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The Journey of a Lifetime

Embark on a one-of-a-kind global adventure aboard the custom-designed Four Seasons Private Jet.

Your Around-the-World Adventure

Both in the air and on the ground, our team delivers a fully customized around-the-world journey where you’ll explore new passions, flavours and perspectives. Experience insider access like never before in the world's most captivating destinations.

See the World With Four Seasons

Travel is incredibly personal. Our team takes great care to get to know each and every guest, allowing us to create bespoke itineraries within a seamless Four Seasons experience. When you travel with us, the possibilities are endless.

How Do You Want to Explore the World?

Our curated collection of global itineraries is filled with unique experiences you can only get through Four Seasons. No matter which adventure you choose, every moment will be tailored exclusively for you.

Experience the legendary wonders of the world like never before on a journey of discovery, from the Great Barrier Reef and the Pyramids to remote Easter Island and the Lost City of Petra.

Explore the rugged wonders of Antarctica, the mysteries of majestic Machu Picchu, and the vibrant rhythms and flavours of South America on this expedition through the enchanting southern hemisphere.

Our longest-running journey around the world showcases its extraordinary range with stunning natural beauty, enduring cultural traditions, inspiring urban experiences and a stop at one of the world’s iconic wonders.

Explore More Journeys

Discover Our New Jet Experience

Continuously reimagining luxury air travel, we’re proud to introduce the new Four Seasons Private Jet, a fully redesigned aircraft that celebrates the bygone glamour of air travel coupled with a modern, thoughtful design.

At Your Service

Rely on the expertise of our dedicated Four Seasons Private Jet Experience Team, whose personalized service allows you to sit back, relax and enjoy every moment to its fullest. The Four Seasons Private Jet Journeys are sold and operated by TCS World Travel. Aircraft operated by Titan Airways Limited.

• 24/7 Personal Concierge
• Dedicated Travel Planner
• On-Board Executive Chef
• Dedicated Luggage Concierge
• Journey Physician
• Four Seasons Service Trained Crew

“The only thing you’ll have to think about is enjoying yourself and doing as much or as little as you want. We’ll take care of the rest.”

©2024 - Four Seasons Hotels Inc. All Rights Reserved

The Luxury Jet Cruise: An Air Vacation That Just Might Be Worth It

Imagine traveling the world in the lap of luxury, indulging in the finest amenities while exploring multiple destinations. That’s exactly what a luxury jet cruise offers.

When you take flight on a luxury jet cruise, you explore multiple continents, experience unforgettable encounters, and indulge in extraordinary moments.

Private Jet Altitude. Or Should We Say Attitude? Fun Fact: Before we dive into the details of a luxury jet cruise, let’s first understand how high a private jet can fly.

Commercial flights typically operate at an average altitude of 35,000 feet, but private jets soar to much greater heights.

Most private jets reach altitudes of around 41,000 feet, while some can even climb as high as 45,000 feet. This allows for smoother flights, faster travel times, and the ability to avoid commercial air traffic. In a nutshell, you’re above the “noise.” Just you, friends, family, and lots of clouds.

The World Tour Grands Classiques 2023: A Luxury Adventure

One notable example of a luxury jet cruise is The World Tour Grands Classiques 2023. This exclusive journey takes place from October 24th to November 14th, on Safrans du Monde’s private Airbus A340.

Safrans du Monde is a renowned French luxury travel operator and this is a journey like no other. From the moment you step on board the luxury private plane, you’ll be immersed in a world of elegance and comfort.

The 2023 World Tour Grands Classiques offers an exhilarating journey that sweeps you away to legendary locations. Starting from the renowned beaches of Rio de Janeiro like Ipanema and Copacabana, the tour then leads you through the captivating streets of Cusco in Peru.

Your adventure continues as you find yourself on Easter Island, where you can behold its ancient marvels. The grand finale takes you to the majestic Taj Mahal in India and the enchanting Petra in Jordan, completing this extraordinary voyage.

Safrans Du Monde offers two classes of service: Club Safrans and Première Safrans and they both include meals, hotels, and bespoke amenities. Club Safrans costs about US$75,000 per person and Première Safrans costs US$115,000 per person.

This higher-priced upgrade throws in a few extras like first-class seats and excursions at your various landings. Your hotel stays are also upgraded considerably into some very luxe rooms.

Elite Voyage is another popular air cruise line, and customized journeys include a three-week expedition around the Arctic for about US$65,000. To US$216,900. (EUR 60,000 to EUR 200,000).

The Four Seasons branded jet cruise with 2 and 3-week itineraries take you gorilla trekking in Rwanda to the ruins of Athens (among other destinations) for around US$135,000.

National Geographic Expeditions are a little less, around US$99,995. You get 24 days playing Indiana Jones, exploring the wildlife of the world.

Four Seasons also offer the widest program of air cruises on board their custom Airbus A321LR, with 48 fully flat seats across 12 rows in a 2×2 configuration.

For a mere US$96,000, the signature Four Seasons Air Cruise is their 24-day Around the World by Private Jet package. It combines Cusco, Machu Picchu, Easter Island, Samoa, Great Barrier Reef, Angkor Wat, Kathmandu in Nepal, Bhutan, Taj Mahal, Serengeti, Petra, and Marrakech. That’s some serious world-trekking.

Onboard the Private Jet Cruise

Flying on a luxury private jet cruise is an experience like no other. Your dedicated seat awaits, and every detail is meticulously designed for your pleasure.

From appetizers and canapés to exquisite meals served on white tablecloths, the culinary experience is nothing short of exceptional.

Your chef crafts special menus to delight your taste buds, and a sommelier has carefully selected champagne and fine wines to accompany your meals. Meanwhile, the elegant crew is attentive to your every need, ensuring that your flight experience is truly unique.

Overview of amenities: Spacious cabins, gourmet dining, premium beverages, entertainment options, wellness facilities, and personalized service.

One of the key aspects of a luxury jet cruise is the spacious cabins. Unlike traditional flights where legroom can be limited, these cruises offer larger cabins with more space to relax and unwind. You’ll have a comfortable seat and plenty of room to stretch out, ensuring a relaxing and enjoyable journey.

When it comes to dining, luxury jet cruises take it to the next level with gourmet options. You can expect to indulge in exquisite meals prepared by top chefs, using the finest ingredients. From fresh seafood to decadent desserts, every meal is a culinary delight.

And of course, premium beverages are also included, allowing you to sip on your favorite cocktails or enjoy a glass of champagne while taking in the stunning views. Entertainment options are another highlight of luxury jet cruises. You’ll have access to a wide range of activities and shows to keep you entertained throughout your journey.

Whether you prefer live music performances, theater productions, or even a movie under the stars, there’s something for everyone.

And if relaxation is what you’re after, wellness facilities such as spas and fitness centers are available onboard, allowing you to rejuvenate and pamper yourself during your trip.

From sea-gazing areas where you can relax and take in breathtaking views to planetariums that offer a unique perspective of the night sky, there’s always something new and exciting to discover.

Selecting The Right Luxury Jet Cruise

Selecting the right luxury jet cruise is a crucial step in planning your once-in-a-lifetime trip around the world. With various options available, it’s important to consider your preferences and needs to ensure you have the best experience possible. Let’s will explore some factors to consider when selecting a luxury jet cruise. 1. Aircraft Type: Luxury jet cruises utilize different types of aircraft, including midsized business jets and converted commercial jets known as “bizliners.” Midsized business jets are ideal for regional travel between destinations, while bizliners are used for traversing time zones.

Bizliners feature luxurious interiors with a smaller number of seats, often recliners for sleeping, open areas, a well-equipped galley, and larger bathrooms. Consider your comfort preferences and the length of your journey when selecting the aircraft type. 2. Passenger Capacity: Luxury jet cruises vary in passenger capacity, ranging from smaller, more intimate experiences to larger groups. Some cruises offer fewer seats to provide a more exclusive and personalized experience, while others accommodate more passengers. Think about the level of privacy and social interaction you desire during your trip and choose accordingly. 3. Amenities and Services: One of the main attractions of luxury jet cruises is the range of amenities and services provided on board. These can include gourmet cuisine, a dedicated executive chef, a journey manager, a concierge, and even a doctor.

Consider the amenities and services offered by different cruises and determine what is most important to you. For example, if you are a food enthusiast, a cruise with an executive chef may be a top priority. 4. Itinerary and Destinations: The itinerary and destinations covered by a luxury jet cruise play a significant role in your overall experience. Research the destinations included in each cruise and assess if they align with your interests and preferences.

Whether you want to explore cultural landmarks, natural wonders, or vibrant cities, make sure the cruise you choose covers the destinations you are most excited about. 5. Time Savings: One of the biggest advantages of luxury jet cruises is the time savings they offer. Unlike traditional forms of travel, such as ocean liners, these cruises allow you to cover vast distances in a shorter period.

Consider the duration of the cruise and the number of destinations covered to ensure it aligns with your desired timeframe. 6. Cost: Luxury jet cruises are undoubtedly a significant investment, nearly as much as buying your own flying car . Assuming money is no object, remember to take into account any additional expenses, such as insurance, excursions when you land, and personal spending.

Luxury Jet Cruise Travel Tips

Plan Pre-Cruise or Post-Cruise Stay If you have extra vacation time, consider spending a few days before or after your luxury jet cruise at the port of call.

This allows you to explore the city and immerse yourself in the local culture. When booking a hotel for your pre-cruise or post-cruise stay, it’s best to stay near the port or the closest city. Check if the hotels offer a free shuttle service to drive you to the port on embarkation day for added convenience.

Compare Airfares When planning your luxury jet cruise, don’t forget to consider your airfare options. Research airfares on platforms like Google Flights and compare them with the rates offered by the cruise line.

You may be surprised to find that the cruise line can offer competitive rates for the same flights. Additionally, booking your flights with the cruise line can sometimes come with added benefits at no extra cost.

Pack Accordingly Packing for a luxury jet cruise requires careful consideration. Start by checking the weather forecast for your destination and packing appropriate clothing.

Don’t forget to pack essentials such as toiletries, medications, and travel documents like passports and visas. It’s also a good idea to pack a carry-on bag with items you may need during the journey, such as a change of clothes and toiletries.

Review Medical Procedures and Guidelines In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s crucial to stay updated on the medical procedures and guidelines set by the cruise line.

While cruising has resumed with certain precautions in place, there may still be requirements such as providing a negative PCR or Antigen test before boarding or wearing face masks in certain areas of the ship.

Keep in mind that these guidelines may vary depending on the cruise line and the destinations on your itinerary. It’s always recommended to check directly with the cruise line for the latest information.

Checklist: Passport and visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, travel insurance, packing essentials, and any specific cruise guidelines.

Passport and Visa Requirements: First and foremost, make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond the duration of your trip. Some countries may also require a visa for entry, so it’s essential to check the specific requirements for each destination on your itinerary.

Keep in mind that visa processing times can vary, so it’s best to start the application process well in advance to avoid any last-minute complications. Necessary Vaccinations: Health and safety should always be a top priority when traveling. The NaTHNaC (National Travel Health Network and Centre) and WHO (World Health Organization) recommends certain vaccinations for travelers to the Caribbean and Northern America, such as hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, cholera, yellow fever, and rabies.

It’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional or a travel health clinic to assess your specific vaccination needs based on your destination and individual health conditions. Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is a must-have for any trip, but it becomes even more critical when embarking on a luxury jet cruise. With the potential for unexpected delays, cancellations, or medical emergencies, having comprehensive travel insurance coverage will provide you with peace of mind and financial protection.

Make sure to carefully review the policy details and ensure it covers the specific activities and destinations included in your jet cruise itinerary.

Recommended Travel Apps: Enhance the Luxury Jet Cruise Experience

Traveling on a luxury jet cruise is an incredible experience that allows you to explore multiple destinations in a short period of time while enjoying luxurious amenities and services.

To make the most of your luxury jet cruise, there are several travel apps and tools that can enhance your experience and make your journey even more enjoyable. Here are our top recommendations: 1. Timeshifter : Timeshifter is a jet lag app developed by world-renowned scientists. It uses the latest sleep and circadian neuroscience to create personalized jet lag plans.

By following the recommendations provided by Timeshifter, you can minimize the effects of jet lag and arrive at your destination feeling refreshed and ready to explore. 2. Jetsmarter technology/XO Jet : This luxury travel service and app is perfect for finding empty-leg seats on private jets. It allows you to search through thousands of updated empty legs in real time.

With no broker or middleman involved, you can easily find the nearest private jet airport and book your flight with just a few taps.

AirCharter.com also provides instant quotes with near-flawless accuracy, giving you an exact figure of what you can expect to pay for your trip. 3. iTranslate Voice Lite: If you plan to take a luxury jet cruise to a country where the language spoken is unfamiliar to you, this language translator app can be priceless.

With iTranslate Voice Lite, you can speak into your phone and the app will automatically translate your message. It works both ways, allowing others to speak to you and have their messages translated as well.

The app is easy to use and offers seamless translations. For an even better experience, consider upgrading to the paid version, which offers 40 different languages and the ability to search for the definition of common phrases and words. 4. TravelSafe Pro : When traveling on a luxury jet cruise, it’s important to have access to emergency services in case of any unforeseen circumstances.

