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Cruise Line Aims to Become World's Premier Luxury Brand

Unknown adventure travel, adventures, cruises, tours, travel

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1Bf7C6" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1Bf7C6.jpg"/>

 How long are you aboard for in weeks?


 It was my initial night aboard, and surprisingly, it marked the third occasion I had encountered this query. This time, it came from Torren, an elegantly dressed Dane, who seemed to be asking what must have become a routine question.


 He mentioned to me that he and his wife, Suzanne, were in the midst of their second week aboard the Explora II. In contrast, Elise, who was traveling alone from Toronto, had reserved an additional two weeks on board following our cruise.
 Barbados
 to
 Puerto Rico
 concluded.


 In the meantime, Elena and Thomas, a couple in their late thirties, mentioned they were "only planning to stay for a week" since they had entrusted their young child to their grandparents' care.


 Obviously, Explora Journeys — the premium luxury division of the MSC Group established by the Italian maritime dynasty, the Aponte Vogas — has garnered a significant following since launching in 2021. This is evident from my personal experiences aboard their ships as well as the numerous accolades the company has received.

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1BfcHp" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1BfcHp.jpg"/>

 Eager to discover if it met the expectations, I boarded Explora II (the fleet's lackluster moniker for its second vessel, introduced in 2023) for a four-night journey—a duration that prompted understanding nods from Torren, Thomas, Elena, and Elise—as she embarked on a week-long cruise through the Caribbean.


 Even though the 922-passenger vessel has an unexciting moniker—Explora III, Explora IV, Explora V, and Explora VI will join the fleet in the coming years—it certainly doesn’t appear dull at all.


 The exterior of Explora 11 boasts an elegant navy color, and from afar, the ship looks like a superyacht (which isn’t surprising considering its hawkish silhouette was designed by seasoned British yacht creator Martin Francis).


 Board the ship, though, and it feels as if you've stepped into a luxurious five-star resort.


 The lobby features an expansive two-story space adorned with a gleaming white-and-gold bar complete with a backlighted drink display wall. Up above, you'll find an open-air sky bar. Throughout the area, custom art pieces from Emilio Isgrò and Yves Dana can be spotted across various levels. The property boasts four visually stunning swimming pools designed for social media fame—one pool even has a roof that opens and closes. In addition, there are multiple hot tubs available for guests' enjoyment. High-end shopping options include stores like Piaget, Panerai, Cartier, and Buccellati.

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1BfcHr" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1BfcHr.jpg"/>

 In other locations, the lodgings are designed as suites—beginning at an ample 35 square meters for the basic "ocean terrace suite," which was the type of accommodation I chose. Spacious enough—it rivaled my flat in South London in terms of space—even though it carried only a base classification. The room featured a king-size bed adorned with Frette linens, included Steiner binoculars, had a capacious dressing zone equipped with a robust Dyson hair dryer, boasted a marble-clad bathroom fitted with radiant floor heating alongside custom-made Mandara Blue bath products; additionally, there was a distinct lounge area opening onto a balcony furnished with an exceptionally comfy Manutti daybed.


 Visitors who manage to escape from their minimalist-toned rooms (which is quite an accomplishment) have the option to cleanse themselves at the spa—where a 60-minute deep-tissue massage (£194) had all the tension in my neck skillfully alleviated by Gineesh’s adept fingers—or utilize the expansive fitness zones equipped with high-end Technogym machines. Afterward, they can indulge again at one of the vessel’s twelve bars and six dining venues.

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 During a coffee at Crema Café – the bustling hub of Explora II, always brimming with visitors chatting, savoring newly baked pastries, and typing on their laptops – General Manager Marco van Belleghem shared with pride that "guests have been extremely pleased with our cuisine."


 We receive numerous positive remarks. In contrast to other cruise lines, we feature solely independent restaurants, each possessing its distinct character and incorporated into the overall fare.


 The coziest place to eat is Emporium Marketplace – a high-end buffet that I frequented for lunches (imagine options like salads, stone-baked pizzas, and all sorts of pastas you can think of).


 Meanwhile, Marble & Co acts as the ship's sophisticated steakhouse, offering lobster and Black Angus beef essentially on demand. The Med Yacht Club menu embraces a Mediterranean twist, whereas French-inspired Fil Rouge presents dishes like fish soup and prawn risotto.


