A guide to the most luxurious cruise ships in the world!

Cruises: My favourite trips! 

Whether you are looking to relax and rejuvenate, discover new horizons or simply pamper yourself in a sumptuous setting, a luxury cruise offers an ultimate getaway at sea. It is an experience where every moment is an invitation to luxury, elegance and refinement, and one that will remain etched in your memory for years to come.

Luxury cruises offer an incomparable travel experience, where every detail is carefully orchestrated to create a floating sanctuary of comfort, pleasure and elegance. Aboard these lavish ships, you can expect an unparalleled level of service, where every staff member is dedicated to your well-being and satisfaction.

Why are these ships so luxurious?

A luxury cruise is a unique and sophisticated travel experience for several reasons:

Comfort and high-end equipment

Luxury cruises offer spacious and elegant staterooms, often with private balconies, superior quality beds, luxurious bathrooms and modern amenities. The ships are also equipped with many high-end facilities like spas, gyms, swimming pools, theatres and luxury boutiques.

Personalised service

The staff on board luxury cruises is trained to offer exceptional and personalised service. Personnel/passenger ratios are often higher than on traditional cruises, allowing for more individualised attention. Butlers and concierges are available to meet all the needs of passengers.

High-level gastronomy

The cuisine on board luxury cruises is often supervised by renowned chefs and offered in a variety of gourmet restaurants. Menus are made with fresh, quality ingredients, and special dietary options are often available.

Exclusive routes

Luxury cruises often offer unique itineraries that include less crowded destinations and extended stopovers to allow for deeper exploration. Excursions are often more exclusive and may include unique cultural experiences, private tours and personalised activities.

Intimate and elegant atmosphere

Some luxury cruise ships are smaller, creating a more intimate and less crowded atmosphere. It also allows ships to dock in smaller, more exclusive ports that larger liners cannot reach.

Quality activities and entertainment

On board, passengers can enjoy a wide range of activities and entertainment, ranging from world-class shows, expert lectures, culinary demonstrations, art and dance classes, and much more.

Experience: All-inclusive

Many luxury cruises adopt an all-inclusive model, where meals, drinks, tips and sometimes even excursions are included in the price. This allows passengers to fully enjoy their journey without additional worry.

Meetings and networking

Luxury cruises often attract like-minded people and professionals, offering unique opportunities to meet and network in a relaxing and enjoyable setting.

These cruises embody the ultimate in luxury, comfort and adventure at sea, offering travellers an incomparable experience. Among the many ships that sail the oceans, some are distinguished by their elegance, sophistication and remarkable beauty. And their restaurants add an exquisite culinary dimension to the luxury cruise experience, offering passengers a variety of gastronomic choices to complete their unforgettable sea trip.

Here is a list of the 10 most beautiful cruise ships in the world, where luxury meets excellence to offer an unforgettable experience. 

 Viking Orion anchored in Sitka Bay, Alaska

1. Viking Orion

• Headquarters: Hamburg, Germany
• Capacity: Approximately 930 passengers
• Launch year: 2018
• Owner: Viking Ocean Cruises

The Viking Orion offers discreet luxury with elegantly designed spaces, modern amenities and attentive service. Its spacious cabins, most with private balconies, offer panoramic ocean views. Onboard facilities include a Nordic spa, theatre, indoor and outdoor pool, as well as fine dining restaurants inspired by the destinations visited.

Restaurants on board: 

• The Restaurant: The main restaurant offering international cuisine with varied menus and seasonal dishes.
• Manfredi’s Italian Restaurant: An Italian restaurant offering authentic dishes, fresh pasta, pizzas and desserts.
• The Chef’s Table: A gourmet restaurant where passengers can enjoy a small tasting elaborated by the chef with matching wines. 
• The World Café: A buffet offering a wide variety of international dishes for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
• The Pool Grill: An outdoor grill by the pool offering burgers, hot dogs, salads and other grilled options.
• Mamsen’s: A Scandinavian café serving Norwegian specialties such as waffles, pancakes and open sandwiches.
• The Living Room: A casual space with panoramic ocean views that serve light snacks, pastries and drinks.
• The Kitchen Table: An interactive culinary concept where passengers can participate in cooking demonstrations and taste dishes prepared by the chef.

