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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.

what are the luxury cruise liners

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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13 of the best luxury cruise lines

While all ultra-luxury cruise lines have fine dining, superb accommodation and impeccable service, each has its own personality, style and devoted following. here are some of the best.

what are the luxury cruise liners

C ruising 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

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 glamorousbelle 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 feature excellent 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 Silver Explorer

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.

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The Princess Grill on Cunard’s Queen Elizabeth

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 ship

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 is an alfresco lounge on Seabourn ships

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

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

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

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

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.

Submarine dives are available to travellers with Scenic

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.

Explora 1

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/Nicolas Matheus)

Additional reporting by Qin Xie

Take me there

Inspired to go on a luxury cruise but yet to book your trip? Here are the best options from Six Star Cruises and Cruise 118 , as well as the best cruises from our trusted operators .

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what are the luxury cruise liners

What is the Most Luxurious Cruise Line?

what are the luxury cruise liners

Luxury means different things to different people, especially when it comes to the most luxurious cruise line.

Back in the day, luxury was fairly simple to define -- luxury meant formality, so-called "white glove" service and elegance.

Now? Well, it could mean exclusivity to some, privacy to others, a private Learjet experience or watching the sun rise over Macchu Pichu.

For the handful of cruise lines operating in the luxury space, they are constantly redefining and tweaking their luxury offering depending on who their passengers are.

We take a look at the cruise lines which define themselves as luxury and try and help you choose the most luxurious cruise line depending on your tastes.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises is the Most Luxurious Cruise Line for Elegance

what are the luxury cruise liners

Regent Seven Seas offers the most "traditional" form of luxury when it comes to the main luxury lines, designed to appeal to an older demographic, reflecting its passenger base.

Design and decor are more reminiscent of a Four Seasons or Ritz-Carlton hotel -- in fact, if you didn't know you were on a ship you could well imagine you were at a hotel.

Expect outstanding service, with penthouse suites and above enjoying the services of a butler.

And like most lines operating in this sector, there is a strong emphasis on food with two stand-out restaurants on most ships -- Pacific Rim and Chartreuse, as well as great steak house, Prime 7.

Passengers like to dress up, and from 6 p.m. dress code moves from casual to smart casual or elegant. (Certain nights are designated formal or elegant).

Regent is also the most inclusive line (in terms of costs), with everything onboard (except for spa treatments) included as well as airfare and shore excursions. Because of this, lead-in fares often skew higher.

However, this is not something the line shies away from: Its newest ship, Seven Seas Splendor , features in a U.K. television show called, "The Most Expensive Cruise Ship in the World," which is entering its third season.

Regent operates some of the bigger ships in this sector, with Splendor, Seven Seas Grandeur and Seven Seas Explorer carrying 750 passengers each.

Who would it suit? Those who like old-school luxury, personalized service and great food.

Silversea is the Most Luxurious Cruise Line for Modern Luxury

what are the luxury cruise liners

Silversea has spent much of the past few years redefining itself in the luxury space. A few years ago, the line might have been considered a little formal and starchy, but recent changes have created a huge transformation, driven largely by new CEO Barbara Muckermann, as well as the might (and money) of the Royal Caribbean Group, of which the line became a part of in July 2018.

Two innovative programs and a fleet of beautiful new-builds have taken Silversea to new levels of luxury.

The first is the S.A.L.T. (Sea & Land Taste) food program , overseen by Adam Sachs, ex-editor of gourmet food magazine Saveur , which aims to take guests deeper into the places they are visiting by means of food. The program made its full debut on Silver Moon in 2021.

The other is Otium , a new spa concept which debuted last year on Silver Dawn and which seeks to bring the spa into your cabin, leaning deep into the wellness trend.

The newer ships are stunning, offering an understated, tasteful style of luxury, and are at the larger end of the luxury scale, carrying 596 passengers.

All suites come with butler service, assigning individuals dedicated to making your cruise experience exceptional.  (Find out why cruise ship butlers are amazing , and what services they'll perform.)

Who would it suit? Passengers 55 and older looking for an authentic foodie experience, stylish surrounds and superb service.

Seabourn is the Most Luxurious Cruise Line for Cool Luxury

what are the luxury cruise liners

Seabourn long has been respected in the luxury sector when it comes to service levels, which are famously intuitive, and food -- overseen by Thomas Keller.

Seabourn has three ship sizes -- the 354-passenger vessels, the 600-passenger ships and an expedition ship, Seabourn Venture , which carries 264 passengers.

When Seabourn Odyssey debuted in 2009, it was hailed as revolutionary, with more restaurants, entertainment options and larger-than-average suite sizes.

And although the Odyssey Class of ships is still stunning, many of its competitors have caught up while Seabourn has stood still in terms of innovation.

Having said that, the ships stand the test of time, with breathtaking interior design, top-notch food and the aforementioned service levels.

Crew are less formal than you find on other lines and are drawn from a wider nationality base, so the vibe onboard is distinct from other lux lines.

Who would it suit? Well-traveled, well-heeled, but not overly fussy when it comes to formality.

SeaDream is the Most Luxurious Cruise Line for Laid-Back Luxury

what are the luxury cruise liners

SeaDream operates just two small (around 100-passengers) ships SeaDream 1 and SeaDream II ) with fiercely loyal followings. The ships are getting on, and no cabins have balconies, yet passengers don't seem to care when they are spending most of their time outside anyway.

Sailing on SeaDream is similar to sailing on a friend's yacht -- no formality, lots of food and outstanding service (helped by a passenger to guest ratio of almost 1:1).

In terms of dress codes, there are none -- wear what's comfortable in the day and perhaps throw on a shirt or a casual dress in the evening.

Most passengers spend their time outside anyway, so balconies aren't missed, and you'll soon find you'll get to know everyone after a day or two.

Both ships include a marina with a wide range of toys including sailboats, WaveRunners, snorkeling gear, banana boats, tubes, wakeboards and water skis, stand-up paddleboards and Jet Skis.

The line operates a semi-inclusive fare policy, so all meals, gratuities and some crew-led excursions are included, while alcoholic beverages are not.

Who would it suit? Sporty, outdoorsy types who enjoy playing in the water and dining under the stars.

Scenic is the Most Luxurious Cruise Line for Ultra-Personalized Luxury

what are the luxury cruise liners

Confusing at first, but then strangely welcome, Scenic crew address you by your name as soon as you step onboard -- and we're not just talking your personal butler. Everyone, from room stewards, bar staff and waiters seem to know who you are from day one.

How they do this, we've never quite worked out, but it's one of the hallmarks of a Scenic ocean cruise.

With just one small ship -- the 200-passenger Scenic Eclipse and a second on the way this spring Scenic Eclipse II -- the line is carving out a niche in the ultra-luxury small-ship space.

Looking more like a billionaire's mega-yacht, Scenic Eclipse is genuinely like nothing we've sailed on before, from the sleek yacht-like exterior to the cool black palette of the interior.

The eight restaurants are overseen by master chef Thomas Goetter, who offers (in our opinion) the best Chef's Table experience at sea , where he makes the food come to life with tales of his youth.

All the suites are huge and well-designed (although the black color palette can seem a little too dark at times); and the ship's public spaces such as the lecture theater and main reception/bar area are huge considering it holds just 200 passengers onboard

Scenic Eclipse is nigh on perfect, with a couple of design flaws (lack of outdoor viewing space, no pool), which will be ironed out on Scenic Eclipse II.

Who would it suit? Passengers who want an ultra-personalized, yacht-style experience rather than a traditional cruise.

Paul Gauguin is the Most Luxurious Cruise Line for Immersive Luxury

what are the luxury cruise liners

Operating just one purpose-built 332-passenger ship of the same name, this line operates exclusively in French Polynesia.

As befits the destination, the vibe onboard Paul Gauguin is relaxed, friendly and laid back; though you might want to don a shirt or traditional Tahitian attire at night; by day its swimsuits and wraparounds.

The line also makes the point of immersing you in French Polynesia culture with native crew onboard doing lectures, dancing, and talking about their culture. If you want a truly immersive experience -- this is it.

There is an excellent marina and a strong emphasis on water sports with an array of cool toys in the marina.

At night, expect outstanding cuisine with a strong French Polynesia flare in the ship's three restaurants.

All cabins have sea views and almost 70% have balconies, but they don't come close in terms of sumptuousness when stacked up against the other luxury lines on this list.

Who would it suit? Relaxed, well-traveled types, honeymooners, scuba-divers and those keen to visit a true bucket-list destination.

© 1995— 2024 , The Independent Traveler, Inc.

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The 18 Best Luxury Cruise Lines In The World In 2024

There are cruise lines, and then there are cruise lines. The top luxury cruise lines involve more than just a boat trip. These are services designed to create unique experiences, with an eye to personal service, luxurious detail, and in most cases, exclusivity. 

What to Expect From a Luxury Cruise Line 

The general boat cruise market is a personal treat. Disney, Carnival, and Royal Caribbean are just a few cruise line names that cater to the general market. In general, these larger ships are designed for families or at least cater to a broad range of ages. 

Premium and luxury cruises tend to focus on an adult market. The boats, ships, and yachts generally have smaller capacities, gourmet and Michelin-star cuisine options, and luxury cruise suites .

The best luxury cruise lines in the world

In some cases, the vessels are also smaller, allowing them to visit places that larger commercial ships cannot. Some luxury ships advertise one crew member for every two passengers. These luxury cruise lines have a real focus on service. 

Another difference in detail is the itineraries. Luxury and premium lines may offer more detailed and longer itineraries – a lot like luxury train lines – and even curated excursions as part of the packages. Here are the best of these high end cruise lines, in no particular order. 

1. Cunard Line

Founded in 1840 by Samuel Cunard, this iconic cruise line established the first regular transatlantic steamship service. The three Cunard ships are named after English Queens – so you’re getting the royal treatment off the bat.

The fleet includes the legendary Queen Mary 2 , Queen Elizabeth, and Queen Victoria. The Queen Anne cruise ship is being built in Italy at present, with input from some of the best interior designers in the world.

The Cunard Grill Suites are the last word in luxury, with floor to ceiling windows, a personal butler, Champagne and chocolates and access to exclusive dining venues. There are also gastro pubs and steakhouse eateries onboard. Afternoon tea is a lovely tradition on board the Cunard fleet, served by white-gloved waiters.

Pamper yourself in The Mareel Spa by purchasing a single or multiday pass. There’s a spacious thermal suite, hydrotherapy pool and relaxation area.

The Mareel Spa

2. Paul Gauguin Cruises

The Paul Gauguin Line demurely places its flagship – the titular Paul Gauguin – as the background for its destination. It believes that the real draw of cruising with this luxury cruise ship is the French Polynesian islands. You’ll enjoy gourmet food and exceptional service on board. 

There is no better way to experience Tahiti, Fiji, and the South Pacific. Beyond the outstanding spa and relaxation options, guests can also engage in rich cultural tours and Polynesian-focused activities, for the cruise of a lifetime. 

The Gauguin cruise ship in Bora Bora

3. Regent Seven Seas Cruises

The smallest of the Regent vessels carries 490 passengers, and the largest accommodates 750. These luxury cruise liners focus on relaxation, with world-class spa facilities as part of the all-inclusive offerings onboard. 

A new addition to the fleet, Seven Seas Grandeur will take its place alongside popular liners such as the Seven Seas Splendor and Seven Seas Explorer in November 2023.

Regent packages include flights, shore excursions, and activities as unusual as glass-blowing lessons. They also offer additional value with what they call behind-the-scenes activities – showing you how things are done. It’s a curious travelers’ dream!

Seven Seas Grandeur Regent Suite bathroom

4. SeaDream Yacht Club

This luxury cruise line offers an intimate experience, catering only for a maximum of 112 guests at a time. With a crew of 95, you’ll be well looked after on board SeaDream Yacht Club.

But the experience is also different in terms of location – these smaller boats can go where larger ones can’t. This all-inclusive yachting experience includes all gratuities, dining and complimentary shore-side activities.

Depending on the time of year, SeaDream yachts are either on Caribbean or Mediterranean cruises . So you can explore a small island, drop off the back of the yacht for a swim, go for a cycle, or join the regular champagne and caviar party on the beach. 

SeaDream beachside barbecue

5. Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours

Scenic offer a wide range of all-inclusive ocean cruises, river cruises and also land journeys. They refer to their vessels as space-ships to give you an idea of the space they provide.

Scenic Eclipse is the flagship vessel, billing itself as the world’s first discovery yacht. With a maximum of 228 guests and 114 luxurious suites, this is a true bucket list experience.

Another of the delightful extras on Scenic’s cruises (besides the amazing gourmet foods sourced from the destinations) is the ability to use a provided e-bike when on a shore excursion.

Alternatively, you can simply take your path with a Freechoice tour. The onboard experts can provide you with all the info you need to make your own choices. 

The Spa Vitality Pool on board Scenic Eclipse

6. Emerald Cruises

Part of the Scenic Group, Emerald Cruises offer luxurious river cruises in Europe and Southeast Asia and yacht cruises in a variety of destinations. This is an all-inclusive experience, with return flights, gratuities, delicious dining and excursions to enjoy.

The chefs use local ingredients to reflect the destinations that guests are travelling to. From their river Star-Ships to their two luxury yachts, the amenities on board are first-class and include complimentary Wi-Fi.

7. Holland America Line

This premium line has options for both elegant upmarket dining and casual dining – both are highly rated. Ships such as the Oosterdam have stunning Art Deco style features and the shore excursions are particularly well organized.

Aside from what one might expect from a top-class cruise line, there’s a telling statistic here. Most of Holland’s staff are long-term members of the crew. They bring a wealth of knowledge and experience about the ships and the destinations, and the fact that they stay with the team so long indicates absolute job satisfaction. 

Oosterdam Pinnacle Suite verandah with private hot tub

8. Seabourn Cruises

All accommodations on Seabourn cruises are suites. This makes an ocean-facing luxury experience a guaranteed item on your checklist. There’s also a particular focus on providing ample deck space and top-class food in elegant dining rooms. 

Seabourn also prides itself on the age of the fleet – this is one of the most modern, youngest fleets in the sector. The new ships all feature private suite verandahs. 

These luxurious cruise ships are known for their guest speakers and lecturers who include renowned chefs, artists, scientists and explorers.

A Wintergarden Suite on board Seabourn Ovation

9. Viking Ocean 

This award-winning small-ship ocean cruising line has a fleet of over 70 vessels. In 2022, Viking launched new expedition voyages to the Arctic, Antarctica and the Great Lakes of North America. They also now offer Mississippi River cruises on board the Viking Mississippi , the company’s first custom vessel.

The jewel in the options crown with Viking is the 93-day cruise from Auckland to Vancouver, which visits 13 countries along the way. There are few better ways to see so many sights around the world. 

Rendering of the Deck 2 Aft area, Finse Terrace, on the Viking Expedition

10. Silversea Cruises

The unique appeal of Silversea is the inclusion of unusual destinations like Russia, West Africa, and Bangladesh. There’s a good range of regular cruise destinations available, and you can also experience places off the usual track via Silversea Expeditions . Like all the other luxury lines, the service is top-notch, with a loyalty program that encourages return guests.

Travelers who have set their sights on embarking on a luxury Silversea cruise will be pleased to find out about the S.A.L.T. (Sea and Land Taste) programme offered on their new Silver Dawn vessel. This programme offers guests the opportunity to fully immerse themselves in the local cuisines and cultures of the destinations that they visit.

Cooking a local dish in the S.A.L.T. Lab on board Silver Dawn

Curated in collaboration with the renowned food writer Adam Sachs, the S.A.L.T. Lab is a unique onboard space where guests can learn culinary techniques, taste fresh ingredients, and attend workshops and talks by local chefs. Guests will also enjoy locally inspired drinks in the S.A.L.T. Bar and delicious food in the S.A.L.T. restaurant.

By tapping into the rich culinary history found on the regions they visit, Silversea offer an exclusive and authentic experience that will leave guests feeling like they have truly explored a destination’s culture.

Outdoor jacuzzi at Zagara Beauty Spa on board Silver Muse

11. Azamara Club Cruises

Azamara is a perfect example of smaller ships offering specific advantages. The shore excursions feel a lot more personalized with this cruise line. 

Azamara prides itself on its patented Destination Immersion program. This is where certain activities are included or complimentary. Imagine experiencing the St Petersburg Symphony Orchestra free of charge!

There are currently four cruise ships in their luxury fleet: Azamara Journey, Azamara Quest, Azamara Pursuit, and the latest addition, Azamara Onward. These intimate ships can dock at locations that large ships can’t reach.

