyage , offered on MV Gemini ship by Life at Sea Cruises (new travel brand launched by Miray International/shipowner) is setting sail this November and visiting 135 different countries across the globe.

Passengers are able to board for just GBP70 (US$125.21) per night.

Setting sail from Istanbul (Turkey) on November 1st, the 3-year journey across a total of 209,214 km will call at 375 destinations (ports and islands) on the 7 continents. The ship will also be picking up passengers from Barcelona (Spain) and Miami (Florida USA) .

Vacationers will be able to see 13 World Wonders, including India's Taj Mahal, Brazil's Christ the Redeemer in Rio , and Rome 's Colosseum.

MV Gemini is expected to dock for up to 7 nights at a single destination.

Onboard, there are a variety of staterooms to choose from. Fares for the entry-level cabins ('Inside/Outside Staterooms') start at US$3,726 per month for cabins ranging between 130-140 ft2 (12-13 m2). The 'Junior Suites/Balcony Suites' are the most luxurious onboard, ranging 210-260 ft2 (19.5-24 m2), and start at US$9,989 per month, which works out to US$119,294 per year per person.

Travelers can either pay monthly or pay the entire 3 years upfront, with the option to finance the payment. They will not be able to book shorter stays.

The reselling of staterooms is not allowed. Guests (including kids) can visit at any time.

The Around-the-World Voyage is also available in smaller itinerary segments.

• The 206-day "Explore the Mesmerizing Landscapes of the South Pacific & Australia" itinerary visits 71 destinations in 26 countries.
• The 177-day "Embrace Europe's Timeless Charms" itinerary visits 74 destinations in 38 countries.
• The 173-day "Journey to the Heart of North Asia" itinerary visits 54 destinations in 32 countries.
• The 169-day "Cultural Heritage in Asia and the South China Sea" itinerary visits 55 destinations in 12 countries.
• The 98-day "A Journey Through South America and Antarctica" itinerary visits 35 destinations in 11 countries.
• The 98-day "North America & Hawaii" itinerary visits 32 destinations in 8 countries.
• The 70-day "Journey to the Heart of North Asia" itinerary visits 23 destinations in 4 countries.
• The 67-day "Discover the Beauty of the Caribbean & Central America" itinerary visits 29 destinations in 23 countries.

Reservations for Life at Sea's Gemini 3-year voyage open today, March 1st.

Prior to the Life at Sea Cruises service, MV Gemini is scheduled for an extensive drydock refurbishment . During the drydocking will be added a Business Center that consists of 2x meeting rooms and 14x offices (available for rent), Library, Relaxation Lounge, Cafe Bar. The Business Center will be fitted with large LED screens, modern audio-video equipment, printers, Wi-Fi Internet, and will be served by dedicated assistance staff.

Want more time on a cruise? This voyage will sail for three years for $29,999 a year

If a week or two isn't enough time on a cruise, Life at Sea has an alternative for you. The brand from Miray Cruises will offer a three-year cruise around the world visiting nearly 400 ports, the brand announced Wednesday.

The cruise will take place on the MV Gemini ship, which was originally built in 1992 and underwent renovations in October, Mikael Petterson, managing director of Life at Sea Cruises, said in an email. The vessel, which can accommodate nearly 1,100 passengers, will spend multiple days in each port during the voyage.

"Life at Sea Cruises offers the ultimate bucket list cruise without having to sacrifice the comforts of home," Irina Strembitsky, Life at Sea Cruises' director of sales and marketing, said in a news release. "It's your home at sea with the world as your backyard."

How long can you be on a cruise?: Why some passengers opt to sail for 6 months or longer

Can travelers still find cruise deals?: Yes ... for now

When is Life at Sea's three-year cruise?

The cruise will depart from Istanbul, Turkey on Nov. 1. In addition to the previous renovations, the ship will be "completely revitalized" this fall prior to setting sail on the three-year trip, Petterson said.

Cabins range from 130 square feet for Virtual Inside and Oceanview rooms, to 260-square-foot Balcony Suites, according to the release.

Where will the cruise sail?

MV Gemini will make its way to destinations across the globe, including the Mediterranean, the Caribbean, Australia and Asia.

In addition to amenities like a swimming pool, sun deck and fitness center, the ship will feature a large business center with meeting rooms, 14 offices, a library and a lounge, so guests can work from the sea. The vessel will also have medical facilities.

How much does Life at Sea's three-year cruise cost?

The sailing starts at $29,999 each year, per person based on double occupancy, and includes all meals, drinks, Wi-Fi, service charges and more, according to Life at Sea Cruises' website . There is also a monthly payment option.

Life at Sea Cruises has a matchmaking program that allows residents to buy a cabin together for different periods and seasons, as well.

'The ship is now our home': This couple is spending their retirement on cruise ships

'A completely unique experience': Sail to Greenland's northern tip on this expedition cruise

One-way economy flights from New York to Istanbul start at $533 and $1,824 for business class, according to Google Flights .

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

Life at Sea Cruises to Offer World’s First 3-Year World Cruise

• February 28, 2023

Miray International is announcing the launch of a new cruise product named Life at Sea Cruises.

Operating the MV Gemini, the new brand is set to offer a three-year world cruise where guests will cruise, live, work and explore from their home at sea, according to the company.

According to the Life at Sea website , the new all-inclusive voyage includes free Wi-Fi and free medical services. Passengers will be able to invite family and friends for onboard visits for free, enjoy world-class dining, onboard entertainment and recreational activities

With prices starting at $29,999 per year and flexible payment options from $2,499 per month all-inclusive, Life at Sea Cruises offers residents the opportunity to embark on the “ultimate bucket list cruise” without having to sacrifice the comforts of home.

Cabins range from 130 sqft for Virtual Insides and Oceanview staterooms to 260 sqft Balcony Suites.

The full itinerary includes visits to 375 destinations across 135 countries. During the 3-year cruise, the vessel is set to cross the Equator 6 times while sailing to all 7 continents and visiting 13 world wonders.

With two to three days docked at most destinations, the cruise features 288 overnight stays and sails to different regions including South America, Antarctica, Europe, the Caribbean, East Asia, the South Pacific and more.

