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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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Yacht Cruises

Get away from the crowds on Yacht Cruises and explore life on one of the growing numbers of Luxury Yacht Cruise Lines.

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Luxury Yacht Cruise Lines

Yacht cruise catalog.

Luxury Yacht Cruise Lines provide an intimate sailing experience for around 100 to 300 passengers who want to explore different parts of the world. Yacht Cruises, in general, offer personalized service and a cozy ambiance. The designers of Luxury Yacht Cruises meticulously plan every aspect of the voyage to provide a signature service and an atmosphere of casual luxury. Yacht Cruises are much smaller than mega cruise ships and offer a more exclusive experience. While mega cruise ships are more affordable, yacht expedition cruise lines cater to niche travelers looking for remote and unexplored destinations. If you want to avoid crowds and experience life on the open sea, try one of the many Luxury Yacht Cruise Lines.

Obviously, due to their smaller size, yachts can reach smaller ports and can afford to be more destination-focused, whereas the larger cruise ships could never dream of docking in those ports. Luxury Yacht cruises can position their ships and sail directly into some of the most coveted ports around the world, producing a more relaxing cruising pace to allow for in-depth exploration and unique adventures. The larger ships, even smaller river ships, may not be able to recognize and accommodate for this type of flexibility nor intimacy. Best of all, access is another increasingly sought-after luxury of which yachts deliver. In essence, commercial yacht cruises offer guests a marina right off the back of the ship for swimming in the ocean, snorkeling, kayaking, scuba diving, sailing, or since your sailing yacht offers a far more romantic and idyllic setting, you can graciously lay back and watch the beautiful sunrise or sunsets.

On the other hand, you may instead spend less time in the open seas and more time exploring different destinations. Remember, although yacht cruises offer sailings in the open seas, you will discover that yacht cruising is mostly done at night while the vessel travels from one destination to another. At any rate, for sure, your expedition experience will be much different and enhanced when traveling with a much smaller group of travelers. The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, for example, is delighted to partner with Virtuoso to offer multiple amenity sailings during its 2021 inaugural season. All amenity sailings will offer complementary benefits to guests who book through a network advisor, including an exclusive cooking class and chef’s tasting.

Recently the demand for mega-ships has declined. In fact, there is a more significant growing number of companies that offer yacht cruises to the ever-increasing cruise markets. Most yacht cruise companies offer an all-inclusive format. All-Inclusive means that the fare includes onboard gratuities, beverages in-suite/ throughout the yacht, 24-hour in-suite dining, and highly expensive onboard entertainment, enrichment lectures, and Wi-Fi for your convenience that are all included. Luxury yachts also have a full spa center and in-yacht dining experiences. Yachts have itineraries that cruise through the best of the Mediterranean: the Greek Isles, Balearic Islands, and French Riviera. Starting prices for voyages can range from a few thousand dollars for several nights, or based on the destination, can go up to $15K for 2-week journeys. By the same token, Yachts provide exclusive sailing experiences at a fraction of the cost of private charters. Getaway from the crowds today and examine a cruise on one of the growing numbers of yacht cruises coming to the marketplace for yourself:

• Aqua Expeditions
• Intrepid Group Cruises
• PONANT Yacht Cruises & Expeditions
• SeaDream Yacht Club
• The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection
• Also Visit:  River Cruises Category

Intimate experiences, destination-focused, and visit smaller ports in less time. Yacht cruising is one perfect way to see the world in any given length of time, from a quick weekend excursion getaway to a long-range holiday adventure.

Virtuoso Voyages is a collection of the best cruise experiences in the world, available through NorthStar Virtuoso travel advisers.

Virtuoso Voyages offers exclusive cruise benefits, insider access, and excellent value, such as:

• Private car and driver in port
• Behind-the-scenes tours
• Specialty dining options
• Shipboard and spa treatment credits
• Custom and private shore tours

Your next yacht cruise and exciting shore excursions are around the corner!

Dinner Cruises

This yacht is ideal for dinner cruises. Dinner cruises yacht available from Luxury Liners. Departing from California, Florida, The Bahamas and beyond.

100′ AZIMUT (NPB) | 12 Guests

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47′ SEA RAY | 12, 6 Guests

52′ Sunseeker San Remo (NPB) | 6 Guests

55′ Sunseeker (NPB) | 12 Guests

55′ VANDUTCH – NPB | 10 Guests

59′ Prestige (NPB) | 12 Guests

60′ Azimut (MDR) | 12 Guests

60′ CARVER (MDR) | 12 Guests

60′ SEA RAY | 12 Guests

65′ AZIMUT (MDR) | 12 Guests

65′ RIVA | 12 Guests

65′ Sunseeker (NPB) | 12 Guests

67′ Ferretti (NPB) | 12 Guests

70′ Galleon (NPB) | 6 Guests

72′ Yaretti | 12 Guests

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10 Luxury Cruise Lines That Will Make You Want to Ditch Plane Travel Forever

Posted: July 24, 2024 | Last updated: July 24, 2024

Thinking about booking your next dream vacation? As stunning as land-locked adventures and beautiful hotels can be, there’s something to be said about sailing the seas. Fortunately for us, nowadays, there are cruise ships that far exceed the family-fun agenda of the classic companies so often advertised on TV. While there’s absolutely nothing wrong with those cruise liners, there’s something special about not only traversing the ocean but doing so decked out to the nines. With that in mind, we’ve rounded up the best luxury cruise lines of 2023. Ahead, uncover the company that best aligns with your idea of the ultimate water-bound getaway.

Silversea is the “jewel in the crown” of the Royal Caribbean Group, not to mention the original luxury cruise line, first entering the space in 1994. The company touts 12 all-inclusive ships with destinations all over the world. Whether you want to explore the American West Coast, South America, Northern Europe and the British Isles, Africa, Asia, Australia and New Zealand, or even Antarctica, Silversea has a cruise to fit your fancy.

Speaking of fancy, the most luxurious cruise that Silversea offers is its 125-Day Chile to Norway sail, which rings up at $94,700. You don’t have to invest that much to enjoy a Silversea cruise, though. No matter which type of suite you book, you can expect butler service, optional 24/7 in-suite dining, endless access to premium beverages and craft cocktails, and complimentary caviar around the clock.

Explore Silversea Cruises

Paul Gauguin

Paul Gaugin stands out for its single-ship escapade into the luxury cruise space. With a variety of cruises that explore French Polynesia and the South Pacific, Paul Gauguin is a small-ship cruise line with 7-, 10-, 11-, and 14-night itineraries that focus on intimate experiences, delectable cuisine, stunning stateroom balcony views, butler service, and more. With a 1:1.5 crew-to-guest ratio, you can rest assured knowing that all of your needs will be met aboard the m/s Paul Gauguin.

