I was delighted to host a group of travelers aboard the Seven Seas Voyager on Regent Seven Seas’ Jewels of Scandinavia cruise from Stockholm to Hamburg on August 19, 2025.  I was attracted to this cruise because of its unusual itinerary that called on less well-travelled ports.
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Our journey began in Stockholm, Sweden’s capital, where the fusion of rich history and modern innovation is palpable.  The cobblestone streets of the old town are filled with medieval architecture, royal palaces and quaint cafes.  Since the ship sailed from Stockholm, you’d need to have arrived a day or more before the departure date to enjoy Stockholm.  This is one reason we often recommend booking a couple of nights at a hotel prior to embarkation.  Stockholm is worth it.

Our first port of call was Sundsvall, Sweden.  A quaint town famed for distinctive stone architecture, Kulturmagasinet museum, and scenic natural parks.

Continuing north on the Gulf of Bothnia, we visited Umeå, Sweden.  A lively university town known for its arts scene and beautiful riverside walks. 

Kemi, Finland was the furthest north on this itinerary. A short drive to Rovaniemi, Finland and we were at the Arctic Circle. It was also home to the magical Santa Claus Village – a winter wonderland where Christmas lives year-round with lots of festivities.  

​Headed South, our next call was at Turku, Finland. Finland’s oldest city with medieval landmarks like Turku Castle and Cathedral, plus a vibrant riverfront market.  One of my most memorable experiences was outside of Turku visiting Stentorp Sheep Farm in Kirjansaari. This authentic, hands-on glimpse into rural Finnish life—meeting the animals and learning about local farming techniques—deeply connected me with the culture in a way only a small, personalized excursion can.

Moving into the Baltic Sea, our next stop was enchanting Visby, Sweden on Gotland Island.  A UNESCO World Heritage Site Hanseatic medieval walled town that is rich with history, culture, botanical gardens, and Baltic beaches.

Karlskrona, Sweden, is a historic naval city and UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its maritime museums and archipelago excursions.

Malmö, Sweden is Sweden’s third-largest city blending modern design like the Turning Torso skyscraper and Oresund Bridge, and heritage sites like Malmohus Castle and Gamla Staden (Old Town), with bustling shopping and dining. 

Across the Oresund strait and linked by the Oresund Bridge, is Copenhagen, Denmark.  I enjoyed a delightful visit to Tivoli Gardens, one of the world’s oldest amusement parks, with charming gardens, thrilling rides, and a classic fairytale atmosphere perfect for all ages. I also explored the stunning Rosenborg Palace, home to exquisite Danish crown jewels and royal treasures. And, of course, no trip to Copenhagen is complete without seeing The Little Mermaid statue, gracefully poised by the waterfront. I also enjoyed a tasty Danish Polser (sausage) on Nyhavn's colorful waterfront lined with historic buildings and cafés.

Lysekil, Sweden was next on the itinerary. It was a worthwhile stop to visit this quaint coastal village known for its rocky archipelago, seal safaris, and serene harbor front.
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On to Oslo, Norway, the vibrant capital between fjords and forests. I visited the iconic Ski Jump Arena—where you can take in spectacular views of the city and fjord below. The soaring structure itself is a testament to modern Scandinavian design and athletic history. I also wandered through Frogner Park, marveling at Gustav Vigeland’s impressive sculptures nestled within peaceful gardens—a true feast for art and nature lovers.

​The Seven Seas Voyager is a stunning all-suite ship. Regent’s attention to detail was evident throughout—with impeccable service, exquisite dining, seamless excursions, and elegant yet warm onboard ambiance. Entertainment highlights included the Spontaneous Duo, a husband-and-wife act whose lively shows were a guest favorite. This cruise exemplified Regent’s commitment to making both the journey and the destinations unforgettable.

Hosting a group of travelers was an incredibly rewarding experience, both personally and professionally. It gave me the chance to connect with amazing people and really deepen my passion for exploring.  

