definition of luxury cruise

A Beginner’s Guide to Luxury Cruises

From how to choose the right luxury cruise line to selecting the perfect suite, here are some expert tips for those thinking about taking a luxury sailing..

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Worth the splurge: the two-story Grand Wintergarden suite on Seabourn Venture .

Courtesy of Seabourn

While the term “luxury” is often thrown around and overused, the top-end luxury cruise lines really do deliver a five-star experience that’s akin to staying at a grand hotel—with the added bonus of all-inclusive pricing and a ship that brings you to multiple destinations during your stay.

When you book an ultra-luxury cruise, you can expect a carefully curated travel experience. Having sailed on dozens of luxury cruises the world over, I can attest that on these best-of-class vessels, you’ll enjoy high-quality design details, fine artwork, and all-you-can-consume champagne and caviar between visits to tony and lesser-known destinations. In addition, luxury cruise lines also focus on providing immersive and enriching programming that offers a more meaningful and richer understanding of the places and cultures you are visiting through expert-led lectures and guided tours. And the crew to passenger ratio is often as high as one crew member to every two guests, ensuring an elevated level of service.

For years the ultra-luxury end of cruising was limited to a small selection of top brands: Seabourn , Silversea , Regent Seven Seas Cruises , and Crystal , to name a few. But that’s changing. New brands are emerging such as Scenic and the newly launched Explora Journeys , each with their own nuances and expertise. (Scenic is making a name for itself in the expedition cruising space, for instance, while Explora promises a beautiful boutique cruising experience on a 900-plus passenger ship.) Luxury hotel companies are also getting in the game, with such well-recognized names as Ritz-Carlton, Four Seasons, Orient Express, and Aman all recently unveiling plans to offer a luxury cruise product to guests.

Natalya Leahy, who was named president of Seabourn in March, says the luxury cruise market is growing due to several factors, not the least of which is that there are more than 22 million people in the U.S. with a net worth of a million dollars or more. Well-heeled boomers are booking luxury cruises, but so are Gen Xers and even younger travelers.

AFAR spoke with Leahy in Genoa, Italy, in late July, as the brand prepared to launch the 264-passenger Seabourn Pursuit , the second ultraluxury expedition ship the company has introduced in 12 months—and a ship that will explore destinations that include Antarctica and the South Pacific in its first year.

“What’s luxury really?” says Leahy. “Luxury is a choice. Luxury is about unique, small details.”

We asked Leahy’s advice on what travelers should know before going on a luxury cruise—and added a few of our own tips as well.

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s inaugural vessel, the 298-passenger Evrima (pictured), launched in late 2022, leading the charge for luxury resort names getting into the high-end cruise market.

Courtesy of Jack Hardy/Ritz Carlton Yacht Collection

How to pick the luxury cruise line that’s best for you

Leahy suggests starting out by asking your luxury cruising friends and acquaintances what lines they like. Word of mouth is frequently a factor in the luxury-end of cruising. “Our guests are our biggest ambassadors and bring many new guests onboard,” she says.

Once you get some ideas, or even if you don’t, consult with an expert. “In general, for luxury travel, it’s helpful to have either a travel advisor or, if you book directly with us, a personal cruise consultant,” she says. “It’s very helpful to have someone who is there to advise you.”

A luxury cruise should be a carefree vacation experience, given all the inclusions, Leahy says. She notes that “when you want to see the world and compare land travel to cruise travel, cruise is much easier to organize.”

But there are nuances—between cruise lines, types of accommodations, and even what is (and isn’t) included in the “all-inclusive” pricing (for instance, certain more exclusive excursions might be extra). This is where working with an expert comes in handy.

Leahy says she seeks advice even when she cruises, which is often with multiple family members or friends. “If I even attempt to organize it on land, I think we all would become ‘best enemies,’” she laughs. “I really believe travel advisors play an incredibly strategic role for us,” Leahy adds. “They know our brands.”

Two-thirds of Seabourn’s business comes through travel advisors, and on any given cruise, about half the guests have cruised with the line before and half are new to the brand—and often new to cruising—Leahy says.

This summer, Explora Journeys became the newest player to enter the luxury cruising market with the launch of the 922-passenger Explora I .

Courtesy of Explora Journeys

The best luxury cruise lines

Luxury ships vary in size and destinations they visit as well as other factors such as what’s included in the cruise fare. For instance, is your transportation included? Wi-Fi? Are there any upcharges for specialty dining? Will you pay extra for excursions? Will you have a butler? Every brand has its bragging points.

The resurrected Crystal Cruises , now owned and managed by high-end tour operating company Abercrombie & Kent and known simply as Crystal , consists of two ships, the 740-passenger Crystal Serenity and 606-passenger Crystal Symphony , both with complimentary Nobu restaurants aboard.

Explora Journeys

Explora Journeys , a new luxury line from shipping company MSC Group , recently launched its first, 922-passenger ship, Explora I , with an extensive spa, four pools, and lush interior design details.

Regent Seven Seas

Regent Seven Seas Cruises differentiates itself by including a lot in its fares—such as business-class airfare and unlimited shore excursions—on ships ranging from 490 to 750 passengers. The line will launch a new ship, the 750-passenger Seven Seas Grandeur , the latest of what Regent calls its “world’s most luxurious” ships, in November.

Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

The famous hotel brand launched its first cushy yacht last year . Aboard the 298-passenger Evrima , attractions include hotel-like suites and bartenders who are whizzes at creating personalized concoctions. The 456-passenger Ilma follows in September 2024.

The Seabourn fleet, with ships ranging from 458 to 600 guests, features complimentary steakhouses with menus by renowned chef Thomas Keller (of French Laundry fame). The brand’s two expedition ships are outfitted with 24 Zodiacs and kayaks for exploration led by a 24-person expedition team, plus a six-passenger submarine for undersea views.

Australian expedition line Scenic has as many as 10 dining experiences onboard its intimate vessels and toys that include an eight-passenger submarine and state-of-the-art Airbus helicopters aboard its two 228-passenger expedition yachts.

Silversea ships range from 254 to 728 passengers, plus two smaller expedition ships, the 132-passenger Silver Explorer and 100-passenger Silver Origin . The line’s S.A.L.T. program focuses on local dining and drinking experiences, and all guests get butler service—– on ships that include the recently launched 728-passenger Silver Nova .

Travelers can relax at sea in the new Aurora spa onboard the reborn Crystal ships.

Courtesy of Crystal

Make sure to choose the ship that’s right for you

Many people start off their vacation planning with the destination, but Leahy makes a case for the strong role the ship should play in your decision-making.

“The unique thing about cruising is your experience continues 24/7,” she says. “It doesn’t end with visiting the destinations. You step onboard and have this experience with fine dining and interaction with our cruise members and entertainment and shows and live music that continues the experience.”

Social media posts and cruise line websites provide clues to help you understand the environment on board specific brands, Leahy says, adding that you should check reviews and look for photos.

She says it’s not uncommon for guests to describe Seabourn ships as their “home away from home.”