12. Oceania Cruises

If you’re specifically into top-class food, Oceania has a focus on creating incredible culinary experiences. Their food workshops and food-focused shore excursions are exemplary. 

Four of the six ships also only take 684 passengers at capacity – the remaining two can hold 1250. This low-capacity policy means that there’s a specific and personal service focus once again.

The company is based in Miami, with trips to Australia, Africa, Europe, the South Pacific , and the Americas ranging between 10 and 195 days.

Aquamar Spa + Vitality Center on board Oceania Cruises Vista

13. Riverside Luxury Cruises

This new luxury river cruise line has an exciting program of 32 different cruises to choose from. Their Riverside Mozart ship was purchased from Crystal Cruises, who went into liquidation in 2022. This is the most spacious river ship in Europe.

Riverside Cruises pride themselves on their ability to exceed the 1-2 ratio of staff to passengers. That means that, for the most part, there’s one crew member for every guest.

This is a six-star VIP level offering, with activities and excursions designed to be unique and activity-based. There are various packages including an all-inclusive option.

Note: Looking for a great river cruise? Try a Bangkok River Cruise next time you’re in Thailand.

14. Atlas Ocean Voyages

Experience the adventure of a lifetime with Atlas Ocean Voyages . Specializing in luxury adventure travel, they offer unique voyages to some of the most remote and pristine areas of the world, providing travelers with an intimate look at our planet’s natural beauty.

Their ships are an intimate size, so you can get to know your fellow guests and feel right at home. World Navigator boasts a fitness studio, two hot tubs, a pool, infrared sauna, and the only L’Occitane spa at sea.

Whether you’re exploring the icebergs of Antarctica or the rainforests of Costa Rica, Atlas Ocean Voyages will take you to places you never thought possible. With experienced guides and a focus on sustainable tourism, Atlas is dedicated to providing travelers with an unforgettable experience.

World Navigator by Atlas Ocean Voyages

Boasting a fleet of 13 small ships, Ponant is a leading light in luxury expedition cruises. With their elegant design and state-of-the-art amenities, Ponant’s ships offer an unparalleled experience for travelers who want to explore the world in comfort and style.

From the pristine waters of the Caribbean to the icy landscapes of Antarctica, Ponant takes you on an unforgettable journey through some of the most stunning destinations on the planet. Whether you’re in the mood for a relaxing day at the spa or an adventurous expedition on shore, you’ll find everything you need to make your trip a memorable one.

The luxurious Le Commandant Charcot cruise ship

16. Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

Luxury travel just got an upgrade with the launch of the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection. Known for their impeccable service and opulent accommodations, the Ritz-Carlton has extended their brand to the high seas.

Guests can expect the same level of luxury and attention to detail on board one of their three ultra luxury cruise ships. Each yacht offers sumptuous staterooms, world-class cuisine, and a plethora of onboard activities.

From exploring hidden coves to indulging in spa treatments, the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection is the ultimate in indulgence at sea. This is a vacation experience unlike any other, where guests are treated to the level of attention that the Ritz-Carlton brand is famous for, all while sailing to exotic destinations around the world.

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection marina

17. Explora Journeys

With a strong focus on sustainability, Explora Journeys has one of the finest hydrogen-powered ships in the world. EXPLORA I launched in August 2023, with more ships to be added to the fleet soon.

EXPLORA I is not just your typical cruise ship. As a luxury vessel, it sets itself apart by offering guests a unique and luxurious experience on the high seas. Guests can indulge in 9 different culinary experiences and relax and rejuvenate in the 3 outdoor and 1 indoor pool. With state-of-the-art facilities and unparalleled service, EXPLORA I promises to create unforgettable memories for all who embark on its voyage.

EXPLORA I pool - most luxurious cruise ships

18. Hapag-Lloyd Cruises

You’d be forgiven for not having heard of this luxurious cruise line company, which is part of the TUI Cruises group. Based in Germany, their main clientele are German speaking although the cruises they offer are bilingual.

MS Europa 2 is their flagship vessel, with almost 900 artworks on board and a stylish Ocean Spa. They also offer a new expedition class, on board the HANSEATIC nature, HANSEATIC inspiration and HANSEATIC spirit.

The Last Word on Luxury Cruise Lines

These upscale cruise lines offer Michelin-star level cuisine, suites and spacious standard cabins, and excellent person-to-person service. Most of these luxury cruise lines have all-inclusive fares, high staff to passenger ratios and outstandingly curated excursions.

If luxury cruising is on your radar, these are all great options. Take a look at this in-depth Scarlet Lady cruise ship review for more. 

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1 thought on “The 18 Best Luxury Cruise Lines In The World In 2024”

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Avoid Crystal al all costs. They pretty much screwed over their clients during Covid while all other cruise lines were accommodating. Wife is a travel agent, no less. She wont book them any longer.

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World's Best Luxury Cruise Lines, Ranked

Azamara Club Cruises

Cruising is already one of the best ways to travel — all of your luggage stays in one place while you sail from destination to destination, you’re guaranteed at least three top-notch meals each day and there’s always something to do onboard, whether it’s a live show, a massage at the spa or hanging out by the pool.

But taking a luxury cruise? Now that’s really something special. Luxury cruise lines pull out all the stops, offering intimate ships with just a few hundred people on board, itineraries to jaw-dropping destinations and impeccable, personalized service. Of course, you’ll pay top dollar for all of these perks, but on the best lines, the splurge is worth it. 

So, which cruise line is the most above-and-beyond extraordinary? U.S. News & World Report compared luxury cruise lines based on a combination of approval from experts and travelers as well as health ratings (a must after the past few years).

Which ones made the cut? These are the seven best luxury cruise lines in the world. 

7. Oceania Cruises

Oceania

Year founded:  2002

Headquarters:  Miami, Florida

Number of destinations:  330

*This data comes from the U.S. News & World Report's 2022 ranking .

Bottom Line: Oceania Cruises

Oceania Cruises pool deck

You’ll find a mix of retirees, young couples and solo travelers on Oceania Cruises .

Four of Oceania’s ships can accommodate 684 guests, while two larger ships set sail with 1,250 passengers aboard. Despite being considered a mid-sized cruise line, Oceania maintains a 2-to-1 passenger-to-crew ratio, which makes it feel more intimate and personalized.

Oceania offers unique amenities onboard its ships, including art classes, a library and a card room complete with board games and bridge. 

This is also the cruise line to book if you want to break your diet. U.S. News notes that Oceania "caters to foodies," with gourmet dining, cooking demonstrations, wine and martini tastings, and more. Some ships also have a cooking school where you can learn to make delicious dishes.

What Travelers Say About Oceania Cruises

Customer on Oceania Cruises

"We ate meals at seven restaurants & they were all delicious. Constantly changing menus provided a wide array of choices each day. Menus are available on your cabin TV so you always know what is available. Grilled Lobster, Lamb Chops, and Steaks were available every night in the Terrace restaurant Grill in addition to the ever changing evening selections. Service was very good throughout the ship and some of the staff are truly exceptional. Everyone was very friendly & always willing to help." — BobC1950

*Note: Reviews may be edited for punctuation, spelling and other grammatical errors.

Best Oceania Cruises Trip

Sagrada Familia in Barcelona

Oceania also offers aptly named “grand voyages,” which are essentially itineraries that combine multiple regional cruises together into one incredible, super trip. Among the most memorable of these uber-journeys is a jaunt from Rome, Italy, to Miami, Florida, over the course of 24 days, starting at $3,399 per guest.

You won’t just be traipsing across the Atlantic on this action-packed trip — you’ll get to visit ports in Italy, Spain, France, Monaco, Antigua and Puerto Rico.

You'll also have two non-consecutive days in Barcelona, Spain. You can choose from myriad excursions, including seeing the city highlights and a chocolate and cava foodie experience. If you are already familiar with this beautiful city, we suggest taking a tour to the Monastery of Montserrat, a Benedictine monastery perched on the side of a mountain.

6. Silversea Cruises

Silversea Cruises

Year founded:  1994

Headquarters:   Fontvieille, Monaco

Number of destinations:  900

Bottom Line: Silversea Cruises

Silversea interior

The 10 small ships that set sail for Silversea Cruises are luxurious and intimate, with 51 to 304 suites.

Silversea’s all-inclusive cruises appeal to travelers over the age of 50 as well as groups, couples and solo travelers who are looking for small ships and luxurious accommodations. All of the cabins are posh suites, and they boast ocean views and butler service. The all-inclusive aspect makes the steep price tag worth it, with no limit on premium wines and spirits, in-suite dining or entertainment.

One perk of sailing with Silversea is its flexible dining schedule, which means you can eat whenever you feel like it with anyone you want. Cruises also feature onboard lecture series and expert guides, so you won’t have a chance to get bored while sailing — ever.

U.S. News & World Report singled out the line's focus on "exclusivity and personalization" as well as its "exotic itineraries and gourmet restaurants." 

What Travelers Say About Silversea Cruises

Silversea passenger

"We simply cannot imagine that any other operator delivers better tours in as much comfort...We can strongly recommend this cruise. I cannot claim to have sampled a variety of Galapagos tours. But based on discussions with guides (who had worked on other tour boats) I feel confident Silversea offers the best planned and most luxurious tours." — Twinklles

Best Silversea Cruises Trip

Hubbard Glacier

For a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience, consider a compelling 18-day itinerary focused on the frozen north with fares starting at $17,550. After departing from Nome, Alaska, you’ll visit several Russian destinations, including Provideniya, Lorino Village and Cape Kuyveveem.

You’ll also get to explore dozens of ports in Alaska. The cruise will take you to places like St.Paul Island, Elfin Cove and Sitka. Cruise past Hubbard Glacier, the largest glacier in North America, and sail along Point Adolphus, where you might get the chance to see humpback whales or orcas. Finally, you'll disembark in Vancouver, Canada.

5. Crystal Cruises

Crystal Cruises

Year founded:  1988

Headquarters:  Los Angeles, California

Number of destinations:  1,000

Bottom Line: Crystal Cruises

Crystal Cruises room

You’ll find extremely personalized attention and elegantly designed vessels when you opt to sail with Crystal Cruises . The cruise line has eight ships, and most of them only include 461 or 535 cabins, meaning you won’t be battling crowds at any point during your journey. You can choose between deluxe staterooms (with or without verandas) and penthouse cabins on the Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony.

Crystal cruises range from six to 140 days and venture to destinations all over Europe, Africa, North America, Asia, Australia and even Antarctica. Since the cruise line keeps its passenger-to-crew ratio very low (nearly 1-to-1), you’ll likely never have to wait for service when you’re sailing. 

U.S. News also highlights the line's "engaging enrichment programs," which range from the heady (workshops led by thought leaders) to the fun (dance lessons).

What Travelers Say About Crystal Cruises

Passenger Crystal Cruises

"The big difference from a mainstream cruise is that things seem to happen easily. For example when we sat down to breakfast someone was over in a minute to see if we wanted coffee and juice rather than having to go look for it. The quality of the food was outstanding, and interesting. The unlimited internet worked smoothly, and quick. Having everything included meant you were not constantly bombarded with people asking you to buy something, and there was not a blizzard of flyers delivered to the cabin with sales, and offers. At dinner every night we were offered a selection of special wines. The crew made us feel very welcome, and pampered." — JCMass.

Best Crystal Cruises Trip

Moai at Easter Island Chile

Crystal Cruises offers some of the most extraordinary itineraries in the world, including a 140-day trip that will take you from Miami to Barcelona for $69,489. 

But don't think that this will be a straightforward transatlantic trip. Rather, you'll spend almost half a year sailing to the Caribbean, down Central and South America to then head to the Pacific Islands. You'll visit Australia and other countries in Oceania before going up to Southeast Asia, exploring the Indian Ocean and the East Coast of Africa. The trip then goes into the Middle East and the Mediterranean, stopping in several European countries before ending in Barcelona. Highlights include visiting the paradisal beaches of Tahiti, going on an African safari and stopping on Chile's Easter Island. 

For a less ambitious, but no less extraordinary trip, you can spend 19 days sailing from Argentinean Patagonia to Cape Town .

4. Azamara Club Cruises

Azamara Club Cruises

Year founded:  2007

Number of destinations:  260

Bottom Line: Azamara Club Cruises

Azamara cruise at night

With incredible trips that visit more than 80 countries, Azamara Club Cruises earns high marks from luxury cruisers. The 45-and-up crowd in particular loves Azamara, with longer cruises typically booked by retirees who have spent years saving for relaxing vacations after the 9-to-5 grind.

In addition to snagging the No. 4 spot for luxury cruises, Azamara earned the third spot for best cruise line for couples and for best cruise line in the Mediterranean.

Azamara’s staff-to-passenger ratio is low — there’s roughly one staff member for every two passengers — so you’ll get personalized service when you set sail with this line. Cruises start at three nights and go all the way up to 26 nights on four ships.

This is a cruise line that also understands that size matters. U.S. New notes that boats are small enough to "reach off-the-beaten-path destinations, allowing the cruise line to offer unique shore excursions." No ship has more than 700 passengers. 

On board, you'll have the opportunity to participate in activities like wine tastings, lectures and cooking demonstrations.

What Travelers Say About Azamara Club Cruises

Azamara entertainment

"This was our first Azamara cruise and we were so impressed with everything, we decided that we will be an Azamara Customer for life. The service was fabulous and with a smile. The food in the dining room was fabulous and the menu had many choices.

The pool area had some shade with lounge chairs to get out of the sun. The gym was great with a view, plenty of equipment and an area for yoga and Pilates classes, spin cycle classes. They offered watercolor painting , jewelry making and needlepoint classes at no charge." — Pboothe

Best Azamara Club Cruises Trip

Cape Town, South Africa

One of Azamara's most distinctive trips is a 21-night West Africa voyage that starts at $5,159 and visits ports Cape Town, Takoradi in Ghana, Banjul in the Gambia, Grand Canaria in Spain and Lisbon, Portugal. Along the journey, you’ll taste local food, explore UNESCO World Heritage sites and visit open-air markets.

If you’re an adventure junkie, you’ll want to book a kayaking excursion in Namibia's Pelican Point. Travelers who want an immersive experience can do a drumming and dancing workshop in Ivory Coast.

3. Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Regent Seven Seas

Year founded:  1992

Number of destinations:  450

Bottom Line: Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Regent lounge

Come aboard one of the five ships under the Regent Seven Seas cruise-line banner and you won’t be disappointed. It’s the No. 3 pick for luxury cruises thanks to its quality service, low staff-to-passenger ratio (there's rarely more than two guests per staff member) and deluxe accommodations (all the cabins are suites).

Plus, you can really immerse yourself in the cities you visit and try many exciting new things. All shore excursions are complimentary, and you can participate in as many as you have time for at every port.

Regent Seven Seas prides itself on offering all-inclusive cruises all over the world, which means your fare covers everything from airfare and hotels before and after the cruise to alcoholic beverages, specialty restaurants, Wi-Fi and gratuities once onboard the ship.

What Travelers Say About Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Regent passenger

"The accommodations are very nice (especially after getting bumped up two levels), the food is very good, and the crew is exemplary! ...The numerous free excursions were top-notch and the shipboard entertainment was amazing. The cruise director even sang and has a voice bar none. The free wine and liquor was also top notch and flowing...I highly recommend this ship and crew to anyone wanting a great voyage. It was worth every penny." — Erndog72

Best Regent Seven Seas Cruises Trip

Lagoon in Curacao

Looking to soak up culture? During a 12-night journey throughout the Caribbean , you’ll visit San Juan as well as a handful of ports in places like St. Lucia, Barbados, Grenada and Colombia. Fares start at $6,499 and include excursions like snorkeling in a marine reserve in Guadealoupe and a 4x4 safari in Bridgetown. 

In Curacao, a Dutch island in the Caribbean, you can view the beautiful marine life and coral reefs from a semi-submarine or do a wine and cheese tasting.

2. Seabourn Cruise Line

Seabourn Cruise Line

Year founded:  1986

Headquarters:  Seattle, Washington

Number of destinations:  464

Bottom Line: Seabourn Cruise Line

Seabourn lounge

Coming in at No. 2, Seabourn is a lavish cruise line based in Seattle with a fleet of six super-intimate ships.

Each Seabourn vessel can accommodate just 458 to 600 guests, so you definitely won’t feel like just another face in the crowd on one of their journeys. All the rooms are suites, and they all feature ocean views, so you’re sure to be cruising in comfort. Though if you want an upgrade, you can opt for a luxury suite. Come mealtime, you can expect impeccable menus, including several created by Michelin-starred chef Thomas Keller . 