Explore Paul Gauguin Cruises

Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours

Scenic is unique in that it not only offers luxury ocean cruises but river cruises, too. The brand prides itself on operating and innovating with guest experience in mind. As such, all of its cruises have so much to offer voyagers, from extensive dining, leisure, and wellness options to striking design elements that will make you want to stay aboard for much longer than your itinerary.

Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours has nine ships with oceanic destinations spanning from the Arctic and Europe to the Caribbean and Australia. Meanwhile, if you find yourself in France, you may want to check out Scenic’s beloved river cruises, in which you can tour the Seine in the utmost style.

Explore Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours

Ponant has a fleet of 13 luxury cruise ships with destinations dotting the globe. The award-winning French cruise line is beloved for its tailor-made voyages, in which guests have access to myriad bespoke experiences both on and off board, from in-room dining to once-in-a-lifetime immersive excursions.

Since Ponant ships offer smaller capacity—more akin to a private yacht experience—they’re able to navigate private ports and preserved locations that large-scale cruise ships are unable to access. While aboard Ponant’s all-inclusive ships, you can anticipate exceptional French cuisine, delicious fine wines, complimentary Champagne and spirits, room service, and more.

Of course, if you need further inspiration to look into the cruise line, perhaps the fact that three-mast yacht, Le Ponant, is part of the Relais & Châteaux portfolio will do the trick.

Explore Ponant Cruises

Crystal is renowned for its personalized voyages all over the world, not to mention its palatial suites that will leave you picking your jaw up off the floor. In addition to well-appointed design, the cruise line offers an impressive dining experience, with authentic cuisines from all over the world. So whether you’re in the mood for American, Italian, Peruvian, or Japanese food, you’ll have ample options to choose from.

It’s also worth mentioning that the luxury cruise line took it to the next level with its spa, Aurora Spa. The gorgeous, sea-view spa offers a variety of face, body, salon, and healing treatments, including massages, facials, acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, and even IV drip therapy—so you won’t have to worry about feeling hung over at sea (especially considering the cruise line offers complimentary Champagne, fine wines, and premium spirits).

Explore Crystal

Windstar Cruises

Windstar Cruises operates a six-ship fleet dedicated to extraordinary sailing experiences. With small ships that carry less than 350 passengers, Windstar prides itself on offering guests intimate, aesthetic, unforgettable voyages spanning from Asia and Australia to Italy and Iceland.

While the staterooms and suites are stunning and the shore excursions are aplenty, it’s the food that really stands out aboard Windstar. As the official cruise line of the James Beard Foundation, Windstar offers a number of themed culinary cruises with food and bev from some of the most notable chefs of today, including Maxime Bilet (The Cooking Lab) and Jose Mendin (Pubbelly Noodle Bar, Habitat, Baja Bao).

Explore Windstar Cruises

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

The Ritz-Carlton is synonymous with luxury, so it’s no surprise that the company extended into oceanic adventures with a fleet of three superyachts. Where the Evrima was built in 2021, the Ilma and Luminara yachts are forthcoming in 2024 and 2025.

While classic cruise lines have a capacity in the thousands, often edging upward of 4,000, the Ritz-Carlton superyachts offer a more curated experience to 500 passengers or less. From the outside, the yachts are sleek and serene, fitting in beautifully with the sea. Within Evrima’s walls, though, moody modern interiors with magnificent ocean views await.

Guests can look forward to soaking tubs, expansive private balconies complete with sun beds and a whirlpool, walk-in wardrobes, and more. As far as destinations are concerned, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection embarks on oceanic adventures in the Mediterranean and Caribbean.

Explore The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection Cruises

Seabourn is a luxury cruise line that speaks to our soul—and for more reasons than the simple fact that it touts a “Veranda Suite Upgrade.” The luxury cruise line sets sail in the Arctic, Canada and New England, the Amazon, Arabia, Africa, and India, and more.

Each of the fleet’s yachts, which carry between 458 and 600 guests, is outfitted with ocean-view suites only, so no matter what excursion you book, you can anticipate traveling in luxury style with a picturesque backdrop. You can also look forward to mouth-watering cuisine courtesy of renowned chef Thomas Keller.

Explore Seabourn Cruises

Cunard is known for its iconic black funnels, yes, but more so for its unparalleled large-scale onboard experiences. Although each of the cruise line’s ships carries upwards of 1,500 passengers, the four-ship fleet is adored for its luxury itineraries, stylish design, tranquil spa offerings, delectable cuisine, and unmatched comfort at sea.

Truly, if your goal is to book an unforgettable, Instagram-worthy cruise, Cunard is the way to go. From the stunning suites (decked out in pops of rich color, sumptuous textiles, and spectacular lighting) to the picturesque destinations, Cunard has it all.

Explore Cunard Cruises

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

If you want to get the most bang for your buck when booking a luxury cruise, Regent Seven Seas Cruises is a prime pick. The all-inclusive cruise line crafts a new definition of the category with complimentary roundtrip airfare, free unlimited shore excursions, include 2- to 3-night land programs, on-the-house bar and lounge experiences, and more.

The six-fleet cruise line is also known for its gorgeous interiors, complete with modern aesthetics, Art Deco embellishments, stunning chandeliers, and more. When traveling with Regent Seven Seas Cruises, guests can traverse the seven seas, with destinations in Africa and Arabia, Asia, Australia and New Zealand, the Caribbean and more. And if you don’t want to pick a single destination, there’s always the option to book a grand voyage or world cruise, which can last up to 168 days and cost upwards of $100,000.

Explore Regent Seven Seas Cruises

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12 Top Cruises on Small Ships

From wildlife viewing in the remote polar regions to magical sunsets in the Indian Ocean, these ships offer unforgettable voyages.

Al Bakker | Courtesy of Aurora Expeditions

Even if you're sailing in chilly Antarctica, cruising on a small ship offers comfort and coziness.

If you are feeling a sense of wanderlust and ready to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations in far-flung corners of the world, consider booking a small ship cruise. These luxury mega-yachts, expedition-style vessels and sailing ships can visit tucked-away harbors, exotic locales and pristine beaches that larger ships can't reach. And if you opt for a cruise on a rigged sailing vessel, there's nothing more romantic than watching the sun set into the ocean while the wind fills the sails of a tall ship at sea.

