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Northern Lights, Magical Cruises

Adventure, Arctic Circle, Cruise Types, Cruise Types, Destinations, Hurtigruten, Lindblad Expeditions, Luxe Life-, Luxury Cruising, Small Ship Yacht, Theme Cruises, Viking Ocean Cruises

Experiencing the Northern Lights from a cruise is a magical way to witness this natural phenomenon. Here are some of the best Northern Lights cruises in 2024:

  1. Viking Ocean Cruises: Their “In Search of the Northern Lights” itinerary is a 13-day journey from London to Amsterdam, then up the coast of Norway and north of the Arctic Circle. This cruise runs from January to March, offering prime aurora viewing opportunities1.
  2. Aurora Expeditions: The “Northern Lights Explorer” cruise lasts 19 to 22 days, starting in Kirkenes, Norway, and covering the Norwegian coast, Jan Mayen, East Greenland, and Iceland. This cruise is available in September1.
  3. Hurtigruten Expeditions: While not specifically focused on the Northern Lights, their coastal ferry routes in Norway traverse ideal latitudes for aurora sightings. They even offer a guarantee: if you don’t see the Northern Lights on a sailing of 11 days or more, you get a free six- or seven-day cruise to try again1.
  4. Celebrity Cruises: Offers Northern Lights cruises to destinations like Iceland and Alaska. Their itineraries include stops in Reykjavik and Akureyri, with opportunities to explore Iceland’s natural wonders and cultural sites2.
  5. Norwegian Cruise Line: Provides budget-friendly options with comprehensive itineraries to key Northern Lights destinations1.
  6. Silversea Cruises: Known for ultra-luxury expeditions, Silversea offers personalized service and gourmet dining while covering destinations like Reykjavik and Akureyri1.

These cruises offer unique experiences, so consider what aspects are most important to you, such as luxury, adventure, cultural immersion, or specific destinations. Enjoy your journey under the aurora borealis! 🌌🚢

Would you like more details on any specific cruise line or itinerary?

Northern Lights Train Tours – 2024 Dates & Prices

SeaDream, Intimate Yachting

Adventure, Around the World, Caribbean, Caribbean, Caribbean Eastern, Caribbean Southern, Caribbean Western, Cruise Tips, Cruise Types, Cruise Types, Destinations, Europe, Extended Cruises, Food & Drink, Luxe Life-, Luxury Cruising, Mediterranean, Mediterranean Eastern, Mediterranean Western, Scandinavia Northern Europe, SeaDream Small Yacht Club, Small Ship Yacht, Theme Cruises, Trans Oceanic World, Transatlantic, Transpacific

Named “Best Small Luxury Cruise Ship of 2015” in ForbesLife, twin mega-yachts SeaDream I & II are intimate boutique ships that provide a unique travelling experience unlike any other cruise vacation. The expression “yachting” is not only a statement about size; it’s a lifestyle aboard our intimate vessels. with the service of 95 crew members and 112 guests that make each guest feel like they are on their very own private luxury yacht. Chic and stylish, SeaDream’s 56-stateroom yachts are favored for its elegant informality, highly personal service. Inclusive items include  open bar and gratuities, all ocean views staterooms and suites, luxury accommodations and world-class cuisine. VIEW SEADREAM 360°

SeaDream Yacht Club offers a unique and intimate luxury cruising experience aboard its two boutique mega-yachts, SeaDream I and SeaDream II. Here’s what makes SeaDream Yacht Club stand out:

  1. Intimate Yacht Experience: SeaDream’s vessels are more akin to private yachts than traditional cruise ships, accommodating a maximum of around 112 guests each. This creates an intimate and exclusive atmosphere, allowing for personalized service and a sense of camaraderie among passengers.
  2. Luxurious Accommodations: The staterooms and suites aboard SeaDream yachts are elegantly appointed and feature upscale amenities such as marble bathrooms, plush bedding, and flat-screen TVs. Many accommodations offer stunning ocean views and some even have private verandas.

