Some people hear the word ‘cruise’ and immediately picture enormous ships, crowded buffets and a rather enthusiastic entertainment schedule. But the world of luxury travel by water has been changing, and some of the most interesting developments have very little in common with conventional cruising.
Four Seasons has launched a yacht with a suite bigger than many London houses. Orient Express has built the world's largest sailing yacht. Aman is preparing to bring its famously peaceful approach to the Mediterranean, while specialist expedition vessels are taking travellers into the Amazon rainforest, the Galápagos Islands and Antarctica.
The appeal isn't simply that you can visit several destinations without repeatedly unpacking. It's the opportunity to experience places differently, whether that's arriving in a tiny Mediterranean harbour, watching wildlife from a Zodiac or spending an afternoon swimming straight from your yacht.
And with some of the world's most recognisable hospitality names now involved, the accommodation is becoming every bit as interesting as the itinerary. Here are nine vessels worth knowing about, and why each deserves a place on your travel radar.
The Ritz Carlton Yacht Collection: Evrima
There's something rather satisfying about arriving somewhere like Saint Tropez or St Barths by yacht. Particularly when that yacht comes with a Ritz Carlton suite, a private terrace and someone who already knows how you take your coffee.
Evrima was the first vessel to launch from The Ritz Carlton Yacht Collection in 2022, marking the hotel brand's entry into a world traditionally dominated by cruise operators. At 190 metres long, with 149 suites accommodating up to 298 guests, she's considerably smaller than a conventional cruise ship. That distinction matters. The atmosphere is more akin to a relaxed coastal resort, with intimate restaurants, inviting lounges and plenty of space to find your favourite spot.
The marina is a true standout. When conditions allow, guests can head directly from the yacht onto kayaks or paddleboards, turning an afternoon at anchor into something considerably more interesting than another session beside the pool. There's also a Ritz Carlton Spa, a collection of restaurants and S.E.A., a dining concept created by Sven Elverfeld, whose restaurant at The Ritz Carlton, Wolfsburg, has earned three Michelin stars.
But perhaps Evrima's greatest strength is her versatility. Mediterranean voyages can take in the French Riviera, Greek islands and Croatian coastline, while Caribbean itineraries bring the yacht to the likes of St Barths. The collection has also expanded into the South Pacific, with Evrima's first French Polynesian season introducing voyages around Bora Bora, Mo'orea and Huahine during winter 2026 to 2027.
For travellers who love staying at Ritz Carlton hotels but haven't previously considered a holiday at sea, Evrima makes a fairly persuasive introduction. The surroundings feel reassuringly familiar. It's the view outside your suite that keeps changing.
Four Seasons Yachts: Four Seasons I
How much space does one person really need on holiday? Four Seasons appears to have taken that question as something of a challenge.
Its first yacht, Four Seasons I, made her debut in March 2026 with just 95 suites spread across a 207-metre vessel. The largest, the Funnel Suite, occupies four levels and offers approximately 927 square metres of indoor and outdoor living space. There's a private splash pool, enormous, curved windows and panoramic views that would make even the most spectacular penthouse feel a little ordinary.
Of course, not everyone needs accommodation approaching the size of a small country house. What makes Four Seasons I interesting is how thoroughly the yacht has been designed around space and flexibility. Suites can be connected in more than 100 configurations, making the vessel particularly appealing for families and groups travelling together. Every suite also has its own terrace, so there's no need to compete for a prime spot overlooking the water.
Then there's the transverse marina, arguably the yacht's cleverest feature. Rather than opening solely from the stern, the marina extends across both sides of the vessel, creating an expansive area at sea level for swimming, watersports and lounging. On designated marina days, guests can spend hours enjoying the water without setting foot ashore.
The inaugural itineraries span the Mediterranean in summer, including destinations such as Hydra, Bodrum, Saint Tropez and the Croatian coast, before heading to the Caribbean and Bahamas in winter. Four Seasons also offers tailored shore experiences, which might mean arranging a particular restaurant reservation, cultural visit or private coastal adventure rather than simply choosing from a standard excursion programme.