Because you will be spending a considerable amount of time on the ship, just as you would when comparing land-based resorts you’ll also want to get idea of what’s offered onboard in terms of bars, restaurants, lounges, gym and spa facilities, and entertainment. Also consider the amount of outdoor space, such as outdoor dining options, pools, bars, and other spots to catch sea views.

Another thing to think about is service and those personal encounters that lead to lasting memories. “Our guests are very sophisticated people, very accomplished individuals, and what they are looking for from travel is not just getting from destination A to destination B,” Leahy says. “They really are looking to experience the world in a very authentic way. What they are looking for in ultra-luxury is relaxed elegance and authentic lasting connections, both with each other and our crew.”

How to decide on the right suite and whether to upgrade

Luxury ships in general are usually entirely or mostly made up of suite accommodations with features such as large bathrooms and walk-in closets. You’ll have ocean views and will likely have a balcony on these high-end vessels.

If you’re looking for more space, you might consider upgrading to a suite with a living room and a larger deck. Some luxury suites are apartment-size and come with amenities such as private outdoor hot tubs.

Cruise line websites generally do a good job in terms of providing descriptions, layouts, square footage, and photos of the various options, but a specialized travel advisor or consultant can help you assess your space needs.

Start with a shorter cruise

While you can book luxury cruise itineraries for weeks or months, Leahy suggests before you go all out with a longer sailing you consider a test cruise to see if you will like the experience.

“I think it’s important to start cruising by trying for seven days whether the Caribbean, Alaska, or the Mediterranean,” she says. “They are bucket list destinations and yet they don’t commit you to being the first time on a ship for too long. It’s a great way to start cruising and experiencing.”

If you are cruising in Japan, chances are you are going to want to extend your stay for a deeper dive into the destination.

Photo by Tom Vining/Unsplash

Don’t forget about the land-based experiences

Once you decide on a destination and what cruise line you want to try, and you book your suite, it’s important to start thinking about what land-based experiences you’d like to have at the various ports of call.

An advantage of cruising is that your cruise line will provide a selection of carefully curated choices for exploring the ports, for those who prefer not to do independent exploration.

And think about whether you want to extend your stay whether in your embarkation city or your final destination and whether the cruise line might be able to help with that. It’s not uncommon for cruise lines to offer pre- and post-cruising packages.

A goal of Leahy’s is to create “deeper and richer” land experiences, and the line is making investments in this regard, including with dedicated crew. “If you are going to Japan , for instance, you are not just doing the cruise, most likely,” she says. “We want to expand that Seabourn experience and give our guests a choice of hotels to stay, prepackaged, personalized, with more bespoke experiences.”

And once you have put those final pieces into place, are booked and ready to go, we’ve also put together a guide on whether or not you should consider cruise insurance , our essential cruise packing list , and the ultimate guide to tipping on cruises —so that you can check off everything you might need (and need to know) before you sail away.

• Going on a Luxury Cruise

When it comes to an unforgettable cruise experience, luxury cruises are the cream of the crop. From all-inclusive fares to exclusive shore excursions, supersized suites and six-star service, luxury cruise lines really go above and beyond to make your vacation the best it can possibly be. Here we explore the ins and outs of luxury cruising and help you find and plan the cruise vacation that will be perfect for you. 

So what exactly makes luxury cruises different from the rest of the cruise lines on offer? Is it really worth the extra money? What are the best luxury cruise lines and destinations? These are important questions, and we will answer them for you here. You can also find out how to find the best luxury cruise, what the best luxury cruise destinations are, and everything you need to know about luxury cruising. If you want to get more inspiration on where to go on a premium cruise, we have also put together the best L uxury Caribbean Cruises ,  The Top 8 Luxury Mediterranean Cruises , and everything you need to know about  Luxury Cruises for Couples .

7 Main Differences Between Luxury & Mainstream Cruises

The 4 most popular luxury cruise lines, all-inclusive luxury cruises, what won't you find on a luxury cruise.

When it comes to the main differences between luxury and mainstream cruises, things usually break down in terms of quality vs. quantity. For example, while you may have an abundance of dining and entertainment options on a  Royal Caribbean mega-ship, the average quality of each restaurant, class, spa, or excursion will be lower than on a luxury ship. Here are some of the biggest differences between luxury and mainstream cruises.

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1. Price of luxury cruises vs other types of cruises

It’s true - luxury cruises come at a premium. While we don’t want to suggest that it’s impossible to find discounted fares or affordable luxury sailings (in fact, Seabourn, Regent Seven Seas, and Cunard all tend to offer significant  discounts within 100 days of departure ), it’s far more likely to find fares up to 5 times as expensive as mainstream cruise prices. While these prices can seem sky-high, it's important to bear in mind that most luxury cruises are all-inclusive. This means that you pay more for upfront (sometimes significantly more), but you avoid the nickel-and-diming that happens on standard or mainstream cruises. From specialty restaurants to gratuities, costly cocktails, and shore excursions, standard cruises can quickly add up  extra fees that can leave a sour taste at the end of your cruise. 

Don't believe us? Check out this price comparison of three Caribbean cruises - one on a luxury line, one on a premium cruise line, and one on a standard cruise line:

Price comparison for 7 Night Caribbean Cruise

Prices shown are per person for double occupancy. They do not include taxes & fees.

2. More space for passengers in suites and common areas

Luxury accommodations are one perk of paying higher prices, and almost all luxury lines offer all-suite staterooms. These more spacious suites also feature ocean views and balconies, and many are bedecked with finer furnishings, including designer toiletries from Bulgari, L’Occitane, and Hermès. While common areas and dining rooms may lack the grandeur of larger ships, they still offer breezy comfort and uncramped coziness.

3. Better service before, during, and after the cruise

It goes almost without saying that the onboard service of luxury cruise lines is excellent, with personal touches that exceed expectations being the norm. However, even before you board or after you disembark, these cruise lines go above and beyond with their standard of service.  Airport transfers are often included and are just the beginning - many lines also offer pre- and post-cruise accommodation in luxury partner hotels or superb, stylish shore experiences (Regent Seven Seas and Silversea Cruises are two such lines). These extra perks may cost extra, but for many cruisers, the peace of mind is well worth it.

On many luxury cruises, the staff-to-guest ratio is a mere 1-to-2, meaning that attentive service is available day or night. Staff and crew also undergo rigorous training, and the butler service offered by many luxury cruises anticipates needs and handles requests without passengers having to ask.

4. Exotic itineraries

Tired of visiting the same ports and tourist hubs cruise after the cruise? Perhaps you’re a seasoned traveler who’s new to cruising and you’re looking for something unconventional to tempt your wanderlust? With luxury cruises, it’s much easier to  find itineraries that are off the beaten path. As luxury lines typically feature smaller ships, more isolated ports are available in every region - from  exclusive Mediterranean islands to tough-to-reach Alaskan hideaways or hidden  beaches in the Caribbean . Not only that but luxury cruises also often plan overnight stays in more popular ports so passengers can have time and space to immerse themselves after the crowds from larger cruise ships have dispersed.

