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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.

luxury cruises description

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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scenic luxury cruises and tours veranda luxury cruise lines

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

Explore cruise lines that embody the VERANDA spirit, offering luxury and well-appointed design around every corner.

silversea veranda luxury cruise lines

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.

Paul Gauguin

paul gauguin cruises veranda luxury cruise lines

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 luxury cruises and tours veranda luxury cruise lines

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 veranda luxury cruise lines

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.

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crystal cruises veranda luxury cruise lines

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).

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Windstar Cruises

windstar cruises veranda luxury cruise lines

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 yacht collection veranda luxury cruise lines

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 veranda luxury cruise lines

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.

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cunard veranda luxury cruise lines

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

regent seven seas cruises veranda luxury cruise lines

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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13 of the best luxury cruise lines

luxury cruises description

Thursday October 19 2023, 13:00pm

Cruising doesn’t have to mean enormous floating cities with thousands of passengers — there are plenty of ultra-luxury lines offering adventures on small ships with a much more intimate atmosphere. The best of the best has everything from butler service to helicopter flights, from infinity pools to world class cuisine. Their ships sail everywhere from Antarctica to the Caribbean, often calling in at smaller ports for exclusive excursions. Intrigued? Here are the best luxury cruise lines to book with.

Main photo: the Owner’s Penthouse deck on Scenic Eclipse

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Our travel journalism is written and edited by independent experts to inform, inspire and advise our readers about the best choices for your holidays. We also feature properties and itineraries from a specially selected list of trusted operators. These buttons and adverts are clearly signposted, and provide direct links through to external sites. If you click and buy a product, we may earn revenue.

1. Oceania Cruises

You’ll enjoy some of the best food at sea on this line. The latest addition to the fleet, the 1,200-passenger Oceania Vista, launched in 2023. It became the seventh ship in the fleet and the first of two new Allura-class vessels, with the second scheduled for delivery in 2025. Created to reflect the glamorous belle époque era of Paris, the Grand Dining Room, with a ceiling that’s almost two decks high, is a standout feature on Vista. There’s also a dedicated cabin category for solo travellers. Suggestions from officers and crew members helped shape Oceania Vista, so you can expect a ship that is full of practical and aesthetic touches.

Oceania Cruises are among the best luxury cruise lines. They serve up impressive food, such as this scallop dish

2. Silversea

Italian flair is part of Silversea’s appeal, with acres of marble and cool design touches adorning its fleet of elegant ships. In 2023, the line launched Silver Nova, with accommodation for up to 728 guests that includes aft suites with 270-degree views; a sister ship, Silver Ray, is due to sail in summer 2024. Silversea service is highly personal, with a butler for every suite, and there’s a wide choice of fine-dining restaurants. These include SALT (Sea and Land Taste) Kitchen, showcasing regional cuisine from the destinations visited. Fares include all dining (except La Dame, which offers the finest French cuisine), a wide range of spirits and fine wines, crew tips, most gym classes and excursions in every port. Many cruises include flights and transfers too. On expedition cruises, all activities are included.

The Grill on the Silver Explorer cruise ship - Silversea is one of the best luxury cruise lines

There’s new cruising royalty on the horizon with the 3,000-passenger Queen Anne. Setting sail in 2024, the latest flagship is the line’s first new vessel in 12 years and will combine Cunard’s trademark art deco heritage with modern design details. The top suites on Cunard’s current trio of elegant Queens (Mary 2, Victoria and Elizabeth), are graded either Princess Grill or Queens Grill, and represent some of the most prestigious accommodation at sea — particularly the duplex suites that resemble smart private apartments. Each Grill class has its own fine-dining restaurant and Grill passengers have a private cocktail lounge. You’ll enjoy all the features of a big ship too, from top-notch guest speakers to grand theatrical productions and glittering black-tie balls.

A Princess Grill restaurant on Cunard, one of the best luxury cruise lines

Azamara’s four mid-sized luxury ships — most recently joined by Azamara Onward, which shares the same DNA as its fleetmates — offer affordable, destination-focused cruising with plenty of flair. Glamorous White Nights deck parties receive rave reviews, while every cruise includes an AzAmazing evening, a spectacular cultural event ashore. Itineraries focus on late departures, or overnights in port. You’ll be spoiled with its choice of restaurants, including a grill, Prime C, and a romantic Italian, Aqualina. Included are crew tips, most drinks and all dining apart from the two speciality restaurants. Suite guests get extra perks, including speciality dining. And, while most fares include flights and transfers, you’ll pay extra for shore excursions, premium drinks and, unless you’re in one of the top cabins, wi-fi.

The pool deck on an Azamara cruise ship - Azamara is one of the best luxury cruise lines

5. Seabourn

A fleet of contemporary small ships offering intuitive, all-inclusive service, sumptuous all-suite accommodation and superb dining. Seabourn offers un-stuffy luxury with a vibe that’s more superyacht than luxury cruise ship. The line has some impressive partnerships, not least with the renowned chef Thomas Keller, Sir Tim Rice and the wellness guru Dr Andrew Weil. All dining, including speciality restaurants, crew tips and a comprehensive menu of cocktails and fine wines is included. Some voyages include flights too. You’ll pay extra for premium wines, wi-fi, access to the Retreat (an exclusive alfresco lounge on the top deck) and shore excursions.

The Retreat, alfresco lounge area on  Seabourn ships - Seabourn is one of the best luxury cruise lines

6. Uniworld

Specialists in river cruising, Uniworld has cornered the market for extravagant ships that are inspired by their itineraries — and they have vessels all over the world, covering Europe, Asia, Africa and South America. SS La Venezia, for example, decked out in Murano glass and decadent Venetian detailing, sails only northern Italy, including Venice and its islands. On board, everything is included, including a curated selection of excursions. If you want to do your own thing, there are walking sticks and bicycles you can borrow.

A grand suite on Uniworld's SS La Venezia cruise ship - Uniworld is one of the best luxury cruise lines

7. SeaDream Yacht Club

The service is what sings on this tiny boutique cruise line, which operates just two 112-passenger megayachts that in 2022 underwent bow-to-stern revamps totalling nearly £10 million. All staterooms on SeaDream I and SeaDream II have been completely refurbished, and there are gleaming new teak decks mirroring the centuries-old yachting tradition. Attentive crew cater to guests’ every whim, while the food is exceptional, not least the imaginative vegetarian and vegan dishes. Life onboard is relaxed and informal, with the dress code best described as chic. Every voyage includes a decadent Champagne & Caviar Splash party, either around the pool or in the surf, with free-flowing bubbles. You can swim off the ship too and, for a touch of romance, sleep on deck under a duvet and a canopy of stars. Dining, crew tips and drinks apart from premium wines are included in the price.