It's an interesting proposition for travellers who value the freedom of a private yacht but appreciate having a complete Four Seasons hotel at their disposal. And if you happen to book the Funnel Suite, we suspect finding somewhere to put your suitcase won't be a problem.
Aman at Sea: Amangati
There are certain hotels where the greatest luxury is that nobody seems to be in a hurry. Aman has built much of its reputation on precisely that feeling, creating places where privacy, thoughtful design and an almost suspicious level of tranquillity are part of the appeal.
So what happens when you take that philosophy out to sea?
Amangati, the brand's first purpose-built motor yacht, is scheduled to launch in 2027. Its name means ‘peaceful motion’ in Sanskrit, which gives you a fairly good idea of the atmosphere Aman intends to create. The vessel will accommodate just 94 guests across 47 suites, with an emphasis on generous private spaces and the understated design that has become synonymous with the brand.
The interesting thing about Aman at Sea is that it isn't trying to recreate the familiar cruise experience with slightly nicer furniture. The entire concept is built around the feeling of staying at an Aman resort, only with the freedom to explore different coastlines. Expect a substantial focus on wellness, quiet spaces and personal service, with the sea providing a constantly changing backdrop.
Its first voyages are planned for the Mediterranean, where the combination makes particular sense. Imagine spending a morning exploring a historic harbour, returning for a leisurely afternoon aboard and watching the coastline drift past from your suite. No packed sightseeing schedule required.
Amangati will also be available for private charter, which could prove especially appealing to families or groups who already enjoy Aman's more secluded properties.
Aqua Expeditions: Aqua Mare
The Galápagos Islands have a habit of making even the most experienced travellers feel like excitable children. There aren't many places where you can swim alongside penguins, snorkel with curious sea lions and encounter giant tortoises that appear thoroughly unimpressed by your presence.
And then there's Aqua Mare, which makes getting between those encounters rather enjoyable. Built by Italian shipyard CRN, the 50-metre vessel is the first true superyacht to operate in the Galápagos. She has just seven suites for a maximum of 16 guests, including an 80 square metre Owner's Suite, and offers considerably more indoor space than many yachts of a similar size.
What makes Aqua Mare particularly special, though, is the expertise that comes with her. The Galápagos is a destination where understanding what you're seeing can completely change the experience. Expert naturalist guides lead excursions through volcanic landscapes and into the surrounding waters, explaining the truly unique wildlife and evolutionary history that make the islands so fascinating.
Depending on the itinerary and conditions, enjoy kayaking along dramatic coastlines, snorkelling with marine life or heading ashore to observe the islands' famous reptiles and birds. Back aboard, chef Pedro Miguel Schiaffino's menus draw on Peruvian culinary influences, giving the evenings a distinct character of their own.
This isn't a voyage where the ship's facilities are intended to distract you from the destination. Quite the opposite. Aqua Mare provides an unusually comfortable base for exploring one of the most remarkable ecosystems on Earth. And with only 16 guests, there's a good chance you'll remember everyone's name by the end of the journey.
Orient Express Sailing Yachts: Corinthian
For a brand associated with one of the world's most famous train journeys, Orient Express has made a rather ambitious change of direction.
Its first vessel, Corinthian, measures an impressive 220-metres, making her the world's largest sailing yacht. To put that into perspective, she's longer than two football pitches placed end to end yet accommodates just 110 guests across 54 suites.
The most fascinating feature is above deck. Three enormous carbon masts support innovative rigid sails made from reinforced glass panels, rather than traditional fabric. Developed by French shipbuilder Chantiers de l'Atlantique, the technology allows the yacht to harness wind power on a scale rarely seen in modern passenger travel.
It's a remarkable piece of engineering, but Orient Express has also been careful not to forget why people want to travel aboard her in the first place. The interiors celebrate French craftsmanship and decorative design, while the dining experience draws on the expertise of chef Yannick Alléno. A Guerlain spa adds another familiar French name to the experience.
