For many, a world cruise isn’t just a vacation—it’s the pinnacle of travel dreams. But what does it actually look like to live at sea for three to four months?

Michele Wirth returns to share her deep expertise in planning and booking world cruises. Together, we explore:

• What defines a world cruise: 100+ days, multiple continents, and routes as varied as full circumnavigations to region-focused journeys.
• Timing matters: Why you need to plan years in advance (Viking already has 2028 itineraries open!) and how waitlists and refundable deposits work in your favor.
• Practicalities at sea: Managing medications, travel insurance, and even what to do with pets if you’re away for months.
• Costs & inclusions: The wide gap between mass-market lines (~$50k for two) and ultra-luxury experiences (~$200k+), and why inclusions like business-class air, excursions, and shipboard credits can level the playing field.
• Small ship vs. big ship: The difference between being one of 450 guests versus 3,000, from port access to staff knowing your name.
• Immersion vs. exhaustion: How to decide if you want port-intensive itineraries or long stretches of sea days—and why overnight stays can change everything.
• The next wave of travelers: From digital nomads working at sea to retirees seeking cultural immersion, world cruising is attracting a broader profile than ever before.
   

For Michele, a world cruise is more than a trip—it’s a lifestyle. She encourages curious travelers to “try before you buy” with a shorter sailing on the line you’re considering, and reminds us that luxury is not one-size-fits-all.

 

Episodes Referenced in the Show

Ep 2: Sailing in Style – A Deep Dive into Celebrity’s Edge-Class Suites
Michelle’s first appearance on the podcast, where she unpacked the Celebrity Retreat experience and what makes Edge-Class suites a standout in modern cruising.

Ep 18: Viking Danube River Cruise
Michelle returned to share her journey along the Danube, offering insights into the unique rhythm and intimacy of river cruising.

 

About the Guest

Michele Wirth is the founder of Simply Inspired Travel, a boutique travel agency dedicated to helping people explore the world with ease, expertise, and a personalized touch of luxury. Her journey into the travel industry was born from her love of people and her deep passion for discovering new places. However, it was a life-changing moment that truly shaped her mission.

Michele watched her father work tirelessly, planning to retire and finally see the world—only to pass away at 59, just one year into his retirement. That heartbreaking reality made her realize that “someday” isn’t promised—and that travel shouldn’t wait. One year later, she set sail on her first Disney Cruise with her family, an experience that ignited a lifelong love of cruising. Since then, Michele has sailed on over 50 cruises across nine different cruise lines, gaining firsthand knowledge of what makes each voyage special.

With more than a decade in the travel industry, Michele has built a thriving community of travel advisors who share her commitment to creating unforgettable experiences. Whether it’s an ocean cruise, a European river voyage, or a once-in-a-lifetime land adventure, she believes that travel is about more than just seeing the world—it’s about making memories, forging connections, and living fully today. Beyond travel, Michele is passionate about giving back through SIT (Simply Inspired Travel) Causes We Care About, an initiative supporting individuals and nonprofit organizations that make a positive impact.

📍Website: https://travelsimplyinspired.com/luxury-cruising

🔗LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelewirth

👥Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michele.simplyinspiredtravel/

 

About the Host

Dr. Krystal Sodaitis is a pediatrician, executive, and life coach for neurodiverse physicians—and the passionate host behind Luxury Cruising. She brings expert insight and honest excitement to every interview, helping curious travelers elevate their adventures at sea.

📍 Website: luxurycruising.net
📧 Email: [email protected]
🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/krystalsodaitis

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