Ship shape!
Like many other tourism operators, the pandemic was devastating to the global maritime shipping industry and cruise and passenger ships were the most affected segment. In contrast to many other transportation industries like airlines and container ships, the cruise industry is all about leisure and vacation, meaning instantaneous vulnerability. No-one realised the effect of the COVID virus on hundreds – often thousands - of people in contained space would have, which added to the impact on operators and passengers alike.
It almost came to a complete standstill with widespread cancellations, concerns over health and safety, as well as a badly damaged reputation.
Almost immediately, the industry responded, adapting, rebuilding and regaining the trust of the public again. In just over a year, cruise ships returned to the seas and today, the industry is making a remarkable comeback, having a positive impact on the economy and seeing record-breaking numbers.
Cruising has never been more popular and the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) reports that around 36 million people will book a cruise in 2024.
There’s something for everyone, from ‘super luxurious’ to family and budget and itinerary options.
To whet your appetite, we’ve consulted with cruise tour specialists to agree on the top three most luxurious options. Don’t be put off, though – simply take the time to research and you’ll find there’s something perfect for everyone!
It almost came to a complete standstill with widespread cancellations, concerns over health and safety, as well as a badly damaged reputation.
Almost immediately, the industry responded, adapting, rebuilding and regaining the trust of the public again. In just over a year, cruise ships returned to the seas and today, the industry is making a remarkable comeback, having a positive impact on the economy and seeing record-breaking numbers.
Cruising has never been more popular and the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) reports that around 36 million people will book a cruise in 2024.
There’s something for everyone, from ‘super luxurious’ to family and budget and itinerary options.
To whet your appetite, we’ve consulted with cruise tour specialists to agree on the top three most luxurious options. Don’t be put off, though – simply take the time to research and you’ll find there’s something perfect for everyone!
Silverseas Shadow Class Ship
It’s described as having a ‘relaxing, sophisticated and genuinely elegant atmosphere’. It’s like a boutique hotel with world-class accommodation, service and atmosphere. There’s a spa for pampering treatments, full-scale entertainment productions and four decadent restaurants. The usual 115-day world cruise leaves Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA and finishes in Venice, Italy, via the Panama Canal. You’ll visit 51 ports in 31 countries and the price covers butler service, unlimited shore excursions, all liquor and beverages, pre-paid gratuities, W-Fi and first-class air travel. There’s a limit of 382 passengers – which is why the top suite is priced at $201,250 per person!
Regent Seven Seas Cruises
All 366 cabins are suites aboard this small, luxurious ship. With a limit of 750 passengers and a crew ratio of 1.38:1, it’s guaranteed to meet up to ‘luxury’ expectations. Granite and marble, 500 Chandeliers made of Czech crystal and over 2,500 pieces of art, including works by masters, feature throughout the ship. Foodies will love choosing from five restaurants and for pampering, there’s a thermal suite and spa treatment options to suit everyone. The passenger mix is eclectic – mainly Americans, Canadians and Australians with some travellers from the UK, too. Children and families are amongst the usual travellers except for summer and holidays cruises when little people are often travelling with parents and/or grandparents. There are different packages around the world that include business-class travel and suite/deck options, so research is necessary. Expect fares to start from around $20,000 per person.
Oceania Cruises
If fabulous dining throughout your entire cruise is essential, then Oceania Rivera comes with all the 5-star reviews to impress. Dining venues include the Grand Dining Room and Jacques, a French bistro with menus created by famous chef Jacques Pepin; the Polo Grill specialising in USDA prime and dry-aged beef; Italian restaurant Toscana complete with Versace china, and Red Ginger which creates Asian classics. If you’re willing to pay, up to 24 guests can enjoy a seven-course meal at La Reserve by Wine Spectator. Wine pairings are part of all three available menus. All can be revealed at the Culinary Centre, a self-contained cooking school that gets rave reviews from cruising participants. Choose from suites and non-suite staterooms and it again, money is no problem, there’s the knockout 2,000 square foot Owner’s Suite featuring Ralph Lauren furnishings throughout. There’s a range of tours available in 2024/2025. As an ‘investment’ idea, the 27 night ‘Africa’ cruise in November
2024 will cost from $10,769 person.
As we always suggest, it’s essential to do your research to find the best price for the ideal trip for you. Happy cruising!
Oceania Cruises
If fabulous dining throughout your entire cruise is essential, then Oceania Rivera comes with all the 5-star reviews to impress. Dining venues include the Grand Dining Room and Jacques, a French bistro with menus created by famous chef Jacques Pepin; the Polo Grill specialising in USDA prime and dry-aged beef; Italian restaurant Toscana complete with Versace china, and Red Ginger which creates Asian classics. If you’re willing to pay, up to 24 guests can enjoy a seven-course meal at La Reserve by Wine Spectator. Wine pairings are part of all three available menus. All can be revealed at the Culinary Centre, a self-contained cooking school that gets rave reviews from cruising participants. Choose from suites and non-suite staterooms and it again, money is no problem, there’s the knockout 2,000 square foot Owner’s Suite featuring Ralph Lauren furnishings throughout. There’s a range of tours available in 2024/2025. As an ‘investment’ idea, the 27 night ‘Africa’ cruise in November
2024 will cost from $10,769 person.
As we always suggest, it’s essential to do your research to find the best price for the ideal trip for you. Happy cruising!