What interests us most is the return of sailing as an experience in itself. Modern travel tends to be concerned with getting somewhere as efficiently as possible. Corinthian invites you to enjoy the journey, whether that's watching the sails catch the wind, lingering over a long dinner or spending a few days with nothing but open water on the horizon.
Her itineraries include the Mediterranean and Atlantic routes, with opportunities to explore European coastlines as well as longer passages connecting destinations. For travellers who enjoy the romance of traditional travel but have absolutely no desire to give up contemporary comforts, it's an appealing combination. The Orient Express was never really about getting from A to B. Corinthian suggests that philosophy works just as well without railway tracks.
Explora Journeys: EXPLORA I
Trying to book a hotel in Monaco during Grand Prix weekend can feel like a competitive event in its own right. The prices are high, the best locations disappear quickly and getting around the principality requires a certain amount of patience. EXPLORA I offers a rather clever alternative.
Launched in 2023, the ship is part of Explora Journeys, a luxury ocean travel brand created by the MSC Group. Her 461 suites and residences all feature private terraces, while six restaurants, 12 bars and lounges, swimming pools and Ocean Wellness facilities give guests plenty of reasons to spend time aboard.
The atmosphere is deliberately more residential than traditional cruising. There are no interior cabins, and the emphasis is on space, contemporary design and enjoying the journey at your own pace. It's a particularly good fit for travellers who like the social atmosphere of a sophisticated hotel but want to explore several destinations along the way.
EXPLORA I sails a range of itineraries, including Mediterranean journeys visiting the Italian and French Rivieras, Greek islands and other European coastal destinations. Yet one of her most interesting experiences involves going absolutely nowhere.
For the Monaco Grand Prix in June 2027, EXPLORA I is scheduled to return to Port Hercule, positioning herself just 150 metres from the circuit. Guests can stay aboard throughout race weekend, with options to arrange Grandstand access or F1 Paddock Club hospitality through selected packages. Race tickets are not automatically included with every suite booking, so choosing the right package is important.
It's an unusually appealing way to experience Formula 1. Spend the day among the crowds and excitement, then retreat to your own terrace, enjoy dinner aboard and watch the harbour come alive after dark. Previous Monaco editions have even welcomed motorsport figures including Sir Jackie Stewart, Mika Häkkinen and David Coulthard. For once, the best part of a cruise might be when the ship stays firmly in port.
Silversea: Silver Endeavour
Welcome to the holiday where you're standing in a Zodiac, surrounded by enormous icebergs, wondering how on earth you ended up somewhere quite so mesmerizing. Built specifically for polar exploration, the expedition ship combines serious technical capabilities with the familiar comforts of Silversea. Her ice strengthened construction allows her to navigate challenging polar waters, while a dedicated expedition team leads excursions and helps guests understand the remarkable environments they're visiting.
The difference between an expedition voyage and a conventional cruise is considerable. You aren't simply sailing past beautiful scenery. You're getting out into it, travelling by Zodiac, making shore landings when conditions permit and learning from specialists in wildlife, geology and polar environments.
Antarctica is the obvious headline destination. Depending on the voyage, guests might encounter vast penguin colonies, watch whales in icy waters or visit remote locations along the Antarctic Peninsula. Some itineraries also include South Georgia and the Falkland Islands, where the wildlife encounters can be every bit as memorable.
But Silver Endeavour doesn't spend her entire life in the Southern Hemisphere. Northern summer voyages explore Arctic destinations including Greenland and Svalbard, where the landscapes, wildlife and cultural encounters offer an entirely different perspective on polar travel.
The onboard experience is a rather welcome contrast to the adventures outside. Suites come with butler service, while restaurants, lounges and the Otium Spa provide somewhere comfortable to return to after a day in the cold. You can be adventurous and still appreciate a glass of Champagne. The two aren't mutually exclusive.