  1. Exceptional Service: SeaDream is renowned for its attentive and friendly service, with a high staff-to-guest ratio. This ensures that every need is met promptly and with a smile. The crew members are known for their professionalism and hospitality going above and beyond to create the most memorable experience for every guests.
  2. Culinary Excellence: SeaDream yachts offer gourmet dining experiences inspired by the flavors of the Mediterranean. We focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients and deliver the most creative epicurean experiences on the seas. Guests can enjoy exquisite meals and service in the elegant Dining Salon or al fresco on the Topside Restaurant deck.

  1. Open-Air Activities: SeaDream yachts are equipped with water sports marinas, allowing guests to enjoy a variety of activities directly from the ship. From kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding to swimming and snorkeling. There’s always plenty of opportunities for outdoor fun in the pristine waters of the destinations visited.
  2. Exclusive Itineraries: SeaDream Yacht Club offers itineraries to some of the world’s most desirable and off-the-beaten-path destinations. Think, the Caribbean, Mediterranean, and Northern Europe. With smaller ships, SeaDream can access smaller ports and harbors that larger cruise ships cannot reach, providing a more immersive and authentic experience.

  1. Wellness and Relaxation: SeaDream yachts feature a full-service spa and fitness center, allowing guests to indulge in pampering treatments and stay active while at sea. Yoga and tai chi sessions are often offered on deck, providing opportunities for relaxation and rejuvenation against the backdrop of the ocean.

Overall, SeaDream Yacht Club offers a luxurious and intimate cruising experience tailored to discerning travelers who seek a blend of comfort, adventure, and personalized service. Whether exploring hidden coves in the Caribbean or picturesque ports in the Mediterranean, guests can expect a memorable journey aboard SeaDream’s boutique mega-yachts.

Adventure Cruising

Abercrombie Kent, Adventure, Alaska, Antarctica, Arctic Circle, Australia New Zealand, Caribbean, Cruise Types, Food & Drink, Lindblad Expeditions, Paul Gauguin Cruises, Ponant, Small Ship Yacht, Swan Hellenic, Theme Cruises

Adventure cruising has gained popularity among travelers seeking immersive and active experiences in diverse and off-the-beaten-path destinations. Several cruise lines specialize in adventure cruising, offering unique itineraries that focus on exploration, wildlife encounters, and outdoor activities. Here are some notable adventure cruising brands:

  1. Lindblad Expeditions: Lindblad Expeditions specializes in expedition cruises to remote and wild destinations around the world. Partnered with National Geographic, their ships are equipped for exploration, with expert naturalists and photographers on board to enhance the guest experience. Lindblad’s itineraries often focus on wildlife viewing, cultural immersion, and adventure activities such as kayaking, snorkeling, and hiking.
  2. UnCruise Adventures: UnCruise Adventures offers small-ship cruises to adventurous destinations in Alaska, the Pacific Northwest, Hawaii, Mexico’s Sea of Cortez, and Central America. With a focus on active exploration and wilderness encounters, UnCruise itineraries feature activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, hiking, and snorkeling, along with opportunities to interact with local communities and wildlife.
  3. Ponant: While Ponant is known for its luxury cruises, the cruise line also offers expedition voyages to some of the world’s most remote and captivating destinations. With a fleet of small expedition ships, Ponant’s itineraries include polar expeditions to Antarctica and the Arctic, as well as cruises to destinations such as the Amazon, the Kimberley region of Australia, and the islands of the South Pacific.
  4. Aurora Expeditions: Aurora Expeditions specializes in small-group expeditions to the polar regions, as well as other remote destinations such as Papua New Guinea, the Russian Far East, and South Georgia Island. Their ships are equipped for active exploration, with Zodiac excursions, wildlife watching opportunities, and expert guides providing insight into each destination’s natural and cultural heritage.
  5. Adventure Canada: Adventure Canada offers expedition cruises to the Canadian Arctic, Greenland, Newfoundland and Labrador, and other remote regions of Canada. Their small expedition ships provide access to wilderness areas and cultural sites, with a focus on learning, discovery, and authentic experiences guided by experts in history, culture, and natural science.
Credit: PONANT
  1. Quark Expeditions: Quark Expeditions specializes in polar adventures, offering expeditions to Antarctica and the Arctic. Their ice-strengthened ships are equipped for exploring remote regions, with activities such as Zodiac cruising, kayaking, and shore excursions led by experienced guides. Quark’s itineraries provide opportunities for wildlife encounters, scenic exploration, and learning about polar environments.