Seven Seas Explorer, one of the most luxurious cruise ships in the world

2. Regent Seven Seas Explorer: 

• Headquarters: Nassau, Bahamas
• Capacity: 750 passengers
• Launch year: 2016
• Owner: Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Considered one of the most luxurious cruise ships in the world, the Regent Seven Seas Explorer offers an unparalleled experience. All of its suites are equipped with private balconies, and the ship offers world-class restaurants and personalised service worthy of the greatest palaces.

Restaurants on board: 

• Compass Rose: The ship’s main restaurant, offering fine cuisine with a varied menu and seasonal dishes.
• Premium 7: A premium steakhouse offering premium steaks and seafood in an elegant setting.
• Chartreuse: A restaurant offering classic French cuisine with a contemporary touch in a sophisticated setting.
• Pacific Rim: A modern restaurant offering pan-Asian cuisine, sushi, sashimi and dishes inspired by oriental cuisine.
• La Veranda: A buffet restaurant offering a wide variety of international dishes for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
• Sette Mari at La Veranda: A restaurant serving traditional Italian dishes and Mediterranean specialties for dinner.
• Pool Grill: An outdoor grill by the pool offering burgers, hot dogs, salads and other grilled options.

Seabourn Encore moored in Mykonos, Greece

3. Seabourn Encore

• Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland
• Capacity: 600 passengers
• Launch year: 2016
• Owner: Seabourn Cruise Line

This ship from the Seabourn fleet is an ode to contemporary luxury. Its spacious suites, award-winning spa and Michelin-starred restaurants make it a destination of choice for discerning travellers seeking an unforgettable cruise experience.

Restaurants on board:

• The Restaurant: The main restaurant of the ship, offering fine cuisine with varied menus and seasonal dishes. Passengers can choose to dine at their own pace, without a fixed schedule.
• The Grill by Thomas Keller: A gourmet restaurant designed by Michelin-starred chef Thomas Keller, offering classic American dishes with a contemporary twist.
• Sushi: A restaurant serving sushi, sashimi and Japanese cuisine in an elegant setting.
• The Colonnade: A buffet restaurant offering a wide variety of international dishes for breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as à la carte dishes.
• Patio Grill: An outdoor grill by the pool offering burgers, hot dogs, salads and other grilled options, as well as light dishes and desserts.
• The Retreat: An exclusive space reserved for suite passengers, offering an intimate setting for breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as personalised service and special menus.

Crystal Serenity in Nanaimo, Canada

4. Crystal Serenity: 

• Headquarters: Hong Kong
• Capacity: 1,000 passengers
• Launch year: 2003
• Owner: Operated by Crystal Cruises and owned by Genting Hong Kong

With its sleek design and state-of-the-art amenities, the Crystal Serenity offers an unparalleled cruise experience. From lavish gala nights to exclusive shore excursions, this ship embodies luxury in all its forms.

Restaurants on board:

• Waterside: The main restaurant of the ship, offering fine cuisine with varied menus and seasonal dishes. It offers à la carte dinners in an elegant setting.
• Prego: An upscale restaurant offering traditional Italian cuisine with fresh pasta, pizza, seafood and meat dishes in a sophisticated setting.
• Umi Uma & Sushi Bar: A Japanese restaurant designed by chef Nobuyuki "Nobu" Matsuhisa, offering modern Japanese cuisine with Peruvian influences. It also offers a selection of sushi and sashimi prepared by expert chefs.
• Silk Kitchen & Bar: A restaurant offering pan-Asian cuisine, including Chinese, Thai, Vietnamese and Indian dishes, in a modern and elegant setting.
• Marketplace & Churrascaria: A buffet restaurant offering a wide variety of international dishes for breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as a Brazilian grill station for dinner.
• Trident Grill & Scoops: An outdoor grill by the pool offering burgers, hot dogs, sandwiches and salads, as well as a selection of homemade ice creams and sorbets.

 Ritz Carlton Yacht Collection

 5. Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection:

•  Headquarters: Bethesda, Maryland, U.S.
• Capacity: 300 to 400 passengers
• Launch Year: 2020
• Owner: The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection is a division of the famous luxury hotel brand Ritz-Carlton, owned by Marriott International.

