The World, Residences at Sea, the largest privately-owned residential mega yacht on the planet, is pleased to announce its return to Australia this December 2025 and January 2026. By dedicating six weeks to discovery of this remarkable country, the ship offers Residents the luxury of time to experience 12 destinations for an authentic immersion to Darwin; Port Douglas; Cairns; Townsville; Airlie Beach; Brisbane; Newcastle; Sydney; Melbourne; Bateman’s Bay; and Burnie and Hobart, Tasmania. After holiday celebrations in Brisbane and Sydney, the 2025 journey will conclude, and the 2026 journey will begin, in the authentically Tasmanian city of Hobart.
Residents of this exclusive community enjoy a distinguished lifestyle that seamlessly integrates sophisticated travel to approximately 100 international ports each year with exceptional amenities, advanced facilities, and refined, personalized service, all from the comfort and privacy of their own onboard residences. With their last visit to Australia in August 2024, and a favorite destination of the community, Residents are eagerly anticipating their return to the continent’s stunning shores.
“The World’s return to Australia is a homecoming for our community and a reminder of what this remarkable ship does best—exploration without compromise, luxury without limits, and connection without borders,” said Jessica Hoppe, President & CEO. “Australia has always welcomed us with open arms, and we’re thrilled to be back—lingering longer, going deeper, and reconnecting with places our Residents love. The ease of travel our ship offers is unmatched: there’s no packing or unpacking because you’re already home. It’s almost unimaginable to circle the globe without ever checking a bag, but on The World, we make the unimaginable reality.”
The Australian journey begins following an extraordinary expedition through the pristine and remote regions of West Papua. Residents will experience the world-renowned marine ecosystems of Raja Ampat, encounter the dazzling birds of paradise, and immerse themselves in vibrant local festivals before arriving in Darwin — the gateway to the Northern Territory’s vast natural beauty.
2025 Highlights:
- Cairns, offering access to two UNESCO World Heritage treasures — the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest — for world-class snorkeling, rainforest treks, and wildlife encounters.
- Brisbane, where a cosmopolitan urban energy meets outdoor adventure. From architecture and heritage walks to private koala encounters and savoring the city’s dynamic culinary scene, Residents will experience the best of Queensland’s capital.
- Sydney, the country’s crown jewel, welcomes Residents to a harbor city that perfectly fuses natural splendor and cultural sophistication — from the Sydney Opera House and Bondi Beach to luxury retail and fine dining. Residents will witness the start of the 80th edition of the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race from within the Exclusive Zone aboard a luxury superyacht privately chartered by Cruising Yacht Club of Australia.
The return to Australia marks the grand finale of The World’s spectacular 2025 journey, and sets the stage for an exciting 2026, with 90 destinations across 20 countries on six continents. The adventure begins in Tasmania, a secluded island nation steeped in 40,000 years of history followed by sailings to New Zealand, a semi-circumnavigation expedition of Antarctica, Chilean fjords, mysterious Easter Island, Bora Bora, Tokyo, Shanghai, an anticipated return to Hawaii, California and Alaska in the U.S. and much more before ending the year with an epic New Year celebration in Singapore.
2026 Highlights:
- Antarctic Semi-Circumnavigation Expedition, an extraordinary journey through one of Earth’s most remote and pristine regions. Residents will navigate ice-filled waters and witness awe-inspiring natural spectacles — from towering glaciers and sculpted icebergs to colonies of penguins and migrating whales — during this rare exploration of the White Continent.
- Bora Bora, the South Pacific’s most iconic island paradise, where turquoise lagoons and emerald peaks create a setting of unparalleled beauty. Residents will enjoy private lagoon excursions, snorkeling among vibrant coral gardens, and immersive Polynesian cultural experiences amid one of the world’s most idyllic destinations.
- Tokyo, a dynamic capital where ancient tradition meets modern sophistication. From serene temples and exquisite gardens to contemporary art, luxury shopping, and Michelin-starred dining, Residents will experience the perfect harmony of heritage and innovation that defines this remarkable city.
A limited number of private residences are currently available for resale. To learn more about ownership opportunities or to arrange a qualified Guest Stay, please contact a Residential Advisor.
