Forget everything you know about cruises, this is luxury yachting.
I used to swear I’d never go on a cruise...then boutique luxury cruising came along and completely changed my mind. It’s one of the most exciting trends in travel right now, and for good reason!
Luxury cruising today feels much more like staying at a floating five-star resort or visiting a billionaire's private yacht than a traditional cruise with thousands of people & cheesy things like roller coasters. Smaller ships & larger suites means a more exclusive feel with more opportunities to dock in smaller ports.
No packing and unpacking, instead you travel overnight while you sleep, and wake up in a new destination each day ready to explore somewhere new. All-inclusive rates mean everything is taken care of, and you can choose to spend your time lounging onboard, joining curated shore excursions, or wandering off the ship at your own pace. These new ships are attracting a younger, more dynamic crowd too. Think average age closer to 45, not your typical 60+.
There are three main styles of luxury cruising: ocean, river, and expedition. Below are some standout brands, each offering butler service, Michelin level dining, impressive onboard pools, spas, and gyms… everything you’d expect from a five star hotel!
Looking for a last minute summer trip? With tons of last minute deals available a small ship cruise is the perfect idea!
OCEAN YACHTS
Ritz Carlton- As the first luxury hotel brand to expand into yachting, Ritz-Carlton has pioneered a new standard for cruising.
Three yachts (150-200 suites)
Mediterranean, Caribbean, Alaska, Asia
From $2,500+/night (double occupancy)
Explora- Great for travelers who love variety & choice and don't mind a slightly larger ship. Plus, special event sailings like the Monte Carlo F1 Grand Prix!
Four ships (461 suites)
Mediterranean, Caribbean, Alaska, Red Sea, South America & Amazon
From $1,500+/night (double occupancy)
Four Seasons- One of the world's most iconic hotel brands is setting sail in 2026 with the launch of its first-ever yacht.
One yacht (95 suites)
51 inaugural itineraries
From $3,000+/night (not all-inclusive)
EUROPE RIVER CRUISING
Riverside- The newest brand in European river cruising is bringing a fresh, young edge to the classics. With exceptional dining (dubbed the best onboard cuisine by Forbes), sleek design, and rare amenities like indoor pools and full gyms, these ships are anything but traditional.
FOR THE ADVENTURERS
Indonesia
Rascal is a handcrafted phinisi-style yacht built for barefoot luxury. With just 5 spacious cabins, this is an experience through Indonesia’s most remote waters, like Komodo & Raja Ampa. The vibe is relaxed yet refined: oversized sunbeds, beach barbecues on deserted islands, and dive trips straight off the deck.
Galapagos
The Hermes is the most luxurious small yacht sailing the Galápagos, offering an ultra-private, all-suite experience for just 20 guests. Expect elegant interiors, a jacuzzi on the sundeck, and intimate wildlife encounters in one of the world’s most untouched ecosystems.
Antarctica
In partnership with National Geographic, Lindblad's polar-class expedition ships carry about 125–150 guests, designed for serious adventurers who don’t want to sacrifice comfort. Think expert-led zodiac excursions, heated mudrooms and saunas to warm you up after a day among the icebergs.
The best news?
I never charge a planning fee for cruise bookings. I can help find the right brand & route for you as well as plan pre/post cruise hotels, transfers, flights & more. Plus, you get perks like onboard credits, suite upgrades, and more when you book through me!