5. Enrichment over entertainment

Luxury and premium cruises tend to cater to an older, quieter clientele, many of whom are well-heeled and cosmopolitan and value immersive small-group courses over action-packed entertainment. That’s not to say there isn’t any entertainment on high-end cruises. Rather, the focus tends to be more on the people on board, connecting passengers with each other, and in the experience of each port’s unique culture, cuisine, and camaraderie. While some luxury ships do still offer full theatrical productions, that’s about as showy as it gets.

6. Fine dining

Dining options aboard a luxury cruise leave almost nothing to be desired. In fact, most luxury lines have their own preferred partner chef curating culinary creations for the specialty restaurants on the small ships. Thomas Keller, the chef behind many a Michelin-starred restaurant, has lent his expertise to Seabourn, and his recipes can be sampled on all of Seabourn’s ships. Similarly, Crystal Cruises has partnered with chef Nobu Matsuhisa to offer Japanese dining and Paul Gauguin Cruises paired with French chef Jean-Pierre Vigato.

If you have a hankering for something specific, you can always alert the maitre and the resident chef, who will be happy to whip up something special for you with a bit of notice. If food is an important aspect for you, check out our article including the best premium and luxury cruises for foodies.

7. All-inclusive fares

While luxury cruise fares may seem steep upfront, the vast majority of high-end cruises are all-inclusive. This means that everything - from drinks and meals to Wi-Fi and gratuities - is covered in the cost of your ticket. Some cruise lines, like Viking Ocean Cruises and SeaDream Yacht Club , also include a shore excursion in every port. While Crystal Cruises doesn’t have a line-wide included shore tour, their yacht Crystal Esprit does come with an included excursion.

Of course, it’s important to keep in mind that “all-inclusive” doesn’t always cover all costs on every luxury cruise. While lines like  Azamara Club Cruises  include gratuities and alcoholic beverages, others, like  Viking Ocean Cruises , do not. Keep reading to see a breakdown of what is included (and what isn’t) for the industry’s leading luxury cruise lines.

Finding your perfect luxury cruise line can be very difficult. At first sight, all luxury cruise lines seem to be quite similar. They all stand out with high-class service, excellent cuisine, mind-blowing itineraries, and spacious, elegant cabins. But if you dig a little deeper you will discover many differences. Perhaps it’s the inclusiveness of the fares, the itineraries, or the luxury ship sizes that will make you choose one cruise line over another. We had a closer look at the four most popular luxury cruise lines ranked by LTI - the  Luxury Travel Intelligence to give you a sense of how they differ and what you can expect from luxury cruise lines. 

1. Seabourn Cruise Line

Seabourn Cruise Line excels in all the luxury areas: Intuitive service, first-class cuisine, and relatively inclusive fares offering an elegant but unpretentious atmosphere at the same time. It’s mid-size, 450-passenger vessels offer well-appointed veranda suites, a huge spa complex, modern pool decks, a retractable water sports marina, fantastic gourmet cuisine and a full complement of entertainment staff that performs throughout the ship. Seabourn also travels to locations all around the world ranging from the Calan to the Amazon and even the Arctic circle. Through their partnership with UNESCO, they offer shore excursions and onboard enrichment that focus on World Heritage sites and projects.

2. Crystal Cruises

2020 heralds Crystal Cruises 30th year of luxury travel. It’s fleet including the largest ships of major luxury brands (Crystal Serenity packing 1070 passengers), travels to 818 different locations and offers 2000 different shore excursions. On a Crystal Cruises ship, you can not only find Michelin-inspired cuisine in 24h in-suite dining, Master sommeliers and Connoisseurs Wine Lists, high-tech computers, and paradisiacal Spas but also industry-leading staff-to-guest service ratios. When it comes to destinations, you do not have to make any concessions with crystal cruises. From luxury cruises to the Mediterranean , ocean voyages to global destinations including epic World Cruises, Expedition adventures from pole to pole or River cruises on the Danube, Rhine, Main & Moselle rivers, your inner adventurer will get his money worth. Despite the thoroughly luxurious character of the ships, the dinner times and dress codes are more flexible than on other luxury cruise ships.

3. Regent Seven Seas

Regent Seven Seas is one of the most inclusive of all the luxury lines. Their fares cover cruise prices, pre- and post-cruise tours and hotel stays, transfers, gratuities, internet, shore excursions, beverages, and sometimes also airfares. Their ships go to nearly every continent including round-trip flights with various airlines and also offer unlimited shore excursions across more than 450 ports of call around the globe. Passenger counts ranging from 490 to 750 people at double occupancy. On a Regent Seven Seas Cruise, you can enjoy the spa, culture, and entertainment at its finest. Regent Seven Seas Cruises generally targets upper-middle-class or elites as its fares are quite high. It offers ideal luxury cruises for couples . Voyagers who opt for a Regent cruise are usually mature and highly-qualified individuals

4. Silversea Cruises

Silversea cruises fleet is very diverse - they offer four older under 400 passenger ships and three luxury expedition ships, including one that sails exclusively in the breath-taking landscapes of the Galapagos. Their fleet includes the smallest luxury cruise ships with no children’s programming and a minimum of scheduled onboard activities. You will also get pampered by exclusive butler service in every cabin and an array of outstanding dining venus, including the only Relais & Chateaux restaurant at sea. Especially middle-age and older couples are attracted by Silversea. With the combination of onboard pampering with adventurous destinations, all kind of cruisers will get their money worth. Their expedition vessels seek out to exotic locales for both soft adventures in places like Asia and Australasia and rugged exploration in Antarctica or the arctic. Of course, also luxury cruises to the Caribbean are included. Silversea offers the perfect combination between typical luxury cruises and upscale adventures. 

As mentioned earlier, when it comes to choosing which luxury cruise line is right for you, it’s important to keep in mind what’s actually included in the fare. If you’re a digital nomad, you’ll want to pick a line with included Wi-Fi, as daily usage rates can rack up fast. If the network connection is less important, but shore experiences are a high priority, opt for a line like Viking or Regent Seven Seas. Here’s what you can expect to be included in the cost of your cruise.

What's included by cruise line?

While it’s certainly true that there are plenty of included amenities and services onboard a luxury cruise, there are also some things you definitely won’t find. In order to ensure the best experience, it’s important to bear in mind the things that you won’t likely encounter on a luxury cruise.

We touched on this earlier, but it’s worth mentioning again. Because luxury cruises tend to cater to an older, more refined demographic, you’re unlikely to find costumed characters, Broadway-style musicals, or off-color comedy shows while onboard. Entertainment options on luxury cruises tend to be in the realm of cooking and yoga classes, wine tastings, and the occasional theatrical performance.

Party atmosphere

While many cruise lines market themselves as fun, vibrant vacations where you can let loose or unleash your inner kid, luxury cruises tend to focus more on providing high-quality service, top tier itineraries, and delectable dining. Enrichment programs are easy to find and smaller ship sizes mean more memorable connections with fellow passengers, but after-dark entertainment tends more toward jazz club than a nightclub, with many passengers in bed by midnight.