Given all that, it should come as no surprise that Seabourn also landed high on the list in other categories — it also came in second place for best cruise lines in the Mediterranean and best cruise lines for couples, and in third for best cruises line in the Caribbean.

What Travelers Say About Seabourn Cruise Line

Seabourn expeditions

"The staff is tremendous. Some of the most attentive I have encountered. The food and ship wines were okay, not great. We do not cruise to eat so we didn't mind. The grill by Thomas Keller is outstanding, one of the top ten meals of my life...the wines off of their premium menu are fantastic. The stops were great. The tours(we only do half day) were well organized, interesting and fun." — kandylandmo

Best Seabourn Cruise Line Trip

Sydney

Seabourn has a 30-day trip of the southern seas starting at $14,499. Over the course of a month, you’ll travel aboard the cozy 229-suite Seabourn Odyssey and visit various ports in New Zealand, Australia, East Timor and Indonesia. See komodo dragons on Komodo Island, jumping crocodiles in the Northern Territory of Australia and exotic wildlife in the Great Barrier Reef.

The prospect of visiting East Timor is particularly exciting. Having gained independence in 2002, it is one of the least visited countries in the world . As you enjoy land excursions around Dili, you can feel lucky to be one of the 75,000 yearly visitors the country gets. 

1. Viking Ocean Cruises

Viking Ocean Cruises

Year founded:  1997

Number of destinations:  200

Bottom Line: Viking Ocean Cruises

Viking cruise ship interior

Viking got its start with river cruises but began offering luxury ocean journeys in 2015. Since then, it's proven that its ocean trips are just as posh as its river jaunts. The cruise line was not only named as the best luxury cruise line, but it’s also been named the No. 1 line for couples, thanks to amenities like fireplaces, infinity pools and deluxe spa services, and for Mediterranean cruises.

Viking has nine, 930-passenger ocean vessels, each offering verandas for all cabins and seven dining venues. There are no children’s activities on Viking ocean trips — in fact, all passengers must be at least 18 — so you’ll find a calm, relaxing environment perfect for active adults and retirees.

Viking’s typical ocean cruise options range from eight to 93 days, though you can spend up to 138 days aboard a world cruise . 

What Travelers Say About Viking Ocean Cruises

Yoga on Viking cruise

"Food was first rate, pools were open and clean, entertainment was good. The speakers were very knowledgeable and entertaining at the same time...Embarkation was a dream - I never touched a bag and I was in my Cabin 90 minutes after my plane touched down in Barcelona." — Katootsie

Best Viking Ocean Cruises Trip

Aurora borealis in Scandinavia

For a totally unique experience, consider Viking's northern lights cruise . This 13-day journey, which starts at $4,999, departs from London, England, and visits numerous ports in Norway, all the way up to the Arctic Circle.

This trip has a seriously exciting array of excursion offerings: You can explore snow-covered Arctic towns on dog or reindeer sled, do snowshoe hikes and explore the Norwegian wilderness on snowmobile. The most elusive but rewarding excursions center around chasing the aurora borealis. Though this unpredictable phenomenon cannot be guaranteed, if you are lucky enough to see it, it will be an experience you will never forget.

what are the luxury cruise liners

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what are the luxury cruise liners

Best Luxury Lines

Uniworld boutique river cruise collection, tauck world discovery, silversea cruises, seadream yacht club, seabourn cruise line, regent seven seas cruises, crystal cruises.

On a luxury cruise line, you will rarely hear the word “no”: Ships may be small or mid-sized, but space is abundant.

what are the luxury cruise liners

The deluxe and ultraplush ships that belong to luxury fleets are as good as it gets at sea. You can expect to be welcomed as a valued guest and treated to all the courtesies you would expect at any five-star resort.

Step aboard and enter the exclusive realm of foie gras and caviar on ship that run the gamut from megayachts for only a hundred or so guests to one of the largest ships ever built. All luxury ships provide a level of personal service and courtesy that is unmatched.

Dining is the main event of the evening on most luxury ships. Meals are served during a single open seating and full dinners from the restaurant menu can be served in your stateroom (served course by course, of course). On the highest of the high-end ships, wine is poured freely during the meals, and no one is rushed to finish dessert or coffee. Main courses are cooked to order, and the food on some lines approaches the level of that in a fine restaurant in any city.

Staterooms are uniformly large and luxurious (suites even more so), and inside cabins are rare. Amenities may include opulent spas, gyms, and pools, but they may be limited by ship size on smaller vessels. Entertainment is generally low-key, ports tend to be more exotic, and children may not be allowed.

Elegant and serene, luxury ships are stylish without being stuffy. The well-to-do, sophisticated travelers they attract are collectors of destinations. Read Less

what are the luxury cruise liners

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Cruise Guru

Luxury Cruises

For unparalleled comfort and relaxation, there is nothing that beats the decadence of luxury cruises. From the second you step aboard a luxury cruise ship, guests are transported to a grand and sophisticated world that aims to take you on holiday unlike any other you have experienced. Whether it be the unmatched service from suite to shore, delectable dining with cuisine crafted by world-class chefs, or the extraordinary itineraries and ports of call, luxury cruises are simply better than the rest when it comes to luxury travel.

Now, you might come to the conclusion that choosing any of the luxury cruise liners of the world will give you instant access to opulence, but it isn’t that easy. Every luxury cruise company – while naturally ticking off all the essentials for luxury cruises – has their own unique benefits that help them stand out from the rest of the crowd.

To help you discover the wonders of each luxury cruise company, we at Cruise Guru have created this little guide. We’ll go over our favourite luxury cruise liners of the world and why each one might be perfect for you. If you need a little extra help, we have a nifty tool that’ll help you find the perfect cruise line for you in no time. Planning your next adventure has never been easier!

Luxury cruise liners of the world

Silversea-Cruises

For those that love prestigious and authentically refined luxury cruises, Silversea is perfect for you. The all-inclusive and privileged lifestyle is what Silversea strives for on any of its luxury cruises, leading to a sophisticated experience unmatched by anything on the ocean. With lavishly decorated suites, deeply personalized and door-to-door service, as well as divine fine dining options, Silversea have truly mastered the luxury cruise adventure.

But luxury cruises aren’t just about the luxury cruise ship, and Silversea has a marvellous selection of itineraries that visit over 900 destinations across the globe. Plus, with each of these ports of call featuring an excellent range of immersive onshore excursions, every moment ashore will be just as extraordinary as those onboard.

Learn More About Silversea

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Regent Seven Seas

Boasting breathtaking views from each of it’s all-suite accommodation options, Regent Seven Seas luxury cruises are all about bringing guests “An Unrivalled Experience” no matter the destination.

Wonder how they do this? Well, it all starts with their ‘all-inclusive’ approach that ensures every guest never has to pull out their credit card and as a result, can focus on one thing – relaxation. That means unlimited shore excursions, unlimited beverages, complimentary specialty dining, and so much more are all included. Furthermore, with a selection of onboard activities ranging from insightful enrichment programs to spectacular evening entertainment, there’s no luxury cruise company that matches the quality that Regent Seven Seas provide.

Learn More About Regent Seven Seas

Ponant Cruises

Founded in 1988, Ponant has rapidly grown as one of the pioneers in luxury cruises, introducing thousands of guests every year to seafaring travel, but with an authentically French twist. From the refined French cuisine at its dining venues and sophisticated décor in each luxury cruise ship, to their first-class service, no stone is left unturned with Ponant.

What’s more, with a fantastic selection of voyages to well-known and exotic destinations across the globe, there will definitely be an itinerary that perfectly matches your tastes. Whether it’s Antarctica or Asia, the Mediterranean or the Arctic, Ponant luxury cruises have something for you.

Learn More About Ponant

Seabourn Cruises

If you’re an explorer that appreciates attentive service and decadent travel but doesn’t want to feel restricted by an uptight or cramped environment, Seabourn is a match made in heaven! Each luxury cruise ship has been masterfully crafted and designed to exude elegance without ever feeling stuffy. Guests onboard are welcomed to an atmosphere akin to a private club, meaning guests never feel pressured to wear a suit and tie every night.

In addition, luxury cruises with Seabourn have been intensely curated, with their smaller sized ships allowing access to hidden harbours and gems unreachable by mainstream cruise lines. This, alongside their meticulous curation, has led to Seabourn winning many awards as the best luxury cruise company in the world.

Learn More About Seabourn

Cunard Cruises

Miss the Golden Era of cruising? Then Cunard is by far the best choice for you. Embracing the traditional style of cruising, guests on a Cunard cruise are welcomed to its famed white-gloved service, a service for which people all over the globe come back for every year. What’s more, with their selection of world voyages on offer, you can travel from Sydney to Southampton and only have to unpack your bags once!

For a truly luxurious holiday aboard any Cunard Line ship, we strongly recommend booking one of the Queens Grill Suites. These commodious spaces offer the pinnacle of luxury, with your very own personal butler available at any point during the voyage.

Learn More About Cunard

Virgin Voyages Cruises

Virgin Voyages

While Virgin Voyages is not considered your traditional luxury cruise, when you book on one of their vibrant RockStar Suites, guests enjoy one of the most unique, innovative, and truly spectacular ways to sail the seas. Newly founded and ready to make a major splash, Virgin Voyages aims to take luxury cruising in a new direction, with thrilling onboard activities, enticing dining options which are centred around socialisiation rather than separation, and exciting new technologies.

All these innovations focus on redefining modern cruising and welcoming a new generation of sailors who might be turned away by the more traditional style of cruise. Plus, with a wealth of inclusions such as dining and Wi-Fi, coupled with the fact that there are no children onboard, we recommend checking out Virgin Voyages when you plan your next luxury cruise.

Learn More About Virgin Voyages

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U.S. News Announces the 2023 Best Cruise Lines

Virgin Voyages earns its first No. 1 ranking in the Best for the Money category.

U.S. News 2023 Best Cruise Lines

Washington, D.C. – U.S. News & World Report, publisher of Best Hotels , Best Vacations and Best Travel Rewards Programs , today released its annual rankings of the Best Cruise Lines .

The 2023 rankings highlight 17 cruise lines to help every type of traveler find the cruise that’s right for them. For the first time, Virgin Voyages takes the No. 1 spot in the Best Cruise Lines for the Money ranking, offering the best value among cruise lines. U.S. News considered the overall cruise line quality and average base fare per night, as well as extra benefits such as free gratuities, Wi-Fi access and all-inclusive package options. Carnival Cruise Line, known for its budget-friendly fares and frequent sales, and Celebrity Cruises, which offers a more upscale experience at reasonable rates, rank No. 2 and No. 3, respectively.

For the ninth consecutive year, Disney Cruise Line is the Best Cruise Line for Families . The family-oriented line offers ships with character meet-and-greets, themed dinners, nighttime fireworks, waterslides and more. Royal Caribbean International comes in at No. 2, thanks to its onboard amenities that cater to guests of all ages, while Carnival Cruise Line ranks No. 3, offering family-friendly perks like water parks, basketball courts and ropes courses on its ships.

"After more than two years of sailing restrictions and limited voyage options due to the coronavirus pandemic, cruisers and cruise lines are excited to be on the seas again,'' said Nicola Wood, senior travel editor at U.S. News. "The Best Cruise Lines rankings evaluate a variety of cruise types, making it easy for travelers to find the best options that fit their budgets, cruising styles and desired destinations."

U.S. News ranks cruise lines in six categories: Best Cruise Lines for the Money, Best Cruise Lines for Families, Best Cruise Lines for Couples, Best Cruise Lines in the Caribbean, Best Cruise Lines in the Mediterranean and Best Luxury Cruise Lines. The rankings follow a comprehensive, transparent methodology that factors in expert evaluations of ship quality, traveler ratings, health assessment results and more.

This year's rankings are accompanied by editorial roundups of the top gay cruises for 2023, the top cruise lines for solo travelers and the best cruise insurance ; each piece aims to provide helpful advice and planning information to a wide community of cruisers. U.S. News also offers additional cruise tips and recommendations, such as what to pack on a cruise , the top river cruise lines , fun adults-only cruises and more.

2023 Best Cruise Lines Rankings

See the full rankings here .

Best Cruise Lines for the Money 1. Virgin Voyages 2. Carnival Cruise Line 3. Celebrity Cruises

Best Cruise Lines for Families 1. Disney Cruise Line 2. Royal Caribbean International 3. Carnival Cruise Line

Best Cruise Lines for Couples 1. Viking Ocean Cruises 2. Seabourn Cruise Line 3. Azamara

Best Cruise Lines in the Caribbean 1. Disney Cruise Line 2. Virgin Voyages 3. Celebrity Cruises

Best Cruise Lines in the Mediterranean 1. Viking Ocean Cruises 2. Seabourn Cruise Line 3. Azamara

Best Luxury Cruise Lines 1. Viking Ocean Cruises 2. Seabourn Cruise Line 3. Regent Seven Seas Cruises

For more information on the Best Cruise Lines , explore Facebook , Twitter and Instagram using #BestCruises.

Media Contact: Michelle Day, [email protected] , 202-955-2212

About U.S. News & World Report U.S. News & World Report is the global leader in quality rankings that empower consumers, business leaders and policy officials to make better, more informed decisions about important issues affecting their lives and communities. A multifaceted digital media company with Education, Health, Money, Travel, Cars, News, Real Estate and 360 Reviews platforms, U.S. News provides rankings, independent reporting, data journalism, consumer advice and U.S. News Live events. More than 40 million people visit USNews.com each month for research and guidance. Founded in 1933, U.S. News is headquartered in Washington, D.C.

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Which cruise brand is best for you? A guide to the most popular lines

Gene Sloan

Thinking about booking your first cruise? The sheer range of choices can be daunting. There are more than two dozen lines marketing to North Americans — no two alike.

The list of brands includes everything from giant companies such as Royal Caribbean and Carnival Cruise Line, which are household names, to lesser-known small operators such as Windstar Cruises.

Some of the brands — Royal Caribbean, MSC Cruises and Norwegian Cruise Line, in particular — operate massive vessels that are like giant floating resorts with deck-top water parks and other over-the-top amusements . Others specialize in intimate, boutique hotel-style ships.

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

Some lines, such as Carnival, are aimed at a budget crowd. Others operate vessels that are as luxurious as any upscale resort found on land. A few small luxury players such as Regent Seven Seas Cruises have ships with lavish suites that'll cost you as much as $11,000 a day .

Where should you start your search for the perfect cruise for you? Below, you'll find our quick guide to some of the most popular cruise brands. As you'll see, it's not meant to be an in-depth review of the lines. It's just a short overview — enough to give you a sense of which particular cruise operator might best appeal to you.

Once you've narrowed down the choices to a few brands that you think best fit your style, do a deeper dive into them and their specific ships, their itineraries and home ports and their comparable costs (either on your own or with the help of a cruise-savvy travel agent ). Note that TPG has many guides to individual lines, which you can find by clicking on our cruise line hub pages linked in each segment below.

Related: TPG's ultimate guide to picking a cruise line

With just four ships, each holding fewer than 700 passengers, Azamara is one of the smallest players in the cruise business. But it has a loyal following of travelers who appreciate the upscale ambience of its vessels, the inclusive amenities it offers (including gratuities and alcoholic drinks) and its destination focus.

The line prides itself on offering longer stays in ports, including multi-day visits. Its ships have an intimate, boutique-hotel feel. Pricing is higher than at the big, mass-market lines but not quite as high as you'll find at luxury lines.

Related: 5 things to love about Azamara's newest ship

Carnival Cruise Line

what are the luxury cruise liners

The self-described "fun ship" line is the king of short, affordable, fun-focused cruises from U.S. ports to the Caribbean, the Bahamas, Mexico and beyond.

The choice of roughly one in five cruisers, Carnival Cruise Line' s ships are notoriously lively, flashy and packed with fun features such as water parks with multiple waterslides. Just don't expect anything too fancy .

Related: The ultimate guide to Carnival Cruise Line

Celebrity Cruises

what are the luxury cruise liners

Designed to be a cut above mainstream options such as Carnival while remaining relatively affordable, this Miami-based "premium" line is known for some of the most stylish big ships at sea.

Expect high-end design, cutting-edge art and trendy restaurants. In short, Celebrity aims for sophisticates, not the party crowd (although it's not a luxury product).

Celebrity's four newest ships, Celebrity Edge , Celebrity Apex , Celebrity Beyond and Celebrity Ascent, feature "infinite veranda" cabins that are open to the sea in a way we haven't seen with other ocean ships. They boast a glass wall that opens from the top to create a balcony-like effect.