Smaller ships offer an intimate onboard vibe where the experience is highly personalized with a higher crew to passenger ratio – and where you'll get to know many of your fellow passengers. Smaller ships are often more fuel-efficient and eco-friendly than traditional cruise ships, using either wind power or the latest technologies. With the addition of new or existing cruise lines entering this market along with other lines investing in upgrading older ships, there are many more vessels in these smaller ship classes to choose from when considering your cruise options.

If you're seeking an adventure of a lifetime – whether to meet the penguins in Antarctica, people- and yacht watch in glamorous ports of call in the Mediterranean, or go island hopping in paradise in Hawaii – then plan your voyage to set sail on one of these small ships.

(Note: Some of the following activities, attractions and locations may be affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. New policies may be in place, including capacity restrictions, reservation requirements or mask mandates. Check with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the U.S. Department of State and local tourism boards before traveling.)

Ready to plan a cruise? Find the best value sailings on  GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Star Clippers: Royal Clipper

Inspired by the legendary 1902 Preussen, the first five-masted ship, Royal Clipper was launched in 2000 as a true sailing vessel at 439 feet in length with 54,000 square feet of sails across 42 sails. With five fully rigged masts, the ship is recognized in Guinness World Records as the largest square rigger in service today.

Modeled after the historic clipper ships, Royal Clipper travels under full sail – and by wind power – for up to 80% of its voyages. When the vessel does navigate under power, the energy-efficient engines only use high-quality, low-sulfur gas oil, earning Star Clippers the International Air Pollution Prevention Certificate for all three of its clipper ships.

The ship can accommodate as many as 227 passengers in 114 staterooms, along with 106 crew. While on board, guests will enjoy 19,000 square feet of open teak deck, three swimming pools and hidden balconies on either side of the bow, where you can view wildlife like dolphins swimming alongside the ship. You can also relax in the bowsprit net overlooking the ocean and keeping an eye out for whales. For the more adventurous sailor, climbing the mast to 75 feet above the water affords unforgettable ocean views from your perch in one of the passenger crow's nests. Other features of Royal Clipper are its three-story atrium, trilevel dining room, and unique spa and health club with underwater portholes called the Captain Nemo Lounge.

The ship's seven-night Windward Islands itinerary sails round trip from Barbados with stops in Antigua , Martinique , St. Kitts, Îles Des Saintes and St. Lucia. You'll even have an opportunity to sail alongside one of the line's sister ships and another tall ship – Star Flyer – to the island of Dominica . Royal Clipper's longer itineraries include several Grand Voyages: The 19-night cruise from Cannes in France to Lisbon in Portugal, for example, calls on other ports in France, Italy, Spain, Gibraltar and Morocco.

Read: Cruise Essentials for Your Next Trip

Silversea Cruises: Silver Wind

Courtesy of Silversea Cruises

Launched in 1995, Silver Wind was Silversea's second of four vessels that the line built for the ultra-luxury market. This ship underwent a significant upgrade in 2018, followed by another refurbishment in 2021 that included an enhanced ice-class hull. This new addition allows Silver Wind to be one of the most adaptable ships in the fleet, sailing from the polar regions like Antarctica to sunny island climates in the Caribbean and cruising picturesque shorelines along the Mediterranean Sea.

Silver Wind measures about 515 feet in length and has 149 all ocean-view suites, more than 80% of which boast a private veranda. The ship carries 274 guests and 239 crew and features elegant public rooms, including lounges for gazing out at the ocean or watching onboard entertainment. There's also an upscale bar, shipboard boutiques and a spa.

Dining is a highlight, with four venues spanning international cuisine such as Italian, regional specialties and seasonally inspired menus. For an evening under the stars, The Grill features fine steaks and seafood or vegetables that guests can cook at the table on 400 degrees Celsius lava stones. After dinner, spend time chatting with fellow passengers at Connoisseur's Corner, where you can sip cognac and enjoy a cigar.

Silver Wind offers an epic 20-night expedition cruise from Tromsø, Norway, to Kangerlussuaq, Greenland, visiting various destinations in Iceland as well as remote regions and glaciers in Greenland. For a warmer voyage, the 10-night Puntarenas to Guayaquil itinerary takes you from Costa Rica to Ecuador in South America, with stops at the remote Darien Jungle in Panama, the Utría National Natural Park in Colombia and several ports in Ecuador, including the city of Guayaquil.

Want to cruise a small ship on Silversea Cruises? See the top cruises on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Sea Cloud Cruises: Sea Cloud

Courtesy of Sea Cloud Cruises

Built in 1931 as a private yacht for Wall Street broker Edward Francis Hutton and his wife Marjorie Merriweather Post, an American socialite and philanthropist, this legendary windjammer maintains the elegance of a time gone by.

Originally named Hussar, the 360-foot Sea Cloud has a fascinating history – while the ship started as a private yacht, it later became a floating palace of diplomacy and then a warship. Today, Sea Cloud accommodates up to 64 passengers in 32 outside cabins and carries about 60 crew. The ship also boasts 29 sails, with the height of the main mast towering 184 feet above the water.

If you've never been on this type of vessel, cruising under full sail on a tall ship is unlike any other experience. Sea Cloud does not rely on motors (though they are installed just in case), allowing the wind and sea to determine the ship's course whenever possible, guided by the skills and seamanship of the crew for navigation. This setup provides an opportunity to teach the art of sailing to the passengers. The captain of Sea Cloud and guests prefer to cruise under full sail, which is the lure of sailing on a windjammer. Life on board the ship is intimate and relaxed – just as you would find on a private yacht.

Amenities on Sea Cloud include a lido bar and deck and a restaurant serving cuisine inspired by the destination, which features local products, fresh fish and regional wines.

One of Sea Cloud's top itineraries, Between Lifestyles and Nature's Paradises, sails for seven nights from Monte Carlo, Monaco , to the Spanish island of Palma de Mallorca , with calls on less visited ports along the Mediterranean coast in southern France like La Ciotat and Collioure. You can also join the jet-setters in St. Barts with a front-row seat from your sailing ship for the Bucket Regatta. This 10-night adventure includes two days in the French West Indies island of St. Barts and other picturesque ports of call in the Caribbean.

Read: The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

Atlas Ocean Voyages: World Navigator

Courtesy of Atlas Ocean Voyages

Atlas Ocean Voyages' first luxury expedition ship, World Navigator, launched in August 2021. With a length of 423 feet and capacity for 196 passengers and 127 crew, the ship sails to fascinating destinations around the world. By optimizing fuel efficiency with the incorporation of the latest hybrid power management and propulsion system, World Navigator uses as little as one-fifth of the fuel of standard cruise ship systems. The quiet alternate hydro-jet propulsion system allows for up-close viewing of marine animals and other wildlife.