Theme parties

Perhaps you’re sensing a bit of a theme (no pun intended). Theme parties, costume contests, or other playful pursuits tend to be limited on luxury cruises if they happen at all. It’s true that some lines still offer the occasional theme night, but these tend to be upscale, elegant, and formal. While many luxury lines have almost entirely done away with formal or semiformal dress codes, you’ll still be hard-pressed to find a karaoke night or drag show on a luxury cruise.

Can't wait to go on a Luxury Mediterranean Cruise now? Simply use our  cruise search  to narrow your focus and activate a free price alert to be automatically notified of any price changes. You can also take advantage of our price prediction analytics to save even more money.

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Check out these articles for more information on luxury cruises:

• Top 8 Luxury Mediterranean Cruises: Best Ports and Excursions
• Luxury Caribbean Cruises: What to Know and Where to go
• Luxury Cruises for Couples: Best Cruise Lines, Activities and Destinations

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Exploring Cruise Line Categories: From Mass-Market to Ultra-Luxury

Choosing the right cruise line isn't easy.

Embarking on a cruise is a thrilling adventure, but with a sea of options, choosing the right cruise line can be as complex as navigating the ocean's tides. To help you steer in the right direction, this guide examines four main cruise line categories – mass-market, premium, entry-luxury, and ultra-luxury. As you journey from mass-market to ultra-luxury, you'll notice a graduated increase in prices reflecting the enhanced amenities, personalized service, and indulgent experiences offered. By understanding these categories, you can better chart a course for the cruise experience that best suits your expectations and budget. Welcome aboard as we set sail into the world of cruising!

Thrill Island on the Royal Caribbean Icon of the Sea

Mass-Market Cruise Lines

Carnival • msc • norwegian • royal caribbean.

Mass-market cruise lines are also known as "mainstream" cruise lines. These are the most popular and widely recognized names in cruising, such as Carnival, Norwegian, Royal Caribbean, and MSC. They are designed to appeal to a broad demographic and offer a wide variety of onboard activities and amenities.

The ships in this category are often quite large, capable of carrying thousands of passengers. They offer a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly interior cabins to more luxurious suites. These cruise lines feature a variety of dining options, from buffet-style meals to specialty restaurants, as well as numerous bars and lounges.

Entertainment is a key feature of mass-market cruises, with options like Broadway-style shows, live music, comedy acts, and activities like rock climbing walls, water slides, and mini golf. It's all about giving a broad range of passengers lots to do.

Martini Bar

Premium Cruise Lines

Celebrity • cunard • disney • holland america • princess • virgin voyages.

Premium cruise lines, such as Holland America, Cunard, Disney, Princess, Celebrity, and Virgin Voyages, offer a step up in terms of accommodations, food, and service compared to mass-market cruise lines. They are designed for passengers looking for a more refined and sophisticated cruising experience, but still at an accessible price point.

The ships tend to be slightly smaller than those of mass market lines, and the focus is on a more upscale, intimate experience. Accommodations are more spacious and well-appointed, and dining options often include upscale fare and more inclusive offerings. The onboard entertainment is also typically more sophisticated, featuring guest lecturers, cooking demonstrations, and live music.

Premium lines often feature itineraries that are slightly more exotic or unique than those offered by mass-market lines, appealing to more experienced travelers looking for something different.

Viking Ocean's Explorer Lounge

Entry-Luxury Cruise Lines

Azamara • cunard  • oceania • viking ocean • windstar.

Entry-luxury cruise lines, like Azamara, Oceania, and Viking Ocean, provide an even higher level of cuisine, service, amenities, and personal attention. They are designed for discerning travelers who value a more luxurious and inclusive cruising experience, but who may not be ready to commit to the price point of the ultra-luxury lines.

These cruise lines typically operate smaller ships, allowing for a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere. The passenger-to-crew ratio is generally lower, meaning more attentive service. Dining is a highlight, often featuring gourmet, destination-focused cuisine, and all-inclusive fare.

Entry-luxury cruise lines also offer more in-depth itineraries, with longer stays in ports and more overnight visits, allowing passengers to explore destinations more fully.

Ritz-Carelton Yacht Collection

Ultra-Luxury Cruise Lines

Crystal • explora journey • regent seven seas • ritz-carlton yacht • seabourn • silverseas.

Ultra-luxury cruise lines, like Regent Seven Seas, Seabourn, Silversea, Crystal Cruise Lines,  Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, and Explora Journey represent the pinnacle of luxury cruising. These lines are designed for the most discerning passengers who expect the highest level of luxury and service.

The ships in this category are typically small to mid-size, allowing for an extremely high level of personal service. Accommodations are often suite-only, with high-end amenities and personal butler service. Dining is of the highest caliber, often designed by celebrity chefs, and includes complimentary fine wines and spirits.

Ultra-luxury cruises often include a range of all-inclusive amenities, such as shore excursions, gratuities, and even airfare in the cruise fare. Itineraries are often unique and exotic, with a focus on immersive, destination-focused experiences.

As you move up from mass-market to ultra-luxury, you can expect an increase in price and the level of luxury and inclusivity, and a corresponding increase in price. The choice between these types of cruises ultimately depends on your personal preferences, budget, and what you hope to get out of your cruise experience.

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Vacations are an investment! With literally thousands of options, choosing the right vacation and the best value is difficult to sort through. That’s where I bring my 12 years of travel experience and expertise to do this right, and get you the best value for your money. With the backing of the largest travel consortium behind me, we have options you can’t find online. Plus our work just gets started once we book your dream vacation. Chat with us to learn more.

The world awaits you and we look forward to assisting you in choosing the exact right adventure on the waters or land for you and your companions!

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Defining Luxury Cruising

by The Cruise Web Team February 19, 2013

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What is a luxury cruise?

Published 24th October 2016 in Cruise Advice By Edwina Lonsdale /cruise-news/cruise-advice/what-is-a-luxury-cruise

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The cruise industry suffers from bad terminology - 'cruise' is one of those words a journalist finds it hard to write without appending 'luxury', and it works as a double negative.

First of all, it puts off people who would like to take a normal cruise, with their family, and have a load of fun in a sunny location. And secondly, it puts off people who would like a high end luxury holiday, as they have seen ships that they would not like to travel on, and assume that is what is meant by a 'luxury cruise'. Indeed, many discerning travellers simply shut out the whole cruise concept from their list of potential holidays, so sure are they that they know what it's all about, and that it is not for them.

In 2015 just under 1.79 million UK travellers took a cruise. And of that number, just a tiny proportion (1.5%) went on what CLIA (the cruise industry training and research body) define as an 'ultra-luxury cruise' - a total of 26,602 passengers. At Mundy, this is the area in which we specialise. We understand the key differences between the various luxury, adventure and small ship options. We have the experience and the skills to package them creatively to further enhance your trip. And we understand our clients, and the type of service they need: professional advice, interesting suggestions, assistance with the mundane tasks, the authority to fight your corner when necessary and the same level of care and attention we would offer to our favourite family members.

