In January of this year, London witnessed the commencement of an extraordinary voyage—the world’s longest passenger cruise—orchestrated by Viking Cruises. Spanning an impressive 245 days, this remarkable journey traversed six continents, calling at 111 ports across 51 countries worldwide. Promising a blend of unparalleled luxury and thrilling adventure, it offered travelers an exceptional opportunity to embark on a global exploration like no other.
As the ship charted its course across the vast expanse of the world’s oceans, passengers reveled in the comfort and sophistication of their surroundings, creating cherished memories and forging lasting connections with fellow travelers. From majestic fjords to tropical paradises, each destination offered a unique glimpse into the rich tapestry of cultures and landscapes that adorn our planet, making this voyage an unforgettable journey of discovery and wonder.
Spectrum of travelers
However, for those craving a taste of multiple destinations in a single grand expedition, there exists an alternative – the air cruise. This unique travel experience entails boarding a chartered aircraft specially outfitted for an extended two to three-week itinerary that circumnavigates the globe. Along the journey, passengers have the opportunity to visit iconic landmarks and world-class destinations such as the Taj Mahal, Machu Picchu, and Easter Island.
Embarking on a round-the-world cruise is undoubtedly an exhilarating prospect, but it’s essential to acknowledge that such journeys come with a hefty price tag. With most packages surpassing the $100,000 mark, these extravagant adventures are primarily within the reach of a privileged few who can indulge in the epitome of luxury travel. Nevertheless, in an effort to diversify their customer base and attract a broader audience, certain companies, including Viking Cruises, are starting to unveil more budget-friendly alternatives. These options aim to render this once-in-a-lifetime voyage attainable for a wider spectrum of travelers, regardless of their financial constraints.
Breathtaking landscapes of the world
While the allure of traversing the globe and visiting an array of exotic destinations remains undeniable, the substantial cost associated with such voyages has traditionally acted as a deterrent for many. However, with the introduction of more affordable alternatives, individuals who have long harbored dreams of embarking on a global odyssey can now see their aspirations materialize. These budget-friendly options provide an opportunity for travelers to immerse themselves in the diverse cultures and breathtaking landscapes of the world, all without breaking the bank.
As the travel industry continues to evolve and adapt to changing consumer preferences, the emergence of more accessible round-the-world cruise options marks a significant step towards democratizing luxury travel experiences. By catering to a wider range of budgets, companies like Viking Cruises are not only expanding their customer base but also democratizing the once-exclusive realm of global exploration. Ultimately, these developments signify a positive shift towards making extraordinary travel experiences more inclusive and accessible to all.
Crystal Cruises
Crystal Cruises has ventured into aviation with the luxurious Crystal Skye, a Boeing 777 equipped with 88 fully reclining seats and a dedicated stand-up bar lounge. Unlike traditional scheduled flights, Crystal Skye is available for private charter, allowing customers to tailor their air cruises to their preferences, drawing from Crystal’s renowned global journeys.
Aspiring travelers eager to experience this unparalleled luxury should be prepared to splurge, as chartering the Crystal Skye comes with a hefty price tag of approximately $60,000 per hour. However, for those with the means and the desire for an extraordinary travel experience, the opportunity to indulge in bespoke air cruises awaits. So, once you’ve amassed the necessary funds, simply reach out to Crystal Cruises to begin planning your dream journey aboard the magnificent Crystal Skye.
Qantas Jumbo
For those seeking an alternative to the extravagant costs associated with luxury air cruises, Australian firm Constellation Journeys offers an enticing option with their full circumnavigation of the globe aboard a Boeing 747-400 aircraft. With prices ranging from $15,000 to $50,000, this option presents a more affordable yet still immersive travel experience.
The Boeing 747-400 aircraft utilized by Constellation Journeys features a three-class cabin configuration reminiscent of that offered by Qantas on its scheduled flights. This configuration ensures that passengers can enjoy a comfortable and well-equipped environment throughout the journey. The comprehensive itinerary covers approximately 25,000 nautical miles and spans around 20 days, offering travelers the opportunity to explore a diverse array of destinations across the globe. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, the journey promises to provide unforgettable experiences at every turn.
A floating home
With a commitment to providing exceptional service and unparalleled comfort, Constellation Journeys ensures that each aspect of the journey is meticulously planned and executed to exceed passengers’ expectations. From luxurious accommodations to gourmet dining options, every detail is carefully curated to enhance the overall travel experience.
Additionally, the once-a-year nature of this circumnavigation journey adds an element of exclusivity and anticipation, making it a highly sought-after opportunity for travel enthusiasts. The starting price of $22,400 makes this adventure accessible to a wider range of travelers, allowing them to embark on a transformative journey around the world without breaking the bank.
