138-Day World Cruise: Iconic Islands & Remote Horizons

Step into history with its vibrant colonial walls, lively plazas, and bustling markets. Explore cobblestone streets, soak up Caribbean vibes, or unwind at nearby beaches, all perfect for a day ashore.

Everyone should sail through the Panama Canal at least once. It is a remarkable experience and a moving one when you know the mixture of tragedy and triumph, French farce and financial meltdown which went into its building. The French spent 20 fruitless years trying to build a canal - Suez-style - straight through the land. Then the Americans tried a lock-based canal and, between 1903 and 1914, completed the waterway that stands today. Look out for memorial plaques to the thousands who died in its creation, mainly of diseases rife in the forests and swamps through which the canal was forged. It is 50 miles long and, from the Caribbean side, your ship will be lifted 85ft by the Gatun Locks into Gatun Lake. She then negotiates the narrow Gaillard Cut to the Pedro Miguel and Miraflores locks which lower her back down to the level of the Pacific, which you first see stretching out on the other side of the towering Bridge of the Americas.

If you are a “pollywog,” who has never crossed the line at sea, you will be expected to undergo a mock trial by King Neptune and his court for the entertainment of the “shellbacks” who have already done so. Mild but hilarious indignities will be conjured, and in the end a good time will be had by most, if not all.

Guayaquil, Ecuador’s vibrant port city, hums with energy along the Guayas River. Spend your day strolling the colourful Malecón 2000, exploring the art-filled Las Peñas district, or spotting wildlife in the city’s tropical parks. From riverfront views to colonial charm, Guayaquil offers a lively taste of coastal Ecuador.

Callao is a bustling port city near Lima, known for its rich maritime history and vibrant culture. Visit the historic Callao Fortress, explore the colorful streets of the historic district, or relax at the nearby beaches. With its lively atmosphere, rich heritage, and proximity to Lima, Callao offers a unique glimpse into Peru’s coastal life.

Callao is a bustling port city near Lima, known for its rich maritime history and vibrant culture. Visit the historic Callao Fortress, explore the colorful streets of the historic district, or relax at the nearby beaches. With its lively atmosphere, rich heritage, and proximity to Lima, Callao offers a unique glimpse into Peru’s coastal life.

Pisco dates from 1640, and its Plaza de Armas is a Spanish colonial treasure. Another treasure is the Ballestas Islands, an offshore cluster of rocky outcroppings teeming with seabirds, penguins, sea lions, dolphins and other wildlife.

Remote and mysterious, Easter Island is a Polynesian gem in the southeastern Pacific, famed for its iconic Moai statues. Spend your day uncovering ancient archaeological sites, wandering volcanic landscapes, and soaking in the island’s rich Rapa Nui culture and legends, an unforgettable journey to one of the world’s most intriguing places.

Remote and mysterious, Easter Island is a Polynesian gem in the southeastern Pacific, famed for its iconic Moai statues. Spend your day uncovering ancient archaeological sites, wandering volcanic landscapes, and soaking in the island’s rich Rapa Nui culture and legends, an unforgettable journey to one of the world’s most intriguing places.

Nuku Hiva, the largest of the Marquesas Islands, is a land of legends and breathtaking beauty. Known as the “roof” in a Polynesian creation myth, its volcanic peaks, lush valleys, and vast natural harbour make it unforgettable. Discover ancient archaeological sites, hidden waterfalls, and the rich heritage of this remote French Polynesian gem.

Rangiroa, one of the world’s largest coral atolls, stuns with a lagoon so vast it has its own horizon. Part of the Tuamotus, this remote paradise is known for black pearl farming, world-class diving, and even island-grown wine. Stroll coconut-fringed motus, visit a vineyard, or snorkel in the crystal-clear passes teeming with marine life.

Discover Papeete, a bustling place by South Pacific standards. With its white sands and aquamarine lagoons, this Polynesian Eden holds much the same allure today that it had in the past. Visit the museum of one of Tahiti's most famous expatriates, painter Paul Gauguin.

Moorea is a South Pacific dream come to life, towering green peaks, turquoise lagoons, and deep-cut bays create a postcard-perfect paradise. Swim with rays, explore jungle trails, or simply soak up the island’s breathtaking beauty.

Prepare for a breathtaking vision of South Pacific beauty. The dark green silhouette of Mount Otemanu presides proudly over flawless beaches, all set in a lagoon swirled with luminous shades of green and blue. Stand in crystalline waters where graceful manta rays flock, or browse local stores for the region's famed black pearls.

