The best luxury cruises. An expert guide

What makes a cruise ‘the best’?

At World of Cruising, our team of experts curate ‘best for…’ guides rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach. We look at what cruise lines stand out for each destination we review and each type of traveller. We look for those subtle, if-you-know-you-know details so we can tailor our recommendations. 

At a glance

• The luxury cruise sector is diverse with different cruise lines catering to different tastes and preferences
• Certain line lean heavily on traditional luxury, while others are expending into new niches like expedition or yacht-style ships
• While prices are high, guests can expect the finest in terms of food, accommodation and service

For an authentically luxurious sailing, only select cruise lines make the cut. Whether it’s round-the-clock butler service, elevated suites or the end-to-end concierge service that attracts you, embarking on a luxury cruise offers all the hallmarks of that golden era of sea travel. With the added benefits of all the mod-cons that make a luxury cruise the most comfortable and convenient way to explore the world.

Silversea has been a leader in ultra-luxury cruise travel for decades and continues to shine with its signature blend of intimate ships and incredible destinations. Sailing to a vast collection of 900 ports, Silversea’s range of itineraries is inspiring. Plus, with pre- and post-cruise packages, you can extend the luxury experience beyond the sailing dates, an ideal option for adventures further afield.

Silversea’s 12 ships make up one of the most noteworthy fleets in the luxury cruise market, and the line continues to be a stalwart ambassador for authentic and memorable luxury cruise journeys.

Itineraries: The Mediterranean, Antarctica, South America, Alaska, the Galápagos, Africa, Asia and more

Who’s this cruise for: Discerning travellers seeking refined, intimate experiences with curated service

What can I expect to pay: Lead-in fares often start around £3,700 per person for seven nights

See offers: Silversea

One week at sea might be enough for some, but if you’re looking for a more extended journey where you can delve deeper into the culture of a region, while sailing in opulent luxury, look no further than Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

Sailing a curated collection of ‘Legendary Voyages’ alongside an annual world cruise, Regent Seven Seas Cruises is the ultimate all-inclusive luxury experience, with a flair for truly immersive, unrushed itineraries.

Itineraries: Global routes, including world cruises, Asia, Europe, Africa, Australia and North America

Who’s this cruise for: Affluent travellers who want long, immersive journeys without compromising on luxury

What can I expect to pay: Around £3,500 per person for seven-night sailings, with longer voyages much more

See offers: Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Crystal Cruises has some of the most loyal guests in the industry, and it’s easy to see why. Exceptional is the word for this multi-award-winning luxury cruise line. Sailing two elegant flagships, Crystal proudly presents the most spacious ships at sea, with one of the highest crew-to-guest ratios you’ll find anywhere.

Every suite is looked after by a butler and has the most spectacular sea views from your private balcony. Guests don’t ‘go on holiday’ here – it’s more than that: they move in; the ships feel like your own second home.

Itineraries: The Caribbean, Europe, the Middle East, Asia and transatlantic crossings

Who’s this cruise for: Luxury travellers who value personal space, high service levels and elegance

What can I expect to pay: Prices typically start around £4,000 for a seven-night voyage in a suite

See offers: Crystal Cruises

The luxury sister brand to the better-known MSC Cruises, Explora Journeys adds a cosmopolitan European vibe to the luxury sphere. Onboard retail outlets twinkle with fine jewellery and exquisite Swiss watches, while the onboard restaurants feature a diverse, international menu, giving varied options throughout your journey.

Explora Journeys is the latest chapter in a 300-year tradition of seafaring. Modern ships with all the elegance of a private yacht, paired with the entertainment and dining options of a full-scale cruise line.

Itineraries: Western and Northern Europe, Mediterranean, Iceland, Caribbean, Canada and the US

Who’s this cruise for: Style-conscious travellers looking for a modern yacht-like cruise in Europe

What can I expect to pay: From around £3,500 per person for a seven-night journey

See offers: Explora Journeys

Viking Cruises has been the top name in river cruising for a long time, and so when the line branched out into ocean and expedition voyages, travellers knew to pay attention. Well-curated cruises present plenty of enrichment opportunities, and the minimalist, understated Scandinavian décor is perfect for relaxing.

From the state-of-the-art spa facilities to the thought-provoking lecture series and engaging workshops, you’ll return home refreshed and inspired. Plus, the food is top-notch, with a definite local flair to envelop you in the destination throughout your journey.

Itineraries: Scandinavia, the Americas, the Mediterranean, Asia, and Antarctica

Who’s this cruise for: Culturally curious adults who appreciate elegant design and intellectual enrichment

What can I expect to pay: From around £2,500 per person for a week, including excursions and flights

See offers: Viking Cruises

With its fleet of perfectly small ships, Seabourn is known for its warm, personalised service and friendly crew. And when you step onboard one of the line’s purpose-built expedition ships, you’ll also be joined by a 23-person expedition team who’ll help take your experience to the next level.

Immersive excursions are included throughout your voyage, with the option of adding on adventurous experiences, such as outings in the ship’s top-of-the-range submarines for a different perspective. With a focus on really getting to know the destination, Seabourn ships boast a wonderful, spacious deck plan, maximising those spectacular views.

Itineraries: Antarctica, the Arctic, the Amazon and exotic coastal regions worldwide

Who’s this cruise for: Adventurous luxury travellers interested in remote, immersive destinations

What can I expect to pay: Expedition sailings typically start around £10,000 for 10 nights

See offers: Seabourn

When is cruising not cruising? When it’s yachting. And that’s what’s on offer onboard SeaDream Yacht Club’s two gorgeously classic mega-yachts. Both ships host just 112 guests, ensuring a top level of personalised service and attention to detail.

Offering voyages across the Caribbean, Mediterranean and Northern Europe, a yachting escape with SeaDream Yacht Club balances relaxation with adventure. Unwind on a ‘Balinese Dream Bed’, or zip out on a jet ski from the yacht’s ‘Watersports Marina Platform’.

Itineraries: The Caribbean, Mediterranean, Norway, Greece, the French Riviera and more

Who’s this cruise for: Understated luxury fans who prefer yacht life over traditional cruising

What can I expect to pay: Prices usually start around £5,000 per person for a 7-night escape

See offers: SeaDream Yacht Club

See more luxury cruising offers