Before sailing for Life at Sea, the 1,074-guest vessel is also set to receive a first-of-its-kind business center that features two meeting rooms, 14 offices, business library, relaxing lounge and café. The area will also offer screens, conference equipment, fast Wi-Fi, printers and staff for assistance.

Passengers will be able to rent permanent office spaces and may be able to take advantage of tax benefits while living and working at sea.

After being refurbished for the new offering, the Gemini is kicking off the three-year global voyage on Nov. 1, 2023.

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They Sold Everything to Go on a 3-Year Cruise. How It All Unraveled.

The Life at Sea cruise was supposed to be the ultimate bucket-list experience: 382 port calls worldwide over 1,095 days. The only thing missing was a trip-worthy ship.

By Ceylan Yeginsu

Kara and Joe Youssef sold their two apartments, withdrew their life savings, gave up most of their belongings and, in late October, set out for Istanbul for the trip of a lifetime: a three-year cruise around the world, scheduled to depart Nov. 1.

But in late November, after months of behind-the-scenes chaos, the Youssefs were stuck in Istanbul, with the cruise company canceling the trip. It did not have a ship that could handle the journey.

The Turkish company, Miray Cruises, had announced the cruise, called Life at Sea , in March. It claimed it would be the longest cruise ever — 382 port calls over 1,095 days — and a community at sea, with opportunities to explore the globe. Starlink internet and a business center would allow passengers to work remotely.

The cruise seemed ideal for a post-pandemic era, targeting people longing for an escape. With fares starting at $90,000 for an inside cabin and going up to $975,000 for a suite, the trip even seemed like a bargain to some prospective passengers, cheaper than living three years in many cities.

Within the first month of sales, more than half of the ship’s 400 cabins had been reserved. But putting together a cruise of this magnitude is a monumental task, requiring a ship large enough to carry hundreds of people, docking rights around the world and secure funding.

Like a high-seas version of the Fyre Festival, which promised a luxury music concert in the Bahamas and delivered cold sandwiches and makeshift tents, the cruise imploded. It has left people, like the Youssefs, frustrated and confused. Despite promised refunds, only a small portion of the money has been returned so far.

In an interview in December, Vedat Ugurlu, the owner of Miray, blamed a lack of financing and interest for the cruise’s cancellation.

“We tried everything to find a solution, but at the end of the day we couldn’t get the investors and we couldn’t sell enough cabins,” he said.

That has left Ms. Youssef, 36, a former humanitarian worker from Ohio, and her husband sitting in Istanbul with three suitcases and a carry-on, waiting for a refund of $80,000.

“They kept leading us on, making us hold out hope until the very last minute, just days before we were supposed to depart,” she said. “We sold everything we have to make this dream happen. We feel completely defeated.”

A big dream, but no ship to sail on

In June 2022, as the cruise industry was recovering from its pandemic shutdown, Mikael Petterson, an entrepreneur based in Miami, had an idea for a three-year cruise. Long-term cruises are not unheard-of, but they usually last a year at most, because of the logistics involved.

Mr. Petterson had plans to hit destinations all over the world. What he did not have was a ship. Through a broker, he was introduced to Miray International, which had been offering voyages and cruise-operation services since 1996.

Mr. Ugurlu, the owner of Miray, suggested the MV Gemini. He had acquired the 400-cabin, 1,074-passenger vessel in 2019, and had mainly used it for excursions between Turkey and the Greek islands.

Mr. Petterson couldn’t afford to buy the ship, so instead the two groups joined forces. He would do the marketing while Miray took care of operations.

In November 2022, Mr. Petterson signed a three-month contract to develop their new brand: Life at Sea Cruises. He had not seen the Gemini, but said that he trusted Miray’s nearly 30 years of experience.

Kendra Holmes, then vice president for business development strategy at Miray, said the company had not only the vessel but a budget of about $10 million to refurbish it for such a long cruise. It also had the experience and staff required, she said.

Mr. Petterson visited Turkey in December 2022 and saw the Gemini, but said his focus was on design and creating renderings for marketing. He planned to carry out a technical inspection later, he said.

“The cabin configuration was perfect for the pricings and affordability we were marketing,” he said.

On March 1, 2023, Life at Sea began selling space on the cruise, drawing millions of clicks to a newly created website. “It just blew up, and we could barely keep up,” Mr. Petterson recalled.

Many of the prospective passengers had never been on a cruise. Keri Witman, 56, a marketing executive from Cincinnati, was looking for a change, a new community and adventure.

She liked the ability to travel while continuing to work. “This seemed like the perfect opportunity,” she said.

Ms. Witman was one of the first to book in April. She asked a lawyer to look into the company and, after finding no red flags, placed a $5,000 deposit for her $185,120 cabin and put her house up for sale.

Refueling concerns: Is this the right ship?

When Mr. Petterson returned to the Gemini in April, questions were raised about the ship and its itinerary. Could it even hold enough fuel to sail between some of the more distant ports? In an audio note sent to his team, Robert Dixon, the itinerary planner, said he was denied access to the engine room and was told by an engineer that the vessel could not hold enough fuel to cross the Atlantic Ocean on schedule. He also raised concerns about a planned crossing in the South Pacific.

“Even if you spend another $10 million on that ship, I don’t think it is enough to do what we want to do,” Mr. Dixon said in the recording. He declined to be interviewed.

Beyond that, there were questions about Gemini’s size. If the cruise sold out its 1,074 capacity, would there be enough space for people to lounge or work, as many of them planned to do, for three years?

A pizza shop in Orlando

Amid questions about the Gemini, tensions started to build. Mr. Petterson’s team complained that it could not process credit card transactions and lacked an escrow account to secure deposits, as is common in the United States.

Miray had expected the sales team to collect the full fare upfront, but asking for hundreds of thousands of dollars at once was prohibitive. Mr. Petterson introduced an installment plan, which helped boost sales, but caught Miray unprepared. And there was no account in the United States for the sales team to use as it secured reservations.

The head of Miray, Mr. Ugurlu, owned a pizza parlor in Orlando, Fla., and Mr. Petterson said the company asked him to deposit the initial payments into the shop’s account. According to Ms. Holmes, that was suggested as a temporary solution.

Miray pursued other ways to accept payments, including the use of Square, the online payment platform, but after Miray had a dispute with Square, Mr. Petterson, concerned at the lack of secure ways to hold deposits, asked the company to refund all the clients’ deposits. Worried that the cruise was in jeopardy, passengers canceled reservations for at least 25 cabins.