I was fortunate to stay in one of the beautiful Concierge Suites.  At 315 square feet, there was a separate seating area, large and luxurious bathroom, a walk-in closet, and a spacious veranda.  Concierge Suites come with some extras like a complimentary 1-night pre-cruise hotel stay, priority shore excursion and restaurant reservations, and more.  The extra touches were noticeable and appreciated.  The Voyager is scheduled for a multi-million-dollar dry dock refurbishment in April 2026 where, among other things, the suites will be updated with new furniture, hardware, lighting, carpeting and more. 

Regent’s all-inclusive model means your voyage fare includes gourmet dining in all of their restaurants, premium beverages throughout the ship, a selection of quality shore excursions to choose from, and shipboard gratuities. When walking through the price/value comparisons, Regent Seven Seas comes out to be an excellent value for everything that is included.   And, it is so much easier to have everything included so you don’t have to think about it while traveling.  Now that’s luxury.

​The allure of cruising on the Great Lakes is gaining remarkable momentum, becoming one of the fastest-growing trends in cruise travel. Experienced travelers are looking for new experiences, closer-to-home travel (shorter flights are always welcome), and smaller ships.  Great Lakes cruising checks all of those boxes. Unlike traditional ocean cruises, Great Lakes cruises offer an intimate voyage through North America’s vast inland seas—the largest group of freshwater lakes on Earth. These cruises combine the appeal of stunning natural beauty with visits to iconic cities brimming with culture, history, and vibrant culinary scenes. Travelers are drawn to the Great Lakes’ unspoiled landscapes, charming small towns, and fascinating urban centers, all accessible in one seamless experience.

​Seasonal Splendor: The Magic of Fall Foliage and More
One of the biggest draws of Great Lakes cruises is the spectacular fall foliage. From late September through October, the forests surrounding the lakes burst into fiery shades of red, orange, and gold, offering panoramic vistas unlike anywhere else. It is the perfect season for photography, nature walks, and shore excursions.
 
Spring and summer sailings are equally enchanting, with warmer weather encouraging outdoor adventures such as biking, kayaking, and exploring botanical gardens. Weather is typically mild with temperatures ranging from the 60s to 70s °F (15–25°C) in summer, cooling into crisp 40s & 50s °F (5–15°C) during fall. Most cruise lines operate April through October.

Each Lake's Unique Character
The Great Lakes are the world’s largest group of freshwater lakes—Superior, Michigan, Huron, Erie, and Ontario—each with its own distinct character, stunning landscapes, and ecological importance. Let’s dive in:

Lake Superior: The largest, deepest, and coldest of the Great Lakes, known for its crystal clear waters, rugged cliffs, dense forests, and dramatic shorelines. It’s often called the “extreme lake” because of its size and sometimes wild weather, providing unforgettable scenic vistas.
 
Lake Michigan: The only Great Lake entirely within the U.S., featuring sandy dunes, charming beach towns, and bustling cities like Chicago. Its west shore is famed for picturesque lighthouses and the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.
 
Lake Huron: Home to pristine islands including the famous Mackinac Island, Lake Huron boasts turquoise waters, limestone formations, and peaceful bays, creating idyllic spots for boating and wildlife observation.
 
Lake Erie: The shallowest and warmest lake, known for vibrant sunsets and rich fishing grounds. The surrounding wetlands and islands provide critical habitats for migratory birds and aquatic species.
 
Lake Ontario: The easternmost lake, smaller and deeper, where urban sophistication meets natural beauty. Its shores include Toronto and historic sites related to early Canadian settlement and the St. Lawrence Seaway.

Wildlife & Ecological Importance
 The Great Lakes basin is one of the most diverse freshwater ecosystems on the planet:
 
Birds: More than 300 bird species visit or reside here, including bald eagles, peregrine falcons, great blue herons, and migratory songbirds. Birdwatchers delight in spring and fall migrations along the lakeshore.
 
