Over the years, not much has been done to change the world cruising concept. The onboard experience has always been about relaxation and total indulgence while sailing into the distant corners of the world.

According to Los Angeles Times, Luxury cruise ships are premiering. Nine luxury vessels have made their debut in 2009. They include Costa Cruises’ 2,260-passenger Luminosa and the 3,000-passenger Pacifica.

A third Costa newcomer is the $450-million, 2,260-passenger Deliziosa, which will join its 14-ship fleet on Feb. 5, 2010, with a 20-night inaugural. That cruise leaves from Savona, Italy, and travels to Dubai.

On December 1, 2009, Royal Caribbean International will roll out the world’s largest cruise ship, the $1.2-billion, 5,400-passenger Oasis of the Seas, pictured above with art renderings.

Most world cruisers travel to see, learn and experience the world first hand, so where the ship cruises is a major consideration. If this is your primary objective, then be sure to compare how many port stops the ship makes versus the number of days at sea before making your selection.

Fall is the time to be comparing your options since most cruises depart in January. If time is a factor, cruise segments varying in length from 14 nights to 52 nights can be purchased. Whereas a world cruise on Holland America’s Amsterdam might sail a 128 night round trip from Los Angeles journey with fares from $17,999 to $65,199 per person, a segment fare might begin at $1,729 per person.

The good news is there is probably no such thing as a bad world cruise choice. How could sailing the huge blue oceans of our world and enjoying the balmy breezes, amazing cloud formations, and star-peppered nights following your ship not be wonderful?