Prepare for a breathtaking vision of South Pacific beauty. The dark green silhouette of Mount Otemanu presides proudly over flawless beaches, all set in a lagoon swirled with luminous shades of green and blue. Stand in crystalline waters where graceful manta rays flock, or browse local stores for the region's famed black pearls.

There’s no experience quite like crossing the International Date Line on an ocean voyage. This imaginary line stretches around the world, and the date changes along the line. Crossing the International Date Line is a time-honoured travel milestone. Heading east across this imaginary line sets the clock back 24 hours, effectively gaining a day. Raise a glass to the event!

In nearly 250 years since Captain Cook named then the Friendly Islands, little has changed. It remains the last kingdom in the South Pacific, colourful coral gardens are still untouched and the pleasure of sipping cool coconut milk fresh from the shell is as strong as it ever was.

Welcome to Vanua Levu, Fiji’s second-largest island and a tropical haven of palm-lined beaches and lush waterfalls. Dive or snorkel vibrant reefs, kayak peaceful waters, or relax in hot springs and mineral mud baths. Don’t forget to hunt for the island’s famous colorful cultured pearls, and soak in the warm, musical spirit of the Friendly Isles.

Situated at the southern tip of the Vanuatu archipelago, beckons with its pristine allure. Its crystal-clear waters and powdery shores, swaying beneath the shade of coconut-laden palm trees, make it a captivating destination.

Easo is a tranquil village on Lifou Island, known for its pristine beaches and lush, untouched nature. Explore the island’s crystal-clear waters, perfect for snorkeling and diving, or visit the beautiful cliffs of Jokin, offering breathtaking views. With its vibrant Melanesian culture and stunning landscapes, Easo is an idyllic escape.

North of Auckland along the narrow Northland peninsula lies the shady cathedral, created by some of the largest trees in the world: the giant kauri trees which can stand up to 170 feet tall and are over 1,200 years old. Here the captivating Bay of Islands shelters 150 islands, enchanting wetlands of birdlife, fish, seals, dolphins, and even whales.

In a nation where stunning scenery is taken for granted, this water wonderland sparkles like a freshly polished jewel. Over 48 extinct volcanoes cloaked in wild mountainous scenery encircle the City of Sails. An undulating succession of bays and inlets stretch along its endless shores. Even the downtown area with its expansive, farm-like parks exudes a sense of spacious beauty.

Tauranga is the largest and most populated port in the Bay of Plenty region. This is an appropriate name due to the abundant beaches, rolling white waters, hot mineral springs and even kiwi orchards. From here visit the thermal wonders of Rotorua, where geysers spout, mud boils and steam escapes through cracks in the pavement. Maori people have used the healing hot springs since the 14th century.

Gisborne is a charming coastal port on New Zealand’s North Island, famous for being one of the first places in the world to see the sunrise each day. Surrounded by beautiful beaches, rolling vineyards, and a rich Māori heritage, Gisborne offers visitors a relaxed mix of nature, culture, and world-class wine.

Napier is New Zealand's art deco city. Following a massive earthquake in 1931, large swathes were reconstructed in the flamboyant style of the day with a superb collection of Deco, Spanish mission, and classical Revival buildings.

Picton, nestled at the head of Queen Charlotte Sound, welcomes you with stunning New Zealand scenery. It’s your gateway to Marlborough’s famed wineries and offers plenty of outdoor adventures, kayaking, fishing, hiking, and cycling, amid breathtaking coastal landscapes.

Akaroa, meaning long harbour in Maori, certainly lives up to its name. Set on a beautiful, sheltered harbour, Akaroa is now a popular resort. Seek out the best spots for dolphin watching with tours from the harbour or relax on land at one of the welcoming bars or restaurants. Alternatively take a tour to Christchurch.

Dunedin is the second-largest city in the South of New Zealand and the principal of the region of Otago. In 1865 it became one of the largest cities for the influx of new settlers from Ireland, Italy, France, Germany and China due to the discovery of Gold. Sites not to be missed are the outstanding Dunedin Railway Station and a ride on the world famous Taieri Gorge Train.

As you sail through parts of Fiordland National Park, you will appreciate how it has mesmerised and intrigued travellers and tourists over the centuries, with its graceful and mostly untouched beauty. Amongst and beyond the glacier-carved fjords of Doubtful and Milford Sound, stand impressive snow-capped peaks, luscious green slopes and forests that are home to unusual and unique species.

Australia’s oldest and largest city was born in 1788 with the arrival of the "First Fleet" that transported 760 British convicts. Gold and sheep breeding propelled Sydney’s development; today it is the largest port in the entire South Pacific. Mark Twain called it “the wonder of the world”. James Michener wrote, “It is a thing of beauty, a fairy-tale body of water”.