Aquatic Life: Home to an abundance of freshwater fish such as lake trout, walleye, and bass, the lakes are critical spawning grounds supporting local fishing industries and recreational anglers alike.
 
Mammals & Other Wildlife: Forested areas shelter deer, foxes, beavers, and occasional sightings of black bears and river otters. The intact natural habitats are essential for biodiversity conservation.
 
Conservation Efforts: Numerous national and state parks, wildlife refuges, and international agreements aim to protect these waters and shorelines, combating invasive species and pollution threats to preserve natural beauty for future generations.

Iconic Cities & Cultural Highlights
Great Lakes cruises dock in fascinating destinations, each with unique stories and experiences:

Chicago, Illinois: The architectural gem of the Midwest, featuring the renowned Art Institute, Millennium Park, museums, jazz & blues clubs, and worldclass dining.

Milwaukee, Wisconsin: Known for its brewing heritage, historic Third Ward arts district, the Harley-Davidson Museum, and picturesque lakefront.  Milwaukee’s warm, welcoming vibe combined with its walkable city center makes it ideal for self-guided explorations amid structured tours. 

Detroit, Michigan: The Motor City, rich with Motown history, automotive museums, and revitalized arts scenes like the historic Corktown District.  Detroit’s revitalization means many new and historic attractions are easily accessible on foot or by short transfers.

Cleveland, Ohio: Home to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and stunning lakefront parks.  Also visit West Side Market - Cleveland’s oldest public market featuring over 100 vendors offering fresh produce, artisanal goods and classic local treats. The Playhouse Square Theater District is the largest performing arts center outside of New York City and has beautifully restored historic theaters.  Cleveland’s compact downtown makes many attractions easily walkable.

Toronto, Ontario: Canada’s vibrant metropolis offers multicultural cuisine, the iconic CN Tower, waterfront strolls, and the Distillery History District – a beautifully preserved 19th-century industrial complex turned arts and entertainment district
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Mackinac Island, Michigan: A time capsule town with horsedrawn carriages, fudge shops, and historic forts that is  inaccessible to cars. Stroll downtown Mackinac with picturesque streets and Victorian architecture, quant shops, art galleries and cafes.  Outside of town, 80% of the island is Mackinac Island State Park with hiking trails, picnic areas and serene spots to enjoy nature and wildlife.

​A Voyage Through History
The Great Lakes have played a pivotal role in shaping North America—from the fur trade era and Native American heritage to the industrial boom that powered the continent. Onboard historians and expert guides often enrich the experience with lectures and tours covering:

• The Erie Canal’s impact on trade and transportation
• The War of 1812 naval battles across the lakes
• The evolution of shipbuilding and shipping industries
• The cultural melting pot of immigrant communities that settled around the lakeshores

Cruise Lines Charting the Great Lakes
There are more ships cruising the Great Lakes in 2026 as cruise lines have expanded their presence in the region. 

Viking Cruises has two expedition ships cruising the Great Lakes each Spring through Fall season with itineraries ranging from 7 to 16 nights.  

American Cruise Lines has committed their newly-built, American made, luxury Patriot Class ship to the Great Lakes seasonally each year.  They operate itineraries ranging in length from 8 to 13 nights.

Victory Cruise Lines has two purpose-built ships exclusively exploring the Great Lakes, St. Lawrence and the Canadian Maritimes.  This hyper-specialization and their boutique-style ships makes them unique choice.   

Ponant operates their Explorer-Class ship in the Great Lakes in August and has partnerd with Smithonian Journeys.  Ponant's French roots show in the refined service, cuisine and International experience.

Tauck Small Ship Cruising offers a luxury 12-night guided journey in August and September.  They charter the ship Le Champlain from Ponant and combine both land and cruise for a comprehensive and inclusive experience.  
 
