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The 11 Best Luxury Cruise Lines, According to T+L's Experts

These luxury cruise lines offer stunning suites, fine dining, and exceptional itineraries.

Meena Thiruvengadam is a lifelong traveler and veteran journalist who has visited more than 50 countries across six continents. Her writing has appeared in The Wall Street Journal , Departures , TripSavvy , and other publications.

Cruising is back — and you might even say it's better than ever. "Vacations at sea are suddenly one of the biggest things in travel," Travel + Leisure cruise expert Paul Brady reported recently, as summer air travel is looking progressively messier but the cruise industry continues to stabilize post-pandemic. For those looking to plan a cruise, whether it's a last-minute trip for the summer or a 2024 around-the-world cruise, we've narrowed down the best luxury cruise lines to ferry you to some of the world's most mesmerizing destinations in comfort. Here, our favorite luxury cruise lines in the world.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

When this luxury cruise line says it's all-inclusive, it's not overstating. Everything from shore excursions, Wi-Fi, and laundry to gratuities, top-shelf liquor, and business-class international flights are included with Regent Seven Seas Cruises ' fares. While each luxurious suite features ocean views, nothing beats the view from the epic 4,000-square-foot, two-bedroom Regent Suite, which has two wraparound balconies, three walk-in closets, two Picasso lithographs, and a grand piano.

For the best in-suite views, book a room at the back of the ship, Kelly Cochrane, executive chef of Regent Seven Seas Cruises tells T+L.

Oceania Cruises

Oceania Cruises has just seven ships, but the debut of the brand-new Oceania Vista catapults this cruise line into the luxury division. The cruise line's relatively new Go Local shore excursions for small groups bring travelers to under-the-radar destinations, T+L contributing editor and long-time cruiser Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon reported recently. Her 2022 cruise on Riviera included 70 excursions "from canoeing Croatia’s Cetina River to cooking classes in Athens."

If you've ever dreamed of having your own butler, Silversea is the luxury cruise line for you. In fact, Silversea's butlers take white-glove service to a whole new level — they'll handle your laundry with more care than you do, scour port towns to find your favorite tastes of home, and even help you pack and unpack your suitcase. Further, Silversea's new culinary program, nicknamed S.A.L.T. (for Sea and Land Taste), brings the taste of destinations on board through cooking classes. Of course, there's no need to cook for yourself aboard a Silversea ship, as each one features several restaurants with multi-course menus to whet your appetite every night.

Viking Cruises

Viking Cruises is a river and ocean cruise line that recently added expedition sailings and the Great Lakes trips to its repertoire. "T+L readers rave about the consistency of Viking's vessels and their Scandinavian design," cruise expert Fran Golden reported when Viking once again topped T+L's World's Best Awards last year. Viking came in at No. 1 in T+L's best mid-size ship category and river cruise category. Golden said the WBA Hall of Fame honoree's 50 river "longships" are "light-filled floating boutique hotels."

Laureen Robert / Courtesy of Ponant

French luxury cruise line Ponant aims to make passengers feel as if they're traveling on their own private yachts. Guests enjoy Ladurée macarons, Veuve Clicquot Champagne, and luxurious Hermès bath products on board. Each of the company's ships features an onboard spa with massage cabins and either a Turkish bath or sauna. Ponant's luxurious small ships sail to remote destinations like Antarctica, incorporating once-in-a-lifetime experiences such as eclipse spotting from the edge of the earth. The company also partners with Smithsonian and Disney on certain sailings.

Seabourn cruises to all seven continents, and most recently launched Seabourn Venture , "marking the first time the Carnival Corporation–owned luxury cruise line will offer adventurous sailings on an expedition ship built for extreme environments," Brady reported. (The sibling ship to Venture , Seabourn Pursuit arrives later this year.) The World's Best Award-winning cruise line has all-suite ships and "is known for its onboard service and over-the-top food including complimentary caviar and Thomas Keller steakhouses on ships such as the  Seabourn Ovation, " Brady said.

