world voyager cruises

• Atlas On Board
• Atlas Ashore ™

Always Included

• Antarctica Expedition Team
• Arctic Expedition Team
• Atlas Yacht Club
• 9-Night Ushuaia Roundtrip 10.30.24
• 11-Night Ushuaia Roundtrip 11.8.24
• 9-Night Ushuaia Roundtrip 11.13.24
• 9-Night Ushuaia Roundtrip 11.19.24
• 13-Night Ushuaia Roundtrip 11.22.24
• 5-Night King George Island Roundtrip 11.27.24
• 11-Night Ushuaia Roundtrip 11.28.24
• 5-Night King George Island Roundtrip 12.2.24
• 11-Night Roundtrip Ushuaia 12.9.24
• 11-Night Ushuaia Roundtrip 12.9.24
• 11-Night Ushuaia Roundtrip 1.5.25
• 9-Night Ushuaia Roundtrip 1.6.25
• 11-Night Ushuaia Roundtrip 1.9.25
• 9-Night Ushuaia Roundtrip 1.15.25
• 18-Night Ushuaia Roundtrip 1.16.25
• 11-Night Ushuaia Roundtrip 1.24.25
• 11-Night Ushuaia Roundtrip 2.3.25
• 9-Night Ushuaia Roundtrip 2.4.25
• 11-Night Ushuaia Roundtrip 2.11.25
• 9-Night Ushuaia Roundtrip 2.13.25
• View Antarctica
• 7-Night Tromso to Longyearbyen 6.21.24
• 9-Night Longyearbyen Roundtrip 6.28.24
• 9-Night Longyearbyen Roundtrip 7.7.24
• 11-Night Longyearbyen Roundtrip 7.16.24
• 10-Night Reykjavik to Kangerlussuaq 8.5.24
• 10-Night Kangerlussuaq to Reykjavik 8.15.24
• 11-Night Reykjavik to Kangerlussuaq 8.21.24
• 12-Night Reykjavik to Longyearbyen 8.25.24
• 11-Night Kangerlussuaq to Reykjavik 9.1.24
• 9-Night Longyearbyen to Reykjavik 9.6.24
• 24-Night Edinburgh To Longyearbyen 6.17.25
• 12-Night Trondheim to Longyearbyen 06.29.25
• 9-Night Longyearbyen Roundtrip 7.11.25
• 11-Night Longyearbyen Roundtrip 7.20.25
• 18-Night Copenhagen To Longyearbyen 8.8.25
• 10-Night Reykjavík To Kangerlussuaq 8.09.25
• 9-Night Tromso to Longyearbyen 8.17.25
• 10-Night Kangerlussuaq To Reykjavík 8.19.25
• 9-Night Longyearbyen Roundtrip 8.26.25
• 10-Night Longyearbyen to Reykjavik 9.4.25
• View The Arctic
• 17-Night Lisbon to Dublin 5.7.24
• 8-Night London to Dublin 5.16.24
• 8-Night Dublin to Reykjavik 5.24.24
• 11-Night London to Tromso 6.10.24
• 11-Night Oslo to Reykjavik 8.10.24
• 8-Night Reykjavik to Amsterdam 9.12.24
• 9-Night Dublin to London 9.23.24
• 10-Night London to Glasgow 5.26.25
• 12-Night Edinburgh to Trondheim 6.17.25
• 11-Night Reykjavik to Oslo 7.10.25
• 9-Night Stockholm To Copenhagen 7.30.25
• 9-Night Copenhagen to Tromso 8.8.25
• 14-Night Reykjavík to Dublin 8.29.25
• 7-Night Reykjavík to Dublin 8.29.25
• View Northern Europe
• 8-Night Reykjavik Roundtrip 6.1.24
• 9-Night Reykjavik to Bergen 6.9.24
• 9-Night Reykjavik Roundtrip 7.3.24
• 11-Night Reykjavik to Oslo 7.12.24
• 7-Night Reykjavik Roundtrip 6.19.25
• 8-Night Reykjavík To Dublin 09.14.25
• View Iceland & Greenland
• 10-Night Las Palmas to Nice 4.18.24
• 9-Night Nice to Lisbon 4.28.24
• 7-Night Casablanca to Barcelona 4.29.24
• 7-Night Barcelona Roundtrip 5.6.24
• 9-Night Lisbon to London 5.7.24
• 7-Night Barcelona to Nice 5.13.24
• 9-Night Nice to Venice 5.27.24
• 21-Night Lisbon to Tromso 5.31.24
• 10-Night Lisbon to London 5.31.24
• 9-Night Venice to Athens 6.5.24
• 12-Night Las Palmas to Casablanca 4.15.25
• 15-Night Barcelona to Rome 05.05.25
• 17-Night Lisbon to Zeebrugge 5.20.25
• 7-Night Rome to Barcelona 05.20.25
• 7-Night Lisbon To Bordeaux 5.20.25
• 14-Night Barcelona To Venice 5.27.25
• 10-Night Bordeaux to Zeebrugge 5.27.25
• 11-Night Venice To Rome 6.10.25
• 8-Night Naples To Nice 7.12.25
• 16-Night Naples To Barcelona 7.12.25
• View Mediterranean
• 19-Night Las Palmas to Lisbon 4.18.24
• 10-Night Montevideo to Ushuaia 11.3.24
• 13-Night Ushuaia to Buenos Aires 4.2.25
• View South America
• 13-Night Bridgetown to Lisbon 5.16.24
• 16-Night Palma de Mallorca to Las Palmas 9.23.24
• 13-Night Las Palmas to Rio de Janeiro 10.14.24
• View Transoceanic
• 8-Night Bridgetown to Bridgetown 4.24.24
• 7-Night Bridgetown to Philipsburg 5.2.24
• 7-Night Philipsburg to Bridgetown 5.9.24
• 20-Night Philipsburg to Lisbon 5.9.24
• View The Caribbean
• View Patagonia & The Falklands
• Polar Expeditions
• Epicurean Expeditions
• Cultural Expeditions
• Accommodations

Conscious Navigation

• Our Company
• Executive Team
• Our Partners
• Academia Barilla
• Adventure Beyond Savings
• New 2025 Expeditions
• Second Guest Sails Free
• New 2025 Arctic Expeditions
• Sail More Save More
• Single Explorer Savings
• Military Edge

The Drake By Sea & Sky More Ways To Explore Antarctica

Experience extraordinary Antarctica to the fullest and in the shortest amount of time aboard our newest yacht, World Voyager ™ . Spend more time exploring the Antarctic Peninsula by flying over the Drake Passage one way and still lay claim to the iconic experience of sailing the other direction with our NEW Drake Express options. Or, if you’re an intrepid explorer, you can still conquer the famed Drake Passage both ways with all Ushuaia Roundtrip expeditions.

See all terms and conditions here .

— INAUGURAL SEASON BEGINS NOVEMBER 2023 —

Your sanctuary at sea.

Taste Perfection

Onboard life.

At Atlas Ocean Voyages, we encourage a holistic approach to life that incorporates mind, body and spirit. Connect with like-spirited explorers during Après Sea and satisfy your curiosity with exceptional guest lecturers to relish every aspect of a stimulating journey. From appreciating the dining experience to keeping up an exercise routine while on holiday to taking time for self-care, we cultivate an atmosphere of overall well-being in every space on board  World Voyager .

Make Yourself at Home

Aboard our intimate, yacht  World Voyager  you will find everything you want and need. Including three decks of spacious and elevated accommodations, various onboard dining options, spa and sauna amenities, social spaces for gathering with your fellow travelers and more,  World Voyager  has been designed to always deliver relaxed luxury and highly personalized service.

An innovative hydro-jet propulsion system allows the purpose-built  World Voyager  to bring you closer to the environment and wildlife. The system gives the ship a quieter sound that’s less disruptive to the ecosystem, making for up-close and personal encounters that leave you in awe.

Intimate Yachting Expeditions ™

To Book, Call your Preferred Travel Advisor or our Voyage Specialists at 1.844.44.ATLAS (28527)  

• FREE cultural immersion
• FREE gourmet dining with ever-changing menus
• FREE unlimited beverages, including fine wines, spirits and craft beers
• FREE open bars and lounges, including 24-hour bar service with specialty canapés
• FREE stocked in-room minibar
• FREE specialty coffees, teas and fresh-pressed juices
• FREE afternoon and high tea
• FREE champagne and gourmet canapés during meet and greet
• FREE 24-hour room service, including spirits, wine and beer
• FREE L'OCCITANE bath amenities
• FREE pre-paid gratuities
• FREE use of walking sticks and binoculars
• FREE reusable water bottle
• FREE butler service and expanded room service menu in suites

Exclusively on Polar Expeditions

• FREE private charter jet service*
• FREE enrichment lectures and destination briefings
• FREE shore landings led by expert field guides
• FREE escorted sightseeing safaris by Zodiac
• FREE polar plunge
• FREE Atlas Ocean Voyages parka and vest
• FREE use of knee boots
• FREE private group transfers between airport and yacht*
• FREE 1-night pre-cruise hotel stay on all Antarctica expeditions
• FREE 1-night post-cruise hotel stay on select Antarctica expeditions

Exclusively on Epicurean Expeditions

• FREE cultural immersion includes culinary experience ashore, such as local market visits, specialty tastings and more
• FREE Josper Grill Dining Experience at 7AFT Grill
• FREE culinary presentations and wine tastings
• FREE cooking demonstrations and cuisine tastings
• FREE events hosted by a Tastes & Traditions Expert on select expeditions
• FREE Atlas Ocean Voyages backpack

Exclusively on Cultural Expeditions

• FREE enrichment programs and workshops on select expeditions
• FREE authentic, local experiences and on board events on select expeditions

JOIN OUR EMAIL LIST.

Atlas experience, travel advisors, media center.

Sign up and be the first to know about special offers, new itineraries and more.

I am a Travel Advisor

Agency Name

• All Destinations Antarctica  (35) Arctic  (20) Caribbean  (4) Holy Land and Egypt  (5) Iceland and Greenland  (19) Mediterranean  (54) Northern Europe  (21) Patagonia and The Falklands  (3) South America  (3) Transoceanic  (3) Select
• All Yachts World Navigator  (47) World Traveller  (44) World Voyager  (50) Select
• All Ports Cruising Greenland Sea  (1) Otranto (Puglia), Italy  (2) Bastia (Corsica), France  (2) Koper, Slovenia  (1) Rijeka, Croatia  (1) Navigating the Strait of Messina  (1) Roseau, Dominica  (1) Fort-de-France, Martinique  (1) Ajaccio (Corsica), France  (1) Rønne (Bornholm), Denmark  (1) Binz (Rügen), Germany  (1) Sandnes, Norway  (2) Santa Maria Island (Azores), Portugal  (1) São Jorge Island (Azores), Portugal  (1) Positano, Italy  (2) Amalfi/Salerno, Italy  (1) Piraeus (Athens), Greece  (9) Barcelona, Spain  (13) Cartagena, Spain  (4) Chania/Souda, Crete, Greece  (2) Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy  (13) Capri, Italy  (8) Ravello, Italy  (2) Giardini Naxos (Taormina/Mt. Etna), Italy  (2) Syracuse (Sicily), Italy  (3) Gozo, Malta  (2) Valletta, Malta  (8) Lisbon, Portugal  (21) Gibraltar, UK  (8) Malaga, Spain  (8) Palma de Mallorca, Spain  (9) Mahon (Menorca), Spain  (6) Portofino, Italy  (6) Giardini Naxos (Taormina/Mt. Etna)  (1) Zakynthos, Greece  (2) Katakolon (Olympia), Greece  (3) Puerto Banus (Marbella), Spain  (2) Trapani (Sicily), Italy  (3) Patmos, Greece  (1) Corinth Canal Transit  (4) Itea (Delphi), Greece  (3) Naples (Pompeii), Italy  (2) Livorno (Florence/Pisa), Italy  (9) Marseilles (Aix-en-Provence), France  (5) Valencia, Spain  (1) Rio de Janeiro, Brazil  (1) Funchal (Madeira), Portugal  (3) Santa Cruz, Tenerife, Canary Islands  (1) Punta del Este, Uruguay  (1) Montevideo, Uruguay  (2) Ushuaia, Argentina  (35) Buenos Aires, Argentina  (1) Port Stanley, Falkland Islands - Captain’s Choice  (4) Puerto Madryn, Argentina  (1) Exploring South Georgia & the South Sandwich Islands - Captain’s Choice  (3) Exploring the South Shetland Islands - Captain’s Choice, Antarctica  (31) Bridgetown, Barbados  (5) Mayreau, St. Vincent and the Grenadines  (1) Kusadasi (Ephesus), Turkey  (1) Drake Passage Navigation  (33) Crossing the Antarctic Circle - Captain’s Choice  (19) Santorini, Greece  (2) Praia (Santiago), Cape Verde  (1) Arrecife (Lanzarote), Canary Islands  (4) Casablanca, Morocco  (9) Portimão, Portugal  (10) Sagres, Portugal  (2) Seville, Spain  (6) Ibiza, Spain  (5) Saint Tropez, France  (1) Monte Carlo, Monaco  (3) Sorrento (Pompeii), Italy  (1) Porto-Vecchio (Corsica), France  (2) Cannes, France  (1) Sete (Montpellier), France  (3) Cadiz, Spain  (3) Leixoes (Porto), Portugal  (10) La Coruña, Spain  (8) Bordeaux, France  (10) St. Peter Port,( Guernsey) Channel Islands  (9) London (Tower Bridge), England  (10) St Mary’s (Isles of Scilly), England  (4) Cork (Cobh), Ireland  (5) Galway, Ireland  (2) Killybegs, Ireland  (2) Londonderry, Northern Ireland  (2) Belfast, Northen Ireland  (7) Dublin, Ireland  (13) Lerwick (Shetland Islands), Scotland  (3) Glasgow (Greenock), Scotland  (3) Fort William (Loch Ness), Scotland  (2) Stornoway (Isles of Lewis), Scotland  (5) Bergen, Norway  (8) Flåm, Norway  (8) Olden, Norway  (1) Geiranger, Norway  (7) Kristiansund, Norway  (1) Trondheim, Norway  (5) Leknes (Lofoten Islands), Norway  (4) Arctic Circle Crossing  (3) Tromsø, Norway  (8) Longyearbyen (Svalbard), Norway  (14) Ny-Ålesund (Svalbard), Norway  (10) Ittoqqortoormiit, Greenland  (3) Isafjörður, Iceland  (9) Reykjavik, Iceland  (9) Heimaey (Vestmannaeyjar), Iceland  (7) Tórshavn (Faroe Islands), Denmark  (6) Kirkwall (Orkney Islands), Scotland  (2) Invergordon (Loch Ness), Scotland  (2) Leith (Edinburgh), Scotland  (5) Douglas, Isle of Man  (7) Liverpool, England  (1) Riga, Latvia  (1) Tallinn, Estonia  (1) Helsinki, Finland  (1) Stockholm, Sweden  (1) Gdansk, Poland  (1) Ijmuiden (Amsterdam), The Netherlands  (5) Honfleur (Paris/Normandy), France  (8) St. Malo, France  (6) Le Palais, Belle Isle, France  (2) Punta Arenas, Chile - Captain’s Choice  (1) Hydra, Greece  (1) Nafplion (Mycenae/Epidaurus), Greece  (3) Cassis (Aix-En-Provence), France  (1) Nice, France  (15) Gustavia, St. Barts  (4) Ceuta, Spain  (1) Corfu, Greece  (3) Dubrovnik (Old Town), Croatia  (7) Las Palmas (Gran Canaria), Canary Islands, Spain  (10) Hvar Island, Croatia  (4) Kotor, Montenegro  (10) Porto Santo, Madeira, Portugal  (2) Portoferraio (Tuscany), Italy  (3) Porto Venere, (Cinque Terre), Italy  (4) Sanary-Sur-Mer (Bandol), France  (1) Saranda (Butrint), Albania  (3) Stromboli Volcano Circumnavigation  (2) Tangier, Morocco  (10) Trogir, Croatia  (2) Venice, Italy  (8) Rabat (Casablanca), Morocco  (1) Glacier Alley - Captain’s Choice  (1) Philipsburg, St. Maarten  (3) Magdalena Island, Chile - Captain’s Choice  (1) New Island, Falkland Islands - Captain’s Choice  (3) West Point Island, Falkland Islands — Captain’s Choice  (1) Lipari Island (Sicily), Italy  (5) Fiskardo (Kefalonia), Greece  (3) Sibenik, Croatia  (1) Monopoli, Italy  (1) San Remo, Italy  (1) Saint-Tropez, France  (3) Port Vendres, France  (5) Roses, Spain  (2) Alicante, Spain  (5) Almeria (Granada), Spain  (4) Port Elizabeth (Bequia), St. Vincent and the Grenadines  (1) Puerto del Rosario(Fuerteventura), Canary Islands, Spain  (5) Safi, Morocco  (8) San Sebastian (La Gomera), Canary Islands, Spain  (4) Santa Cruz (La Palma), Canary Islands, Spain  (5) Santander, Spain  (2) Port Medoc (Bordeaux), France  (3) Akureyri, Iceland  (8) Grundarfjörður, Iceland  (6) Kangerlussuaq, Greenland  (6) Nuuk, Greenland  (6) Narsarsuaq, Greenland  (3) Ilulissat (Disko Bay), Greenland  (4) Sisimiut, Greenland  (1) Kangaamiut, Greenland  (1) Arsuk, Greenland  (3) Nanortalik, Greenland  (1) Itilleq, Greenland  (1) Crossing N80 Moffen,Captain’s Choice  (8) Patreksfjörður, Iceland  (1) Seyðisfjörður, Iceland  (7) Gudvangen, Norway  (7) Kristiansand, Norway  (2) Arendal, Norway  (2) Porto Cervo (Sardinia), Italy  (4) Zeebrugge (Bruges), Belgium  (2) Oslo, Norway  (3) Terre-de-Haut, (Iles de Saintes), Guadeloupe  (1) Little Bay, Montserrat  (1) Ålesund, Norway  (7) Exploring Greenland-Captain’s Choice  (3) Exploring Svalbard - Captain’s Choice  (14) Fjords of Greenland - Captain’s Choice  (3) Eskifjordur, Iceland  (2) Grimsey, Iceland  (2) Hammerfest, Norway  (3) Exploring the Antarctic Peninsula – Captain’s Choice  (35) Gijon, Spain  (5) Agadir, Morocco  (6) Palamos, Spain  (2) Propriano, Corsica, France  (1) Ile-Rousse, Corsica, France  (1) Parga, Greece  (2) Split, Croatia  (1) Saint-Raphael , France  (2) Toulon, France  (4) Garibaldi Glacier, Chile - Captain’s Choice  (2) Skagen, Denmark  (2) Stavanger, Norway  (5) Sisimiut, Greenland  (2) Ponta Delgada (Azores) Portugal  (2) Praia da Vitoria (Azores), Portugal  (3) Bilbao, Spain  (8) Holyhead, Wales  (3) Surtsey Island Scenic Navigation  (2) Eqi Glacier (Disko Bay), Greenland  (4) Prince Christian Sound - Captain’s Choice  (6) Reykjavik, Iceland  (13) Copenhagen, Denmark  (3) La Goulette, Tunisia  (1) Mindelo (Sao Vicente), Cape Verde  (1) Tarragona, Spain  (2) Collioure, France  (1) Peniscola, Spain  (1) Menton, France  (1) Mykonos, Greece  (3) Igoumenitsa, Greece  (2) King George Island, South Shetland Islands  (5) Rodney Bay, Saint Lucia  (3) Les Trois-Ilets, Martinique  (3) Pointe-á-Pitre, Guadeloupe  (3) Carambola Beach, St. Kitts & Nevis  (3) Sandy Ground, Anguilla  (3) Lajes do Pico (Azores), Portugal  (2) Newcastle upon Tyne, England  (2) Molde, Norway  (3) Reine, Norway  (2) Lofoten & Vaerøy Islands Cruising  (2) Skarsvåg (North Cape), Norway  (3) Qaqortoq, Greenland  (2) Paamiut, Greenland  (2) Akulleq Island, Greenland  (2) Waterford, Ireland  (2) Bantry, Ireland  (3) Falmouth, England  (1) Poole, England  (1) Ancona, Italy  (3) Durres (Tirana), Albania  (3) Isla de los Estados, Argentina  (1) Exploring the South Orkney Islands - Captain’s Choice, Antarctica  (3) At Sea  (72) Spetses, Greece  (1) Messina (Sicily), Italy  (1) Aberdeen, Scotland  (3) Scrabster, Scotland  (3) Måløy, Norway  (3) Crotone (Calabria), Italy  (1) Porto Santo Stefano, Italy  (1) Kongsbreen Glacier Cruising — Captain’s Choice  (2) Caen (Normandy), France  (2) Dunkirk, France  (2) La Rochelle, France  (1) Rouen (Paris), France  (2) Saint-Jean-de-Luz, France  (4) Bodø, Norway  (2) Alta, Norway  (2) Höfn, Iceland  (3) Siglufjörður, Iceland  (1) Greenock (Glasgow), Scotland  (1) Tobermory, Scotland  (3) Ullapool, Scotland, UK  (1) Tilbury (London), England  (1) Klaipeda, Lithuania  (1) Vilagarcía (Santiago de Compostela), Spain  (2) Zadar, Croatia  (1) Select
• All Offers Drake Fly & Sail  (0) Fall Savings Event  (0) Select