These adventure cruising brands cater to travelers seeking active and immersive experiences in some of the world’s most remote and awe-inspiring destinations. Whether you’re interested in polar exploration, wildlife encounters, cultural immersion, or outdoor activities, these cruise lines offer unique and unforgettable adventures.

The Best in Luxury Cruising Europe and the Caribbean

Around the World, Caribbean, Caribbean, Cruise Types, Destinations, Europe, Oceania Cruises, Paul Gauguin Cruises, Ritz Carlton Yacht Collection, Seabourn, Silversea Cruises, Trans Oceanic World

Europe offers a blend of opulence, comfort, and cultural immersion. Here’s a glimpse into what you might expect:

Destinations:

  1. Mediterranean: Explore the stunning coastlines of Italy, Greece, Spain, and France, visiting iconic cities like Rome, Athens, Barcelona, and Marseille.
  2. Baltic Sea: Cruise to Northern Europe, visiting cities like St. Petersburg, Stockholm, Copenhagen, and Helsinki, while experiencing the rich history and culture of the region.
  3. British Isles: Sail around the UK and Ireland, exploring historic ports such as Edinburgh, Dublin, Belfast, and London.
  4. Adriatic Sea: Discover the beauty of Croatia, Montenegro, and Slovenia, with stops in Dubrovnik, Split, and Venice.
  5. Scandinavia: Journey through the fjords of Norway, stopping at picturesque towns like Bergen and Geiranger, as well as vibrant cities like Oslo.

Cruise Lines:

Regent Suite Credit: Regent Seven Seas Cruises
  1. Regent Seven Seas Cruises: Known for its all-inclusive luxury experience, offering spacious suites, gourmet dining, and personalized service.
  2. Seabourn: Renowned for its intimate ships and attentive service, with luxurious amenities and unique itineraries.
  3. Silversea Cruises: Offers ultra-luxury cruising with all-suite accommodations, gourmet cuisine, and immersive shore excursions.
  4. Crystal Cruises: Known for its elegant ships, top-notch service, and diverse itineraries, including river cruises in Europe.
  5. Viking Ocean Cruises: Combines luxury with cultural enrichment, offering destination-focused itineraries and inclusive shore excursions.
Credit: Silversea

Onboard Experience:

  1. Luxurious Accommodations: Expect spacious suites with elegant furnishings, plush bedding, and attentive butler service.
  2. Gourmet Dining: Indulge in culinary delights prepared by world-class chefs, with multiple dining venues offering diverse cuisines.
  3. Entertainment and Enrichment: Enjoy Broadway-style shows, live music performances, guest lectures, and cooking demonstrations.
  4. Wellness and Spa: Relax and rejuvenate with spa treatments, fitness classes, and wellness programs designed to pamper guests.
  5. Exclusive Experiences: Access unique shore excursions, private tours, and VIP experiences tailored to luxury travelers.

Tips for Luxury Cruising in Europe:

  1. Book Early: Secure your preferred cabin and itinerary well in advance, especially for popular destinations and peak seasons.
  2. Pack Appropriately: Bring elegant attire for formal evenings and comfortable clothing for daytime excursions.
  3. Plan Shore Excursions: Research and book shore excursions in advance to ensure you don’t miss out on exclusive experiences.
  4. Take Advantage of Onboard Amenities: Make the most of included amenities such as specialty restaurants, spa treatments, and onboard activities.
  5. Relax and Unwind: Allow yourself to immerse in the luxury experience, savoring every moment both onboard and onshore.

