On Water
Book Luxury Ocean Cruises
Luxury cruises offer the ultimate in travel experiences, combining the thrill of exploration with the comfort and indulgence of a five-star resort. Imagine waking up to breathtaking ocean views from your private balcony, savoring gourmet meals prepared by Michelin-starred chefs, and being pampered in world-class spas.
Here’s a glimpse into the world of luxury cruises:
If you’re looking for the ultimate in travel indulgence, a luxury cruise is an unforgettable way to explore the world.
No matter which line you choose, a luxury cruise is sure to be an experience you’ll never forget. So start planning your dream vacation and get ready to embark on a journey of unparalleled luxury and adventure.
Here are a few of our luxury cruise partners, all vetted by Virtuoso to consider for your next trip.
CUNARD
EXPLORA JOURNEYS
PAUL GAUGUIN CRUISES
REGENT SEVEN SEAS
SEABOURN
SEADREAM YACHT CLUB
SILVERSEA CRUISES
VIKING OCEAN CRUISES
WINDSTAR CRUISES
Expeditions Cruises and Ultra Luxury Yachts
Luxury expedition cruises – the perfect blend of thrilling adventure and five-star pampering! Imagine kayaking alongside glaciers in Alaska, then returning to a sumptuous suite with a private balcony overlooking the icy expanse. Or, picture yourself snorkeling amidst vibrant coral reefs in the Galapagos, followed by an exquisite gourmet meal prepared by a Michelin-starred chef. These are just a taste of what awaits on a luxury expedition cruise.
Here’s what sets them apart from regular cruises:
Expedition cruises are generally more expensive than traditional cruises, but the personalized attention, expert guidance, and exclusive access to remote destinations make it a worthwhile investment.
Here are some of our top Partners in luxury expedition cruise lines:
Ponant Yacht
Abercrombie & Kent
Silversea Expeditions Cruises
Seabourn Expeditions
Seabourn's focus on ultra-personalized service and intimate expedition voyages makes it a favorite among discerning travelers. Their Zodiacs and kayaks allow for close-up encounters with wildlife and stunning landscapes.
Aurora Expeditions
Global, Arctic and Antarctic Cruises: Aurora Expeditions is an award-winning, Australian-owned expedition company. For over 32 years they have been exploring endlessly. They have pioneered expedition travel, exploring the wild and unexpected, taking expeditioners on perspective-altering voyages in some of the most remote and incredible off-the-beaten-path destinations. Aurora is truly committed to respectful and environmentally responsible travel. Aurora Expeditions are 100 per cent Climate Neutral and are committed to protecting and preserving the beauty and majesty that mother nature possesses.
Lindblad Expeditions
National Geographic Lindblad Expeditions is renowned for its focus on sustainability and responsible tourism. Their small, comfortable ships take you to remote corners of the world, offering unique cultural encounters and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Hurtigruten
Experience the original Norwegian Coastal Express, or explore further with The North Cape & Svalbard Express. The original offers a unique combination of local travelers, goods and international tourists since the very first departure almost 130 years ago. Connecting 34 communities along Norway’s rugged coastline. Travel on a magical wintertime voyage along the full length of the Norwegian coast on The North Cape Express. Or, a travel to the edge of the world, deep into the Arctic Circle and the land of the Midnight Sun on The Svalbard Express.
Australis Cape Horn & Patagonia Expedition Cruises
Australis, a Chilean company with 31 years experience in operating expedition cruises and named amongst the 2017 Best Small-Ship Ocean Cruises by Travel + Leisure. Born on the waterways of Patagonia and sailing out of Punta Arenas, Chile & Ushuaia, Argentina; The Ventus Australis joined its sister ship Stella Australis as the only passenger vessels that can venture through the narrow fjords of Tierra del Fuego and disembark at fabled Cape Horn. We are the only cruise line who’s passengers get to walk on Cape Horn (weather permitting) on a regular basis. In 2021, the World Cruise Awards chose us as Best Expedition Cruise in the World.
Quark Expeditions
Pioneering the luxury expedition market, Quark Expeditions specializes in polar voyages to the Arctic and Antarctica. Their experienced team of polar experts ensures a safe and enriching journey into these awe-inspiring regions.
