Top-shelf wines, white-gloved service, and amazingly opulent suites – this is what you can expect as a luxury cruiser. Yes, it might sound contrite, but this is what it’s like on a luxury cruise ship.
So, what defines a luxury cruise? All luxury ships have lower capacity, meaning a higher crew-to-guest ratio. What does this mean? Well, for starters, it means you’ll have your dedicated butler at all times, who is responsible for unpacking your bags, organising your shore excursions, booking restaurants onboard, and of course, filling your bar fridge to exactly your specifications.
But what else sets apart a luxury cruise from any other line? For one, most luxury ships, especially the newer vessels, have all balconies, and all-suite accommodation. In comparison to larger vessels, which have a range of accommodations like interior cabins, you’ll find little difference between the size of luxury suites. Often, there will be high-end linens and bath products, elegant fabrics, and bottles of champagne on arrival as well as fresh bouquets every day.
For luxury cruisers, you may not find a wide array of dining options like you would on a big ship, but you won’t have to pay extra for lobster or caviar. Often, cruise lines will partner with Michelin-starred chefs. Silversea, for instance, is working in collaboration with Mauro Colagreco, the celebrated founder of Mirazur (ranked as the world’s best restaurant in 2019). As part of the line’s S.A.L.T. program, Colagreco curated a program that included shopping at the market in the Old Town of Menton along the French Riviera, a visit to his sustainable bakery, and finally, a nine-course tasting menu at his private kitchen.
Shore excursions also define a completely different experience for luxury cruisers. Because you’ll be sailing with fewer people, it means fewer people on your shore excursions. Often, luxury cruise lines will take their guests further, and deeper into regions where guests can meet local families, and even dine with them, exclusive concerts in private castles or you can even curate your private tour through the cruise lines.
Regent Seven Seas has put a big focus on overnight stays where luxury cruisers can experience the nightlife of a destination. You can watch opera in some of the most amazing ancient Roman settings, experience the night markets in the depths of Southeast Asia with local chefs, or even go on a private shopping tour in the heart of Paris.
Luxury Cruisers Tips
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Onboard Europa
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1489969998144{padding-bottom: 5% !important;}”]Europa, which was launched in 1999, is a small luxury ship which targets German-speaking cruisers (although the crew can speak English). It is one of the most spacious purpose-built cruise ships and is popular with cruisers who enjoy luxury, varied cuisine and top-grade service. The 28,890 tonne Europa has seven passenger decks and can accommodate…
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Hanseatic
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1489974235418{padding-bottom: 5% !important;}”]Hanseatic was launched in 1993 as a five-star expedition ship for world-wide cruises, including the polar regions. The ship is tastefully decorated and appeals to well-heeled passengers who appreciated good food and service. It carries a fleet of Zodiacs for shore excursions and operates in English and German. The 8,378 tonne Hanseatic has seven passenger…
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Crystal Esprit
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1475210821741{padding-bottom: 5% !important;}”]The Crystal Esprit is a small ship with a gross tonnage of 3,341. It can carry 62 passengers and 91 crew members. It was launched in 2015 which resembles a contemporary boutique hotel. There are 31 staterooms on board in 5 different categories. The dress code on board Esprit is casual. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row…