TravelSafe Pro is a comprehensive travel safety app that provides emergency phone numbers for different countries, ensuring you can quickly reach the right emergency response team wherever you are. The app also offers other useful features such as travel advisories, safety tips, and medical information. 5. Wheely : If you’re looking for luxury transportation during your luxury jet cruise, Wheely is the app for you. It exclusively offers luxury vehicles and professional chauffeurs who provide comfortable and enjoyable rides.

Wheely drivers undergo special training at a Chauffeur Academy, which includes first-aid training, emotional intelligence, security, and situational awareness. With Wheely, you can enjoy a VIP experience from the moment you step off the tarmac. Wheely is among one of our other top luxury travel apps we wrote about.

Conclusion A luxury jet cruise can be an incredible way to travel around the world in style and comfort, with the convenience of visiting multiple destinations without the hassle of planning and organizing transportation between them.

When it comes to accommodation, it’s worth noting that different cruise packages offer different levels of luxury. While some may provide entry-level five-star accommodation, others offer significantly better premier-class options. It’s essential to research and choose a cruise that aligns with your preferences and expectations.

One of the major advantages of a luxury jet cruise is the ease with which you can explore different destinations. Whether it’s island-hopping in French Polynesia or exploring the wonders of Alaska, a cruise allows you to experience these places without the need for expensive and time-consuming travel arrangements. With a luxury air vacation, It’s all worked out. Just sit back and enjoy the journey.

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Air Cruise by Private Jet

The world tour grands classiques 2023.

Edition 2023, see our new 2024 itinerary here !

October 24th to November 14th 2023

Destinations - Your Private Jet - Travel Services - Rates & conditions

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Take your seats: your Grand Luxury World Tour is about to begin!

Follow us to mythical cities and sites on every continent, unforgettable encounters, gala evenings, moments of enchantment, extraordinary experiences… This one-of-a-kind journey is said to be that of a lifetime.

On board our luxury private plane, flying is chic and everything is designed to please. Your dedicated seat awaits; appetizers, canapés and meals are prepared and served in that inimitable French style on a white tablecloth, with crockery worthy of the highest standards of private aviation. Our Chef has created special menus for your delight, and will attend to your every wish. The Champagne and fine wines have been handpicked by our sommelier, and our elegant crew is attentive to all your demands. Just lie back and enjoy it all: everyone is poised to give you the very best and create the most unique flight experience.

Then comes the time of the stopover. A festival of wonders, with a daily whirlwind of images and thrills galore. After an introduction to the Bay of Rio you reach Machu Picchu where the Incas celebrated the Sun, then the mysterious Easter Island watched over by its stone giants. Soon you yield to the charms of French Polynesia, adorned in black pearls and crystal lagoons, its islands welcome you for a real holiday in paradise! Cross the International Date Line, your jet touches down in Sydney. You can already see the Opera House! Another hop in the sky, vibrant Hanoi awaits you, followed by the tranquility of Halong Bay, already the temples of Angkor greet you, magnificent and moving. What’s next...? India and the fascinating Taj Mahal, sublime white marble declaration of love. The last chapter of your World Tour will be spectacular, as you witness the pink Treasure of Petra and the magical splendor of the Wadi Rum desert.

And even though everything is included, we can create customized excursions for you to make this journey your own. Our concierge service will be happy to accommodate special requests, like a hot-air balloon excursion, a helicopter flight, or an intimate candlelit dinner under the stars. And if you have already visited one of our destinations, we will always have an alternative, sometimes more secret and equally exciting program for you.

As Mark Twain said: "Explore, dream, discover". Enter our universe, and its highly select club of travel insiders. You’ll be amazed at this glorious way of discovering the wonders of the planet.

Join a very exclusive circle of Beau Voyage lovers and live a truly memorable experience, because, after all, sky is the limit! Request our brochure to find out all the options of this World Tour by private plane, or ask us any questions you like here !

Edition 2023, see our new 2024 itinerary here !  

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

To celebrate the first flight of your World Tour, our Chef has created a gala menu served in the sky. Champagne! What an imaginative way of setting the scenery for such a fabulous adventure ahead. The starting point is across the Ocean, the Bay of Rio is like a postcard that leaves one speechless. The Sugar Loaf, the monumental statue of Christ the Redeemer... The endless beach of Copacabana where “futebol” competes joyfully with flirting, Carioca ladies, strolling on Ipanema like others dance, and this glamorous spirit of a never-ending celebration. Samba, samba! Tonight let’s party!

Your tours and visits (included in the price)

October 24 th : Paris - Rio de Janeiro

And here you are. The great departure date for your World Tour has arrived. You are going to step into your private jet and take off for Rio de Janeiro. Lunch will be served onboard, at the end of the afternoon you will be in Brazil, settled into your hotel where dinner will be served.

October 25 th : Rio de Janeiro

You are ready to start your exploration of the wonders of the World ! For this first day you are going on an orientation and discovery tour of Rio de Janeiro. Throughout the various stages of the day you are going to enjoy the sight from Sugar Loaf Mountain and encounter the Christ the Redeemer statue on the imposing Corcovado mountains that watch over the Bay. You could even fly over Rio by helicopter (with supplement). You will get a taste of the Brazilian atmosphere, during your Carioca lunch and then take part in your Opening Special dinner with a samba show in a privileged setting.

Alternative programs - (additional fee)

• Helicopter flight over Rio (departing from Sugarloaf Mountain),
• A day in Petropolis
• Surprise experience day tour.

Your hotels - 2 nights

Première Safrans : Belmond Copacabana 5*

Club Safrans : Fairmont Rio de Janeiro Copacabana 5*

Your Flight

October 24 th : Paris – Rio de Janeiro Take-off: Morning | Landing: late afternoon Flight time 12:20

Machu Picchu, Peru *

Up in the heights, you’ll soak up the colorful atmosphere of Cusco, the splendid capital of the Incas perched between the Andes mountains and the Amazonian Forest. You’ll stroll along its cobbled streets and then take the road bordered by green meadows, where llamas wander around freely. In the distance, the white summit of Sahuasiray dominates the Cordillera, whose waters nourish the centuries-old heart of the Quechua people. This is your destination: the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Tomorrow, you will take a seat on the amazing Andean train that winds along the Urubamba River to Machu Picchu, the mythical citadel of the Sun. There you will approach the breathtakingly aesthetic ruins of the temples, guardians of the mysteries and rites of this land of legends. * If, at 3 months prior departure, the situation in Peru does not allow the realization of this stopover, this one will be replaced by the Iguaçu Falls.

October 26 th : Rio de Janeiro - Cuzco

You are flying off to Cusco this morning. After your direct flight, your discovery of the Inca heritage will start upon landing, on your way to your somptuous hotel nestled in the heart of the Sacred Valley.

October 27 th : Machu Picchu

This morning you will experience a train trip with panoramic views of the extraordinary scenery of the Cordillera and ride across the Sacred Valley and its picturesque villages to reach Machu Picchu. If you are travelling in Première Safrans , you will have the opportunity to live a timeless ride on board the luxurious Belmond Hiram Bingham with a fine dinner on your way back to the hotel. Your guide will tell you the secrets of the Amazing citadel of the Incas, its legends and the ingenighty of its architects. Lunch in Aguas Calientes (train terminus). In Club Safrans you will have dinner when you return to the hotel or onboard the Hiram Bingham for passengers of Première Safrans .

• A day in the Sacred Valley of the Incas: Moray Inca historical site, Chinchero (instead of Machu Picchu excursion),
• Surprise day tour.

Première Safrans : Tambo del Inka 5* Sol y Luna Relais & Châteaux 5*

Club Safrans : Hacienda Inkaterra Urubamba 5* Aranwa Sacred Valley 5*

Your flight

October 26 th : Rio de Janeiro - Cusco Take-off: Morning | Landing at Cusco: early afternoon Flight time 5:00

Easter Island, Chile

Brace yourself for the awe! You have come to meet such a unique population: the Moai. This is how are called the 887 stone statues that wrote the legend of Easter Island, a confetti lost in the middle of the Pacific. Standing at several meters high, they weigh an average of ten tons and were planted there between the 13th and 15th century. How? Why? This remains one of the most puzzling enigmas of our time. Tonight, during an unforgettable evening under the stars, the Rapa Nui will tell you about the mysteries of their land, the volcanoes whose vibrations carry the story of Creation. They will share with you the secret of the Moai.

October 28 th : Cusco - Easter Island

This morning, your private jet will take you to Easter Island! Enjoy a lunch cooked by our Chef before landing on this mysterious, well-preserved, island, feeling as if you had reached the very end of the earth. Your guide will introduce you to the Rano Kau volcano, the famous Tahai Moais statues and legends of Polynesian antique civilisations. Finish your day with an experience of the magic of a Rapa Nui show under a starlit sky!

Your hotels - 1 night

Club Safrans : Hare Uta / Altiplanico

October 28 th : Cusco - Lima - Easter Island Take-off: Morning | Landing: early afternoon Flight time 6:15

French Polynesia, Overseas French territory

Landing in Tahiti is a change of outlook on life. Intoxicating scents of tiara flowers, bougainvillea waterfalls, hibiscus hedges, sensually knotted pareos, French on the lips, smooth insouciance as vivid birds flow above the clear waters of the pristine lagoon... We quickly understand why so many travelers; Brel, Gauguin and Loti proclaimed that French Polynesia is no less than paradise. Do you agree? In Club Safrans, you are to stay in Moorea, the sister island of Tahiti, and if you choose the Première Safrans, Bora Bora will be yours for 4 nights. Other islands are also waiting to introduce you to their charms: the Tuamotu, the Marquesas or a stay at The Brando where the actor liked to retire between shootings.

October 29 th : Easter Island - Papeete (or Bora Bora)

A last glance on the Island of Giants, an exquisite lunch in the sky prepared by your Chef and our jet is already landing in French Polynesia. If you are travelling in Club Safrans you will check in your somptuous hotel in Moorea and enjoy a relaxing day on the beach. If you are travelling in Première Safrans you will fly off to spend some time at leisure on a 4-night stay in Bora Bora.

October 30 th :  Moorea -  Tahiti - Moorea (or Bora Bora)

This morning, if you travel in  Club Safrans , we invite you to an excursion around the Island of Tahiti, starting  with the splendid panoramic view from the Taharaa to the botanical gardens via the Arahoho Blowhole, One Tree Hill and the magnificent Vaipahi gardens. The greenery is lush and shelters a beautiful waterfall. You will have the time to enjoy lunch in the midst of all these sights before continuing to luxuriate in the beauty of the Vaipahi gardens. This exquisite day will come to an end with a trip to the Maraa caves.

October 31 st :  Moorea (or Bora Bora)

This morning, you will visit Moorea Island. Admire the most beautiful nooks and crannies on the island and discover all its secrets. Drink in the atmosphere imbued with ukeleles and the Vahine, from the lookout to Opunohu and Cook Bays, against a backdrop of Polynesian tattoos and omnipresent flowers. You will then enjoy a free afternoon on the beach and savour its turquoise water in an idyllic setting.

November 1 st : Moorea (or Bora Bora)

Day at leisure. In the evening your Polynesian experience will be topped off with a dinner dance show.

• Stay for 4 or 2 nights on Tetiaroa at The Brando, a superb 5-star luxury eco-resort to enjoy the epitome of luxury and exception,
• Stay for 4 or 2 nights at leisure on Bora Bora at the Conrad Bora Bora Nui 5*. (included at the Intercontinental Bora Bora Resort & Spa 5* for Première Safrans passengers),
• Inland excursion on the Island (Tahiti),
• Various helicopter flights over Moorea, Tahiti and Bora Bora available.
• Discover the Marquesas islands

Your hotels - 4 nights

Première Safrans : Intercontinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa 5* Conrad Bora Bora 5*

Club Safrans Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea 5* Hilton Moorea 5*

October 29 th : Easter Island – Tahiti Take-off: late morning | Landing: early afternoon Flight time 5:10

Sydney, Australia

Today, you cross the international date line, the only border that transports you to tomorrow in an instant. You touch down in Australia, home T of koalas and kangaroos and ancestral land of the indigenous Aboriginals. They will reveal the roots of their culture and ancestral legends to you. Rest assured that you will see the Sydney Opera House, the Harbour Bridge and the famous Bondi Beach, where strollers and surfers can be found from the crack of dawn.

November 2 nd & 3 rd : Tahiti - Sydney

With the scent of you flower garden still lingering after your Polynesian experience, get back to your seat in the private jet: destination Australia. It is now time for you to experience the magical, unforgettable moment in the World Tour, crossing the International Date Line. Unbelievable your are now travelling through time.

November 4 th : Sydney

"G'day mate", Sydney and its bay are rolling out the red carpet for you. You will soon walk in the streets of the Rocks, the emblematic old district of the city, then stroll through Circular Quay to reach the world-famous Opera House before boarding for a lunch cruise on the Bay. The rest of your afternoon will give you time to freely feel the Australian way of life.

• Show at the Opera House,
• Day tour to the Blue Mountains.