Travelers can expect a varied voyages filled with educational lectures, local wine and culinary tastings, and enriching shore excursions crafted to create lifelong memories.
 
Whether you seek the vibrant cityscapes tinged with history, the tranquility of natural vistas, or the colorful canvas of autumn leaves dancing above the freshwater lakes, Great Lakes cruises offer an unparalleled experience that will captivate your senses and touch your soul. 

It’s a new era for Princess Cruises as they introduce their second Sphere-Class vessel, Star Princess.  These next-generation Love Boats include innovative design features, more dining venues, expanded accommodation options, and unique entertainment spaces. With the latest ship advances and MedallionClass technology, Princess aims to remain relevant and competitive in an increasingly demanding cruise market.  It appears they have hit the target.

The Dome Piazza
One of the most striking features you’ll notice first is the glass-domed Piazza.  It adds to the unique silhouette from the outside and it provides panoramic views and lots of light on the inside.  The Dome Piazza is the social hub for gathering and celebrating.  Perfect for dining, dancing, mingling and entertainment – including a Candlelight Concert Series, where live music and candles create an unforgettable ambiance beneath the stars.

Magical Entertainment
Speaking of entertainment, Spellbound by Magic Castle returns, bringing illusions inspired by legendary magician, The Great Cardini, in a glamorous speakeasy setting—an intimate, theatrical magic journey at sea. The cost is $45 per person and worth it.

Meridian & Illuminate is a brand new original production headline in the Princess Arena, featuring cutting-edge technology and immersive storytelling. From a tale of love and mystery aboard the grand ship Celestial to a mesmerizing circus under a velvet tent, these shows promise wonder and emotional depth.

​Elevated Dining
Dining aboard Star Princess includes many elevated options.  Complimentary dining includes the Main Dining Room, The Eatery, Americana Diner, The Promenade, Coffee & Cones and everyone’s favorite, the International Café.

Casual Dining options include the expanded O’Malley’s Irish Pub and the popular Alfredo’s Pizzeria.  Casual Dining will have a nominal fee unless you've purchased the Princess Plus or Princess Premier fare bundle.

Princess is raising the culinary bar with celebrity chef collaborations and their Specialty Restaurants.  Elevated flavors will temp you at Crown Grill, Sabatini’s Italian Trattoria, The Butcher’s Block by Dario, Umai Teppanyaki, Makoto Ocean and Umai Hot Pot.  Plus, Love by Britto is a unique dining experience featuring world-renowned artist Romero Britto’s showcase.  You’ll enjoy his art against the backdrop of a boutique restaurant with a menu by chef Rudi Sodamin.  Specialty Restaurants come with a surcharge per meal unless you have purchased the Princess Premier fare bundle.

So Much To Do Onboard
There is much to do aboard the Star Princess.  Enjoy the line’s largest-ever casino with Vegas-caliber gaming.  Your favorite table games, roulette and slot machines are waiting.  Relax in the two story Lotus Spa, energize with fitness classes, or play on the Sky Deck’s new sports court for pickleball and basketball. Jogging tracks, splash pads, and shaded lounges complete the outdoor experience, all with stunning ocean views.

Sanctuary Collection & New Cabana Mini-Suites
The Princess Sanctuary Collection is available on the Star Princess and Sun Princess in all Suites and a limited number of Mini-Suites and Balcony staterooms.  The Sanctuary Collection includes an exclusive Sanctuary Collection Restaurant, the Signature Suite Lounge, and a spa-like Sanctuary Club deck with pool and special amenities.  In addition to these exclusive Sanctuary spaces, Sanctuary Collection guests automatically receive the Princess Premier amenity bundle with upgraded wine & spirits, Specialty Restaurants meals and other upgraded amenities and services.  Sanctuary Collection accommodations are popular and need to be booked early.
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Princess has also introduced the new Cabana Mini-Suite exclusively on the Star Princess and Sun Princess.  The sophisticated Mini-Suite has a cabana-style private patio, furnished with lounge seating and ottomans.  Cabana Mini-Suite guests also have exclusive access to the Cabana Deck lounge area on Deck 9.  