The 98 beautifully appointed staterooms and suites feature upscale amenities like Egyptian linens and a menu to personalize your selection of a pillow. Some accommodations also have Juliet-style or walk-out balconies, and certain suites come with butler service. For dining options, you'll find Portuguese-inspired Porto, which is the main dining room, or the New York-style 7-Aft Grill for steaks and seafood. Passengers can also opt to have lunch poolside or enjoy light bites at the Dome Observation Lounge, which offers panoramic views of the sea.

Other ship amenities include three bars and lounges, the SeaSpa by L'Occitane, an auditorium, a mud room, a pool and two hot tubs, a boutique and a fitness center. To wind down after a day of exploring destinations in far corners of the globe, convene with other passengers to relive the experience during Àpres Sea.

For the ultimate bucket list adventure, book the nine-night round-trip expedition from Ushuaia, Argentina, to the southernmost continent. Highlights of this venture to Antarctica include navigating the Drake Passage; embarking on water safaris to Deception Island or Yankee Harbour; encountering wildlife like penguins, seals and whales; and even camping on land overnight. For a less adventurous itinerary, history enthusiasts will appreciate the 12-night Western Europe voyage sailing from Hamburg in Germany to London , with an overnight in Amsterdam and ports of call in cities like Antwerp and Bruges , Belgium; Plymouth, U.K.; and Honfleur, France.

Read: The Top Cruise Lines for Solo Travelers

Celebrity Cruises: Celebrity Flora

This 100-passenger luxury mega-yacht is the first ship of its kind built for the Galápagos Islands . Launched in 2019, Celebrity Flora is 333 feet long and features 50 spacious all-suite accommodations, each designed with a veranda or an infinite veranda that extends the terrace to be part of the living space. Each suite is fully automated, allowing guests to control everything with the touch of a button. Amenities include luxurious linens and bathrobes, and you'll enjoy chocolates and toiletries locally sourced from Ecuador. The ship is also eco-friendly and built with the latest environmental technologies.

There are two dining venues on board Celebrity Flora. Seaside Restaurant offers an upscale casual experience with floor-to-ceiling windows throughout. For alfresco dining in the evening, Ocean Grill serves local, sustainable seafood during "Dinner Under the Stars." Other inviting indoor spaces include the Discovery Lounge, where Celebrity's naturalists host briefings and presentations, and the Observatory, a library and lounge with a view.

Outside, The Vista offers guests an open-air escape with private cabanas, cocoon-style loungers and a Jacuzzi. Cruisers can head to the outdoor Sunset Lounge for a dip in the plunge pool or experience Galápagos Glamping on the top deck with an evening of dining and sleeping under one of the most spectacular night skies in the world.

Celebrity Flora sails seven-night inner- and outer-loop Galápagos itineraries and has extended trips with land packages that add on Quito or Machu Picchu . The 16-night Galápagos Outer Loop & Machu Picchu itinerary includes island hopping in the Galápagos, where you'll have up-close encounters with giant tortoises, marine iguanas, Galápagos penguins, red- and blue-footed boobies, and sea lions. Afterward, head to Lima, Peru , where you'll fly to Cusco and venture onward to visit the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu.

Looking to plan a small ship cruise on Celebrity Cruises? See the top cruises on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Windstar Cruises: Wind Star

Michel Verdure | Courtesy of Windstar Cruises

When it first launched in Le Havre, France, in November 1985, Wind Star was the world's largest sailing vessel and the flagship for the line. While this schooner may not be the largest tall ship on the seas today, Wind Star is an elegant four-masted sailing yacht and the cruise line's namesake. Since its launch, this ship has been through a few renovations, with the most recent one in 2018. The 360-foot vessel features 73 deluxe ocean-view staterooms that accommodate 148 passengers, and it can carry 101 crew. Four masts stand at 204 feet tall, and six triangular Dacron sails, which are self-furling and computerized, make up a surface area of 21,500 square feet.

As with other Windstar vessels, you'll find the same casual elegance on board this sailing ship. Guests will get to sail away to the music Windstar traditionally plays while raising the flag during every port departure – Vangelis' song "1492: Conquest of Paradise," which is the musical score to the movie of the same name. The culinary program on Windstar's fleet is in partnership with the James Beard Foundation, so dining is a real treat. The three restaurant venues on Wind Star include Amphora, whose contemporary, international menu was created by James Beard-affiliated chefs. The romantic Candles offers an alfresco dining experience with grilled steaks and skewers, while the Veranda is the ship's casual breakfast and lunch buffet with outdoor seating.

Other onboard amenities include a lounge, the Yacht Club Café, a pool bar, a salon and spa, a boutique, a library, a fitness center, a water sports platform and an open bridge where you can enjoy a chat over coffee with the captain.

Treasures of the Greek Isles is a seven-night voyage that sails round trip from Athens to several Greek islands, including Mykonos and Santorini . This itinerary also includes a stop in Kusadasi, Turkey, where you'll be able to visit the fascinating ancient city of Ephesus. For a South America adventure to transit the Panama Canal and explore destinations in the region like rainforests, reserve the seven-night Costa Rica & Panama Canal voyage.

Read: Bucket List Cruises for Seniors and Retirees

Viking Cruises: Viking Octantis

Courtesy of Viking

Built in 2022, Viking's new Polar Class 6 ship, Viking Octantis, is 665 feet in length and accommodates 378 guests in 189 staterooms and 256 crew. The purpose-built expedition ship boasts more indoor and outdoor viewing areas than many other expedition vessels, providing guests with up-close views of some of the most incredible scenery in the world. The energy-efficient design of this ship and the line's other expedition vessel, Viking Polaris, exceeds the Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI) requirements by 36%. The cruise line is also recognized for receiving one of the first highest-level certifications for quiet ship propulsion, minimizing underwater noise pollution.

Cruisers familiar with Viking Ocean Cruises' ships will recognize familiar spaces and dining venues such as The Living Room, The Explorers' Lounge, The Nordic Spa, Manfredi's, The Restaurant and The World Cafe. New spaces on Viking Octantis include The Aula, a panoramic auditorium designed for lectures and daily briefings, and the adjacent Finse Terrace. This outdoor lounge area sits just above sea level and boasts recessed, heated couches and lava rock "fire pits." Passengers will also find the industry-first in-ship marina, The Hangar, where guests can easily embark and disembark the ship, and three pools offering varying temperatures with an inside-outside passage. In addition, all staterooms feature Nordic balconies that convert from a sunroom to an alfresco viewing area.

