Cruises have developed a bit of a bad reputation in recent years as a result of a series of high-profile mishaps, not to mention germs’ proclivity to spread like wildfire within the confines of a ship, which has led to the perception that cruises are unsafe. However, some experiences are only available on cruises and cannot be obtained in any other way. These experiences simply cannot be replicated. A cruise is an extraordinary experience on many levels, from breathing in the salty sea air and marveling at the vastness of the ocean to disembarking in a variety of unusual and fascinating ports along the way.
The majority of cruises also include a plethora of high-end amenities and enjoyable activities. Contrary to popular belief, taking one does not put you at risk of developing a serious gastrointestinal condition. Several cruise lines have excellent client approval ratings as well as good ratings for the health and safety of their ships. We have identified seven cruise lines that are unrivaled in the quality of service they provide to their passengers, resulting in a genuine luxury experience. Prepare for your journey.
1. Seabourn Cruises sailings
Seabourn instills a sense of luxury in every activity that its passengers partake in, both on board and in port. The level of personalization in their service is exceptional, and all of the accommodations are ocean-view suites. Furthermore, everyone understands that luxury comes with a price, but they despise being taxed for everything, which is why Seabourn includes all of the enjoyable extras in the price of their cruises. Everything, from meals to classes to extracurricular activities and even alcoholic beverages, is taken care of for you. Tipping is neither expected nor required in this situation.
Passengers on board can relax at the spa with treatments designed by renowned health expert Dr. Andrew Weil and savor delectable cuisine prepared by acclaimed celebrity chef Thomas Keller. The fact that your entire experience, both on board and at your destination, is designed to be environmentally responsible and sustainable is a luxury in and of itself.
2. Viking Ocean cruises
Viking can visit ports that other shipping companies are unable to visit because its fleet is made up of relatively small vessels. That is luxury in and of itself. If you travel with Viking, each of your cabins will have a lovely balcony, and the ship will host upscale activities and luxuries such as wine tastings and live musical performances. The company emphasizes cultural activities and encourages clients to learn about the history of each destination they visit. Every time the ship docks, passengers can take advantage of a free excursion, which may include visits to local museums or architectural sites.
The cuisine is inspired by the places you will visit, and there are eight restaurants to choose from, as well as room service, for your enjoyment. You will even be able to learn how to cook from the ship’s executive chef. I’ve had life-changing experiences all over the world, including in Europe, Asia, Australia, the Caribbean, and South America. The majority of Viking ocean cruises last between 8 and 93 days, but if you want to see everything, you can book a trip that lasts up to 245 days! One thing you won’t find on a Viking ocean cruise is any kind of kid-friendly programming.
3. Crystal Cruises
When you choose to cruise with Crystal, you can always count on receiving excellent service. Because the staff-to-passenger ratio on this line is nearly one-to-one, there will almost always be someone available to assist you. You can choose between sailing on the Crystal Serenity or the Crystal Symphony for a luxurious vacation free of the disruptions caused by large crowds. You will be able to unwind in style in the penthouse suite provided on board. At the ports of call, you will have the opportunity to partake in a wide range of once-in-a-lifetime activities, such as an African safari or swimming with dolphins in Mexico’s pristine waters.
4. Azamara Club Cruises
When you cruise with Azamara, you will undoubtedly feel as if you are part of a prestigious organization. Because the cruise line’s three ships each have a passenger capacity of 700, you won’t be squished or jostled as you move around the boat. The suites are extremely luxurious, and there are numerous activities on board, including a casino, a fitness center, and nightly music and dancing shows, so you will not be bored. There will also be talks, wine tastings, and cooking demonstrations for your enjoyment.
The 260 different destinations available to explore allow you to get off the main road and truly get to know the location you are visiting. Azamara offers a wide range of excursion options at each port of call, many of which focus on interacting with the local culture. Azamara offers three to twenty-six-day cruises to destinations in the United States, South America, Europe, the Caribbean, Australia, and Asia. One of these cruises is sure to fulfill your wildest travel dreams.
Both Crystal ships have a casino, spa, salon, and fitness center, as well as a variety of interesting activities and enrichment programs such as food and wine tastings, painting classes, and magic demonstrations. The cuisine consists of a wide range of dishes with a global influence that are served in a number of specialized restaurants. You can select from a wide range of delicacies, some of which have been prepared by renowned chefs such as Nobu Matsuhisa.
5. Regent Seven Seas Cruises
The Regent Seven Seas line has four ships that are fully equipped with high-end amenities. To begin, the suite-only accommodations are stunning and extremely comfortable. Furthermore, Regent has given careful thought to the creation of an all-inclusive package that will not require you to reach for your wallet multiple times per day. The cruise fare covers almost everything, from meals to drinks to onshore excursions and internet access on board.
There are also numerous opportunities for personal development and growth, such as upscale dining establishments, Canyon Ranch Spa treatments, and a wide range of cultural and gastronomic education opportunities. The number of nights spent at sea on each voyage can range from seven to 131, and itineraries can include visits to hundreds of ports in Africa, Alaska, the Caribbean, Europe, and other locations.