Australia’s oldest and largest city was born in 1788 with the arrival of the "First Fleet" that transported 760 British convicts. Gold and sheep breeding propelled Sydney’s development; today it is the largest port in the entire South Pacific. Mark Twain called it “the wonder of the world”. James Michener wrote, “It is a thing of beauty, a fairy-tale body of water”.

Sitting on a beautiful stretch of Tasmania's North West Coast, port city Burnie may have industrial roots, but it has since reinvented itself as a creative enclave and the state's fourth largest city. With about 40 per cent of Tasmania designated as a World Heritage Area of national parks and reserves, you can enjoy a wide range of wilderness experiences available from this laid-back market town.

Originally part of New South Wales, Victoria became a colony in its own right in 1851. The discovery of gold and the development of agriculture propelled Melbourne’s rise to prominence and prosperity. Melbourne is a green and welcoming city, teeming with cultural institutions as well as cafés, bars and restaurants serving a spectrum of international cuisine. Melbourne is also an event city, home to the Australian Open Tennis, the Melbourne Cup and numerous other sporting occasions. Anyone who gets to know the city finds it has a kaleidoscopic character. Signs of Melbourne’s heritage are everywhere, and yet the city bears the glass and steel hallmarks of a modern metropolis. A visit here guarantees myriad experiences, most within easy walking range, and others a short ride aboard one of the historic trams that criss-cross the city.

Steeped in heritage and surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, Portland, Australia blends rich maritime history with rugged natural beauty. Located along the scenic Great Ocean Road, this charming coastal town offers an unparalleled mix of nature, history, and maritime allure. From the playful antics of migrating Southern Right Whales and Humpback Whales to the art installations and sculptures that line the picturesque foreshore, Portland is a uniquely vibrant escape where history meets the wild southern ocean.

Delve into the stories of its First Nations heritage and marvel at the ancient rock art found throughout Talbot Bay, where extreme natural wonders await exploration. Explore its rocky shores and steep cliffs, comprised of deformed quartz sandstones blended with volcanic rock.

Connoisseurs of New World wines are in luck. With around 200 wineries a stone’s throw from the city, Adelaide is one of Australia’s best kept secrets. A charming city fringed by scenic countryside and sandy beaches, with a fantastic food market, captivating art scene, and plenty of options for sighting native Australian wildlife. One of Australia’s best-kept secrets, Adelaide is a beautiful, well-planned city nestled between fine sand beaches and hillside villages. Ringed by sweeping foothills, the city is one of culture and sophistication with a surprisingly European feel. A thriving art, theatre and food scene is giving Adelaide renewed kudos while annual events, like Adelaide Fringe, attract world-class entertainers to the city.

Nestled upon the picturesque Dudley Peninsula, Penneshaw stands as Kangaroo Island's second-largest town and gateway to a wildlife realm renowned for its colony of adorable and diminutive Little Blue Penguins. Follow the road less traveled and discover unique wildlife, mouth-watering food and wine, breathtaking scenery and a laid-back lifestyle.

Long beaches and rocky outcrops define the shore, while venturing inland reveals over 100 premium wineries. The area is also known for its dramatic limestone caves whose incredible formations are tied to Aboriginal mythology. Margaret River is a beautiful natural setting in Australia’s southwest corner. Busselton has grown into one of Western Australia’s most popular tourist destinations. Circled by swathes of wetlands and bordered by tranquil Geographe Bay, where scores of humpbacks and blue whales seek respite on their migrations, Busselton’s white beaches and calm blue waters offer visitors unparalleled swimming. Rocky outcrops and tall forests rise from the water’s edge, while great granite buttresses shield the beaches from the Indian Ocean’s swell. In the heart of the town, Busselton’s beloved jetty stretches out over the turquoise surf, its observatory offering breath-taking views of the reef below.

Perth’s explosive growth in recent decades has engulfed the old historic port of Fremantle. Eighty-percent of Western Australia’s population lives in and around Perth. This bustling port, known as “Freo” to the locals, sits on the Indian Ocean and offers a romantic, artsy ambiance to residents and visitors alike. The city’s urban sprawl is awash with fusion flavours, fashionable boutiques and innovative museums but Western Australia’s capital impresses in other ways too. Perth is famously isolated; a cosmopolitan drop in the ocean that is Australia’s outback. Stroll along the banks of the Swan River where you’ll find countless spots to sit and watch kayakers paddle by.

Located on the southeastern coast of Bali is the small village of Tanjung Benoa. Still considered a fishing village, Benoa has developed over the past 20 years into a major player in the tourism sector. The calm waters and the beautiful white sand beaches have made Benoa the prime water sport area of Bali. Being a peninsula that is only accessible from one direction, Tanjung Benoa is still relatively quiet with a more relaxed feeling.