‘We felt very nervous’

In May, amid the turmoil, the Youssefs attended a webinar for prospective passengers, but heard nothing about payment issues. The couple was assured, even on another ship, that the cruise would depart on Nov. 1. On May 6, they put down a $5,000 deposit and were told that a 25 percent payment was due on June 7.

By then, Mr. Petterson had left the company. The internal corporate squabbling became public on the app and Facebook page created for the cruise. Mr. Petterson told passengers that Life at Sea was dismantled, and that Miray was refusing to answer critical questions. He urged passengers to complain to U.S. maritime authorities.

Ms. Holmes, of Miray, portrays Mr. Petterson as the loser in a power struggle. “It got to the point where somebody can’t be the captain, so they try to sink the whole ship,” she said. She became chief executive of Life at Sea and began working to reassure passengers.

Confusion and panic set in among the passengers, many of whom had already started uprooting their lives. “We felt very nervous, first sitting through one webinar with the team that left, then with Kendra Holmes,” Ms. Youssef recalled.

But in the weeks that followed, Ms. Youssef said she felt more comfortable as Ms. Holmes and her team hosted daily webinars focusing on getting a new ship.

“Kendra was very convincing and dedicated,” Ms. Youssef said, noting that “she was very realistic, whereas Mikael had promised us the sun and the moon.”

In a webinar on May 31, Ms. Holmes said that the company had decided not to set up an escrow account. She said that it would use another method of protecting passenger deposits, a bond filed with the Federal Maritime Commission, a U.S. agency that helps to regulate ocean transportation. But the bond was never filed.

A new ship and the scramble for investors

In early July, Life at Sea announced that “due to unprecedented demand,” it had acquired a larger 627-cabin ship — to be named the MV Lara. In actuality, the company had put down a deposit and was negotiating to buy the Lara with the help of investors, at a cost Mr. Ugurlu later put at between $40 million and $50 million.

At that time, Mary Rader, 68, a retired social worker from Westchester County, N.Y., asked a travel agency to look into Miray Cruises and was told it was reputable. When a couple offered to transfer their cabin to her at a discounted rate, she took the opportunity, withdrawing $80,000 from her retirement savings.

Ms. Rader made two payments, $50,000 and $35,000, but said she never received a receipt and the couple never received a refund. She eventually got a boarding pass, but on the cruise app, she and the couple were listed in the same cabin.

“This is when I started to see all the red flags, but I was trapped because I had already made the payments,” she said.

In September, the Youssefs sold their apartment to keep up with their cruise payments; others started applying for visas, shipping belongings to Istanbul and making arrangements for their pets.

At that point, although only 111 of the ship’s 627 cabins had been sold, passengers who had signed up were assured that the ship would sail, even with as few as two passengers.

On Sept. 26, the day the payment was due to secure the Lara, Ms. Holmes received a call from Miray’s owner, Mr. Ugurlu, saying the lead investor had dropped out, but that he was working on other candidates. After receiving some cancellation requests, Ms. Holmes posted in the cruise app that, according to the contract’s terms, passengers who canceled now would only receive a 10 percent refund.

By Oct. 27, only days before the cruise’s scheduled departure — and with 30 passengers in Istanbul, ready to board — the company announced the trip had been delayed to Nov. 11 and would depart from Amsterdam. Days later, the departure was postponed again, to Nov. 30.

On Nov. 16, Ms. Youssef learned from a newspaper that the Lara had been acquired by another company. “We were frustrated and felt stuck in limbo, with no information to go on but what we discovered on our own,” she said. Ms. Holmes resigned from Miray the same day.

On Nov. 19, Mr. Ugurlu issued a statement saying that investors had pulled out because of the unrest in the Middle East; the next day Miray confirmed that the cruise was canceled.

Waiting for refunds

A day later, passengers were asked to sign an agreement with Miray, which would spread refund repayments over three months, from December to February. The first deadline passed on Dec. 22, with only some passengers getting any money. Miray said that the delay was caused by banks’ requesting extra documentation.

The Youssefs said on Dec. 28 that they had still not received their refund. For the past month they have been living in a hotel in Istanbul paid for by the cruise company.

“We could soon be homeless,” Ms. Youssef said.

Miray, Ms. Holmes and Mr. Petterson are now separately working on other three-year cruises, to launch next year.

Ms. Rader, the retired social worker, is not hopeful. “I have received nothing yet, but I did not expect to,” she said. “My guess is that the company will be shut down or restructured, and anything I put in cash will never get paid out.”

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2023 .

Ceylan Yeginsu is a travel reporter. She was previously a correspondent for the International desk in Britain and Turkey, covering politics; social justice; the migrant crisis; the Kurdish conflict, and the rise of Islamic State extremism in Syria and the region. More about Ceylan Yeginsu

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World’s first three-year cruise announced – and it might cost less than renting on dry land

The voyage ‘offers the ultimate bucket list cruise without having to sacrifice the comforts of home’, article bookmarked.

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The world’s first three-year world cruise is now open for bookings

The ambitious voyage, operated by Life at Sea Cruises , will cover more than 130,000 miles and visit 375 ports across 135 countries and seven continents.

Embracing the recent shift towards remote-working, the cruise enables guests to live, work and explore from a single base .

The MV Gemini vessel, which has 400 cabins and room for 1,074 passengers, will set sail from Istanbul on 1 November, with pick-ups in Barcelona and Miami .

Guests can visit 13 of the 14 Wonders of the World on what it calls “the first reasonably priced, all-inclusive world cruise, starting from only $29,999 (£24,926) per year”.

Working out as less than £70 per day, this unique opportunity to travel the world could cost less than renting on dry land.

The fee includes access to all dining venues and alcohol with dinner, a state-of-the-art wellness centre, sundeck and swimming pool, high-speed internet, entertainment, “enrichment seminars” and housekeeping.

The ship will also include a 24-hour on-call hospital with free medical visits.

Digital nomads can take advantage of the onboard business centre, which includes meeting rooms, 14 offices, a lounge and business library.

“Professionals need connectivity, the right amenities and the functionality to perform their jobs. There is no other cruise that offers this sort of flexibility to their customers” says Mikael Petterson, managing director of Life at Sea Cruises.