Luxury River and Canal Cruises
Unparalleled Comfort and Intimacy
Unlike their ocean-faring counterparts, luxury river and canal cruise ships are smaller and more intimate, typically accommodating only a few dozen to a few hundred guests. This translates to spacious suites and cabins with plush amenities, private balconies, and personalized service. Think attentive butlers, gourmet dining experiences, and onboard spas where you can unwind after a day of exploring charming villages and historical landmarks.
Immersive Experiences and Cultural Gems
River and canal cruises offer a unique perspective on the destinations they visit. You’ll sail past charming villages, medieval towns, and historical cities, often docking right in the heart of the action. This allows for easy exploration on foot or by bike, immersing yourself in the local culture and soaking up the atmosphere. Guided shore excursions led by knowledgeable experts provide deeper insights into the history, art, and traditions of the regions you visit.
Breathtaking Scenery and Diverse Itineraries
From the vine-clad hills of the Douro Valley in Portugal to the tulip fields of Holland and the majestic castles of the Rhine Gorge, river and canal cruises offer a kaleidoscope of stunning scenery. Glide along tranquil rivers, navigate picturesque canals, and marvel at ancient castles and charming villages that seem to have sprung straight out of a fairytale. The diverse itineraries cater to a variety of interests, whether you’re an avid history buff, a passionate foodie, or simply a lover of beautiful landscapes.
Uniworld Boutique River Cruises
Amawaterways
Aqua Expeditions
Luxury River & Yacht Expeditions – Peruvian Amazon, Cambodia & Vietnam, Indonesia, Galapagos Islands
A recognized global leader in luxury small-ship expeditions, Aqua Expeditions explores the world’s most biodiverse and culturally significant destinations aboard best-in-class vessels. Expect tailored five-star itineraries, a highly exclusive 1:1 crew-to-guest ratio, world-class dining, and small group expert-guided activities and excursions. Aqua Expeditions operates river explorations on the Amazon (Peru), the Mekong (Cambodia and Vietnam), and coastal yacht voyages to Komodo National Park, Ambon and the Spice Islands, as well as Raja Ampat (East Indonesia), with their latest superyacht sailing the Galapagos Islands (Ecuador) from June 2022.
Avalon Waterways
Avalon's entire fleet of Suite Ships® in Europe and Southeast Asia features incomparable Panorama Suites with the widest windows in river cruising that transform suites into signature Open Air Balconies. While other river cruise ships stick the bed against one wall only to face another wall, beds actually face their wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows. With these kind of views, you can only open wide and say “Aaaahhhh!”
*note: from Avalon waterways
Belmond Rivers Cruises
Belmond River Cruises offer a unique and luxurious way to experience the waterways of Europe aboard their fleet of intimate and stylish barges and riverboats. Imagine gliding along picturesque rivers like the Douro, the Rhône, and the Seine, soaking in the breathtaking scenery and charming towns from the comfort of your elegant floating home.
Tauck River Cruises
Tauck River Cruises offer an exceptional way to explore Europe's waterways, blending luxurious comfort with immersive cultural experiences.
Viking River Cruises
Adult only cruises
Picture yourself soaking up the sun on a luxurious deck, sipping cocktails by the pool without the sound of splashing kids, and enjoying elegant evenings of fine dining and sophisticated entertainment – all without the worry of little ones underfoot.
Remember, adult-only cruises aren’t just about escaping the noise. They offer a chance to reconnect with your partner, enjoy grown-up fun, and experience a level of service and sophistication that’s tailored specifically for adults. So, pack your swimsuit, your dancing shoes, and your sense of adventure, and get ready to set sail on an unforgettable vacation!
Here are some of our best adult-only cruise lines to consider for your next getaway:
Virgin Voyages
Vibe: Trendy, stylish, and designed for the young at heart (think adults 18 and over). Highlights: Stunningly designed ships with sleek pools, nightclubs, and theater venues. Activities like drag queen bingo, tattoo parlors, and even an onboard record store keep things playful.
Destinations: Caribbean, Mediterranean, Europe, and even transatlantic voyages.
Viking Ocean Cruises
Travelers 18 and older are welcome aboard Viking’s adults-only ships.
Disney Cruises
Setting sail on a Disney Cruise Line ship is about more than just a vacation; it’s an immersive adventure into the magical world of Disney, Pixar, Marvel, and Star Wars. From Broadway-caliber shows and themed deck parties to character meet-and-greets and thrilling waterslides, there’s something for everyone in the family.
