Imagine embarking on a three-year cruise around the world, but the
journey doesn't have to stop after those three years – it can continue
indefinitely. This unique concept is being offered by Life at Sea
Cruises, which is set to depart on its three-year world cruise in
November. The idea of an extended cruise came about due to the
overwhelming interest from potential passengers who couldn't make the
initial departure date.
Kendra Holmes, CEO of Miray Cruises, the company behind Life at Sea
Cruises, explained that while individuals still need to sign up for the
initial three years, they can now join the cruise at various points
along the itinerary, creating a rolling three-year cruise experience.
Latecomers won't miss out on destinations covered earlier; instead, the
cruise will continue to new locations. According to Holmes, "It's become
the cruise that never ends."
Major destinations like Easter Island, Dubai, and all of India are
not part of the initial itinerary for logistical reasons but are
expected to be included in year four.
The first year of the cruise offers seven potential start locations,
with the journey commencing in Istanbul on 1 November 2023. However,
passengers can also embark from Barcelona on 6 November, the Bahamas a
week later, or Rio de Janeiro on 20 December.
The full sailing will take passengers to 382 ports across all seven continents, covering 140 countries.
The MV Lara, the cruise ship, can accommodate 1,266 passengers with
627 cabins, but Life at Sea Cruises aims to keep occupancy at only 85%
to prevent overcrowding on board. Currently, the occupancy rate for
November sailings stands at over 50%.
Life at Sea is also launching a "Dive Around the World" programme in
response to passengers' interest in diving. The ship will feature an
on-board dive shop, and a full-time instructor will be part of the
ship's crew. Passengers can obtain scuba certification during their
travels and participate in diving excursions worldwide.
Life at Sea aims to make long-term cruising more accessible, with
pricing starting at US$77,026 per year for double occupancy, with
all-inclusive dining, entertainment, internet, amenities and healthcare
on board.