And if you’re feeling homesick, friends and family are permitted to make free visits.

Life at Sea Cruises director of sales and marketing Irina Strembitsky said: “Life at Sea Cruises offers the ultimate bucket list cruise without having to sacrifice the comforts of home.

“It’s your home at sea with the world as your backyard.”

It’s not the only cruise company catering to guests looking to swap dry land for sea for the longer term.

Storylines Narrative ship is positioning itself as a “floating town” where cruise fans can live and travel full-time .

Due to set sail in 2025, the ship is selling units to cruisers who want to relocate to the open seas.

Narrative is planned to circumnavigate the globe every 1,000 days, stopping at each port for several nights. Residents will be able to leave the main ship via a nifty “Marina” on the aft side, where they can board smaller boats or jet skis to explore.

Units on the ship start at £300,000 for a 12- or 24-year lease, with the most luxurious costing up to £6m to buy outright.

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This 3-year cruise around the world is called off, leaving passengers in the lurch

Bill Chappell

When the Life at Sea cruise line failed to purchase the German cruise ship AIDAaura, seen here in 2020, its plans for a worldwide cruise embarking in November began to unravel. Marit Hommedal/NTB Scanpix/AFP via Getty Images hide caption

When the Life at Sea cruise line failed to purchase the German cruise ship AIDAaura, seen here in 2020, its plans for a worldwide cruise embarking in November began to unravel.

They were promised the world. But cruise company Life at Sea recently told customers who bought passage on a three-year voyage that rather than visiting 140 countries, their trip was called off.

Those customers are now scrambling to make new plans for where they will live for the next three years — and to extract refunds from the cruise line. The intense fallout is drawing comparisons to infamous debacles such as the Fyre Festival — the "luxury" music festival that was more like a "disaster relief area."

Here's what to know about the cruise around the world that was called off

What was promised? The world.

The original itinerary mapped 1,095 days of travel, heading from Istanbul to Europe and then to South America and the Caribbean. Passengers would then pass through the Panama Canal before seeing the U.S. West Coast, Hawaii and Alaska and then head west across the Pacific.

"We are going to be following summer the entire time that we go around the world," then-Life at Sea CEO Kendra Holmes told prospective passengers in a Zoom webinar in September.

$73,499-Per-Guest World Cruise Sells Out In Less Than 3 Hours

Voyagers were to see seven continents, visiting 140 countries. They would spend roughly 300 days at sea, 795 days at port and have 413 overnight port stays, Chief Operating Officer Ethem Bayramoglu of Miray Cruises, the Turkish parent company of Life at Sea, said in that online session.

Along the way, they would explore wonders of the world, visit UNESCO World Heritage sites and have plentiful chances to go diving and snorkeling, the company said.

The three-year voyage was to begin on Nov. 1, departing from Istanbul. Some passengers reportedly only learned of the cancellation after arriving in Turkey.

What are customers saying?

"Some people read the headlines and think, 'Oh, that was a scam,' but I really did my homework before I put a deposit down," Keri Witman of Cincinnati told NPR. She had attorneys check the company's background, for instance.

Witman, who owns a marketing agency named Clever Lucy, was planning to work remotely aboard the ship, using its Starlink internet service. And as a single woman, she had been looking forward to exploring the world with a group.

"Having a like-minded community of people that all were interested in travel at the ready was really appealing to me," she said.

When the cruise missed its planned departure date, the company promised to resolve lingering issues. But after further delays, the trip was canceled.

Witman says the company has begun the refund process, accepting her requests for other expenses to be paid, from airfare to the costs of foreign visas. But some of her fellow customers seem more frustrated.

20 years ago, the supersonic passenger jet Concorde flew for the last time

"Still waiting for my refund. And now you've gone belly up?" a woman who identified herself as a Life at Sea customer said recently on the company's Instagram account . The woman, a retired educator, did not respond to NPR's message seeking further comment.

Former flight attendant Meredith Shay was looking forward to the trip as a centerpiece of her retirement.

"How did I feel about it?" Shay said in an interview on ABC's Good Morning America . "Devastated, disappointed, sad. I packed up my belongings, put them in storage, sent four boxes to Miray Cruises."

Witman says she also shipped boxes to have on the cruise, back in early October.

"I'm following them along on my AirTags today," she said. "They're on their way back."

How much did the Life at Sea cruise cost?

The cheapest packages started at $196,000 for a single traveler, and $231,000 for couples, according to the company's website . Costs ranged much higher for guests staying in premium rooms.

In exchange, passengers — or residents, as the company called them — were promised a long list of amenities, including an onboard hospital and doctor. Some cabins could host cats; travelers were also promised high-speed internet, free dining, alcohol and laundry service, and "enrichment seminars."

Terms of the deal help illuminate the would-be passengers' financial and logistical plight. Life at Sea set initial deposits at 30% of the overall cost. Under its 12-month payment plan, the first draw came due one month ahead of the sail date.

And rather than portioning the cruise for sale in smaller stages, the company required customers to commit to the full three years.

"Our residents are changing their lives for this opportunity, and we are honored to be a part of their personal journeys," Holmes said in June .

A wide range of passengers had booked cabins.

"The age group is split pretty much between 35 and 85" years old, and the passengers included a large number of Americans, Holmes said.

The Two-Way

Paradise lost: luxury music festival turns out to be half-built scene of chaos, did the cruise line actually have a ship.

"In two days' time, we own this vessel," Life at Sea itinerary planner Robert Dixon said in late September , speaking in a promotional video from the bridge of a ship he called the "MV Lara."

But the company wasn't able to close that deal, and the ship in question — the 20-year-old AIDAaura — was instead sold in November to Celestyal, which specializes in Mediterranean cruises.

Miray's attempts to purchase the ship dragged on for weeks, and it eventually stalled after investors balked, according to a company message obtained by CNN and other outlets.

Environment

In warmer climate, a luxury cruise sets sail through northwest passage.

"If you're focused on the ship, this is not the journey for you," Holmes said in the September webinar. But two months later, she would leave her leadership post at Life at Sea and Miray, as plans for the ambitious cruise unraveled.

Holmes was trying to allay concerns about the quality of the vessel. But it seems that it was the company's focus, not the public's, that was the problem.

