Sailing in Style With This Guide to Ultra Luxury Cruise Lines

If you’re seeking opulence on the open ocean, then you have an array of decadent cruise lines to choose from. Each offers their unique blend of comfort, deluxe interiors, unforgettable destinations, and intimate, personalized experiences. If you’re new to the cruising world, let’s embark on a virtual tour of some of the leading luxury cruise lines sailing the globe.

For years, Crystal Cruises reigned supreme in the domain of luxury cruising until it ceased operations in early 2022. However, the legendary cruise line made a comeback when the illustrious A&K Travel Group purchased and refurbished their two most renowned ships, the Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony. Today, Crystal Cruises stands resurrected, showcasing elegant oceangoing ships that offer unrivaled opulent experiences to their seasoned passengers.

With Abercrombie & Kent operating the shore excursions, expect excellence ashore as well.

Ponant: Where luxury meets adventure

Photo courtesy of Ponant

Ponant is a France-based luxury cruise line known for its adventurous spirit. Ponant pushes the boundaries and specializes in expedition cruising, blending the thrill of exploration with sumptuous indulgence. Their fleet of robust yet lavish expedition ships takes passengers on unforgettable journeys to obscure, distant locations. The intimate ships carry their own landing vessels, ushering travelers in exploring the many hidden corners of our fascinating world.

Regent Seven Seas: A voyage of extraordinary splendor

Photo courtesy of Regent Seven Seas

Miami-based Regent Seven Seas Cruises recently launched its sixth ship, the SS Grandeur, adorned with its own Faberge Egg. The cruise line also boasts the Seven Seas Splendor, deemed by many as the jewel of luxury cruising. These ships are the most upscale luxury vessels sailing, complete with extravagant accommodations that redefine excess.

Read my review of the Seven Seas Mariner.

Read my review of the Seven Seas Explorer.

Seabourn: Upscale cruising to the ends of the earth

Photo courtesy of Seabourn

Seabourn’s dazzling ultra-luxury seven-ship fleet offers all-suite accommodations, impeccable service, and delectable cuisine curated by renowned chef Thomas Keller. Seabourn recently announced the next chapter in its award-winning culinary experiences led by Chef Anton Egger with the debut of Solis, a new fine dining venue, that celebrates Mediterranean cuisine inspired by the places visited by the line’s ultra-luxury ships.

From tranquil itineraries to intrepid polar expeditions, Seabourn has carved its space in luxury cruising, offering diverse experiences for the discerning traveler. The all-inclusive, boutique ships offer all-suite accommodations with oceanfront views; award-winning dining; complimentary premium spirits and fine wines always available; renowned service provided by an industry-leading crew; and a relaxed, sociable atmosphere that makes guests feel at home.

Silversea Cruises: Your gateway to the enigmatic corners of the world

Photo courtesy of Silversea

Based in Monaco, Silversea Cruises is affectionately known for its unparalleled service, exquisite dining, and luxurious accommodations. The cruise line caters to the explorers, offering off-the-beaten-path itineraries in a sophisticated setting. Their fleet of expedition ships promises unforgettable journeys, whether it’s the majestic Arctic or the wilds of Papua New Guinea, all encompassed in style. Every suite is served by a butler.

Viking: Redefining luxury ocean cruising

Photo courtesy of Viking

Viking, a cruise line popularly known for its river cruises, now also makes waves in the world of luxury ocean cruises. Viking’s sleek Scandinavian-modern designed ships carry only 930 passengers, ensuring intimate and personalized voyages. The brand focuses on port-intensive itineraries, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in the cultures of their destinations. Viking caters to adult passengers, with no children allowed. Viking prides itself on its “no nickel-and-diming” policy, providing almost all-inclusive luxury experiences.

Explora Journeys: The new era of graceful and relaxed cruising

Photo courtesy of Explora Journeys

This brand-new cruise line is a creation of the MSC Group, aimed not just at luxury but at elegance and modernity as well. Explora Journeys is setting its sights on redefining oceanic travel by blending opulence, relaxation, and exploration. Its first ship, Explora I, launched in 2023, with three more vessels to follow.

A distinguishing feature of Explora Journeys is their dedication to boutique-sized, custom-built ships that offer a more personalized and luxurious experience. With an initial capacity of 1000 guests served by 700 crew members, Explora Journeys guarantees high personalization and meticulous attention to detail. Every suite on board is a balcony suite, allowing guests to bask in splendid ocean views right from their rooms, bestowing an intimate and unforgettable experience.

But the indulgence doesn’t stop there. Explora Journeys has also committed to flexible dining and diverse culinary offerings, letting guests dine at their leisure and pleasure. Dietary restrictions and preferences can be catered to with many Vegan and vegetarian menu offerings daily.

Read my review of a Caribbean cruise on Explora I.

Learn more about included shore excursions on luxury cruise lines.

As you sail into the world of cruising, prepare to experience a blend of top-notch accommodations, refined dining, unmatched personalized service, and remarkable destinations that these cruises have to offer. Dependent on tastes, one can opt for an adventure-packed expedition, a culturally immersive voyage, a buzz-filled city tour, or serene sails in the lap of luxury. But at their heart, all cruises promise the magic of the seas, unforgettable encounters, and the excitement of stepping into new worlds. So, here’s to the opulence of living life on the waters and the journey that often surpasses the destinations. Bon Voyage!

Let’s get started planning your luxury cruise vacation. Reserve your complimentary consultation call with me to begin!

Featured image courtesy of Crystal Cruises