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection offers luxurious suites, outdoor spaces with stunning ocean views and personalised service. These combined elements create an incomparable luxury cruise experience, where every moment on board is marked by elegance, refinement and absolute comfort.

Restaurants on board: 

• The Restaurant: The main restaurant of the ship, offering a refined culinary experience with varied menus and seasonal dishes. It offers à la carte dinners in an elegant setting.
• S.E.A.: A gourmet restaurant offering regional cuisine inspired by the destinations visited by the yacht. The dishes showcase local ingredients and authentic flavours.
• Aqua: A poolside restaurant offering casual cuisine with light dishes, fresh salads, seafood and grilled options.
• The Living Room: A lounge area offering light snacks, fresh pastries, refreshing drinks and panoramic ocean views.

Apex Celebrity Cruises is anchored in the harbour bay of the island of Mykonos, Greece

6. Celebrity Apex:

• Head Office: Miami, U.S.
• Capacity: 2,910 passengers
• Launch Year: 2020
• Owner: Celebrity Cruises owned by Royal Caribbean International

The Celebrity Apex offers a luxury cruise experience with elegant living spaces, modern and comfortable cabins, state-of-the-art amenities and attentive service. Its innovative features, such as the Infinite Veranda cabins and the Magic Carpet, add to its luxury appeal. Premium dining options, as well as world-class wellness and entertainment facilities also contribute to the luxurious onboard experience.

Restaurants on board: 

• The Grand Plaza: A central space with several dining options and bars, including the Café al Bacio & Gelateria, the Martini Bar & Lounge and the Grand Plaza Café.
• Le Petit Chef at Qsine: An innovative restaurant offering a multimedia dinner experience where dishes are prepared virtually by animated characters.
• Fine Cut Steakhouse: A premium steakhouse that also offers fresh seafood and refined side dishes.
• Raw On 5: A restaurant specializing in fresh seafood, sushi, sashimi and ceviche, as well as wines and paired cocktails.
• Cyprus Restaurant: A restaurant offering modern Mediterranean cuisine with dishes inspired by cruise destinations.
• Normandie Restaurant: A restaurant offering classic French cuisine with traditional dishes and regional specialties.
• Eden Restaurant: A unique restaurant offering an immersive culinary experience with innovative cuisine, fresh ingredients and artistic presentations.

 Symphony of the Seas

7. Symphony of the Seas: 

• Head Office: Miami, U.S.
• Capacity: 6,680 passengers
• Launch year: 2018
• Owner: Royal Caribbean International

The world’s largest cruise ship, the Symphony of the Seas offers an unparalleled entertainment experience with extravagant shows, water parks and cutting-edge attractions. Despite its impressive size, this ship offers personalized service and unparalleled luxury. It is particularly luxurious due to its extravagant suites, entertainment facilities and upscale dining options.

Restaurants on board:

• Main Dining Room: The ship’s main restaurant, offering varied cuisine with international dishes and options for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
• Wonderland: A unique themed restaurant offering an immersive dining experience with imaginative cuisine and artistic presentations.
• Jamie’s Italian: A restaurant inspired by the famous chef Jamie Oliver, offering modern Italian cuisine and classic dishes with a contemporary touch.
• Chops Grille: A premium steakhouse offering quality steaks, fresh seafood and refined side dishes.
• Izumi: A restaurant offering a variety of Japanese dishes, including sushi, sashimi, hot dishes and teppanyaki specialties.
• Coastal Kitchen: An exclusive restaurant reserved for guests of the suites and members of the loyalty program, offering modern Mediterranean cuisine and health-conscious dishes.
• Windjammer Marketplace: A buffet restaurant offering a wide variety of international dishes for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

 MSC Virtuosa at Ocean Terminal in the United Kingdom

8. MSC Virtuosa

• Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland.
• Capacity: 6,300 passengers
• Launch Year: 2021
• Owner: MSC Cruises

MSC Virtuosa is a luxury cruise ship belonging to the Meraviglia Plus class of MSC Cruises. It offers an upscale cruise experience with a variety of modern facilities and quality services, including elegant cabins, a variety of restaurants and bars, quality entertainment, wellness and sports facilities, as well as many activities and services for all ages. The MSC Virtuosa offers a luxury cruise experience that meets the expectations of many passengers seeking comfort and refinement at sea.