Première Safrans: Four Seasons Sydney 5*

Club Safrans : Fullerton Hotel Sydney 5*

November 2 nd & 3 rd : Papeete – Sydney Take-off: late morning | Landing: next day in afternoon Flight time 8:30

Hanoi & Ha Long Bay, Vietnam

Welcome to Southeast Asia. Take a rickshaw ride, visit the Temple of Literature, face the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, take a deep breath and dive in the grandiose urban chaos of Hanoi. A crazy traffic, it’s true, but observe the astonishing harmony of street kitchens, miniature stalls, torrents of motorcycles, dodging pedestrians and doll houses. The city was designed according to the cosmogony laws, here a lake adorned with a temple, an artisan district next door, a botanical garden that hosts collective morning exercise right next to it, a market... Hanoi is the embodiment of the art of living together. Then, you will reclaim the calm of great nature in Halong bay. Away from the beaten and busy tracks, you savor one of the most beautiful pictures of Vietnam, between clear waters and thousands of monoliths covered in emerald.

If you travel in Première Safrans , you will spend the evening and night on a luxury junk. The magic of its overwhelmingly starry sky is yours to take.

November 5 th : Sydney – Hanoi

This morning you will meet kangaroos, koalas and other emblematic animals of Australia before taking off for Vietnam. Once again you will experience a wonderful change of scenery and discover a new culture.

November 6 th : Hanoï (Halong)

You will be offered the great opportunity to visit the mysterious Halong Bay today. You will sail between the small islands and come across fishing village and caves, all bathed in a strange, enigmatic atmosphere which is sure to enchant you. Return to Hanoï at the end of your day. If you are travelling in Première Safrans , you will enjoy a magic moment by spending a night on a luxurious traditionnal Vietnamese boat in the middle of the quiet bay. 

November 7 th : Hanoï

Hanoï is going to display its most traditional side to you. You will visit the Ho Chi Minh mausoleum, the Temple of Literature as well as the Tran Quoc Pagoda, which is the oldest in the city. You will also have the opportunity to travel on a rickshaw through the town and you will have lunch and some free time to stroll around the old quarters. You will then return and enjoy a Vietnamese dinner. If you are travelling in Première Classe, this second day will be spent sailing in the Halong Bay before you return to the capital to enjoy a gastronomic Vietnamese dinner.

• A day in Ninh Binh (terrestrial Ha Long Bay),

Your hotels - 3 nights

Première Safrans : Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoï 5* Luxury Junk on the Halong Bay 5*

Club Safrans : Hôtel de l'Opera 5*

November 5 th : Sydney - Hanoi Take-off: morning | Landing: in the afternoon Flight time: 9:30

Angkor, Cambodia

Silence please, let the magic of Angkor submerge you. It is exceptional. These temples are born from a unique stonework technique consisting of S carving stone and melting it on the lush tropical vegetation. Here the sky’s affairs echo on an infinity lake and the statues invite you to retain their enigmatic message. Rows of graceful Apsaras, luscious temples, mazes and dark rooms, mystical smiling Buddhas... Your emotions will match the marvel you will experience. A grandiose show will be set as the final touch to this exceptional visit. But shhhh...it’s a surprise...

November 8 th : Hanoï - Siem Reap

This morning you will take off for the seventh destination of your World Tour: Cambodia and it's marvelous Angkor Temples. After a short flight you will land in Siem Reap just after lunch for a short tour of the city before settling in your hotel.

November 9 th : Angkor Wat

Full day of visits: Angkor Wat, Ta Phrom temple and Angkor Thom town.

November 10 th : Angkor

Day free at leisure. Enjoy the comfort of your hotel or one of the numerous options and activities available in our Alternative programs (with extra charge).

And this gala dinner, set in a privatised temple, orchestrated by the Asparas Royal Ballet dances, will give you the last chills of this marvelous discovery of the Khmer civilisation.

• Helicopter flight over Angkor temples,
• Daytour in the Cambodian countryside (with visit of Banteay Srei temple),
• Craftman shopping at the old market (accompanied by a guide),
• Excursion to the mysterious Temples (Beng Mealea, Koh Ker),
• Surprise daytour.

Première Safrans :   Zannier Phum Baitang 5* Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor 5*

Club Safrans : Sofitel Siem Reap 5* FCC Angkor by Avani 5*

November 8 th : Hanoi - Siem Reap Take-off: morning | Landing: after lunch Flight time 1:40

Taj Mahal & Agra, India

Let’s talk about Love. As you contemplate the white marble temple of perfect harmony youunderstand what defines a «Wonder of the World». Located on Agra’s riverbank, this mausoleum was built in the 17th century by Emperor Shâh Jahân who wanted to offer his wife a token of eternal passion. Successful declaration! Delicate sculptures, walls inlaid with semi-precious stones, elegant basins, slender minarets, flowerbeds. The hymn to love is universal. You will celebrate it tonight during a show that will unwind Indian magics.

November 11 th : Siem Reap - Agra

This morning, your private jet will get you to India. As soon as you touch Indian soil, you will head to the fabulous Taj Mahal, with its captivating symetry and the serenity that emanates from it. You will then be taken to your hotel, welcomed by traditionnal dance and music in a festive atmosphere. This evening, discover the Moghul culture, with the finest tastes of Indian gastronomy.

Première Safrans: The Oberoi Amarvillas 5*

Club Safrans : ITC Mughal 5*

November 11 th : Siem Reap - Agra (via Delhi) Take-off: morning | Landing: after lunch. Flight time 4:15

Petra and Wadi Rum desert, Jordan

It seems like an initiatory path. The one that guides you to the Treasury - as is called the temple of Petra - leads you between two narrow sandstone walls to then reveal the wonder. In full light, there lies the tomb of Kazneh. Its 40-meter-high facade was carved out of the pristine canyon. Its color changes from pink to coppery iridescent white and even gold as it dances with the daylight. Here is the splendid testimony of the Nabataeans, the pinnacle of a vast religious citadel carved at the beginning of our era. Before your final excursion in the desert of Wadi Rum, comes the time of celebration. Our team wishes it to be the apotheosis of your trip. It must sum up all the wonders that have paraded before you during these 22 days. We promise, you will never forget it. Shouldn’t we immortalize it with a picture? The photographer is already there and the party begins. It will be worthy of the Arabian Nights, just like your World Tour!

November 12 th : Agra - Aqaba

At the end of the morning you’ll have a quick flight to take you to Aqaba. By the time you have finished your on-board lunch you will be in the land of the Nabataeans, a nomadic people who were travellers ahead of their time. You will then travel along the road of kings and have time to appreciate the unique scenery before finally reaching the amazing city of Petra.

November 13 th : Petra

This morning you will wake up impatient to see the most exceptional sight that the famous city of Petra has for you, the treasure that is half-built and half-sculpted out of rock and out of time. You will explore the marvels of this place and stroll between those warmly coloured rocks which are so imbued with history. Surrounded by scenery that could be from a movie-set, you will understand how sensitive these nomadic people are when you see the delicate sculptures they have made out of the rock. You will have lunch and then continue exploring. Dinner itself will also reflect the traditions of this new culture which has come to augment the scope of culture experienced in this World Trip. We have planned the ultimate event for this last evening, set against a fantastically poignant background. You will enjoy a sumptuous party under the stars, as exotic as the Arabian Nights, and as fabulous as your World Trip.

November 14 th : Wadi Rum - Aqaba - Paris

Today you are going to meet the Wadi Rum desert Bedouins. You are going to explore the fantastic scenery of a huge desert of undulating sand dunes in a 4x4. You will share your lunch with our hosts at a camp, very close to the local people, so you can observe their lifestyle at close quarters and understand their traditions. After this moving, dazzling experience you will once again board your private jet, this time to fly back to France. After your flight and last onboard dinner you will be back in the French capital and your World Tour will have come to a full circle.

Première Safrans :

Kempinski Aqaba 5* Club Safrans : Hyatt Regency Aqaba Ayla 5*

November 12 th : Delhi – Aqaba Take-off:  morning | Landing: after lunch Flight time 5:15

November 14 th : Aqaba – Paris Take-off: evening | Landing: late evening Flight time 5:00

 You have just experienced the most amazing trip through time, civilisations and the wonders of the world.

YOUR PRIVATE JET

Flying! in Grand Luxury

The emotion which comes with a long-haul trip begins with the plane you board. Since this is a luxury Air Cruise, Safrans du Monde has chosen the best by working with an exceptional company, a specialist of private aviation. Travelling the world in the comfort of your own fully equipped Airbus A340 is a unique experience. The kind of experience that offers you a refined cocoon and the warm service of its experienced crew.

This aircraft, initially designed for nearly 300 passengers, is equipped with only 100 wide and very comfortable seats, all of which turn into a perfectly horizontal bed. The 2 meter separation between each row and the configuration in duos will ensure calm and intimacy.

During your flights, always scheduled during the day, you will appreciate the complete entertainment system or doze off in the comfort of your own home in the clouds. Finally, for a moment of conviviality, you may choose to join the leather sofas of the lounge area for a cocktail or a glass of champagne in the sky. These moments of your trip of a lifetime are precious !

Learn more about our Private Jet experience

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CHOOSE YOUR WOLRD TOUR

Première Safrans , the quintessential way of travel, in the air and at every destination!

When you choose the Première Safrans, your journey begins at your arrival in Paris with a night and transfer to an elegant Parisian hotel before your World Tour departure.

At each stopover, your hotel address is the most exclusive and your room size is even more generous, your restaurants are among the best and a special care is given to the selection of your wines. Of course your program is enriched: the Belmond Hiram Bingham luxury train in Peru, your 4-night stay in Bora Bora in French Polynesia, the unique experience of a night on Halong Bay and many other surprises... Your tour leader and carefully selected local guides are at the service of your small independent tour group limited to 16 participants.

Finally, the service on board is First Class with priority boarding, and of course your dedicated flatbed seat. Taste your exclusive selection of fine wines and enjoy your menus, prepared exclusively for the passengers of Première Safrans.

The Club Safrans :

When traveling in Club Safrans, your land-based services include, among others, accommodation in 5* hotels, full board and evening shows.

At each destination, you will enjoy a complete program of excursions and visits with your dedicated tour leader and local guides. Your tour group is limited to 25 participants and Moorea welcomes you in French Polynesia for 4 nights.

On board, you enjoy Business Class services and your comfy seat unfolds into a bed position. Your menus are prepared by our Chef Paul Caussé and complemented by our selection of wines and spirits.

RATE & CONDiTIONS

The World Tour Grand Classiques

*Price calculated on the basis of 2 people travelling together and subject to availability at the time of booking.

Our prices include:

• Our 22-day Air Cruise in a private plane, double room accommodation to be shared, 5* hotels or similar.
• Full board, based on 3 meals a day including some during flight, from lunch on the first day to dinner on the last day.
• Drinks on board the private jet: champagne, spirits, wine, beer, light drinks, etc... and drinks common at meals (wine, mineral water, beer and light drinks).
• All transfers, excursions and visits planned in the program by coach, minibus, boat, 4X4 vehicle, train, hydroplane with local guides speaking French or, for non-French speaking passengers, another language (without supplement in English and from 8 participants for another language).
• From Paris to Paris, the services of a cruise director, his teams of tour leaders and a French doctor.
• Dinner & shows planned. Immigration formalities and checked baggage are handled wherever permitted.
• Carrying luggage at all authorized airports. Baggage allowance: 1 bag of 23 kg per person in Club Safrans.
• Repatriation assistance insurance, in the European Union, airport taxes, issuance fees and visa fees.
• In Première Safrans, selection of exclusive 5* hotels, 2 nights in Paris (pre and post World Tour) and transfers to/from your hotel. Enriched program. Luggage allowance: 2 pieces of luggage of 23 kg.

Our prices do not include:

• Drinks not included in the program (bars, mini-bar, drinks other than beer, wines and light drinks provided for meals at the destinations, etc.).
• Personal expenses (telephone, laundry, etc...).
• Multi-risk insurance optional cancellation (please contact us for more information).

Options extras (subject to availability):

• Double room for single use
• Excursions with guide and private vehicles at the destinations:
• Excursions with private vehicles at each destination and guides speaking Spanish, German, Russian, Italian or Portuguese: no extra from 8 passengers speaking the same language
• Pre/post arrival package in Paris for Club Safrans passengers including 4 transfers and 2 nights in a 5 or 4* hotel
• Pre/post World Tour international flights : on request.
• Risk insurance cancellation: 9 to 13 % of the price of the trip (consult us).

Formalities:

As of January 10, 2023 for US citizens: Passport valid for 6 months after the return date with at least 6 blank pages. Visa formalities taken care of. No mandatory vaccine, consult your doctor for more details on the recommended vaccines.

Conditions of Registration:

No extra fee for wire transfer payment in USD or payment in EUR, contact us for other payment methods.

Registration form duly completed, signed and:

• 1st deposit of 30% upon booking.
• 2nd down payment of 20% June 24 th 2023.
• Last down payment of 50% August 24 th 2023.

Cancellation insurance, optional, highly recommended. Contract upon reservation, please consult us for rates and conditions. For non-EU residents, mandatory travel insurance. For specific details of its terms and conditions, refer to the Insurer company documentation provided at the time of subscription. Assistance / luggage / repatriation: included in the price of the trip for participants. Professional Liability Insurance: underwritten by Safrans du Monde at GENERALI IARD, 2 rue Pillet Will, 75009 PARIS for 2,000,000 euros, police AT611997, in order to cover the consequences of the professional civil liability that Safrans du Monde may incur in his capacity as a traveloperator, limited to the aforementioned policy.