 

When it comes to luxury cruises to the Caribbean, several cruise lines offer exceptional experiences tailored to discerning travelers. Here are some of the top luxury cruise options for exploring the Caribbean:

  1. Regent Seven Seas Cruises: Regent Seven Seas Cruises is renowned for its ultra-luxury, all-inclusive voyages. Their Caribbean itineraries often feature visits to both popular destinations and hidden gems, with luxurious accommodations, gourmet dining, and included shore excursions enhancing the experience.
  2. Seabourn Cruise Line: Seabourn is synonymous with luxury cruising, offering intimate ships with spacious suites, personalized service, and gourmet dining experiences. Their Caribbean cruises combine visits to iconic ports with off-the-beaten-path destinations, providing guests with a curated and enriching voyage.
  3. Crystal Cruises: Crystal Cruises offers luxury voyages to the Caribbean aboard their elegant ships, Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity. Guests can expect spacious accommodations, world-class dining, and enriching onboard activities, including lectures, workshops, and entertainment. Crystal’s Caribbean itineraries often include exclusive experiences and overnight stays in select ports.
  4. Silversea Cruises: Silversea Cruises provides all-inclusive luxury voyages to the Caribbean, with intimate ships featuring spacious suites and personalized service. Their itineraries explore the Caribbean’s diverse islands, offering guests the opportunity to immerse themselves in the region’s culture, history, and natural beauty.
  5. Oceania Cruises: Oceania Cruises combines luxury with immersive experiences on their Caribbean voyages. With mid-sized ships boasting elegant accommodations and gourmet dining options, Oceania’s itineraries often include visits to lesser-known ports alongside popular destinations, allowing guests to discover the Caribbean’s hidden treasures.
  6. Ponant: Ponant offers boutique luxury cruises to the Caribbean aboard their fleet of small expedition ships. With a focus on immersive exploration and personalized service, Ponant’s itineraries showcase the region’s natural wonders, from pristine beaches and vibrant coral reefs to lush rainforests and historical sites.
  7. Windstar Cruises: Windstar Cruises provides a luxurious sailing experience in the Caribbean aboard their fleet of elegant sailing yachts and small ships. With itineraries featuring both iconic ports and secluded anchorages, Windstar offers guests the chance to experience the Caribbean’s charm and beauty in an intimate setting.

These luxury cruise lines offer a range of Caribbean itineraries, from short getaways to extended voyages, allowing travelers to tailor their cruise experience to their preferences and interests. Whether you’re seeking relaxation on sun-drenched beaches, cultural immersion in historic towns, or adventurous exploration of natural wonders, these top luxury cruises to the Caribbean promise an unforgettable journey.

Ritz Carlton Yacht Collection, there is no substitute

Around the World, Destinations, Luxe Life-, Ritz Carlton Yacht Collection, Small Ship Yacht, Theme Cruises, World

 The 298-passenger Evrima aspires to bring Ritz-Carlton hotel comfort and service to sea.

The 298-passenger Evrima aspires to bring Ritz-Carlton hotel comfort and service to sea. With sleek modern design, rich materials, plenty of lounge space, personalized service, and a restaurant with menus designed by a Michelin three-star chef—and after a nearly three-year delay—the first ship of the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection is ready for its debut. The 298-passenger Evrima will sail seven-night cruise from Barcelona to Nice in October.  relates to A First Look at the Ritz-Carlton Superyacht: Photos

Innovative two-story loft suites, with the bedroom downstairs and a light-filled living room upstairs, are among accommodations choices.
Photographer: Francisco Jose Martinez Mendez

relates to A First Look at the Ritz-Carlton Superyacht: Photos

In an open-air space at the ship’s Marina, catch views of the sea while enjoying cocktails and light bites.
Photographer: Christopher Cypert