Iconic itineraries that are close to home 
The Star Princess will winter in the warm Caribbean waters rotating 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries.  They can also be booked back-to-back for an incredible 14-night cruise. 

She will reposition from Fort Lauderdale to Seattle through the Panama Canal in April 2026 and spend May through September exploring Alaska.  There will be a special opportunity on September 27, 2026 to join the Star as she travels on a 7-night Wine Country Magic Castle Conjurer’s Cruise from Vancouver to Los Angeles with two days in San Francisco.  Travel of America has exclusive inventory and special cruise fares with Princess Plus bundled amenities included.  Learn more about this offer here.  
  
She will continue her journey October 4, 2026 on a 16-night Panama Canal transit from Los Angeles to Fort Lauderdale before returning to the 7-night Eastern/Western Caribbean winter rotation through Spring 2027.

Celebrity Godparents Matthew & Camila McConaughey
The Star Princess was christened by godparents Matthew and Camila McConaughey on November 6, 2025 in Fort Lauderdale. Across the fleet, Princess serves signature cocktails featuring Pantalones Organic Tequila, founded by the pair. Their tequila is also part of Princess’ Love Line Premium Liquors collection, which includes a selection of wines and spirits, offering both spirited and non-alcoholic creations.

Discover more about the remarkably elegant new Star Princess and her upcoming voyages and make memories that shine as brightly as her name.  Learn more about the Star Princess here.

Demand for world cruises is high and there are more to choose from than ever. Cruise lines are announcing new deployments earlier and earlier to meet the demand.  They are also getting longer - as long as 244 nights (on Oceania Cruises) in 2027! This also creates more opportunities for cruising a segment of the longer cruise for those this with less time.  There is so much to consider when choosing the right itinerary and ship. Booking early will reward you with the benefits of getting your preferred location and the best value. Most cruise lines offer early booking benefits that worth watching for. We have put together this World Cruise Guide to help get the conversation started. But don’t do this alone. Your Travel of America Travel Advisor in your partner in world cruise selection and planning.

Most world cruises have options to embark or disembark in different ports creating a variety of itineraries, cruise lengths and departure dates. We have listed one option for each ship so keep in mind that segments are likely available. Many cruises on our list are not a true circumnavigation world cruise, but we have elected to include them when they are 90 nights or longer. Sold out sailings have been removed from this list so only cruises with available rooms are listed (as of November 2025). Let’s get started!

5/10/2026 | 114 Nights | Roundtrip Sydney | Crown Princess
Cruise Line: Princess Cruises - Premium

This world cruise will have a more international passengers aboard including Australians and Americans. This itinerary hits all the right places at all the right times taking advantage of Summer season in the Northern Hemisphere. Originating in Sydney, the Crown Princess will route to South Africa before heading to Northern Europe with visits to Scandinavia, British Isles and Iceland.  She'll cross the Northern Atlantic and spend a good amount of time in Canadian ports before spending 2 days in New York City. After transiting the Panama Canal, she’ll visit Peru before crossing the Pacific with stops at Easter Island and Tahiti.

Princess Cruises balances adventure with comfort, offering extensive itineraries, enriching on-board programs, and varied dining options. There is an option to bundle gratuities, beverages and Wi-Fi into your cruise fare at about a 50% savings over paying for them separately. Crown Princess carries 3,080 guests.​

8/27/2026 | 114 Nights | Vancouver to Auckland | Azamara Pursuit
Cruise Line: Azamara Cruises – Upper Premium
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This regionally-focused Grand Voyage concentrates more time in each country.  After Alaska, the Azamara Pursuit spends time in Japan, China, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Vietnam, Thailand, Singapore, Australia and New Zealand. It’s well priced for a small ship and solid inclusions.

