Jules Verne’s Phileas Fogg claimed to circle the globe in 80 days… but what’s the rush? If you’ve got some free time – around 132 days – and you feel like seeing the world, then why not consider Cunard’s incredible New York to New York tour, sailing from January 2017. Guests will sail a total of more than 37,000 nautical miles, call at 40 ports in 23 countries and visit 33 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Not only that, the trip will make nine maiden calls, offer three overnight stays and 11 late-evening departures.
“The majestic scenery of southern Africa and the sparkling Indian Ocean lead to an extended discovery of Australia, the return route showcases the dazzling diversity of Asia, Arabia and the Mediterranean,” reads the description on the liner’s website. The voyage begins on January 3, 2017 in New York, then heads off to Southampton, onto South Africa, and then onward towards Australia. The Queen Mary 2 will then operate round trip between Hong Kong and Shanghai before embarking towards Arabia and Europe sailing the Suez Canal, before heading back to Southampton and New York.
The first-time destinations for the Queen Mary 2 include Le Port, Réunion; Kangaroo Island, Australia; Hobart, Australia; Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei; Keelung, Taiwan; Jeju Island, South Korea; Busan, South Korea; and two firsts for the fleet – Busselton and Port Arthur, Australia.
“Since Cunard inaugurated the first world cruise in 1922, our company has carried more guests and made more trips around the world than any other cruise line,” said Richard Meadows, president of Cunard, North America. “Cunard’s Full World Voyage Programme will bring unique experiences to our guests, whether it be an in-depth exploration of Asia or a trip up the Amazon river. There is an itinerary for both returning world cruisers and for those new to Cunard who wish to revel in Cunard’s legendary grand luxury.”
Fares begin at $18,300 for the 108-night Cape Town to New York voyage; $20,000 for the 118-night Southampton round-trip; and $22,400 for the 132-night New York round-trip. The entire sailing in a super-luxe duplex suite could cost around $145,000, with many top suites already booked up. The Grand Duplexes offer a bedroom and two master bathrooms on the upper level, with guest bathroom, living and dining areas and balcony downstairs – all-in-all spanning approximately 2,249 square feet with butler services and 24-hour room service.