Abercrombie & Kent
Abercrombie & Kent, a trailblazer in air cruises since 1989, initially whisked travelers across the globe in luxury aboard a Lockheed L-1011 Tristar jetliner. Elevating the opulence further, they later chartered the Concorde for their round-the-world excursions. Today, A&K boasts a fleet featuring the specially configured Boeing 757, renowned for its premium amenities and comfort.
These exclusive air cruises cater to a select group of discerning passengers, with capacity limited to just 50 individuals per journey. Prices for these unparalleled experiences range between $140,000 and $160,000, reflecting the high-end nature of the service provided. With luxurious accommodations, gourmet dining, and curated excursions to iconic destinations, A&K’s air cruises offer a truly indulgent travel experience for those with discerning tastes and a penchant for luxury.
Four Seasons
In 2015, the renowned Canadian luxury hotel chain entered the realm of air cruises, introducing a lavish experience aboard a Boeing 757. Painted entirely in a sleek and sophisticated black hue, the aircraft boasts 52 lie-flat seats and a meticulously designed cabin, aiming to mirror the opulent ambiance synonymous with the hotel chain’s prestigious establishments on land. The venture proved immensely successful for Four Seasons, prompting them to expand their fleet by ordering a new jet—a state-of-the-art Airbus A321neoLR.
Scheduled to commence operations in 2021, this cutting-edge aircraft will elevate the air cruise experience to new heights, offering discerning travelers unparalleled luxury and comfort as they embark on extraordinary journeys across the globe. With its commitment to excellence and unwavering dedication to providing guests with unparalleled hospitality, Four Seasons continues to redefine luxury travel, both in the air and on the ground, ensuring that every aspect of the journey exceeds expectations and leaves an indelible impression on passengers.
Your sumptuously appointed suite
Embarking on a luxury cruise is akin to entering a realm of unparalleled opulence and personalized service. From the moment you step aboard, you are enveloped in an atmosphere of sophistication and indulgence. A gracious hostess extends a flute of sparkling champagne, while a attentive room steward offers to assist with your luggage, leading you to your sumptuously appointed suite – your home away from home for the duration of your voyage.
As you settle into your accommodations, which often boast spacious walk-in closets and marble-clad bathrooms, you can’t help but marvel at the attention to detail and lavish amenities provided. Stepping out onto the ship’s decks, you are greeted warmly by friendly crew members who seem to know your name, despite just embarking moments ago. This level of personalized service is a hallmark of luxury cruise lines, where every guest is treated like royalty.
You’re dreaming of exploring
In addition to impeccable service, luxury cruises offer a plethora of enticing features, including exotic itineraries that take you to some of the world’s most captivating destinations. Whether you’re dreaming of exploring the turquoise waters of the Caribbean or cruising along the majestic fjords of Norway, there’s a luxury cruise itinerary to suit every traveler’s desires.
Moreover, luxury cruise lines often boast high crew-to-passenger ratios, ensuring that your every need is met with promptness and precision. From indulging in fine wines and gourmet cuisine to partaking in enriching onboard activities and entertainment, every aspect of your journey is meticulously curated to exceed your expectations.
Unforgettable journey
When it comes to selecting the perfect luxury cruise line for your discerning tastes, Cruise Critic offers a comprehensive list of the best in the industry. Whether you’re drawn to the intimate ambiance of SeaDream Yacht Club or the opulent splendor of Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ Seven Seas Splendor, there’s a luxury cruise experience waiting to be discovered.
In conclusion, embarking on a luxury cruise is an experience like no other – a harmonious blend of elegance, sophistication, and unparalleled hospitality. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or cultural immersion, a luxury cruise promises to deliver an unforgettable journey that exceeds all expectations.
Seven Seas Splendor, Regent Seven Seas Cruises
Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ Seven Seas Splendor stands out as one of the best luxury cruises in the industry, offering discerning travelers an unparalleled experience of opulence and indulgence. With its exquisite cuisine, generous all-inclusive rates, and sumptuous accommodations, Seven Seas Splendor epitomizes luxury at sea.
One of the defining features of Seven Seas Splendor is its impressive passenger-to-crew ratio, with 750 passengers attended to by 542 dedicated crew members. This exceptional ratio ensures that guests receive the highest level of personalized service and attention throughout their voyage, setting the stage for a truly unforgettable experience. Would you prefer a trip like this?
Space for relaxation and enjoyment
All 366 cabins aboard Seven Seas Splendor are elegantly appointed suites, offering guests an unparalleled level of comfort and luxury. Whether you opt for a spacious balcony suite or a sprawling penthouse, you’ll find yourself surrounded by refined furnishings, plush amenities, and breathtaking ocean views. In fact, the suites on Seven Seas Splendor boast some of the largest balconies at sea, ranging from 83 to 1,292 square feet, providing ample space for relaxation and enjoyment.
