For many, an around-the-world cruise is a bucket list trip. The big hang-up (despite having to arrange everything to leave more months on end) is usually the cost.
A cruise that circumnavigates the globe is an expensive endeavor. It easily runs into the tens of thousands of dollars before you add on any extras like shore excursions or drink packages.
But for those that have dreamed of traveling the world without spending nearly as much, a new offering from MSC Cruises could offer up the trip of a lifetime for a price that’s much more palatable.
115 Days of Cruising, Six Continents, and 29 Countries
MSC’s World Cruise 2028 opened for bookings this past week, and it’s sure to garner tons of interest. Not just for the route, but also the price.
Departing January 4, 2028 from Genoa, Italy, the cruise heads west through the Mediterranean, Tenerife, across the Atlantic to the Caribbean before transiting the Panama Canal.
From there, it heads down the west coast of South America before charting across the Pacific to Papeete, New Zealand, and Australia. The cruise then takes passengers though southeast Asia, Singapore, India and Dubai. Finally, the trip will sail the Red Sea and the Suez Canal, with a stop in Egypt before returning back to Italy on April 29.
All told, the cruise covers six continents, 29 countries, and 44 ports of call. It will also take you literally around the world, including passages of the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Ocean.
The trip takes place aboard the MSC Maginifica. Built in 2010, the ship is part of the fleet’s Musica class. At double occupancy, the ship carries only about 2,500 passengers. So you’re getting a ship that’s more manageable and approachable than the mega-ships seen across lines.
Anyone sailing this trip will also see some perks included that aren’t normal on shorter cruises. First, there are 15 different shore excursions included in selected ports, such as tours in Auckland, Muscat, and Singapore. There is also a “Dine & Drink” package included with your fare that offers up waters, sodas, juices, wine and beer in dining areas during the length of the trip.
A Price Tag Starting at $19,709, But Many Qualify For a Bigger Discount
Now we will be honest that while the trip is bucket-list worthy, many cruise lines offer around-the world cruises.
What makes this trip stand apart is that it’s among the least expensive we’ve ever seen.
For a once-in-a-lifetime cruise that takes you to six continents and nearly 30 countries, the pricing starts at under $20,000 per person.
Officially, the per-person price for an interior cabin is $19,709 with taxes and fees included. That means a couple will pay about $39,000 for the trip. If you want to upgrade to a room with a balcony, the pricing is still just $27,909.
If you’re an MSC “Classic” level member in the ship’s loyalty program (meaning you’ve ever sailed with them before) then you get a 5% discount off the price. Plus, the points earned from the cruise are tripled and credited before the trip, giving you status during the cruise.
Of course, there will be extras added on to that price such as shore excursions outside of the ones included and gratuities. Still, being able to sail for under $20,000 is an enticing offer. For comparison, Holland America offers a 129-day worldwide sailing starting at $29,099 per person.
And if the price is still too high or you can’t get away for 115 days to take advantage? There are also shorter segments that you can book that range from 34-51 days and are priced even less.
For more on this cruise you can check out the MSC website here.