 The standout venue was undoubtedly the pan-Asian Sakura. There, seated at the sushi bar alongside another lone traveler named Susan from Wisconsin, we enjoyed juicy gyoza and a delicately tender yet crisp seaweed salad—overlooking the bustling activity of the chefs in the open kitchen.


 There’s an additional fee of £118 for the "upscale Italian dining" at the restaurant Anthology, but I didn’t want to spend that much. On the other hand, Susan, who recently retired and decided as a reward for herself, spoke highly of both the service and the seven-course Italian meal. She particularly praised the radicchio risotto, saying it surpassed anything she had tasted even in premier restaurants in London.
 New York
 hotel.”

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 Susan, much like Toronto residents Andrea and Paul and numerous other visitors I talked with, was inexperienced with cruising. She chose Explora II because of what it lacks—boisterous nightclubs, flashy casinos, and unexpected additional fees (tips are even included).


 These visitors—well-educated, widely traveled, and connoisseurs of luxury—thoroughly enjoyed the understated nightly performances (a pianist played elegantly on a Steinway in the lobby bar, while Broadway alum Zoe Tyler earned a standing ovation in Journeys Lounge), along with the ample personal space and notable guest-to-staff ratio of 1.25:1 ("hosts," as Explora refers to their crew members).


 Van Belleghem’s face lit up when I shared everything with him during our coffee break. "Our aim isn’t to draw customers away from other cruise lines," clarified the friendly Dutchman, who had accumulated 16 years of experience at Holland America before taking a turn on solid ground.
 in the Netherlands
 At a modest hotel group.


 Our owners, the Aponte Vago family, have developed an exceptionally distinctive offering. You know, Explora II feels more like a private residence than a typical vessel, doesn’t it? We stand out entirely from all other cruise lines.


 Perhaps none stands out as much as MSC Cruises does; with MSC World America set to launch in April, this impressive vessel can welcome an astounding 6,762 guests aboard, making it both daring and dazzling compared to its sibling fleet.


 “Definitely,” he concurred. “However, what sets Explora Journeys apart is that we aren’t merely another upscale cruise line; our aim is to revolutionize how individuals perceive sailing vacations.”

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 The brand aims to achieve this by concentrating on experiential travel—Explora prefers the term "experiences" over "excursions"—exploring less-frequented destinations, and extending stay times at each location.


 “During our previous cruise, we stopped at the ABC islands.”
 Aruba
 and
 Bonaire
 “We remained until 9 PM, and in Curaçao, we stayed till 11 PM,” disclosed Van Belleghem. “Our aim is for our guests to fully experience the different places we visit.”


 In
 St Lucia
 I enrolled in Explora’s "Scenic West Coast Hike with Chocolate Tasting" experience (£100), which involved hiking along the Tet Paul Nature Trail to view the iconic landmarks of the island—the UNESCO-protected Pitons, two distinctively pointed mountains situated on the southwest coast. Our knowledgeable and engaging local guide, Vina, led us through this scenic route before we embarked on a comprehensive tree-to-bar tour. This educational journey covered every step of cocoa production, from grafting trees to sampling the fruit and even roasting the beans right there to create our own bars.


 In Bequia, I chose to explore on my own and took the route from Port Elizabeth to Lower Bay — a stunning expanse of pale golden sand where I enjoyed nearly complete solitude.

<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1Bf39R" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1Bf39R.jpg"/>

 However, everything didn't go entirely smoothly—there were minor hitches. For instance, my suite was cleaned only once daily instead of the advertised two times, and I needed to leave a note asking for the shower gel dispenser to be replenished.


 First-world problems aside, if Explora aims to achieve its objective of turning into – as Van Belleghem shared with me – "the top luxury brand globally," then these concerns must be addressed accordingly.


 Resolve their issues, and based on the bustling activity I noticed at the upcoming cruise desk, the line seems to have a very promising future ahead.
 the Caribbean sun
 .

<h2 class="u-heading-size-medium u-heading-style-normal">
 Essentials
</h2>

 Kaye Holland was a visitor
 Explora Journeys
 (0800 031 8935) provides a Bridgetown to San Juan sail for £3,200 per person, covering an ocean terrace suite, beverages, dining, internet access, and tips. Flights are not included.


