We focus on hotels and destinations a lot in our weekly ezines, but never want you to forget that our connections with luxury cruise lines run deep also. If you ever consider a World Cruise or the shorter 30 to 60 day Grand Voyages then please check out our very own sister site World Cruise Advisors.
For the shorter luxury cruises, then J5Travel is your go-to, and this week I am highlighting 5 excellent luxury cruise lines that you more than likely have never heard of!
Cruises are back along with the rest of travel as restrictions have been lifted as we progress through 2022.
Top 5 Under the Radar Luxury Cruise Lines
1. Explora Journeys (above and below)
Explora Journeys is likely to redefine ocean travel for discerning explorers. With the first of four luxury ships setting sail in 2023, remarkable itineraries will blend renowned destinations with lesser-travelled ports for a journey that celebrates discovery. Whether on board or ashore, guests will reconnect with what matters most—themselves, their loved ones, and the world around them. With 461 oceanfront suites all with private terraces, ten dining experiences providing unrivalled variety at sea and equipped with the latest in environmental-supporting and marine technologies, Explora Journeys will introduce a unique luxury travel experience.
Our tip - Explora will offer the largest lead in suite in the luxury category at 377 sq feet, with a host to guest ratio of 1.25:1 so guests will enjoy anticipatory service from a team of passionate hosts.
2. Azamara (above and below)
Award-winning Azamara is known for authentic destination experiences and the friendly, club-like feeling onboard its four 700-passenger ships. With late or overnight stays on more than half of all port visits, Azamara guests enjoy richer local experiences. Enjoy a Complimentary "AzAmazing Evenings" on almost every voyage. These unique evening events highlight the best of local culture and cuisine in stunning settings. Perhaps it will be an evening of French wines, cuisine and music at the gorgeous Le Hall de la Bourse in Bordeaux or a garden party under the stars at Villa Rufolo on the Amalfi Coast.
Our tip
Enjoy complimentary gratuities, select spirits, international beers & wines, bottled water & soft drinks, specialty coffees & teas, shuttle service to city center from port (where available) & butlers in suites.
3. Aurora Expeditions (above and below)
Aurora Expeditions is another award-winning, Australian-owned expedition company. They have pioneered expedition travel, exploring the wild and unexpected, taking guests on perspective-altering voyages in some of the most remote and incredible off-the-beaten-path destinations. Aurora is truly committed to respectful and environmentally responsible travel. They are 100 per cent carbon-neutral and are committed to protecting and preserving the beauty and majesty that mother nature possesses. taking real actions to care for the planet.
Our Tip
Aurora have the first passenger vessels to incorporate the Ulstein X-BOW hull to deliver a "smoother" experience in rough seas.
4. Ponant (above and below)
Ponant is the World Leader in Luxury Expeditions with ultra-modern, intimate ships, offering attentive service, and well-designed itineraries sailing to all corners of the globe. Each year they offer more than 400 awe-inspiring cruises, calling at over 450 ports on all seven continents. Their fleet of 12 purpose-built intimate ships are able to call at iconic, international ports as well as secret harbors accessible only to smaller-sized ships and expeditions all include Zodiac landings, and onboard expert naturalists to enhance your experience.
Our Tip
Ponant is the only luxury cruise line to feature three brand new ships sailing to Antarctica and the Arctic each season with 46% market share, making us #1 in luxury expedition cruising.
5. Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection (above and below)
After some extremely long shipyard delays, Ritz-Carlton are finally ready to make their debut as a cruise line with the launch of the Evrima. Designed to combine the luxury lifestyle of The Ritz-Carlton and the casual freedom of a yachting vacation, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection will offer voyages on the first of three custom-built yachts in 2022. Calling on unique and distinguished destinations alike, most voyages range from seven to ten nights, offering many overnight calls and uniquely curated experiences ashore. As with The Ritz-Carlton on land, each yacht will feature personalized service, elevated dining and luxury amenities. The yachts are also available for private charter.
Our Tip
The inaugural yacht, Evrima, features just 149 suites, each with its own private terrace, and accommodates up to 298 guests in a relaxed, casually elegant atmosphere.
Are you wanting to plan your luxury cruise vacation or a Grand Voyage of your own let us know by clicking the button below.
I love travel and I love travel planning just as much and I am proud to be building a team as passionate about exploring the world as myself. It took me a very long time to align my career with my undeniable passion for exploring, but now I and the team are here for you. Your personal travel tailors - award reservation and luxury custom itinerary experts. We provide a bespoke service, imagining and creating itineraries for independent minded families and groups.
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