The World, Residences at Sea, the world’s largest privately owned residential yacht and premier luxury cruise ship, has announced its ambitious 2026 Journey itinerary, promising an unprecedented global voyage to 90 destinations spanning 20 countries across six continents. This exclusive residential cruise ship will deliver the ultimate luxury yacht travel experience for its discerning community of world travelers.
Residential Yacht Living: The Ultimate Luxury Travel Experience
The World represents the pinnacle of luxury residential yacht living, combining the comfort of permanent residences with the adventure of continuous global exploration. This unique floating community allows residents to maintain their homes while experiencing world-class destinations and luxury cruise amenities year-round.
The meticulously planned 2026 Journey reflects the collaborative spirit that defines luxury yacht lifestyle aboard The World. President and CEO Jessica Hoppe emphasizes the resident-driven approach that sets this residential cruise ship apart from traditional luxury cruise lines.
“Every destination on The World’s 2026 Journey has been developed directly with Resident input after months of thoughtful discussion and collaboration,” Hoppe explained. “Our community is exceptionally well traveled, and their collective insights and experiences elevate the decision-making process. The result is a voyage that reflects both individual perspective and shared vision — a defining characteristic of what makes The World truly unique.”
Global Itinerary: From Tasmania to Singapore
Australia and New Zealand: Southern Hemisphere Adventures
The extraordinary 2026 Journey begins in Tasmania, Australia, offering residents an immersive introduction to the Southern Hemisphere’s diverse landscapes and cultures. The luxury yacht will then navigate to New Zealand, known for its dramatic fjords, pristine wilderness, and adventure tourism opportunities.
This extended stay approach allows The World’s residents to experience destinations beyond typical cruise ship visits, with multiple days in port enabling deep cultural immersion and authentic local experiences.
Antarctic Semi-Circumnavigation: Ultimate Expedition Cruise Experience
Following New Zealand, The World will embark on one of luxury travel’s most exclusive experiences: circumnavigating Antarctica. This Antarctic expedition cruise represents the ultimate in adventure luxury, offering residents unprecedented access to the world’s most remote and pristine wilderness.
The Antarctic Semi-Circumnavigation Expedition will be led by expert polar specialists, providing residents with opportunities to witness Mount Erebus, observe diverse penguin colonies, and experience the continent’s breathtaking ice formations and unique wildlife ecosystems.
South America: Chilean Fjords and Patagonian Wonders
The residential yacht’s South American segment includes stops in Ushuaia, often called the “End of the World,” and exploration of Chile’s spectacular fjord systems. These destinations offer some of the planet’s most dramatic coastal scenery and provide residents with opportunities for hiking, wildlife observation, and cultural exchanges with local communities.
The extended port stays characteristic of The World’s approach allow residents to participate in multi-day excursions, helicopter tours, and immersive cultural programs that traditional cruise ships cannot accommodate.
South Pacific Islands: Remote Paradise Exploration
The South Pacific portion of the 2026 Journey includes visits to some of the world’s most isolated and exclusive destinations. Easter Island, famous for its mysterious moai statues, and the remote Pitcairn Islands will provide residents with access to destinations rarely visited by commercial vessels.
The South Pacific, Pitcairn Islands & Pacific Islands Expeditions will include a unique stop at Robinson Crusoe Island, offering residents the chance to explore the island that inspired Daniel Defoe’s classic novel. These remote island experiences represent the ultimate in exclusive travel, accessible only to the most adventurous luxury travelers.
French Polynesia: Tropical Paradise and Cultural Immersion
French Polynesia’s inclusion in the 2026 Journey offers residents the chance to experience some of the world’s most beautiful tropical destinations. The French Polynesia & Line Islands Expeditions will feature opportunities for swimming among biodiverse coral reefs, participating in traditional Polynesian cultural ceremonies, and exploring pristine atolls.
The extended stays will allow residents to develop meaningful connections with local communities and participate in conservation efforts protecting these fragile marine ecosystems.
Pacific Northwest and Alaska: Wilderness and Glacial Exploration
After visiting Hawaii, The World will explore California’s coast and the Pacific Northwest before embarking on an Alaskan adventure. The Alaska segment will include glacier viewing, visits to the remote Aleutian Islands, and opportunities to observe diverse Arctic wildlife.
Alaska’s inclusion demonstrates The World’s commitment to offering residents access to destinations that combine natural beauty with educational opportunities, supported by expert naturalists and expedition leaders.
Asian Destinations: Cultural Diversity and Modern Marvels
The 2026 Journey concludes with an extensive exploration of Asia, including stops in Tokyo and Hiroshima, Japan, and Busan, South Korea. The itinerary also features several Chinese ports and Southeast Asian destinations before concluding in Singapore.
This Asian segment allows residents to experience the continent’s incredible cultural diversity, from Japan’s ancient traditions and modern innovations to Southeast Asia’s tropical beauty and rich historical heritage.
Expert-Led Expeditions: Educational Luxury Travel
The World’s 2026 Journey will feature three specialized expert-led expeditions, each designed to provide residents with deeper understanding and appreciation of the destinations they visit. These expedition experiences represent the evolution of luxury cruise travel, combining adventure with education and cultural immersion.
The expedition approach reflects growing demand among luxury travelers for meaningful experiences that go beyond traditional sightseeing, offering opportunities for personal growth and environmental awareness.
The Future of Residential Yacht Living
The World’s 2026 Journey represents the pinnacle of residential yacht travel, demonstrating how luxury cruise experiences continue evolving to meet the sophisticated demands of modern travelers. The combination of permanent residences, exclusive destinations, and expert-led expeditions creates a unique lifestyle that traditional hotels and cruise ships cannot replicate.
This innovative approach to luxury travel suggests a growing trend toward experiential luxury, where wealthy travelers prioritize authentic experiences and meaningful connections over traditional luxury amenities. The World’s success indicates strong market demand for residential cruise ship living and exclusive yacht travel experiences.
The announcement of the 2026 Journey reinforces The World’s position as the leader in luxury residential yacht travel, setting new standards for exclusive global exploration and community-driven travel planning.
For more updates, visit The Inspiring Insight.