 
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Cruise Line Aims to Become World's Premier Luxury Brand

Unknown adventure travel, adventures, cruises, tours, travel

How long are you aboard for in weeks? It was my initial night aboard, and surprisingly, it marked the third occasion I had encountered this query. This time, it came from Torren, an elegantly dress…

The Top 10 Blunders Cruise Ship Passengers Make on Port Days

Unknown cruises, travel, travel planning and tips, travel recommendations, vacations

<div class="rssBody">
 <div>
 
 You might invest considerable time and effort selecting the perfect cruise route, choosing the best line, and deciding on the ideal vessel. Once you finalize these details for your vacation, booking the cruise feels like completing the main task of holiday preparation. However, neglecting to consider how you will spend your days ashore would be quite unwise. Investing some time in exploring each destination that your ship plans to visit could significantly enhance your journey from merely good to truly remarkable.
 
 
 Don’t let indecision keep you from enjoying shore excursions. Below are the top 10 errors cruise travelers often commit when visiting ports of call, ensuring you can avoid these pitfalls and create memorable experiences at each destination during your voyage.
 
 <h2 class="rssH2">
 Missing the ship
 </h2>
 <img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/BB1nykkz" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/BB1nykkz.jpg"/>
 
 We can address this issue right from the start. One major error cruise passengers often commit on port days is failing to return to the vessel promptly and consequently being abandoned. No
 ruins a cruise vacation
 It’s like spending extra money to travel by air to reach the next harbor or return home because you were not at the dock when your ship sailed away into the sunset.
 
 
 The three main actions you can take to steer clear of this error include:
 
 
 
 Memorize the all-aboard time.
 
 This differs from the sailaway time, usually occurring about thirty minutes prior. The all-aboard time signifies when you must return to the vessel and is displayed at the gangway upon debarking as well as noted in your daily planner.
 
 
 
 Adjust your watch according to the ship's time.
 
 Occasionally, cruise ships refrain from adjusting their clocks according to various time zones when docked at ports. The departure times for passengers are based on the ship’s clock rather than local port time. Ensure your devices such as smartwatches, fitness trackers, or cellphones stay synchronized with the ship’s timing to prevent any mix-ups.
 
 
 
 Intend to head back to your vessel sooner than planned.
 
 It’s wise to include some extra time in your post-cruise plans. Avoid scheduling your arrival just as the ship departs; instead, aim to be back one or two hours beforehand. This precaution ensures you’re covered if you lose your way, encounter heavy traffic, or stop for a bit of window shopping. Should everything go smoothly and you find yourself with free time, there’s usually additional shopping or dining options available at the port that you can take advantage of prior to boarding.
 
 <h2 class="rssH2">
 Winging it
 </h2>
 
 It might seem simple to just step off the ship at port and come up with a plan spontaneously. This works well enough if you're aiming for the closest beach or planning to explore town for some shopping. However, in numerous ports, you could maximize your time more effectively if you prepare ahead of time.
 
 
 Shore excursions
 If you decide to go for popular tours or activities, they could get fully booked quickly; hence, planning ahead with reservations can secure your spot. For those who enjoy good cuisine, researching top-rated local eateries beforehand and making table bookings will enhance your dining experience. Additionally, if adventure sports like hiking or cycling interest you, checking trail maps and reserving bicycles prior to departure would be beneficial.
 
 
 
 Related:
 Steer clear of these 10 errors when reserving cruise shore trips
 
 
 
 I bypassed a lengthy queue during a stop in Naples, Italy, as I had purchased museum tickets ahead of time online. While in France, I arranged for a private tour to Carcassonne independently through some research prior to the voyage since this option wasn’t provided by the cruise line. My visit would have lacked much value if I had disembarked without any itinerary set.
 
 <h2 class="rssH2">
 Venturing out unprepared
 </h2>
 <img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1AayFB" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1AayFB.jpg"/>
 
 Yet another error made by cruise passengers is failing to pack a well-stocked day bag for excursions on land. Channel your inner mother or Boy Scout and ensure you’re ready for your daily adventures away from the vessel.
 