Conditions of Cancellation:

Any cancellation will have to be communicated by registered mail with acknowledgment of receipt and will involve the following cancellation costs depending on the date of receipt: • 180 days or more before departure: 10 % of the amount of the journey; • From 179 to 120 days before departure: 30 % of the amount of the journey; • From 119 to 90 days before departure: 40 % of the amount of the journey; • From 89 to 60 days before departure: 50 % of the travel amount; • From 59 to 30 days before departure: 75 % of the amount of the journey; • Less than 30 days before departure: 100 per cent of the travel amount;

Prices and Conditions of Application:

Our prices payable in Euros are firm, but they can be revised according to the conditions described below and the terms of the General Conditions of Sale of article R.211-12 of the Tourist Code, contained in the annex to this brochure. Our prices are based on the economic conditions in force on January 10, 2023 in particular for the rates of accommodation, transport, fuel (Jetex 985 USD/MT), taxes (stay, security, airport, etc.) and the exchange rate of the Brazilian Real, US Dollar (1 EUR = 1,08 USD),. Air transport is provided for under this program, airlines and aircraft types are listed for information only, subject to change without notice. Given the complexity of this journey, the type of aircraft planned and/or one or more stops could be subject to modification or even replacement, justified by an event outside the organizer and unforeseen at the time of publication of the brochure (January 10th, 2023, in particular for hotels and/or with regard to authorizations to land or take off from an airport planned). If the group does not reach the minimum number of participants related to the type of aircraft, the Air Cruise may be canceled. For significant changes such as cancellation of departure for failure to reach the minimum number of participants or modification of the price of the journey or significant change of route (more than one stop) the customer will be informed as far as possible no later than 21 days before departure. In each of these three cases, the client will have a period of 8 days upon receipt of the notification to accept the new proposal or request the cancellation of his registration. In this case, the sums paid by the client will be fully refunded, however, no compensation can be claimed. Similarly, if the cancellation of the journey is imposed by circumstances of epidemic, force majeure or exceptional and unavoidable circumstances as defined by Article L. 211-1 and following and R. 211-3 à R. 211 of the Tourism Code, the client will not be entitled to any compensation. Any interruption of the journey which is not caused by the organizer, shall not be subject to any reimbursement, even partial, nor to transport or other benefits, unless taken over in whole or in part by an insurance company and this within the limits of the insurance contract entered into.

Customer Service:

Any complaint will be addressed as soon as possible and no later than 20 days after the date of return by registered mail with acknowledgement of receipt by attaching the supporting documents to Safrans du Monde - 54, rue Taitbout - 75009 PARIS. RCS Paris 504 235 854 - SAS with capital of €18,000 - NAF 7911Z - IM 075140076 - ATRADIUS Financial Guarantee

Bookings are open, contact us !

Crystal Cruises' First Round-the-World 'AirCruise' Now Available for Booking

By Andrew Sessa

Having expanded its fleet of large and luxurious ocean-going vessels to include a small-capacity seafaring yacht in December, and then taking to the skies this spring with the launch of an on-demand 12-seat private jet, Crystal Cruises made even bigger news recently, when it revealed the interiors of its new 84-seat 777-200 plane. The jumbo jet will begin carrying high-flying guests on 14-, 21- and 28-day round-the-world itineraries in August of next year, the first of which is now on sale.

Recently announced by Crystal Cruises, the 27-day Peninsula Grand Inaugural Crystal AirCruise partners with The Peninsula Hotels to bring travelers curated experiences and events in each destination on the itinerary—a private dinner party on the Great Wall of China, anyone? The trip kicks off on August 31 in New York City , before heading to Chicago, Beverly Hills, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Beijing, Tokyo , Manila, Bangkok, and Paris, where guests will stay in Peninsula hotels. More destinations will gradually be rolled out, but Crystal has already revealed that the trips will include between 12 and 15 stops in the 28-day itineraries and will see guests staying not only in hotels but more exclusive accommodations, too: “Things you can’t get into,” as Crystal CEO Edie Rodriguez describes them, “castle stays not usually open to the public, a museum you tour at night with its director.”

Akin to the trips on refit 757 planes run by Abercrombie & Kent and, a more recent arrival in this space, Four Seasons Hotels, Crystal AirCruises aims to take the experience to a higher level. The company wholly owns its plane, in contrast to other companies who lease or work with an operating partner, and its wide-body jet allows it not only to fit about 30 more people in an all lie-flat seating cabin, but also to provide a separate bar, dining, and lounge area, as well as a 150-bottle wine cellar, all decked out in subtle platinum, gray, and sea foam hues. (The larger plane means that Crystal won’t be able to land on some shorter runways that a 757 could, but the company plans to use smaller chartered aircraft—including its own—to take guests to the most remote of small airports as needed in places such as the African bush and Easter Island .) There are also iPads, Bose headsets, and 24-inch flatscreen TVs at every seat.

The 777—which could otherwise seat more than 300 passengers in its most generous configuration, as opposed to the fewer than 90 here—will have a range of up to 23 hours of flying time, during which passengers will be waited on by a dozen butlers from Crystal’s ships, all of them trained in aircraft-safety to become certified flight attendants. Crystal’s corporate chef is overseeing the food, which Rodriguez wants to be Michelin-level.

The plane's interior includes 84 lie-flat seats.

As for the appeal of traveling en (semi) masse aboard a private jet , Rodriguez says that though many of Crystal’s guests own their own yacht or aircraft, “they're coming to us because they want their hand held, and they want to travel with like-minded people."

Crystal’s rapid broadening of its travel purview over the last year has been thanks in large part to its new ownership by the Chinese hospitality holding company Genting Hong Kong. “They're very generous,” Rodriguez says of her bosses. “As long as I continue to be fiscally responsible, they will continue to indulge."

One way to stay fiscally responsible? Making sure this new jet provides significant return on investment. To that end, Rodriguez says the cost of these trips will be “competitively priced but probably a little bit higher than our quote unquote competition." Given that the rates for A&K and Four Seasons private jet trips can soar to more than $100,000 per person, those will be some stratospheric numbers, indeed. (A ticket on the all-inclusive maiden voyage costs $159,000 per person.)

This article was originally published in September 2016. It has been updated with new information.

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A World of Wonder, Without the Worries

We are the world's most awarded private jet expedition company.

The Private Jet Advantage

PIONEERING INNOVATION

Pioneering Innovation

Travel aboard the newest jet in the Group Jet Expedition category, with the largest cabin by height and width of any single-aisle aircraft. The Airbus A321 is 30% more fuel efficient than a Boeing 757 and for your safety, incorporates the most up-to-date, hospital-grade air filtration system that renews the cabin air every few minutes.

COMFORT & EASE

Comfort & Ease

The private jet becomes your home in the sky for the entire tour. Your comfort is assured with a roomy interior custom-configured with only 52 flatbed Italian leather seats that offer 6.5 feet of personal reclining space.

EXPERIENCED STAFF & CREW

Experienced Staff & Crew

Taking care of you is an exceptional 18-member team of flight crew and staff. Your experienced expedition leader and two assistant leaders manage all logistics and handle all details, making your trip hassle-free. Also flying with you are an on-board chef, photographer, two subject matter experts, and an emergency-room trained physician.

IN-FLIGHT AMENITIES

In-Flight Amenities

Onboard amenities include Bose noise-cancelling headsets, iPads for streaming curated content and L’Occitane products. Onboard connectivity features an enhanced in-flight presentation system, on-demand entertainment and WiFi.

Around the World by Private Jet

Do and See More Than You Ever Thought Possible on a Single Journey Our flagship expedition offers a life list of iconic destinations in a single, all-inclusive itinerary for 52 guests. Travel in comfort aboard the brand-new A321 private jet to explore some of the world’s most extraordinary places and natural wonders. Discover legendary destinations, from Machu Picchu to the Taj Mahal, Angkor Wat to Easter Island.

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Our experienced Expedition Leaders travel with you on your journey and oversee all the details of your trip so that you can just relax and enjoy it. They are full-time TCS staff members, meaning they are focused on your experience all year long. The team also handles your luggage throughout the journey so that you remain unencumbered. For your peace of mind, a physician will accompany you the entire journey.

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At the heart of our expeditions is the desire to connect you with the cultures of the places we visit. Our on-trip subject matter experts travel with you the whole journey to enrich your experience, sharing their expertise both in the air and on the ground and cultural context and connections. Also available for informal chats over meals and during excursions, they come from a variety of backgrounds including history, art, science and diplomacy.

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Watch: This Insane, Gigantic Airplane Concept Is Like a Flying 5-Star Resort With Room for 5,000 Guests

The sky cruise would use clean nuclear energy to stay afloat for several years., tori latham, tori latham's most recent stories.

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What would a cruise liner look like if it could fly? A bonkers airplane concept is here to show you.

Meet the Sky Cruise, a gigantic flying resort that was conceived by Tony Holmsten about 11 years ago and was recently animated by Hashem Al-Ghaili. The aircraft is equal parts spaceship and ocean liner, and it comes with just about every amenity you could imagine. Its ginormous size can accommodate more than 5,000 guests, who would arrive on board via commercial or private plane (that’s right—jumbo jets would land on top of the Sky Cruise).

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As for what you would get to enjoy once checked in, the views are quite obviously the biggest selling point. An elevated deck would provide a 360-degree vantage point for seeing everything from the stars to aurora borealis. From there, an elevator would take you down to the main entertainment deck, which looks like a cruise ship on steroids. You’d have access to shopping malls, sports centers, swimming pools, restaurants, bars, playgrounds, theaters and cinemas.

A rendering of the Sky Cruise  YouTube

While all of this makes for a pretty incredible-sounding experience, there’s one aspect of the Sky Cruise that might trump all the others. The aircraft is designed to use nuclear energy, which means it would be able to stay afloat—without landing—for several years. Twenty electric engines would be powered by nuclear energy, with a small nuclear reactor on board using highly controlled fusion reaction to provide unlimited energy.

If this all sounds appealing but air travel gives you the heebie-jeebies, not to worry: The craft would use artificial intelligence to avoid air turbulence. (Now, if they could only implement that on commercial airliners.) There’s also a full medical facility on board.

Right now, the Sky Cruise is concept straight out of a sci-fi flick. But who knows, maybe one day we’ll all be floating through the sky together, admiring the view and swimming laps thousands of miles above the ground.

Tori Latham is a digital staff writer at Robb Report. She was previously a copy editor at The Atlantic, and has written for publications including The Cut and The Hollywood Reporter. When not…

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The 9 best luxury cruise lines for elegance and exclusivity

Like fine European hotels or the fanciest boutique properties, the ships of the best luxury cruise lines are designed to appeal to people who seek — and can afford — an elegant style of travel.

Champagne flows. You can snack on caviar. Exquisite cuisine is prepared a la minute and accompanied by pours of fine wines. Onboard lounges are wonderfully intimate, with no mass-market anything. When you rest your head, it's on a luxury mattress topped with the finest linens.

For more cruise guides, news and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

The byword is exclusivity. Perks included in the cruise fare may include beverages, Wi-Fi, fresh flowers, extraordinary pampering and, in some cases, butler service.

The price to get on board could be $1,000 per person, per day. For top suites, it could be much, much more.

Here are our picks for the top nine luxury cruise lines currently operating.

Atlas Ocean Voyages

Catering to adventurous luxury cruise travelers with money to spend, the new cruise line Atlas Ocean Voyages , which debuted in the summer of 2021, offers upscale experiences on small ships that carry just 196 passengers.

World Navigator, World Traveller and World Voyager, the first three of five planned vessels in the fleet, carry their own landing craft, Jet Skis, kayaks and paddleboards, all of which can be used by passengers wishing for some adventure while exploring the world on itineraries that include the Mediterranean, Portugal and the British Isles, as well as more remote locales like the Arctic and Antarctica.

Although the onboard dress code is casual, the ships are anything but, featuring elegant, retro-chic decor and marble floors.

In addition to including Wi-Fi, crew gratuities, alcohol and some shore excursions in its fares, Atlas provides all passengers with emergency medical evacuation insurance to handle unexpected illness or injury in the remote locations its ships sail.

Overall, Atlas has found a way to seamlessly meld swank and leisure, making it one of our favorite luxury cruise lines.

Related: 5 fabulous destinations for luxury cruise fans

Silversea Cruises

Silversea , with a dozen 100- to 728-passenger ships, has some of the most diverse geographic itineraries of any line, bringing guests to destinations around the world, including such remote places as the Arctic and Antarctica.

Now owned by Royal Caribbean Group (the same company that owns Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises ), the luxury cruise line delivers stylish, contemporary luxury — more streamlined than opulent — complemented by pleasantly extreme pampering.

Every Silversea ship passenger stays in a suite with a butler delivering superb service — even on the 100-passenger Silver Origin in the remote Galapagos, where your butler might take extraordinary care to get a spot off your hiking boots. Suite niceties include Bulgari bath products and marble bathrooms with both tubs and showers.

Silversea ships offer a wide choice of dining venues (some with a fee) designed to satisfy many tastes, whether you prefer sushi, foie gras or a great, thin-crust pizza.

Drinks are on the house, including a long list of fine wine pours. S.A.L.T., a new dining and culinary education concept, brings local tastes on board together with experts who share insight into each dish and beverage. The program also features culinary-focused excursions ashore.

