Since 1928, when we first began enlightening curious travelers from a rowboat across Lake Lugano, we’ve been committed to unveiling the world to those seeking greater meaning and memories – all while protecting its people, places, and traditions for generations to come. As a Swiss family-owned company, our legacy is rooted in connection, care, and curiosity – values that have guided us for nearly a century.
Although we ensure our guests travel without worries, our concerns are many – including our own footprint on the globe and respecting the paths of other people and cultures that make this world such a fascinating place.
As we approach our 100th anniversary, we invite you to travel deeper with us. To reflect on our past. To support progress around the globe. And to form more thoughtful, heartfelt connections wherever your journey takes you.
From humble beginnings on the shores of Lake Lugano, the Globus family of brands (Globus, Cosmos and Avalon Waterways) was born from a single rowboat and a bold vision – to share the wonders of the world with others. What began as a local operation has grown into a global journey, still guided by the same values of connection, care, and curiosity.
As a Swiss family-owned company, our legacy is deeply personal – built on trust, tradition, and a passion for travel that has been passed down through generations. For nearly 100 years, we’ve empowered travelers to connect with cultures, explore responsibly, and appreciate the rich traditions that shape our shared human experience.
With every trip, we’re not only opening minds – we’re opening hearts. That’s the mission of the Lighthouse Project: Our commitment to making a positive impact by reducing our footprint and giving back to the people, places, and planet we visit.
From preserving endangered wildlife to supporting women’s livelihoods in Cambodia, and from protecting national parks to partnering with sustainable travel pioneers, we are proud to support organizations that shine a light on a brighter future.
We’re committed to conservation at every turn – protecting waterways, preserving wildlife, and spotlighting organizations that fight for the Earth’s future–keeping in mind that no matter how far we travel, we share the same home.
We believe the true magic of travel lies in human connection. Through the Lighthouse Project, we engage with local initiatives that uplift individuals and empower communities around the globe who share their worlds with us.
We stand tall for the stories, structures, and sites that shape our world. From historical monuments to cultural treasures, we invest in preserving sacred places and wide-open spaces–so future generations can reflect, learn, and grow.
As active participants in the travel community, our team members also spearhead and participate in countless volunteer programs and events supporting the planet, its people, and special places.