 
 Check the weather forecast and bring along any necessary rain gear, warm layers or sun protection. For beach days, you might want sand toys for the kids, extra sunscreen and a change of clothes. Bring a dry bag or zip-close bag to protect your electronics on a water-based tour and cash for a visit to a local market. For any day off the ship, you'll want a water bottle and some packaged snacks, just in case.
 
 
 
 Related:
 26 cruise packing tips you should know before setting sail
 
 
 <h2 class="rssH2">
 Not protecting your belongings
 </h2>
 
 Travelers from all over the globe often fall victim to pickpockets and small-time criminals. It would be unwise not to safeguard your possessions when sightseeing in harbor areas.
 
 
 Keep your wallet and mobile phone in a zipped purse or backpack, ideally one with internal sections for discreet storage of valuable items. Avoid placing them in your rear pocket or an accessible open bag that could be readily accessed by others. Always keep your belongings within sight and utilize lockers whenever possible. Additionally, consider purchasing neck pouches designed specifically for carrying money, credit cards, or phones securely while enjoying activities like swimming at the seaside.
 
 
 
 Related:
 Top 10 Anti-Theft Crossbody Bags, Backpacks, and Accessories That Thwart Pickpockets
 
 
 
 There’s no need to carry all your cash, credit cards, or even your passport when you leave the cruise ship for the day. Only take essentials to minimize the impact if your wallet or bag gets lost.
 
 <h2 class="rssH2">
 Sleeping in
 </h2>
 
 It’s enticing to hit the hay after a nocturnal celebration aboard, yet you’ll find greater value during your cruise by reserving those extra-morning-snoozes for when at sea. To fully capitalize on your time on land, it’s best to disembark as soon as possible instead of dawdling later.
 
 
 If you've got an entire day in port, consider embarking on a journey to explore locations beyond the immediate city area. This way, you’ll be able to visit multiple attractions within town or reach the seaside before temperatures soar or crowds gather. Make sure to purchase your ferry or train tickets ahead of time so as not to risk them selling out.
 
 
 Moreover, should your vessel depart earlier, you will manage to explore for a complete half-day instead of just a few hours. Naturally, if your ship arrives later as scheduled, feel free to take advantage of the extended opportunity to catch some extra shut-eye.
 
 <h2 class="rssH2">
 Overdoing it
 </h2>
 <img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1q04JT" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1q04JT.jpg"/>
 
 It’s simple to get carried away when mapping out your schedule for a new city or country. You may try to fit numerous attractions into a single day as you aim to visit all the major sites, leading to hurried transitions between locations without much chance to truly soak in each experience—resulting in fatigue for both you and your companions.
 
 
 Acknowledge that you won’t be able to experience all desired sights during a single port visit. Concentrate your efforts on highlighting just a handful of must-see spots or experiences. For families with children, allocate moments for refreshments and fun breaks. This approach ensures an enjoyable and stress-free adventure. Should you adore the location, consider planning another journey back someday soon.
 
 
 This rule also holds true for physical activities at the harbor. Avoid reserving that cycling trip if you last rode a bicycle over a decade ago. Should you face mobility challenges, reconsider participating in an adventure that requires extensive walking on uneven, ancient roads. Assess your capabilities, then structure your schedule and choices accordingly.
 
 <h2 class="rssH2">
 Skipping the local cuisine
 </h2>
 
 Since you’ve already covered meal costs with your cruise ticket, it’s quite appealing to utilize these services fully during mealtimes. However, missing out on sampling regional dishes when docked would be an error.
 
 
 There’s no need to reserve a costly dinner at a Michelin-starred eatery. Opt for simpler delights such as tasting the nearby ice cream, dropping by a bakery, or sipping some regional brews to get a feel for the culinary landscape and gain insights into daily life. Exploring novel dishes can be quite exciting; consider indulging in conch salad when in the Bahamas or enjoying a slice of tortilla española in Barcelona.
 
 
 A preferred activity of mine is locating a marketplace or grocery store close to where the cruise docks. During my visit to Stockholm, I thoroughly enjoyed exploring the local 7-Eleven, purchasing salty licorice and various exotic candies for relatives back home. When visiting Belize, I indulged in sampling every flavor of Fanta that was unfamiliar to me. It’s entirely possible to experience novel tastes without spending significant funds or having an elaborate meal right there in the harbor town.
 