Silversea's expedition ships are equipped for polar locales. On sailings in those regions, each passenger receives a free jacket to keep them warm and cozy.

Related: Why Silversea's new Silver Nova is a game-changer

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Another of our top luxury cruise lines, Regent Seven Seas Cruises is proudly opulent. Floating palaces are its calling card, along with the most inclusive fares of all the luxury lines. Business-class airfare, pre-cruise luxury hotel stays and shore excursions in every port are on the long list of perks.

The goal is knock-you-off-your-feet luxury. If you don't get that point at first, look down at the many yards of Carrara marble under your feet, then gaze up at the Czech crystal chandeliers. Or spot the Picassos and Chagalls among your ship's stunning, mostly Latin-focused art collections.

The six 490- to 750-passenger ships in the Regent fleet get fancier as they get larger. On the three newest, Seven Seas Explorer, Seven Seas Splendor and Seven Seas Grandeur everyone stays in a roomy suite with an oversized balcony and marble bathroom.

The top Regent Suites on these new ships are mansions at sea and come with solariums, private spas with saunas and steam rooms and Steinway pianos in their living rooms. They also have handmade beds that cost up to $200,000 apiece.

Lavishly decked-out restaurants, with cushy bars nearby, include Prime 7, a fan favorite for its classic steakhouse menu, including jumbo lump crab cakes, U.S.D.A. prime-aged beef and Alaskan king crab legs.

Related: 5 secrets to getting a luxury cruise for less

Long considered one of the great luxury lines, if not the greatest, Crystal just resumed operations in 2023 after shutting down during the COVID-19 pandemic. And as we wrote about recently, it's as good as ever .

In the wake of its comeback, Crystal is operating just the two biggest ocean ships from its past: the 606-passenger Crystal Symphony and 740-passenger Crystal Serenity (though it already has plans for an expansion ). Both of the vessels, which globetrot around the world, are all-inclusive and on the glitzy side — perfect for a crowd looking for a throwback. Passengers make appearances walking down grand staircases dressed to the nines, meet for afternoon tea and dance the night away.

Everything operates in the upper-tier way, from the spa and expansive fitness offerings to the restaurants — which include a Nobu eatery.

Those booked in penthouses and higher-category suites receive service from a tuxedo-clad butler who will do everything from unpacking your luggage to helping you set up a private cocktail party. A particular perk is having the butler bring Nobu sushi on a silver tray.

Owned by Carnival Corporation, Seabourn 's top-of-the-line, 264- to 600-passenger ships deliver comfortable, modern luxury that can be as fancy or casual as you like.

If you want to show off your heirloom jewels, go ahead, but on most nights, a jacket is optional in the ship's restaurants. If you prefer not to dress up for formal night, you can still eat well at casual alternatives.

High service is a trademark of this luxury cruise line. Your suite steward will draw you a bath scented with your choice of bath oil. For a snack, order the complimentary caviar.

Dining is over the top at the restaurants, such as the retro-chic steakhouses with menus created by famed chef Thomas Keller (of French Laundry fame). When you tire of prime beef, order lobster thermidor or sink into the delicious comfort of Keller's roast chicken. All dining is included in your fare.

Throughout the ship, complimentary spirits, fine wines and house Champagne flow freely. This leads to easy socializing in the bars and lounges on board.

The line's two newest ships, the 264-passenger Seabourn Venture and Seabourn Pursuit, are built with a tough "polar class" design to operate in the ice-filled waters of the Arctic and Antarctica. They're equipped with state-of-the-art submarines for undersea views.

A 26-person expedition team runs the two dozen Zodiacs that get you up close to glaciers and icebergs.

Paul Gauguin Cruises

Looking to sail through romantic French Polynesia in complete luxury? Look to South Pacific-based Paul Gauguin for an all-inclusive, high-end home base.

The ship is immersed in all things Polynesian, with a troupe of local performers on board to entertain guests with local song, dance and craft lessons.

Couples can embrace the romance of the region by participating in a Polynesian blessing ceremony. Paul Gauguin gives its guests special access to a secluded beach on Bora Bora and a private island off the coast of Taha'a, where you can indulge in water sports, a gourmet barbecue and bar service.

To make the most of the aquamarine waters, complimentary water sports, such as paddleboarding and kayaking, are available straight from the ship's marina and every guest receives snorkel gear for use during the cruise, free of charge.

On board, guests enjoy five-star French and Polynesian cuisine, with all beverages complimentary throughout the ship and in your in-room minifridge.

With 209 crew members on hand to serve 330 passengers, service is top-notch and full of Polynesian hospitality, but all gratuities are already included in your fare.

Not all cabins are suites, but the top suites on the ship come with butler service. Also, should you dare to consider the outside world, you can connect with friends and family back home with complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the ship.

Related: 7 things to do in French Polynesia that don't involve romance or over-water bungalows

Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours

Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours puts the elegance into adventure with its two 228-passenger expedition yachts, Scenic Eclipse and Scenic Eclipse II.

Sure, its ships have reinforced hulls capable of breaking through ice, but they also feature chic bars serving 130 different kinds of whiskey (all included in your fare) and high-end onboard spas (treatments cost extra, alas).

For small ships, Scenic's yachts still manage to offer five gourmet dining venues, plus additional private dining options (such as a chef's table or teppanyaki grill), room service and culinary masterclasses in a show kitchen.

Sample candied foie gras, daily risottos or sushi made with fish flown from Japan, all while sailing through remote waters. Wash it down with whatever you like because all but the most premium beverages are included.

After a long day of Zodiac, submersible or helicopter rides (yes, all these high-tech exploration toys are on board), you can retreat to your well-appointed suite, with distinct sleeping and living areas, plus a balcony.

Thoughtful touches include Illy coffee machines, Dyson hair dryers, remote-control adjustable beds, plentiful outlets and USB ports, and umbrellas and binoculars for use on your vacation. Did we mention you also have access to a butler for all your onboard needs?

Scenic's all-inclusive fares include dining and drinks, Wi-Fi, gratuities, airport transfers and shore excursions led by the line's knowledgeable expedition leaders.

Related: I didn't think I'd like my first Arctic expedition cruise; here's what proved me wrong

Oceania Cruises

Sometimes luxury means more space to spread out and multiple onboard options for a truly outstanding meal.

That's the approach upscale cruise line Oceania Cruises takes with its fleet of seven 648- to 1,238-passenger ships (the last of which, Oceania Vista , just debuted in May 2023 and is its most elegant yet).

Foodies will drool over menus overseen by Master Chef Jacques Pepin in all-included venues specializing in French, Italian, Asian and steakhouse cuisine.

Cruisers truly passionate about food and wine will want to splurge on wine-paired dinners at La Reserve by Wine Spectator or enjoy a gourmet, multi-course menu with an intimate group at Privee.

Get hands-on cooking experience with a class in The Culinary Center or explore the food culture ashore with a Culinary Discovery Tour.

Oceania also embraces wellness with its Aquamar Spa and Vitality Center. Treat yourself to a decadent spa treatment or wellness-themed shore excursion, or take care of your body with complimentary fitness classes and plant-based menus at onboard restaurants.

Oceania's fares are not as inclusive as some of the small-ship lines mentioned above, but guests can choose a higher-priced fare that is more inclusive with the line's "simply MORE" promotion. These fares include free airfare and airport transfers, complimentary Wi-Fi and a choice of a select number of free excursions, as well as free specialty dining reservations, Champagne and wine.

Viking does not like to call itself a luxury cruise line, but we'd definitely put it in that category for the inclusive fares, fine dining and smart design of its ocean-going ships.

Its 10 traditional cruise ships are nearly identical, each carrying 930 guests, while two expedition vessels carry 378 guests and combine elegant design with the latest technology in polar exploration.

Viking's fares are inclusive but not all-inclusive, and its ships sport clean Scandinavian design rather than opulent decor. Necessities such as Wi-Fi and self-serve laundry are complimentary, as are all nonalcoholic beverages and beer and wine with lunch and dinner.

Guests can enjoy dining in multiple onboard venues, plus room service, for no extra cost. Don't miss the Italian Manfredi's or a gorgeous afternoon tea spread in the glass-enclosed Wintergarden.

Cabins may not have an overtly opulent feel, but they have all the right touches, including balconies in every room, quiet-closing drawers, heated bathroom floors and plentiful USB ports and outlets.

The destination-focused cruise line adds as many days in port as it can to each itinerary and offers a free shore excursion in every port.

Viking ships have a large presence in Europe, sailing the Mediterranean and in northern Europe, but also explore the world from Alaska and the Caribbean to Asia and Australia.

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Viking ship

Its expedition ships, Viking Polaris and Viking Octantis, explore Antarctica, as well as the Great Lakes and Canada.

The ships boast several expedition cruising firsts, including a boarding area for excursion craft that's inside the ship (rather than docked outside it) and cabins with floor-to-ceiling glass windows that slide open to let in the fresh air.

Like the ocean ships, they feature Scandinavian design, a glass-walled Explorers' Lounge and signature Viking restaurants Manfredi's and Mamsen's (offering Norwegian specialties).

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The ultimate guide to picking a cruise line
• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• 15 best cruise ships for people who never want to grow up
• What to pack for a cruise
• Guide to picking a cruise

10 Luxury Cruise Lines That Will Make You Want to Ditch Plane Travel Forever

Posted: June 28, 2024 | Last updated: June 28, 2024

Thinking about booking your next dream vacation? As stunning as land-locked adventures and beautiful hotels can be, there’s something to be said about sailing the seas. Fortunately for us, nowadays, there are cruise ships that far exceed the family-fun agenda of the classic companies so often advertised on TV. While there’s absolutely nothing wrong with those cruise liners, there’s something special about not only traversing the ocean but doing so decked out to the nines. With that in mind, we’ve rounded up the best luxury cruise lines of 2023. Ahead, uncover the company that best aligns with your idea of the ultimate water-bound getaway.

Silversea is the “jewel in the crown” of the Royal Caribbean Group, not to mention the original luxury cruise line, first entering the space in 1994. The company touts 12 all-inclusive ships with destinations all over the world. Whether you want to explore the American West Coast, South America, Northern Europe and the British Isles, Africa, Asia, Australia and New Zealand, or even Antarctica, Silversea has a cruise to fit your fancy.

Speaking of fancy, the most luxurious cruise that Silversea offers is its 125-Day Chile to Norway sail, which rings up at $94,700. You don’t have to invest that much to enjoy a Silversea cruise, though. No matter which type of suite you book, you can expect butler service, optional 24/7 in-suite dining, endless access to premium beverages and craft cocktails, and complimentary caviar around the clock.

Explore Silversea Cruises

Paul Gauguin

Paul Gaugin stands out for its single-ship escapade into the luxury cruise space. With a variety of cruises that explore French Polynesia and the South Pacific, Paul Gauguin is a small-ship cruise line with 7-, 10-, 11-, and 14-night itineraries that focus on intimate experiences, delectable cuisine, stunning stateroom balcony views, butler service, and more. With a 1:1.5 crew-to-guest ratio, you can rest assured knowing that all of your needs will be met aboard the m/s Paul Gauguin.

Explore Paul Gauguin Cruises

Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours

Scenic is unique in that it not only offers luxury ocean cruises but river cruises, too. The brand prides itself on operating and innovating with guest experience in mind. As such, all of its cruises have so much to offer voyagers, from extensive dining, leisure, and wellness options to striking design elements that will make you want to stay aboard for much longer than your itinerary.

Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours has nine ships with oceanic destinations spanning from the Arctic and Europe to the Caribbean and Australia. Meanwhile, if you find yourself in France, you may want to check out Scenic’s beloved river cruises, in which you can tour the Seine in the utmost style.

Explore Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours

Ponant has a fleet of 13 luxury cruise ships with destinations dotting the globe. The award-winning French cruise line is beloved for its tailor-made voyages, in which guests have access to myriad bespoke experiences both on and off board, from in-room dining to once-in-a-lifetime immersive excursions.

Since Ponant ships offer smaller capacity—more akin to a private yacht experience—they’re able to navigate private ports and preserved locations that large-scale cruise ships are unable to access. While aboard Ponant’s all-inclusive ships, you can anticipate exceptional French cuisine, delicious fine wines, complimentary Champagne and spirits, room service, and more.

Of course, if you need further inspiration to look into the cruise line, perhaps the fact that three-mast yacht, Le Ponant, is part of the Relais & Châteaux portfolio will do the trick.

Explore Ponant Cruises

Crystal is renowned for its personalized voyages all over the world, not to mention its palatial suites that will leave you picking your jaw up off the floor. In addition to well-appointed design, the cruise line offers an impressive dining experience, with authentic cuisines from all over the world. So whether you’re in the mood for American, Italian, Peruvian, or Japanese food, you’ll have ample options to choose from.

It’s also worth mentioning that the luxury cruise line took it to the next level with its spa, Aurora Spa. The gorgeous, sea-view spa offers a variety of face, body, salon, and healing treatments, including massages, facials, acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, and even IV drip therapy—so you won’t have to worry about feeling hung over at sea (especially considering the cruise line offers complimentary Champagne, fine wines, and premium spirits).

Explore Crystal

Windstar Cruises

Windstar Cruises operates a six-ship fleet dedicated to extraordinary sailing experiences. With small ships that carry less than 350 passengers, Windstar prides itself on offering guests intimate, aesthetic, unforgettable voyages spanning from Asia and Australia to Italy and Iceland.