Warning flags went up earlier this year, when the company changed course from its initial plan to refit one of its ships, the MV Gemini. For the lengthy worldwide voyage, it planned to deploy the larger "MV Lara" — a ship that never materialized.

What does the cruise company say now?

It's complicated. On Sunday, Miray Cruises issued a statement in Turkish , denying that the cruise is canceled. Instead, the company said the voyage is postponed — and it blamed a lack of enough passenger bookings, rather than problems finding an appropriate ship.

But responding to a social media comment about that same statement, the company sought to clarify that its other operations are unaffected — and in doing so, it stated , "The cancellation in question is related to our 3-year world tour project."

The company said that anyone requesting a refund will get one, and that it will reimburse travel expenses related to the cruise. Miray also says it plans to mount a similar trip next year.

Witman, for one, says she's still interested in a worldwide cruise.

"There are two other companies that have been working on a similar concept" that have also run into delays, she said.

19-Hour London To Sydney 'Test Flight' Shows How To Make Long Hauls Tolerable

"I think one of them will make it happen in 2024," Witman said. "And I'm hopeful that it will, because I'd like to be on it. I still believe in the concept. I think it's a really perfect opportunity for me."

Despite the setback, Witman says she's been able to form connections with other would-be passengers, who have been keeping in touch via apps and group texts. Some of them are even making plans to travel together this winter.

"I don't regret at all going down this path," Witman said. "It moved me forward in a way that I wouldn't have done without this instigation. And I'm really thankful for it. I'm disappointed, but I'm ready to go for whatever opportunity comes up next."

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The 7 best 3-day cruise itineraries for 2024.

Plan a long weekend getaway aboard a cruise for fun, scenery and entertainment.

The Best 3-Day Cruise Itineraries

Courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line

Hop aboard the Carnival Radiance for a short but fun-filled cruise weekend.

Whether you're short on vacation days or you only have a long weekend to spare, three-night cruises offer a fun and affordable way to get a change of scenery. These shorter sailings from the U.S. often amount to a weekend cruise and only depart from Florida and California for now. However, short cruises still let you dine and dance on board, enjoy world-class entertainment, and visit nearby destinations like Nassau in the Bahamas; Key West, Florida; or Ensenada, Mexico.

If you're looking for short cruises that pack a lot of good times into a weekend vacation, you should know that many cruise lines offer these trips, including Norwegian Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises. Read on to find out which short cruises we recommend, where they depart from, and everything you can see and do over the span of three incredible nights.

3-Day Cruises From Florida

Norwegian sky from miami.

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Dates: Aug. 2 to 5, 2024

Departure port: Miami

Stops: Key West, Florida; Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas

Starting price: $399 per person

This three-night cruise on Norwegian Sky departs from Miami in August 2024 with stops at two iconic tropical destinations. The vessel's first stop is Key West , where cruise passengers will have the day to visit the southernmost tip of the United States, book a snorkeling or kayaking tour, or bar hop along the world-famous Duval Street. From there, the cruise stops at Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas, which is a private island paradise that's only for cruise passengers. Here, visitors can enjoy some beach time, plan a WaveRunner adventure or snorkel the clear waters to watch out for wildlife.

When not at port, passengers on Norwegian Sky can enjoy the ship's 10 dining options, onboard spa, casino at sea, and variety of pools and hot tubs. The Norwegian Cruise Line vessel even has a sushi bar and a Starbucks onboard, and it was completely renovated from top to bottom in 2019.

Book a Norwegian cruise on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

MSC Seashore from Port Canaveral

Conrad Schutt | Courtesy of MSC Cruises

Dates: Multiple dates in November and December 2024

Departure port: Port Canaveral, Florida (Orlando)

Stops: Nassau and Ocean Cay Marine Reserve, Bahamas

Starting price: $169 per person

This three-night cruise on MSC Seashore departs from Port Canaveral near Orlando and takes passengers to two tropical destinations in the nearby Bahamas . The first is the island of Nassau, which is known for its luxury resorts (including the exclusive Atlantis Paradise Island Bahamas), huge casinos and powder white sands. After that, guests can spend a second day at port at MSC Cruises ' private island, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve. This island offers a perfect beach retreat for people who just want to relax, including several expansive white sand beaches with ample seating, an interior ocean lagoon for swimming, and beach bars and eateries dotted throughout.

MSC Seashore features huge pools, an onboard water park for kids, the expansive MSC Aurea Spa and 11 distinct dining venues for passengers to choose from. The ship also boasts the exclusive "ship within a ship" Yacht Club area, which offers the best of everything for discerning guests.

Find an MSC Cruises deal on GoToSea.

Celebrity Reflection from Fort Lauderdale

Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Dates: Ongoing in 2024

Departure port: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Stops: Perfect Day at CocoCay and Nassau, Bahamas

Starting price: $273 per person

This three-night cruise on Celebrity Cruises ' Celebrity Reflection departs from Fort Lauderdale and leaves for two days in the sunny Bahamas. The first stop gives guests a full day to enjoy at Perfect Day at CocoCay, a cruise line private island that's typically reserved for Royal Caribbean guests. This island paradise features an exclusive beach club, idyllic white sand beaches for swimming and floating, a water park, a zip line, and plenty of places to eat and drink all day. The next stop is Nassau: Visitors can dine and shop their way through the port area or book a fun day pass to the Baha Bay water park, which is located at resort Baha Mar and features waterslides, an expansive lazy river and incredible cuisine options right at the park.

Celebrity Reflection was recently refurbished in 2022. It features an incredible array of included dining options, eight specialty and exclusive dining establishments, and bars and lounges throughout the ship. The Retreat, a VIP ship-within-a-ship concept, is also offered on board for those who want an elevated cruising experience.

Explore Celebrity Cruises on GoToSea.

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Disney Dream from Fort Lauderdale

Courtesy of Disney Cruise Line

Dates: Nov. 6 to 9, 2024

Stops: Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point and Disney Castaway Cay, Bahamas

Starting price: $1,973 per stateroom

This three-night Bahamian cruise on Disney Dream stops at two exclusive destinations in the Bahamas – Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, then Disney Castaway Cay. The first stop offers incredible beaches with play areas and crystal-clear water for swimming, as well as the Bahamian Arts and Culture Pavilion for families who want to learn something about the local culture on vacation. At Disney Castaway Cay, families can relax the day away on white sand beaches, go biking or kayaking, ride two waterslides, and more. Both destinations even have adults-only beach areas for cruisers who are traveling kid-free.