Crystal Cruises

what are the luxury cruise liners

This much-beloved luxury line recently restarted operations under new owners after shutting down for 18 months. For years, it was considered the ultimate luxury cruise operator, and our take after sailing on Crystal Serenity after its relaunch is that the line is even better than before. Initially, Crystal has returned to operations with just two ships. But it recently announced plans to expand rapidly with four more ships over the next six years.

A storied line with roots that go back to the 1800s, this three-ship brand is perhaps best known for its 2,695-passenger flagship, Queen Mary 2. The ship lives up to its billing as a true ocean liner with semiregular, transatlantic service between Southampton, England, and New York.

Cunard fans love the line's relatively formal vibe (including nightly dress codes) and other nods to ocean liner tradition, including evenings with ballroom dancing. A fourth Cunard ship called Queen Anne is set to debut in 2024.

Related: Why I was wrong about transatlantic cruises

Disney Cruise Line

what are the luxury cruise liners

Meet-and-greets with Disney characters, Disney-themed shows and the most extensive kiddie fun zones on the high seas are just a few of the family-friendly allures of a Disney cruise . If you're a Disney fan, nothing quite compares.

If Disney isn't your thing, well, this probably isn't the line for you. The biggest downside of the brand? As with Disney's parks on land, it doesn't come cheap.

Related: A first-look photo tour of Disney's newest ship, Disney Wish

Holland America

Tradition long has been a touchstone for this storied line, which dates to 1873 and is known for carefully crafted, globe-circling itineraries on midsize ships.

However, Holland America has been shaking things up in recent years with lively new venues such as B.B. King's Blues Club. Couples and retirees are the market for this line. Families with kids might want to look elsewhere.

MSC Cruises

what are the luxury cruise liners

A giant of cruising in Europe, Switzerland-based MSC Cruises is making a big play for North Americans with newer, bigger ships sailing year-round from Florida to the Caribbean and Bahamas. It also offers sailings from New York City.

Like Royal Caribbean and Norwegian, MSC Cruises operates big, resort-like vessels that appeal to a broad audience. Among the highlight of its cruises in North America are stops at its new private island in the Bahamas, the Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve .

Norwegian Cruise Line

what are the luxury cruise liners

Multistory waterslides, ropes courses and even go-kart race tracks are among the gee-whiz attractions atop Norwegian Cruise Line 's giant, resort-like ships. The vessels also are packed with eateries, bars, casinos and showrooms.

The brand is known for its entertainment, including big Broadway shows such as "Beetlejuice." If you're looking for a Las Vegas-style resort at sea, this is your line.

Oceania Cruises

Oceania has carved out a niche with relatively small, upscale ships that offer a significant upgrade from mass-market vessels but aren't quite as fancy (or pricey) as luxury offerings.

Its seven ships feature a relaxed, country club-like ambience and inspired dining that appeal to a mostly older crowd.

Itinerary-wise, Oceania is known for destination-intensive voyages that typically are 10 nights or more in length, with some globe-circling trips as long as 180 days.

Related: Take a look at Vista, Oceania's stunning new ship

This France-based line is a specialist in expedition cruising , a type of cruising that involves traveling to remote, hard-to-reach places on small, hardy vessels that carry their own landing craft.

Operating a fast-growing fleet of tough but upscale expedition ships (none carrying more than 264 passengers), Ponant is known for voyages to places like Antarctica and the Arctic.

If you're looking for waterslides and laser tag, this is not the cruise line for you.

Related: This epic Ponant trip will take you to the North Pole

Princess Cruises

what are the luxury cruise liners

Popular with middle-aged couples, retirees and multigenerational families, the "Love Boat" line's ships aren't as flashy (or big, for the most part) as those of Royal Caribbean and Norwegian, and that's just the way its customers like it.

Princess Cruises ' customers also like its wide range of itineraries, including voyages in Asia and Australia, as well as closer-to-home places like the Caribbean. It's long been one of the dominant lines in the Alaska cruise market.

Related: The ultimate guide to Princess Cruises

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

This Miami-based luxury line operates some of the most opulent vessels at sea, including three recently unveiled Explorer-class ships billed as the most expensive luxury vessels ever built on a cost-per-berth basis.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises is particularly known for some of the most over-the-top suites at sea (including some bigger than the average American home ), some of the most inclusive fares in the cruise business and high levels of service. The only catch: You'll pay a pretty penny for it. Rooms on Regent ships start at around $1,000 per person per day and can cost as much as $5,500 per person per day.

Royal Caribbean

what are the luxury cruise liners

For megaresort fans, there's nothing quite like a Royal Caribbean vessel.

The line's biggest ships are more than 20% bigger than almost any others afloat (only MSC Cruises has ships that come close in size) and feature every type of amusement imaginable, from rock climbing walls and surfing pools to Broadway shows and ice skating rinks.

Families, in particular, will love this line, due to all the family-friendly activities and venues on its vessels. Royal Caribbean ships sail everywhere in the world, but the line's heaviest presence is in the Caribbean and Europe.

Related: The ultimate guide to Royal Caribbean

Another leader in luxury cruising, this seven-ship brand offers all-suite vessels, top-notch service and elegant cuisine.

As with other luxury lines, Seabourn offers a wide range of itineraries around the globe. It also recently jumped into more adventurous, expedition-style cruising with two new 264-passenger vessels designed to operate in polar regions such as Antarctica and the Arctic.

Silversea Cruises

what are the luxury cruise liners

Exquisite service, refined dining and well-appointed accommodations are hallmarks of this Monaco-based luxury line with 12 vessels. Silversea Cruises is also known for its industry-leading array of off-the-beaten-path itineraries.

Its growing fleet of small expedition ships will take you everywhere from the Arctic to Papua New Guinea in style.

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

what are the luxury cruise liners

Fans of upscale hotel chain Ritz-Carlton will feel at home on one of this line's yacht-like vessels. Or, at least, that's the idea.

The cruising arm of Ritz-Carlton has been in operation for just a bit over a year, and the jury still is out on where it ranks in the pantheon of luxury cruise brands. The line notably struggled to get off the ground after years of construction delays for its first and only ship.

Dubbed Evrima, the line's only operating ship is a 298-passenger vessel designed to appeal to Ritz-Carlton regulars with an elegant, residential look. A second, bigger ship called Ilma that's already open for bookings debuts later this year.

Related: The ultimate guide to the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

what are the luxury cruise liners

This fast-growing line has dominated the world of river cruising for North Americans for years, and in the last few years, it's become a significant player in upscale ocean cruising as well. Viking 's 80 river ships operate on just about every major river in the world, and its 10 ocean ships (up from just one in 2015) can be found in a growing number of destinations, too.

Viking is known for impeccably designed vessels with modern Scandinavian interiors and offering unusual, port-intensive itineraries. They also operate with a mostly all-inclusive format, as Viking long has subscribed to a "no nickel-and-diming" philosophy. Just don't bother booking the family. Kids under 18 aren't allowed on Viking.

Related: The ultimate guide to Viking cruises

Virgin Voyages

what are the luxury cruise liners

This relatively new cruise line, backed by Richard Branson's Virgin Group, is reinventing mainstream cruising with a hipper, more inclusive, younger vibe (though not too young; its ships are adults-only). Think tattoo shops, karoake booths and no upcharges for tips or eateries.

Virgin Voyages ' first three ships ( Scarlet Lady , Valiant Lady and Resilient Lady ) have suites by acclaimed designer Tom Dixon. Destinations include the Dominican Republic, Mexico and a private beach club in the Bahamas, as well as parts of Europe and Australia.

Related: I've been on more than 150 cruise ships; here's why I loved my first Virgin sailing

Windstar Cruises

If the idea of sailing on a big ship makes you cringe, small-ship specialist Windstar could be the answer.

Its six vessels carry just 148 to 342 passengers — fewer than fit on a single big-ship lifeboat — and are wonderfully intimate.

Romantic types will love Windstar's three vessels with sails — a relative rarity. Foodies can choose one of the James Beard-themed cruises, which include market tours and cooking demonstrations with a James Beard Award-winning chef.

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Luxury Cruise Lines 

what are the luxury cruise liners

Luxury cruise lines enable travellers to float effortlessly from one destination to another. Whether embarking on a world voyage, or weekend party cruise, you need only unpack once. Enjoy superior service with a view, as you sail by some of the world’s most exotic and iconic sights; the Grand Canal, Sydney Opera House, the Golden Gate Bridge and Mount Etna are just a few of the landmarks passed by international liners on a daily basis. With a wealth of superb entertainment and activity options, you can do as little, or as much as you desire while indulging in gourmet culinary fare. From large-scale and glitzy to intimate and elite, read on to discover more about the best luxury cruise lines worldwide.

what are the luxury cruise liners

Epitomised by exclusive door-to-door luxury, with a touch of Italian style, Silversea’s fleet of 10 ships travel to over 900 ports of call across all seven continents. Vessels range in size from 51 through to 304 spacious ocean-view suites – with personalised round the clock butler service. Silversea guests can strike their own perfect balance between indulgent intimacy and adventurous choice. Award-winning entertainment and 24-hour gourmet dining are accompanied by the finest alcoholic beverages, all included in the tailor-made experience. And with a sophisticated passenger mix, the onboard ambience is both cosmopolitan and stimulating. Journey to romantic and glamorous shores or venture to more remote hidden lands. No matter which you choose, the experience will be second to none.  

www.silversea.com

Viking Ocean Cruises

what are the luxury cruise liners

Once primarily a river cruise provider, Viking branched into ocean expeditions in 2015 and welcomed its seventh vessel to the collection this year. The trips offered by this line focus on time in the destinations, providing base and combination cruises of between eight and 44 days (a daily shore excursion is included for each passenger). Scandi chic dominates the interiors, married with impressive nautical engineering. The latter ensures the relatively small ships – the largest has a capacity for 930 – can traverse lesser-visited far-flung regions, such as the polar ice caps. 

www.vikingcruises.co.uk

Seabourn Cruise Line

what are the luxury cruise liners

Operating open-bars throughout their all-suite ships, an almost equal crew-to-passenger ratio, exclusive port side ‘Caviar In The Surf’ events and expansive multi-faceted spas, Seabourn has been a pioneer in the graceful small cruise market. The service is attentive, yet the atmosphere is relaxed and a sociable vibe makes it perfect for solo voyagers. Legendary deck parties, glittering casinos and award-winning shows make the night as exciting as the days’ explorations. And as the group is a member of the prestigious gastronomic society, Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, you can expect world-leading feasts that fit around your own schedule.

www.seabourn.com

Crystal Cruises

what are the luxury cruise liners

Those preferring larger luxury lines will love Crystal’s offer. The North American brand is superb for families, with fully supervised dedicated programmes for those aged 3 to 17 extending from morning till late at night. The sheer size of these vessels provides the opportunity for a huge variety of activities – learn a new skill, watch a movie, play tennis and golf, craft, sing karaoke, listen to one of the guest lecturers, or watch a full-scale Broadway show. Regular itineraries include the Mediterranean and Caribbean, but these vessels go to most of the popular large tourism ports worldwide. 

www.crystalcruises.com

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

what are the luxury cruise liners

Unlimited shore excursions in over 450 ports of call are part of your fare on a Regent Seven Seas Cruise. Formal nights are optional here, and only hosted on longer cruises, so suit those preferring to pack lightly and focus on the sightseeing. Indeed many choose this line for the relatively off the beaten track itineraries such as ports in South America, the South Pacific, Bermuda and Arabia. A high space to passenger ratio makes these ships feel larger than they actually are, with a sense of tranquillity that particularly appeals to couples and singles.

www.rssc.com

Azamara Club Cruises

what are the luxury cruise liners

Sail from Southampton, with no-fly UK departures included in Azamara’s choice of far-reaching holiday itineraries. The ambience on board is more akin to a country manor than a floating hotel and attracts a classy global clientele seeking enriching new horizons. Gentlemen’s club style lounges, cabaret shows and flexible dining combine with immersive, hands-on enrichment programs exploring the culture, history, wildlife and geology of the ships’ hidden gem destinations. Each liner carries around 700 passengers and offers many late evening or overnight stays in ports, as opposed to the more standard day trips. 

www.azamara.co.uk

Oceania Cruises

what are the luxury cruise liners

The majority of trips aboard this Floridian line, average 10-14 nights, revolving around Europe and North America. For many repeat travellers, these six vessels are like a second home. Catering for between 684 and 1,250 guests, the ships have a cosy, yet stately feel with a friendly style of service. Creativity and wellness are championed with an artist-in-residence, wellness-themed excursions and the new Aquamar Spa Vitality Center. Following this theme, the fine food served in the many eateries has an emphasis on healthy, plant-based dishes. In addition to Michelin standard masterpieces, guests can snack on items such as poke bowls and raw food smoothies. 

www.oceaniacruises.com

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

what are the luxury cruise liners

Brand new to the market, Ritz-Carlton has just launched its very first ocean residence, accommodating 149 suites with private terraces – some of which are split level. The sleek poolside deck and bar area on here could be mistaken for one of LA’s most elite private members’ clubs. There’s a sea-view spa, beauty room, sauna and steam bath, as well as water toys and a kids’ club. The main restaurant, S.E.A. offers an exclusive tasting menu, designed by some of the best chefs on earth. Voyages average at just over a week, taking in either the Caribbean, Mediterranean, Canada, or New England. It’s much like being on a super-yacht and will suit those seeking a new take on the contemporary boutique cruise experience. 

www.ritzcarlton.com/en/yachts

A holiday aboard one of the best luxury cruise lines is unforgettable. Shipboard life is entirely unique from any other holiday type. You’ll see sights you’d never experience by land or air and get a taste of inimitable maritime elegance. 

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Every journey is as varied as the travelers taking it. So, at Regent Seven Seas Cruises – the only truly all-inclusive luxury cruise line – we offer thousands of FREE Unlimited Shore Excursions to explore however you please when sailing to the over 550 ports of call that we sail to across the globe. Travel with the security and comfort of The World’s Most Luxurious Fleet™ , enjoying the freedom that comes with our Unrivaled Space at Sea ® .

Standing upon the deck of a luxury cruise, the fresh sea air enlivens the spirit, beckoning guests ashore to unearth the hidden wonders that await in far-flung regions and favorite ports of call. Wake up each morning in a spacious suite to a new perspective from your private balcony. Enlighten your day with new insights from knowledgeable, onboard speakers and local guides as you tour, taste and savor the many marvelous destinations. Recall the day’s adventures with good friends and exquisite food at our specialty cruise restaurants , then dance or delight in the rhythm of the evening’s onboard entertainment before settling into your private oasis at sea.

With every luxury included, we’ve elevated all-inclusive travel, inviting you to take hold of every moment and make life-long memories to share with friends and family for years to come. Make your voyage your own with custom enhancements and allow our incredible crew to take care of every detail on an all-inclusive cruise that truly is An Unrivaled Experience® .

The 11 Best Cruise Lines for Adults

By Janice Wald Henderson

These Are the Best Cruise Lines for Adults in 2024

The world's best cruise lines for adults have one major perk in common: the child-free utopia passengers are afforded while sailing. Daydreaming on deck , leisurely romantic dinners, dancing into the wee hours, popping champagne, and even getting tatted—such unabashed joys have everything to do with being grownup and nothing to do with kids.

The best adult cruises allow passengers to pursue relaxation, rejuvenation, and indulgence, undisturbed by tantrum-minded toddlers and other children potentially ruining your me-time groove. For when it's time to sail away from the stresses of life on land, we've pulled together the very best cruise lines for adults, plus their most exciting itineraries available for booking in 2024 and early 2025.

Note that while some of these lines are strictly adults-only, others are adults-oriented, meaning that they may have some well-behaved older children on board during school holidays but otherwise, rarely do. Most are small ship experiences with geared-to-grownup itineraries spanning the globe and leaning into all-inclusiveness and luxury—all the better to admire when it’s all about you.

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Formerly Crystal Cruises, the adults-driven luxury line was purchased by Abercrombie & Kent Travel Group, then dramatically remodeled and reborn as Crystal. Its legions of fiercely loyal fans are largely back, as are many familiar crew who pamper passengers incessantly. Its two gorgeous ships, 740-passenger Crystal Serenity and 606-passenger Crystal Symphony , fairly ooze sophistication and style. Crystal renewed its partnership with Nobu Matsuhisa; the line's award-winning onboard restaurant Umi Uma presents the globally renowned chef’s only plates at-sea. These ships voyage most of the world, with inclusions like nearly all dining, alcohol, 24-hour room service, gratuities, butler service, and WiFi.