While the staterooms and suites are stunning and the shore excursions are aplenty, it’s the food that really stands out aboard Windstar. As the official cruise line of the James Beard Foundation, Windstar offers a number of themed culinary cruises with food and bev from some of the most notable chefs of today, including Maxime Bilet (The Cooking Lab) and Jose Mendin (Pubbelly Noodle Bar, Habitat, Baja Bao).

Explore Windstar Cruises

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection

The Ritz-Carlton is synonymous with luxury, so it’s no surprise that the company extended into oceanic adventures with a fleet of three superyachts. Where the Evrima was built in 2021, the Ilma and Luminara yachts are forthcoming in 2024 and 2025.

While classic cruise lines have a capacity in the thousands, often edging upward of 4,000, the Ritz-Carlton superyachts offer a more curated experience to 500 passengers or less. From the outside, the yachts are sleek and serene, fitting in beautifully with the sea. Within Evrima’s walls, though, moody modern interiors with magnificent ocean views await.

Guests can look forward to soaking tubs, expansive private balconies complete with sun beds and a whirlpool, walk-in wardrobes, and more. As far as destinations are concerned, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection embarks on oceanic adventures in the Mediterranean and Caribbean.

Explore The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection Cruises

Seabourn is a luxury cruise line that speaks to our soul—and for more reasons than the simple fact that it touts a “Veranda Suite Upgrade.” The luxury cruise line sets sail in the Arctic, Canada and New England, the Amazon, Arabia, Africa, and India, and more.

Each of the fleet’s yachts, which carry between 458 and 600 guests, is outfitted with ocean-view suites only, so no matter what excursion you book, you can anticipate traveling in luxury style with a picturesque backdrop. You can also look forward to mouth-watering cuisine courtesy of renowned chef Thomas Keller.

Explore Seabourn Cruises

Cunard is known for its iconic black funnels, yes, but more so for its unparalleled large-scale onboard experiences. Although each of the cruise line’s ships carries upwards of 1,500 passengers, the four-ship fleet is adored for its luxury itineraries, stylish design, tranquil spa offerings, delectable cuisine, and unmatched comfort at sea.

Truly, if your goal is to book an unforgettable, Instagram-worthy cruise, Cunard is the way to go. From the stunning suites (decked out in pops of rich color, sumptuous textiles, and spectacular lighting) to the picturesque destinations, Cunard has it all.

Explore Cunard Cruises

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

If you want to get the most bang for your buck when booking a luxury cruise, Regent Seven Seas Cruises is a prime pick. The all-inclusive cruise line crafts a new definition of the category with complimentary roundtrip airfare, free unlimited shore excursions, include 2- to 3-night land programs, on-the-house bar and lounge experiences, and more.

The six-fleet cruise line is also known for its gorgeous interiors, complete with modern aesthetics, Art Deco embellishments, stunning chandeliers, and more. When traveling with Regent Seven Seas Cruises, guests can traverse the seven seas, with destinations in Africa and Arabia, Asia, Australia and New Zealand, the Caribbean and more. And if you don’t want to pick a single destination, there’s always the option to book a grand voyage or world cruise, which can last up to 168 days and cost upwards of $100,000.

Explore Regent Seven Seas Cruises

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Silver Dawn

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A new world of luxury is waiting aboard Silver Dawn. Elegant and modern, Silver Dawn is the natural evolution of our fleet. Large enough to offer eight dining options – including the superb Sea and Land Taste (S.A.L.T.) programme – yet small enough for the famed Silversea onboard ambience, Silver Dawn inherits the best features of her sister ships Silver Muse and Silver Moon , but is in a class all of her own. With sumptuous suites, outstanding itineraries, plus cutting-edge design and technology and the outstanding OTIVM wellness concept, Silver Dawn sets new standards of luxury. Wake up to a new dawn with Silversea.

INTRODUCING OTIVM

Silversea announces the introduction of Otium, a new concept aimed at offering guests extreme moments of comfort. Enjoy unique onboard experiences of wellness, relaxation and indulgence through innovative treatments designed by our experts. Otium is a concept that permeates throughout the ship and can be enjoyed in the spa, in suite and in many more venues exclusively on board Silver Dawn .

Eight dining options, a pioneering wellness programme, and superlative onboard comforts – yet small enough for the famed Silversea onboard ambience, Silver Dawn is the perfect ship if you want luxury and choice. Explore her deck plan here.

• Guests capacity : 596
• Crew capacity : 411
• Built : 2021
• Tonnage : 40,700 Tons

Owner's Suite

Available in a one or two bedroom configuration the Owner’s suite is the epitome of elegance at sea

Grand Suite

A grand traveller needs a grand suite, and we are happy to oblige! Get ready to scale new heights of comfort in our ultra-luxury Grand Suite.

Royal Suite

With just two Royal Suites on board, this stateroom is in a class all of its own! Spacious and dignified, commanding and majestic, there’s no secret to why we named this suite Royal.

Silver Suite

A Silversea favourite and by far our best-selling suite! The Silver Suite is one of the foundations of ultra-luxury cruising.

Deluxe Veranda Suite

After a busy day of on shore exploring, the Deluxe Veranda Suite is the perfect home away from home.

Superior Veranda Suite

A superior location makes the Superior Veranda Suite, well … superior! From the sumptuous views from the teak veranda to the spacious sitting room and large marble bathroom, everything about the Superior Veranda has been designed for your comfort.

Classic Veranda Suite

A lower-bow location makes the Classic Veranda Suite a comfortable choice for travellers.

Panorama Suite

Beautiful elegant furnishings are the perfect choice to soothe and relax as you sail from one destination to the next.

Vista Suite

Comfortable, spacious and offering stupendous ocean views, the Vista Suite carries its name very well!

S.A.L.T. Kitchen

Silver Dawn’s exclusive destination-focused restaurant. Take your travel experience even further while enjoying the local cuisine, heritage and food culture of each location.

Silversea’s signature French restaurant, La Dame, is the epitome of fine dining. Featuring the rich, smooth flavours of France, La Dame’s reputation for gastronomic excellence is fully upheld aboard Silver Dawn.

Soft breezes and ocean views beckon at The Grill, especially as the sun goes down when fellow guests gather for cocktails at the outdoor bar and talk about the day’s events.

Pivotal to Silver Dawn dining experience, this elegant bar and grill incorporates the best that the sea has to offer.

La Terrazza

Authentic Italian recipes and the freshest, sustainable ingredients come together in this restaurant at sea.

One of the most immediately recognisable characteristics of Japanese culture by its stunning costumes and elaborate make-up, the ancient art of Kaiseki theatre reflects a passion for tradition and performance.

Silver Note

Small plate tapas-style dishes of mouth-watering international cuisine perfectly compliment the rich, exciting entertainment as the smooth sounds of jazz and blues gently caress your ears.

Spaccanapoli

Reflecting Silversea’s Italian heritage, this emblematic street in Naples divides the city in two and is renowned for its pizzerias.

S.A.L.T. Bar

Nothing says travelling deeper better than Silver Dawn’s S.A.L.T. Bar. Get a taste for the authentic and settle down to enjoy locally-inspired cocktails and drinks.

S.A.L.T. Lab

Welcome to the S.A.L.T. Lab, an interactive space where you can deep-dive into local culinary techniques through workshops, lectures and cooking demonstrations.

Panorama Lounge

This peaceful retreat is the perfect place to meet and greet old and new friends. Or to sit back with a cocktail in the evening and watch the world go by.

Enjoy a selection of games at the Silversea Casino for guests 18 and older, or discover new games during your luxury cruise.

Dolce Vita is the gathering place for our savvy travellers of the world, a place where guests mingle and exchange stories and where new faces become lifelong friends.

Fitness Centre

The Fitness Centre brings together elite design with programs that are specifically created for your body type and needs.

Finding relaxation is one the of the principle aims of taking a cruise, so why not join us in the Otium Beauty Spa for guaranteed indulgence?

Observation Library

The Observation Library boasts exceptional views overlooking the ocean as it stretches out below you while you enjoy your cruise.

Connoisseur’s Corner

Rich and luxurious, yet airy and spacious, this indoor/outdoor venue is where you sip the finest cognac or whisky from a prestigious range and revel in the tranquil murmur of after-dinner conversation.

Hosting various, exciting exhibitions, the Arts Café will showcase painting and sculptures from a broad range of talent.

Pool Deck & Jacuzzi Area

Take a dip in the pool, relax in one of the whirlpools or simply soak up the view from one of the sunbeds, while your pool attendant anticipates your every whim.

There is a wealth of luxury shopping experiences aboard all Silversea ships, featuring the most distinctive and appealing brands from across the globe.

Otium Beauty Salon

Maintain your fresh look throughout your luxury cruise at the Beauty Salon. Services are available for men and women.

Venetian Lounge

Welcome to Venetian Lounge, a place where the arts of theatre and music meet with full-scale productions and feature films.

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The Most Relaxing Luxury Cruises of 2023

Cruises, with all their myriad options, have never feared languid luxury.

By Becca Hensley

While adventure travel is all the rage, some of us think an experience only ranks as a vacation if we’re doing something idle — perhaps even hedonistic and indulgent. Cruises, with all their myriad options, have never feared languid luxury.

Experiences transport guests to another realm, one awash in quixotic nostalgia, mystery and unforgettable fun. Sometimes tuxedos and silky dresses are involved; other times, it’s the chance to discover an unknown culture or take a cooking class from a renowned chef.

As an antidote to active, outdoor pursuits (which we also highly recommend), we bring you some cruise moments imbued with old-school repose and new frontiers — sure to envelop you in a lavish, less-sporty mode. After all, maybe you just want to sip some champagne …

[See also: Orient Express to Launch World’s Largest Sailing Ship]

Dedicated to giving guests new insights that stay with them after their voyage, Seabourn boasts an extraordinary and wholly curative partnership with Dr Andrew Weil, a renowned expert well-versed in holistic health and wellness. The first-ever program of its kind at sea, Mindful Living with Dr. Andrew Weil has a Mindful Living Coach onboard each ship. Trained in Weil’s philosophy, and certified in yoga and meditation practice, this well-being leader inspires, educates and assists guests with their quests for a more salubrious approach to life — both at sea and at home.

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Regent Seven Seas Reveals Aston Martin F1 Spotlight Voyage

This new vessel, a handcrafted 148-ft phinisi yacht, sails the less-trammeled Indonesian Archipelago known as the Coral Triangle. As the passion project of two Indonesian siblings (one a fashion designer), the vessel meanders into lesser-traveled waters in style. With just seven cabins, kitted out in Villeroy & Boch and Geberit finishings, the Celestia delivers cruisers tailored experiences among the 17,000 islands that comprise this Indonesian destination. While snorkeling and wakeboarding are offered, just as important are private beach dinners, meditative yoga and massages.

Riverside Collection

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When savvy boutique hoteliers add cruising to their portfolio, you know the ship will feel like the consummate luxury hotel. Enter: Riverside Collection by Seaside Collection, owned by the Gerlach family, who also operate a stunning group of hotels in Europe and the Maldives. They’ll launch their first vessel , Riverside Mozart , on the Danube this spring. The intimate and stylish ship, which holds up to 150 guests, was formerly part of Crystal Cruises’s fleet.

Now reimagined and repurposed to embrace the Gerlach’s renowned personalized service, Riverside Mozart will feature trained butlers assigned to every cabin, top-of-class shore guides and a gastronomic food and beverage program, including a nonpareil wine cellar. The ship will sail the upper and lower parts of the Danube from Passau in Germany to the Iron Gates, between Serbia and Romania.

Holland America

Capture the glitz and glamour of bygone days aboard one of Holland America’s 2023 Heritage Cruises, sails envisaged to celebrate the cruise line’s 150th anniversary. With stops at ports significant to Holland America’s story and culture, the cruises will revel in classic Dutch-style high tea, gala dinner menus from the past and Dutch games — such as Sjoelen (tabletop shuffleboard) and Egg Walk. Wear your

vintage finery for Historic Happy Hour, a fete that features cocktails at decades-old prices (think: martinis for just 75 cents) and menu offerings to match. Gin lovers can look forward to the debut of an exclusive spirit label that honors Holland America’s history. In a decorative and modern bottle, De Lijn Gin blends remarkable botanicals such as orange, rose, lemon verbena, raspberry and juniper.

[See also: Regent Cruises Unveils Longest World Cruise Ever]

Becca Hensley

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6 top luxury alaska cruises for 2024 & beyond.

Book a once-in-a-lifetime adventure to The Great Land on one of these top luxury ships.

Top Luxury Alaska Cruises

Courtesy of Crystal

Cruising to Alaska on a small luxury ship affords a very different experience than sailing through The Great Land on a larger vessel. On a smaller luxury ship, you'll enjoy the expected perks like fewer passengers and more personalized service – but you'll also physically get closer to the boundless wilderness, abundant wildlife, icy blue glaciers and majestic snow-capped mountains that you've waited a lifetime to see.

While the fares to sail on such vessels are quite a bit higher than those of larger cruise providers, the all-inclusive (or mostly all-inclusive) prices typically include all-suite accommodations with balconies, all meals, alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, 24-hour room service, Wi-Fi access, gratuities, welcome bottles of sparkling wine, pillow selection, some shore excursions and butler service. Best of all, you won't feel like you're being nickel-and-dimed while on board. As a special touch, the attentive crew members may even learn your name and memorize your preferred pre-dinner cocktail.