So what does that 'ultra-luxury' tag mean? These are the cruise lines which fall into our 'best of the best' category. Features we are looking for include outstanding personal service, with an attentive crew, speaking fluent English, and enough of them to ensure there is always someone to look after you - no frustrating waits, and access to people who can solve, or arrange to solve, any problem or issue that might arise. Obviously we expect the food to be excellent, both in quality and presentation, and in most cases (except on the smallest ships) for there to be a choice of dining venues. Wines, often included in the fare, are of a good standard, and expert sommeliers are on hand to help you with your choices. There is plenty of space, so you never feel crowded or hassled. Soft furnishings are of the highest standard, décor inviting, and everything is beautifully maintained.

So these features are all a given when you choose one of the 'best of the best' cruises. From there, you will want to investigate in further detail to find the right trip for you. The itinerary is obviously going to be key - and the shore excursions may be very important to you. Alternatively, you might prefer to explore independently (we can help with the best local drivers and guides.) We can identify those ships with good quality entertainment, or excellent lecture programmes. There may be some fantastic themes on certain departures which completely match your interests.

Finally, of course, cost is a consideration. When comparing fares, we will help you with the best offers and added value, highlight what is included, or how much space you will have in your suite. Our job is to come up with the perfect solution given the timeframe and your budget.

When all of that is done, you can set aside the boring detail, and begin the exciting anticipation of your next perfect holiday...

Edwina Lonsdale is Managing Director and together with husband Matthew, owner of Mundy Cruising. Most recently she's cruised on Windstar and has also sailed with Silversea, Seabourn, Regent Seven Seas, Crystal, SeaDream, Ponant, AmaWaterways and Aqua Expeditions. Her favourite destination is the Galapagos however she's also enjoyed cruises in the Mediterranean, Danube, Middle East, East Africa & Indian Ocean, Brahmaputra, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, the Mekong, Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, the Philippines, the Caribbean and the Arctic. When she’s not travelling she loves reading, food and wine.

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7 compelling reasons to book a luxury cruise

Cruise lines and travelers who aren't up on their terminology tend to refer to just about any cruise as luxury. But megaships from the world's biggest lines — no matter how impressive — don't fall into the luxury category of ships. True luxury cruise lines, including most expedition lines, generally roll more inclusions into their cruise fares and offer higher-quality everything, from service and furnishings to cuisine.

Here, I'll cover what you can expect for the price, how you can determine for yourself which lines are truly high-end and why you should consider splurging on a luxury booking for your next voyage.

For more cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

The cabins are larger

Most mainstream ships feature a variety of cabin types — with the most basic and inexpensive lacking windows. Although the resulting darkness can help you catch up on some sleep, those rooms are often small and cramped, especially if you share them with others.

Cue luxury ships, where most rooms tend to be larger than the industry average. The most lavish cabins can be larger than many houses ashore. Some vessels, such as Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection's Evrima , offer only suite accommodations . Others, like Seabourn Venture , feature balconies in every single cabin.

Add on extra touches like robes and slippers for onboard use, marble bathrooms, walk-in closets and concierge or butler service in some cabins, and you'll find yourself in the lap of luxury for the duration of your sailing.

The ships are smaller

For the purposes of this article, we'll consider the following to be luxury lines , with some also offering expedition cruises , as noted below:

• Ponant Cruises (including expedition sailings)
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises
• Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection
• Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours (including expedition sailings)
• Seabourn (including expedition sailings)
• Silversea Cruises
• Viking (including expedition sailings)

Vessels in those fleets carry fewer passengers than many mainstream megaships, the largest of which can see close to 7,000 cruisers at capacity (not including crew members). In order to fit that many people on board and provide them with enough activities, public areas and places to eat, the hardware is massive.

Most luxury ships carry anywhere from 200 to 500 passengers, with just a handful welcoming nearly 1,000 (but even those few are many times smaller than some of the largest vessels afloat). Not only does that mean a more intimate ambience and fewer queues to wait in, but smaller ships can also offer a larger range of ports on their itineraries (more about that below).

The food is superb

If you're a gourmand, luxury cruises are the way to go. Most are foodie havens where meals are otherworldly. Free caviar and Champagne are common, but it doesn't stop there.

On some vessels, including those in the Viking fleet, passengers can shop with the chef in port and watch as he prepares the spoils for dinner that evening. Other ships, such as Scenic Eclipse, offer mouthwatering chef's table experiences that take diners on a several-hour journey that captivates even the most picky of eaters.

Still others have partnerships with world-renowned chefs, such as Thomas Keller, who maintains outposts on Seabourn ships. This represents a terrific value for money; it allows cruisers easy access to famed chefs' dishes for free, while reservations at their affiliated land-based restaurants are generally hard to come by and could cost hundreds per meal.

The service is better

Because luxury ships tend to have fewer passengers on board, they also usually have a better crew-to-passenger ratio. In fact, some even strive for a 1-to-1 ratio, which helps ensure that there's always someone available to help you with tidying your room, bringing you room service or helping you with shore excursion reservations.

Overall, service is above and beyond what you'd expect from the hospitality industry, and your needs are constantly anticipated, so you rarely have anything left to ask for.

Often, you can expect the demeanor of the crew on luxury ships to be friendly and efficient but not overbearing. It stands pleasantly between the fawning, doting nature of crews on mainstream North American ships and the almost icy, "don't speak unless spoken to" variety found on some more international lines.

You get more bang for your buck

The price tag is another solid indicator that you're booking a luxury voyage. It's not uncommon for fares to run into the thousands per night for each person, depending on the ship and itinerary. However, before you succumb to sticker shock, it's important to realize that the mantra of "you get what you pay for" applies here.

Luxury sailings include just about anything you could want while you sail. Amenities like alcoholic beverages and soda, Wi-Fi and gratuities are rolled into most luxury carriers' costs — along with butler and concierge services, flights, airport transfers and even shore excursions on some ships.

Apart from taxes and fees, you'll have a pretty good idea of what your bottom line is right off the bat. It can seem like a lot at first, but often it's a better value. That's because most larger players — such as Royal Caribbean, Carnival Cruise Line and Norwegian Cruise Line — charge extra for all of those add-ons unless you purchase some of the highest-level suites or book under a promotion like Norwegian's Free at Sea .

The ports are less touristy

Any vessel can go to the places where the largest can fit, but only the smallest can navigate to some of the world's most remote regions.

If you relish the idea of squeezing into tiny inlets where you can view Alaska glaciers up close, visiting pristine beaches in Caribbean destinations like Martinique or Anguilla or checking out other hard-to-access ports around the globe, a smaller ship is the way to go. And smaller ships go hand in hand with luxury cruising.

It also explains, in part, why luxury cruise lines have been so quick to hop on the growing expedition cruise trend. It used to be that active travelers had to sacrifice swanky onboard accouterments and decadent accommodations to experience places like the Galapagos and Antarctica . With the newest ice-strengthened hardware boasting high-end suites and gourmet food, that's no longer the case.

The toys are fancier

Yes, some of the largest vessels afloat have skydiving and surfing simulators or virtual-reality rooms on board, but why settle for simulations when you can have actual adventures ?

Several of the luxury market's newer expedition ships have added helicopters and submarines to their lists of onboard amenities. Passengers can book them for use at an additional cost, allowing them bird's-eye (or fish's-eye) views of the surrounding sky and sea.