Azamara’s itineraries are designed to offer immersive cultural experiences with more overnight stays and night touring. They operate the former “R ships” which are beloved classic small ships. You’ll find a traditional and elegant feeling onboard, fine dining and a high standard of service. Azamara is largely inclusive with gratuities, wine & spirits, some shore excursions, shuttles in port and self-service laundry. Azamara Pursuit carries 687 guests.​

​1/05/2027 | 145 Nights | Roundtrip Miami | Seabourn Quest
Cruise Line: Seabourn – Ultra-Luxury
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This “World Cruise: Australia & South Pacific Panorama Cruise"  itinerary circles the Pacific with only 450 pampered guests. Departing from Miami, the Seabourn Quests transits through the Panama Canal and heads south to Peru before crossing the Pacific with a 2-day stop at Easter Islands before spending time in French Polynesia.  She continues to New Zealand, Australia, Fiji, Hawaii, Los Angeles, and wrapping the cruise with a return to Miami via the Panama Canal.  

Seabourn operates ultra-luxury all-suite small ships with yacht-like atmosphere. All-inclusive – premium beverages, fine dining, gratuities, shore excursions, Wi-Fi, and more. Seabourn’s ships sail around the globe calling on unique “hidden” places along with traditional marquee cities. Seabourn is prefect for the very well-traveled, looking for immersive experiences and unique opportunities. Seabourn Quest carries 458 guests.

​1/05/2027 | 129 Nights | RT Fort Lauderdale | Volendam
Cruise Line: Holland America – Premium
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Holland America’s annual Grand World Voyage is their  traditional and extremely popular world cruise itinerary.  From Miami, the Volendam transits the Panama Canal to Peru before crossing the Pacific with visits at Easter Island, Pitcairn Island, French Polynesia and Fiji.  Then to Sydney, Indonesia, Thailand, Sri Lanka and Mali before arriving South Africa, West Africa and on to Northern Europe.  Crossing the Atlantic, the Volendam completes her full world circumnavigation.  

Book early for extra benefits – which increases in value as you book into higher categories. It’s barely worth booking below a category F since that’s where prepaid crew appreciation and an extra shipboard credit start. Inclusions vary depending of the fare type, category and promotional offers.  Holland America Line value pricing makes world cruising more accessible.  

Holland America operates mid-sized ships, extensive world-wide itineraries with a focus on destination enrichment programs, local partnerships, fine dining, and onboard music venues. Volendam carries 1,432 guests. 

​1/08/2027 | 149 Nights | Los Angeles to Copenhagen | Silver Dawn
Cruise Line: Silversea – Ultra-Luxury
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2027 brings Silversea’s ‘The Three Oceans” world cruise – once again aboard the gorgeous Silver Dawn. Ocean one: the Pacific. Spend time in Hawaii and French Polynesia before more island hopping enroute to Australia’s East coast, Indonesia, Singapore and Thailand. Ocean two: the Indian Ocean. Continue to Sri Lanka, Maldives, Seychelles and South Africa. Ocean three: the Atlantic. Heading north, Silver Dawn will stop in Nambia, Angola, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Gambia, Senegal, Canary Islands, Morocco, Spain, Portugal, France, United Kingdom, Ireland, to the top of Norway and down the coast, ending in Copenhagen, Denmark.

Silversea has small ships with luxury accommodations and bespoke itineraries. Guests can expect spacious all-suite lodgings with a butler, gourmet dining, and personalized service, along with unique global destinations. Cruise fares include gratuities, premium beverages and select shore excursions and the option to book Door-to-Door with airfare and transfers.  Silver Dawn carries 596 guests.