For a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, book the 12-night Antarctic itinerary sailing from Buenos Aires to Ushuaia, Argentina. This expedition includes the Drake "rite of" Passage, scenic sailing around Cape Horn and wildlife viewing in the icy waters of the "White Continent." For U.S. travelers interested in staying closer to home, the seven-night Great Lakes Explorer departs Milwaukee for Thunder Bay in Ontario, Canada. Cruisers will enjoy a stop in Mackinac Island in Michigan, scenic sailing along the St. Mary's River and transit from the U.S. into Canada through the Soo Locks.

Want to plan a Viking Expedition Cruise? See top cruises on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Emerald Cruises: Emerald Azzurra

Emerald Cruises' luxurious 360-foot superyacht, Emerald Azzurra, launched in May 2022. The boutique ship carries just 100 passengers and is designed for cruising the waters of the Mediterranean, Adriatic Coast and the Red Sea. Its sister ship, Emerald Sakara, will debut in 2023. On board Emerald Azzurra, you can expect to be pampered by 68 crew members while soaking in the sun poolside or relaxing indoors during a day at sea.

The 50 spacious modern staterooms and suites, most with balconies, offer spectacular views of off-the-beaten-path destinations and smaller ports and harbors. The ship also features several dining, bar and lounge venues; quiet spaces for relaxing or reading a book; a wellness area; a hot tub with a view and an infinity-style pool; a boutique; and a fitness center. The marina platform on the ship's stern offers paddleboarding, snorkeling and other water sports activities.

The seven-night Gems of the Arabian Peninsula sails from Doha, Qatar, to Dubai in the United Arab Emirates. This cruise calls on Sir Bani Yas Island and Abu Dhabi , United Arab Emirates, as well as two ports in the country of Oman. For unforgettable ocean and island views and a vacation in paradise, book the seven-night Tropical Charms of the Seychelles, sailing round trip from Victoria, Mahé , which is the capital of the Seychelles .

Lindblad Expeditions: National Geographic Endurance

Alexandra Daley-Clark | Courtesy of Lindblad Expeditions

Launched in July 2021 as one of two new polar vessels and a sister ship to National Geographic Resolution (November 2021), this extraordinary vessel can explore deeper and further into the Earth's polar regions. National Geographic Endurance is the first new polar build in the company's 50-year history, and its name honors the ship of renowned Antarctic explorer Ernest Shackleton. The elegant Scandinavian-inspired design also features the patented X-Bow, offering eco-friendly benefits and a smoother, quieter ride.

National Geographic Endurance is 407 feet in length and has 69 spacious staterooms with large windows or balconies to accommodate up to 126 passengers. The ship also carries 112 crew. Unique onboard amenities include the first polar art exhibit at sea, curated by environmental artist Zaria Forman, and the first igloos at sea. Guests can arrange to spend an evening under the stars in these glass domes, which are available to reserve on a first-come, first-served basis.

Passengers can also enjoy one complimentary evening at the Chef's Table, sustainable cuisine during their voyage, a lounge and bar area, outdoor infinity-style hot tubs, a yoga studio, saunas with a view of the sea, and state-of-the-art facilities for presentations and films. Every expedition also has a National Geographic photographer and a certified photo instructor and video chronicler.

For an unforgettable rendezvous with nature, book a 10-night cruise called Land of the Ice Bears. This adventure sails to the best place in the world to view polar bears: the Norwegian archipelago of Svalbard in the Arctic Ocean. In addition to many opportunities to see those amazing animals, you'll also encounter walruses, reindeer, arctic foxes and fur seals. Another incredible journey for the extreme adventurer is the 35-day Epic Antarctica sailing. This expedition will venture to remote West Antarctica and explore the sub-Antarctic islands of New Zealand and Australia, traveling to destinations where possibly few – or even no – humans have set foot before.

UnCruise Adventures: Safari Explorer

Courtesy of UnCruise Adventures

Built in 1998, Safari Explorer is 145 feet in length and one of UnCruise Adventures' four Safari-class ships in its expedition-style fleet. Nicknamed "the Bulldog," this ship transports passengers to wild and remote areas that larger ships can't navigate. The 36-passenger yacht was recently renovated with interior refinishes, touch-ups and upgrades. There are just 18 cabins and 18 crew.

The lifestyle is casual on board, and guests have access to three decks with a library, dining room, rooftop sun lounge and exercise equipment. You'll find common areas on the main deck such as the salon, bar and wine bar. When it's time to hit the water or go ashore, the vessel is equipped with expedition gear, including kayaks, inflatable skiffs, paddleboards, snorkel equipment and more.

In the summer months, Safari Explorer sets off in search of humpback whales in Alaska and spends winters island hopping in Hawaii. The seven-night Hawaiian Seascapes sailing cruises to four islands, including stops in Molokai, Lanai , Maui and the Big Island of Hawaii . There are two itineraries in Alaska. The seven-night Alaska Glacier Cruise itinerary sails one way from Juneau to Sitka through the northern passages. For an extended expedition that includes wilderness areas with even more opportunities for wildlife and whale viewing, book the 12-night Cruise to Alaska voyage from Seattle to Juneau.

Read: The Best Times to Cruise to Alaska

Ponant: Le Commandant Charcot

Ponant's first high polar expedition vessel, Le Commandant Charcot, launched in September 2021. The 492-foot-long ship is eco-friendly and powered by liquefied natural gas with the latest innovations and technologies. Le Commandant Charcot is also the first luxury hybrid electric polar exploration vessel.

All of the 123 staterooms and suites have a private balcony or terrace. The atmosphere for the 245 passengers on board is much like that of a private yacht, given an extraordinary ratio of passengers to crew with 215 crew members. Two culinary options, gastronomic restaurant Nuna and casual dining concept Sila, are part of a collaboration with Ducasse Conseil and Michelin-starred chef Alain Ducasse; the menus are designed by the renowned French chef. Guests can enjoy complimentary French wine, Veuve Clicquot Champagne and Ladurée macarons throughout their voyage.

You'll also find beautiful public spaces, a boutique, a theater, expedition rooms and a promenade deck where you can access the bow. Not to be missed is the wellness area, which is a partnership with Biologique Recherche and features amenities like a 14 degrees Fahrenheit snow room with fresh powder snow, a sauna and an indoor pool. On the pool deck, passengers can enjoy a sunroom, a heated outdoor blue lagoon, a giant fire pit, an outdoor bar and the Blue Lagoon bar.