The sailing to take this year: Crystal Serenity offers a 12-day Cape Town to Tema, Ghana , visiting Namibia , Angola, and São Tomé, a dual-island nation dubbed Africa’s Galápagos. Incredible outings include climbing Walvis Bay’s colossal sand dunes and exploring São Tomé’s pristine forests with nearly 200 endemic species. Departs May 5, 2024, from $6,900 per person .

Cruise Ship Ponant's Le Laperouse

This adults-oriented luxury French line of small sleek ships include its six newest 184-passenger “Ponant Explorer” vessels, four 264-passenger expedition sister ships, and 32-passenger yacht Le Ponant . While many cruises are bilingual, sails in partnership with the prestigious Smithsonian Journeys are English-only. Count on some 44 such itineraries including onboard talks given by world-class experts, one excursion in each port, and other fare-included perks such as dining, alcohol, WiFi, and gratuities. So many Smithsonian Journeys compel, such as a nine-day Celtic Voyage, eight-day Cultural and Natural Treasures of Japan by Sea, and a nine-day Circumnavigation of Sicily.

The sailing to take this year: Hats-off to Le Champlain’s immersive Sicily voyage sailing roundtrip Valletta, Malta . Besides noted ports, this sail includes visits to Ggantija Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site on the Maltese isle of Gozo; and another UNESCO stunner, Lipari in the Aeolian Islands. The line's 2025 departures add Tunis as a further temptation. Departs April 14, 2024, June 2, 2025, and August 29, 2025, from $8,580 per person .

Seabourn an ultraluxury adultsoriented line recently introduced twin polarclass expedition ships 264passenger Seabourn...

Seabourn, an ultra-luxury adults-oriented line, recently introduced twin polar-class expedition ships, 264-passenger Seabourn Pursuit and Seabourn Venture, with exploration toys like submarines and a 24-expert team to guide and engage passengers. Luxe elements include all-suite accommodations, complimentary caviar, and eight dining venues. Seabourn’s five all-suite ocean liners include the two newest and most glam 600-passenger sister ships, Seabourn Ovation and Seabourn Encore . Seabourn fares include all the restaurants on board (including the new Mediterranean venue Solis on non-expedition ships), alcohol, 24-hour suite dining, dancing on deck, and caviar in the surf beach barbecues.

The sailing to take this year: Seabourn ships roam the globe, with knockout itineraries like a 12-day “Canary Island Jewels and Morocco” on Seabourn Ovation , sailing roundtrip Lisbon . Imagine sipping local wine in the westernmost Canaries, wandering lively souks in Tangier, and learning to cook delicious Moroccan specialties. Departs April 26, from $6,204 per person .

Ultraluxurious and opulent this adultsoriented sixship line is inclusive to the max think businessclass airline tickets...

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Ultra-luxurious and opulent, this adults-oriented six-ship line is inclusive to the max: think business-class airline tickets for international flights, fine dining, all-suite accommodations, 24-hour suite service, alcohol, dining, valet laundry, gratuities, transfers, and some shore excursions. Multi-million-dollar art collections on the three newest ships stun. On brand-new 744-passenger Seven Seas Grandeur , revel in 1,600 masterpieces including multiple Picassos and a Fabergé egg, the first to reside at-sea. The entire ship’s design is jaw-droppingly beautiful and restaurants, like pan-Asian Pacific Rim and the French Chartreuse, excel.

The sailing to take this year: This ship sails many locales, like an enchanting 12-day fall foliage cruise from Boston to Montréal , with complimentary excursions like visiting Kennebunkport, Maine , a Nova Scotia pub tour, and high tea at the iconic Château Frontenac in Quebec City . Departs October 1, 2024, from $12,699 per person .

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Windstar Cruises Lisbon

Windstar Cruises

This luxe-minded, adults-oriented line counts six vessels that accommodate between 148 and 342 passengers. Three are tall-sails Wind Class ships; three are all-suite Star Plus Class yachts. All offer a relaxed, friendly on-board ambiance, with itineraries leaning into small ports, late-night departures, and port overnights . From the water sport platform, guests can kayak, paddle board, snorkel, or water trampoline. Besides the Caribbean and Mediterranean, Windstar ships also ply far-flung waters, from transatlantic crossings to cruises in South America and Iceland . Star Breeze now sails Tahiti voyages, cruising the unforgettable turquoise waters of French Polynesia year-round.

The sailing to take this year: “Tahitian Treasures and Magnificent Marquesas ” (the latter a cruise rarity) sails 14-days roundtrip Papeete, including visiting Paul Gauguin’s former home on Hiva Oa, exploring a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, and ogling the Pacific’s largest Tiki sculptures. Departs July 4, 2024, from $6,199 per person .

Scenic Eclipse cruise

Scenic is an adults-oriented, ultra-luxury polar-class expedition line with two 228-passenger vessels, Scenic Eclipse I and Scenic Eclipse II . The ships feel sexy and sophisticated, with all-suite accommodations, butler service, up to 10 dining experiences, nine bars and lounges, and a huge spa with a yoga and Pilates studio. Expect numerous inclusions, like alcohol, dining, WiFi, gratuities, and shore excursions (other than helicopter or submersible rides) led by seasoned experts. Scenic explores the globe, emphasizing polar itineraries .

The sailing to take this year: The line recently introduced a Scenic Eclipse II Western Australia Kimberley region itinerary. Expedition highlights include coral islands with thousands of endemic birds, vertical waterfalls, and ancient Indigenous rock art. Sailing May until September, 11-day voyages between Broome and Darwin, Australia, begin at $11,730 per person .

If you want to cruise with the cool kids book an adultsonly Virgin Voyages cruise. This line puts the hip in hipster it...

Virgin Voyages

If you want to cruise with the cool kids, book an adults-only Virgin Voyages cruise. This line puts the hip in hipster; it calls cruisers sailors , is LGBTQ+-friendly, and attracts everyone from 20-something groups of friends to middle-aged-and-up couples. The premium line’s fares includes complimentary dining in a whopping 20 restaurants like Gunbae, a Korean bbq hotspot, WiFi, group fitness classes, and gratuities. Think high-energy happy campers, er, sailors, who celebrate with new tats done on board, many cocktails (don’t miss the Champagne Lounge), dance parties, pop-up circus performances, and hanging in port late-night. The three 2,770-passenger sister ships Scarlet Lady , Valiant Lady , and Resilient Lady sail the Caribbean and Med.

The sailing to take this year: Find fast fun on Scarlet Lady five-day roundtrip Miami cruises, like “Fire and Sunset Soirées,” with a private Beach Club experience in Bimini, Bahamas ; it’s abuzz with private cabanas, beach bonfires, and floaty pool parties. Departures March 20, April 17, May 1, December 11, from $1,620 per person .

An adultsoriented ultraluxury line Silversea offers both polarclass expedition ships and ocean liners that sail to more...

An adults-oriented ultra-luxury line, Silversea offers both polar-class expedition ships and ocean liners that sail to more than 900 destinations across all seven continents. Fares include all-suite accommodations, butlers, caviar service, gratuities, alcohol, most dining, and some shore excursions (all outings on expedition ships).

The sailing to take this year: Among itineraries, consider cruising Antarctica on board the intimate and glam 200-passenger (in polar regions) Silver Endeavor . With spacious suites, four restaurants, and a passionate expedition team, the ship sails the region between late October 2024 into March 2025. Six-day itineraries include roundtrip flights to Antarctica, bypassing the often-turbulent Drake Passage. Sailing six to 18-days roundtrip from Puerto Williams, Chile, starting at $12,150 per passenger .

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On this adults-only cruise line, choose between river , ocean, and expedition vessels. Viking ships sail all seven continents. Viking Octantis and Viking Polaris explore the poles but also sail Niagara, the Great Lakes, and Chilean fjords. While categorized as upper premium, Viking’s ocean and expedition fleet includes many amenities, such as one shore excursion per port, all dining, afternoon tea, beer and wine with lunch and dinner, spa Thermal Suite access, WiFi, and 24-hour room service.

The sailing to take this year: Since Viking is Norwegian, start with a “Viking Homelands” cruise. The 15-day voyages on various 930-passenger ocean-going sister ships sails between Stockholm and Bergen, Norway, and visits six countries including Poland, Denmark, and Germany. The packed itinerary includes sailing fjords and hiking remote Swedish islands, to touring Berlin and Copenhagen . Departures from May 3, 2024 to August 36, 2024; from $7,999 per person.

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SeaDream Yacht Club

Pajamas embroidered with your name, sleeping under the stars on Balinese Dream Beds, candlelit dinners under the stars, water sports from the ships’ marina with a slide into the sea—there are so many allures of the adults-oriented, privately-owned 112-passenger Sea Dream I and Sea Dream II . The extensively remodeled luxury ships feel like exclusive yachts, with crew quickly learning your personal preferences. Elegant staterooms and suites offer amenities like organic bath toiletries, plush robes, and 24-hour room service. Stellar cuisine includes raw, plant-based, and organic selections with included wine pairings.

The sailing to take this year: The mega-yachts primarily cruise the Med and Caribbean, with standouts like Sea Dream I ’s seven-day “Secluded Southern Spain and Morocco” itinerary from Lisbon to Málaga . Excursions include a Seville, Spain , overnight with flamenco performance, visit to an Algarve, Portugal , fishing village with wine-tasting and exploring historical Cordoba, Spain . Departs May 13, 2024, from $7,699 per passenger .

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Uniworld Boutique River Cruises

Adults-oriented Uniworld has a stunning fleet of 17 river cruise ships . Awash in antiques, custom fabrics, and original art, the vessels resemble luxurious European boutique hotels rather than typical riverboats. Each possesses its own vibrant personality, reflecting the waters it sails. Count handcrafted Savoir Beds of England, marble baths with Asprey toiletries, and towel warmers among posh amenities. Alcohol, farm-to-table dining, airport transfers, excursions, gratuities, and wellness classes are included, and often-local entertainment. These posh boats sail throughout Europe and Asia , as well as Peru , with some offering land or rail extensions.

The sailing to take this year: Beloved by oenophiles, S.S. Bon Voyage’s Brilliant Bordeaux sails eight days roundtrip Bordeaux, France on three rivers, promising multiple wine tastings, and village and heritage walking tours. Departing March 31, 2024 to October 27, 2024 from $3,599 per person .

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What is the Difference Between a Mainstream, Premium, Luxury, and Ultra-Luxury Cruise? Understanding the 4 Cruise Line Categories

A lot of cruise travel terminology is fairly universal, and you'll find the same words and phrases used regardless of what cruise line you sail with or what size ship you're on: cabins, decks, dress codes, onboard credit, shore excursions, drinks packages, and so on. However, the terminology used to describe the actual cruise lines themselves can be surprisingly ambiguous, or at least flexible in a way that can easily lead to confusion. It doesn't help that cruise YouTubers and bloggers increasingly throw around words like "luxury" to describe cruise lines that no one in the industry would ever actually identify as such. (No matter how modern and elegant the design of a new Norwegian or Carnival ship might be, no travel agent or industry analyst would ever class Norwegian or Carnival as a "luxury line").

Put simply, different cruise lines operate with different business models, which include variations in terms of cruise ship size and design, atmosphere, entertainment, dining, service, destinations and itineraries, and perhaps most importantly their target market (i.e. the groups of customers they're trying to reach). While each cruise line aims to create its own distinct brand and approach to the cruise experience, these lines can nevertheless be generally classified by 4 main categories or types: mainstream, premium, luxury, and ultra-luxury. (In this way, we are echoing Gary Bembridge of Tips for Travellers who also identifies these same 4 cruise line categories. ) There are also specialty cruise lines including river and barge lines and adventure and expedition lines, both of which offer particular, targeted experiences - and in terms of overall services and accommodations tend to rival the premium, luxury, and even ultra-luxury lines.

Both for clarity and consistency - and to help our fellow cruise travelers choose the type of line best suited to their tastes - Calling All Ports uses these terms when discussing the different cruise lines. We are basing these definitions on various travel industry sources, including tourist information experts like Fodor's and Frommer's .

Mainstream cruise lines are designed to appeal to the broadest range of passengers, including families with young children. As such, they tend to be large vessels (many crossing over into "mega-ship" territory) that offer resort-type features like large pools with water slides, games and even rollercoasters, and multiple massive entertainment venues. They tend to focus on shorter itineraries (7 days or less) traveling to highly popular destinations (the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Alaska).

Mainstream cruise lines: Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Norwegian, MSC, Costa, Marella, AIDA, Margaritaville At Sea, Ambassador, Celestyal Cruises, TUI Cruises

Premium cruise lines offer a blend of the mainstream line and luxury line experiences. They are still mid-sized to large ships but less crowded than the mainstream lines, offering a more spacious feel and also more attentive service. The onboard décor tends to be more stylish and subtle (whether that means classic or modern depends on the line). Their target demographic is typically adults and couples, rather than families with children or singles, or at the very least they set aside adults-only areas. They are also more likely to offer longer itineraries.

Premium cruise lines: Celebrity, Princess, Cunard, Holland America, Disney Cruise Line, Viking Ocean Cruises, P&O, Virgin Voyages

Luxury cruise lines emphasize elegance in their design and décor, as well as in their spaciousness and service - often with nearly as many crew members onboard as there are passengers. Luxury lines tend to utilize smaller ships, typically accommodating only a few hundred passengers per voyage. This smaller scale allows for a more intimate and refined experience, with the focus placed on more traditional elements of cruising like fine dining and educational "enrichment." Smaller ships also enables luxury lines to travel to less familiar ports, with a good amount of emphasis placed on the destinations themselves, including curated shore excursions and immersive cultural tourism.

Luxury cruise lines: Oceania, Windstar, Azamara, Hapag-Lloyd, Ponant/Paul Gauguin, Fred. Olsen, Saga

Ultra-luxury cruise lines take the luxury cruise line experience and add even more sophistication and pampering. These tend to be all-suite ships that offer "all-inclusive" packages, meaning everything from the lodging to the dining, drinks, gratuities, many shore excursions, and sometimes even airfare and door-to-door travel accommodations are included in the fare price. Ultra-luxury lines offer highly personalized service and even butler service, as well as premium branded linens, toiletries, and the like.

Ultra-luxury cruise lines: Regent Seven Seas, Silversea, Seabourn, SeaDream Yacht Club, Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, Crystal, Emerald

River and barge cruise lines are specially designed to navigate rivers and inland waterways, most notably in Europe. By necessity, their ships have a capacity for no more than a few hundred passengers. Ships are generally well-appointed and range from premium up to ultra-luxury. Some river cruise lines like Scenic also operate ocean ships, which tend to be classed into the small ship adventure or expedition line categories.

River and barge cruise lines: Viking River Cruises, AmaWaterways, Uniworld, Scenic, Emerald Waterways, CroisiEurope, American Cruise Lines, A-ROSA, APT, American Queen Waterways, Luftner-Amadeus

Adventure and expedition cruise lines offer exclusive experiences in remote destinations. They are also much smaller ships, usually purpose-built for travel to particular destinations like Antarctica or the Galapagos Islands. As mentioned above, some river cruise lines like Scenic also offer ocean expedition cruise ships. Likewise, some luxury and ultra-luxury cruise lines operate specialty expedition ships, including Ponant.

Adventure and expedition cruise lines: Hurtigruten, Lindblad Expeditions, Quark Expeditions, Scenic, UnCruise Adventures, Star Clippers, Alaskan Dream Cruises, Poseidon Expeditions

While these cruise line categories can generally be distinguishable by price (i.e. on a per night basis, a luxury line can be expected to cost more than a mainstream line), it is a mistake to classify cruises based on cost alone. For starters, mainstream and premium lines offer a range of cabin categories, with the upper-tier options on the likes of Royal Caribbean far exceeding the average price of a standard cabin aboard a luxury line like Seabourn. Also, the base fares on mainstream and premium lines can be deceptive, since they more often than not lack even basic amenities like water and soft drinks. When the expenses of a cruise vacation are all added together, the different cruise lines are not always as far apart in cost as they initially seem (especially if you go on a "budget" cruise line and want to take advantage of all the extras like the specialty dining restaurants, the alcohol, the spa, the BOLT rollercoasters and FlowRider surf simulators, et al). It is not what you are paying but rather what you are paying for that is most distinct. That is, you are spending money either way, and it is the overall lifestyle experience that you are purchasing: Are you the kind of person that would rather spend your time and money on amusement park-style rides? Or popular entertainment like that offered by the likes of Disney? Or instead are you the kind of person that prefers fine dining or guided tours of local cultures?

Regent Seven Seas Splendor Superior Suite Cabin Tour

I went on a luxury cruise for the first time. It was worth the $6,000 price tag for 5 reasons.

