Top Cruises Around the World – Best Global & Indian Cruise Experiences in 2025

CRUISES AROUND THE WORLD – INCLUDING THE BEST FROM INDIA

Top Cruises Around the World – Best Global & Indian Cruise Experiences in 2025 Imagine sipping your morning coffee on a sun-kissed deck, watching dolphins play in the waves, and knowing that your next stop could be a new country—or even a different continent. Cruises offer a unique way to explore the world, blending comfort, luxury, and adventure into one unforgettable journey.

Why Take a World Cruise?

World cruises are more than just long holidays—they’re floating journeys of discovery. Most voyages last between 90 and 180 days and cover dozens of countries. You unpack once and wake up to new skylines, cultures, and cuisines, all without the stress of airports or constant packing.

But you don’t have to fly to Miami or Singapore to start one anymore. India, with its rich coastlines and modernizing ports, is quickly becoming part of the cruising scene.

TOP GLOBAL CRUISE ROUTES

1.Round-the-World Adventure

Cruises departing from Europe or the U.S. often sail through the Suez Canal, touching India on the way to Southeast Asia and the Pacific.

Stops It Includes: Mumbai (India), Colombo (Sri Lanka), Singapore, Sydney, Auckland, San Francisco, Barcelona.

2.The Classic Mediterranean to Asia Route

This path connects ancient civilizations and modern marvels—from Greek temples to the skyscrapers of Dubai and the palaces of Rajasthan (via Indian port excursions).

Ports: Athens (Greece), Alexandria (Egypt), Muscat (Oman), Mumbai (India), Goa, Kochi, Phuket (Thailand)

3.Northern Lights & Fjord Voyages

While not world-spanning, these luxury Arctic cruises are ideal for travelers looking for bucket-list experiences like witnessing the Aurora Borealis.

Best From: Northern Europe (Norway, Iceland), often connected to longer cruises from India or the Middle East.

CRUISE EXPERIENCES IN AND FROM INDIA

India's 7,500 km-long coastline is now seeing a cruising boom. Here are some homegrown journeys worth exploring:

1.Cordelia Cruises (India’s Own Premium Line)

Cordelia has brought back excitement to Indian waters with multi-day voyages that cover:

• Mumbai – Goa – Lakshadweep – Kochi

• Chennai – Trincomalee (Sri Lanka) – Hambantota – Return

• Mumbai – Diu – Mumbai Weekend Getaways

These are perfect for Indian travelers who want an affordable taste of luxury without international travel.

2.Ganga River Cruises

For a different kind of cruising, try the Ganga Vilas—the world’s longest river cruise. This 51-day voyage travels 3,200 km through India and Bangladesh.

Highlights of this Cruise:

• Varanasi, Patna, Kolkata

• Sundarbans mangroves

• Dhaka, Barisal (Bangladesh)

Authentic cultural immersion with a spiritual twist

3.Andaman Island Cruises

Some international cruise ships like Costa Cruises and Princess Cruises include stops at Port Blair on their Asia routes. These islands are a tropical paradise with snorkeling, scuba diving, and colonial history.

WHAT TO EXPECT ONBOARD A CRUISE

Whether you're sailing through Europe or the Indian Ocean, cruises are designed for comfort and entertainment. Onboard features often include:

• Multi-cuisine restaurants & buffets.

• Live shows, casinos, and cinemas.

• Spas, swimming pools, and gyms.

• Kids’ zones and lounges.

• Wi-Fi and workspace areas for remote travelers.

ECO-CONSCIOUS CRUISING IS GROWING

Many cruise lines, including some Indian ones, are adopting green initiatives—like using cleaner fuels, reducing plastic use, and partnering with local eco-tourism groups.

If you're an eco-conscious traveler, look for cruises with Blue Flag certifications, zero-discharge policies, or hybrid engines.

TIPS FOR FIRST-TIME CRUISE TRAVELERS

• Choose your route wisely – Do you prefer cultural cities, beach stops, or nature?

• Book early – Especially for Indian sailings during festivals or long weekends.

  Carry essentials – Medications, layered clothing, swimwear, and smart casuals.

• Get travel insurance – Some cruises require it, especially international ones.

• Stay connected – Most cruises now offer satellite Wi-Fi (at a cost).

Cruising isn’t just about luxury—it’s about effortless travel. Whether you're exploring Europe’s castles, sipping tender coconut on a Goan beach, or watching sunrises over the Ganges, there's a cruise for every kind of traveler.

And with India stepping confidently into the cruising world, your next global adventure could begin closer to home than you think.