​1/08/2027 | 139 Nights | San Diego to Vancouver | Crystal Serenity
Cruise Line: Crystal – Ultra-Luxury
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The beloved Crystal Serenity will once again grace the World Cruise waters continuing the luxury brands traditions. From San Diego, she sails south to Central America and on to Peru before crossing the Pacific Ocean with visits to Easter Island, Pitcairn Island, French Polynesia, Fiji, and eventually arrives to New Zealand and Australia.  Continuing with stops in Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam, Manila, Hong Kong, Shanghai, South Korea and Japan before crossing the North Pacific to finish up with Alaska, and ending in Vancouver, B.C.  

The ship is light, airy, and spacious with sophistication and exceptional service. Crystal Cruises provides world cruises known for their luxury, service, and entertainment. The cruises include diverse destinations, on-board activities, and high-quality dining options, which together create a comprehensive and upscale cruising experience. Crystal includes gratuities, premium beverages. They may include some select shore excursions, but most are not included in the cruise fare. Crystal Serenity carries 740 guests.

​1/11/2027 | 141 Nights | Miami to New York | Seven Seas Splendor
Cruise Line: Regent Seven Seas – Ultra-Luxury
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Regent Seven Seas all-inclusive luxury world cruises are in high demand and the early launch of this 2027 “World of Splendor” proved very successful. This world circumnavigation itinerary includes the Yucatan Peninsula, Caribbean Islands, Central America, Panama Canal transit, Hawaii, French Polynesia, Samoa, Fiji, Australia, Southeast Asia, Sri Lanka, Maldives, India, United Arab Emirates, Egypt and various Mediterranean ports.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises offers all-inclusive world cruises with luxurious accommodations, gourmet dining, personalized service and high-end amenities. Regent is known for its inclusiveness – covering gratuities, premium beverages, unlimited shore excursions, luggage delivery service and more. Seven Seas Splendor carries 750 guests.

​Step back in time on an extraordinary luxury cruise that celebrates the iconic era of Pan Am’s Flying Clipper Boats – a true hallmark of the Golden Age of Travel. Holland America and Pan American Airlines are uniting to celebrate innovation, heritage, and the art of leisurely travel. Together, they have created an exclusive 28-day Caribbean Legendary Voyage aboard Zuiderdam, carefully crafted to retrace the historic routes of Pan Am’s famous Clipper planes across the Caribbean and Mexico. 

Inspired by the sleek 19th-century ships that "clipped off" miles between ports, Pan Am founder Juan Trippe named his new aircraft the "Clipper."  Trippe's vision extended beyond speed and efficiency - he wanted to create flying palaces where passengers could experience the same refined luxury found on the world's finest ocean liners.  Like cruise ships, Clippers featured sleeping berths, multi-course meals served on fine china, attentive stewards, and elegant lounges.  The cruise-inspired service helped shape the golden age of aviation.

​Pan Am’s Clippers carved aerial highways that encircled the entire Caribbean. This revolutionary network connected isolated islands to major cities and transformed remote ports into international gateways. What were once vast ocean distances shrunk to mere hours of flight time. The Clipper route became the blueprint for modern Caribbean aviation, establishing Miami as the region’s aviation hub and forever changing how the world accessed the tropics.

The Pan Am Clipper Timeline
​1927

• Pan American Airways is founded
• First Pan Am mail flight from Key West, Florida to Havana, Cuba

1928

• Regular passenger service begins on the Key West-Havana route

1929

• Pan Am begins airmail service throughout the Caribbean, linking Florida with Latin America

1930s

• Regular Clipper route to Nassau established
• Expansion to Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic
• Hubs opened in Trinidad and St. Lucia

1940s

• Pan Am's Clippers become vital to Allied logistics during World War II

1950s

• The Clipper era ends as air travel transitions to jet planes

Holland America's 28-night Legendary Voyage departs October 30, 2027 and calls on 19 ports and 13 countries.  Holland America Line and Pan Am will host special onboard experiences to evoke the Golden Age of Travel together while calling on historic ports of call inspired by the route of the Cipper. Travel of America holds exclusive inventory and reduced cruise fares with generous early booking bonuses.  Learn more here.