A Balinese bed on a SeaDream cruise ship - Seadream Yacht Club is one of the best luxury cruise lines

Viking’s nine near-identical, adult-only ships carry 930 passengers and embody Scandi chic with their stylish, soothing interiors, gorgeous light-filled lounges and spacious cabins, every one of which has a private veranda. Highlights include an infinity pool on the aft deck, a superb spa with free access to the hydro pool, saunas and steam rooms, and the Wintergarden — a sunlit space with a retractable roof for warm days. Torshavn, an intimate little nightclub, is as fun as any jazz club you’ll find ashore. The package includes all dining, drinks with meals, wi-fi, crew tips, flights and transfers, and an excursion in every port. Bar drinks and optional excursions cost extra.

 Viking's Viking Star - Viking Ocean Cruises is one of the best luxury cruise lines

9. Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Regent’s classy ships have touches reminiscent of grand hotels, with elegant cocktail lounges and imaginatively designed restaurants. The suites on the two newest ships, Seven Seas Explorer and Seven Seas Splendor, are especially covetable, with opulent decor and butler service. Regent is arguably the world’s most luxurious — and most inclusive — of the luxury lines. All dining, most wines and spirits, crew tips, gym classes, wi-fi, excursions, flights and transfers, and even pre and post-cruise hotel stays are included. Spa treatments, premium drinks and some of the optional excursions are all you’ll pay extra for.

The Chartreuse Bar on Seven Seas Splendor cruise ship - Regent Seven Seas is one of the best luxury cruise lines

Megayacht Scenic Eclipse marked the first foray into the luxury ocean cruise scene for Australian-owned Scenic; the 228-guest sister vessel Scenic Eclipse II followed suit in spring of 2023. Every spacious suite has a balcony and you can expect upmarket interiors reminiscent of a contemporary boutique hotel. Standards don’t slip when it comes to gastronomy, where you can take your pick from Asian fusion, classic French and everything in between. Both ships are designed for polar expedition cruising, but also offer warm-water voyages. Whatever the climate, there’s plenty to keep guests entertained, be it e-bikes or stand-up paddleboarding, a helicopter flight or a dive in the submarine, which both cost extra. Practically everything is included: most drinks, all dining, crew tips, a stocked minibar, flights and transfers, excursions and activities.

A submarine that dives from Scenic cruise ships - Scenic is one of the best luxury cruise lines

11. Explora Journeys

Explora Journeys is the first luxury oceangoing brand from international shipping giant the MSC Group. Explora I, the first of six ships, debuted in 2023, and the rest will follow between 2024 and 2028. The sea-facing cabins — described as homes at sea — have balconies, walk-in wardrobes and heated bathroom floors. Entry level accommodation is larger than average and goes up to a huge Owner’s Residence, complete with a private terrace, hot tub and butler. Restaurants will feature cuisine from around the globe.

explorajourneys.com

The Explora 1 cruise ship at sea - Explora Journeys are among the best luxury cruise lines

12. Swan Hellenic

One for culture hounds, British line Swan Hellenic has itineraries to many adventurous destinations on the cruise circuit, from the polar regions to countries in east Africa and the Indian Ocean. You get to really experience it all, too, as a shore excursion is included for every stop. Its small fleet of three ships has been designed with expeditions in mind, but none of them scrimps on comfort — expect saunas with spectacular views, lounges with cosy fireplaces and cabins furnished with boutique hotel aesthetics. 

swanhellenic.com

French-owned Ponant operates a fleet of stylish expedition ships, the smartest of which are arguably the six Ponant Explorers, with clever design features — most notably a multisensory underwater viewing lounge. Every cabin has a balcony and luxurious, tactile finishes in leather and suede. On board you’ll find luxury French brands such as Veuve Clicquot champagne and Hermès bath products, as well as classic French cuisine overseen by the chef Alain Ducasse. The latest addition to the fleet is the icebreaker Le Commandant Charcot, tailor-made for thrilling polar expeditions. Costs cover dining, most drinks, a stocked minibar, wi-fi, crew gratuities and — on expedition cruises — most activities. You’ll pay extra for excursions and, on some voyages, flights.

Le Bougainville, one of Ponant's Explorer ships - Ponant is one of the best luxury cruise lines

Additional reporting by Qin Xie

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Ultra-luxury cruising

In a class of its own.

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Popular destinations

Create stories for life.

Great stories are born of unforgettable moments. With Scenic it’s more than ultra-luxury travel. It’s seldom-seen lands, unrestricted global navigation, and state-of-the-art ships allowing a front row seat to nature and culture as it unfolds before your eyes.

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Featured Itineraries

  •  Ocean Voyages
  • Europe River Cruises
  • Southeast Asia River Cruises

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Antarctica in Depth

Great White Wonder

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Arctic Islands Svalbard, Greenland and Iceland

On top of the world

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Bermuda and The Bahamas

Caribbean Playground

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Pure New Zealand: North & South Islands

The ultimate exploration of New Zealand

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Discover the Kimberley Coastline: An Ancient Wilderness

An Ancient Wilderness Wonderland

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Lagoons, Reefs & Cultures of Fiji and the Pacific

Slow Life Paradise

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Gems of the Danube

Take a journey rich in culture and beauty

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Romantic Rhine & Moselle

Romance is alive and well on the Rhine

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Danube in Depth

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Charming Castles & Vineyards of the Rhine & Moselle

Mighty castles and lush green vineyards

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Spectacular South of France

Awaken your senses in the South of France

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Delightful Douro

The soul of Portugal

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Highlights of Vietnam, Cambodia & Luxury Mekong - 7 or 9 night cruise

Travel in the footsteps of artists and kings

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Vietnam Explorer

The true spirit of Vietnam

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Essence of Vietnam, Cambodia & Luxury Mekong - 7 or 9 night cruise

A sensory celebration of South East Asia

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Luxury Mekong and Temple Discovery Cruise - 7 or 9 night cruise

Mekong magnificence

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Treasures of the Mekong - 7 or 9 night cruise

A waterway unlike any other

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Luxury cruise lines

Description.

Wrap yourself in the best service, all-inclusive formulas, luxurious and spacious suites. Set sail for exclusive seas and destinations, out of the ordinary, on small ships with attention to detail. This is the Luxury experience that will take you from Antarctica to the Amazons, from the Galapagos to the smallest Mediterranean islands. The maximum comfort, the best cuisine and prestigious wines will be the setting for your most in-depth excursions, perhaps prolonged by overnight and guided by experts and naturalists. Small floating jewels that are definitely worth trying to understand the differences and, sometimes, discover that with a little more money you can really get much more.

