Holland America is again upping the ante when it comes to marathon cruising. The Grand Voyages packages offered by the popular cruise line are truly something to behold, and the 2013 offerings are nothing short of spectacular. The Grand World Voyage will take place on Holland America's Amsterdam and embark on a 115-day around the world voyage. When it comes to unique cruise experiences, an around the world trip could satisfy the travel bug in even the most adventurous of travelers. Several different cruise lines feature trips across an ocean, but taking advantage of a nearly three-month long journey is not for the faint of heart.
Is this the first trip around the world for any cruise line?
No, a few cruise lines offer around the world cruises. In fact, the Amsterdam has complete eight trips around the globe, and is currently due to begin a 113-day Grand World Voyage is scheduled to begin on Jan. 6, 2013.
Where does the around the world voyage start and end?
The 100-plus-day journeys for round-trip Grand World Voyages depart and arrive in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. The Florida sailing point offers at least reasonable airfare costs for anyone looking to book an extended tour.
How many stops does the voyage make?
The 2013 voyage is scheduled with more than 40 ports of call all over the world. Stops in South America, Asia, Africa, and Australia are scheduled, which could provide travelers with enough entertainment experiences to fill a lifetime of scrapbooks. The 2012 Grand World Voyage even features a stop in the Antarctic Sound.
How much does the trip cost?
Fares for the 2013 115-day Grand World Voyage start at $19,999 per person double occupancy and can cost as much as $73,999 per person for a suite. While the cost is out of range for average travelers and most family vacations to say the least, just knowing a sight-seeing option like this is offered by Holland America is enough for many people.
Are shorter and cheaper voyages available?
For travelers not looking to save up for a decade or so before taking a worldwide cruise, the Grand Voyage package offers a number of enticing options. The 2012 and 2013 itineraries for the cruises feature a number of exotic getaways some in the 30-day range and others in the 60-day range. Of course, none of the trips fall into the realm of easily affordable for the average or even above-average traveler. Other cruise lines offer shorter trips across the Atlantic, but the cost of airfare also needs to be factored in to the total price of the excursion.
Jason Gallagher is a former travel professional with a decade of experience in the industry. He remains an avid traveler and hotel fan with exposure to technology and trends in properties across the United States.




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