  • Last summer, I embarked on my first luxury cruise with the adults-only cruise line Virgin Voyages.
  • I booked a seven-day Mediterranean sailing in a cabin with a balcony for $5,900.
  • The ship's unique design, VIP-worthy cabins, and surprising activities made it worth the price. 

Insider Today

I've had my fair share of luxury travel experiences, from staying at celebrity-loved hotels to spending one night on the Orient Express of the 21st century .

If I've learned one thing from these lavish trips, it's that some high-end offerings are worth the cost — and some are not.

In 2023, I took a luxury trip that was completely worth the high price tag — a $5,900, adults-only Mediterranean cruise with Virgin Voyages , a cruise line that's already received multiple awards for everything from cabins to ships after just three years of operations.

I took the seven-day cruise from Barcelona on the Valiant Lady ship , which has a maximum of 2,700 guests. We sailed to ports in Italy, France, and Spain.

Six months after my cruise, I'm still thinking about the luxury details that made it worth the price.

I took a luxury, adults-only cruise with Virgin Voyages last summer.

what are the luxury cruise liners

It was my second-ever cruise, following a seven-day voyage aboard Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas .

After that first cruise, I wanted to experience an upscale version of the vacation style. And I booked with Virgin Voyages because it's an adults-only cruise line.

From the moment I stepped on board, I marveled at the cohesive, modern design with artistic features.

what are the luxury cruise liners

The 912-foot-long ship was stacked with 17 decks full of staterooms, venues, restaurants, and activities.

Every room felt thoughtfully decorated with sleek furniture, unique sculptures, and multicolored lights.

I noticed design themes throughout the ship. The brand's signature bold red color was always in sight. Often, it was contrasted with other bold colors, from pinks and greens to blues and purples. Most spaces also featured iridescent panels, adding a rainbow glow that made me feel coated in luxury.

Exploring the ship felt like wandering through a work of art — or being in a movie about the ultrawealthy. There was no shortage of Instagram-worthy photo ops to take selfies while feeling like a true VIP.

Even the cabin was sleek in style and packed with VIP details.

what are the luxury cruise liners

I booked a mid-tier cabin with a sea terrace that cost $5,910. It was a step above a stateroom with just a window and a step below a suite.

As soon as I stepped into the 225-square-foot room, I was blown away by how spacious it felt. Modern furniture matched the design style of the communal decks, and the cabin was full of space-saving hacks.

A sectional couch transformed into a comfy, queen-sized bed. A closet hidden behind an iridescent curtain revealed drawers and empty storage bins.

There were also high-end details that made me feel wrapped in luxury from morning to night, like a rainfall shower head and a tablet for controlling mood lighting, curtains, and TV entertainment.

But the best part of the room was the balcony . When booking the cabin, I simply hoped for a wide-open view to stand in front of while feeling the breeze in my face.

It was much more than that.

On the terrace, I found a small table with two chairs and a large, cozy hammock. Spending time in the outdoor space watching sunsets, spotting passing islands, and getting a preview of each port stop before disembarking made the room worth the price to me.

On communal decks, I experienced top-tier relaxation thanks to the lack of children.

what are the luxury cruise liners

Virgin Voyages cruises are only for guests who are 18 or older. Since I was traveling with a partner — and I don't have kids — I was excited to lounge on quiet, calm pool decks, dine at relaxing restaurants, and have access to a range of activities for grown-ups.

And that's exactly what I got.

The ship's activities geared toward adults were surprising and fun.

what are the luxury cruise liners

The ship was packed with indoor and outdoor activities for adults. An indoor game room was full of long tables, board games, and puzzles. An arcade had virtual racing and retro machines, igniting a sense of nostalgia.

Outdoors, there was a deck with two large pools as well as several plunge pools.

All of these offerings were delightful yet unsurprising to me.

But on a cruise ship with no kids, I never expected to find a playground for adults .

On one of the ship's top decks, I found grown-up-sized swings and seesaws, a foosball table, a basketball court, and a giant chess set. I had so much fun playing like a kid with no child in sight.

Next to the playground was a slew of 1920s-inspired athletic equipment, from a boxing ring and punching bags to benches and bars for strength training.

While I steered clear of the ship's indoor gym because I don't like working out on vacation , I enjoyed kicking and punching boxing bags. It was so unique to exercise I do at home that I forgot I was working out at all.

Each port stop was unique and memorable.

what are the luxury cruise liners

Sailing through the Mediterranean, there's a wide range of port stops. We stopped at four — and each had standout features that set it apart from the rest.

Perhaps the most unique stop was Marina di Carrara, Italy. I took an excursion through a marble mountain range to see quarries where artists like Michelangelo traveled for the finest materials.

But the port that surprised me most was the last — Ibiza.

I expected nothing but a nightclub scene from the " party capital of the world ," so I was amazed by the city's vibrant buildings and ocean views while wandering up and down hilly streets. I was mesmerized by Ibiza's old town, where I saw cobblestone streets, Renaissance cathedrals, and 16th-century walls lined with canons.

Standing over the Bastion of Santa Lucia in Ibiza during the final sunset of my trip, I felt like I was in a storybook. As I soaked up the island view, I thought about how special the entire voyage felt — from the destinations to the ship itself.

Looking back, it was totally worth the price tag, and I can't wait to sail with Virgin Voyages again.

what are the luxury cruise liners

  • Main content

The Best Cruise Lines for Couples

what are the luxury cruise liners

A cruise can be a brilliant choice for a honeymoon or vacation together. Romantic and relaxing, a cruise is the perfect complement to a hectic wedding. Finally you're alone to unwind, eat well, have someone make your bed, and explore new destinations together. Since each cruise line is different, it's important to choose one that meets your needs — and understand the pros and cons of cruising .

Will you prefer an intimate river cruise that calls at a new city daily (and it's rare to encounter children onboard). Or a big, ocean-worthy vessel that offers tons of onboard activities and entertainment and appeals to different generations? The best cruise lines for couples follow; discover what makes each one unique.

Viking River Cruises

Susan Breslow Sardone

Named "Best for First-Timers" by Cruise Critic, Viking River Cruises  will appeal to honeymoon couples who haven't traveled overseas before. With this cruise line, there's none of that "where do we go now?" anxiety, as Viking reps meet you at the airport and guide you to your ship. Vessels hold fewer than 200 passengers (no crowds!) and sail each day into the middle of a different port city, where you can explore on your own or join a free walking tour. Sleek, Euro-style ships feature two places to eat, complimentary beer and wine at lunch and dinner, and free wifi. There's no casino or production show, so Viking is best for couples happy to entertain themselves. 

Tip: The Danube Waltz itinerary is magical in November and December, when Christmas markets flourish in each port.

Windstar Cruises

Tim Thompson.

Windstar's six ship fleet includes both sailing ships and power yachts that carry 150 to 300 passengers. Both offer a true wind-in-your-hair experience and are nimble enough to sail into ports beside tropical beaches that big ships can't reach. Couples have the option of candlelight dining under the stars as well as indoors. Some ships have a spa and salon.

AmaWaterways

AmaWaterways goes the extra knot in delivering amenities that couples appreciate. It's the only river cruise ship with a swimming pool on the top deck, and the newest ships have both full and French balconies and a specialty restaurant that delivers gourmet dinners with wine pairings. Ships also carry bicycles, so you can explore ports on two wheels. In-cabin wifi is complimentary.

Tip: If your honeymoon is set for spring, take a Tulip Time cruise from Amsterdam. Keukenhof Gardens in bloom will become your next happy place.

Celebrity Cruises

The first big ship on this list, Celebrity's modern fleet features comfortable, high-style cabins. Celebrity doesn't cater to families with children, so you're unlikely to run into any on board. Consequently, the cruise line draws many couples who appreciate pampering and serenity at sea. There's an expansive spa, martini and coffee bars, a casino, and sophisticated shops that add to childfree grown-ups' pleasure. At night, catch a show or curl up under the stars on the top-deck Lawn Club that's landscaped with real grass.

Paul Gauguin Cruises

Voyages on the 332-passenger  Paul Gauguin  call at  Tahiti , Raiatea, Bora Bora, Moorea, Huahine, and the Motu Mahana private island. Airfare from Los Angeles, tips, and 24-hour room service are included in the cruise fare. Meals in the ship’s three dining venues feature menus from a Michelin-starred chef. And if you've always want to learn to scuba, this cruise line offers programs and dives from the ship’s marina and destination beaches. 

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Honeymoon couples typically spend a lot of room in their cabin, and Regent's all-suite ships boast accommodations that are among the most spacious and well-designed at sea. Down comforters, fine linens, flat-screen TVs, a separate bathtub and shower,   and wifi are provided on the five-ship fleet. And when the company says it’s the world’s most all-inclusive luxury cruise line, they mean it—fares include the suite, round-trip air, meals, fine wines and spirits, free shore excursions in every port, a pre-cruise luxury hotel package, and tips. 

Azamara Club Cruises

 Azamara Club Cruises

Ideal for couples who want to immerse themselves in a destination, Azamara's three mid-size ships linger in ports and sometimes stay overnight so you won't feel like teenagers with a curfew. Land programs offer experiences to help couples dine, play, and live like a local and explore the arts, culture, history, and natural beauty of a destination. On most voyages, a complimentary  AzaMazing Evenings  event offers a unique way to experience a port after dark.

This ultra-luxury cruise line has worked with some of the world's best-known brands on its latest ship,  Seabourn Ovation . Contemporary interiors were fashioned by designer Adam D. Tihany, Spa and Wellness with Dr. Andrew Weil offers guests a holistic retreat, and The Grill by Thomas Keller is a classic American restaurant. All-suite accommodations have a private veranda spacious enough for al fresco dining, a comfortable living area with sofa and a desk/dining table, a walk-in closet, many in-suite entertainment choices, and a marble bathroom with separate bath and shower. A personal bar and refrigerator will be stocked according to your preferences and coordinated before arrival.

Fewer than 600 fortunate travelers sail each journey with Silversea. Combining lush accommodations (95 percent contain a private balcony) and high-end amenities, Silversea ships dock at smaller ports and visit major cultural centers. A butler and junior attendant are assigned to each suite. Couples also appreciate the gourmet cuisine, Pratesi bed linens, marble bathroom, and itineraries that span the globe. In-room binoculars help couples focus on their adventures ahead.

Royal Caribbean

A cross between a floating amusement park and a three-ring circus at sea, Royal Caribbean cruise line's latest ships, such as Harmony of the Seas , seem designed for couples that prize constant stimulation. Holding almost almost 9,000 people at capacity (that's 6,780 passengers in 2,747 staterooms plus 2,100 crew members), ships have abundant diversions including two FlowRider simulators, zip line, a full-sized basketball court, climbing wall, and miniature golf range. There's comfort food (Johnny Rockets, Starbucks) and multiple places to eat as well as a fine for-fee restaurant, 150 Central Park.

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US News & World Report - Travel

9 Cruise Lines With the Best Food

T aking a cruise vacation transports you to coveted destinations in places around the world. For many people, though, it's all about the culinary experience, especially for those who return time and again to dine at their favorite onboard venues – many of which rival the best restaurants you'll find on land. While most cruise lines still offer all-you-can-eat buffet-style venues, some also feature next-level culinary experiences with world-renowned chefs at the helm, menus curated by Michelin-starred chefs, and immersive food and beverage programs.

If you're a foodie looking for the cruise lines with the best food, U.S. News has compiled this list of cruise lines focused on delivering an extraordinary dining experience, based on expert opinion and reviews. We've also highlighted two of the venues on each line that receive accolades for outstanding food and service.

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Luxury cruise lines

Oceania cruises.

Oceania Cruises' culinary program has long been regarded as one of the best of any cruise line – and the company has even trademarked the term "The Finest Cuisine at Sea." Jacques Pépin, the renowned French master chef, has been the executive culinary director since 2003; he has inspired the menus and cuisine on board the line's seven small luxury ships since that time, including the newest vessel, Vista . Oceania is also committed to sourcing the best ingredients from destinations around the world. In addition, the line has a high ratio of culinary staff to guests, and the ship's galleys are outfitted with equipment you'd typically see in Michelin-starred restaurants.

Guests can book exclusive Culinary Discovery Tours on two of the ships, Marina and Riviera . Hone your culinary skills or learn to prepare new types of cuisine at The Culinary Center, found on Marina, Riviera and Vista. You'll also find special wine-tasting and Champagne events in partnership with La Reserve by Wine Spectator. In addition, the line has just announced its first Culinary Masters' Cruise featuring Oceania's two French master chefs aboard Marina in October 2024.

Most of the dining venues are complimentary on Oceania Cruises (except for Privée and La Reserve), and options run the gamut from French and Asian cuisine to Italian fare and steakhouse specialties. There are also new culinary concepts on board Vista – including Ember, which features American classics, as well as Aquamar Kitchen, a venue focused on healthy Mediterranean-inspired cuisine.

Here are two of Oceania's best restaurants:

  • Red Ginger: Red Ginger's colorful red and gold interiors, designed with feng shui in mind, draw guests in when they enter the restaurant, but it's the bold Asian flavors that keep them coming back for more. With Vietnamese, Thai and Japanese specialties to choose from, diners will enjoy selections such as caramelized tiger prawns, crispy ginger calamari, red and green curries, and bulgogi rib-eye steak. Red Ginger is available on Marina, Riviera, Sirena and Vista.
  • Toscana: The hearty cuisine inspired by Tuscan and northern Italian flavors at Toscana is served on Versace china that's custom designed for the restaurant. Diners should come with an appetite to enjoy several courses before the main event, including a hot or cold antipasti or soup, a selection of pastas, and a classic version of Caesar salad prepared tableside. Traditional main dish favorites include osso buco alla Milanese, veal scaloppini, lobster fra diavolo and Dover sole. Toscana is available on Regatta, Insignia, Nautica, Marina, Riviera and Vista.

Book an  Oceania Cruises  itinerary on GoToSea, a service of U.S. News.

Silversea Cruises

Silversea is another cruise line known for its culinary excellence. Guests will find a selection of international venues featuring Italian, Asian and French cuisine on board the line's fleet of 12 ships.

S.A.L.T., an immersive dining experience that stands for "Sea and Land Taste," is available on Silver Nova , Silver Moon and Silver Dawn . The S.A.L.T. program was created by Adam Sachs, former editor-in-chief of Saveur magazine and three-time James Beard journalism award winner. The innovative program invites guests to experience the destination and local food culture through on-board hands-on activities, including making local recipes in the S.A.L.T. Lab. You can also attend cooking demonstrations and lectures, or book in-depth culinary excursions to working organic farms, Sicilian pasticcerias (where you'll learn how to make pastries) and vineyards in destinations around the world.

The all-inclusive luxury line's restaurant venues are complimentary with the following exceptions: French fine dining restaurant La Dame; the S.A.L.T. Chef's Table experience available on Silver Nova; Seishin Restaurant, which serves Asian fusion dishes on Silver Spirit; and Kaiseki, the Japanese, sushi and teppanyaki venue available on five Silversea ships.

These are two standout dining venues on Silversea:

  • S.A.L.T. Kitchen: S.A.L.T. Kitchen's menu changes daily inspired by the destination, but diners will also find a "Voyage" menu that reflects the influences from the overall region of the itinerary. The daily "Terrain" menu in Italy might include dishes likes prawns cooked in a cherry tomato sauce with garlic, white wine and parsley or a classic risotto with clams topped with a pan-fried filet of sole. The "Voyage" menu on an Eastern Mediterranean sailing would feature dishes from Greece, Croatia and Italy. The immersive dining experience is available on Silver Ray, Moon, Dawn and Nova.
  • La Dame: The curated menu at La Dame was created by Silversea's top chefs and is served in an elegant contemporary space with white-glove table service. The cuisine pays homage to classic French gastronomy along with modern techniques and flair. Guests can expect to dine on traditional French dishes such as seared duck foie gras, French onion soup, lobster bisque, Dover sole and souffles for dessert. La Dame is available on all the line's ships, except for Silver Origin.

Find a  Silversea Cruise  on GoToSea.

Explora Journeys

MSC Group's new luxury brand, Explora Journeys, features a top-notch culinary program with a team of international chefs at the helm. Acclaimed chef Franck Garanger, the line's head of culinary, has been recognized as a French master chef since 2008; he has also overseen the culinary programs for both Silversea and Oceania cruises before joining Explora.

According to Garanger, Explora Journeys has one of the highest chef-to-guest ratios and food costs of any cruise line, which is why you'll see offerings like freshly shucked oysters on the half shell, ceviche, free range and organic chicken, made-to-order grilled fish, and other freshly prepared items in Emporium Marketplace, Explora's globally inspired all-day dining venue. There's also a large focus on plant-based dishes, wellness and healthy menu selections in venues across the ship.