Le Commandant Charcot sails to the farthest points in the Northern and Southern hemispheres, including Antarctica and the North Pole. The 24-night Northwest Passage cruise takes guests from Reykjavik in Iceland to Nome, Alaska, and features polar activities like kayaking between the ice floes, snowshoeing, ice fishing or even exploring with a naturalist guide by hovercraft. The 15-night Geographic North Pole expedition sailing from Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen, in Norway pushes the limit of sailing to the northernmost point in the world. Le Commandant Charcot is the only passenger ship able to reach the geographic North Pole.

Read: The Top Luxury Alaska Cruises

Aurora Expeditions: Greg Mortimer

Matt Horspool | Courtesy of Aurora Expeditions

Australian-owned Greg Mortimer is a 341-foot-long purpose-built expedition ship, and the first passenger ship designed with the Ulstein X-Bow. This state-of-the-art design offers environmental benefits such as producing fewer emissions and requiring less fuel. The unique bow design also provides a smoother cruise experience when crossing rough seas like the Drake Passage en route to Antarctica. In addition, the ship's Rolls Royce dynamic stabilizers contribute to the vessel's stability and lower its fuel consumption.

The vessel was built in 2019, features 79 cabins with ocean views – 85% of which have balconies – and can accommodate an average of 132 passengers and 74 crew. Onboard amenities include bars and lounges, the main dining room, lecture facilities, a library, a mudroom to store wet expedition gear, a spa, a sauna and a gym. The ship also has hydraulic viewing platforms offering unobstructed views of the local marine and wildlife, as well as 15 Zodiac boats that launch from four platforms.

With Greg Mortimer and its new sister ship, Sylvia Earle, Aurora Expeditions travels to wild and remote destinations around the world. Popular itineraries include its nine- to 23-day Antarctica voyages, navigating icy waters on the 17-day Northwest Passage expedition from Canada or on the 11-day Iceland Circumnavigation cruise, which sails round trip from Reykjavik.

Want to explore cruise options? See the top cruises on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top River Cruise Lines
• The Top Mississippi River Cruises
• The Top Alaska Cruise Lines
• The Top Gay Cruises
• The Top All-Inclusive Cruises

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I've sailed on two all-inclusive, ultra-luxury cruise ships. These are the 3 reasons I think they're worth the cost.

• I sailed on Regent Seven Seas and Silversea's newest ships, Seven Seas Grandeur and Silver Ray.
• The pricier of the two, Silver Ray, starts at $400 a day in 2025.
• The convenience, all-inclusivity, and suites make  ultra-luxury cruise ships  worth their hefty cost.

Luxury cruises can be more than quadruple the cost of an average ship. But before you click away, hear me out — the higher-end vessels are worth the splurge.

The world's largest and most popular ships are beloved for their exciting, family-friendly amenities. But if you'd rather trade the VR arcades for complimentary cocktails and rock climbing walls for some time in the sauna, luxury cruises could be a great option — especially if you prioritize convenience over cash.

I attended complimentary, non-revenue sailings on ultra-luxury cruise lines Regent Seven Seas and Silversea's latest ships, Seven Seas Grandeur and Silver Ray . The latter and more expensive of the two starts at a cool $400 per person and day for a weeklong cruise in 2025.

Not cheap, compared to Carnival's equally new Firenze ship , which starts for as little as $82 per guest and day next year.

But you get what you pay for. And in the case of the cruise industry, money does, in fact, buy happiness.

If you think spending hundreds of dollars a day for a small ship sounds unreasonable, I have three good reasons you should reconsider.

Luxury cruises have some obvious and expected plus-sides, like an elegant ambiance and great food.

On Regent Seven Seas and Silversea's latest ships, mediocre lunch buffets are replaced with endless raw fish. And instead of a "main dining room" with upcharged lobsters, guests can dine on complimentary caviar and foie gras.

I love fine dining. So, it might be a surprise to hear that I don't think the free beef tenderloin is the best part about Silversea's and Regent Seven Seas' cruises.

Instead, I think the ships' convenience, all-inclusivity , and suites make them worth the cost.

1. Their convenience is unparalleled, even by industry standards.

Cruises are popular in part for their ease of travel. What other fare includes dining, activities, accommodations, and the opportunity to see several destinations in just a few days — all without needing to plan logistics like hotels and ground transportation?

But if you think mass-market cruises are easygoing, just wait until you see their luxury counterpart.

If you're willing to pay extra, you won't even have to plan your flights.

Close your Google Flight tabs. Silversea and Regent Seven Seas will book your roundtrip pre- and post-cruise airfare for you, although at a cost.

Silversea offers three pricing tiers: door-to-door, port-to-port, and an "essential fare."

The first, the most expensive option, is best for guests who want a truly all-inclusive package . It's the only one that includes flights (with the option to upgrade to Business Class), private transfers between the airport and guests' homes, and shore excursions.

But with this comes a fairly stark price difference.

One of Silver Ray's cheapest door-to-door itineraries in 2025 is a seven-day cruise from Monte Carlo, Monaco, to Rome for $6,700 per person. The same itinerary's port-to-port option, which doesn't include flights or transfers, is $1,500 cheaper.

Regent Seven Seas' cruises can also be upgraded to include the same services. However, doing so will cost an extra $1,100 per guest for Seven Seas Grandeur's most affordable seven-night roundtrip Miami cruise in 2025, which already starts at $4,200 per person.

It's worth it if convenience is your top priority.

Planning the trip and getting to the ship could be your cruise vacation's only two stressful moments.

If you're flying to the port, should you arrive the day before or just a few hours in advance? When should you call your Uber to the airport? What if you miss your desired embarkation time because you mistimed your flight?

All these logistics could add plenty of unwanted stress to an otherwise stress-free trip.

So, if you detest the pre-vacation planning routine, the airfare upgrades that make these cruises truly all-inclusive could be worth the extra cash.

2. No need to worry about onboard spending when you don't have much to spend on.

Many mass-market cruise lines are increasingly outfitting their new ships with irresistible pay-to-play amenities . Dinner at a specialty restaurant, an hour at the arcade, and a few glasses of wine later, and travelers could easily blow past their budget.

Ironically, guests on more expensive all-inclusive ships rarely face this problem.

Yes, the upfront fare is higher. But once onboard, you'll never have to reach for your wallet.

The incessant and difficult-to-resist upcharges on Carnival Firenze left me more annoyed than relaxed.

The opposite can be said for Seven Seas Grandeur and Silver Ray.

