Cruises Are No Longer Just For Your Parents’ Bucket List – Here’s Why
There, we’ve said it: cruises are getting cool. Hopping on board a very fancy boat and hanging out at sea for days on end isn’t just for our parents’ generation anymore. Equipped to feel more like five-star hotels, cruise ships are increasingly getting more fun and adventurous, from party boats in the Mediterranean to adventure ships in Antarctica. We’ve rounded up five exciting cruises to book if you’re looking for a holiday at sea.
South America
1. Aqua Mare
Best for: Nature lovers
The Galapagos Islands’ first real superyacht, Aqua Mare, is all about exploring the remote wildlife of the islands. There are seven large suites with extravagant indoor and outdoor social spaces, with a specially curated menu by award-winning chef Pedro Miguel Schiaffino. The menu showcases Ecuador’s array of local produce, and in the spirit of Galapagoan conservation, ingredients are sourced with a focus on sustainability and with every effort taken to support local farmers and fishermen. With a one-to-one crew-to-guest ratio, you are bound to be well taken care of, plus there’s a barbecue area, an outdoor six-person jacuzzi, sunbeds, as well as a convertible outdoor workout zone.
website: www.aquaexpeditions.com
Antarctica
2. Silversea
Best for: Serious adventure at sub-zero temperatures
Adventure meets luxury aboard Silversea’s Silver Endeavour, an expedition cruise ship that navigates the waters of the white continent. There are 200 passengers on board, and you can expect guided landings by expert naturalists, encounters with emperor penguins and breaching whales, and an entire immersive experience in the heart of the Antarctic landscapes. You will spend your days on icy hikes, after which you can retire to your elegant suite on board. Guests also have access to a butler service, and there’s a spa onboard for days when you need a dose of pampering.
website: www.silversea.com
Asia
3. Aqua Mekong
Best for: Art & culture enthusiasts
This experience takes you sailing down the mighty Mekong Delta, between Vietnam and Cambodia. This boutique floating hotel has 20 stylish suites, all with floor-to-ceiling windows, and the ship has chefs, historians, and naturalists onboard who lead daily excursions to remote temples, floating markets, and artisan villages. The menu here is crafted by Michelin-starred chef David Thompson, so you can expect some incredible food onboard.
This experience takes you sailing down the mighty Mekong Delta, between Vietnam and Cambodia.
website: www.aquaexpeditions.com
4. Europe
The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection
Best for: Discovering Europe’s best beaches
So you’ve done the regular summer holidays in Ibiza – but exploring the coastline by boat is a whole different experience altogether. Ibiza has more than 100 miles of coastline with some truly exquisite beaches that promise gorgeous stretches of white sand with beach bars and clubs to visit along the way. The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection offer some of the most luxurious suites at sea, and the Luminara is one of its finest ships, with 226 suites with private terraces, five restaurants offering a range of cuisine, seven bars, and even a wine vault. And yes, of course, there’s a spa. Perfect for a honeymoon, a special celebration, or even a family holiday, this is definitely an experience that sets the bar when it comes to luxury cruises.
The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection offer some of the most luxurious suites at sea.
Website: www.ritzcarltonyachtcollection.com
5. Sail Croatia
Best for: A very fun boat party
Azure water, secluded bays that are only accessible by boat, glamorous nightlife (on land and at sea)… Sail Croatia is pretty much an elevated party boat. Catering to 38 guests, it’s a great opportunity to explore Croatia’s most enchanting coastal gems, whether you want to explore the medieval walls of Dubrovnik or the nightlife of Hvar. There are local wines that can be enjoyed on board, and delicious, fresh seafood to be had. Plus, there are daily excursions to caves, castles and clubs and plenty of opportunities to meet new people.
website: www.sail-croatia.com