 <h2 class="rssH2">
 Sticking around the port
 </h2>
 
 Frequently, first-time cruise passengers err by staying within the vicinity of their initial landing point due to anxiety over exploring abroad. While you might come across numerous visitor-friendly spots like eateries and stores near where your vessel docks, venturing further into the actual city will provide you with a richer and truer sense of what the place has to offer.
 
 
 In certain locations, this involves traveling to the downtown area using a shuttle bus or taxi. For instance, at ports like Civitavecchia or Livorno in Italy, you may have to arrange an excursion beyond the port itself to reach destinations such as Rome or Florence. Alternatively, you could be looking at venturing to the opposite end of the island or exploring rural areas to discover your ideal experience during your time in port.
 
 
 If you're looking to reserve a tour or hire a vehicle, feel free to explore further away from your starting point — provided you have ample time remaining at the dock to get back before departure.
 
 <h2 class="rssH2">
 Only taking tours
 </h2>
 <img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1AaI3R" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1AaI3R.jpg"/>
 
 A frequent error made by novice cruise passengers is solely reserving the ship’s tours. You might feel compelled to sign up for an excursion each day, or maybe you’re hesitant about exploring independently. While shore excursions offer excellent opportunities to experience key attractions at your destinations, they aren’t the sole option available—nor do they always prove essential.
 
 
 In certain harbors, you might spend an ideal day exploring the city, meandering through charming backstreets, browsing for keepsakes, and savoring regional dishes. In contrast, elsewhere all you may require is hailing a taxi to enjoy a splendid beach day.
 
 
 In Flam, Norway, I opted out of the ship’s organized excursion to hike to a stunning waterfall without needing a guide. During our stay in Hilo, Hawaii, my family chose to rent a vehicle so we could explore Volcanoes National Park independently rather than join a crowd of forty fellow cruise passengers. These experiences were enriched by traveling solo.
 
 
 
 Related:
 Cruise line-organized versus individual shore tours: What should you choose?
 
 
 <h2 class="rssH2">
 Never taking tours
 </h2>
 
 Conversely, certain adventurers boast about their refusal to join guided tours and insist on solo exploration every time. While asserting command over your visitation day is admirable, it’s unwise to completely dismiss the idea of going on a tour.
 
 
 Occasionally, similar to visiting the ancient ruins of Pompeii, having a guide can enrich your visit by offering background information and vivid details. For trips exceeding an hour’s drive away from the dock, however, you might prefer assurance that the cruise ship will hold off until you return, should delays occur. An experienced local guide can manage the intricate arrangements needed for transportation between sites or help bypass queues for tickets or entry.
 
 
 Never say never, and maintain an open mindset about the finest way to utilize your time in port.
 
 <h2 class="rssH2">
 Bottom line
 </h2>
 
 When booking a cruise, you're just as excited about the destinations it reaches as the vessel itself. Maximize your experience on land by thoroughly planning and readying yourself for each shore excursion. Avoid letting minor slip-ups prevent you from fully savoring a fantastic day away from the ship.
 
 
 
 Thinking about taking a cruise? Begin with these tales:
 
 
 <ul>
 <li>
 The top 5 sought-after cabin positions on any cruise liner
 </li>
 <li>
 An introductory guide for selecting a cruise line
 </li>
 <li>
 The 8 least desirable cabin positions on any cruise ship
 </li>
 <li>
 The definitive checklist for packing essentials before your cruise voyage
 </li>
 <li>
 A brief overview of the top cruising companies
 </li>
 <li>
 21 tips and tricks to ensure your cruise goes seamlessly
 </li>
 <li>
 Main ways cruise travelers fritter away their cash
 </li>
 <li>
 The definitive handbook for selecting a cruise ship stateroom
 </li>
 </ul>
 </div>
 
 Editorial disclaimer: The views shared here belong solely to the author and do not represent the opinions of banks, credit card issuers, airlines, or hotels. These organizations have not reviewed, approved, or supported this content in any way.
 
</div>

The Top 10 Blunders Cruise Ship Passengers Make on Port Days

Unknown cruises, travel, travel planning and tips, travel recommendations, vacations

You might invest considerable time and effort selecting the perfect cruise route, choosing the best line, and deciding on the ideal vessel. Once you finalize these details for your vacation, …

6 Incredible Cruise Ships You Must Sail On Before You Die

Unknown cruises, royal caribbean, travel, travel destinations, yachts

Going on a
 cruise
 might grant you entry to something you'll experience only once in your life
 destinations
 , yet there are still numerous
 ships
 those that stand out as essential and unforgettable experiences.