WiFi, alcohol, and access to the spa are all included in the base fare, as are almost all excursions if you opt for Silversea's door-to-door fare.

You'll have to pay extra when you're at the casino or want a spa treatment, a fancier bottle of wine, or, in the case of Silver Ray, dinner at the Chef's Table and French restaurants. Besides that, all the dining venues, bars, and activities are complimentary.

Free booze. Imagine that. There's truly no cruise vacation more relaxing than one where you can't overspend.

3. You'll never be stuck in a windowless interior cabin.

I've stayed in some dark and depressing cruise accommodations. My interior stateroom on Carnival Firenze looked like it belonged in a hospital, while my balcony cabin on Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas had the smallest bathroom I've ever seen.

You won't have to worry about cramped cabins on a luxury cruise.

Ironically, smaller high-end cruise ships seem to have more spacious accommodations than the world's largest vessels.

Even Silver Ray and Seven Seas Grandeur's cheapest cabins have balconies and sumptuous amenities like a bottle of Champagne and high-end toiletries.

My suites on both ships had spacious balconies, walk-in closets, and espresso machines.

My 332-square-foot concierge suite on Regent Seven Seas's ship was only 25 square feet bigger than the smallest option. And yet, it was one of the most spacious cabins I had ever stayed in, complete with a bathtub and L'Occitane en Provence toiletries.

Unfortunately, some of the decor looked dated for a brand-new ship . But a relaxing warm bath quickly helped me forget my design gripes.

Silver Ray's 357-square-foot Deluxe Veranda suite didn't come with fancy products.

But it did have a toiletries "menu" with Bulgari options, a separate pillow menu, a stocked mini-fridge with alcohol, and a butler.

Yes, butler. Every suite on Silver Ray has one who can help with tasks like packing your luggage, setting up a relaxing shower, and even delivering caviar.

Because if the suite itself didn't convince you that ultra-luxury cruises could be worth the price, I'm sure the hand-delivered caviar — which you can eat on your couch while wearing a comfy bathrobe— might.

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Family of nine left behind in remote alaska, charged $9k by norwegian cruise lines.

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An Oklahoma family of nine was left stranded in remote Alaska after their Norwegian Cruise Lines ship left them behind — and then charged the desperate family $9,000 in customs fees.

The Gault family was traveling with six young kids and a 78-year-old grandmother on July 12 when they disembarked from the Norwegian Encore in Katchikan, a small town in a string of south Alaskan islands, so they could watch a lumberjack show together.

But on their way back, the local tour operator transporting passengers to and from the vessel failed to properly check who had tickets and who didn’t — merely conducting a head count — and told the Gaults there was no room and to wait for another shuttle.

“We see the chaos getting onto the buses. We go to get on the bus and one of the attendees is like, ‘The bus is full, and you know you got to wait for the next bus,'” Joshua Gault told 2 News .

However, that bus never came, and after frantically calling the port authority to arrange transportation, they finally arrived back at the docks to see the Norwegian Encore sailing away — taking with it their passports, medication and clothes.

“Six kids on board, minor children, and a 78-year-old mother-in-law, all on medication. We all had to quit cold turkey medication these last few days because it was all on the cruise ship,” Joshua said.

From there, the chaos only deepened.

The family, which had already spent about $30,000 on the trip, was immediately hit with nearly a $9,000 charge from the cruise line — $971 per passenger — for missing the boat.

That fee stemmed from the US Customs and Border Protection’s Passenger Vessel Services Act, which they violated by not visiting a foreign port before they returned to the US, as their itinerary planned.

But they were unable to catch up with the vessel at its next port of call in Canada because nearly all their passports had sailed away from them.

With no choice but to find their way home, the Gaults had to arrange new lodging within hours, book flights home, and feed their many hungry mouths — with the costs piling up the longer it took them to get home.

“All the flights for nine people, all the food for nine people, all the hotel stays,” Gault told 2 News, counting off the accommodations they had to arrange — and pay for — on the fly.

After days of travel — which included stops in numerous cities, canceled flights, and more than one overnight airport stay — the family finally arrived home in Tulsa, strung out, tired, and having picked up exhausting cases of COVID along the way.

“So yeah, we’re beat down right now. We’re unhealthy and beaten down,” Joshua said.

The family is working with Norwegian to rectify the situation, but after their ordeal, they feel the cruise line has a lot of slack to pick up to make things right.

“‘We’re still looking into it, we haven’t forgotten about you,'” Cailyn Gault said Norwegian kept telling them as they battled their way home.

“And I was like, ‘No, we feel like you pretty much forgot about us when you left us in port and told us to go figure it out,'” she added.

Norwegian Cruise Lines told The Post it has begun the process of refunding the Gaults the nearly $9,000 in fees they were charged, and will reimburse them for all their travel expenses once receipts have been received.

The cruise line also said it tried to contact the Gaults after they missed their bus due to “a misstep by a local tour operator,” and when they were unable to reach them, worked with the local port authority to help the family arrange lodging for the night before they were able to make a flight to Seattle the next day.

“In addition, these guests will be receiving a pro-rated refund for the two cruise days they missed,” a Norwegian Cruise Line representative said.

“As a gesture of goodwill, the company will also be providing each of the nine guests with a Future Cruise Credit in the form of a 20 percent discount of their cruise fare that can be used towards their next voyage,” Norwegian added.

The incident was just the latest to put Norwegian Cruise Lines under the spotlight for leaving passengers behind.

Back in April, eight passengers were left behind in Africa after an independent tour they took was late to arrive at the boat — leaving them cobbling together an itinerary across the continent to catch up with the boat.

It is well-known policy on most cruise lines that passengers who fail to return to the ship within a strict deadline will be left behind so the vessel can maintain its schedule — but exceptions are generally made if tardiness is the fault of the cruise line or an operator provided or recommended by it.

Though the passengers in April had been using an independent tour when they missed the boat, their ages and handicaps sparked controversy over the rigidity of the cruise line’s policy.

Norwegian ultimately agreed to partially refund those passengers for their expenses incurred catching up with the boat.

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SeaDream Yacht Club appoints Jarrod Zurvas as the APAC Director of Sales

Boutique luxury cruise line SeaDream Yacht Club has appointed luxury cruise veteran Jarrod Zurvas as the company’s new Director of Sales for Asia-Pacific. Zurvas joins long-term representative Julie Denovan, strengthening SeaDream’s commitment to the APAC market.

Zurvas joins SeaDream from the luxury expedition branch of Captain Cook Cruises and brings more than 15 years of experience in senior roles in sales and marketing from cruise, travel, tourism and hospitality industries.

