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World Cruises

Grand Voyages, Special Itineraries and World Cruises by Small Ship

A world cruise is the ultimate travel experience—an extraordinary journey that weaves together continents, cultures, and coastlines over the course of several weeks or months. On a world cruise, each port becomes a new chapter, offering time to engage with places deeply, savor local flavors, and connect with the essence of the destinations you’ve long dreamed of exploring. At Small Ship Travel, we specialize in world cruises aboard refined small ships. These longer itineraries offer a uniquely elegant way to experience the world: with personalized service, curated enrichment, and immersive shore programs—all without the rush or complexity of traditional travel. Whether you're embarking on a full circumnavigation or a grand regional segment, we help you select the ideal voyage to match your style and interests.

Explore World Cruises that best fit your needs

Why Explore the World on a Small Ship

World cruises aboard small ships offer a more personalized, flexible, and immersive experience than their larger counterparts. Smaller vessels allow for access to boutique ports, longer stays, and in-depth regional itineraries, while maintaining a higher standard of service and a stronger sense of community onboard.

Key benefits include:

  • Unpacking once for a seamless journey across continents
  • Fewer guests and more space, fostering a relaxed, intimate atmosphere
  • Extended time in port, with overnight stays and exclusive excursions
  • Curated onboard enrichment from historians, chefs, naturalists, and guest lecturers
  • Optional land programs that connect cruise segments with immersive overland travel

Whether you’re sailing from Los Angeles to Tokyo, Lisbon to Cape Town, or around the world in 140 days, a small ship world cruise is a transformative experience—marked by both comfort and discovery.

Best Time to Cruise on a World Cruise

Most world cruises depart between December and March, aligning with optimal weather across hemispheres and seasonal highlights:

  • Full World Cruises: Typically range from 90 to 180 days, starting in January
  • Grand Voyages: 30–90 days, often offered as regional segments
  • Segment Options: Join part of a larger itinerary to experience specific regions

Planning well in advance (12–24 months) is recommended due to limited availability, preferred cabin selection, and added value through early booking promotions.

Why Book Your World Cruise with Small Ship Travel

At Small Ship Travel, we specialize in matching our clients with journeys that combine cultural depth, comfort, and curated exploration. World cruises require careful planning, and our expertise ensures you select the ship, itinerary, and suite that align with your travel goals.

As a Virtuoso affiliate, through Travel Experts, a member agency, we offer:

  • Exclusive amenities such as suite upgrades, shipboard credit, and private experiences
  • Concierge-style support, including pre- and post-cruise travel, insurance, and air arrangements
  • Access to limited-availability sailings and early-booking offers
  • Personal guidance from a team who understands the complexity of long-haul cruising

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