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Atlas Ocean Voyages

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Azamara Voyages

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Crystal Cruises

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Emerald Cruises

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Explora Journeys

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Four Seasons Yachts

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Hapag Lloyd Cruises

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Hebrides Cruises

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Mystic Cruises

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Nicko Cruises

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Nippon Yusen Kaisha

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Northern Xplorer

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Ocean Residences

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Oceania Cruises

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Paul Gauguin Cruises

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Regent Seven Seas Cruises

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ResidentSea

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Ritz-Carlton

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Scenic Luxury Cruises

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Seabourn Cruise Line

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Seadream Yacht Club

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Silversea Cruises

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Swan Hellenic Discovery Cruises

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Viking Ocean Cruises

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Villa Vie Residences

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Windstar Cruises

5 secrets to getting a luxury cruise for less

Erica Silverstein

Luxury cruises range in price from expensive to outrageously expensive. But the value of high-end ships is clear: For the money, you get more fare inclusions, nicer accommodations, upscale dining and higher space-to-passenger and crew-to-passenger ratios than on big, mass-market ships.

Still, sometimes you want the luxe for less.

You'll never find a cheap luxury cruise, but you can find sailings that are less expensive than others (either when sorting by the total cost or the per-night rate). You might have to compromise on sail dates or take a risk with the weather, but you can get great value by choosing the cruise less traveled.

Here are the five most affordable luxury cruises we could find, so you can save a little bit when you sail in style.

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

Fall Caribbean cruises

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Caribbean cruises might be the bread and butter of mass-market cruise lines, but they don't have the same prominence among the itineraries of the luxury lines. Tropical cruises on luxury lines tend to be shorter sailings, taking place in the fall and winter (rather than year-round) and often targeting younger professionals who might not have the time to take two-week vacations.

Combine those factors with a shoulder-season fall travel date (between mid-September and the week before Christmas) and you've got yourself a more affordable luxury cruise.

For example, Regent Seven Seas Cruises ' 2024-2025 Caribbean season runs from November through March. The least expensive sailing for the season takes place in early December in the travel lull between Thanksgiving and Christmas. Fares start at $3,899 per person for a weeklong round-trip cruise from Miami. A similar seven-night sailing costs $4,799 ($900 more) in February.

Shoulder-season Alaska cruises

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No matter which cruise line you sail, it's a truth universally acknowledged that the first and last Alaska sailings of the season are the most affordable. Why? Timing and weather.

The Alaska cruise season begins in late April or May and runs through September and occasionally October. These travel dates are often nonstarters for families, who wait for the summer school break to take their vacations. Even travelers not bound by school schedules sometimes shy away from these cruises because of the imperfect weather conditions.

In May, temperatures can still be chilly in Alaska, waterways in glacier areas can be clogged with ice, Alaska's famous salmon haven't started to run and bus service at Alaska's famed Denali National Park hasn't yet begun. In September and October, the temperatures start dropping — and the rain keeps falling — and attractions such as Denali begin to close.

All that said, if you're willing to take a risk on the weather and aren't planning a land tour up to Denali, you can score a deal on a high-end Alaska sailing during these off-peak times.

In 2025, a mid-May Alaska cruise on Silversea starts at $2,950 per person on Silver Moon (for port-to-port service — door-to-door is $4,900). The same cruise in July is priced from $4,550 for the cruise-only (or $6,400 door-to-door with transfers), making the shoulder-season cruise $1,600 less expensive. Even better, May is not as rainy as July, so you could experience sunnier days on the more affordable sailing.

Transatlantic crossings

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Many travelers choose their cruise for the ports of call. Cruisers are drawn to the destinations, whether they're checking exotic ports off their bucket list or love spending time on the beach. It's no surprise then that longer-than-average itineraries with few to no port calls are not warmly embraced by many cruise fans (except for devoted sea-day lovers).

Because many cruise ships regularly reposition between Europe (where they spend the summer) and the Caribbean (where they spend the winter), transatlantic crossings are inevitable. To attract guests, the cruise lines add interesting onboard activities and guest lecturers to the voyage, and they lower prices. If you love relaxing sea days and would revel in spending day after day in the middle of the ocean, an ocean crossing is a surefire way to get a luxury cruise experience for less.

Small, all-inclusive line SeaDream is a solid example of how affordable transatlantic sailings can get. In 2025, SeaDream 1 will sail its last Mediterranean cruise of the season from Barcelona to Malaga, Spain, with cruise prices starting at $6,499 for an eight-night cruise. The ship then sails from Malaga across the Atlantic to San Juan, Puerto Rico. That 13-night sailing is five nights longer than the preceding cruise, but its starting price is $3,799 — a $2,700 difference.

Entry-level cabins

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As a traveler chasing luxury, you're all about the upgrade. But to get a great price on a high-end cruise ship, you might want to reconsider your aversion to booking the cheapest rooms.

Entry-level suites on the nicest ships are not the windowless closets you'll find on some of the mass-market ships. They're spacious cabins with either windows or private balconies and separate sleeping and sitting areas, as well as nicely appointed, reasonably sized bathrooms and often walk-in or large closets. You'll get the same personal service, have access to the same gourmet dining and can enjoy the same ship amenities (a spa, a serene pool deck, social lounges and more) as folks in the top suites.

And you'll pay less. For example, an entry-level suite on luxury line Seabourn 's Seabourn Encore is a veranda suite, measuring 246 to 302 square feet with a 68- to 83-square-foot private balcony. On a seven-night Greece and Turkey cruise departing in June 2025, prices for these rooms start at $4,299 per person. Opt for the next suite level up — a 450-square-foot penthouse suite with a 93- to 103-square-foot balcony — and you'll pay from $7,999. That's an increase of $3,700, all for a suite you won't be spending much time in on this port-intensive itinerary.

Suite enclaves on big ships

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Several big-ship cruise lines have entered the luxury travel space with suite enclaves that come with extra amenities, and the options can be affordable by luxury standards. These cruises are ideal for families looking for upscale accommodations combined with robust children's programming or luxury travelers who prefer a more casual vibe or a wealth of entertainment and activity options on board.

Options include Norwegian Cruise Line 's The Haven, Royal Caribbean 's Royal Suite Class and MSC Cruises ' Yacht Club. Travelers who book these suites get VIP treatment compared to their shipmates. They have access to exclusive restaurants, lounges and sun decks; get priority boarding and theater seating; and might even receive more fare inclusions such as drink packages, internet access, gratuities and butler service (depending on the category booked).

Cruise fares in these top suites aren't cheap, but they can be comparatively affordable in two ways. First, Royal Caribbean, MSC and Norwegian cruise ships typically sail shorter itineraries than true luxury lines, so you could book a short cruise to spend less on your total vacation cost. Second, while prices are comparable to the luxury lines and can skyrocket when ships start to sell out, you can sail in the ship's top suites for what you'd pay for mid-level on a luxury ship.

For example, you can book an aft-facing penthouse (619 to 668 square feet with a 199- to 248-square-foot balcony) on a seven-night Caribbean cruise on Norwegian Encore for $4,149 per person on a Feb. 2, 2025, sailing. It comes with all of NCL's Free at Sea inclusions (drinks, dining, Wi-Fi and shore excursion credit), as well as the services of a butler and concierge, and access to The Haven's private lounge, restaurant and sun deck.