The public spaces onboard Seven Seas Splendor are equally impressive, with an emphasis on elegance and sophistication. From the gleaming granite and Italian marble accents to the exquisite Czech crystal chandeliers adorning nearly every corner of the ship, every detail has been meticulously designed to create an atmosphere of unparalleled luxury.
Unparalleled blend of elegance
Art lovers will delight in the extensive collection of over 2,500 pieces of artwork displayed throughout the ship, including works by renowned masters such as Pablo Picasso and Joan Miro. These stunning pieces add a touch of cultural richness and sophistication to the onboard experience, inviting guests to immerse themselves in the beauty of the world’s finest artistic treasures.ImageUpload an image file, pick one from your media library, or add one with a URL.UploadMedia LibraryInsert from URL
In addition to its lavish accommodations and stunning aesthetics, Seven Seas Splendor offers guests a diverse array of world-class dining options, curated by a team of expert chefs. From gourmet cuisine inspired by global flavors to decadent desserts and fine wines, every meal aboard Seven Seas Splendor is a culinary masterpiece.
The list of inclusions is one of the longest at sea
Overall, Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ Seven Seas Splendor sets the standard for luxury cruising, offering guests an unparalleled blend of elegance, sophistication, and personalized service. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or cultural enrichment, a voyage aboard Seven Seas Splendor promises to be an unforgettable journey of indulgence and discovery. When it comes to pampering, you can’t do better than the completely all-inclusive nature of a cruise aboard Regent Seven Seas. ImageUpload an image file, pick one from your media library, or add one with a URL.UploadMedia LibraryInsert from URL
The fare includes business-class intercontinental flights for all U.S. passengers, as well as premium alcohol, wine, spirits, beer, soda, water and sports drinks plus all dining (with at least one meal at every specialty restaurant on board), unlimited Wi-Fi, unlimited shore excursions (though there is also a list of upgraded tours with a la carte pricing) and gratuities. Throw in free use of the ship’s thermal suite — even if you don’t have a spa treatment booked — and the list of inclusions is one of the longest at sea.
Oceania Riviera, Oceania Cruises
With a passenger-to-crew ratio of 1,238 to 776, Oceania Riviera stands out as a premier luxury cruise experience, offering an exceptional level of service and attention to detail. Dining aboard the Oceania Riviera is a highlight of the journey, with legendary culinary experiences available across a variety of venues. From the elegant Grand Dining Room to the French bistro Jacques, curated by renowned chef Jacques Pepin, guests are treated to an array of culinary delights.
The Polo Grill serves up refined steakhouse fare, while Toscana offers Italian cuisine served on custom-designed Versace china. For Asian flavors, Red Ginger provides a memorable dining experience. For those seeking an elevated culinary experience, La Reserve by Wine Spectator offers a seven-course meal paired with exquisite wines, accommodating up to 24 passengers per night. The Culinary Center onboard provides a hands-on cooking school experience, with classes covering a range of topics and receiving rave reviews from participants.
Ralph Lauren furnishings and unparalleled luxury amenities
Accommodations on the Oceania Riviera are equally impressive, with 147 suites and 478 non-suite staterooms available in various configurations. Suite guests enjoy priority amenities, including check-in, luggage delivery, and online specialty restaurant reservations. The ship’s Canyon Ranch SpaClub offers suite guests unlimited access to its private Spa Terrace, enhancing the overall luxury experience.
For those seeking the ultimate indulgence, the 2,000-square-foot Owner’s Suite boasts Ralph Lauren furnishings and unparalleled luxury amenities, making it the epitome of opulence on the high seas. Whether indulging in world-class cuisine, participating in culinary experiences, or luxuriating in suite accommodations, guests aboard the Oceania Riviera are treated to a truly unforgettable voyage marked by exceptional service and unparalleled elegance.
Viking Venus, Viking Ocean Cruises
With a passenger-to-crew ratio of 930 to 550, Viking Venus sets the standard for luxury cruising, offering an exceptional level of service and attention to detail. Upon stepping aboard Viking Venus, guests are immediately struck by the ship’s spacious and meticulously designed interiors. Every accommodation includes a veranda, ensuring guests can enjoy breathtaking views of the sea from the privacy of their own space.
Even the more compact accommodations, such as the Deluxe Veranda and Veranda categories, boast a generous size of 270 square feet. Larger options, including the Penthouse Veranda and Penthouse Junior Suite, provide even more space and luxurious amenities, such as heated bathroom floors and anti-fog mirrors.
Spacious and meticulously designed interiors
When it comes to dining, Viking Venus leaves no stone unturned. All restaurants are included in the cruise fare, with the exception of The Kitchen Table. The Restaurant and The World Cafe offer international menus in inviting, light-filled venues, while Manfredi’s stands out for its exceptional Italian cuisine. Guests can also savor traditional Norwegian dishes at Mamsen’s, inspired by the mother of Viking chairman Torstein Hagen.