And the options keep growing. Years ago, the first three-person submersible was introduced on a ship. Now, onboard submarines are double the size, offering even more cruisers a chance to give it a go.

Bottom line

It's easy to immediately dismiss the idea of booking a luxury cruise when you see the price. But before you make a snap judgment, consider the value of what's included.

Do you prefer a more intimate onboard experience and visiting off-the-beaten-path ports? Are you a sucker for a fantastic gastronomic experience? Do you routinely purchase drink packages, Wi-Fi, alternative restaurant meals or shore excursions on other cruises? If you answered yes to any of these questions, a luxury sailing could be right for you.

If you'd like to learn more about what sets different cruise lines apart, check out this handy guide to choosing a cruise line .

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
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• Luxury Cruising

Definitions of a luxury cruise ship

By ActiveTraveler , June 7, 2010 in Luxury Cruising

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ActiveTraveler

While reading about luxury cruise ships, lines, and experiences, I came across several sources that describe what people generally define as a luxury cruise. I disagree with a few things and know every cruiser has different ideas for the definition of luxury cruises, so I decided to request the opinions of people who have sailed on so-called luxury lines about what they think a luxury cruise experience really is. If you have sailed on either a Crystal, Silversea, Windstar, Regent, Azamara, Oceania, Sea Dream, Seabourn, Star Clippers, Cunard, or Paul Gauguin ship because you wanted a luxury line, what do you think qualifies as a luxury cruise ship, regardless of what anyone else says?

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I guess to me the most important aspects of a luxury line are the service, food and being all inclusive, that is all alcohol and gratuities are included, Personally, I also prefer a smaller ship which can dock in smaller ports where larger ships cannot go. And lastly, I prefer open seating dining where I don't have to eat at the same table with the same people at the same time every night.

When I think of Luxury Cruise Lines I think of a high quality product which provides a five star experience when it comes to service, cuisine, entertainment and enrichment (if that is provided), and the overall appearance of a ship. If a ship was a land based hotel I think of most of the Ritz Carlton and Four Seasons properties.

I do equate luxury to being catered to and those little things that all add up to a high quality experience.

When I think of the luxury products I think of Crystal, Seabourn, Silversea, Regent, Sea Cloud, Sea Dream along with the cruise line that operates the Europa. They all are a bit different but there are many similarities as well.

To me it's no different than BMW, Lexus and Mercedes. They each drive differently and some like one more than the other but they each have a high standard of overall performance.

I think some of the other cruise lines that have been mentioned on this thread are quite nice. I think many of them have certain aspects to them that are indeed luxury but IMHO their total product falls short of being five star. That is not to say there is anything wrong with them because they too offer a very nice product.

This topic is now archived and is closed to further replies.

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The 11 Best Luxury Cruise Lines, According to T+L's Experts

These luxury cruise lines offer stunning suites, fine dining, and exceptional itineraries.

Meena Thiruvengadam is a lifelong traveler and veteran journalist who has visited more than 50 countries across six continents. Her writing has appeared in The Wall Street Journal , Departures , TripSavvy , and other publications.

Cruising is back — and you might even say it's better than ever. "Vacations at sea are suddenly one of the biggest things in travel," Travel + Leisure cruise expert Paul Brady reported recently, as summer air travel is looking progressively messier but the cruise industry continues to stabilize post-pandemic. For those looking to plan a cruise, whether it's a last-minute trip for the summer or a 2024 around-the-world cruise, we've narrowed down the best luxury cruise lines to ferry you to some of the world's most mesmerizing destinations in comfort. Here, our favorite luxury cruise lines in the world.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

When this luxury cruise line says it's all-inclusive, it's not overstating. Everything from shore excursions, Wi-Fi, and laundry to gratuities, top-shelf liquor, and business-class international flights are included with Regent Seven Seas Cruises ' fares. While each luxurious suite features ocean views, nothing beats the view from the epic 4,000-square-foot, two-bedroom Regent Suite, which has two wraparound balconies, three walk-in closets, two Picasso lithographs, and a grand piano.

For the best in-suite views, book a room at the back of the ship, Kelly Cochrane, executive chef of Regent Seven Seas Cruises tells T+L.

Oceania Cruises

Oceania Cruises has just seven ships, but the debut of the brand-new Oceania Vista catapults this cruise line into the luxury division. The cruise line's relatively new Go Local shore excursions for small groups bring travelers to under-the-radar destinations, T+L contributing editor and long-time cruiser Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon reported recently. Her 2022 cruise on Riviera included 70 excursions "from canoeing Croatia’s Cetina River to cooking classes in Athens."

If you've ever dreamed of having your own butler, Silversea is the luxury cruise line for you. In fact, Silversea's butlers take white-glove service to a whole new level — they'll handle your laundry with more care than you do, scour port towns to find your favorite tastes of home, and even help you pack and unpack your suitcase. Further, Silversea's new culinary program, nicknamed S.A.L.T. (for Sea and Land Taste), brings the taste of destinations on board through cooking classes. Of course, there's no need to cook for yourself aboard a Silversea ship, as each one features several restaurants with multi-course menus to whet your appetite every night.

Viking Cruises

Viking Cruises is a river and ocean cruise line that recently added expedition sailings and the Great Lakes trips to its repertoire. "T+L readers rave about the consistency of Viking's vessels and their Scandinavian design," cruise expert Fran Golden reported when Viking once again topped T+L's World's Best Awards last year. Viking came in at No. 1 in T+L's best mid-size ship category and river cruise category. Golden said the WBA Hall of Fame honoree's 50 river "longships" are "light-filled floating boutique hotels."

Laureen Robert / Courtesy of Ponant

French luxury cruise line Ponant aims to make passengers feel as if they're traveling on their own private yachts. Guests enjoy Ladurée macarons, Veuve Clicquot Champagne, and luxurious Hermès bath products on board. Each of the company's ships features an onboard spa with massage cabins and either a Turkish bath or sauna. Ponant's luxurious small ships sail to remote destinations like Antarctica, incorporating once-in-a-lifetime experiences such as eclipse spotting from the edge of the earth. The company also partners with Smithsonian and Disney on certain sailings.

Seabourn cruises to all seven continents, and most recently launched Seabourn Venture , "marking the first time the Carnival Corporation–owned luxury cruise line will offer adventurous sailings on an expedition ship built for extreme environments," Brady reported. (The sibling ship to Venture , Seabourn Pursuit arrives later this year.) The World's Best Award-winning cruise line has all-suite ships and "is known for its onboard service and over-the-top food including complimentary caviar and Thomas Keller steakhouses on ships such as the  Seabourn Ovation, " Brady said.

Windstar Cruises

Windstar Cruises ' luxury small ships call on 150 ports throughout Europe, Central America, the Caribbean, and the South Pacific, and there's no way you'll go hungry on the journey. Exquisite onboard menus have been designed by acclaimed chefs from Michelin-starred restaurants. (You'll have to pay extra for alcohol, but all meals and a Windstar signature onboard barbecue — a feast of whole suckling pig, shrimp brochette, and more — are included.) The cruise line is not only a T+L World's Best Awards Hall of Fame honoree, it has a "long-standing partnership with the James Beard Foundation ," Brady reported, and regularly brings chefs on board for culinary-focused sailings. Yes, chef.

