THE World is a cruise ship with a difference – it serves as an exclusive residential community, with residents living on board, as the ship slowly circumnavigates the globe.
With 165 private residences located aboard, many residents call The World home on a constant basis, whilst others open their doors temporarily for short term rentals.
Life onboard resembles that of any upscale community. The ship likens itself to that of a private yacht, seaside villa or exclusive country club.
Residents and guests enjoy socialising with their neighbours, sipping cocktails over dinner, relaxing with a spa treatment or taking part in a round of golf or game of tennis. Intertwined with these not so strenuous activities are lectures and seminars into the culture and history of the regions that the ship visits.
The World is the only ship to host a Graff diamond store and Banyan Tree Spa at sea.
There are six restaurants onboard which cater for all tastes. Passengers can choose from innovative Asian cuisine, superb seafood and French and Mediterranean style dishes.
There is no need to worry about getting out of shape as there is plenty of time to work out in the onboard fitness studio.
Staffed with professionals who understand every body shape and condition, the studio hosts gym equipment, two swimming pools, a retractable marina for water sports, jogging track and a full size tennis court.
Golf fanatics have the use of The World Golf Club, which features putting greens, chipping areas, simulators and a driving range. Training programmes for those who need a little help with their swing are also available. Trips to some of the best greens in the world can also be arranged.
Should guests fall sick at sea, a fully equipped medical centre and resident physician are onboard at all times.
At the end of each day guests retreat to their own private worlds. Instead of entering a cold and impersonal suite, guests enter a world that is personal to them. Their family photographs are displayed on the mantle, DVD’s lined up as they were left and their own clothes fill the wardrobes.
There are a number of residencies currently for sale, including a six bedroom penthouse which can accommodate up to twelve people. It features exclusive dining areas, kitchen, study and full entertainment systems in two living rooms. Unsurprisingly the price is on application only.
Those who can’t quite afford to own a residence onboard can rent an apartment for a minimum of six nights. Studio rates for two guests – which include dining, select beverages, port charges and gratuities – range from $1300 (£830) to $2300 (£1300) per night, according to the season and travel dates.
For something a little more spacious, one and two bedroom luxury studio apartments are also available to rent. Rates for two guests – which include dining, select beverages, port charges and gratuities, range from $1950 (£1246) to $2500 (£1597) per night, according to the season and travel dates.
The World was in Manx waters from Thursday, August 12, to Friday, August 13.
For more information on the ship visit www.aboardtheworld.com.
Also see: “Unique” – Cruise ship with a difference arrives in Douglas