He will be based in Brisbane, Australia, and oversee all of SeaDream Yacht Club’s sales activities in Australia, New Zealand, as well as the wider Asia-Pacific region.

“Jarrod’s appointment underscores the strategic importance of the APAC market to SeaDream. He brings a proven track record of progressive accomplishments, a deep passion for small-ship cruising, and a wealth of experience to our growing team. We’re thrilled to welcome Jarrod to the SeaDream family”, said Andreas Brynestad of SeaDream Yacht Club.

Family owned and operated, SeaDream Yacht Club founded modern yacht cruising in 2001. Today, the boutique luxury cruise line offers distinct yachting adventures in the Caribbean, Northern Europe and Mediterranean on two small, newly upgraded yachts. With a 1:1 crew-to-guest ratio, guests can enjoy unprecedented service, unique all-inclusive culinary experiences and included activities such as watersports directly from the yachts.

“SeaDream is a perfect match for the APAC market, offering casual and modern luxury experiences that really resonate with guests from the region. With the small size of the yachts, more personalised service, unique destinations, and the yachting freedom, I see a huge potential for growth, not only for Australia and New Zealand, but in the wider APAC region,” said Zurvas.

His background includes an impressive line-up of luxury-, expedition-, and small-ship experiences. Over more than 15 years, Zurvas has worked with Captain Cook Cruises, Coral Expeditions, Variety Cruises, Quark Expeditions, Scenic Luxury Cruises, and more.

“Having followed SeaDream for years, I understand why it’s often referred to as ‘the best kept secret in cruising’. I am truly excited to finally be part of the team and contribute to the future success of a truly iconic brand in luxury and cruising”, said Zurvas.

The appointment of Zurvas, follows in the wake of several other senior appointments in SeaDream Yacht Club in the last 12 months.

Jeremy Canivet appointed general manager of the Jeddah EDITION

International SOS appoints Kate King as the Director of Global Travel Partnerships

Discova appoints Nicoline Dolman as Regional Contracting Leader 

Wendy Wu Tours appoints Sarah Kewley as Business Development Manager – New…

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How to Retire on a Cruise Ship

Seafaring retirees should consider factors such as costs, health concerns and staying connected with loved ones.

Thinking of Retiring on a Cruise Ship?

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Retiring on a cruise ship has no one-size-fits-all model but there are enough options available to make this plan a reality.

Key Takeaways

• Living on a mass-market cruise ship can start at about $35,000 per year for room and board.
• Additional expenses include medical costs, laundry and alcohol, which can increase the overall cost.
• Staying connected with family and friends can be challenging, although cruise ship internet and cellular services are improving.
• Retirees with fewer medical risks are better suited for cruise ship living.

If you’re planning to retire soon, you’ll have to decide what kind of lifestyle you want.

One option that some retirees consider is living on a cruise ship. While it may sound like a fun, exciting adventure, there are some factors to consider before climbing aboard.

Costs of Retiring on a Cruise Ship

Of course, cost is among the first factors to consider.

"The ability to live on a mass-market cruise ship full time for a relatively affordable room-and-board cost starts at about $35,000 per year," said travel journalist and cruise expert David Yeskel, known as the Cruise Guru, in an email.

"Other expenses like medical care, laundry and alcohol add to that starting price," he added.

As with retirement budgets ashore, expenses depend on your lifestyle. For example, some meal plans and entertainment options cost more than others.

According to Cruise Market, which compiles statistics on the cruise industry, the estimated per-passenger, per-day cost for an average cruise in 2024 is $295.05. That includes a daily ticket price of $179.01 and onboard spending of $80.05 per person for an average cruise duration of 8.5 days.

Some retirees and cruisers use hacks such as credit card points to reduce those costs. While that can be a valid way to slash spending, figuring out those hacks is also time-consuming.

Other Factors to Consider

It’s possible to purchase residential quarters on a cruise ship, which offers stability and what amounts to a home at sea.

For example, cruise ship The World, which has a corporate office in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, is essentially a floating luxury apartment building. The World, which bills itself as a residential yacht, offers studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom residences.

The ship journeys worldwide, stopping at ports on various islands and continents.

Rather than buying a residence on one ship, some retirees go from one ship to another on commercial cruises. That level of moving around from one temporary home to the next, essentially living out of suitcases, may become less exciting over time.

Retirees should also consider whether they want cruising to be part of their post-working lifestyle or if they want to keep a home base on land. If they choose the latter, it would be wise to have a paid-off mortgage while being sure they can afford property taxes and have someone keeping an eye on possible maintenance issues.

Retirees who envision life at sea should also consider health concerns. A relatively young retiree without major health concerns is generally a better candidate for life on a cruise ship than a person with possible medical risks.

Staying in Touch

For retirees, staying connected with family and friends is a must. Prospective cruise ship retirees must be comfortable overseeing their affairs, including real estate , finances and correspondence, remotely from a ship.

"Be cognizant of the fact that the internet connection aboard will be much slower than what they're used to on land – when it works at all, that is," Yeskel said.

While cruisers can’t, in general, expect the same level of service as they’d find at home, things may be improving.

According to Pramad Arora, president and CEO of Wireless Maritime Services in Miramar, Florida, the cruise industry has been focusing on optimizing cell service, including Wi-Fi.

"As the cost of bandwidth has come down, the capacity has gone up. It has made it easier for folks to connect and use high-bandwidth applications," said Arora in an email. "Wi-Fi pricing has come down on cruise ships, and so has cellular roaming pricing. Those are the two things that make a difference when people make a decision to connect."

Luxury Comes at a Cost

There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to cruise ship retirement.

For example, Yeskel noted that most mass-market megaships have relatively static itineraries. Retirees living on these ships may find themselves revisiting similar or even identical trips every week for a year.

There are other options, but they come at a higher cost. "Retiring on a luxury ship will cost anywhere from $150,000 to over $200,000 per year," he said.

Those worldwide itineraries vary widely by season, potentially making them more stimulating for adventure seekers, Yeskel added.

Retiring on a cruise ship isn’t an easy decision. It may sound romantic, but it’s a big lifestyle change for most people. It’s something pre-retirees must consider carefully to be sure they are temperamentally suited for it.

"There is a mix of criteria that have to fit together like a jigsaw puzzle in order to make retiring aboard a cruise ship a practical option: Finances, health status, flexibility, age and the ability to manage all aspects of your life remotely," Yeskel said.

Best Places to Retire in Latin America

Maryalene LaPonsie June 27, 2024

Tags: retirement , Cruises , baby boomers , aging

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