 Cruise ships come in various sizes and styles, from big floating resorts packed with non-stop entertainment for families to smaller, peaceful sailing boats. These vessels provide an array of onboard amenities that can be every bit as thrilling as the destinations you'll visit.


 Many cruise vessels provide amenities such as water slides, premium dining and beverages, spa facilities, and adults-only zones; however, certain ones exceed expectations. Below are six top-notch cruise ships that you should definitely experience at least once in your life.

<h2>
 Best cruise ships
</h2>
<h2>
 1. Evrima
</h2>
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 Read more:
 
 
 The top Disney cruise vessels and vacation deals
 


 Luxury brand Ritz-Carlton owns a superyacht named
 Evrima
 named after the Greek term for uncovering.


 Anticipate an upscale experience akin to residing at a luxurious waterfront hotel. This establishment accommodates 298 guests through 149 spacious suites and offers dining options including five eateries and six bars.


 Every suite features an individual balcony where you can relax. Additionally, guests have access to amenities like the spa, beauty parlor, and men’s barbershop. You also get to swim in the pool or savor a cocktail at the Marina Terrace.


 Emma Sanger-Horwell, who leads the cruise division at Kenwood Travel, stated
 The Independent:
 Savor cuisine from a Michelin-starred restaurant, relax with premier spa experiences at The Ritz-Carlton Spa, or plunge directly into excitement via the marina, which provides watersports right outside your suite door. Featuring ample, exclusive balconies and stunning vistas, Evrima’s suites prioritize luxury and sophistication.


 This isn’t just a cruise—it’s an unparalleled expedition of exploration and luxury.


 Prices begin at £6,700 per person for sailings departing from Tokyo.
 Japan
 , to Seward, Alaska, in May 2026.

<h2>
 2. Emblem of the Seas
</h2>
<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1v86zc" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1v86zc.jpg"/>

 With a length of 1,196 feet and featuring 18 passenger decks,
 Royal Caribbean’s
 Icon of the Seas
 It is the globe's biggest cruise vessel, capable of accommodating 5,610 guests.


 The first journey took place this year, offering something for everyone regardless of age. The ship features eight distinct neighborhoods and over 40 eating spaces and drinking spots.


 The features encompass Thrill Island, an adventurous section housing the largest onboard water park and slide. Additionally, there’s a adults-exclusive lounge on Cloud 17 along with the AquaDome, transforming into an oasis during daylight hours before turning into an entertainment hub as evening falls.


 The vessel boasts a permanent resident golden retriever called Rover, who holds the crucial position of chief dog officer.


 Tony Andrews, the managing director of Cruise.co.uk, stated: "Royal Caribbean’s"
 Icon of the Seas
 It stands out as an absolute revolution, crafted to be a singular getaway spot. Personally, I believe it provides a one-of-a-kind adventure, which makes it essential for cruise enthusiasts.


 As the globe's biggest cruise liner, it brims with exciting new features, opulent areas, and numerous activities suitable for families.
 Icon of the Seas
 It’s an unparalleled expedition that masterfully merges excitement, opulence, and enjoyment."


 A circular voyage through the eastern Caribbean starting and ending at the same point.
 Miami
 Prices start at £1,267 per person for departures beginning on November 8th.


 
 Read more:
 
 
 The top European river voyages, ranging from the captivating Rhine to the mystical Danube
 

<h2>
 3. Le Commandant Charcot
</h2>
<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1v8egl" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1v8egl.jpg"/>

 French cruise brand Ponant’s
 Le Commandant Charcot
 is referred to as the globe's sole luxurious icebreaking vessel.


 The Antarctic expedition cruise vessel operates using liquefied natural gas (LNG), providing travelers with an eco-friendlier option for discovering less accessible and fragile areas.


 This vessel was the pioneer to achieve the southernmost navigable latitude in the Ross Sea back in February 2022.


 Given that there are 215 crew members for 245 guests, you'll essentially have nearly one staff member per person aboard.