Restaurants on board: 

• Marketplace Buffet: A buffet restaurant offering a variety of international dishes for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
• Panorama Restaurant: The main restaurant where passengers can enjoy à la carte meals in an elegant setting.
• HOLA! Tacos & Cantina: A casual restaurant offering Mexican specialties like tacos, burritos and margaritas.
• Kaito Teppanyaki: A Japanese restaurant offering a teppanyaki experience where chefs cook in front of you on a hot plate.
• Butcher’s Cut: A steakhouse offering a selection of premium meats and refined side dishes.
• Ristorante Italiano: A restaurant serving traditional Italian dishes, including fresh pasta, pizza and antipasti.
• Jean-Philippe Chocolat & Café: A café offering a selection of chocolate desserts, pastries, coffees and hot drinks.
• L'Atelier Bistrot: A bistro offering classic French cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere.

 Queen Mary 2 in New York Harbour

9. Queen Mary 2: 

• Headquarters: Southampton, England
• Capacity: 2,695 passengers
• Launch year: 2004
• Owner: Cunard Line

The Queen Mary 2 embodies the timeless elegance and glamour of transatlantic travel. With its gala nights, elegant lounges and attentive service, this ship offers a cruising experience worthy of the legends of the past.

Restaurants on board:

• Britannia Restaurant: The ship’s main restaurant, divided into two levels, offering a traditional dining experience with fixed-time meals for passengers staying in Britannia cabins.
• Princess Grill: An exclusive restaurant reserved for passengers of the Princess Grill cabins, offering an à la carte culinary experience with refined dishes and personalized service.
• Queens Grill: A luxury restaurant reserved for passengers of the Queens Grill suites, offering gourmet cuisine with varied menus and exquisite dishes, accompanied by attentive service and an elegant atmosphere.
• Kings Court: A buffet restaurant offering a wide variety of international dishes for breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as live cooking stations and à la carte options.
• Golden Lion Pub: A traditional British pub offering classic dishes like fish and chips, burgers and shepherd’s pie, as well as a selection of beers, ciders and spirits.
• Todd English: A restaurant specializing in modern American cuisine, created by the famous chef Todd English, offering innovative dishes and bold flavours.

Le Commandant Charcot allows explorations never before carried out

10. Ponant’s Le Commandant Charcot:

• Head office: Marseille, France
• Passengers: approximately 245
• Launch year: 2021
• Owner: Ponant, owned by the Artémis group

Commander Charcot de Ponant is a hybrid polar exploration vessel, using both liquefied natural gas (LNG) and electricity. It is equipped to sail in the extreme conditions of the polar regions, with a hull icebreaker class Polar Class 2. The ship offers 123 luxurious cabins and suites, Offering premium amenities for a unique Arctic and Antarctic cruise experience. It offers 123 luxurious cabins and suites, all equipped with high-end amenities. Each cabin is designed to offer optimal comfort and a breathtaking view of the polar landscapes. Passengers can expect a mix of adventure, luxury and education. The crew includes experienced expedition leaders, naturalists and scientists who offer informative lectures and advice during expeditions.

Restaurants on board:

• Le Grill: a casual restaurant offering high quality grilled cuisine. Perfect for passengers wanting a more informal meal while enjoying panoramic views of the polar landscapes. Meat and fish dishes grilled to perfection, accompanied by salads and various side dishes. Outdoor dining option when weather conditions permit.
• The Buffet: a buffet restaurant offering a wide range of international and local dishes. Ideal for those who want a quick meal or taste different cuisines. Interactive cooking stations, varied choice of hot and cold dishes, tempting desserts. Friendly and relaxed atmosphere.
• Tea Room and Bar: an elegant space to enjoy pastries, tea, coffee or cocktails. Perfect for a relaxing moment after a day of exploration. Selection of quality teas and coffees, fresh pastries, cozy atmosphere with breathtaking views of the ocean. In the evening, the lounge is transformed into a bar with a refined atmosphere.
• Restaurant Éphémère: a unique concept of ephemeral restaurant, offering themed menus or collaborations with guest chefs. The culinary offer changes regularly, offering passengers new gastronomic experiences. Unique culinary experiences, creative and innovative menus, exclusive atmosphere. Reservations recommended due to the popularity of these events.

Embark on an adventure and enjoy these dream cruises!