Disney Dream holds a maximum of 4,000 passengers and has everything you would expect on an exclusive Disney Cruise Line vessel, including kids and family areas, adults-only dining options and pools, and two large theaters. The ship also has several supervised kids clubs as well as dedicated clubs for teenagers and tweens .

Read: The Top Cruises for Babies and Toddlers

Liberty of the Seas from Fort Lauderdale

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Stops: Nassau and Perfect Day at CocoCay, Bahamas

Starting price: $263 per person

Royal Caribbean International also boasts a Bahamas cruise from Fort Lauderdale that stops in Nassau and at the line's private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay. In Nassau, cruisers get the chance to explore one of the most popular cruise ports throughout the Caribbean, where you can book an excursion to a local beach, plan a snorkeling adventure or play in one of the two biggest casinos throughout the region at Atlantis or Baha Mar. At Perfect Day at CocoCay, families can stay active with waterslides, book a kayaking tour or ride a hot air balloon up to 450 feet in the air.

Liberty of the Seas is also an ideal ship for families thanks to fun features like a huge onboard water park with slides, an ice skating rink with shows and the Broadway at Sea theater. The Royal Caribbean vessel also has nearly a dozen different dining venues, including Cupcake Cupboard, Johnny Rockets, a pizza kitchen and an old-world Italian eatery called Giovanni's Table.

Compare Royal Caribbean International cruises on GoToSea.

3-Day Cruises From California

Navigator of the seas from los angeles.

Dates: Throughout 2024

Departure port: Los Angeles

Stops: Ensenada, Mexico

Starting price: $282 per person

Royal Caribbean offers a three-night West Coast adventure on Navigator of the Seas that includes a fun day at sea and a full-day stop in Ensenada, Mexico. This Mexican destination is known for the many activities that can be enjoyed along its rugged shores, which can include leisurely days at nearby Estero and Mona Lisa beaches, hiking experiences, exploration of Baja California's wine region, whale watching and more.

Dates for this sailing are offered throughout 2024, and the ship itself has plenty to keep passengers enthralled while at sea. For example, Navigator of the Seas features the longest waterslide at sea, enlarged pool deck areas for relaxation, ice skating shows and shopping – not to mention Broadway-style shows with dancers, acrobats and singers. There are also 12 unique dining options onboard, including Starbucks, Jamie's Italian by Jamie Oliver and Johnny Rockets.

Carnival Radiance from Los Angeles

Dates: Jan. 26 to 29 and Sept. 24 to 27, 2024

Departure port: Long Beach (Los Angeles)

Starting price: $244 per person

Carnival Radiance also embarks on three-night journeys to Mexico from Los Angeles throughout the year, including in January and September 2024. This Carnival Cruise Line itinerary includes a fun day at sea and a stop in Ensenada, Mexico, where passengers can plan a sightseeing trip, nosh on the unique Baja cuisine the area is known for, shop for silver jewelry and other keepsakes, or spend the day relaxing on the beach.

Carnival Radiance itself serves as the perfect floating vessel for this fun weekend vacation, with onboard amenities that span the Cloud 9 Spa and WaterWorks water park with slides to a comedy club and special clubs for kids and teens. The ship also boasts an adults-only solarium and 10 different bars to choose from.

Book a Carnival cruise on GoToSea.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Holly Johnson is a professional travel writer and cruise expert who has covered family travel and cruises for more than a decade. She has cruised more than 40 times across most of the major cruise lines in destinations throughout the Caribbean, Europe and the Middle East. Johnson used her personal experience and research expertise to curate the itineraries for this article.

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The 8 best Hawaii cruises in 2024 and 2025

C ruising the Hawaiian Islands offers U.S. travelers an immersive South Pacific escape with all the comforts of home. In fact, the Aloha State is in many ways an ideal cruise destination. It has year-round sunny weather, four main islands featuring varied topographies — including sandy beaches, cascading waterfalls, volcanic mountains and vibrant green valleys — and a wide array of land- and water-based activities.

The main caveat? Hawaii cruise options are somewhat limited — just a fraction of what's available in the Caribbean — and many itineraries involve multiday crossings from the West Coast. Only one cruise line offers Hawaii itineraries throughout the year; most others visit during specific months or when repositioning ships in spring and fall.

For more cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Looking for the Hawaiian Islands sailing that's right for you? Here's a look at the eight best Hawaii cruises for every type of traveler.

Norwegian Cruise Line's 7-night Inter-island Hawaii

For travelers who want more aloha time than the typical eight-hour port call allows, Norwegian Cruise Line has a solution. Its 2,186-passenger Pride of America lets vacationers sample four Hawaiian islands over seven days, with overnights in Maui and Kauai, plus port calls on both Hilo and Kona on the island of Hawaii. In total, this itinerary offers nearly 100 hours of shore time.

Pride of America sails round-trip from Honolulu every Saturday year-round. As a U.S.-flagged ship, it's the only large vessel permitted to sail this way. Not only do you skip the long Pacific crossing that most cruise ships do to reach Hawaii, but passports are not required for U.S. citizens, and you can tack on pre- or post-cruise stays on Oahu.

The overnights on Maui and Kauai also mean it's possible to try several of Hawaii's signature experiences that most port calls don't allow. Passengers can catch dusk or dawn from atop Maui's massive 10,023-foot dormant volcano with sunrise and sunset excursions to the Haleakala Crater. And with the ship in port all night on Kauai, guests who want to enjoy traditional Hawaiian cuisine, music and hula performances can book the Luau Kalamaku for a fun evening out.

Pride of America, which has been cruising Hawaii since 2005, doesn't have the onboard thrills (race track, virtual-reality gaming, waterslides) of Norwegian's newer ships , but that's okay because the islands, not the ship, are your main destination. Its American-themed decor celebrates U.S. cities in a vibrant, and at times, kitschy way, but a 2021 refurbishment left its cabins and public spaces feeling refreshed.

Many of Norwegian's specialty dining venues (which incur a surcharge) are on board, including Cagney's Steakhouse, Le Bistro (here, it's Jefferson's Bistro), Moderno Churrascaria and Teppanyaki.