Courtesy of Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours

Whether it's a river or an ocean you want to cruise, Scenic can take you there in style. The luxury cruise line operates river cruises in Europe and Asia, while ocean cruises on Scenic Eclipse (and the forthcoming Scenic Eclipse II ) can take guests to Antarctica, the Arctic, Australia, South America, and Greenland, among other coveted destinations. On board, you'll find fine dining, expansive spas and fitness facilities, and butler service.

Cunard Line

Jonathan Atkin / Courtesy of Cunard Line

This British luxury cruise line is known for its transatlantic service, which also transports pets between its headquarters in Southampton, England, and New York City. Cunard operates three ships with a fourth in the works, though only the Queen Mary 2 sails the transatlantic route. It's a cruise line that takes formality seriously; white-gloved waiters serve afternoon tea each day at 3:30 p.m. State rooms include 24-hour room service and evening turndown service with chocolates. Don't forget your tux, the gala nights are black tie.

Paul Gauguin Cruises

Roger Paperno / Courtesy of Paul Gauguin Cruises

Paul Gauguin Cruises operates just one ship, but it is exquisite, hosting 330 guests and sailing only in the South Pacific to destinations like Tahiti, Fiji, Tonga, and the Cook Islands. The ship is small enough to access private ports at remote beaches and take travelers well off the beaten path. Named the best small-ship ocean cruise line in T+L's 2022 World's Best Awards, Golden said the line is known for Tahitian-inspired massage techniques in the onboard spa and noted that cruisers particularly love the wonderful staff.

Celebrity Cruises

Steve Dunlop / Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises ' new Edge Series ships are taking things up a notch. Celebrity's signature Iconic Suites on board the Celebrity Edge and Apex offer panoramic views from above the ship's bridge; each suite boasts more than 2,500 square feet of space, including expansive 690-square-foot terraces, and comes with two bedrooms and two bathrooms. Celebrity Beyond , which debuted in 2022, accommodates 3,260 guests has 32 bars and restaurants, like Le Voyage by chef Daniel Boulud, and two-story villas on board. Beyond 's sibling ship, Ascent , will be delivered later this year.

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The True Definition of Luxury on a Cruise

July 31, 2024 by admin 0 Comments

As I walked into my suite aboard the Crystal Serenity, I couldn’t help but utter a word of amazement – “wow.” The room exceeded my expectations with its spaciousness, featuring a small table and a deep-blue couch in one room, and a king bed in the other. The bathroom was so vast that I could have comfortably rolled around in it, while the shower seemed large enough to accommodate several adults. Each day, my butler surprised me with a selection of healthy snacks like pineapple cubes and mini-sandwiches, alongside some not-so-healthy but utterly delicious chocolates. The luxury of having my dirty laundry magically disappear only to be replaced by freshly cleaned outfits hanging in my closet truly epitomized opulence to me.

Amidst a sea of high-end cruise lines boasting about offering unparalleled luxury experiences, one cannot help but wonder how travel advisors define “luxury at sea.” Is luxury solely determined by the size or intimacy of the ship? Does it hinge on the expanse of its suites, the presence of personal butlers, or a dining menu curated by a Michelin-star chef? Perhaps luxury is intricately linked to the cruise’s destination and duration of stays in port. Carlos Edery, the CEO and co-founder of Luxury Cruise Connections, aptly pointed out that luxury is an extremely personal concept, with varying definitions for each individual. What may signify luxury to one guest might completely miss the mark for another, illustrating the subjective nature of luxury in the realm of travel.

In the wake of the pandemic, the luxury cruise segment has witnessed a significant surge in demand, with numerous advisors reporting a booming business. Despite prevailing economic concerns of recession and inflation, clients seem more than willing to invest in extraordinary experiences onboard luxury cruises. Michael Consoli, the top-performing agent for Cruise Planners in the U.S., revealed a staggering 25% increase in luxury cruise bookings compared to the previous year, and a notable 50% surge from pre-pandemic levels in 2019. It appears that clients are now more inclined to splurge on luxurious experiences they have been yearning for since the onset of the pandemic, placing added emphasis on obtaining the best value for their money.

The post-pandemic era has seen an influx of luxury cruise offerings, with both established and new players entering the market. Legacy luxury lines have introduced new ships, while emerging brands like Explora Journeys and Atlas Ocean Voyages have also made their debut. Notably, Scenic Luxury Cruises and Tours commenced luxury expeditions in 2019, and renowned hotel brands such as Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, Four Seasons, and Aman are gearing up to launch their first oceangoing vessels in the coming years. According to Edery, the fundamental pillars of luxury on a cruise encompass allowing guests to cherry-pick elements that hold the most value to them, coupled with a level of customer service that not only anticipates but also exceeds their expectations. Whether it’s the stateroom attendant catering to your specific preferences, or the butler seamlessly arranging dining reservations based on your tastes, the essence of top-tier luxury lies in such personalized and anticipatory services.

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Luxury Cruises

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• Fu-Zhen Pang 4 &
• Hai-Chao Li 4  

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Brilliance of the Seas ; Luxurious cruise ship ; Luxury passenger liner

Luxury cruise is regarded as the “mobile palace in the sea” (Yin 2012 ), which is the high-valued equipment for the tourism industry. It provides tourists with unforgettable sailing experiences and incredible enjoyment through its different types of facilities.

Scientific Fundamentals

Development history.

In the late nineteenth century and the early twentieth century, people traveled across the sea only by cruise ships, which just provided passengers with limited rooms and food services. With the increasing maturity of aircraft technology, in order to save time and money, many passengers choose to travel by airplane. Therefore, in the middle of the twentieth century, the cruise ship industry declined. In order to survive, cruise companies developed the concept of cruise vacation (Duman and Mattila 2005 ), which transformed the transport-oriented cruise ship into a marine holiday village and built...

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Duman T, Mattila AS (2005) The role of affective factors on perceived cruise vacation value. Tour Manag 26(3):311–323.

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Fu-Zhen Pang & Hai-Chao Li

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Zhiqiang Hu

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Pang, FZ., Li, HC. (2019). Luxury Cruises. In: Cui, W., Fu, S., Hu, Z. (eds) Encyclopedia of Ocean Engineering. Springer, Singapore. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-10-6963-5_33-1

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Cruise Deals Expert

Queen Mary 2 poolside

Pre-cruise and post-cruise package deals

The first day of any vacation is usually a combination of excitement and stress. Getting to the terminal can be awkward by public transport and long-term parking is often unavailable. High-end lines take the stress away with complimentary transport options for getting to and from the cruise terminal.

Cruises depart from major cities with beautiful harbours, and passengers have the opportunity to explore with on-land packages while in town. Luxury cruise lines offer incentives for accommodation in major cities or travel to natural wonders around the world.

