Welcome to the heart of the "DIY" world cruise—the art and science of itinerary planning. The success of your long-term adventure hinges on a well-planned schedule that flows seamlessly around the globe. It’s like being the architect of your own grand design, using individual cruises as your building blocks.
Here, we break down the expert strategies for finding and linking voyages, leveraging special cruises to your advantage, and choosing the best cruise lines and tools to build your perfect perpetual journey.
The simplest way to extend your time at sea is by booking "back-to-back" cruises on the same ship. This means when one cruise ends in a port like Yokohama, your next cruise begins on the very same day, on the very same ship, from that same port.
Repositioning cruises are the secret weapon of the "DIY" world cruiser. These are one-way voyages that move a ship from one major region to another as the seasons change (e.g., from Alaska to the Caribbean, or from Asia to North America).
Core Strategy 3: Anchor Your Year with a Grand Voyage
For the ultimate in simplified long-term planning, consider booking a full World Cruise or a regional "Grand Voyage." Several premium lines offer these epic journeys annually, providing a ready-made itinerary for a significant portion of your year.
Not all cruise lines are created equal for the long-term traveler. The ideal lines offer a combination of global itineraries, excellent value, and, most importantly, robust loyalty programs. Reaching the top tier of a loyalty program can grant you game-changing perks like free laundry service, complimentary internet, and special lounge access.
Top Cruise Lines for "DIY" Cruising:
You cannot manage a perpetual itinerary without the right tools. Here are the essentials:
Crafting your own world cruise is a rewarding challenge. It requires diligence and a love for planning, but the payoff is a journey that is 100% your own—a truly unique and extraordinary way to see the world.