Luxury cruises are designed for passengers with the highest expectations and standards. These are connoisseurs who typically choose luxury accommodations, often in a resort-like setting, and first-class travel. They prefer exclusive, exotic destinations, where comfort and experience both take center stage. Amenities are a must: spacious suites, international gourmet fare, fine wines, high-caliber entertainment, abundant flowers and art, luxurious spas — even perhaps a famous author, scholar, musician or chef to entertain or enlighten.

Personalized s... READ MORE

Luxury cruises are designed for passengers with the highest expectations and standards. These are connoisseurs who typically choose luxury accommodations, often in a resort-like setting, and first-class travel. They prefer exclusive, exotic destinations, where comfort and experience both take center stage. Amenities are a must: spacious suites, international gourmet fare, fine wines, high-caliber entertainment, abundant flowers and art, luxurious spas — even perhaps a famous author, scholar, musician or chef to entertain or enlighten.

Personalized service is a prerequisite, of course, as are high 2-to-1 staff-to-passenger ratios, and butler and concierge service are common. A luxury cruise may seem more like a trip aboard a private yacht — with airy, un-crowded spaces on a ship that hosts just 100 passengers. Other cruise lines carry up to 900 travelers while still striving for that superlative, personalized experience. There are all-suite ships sporting private balconies, walk-in closets, marble baths, spacious sitting areas and the finest bedding.