We're here for you!

Let us connect you with an Atlas Ocean Voyages expert to help you plan the best vacation today.

Phone Number

For immediate assistance call us at 1.844.44.ATLAS (28527).

I am a Travel Advisor I am working with a Travel Advisor I am not working with a Travel Advisor

Privacy Policy

Review: World Voyager

Reviewed by Celeste Moure

What is the line?  Atlas Ocean Voyages

Name of ship? World Voyager

Passenger occupancy?  198

Itinerary?  9-Night Ushuaia Roundtrip

Start out with the big picture—what is this cruise line known for?

Traditional expedition ship meets luxury yacht in Atlas Ocean Voyages’ small fleet of vessels. This relatively new line, which sails under the Portuguese flag and currently offers three ships, approaches expedition cruising with the ethos of a luxe but relaxed all-inclusive resort: the décor is contemporary modern, the staff is affable and proficient, the complimentary cocktails flow freely, and much of the cuisine is farm-to-table.

Tell us about the ship in general:

World Voyager , the third ship in Atlas’ fleet, accommodates 198 passengers and offers a one-to-one guest-to-staff ratio, which means you’ll likely be on a first-name basis with the expedition crew and front-of-house staff by the second day of a sailing. Much like sister ship World Traveller , the interior design of this vessel favors a subdued palette in shades of vanilla and taupe with pops of cerulean blue, buttery yellow, and ochre. There are plenty of spaces to spread out and take in the spellbinding views, including a relaxed lounge with floor-to-ceiling windows, by the outdoor pool and hot tub, and, my favorite, in the spa’s relaxation room and sauna.

Who is on board?

I was surprised at the diversity of the crowd, which included a handful of twenty-somethings and solo travelers, older Millennials from the US, India, Australia, Canada, and Europe traveling with friends or with parents, newly retired couples, and a few honeymooners. I traveled with my teenage daughter, and though there were no kids or other teens on the ship, she quickly became part of a clique of younger adults who dined together and played cards in the lounge.

Describe the cabins .

World Voyager has 100 cabins spread across decks 3, 5, and 6. My daughter and I stayed in a Horizon Stateroom, a cozy 270-square-foot room with two single beds (which can be converted to a queen) separated from a sitting area with a sofa and coffee table, swivel chair, and a desk fitted with a mini fridge and Nespresso machine. The marble bathroom featured not only L’Occitane products and a walk-in rain shower with body jets but also enough space to store our personal toiletries. A highlight of our cabin was the Juliette balcony, featuring floor-to-ceiling glass and a top-drop electric window we could open at the touch of a button from a panel by the bed. A step up in category, the Veranda Deluxe and Horizon Deluxe cabins are configured to fit a separate sitting area and walk-out balcony.

Tell us about the crew.

From the cabin and kitchen staff to the waiters, bartenders, and spa attendants—everyone I encountered on this voyage was gracious and eager to help. However, it was clear that this was an inaugural Antarctica voyage not just for the ship but also for many of the crew, some of whom seemed to struggle to find their sea legs as we crossed a tempestuous Drake Passage. Service at mealtimes was spotty during those first few days of our journey, but things got better as the days went on. The expedition staff, led by an entertaining Polar veteran from France, was an interesting mix of experienced and more novice guides, all of whom were not just thrilled to be working on the ship and headed to Antarctica but also to share their expertise in wildlife, the environment, and the geopolitical history of the continent.

What food and drink options are available on board?

Unlike a big ship with tons of restaurant options, this yacht-like vessel offers a main dining room, called Madeira, serving three meals a day. At breakfast there’s a combination of buffet and standard menu items (made-to-order pancakes, omelettes, and French toast) while lunch is a buffet-only affair. Dishes get an elevated treatment at dinnertime, with five-course menus offering a variety of rotating international cuisine options, including an always-present section of Portuguese dishes (a nod to Portugal-based parent company Mystic Cruises).

Sustainable dining is a focus on all Atlas ships, which is highlighted by slow food and zero-waste principles, as well as tasty vegetarian options, such as the always-present plant-based steak. Surprisingly, given that the ship departs from Ushuaia, there were no wines from Argentina or Chile on the menu; the wine list focused on European labels, with many hailing from Portugal.

Paula’s Pantry is a grab-and-go café that serves caffeine drinks as well as smoothies, juice shots, house made muesli and yogurt, tasty granola bars, and heartier snacks like pizza and paninis. The 7Aft Grill by the pool is not open on Antarctica itineraries, but the menu focuses on barbecue fare and grilled meats. And, of course, there’s 24-hour complimentary room service. There are two bars on the ship: the spacious Atlas Lounge, outfitted with plush sofas and swivel chaises surrounding a variety of coffee tables, is perfect for an anytime drink and conversation; and on the top deck, the Dome Observation Lounge is the place to go for afternoon tea and evening cocktails.

Is there a spa on board and is it worth visiting?

What the spa lacks in space, it more than makes up for in the L’Occitane-branded treatments and the stellar service. I spent many hours just daydreaming and marveling at the sea from a heated lounger bed in the relaxation room, as well as unwinding in the sauna, which I particularly appreciated after doing the polar plunge.

What about activities and entertainment?

You won’t find any aqua fitness classes, aerobics, or conga lines on this ship. Instead, you can hit the small gym, which is fitted with a pair of treadmills and stationary bikes as well as free weights, yoga mats, and exercise balls. On the top deck you can do laps on the outdoor running track, featuring arguably the most mesmerizing views on the planet.

If the weather isn’t cooperating, which it probably won’t be on an Antarctica journey, the expedition staff offers daily lectures, as well as afternoon documentaries—pick up a bag of popcorn and a drink on the way into the auditorium. There are also evening performances, such as ballads sung in English, French, and Portuguese by a skilled guest singer who was accompanied on the keys by the ship’s pianist. On other occasions, there might be trivia nights based on Antarctica knowledge. One night, the staff and crew performed a variety show—some performed traditional dances from their respective countries; others played an instrument; some brave souls sang a capella.

How was the experience for families?

I can’t imagine many parents would want to bring kids younger than 12 to Antarctica, and indeed Atlas only welcomes children eight and older. When not out on an expedition or dining with other guests, my fifteen-year-old spent the time reading in the lounge, working out, or watching movies in our cabin.

Where did it sail and how were the excursions? Did anything stand out?

I sailed to Antarctica from Ushuaia on a nine-night itinerary, though taking into consideration that expeditions rely on perfect conditions, I would highly recommend Atlas’ 11-night journey. Every day, the captain decides where the ship will navigate according to local conditions, and the expedition staff briefs guests on the planned activities for the following day. There are typically two excursions per day, which might include Zodiac cruises, landings, and water sports. During my November sailing, I had signed up for optional activities (offered at an additional cost), such as kayaking, stand up paddle boarding, and camping, all of which were canceled due to rough weather. The ability to be flexible, to be patient, and go with the flow is paramount on an Antarctica expedition.

Are there any stand out sustainability or green initiatives about this cruise?

Atlas puts considerable effort on its zero-waste principles and plant-based dining options, which aligns with the philosophy of a growing number of travelers—and not only in the luxury segment. The long-term plan from Atlas’ Executive Chef, Rene Aflenzes, is to bring a bit of the slow-food philosophy to the high seas.

Finally, give a sentence or two on why the cruise is worth booking.

If you are keen on an all-inclusive polar adventure that is at once intimate yet casually elegant, World Voyager is a worthy choice. This young cruise line attracts an equally young (the average age on my sailing was around 40) audience of adventurers; their idea of dressing up for cocktails means pairing an Arc’teryx jacket with a telephoto lens camera or binoculars to not miss a wildlife encounter.

• Vacation Rentals
• Restaurants
• Things to do
• Things to Do
• Travel Stories
• Rental Cars
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travelers' Choice
• Help Center

Nicko World Voyager Deck Plans & Reviews

Nicko World Voyager

Activities & entertainment.

• Cigar Lounge
• Hot Tub (2)
• Yoga/Pilates lessons
• Restaurant - European
• Explorer Lounge - Bar
• Poolbar - Bar
• Observation Lounge - Bar
• Lido Café - Self-Service
• Excellent 1
• Very Good 0
• All languages ( 1 )
• German ( 1 )
• English ( 0 )

• Cruise Lines
• Atlas Ocean Voyages

World Voyager

Cruise search, special cruise offers.

Royal Caribbean

• 60% OFF 2nd Guest + Kids Sail FREE + Instant Savings + FREE GRATUITIES or Up to $1,700 Onboard Credit

Norwegian Cruise Line

• 50% OFF Cruises + Take All FREE + BOGO Airfare + Up to $1,700 Cash Back

Holland America

• Up to 45% OFF + Up to $1,000 Onboard Crerdit + 50% Reduced Deposit + 3rd & 4th Guests FREE

Princess Cruises

• Up to 35% OFF + 3rd & 4th Guest FREE + Up to $1,785 Onboard Credit

Celebrity Cruises

• Up to 75% OFF 2nd Guest + FREE Amenities Included: FREE Beverage Package + Basic Wi-Fi + Up to $1,700 Onboard Credit

Featured Cruise Deals

Other cruise options.

• Last Minute Cruise Deals
• Land Tour Deals
• View Golf Vacations
• Shop by Destination
• Shop by Cruise Line
• Cruise From Port Near You
• Holiday Sailings
• Luxury Cruises

About World Voyager

Embark on a voyage like no other aboard the World Voyager with Atlas Ocean Voyages. Designed for the discerning traveler seeking unparalleled luxury, adventure, and exploration, this extraordinary vessel promises to redefine the concept of oceanic expeditions. From the pristine landscapes of Antarctica to the vibrant cultures of the Mediterranean and beyond, every moment aboard the World Voyager is meticulously crafted to immerse you in the wonders of the world while indulging your senses in refined elegance.

Immerse yourself in the wonders of each destination with a guided excursions ashore, where you'll uncover the region's cultural treasures, breathtaking landscapes, and hidden gems. Whether wandering through Europe's open-air markets with knowledgeable local guides or embarking on thrilling Zodiac safaris amidst Antarctic wildlife, each outing promises unforgettable adventures and enriching experiences.

Retreat to your own personal sanctuary at sea after a day filled with exploration and adventure. Whether you choose a balcony accommodation, a modern suite, or the exclusive options for solo travelers, each room offers a haven of comfort and relaxation. Pamper yourself in the spacious bathroom adorned with luxurious L’OCCITANE amenities, sink into plush bedding designed for the sweetest dreams, and unwind in the cozy sitting or living areas equipped with state-of-the-art entertainment systems.

Indulge in holistic wellness experiences designed to rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul. Take advantage of state-of-the-art fitness facilities to maintain your physical health, followed by indulgent treatments at SeaSpa by L’OCCITANE, where you can pamper yourself with signature therapies using luxurious organic products. Unwind in the sauna, offering panoramic views that rejuvenate the soul, or enjoy outdoor exercise options like the running track on the top deck with breathtaking horizons.

Savor the pinnacle of culinary excellence aboard this vessel, where dining transcends mere sustenance to become a cherished daily highlight. Indulge in globally inspired gourmet cuisine meticulously prepared to tantalize your taste buds and nourish your soul. From alfresco Portuguese soul food with ocean views to luxurious breakfasts in bed, each dining experience is a celebration of upscale elegance with effortless simplicity. Best of all, these unforgettable culinary adventures are always included, completely complimentary.

Whether you're craving a serene escape or lively interaction, the lounges are crafted to cater to every mood and occasion. From captivating live entertainment under the stars to panoramic views of the surrounding seascape, each lounge offers a distinctive retreat where you can unwind, socialize, and forge unforgettable memories. With complimentary open bars, specialty canapés, and a welcoming ambiance, the lounges provide the perfect setting for relaxation and connection throughout your journey.

Experience the epitome of luxury, adventure, and discovery aboard the World Voyager.

Oversized private balcony with teak furnishings, Double sinks and tub, Walk-in closet and wardrobe, Living room with sofa and vanity, Includes 2 wall-mounted TVs with “infotainment” system, 24-hour room service including spirits, wine and beer, Nespresso Coffee and Kusmi Teas, Still and sparkling water in reusable glass bottles, Private marble spa bath with luxurious L’OCCITANE amenities, Walk-in mosaic glass shower with rain head and body jets, Plush terry bathrobes and slippers, Queen bed with sumptuous Portuguese cotton linens by Lameirinho, Option to convert queen bed into two singles, Spacious wardrobe, Wall-mounted television with infotainment system.

Oversized private balcony with teak furnishings, Walk-in closet and wardrobe, Living room with sofa and vanity, Includes 2 wall-mounted TVs with “infotainment” system, 24-hour room service including spirits, wine and beer, Nespresso Coffee and Kusmi Teas, Still and sparkling water in reusable glass bottles, Private marble spa bath with luxurious L’OCCITANE amenities, Walk-in mosaic glass shower with rain head and body jets, Plush terry bathrobes and slippers, Queen bed with sumptuous Portuguese cotton linens by Lameirinho, Option to convert queen bed into two singles, Spacious wardrobe, Wall-mounted television with infotainment system.

Horizon Deluxe

including floor-to-ceiling Juliette Balcony with top-drop electric window, Interior seating area with sofa and TV, 24-hour room service including spirits, wine and beer, Nespresso Coffee and Kusmi Teas, Still and sparkling water in reusable glass bottles, Private marble spa bath with luxurious L’OCCITANE amenities, Walk-in mosaic glass shower with rain head and body jets, Plush terry bathrobes and slippers, Queen bed with sumptuous Portuguese cotton linens by Lameirinho, Option to convert queen bed into two singles, Spacious wardrobe, Wall-mounted television with infotainment system.