The first of six 922-guest superyacht-style vessels, Explora I, offers guests a choice of six restaurant venues, including the French-inspired Fil Rouge; Marble & Co. Grill, an elegant European steakhouse; and Med Yacht Club, which features delightful Mediterranean cuisine. Guests will also enjoy boutique international and regional wines; try a glass of Moët & Chandon, Explora's "house" Champagne.

During your "journey," you can also attend cooking classes at the Chef's Kitchen, a private dining and culinary school with lead enrichment chef Jean-Louis Dumonet at the helm. Another world-class chef, Dumonet received the distinction of becoming a French master chef in 1994 and has had a very successful culinary career, including achieving his first Michelin star at age 28.

Explore these standouts in Explora's culinary program:

  • Sakura: This beautiful Pan-Asian restaurant is open for lunch and dinner. The bright and airy design features cherry blossoms suspended from the ceilings and Asian-inspired decor. The authentic dining experience also boasts an open kitchen and a sushi bar with many ingredients sourced from Japan, and the venue has outdoor seating and indoor tables with floor-to-ceiling ocean views. Begin your evening with an Asian-inspired cocktail and a starter of crispy duck leg confit, wagyu beef tataki or soft-shell crab tempura. Main dish highlights include a miso black cod fillet, 72-hour slow-cooked short rib beef panang and an addictive lobster pad Thai.
  • Anthology: The innovative concept at Anthology "is imagined as a unique culinary stage showcasing global cooking talents and cuisines, provenance and rare ingredients along with wines by highly coveted winemakers." The tasting menus are curated by a rotation of top chefs that changes throughout the year. The first chef who opened the new ship, Mauro Uliassi, has a three-Michelin-starred restaurant in the coastal town of Senigallia, Italy. The second chef (through April 2024) is Swedish-born Emma Bengtsson, executive chef at the two-Michelin-starred Aquavit in New York. Anthology is the only dining venue on Explora I that comes at an additional cost. There's also an optional wine pairing.

Compare  Explora Journeys  cruises on GoToSea.

Regent Seven Seas

Regent Seven Seas' culinary program, "Epicurean Indulgence," features top-notch dining experiences on board the luxury line's six ships. Guests will also find educational hands-on cooking classes in the Culinary Arts Kitchen and Epicurean Explorer tours focused on the wines, spirits and regional foods in destinations around the world. Regents' all-inclusive cruise fares include as many as seven dining venues (depending on the ship), that feature French, Italian, Pan-Asian and steakhouse restaurants as well as 24-hour in-suite room service. You can also enjoy fine wines and spirits in all the restaurants, bar and lounges.

Regent Seven Seas boasts a variety of excellent restaurants, but here are two top options:

  • Pacific Rim: The entrance to Pacific Rim is just as impressive as its food with the floor-to-ceiling bronze Tibetan Buddhist prayer wheel that sits just outside the venue. Inside, your evening experience in this beautiful zen-like space begins with a signature cocktail and a difficult decision of which Thai, Japanese, Korean, Chinese or Vietnamese dishes to order for dinner. Begin your meal with a selection of sushi and sashimi, then sample pork and shrimp siu mai or thom kha gai soup. For a main dish, don't miss elevated dishes like miso black cod, Canadian lobster tempura or aromatic duck.
  • Compass Rose: Compass Rose is the largest specialty restaurant on Regent's ships, and you'll find the elegant venue across the fleet. The menu features classic favorites and dishes that are always available, including foie gras, escargot, Alaskan crab salad, black Angus cuts of beef, New Zealand lamb chops and a daily choice of pasta. The additional chef's gourmet menu changes daily. If you prefer lighter fare, choose one of the healthy Serene Spa & Wellness selections. Guests can also customize their dining preferences and order from any of the menus.

Explore  Regent Seven Seas  deals on GoToSea.

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Viking's nine 930-guest and adults-only ocean-going ships offer destination-focused dining highlighting regional cuisine and local specialties. In addition, cruisers will find their favorite classic dishes (some with a twist), such as a Norwegian baby shrimp cocktail, beef tenderloin and linguine with clams in The Restaurant, Viking's main dining venue.

Other dining options include an open kitchen and international fare at World Café, which also has a large alfresco dining area called Aquavit Terrace. For more casual fare, head to Mamsen's, a favorite spot for Norwegian specialties, or stop by the Pool Grill, where you'll find made-to-order burgers and light bites. All of these venues – plus two specialty restaurants, Manfredi's and The Chef's Table – are included in the cruise fare.

Guests on board Viking's ships are also treated to a daily afternoon tea in the Wintergarden, a Scandinavian-inspired, light-filled space located next to the main pool. If you're interested in learning more about destination-focused cuisine, reserve a spot in one of the hands-on cooking classes at The Kitchen Table to learn how to prepare some of the local dishes. These special excursions and culinary classes begin with a visit to a local market and end with an evening of cooking (or watching the dinner preparation) – plus multiple courses of food and wine pairings. There is a fee for the class.

The two specialty restaurants provide an exceptional experience with Viking :

  • Manfredi's: Plan to make a reservation at Manfredi's, Viking's Italian restaurant. It features an impressive menu of Italian specialties, including dishes with influence from Tuscany and Rome. Start the evening with a selection of antipasti for two and pasta e fagioli or crème of porcini soup. Then, choose between traditional offerings like osso bucco alla Milanese, rosemary parmesan-crusted lamb or the Tuscan favorite dish bistecca Fiorentina (Florentine-style steak). There are also wonderful fresh pasta dishes and several types of risotto.
  • The Chef's Table: The Chef's Table menu changes several times throughout the cruise, allowing guests to sample a variety of multicourse tasting menus that highlight international and regional specialties. The beautiful venue is perfect for a special evening and a "food journey" where you'll savor a selection of Asian, Norwegian, French or other cuisines paired with wines by the ship's master sommelier.

Book a  Viking Ocean Cruises  itinerary on GoToSea.

Mainstream cruise lines

Holland america line.

Holland America's master chef and creative culinary artist, Rudi Sodamin, has been with the line for around 20 years. He also heads up the Culinary Council, a group of well-known chefs who will be on board for culinary cruises scheduled throughout the year. During these special voyages, guests can attend cooking demonstrations and coffee chats and make reservations for exclusive chef-hosted dinners and events throughout the cruise.

Holland America also has a new initiative with Fresh Fish Ambassador, chef and TV personality Masaharu Morimoto (you'll recognize him from "Iron Chef"). The Global Fresh Fish program affords the line the ability to source more than 80 varieties of fresh fish in destinations around the world. In addition, you'll find certified sustainable Alaskan seafood on the menu during Alaska cruises .

Wine aficionados can look for wine tastings and wine blending sessions on board the ship and excursions to wine regions ashore, some in partnership with Food & Wine magazine. Rudi's Sel De Mer is an excellent choice for a fine dining evening, but the French brasserie-inspired venue is only available on three ships.

Here are two of Holland America's top specialty restaurants:

  • Pinnacle Grill: Pinnacle Grill, an upscale steakhouse, is a specialty restaurant (with an additional fee) that's available on all of the line's 11 ships. It's a favorite spot for couples to enjoy a romantic evening and features classic dishes like shrimp cocktail, jumbo lump crab cakes, lobster bisque, filet mignon, surf and turf, and grilled lamb chops. Seafood lovers will also find Alaskan king salmon and halibut. Be sure to save room for a twist on a timeless dessert – the not-so-classic baked Alaska with Ben & Jerry's Cherry Garcia ice cream.
  • Tamarind: Tamarind's elegant atmosphere and flavorful Pan-Asian cuisine make this another top pick for Holland American cruisers. The specialty restaurant is available on four ships (for an additional fee) and features dishes from Thailand, Japan, Indonesia and other Asian countries. Appetizers include specialties like crispy duck with a steamed bao bun, shrimp tempura and Chinese five-spice baby back ribs. For the main course, choose from several types of curries, sample Mongolian barbecue lamb chops, or feast on wok-seared shrimp and lobster. Plan to come early to Tamarind Bar to enjoy a cocktail such as a saketini while watching the sunset over the ocean.

Find a  Holland America  cruise on GoToSea.

Disney Cruise Line

Disney Cruise Line offers excellent family-friendly dining options with over-the-top Disney- and movie-themed venues with live character performances and shows. The ships also have upscale adults-only lounges, bars and restaurants that are perfect for a romantic date night. Disney Cruise Line 's unique rotational family dining concept allows guests to experience three different restaurants while having the same dedicated servers every one of those evenings, so the service is personalized throughout your voyage.

Guests on board Disney Wish can dine in the fictional kingdom of Arendelle at Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure. The "Frozen"-themed evening includes Nordic-inspired dishes, musical performances by the characters and even singalongs for the audience. On Disney Wonder , guests are treated to a night filled with New Orleans-style jazz and street parties plus Southern-influenced fare at Tiana's Place. You can also meet Princess Tiana from Disney's animated feature "The Princess and the Frog."

Other top dining venues on Disney Cruise Line include:

Palo: This adults-only Venetian-inspired venue is an upscale spot ideal for a quiet evening without the kids (who will be very happy to spend time at the onboard kids club). The fine dining experience features northern Italian cuisine and floor-to-ceiling windows offering views from nearly every perspective. The specialty restaurant also serves brunch on longer cruises. The prix fixe (or "prezzo fisso") menu includes four courses, or you can opt to choose from the regular menu with a selection of appetizers, salads, pizza, pasta and main dishes that are individually priced. Guests will find Palo on Disney Magic, Wonder, Dream and Fantasy.

On Disney Wish, there's an updated version of the dining concept, Palo Steakhouse. The modern steakhouse and Italian restaurant – inspired by Cogsworth, the enchanted clock from "Beauty and the Beast" – offers cuts of Australian wagyu, Japanese Kobe and Miyazaki beef as well as delightful Italian cuisine and spectacular ocean views. Be sure to splurge on a cocktail at The Rose before dinner if you're dining at Palo Steakhouse. Note that meals at Palo and Palo Steakhouse come with an additional charge.

Remy: The exquisite dining experience at Remy is a collaboration between French chef Arnaud Lallement from l'Assiette Champenoise (a three-Michelin-starred restaurant in France) and Walt Disney World Resort 's chef Scott Hunnel from the renowned restaurant Victoria & Albert's. Your leisurely evening of fine wines and a tasting menu of French fare begins with a signature Taittinger Champagne cocktail prepared tableside.

Special touches in the "Ratatouille"-inspired venue include Frette linens, Christofle silverware, exclusive Bernadaud china made for Remy, Riedel glassware, tableside international cheese service and decanting stations for wines. A Champagne brunch is served on sea days and select port days. There is an additional charge to dine at the restaurant, which is available on Disney Dream and Fantasy.

Explore  Disney Cruise Line  deals on GoToSea.

Virgin Voyages

Virgin Voyages' creative approach to cruising can be found in nearly every aspect of the line's three ships, including its adults-only vibe and fresh approach to dining. Virgin Voyages does not have a traditional main dining room – and there's no onboard buffet or large dining halls. What you will find is more than 20 eateries with menus created by Michelin-starred chefs that are included in the cruise fare. These smaller and more intimate venues include The Galley, a food court-style spot for casual and grab-and-go fare like bento boxes, tacos, salads, sushi, burgers, noodle bowls and desserts.

Meat lovers and vegetarians will love the veggie-forward dishes and indulgent pork or chicken specialties at boldly designed Razzle Dazzle. At Extra Virgin, sample trattoria-style Italian fare like crispy artichokes, seafood pasta, grilled Mediterranean sea bass and a special tableside preparation of affogato for dessert. For a Korean barbecue experience, head over to Gunbae, a fun spot where your evening begins with a shot of soju – Korea's national drink and the best-selling liquor in the world. The Wake is the largest venue on board and the closest restaurant to a main dining room; it sits at the back of the ship and features a raw bar in addition to a selection of steaks and seafood (some offerings come with an upcharge).

There are many excellent options for dinner, but these are two cruiser-favorite venues:

  • The Test Kitchen: Inspired by Auguste Escoffier's "Ma Cuisine," The Test Kitchen is a favorite spot for its laboratory-like eatery and cooking school. The interior decor features metal furniture, beakers and test tubes to get diners in the mood for the exploratory culinary evening. Menus at this innovative venue are presented as a list of ingredients, and guests get to watch the chef combine the selected ingredients of the day for the six-course tasting menu. The upscale experience takes about 2.5 hours. Wine, beer or cocktail pairings come at an additional fee.
  • Pink Agave: Virgin's stylish Mexican dining venue, Pink Agave, was inspired by the vibrant streets of Mexico City – and the restaurant features what the line calls the most extensive selection of mezcal and tequila at sea. The menu offerings include small, medium and large plates plus desserts. To begin the evening, order a few small bites to share, including esquites (a grilled corn dish) and aguachile, which is a ceviche made with raw tuna, avocado and jicama. Then, for the main course, choose between options like roasted duck or chicken, achiote marinated pork, or a vegetarian stuffed poblano pepper.

Compare  Virgin Voyages  cruises on GoToSea.

Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity's selection and quality of restaurant venues – and attentive service – have made the line a favorite for food-focused cruisers for many years. If you're sailing on one of the Celebrity Edge-class ships ( Ascent , Beyond , Apex or Edge ), you'll have up to 32 restaurants to choose from with globally inspired menus created by Michelin-starred chef Cornelius Gallagher.

You can also look for special culinary cruises and onboard events designed in partnership with renowned Michelin-star French chef Daniel Boulud, the line's global culinary brand ambassador. Some of the onboard programs include wine-blending classes, whiskey and scotch tastings, mixology classes, and food and wine pairing workshops.

With so many complimentary dining and specialty options on Celebrity ships (making it hard to choose where to dine), here are two of the unique experiences not to be missed:

  • Le Voyage by Daniel Boulud: Daniel Boulud's first signature restaurant at sea is inspired by the chef's global travels. The interior of the specialty restaurant, designed by the Parisian architect-design team of Jouin Manku, is as much of an experience as the meal with its intimate decor and banquette seating. Guests can choose between a standard dinner menu, a regular five-course tasting menu or a plant-based tasting menu. Le Voyage is available on the new Celebrity Ascent and Celebrity Beyond and costs an additional fee.
  • Le Petit Chef: The innovative and fantastical 3D dining experience at Le Petit Chef is one of the most unique ways to spend an evening at sea. The immersive meal, which is either served in the quirky Qsine restaurant or Le Grand Bistro, depending on the ship, will delight cruisers of all ages, especially younger children. The tiny, animated chef (think about the size of your hand) entertains guests while preparing each dish. You may see him firing up a grill to sear a steak, picking fresh vegetables from a garden or even going on a fishing adventure in search of lobster. After each dish is prepared by "the chef," waiters will arrive with the actual dish. The 1.5-hour-long experience is an additional cost.

Explore  Celebrity Cruises  deals on GoToSea.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has sailed on nearly every type of cruise ship built, including the newest megaships, paddle-wheelers on the Mississippi River, and an 18-stateroom river ship on the Mekong River in Vietnam and Cambodia. She has also cruised on a traditional masted sailing ship and on a small luxury expedition vessel in Antarctica crossing the notorious Drake Passage twice. She covers the travel and culinary industries for major publications including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

  • Cruise Drink Packages: Your Options by Cruise Line
  • All-Inclusive Resorts With the Best Food
  • The Best Food Cities in the U.S.
  • Cruise Packing List Essentials
  • The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

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Mongolian Beef Lamb at Tamarind on a Holland America Line ship.

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6 top luxury alaska cruises for 2024 & beyond.

Book a once-in-a-lifetime adventure to The Great Land on one of these top luxury ships.

Top Luxury Alaska Cruises

Veranda of Aquamarine Suite on Crystal cruise ship.

Courtesy of Crystal

Cruising to Alaska on a small luxury ship affords a very different experience than sailing through The Great Land on a larger vessel. On a smaller luxury ship, you'll enjoy the expected perks like fewer passengers and more personalized service – but you'll also physically get closer to the boundless wilderness, abundant wildlife, icy blue glaciers and majestic snow-capped mountains that you've waited a lifetime to see.

While the fares to sail on such vessels are quite a bit higher than those of larger cruise providers, the all-inclusive (or mostly all-inclusive) prices typically include all-suite accommodations with balconies, all meals, alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, 24-hour room service, Wi-Fi access, gratuities, welcome bottles of sparkling wine, pillow selection, some shore excursions and butler service. Best of all, you won't feel like you're being nickel-and-dimed while on board. As a special touch, the attentive crew members may even learn your name and memorize your preferred pre-dinner cocktail.