Who should go: Anyone seeking a convenient way to island-hop — and see a lot of Hawaii — by making the most of the generous shore time with a combination of independent exploration and shore excursions. Most sailings attract couples ages 50 and older, although summer and holiday sailings have plenty of families on board.

Related: Best time to cruise Hawaii

UnCruise Adventures' 7-night Hawaiian Seascapes

Cruisers seeking a less traditional, more carefree Hawaii experience can have it from November to April aboard UnCruise Adventures ' 36-passenger Safari Explorer. The seven-night Hawaiian Seascapes itinerary, which begins either on Molokai or the island of Hawaii, is an unconventional one designed for those who enjoy going off the beaten path in an intimate and more authentic setting. U.S. passports aren't required to sail.

UnCruise visits four islands — Maui and Lanai plus Molokai and Hawaii — and focuses on not only their striking landscapes and underwater beauty but also the cultural traditions, cuisine and music of the Hawaiian people. On Molokai, where there's not a single traffic light and the lifestyle is slow-paced, passengers get a chance to "talk story" with locals and enjoy a pa'ina (feast) and evening jam session. Lanai activities range from snorkel, paddleboard and kayak excursions to off-road adventures exploring the privately owned island's dramatic sea cliffs, red rock formations and vast fields once filled with Dole pineapples.

Most UnCruise sailings are during Maui's humpback whale season, so sightings while cruising off the coast of Maui are possible. You might also catch glimpses of dolphins and sea turtles. A "Captain's Choice" day is a wild card determined by the weather, marine life in the area and other factors, while the final two days are spent exploring the Big Island of Hawaii — including a hike up Hualalai volcano and a skiff ride along the rugged coast.

Constructed in 1998, Safari Explorer was designed with adventure itineraries in mind (in summer the U.S.-flagged ship repositions to Alaska). Its size allows it to navigate areas larger ships can't reach, which in Hawaii means bays and coves ideal for snorkeling or watersports.

With such a small number of passengers aboard, guests get to know each other — and Safari Explorer's friendly and knowledgeable crew — quite well. Passengers come together over meals featuring locally sourced ingredients, and as all UnCruise fares include unlimited wines, spirits and microbrews, shipmates can raise a glass without worrying who's buying a round. It all lends itself to an exclusive yet utterly relaxed week of cruising.

Who should go: The ship's laid-back onboard vibe paired with its land- and water-based activities make the Hawaiian Seascapes itinerary ideal for active travelers seeking a nature-focused itinerary — although cruise fares (which start around $5,900 per person) are among the priciest for a Hawaii cruise.

Related: Why it's easier to meet new people on a smaller cruise ship

Holland America's 17-night Circle Hawaii

Travelers who have more than two weeks to spare and who prefer to arrive in Hawaii via ship rather than an airplane can do so on Holland America 's 17-night Circle Hawaii itinerary. They'd better also love sea days because crossing the Pacific from San Diego or Vancouver to Honolulu and back requires 10 days.

That means passengers enjoy five or six days in Hawaii on Kauai, Oahu, Maui and the island of Hawaii. Some itineraries stay in select ports overnight. Cruises departing from San Diego also call on Ensenada, Mexico. With either departure port, passports will be required.

The itinerary is offered in 2024 and 2025 on the 2,650-passenger Koningsdam and 1,432-passenger Zaandam.

Travelers with more time on their hands can also visit Hawaii as part of longer Pacific island cruises with Holland America. Koningsdam will sail a 35-night Hawaii, Tahiti & Marquesas itinerary in 2025 that combines visits to four Hawaiian islands with calls on five islands in French Polynesia and Fanning Island, Kiribati (and 20 sea days).

Related: Holland America unveils epic cruise to Hawaii and Alaska for 2025

Zaandam will also sail 51- to 56-night Tales of the South Pacific itineraries that visit multiple islands in Hawaii and French Polynesia along with ports in the Cook Islands, American Samoa and Fiji.

Holland America is popular with cruisers ages 60 and older, many of them retired, who have time to enjoy longer itineraries on ships that offer good value with a focus on culinary and musical enjoyment. Two of Koningsdam's most popular venues are its live entertainment area with three venues — B.B. King's Blues Club (for Memphis-style rhythm and blues), Billboard Onboard (for chart-topping hits played by a live pianist) and Rolling Stone Rock Room (for a live band playing classic rock), and World Stage, a theater with a 270-degree screen used for both special BBC Earth in Concert and theatrical productions.

Onboard specialty dining options (at an added cost) include Pinnacle Grill for steaks and seafood, Tamarind for Pan-Asian cuisine and Rudi's Sel de Mer for French Brasserie specialties and seafood.

Who should go: Mature travelers who prefer not to fly and who enjoy a more traditional cruise experience. They should also love sea days as much (or even more so) than port exploration.

Related: 16 mistakes cruisers make on cruise ship sea days

Princess Cruises' 15- or 16-night Hawaiian Islands

Princess Cruises is also a good option for longer sailings. The cruise line offers numerous round-trip itineraries to Hawaii from Los Angeles, San Francisco and San Diego in the fall and winter.

The majority of sailings are aboard the 3,080-passenger Crown Princess and Ruby Princess from San Francisco, and the 2,600-passenger Grand Princess and 3,080-passenger Emerald Princess from Los Angeles.

Ships are in port for nine to 11 hours in Hawaii (Hilo), Kauai and Maui and for 16 hours in Oahu. Itineraries include a stop in Ensenada, Mexico (so passports are required), plus nine or 10 sea days.

The ships feature many of Princess' popular dining venues, including Alfredo's Pizzeria (a sit-down venue serving personal-size pizzas), Crown Grill for steaks and Sabatini's Italian Trattoria. There's plenty of outdoor space for soaking up the sun — including an adults-only sun deck — and a dazzling Piazza for enjoying cocktails, gelato and pop-up street performers.

Fans of Princess' Movies Under the Stars poolside screenings (with free popcorn) and Discovery at SEA enrichment programming will have ample time to enjoy these perks on a Hawaii sailing.

Who should go: These sailings will appeal to couples or groups of friends who prefer to have a wide choice of sailing dates, can take the time to enjoy a leisurely Pacific crossing and appreciate Princess' focus on quality cuisine and a sun deck designed for relaxation rather than thrills.