Veranda Deluxe

Living room with sofa and vanity, 24-hour room service including spirits, wine and beer, Nespresso Coffee and Kusmi Teas, Still and sparkling water in reusable glass bottles, Private marble spa bath with luxurious L’OCCITANE amenities, Walk-in mosaic glass shower with rain head and body jets, Plush terry bathrobes and slippers, Queen bed with sumptuous Portuguese cotton linens by Lameirinho, Option to convert queen bed into two singles, Spacious wardrobe, Wall-mounted television with infotainment system.

including floor-to-ceiling Juliette Balcony with top-drop electric window, Sitting area with sofa and TV, 24-hour room service including spirits, wine and beer, Nespresso Coffee and Kusmi Teas, Still and sparkling water in reusable glass bottles, Private marble spa bath with luxurious L’OCCITANE amenities, Walk-in mosaic glass shower with rain head and body jets, Plush terry bathrobes and slippers, Queen bed with sumptuous Portuguese cotton linens by Lameirinho, Option to convert queen bed into two singles, Spacious wardrobe, Wall-mounted television with infotainment system.

Horizon Stateroom

Sitting area with sofa and TV, 24-hour room service including spirits, wine and beer, Nespresso Coffee and Kusmi Teas, Still and sparkling water in reusable glass bottles, Private marble spa bath with luxurious L’OCCITANE amenities, Walk-in mosaic glass shower with rain head and body jets, Plush terry bathrobes and slippers, Queen bed with sumptuous Portuguese cotton linens by Lameirinho, Option to convert queen bed into two singles, Spacious wardrobe, Wall-mounted television with infotainment system.

Veranda Stateroom

Adventure Oceanview Stateroom

Sitting area with sofa and TV, FREE Stocked in-room minibar, 24-hour room service including spirits, wine and beer, Nespresso Coffee and Kusmi Teas, Still and sparkling water in reusable glass bottles, Private marble spa bath with luxurious L’OCCITANE amenities, Walk-in mosaic glass shower with rain head and body jets, Plush terry bathrobes and slippers, Queen bed with sumptuous Portuguese cotton linens by Lameirinho, Option to convert queen bed into two singles, Spacious wardrobe, Wall-mounted television with infotainment system.

Solo Oceanview Stateroom

View Deck Plan

7-Aft Grill

Main Restaurant - Indoor/Alfresco

Running Track/Outdoor Fitness

The Dome Observation Lounge

Pool & Hot Tubs

7-Aft Pool Bar

Small Sundeck

Water’s Edge Observation Deck

Zephyr Lounge

Fitness Studio

Atlas Lounge

Medical Center

L’occitane Seaspa & Sauna

EXCLUSIVE MEMBER SAVINGS

• Forgot Password?

Often cruise lines offer special rates that cannot be displayed to the general public. By registering with Cruise.com you will be able to view these special rates and offers.

Register with Cruise.com to get access to:

• Exclusive Rates
• Special Amenities

Login to Your Account

There was an error! Please re-enter your credentials and try submitting the form again.

Reset Your Password

Please enter the email associated with your account so that we may send you a link to reset your password.

An email was sent to the address provided with instructions on how to reset your password.

Oops! There was an error with the email you provided.

World Voyager: the Nicko Cruises’ small unit

The World Voyager is an expedition ship in the Mystic Cruises ’ fleet that currently sails for the German cruise brand Nicko Cruises, a company specialized in river cruises that also offers maritime routes. The ship is part of a fleet of twin sister constructions, some planned for the coming years, with a maximum capacity of 200 passengers and all the characteristics of an expeditionary unit.

World Voyager

The style of cruising is that of a small yacht with all the amenities, informal luxury and lots of attention paid to the comfort of the client, while sailing lesser known routes to discover natural places, landscapes and local wildlife. The size of the ships, just 126 meters in length with 98 staterooms, allows entrance to small ports, providing the thrill of an intimate and reserved ambiance.

The furnishings are very classic, with touches of modernity, and partly combine references to yachts of the past thanks to the use of wood and paintings that recall the navigation of other eras, to very modern environments, such as that of the Reception or the Observation Lounge.

World Voyager Interiors

The World Voyager has 6 passenger decks where there are rooms of various levels as well as common areas. On deck 3 there is the Zodiac excursion preparation area, with changing rooms and lockers where you can change, put on safety gear, etc.

The main public areas are all located on deck 4. On the stern is the Al Fresco Terrace, the outside portion of Mystic Restaurant. This is the main restaurant on board, open for all three daily meals each day without predetermined dining times and with flexible service depending on the programmed daily excursions. The style is simple but well-maintained and elegant with a beautiful glass wall with a sea view and a small central buffet area.

World Voyager Mystic Restaurant

World Voyager Al Fresco Terrace

At the center of the ship there is the small gym and Spa. The gym has modern equipment and an excellent view of the sea. The Spa has two small treatment rooms, a large relaxation area and a beautiful sauna looking over the sea. Between these two areas you’ll find the onboard boutique, with clothing, perfume and gift items.

World Voyager Spa

World Voyager Fitness

World Voyager Souvenir Shop

A little further on there is the Juice Bar where you can taste freshly squeezed juices, smoothies and shakes of every kind. There is also the Kafeestation, open 24 hours a day, where you will find tea, coffee and in the morning snacks as well.

World Voyager Juice Bar

World Voyager Kaffestation

As we continue walking up deck 4, on the left are the offices of the cruise director and the tour leaders, before arriving to the main hall with a gangway and two small lateral lounges. In the center there is a large LED screen where the various travel destinations offered by Nicko Cruises are featured. Also in the vicinity is the Reception area where it is always possible to obtain information as well as advice and suggestions for everything you need.

World Voyager Reception Area

We have now arrived to the bow, passing the Medical Center, where we arrive to the Main Lounge. It is a beautiful lounge that is very elegant and the center of nightlife on board, with live music, a wide selection of cocktails and drinks and a panorama of the sea. Each evening here they host encounters with the officials, games and various other types of entertainment. Finally, on the very tip of the bow, there is the Auditorium, a space dedicated to conferences, talks and presentations of the cruise stopovers.

World Voyager Main Lounge

World Voyager Auditorium

Decks 5 and 6 are entirely dedicated to cabins, but with beautiful panoramic seating on the terraces at the stern. The Command Bridge is also located on deck 6 and is always open for guests wishing to view maneuvers and navigation.

World Voyager Bridge

On deck 7 is the Lido area, with a raised swimming pool at the center of the ship and two Jacuzzis. Surrounding them are sun loungers and deck chairs, sheltered by panoramic windows on both sides of the ship. The area also has tables for enjoying the Pool Bar and the Lido Cafè. The latter offers pizza, ice cream, a soup of the day and some desserts throughout the afternoon.

World Voyager Lido Cafè

World Voyager Pool Bar

World Voyager Pool

On the bow is the beautiful Observation Lounge, with a 270-degree view of the sea. A relaxing, bright environment, with some books, comfortable sofas and a bar available. Here you can enjoy tea in the afternoon or have a drink in the evening. It is the ideal environment for anyone who wants to enjoy navigation in silence, calmly sitting and observing the sea.

World Voyager Observation Lounge

On the highest deck, number 8, there are the Zodiac boats which are used during stopovers to help guests experience the coastal areas up close. There is also the jogging path as well as a pleasant scenic walk.

World Voyager Jogging Track

World Voyager Zodiacs

The dining on board the Nicko Cruises ship is based on international cuisine, with a choice of dishes that ranges from Italian to Asian. Although the majority of the World Voyager’s clientele is German, there isn’t a notable regional prevalence, and all kinds of dishes can be tasted.  During the cruise there are sometimes themed menus or special initiatives. For example, an evening filled with delicious specialties completely inspired by Italian cuisine. Another fun occasion is the barbeque night around the pool where all kinds of grilled dishes are served with pleasant musical entertainment.

World Voyager Dining

World Voyager Wine Service

World Voyager Dessert

All the excursions are organized to be able to offer a deep knowledge of the places visited, with expert guides and unusual itineraries. A selection of “Active” excursions allows guests to try out the Zodiac boats, pedal e-bikes, take a hike in nature and swim in the waters around the ship, as well as other experiences.

World Voyager Excursions

World Voyager Zodiac Excursions

Despite the small number of cabins on board the World Voyager, there are 8 different categories to choose from. The simplest, but still large, cabins are the Expeditions-Kabine, located on deck 3: about 17 m2 with a coffee station and high non-opening window. On deck 5 and 6 are the Infinity Kabines, characterized by a beautiful electronically-controlled window that opens. In this category there are also some cabins dedicated to people with disabilities that are easily accessible. The Infinity Deluxe rooms offer an extra small sitting area that is separate from the bedroom.

World Voyager Cabins

World Voyager Bathroom

World Voyager Infinity Cabin

The Veranda Kabine rooms are on decks 5 and 6 and are around 25 m2 in size with private balconies. The Veranda Deluxe rooms have an additional 3 m2 and feature a small relaxation area that is separate from the bedroom.

World Voyager Veranda Cabin

As part of the Suites, there is the Navigator Suite, with two separate rooms, a bedroom and a living room, with a total area of ​​36 m2. The bathroom is also spacious and above all the balcony is 6 meters in length, and equipped with armchairs, table and deck chairs. The Vip Suite, on deck 5, is slightly larger (41 m2) and has a large living room and bathroom, with the same balcony size.

And finally, the Explorer Suite, which is the highest level of room category on board. These suites are located on decks 5 and 6 and offer the sensation of a private apartment on the sea. The size is 44 m2 inside and almost 10 m2 outside, with a large entrance, a living room with a TV, a bedroom, a corridor with a closet that leads to the bathroom which is equipped with double sinks, a bathtub and a separate shower. There is also a large balcony, with two deck chairs and a pair of armchairs with a table.

World Voyager Navigator Suite

World Voyager Explorer Suite

The World Voyager offers an intimate and familial style of cruising, where it is common place to meet and make friends with the officers on board, with the Captain and with the entire crew. The personnel is at the complete disposal of passengers to make them feel at home during their journey. This friendly style of cruising offers an excellent level of service that is not rigid but rather pleasantly informal.

The World Voyager is a full-fledged expedition ship, albeit not with the maximum ice-class, and is able to offer an expedition cruise style even on routes that are not as extreme as the Arctic or Antarctica. It therefore offers the possibility of unprecedented discovery even in areas such as the Canary Islands, the Azores, but also the Caribbean and South America. All of this takes place with an ambiance of top hospitality and, above all, of cordial familiarity with the crew and other passengers.

Don’t miss more information and World Voyager Reviews on Cruising Journal , with Photos, Videos and Cruises on offer .

Gabriele Bassi

Latest Reportages

Azamara pursuit: the south africa intensive voyage, ponant: expedition cruising a la francais, vista’s maiden call on new york, cfc: renaissance makes its debut and impresses, on crystal symphony: the return of crystal cruises.

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser or activate Google Chrome Frame to improve your experience.

• Already Booked?
• My Favorites
• 1.800.377.9383
• Email Deals
• Personal Quote

• Advanced Search

• Featured Cruise Deals

• Deals by Destination

• Deals by Cruise Line

• Deals by Departure Port

Last Minute Cruise Deals

Holiday Cruise Deals

Military Cruise Deals

• Family Cruise Deals

Popular Destinations

Australia/New Zealand

• Canada / New England

Popular Int'l Departure Ports

Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Barcelona, Spain

Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy

Piraeus (Athens), Greece

Reykjavik, Iceland

Southampton, England

Stockholm, Sweden

Sydney, Australia

Vancouver, British Columbia

Venice, Italy

Popular U.S. Departure Ports

Baltimore, Maryland

Boston, Massachusetts

Cape Liberty (Bayonne), New Jersey

Fort Lauderdale (Port Everglades), Florida

Los Angeles, California

Miami, Florida

New York, New York

Port Canaveral, Florida

San Francisco, California

Seattle, Washington

Popular Lines

Luxury Lines

River Lines

AmaWaterways

Atlas Ocean Voyages

Avalon Waterways River Cruises

Carnival Cruise Line

Celebrity Cruises

Holland America Line

MSC Cruises

Norwegian Cruise Line

Oceania Cruises

Paul Gauguin Cruises

Princess Cruises

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Royal Caribbean International

Seabourn Cruise Line

Silversea Cruises

Uniworld River Cruises

Viking Expeditions

Viking Ocean Cruises

Viking River Cruises

Windstar Cruises

Land Vacations

• Cosmos Tours
• Globus Journeys
• Kensington Tours
• Tauck Tours

All-Inclusive Resorts

Cruising 101

• Free Consultation

Why Cruise?

Shore Excursions

Cruising Tips

Future Cruise Credits

Photo Galleries

Specialty Cruises

Group Cruises

Business / Incentive Cruises

Events & Meetings at Sea

Private Charters

Theme Cruises

• River Cruises

Cruise Tours

Wedding Cruises

Hosted Cruises

Family Cruises

Senior Living at Sea

News & Media

Press & News

Testimonials

Social Media

Pre-registration

Passports / Visas

Travel Protection

Why Cruise Web?

Our Approach

Low Price Guarantee

Gift Certificates

Customer Service

Not sure where to start?

Talk to a travel consultant.

Free quotes. Expert guidance. No booking fees.

Atlas Ocean Voyages: 2nd Guest Sails FREE*

Atlas: ALL-INCLUSIVE Luxury Expedition Cruises

Atlas Ocean Voyages' Antarctica cruises from $7,499*

3 Ships in the Atlas Ocean Voyages fleet

Ship:  .

• Destinations
• Departure Ports
• Photo Gallery

World Voyager Overview

Set sail aboard World Voyager , the latest installment in Atlas Ocean Voyage’s fleet of intimate, luxury yacht-style cruise ships. Each space aboard World Voyager is carefully designed to provide luxurious comfort and elevated experiences, even in the most remote destinations in the world. From the culinary perfection at Madeira, the main restaurant onboard to each detail in your suite that makes it feel like home, you will return relaxed, rejuvenated and ready to plan your next cruise! Gather with cruisers who share your passion for adventure and exploration in any of the space on this ship, such as the cozy Zephyr Lounge or simply enjoy a drink while reflecting on the days’ exploits at the daily Après Sea celebration. For more information on the luxurious, other-worldly World Voyager , call our Atlas Ocean Voyages experts today at 1-800-377-9383

• Passenger Capacity: 198 (double occupancy)
• Year Built: 2023
• Last Refurbished: n/a

Dining on World Voyager

Madeira, a world voyager exclusive.

Inspired by the Portuguese heritage of Atlas Ocean Voyages in both design and cuisine, the main dining room onboard World Voyager serves up a fabulous buffet of indulgent pastries, fruits and made-to-order omelets in the morning, all your favorites at lunch and a five-course dinner each night, featuring rotating regional cuisine from your destination.

7-Aft Grill & Josper Grill

By day, the 7-Aft Grill is a laid-back, poolside lunch spot with freshly made fare. Exclusively on Epicurean Expeditions onboard World Voyager , 7-Aft transforms into Josper Grill by night, an open air steakhouse, preparing the finest steaks and freshest seafood on a legendary Josper charcoal grill.

Dome Observation Lounge

For an afternoon pick-me-up, head to the Dome Observation Lounge for afternoon tea, featuring a selection of teas and drinks, paired with freshly baked pastries and a variety of finger sandwiches.

24 Hour Complimentary Room Service

Adventures at sea never cease with Atlas Ocean Voyages, and neither do appetites! From breakfast on your balcony to a late night tapas board, the options are endless with Atlas Ocean Voyages 24 hour, FREE room service.

World Voyager Onboard Activities & Public Spaces

L’occitane spa on world voyager.

An optional experience, the SeaSpa by L’OCCITANE is truly a transformative experience, where a full menu of spa services and treatments transform you into your best, pampered self.

Après Sea Celebration

After a day of Zodiac tours in the Arctic or skipping the lines and exploring museums along the Mediterranean , who wouldn’t need some refreshments? Enjoy a cocktail or coffee and a few small plates while recapping the endeavors of the day with like-minded travelers and marveling at the days to come.

Atlas Lounge

Sit back and relax on a sea day in the Atlas Lounge, featuring pictures windows and a stocked library. Enjoy the scenery or curl up with a book and let your imagination wander.

Water’s Edge

As far forward as you can be, enjoy the Water’s Edge on World Voyager , where heated seats and binoculars await – this is the best seat in the house for viewing wildlife on shore.

As for accommodations onboard World Voyager , guests can expect only the best from Atlas Ocean Voyages, a luxe-adventure brand that rivals the best cruise lines in the world. For more information on World Voyager and the unmatched experience exploring the globe with her, call our Atlas Ocean Voyages experts at 1-800-377-9383 .

World Voyager Cruise Destinations

Atlas (noun) – a book of maps. Pick up a book of maps and point anywhere, and the chances are you can cruise there with Atlas Ocean Voyages. A luxury-expedition cruise line with small, adventure-focused ships, Atlas Ocean Voyages is dips their toes in destinations all over the world, with many itineraries featuring intimate ports, inaccessible to larger ships. From Mediterranean cruises that can actually anchor in Venice to exclusive yacht harbors in the Caribbean, almost every destination you can think of is accessible with Atlas Ocean Voyages. All ships in the Atlas fleet are equipped with ice-breaking hulls, meaning these luxury ships can even get guests up close and personal with the Arctic and Antarctic regions. For more information on all the destinations on the globe you can discover with Atlas Ocean Voyages, call us at 1-800-377-9383 to speak with one of our luxury cruising experts.

Explore Antarctica with no inhibitions with Atlas Ocean Voyages! Whale watching, penguin colonies and more are waiting in Antarctica.

Venture into some of the northernmost points in the world to discover traditional villages, the elusive polar bears and more in the Arctic with Atlas Ocean Voyages.

Explore the past through ancient ruins while being present for a once-in-a-lifetime luxury cruise to Europe with Atlas Ocean Voyages.

Mediterranean

Dive into the ancient history and modern wonders of the Mediterranean on an Atlas Ocean Voyages cruise to Greece, Italy and more.