Aman: Amandira
Long before Aman announced plans for Amangati, the brand had already discovered that some of its most interesting destinations were best explored by boat. Amandira is a beautiful example. Rather than the sleek lines of a contemporary superyacht, this 52 metre vessel takes inspiration from Indonesia's traditional phinisi sailing ships, with two masts, timber craftsmanship and a design that feels closely connected to the country's maritime heritage.
There are just five cabins, making her particularly appealing for private groups and families. A crew of 14 includes a private chef, dive master and spa therapist, creating an experience that feels personal without becoming overly formal. But the real reason to book Amandira is where she can take you.
The yacht explores Indonesia's remote islands and marine environments, including the waters around Komodo National Park and Raja Ampat. These are places where travelling by sea isn't simply convenient. It's often the most rewarding way to experience the destination.
Days can involve diving among pristine coral reefs, snorkelling in clear tropical waters, visiting remote beaches or exploring islands that see relatively few visitors. Komodo brings the possibility of encountering its famous dragons on guided excursions, while Raja Ampat is celebrated for its remarkable marine biodiversity.
And because Amandira operates as a private charter experience, the itinerary can be shaped around the interests of the group, whether that's diving, leisurely island exploration or a mixture of both.
Aqua Expeditions: Aqua Nera
A cruise through the Amazon rainforest probably isn't the first thing that comes to mind when you picture a luxury holiday. Humidity, insects and a number of creatures that would rather not be disturbed tend to feature quite prominently in the imagination. Aqua Nera makes a convincing case for reconsidering.
Designed specifically for the Peruvian Amazon, the 20 suite river vessel accommodates up to 40 guests and draws inspiration from the region's mysterious blackwater lagoons. Her interiors combine contemporary design with references to Peru's history and culture, creating a sophisticated atmosphere that feels appropriate to the setting.
Floor to ceiling windows are particularly important here. Unlike an ocean voyage, where the horizon can remain unchanged for hours, the Amazon is constantly revealing something new. Forests line the riverbanks, birds move through the trees and small communities appear along the waterways. Sometimes the most interesting thing to do is simply sit and watch.
Of course, the real adventures take place beyond the ship. Expert naturalist guides lead excursions by skiff and on foot, introducing guests to the extraordinary wildlife of the Amazon basin. Depending on the season and conditions, you might spot pink river dolphins, monkeys, sloths, caimans and an astonishing variety of birds. It's also an opportunity to learn about the communities and ecosystems that make this region so distinctive.
Back aboard, there's a plunge pool, spa, gym and cinema room, alongside cuisine created under the direction of chef Pedro Miguel Schiaffino. His approach draws on ingredients and culinary traditions connected to the region, making dinner another opportunity to discover something new.
Aqua Nera's itineraries explore the Peruvian Amazon and its tributaries, with voyages of varying lengths allowing guests to experience the rainforest at different paces. This is one of those journeys where the destination changes your understanding of what a holiday can be. And, rather conveniently, you can experience it without sacrificing a comfortable bed or a very good dinner.
So, is luxury cruising worth reconsidering?
If you've always dismissed cruising as something that isn't quite your style, these vessels might change your mind.
The important thing is choosing the right experience. A voyage aboard Four Seasons I is very different from exploring Antarctica on Silver Endeavour. Corinthian celebrates the romance of sailing, while Aqua Mare is all about extraordinary wildlife. EXPLORA I can put you in the middle of Monaco's most exciting weekend, and Amandira offers the freedom to explore Indonesia with a yacht almost entirely to yourselves.
The common thread is that the journey becomes part of the holiday rather than simply a way of getting between places.
And that's what makes this new generation of luxury travel by water so interesting. You can enjoy the service, design and comfort of an exceptional hotel, while waking up somewhere completely different.
Ready to find your sea legs?
Speak to your Winged Boots personal travel manager and we'll help you discover a voyage worth leaving dry land for enquire today.
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