Unlike many mainstream lines, most luxury Alaska cruises do not offer pre- and post-cruise tours to extend your adventure. However, you can plan these experiences on your own through third-party providers.

Alaska Tour & Travel has pre-cruise packages that include visits to Denali National Park & Preserve and the small, quirky Alaska towns of Homer and Talkeetna. You can also see a different side of Alaska via a train ride on the Alaska Railroad, take a national parks tour that includes Kenai Fjords National Park or head northbound to Fairbanks , one of the best places in the world to see the northern lights (if you visit during aurora season, from late August to late April). In addition, the company can plan a self-drive tour from Anchorage to Seward, which includes a stay at a wilderness lodge, helicopter flightseeing over Knik Glacier and guided tours in the parks.

The following luxury cruise lines will ensure you make the most of your voyage in Alaska – one of the most magical destinations on Earth.

Find your perfect cruise

Silversea Cruises

Courtesy of Silversea Cruises

Silversea Cruises' small luxury ships are designed for adventurers interested in visiting a mix of Alaska's top ports and more rugged, off-the-beaten-track locales. Extended itineraries offer stops in less-visited destinations like the towns of Haines and Wrangell. On board, guests can expect a personalized experience that includes luxurious ocean-view suites with butler service, multiple gourmet dining options, complimentary alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, and attentive service with one of the highest crew-to-guest ratios in the industry.

Base fares for Silversea's 2024 and 2025 Alaska itineraries start at $3,250 per person. If you upgrade to Silversea 's door-to-door fare (which starts at $5,200 per person), you'll receive private chauffeur service from your home to the airport (and back home upon your return) and round-trip flights, with business class upgrades in some destinations.

Silversea also offers immersive pre- and post-cruise land experiences, departing from Seward, Alaska. Highlights include sightseeing flights over Denali National Park & Preserve or into bear country to see Alaska's magnificent grizzly bears. In Vancouver, travelers can take a flightseeing transfer to Victoria to tour the 55-acre Butchart Gardens or board the Rocky Mountaineer for a two-day train ride through the Canadian Rockies.

Silversea's Alaska itineraries extend from May to September, with voyages ranging between seven and 16 days. The line's newest and largest vessel, the 728-passenger Silver Nova , sails its inaugural Alaska season in 2024 along with two smaller ships, Silver Muse (596 guests) and Silver Shadow (392 guests). There are 35 Alaska voyages available in 2024. In 2025, luxury cruisers can hop aboard one of 45 scheduled voyages on either Silver Nova or the 596-guest Silver Moon .

For a seven-day itinerary, consider a sailing from Seward, Alaska, to Vancouver, British Columbia. This voyage cruises the Hubbard Glacier and the Inside Passage and stops in the Alaska towns of Juneau, Skagway, Sitka and Ketchikan. Complimentary excursions in Ketchikan include a tour of Saxman Native Village; a visit to Bonfire Bay Oyster Farm, featuring a sea-to-table oyster tasting; the Alaskan Cultural, Culinary & Lumberjack show; the Alaskan Lodge Adventure & Seafeast and a day as a fisherman aboard the Aleutian Ballard, as seen on Discovery Channel's "The Deadliest Catch." You can also opt for a Selected Shore Excursion (for an additional cost), such as mountain biking or a private fishing trip.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Courtesy of Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Regent Seven Seas Cruises' elegant Seven Seas Explorer sails the line's Alaska itineraries in 2024 and 2025. The lavish 746-guest ship was coined "The Most Luxurious Ship Ever Built" when it debuted in 2016; among its impressive features are the 3,875-square-foot Regent Suite and a high-end collection of art displayed throughout the ship, including works by Pablo Picasso.

Alaska voyages with Regent in 2024 and 2025 start at $4,799 per person. Upgraded 2-for-1 all-inclusive fares (starting at $5,499 per person) cover elegant all-balcony suite accommodations; round-trip airfare (business class on international flights); a one-night pre-cruise hotel package; free two- or three-night land programs; free unlimited shore excursions; free unlimited beverages (alcoholic and nonalcoholic); complimentary specialty dining; and prepaid gratuities. You'll also receive complimentary airport transfers, unlimited Wi-Fi access and valet laundry service.

Every suite style includes a private balcony, roomy closets and upscale finishes. Concierge Suites (and above) add cozy in-room amenities like cashmere blankets, perfect to bundle up in while you take in the scenery. Meanwhile, Penthouse Suites (and higher) include a private butler who can book excursions, make dinner and spa reservations, unpack your luggage, arrange for a private cocktail soiree in your suite and indulge any other special requests.

Between May and September 2024, Regent sails 22 Alaska voyages. There are 16 Alaska sailings scheduled for the same period in 2025. Itineraries range from seven to 14 nights. For plenty of scenic cruising days, consider a round-trip itinerary from Vancouver departing May 28, 2025. The cruise includes five relaxing days at sea, where you'll enjoy scenic cruising through the Inside Passage (twice), Hubbard Glacier (twice) and Endicott Arm Fjord. Ports of call in Alaska include Wrangell, Juneau , Skagway, Sitka, Seward, Icy Strait (Hoonah) and Ketchikan. You'll also have a full day in Victoria, British Columbia, before returning to Vancouver.

While in Wrangell, consider the Tongass Botanical Forest Walk excursion. Tongass National Forest is the largest national forest in the U.S., with towering old-growth trees and unique flora, fauna and ecosystems. While in the temperate rainforest with your naturalist guide, look for local wildlife like Sitka black-tailed deer, porcupines and birds of prey. Other complimentary excursions at this stop include a round of golf at Muskeg Meadows Golf Course; a canoe trip through Wrangell harbor and nearby islands, and a heritage tour about Tlingit culture and the history of the town.

Recently relaunched Crystal offers just seven voyages in Alaska aboard Crystal Serenity in July and August 2024. The 740-guest luxury vessel was refurbished in 2023 and features the line's signature top-notch service, elegant interiors and suites, and personal butler service in every room category.

Other perks and amenities include plush bathrobes and Sicily's Ortigia bath products; an impressive passenger-to-crew ratio; prepaid gratuities; complimentary beverages; and outstanding cuisine, including Umi Uma (an exclusive Nobu restaurant at sea, available only on Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony ). Guests can also feast on Italian cuisine at Osteria d'Ovidio; book an exclusive dining experience at The Vintage Room; indulge in Parisian cafe-style fare at The Bistro; opt for American cuisine at Waterside Restaurant or take their pick of several other casual indoor and alfresco options.

Cruisers also have their selection of unique shore experiences curated by Crystal's parent company A&K Travel Group, such as a ride on the world's largest zip line in Hoonah (Icy Strait Point); dog sledding and glacier flightseeing in Skagway; fishing and wilderness dining in Ketchikan and the Wildlife Quest and Fin Island Lodge experience in Sitka, boasting a feast of Alaska king crab and wild salmon.

Crystal offers seven- and eight-night round-trip voyages from Vancouver , as well as one-way cruises from Vancouver or Seward, Alaska. Select itineraries – like the July 30, 2024, voyage from Vancouver to Seward – offer a scenic cruising day in the Seymour Narrows in British Columbia. On this sailing, you'll also enjoy a day at sea cruising Hubbard Glacier, as well as stops in Ketchikan, Sitka, Hoonah (Icy Strait), Skagway and Sitka in Alaska. Or, opt for the July 2, 2024, round-trip sailing from Vancouver for three scenic cruising days in the Inside Passage, Endicott Arm and the Seymour Narrows.

The line's Aug. 13, 2024, round-trip sailing from Vancouver features a special guest: Manfredi Lefebvre d'Ovidio, the executive chairman of A&K Travel Group. As such, the cruise will include an exclusive gala dinner and other unique experiences. Other special voyages welcome marine biologist and National Geographic photographer Flip Nicklin, who will share personal stories from his extensive career and expert insights about humpback whale habitats and behaviors.

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Viking Ocean Cruises

Courtesy of Viking

Viking Ocean Cruises' 11-day Alaska & the Inside Passage cruise is available on 11 dates during the 2024 season. It sails from Vancouver to Seward (or the reverse) on the 930-passenger Viking Orion . In 2025, the line offers the same itinerary on 22 dates between May and September, split between Viking Orion and its sister ship, the 930-passenger Viking Sea .

Viking's destination-focused itineraries are curated for travelers who are interested in history, science, culture and cuisine, as they feature onboard enrichment like lectures by Viking's resident historians. You'll also find regionally inspired dishes in The Restaurant and special access to unique tours and excursions ashore.

The line's mostly all-inclusive fares cover accommodations in spacious all-veranda staterooms and suites; beer, wine and soft drinks at lunch and dinner; meals at all the dining venues; one shore excursion in every port; free Wi-Fi access; 24-hour specialty teas, coffees and bottled water; complimentary access to The Nordic Spa & Fitness Center; and other upscale amenities.

Voyages traveling northbound from Vancouver include one day of scenic cruising through the Inside Passage before stopping in Ketchikan, Sitka, Juneau, Skagway and Icy Strait Point in Alaska. The eighth day of the cruise sails through picturesque Yakutat Bay, which includes the Hubbard Glacier. The ship then calls on Valdez, Alaska, before the trip ends with two days in Seward.

While in Valdez, take an optional tour to explore the incredible scenery surrounding the small fishing town. Viking offers a kayaking trip to see the Valdez Glacier; a scenic cruise through picturesque Prince William Sound to view the Columbia Glacier; a wildlife cruise where you can look for humpback whales, orcas, porpoises, sea otters and bald eagles; a helicopter ride over the area's rugged, icy wilderness; or a UTV adventure through the Chugach Mountains to Mineral Creek Canyon.

Seabourn Cruise Line

Courtesy of Seabourn Cruise Line

Between May and August 2024, Seabourn Cruise Line will host 20 Alaska voyages aboard the Seabourn Odyssey , before the ship leaves the cruise line in the fall. In 2025, the line offers 27 Alaska sailings on Seabourn Quest. Both yacht-inspired ships accommodate up to 458 guests and feature Seabourn's signature all-inclusive amenities, including luxurious oceanfront suites with verandas; personalized service; complimentary fine wines and premium spirits; complimentary dining; and caviar served throughout the sailing. You'll also have a complimentary W-Fi package and an in-suite minibar stocked with your favorite beverages. Ashore, sign up for exclusive programs like shopping for fresh salmon, halibut and Alaska king crab alongside a Seabourn chef.

Guests booking Seabourn Quest for 2025 will be able to sample the line's new dining concept, Solis. Inspired by destinations in the Mediterranean, the menu features a fresh, modern take on traditional dishes and whimsical cocktails. The restaurant is a collaboration with master chef and culinary partner Anton Egger and senior corporate chef Franck Salein. In addition to dishes like salt-encrusted whole branzino and Tuscan-style steak, guests will also find a wide selection of vegan and vegetarian dishes.

The seven-day Alaska Fjords & Canadian Inside Passage itinerary on May 31, 2024, aboard Seabourn Odyssey, sails from Juneau to Vancouver and includes a day in either Tracy Arm or Endicott Arm, depending on the ice conditions. From there, you can take one of the optional guided excursions: Ventures by Seabourn. These tours are an additional cost but offer opportunities for up-close Zodiac, kayaking or catamaran experiences in the wilderness to see glaciers calving and view local wildlife, such as black bears, mountain goats, seals, wolves and seabirds.

You'll also enjoy many days of scenic cruising on this voyage, and have the opportunity for more optional adventures in Rudyerd Bay (Misty Fjords). The ship makes additional stops in Wrangell, Alaska, and Prince Rupert, British Columbia, before disembarking in Vancouver.

If you want to see stunning Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve, then consider booking the seven-day Alaska Inside Passage & Glacier Bay sailing on May 10, 2024, from Vancouver to Juneau. This itinerary also includes the Seymour Narrows and Snow Pass, cruising Queen Island Sound and the Lynn Canal. There's a stop for Ventures by Seabourn activities like kayaking and Zodiac rides in the Inian Islands. The Alaska ports of call on this voyage are Ketchikan, Sitka, Icy Strait Point and Haines. You'll disembark in Juneau.

Francois Lefebvre | Courtesy of PONANT

French luxury expedition line PONANT offers 10 Alaska cruises in 2024; itineraries span between seven and 11 nights. Aboard the 264-guest yacht-style Le Soléal, you'll meet up to 10 naturalist experts and guides specializing in geology, history, ornithology or marine or land mammals. Guests can attend onboard lectures and embark on Zodiac landings with the guides.

The ship features elegant staterooms and suites, a library, a spa, a hair salon and a gym. Guests will be treated to movies in the theater, wine tastings and cooking demonstrations throughout the expedition. All fine dining meals, 24-hour room service, an open bar (including an in-room minibar) and complimentary and unlimited Wi-Fi access are covered in the pricing.

Two of PONTANT's eight-night voyages from Vancouver to Sitka are in partnership with Smithsonian Journeys and are curated for English-speaking travelers. Fares for these expeditions include transfers to and from the ship and a shore excursion in each port. On board, you can attend talks and discussions hosted by two Smithsonian Journeys experts: geologist Scott Burns and natural history filmmaker John Grabowska.