The concept

The well-regarded maritime architecture and design firm Tillberg of Sweden worked with a team from the hotel company to create a floating Ritz-Carlton hotel. relates to A First Look at the Ritz-Carlton Superyacht: Photos

Suites were designed with a residential feel inspired by the contemporary look of the Ritz-Carlton Residences in Sunny Isles, Miami Beach, and Los Angeles. Photographer: Francisco Jose Martinez Mendez

Room to spread out

Guests stay in suites with ceilings that are higher than the cruise ship norm, with king-size beds, double-vanity bathrooms, and private outdoor “terraces” overlooking the sea. Also on offer are resort like features such as a supervised Ritz Kids program with its own playroom ($45 per three-hour session) and a Ritz-Carlton-operated spa with indoor and outdoor treatment rooms—as well as indulgences such as a $395 non-surgical lift facial. The 623-foot ship has more space per passenger than any other luxury cruise ship.

relates to A First Look at the Ritz-Carlton Superyacht: Photos
The ship’s Marina Terrace is both a lounging spot at water’s edge and a place to borrow water toys such as kayaks and paddleboards.
Photographer: Christopher Cypert

Water, water, everywhere

Guests may take in ocean views while sipping complimentary champagne on loungers around the infinity pool or get even closer to water’s edge on the Marina Terrace, where handcrafted cocktails and light bites will be served when the ship is at anchor. From the marina, there are paddleboards, windsurf boards, kayaks, sailboats, and snorkeling equipment to borrow. Four plunge pools scattered around Evrima afford more intimate opportunities to take a dip with views.

relates to A First Look at the Ritz-Carlton Superyacht: Photos
Dining Privée is a private space guests can reserve for a dinner party for up to 10.
Photographer: Christopher Cypert

First-class dining

The large Evrima Room, the yacht’s main restaurant, features dishes inspired by the line’s destinations. A five-course tasting menu with wine and champagne pairings at S.E.A. (Sven Elverfeld Aboard) was created by Chef Sven Elverfeld of the three-Michelin-starred Aqua at the Ritz-Carlton in Wolfsburg, Germany . At the Talaat Nam restaurant, dine indoors or out on Southeast Asian dishes—or head to the sushi bar. Room service is available 24/7. relates to A First Look at the Ritz-Carlton Superyacht: Photos

The top-deck Observation Room is a socializing and cocktail spot that morphs into a nightclub in the late hours.
Photographer: Christopher Cypert

Nightlife

The ship’s Deck 10 indoor and outdoor Observation Terrace is a social hub—a place to take in views by day and to sip cocktails and enjoy live entertainment by evening. Late at night, the space morphs into a nightclub, with an opportunity to dance under the stars. Evrima has its own resident jazz and classical musicians, and local entertainers will come aboard to perform at select ports of call.

relates to A First Look at the Ritz-Carlton Superyacht: Photos
Outside the Observation Room, enjoy views by day, dancing under the stars by night.
Photographer: Christopher Cypert

Ritz-Carlton service

Every suite on Evrima comes with access to a personal concierge for requests from a cup of coffee to help organizing your shore excursions, as well as a separate concierge ashore to handle requests for private experiences and reservations on land. The goal is the kind of personalized service you expect to find at a Ritz-Carlton hotel: The ship has nearly as many crew members as guests.

relates to A First Look at the Ritz-Carlton Superyacht: Photos
Before or after your treatment at the Ritz-Carlton Spa, hang out on the spa’s hot tub-equipped terrace.
Photographer: Christopher Cypert

Destination focus

In its first year, Evrima sails the Mediterranean and Caribbean on 7- to 10-night itineraries—following the yachting crowd to such hotspots as Ibiza, St. Tropez, Bequia, and St. Barts. Overnights afford time to play on land, and there’s a focus on beyond-the-norm shore excursions. For example, a tour of the Aruba Aloe facility is followed by an aloe-based treatment at the Ritz-Carlton, Aruba, while an evening excursion in Tenerife focuses on cocktail culture. Cruise fares are from $1,000 per person, per night—though you can find some sailings for less.