Northern Europe

Cruise through the canals of Copenhagen or hike through the Scottish highlands on a Northern Europe cruise with Atlas Ocean Voyages.

World Voyager Departure Ports

Atlas’ fleet features intimate ships that can access ports that are not accessible by larger cruise ships. For this, Atlas guests are treated to a once in a lifetime experience in some of the most unique departure ports in all of cruising. While you may still depart from the classics like Miami for a Caribbean cruise or Athens in the Mediterranean, Atlas affords guests the opportunity to depart from remote ports like Longyearbyen, the gateway to the North Pole, and the embarkation point of your next cruise.

Helsingborg, Sweden

The cruise port of Helsingborg, one of the oldest cities of what is now Sweden, is a small and quaint town sitting on the shores of the Oresund, the four mile narrow strait connecting Sweden and Denmark.

Dun Laoghaire, Dublin, Ireland

Cruise to Dun Laoghaire and explore the 820 berth marina, the largest in Ireland featuring numerous boats and yachts.

St. Maarten, Netherlands Antilles

Offering both French and Dutch experiences, St. Maarten is a leading destination in the Caribbean. You can always find exciting and interesting activities for everyone on this friendly island.

Bridgetown, Barbados

Barbados, where the weather is impeccable, the beaches are beautiful and the food is fantastically fresh.

Longyearbyen, Svalbard (Norway)

This northern town situated in the Arctic Circle offers a glimpse into a colder but beautiful way of life where polar bears roam and the average summer temperature doesn’t even get into the 50s.

Ushuaia, Argentina

The unique location and beauty of Ushuaia is unmatched by many other destinations as the Andes Mountains meet the Southern Ocean. Cruise to Ushuaia for many incredible outdoor adventures.

With Amsterdam’s beautiful canals and an open attitude you’ll find no shortage of interesting attractions in the capital of The Netherlands.

Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon has deep cultural roots that are exposed through ruins and museum artifacts. Cruise to Lisbon and discover the culture and history of Portugal in its capital city.

Tromso, Norway

Bundle up to experience the culture and beauty of Tromso, one of the largest cities within the Arctic Circle.

Tower Bridge (London), England

Enjoy sailing through the Tower Bridge in London and tying up alongside HMS Belfast as you cross the River Thames between two bridge towers held together by two horizontal walkways, often mistakenly called "London Bridge. It is truly a spectacular sight.

Arnoya, Norway

Beckoning cruise travelers with its pristine fjords, picturesque coastal villages, and a rich maritime history, providing an immersive and serene escape into the heart of authentic Norwegian beauty.

World Voyager Deck Plans

World voyager staterooms.

Balcony (E1)

Balcony (e2).

Balcony (A1)

Balcony (a2).

Balcony (B1)

Balcony (b2).

Oceanview (C1)

Photo Gallery for World Voyager Cruise Ship

Take a look at our stunning gallery of cruising photos for Atlas Ocean Voyages, from onboard to ashore with breathtaking destinations around the globe.

World Voyager in the Sea of Antartica

Chef Presenting for Guest on World Voyager

Restaurant on World Voyager

Observation Bar Lounge on World Voyager

Discovery Suite on World Voyager

Top 10 World Voyager Cruises

• World Voyager 8-Night Bridgetown to Bridgetown Departing From Bridgetown, Barbados (Apr 2024)
• World Voyager 7-Night Bridgetown to Philipsburg Departing From Bridgetown, Barbados (May 2024)
• World Voyager 7-Night Philipsburg to Bridgetown Departing From St. Maarten, Netherlands Antilles (May 2024)
• World Voyager 20-Night Philipsburg to Lisbon Departing From St. Maarten, Netherlands Antilles (May 2024)
• World Voyager 21-Night Lisbon to Tromso Departing From Lisbon, Portugal (May 2024)
• World Voyager 10-Night Lisbon to London Departing From Lisbon, Portugal (May 2024)
• World Voyager 11-Night London to Tromso Departing From Tower Bridge (London), England (Jun 2024)
• World Voyager 7-Night Tromso to Longyearbyen Departing From Tromso, Norway (Jun 2024)
• World Voyager 9-Night Longyearbyen Roundtrip Departing From Longyearbyen, Svalbard (Norway) (Jun 2024 - Jul 2025)
• World Voyager 11-Night Longyearbyen Roundtrip Departing From Longyearbyen, Svalbard (Norway) (Jul 2024 - Jul 2025)

Learn More About Atlas Ocean Voyages

Accessibility

Learn about Atlas Ocean Voyages' handicap accessible ocean voyages and accommodations for guests with special needs or disabilities.

Enjoy a sneak peak at the best cuisine offered by Atlas Ocean Voyages onboard their all-inclusive luxury cruise ships.

Entertainment

Learn about the entertainment that will fill your evenings onboard the luxury cruise ships from Atlas Ocean Voyages.

Onboard Activities

On a luxe-adventure cruise with Atlas Ocean Voyages, there is never a shortage of shoreside excursions, but even onboard, the activities are second to none.

Service & Awards

Learn more about how the staff onboard Atlas Ocean Voyages meets your every need. Plus, view a list of Atlas Ocean Voyages' cruising awards.

Spa & Fitness

Learn more about how you can stay fit and truly pamper yourself at the Sea Spa by L’Occitane onboard every Atlas Ocean Voyages ship.

Special Events

Make the most of your Atlas Ocean Voyage with golf cruises, exclusive guest speakers and more. Every cruise with Atlas is a special event.

Preview Atlas Ocean Voyages’ wonderfully appointed accommodations, each with a view of the ocean and the luxurious amenities for which Atlas is known.

Youth Programs

Learn about cruising with children on Atlas Ocean Voyages and about onboard programs designed with the whole family in mind.

Cruise Type

We make vacation planning easy.

With an overwhelming world of choices, we understand you may need some personal assistance to plan your perfect vacation. From finding the right destination to choosing the best departure date, we're here to help. Plus, our experienced travel consultants have access to exclusive vacation deals to make sure you get the best value for your time and money.

Expert guidance. No booking fees.

Find a cruise.

• All Cruise Types
• Popular Cruises
• Luxury Cruises

Vacation Deals

Destinations & ports.

• All Destinations

Cruise Lines

• Popular Cruise Lines
• Luxury Cruise Lines
• River Cruise Lines
• All Cruise Lines
• All About Cruising
• Already Booked

Follow our social media and blog for the latest cruise and travel news, including our best vacation deals.

• Monthly Newsletter

PART 1: WORLD VOYAGER: Atlas Ocean Voyages’ Newest Ship

Think Antarctica would leave you cold? Think again!

The vista is a desolate and icy wilderness, barren and yet abundant. Drifts of snow stretch on forever atop craggy rock formations and across vast, glittering ice fields. Towering glaciers reach from sea to sky, blinding white to the deepest blue. Hulking icebergs jut up from the water’s surface like mighty alabaster sculptures, calved chunks of them floating lazily across the surface of the frigid turquoise waters. In the distance, a herd of trunk-nosed elephant seals is gathered on snow-dusted rocks—I can hear their bellowing roar from here and I watch as a few propel themselves into the water and glide out of sight. In my peripheral vision, I catch the fluke of a humpback whale just before he dives beneath the surface.  And there–right over there on that ice floe–are the superstars of the Antarctica wildlife show: A colony of penguins, some as tall as toddlers, wobbling one behind the other in a comical dance that makes me smile.

Right about now, those who know me best are questioning this story’s by-line and I don’t blame them. Cruising, to me, was always filled with fiery Caribbean sunsets over sapphire blue seas, ancient ruins or historical sites and lots of shopping.  Pre-cruise purchases were never made at Dick’s Sporting Goods and I’d never even heard of waterproof pants or little holders to keep an iPhone dry. I never feared sailing a body water so much that I left home armed with medications like the motion sickness arm of a Colombian drug cartel.

Before my expedition to Antarctica and the maiden voyage of Atlas Ocean Voyages’ all-inclusive World Voyager , I was apprehensive—very apprehensive—about the continent’s unpredictable and harsh environment and my ability to adapt to it. But like the very best expeditions, this voyage has resulted in some remarkable discoveries: An appreciation for the stark beauty to be found in a biting and unforgiving land and the comfort, warmth and luxury of World Voyager .

The combination is absolutely extraordinary.

Join me for a journey to Antarctica aboard the newly launched Atlas Ocean Voyages’ World Voyager !

Coming Soon! Part 2: Atlas Ocean Voyages’ World Voyager: En Route to Ushuaia

They Don’t Call It the End of the World for Nothing

See cruises

World Voyager and all Atlas Ocean Voyages Cruises

1 thought on “PART 1: WORLD VOYAGER: Atlas Ocean Voyages’ Newest Ship”

I can’t wait for the next installments!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

All Things Cruise is dedicated to the joy of travel. Specializing in ocean, river, ultra-luxury, small ship and expedition cruises.

We would love to have you subscribe for travel updates, news and great offers directly from the cruise lines!

• CruiseMapper

World Voyager deck plans

Deck layouts, review of facilities, activities, amenities.

World Voyager deck plan review at CruiseMapper provides newest cruise deck plans (2024-2025-2026 valid floor layouts of the vessel) extracted from the officially issued by Atlas Ocean Voyages deckplan pdf (printable version).

Each of the World Voyager cruise ship deck plans are conveniently combined with a legend (showing cabin codes) and detailed review of all the deck's venues and passenger-accessible indoor and outdoor areas. A separate link provides an extensive information on World Voyager staterooms (cabins and suites), including photos, cabin plans and amenities by room type and category.

MS World Voyager cruise ship deck plans show a total of 98 staterooms, 8 decks (6 passenger-accessible, 3 with cabins), Observation Lounge (with surrounding outdoor terrace), Explorer Lounge (multi-purpose, full-bar venue), Library, Lecture Theatre (Auditorium), aft Dining Room Restaurant (with outdoor terrace), Boutique Shop, Lobby area (Reception Desk, Cashier's Office, two entrance areas), Wellness facilities (outdoor Jogging Track, Gym, Sauna, Spa, Hairdresser), Sun Deck with outdoor heated swimming pool (saltwater, with a separate shallow pool area for kids), Helideck (aft top-deck helipad).

Deck layouts

Deck 03 - tendering-cabins, deck 04 - lobby-dining-lounge, deck 05 - cabins, deck 06 - bridge-cabins, deck 07 - spa-pools-sundeck, deck 08 - helideck, deck 09 - topdeck-aerial view.

World Voyager deck plans are property of Atlas Ocean Voyages . All deck layouts are for informational purposes only and CruiseMapper is not responsible for their accuracy.

• 1-855-932-1711
• My Account Hello Credits My Account Log out

Grand World Voyages

There’s no trip in the world like an around the world cruise. Holland America Line Grand Voyages invite passengers to deeply connect with every destination. Guests of these superb world voyages will luxuriate in exceptional cuisine from renowned chefs, an enhanced enrichment program, and exclusive entertainment. Come see why travelers vote these expeditions as the best around-the-world cruises.

Coming Soon: 2026 Grand World Voyage

Early Booking Benefits Promotion

Download 2025 Grand World Voyage Planner  (PDF)

Grand World Voyage Featured Ports

Reykjavik, Iceland

Komodo Island, Indonesia

Antarctic Experience

Zanzibar, Tanzania

Featured shore excursions.

nicko cruises fleet

The nicko cruises fleet is as diverse as our travel program with our 20 river ships and our classic ocean VASCO DA GAMA. Basically, all nicko cruises ships correspond to an upscale standard, which is almost everywhere comparable to a 4- to 5-star hotel on land. However, there are gradual differences depending on ship, cruising area and technical requirements. For better orientation, we have therefore given each of our ships our own nicko classification, which ranges from three nicko waves to five nicko waves.

River fleet

Ocean fleet, 360° ship tours.

Our fleet of ships is as varied as our cruise selection.

The size of the vessels varies according to the nautical demands of individual rivers with their locks and bridges, and the ship’s ambience ranges  from classic maritime to modern elegance.

nickoSPIRIT

Douro serenity.

All river ships

Discover the world on the classically beautiful VASCO DA GAMA - in keeping with Portuguese seafaring tradition.

VASCO DA GAMA

Would you like to get an insight from aboard our comfortable ships? Then let our 360° ship tours inspire you.

First look at World Voyager, the stylish new expedition cruise ship from Atlas Ocean Voyages

Editor's Note

You can tell a lot about an expedition ship from the way it handles rough seas and storms.

World Voyager, the third ship for fast-growing newcomer Atlas Ocean Voyages, was put through its paces during a tempest of wind and waves on its recent nine-day maiden voyage to Antarctica.

It handled it with ease.

That's thanks to the ship's new, state-of-the-art stabilizing dual Rolls-Royce retractable fins and advanced hydrodynamic design.

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

Crossing the fearsome Drake Passage — the violent confluence of three seas between the tip of South America and Antarctica — the ocean pitched, rolled and yawed. It was the dreaded Drake Shake. Waves leapt to 39 feet, but we were buffered against the worst of it as we zig-zagged to briefings, polar gear fittings, welcome drinks and dinners.

I got to see those stabilizers in action again in the white continent, flying on the coattails of 100-knot winds. Snow fell sideways. Spectral winds chased jitterbug seas. Onboard, there was nothing but smooth sailing, even on the treadmill in the gym.

Introducing World Voyager

World Voyager is an intimate ship designed for what Atlas Ocean Voyages likes to call "expedition yachting" in some of the most remote pockets of the globe. Right now, that's Antarctica. Like sister ice-class ships World Traveller and World Navigator , this ship has state-of-the-art sonar that allows it to travel deep into polar regions and Zodiac inflatable boats on board for exploring off the ship.

But the ship doesn't offer immersive travel only in far-flung locales. In the coming months, World Voyager will head north for warm-weather sailings in the Mediterranean, northern Europe and the British Isles; there, it will swap the Zodiacs for Jet Skis, kayaks and paddleboards.

The ship can maneuver into small harbors and narrow rivers that bigger ships can't. This is something Atlas is keen to capitalize on during the coming year with warm-water sailings that invite a deeper connection to food culture and history. New Epicurean Expeditions will be centered on food tours, cooking demonstrations, local chefs and vintners, and wine tastings. I got to sample some of these wines — including a Miraval rose from Provence, France — and can vouch for their excellence.

One of the biggest differences between an expedition ship and some of the bigger luxury cruise ships is the expert team of marine biologists, ornithologists, glaciologists and historians onboard; they enrich daily outings with talks and daily recaps. World Voyager travels with up to 14 expedition leaders. Still, its program is lighter than what you'll find on the expedition vessels of more established players in the space, such as Lindblad Expeditions, Silversea Cruises and Quark Expeditions.

Still, the enrichment offerings from World Voyager's expedition team are just part of a wider entertainment program. The program includes afternoon tea, trivia, evening movies, late-night cabaret shows and an always-open and lively Dome observatory bar — an array of diversions you don't always find on expedition ships.

In this way, the ship straddles big-ship entertainment and small-ship adventure. It's early days, and the team is still finding its sea legs — not unusual for a new ship. However, there is talk of getting the expedition team to dine with guests.

Related: The ultimate guide to Atlas Ocean Voyages

It's good value

Traveling to far-flung places with an intimate coterie of like-minded travelers is one of the luxuries of expedition cruising. Atlas Ocean Voyages' World Voyager is one of the smallest ships of its kind. The 9,935-ton ship has the capacity for 198 passengers, but that number drops to a mere 178 people in Antarctica, with cabins given to guest lecturers and entertainers. Our maiden voyage had only 138.

For such a big-ticket cruise, the crowd was relatively young. I put this down to Atlas' current offer that allows the second guest to sail free; the deal includes overnight accommodation and return private charter flights from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia, Argentina. It's a striking value for a nine-night Antarctica trip that, after adjusting for the second guest traveling free, starts at just $6,299 per person.

Like most ships at the high end, Atlas includes a lot in its base price. Onboard accommodations, all meals, most drinks, gratuities and shore excursions are part of the ticket price, plus round-trip airfares from select U.S. and Canadian gateways. Emergency medical evacuation insurance is also included — something few other expedition companies offer.

What's not included in Atlas fares are shelf liquors (a shot of Belvedere vodka will set you back $7), premium wines or Champagne. Shipboard Wi-Fi also comes at a steep price after an initial 1GB of data that is included in the fare (500MB for an additional $45, 1GB for $80 or 5GB for $350) and can only be used on one device. It's an irritation when you consider most ships let you switch between devices — and that many luxury expedition ships in the same space offer shipboard Wi-Fi for free.

Related: I jumped off a cruise ship in Antarctica and lived to tell the tale

World Voyager is made for design lovers

Cruise ship decor switches from cookie-cutter elegance to such dizzying colors and patterns you'd be forgiven for thinking a toddler was let loose in the craft cupboard.

Not World Voyager. The ship exudes sophistication.

Built in 2020, the ship initially sailed for Germany-based Nicko Cruises, owned by the same Portuguese company that owns Atlas Ocean Voyages. When the ship switched allegiances, it also received a design refresh.

The result is a meet-cute of Scandinavian minimalism and art deco gorgeousness that wouldn't look out of place in a boutique hotel.

It marks a departure for Atlas, which partnered on its first two ships with Portuguese design firm Oitoemponto. The glossy mahogany wood paneling and decorative European fabrics are gone, traded for a lighter, more pared-back look; it favors Scandi-inspired blonde wood, black and white marble floors, geometric carpets, rich rust velvet feature lounges, gilt highlights and glorious pops of gemstone color.

The ship is easy to navigate, with a floor plan that flows seamlessly between venues. Deck 4 is home to the main public spaces, including the lecture auditorium, lounge bar, lobby, cafe (a quick stop for juice shots, smoothies, espresso coffee, pastries and hearty snacks), a small shop and the main dining room.