Unlike many mainstream lines, most luxury Alaska cruises do not offer pre- and post-cruise tours to extend your adventure. However, you can plan these experiences on your own through third-party providers.

Alaska Tour & Travel has pre-cruise packages that include visits to Denali National Park & Preserve and the small, quirky Alaska towns of Homer and Talkeetna. You can also see a different side of Alaska via a train ride on the Alaska Railroad, take a national parks tour that includes Kenai Fjords National Park or head northbound to Fairbanks , one of the best places in the world to see the northern lights (if you visit during aurora season, from late August to late April). In addition, the company can plan a self-drive tour from Anchorage to Seward, which includes a stay at a wilderness lodge, helicopter flightseeing over Knik Glacier and guided tours in the parks.

The following luxury cruise lines will ensure you make the most of your voyage in Alaska – one of the most magical destinations on Earth.

Find your perfect cruise

Silversea Cruises

Pool deck on the Silversea Nova.

Courtesy of Silversea Cruises

Silversea Cruises' small luxury ships are designed for adventurers interested in visiting a mix of Alaska's top ports and more rugged, off-the-beaten-track locales. Extended itineraries offer stops in less-visited destinations like the towns of Haines and Wrangell. On board, guests can expect a personalized experience that includes luxurious ocean-view suites with butler service, multiple gourmet dining options, complimentary alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, and attentive service with one of the highest crew-to-guest ratios in the industry.

Base fares for Silversea's 2024 and 2025 Alaska itineraries start at $3,250 per person. If you upgrade to Silversea 's door-to-door fare (which starts at $5,200 per person), you'll receive private chauffeur service from your home to the airport (and back home upon your return) and round-trip flights, with business class upgrades in some destinations.

Silversea also offers immersive pre- and post-cruise land experiences, departing from Seward, Alaska. Highlights include sightseeing flights over Denali National Park & Preserve or into bear country to see Alaska's magnificent grizzly bears. In Vancouver, travelers can take a flightseeing transfer to Victoria to tour the 55-acre Butchart Gardens or board the Rocky Mountaineer for a two-day train ride through the Canadian Rockies.

Silversea's Alaska itineraries extend from May to September, with voyages ranging between seven and 16 days. The line's newest and largest vessel, the 728-passenger Silver Nova , sails its inaugural Alaska season in 2024 along with two smaller ships, Silver Muse (596 guests) and Silver Shadow (392 guests). There are 35 Alaska voyages available in 2024. In 2025, luxury cruisers can hop aboard one of 45 scheduled voyages on either Silver Nova or the 596-guest Silver Moon .

For a seven-day itinerary, consider a sailing from Seward, Alaska, to Vancouver, British Columbia. This voyage cruises the Hubbard Glacier and the Inside Passage and stops in the Alaska towns of Juneau, Skagway, Sitka and Ketchikan. Complimentary excursions in Ketchikan include a tour of Saxman Native Village; a visit to Bonfire Bay Oyster Farm, featuring a sea-to-table oyster tasting; the Alaskan Cultural, Culinary & Lumberjack show; the Alaskan Lodge Adventure & Seafeast and a day as a fisherman aboard the Aleutian Ballard, as seen on Discovery Channel's "The Deadliest Catch." You can also opt for a Selected Shore Excursion (for an additional cost), such as mountain biking or a private fishing trip.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Bed in the Concierge Suite on the Regent Seven Seas Explorer.

Courtesy of Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Regent Seven Seas Cruises' elegant Seven Seas Explorer sails the line's Alaska itineraries in 2024 and 2025. The lavish 746-guest ship was coined "The Most Luxurious Ship Ever Built" when it debuted in 2016; among its impressive features are the 3,875-square-foot Regent Suite and a high-end collection of art displayed throughout the ship, including works by Pablo Picasso.

Alaska voyages with Regent in 2024 and 2025 start at $4,799 per person. Upgraded 2-for-1 all-inclusive fares (starting at $5,499 per person) cover elegant all-balcony suite accommodations; round-trip airfare (business class on international flights); a one-night pre-cruise hotel package; free two- or three-night land programs; free unlimited shore excursions; free unlimited beverages (alcoholic and nonalcoholic); complimentary specialty dining; and prepaid gratuities. You'll also receive complimentary airport transfers, unlimited Wi-Fi access and valet laundry service.

Every suite style includes a private balcony, roomy closets and upscale finishes. Concierge Suites (and above) add cozy in-room amenities like cashmere blankets, perfect to bundle up in while you take in the scenery. Meanwhile, Penthouse Suites (and higher) include a private butler who can book excursions, make dinner and spa reservations, unpack your luggage, arrange for a private cocktail soiree in your suite and indulge any other special requests.

Between May and September 2024, Regent sails 22 Alaska voyages. There are 16 Alaska sailings scheduled for the same period in 2025. Itineraries range from seven to 14 nights. For plenty of scenic cruising days, consider a round-trip itinerary from Vancouver departing May 28, 2025. The cruise includes five relaxing days at sea, where you'll enjoy scenic cruising through the Inside Passage (twice), Hubbard Glacier (twice) and Endicott Arm Fjord. Ports of call in Alaska include Wrangell, Juneau , Skagway, Sitka, Seward, Icy Strait (Hoonah) and Ketchikan. You'll also have a full day in Victoria, British Columbia, before returning to Vancouver.

While in Wrangell, consider the Tongass Botanical Forest Walk excursion. Tongass National Forest is the largest national forest in the U.S., with towering old-growth trees and unique flora, fauna and ecosystems. While in the temperate rainforest with your naturalist guide, look for local wildlife like Sitka black-tailed deer, porcupines and birds of prey. Other complimentary excursions at this stop include a round of golf at Muskeg Meadows Golf Course; a canoe trip through Wrangell harbor and nearby islands, and a heritage tour about Tlingit culture and the history of the town.

Nobu restaurant on a Crystal cruise ship.

Recently relaunched Crystal offers just seven voyages in Alaska aboard Crystal Serenity in July and August 2024. The 740-guest luxury vessel was refurbished in 2023 and features the line's signature top-notch service, elegant interiors and suites, and personal butler service in every room category.

Other perks and amenities include plush bathrobes and Sicily's Ortigia bath products; an impressive passenger-to-crew ratio; prepaid gratuities; complimentary beverages; and outstanding cuisine, including Umi Uma (an exclusive Nobu restaurant at sea, available only on Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony ). Guests can also feast on Italian cuisine at Osteria d'Ovidio; book an exclusive dining experience at The Vintage Room; indulge in Parisian cafe-style fare at The Bistro; opt for American cuisine at Waterside Restaurant or take their pick of several other casual indoor and alfresco options.

Cruisers also have their selection of unique shore experiences curated by Crystal's parent company A&K Travel Group, such as a ride on the world's largest zip line in Hoonah (Icy Strait Point); dog sledding and glacier flightseeing in Skagway; fishing and wilderness dining in Ketchikan and the Wildlife Quest and Fin Island Lodge experience in Sitka, boasting a feast of Alaska king crab and wild salmon.

Crystal offers seven- and eight-night round-trip voyages from Vancouver , as well as one-way cruises from Vancouver or Seward, Alaska. Select itineraries – like the July 30, 2024, voyage from Vancouver to Seward – offer a scenic cruising day in the Seymour Narrows in British Columbia. On this sailing, you'll also enjoy a day at sea cruising Hubbard Glacier, as well as stops in Ketchikan, Sitka, Hoonah (Icy Strait), Skagway and Sitka in Alaska. Or, opt for the July 2, 2024, round-trip sailing from Vancouver for three scenic cruising days in the Inside Passage, Endicott Arm and the Seymour Narrows.

The line's Aug. 13, 2024, round-trip sailing from Vancouver features a special guest: Manfredi Lefebvre d'Ovidio, the executive chairman of A&K Travel Group. As such, the cruise will include an exclusive gala dinner and other unique experiences. Other special voyages welcome marine biologist and National Geographic photographer Flip Nicklin, who will share personal stories from his extensive career and expert insights about humpback whale habitats and behaviors.

what are the luxury cruise liners

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Viking Ocean Cruises

The Restaurant on a Viking cruise ship.

Courtesy of Viking

Viking Ocean Cruises' 11-day Alaska & the Inside Passage cruise is available on 11 dates during the 2024 season. It sails from Vancouver to Seward (or the reverse) on the 930-passenger Viking Orion . In 2025, the line offers the same itinerary on 22 dates between May and September, split between Viking Orion and its sister ship, the 930-passenger Viking Sea .

Viking's destination-focused itineraries are curated for travelers who are interested in history, science, culture and cuisine, as they feature onboard enrichment like lectures by Viking's resident historians. You'll also find regionally inspired dishes in The Restaurant and special access to unique tours and excursions ashore.

The line's mostly all-inclusive fares cover accommodations in spacious all-veranda staterooms and suites; beer, wine and soft drinks at lunch and dinner; meals at all the dining venues; one shore excursion in every port; free Wi-Fi access; 24-hour specialty teas, coffees and bottled water; complimentary access to The Nordic Spa & Fitness Center; and other upscale amenities.

Voyages traveling northbound from Vancouver include one day of scenic cruising through the Inside Passage before stopping in Ketchikan, Sitka, Juneau, Skagway and Icy Strait Point in Alaska. The eighth day of the cruise sails through picturesque Yakutat Bay, which includes the Hubbard Glacier. The ship then calls on Valdez, Alaska, before the trip ends with two days in Seward.

While in Valdez, take an optional tour to explore the incredible scenery surrounding the small fishing town. Viking offers a kayaking trip to see the Valdez Glacier; a scenic cruise through picturesque Prince William Sound to view the Columbia Glacier; a wildlife cruise where you can look for humpback whales, orcas, porpoises, sea otters and bald eagles; a helicopter ride over the area's rugged, icy wilderness; or a UTV adventure through the Chugach Mountains to Mineral Creek Canyon.

Seabourn Cruise Line

The aft pool on a Seabourn Cruise Line ship.

Courtesy of Seabourn Cruise Line

Between May and August 2024, Seabourn Cruise Line will host 20 Alaska voyages aboard the Seabourn Odyssey , before the ship leaves the cruise line in the fall. In 2025, the line offers 27 Alaska sailings on Seabourn Quest. Both yacht-inspired ships accommodate up to 458 guests and feature Seabourn's signature all-inclusive amenities, including luxurious oceanfront suites with verandas; personalized service; complimentary fine wines and premium spirits; complimentary dining; and caviar served throughout the sailing. You'll also have a complimentary W-Fi package and an in-suite minibar stocked with your favorite beverages. Ashore, sign up for exclusive programs like shopping for fresh salmon, halibut and Alaska king crab alongside a Seabourn chef.

Guests booking Seabourn Quest for 2025 will be able to sample the line's new dining concept, Solis. Inspired by destinations in the Mediterranean, the menu features a fresh, modern take on traditional dishes and whimsical cocktails. The restaurant is a collaboration with master chef and culinary partner Anton Egger and senior corporate chef Franck Salein. In addition to dishes like salt-encrusted whole branzino and Tuscan-style steak, guests will also find a wide selection of vegan and vegetarian dishes.

The seven-day Alaska Fjords & Canadian Inside Passage itinerary on May 31, 2024, aboard Seabourn Odyssey, sails from Juneau to Vancouver and includes a day in either Tracy Arm or Endicott Arm, depending on the ice conditions. From there, you can take one of the optional guided excursions: Ventures by Seabourn. These tours are an additional cost but offer opportunities for up-close Zodiac, kayaking or catamaran experiences in the wilderness to see glaciers calving and view local wildlife, such as black bears, mountain goats, seals, wolves and seabirds.

You'll also enjoy many days of scenic cruising on this voyage, and have the opportunity for more optional adventures in Rudyerd Bay (Misty Fjords). The ship makes additional stops in Wrangell, Alaska, and Prince Rupert, British Columbia, before disembarking in Vancouver.

If you want to see stunning Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve, then consider booking the seven-day Alaska Inside Passage & Glacier Bay sailing on May 10, 2024, from Vancouver to Juneau. This itinerary also includes the Seymour Narrows and Snow Pass, cruising Queen Island Sound and the Lynn Canal. There's a stop for Ventures by Seabourn activities like kayaking and Zodiac rides in the Inian Islands. The Alaska ports of call on this voyage are Ketchikan, Sitka, Icy Strait Point and Haines. You'll disembark in Juneau.

Bed in cabin on PONANT Le Soléal.

Francois Lefebvre | Courtesy of PONANT

French luxury expedition line PONANT offers 10 Alaska cruises in 2024; itineraries span between seven and 11 nights. Aboard the 264-guest yacht-style Le Soléal, you'll meet up to 10 naturalist experts and guides specializing in geology, history, ornithology or marine or land mammals. Guests can attend onboard lectures and embark on Zodiac landings with the guides.

The ship features elegant staterooms and suites, a library, a spa, a hair salon and a gym. Guests will be treated to movies in the theater, wine tastings and cooking demonstrations throughout the expedition. All fine dining meals, 24-hour room service, an open bar (including an in-room minibar) and complimentary and unlimited Wi-Fi access are covered in the pricing.

Two of PONTANT's eight-night voyages from Vancouver to Sitka are in partnership with Smithsonian Journeys and are curated for English-speaking travelers. Fares for these expeditions include transfers to and from the ship and a shore excursion in each port. On board, you can attend talks and discussions hosted by two Smithsonian Journeys experts: geologist Scott Burns and natural history filmmaker John Grabowska.

On these voyages, there is a sea day after departing Vancouver. You'll cruise through the Johnstone Strait, where you'll have an excellent chance of seeing humpback whales and orcas. After a day spent in the Inside Passage, the ship will call on the village of Metlakatla, Alaska, on the western coast of Annette Island, which is home to the Tsimshians from British Columbia. Other unique Alaska ports of call in this itinerary include the commercial fishing town of Petersburg, the Tlingit village of Kake and the small fishing community of Alfin Cove.

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 explore the state's vast wilderness and abundant wildlife, and to chase the northern lights in one of the best places on the planet to view them. Pratesi used her extensive knowledge of Alaska and the cruise industry to write this article.

You might also be interested in:

  • The Most Affordable Alaska Cruises
  • The Best Time to Cruise to Alaska
  • Alaska Cruise Packing List: Must-Have Items
  • The Top Alaska Cruise Lines
  • The Top Antarctica Cruises

Tags: Travel , Cruises , Alaska Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

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  • # 4 Bora Bora

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Icon of the Seas: Crew of world's largest cruise liner rescue 14 people stranded at sea

Miami-based Royal Caribbean says the gigantic liner, which was heading to Honduras after leaving Miami, encountered the small craft "adrift and in need of assistance".

Friday 8 March 2024 12:49, UK

Tourists leave the Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas, the largest cruise ship in the world, after arriving at Costa Maya Cruise Port, in the village town of Mahahual, Quintana Roo state, Mexico

Crew members aboard the world's largest cruise ship have rescued 14 people who had been stranded at sea on a tiny boat for eight days.

The drama unfolded as the 1,198ft (365m) Icon of the Seas headed for Honduras after leaving Miami .

Passengers heard a broadcast over the loudspeakers of "code Oscar, code Oscar, code Oscar", which is the emergency call sign for a person overboard.

Pic: Reuters

The crew launched a small vessel to ferry the stranded group, who had been waving a large white flag, to safety.

Miami-based Royal Caribbean said in a statement the liner encountered the craft "adrift and in need of assistance".

The cruise operator added: "The ship's crew immediately launched a rescue operation, safely bringing 14 people on board.

"The crew provided them with medical attention, and is working closely with the US Coast Guard."

Alessandra Amodio was on the cruise liner with her family when the rescue happened.

She told FoxWeather.com: "We were really surprised and honestly a little freaked out.

"We've been on a handful of cruises and never seen something like this happen. It was crazy to think that these people were stuck at sea for so long."

Read more on Sky News: Terror attack 'imminent' in Moscow, US warns Murder On The Dancefloor sung where 90 people were killed Family's anger at people smugglers after daughter dies in boat tragedy She added: "The boat turned around, and we pulled up as close as we could to them and stopped."

Ms Amodio said the ship deployed "a small zodiac-type rescue boat to investigate".

The ship's captain subsequently informed passengers those rescued had been adrift at sea for eight days.

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what are the luxury cruise liners

The cruise liner, which only made its maiden voyage in January, can host 5,610 guests and has 2,350 crew members.

It boasts 20 decks, 2,800 guest cabins and seven swimming pools.

The ship dwarfs the Titanic, which was 882.9ft (269m) long.

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