The best accommodation

On luxury cruises there is no need to be envious of passengers staying in fabulous suites. Inside cabins are rare on dedicated luxury cruise vessels and the vast majority of staterooms have a balcony for enjoying indoor/outdoor sailing. Alternatively, upgrading to a fabulous suite on a mega-ship could function just as well, especially if travelling with a family that wants excitement as well as luxury. High-end cruises try hard to make the little things count, such as a pair of binoculars for wildlife spotting along with quality furnishings, fittings and facilities in your stateroom.

Everything included

Tipping and gratuities add up on cruises, not surprising when several thousand crew members are trying hard to satisfy passenger demands. Luxury cruising, on the other hand, usually does away will gratuities and tipping. Naturally, fine service can always be rewarded with a tip, at the passengers discretion.

Attentive staff

Cruise ship staff are generally very attentive and dedicated to their work. The crew work 7-day weeks with very little down time between journeys and the standards are high. Regardless, it’s difficult to remember the names of all 5,000 passengers on a mega-ship, and the at times hectic pace can be overwhelming. Luxury cruises, on the other hand, employ well trained and cultured staff who serve with fastidious efficiency. Attentive to all passenger needs, luxury cruise staff serve at a very high standard and have the uncanny ability to remember even the smallest details to make passengers feel special.

Celebrity Solstice Murano restaurant

Spectacular dining at sea

The standard of cruise ship meals has improved almost on a yearly basis. Larger vessels now offer a range of free and for-fee dining options. The luxury cruise operators were well ahead of the pack on this one, and have been providing top-shelf gourmet delights for decades. Cruise dining experiences are overseen by master chefs and major restaurateurs, while wait-staff are extremely attentive to every dietary requirement, making you feel just that little bit special.

Free beverages

There’s no chance of a ‘where did all my money go’ moment on luxury cruises. Drinks are included in the ticket price. This saving alone should be enough for many travellers to consider all-inclusive cruising. Quality beverages are supplied in the restaurant, lounge and bar, while a well stocked mini-bar should suffice for in-cabin tippling. Passengers with expensive taste will have to pay extra, but that’s not a bad idea for those who can afford it.

Luxury cruise itineraries

The colossal mega-ships are designed for having a good time but their sheer size means many beautiful ports are off limits. Luxury cruises can venture far into mysterious fiords, visit tropical hideaway islands, and savour the small town appeal of Mediterranean coastal settlements. Smaller vessels mean your itinerary destinations aren’t overrun with tourists and it’s possible to get a genuine sense of place on a luxury cruise.

Exclusive events and excursions

Cruisers are adventurous people who enjoy savouring cultural experiences. While shore excursions are part of every cruise, it’s easier to accommodate a smaller number of people in many iconic settings. Wonderful on-land theatre shows, cultural events, galleries and special dining experiences are the icing on the cake during luxury cruises. With so much to see and do, most luxury cruisers don’t need a noisy, raucous double-dose of entertainment back on the ship. With luxury cruising there is the right time and place for everything.

Meeting people/making friends

Large cruise ships are designed for mixing on a large scale, whereas smaller luxury vessels encourage genuine socialising and even networking. It’s not uncommon for new acquaintances to plan future cruises together as a couple or group, many making real friendships that last a lifetime.

Seabourn Encore Main Pool Deck-9

Progressive cruise ship design

Luxury cruises are a high-end cruising tradition, but they have also continued to move with the times. Spa and fitness centres house state of the art equipment and hydrotherapy pools, while enrichment classes abound and babysitting services have been introduced. Pools on luxury cruise ships are classily designed and extremely comfortable seating is everywhere. Some cruise lines even offer a full butler service for every stateroom.

The luxury cruising line has blurred somewhat, with mega-ship luxury suite passengers enjoying the finest service and cruising style. The choice ultimately comes down to specific passenger requirements, budget and convenience, with all-inclusive deals ticking most boxes for a high-end luxury cruise experience.

The ratio of crew to guests is generally higher on a luxury cruise, resulting in personalised service, fewer delays and less bottlenecks onboard the vessel. Competition between luxury cruise operators is strong, with special deals, dining experiences and amazing destinations designed to lure patrons. Luxury cruises are a cut-above for a number of reasons.

• Spacious, opulent and private accommodation with a balcony.
• Concierge and butler service
• All-inclusive fares where tipping is optional
• Free wine and spirits
• Fully stocked complimentary mini-bar
• Attentive staff service
• Meticulous housekeeping
• Impressive spa and pampering services
• Fine dining
• Exclusive on-shore tours

Luxury cruise vessels provide a 5-star service that can’t be replicated elsewhere. They are purpose-built specifically to satisfy high-end sailing demand. In a world where quality and class is more pervasive than ever, it’s no surprise luxury cruising continues to rule the seas for many passengers. They may not be the biggest ships plying the oceans, and are often dwarfed by mega-ships while in port, but it’s not surprising that curious onlookers gravitate toward the sleek and powerful luxury cruise ships for a glimpse of real cruising decadence, high-end style.

Robert Grant

Loves cruise tips and cruise ships. Shares his personal opinion about cruise deals and cruise tips that might help other travellers. Do let me know if you'd like to read more about certain cruise related topics.

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• Luxury Cruising

Definitions of a luxury cruise ship

By ActiveTraveler , June 7, 2010 in Luxury Cruising

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ActiveTraveler

While reading about luxury cruise ships, lines, and experiences, I came across several sources that describe what people generally define as a luxury cruise. I disagree with a few things and know every cruiser has different ideas for the definition of luxury cruises, so I decided to request the opinions of people who have sailed on so-called luxury lines about what they think a luxury cruise experience really is. If you have sailed on either a Crystal, Silversea, Windstar, Regent, Azamara, Oceania, Sea Dream, Seabourn, Star Clippers, Cunard, or Paul Gauguin ship because you wanted a luxury line, what do you think qualifies as a luxury cruise ship, regardless of what anyone else says?

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I guess to me the most important aspects of a luxury line are the service, food and being all inclusive, that is all alcohol and gratuities are included, Personally, I also prefer a smaller ship which can dock in smaller ports where larger ships cannot go. And lastly, I prefer open seating dining where I don't have to eat at the same table with the same people at the same time every night.

When I think of Luxury Cruise Lines I think of a high quality product which provides a five star experience when it comes to service, cuisine, entertainment and enrichment (if that is provided), and the overall appearance of a ship. If a ship was a land based hotel I think of most of the Ritz Carlton and Four Seasons properties.

I do equate luxury to being catered to and those little things that all add up to a high quality experience.

When I think of the luxury products I think of Crystal, Seabourn, Silversea, Regent, Sea Cloud, Sea Dream along with the cruise line that operates the Europa. They all are a bit different but there are many similarities as well.

To me it's no different than BMW, Lexus and Mercedes. They each drive differently and some like one more than the other but they each have a high standard of overall performance.

I think some of the other cruise lines that have been mentioned on this thread are quite nice. I think many of them have certain aspects to them that are indeed luxury but IMHO their total product falls short of being five star. That is not to say there is anything wrong with them because they too offer a very nice product.

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