A weeklong Regent Seven Seas cruise to the Caribbean also in early February costs $14,049 per person for a 655-square-foot Grandeur Suite (with a 166- to 263-square-foot balcony). The cheapest veranda suite on that sailing starts at $6,599 per person — more than $2,000 over the price for a suite in Norwegian's The Haven.

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
  • The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
  • A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
  • 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
  • 15 ways cruisers waste money
  • The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

I compared every aspect of a Royal Caribbean and a Virgin Voyages cruise ship. One was worth the higher price.

  • I've sailed on both a Royal Caribbean and a Virgin Voyages cruise ship. 
  • The Virgin Voyages cruise cost $4,000 more, as it was a luxury, adults-only ship in a higher-tier cabin.
  • The Virgin Voyages cruise was more worth the price, but the Royal Caribbean ship was great for families.

Insider Today

Royal Caribbean and Virgin Voyages offer completely different experiences. And I've cruised with both.

In April 2022, I embarked on my first cruise aboard Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas . The seven-night Caribbean cruise took me to Roatán, Honduras; Cozumel and Costa Maya, Mexico; and Royal Caribbean's private island in the Bahamas.

Royal Caribbean is one of the world's most popular cruise lines for adults and families alike. Since its founding in 1968, the travel company has become known for breaking records with some of the largest cruise ships in the world, according to Cruise Critic .

Virgin Voyages, on the other hand, is a luxury, adults-only cruise line that's only been sailing since 2021. However, it's already made a name for itself with five awards from Cruise Critic for its ships, cabins, dining, and service, according to the company's website .

In August 2023, I took a seven-day Mediterranean cruise on Virgin Voyages' Valiant Lady ship , sailing everywhere from Ibiza and Barcelona to ports in Italy and France, including Toulon, Ajaccio, and Marina di Carrara .

Here's the rundown of all the similarities and differences between these two cruise lines — and which was more worth the cost for me.

The differences started with booking. My seven-day Virgin Voyages cruise cost nearly $4,000 more than my Royal Caribbean one — but for good reason.

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I spent $2,000 on my seven-day Royal Caribbean Cruise, and my Virgin Voyages cruise cost $5,900 for a trip of the same duration.

Aside from the obvious factor of Virgin Voyages being a luxury cruise line, there's another reason for the huge price gap.

I booked a cabin with only a window on the Royal Caribbean cruise. But on my Virgin Voyages cruise , I had a room with a balcony .

The Wonder of the Seas was the largest ship in Royal Caribbean's fleet when I sailed on it in 2022, but the Icon of the Seas has since taken that title. If I booked the same itinerary in 2024, a balcony room on the Wonder of the Seas would start at $2,000. And the balcony room for the same Virgin Voyages cruise I booked costs $5,000 this year, according to the company's website.

The Royal Caribbean ship was twice the size of Virgin Voyages', but I preferred the smaller layout.

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Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas is a giant. The 18-deck ship is 1,200 feet long, 210 feet tall, and 235,600 gross tons, with a passenger capacity of 7,000, according to the cruise line .

Being on board felt like navigating a massive mall. While there was lots to do and see, getting around to specific venues and activities overwhelmed me and left me feeling like I'd prefer a smaller ship.

The Virgin Voyages ship was much smaller — 125 feet tall, 910 feet long, and 110,000 gross tons, to be exact. The 17-deck ship holds up to 2,700 passengers, according to the cruise line .

Naturally, there was less to do on board the Valiant Lady. But this didn't bother me because I felt more relaxed in an easy-to-navigate environment.

But Royal Caribbean has a handful of smaller ships with a capacity of less than 3,000 people, including Rhapsody of the Seas, Serenade of the Seas, and Jewel of the Seas. The smallest fleet of the cruise line's nearly 30 ships is Grandeur of the Seas, which weighs 73,817 gross tons and has a capacity of about 2,000 passengers, The Points Guy reported .

Meanwhile, all Virgin Voyages ships are the same size, according to the company's website.

Perhaps the biggest difference was that the Virgin Voyages ship was for adults only.

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On my first cruise with Royal Caribbean, I felt like the ship was made primarily for families. Kids ran around the pool deck filled with water slides and spilled ice cream cones. I would have enjoyed the youthful energy if I had been on a family trip with my cousins and nephews. But as a solo cruiser , this made the trip less relaxing.

However, there was an adults-only indoor solarium with whirlpools, a bar and bistro, and plenty of lounge chairs. I found it peaceful compared to the other communal spaces on board and spent time there most days. I wondered what it would be like if the entire ship felt this relaxing.

Luckily, that's exactly how I felt on board the Valiant Lady. Virgin Voyages is an adults-only cruise line, meaning all its ships are only for those 18 and older.

The whole Virgin Voyages cruise ship felt like a sanctuary with tranquil pool decks, relaxing dining rooms, and more activities geared toward adults (more on that later).

Now that I've experienced the calming environment of a cruise free of screaming children, I don't think I'll ever take a family-friendly voyage again without children of my own.

The cabins were roughly the same size, but on the Virgin Voyages ship, I splurged for a private balcony.

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On the Royal Caribbean ship, my ocean-view stateroom was a 179-square-foot space with an en-suite bathroom, a desk, and a king-sized bed. There was also a closet and drawers with plenty of space to store my belongings.

I enjoyed having a window in my room to peek at each port stop before venturing out, but I couldn't help thinking that a room with a balcony would have been worth the upgrade . That's why I booked a Sea Terrace cabin for my Virgin Voyages cruise.

Including the balcony, the cabin was 225 square feet with a queen-sized bed. Like Royal Caribbean's, this room had a desk, a bathroom, and plenty of storage space. But naturally, the room felt more luxurious with modern, sleek furniture and an in-room tablet with smart controls for the curtains, lighting, and entertainment.

On the balcony was a hammock and a small table with two chairs. I loved stepping out to see the ocean views the moment I woke up each morning, and retiring to my balcony at sunset restored my energy each night. It was definitely worth the splurge.

All the restaurants are complimentary on the Virgin Voyages ship, but I paid extra for specialty menus with Royal Caribbean.

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The Wonder of the Seas had 20 restaurants on board. Nine of them were included in the price of the cruise, like the main buffet, Windjammer, which served three meals a day, including French toast, burgers, and pastries.

The rest of the dining options, which had specialty offerings like sushi and juicy steak dinners, came at an additional price. I paid between $40 and $60 per meal.

Meanwhile, the Valiant Lady had only 12 restaurants, but all were included in the price of the cruise.

The Galley is Virgin Voyages' food hall. Similar to Royal Caribbean's buffet, there were several stands with a wide range of offerings. But unlike Wonder of the Seas, the meals were made-to-order, making them taste fresher, in my opinion.