A small, well-equipped gym is tucked away on the port side. Meanwhile, the aft is home to a tiny L'Occitane spa with two treatment rooms, the gifted hands of masseur Akom, a chill lounge and a sauna with a glass wall.

The ship offers views for days

Nature is the star attraction on any expedition cruise, something Atlas knows well. The entire ship is dripping with indoor and outdoor spaces that deliver dress-circle views of icebergs, whales, birdlife and dazzling sunsets.

The Dome observatory lounge offers views in spades. Situated at the front of the ship, on the highest deck, the lounge boasts curved floor-to-ceiling glass and a glorious wraparound viewing platform, both of which serve up spectacular 270-degree views.

Two decks below is Water's Edge: another stunning spot at the ship's bow, with magical views on three sides and a heated wraparound bench (a welcome seat on cold polar days). Three other viewing platforms — at the rear of Madeira restaurant on Deck 4 and on passenger decks 5 and 6 — make for an easy exit whenever nature beckons.

Related: Antarctica gear guide: What you need to pack for a trip to the White Continent

Cabins offer front row seats to the action outside

In polar climates where the temperature regularly dips below 32 degrees, a private balcony would seem unnecessary. No surprise then that the ship's Horizon Staterooms — the type of cabin that I experienced while on board — earn points for their generous 270 square meters of temperature-controlled bliss. A step up from the Veranda Staterooms with their standard cruise ship balconies, these rooms claw back 55 square meters of icy outdoor space for just a little more money.

The Horizon Staterooms feature what Atlas calls a Juliette balcony — a wall of floor-to-ceiling glass with an electric top-drop window, easily controlled by the touch of a button. (Some river cruise ships have these, and they're akin to the "infinite verandas" on Celebrity Cruises' Edge Class ships.)

The experience was like being in an IMAX Theatre. From my room, I had a front-row seat to Antarctica's larger-than-life natural drama. Window down, I watched petrels coast the Drake Passage, the roar and tang of the sea outside delivered to me in 3D to counteract the pitching swell. I saw whales, cartwheeling penguins and an iceberg bigger than an apartment block.

Cabins come with a queen-size bed and Portuguese linens, a stocked minibar (beer and soft drinks only), Ksumi teas, still and sparkling water in reusable glass bottles, and a Nespresso machine. In-room binoculars are a nice touch.

Bathrooms feature L'Occitane toiletries and a walk-in mosaic glass shower with a rain head, handheld wand and body jets. Storage overall seemed on the small side for two people, but the main drawback was noise. My room was portside in the back, and it was so noisy that the clanking of the engine regularly woke me up.

World Voyager offers two- and three-person Horizon and Veranda staterooms, along with three categories of one-bedroom suites. These upgraded rooms feature extra floor space, a large balcony, a luxuriously deep bath, additional wardrobe space and the greatest luxury of all: a personal butler.

Related: Everything you want to know about cabins and suites on Atlas Ocean Voyages ships

The food onboard is sustainable — and delicious

I found a lot to love about the food on board World Voyager, including the plant-based and zero-waste menus rolled out across the fleet.

It's the kind of sustainable dining that is on trend with luxury travelers wanting to tread more lightly.

Austrian-born executive chef Rene Aflenzes is behind the holistic menus found throughout the ship that champion slow food, molecular gastronomy and zero-waste principles. It's truly a root-to-stem and peel-to-core mindset about food prep. Vegetable skins are dehydrated and turned into soup seasonings and garnishes. Whole fruit is magicked into delectably sweet concoctions.

It's part of an ambitious long-term plan to bring a true nose-to-tail food philosophy to the high seas.

Juice shots, smoothies, house-made Bircher muesli, vegan oat slices, nutritious muffins and hearty snacks are the mainstay at the grab-and-go cafe, Paula's Pantry; it also offers espresso coffee, donuts and pizza slices.

The buffet lunch in the Madeira dining room features a dedicated vegan salad station. Madeira becomes an a la carte restaurant in the evening. Along with a modern menu, it offers a selection of plant-based starters, mains and desserts, an "always available" plant-based steak and a good sprinkling of zero-waste dishes. Most were good. The salads were a bit hit-or-miss.

In a nod to Atlas' Portugal-based parent company, Mystic Cruises, the menu also features a handful of typical Portuguese dishes.

Meat lovers will enjoy meals in the main dining room and at Deck 7's poolside 7Aft Grill, where meat is seared over Josper coals until smoky. In a coup for Atlas, the beef is from the same butcher as Argentina's famed Don Julio restaurant, ranked number 19 on the 2023 list of the World's 50 Best Restaurants.

Bottom line

Atlas Ocean Voyages' new World Voyager is built for adventure, without the stuffiness that can come from more serious expedition ships. It strikes the right balance between an expedition cruise vessel and a more traditional luxury ship, with late-night entertainment and daily Zodiac outings. Give it a go while fares remain one of the better values in expedition cruising.

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

• Find a Cruise​ Cruise Deals Cruise Ships​ Destinations​ Manage My Cruise​ FAQ Weekend Cruises Crown & Anchor Society​ Royal Caribbean Blog Perfect Day Island Collection Royal Caribbean Group
• Back to Main Menu
• Search Cruises " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-1-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/aus/en/cruises/" target="_self"> Search Cruises
• Cruise Deals
• Short Cruises
• Last Minute Cruises
• Family Cruises​
• First Time Cruisers
• 2024-2025 Cruises
• Cruising Guides
• All Cruise Ships " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-3-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/aus/en/cruise-ships" target="_self"> All Cruise Ships
• Deck Plans​
• Cruise Dining ​
• Onboard Activities
• Cruise Rooms
• The Cruise Experience​
• All Cruise Destinations " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-4-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/aus/en/cruise-destinations" target="_self"> All Cruise Destinations
• Cruise Ports​
• Shore Excursions​
• Perfect Day Island Collection
• South Pacific Cruises​
• New Zealand Cruises​
• Australia Cruises​
• Vanuatu & Fiji Cruises​
• Mediterranean Cruises​
• Transpacific Cruises​
• Cruise Planner
• Book a Hotel
• Check-In for My Cruise
• Make a Payment
• Redeem Cruise Credit
• Update Guest Information
• Beverage Packages​
• Dining Packages​
• My Account​
• All FAQs " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-6-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/aus/en/faq" target="_self"> All FAQs
• Boarding Requirements
• Travel Documents
• Check In & Boarding
• Future Cruise Credit
• Transportation
• Beverage Packages
• Crown & Anchor Society
• Royal Caribbean
• Celebrity Cruises

This Is Amped Up Adventure

Voyager of the seas.

The amped up Voyager of the Seas® is packed with more ways to play.

Take on three stories of twisting, turning adventure on two high-speed waterslides in The Perfect Storm℠ or go head to head in a glow-in-the-dark laser tag clash in Battle for Planet Z℠. Hang ten on the FlowRider℠* surf simulator or recharge and reinvigorate at the spa and adults-only solarium. Plus enjoy Voyager Dunes, ice-skating, rock-climbing wall and totally reimagined spaces for every kid and teen. 

Next-Level Adventure

Voyages that go all out.

{{error.text}} {{error.link.label}}

SIGN UP TO STAY IN THE LOOP

Sign up to receive information about our special offers and deals. You can unsubscribe at any time. For more details about how we use your information, view our Privacy Policy .

GET READY TO TRAVEL ON A WHOLE NEW LEVEL

This isn’t your same-old, never bold holiday. This is a boredom busting adventure for the whole crew. 

NEW THRILLS

Race to the finish line on two high-speed waterslides on The Perfect Storm℠. Or go head-to-head in a glow-in-the-dark laser tag clash in Laser Tag: Battle for Planet Z℠.

EXPLORE ONBOARD ACTIVITIES

PALATE-PLEASERS

Take a flavour-filled journey to the exotic Far East at Izumi. Find your element with rustic Italian dishes served with a contemporary flair at Giovanni’s Table. Indulge in the cut above the rest hand-cut steaks at Chops Grille. Or embark on a globe-trotting gourmet adventure at Windjammer Café.

EXPLORE ONBOARD DINING

ICE SKATING SHOWS

Come for the g-force spins. Stay for the spectacular ice dancing. The Studio B ice rink presents dramatic ice shows starring a cast of professional skaters from around the world. Enjoy dazzling costumes and choreography filled with amazing spins, leaps and lifts.

EXPLORE SHOWS & ENTERTAINMENT

explore The Med, South Pacific and beyond

Scope out South Pacific gems like Noumea and Mystery Island, or head to a legendary Euro summer holiday through the Mediterranean or Greece. No matter which destination you choose, you’ll embark on daily discoveries across breathtaking bucket-list coastlines.​

MED SIGHTS & GREEK DELIGHTS

Kickstart your week-long bucket-list adventure from Barcelona , Rome or Athens  onboard Voyager of the Seas®. Soak up the sun in Valencia . Savour authentic Neapolitan pizza in a cosy trattoria in Naples . Or wander through iconic blue-domed churches in Santorini .

EXPLORE MEDITERRANEAN CRUISES

GETAWAYS FROM BRISBANE

Brisbane is your gateway to next-level family adventure. Enjoy an island-hopping holiday in the South Pacific . Charter a glass-bottomed boat and explore the Great Barrier Reef. Or get ready to Wiggle on one of three exclusive Wiggly sailings from Brisbane in summer 2025-26.

EXPLORE CRUISES FROM BRISBANE

NEW PLACES AND SMILING FACES IN THE SOUTH PACIFIC

Escape the day-to-day in ‘the isle of smiles’ – Vanuatu. Sample delicious fresh produce at Luganville Market, a new port for 2025-2026 or trek through the rainforest to feel the thunder of Mele Cascades waterfall in Port Vila. Get the whole crew together to paddleboard in New Caledonia or unwind on the untouched beaches of Mystery Island.

EXPLORE SOUTH PACIFIC CRUISES

SUN-SOAKED ESCAPES IN QUEENSLAND

Stay closer to home and venture up the coast, to discover the white sands of The Whitsundays. Enjoy prime-time family time by the lagoon and savour fresh local cuisine in Airlie Beach — try tempura-battered local tiger prawns or fish and chips for the kids. Or venture to Palm Cove, the most popular outer Cairns suburb, with luxurious resorts, beautiful beaches and boutiques.

​DISCOVER QUEENSLAND CRUISES

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO Cruise Insider

Packed with bow-to-stern surprises, Voyager of the Seas® is an adventure seeker’s dream – and with so much all-inclusive fun, a fantastic cruise deal to boot. Think hanging ten on the FlowRider® surf simulator, battling it out with glow-in-the-dark laser tag, scaling to new heights on the Rock Climbing Wall, and much more.

With nine delicious eateries, 10 bars, and everything from outdoor movie nights to award-winning children’s programs, it can all be a bit much to take in – if you wait until you come onboard, that is. Take a peek at our guides so that on your holiday you’re prepared to zero in on everything you love best while making the most of your cruise deal!

Things to Do on Voyager of the Seas®

Best Cruise Restaurants | Voyager of the Seas

Family Cruises | Voyager of the Seas

Our bold royal amplified ships.

Royal Caribbean® is revamping your favourite cruise ships with never-before-seen thrills, the cuisines you crave and more unforgettable experiences for day and night. This is Royal Amplified℠ – the future of adventure.

EXPLORE OUR AMPLIFIED CRUISE SHIPS

EXPLORE MORE

Previewing: Promo Dashboard Campaigns

My Personas

Code: ∅.

More From Forbes

See the world aboard a small ship: wilderness travel’s cruise collection.

• Share to Facebook
• Share to Twitter
• Share to Linkedin

Humpback Whale breaches on overcast summer day in Alaska.

For big adventures this year, consider expedition cruising to discover engaging and enlivening destinations across the globe. Wilderness Travel has a curated line-up for 2024—2025, which includes tours to the world’s last frontier—Antarctica; journeys to the far north in the Arctic; exclusive once-a-year odyssey cruises to multiple locales around the planet like the coast of West Africa, northern Europe, and Asia; and dynamic river cruises on the planet’s most well-loved rivers—the Danube, Mekong, Amazon, Magdalena, and Rhine. Keep reading to plan out your next voyage.

Bucket List Trips: Antarctica Cruises

Adelie Penguins jump off a blue iceberg into the water in Antarctica.

Savvy travelers who have been to many countries likely have Antarctica on their bucket list. It’s a rare opportunity to see an expansive white land only explored by a small percentage of the world’s population. Home to whales, orcas, seals, penguins, and numerous seabirds, a voyage to the earth's last frontier is an indelible one.

With over 30 years of experience traveling in Antarctica, guests can be rest assured that they’ll be well taken care of. On board, you can expect a team of experts to lead the way through educational lectures. Ocean-view staterooms have en-suite bathrooms and are well-appointed. Whether you choose to explore the Falkland Islands, travel through the Ross Sea, or visit Devil Island to see a colony of Adelie penguins, there’s an expedition tailor-made for you.

Bucket List Trips: Arctic Cruises

Two polar bears on a small ice floe surrounded by water and ice.

If you’ve been itching to see polar bears, walruses, or whales in the wild, now is your chance. Not only will you see incredible wildlife on an Arctic cruise, but also, you’ll have the chance to learn about indigenous peoples and their diverse cultures as they’ve been stewards of the land for over thousands of years. Explore the Svalbard Archipelago, follow the path of the Vikings, travel from Ireland to Iceland, see the aurora borealis, or watch whales aboard a 36-passenger vessel in Alaska’s Aleutian Islands. The options are seemingly endless.

Bucket List Trips: Unique Expedition Cruises

Fisherman boat with Fuji mountain in Japan.

Hop on board a luxurious expedition vessel, complete with guest speakers and expert lecturers, and visit a destination that has always been on top of your wish-list. For the Through the Heart of Japan tour, for example, you’ll spend 11 days around Japan and 4 days around South Korea for a deep dive into the beautiful landscapes, cities, and cultures of the area. Other engaging tours include Circumnavigation of Japan: National Parks, Art, & Culture; Circumnavigation of Sumatra ; Undiscovered Philippines and Indonesia; Explore the Wonders of Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands, and Vanuatu ; and West Africa Odyssey. If you can dream it, it’s likely on this roster of itineraries.

Best High-Yield Savings Accounts Of 2024

Best 5% interest savings accounts of 2024, bucket list trips: yacht cruises.

Endless layers in Marlborough Sounds at sunset.

For a more intimate experience, choose a yacht cruise and have the adventure of a lifetime with your family and friends in tow. See grizzly bears, humpback whales, and eagles in Alaska ; explore the Sea of Cortez in Baja; spot giant marine iguanas, blue-footed boobies, and sea lions in the Galapagos Islands; travel to Komodo National park in Indonesia; and wander through New Zealand’s Marlborough Sounds . You’ll have access to locales that are far-flung and off-the-beaten-path, places that you could only dream about visiting in your lifetime.

Bucket List Trips: River Cruising

Budapest, Hungary parliament at night

Perfect for multi-generational travelers, Wilderness Travel’s river cruising collection is super exciting this year, especially in Europe. Experiencing the continent via inland waterways provides a special way to experience your most-loved countries in a newfangled way. See Amsterdam, Ghent, Antwerp and Brussels on the Dutch and Belgian Waterways. Make your way through 10 countries on the Danube. Witness the Rhine, which flows through Switzerland, France, Germany, and the Netherlands. Sip wine and nosh on cheeses in Paris as you make your way down the Seine. See vineyards thrive along the Douro River Valley and experience the aromas and flavors of Portugal and Spain .

Other exciting river cruises include Wonders of Colombia , Amazon River Expedition , and Mekong Expedition Cruise . The hardest part of planning will be choosing where to go!

• Editorial Standards
• Reprints & Permissions

The 6 Hottest Cruise Lines for People Over 60

Posted: April 15, 2024 | Last updated: April 15, 2024

Embark on an unforgettable journey

For seniors looking to embark on a cruise adventure, choosing the right cruise line is crucial for ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable trip. From onboard amenities to itinerary options, there are several factors to consider before making a decision. We scoured travel websites like Conde Nest Traveler and Travel+ Leisure to compile this list of the best cruise lines for seniors, featuring options that cater specifically to the needs and preferences of older travelers. 

Whether you're seeking a relaxing ocean voyage or a culturally enriching river cruise, these top-rated cruise lines offer exceptional service, top-notch amenities, and unforgettable experiences for seniors looking to explore the world by sea.

1. Holland America Line

Price range : $100-$3,000 per person for a 7-night cruise

Top choice for : Budget-conscious travelers who still want to experience the amenities and services of a top-notch cruise.

Why it's good for seniors: Offers a traditional cruise experience with attentive service, classic decor, and excellent food options. They have a wide range of enrichment programs and activities, including culinary arts classes and lectures on various topics, which are ideal for seniors who love learning.

Cruising the seas for over 150 years, Holland America Line  started back in 1873 when the company launched its very first steamship, the Rotterdam. Since then, the cruise line has become renowned for its elegant ships, exceptional service, and classic ambiance that harkens back to the golden age of cruising.

One of the things that makes Holland America Line stand out is for offering exceptional value to its passengers. Compared to other luxury cruise lines, Holland America Line is often considered more affordable, making it a great option for budget-conscious travelers who still want to experience the amenities and services of a top-notch cruise. 

 The cruise line offers a wide range of classes, workshops, and lectures on various topics, including cooking, art, music, and history. These programs are ideal for seniors who enjoy learning and want to expand their horizons while cruising.

Over the years, Holland America Line has won numerous accolades for its exceptional service and onboard experience. It has been recognized by Conde Nast Traveler, Travel + Leisure, and Cruise Critic for its outstanding ships, dining, and itineraries. The cruise line has also been awarded for its commitment to sustainability, with a focus on reducing waste and emissions and preserving the natural environment.