Located on the southeastern coast of Bali is the small village of Tanjung Benoa. Still considered a fishing village, Benoa has developed over the past 20 years into a major player in the tourism sector. The calm waters and the beautiful white sand beaches have made Benoa the prime water sport area of Bali. Being a peninsula that is only accessible from one direction, Tanjung Benoa is still relatively quiet with a more relaxed feeling.

Probolinggo is a vibrant port city on East Java’s northern coast, serving as a gateway to the spectacular landscapes of Mount Bromo and Indonesia’s rich cultural heritage.

Singapore: Where Heritage Meets Modernity Experience Singapore’s rich heritage, vibrant culture, and cutting-edge attractions. Visit iconic landmarks like the Merlion, Marina Bay Sands, and Gardens by the Bay. Explore the diverse charm of Chinatown and Little India, savor a classic Singapore Sling at Raffles Hotel, and enjoy world-class shopping. Singapore is a city like no other!

Singapore: Where Heritage Meets Modernity Experience Singapore’s rich heritage, vibrant culture, and cutting-edge attractions. Visit iconic landmarks like the Merlion, Marina Bay Sands, and Gardens by the Bay. Explore the diverse charm of Chinatown and Little India, savor a classic Singapore Sling at Raffles Hotel, and enjoy world-class shopping. Singapore is a city like no other!

Founded in the 1400s by a fleeing prince, Malacca is a place seemingly defined by comings and goings over the centuries. The city itself changed hands, between the Portuguese, the Dutch and the British, and the variety of influences remains imprinted here, which makes it an intriguing place for you to visit today. Explore the different layers of history here. The wooden replica Melaka Sultanate Palace recalls an era over 500 years ago, several churches tell of Portuguese occupation in the early 1500s while a series of elaborate tombstones date from after the Dutch arrival in the mid-1600s.

Penang is an alluring combination of golden beaches and cultural gems. Along the north coast, Penang's most famous beach is lined with luxury Asian hotels while Malay kampongs sprinkle across a countryside scented with cloves and nutmeg. Admire the giant reclining Buddha and the 1,000 gilded statues of Kek Lok Si Temple. See the elaborate clan house of the Chinese Khoo Kongsi.

Thailand's Phuket is one of its most popular resorts and a wonderful place to enjoy a chill out' day. Embark on one of our Phuket cruises and experience the lush scenery this destination has to offer, its colourful markets and soft white beaches.

A landscape draped in greenery, stunning beaches, great wildlife refuges and the ruins of an ancient civilisation beckon visitors to Sri Lanka, an island inhabited by man for perhaps half a billion years. The sights of Colombo are many, a combination of British colonial architecture, historical museums, fine restaurants and shopping especially for sapphires and rubies.

Male, the vibrant capital of the Maldives, offers a fascinating blend of local culture, colorful markets, historic landmarks, and easy access to the country’s stunning tropical islands and turquoise waters.

Mahe is the largest and main island of the Seychelles, boasting a captivating blend of world-famous stunning beaches, psychedelic marine life, lush mountains, and vibrant culture. Home to the capital city Victoria, as well as 90% of the population, Mahe offers a mix of modern amenities and natural wonders.

This idyllic island in the archipelago of the Seychelles was once thought to be the mythic Eden, largely because of the Valle de Mai forest of huge and ancient Coco de Mer palms, whose immense fronds can roof an entire house.

Zanzibar is a heaven for water sports activities such as swimming, snorkeling, diving with lots of luminous fish or just grazing over nearby coral gardens and pods of dolphins frolic offshore.

Zanzibar is a heaven for water sports activities such as swimming, snorkeling, diving with lots of luminous fish or just grazing over nearby coral gardens and pods of dolphins frolic offshore.

A gateway to Northern Madagascar, Antisiranana, once Diego Suarez, is at once a buzzing city and a sleepy one. Most residents nap from noon to 3pm and so normally bustling shops and restaurants are closed for a few hours around this time. But even when shops are shut, there's plenty of architecture and natural beauty to wander through.

The beating heart of Mauritius is Port Louis, its capital city. Combining a rich array of cultures, languages and influences, Port Louis is a truly fascinating place to sit and watch the world go by. Port Louis offers shopping bargains at the old-fashioned central market. Go bird watching at Casela Bird Park. Or set out on a catamaran to admire the sun-drenched beauty of the island, landing on dazzling white beaches and snorkeling amongst shoals brimming with kaleidoscopic fish.