relates to A First Look at the Ritz-Carlton Superyacht: Photos
At the poolside Mistral, grilled seafood and steaks will be on the menu at lunch and dinner.
Photographer: Christopher Cypert

The competition

Leading luxury cruise bands such as Seabourn (Carnival Corp.) and Silversea (Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd) won’t be the only competition. Late last month, Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts announced Four Seasons Yachts, three 190-passenger ships to be built by Italy’s Fincantieri, in partnership with Nadim Ashi, owner of Miami-based Fort Partners (Four Seasons Surf Club in Sunrise, Fla.), and Philip Levine, a former Miami Beach mayor. The first is due in late 2025.

relates to A First Look at the Ritz-Carlton Superyacht: Photos
The yacht’s main Evrima Room restaurant serves locally inspired menus based on cruising destinations.
Photographer: Christopher Cypert

Bonvoy points

Members of the Marriott Bonvoy program can redeem 180,000 points for $1,000 in savings on the cruise fare, with increments of 90,000 points for $500 after that, It’s possible to pay for a 10-day cruise with about 2 million points  See participating Marriott Bonvoy hotels booked through the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection for more information. There are elite credits, too, those with Elite status will receive perks such as an invite to a special cocktail party and, depending on your member status, free laundry.

Silversea 2026 – 17 Voyages.

Adventure, Alaska, Around the World, Caribbean, Central South America, Cruise Tips, Cruise Types, Destinations, Europe, Food & Drink, Luxury Cruising, Malta, Mediterranean, Mediterranean Eastern, Mediterranean Western, Silversea Cruises, The Orient, Theme Cruises, Trans Oceanic World

Silver Whisper
 Silversea has announced its first-ever full summer season in French Polynesia, opening an exclusive pre-sale on 17 voyages between April and September 2026 aboard Silver Whisper. The line will offer deep immersion into 11 of the world’s most remote destinations in three of the region’s five archipelagos—the Society, Tuamotu and Marquesas Islands.

From April 6, 2026, the 392-guest Silver Whisper will undertake 17 voyages in French Polynesia, Papeete, Tahiti. Travelers can choose from seven- or 14-night itineraries—both of which aim to foster meaningful connections with the destination.

The shorter of the two itineraries sees Silver Whisper journey among the Society Islands’ most iconic destinations, as well as off-the-beaten-path gems. From Papeete, guests will journey to Moorea on an overnight call, besides Huahine and Bora Bora. Three late departures maximize guests’ time in Papeete, Moorea and Huahine. Hosted by an expert guide aboard a traditional boat in Bora Bora, guests will learn about the important role of storytelling in local culture and how early navigators used the stars to sail through the Pacific Ocean. In Huahine, travelers can join a cultural nature walk to discover the archeological sites of the village of Maeva, while admiring tropical plants and treetop views of the coastline. In Moorea, Bora Bora and Huahine, guests can snorkel in crystal-clear waters for the chance to witness hundreds of fish species and corals. Guests will also have the option of relaxing on a private island or motu, enjoying a traditional barbecue and local music.

Departing from Papeete on a 14-day voyage aboard Silver Whisper, guests will explore Moorea on an overnight call, besides visits to Fakarava, Nuku Hiva, Fatu Hiva, Atuona, Tahuata, Rangiroa and Bora Bora, before returning to Papeete. In addition to discovering the peaks of the Society Islands and snorkeling to admire the archipelago’s abundant marine life, guests on both itineraries can spot whales (August to November), accompanied by expert guides; learn about local culinary traditions in a test kitchen in Moorea; and discover Raiatea by electric bicycle, among other immersive experiences. As on the seven-day itinerary, guests will also have the chance to relax on a private island, as a highlight experience.

Additionally, a 21-day Easter Island sailing, departing Valparaiso on March 16, and two combination voyages broaden the regional offering for guests.

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