Virgin Voyages also had high-end restaurants with a wide range of genres to fulfill any craving I might be having — Mediterranean seafood, Korean barbecue, and Birria tacos, to name a few.

I thought the food was good overall on both ships, but I found that the Virgin Voyages ship's meals tasted consistently high quality, whereas on board the Royal Caribbean ship, I had a mixed bag of delicious entrées and dishes that were just all right.

Royal Caribbean had more pools than Virgin Voyages, but the latter was less crowded.

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On board Wonder of the Seas, there were three large pools. The ship also had a water playground for kids known as Splashaway Bay.

Throughout each day, I found the ship's pool decks to be crowded, and it was hard to find a single empty chair after noon, making pool time feel less relaxing than I had hoped.

On board Valiant Lady, there were two pools, and both were smaller than the Royal Caribbean options but also less crowded. I had no trouble finding a place to lounge at any time of the day.

In addition to the main pools, both ships had several whirlpools and small plunge pools on the top decks.

Royal Caribbean had seemingly endless activities for kids, while Virgin Voyages had unique activities for adults.

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Due to its grand size, the Wonder of the Seas was packed with activities, most geared toward children. Inside was an arcade, an ice skating rink, laser tag, and an escape room. On the outdoor decks, there was a surf simulator, multiple rock climbing walls and water slides, and sports like ping pong, basketball, and mini golf. Adults could also enjoy dance classes ranging from salsa and swing to hip-hop and ballroom styles.

The Valiant Lady had fewer activities, but given it's a kids-free ship, they were more geared toward adults.

Indoors, there was a less crowded arcade, making it easier to play. There was also a larger room nearby that had large tables and shelves packed with board games and puzzles.

Outside, the Virgin Voyages ship had a playground for grownups with giant seesaws and swing sets, a jumbo-sized chess set, a foosball table, and a basketball court. These activities made me feel like a kid again without all the screaming and rushing around.

Both ships were decorated with art, but the Virgin Voyages ship felt more modern and creatively cohesive.

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The was no shortage of artwork on either ship.

Paintings, photographs, and accent wallpapers lined the staircases and some walls on each deck of Wonder of the Seas. There was a wide range of colors and artistic styles, too.

On board the Valiant Lady, the artwork matched the ship's design style with a bold color scheme contrasting a red theme and modern works in a variety of mediums, from iridescent mirrors to sculptures.

While the artwork on both ships impressed me, I preferred the art on the Virgin Voyages cruise. The array of mediums and cohesive style made the art feel more immersive rather than just decorative.

Both ships entertained with concerts, comedy sets, and acrobatics, but the Virgin Voyages shows were more immersive.

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Both ships had a wide variety of entertainment, from dancing and gymnastics to comedy shows and concerts. But only Wonder of the Seas had dazzling ice skating shows, thanks to the in-house rink.

On board the Valiant Lady, I found the entertainment to be more unique and immersive with events like Scarlet Night, where the entire ship was decked out in red, from lights and pop-up sculptures to guests who were encouraged by the cruise line to wear the color. On this special evening, entertainers filled the decks' main spaces as cruisers gathered around for intimate shows.

Both ships had impressive spas and fitness centers.

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On board one of the largest cruise ships in the world, Royal Caribbean's spa and fitness center was naturally larger. In fact, it took up half of a deck.

Inside both ships' gyms were cardio machines, strength and training equipment, and dramatic ocean views. Both cruise lines also had fitness classes like yoga, although these sessions came at an additional cost on the Royal Caribbean ship. Both ships had running tracks, too.

But only the Virgin Voyages ship had an outdoor fitness area next to the playground with kickboxing bags and body-weight workout equipment nodding to athletic social clubs of the 1920s, according to the cruise line's website .

Both ships also had spa centers with a range of massages and facials for an additional price. Treatments started at $100 on board Wonder of the Seas and $155 on board Valiant Lady.

While Royal Caribbean's trip was cheaper and bigger, I thought the Virgin Voyages cruise was worth the higher price tag.

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For $2,000, the Royal Caribbean cruise was a great value for those looking to spend seven days on a mega-ship with countless activities. It's especially ideal for families since it's more affordable and spacious, and kids will never run out of things to do.

But couples and solo travelers are better off splurging for an intimate setting on a unique, sleek ship made for adults who want to feel wrapped in luxury.

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INSIDER

The best luxury travel destinations you can visit in 2024, according to experts

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

<ul class="summary-list"><li>Luxury travel options are in abundance, but travel experts recommend just a handful. </li><li>Experts Julia Carter and Jan Luescher shared their top six destinations for 2024.</li><li>They suggested staying in a safari lodge in South Africa or taking a cruise to Norway.</li></ul><p>When it comes to luxury travel, there are an unlimited number of possibilities — but that might just be the problem.</p><p>In the era of <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/best-luxury-train-rides-try-experience-new-year-2024-1">panoramic train </a>journeys, <a href="https://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/cruises/articles/air-cruise-new-holiday-for-super-rich-private-jet/">"air cruises" </a>— and actual <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/why-you-should-go-on-honeymoon-before-getting-engaged-2024-1">cruises</a> — there are many unique options that can be difficult to narrow down.</p><p>Business Insider spoke to travel experts Julia Carter and Jan Luescher, who shared their top six luxury travel destinations you should be looking at in 2024.</p><p>Carter is the founder of <a href="https://www.crafttravel.com/">Craft Travel</a>, a travel company that focuses on "luxury adventures worldwide," according to its website. Luescher is the chief executive officer of the luxury travel-focused social network <a rel=" nofollow" href="https://www.asmallworld.com/">A Small World.</a></p><div class="read-original">Read the original article on <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/best-luxury-travel-destinations-experts-wellness-safari-cruise-wildlife-city-2024-2">Business Insider</a></div>

  • Luxury travel options are in abundance, but travel experts recommend just a handful. 
  • Experts Julia Carter and Jan Luescher shared their top six destinations for 2024.
  • They suggested staying in a safari lodge in South Africa or taking a cruise to Norway.

When it comes to luxury travel, there are an unlimited number of possibilities — but that might just be the problem.

In the era of panoramic train journeys, "air cruises" — and actual cruises — there are many unique options that can be difficult to narrow down.

Business Insider spoke to travel experts Julia Carter and Jan Luescher, who shared their top six luxury travel destinations you should be looking at in 2024.

Carter is the founder of Craft Travel , a travel company that focuses on "luxury adventures worldwide," according to its website. Luescher is the chief executive officer of the luxury travel-focused social network  A Small World.

<p>South Africa is a sought-after location because of a recent influx of private safari lodges, according to Carter.</p><p>Carter recommends Kateka Lodge, a wellness safari resort in Kruger National Park that opened in September 2023. The resort offers spa treatments, yoga, and a plunge pool. The rate for an overnight stay for one person begins at 28,800 South African Rand, or around $1,511, according to its website.</p><p>Tswalu's Loapi Tented Camp is another great option, Carter said. The luxury safari camp offers horse riding, bird watching, and there's also a fine-dining restaurant led by Michelin star chef Jan Hendrik van der Westhuizen. The rate for an overnight stay begins at 46,700 South African Rand, or around $2,451 per person, the website states.</p>

Try a wellness safari lodge in South Africa.