 James Cole, who leads Panache Cruises as CEO, stated
 The Independent:
 She crunches ice, but beyond that, she does so with characteristic French elegance and style.
 Charcot
 enables visitors to feel the excitement of a polar expedition and have an intimate encounter with the fauna as they've never seen before.


 Thanks to the vessel's size and its capability to navigate through icy areas, you always have the chance to set foot on the frozen ground.


 Yet, exploration begins aboard where specialists offer sharp and essential perspectives through their engaging lectures about this captivating ecosystem.


 He comments, "The restaurant is absolutely remarkable. Nuna serves a quintessentially French cuisine, brimming with style and sophistication through its nine-course tasting menus and grand dinner events."


 The price starts at £2,360 per person for a four-night voyage departing from Brest, France, to Reykjavik, Iceland, in April 2026.


 
 Read more:
 
 
 Top European cruise vacation spots
 

<h2>
 4. Queen Mary 2
</h2>
<img data-document-id="cms/api/amp/image/AA1v8egs" data-reference="image" src="https://img-s-msn-com.akamaized.net/tenant/amp/entityid/AA1v8egs.jpg"/>

 Cunard’s newest ship
 , Queen Anne,
 could be celebrated for ushering the brand into contemporary times.
 , but
 Queen Mary 2
 is essential for experiencing classic luxurious sailing.


 Cole describes it as something that "embodies the finest aspects of Britain."


 Launched in 2003, the ship’s 2,691 guests can enjoy a traditional British afternoon tea in-between visiting the on-board planetarium, exploring the 8,000 books in the largest library at sea, as well as watching Royal Shakespeare productions or the English National Ballet during transatlantic sailings between Southampton and New York.


 Plus you can even bring your pet. Cole said: “Cunard offers an incredible pet scheme, where guests can bring dogs, cats or ferrets on board with a doggy daycare centre.


 “Cruisers can relax and leave their dog in safe hands, with the opportunity to visit and walk them in a special area with a fire hydrant upon which they can do their business.”


 Prices start from £269pp for a sailing from Southampton to Hamburg, Germany, or £599pp for a transatlantic crossing from New York back to the UK.


 
 Read more:
 
 
 What Disney’s new $1 billion cruise ship is really like onboard
 

<h2>
 5. RV African Dream
</h2>

 Why limit yourself to sea life when you could combine a cruise with a safari?


 CroisiEurope’s
 RV African Dream
 luxury cruise ship sails on Lake Kariba in Zimbawe.


 Guests get an intimate experience, with space for 16 passengers across eight cabins, with 15 crew.


 Facilities include a sun-deck, lounge and Jacuzzi area when you aren’t enjoying the views of Africa. From February until December,
 African Dream
 sails on an eight-night cruise–safari itinerary, which includes three nights at CroisiEurope’s lodge near Chobe National Park, the second largest game park in Botswana.


 Sanger-Horwell added: “Alongside breathtaking views from your cabin’s French-style balcony or private terrace, you’ll experience thrilling game drives at nearby Chobe National Park and the option to soar above Victoria Falls by helicopter.”


 This fully escorted journey blends comfort and exoticism, giving you a front-row seat to Africa’s stunning landscapes and remarkable wildlife.”


 Pricing can be provided upon inquiry.

<h2>
 6. Scenic Eclipse
</h2>
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 Launched in 2018, Australian-owned
 Scenic Eclipse
 is noted as the globe's premier exploration vessel.


 The expedition vessel accommodates 228 passengers and features areas for two H130 helicopters along with their pilots, enabling them to transport guests on tours around Antarctica during the voyages.


 However, the intriguing aspect lies underneath: the vessel boasts its own specialized submarine called Scenic Neptune, capable of plunging to an astounding depth of 1,000 feet.


 Cole mentioned, "It’s truly a boutique cruising adventure—a compact vessel allows us to anchor at more petite harbors located at the farthest edges of our planet. Despite its modest scale, passengers have access to an array of 10 eateries, each featuring global culinary delights."


 Equipped with an advanced spa facility, Scenic Eclipse features a thermal suite along with a plunge pool intended for guests to unwind and de-stress during their active itinerary.


 Pricing begins at £15,440 for Antarctic voyages in 2025.


 
 Read more:
 
 
 Discovering a frozen island is ideally explored by water.
 


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