A viral nine-month world cruise saw plenty of drama, but not the kind you’d expect

TikToks by passengers on the Ultimate World Cruise — screenshot by NPR — capture the highs and lows of the nine-month journey, which ended last week.

The “Ultimate World Cruise” consumed social media, with many comparing it to a reality show. But what was it really like? Passengers spoke with NPR, nine months and 60-plus countries later.

The “Ultimate World Cruise” consumed social media, with many comparing it to a reality show. But what was it really like? Passengers spoke with NPR, nine months and 60-plus countries later.