It’s a wonder that Reunion in the Indian Ocean is not better known. With its vibrant blend of Creole, French, and Indian influences, and its picturesque landscapes, lush vegetation, towering peaks, and stunning coastal views, it has all the elements of the perfect holiday destination.

Not only is Cape Town one of the most beautiful cities in the world, but it is also surrounded by magnificent beaches, rugged mountains and bucolic vineyards. On a fine day savour an awe inspiring cable car ride up Table Mountain. Perhaps make the poignant tour of Robben Island or take a cultural trip to Stellenbosch and its surrounding wine lands.

Not only is Cape Town one of the most beautiful cities in the world, but it is also surrounded by magnificent beaches, rugged mountains and bucolic vineyards. On a fine day savour an awe inspiring cable car ride up Table Mountain. Perhaps make the poignant tour of Robben Island or take a cultural trip to Stellenbosch and its surrounding wine lands.

Not only is Cape Town one of the most beautiful cities in the world, but it is also surrounded by magnificent beaches, rugged mountains and bucolic vineyards. On a fine day savour an awe inspiring cable car ride up Table Mountain. Perhaps make the poignant tour of Robben Island or take a cultural trip to Stellenbosch and its surrounding wine lands.

Lüderitz is a fascinating coastal town where German colonial heritage meets Namibia’s stark desert beauty. Expect colourful architecture, dramatic Atlantic scenery and access to the hauntingly beautiful ghost town of Kolmanskop.

The 'Diamond of Africa' is a country of stark beauty and contrasting landscapes. It is home to the world’s oldest desert, the world’s highest sand dunes, and a diversity of people that have created an intriguing blend of cultures and traditions. Found between the sand dunes of the Namib Desert and the Atlantic Ocean, the large natural lagoon of Walvis Bays is home to prolific birdlife.

Jamestown, the charming capital of St Helena, offers a rare glimpse into one of the world’s most remote islands. Steeped in history and surrounded by dramatic volcanic landscapes, it is best known as the final place of exile for Napoleon Bonaparte.

If you are a “pollywog,” who has never crossed the line at sea, you will be expected to undergo a mock trial by King Neptune and his court for the entertainment of the “shellbacks” who have already done so. Mild but hilarious indignities will be conjured, and in the end a good time will be had by most, if not all.

One of the most vibrant and cosmopolitan African cities, the Senegalese capital bears many visual reminders of its past as a French colonial outpost. Despite the Parisian-style boulevards and buildings, however, there is a distinctly African feel to the city. The common language is French, although many citizens may also speak as many as five or six ethnic languages, since the whole coast of West Africa has been steeped in a heritage of mutual trade for centuries. Among the many sights and sounds greeting visitors, none is more evocative and sobering than a visit to Goree Island and its House of Slaves. This fortress, just offshore of the city waterfront, displays many reminders of the brutal trade in human beings, including an unimposing doorway, set just above the waterline in the seaside wall, identified simply as the “Door of No Return.”

Secluded and tranquil, the Cape Verde Islands are among the most off-the-beaten-path destinations. The island of St. Vincent boasts fascinating markets and great bars, while the local community reflects the islands' history as a former slave trade hub. Mindelo is a picturesque port-city consisting of a mixture of cobbled streets and brightly coloured colonial buildings, with the majestic Mount Verde overseeing all. Home to nearly all of the island's population, the city is hailed as the cultural hub of Cape Verde.

The Canary Islands have some of the most striking and diverse scenery of any islands on earth: dry volcanic deserts, a snow-capped mountain, lush fields with banana and pineapple plantations, plus spectacular beaches! Only 70 miles from the coast of Africa, the Canaries were a way station for Spanish galleons and Las Palmas was the provisioning stop for Columbus on all four of his voyages.

Lanzarote captivates with its dramatic volcanic landscapes, whitewashed villages and year-round sunshine. Discover striking natural wonders shaped by lava flows, relax on golden beaches, and experience the island’s unique blend of art, architecture and Canarian charm.

Madeira is a lush Atlantic island paradise known for its breathtaking cliffs, year-round spring-like climate, and famous Madeira wine. Adventure seekers love hiking its dramatic levada trails, while foodies enjoy fresh seafood and unique local flavors. With stunning gardens and vibrant festivals, Madeira offers a perfect mix of nature, culture, and relaxation.

Perched on seven hills overlooking the Tagus River, Lisbon is a city of golden light, grand plazas, and nostalgic charm. Ride a vintage tram through its winding streets, admire the intricate azulejos, and take in sweeping views from Sao Jorge Castle. From the soulful sounds of fado to the delicious pasteis de nata, Lisbon captivates at every turn.