On these voyages, there is a sea day after departing Vancouver. You'll cruise through the Johnstone Strait, where you'll have an excellent chance of seeing humpback whales and orcas. After a day spent in the Inside Passage, the ship will call on the village of Metlakatla, Alaska, on the western coast of Annette Island, which is home to the Tsimshians from British Columbia. Other unique Alaska ports of call in this itinerary include the commercial fishing town of Petersburg, the Tlingit village of Kake and the small fishing community of Alfin Cove.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi is a U.S. News & World Report contributor and an avid travel adventurer who fell in love with Alaska on her first visit to the state many years ago. She's returned several times both by land and sea to explore the state's vast wilderness and abundant wildlife, and to chase the northern lights in one of the best places on the planet to view them. Pratesi used her extensive knowledge of Alaska and the cruise industry to write this article.

You might also be interested in:

• Alaska Cruise Packing List: Must-Have Items
• The Most Affordable Alaska Cruises
• The Best Time to Cruise to Alaska
• The Best Alaska Cruise Lines
• The Best Alaska Cruises for Families

Tags: Travel , Cruises , Alaska Vacations

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Regent Seven Seas Cruises unveils first look at next generation ultra-luxury ships

Regent to once again set a new standard for luxury holidays with more unrivalled space at sea, plus new suite categories and dining experiences..

Regent Seven Seas Cruises, one of the world’s leading ultra-luxury cruise companies, has unveiled the name of its new ship, Seven Seas Prestige, along with stunning new exterior images, providing a glimpse into a brand new class of vessel that will once again aim to set a new standard for luxury ocean holidays.

Seven Seas Prestige, which will be delivered in 2026, is Regent’s first new ship class in 10 years, following the tremendously successful Explorer-Class vessels launched in 2016, 2020 and 2023.

“This is a truly historic moment for Regent Seven Seas Cruises, as we name the next ship to join ‘The World’s Most Luxurious Fleet’ as Seven Seas Prestige and reveal her sleek exterior design,” said Andrea DeMarco, president of Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

“Seven Seas Prestige, debuting in 2026, continues our legacy of revolutionising ultra luxury travel as she will transcend luxury in every way. This incredible new ship will be the epitome of timeless elegance, exemplifying Regent’s commitment to excellence which is reflected in every aspect of her elevated design and exuding an ambiance of sophistication and refinement.”

At 77,000 tonnes and hosting up to only 850 guests, Seven Seas Prestige will boast one of the highest passenger-to-space ratios in the cruise industry, offering more ‘Unrivalled Space at Sea’ than ever before in beautifully appointed suites, and lavish, thoughtfully designed restaurants, bars and lounges and public areas.

DeMarco continues: “’Unrivalled Space at Sea’ is a key pillar for Regent and a primary desire for luxury travellers. Seven Seas Prestige was designed with this in mind, maintaining the intimate and luxurious service our guests love, while also providing even more space throughout the ship, allowing for new suite categories and new experiences.”

Seven Seas Prestige will be the first of two Prestige-Class ships, the second of which will be launched in 2029. The new ship class will introduce brand new accommodation categories, including a reimagination of the palatial Regent Suite, plus new dining experiences, all of which will be revealed at a later date.

These new features will further enhance ‘The Most Inclusive Luxury Experience’ that Regent is known for with inclusions such as flights and transfers, gourmet cuisine in a range of speciality restaurants and al-fresco dining venues, fine wines and spirits, entertainment, unlimited internet access, free valet laundry, gratuities, one- night, pre-cruise hotel packages for guests staying in concierge-level suites and higher and more.

For more information, visit  RSSC.com/ships/seven_seas_prestige , call +44 (0)23 8082 1390 or contact a professional travel advisor.

Images were provided by Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Regent Seven Seas Cruises reveals next-generation ultra-luxury cruise ship

The new Seven Seas Prestige will set a new standard in luxury travel with more space and amenities

Regent Seven Seas Cruises has announced its first new ship class in a decade, the ultra-luxurious Seven Seas Prestige . With its exceptional space and innovative amenities, the new ship will continue the company’s tradition of setting new benchmarks in the luxury cruise industry .

“ Seven Seas Prestige continues our legacy of revolutionising ultra-luxury travel. This new ship will epitomise timeless elegance and reflect Regent’s commitment to excellence in every aspect of its design,” Regent Seven Seas Cruises President Andrea DeMarco stated.

At 77,000 tonnes and accommodating up to 850 guests, the Seven Seas Prestige will offer one of the highest guest-to-space ratios in the cruise industry. This design ensures more space throughout the ship, including new suite categories and dining experiences. The ship’s design focuses on providing unrivalled space at sea, maintaining Regent’s renowned intimate and luxurious service while offering more space and new experiences.

In addition to its spacious and luxurious suites, Seven Seas Prestige will enhance the all-inclusive experience Regent is known for. Guests can expect gourmet cuisine in a variety of speciality restaurants and alfresco dining venues, fine wines and spirits, entertainment, unlimited Wi-Fi, valet laundry service, pre-paid gratuities, and one-night pre-cruise hotel packages for guests in Concierge-level suites and higher.

With a fleet of six ultra-luxury ships providing cruise experiences for over 30 years, Regent Seven Seas Cruises visits over 550 destinations worldwide, offering guests all-suite accommodations, nearly all with private balconies. The line’s commitment to luxury is clear in every detail, from personalised service to expansive public areas and outdoor spaces.

The unveiling of Seven Seas Prestige marks a significant milestone for Regent Seven Seas Cruises, reinforcing its position as a leader in luxury cruising. This new ship will provide guests with a superior cruising experience, combining spacious accommodations, innovative amenities and world-class service.

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You won't be 'overcrowded by thousands of tourists': What to know about Montreal cruises

• Montreal is the largest city in Canada’s Quebec province.
• The city offers a relatively quaint cruise experience.
• The port welcomed just over 51,000 cruise guests in 2023.

On a recent afternoon, I strolled beside patches of purple flowers on a wooden walkway at the Port of Montreal. The Promenade d'Iberville green roof, with western red cedar decking and more than 24,000 aromatic and flowering plants, was built on top of the city’s main cruise terminal.

The effect was less industrial infrastructure – like many ports – and more charming urban parks.

Montreal may be the largest city in Canada’s Quebec province, but it offers a relatively quaint cruise experience. Bridges between Montreal and Quebec City block vessels with air draft – the distance from the waterline to the highest point on a ship – over 49 meters (or about 161 feet) from berthing at its facilities in Old Montreal.

The ships that visit are generally smaller (though the city can accommodate those with a maximum 50-meter (164 feet) air draft east of the Jacques Cartier Bridge).

“We are positioning Montreal as a niche port for luxury ships,” Yves Gilson, associate director of cruises at the Port of Montreal, told USA TODAY during a visit in May. Here’s what to know about sailing into and out of the city.

The cruise inventory tends to be upscale

Montreal typically welcomes ships carrying 2,000 passengers or less from several upscale cruise lines, which tend to operate ships with lower capacity. Those include Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Seabourn, Viking, Ponant and more. Though not a luxury brand, one of the city’s main clients is Holland America Line, which will send its 1,432-guest Volendam ship there this season.

The port welcomed just over 51,000 cruise guests in 2023. By contrast, its neighbor to the northeast, Quebec City, saw 154,000 passengers . Despite its smaller population, large ships from operators like Norwegian Cruise Line and Cunard Line will visit Quebec City this season (along with smaller vessels).

Jared Feldman, owner of travel agency Jafeldma Travel, added that it’s not just ocean cruise ships that stop in Montreal. “There are river cruises that can get in and out of there as well,” he said.

Gilson noted that the city “could absorb” traffic from bigger ships if not for the bridges. “But on the other hand, the experience for the guest is marvelous because you know they will not be overcrowded by thousands of tourists,” he said.

You can hit the ground walking

The main cruise terminal is close to many of the city’s popular attractions. Old Montreal’s Gothic Revival Notre-Dame Basilica and the Place d’Armes are less than a 10-minute walk away, and numerous restaurants, shops, and museums are also nearby. 

I grabbed a prosciutto sandwich at Italian grocery store Dispensa; ate on a bench outside; picked up a coffee at Cafecito and was able to be at the main terminal within 15 minutes or so on foot while taking in views of the water and architectural landmarks like Habitat 67.

There are also multiple close bicycle rental and Metro stations, and waiting taxis (the port works with software platform, Véco Taxi, which gives priority to electric vehicles).

Gilson said more lines are offering overnight stays in Montreal, giving guests more time to explore.

When is the best time for a Montreal cruise?

Montreal’s cruise season begins in May and ends in October, hitting its peak during the last two months of that period. Feldman said fall foliage is a particular draw for passengers. 

Montreal often features on Canada and New England itineraries alongside ports such as Boston, Massachusetts and Halifax, Nova Scotia. The port’s cruise calendar can be found by clicking here .

The sailings tend to last around 10 to 14 days. “The distances between the ports in this region can be significant and navigation through areas like the St. Lawrence River and around the Gulf of Maine take time,” he said. Passengers on those sailings are looking for a “more immersive experience.”

Would you spend $14,000 on a cruise?: Here's why these travelers splurged

“Longer itineraries allow for more time in each port and often include scenic cruising days,” he added.

Cruise ships have historically avoided the area when cold sets in, but that could soon change: Ponant’s icebreaking Le Commandant Charcot will offer sailings in St. Lawrence in the winter of 2025. While the ship will not visit Montreal due to its size – though it will stop in Quebec City – Gilson hopes it will mark a shift.

“And eventually, we believe that all the cruise lines will get into the St. Lawrence during the winter,” he said. “So, it's gonna be an all-year-round cruise destination.”

The reporter on this story received access to this event from Tourisme Montréal. USA TODAY maintains editorial control of content.

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

The Key Points at the top of this article were created with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and reviewed by a journalist before publication. No other parts of the article were generated using AI. Learn more .

Wealthy travelers are paying $17,000 a week for the most luxurious cabin on Silversea's new ultra-luxury cruise ship — see inside

• Silversea Cruises ' new Silver Ray embarked on its maiden voyage in mid-June.
• The ship's most luxurious 1,324-square-foot Otium Suites have amenities like a private hot tub and library.
• The cabin starts at $17,000 per person in 2024, and it's mostly sold out for the year.

Silversea is one of the highest-end cruise lines on the market. So, as you can imagine, its new ship's most expensive suites are luxurious.

Like, really luxurious. And really expensive.

Silversea's new Silver Ray departed on its maiden voyage in mid-June. As is expected of Royal Caribbean Group's ritziest brand , the cruise line's 12th ship is outfitted with 364 of some of the most sumptuous suites at sea, the smallest of which already have a balcony, marble bathroom, and on-demand caviar.

Not too shabby, right?

Well, after seeing Silver Ray's most glamorous 1,324-square-foot Otium Suites, you could find yourself scoffing at its other accommodations.

Its balcony alone is larger than the ship's smallest suites. And its cost is more than three times that of the cheapest option.

In 2024, Silver Ray's Otium Suites start at $17,000 per person for a seven-day roundtrip cruise from Venice, Italy.

It's a steep price compared to the itinerary's least expensive $4,850 per person suite (there's an even cheaper category, but it's sold out for the sailing).

Despite the cost, Silver Ray's two Otium Suites are almost completely booked through 2024.

Upon entering, you're immediately greeted with the library and dining room — spaces you'd be hard-pressed to find in a typical cruise cabin.

Forgot a book? The reading nook is perfectly stocked for travelers interested in learning about bicycle brand Brompton ("The Brompton" by Will Butler-Adams and Dan Davies) and British microchip maker Arm ("The Everything Blueprint: The Microchip Design that Changed the World" by James Ashton).

Or, grab one of the neatly packaged games, such as tic-tac-toe and dominoes.

The dining table would be perfect for churning out a quick round of backgammon.

If you enjoy playing with a side of snacks, the fresh fruit bowl might do. Otherwise, you could call your butler for complimentary caviar or foie gras.

If it looks like a long game, brewing one of the bar's espresso pods or teas might be a good idea. Or, help yourself to some liquor, stocked according to the guests' preferences.

The dining table opens onto a living room with sprawling ocean views.

The couch can convert into a bed to sleep an additional guest. There's certainly ample room for three travelers, after all.

Take note of the chessboard and fresh-cut flowers, small touches that are, again, uncommon in the average suite.

If just one TV isn’t enough, you’re in luck. There’s another one in the bedroom.

It's also where you'll find the vanity, walk-in closet, and sizable bathroom — decorated with marble, of course.

Silver Ray’s cheapest suites have a dual vanity bathroom with a shower.

To out-luxe these cheaper accommodations, the Otium Suite comes with both a shower and a bathtub.

No need to worry about full privacy. The toilet is behind another closed door.

All of the ship's suites have balconies. None are as large as Otium's.

There's no need to hit the pool deck when your 431-square-foot balcony has a private hot tub, lounge chairs, and an outdoor dining table.

To compare, Silver Ray's smallest suites come with a 53-square-foot balcony. Size does matter, after all.

A private hot tub is included in the suite, which starts at $2,430 per person and day.

Hey, at least the cost includes a $399 spa treatment per person, too. Maybe a luxurious massage would help melt away the stress of the payment.

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