South Africa is a sought-after location because of a recent influx of private safari lodges, according to Carter.

Carter recommends Kateka Lodge, a wellness safari resort in Kruger National Park that opened in September 2023. The resort offers spa treatments, yoga, and a plunge pool. The rate for an overnight stay for one person begins at 28,800 South African Rand, or around $1,511, according to its website.

Tswalu's Loapi Tented Camp is another great option, Carter said. The luxury safari camp offers horse riding, bird watching, and there's also a fine-dining restaurant led by Michelin star chef Jan Hendrik van der Westhuizen. The rate for an overnight stay begins at 46,700 South African Rand, or around $2,451 per person, the website states.

<p>If you want to experience South Africa but are more of a city person, Carter suggests visiting Cape Town, the country's capital, known for its five-star hotels and fine-dining restaurants.</p><p>She recommends the Cape Grace, a five-star hotel adjacent to the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront for accommodation. The hotel was praised for its "historic naval character" and flamboyant decor in <a href="https://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/destinations/africa/south-africa/cape-town/articles/the-best-cape-town-waterfront-hotels/">The Telegraph's roundup of Cape Town's best waterfront hotels</a> in 2017.</p><p>When it comes to food, Carter recommends fine-dining restaurant chain La Colombe and FYN, which is known for its Asian and French-inspired menu. Both were named in the <a href="https://www.theworlds50best.com/list/51-100">World's Best 100 Restaurants</a> in 2023.</p>

If nature isn't your thing, visit Cape Town for its luxury hotels and food scene.

If you want to experience South Africa but are more of a city person, Carter suggests visiting Cape Town, the country's capital, known for its five-star hotels and fine-dining restaurants.

She recommends the Cape Grace, a five-star hotel adjacent to the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront for accommodation. The hotel was praised for its "historic naval character" and flamboyant decor in The Telegraph's roundup of Cape Town's best waterfront hotels in 2017.

When it comes to food, Carter recommends fine-dining restaurant chain La Colombe and FYN, which is known for its Asian and French-inspired menu. Both were named in the World's Best 100 Restaurants in 2023.

<p>Carter said Argentina is "easily one of the best" luxury travel destinations for 2024 because of its 5-star accommodation and outdoor attractions.</p><p>She recommends staying in Awasi Iguazu, a collection of 14 private villas surrounded by the Atlantic Rainforest. Each villa has a private terrace, a plunge pool, and access to a private guide for trips to the nearby Iguazu Falls, the largest broken waterfall in the world.</p><p>"The powerful chain of waterfalls is incredible to see, comprising 275 cascades that spread across a three-mile-long gulf and surrounded by a flourishing subtropical rainforest home to over 2,000 species of vascular plants, vibrant bird species such as parrots, toucans, and mammals like tapirs and howler monkeys," Carter said.</p><p>Prices for an overnight stay begin at $2,300 per villa, and there is a three-night minimum stay, according to Awasi Iguazu's website.</p>

Take a private tour of the breathtaking scenery in Argentina.

Carter said Argentina is "easily one of the best" luxury travel destinations for 2024 because of its 5-star accommodation and outdoor attractions.

She recommends staying in Awasi Iguazu, a collection of 14 private villas surrounded by the Atlantic Rainforest. Each villa has a private terrace, a plunge pool, and access to a private guide for trips to the nearby Iguazu Falls, the largest broken waterfall in the world.

"The powerful chain of waterfalls is incredible to see, comprising 275 cascades that spread across a three-mile-long gulf and surrounded by a flourishing subtropical rainforest home to over 2,000 species of vascular plants, vibrant bird species such as parrots, toucans, and mammals like tapirs and howler monkeys," Carter said.

Prices for an overnight stay begin at $2,300 per villa, and there is a three-night minimum stay, according to Awasi Iguazu's website.

<p>Luescher said French Polynesia is one of the best luxury destinations for 2024 because it's underrated and uncrowded.</p><p>Luescher describes the region, which consists of five archipelagos and 118 islands, as a "completely unspoiled" alternative to Hawaii due to its dazzling coastline and luxury accommodation options.</p><p>Luescher recommends staying in an overwater bungalow. Although he didn't specify a specific resort, the island has many options, including the overwater villas at <a href="https://www.leborabora.com/x,999,1044,2342,,,/pool-overwater-villa.html">Le Bora Bora by Pearl Resorts</a> and the <a href="https://www.fourseasons.com/borabora/">Four Seasons</a>, which offers overwater and beachfront villas.</p>

French Polynesia is an uncrowded alternative to Hawaii.

Luescher said French Polynesia is one of the best luxury destinations for 2024 because it's underrated and uncrowded.

Luescher describes the region, which consists of five archipelagos and 118 islands, as a "completely unspoiled" alternative to Hawaii due to its dazzling coastline and luxury accommodation options.

Luescher recommends staying in an overwater bungalow. Although he didn't specify a specific resort, the island has many options, including the overwater villas at Le Bora Bora by Pearl Resorts and the Four Seasons , which offers overwater and beachfront villas.

<p>Luescher said cruise-lovers should consider taking their next voyage around <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/my-great-grandfathers-gravestone-in-norway-was-removed-2023-6">Norway</a>.</p><p>The Scandinavian country is known for its UNESCO-protected fjords, frozen glaciers, and beautiful forests — and you can see it all from the comfort of a luxury vessel.</p><p>Norway has become a popular destination for cruise itineraries in recent years, with some voyages dedicated entirely to the country. British cruise line P&O and luxury cruise operators Cunard and Silversea offer voyages to Norway in 2024.</p>

Luescher said Norwegian cruises will be popular in 2024.

Luescher said cruise-lovers should consider taking their next voyage around Norway .

The Scandinavian country is known for its UNESCO-protected fjords, frozen glaciers, and beautiful forests — and you can see it all from the comfort of a luxury vessel.

Norway has become a popular destination for cruise itineraries in recent years, with some voyages dedicated entirely to the country. British cruise line P&O and luxury cruise operators Cunard and Silversea offer voyages to Norway in 2024.

<p>Luesche said Madagascar is fantastic for wildlife spotting, making it an under-the-radar alternative to Costa Rica.</p><p>"In fact, it is home to a wealth of animals that you will not find anywhere else on Earth, including lemur species, chameleons, Tenrecs, fossas, and giant chameleons," Luescher said.</p><p>"In terms of accommodation, there is a wealth of ultra-luxury lodges and hotels," Luescher added.</p>

Madagascar is another under-the-radar destination for wildlife spotting.