2. Celebrity Cruises

Price range : $800-$5,000 per person for a 7-night cruise

Top choice for : Travelers looking for a luxurious and sustainable cruise experience.

Why it's good for seniors : Offers a luxurious and sophisticated cruise experience with excellent service and amenities. They have a wide range of onboard activities, including art auctions, live music performances, and wine tastings, which are ideal for seniors who appreciate the finer things in life.

Celebrity Cruises burst onto the scene in 1989 with a clear mission: to provide a more upscale and sophisticated cruising experience. And boy, did they deliver. The cruise line quickly established a reputation for its elegant ships, exceptional service, and refined ambiance.

From stylish staterooms with plush bedding and 24-hour room service to Michelin-starred dining options and personalized concierge service, Celebrity Cruises is dedicated to providing an unparalleled level of comfort and indulgence.

Celebrity Cruises has a diverse range of itineraries that cover all corners of the globe, but some of their most popular routes include the Caribbean, Alaska, and the Mediterranean. Their Mediterranean cruises are particularly noteworthy, as they offer a chance to explore some of Europe's most iconic destinations in style, including Barcelona, Rome, and Santorini.

The company has received numerous accolades and awards, including recognition as one of the World's Most Ethical Companies by the Ethisphere Institute for several consecutive years and it has  also been a consistent winner of Condé Nast Traveler Readers' Choice Awards.

3. Viking Ocean Cruises

Price range : $2,000- $10,000  per person for a 7-night cruise.

Top choice for: Travelers who value cultural enrichment, immersive experiences, and sleek Scandinavian design.

Why it's good for seniors : Offers a relaxed and elegant cruise experience with a focus on cultural immersion and enrichment. They have a wide range of shore excursions that allow seniors to explore destinations in-depth, along with onboard lectures and performances that provide insight into local history and culture.

When Viking Ocean Cruises launched in 2015, it was clear that the cruise line was a game-changer in the industry. With its focus on cultural enrichment, destination-focused itineraries, and sleek Scandinavian design, Viking Ocean Cruises quickly became a favorite among discerning travelers.

The cruise line offers an extensive range of onboard lectures, performances, and activities that are designed to provide passengers with a deeper understanding of the destinations they're visiting. From cooking classes and wine tastings to art workshops and historical lectures, there's something for everyone on a Viking Ocean Cruises voyage.

Another highlight of Viking Ocean Cruises is its destination-focused itineraries. The cruise line emphasizes immersive experiences in ports of call, allowing passengers to get a true sense of the local culture and history. From exploring ancient ruins in Athens to tasting wine in Bordeaux, Viking Ocean Cruises offers a range of experiences that go beyond the typical tourist attractions.

Since its launch, Viking Ocean Cruises has received numerous accolades and awards, including being named the #1 Ocean Cruise Line by Travel + Leisure for four years in a row. From the serene Nordic-inspired spa to the infinity pool with a retractable roof, Viking Ocean Cruises offers a range of features designed to make passengers feel pampered and relaxed.

4. Princess Cruises

Price range: $500-$3,000 per person for a 7-night cruise.

Top choice for: Travelers who value diverse itineraries, exceptional service, and family-friendly amenities

Why it's good for seniors : Princess Cruises offers a diverse range of onboard activities and entertainment, including Broadway-style shows, casinos, and movies under the stars. They also have a variety of dining options, including specialty restaurants and traditional dining rooms, which are perfect for seniors who love to socialize and try new things.

Princess Cruises  has been a mainstay in the cruising world since it launched in 1965. The cruise line has since grown into one of the largest and most popular in the industry, known for its diverse itineraries, exceptional service, and family-friendly amenities.

One of the standout features of Princess Cruises is its diverse range of itineraries. The cruise line offers voyages to all corners of the globe, from the Mediterranean to the Caribbean to Alaska and beyond. Whether you're looking to explore ancient ruins, soak up the sun on a tropical beach, or spot whales in the wild, there's a Princess Cruises itinerary that's perfect for you.

Another highlight of Princess Cruises is its family-friendly amenities. The cruise line offers a range of activities and features that are designed to appeal to travelers of all ages, from kids' clubs and teen lounges to family-friendly dining options and onboard entertainment.

The cruise line has been named Best Cruise Line for Multi-Generational Families by Travel Weekly and Best Cruise Line for Food Lovers by Food & Wine Magazine, among many other honors.

5. Oceania Cruises

Price range : $1,500-$5,000 per person for a 7-night cruise

Top choice for: Travelers who value gourmet cuisine, immersive itineraries, and luxurious accommodations

Why it's good for seniors : Oceania Cruises offers a sophisticated and intimate cruise experience with a focus on culinary excellence and cultural immersion. They have a wide range of shore excursions and onboard activities, including cooking classes and wine tastings, which are ideal for seniors who love food and wine.

 With its focus on gourmet cuisine, immersive itineraries, and luxurious accommodations, Oceania Cruises has been a leading name in the luxury cruising industry since its launch in 2002.

The cruise line is renowned for its gourmet cuisine, with menus created by renowned Master Chef Jacques Pépin . From the elegant main dining room to the specialty restaurants and cooking classes, Oceania Cruises offers a culinary experience that's unparalleled in the cruising world.The cruise line offers voyages to destinations all over the world, from the exotic ports of Southeast Asia to the rugged landscapes of Alaska. With a focus on smaller, less crowded ports of call, Oceania Cruises offers passengers the opportunity to explore destinations in-depth and experience the local culture and history.

Another highlight of Oceania Cruises is its luxurious accommodations. The cruise line offers some of the most spacious and elegant staterooms at sea, with each room featuring a private balcony and a range of upscale amenities. From the opulent Owner's Suites to the comfortable Veranda Staterooms, every aspect of the accommodations on Oceania Cruises is designed with comfort and style in mind.

 Oceania Cruises has been named the Best Cruise Line for Foodies by USA Today and has received high praise from publications such as Travel + Leisure and Conde Nast Traveler.

6. Cunard Line

Price range: $1,500-$10,000 per person for a 7-night cruise

Top choice for : Travelers who value elegance, luxury, and sophistication

Why it's good for seniors : Cunard Line offers a classic and refined cruise experience with a focus on luxury and tradition. They have a wide range of enrichment programs and activities, including ballroom dancing lessons and guest lectures, which are ideal for seniors who enjoy elegant and intellectual pursuits.

Cunard Line is one of the most iconic names in the cruising world. Since its launch in 1839, the cruise line has been synonymous with elegance, luxury, and sophistication, offering passengers a truly unique and unforgettable experience.

One of the standout features of Cunard Line is its commitment to the traditions of ocean travel. The cruise line's iconic ocean liners, including the Queen Mary 2, are designed to evoke the glamour and sophistication of a bygone era, with elegant decor, fine dining, and exceptional service.

Cunard Line is also known for its immersive itineraries. The cruise line offers voyages to destinations all over the world, from the glittering capitals of Europe to the exotic ports of Asia and Africa. Whether you're looking to explore historic landmarks, soak up the sun on a tropical beach, or experience the local culture and cuisine, there's a Cunard Line itinerary that's perfect for you.

Another highlight of Cunard Line is its commitment to exceptional service. From the attentive staff to the luxurious accommodations and amenities, Cunard Line is dedicated to providing passengers with an experience that's truly unforgettable. Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway or a family vacation, Cunard Line goes above and beyond to ensure that every detail of your voyage is taken care of.

The cruise line has been named Best Luxury Cruise Line by Travel Weekly and Best Cruise Line for Romance by US News & World Report, among many other honors.

Editorial note :  Prices may vary based on the time of year, itinerary, and cabin type selected.

More for You

Nikki Haley announces new job after quitting 2024 presidential race

Flight attendant shares her punishment for passengers who refuse to swap seats with parents

Where is Jennifer Pan from ‘What Jennifer Did’ now?

Remote workers are about to get a rude awakening

A hockey puck hurtled toward her son’s head. A fan jumped to block it.

Popular media company files for bankruptcy, plans to liquidate

Ketanji Brown Jackson's New Warning to Supreme Court

Loretta Lynn's granddaughter Emmy Russell stuns 'American Idol' judges: 'That is a hit record'

‘Rust’ Armorer Gets Maximum 18 Months In Prison—Judge Says She Won’t ‘Take Accountability’

The passport rule that prevented Vicky Pattison from boarding her flight – and how to avoid the same mistake

John Oliver Laughs at 'Cluelessness' of CNN Host Pointing Out 1860s Were Bad for Women - to a Black Man

7 CDs You Probably Owned, Threw Out and Now Are Worth Bank

Iconic ice cream brand files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy

I Did a 25 Day Water Fast. I Lost 20lbs and My Skin Cleared Up

Ancient DNA from a 25,000-year-old pendant reveals intriguing details about its wearer

Kenny Smith's critique on player earnings in the modern NBA: "I see players today who have holes in their game but make $20 million"

Supreme Court snubs House Republicans who dodged metal detectors in Congress after Jan. 6

The girl who can’t smile: How a rare disorder became a young woman's ‘greatest gift’

Pushups are an efficient, full-body exercise — but don't make this 1 mistake

Netflix's Chilling New Series Debuts With Perfect Rotten Tomatoes Score

Crying Myself to Sleep on the Biggest Cruise Ship Ever

Seven agonizing nights aboard the Icon of the Seas

Listen to this article

Listen to more stories on curio

Updated at 2:44 p.m. ET on April 6, 2024.

This article was featured in the One Story to Read Today newsletter. Sign up for it here .

MY FIRST GLIMPSE of Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas, from the window of an approaching Miami cab, brings on a feeling of vertigo, nausea, amazement, and distress. I shut my eyes in defense, as my brain tells my optic nerve to try again.

The ship makes no sense, vertically or horizontally. It makes no sense on sea, or on land, or in outer space. It looks like a hodgepodge of domes and minarets, tubes and canopies, like Istanbul had it been designed by idiots. Vibrant, oversignifying colors are stacked upon other such colors, decks perched over still more decks; the only comfort is a row of lifeboats ringing its perimeter. There is no imposed order, no cogent thought, and, for those who do not harbor a totalitarian sense of gigantomania, no visual mercy. This is the biggest cruise ship ever built, and I have been tasked with witnessing its inaugural voyage.

Explore the May 2024 Issue

Check out more from this issue and find your next story to read.

“Author embarks on their first cruise-ship voyage” has been a staple of American essay writing for almost three decades, beginning with David Foster Wallace’s “A Supposedly Fun Thing I’ll Never Do Again,” which was first published in 1996 under the title “Shipping Out.” Since then, many admirable writers have widened and diversified the genre. Usually the essayist commissioned to take to the sea is in their first or second flush of youth and is ready to sharpen their wit against the hull of the offending vessel. I am 51, old and tired, having seen much of the world as a former travel journalist, and mostly what I do in both life and prose is shrug while muttering to my imaginary dachshund, “This too shall pass.” But the Icon of the Seas will not countenance a shrug. The Icon of the Seas is the Linda Loman of cruise ships, exclaiming that attention must be paid. And here I am in late January with my one piece of luggage and useless gray winter jacket and passport, zipping through the Port of Miami en route to the gangway that will separate me from the bulk of North America for more than seven days, ready to pay it in full.

The aforementioned gangway opens up directly onto a thriving mall (I will soon learn it is imperiously called the “Royal Promenade”), presently filled with yapping passengers beneath a ceiling studded with balloons ready to drop. Crew members from every part of the global South, as well as a few Balkans, are shepherding us along while pressing flutes of champagne into our hands. By a humming Starbucks, I drink as many of these as I can and prepare to find my cabin. I show my blue Suite Sky SeaPass Card (more on this later, much more) to a smiling woman from the Philippines, and she tells me to go “aft.” Which is where, now? As someone who has rarely sailed on a vessel grander than the Staten Island Ferry, I am confused. It turns out that the aft is the stern of the ship, or, for those of us who don’t know what a stern or an aft are, its ass. The nose of the ship, responsible for separating the waves before it, is also called a bow, and is marked for passengers as the FWD , or forward. The part of the contemporary sailing vessel where the malls are clustered is called the midship. I trust that you have enjoyed this nautical lesson.

I ascend via elevator to my suite on Deck 11. This is where I encounter my first terrible surprise. My suite windows and balcony do not face the ocean. Instead, they look out onto another shopping mall. This mall is the one that’s called Central Park, perhaps in homage to the Olmsted-designed bit of greenery in the middle of my hometown. Although on land I would be delighted to own a suite with Central Park views, here I am deeply depressed. To sail on a ship and not wake up to a vast blue carpet of ocean? Unthinkable.

Allow me a brief preamble here. The story you are reading was commissioned at a moment when most staterooms on the Icon were sold out. In fact, so enthralled by the prospect of this voyage were hard-core mariners that the ship’s entire inventory of guest rooms (the Icon can accommodate up to 7,600 passengers, but its inaugural journey was reduced to 5,000 or so for a less crowded experience) was almost immediately sold out. Hence, this publication was faced with the shocking prospect of paying nearly $19,000 to procure for this solitary passenger an entire suite—not including drinking expenses—all for the privilege of bringing you this article. But the suite in question doesn’t even have a view of the ocean! I sit down hard on my soft bed. Nineteen thousand dollars for this .

The viewless suite does have its pluses. In addition to all the Malin+Goetz products in my dual bathrooms, I am granted use of a dedicated Suite Deck lounge; access to Coastal Kitchen, a superior restaurant for Suites passengers; complimentary VOOM SM Surf & Stream (“the fastest Internet at Sea”) “for one device per person for the whole cruise duration”; a pair of bathrobes (one of which comes prestained with what looks like a large expectoration by the greenest lizard on Earth); and use of the Grove Suite Sun, an area on Decks 18 and 19 with food and deck chairs reserved exclusively for Suite passengers. I also get reserved seating for a performance of The Wizard of Oz , an ice-skating tribute to the periodic table, and similar provocations. The very color of my Suite Sky SeaPass Card, an oceanic blue as opposed to the cloying royal purple of the standard non-Suite passenger, will soon provoke envy and admiration. But as high as my status may be, there are those on board who have much higher status still, and I will soon learn to bow before them.

In preparation for sailing, I have “priced in,” as they say on Wall Street, the possibility that I may come from a somewhat different monde than many of the other cruisers. Without falling into stereotypes or preconceptions, I prepare myself for a friendly outspokenness on the part of my fellow seafarers that may not comply with modern DEI standards. I believe in meeting people halfway, and so the day before flying down to Miami, I visited what remains of Little Italy to purchase a popular T-shirt that reads DADDY’S LITTLE MEATBALL across the breast in the colors of the Italian flag. My wife recommended that I bring one of my many T-shirts featuring Snoopy and the Peanuts gang, as all Americans love the beagle and his friends. But I naively thought that my meatball T-shirt would be more suitable for conversation-starting. “Oh, and who is your ‘daddy’?” some might ask upon seeing it. “And how long have you been his ‘little meatball’?” And so on.

I put on my meatball T-shirt and head for one of the dining rooms to get a late lunch. In the elevator, I stick out my chest for all to read the funny legend upon it, but soon I realize that despite its burnished tricolor letters, no one takes note. More to the point, no one takes note of me. Despite my attempts at bridge building, the very sight of me (small, ethnic, without a cap bearing the name of a football team) elicits no reaction from other passengers. Most often, they will small-talk over me as if I don’t exist. This brings to mind the travails of David Foster Wallace , who felt so ostracized by his fellow passengers that he retreated to his cabin for much of his voyage. And Wallace was raised primarily in the Midwest and was a much larger, more American-looking meatball than I am. If he couldn’t talk to these people, how will I? What if I leave this ship without making any friends at all, despite my T-shirt? I am a social creature, and the prospect of seven days alone and apart is saddening. Wallace’s stateroom, at least, had a view of the ocean, a kind of cheap eternity.

Worse awaits me in the dining room. This is a large, multichandeliered room where I attended my safety training (I was shown how to put on a flotation vest; it is a very simple procedure). But the maître d’ politely refuses me entry in an English that seems to verge on another language. “I’m sorry, this is only for pendejos ,” he seems to be saying. I push back politely and he repeats himself. Pendejos ? Piranhas? There’s some kind of P-word to which I am not attuned. Meanwhile elderly passengers stream right past, powered by their limbs, walkers, and electric wheelchairs. “It is only pendejo dining today, sir.” “But I have a suite!” I say, already starting to catch on to the ship’s class system. He examines my card again. “But you are not a pendejo ,” he confirms. I am wearing a DADDY’S LITTLE MEATBALL T-shirt, I want to say to him. I am the essence of pendejo .

Eventually, I give up and head to the plebeian buffet on Deck 15, which has an aquatic-styled name I have now forgotten. Before gaining entry to this endless cornucopia of reheated food, one passes a washing station of many sinks and soap dispensers, and perhaps the most intriguing character on the entire ship. He is Mr. Washy Washy—or, according to his name tag, Nielbert of the Philippines—and he is dressed as a taco (on other occasions, I’ll see him dressed as a burger). Mr. Washy Washy performs an eponymous song in spirited, indeed flamboyant English: “Washy, washy, wash your hands, WASHY WASHY!” The dangers of norovirus and COVID on a cruise ship this size (a giant fellow ship was stricken with the former right after my voyage) makes Mr. Washy Washy an essential member of the crew. The problem lies with the food at the end of Washy’s rainbow. The buffet is groaning with what sounds like sophisticated dishes—marinated octopus, boiled egg with anchovy, chorizo, lobster claws—but every animal tastes tragically the same, as if there was only one creature available at the market, a “cruisipus” bred specifically for Royal Caribbean dining. The “vegetables” are no better. I pick up a tomato slice and look right through it. It tastes like cellophane. I sit alone, apart from the couples and parents with gaggles of children, as “We Are Family” echoes across the buffet space.