Related: Best Hawaii cruise shore excursions

Celebrity's 9- to 12-night Hawaii Cruise

Travelers seeking modern interior decor on a ship designed with couples in mind can visit Hawaii aboard Celebrity Cruises ' 2,852-passenger Celebrity Solstice or 2,918-passenger Celebrity Edge on itineraries ranging from nine to 13 nights — but only if the timing is right. That's because the line offers only two sailings per ship each year (in spring and fall) as the ships reposition between Alaska and destinations in the Pacific. The itineraries are one-way (Vancouver to Honolulu or vice versa) with passports required.

These cruises call on three ports on two islands: Honolulu (Oahu) and Hilo and Kona (Hawaii), with one or two overnights in port and 10 hours ashore on one-day visits. All include five days in a row at sea. Since the itineraries either begin or end in Honolulu, there's also a chance for some pre- or post-cruise exploration.

Sea days offer opportunities to enjoy the chic, grown-up ambience and amenities aboard these ships. Each vessel offers multiple complimentary and extra-fee specialty restaurants. Celebrity Solstice features Tuscan Grille for Italian specialties and steak and Murano for modern French cuisine, while Celebrity Edge offers the whimsical Le Petit Chef and the international Eden Restaurant.

Celebrity's signature Martini Bar and many other onboard watering holes keep the grown-up vibe going day and night. Choose cruise fares that include alcohol and Wi-Fi, or pay a lower rate and pay for your drinks as you go.

Who should go: The slightly shorter one-way sailings and the ships' contemporary ambience make these itineraries ideal for couples and groups of friends seeking a relaxing escape — especially Gen Xers in their 40s and 50s, who are Celebrity's target market.

Related: 6 national parks you can reach by cruise ship (and 2 are in Hawaii)

Carnival's 14- or 15-night Hawaii from Los Angeles

If fun is your cruise mantra, the "Fun Ship" brand Carnival Cruise Line offers a handful of round-trip sailings to Hawaii from Los Angeles (Long Beach) aboard the 2,984-passenger Carnival Radiance. Like other roundtrips from the West Coast, these itineraries spend just five days in Hawaii, offering eight to 14 hours of shore time in ports on four islands: Maui, Kauai, Oahu and Hawaii. Along with enjoying eight sea days, guests will also call on Ensenada, Mexico, so passports are required.

Carnival Radiance first sailed under that name in 2021, but it's not a new ship. Before an epic makeover, it sailed for the cruise line as Carnival Victory. Ship features include many of Carnival's signature complimentary and extra-fee dining venues, including Guy's Burger Joint and Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que Smokehouse, BlueIguana Cantina, Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse and Bonsai Sushi Express.

Additional guest favorite destinations on board include the RedFrog Pub, Alchemy Bar and WaterWorks aquapark. Expect high-voltage theater shows from Playlist Productions at night and poolside interactive contests by day.

Who should go: Socially inclined cruisers who love Carnival's emphasis on onboard fun and can appreciate a colorful ship with a lively ambience and lots of day and evening activities.

Related: Best Hawaii cruise tips for getting the most from your island-hopping trip

Royal Caribbean's 9- to 13-night Hawaii Cruises

A megaship cruise experience to Hawaii is available, too — with pricing that's quite affordable. Royal Caribbean cruises there on two vessels in one of its newer classes of ships: the 4,180-passenger Quantum of the Seas and Ovation of the Seas.

All are one-way cruises just before or after the Alaska cruise season (so late April or early October) between Oahu and Vancouver (or vice versa). The ships call on two Hawaiian islands and spend four or five days in a row at sea. Passports are required since these itineraries begin or end in Vancouver.

Ovation of the Seas and Quantum of the Seas feature a mix of thrills for all ages. These include RipCord by iFly simulated sky diving, FlowRider simulated surfing, bumper car racing in the SeaPlex indoor activity complex and the North Star sightseeing capsule, which ascends 300 feet above the top deck for 360-degree views.

Both ships also offer 14 dining venues, including the innovative Wonderland, Jamie's Italian by Jamie Oliver and kid-favorite Dog House, as well as bar options that include Schooner Bar for by-request piano tunes, Boleros for mojitos and merengue and Bionic Bar for drinks poured by robotic bartenders. Entertainment includes live cover bands in the Music Hall and multimedia music and dance performances in Two70.

Who should go: Cruisers who love a big ship with a wide array of dining choices, all kinds of evening entertainment and plenty of exciting activities to pass the time on sea days. Quantum-class ships are great for families, but the sail dates might not work for those with school-age kids.

Related: Do you need a passport for a cruise?

Viking's 16-night Hawaiian Islands Sojourn

For a guaranteed adults-only sailing in a relaxed, boutique-style setting, upscale cruise line Viking also offers round-trip Hawaii cruises from Los Angeles in late 2024 and early 2025 on its 930-passenger Viking Neptune.

What sets Viking apart from most of the other lines offering Hawaii cruises is that it includes a free shore excursion in every port. These include a highlights tour of Honolulu and Pearl Harbor on Oahu and a visit to a scenic waterfall and the Kilohana sugar plantation on Kauai. Additional excursions can be booked at an extra charge.

The 16-night Hawaiian Islands Sojourn sailings visit four islands — Hawaii (Hilo), Oahu, Kauai and Maui — and like other round-trip sailings from the West Coast include 10 sea days and a call on Ensenada, Mexico, so passports are required.

Viking Neptune will also do 32-night Grand Hawaii and Polynesia sailings round-trip from Los Angeles in late 2024 and early 2025 that visit four islands in Hawaii and four in French Polynesia.

The ship, which debuted in 2022, features sleek Scandinavian-inspired decor, a soothing spa with a complimentary thermal area, an aft infinity pool and hot tub, a panoramic Explorer's Lounge and five onboard restaurants. Specialty restaurant Manfredi's serves an extensive menu of Italian specialties, while The Chef's Table offers rotating five-course themed menus, including Asian, French and California-inspired.

In addition to the free shore excursions, pricing includes complimentary wine or beer with lunch and dinner, specialty dining at no extra charge, crew gratuities and transfers.

Who should go: Couples who prefer the quieter ambience of a ship that doesn't allow anyone under 18 onboard, doesn't have a casino and offers presentations by regional experts that enhance immersion into local culture. Viking cruisers are generally over age 55.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.