Luesche said Madagascar is fantastic for wildlife spotting, making it an under-the-radar alternative to Costa Rica.

"In fact, it is home to a wealth of animals that you will not find anywhere else on Earth, including lemur species, chameleons, Tenrecs, fossas, and giant chameleons," Luescher said.

"In terms of accommodation, there is a wealth of ultra-luxury lodges and hotels," Luescher added.

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The 9 best northern lights alaska cruises for 2024 & beyond.

Consider one of these trips for a chance to see this mesmerizing natural wonder.

The Best Northern Lights Alaska Cruises

Northern lights over Alaska landscape.

Getty Images

There's no other experience on Earth quite like witnessing the northern lights. Also known as the aurora borealis, this spellbinding phenomenon – when brilliant hues of green, yellow and purple dance across the night sky – is visible in Alaska from late August to late April. Clear, dark evenings away from the ambient light of cities provide prime viewing opportunities.

Alaska is one of the best places in the world to see the aurora borealis – especially locations in the Interior and Arctic regions, such as Coldfoot, Wiseman, Utqiagvik (Barrow) and Nome. Fairbanks is regarded as a top location due to its position directly under the auroral oval, a ring-shaped area in the far north where aurora activity is generally concentrated. The Southcentral region of Alaska, where you'll find Anchorage, Talkeetna and the Mat-Su Valley, also offers basecamps for northern lights viewing.

If you're hoping to see the magic aboard an Alaska cruise in 2024 or 2025, then you just might be in luck. Experts predict the next few seasons will be particularly good for northern lights sightings, due to increased solar activity. While seeing the northern lights is never guaranteed, your best chance of seeing them is during these high-activity solar cycles, which occur about every 11 years.

Find your perfect cruise

When to take a cruise to view the northern lights

The Alaska cruise season falls between May and September, with a few cruise lines extending the season from April to October.

Holland America Line recommends booking a cruise or cruisetour (a combined sea and land package) during the autumnal equinox, or the official start of autumn, which falls around Sept. 22 in the Northern Hemisphere. Disturbances in the Earth's magnetic field are more likely around the autumn and spring equinoxes, which could increase your chances of seeing the aurora. For the best views, Holland America advises heading to higher ground in Anchorage , to vantage points like Glen Alps, the Knit River Valley and Point Woronzof.

Princess Cruises also suggests booking your vacation in the fall. September is an ideal month to watch for the spectacle in the sky as the nights start getting longer and darker. The elusive display is most likely to appear on crystal-clear evenings between midnight and 4 a.m. While you can see incredible light shows in Anchorage, consider an extended tour of Fairbanks or the Interior that takes you away from light pollution (such as to Denali National Park & Preserve).

U.S. News has compiled a list of the nine best cruises and cruisetours to give you the optimal chance of viewing these whimsical lights in the sky, with a focus on sailings around the autumnal equinox in 2024 and later dates in September 2025. We've also included an early sailing in April, before the end of the aurora season. (Keep in mind: Many of these trips and itineraries are also available on other dates during the season. Cruise fares were accurate at the time of publication.)

Holland America Line

Princess cruises, celebrity cruises, norwegian cruise line, royal caribbean international.

Man standing under the northern lights in Canada.

Thierry Guenez | Courtesy of Holland America Line

9-Day Denali: Tour D8l

This nine-day land and sea tour on Nieuw Amsterdam includes an opportunity to search for the northern lights in Fairbanks, one of the best places to see them in Alaska (and in the world). Holland America offers a four-hour aurora borealis viewing tour outside the city in a yurt; it operates between the last week of August and mid-September.

If you'd like more options, there's no shortage of tour operators in town that can take you on a northern lights adventure in Fairbanks. You can even fly into town early to stay in the wilderness in an igloo with clear views of the night sky at Borealis Basecamp, located less than 30 miles from Fairbanks. Be sure to notify your hotel that you'd like a wake-up call or a knock on the door if the northern lights are on display.

You'll have more opportunities to see the aurora when you head to Denali National Park & Preserve for a stay at Holland America 's exclusive 60-acre McKinley Chalet Resort, located near the entrance to the park. After a full day exploring the park by ATV or a bucket list flightseeing adventure over Denali, you'll have another chance to see the colorful light display in Alaska's wilderness after midnight. The rest of the cruisetour itinerary includes scenic cruising days, with one spent in beautiful Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve. You'll also call on Juneau , Skagway and Ketchikan before disembarking in Vancouver .

14-Day Denali: Tour D3c

This 14-day adventure includes scenic cruising of the Inside Passage, Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve and College Fjord, with stops in the ports of Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, Whittier and Seward. You'll then have nearly a week on land in Anchorage, Denali National Park & Preserve and Fairbanks to go aurora hunting. If you spend an extra night or two in Fairbanks at the end of the trip, you'll be in town for the autumnal equinox, maximizing your northern lights viewing opportunities.

With the extra time in town, plan to book the Arctic Circle Air Adventure with Northern Alaska Tour Company. This unforgettable journey takes you on a flight over the Yukon River and Brooks Range, just east of the Gates of the Arctic National Park & Preserve. You'll then land 60 miles north of the Arctic Circle in the community of Coldfoot and receive an Arctic Circle Adventure Certificate before your return flight to Fairbanks.

7-Day Glacier Discovery Northbound

If you're interested in a cruise-only option and would prefer to arrange the land portion independently, consider this seven-day voyage on Nieuw Amsterdam. The itinerary includes three scenic cruising days, with one day in Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve, and calls on the ports of Ketchikan, Juneau and Skagway before disembarking in Whittier, which sits roughly 60 miles south of Anchorage.

From Whittier, there are many options to transfer to Anchorage (by rail or by road), including the iconic Glacier Discovery Train. Plan to stay a few evenings in Anchorage with a multiday guided aurora tour, or reserve a spot on an evening outing in search of the northern lights.

Princess Cruises ship in Skagway, Alaska.

Courtesy of Princess Cruises

11-Day Denali Explorer – Tour DA4

This 11-day cruisetour begins with a seven-night voyage embarking from Vancouver on Royal Princess or Sapphire Princess . The itinerary includes three sea days, two of which are dedicated to scenic cruising through Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve and College Fjord. You'll make stops in the coastal towns of Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway and Anchorage (Whittier) before disembarking to depart for the Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge via the line's direct-to-the-wilderness rail service.

Spending three nights at the lodge – located just outside the entrance to the park – in mid-September will offer excellent opportunities for aurora viewing. Keep your fingers crossed for high solar activity and clear, dark skies. Throughout your trip, learn photography tips to capture the mesmerizing display through Princess' North to Alaska Program. After your stay in Denali, you'll take a motor coach to Anchorage and stay overnight in a hotel there to finish up your voyage.