I may have failed to mention that all this time, the Icon of the Seas has not left port. As the fiery mango of the subtropical setting sun makes Miami’s condo skyline even more apocalyptic, the ship shoves off beneath a perfunctory display of fireworks. After the sun sets, in the far, dark distance, another circus-lit cruise ship ruptures the waves before us. We glance at it with pity, because it is by definition a smaller ship than our own. I am on Deck 15, outside the buffet and overlooking a bunch of pools (the Icon has seven of them), drinking a frilly drink that I got from one of the bars (the Icon has 15 of them), still too shy to speak to anyone, despite Sister Sledge’s assertion that all on the ship are somehow related.

Kim Brooks: On failing the family vacation

The ship’s passage away from Ron DeSantis’s Florida provides no frisson, no sense of developing “sea legs,” as the ship is too large to register the presence of waves unless a mighty wind adds significant chop. It is time for me to register the presence of the 5,000 passengers around me, even if they refuse to register mine. My fellow travelers have prepared for this trip with personally decorated T-shirts celebrating the importance of this voyage. The simplest ones say ICON INAUGURAL ’24 on the back and the family name on the front. Others attest to an over-the-top love of cruise ships: WARNING! MAY START TALKING ABOUT CRUISING . Still others are artisanally designed and celebrate lifetimes spent married while cruising (on ships, of course). A couple possibly in their 90s are wearing shirts whose backs feature a drawing of a cruise liner, two flamingos with ostensibly male and female characteristics, and the legend “ HUSBAND AND WIFE Cruising Partners FOR LIFE WE MAY NOT HAVE IT All Together BUT TOGETHER WE HAVE IT ALL .” (The words not in all caps have been written in cursive.) A real journalist or a more intrepid conversationalist would have gone up to the couple and asked them to explain the longevity of their marriage vis-à-vis their love of cruising. But instead I head to my mall suite, take off my meatball T-shirt, and allow the first tears of the cruise to roll down my cheeks slowly enough that I briefly fall asleep amid the moisture and salt.

I WAKE UP with a hangover. Oh God. Right. I cannot believe all of that happened last night. A name floats into my cobwebbed, nauseated brain: “Ayn Rand.” Jesus Christ.

I breakfast alone at the Coastal Kitchen. The coffee tastes fine and the eggs came out of a bird. The ship rolls slightly this morning; I can feel it in my thighs and my schlong, the parts of me that are most receptive to danger.

I had a dangerous conversation last night. After the sun set and we were at least 50 miles from shore (most modern cruise ships sail at about 23 miles an hour), I lay in bed softly hiccupping, my arms stretched out exactly like Jesus on the cross, the sound of the distant waves missing from my mall-facing suite, replaced by the hum of air-conditioning and children shouting in Spanish through the vents of my two bathrooms. I decided this passivity was unacceptable. As an immigrant, I feel duty-bound to complete the tasks I am paid for, which means reaching out and trying to understand my fellow cruisers. So I put on a normal James Perse T-shirt and headed for one of the bars on the Royal Promenade—the Schooner Bar, it was called, if memory serves correctly.

I sat at the bar for a martini and two Negronis. An old man with thick, hairy forearms drank next to me, very silent and Hemingwaylike, while a dreadlocked piano player tinkled out a series of excellent Elton John covers. To my right, a young white couple—he in floral shorts, she in a light, summery miniskirt with a fearsome diamond ring, neither of them in football regalia—chatted with an elderly couple. Do it , I commanded myself. Open your mouth. Speak! Speak without being spoken to. Initiate. A sentence fragment caught my ear from the young woman, “Cherry Hill.” This is a suburb of Philadelphia in New Jersey, and I had once been there for a reading at a synagogue. “Excuse me,” I said gently to her. “Did you just mention Cherry Hill? It’s a lovely place.”

As it turned out, the couple now lived in Fort Lauderdale (the number of Floridians on the cruise surprised me, given that Southern Florida is itself a kind of cruise ship, albeit one slowly sinking), but soon they were talking with me exclusively—the man potbellied, with a chin like a hard-boiled egg; the woman as svelte as if she were one of the many Ukrainian members of the crew—the elderly couple next to them forgotten. This felt as groundbreaking as the first time I dared to address an American in his native tongue, as a child on a bus in Queens (“On my foot you are standing, Mister”).

“I don’t want to talk politics,” the man said. “But they’re going to eighty-six Biden and put Michelle in.”

I considered the contradictions of his opening conversational gambit, but decided to play along. “People like Michelle,” I said, testing the waters. The husband sneered, but the wife charitably put forward that the former first lady was “more personable” than Joe Biden. “They’re gonna eighty-six Biden,” the husband repeated. “He can’t put a sentence together.”

After I mentioned that I was a writer—though I presented myself as a writer of teleplays instead of novels and articles such as this one—the husband told me his favorite writer was Ayn Rand. “Ayn Rand, she came here with nothing,” the husband said. “I work with a lot of Cubans, so …” I wondered if I should mention what I usually do to ingratiate myself with Republicans or libertarians: the fact that my finances improved after pass-through corporations were taxed differently under Donald Trump. Instead, I ordered another drink and the couple did the same, and I told him that Rand and I were born in the same city, St. Petersburg/Leningrad, and that my family also came here with nothing. Now the bonding and drinking began in earnest, and several more rounds appeared. Until it all fell apart.

Read: Gary Shteyngart on watching Russian television for five days straight

My new friend, whom I will refer to as Ayn, called out to a buddy of his across the bar, and suddenly a young couple, both covered in tattoos, appeared next to us. “He fucking punked me,” Ayn’s frat-boy-like friend called out as he put his arm around Ayn, while his sizable partner sizzled up to Mrs. Rand. Both of them had a look I have never seen on land—their eyes projecting absence and enmity in equal measure. In the ’90s, I drank with Russian soldiers fresh from Chechnya and wandered the streets of wartime Zagreb, but I have never seen such undisguised hostility toward both me and perhaps the universe at large. I was briefly introduced to this psychopathic pair, but neither of them wanted to have anything to do with me, and the tattooed woman would not even reveal her Christian name to me (she pretended to have the same first name as Mrs. Rand). To impress his tattooed friends, Ayn made fun of the fact that as a television writer, I’d worked on the series Succession (which, it would turn out, practically nobody on the ship had watched), instead of the far more palatable, in his eyes, zombie drama of last year. And then my new friends drifted away from me into an angry private conversation—“He punked me!”—as I ordered another drink for myself, scared of the dead-eyed arrivals whose gaze never registered in the dim wattage of the Schooner Bar, whose terrifying voices and hollow laughs grated like unoiled gears against the crooning of “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road.”

But today is a new day for me and my hangover. After breakfast, I explore the ship’s so-called neighborhoods . There’s the AquaDome, where one can find a food hall and an acrobatic sound-and-light aquatic show. Central Park has a premium steak house, a sushi joint, and a used Rolex that can be bought for $8,000 on land here proudly offered at $17,000. There’s the aforementioned Royal Promenade, where I had drunk with the Rands, and where a pair of dueling pianos duel well into the night. There’s Surfside, a kids’ neighborhood full of sugary garbage, which looks out onto the frothy trail that the behemoth leaves behind itself. Thrill Island refers to the collection of tubes that clutter the ass of the ship and offer passengers six waterslides and a surfing simulation. There’s the Hideaway, an adult zone that plays music from a vomit-slathered, Brit-filled Alicante nightclub circa 1996 and proves a big favorite with groups of young Latin American customers. And, most hurtfully, there’s the Suite Neighborhood.

I say hurtfully because as a Suite passenger I should be here, though my particular suite is far from the others. Whereas I am stuck amid the riffraff of Deck 11, this section is on the highborn Decks 16 and 17, and in passing, I peek into the spacious, tall-ceilinged staterooms from the hallway, dazzled by the glint of the waves and sun. For $75,000, one multifloor suite even comes with its own slide between floors, so that a family may enjoy this particular terror in private. There is a quiet splendor to the Suite Neighborhood. I see fewer stickers and signs and drawings than in my own neighborhood—for example, MIKE AND DIANA PROUDLY SERVED U.S. MARINE CORPS RETIRED . No one here needs to announce their branch of service or rank; they are simply Suites, and this is where they belong. Once again, despite my hard work and perseverance, I have been disallowed from the true American elite. Once again, I am “Not our class, dear.” I am reminded of watching The Love Boat on my grandmother’s Zenith, which either was given to her or we found in the trash (I get our many malfunctioning Zeniths confused) and whose tube got so hot, I would put little chunks of government cheese on a thin tissue atop it to give our welfare treat a pleasant, Reagan-era gooeyness. I could not understand English well enough then to catch the nuances of that seafaring program, but I knew that there were differences in the status of the passengers, and that sometimes those differences made them sad. Still, this ship, this plenty—every few steps, there are complimentary nachos or milkshakes or gyros on offer—was the fatty fuel of my childhood dreams. If only I had remained a child.

I walk around the outdoor decks looking for company. There is a middle-aged African American couple who always seem to be asleep in each other’s arms, probably exhausted from the late capitalism they regularly encounter on land. There is far more diversity on this ship than I expected. Many couples are a testament to Loving v. Virginia , and there is a large group of folks whose T-shirts read MELANIN AT SEA / IT’S THE MELANIN FOR ME . I smile when I see them, but then some young kids from the group makes Mr. Washy Washy do a cruel, caricatured “Burger Dance” (today he is in his burger getup), and I think, Well, so much for intersectionality .

At the infinity pool on Deck 17, I spot some elderly women who could be ethnic and from my part of the world, and so I jump in. I am proved correct! Many of them seem to be originally from Queens (“Corona was still great when it was all Italian”), though they are now spread across the tristate area. We bond over the way “Ron-kon-koma” sounds when announced in Penn Station.

“Everyone is here for a different reason,” one of them tells me. She and her ex-husband last sailed together four years ago to prove to themselves that their marriage was truly over. Her 15-year-old son lost his virginity to “an Irish young lady” while their ship was moored in Ravenna, Italy. The gaggle of old-timers competes to tell me their favorite cruising stories and tips. “A guy proposed in Central Park a couple of years ago”—many Royal Caribbean ships apparently have this ridiculous communal area—“and she ran away screaming!” “If you’re diamond-class, you get four drinks for free.” “A different kind of passenger sails out of Bayonne.” (This, perhaps, is racially coded.) “Sometimes, if you tip the bartender $5, your next drink will be free.”

“Everyone’s here for a different reason,” the woman whose marriage ended on a cruise tells me again. “Some people are here for bad reasons—the drinkers and the gamblers. Some people are here for medical reasons.” I have seen more than a few oxygen tanks and at least one woman clearly undergoing very serious chemo. Some T-shirts celebrate good news about a cancer diagnosis. This might be someone’s last cruise or week on Earth. For these women, who have spent months, if not years, at sea, cruising is a ritual as well as a life cycle: first love, last love, marriage, divorce, death.

Read: The last place on Earth any tourist should go

I have talked with these women for so long, tonight I promise myself that after a sad solitary dinner I will not try to seek out company at the bars in the mall or the adult-themed Hideaway. I have enough material to fulfill my duties to this publication. As I approach my orphaned suite, I run into the aggro young people who stole Mr. and Mrs. Rand away from me the night before. The tattooed apparitions pass me without a glance. She is singing something violent about “Stuttering Stanley” (a character in a popular horror movie, as I discover with my complimentary VOOM SM Surf & Stream Internet at Sea) and he’s loudly shouting about “all the money I’ve lost,” presumably at the casino in the bowels of the ship.

So these bent psychos out of a Cormac McCarthy novel are angrily inhabiting my deck. As I mewl myself to sleep, I envision a limited series for HBO or some other streamer, a kind of low-rent White Lotus , where several aggressive couples conspire to throw a shy intellectual interloper overboard. I type the scenario into my phone. As I fall asleep, I think of what the woman who recently divorced her husband and whose son became a man through the good offices of the Irish Republic told me while I was hoisting myself out of the infinity pool. “I’m here because I’m an explorer. I’m here because I’m trying something new.” What if I allowed myself to believe in her fantasy?

“YOU REALLY STARTED AT THE TOP,” they tell me. I’m at the Coastal Kitchen for my eggs and corned-beef hash, and the maître d’ has slotted me in between two couples. Fueled by coffee or perhaps intrigued by my relative youth, they strike up a conversation with me. As always, people are shocked that this is my first cruise. They contrast the Icon favorably with all the preceding liners in the Royal Caribbean fleet, usually commenting on the efficiency of the elevators that hurl us from deck to deck (as in many large corporate buildings, the elevators ask you to choose a floor and then direct you to one of many lifts). The couple to my right, from Palo Alto—he refers to his “porn mustache” and calls his wife “my cougar” because she is two years older—tell me they are “Pandemic Pinnacles.”

This is the day that my eyes will be opened. Pinnacles , it is explained to me over translucent cantaloupe, have sailed with Royal Caribbean for 700 ungodly nights. Pandemic Pinnacles took advantage of the two-for-one accrual rate of Pinnacle points during the pandemic, when sailing on a cruise ship was even more ill-advised, to catapult themselves into Pinnacle status.

Because of the importance of the inaugural voyage of the world’s largest cruise liner, more than 200 Pinnacles are on this ship, a startling number, it seems. Mrs. Palo Alto takes out a golden badge that I have seen affixed over many a breast, which reads CROWN AND ANCHOR SOCIETY along with her name. This is the coveted badge of the Pinnacle. “You should hear all the whining in Guest Services,” her husband tells me. Apparently, the Pinnacles who are not also Suites like us are all trying to use their status to get into Coastal Kitchen, our elite restaurant. Even a Pinnacle needs to be a Suite to access this level of corned-beef hash.

“We’re just baby Pinnacles,” Mrs. Palo Alto tells me, describing a kind of internal class struggle among the Pinnacle elite for ever higher status.

And now I understand what the maître d’ was saying to me on the first day of my cruise. He wasn’t saying “ pendejo .” He was saying “Pinnacle.” The dining room was for Pinnacles only, all those older people rolling in like the tide on their motorized scooters.

And now I understand something else: This whole thing is a cult. And like most cults, it can’t help but mirror the endless American fight for status. Like Keith Raniere’s NXIVM, where different-colored sashes were given out to connote rank among Raniere’s branded acolytes, this is an endless competition among Pinnacles, Suites, Diamond-Plusers, and facing-the-mall, no-balcony purple SeaPass Card peasants, not to mention the many distinctions within each category. The more you cruise, the higher your status. No wonder a section of the Royal Promenade is devoted to getting passengers to book their next cruise during the one they should be enjoying now. No wonder desperate Royal Caribbean offers (“FINAL HOURS”) crowded my email account weeks before I set sail. No wonder the ship’s jewelry store, the Royal Bling, is selling a $100,000 golden chalice that will entitle its owner to drink free on Royal Caribbean cruises for life. (One passenger was already gaming out whether her 28-year-old son was young enough to “just about earn out” on the chalice or if that ship had sailed.) No wonder this ship was sold out months before departure , and we had to pay $19,000 for a horrid suite away from the Suite Neighborhood. No wonder the most mythical hero of Royal Caribbean lore is someone named Super Mario, who has cruised so often, he now has his own working desk on many ships. This whole experience is part cult, part nautical pyramid scheme.

From the June 2014 issue: Ship of wonks

“The toilets are amazing,” the Palo Altos are telling me. “One flush and you’re done.” “They don’t understand how energy-efficient these ships are,” the husband of the other couple is telling me. “They got the LNG”—liquefied natural gas, which is supposed to make the Icon a boon to the environment (a concept widely disputed and sometimes ridiculed by environmentalists).

But I’m thinking along a different line of attack as I spear my last pallid slice of melon. For my streaming limited series, a Pinnacle would have to get killed by either an outright peasant or a Suite without an ocean view. I tell my breakfast companions my idea.

“Oh, for sure a Pinnacle would have to be killed,” Mr. Palo Alto, the Pandemic Pinnacle, says, touching his porn mustache thoughtfully as his wife nods.

“THAT’S RIGHT, IT’S your time, buddy!” Hubert, my fun-loving Panamanian cabin attendant, shouts as I step out of my suite in a robe. “Take it easy, buddy!”

I have come up with a new dressing strategy. Instead of trying to impress with my choice of T-shirts, I have decided to start wearing a robe, as one does at a resort property on land, with a proper spa and hammam. The response among my fellow cruisers has been ecstatic. “Look at you in the robe!” Mr. Rand cries out as we pass each other by the Thrill Island aqua park. “You’re living the cruise life! You know, you really drank me under the table that night.” I laugh as we part ways, but my soul cries out, Please spend more time with me, Mr. and Mrs. Rand; I so need the company .

In my white robe, I am a stately presence, a refugee from a better limited series, a one-man crossover episode. (Only Suites are granted these robes to begin with.) Today, I will try many of the activities these ships have on offer to provide their clientele with a sense of never-ceasing motion. Because I am already at Thrill Island, I decide to climb the staircase to what looks like a mast on an old-fashioned ship (terrified, because I am afraid of heights) to try a ride called “Storm Chasers,” which is part of the “Category 6” water park, named in honor of one of the storms that may someday do away with the Port of Miami entirely. Storm Chasers consists of falling from the “mast” down a long, twisting neon tube filled with water, like being the camera inside your own colonoscopy, as you hold on to the handles of a mat, hoping not to die. The tube then flops you down headfirst into a trough of water, a Royal Caribbean baptism. It both knocks my breath out and makes me sad.