For a truly unforgettable culinary experience, guests can book a table at The Kitchen Table, where immersive dining experiences await. Overall, Viking Venus offers a refined and luxurious cruising experience, where every detail is carefully considered to ensure guest satisfaction. From spacious accommodations to exceptional dining options, Viking Venus sets the stage for an unforgettable voyage at sea.
Seabourn Ovation, Seabourn Cruises
Seabourn Ovation stands as a testament to the epitome of luxury cruising, offering an unparalleled experience that caters to the most discerning travelers. As the second ship in Seabourn’s Encore Class, Ovation builds upon the success of its predecessor, Seabourn Encore, to deliver a journey of unparalleled elegance and sophistication.
Crafted by renowned designer Adam D. Tihany, Seabourn Ovation boasts stunning interiors and intuitive spaces that invite guests to gather, relax, and indulge in the ultimate luxury experience. From the moment guests step aboard, they are greeted by a sense of opulence and refinement that permeates every aspect of the ship’s design.
Reserved for VIP-access guests
One of the defining features of Seabourn Ovation is its exquisite dining options. Guests can savor culinary delights at a variety of venues, including a restaurant helmed by acclaimed chef Thomas Keller, renowned for his iconic establishments such as Per Se in New York and The French Laundry in Napa Valley. Additionally, the ship offers a sushi venue, an upscale alfresco dining option on the pool deck, and a main restaurant serving gourmet cuisine. As a hallmark of Seabourn’s commitment to luxury, Champagne and caviar are available complimentary at all times and in any location onboard.
A highlight of Seabourn Ovation is The Retreat, an exclusive outdoor lounge area located on Deck 12, reserved for VIP-access guests. Featuring a daisy-shaped canopy that provides both sun and shade, The Retreat offers fifteen luxurious cabanas equipped with flat-screen TVs, Evian misters, stocked mini-fridges, and fresh fruit.
The ultimate cruise experience
Positioned around a central hot tub, the cabanas provide a private sanctuary for guests to unwind and indulge in the ultimate relaxation. While access to The Retreat comes with a premium daily fee, the unparalleled luxury and tranquility it offers make it a worthwhile indulgence for those seeking the ultimate cruise experience.
In summary, Seabourn Ovation redefines luxury cruising with its unparalleled elegance, exceptional dining options, and exclusive amenities. From its exquisite design to its impeccable service, every aspect of the ship is meticulously crafted to provide guests with an unforgettable journey of indulgence and relaxation on the high seas.
Silver Moon, Silversea Cruises
When it comes to luxury cruising, Silver Moon sets itself apart with its unparalleled culinary experience, making it a top choice for discerning travelers seeking the ultimate gastronomic journey. At the heart of Silver Moon’s appeal is its innovative SALT program, which offers guests a transformative dining experience that deepens their understanding of cuisine and its cultural significance in each destination visited during the voyage.
Unlike traditional cruise ships, Silver Moon eschews a single main dining room in favor of eight distinct restaurants, providing guests with a diverse array of culinary options to tantalize their taste buds. While six of these restaurants are complimentary, reservations are required, adding an element of exclusivity to the dining experience. For those looking to indulge further, specialty restaurants such as Kaiseki and La Dame offer exquisite culinary delights for an additional fee.
A refined dining experience for all meals
Among the complimentary dining venues, guests can enjoy Asian-fusion cuisine at Indochine, authentic Italian dishes at La Terrazza, fresh seafood at Atlantide, tapas and cocktails at Silver Note, traditional Neapolitan pizza at Spaccanapoli, and interactive grilling at The Grill. During the day, La Terrazza transforms into a vibrant buffet offering breakfast and lunch, while Atlantide provides a refined dining experience for all meals.
In addition to its exceptional dining options, Silver Moon boasts elegant and understated public spaces that provide the perfect backdrop for relaxation and socializing. The expansive pool deck features luxurious lounge chairs, a refreshing pool, and attentive pool stewards catering to guests’ every need. The Arts Cafe offers a chic setting for coffee and tea enthusiasts to enjoy healthy bites amidst eclectic artwork.
Enjoying personalized service in the comfort of a spacious suite
The suites on Silver Moon are designed to exceed expectations, offering ample space, personalized butler service, and lavish bathrooms equipped with bathtubs and separate showers. A standout feature of all cabins is the hidden TV, seamlessly integrated into large mirrors to maintain a sleek and minimalist aesthetic when not in use.
In summary, Silver Moon redefines luxury cruising with its unparalleled culinary offerings, sophisticated public spaces, and luxurious accommodations. Whether indulging in gourmet cuisine, relaxing by the pool, or enjoying personalized service in the comfort of a spacious suite, guests aboard Silver Moon are treated to an unforgettable journey of culinary exploration and relaxation on the high seas.