10-Day On Your Own – Tour BBX

The 10-Day On Your Own cruisetour with Princess Cruises begins with three nights on land, including overnights in Fairbanks, the Denali Princess Wilderness Lodge and the Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge. While at the Mt. McKinley resort, be sure to check out the lodge's treehouse. Designed by Pete Nelson of Animal Planet's "Treehouse Masters," this vantage point offers impressive views of Denali – the highest peak in North America at 20,310 feet above sea level.

Before heading off to bed, get an update on aurora activity from the tracker on your smartphone, especially if you have clear skies that night; the app My Aurora Forecast & Alerts has excellent reviews. Request a wake-up call to have the Princess lodge staff call your room if the dazzling bands of light begin to dance in the sky. The next day, after traveling to Whittier by motor coach, you'll embark on your cruise to Vancouver aboard Royal Princess or Sapphire Princess.

The voyage from Whittier includes three sea days for relaxing activities on board the ship, with two days of scenic cruising around Hubbard Glacier and in Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve. During your time in Glacier Bay, park rangers will board the ship to offer commentary about this captivating wilderness area's pristine glaciers and abundant wildlife. Younger cruisers and teens will also appreciate learning about this spectacular place through the Junior Ranger program, which features interactive games, activities and presentations. (All cruise ships visiting the park participate in this program with the National Park Service.) Ports of call for the rest of the journey include Icy Strait Point or Skagway (depending on the cruise), then Juneau and Ketchikan. The voyage ends in Vancouver.

luxury cruises description

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Balcony of the Celebrity Suite on the Celebrity Summit.

Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

The Great National Parks Expedition Cruisetour

Celebrity's pre-cruise national parks adventure takes guests on a wildlife viewing quest to destinations in the north and the Interior where you can watch for the aurora. The 12-night trip begins in Fairbanks with a free day to explore.

Consider a trip to the University of Alaska Museum of the North, which features exhibits on Arctic dinosaurs, diverse wildlife, Alaska Native cultures and 2,000 years of Alaska art. You could also visit the impressive collection of antique cars and clothing at the Fountainhead Antique Auto Museum, or take a walk with the reindeer into the woods at Running Reindeer Ranch. The second day in town includes a Riverboat Discovery ride and a tour of the city, as part of the cruisetour.

On the third day, you'll board the Wilderness Express (a glass-domed railcar) for the ride to Denali. Then, you'll embark on the Tundra Wilderness Tour in search of the park's grizzly bears, moose, Dall sheep and other wildlife. Be sure to put your name on the list before bedtime to get a wake-up call for aurora activity. You'll also have one evening in Anchorage, where you can arrange for a northern lights tour, and one night in Seward before setting sail on Celebrity Summit the next morning. Highlights of the voyage include cruising Hubbard Glacier and the Inside Passage as well as stopping in Juneau, Icy Strait Point and Ketchikan. You'll disembark in Vancouver.

The Norwegian Bliss on the water at sunset with mountains in the background.

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

13-Day Denali Explorer – Pre-Cruise Cruisetour

Norwegian Cruise Line's six-day pre-cruise adventure begins with overnights in Fairbanks, Denali and Anchorage, where you'll have the best chances to view the northern lights. Other highlights for the first part of the trip include a deluxe dome car rail journey from Talkeetna to Anchorage on the Alaska Railroad and a private tour to an Iditarod sled dog musher's kennel. You'll also have plenty of time in Denali National Park to book a flightseeing tour, go whitewater rafting, or take a hike with a park ranger to look for bears, moose, Dall sheep, wolves and other local wildlife before starting your cruise in Seattle .

Norwegian Encore will call on Juneau, Skagway, Glacier Bay and Ketchikan (Ward Cove) in Alaska. The Mill at Ward Cove near Ketchikan is a newly built cruise ship port that serves as a jumping-off point for outdoor activities in the Tongass National Forest, from hiking and biking to kayaking and sea cycling. You can even pick up souvenirs, grab a bite to eat and sample a cold Alaska brew at the mill. The cruise itinerary also includes one day at sea and a stop in Victoria, British Columbia, before you disembark in Seattle.

7-Night Alaska: Dawes Glacier, Juneau & Ketchikan

Consider this seven-day cruise on Norwegian Bliss if you prefer to travel early in the spring and take your chances at catching the northern lights toward the end of aurora season, which falls around April 21. This round-trip itinerary from Seattle is one of the earliest sailings of the year to visit the Great Land and features two sea days, with one day of scenic cruising in Endicott Arm and Dawes Glacier. You'll also visit Sitka, Juneau, Icy Strait Point, Ketchikan (Ward Cove) and Victoria before disembarking in Seattle.

Juneau will offer one of the best opportunities during the cruise for seeing the northern lights, although chances are dependent on the weather and solar activity. There are several apps and websites with real-time updates for aurora tracking, including My Aurora Forecast & Alerts. If the skies are clear in the evening and the forecast looks promising, ask guest relations if there's a sign-up sheet to get a call or a knock on the door in the event of aurora activity.

Exterior of Royal Caribbean's Radiance of the Seas.

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

12 Night Mountain Panorama Adventure Cruisetour 5B (Pre Tour)

This 12-night cruisetour with Royal Caribbean International begins with an overnight in Anchorage before boarding the Wilderness Express, where you'll have a glass-domed rail car for the journey to Talkeetna. The quirky community of Talkeetna is said to be the inspiration for the fictional Alaska town of Cicely in the 1990s show "Northern Exposure." It's also an excellent base for chasing the aurora – especially at the Talkeetna Alaskan Lodge, where you'll be staying.

After an overnight at the lodge, your tour moves on to Denali, where you can search for wildlife by day and look for the aurora at night. Another evening on land at Hotel Alyeska in the remote town of Girdwood affords more opportunities to chase the finnicky lights before heading to Seward to board your ship, Radiance of the Seas .

Ports of call on this voyage include Juneau, Skagway, Icy Strait Point and Ketchikan. There are also two days of scenic cruising through Hubbard Glacier and the Inside Passage before disembarking in Vancouver. While there are plenty of activities, dining venues, bars and lounges on board to keep you entertained all night long, be sure to save up enough energy to wake up in the middle of the night should you get a call to see the magical natural wonder that is the northern lights.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi is a U.S. News & World Report contributor and an avid travel adventurer who fell in love with Alaska on her first visit to the state many years ago. She's returned several times both by land and sea to view wildlife and chase the northern lights in one of the best places on the planet to view them. She's even considered moving to The Great Land as a full-time resident. Pratesi used her deep knowledge of Alaska and the cruise industry to write this article.

You might also be interested in:

  • Alaska Cruise Packing List: Must-Have Items
  • The Best Alaska Cruise Lines
  • The Best Time to Cruise to Alaska
  • The Best Alaska Shore Excursions
  • How to See the Northern Lights in Iceland

Tags: Travel , Cruises , Alaska Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

  • # 1 South Island, New Zealand
  • # 4 Bora Bora

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