In keeping with the aquatic theme, I attend a show at the AquaDome. To the sound of “Live and Let Die,” a man in a harness gyrates to and fro in the sultry air. I saw something very similar in the back rooms of the famed Berghain club in early-aughts Berlin. Soon another harnessed man is gyrating next to the first. Ja , I think to myself, I know how this ends. Now will come the fisting , natürlich . But the show soon devolves into the usual Marvel-film-grade nonsense, with too much light and sound signifying nichts . If any fisting is happening, it is probably in the Suite Neighborhood, inside a cabin marked with an upside-down pineapple, which I understand means a couple are ready to swing, and I will see none of it.

I go to the ice show, which is a kind of homage—if that’s possible—to the periodic table, done with the style and pomp and masterful precision that would please the likes of Kim Jong Un, if only he could afford Royal Caribbean talent. At one point, the dancers skate to the theme song of Succession . “See that!” I want to say to my fellow Suites—at “cultural” events, we have a special section reserved for us away from the commoners—“ Succession ! It’s even better than the zombie show! Open your minds!”

Finally, I visit a comedy revue in an enormous and too brightly lit version of an “intimate,” per Royal Caribbean literature, “Manhattan comedy club.” Many of the jokes are about the cruising life. “I’ve lived on ships for 20 years,” one of the middle-aged comedians says. “I can only see so many Filipino homosexuals dressed as a taco.” He pauses while the audience laughs. “I am so fired tonight,” he says. He segues into a Trump impression and then Biden falling asleep at the microphone, which gets the most laughs. “Anyone here from Fort Leonard Wood?” another comedian asks. Half the crowd seems to cheer. As I fall asleep that night, I realize another connection I have failed to make, and one that may explain some of the diversity on this vessel—many of its passengers have served in the military.

As a coddled passenger with a suite, I feel like I am starting to understand what it means to have a rank and be constantly reminded of it. There are many espresso makers , I think as I look across the expanse of my officer-grade quarters before closing my eyes, but this one is mine .

A shocking sight greets me beyond the pools of Deck 17 as I saunter over to the Coastal Kitchen for my morning intake of slightly sour Americanos. A tiny city beneath a series of perfectly pressed green mountains. Land! We have docked for a brief respite in Basseterre, the capital of St. Kitts and Nevis. I wolf down my egg scramble to be one of the first passengers off the ship. Once past the gangway, I barely refrain from kissing the ground. I rush into the sights and sounds of this scruffy island city, sampling incredible conch curry and buckets of non-Starbucks coffee. How wonderful it is to be where God intended humans to be: on land. After all, I am neither a fish nor a mall rat. This is my natural environment. Basseterre may not be Havana, but there are signs of human ingenuity and desire everywhere you look. The Black Table Grill Has been Relocated to Soho Village, Market Street, Directly Behind of, Gary’s Fruits and Flower Shop. Signed. THE PORK MAN reads a sign stuck to a wall. Now, that is how you write a sign. A real sign, not the come-ons for overpriced Rolexes that blink across the screens of the Royal Promenade.

“Hey, tie your shoestring!” a pair of laughing ladies shout to me across the street.

“Thank you!” I shout back. Shoestring! “Thank you very much.”

A man in Independence Square Park comes by and asks if I want to play with his monkey. I haven’t heard that pickup line since the Penn Station of the 1980s. But then he pulls a real monkey out of a bag. The monkey is wearing a diaper and looks insane. Wonderful , I think, just wonderful! There is so much life here. I email my editor asking if I can remain on St. Kitts and allow the Icon to sail off into the horizon without me. I have even priced a flight home at less than $300, and I have enough material from the first four days on the cruise to write the entire story. “It would be funny …” my editor replies. “Now get on the boat.”

As I slink back to the ship after my brief jailbreak, the locals stand under umbrellas to gaze at and photograph the boat that towers over their small capital city. The limousines of the prime minister and his lackeys are parked beside the gangway. St. Kitts, I’ve been told, is one of the few islands that would allow a ship of this size to dock.

“We hear about all the waterslides,” a sweet young server in one of the cafés told me. “We wish we could go on the ship, but we have to work.”

“I want to stay on your island,” I replied. “I love it here.”

But she didn’t understand how I could possibly mean that.

“WASHY, WASHY, so you don’t get stinky, stinky!” kids are singing outside the AquaDome, while their adult minders look on in disapproval, perhaps worried that Mr. Washy Washy is grooming them into a life of gayness. I heard a southern couple skip the buffet entirely out of fear of Mr. Washy Washy.

Meanwhile, I have found a new watering hole for myself, the Swim & Tonic, the biggest swim-up bar on any cruise ship in the world. Drinking next to full-size, nearly naked Americans takes away one’s own self-consciousness. The men have curvaceous mom bodies. The women are equally un-shy about their sprawling physiques.

Today I’ve befriended a bald man with many children who tells me that all of the little trinkets that Royal Caribbean has left us in our staterooms and suites are worth a fortune on eBay. “Eighty dollars for the water bottle, 60 for the lanyard,” the man says. “This is a cult.”

“Tell me about it,” I say. There is, however, a clientele for whom this cruise makes perfect sense. For a large middle-class family (he works in “supply chains”), seven days in a lower-tier cabin—which starts at $1,800 a person—allow the parents to drop off their children in Surfside, where I imagine many young Filipina crew members will take care of them, while the parents are free to get drunk at a swim-up bar and maybe even get intimate in their cabin. Cruise ships have become, for a certain kind of hardworking family, a form of subsidized child care.

There is another man I would like to befriend at the Swim & Tonic, a tall, bald fellow who is perpetually inebriated and who wears a necklace studded with little rubber duckies in sunglasses, which, I am told, is a sort of secret handshake for cruise aficionados. Tomorrow, I will spend more time with him, but first the ship docks at St. Thomas, in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Charlotte Amalie, the capital, is more charming in name than in presence, but I still all but jump off the ship to score a juicy oxtail and plantains at the well-known Petite Pump Room, overlooking the harbor. From one of the highest points in the small city, the Icon of the Seas appears bigger than the surrounding hills.

I usually tan very evenly, but something about the discombobulation of life at sea makes me forget the regular application of sunscreen. As I walk down the streets of Charlotte Amalie in my fluorescent Icon of the Seas cap, an old Rastafarian stares me down. “Redneck,” he hisses.

“No,” I want to tell him, as I bring a hand up to my red neck, “that’s not who I am at all. On my island, Mannahatta, as Whitman would have it, I am an interesting person living within an engaging artistic milieu. I do not wish to use the Caribbean as a dumping ground for the cruise-ship industry. I love the work of Derek Walcott. You don’t understand. I am not a redneck. And if I am, they did this to me.” They meaning Royal Caribbean? Its passengers? The Rands?

“They did this to me!”

Back on the Icon, some older matrons are muttering about a run-in with passengers from the Celebrity cruise ship docked next to us, the Celebrity Apex. Although Celebrity Cruises is also owned by Royal Caribbean, I am made to understand that there is a deep fratricidal beef between passengers of the two lines. “We met a woman from the Apex,” one matron says, “and she says it was a small ship and there was nothing to do. Her face was as tight as a 19-year-old’s, she had so much surgery.” With those words, and beneath a cloudy sky, humidity shrouding our weathered faces and red necks, we set sail once again, hopefully in the direction of home.

THERE ARE BARELY 48 HOURS LEFT to the cruise, and the Icon of the Seas’ passengers are salty. They know how to work the elevators. They know the Washy Washy song by heart. They understand that the chicken gyro at “Feta Mediterranean,” in the AquaDome Market, is the least problematic form of chicken on the ship.

The passengers have shed their INAUGURAL CRUISE T-shirts and are now starting to evince political opinions. There are caps pledging to make America great again and T-shirts that celebrate words sometimes attributed to Patrick Henry: “The Constitution is not an instrument for the government to restrain the people; it is an instrument for the people to restrain the government.” With their preponderance of FAMILY FLAG FAITH FRIENDS FIREARMS T-shirts, the tables by the crepe station sometimes resemble the Capitol Rotunda on January 6. The Real Anthony Fauci , by Robert F. Kennedy Jr., appears to be a popular form of literature, especially among young men with very complicated versions of the American flag on their T-shirts. Other opinions blend the personal and the political. “Someone needs to kill Washy guy, right?” a well-dressed man in the elevator tells me, his gray eyes radiating nothing. “Just beat him to death. Am I right?” I overhear the male member of a young couple whisper, “There goes that freak” as I saunter by in my white spa robe, and I decide to retire it for the rest of the cruise.

I visit the Royal Bling to see up close the $100,000 golden chalice that entitles you to free drinks on Royal Caribbean forever. The pleasant Serbian saleslady explains that the chalice is actually gold-plated and covered in white zirconia instead of diamonds, as it would otherwise cost $1 million. “If you already have everything,” she explains, “this is one more thing you can get.”

I believe that anyone who works for Royal Caribbean should be entitled to immediate American citizenship. They already speak English better than most of the passengers and, per the Serbian lady’s sales pitch above, better understand what America is as well. Crew members like my Panamanian cabin attendant seem to work 24 hours a day. A waiter from New Delhi tells me that his contract is six months and three weeks long. After a cruise ends, he says, “in a few hours, we start again for the next cruise.” At the end of the half a year at sea, he is allowed a two-to-three-month stay at home with his family. As of 2019, the median income for crew members was somewhere in the vicinity of $20,000, according to a major business publication. Royal Caribbean would not share the current median salary for its crew members, but I am certain that it amounts to a fraction of the cost of a Royal Bling gold-plated, zirconia-studded chalice.

And because most of the Icon’s hyper-sanitized spaces are just a frittata away from being a Delta lounge, one forgets that there are actual sailors on this ship, charged with the herculean task of docking it in port. “Having driven 100,000-ton aircraft carriers throughout my career,” retired Admiral James G. Stavridis, the former NATO Supreme Allied Commander Europe, writes to me, “I’m not sure I would even know where to begin with trying to control a sea monster like this one nearly three times the size.” (I first met Stavridis while touring Army bases in Germany more than a decade ago.)

Today, I decide to head to the hot tub near Swim & Tonic, where some of the ship’s drunkest reprobates seem to gather (the other tubs are filled with families and couples). The talk here, like everywhere else on the ship, concerns football, a sport about which I know nothing. It is apparent that four teams have recently competed in some kind of finals for the year, and that two of them will now face off in the championship. Often when people on the Icon speak, I will try to repeat the last thing they said with a laugh or a nod of disbelief. “Yes, 20-yard line! Ha!” “Oh my God, of course, scrimmage.”

Soon we are joined in the hot tub by the late-middle-age drunk guy with the duck necklace. He is wearing a bucket hat with the legend HAWKEYES , which, I soon gather, is yet another football team. “All right, who turned me in?” Duck Necklace says as he plops into the tub beside us. “I get a call in the morning,” he says. “It’s security. Can you come down to the dining room by 10 a.m.? You need to stay away from the members of this religious family.” Apparently, the gregarious Duck Necklace had photobombed the wrong people. There are several families who present as evangelical Christians or practicing Muslims on the ship. One man, evidently, was not happy that Duck Necklace had made contact with his relatives. “It’s because of religious stuff; he was offended. I put my arm around 20 people a day.”

Everyone laughs. “They asked me three times if I needed medication,” he says of the security people who apparently interrogated him in full view of others having breakfast.

Another hot-tub denizen suggests that he should have asked for fentanyl. After a few more drinks, Duck Necklace begins to muse about what it would be like to fall off the ship. “I’m 62 and I’m ready to go,” he says. “I just don’t want a shark to eat me. I’m a huge God guy. I’m a Bible guy. There’s some Mayan theory squaring science stuff with religion. There is so much more to life on Earth.” We all nod into our Red Stripes.

“I never get off the ship when we dock,” he says. He tells us he lost $6,000 in the casino the other day. Later, I look him up, and it appears that on land, he’s a financial adviser in a crisp gray suit, probably a pillar of his North Chicago community.

THE OCEAN IS TEEMING with fascinating life, but on the surface it has little to teach us. The waves come and go. The horizon remains ever far away.

I am constantly told by my fellow passengers that “everybody here has a story.” Yes, I want to reply, but everybody everywhere has a story. You, the reader of this essay, have a story, and yet you’re not inclined to jump on a cruise ship and, like Duck Necklace, tell your story to others at great pitch and volume. Maybe what they’re saying is that everybody on this ship wants to have a bigger, more coherent, more interesting story than the one they’ve been given. Maybe that’s why there’s so much signage on the doors around me attesting to marriages spent on the sea. Maybe that’s why the Royal Caribbean newsletter slipped under my door tells me that “this isn’t a vacation day spent—it’s bragging rights earned.” Maybe that’s why I’m so lonely.

Today is a big day for Icon passengers. Today the ship docks at Royal Caribbean’s own Bahamian island, the Perfect Day at CocoCay. (This appears to be the actual name of the island.) A comedian at the nightclub opined on what his perfect day at CocoCay would look like—receiving oral sex while learning that his ex-wife had been killed in a car crash (big laughter). But the reality of the island is far less humorous than that.

One of the ethnic tristate ladies in the infinity pool told me that she loved CocoCay because it had exactly the same things that could be found on the ship itself. This proves to be correct. It is like the Icon, but with sand. The same tired burgers, the same colorful tubes conveying children and water from Point A to B. The same swim-up bar at its Hideaway ($140 for admittance, no children allowed; Royal Caribbean must be printing money off its clientele). “There was almost a fight at The Wizard of Oz ,” I overhear an elderly woman tell her companion on a chaise lounge. Apparently one of the passengers began recording Royal Caribbean’s intellectual property and “three guys came after him.”

I walk down a pathway to the center of the island, where a sign reads DO NOT ENTER: YOU HAVE REACHED THE BOUNDARY OF ADVENTURE . I hear an animal scampering in the bushes. A Royal Caribbean worker in an enormous golf cart soon chases me down and takes me back to the Hideaway, where I run into Mrs. Rand in a bikini. She becomes livid telling me about an altercation she had the other day with a woman over a towel and a deck chair. We Suites have special towel privileges; we do not have to hand over our SeaPass Card to score a towel. But the Rands are not Suites. “People are so entitled here,” Mrs. Rand says. “It’s like the airport with all its classes.” “You see,” I want to say, “this is where your husband’s love of Ayn Rand runs into the cruelties and arbitrary indignities of unbridled capitalism.” Instead we make plans to meet for a final drink in the Schooner Bar tonight (the Rands will stand me up).

Back on the ship, I try to do laps, but the pool (the largest on any cruise ship, naturally) is fully trashed with the detritus of American life: candy wrappers, a slowly dissolving tortilla chip, napkins. I take an extra-long shower in my suite, then walk around the perimeter of the ship on a kind of exercise track, past all the alluring lifeboats in their yellow-and-white livery. Maybe there is a dystopian angle to the HBO series that I will surely end up pitching, one with shades of WALL-E or Snowpiercer . In a collapsed world, a Royal Caribbean–like cruise liner sails from port to port, collecting new shipmates and supplies in exchange for the precious energy it has on board. (The actual Icon features a new technology that converts passengers’ poop into enough energy to power the waterslides . In the series, this shitty technology would be greatly expanded.) A very young woman (18? 19?), smart and lonely, who has only known life on the ship, walks along the same track as I do now, contemplating jumping off into the surf left by its wake. I picture reusing Duck Necklace’s words in the opening shot of the pilot. The girl is walking around the track, her eyes on the horizon; maybe she’s highborn—a Suite—and we hear the voice-over: “I’m 19 and I’m ready to go. I just don’t want a shark to eat me.”

Before the cruise is finished, I talk to Mr. Washy Washy, or Nielbert of the Philippines. He is a sweet, gentle man, and I thank him for the earworm of a song he has given me and for keeping us safe from the dreaded norovirus. “This is very important to me, getting people to wash their hands,” he tells me in his burger getup. He has dreams, as an artist and a performer, but they are limited in scope. One day he wants to dress up as a piece of bacon for the morning shift.

THE MAIDEN VOYAGE OF THE TITANIC (the Icon of the Seas is five times as large as that doomed vessel) at least offered its passengers an exciting ending to their cruise, but when I wake up on the eighth day, all I see are the gray ghosts that populate Miami’s condo skyline. Throughout my voyage, my writer friends wrote in to commiserate with me. Sloane Crosley, who once covered a three-day spa mini-cruise for Vogue , tells me she felt “so very alone … I found it very untethering.” Gideon Lewis-Kraus writes in an Instagram comment: “When Gary is done I think it’s time this genre was taken out back and shot.” And he is right. To badly paraphrase Adorno: After this, no more cruise stories. It is unfair to put a thinking person on a cruise ship. Writers typically have difficult childhoods, and it is cruel to remind them of the inherent loneliness that drove them to writing in the first place. It is also unseemly to write about the kind of people who go on cruises. Our country does not provide the education and upbringing that allow its citizens an interior life. For the creative class to point fingers at the large, breasty gentlemen adrift in tortilla-chip-laden pools of water is to gather a sour harvest of low-hanging fruit.

A day or two before I got off the ship, I decided to make use of my balcony, which I had avoided because I thought the view would only depress me further. What I found shocked me. My suite did not look out on Central Park after all. This entire time, I had been living in the ship’s Disneyland, Surfside, the neighborhood full of screaming toddlers consuming milkshakes and candy. And as I leaned out over my balcony, I beheld a slight vista of the sea and surf that I thought I had been missing. It had been there all along. The sea was frothy and infinite and blue-green beneath the span of a seagull’s wing. And though it had been trod hard by the world’s largest cruise ship, it remained.

This article appears in the May 2024 print edition with the headline “A Meatball at Sea.” When you buy a book using a link on this page, we receive a commission. Thank you for supporting The Atlantic.