Windstar Cruises

Windstar Cruises ' luxury small ships call on 150 ports throughout Europe, Central America, the Caribbean, and the South Pacific, and there's no way you'll go hungry on the journey. Exquisite onboard menus have been designed by acclaimed chefs from Michelin-starred restaurants. (You'll have to pay extra for alcohol, but all meals and a Windstar signature onboard barbecue — a feast of whole suckling pig, shrimp brochette, and more — are included.) The cruise line is not only a T+L World's Best Awards Hall of Fame honoree, it has a "long-standing partnership with the James Beard Foundation ," Brady reported, and regularly brings chefs on board for culinary-focused sailings. Yes, chef.

Courtesy of Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours

Whether it's a river or an ocean you want to cruise, Scenic can take you there in style. The luxury cruise line operates river cruises in Europe and Asia, while ocean cruises on Scenic Eclipse (and the forthcoming Scenic Eclipse II ) can take guests to Antarctica, the Arctic, Australia, South America, and Greenland, among other coveted destinations. On board, you'll find fine dining, expansive spas and fitness facilities, and butler service.

Cunard Line

Jonathan Atkin / Courtesy of Cunard Line

This British luxury cruise line is known for its transatlantic service, which also transports pets between its headquarters in Southampton, England, and New York City. Cunard operates three ships with a fourth in the works, though only the Queen Mary 2 sails the transatlantic route. It's a cruise line that takes formality seriously; white-gloved waiters serve afternoon tea each day at 3:30 p.m. State rooms include 24-hour room service and evening turndown service with chocolates. Don't forget your tux, the gala nights are black tie.

Paul Gauguin Cruises

Roger Paperno / Courtesy of Paul Gauguin Cruises

Paul Gauguin Cruises operates just one ship, but it is exquisite, hosting 330 guests and sailing only in the South Pacific to destinations like Tahiti, Fiji, Tonga, and the Cook Islands. The ship is small enough to access private ports at remote beaches and take travelers well off the beaten path. Named the best small-ship ocean cruise line in T+L's 2022 World's Best Awards, Golden said the line is known for Tahitian-inspired massage techniques in the onboard spa and noted that cruisers particularly love the wonderful staff.

Celebrity Cruises

Steve Dunlop / Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises ' new Edge Series ships are taking things up a notch. Celebrity's signature Iconic Suites on board the Celebrity Edge and Apex offer panoramic views from above the ship's bridge; each suite boasts more than 2,500 square feet of space, including expansive 690-square-foot terraces, and comes with two bedrooms and two bathrooms. Celebrity Beyond , which debuted in 2022, accommodates 3,260 guests has 32 bars and restaurants, like Le Voyage by chef Daniel Boulud, and two-story villas on board. Beyond 's sibling ship, Ascent , will be delivered later this year.

• Going on a Luxury Cruise

When it comes to an unforgettable cruise experience, luxury cruises are the cream of the crop. From all-inclusive fares to exclusive shore excursions, supersized suites and six-star service, luxury cruise lines really go above and beyond to make your vacation the best it can possibly be. Here we explore the ins and outs of luxury cruising and help you find and plan the cruise vacation that will be perfect for you. 

So what exactly makes luxury cruises different from the rest of the cruise lines on offer? Is it really worth the extra money? What are the best luxury cruise lines and destinations? These are important questions, and we will answer them for you here. You can also find out how to find the best luxury cruise, what the best luxury cruise destinations are, and everything you need to know about luxury cruising. If you want to get more inspiration on where to go on a premium cruise, we have also put together the best L uxury Caribbean Cruises ,  The Top 8 Luxury Mediterranean Cruises , and everything you need to know about  Luxury Cruises for Couples .

7 Main Differences Between Luxury & Mainstream Cruises

The 4 most popular luxury cruise lines, all-inclusive luxury cruises, what won't you find on a luxury cruise.

When it comes to the main differences between luxury and mainstream cruises, things usually break down in terms of quality vs. quantity. For example, while you may have an abundance of dining and entertainment options on a  Royal Caribbean mega-ship, the average quality of each restaurant, class, spa, or excursion will be lower than on a luxury ship. Here are some of the biggest differences between luxury and mainstream cruises.

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1. Price of luxury cruises vs other types of cruises

It’s true - luxury cruises come at a premium. While we don’t want to suggest that it’s impossible to find discounted fares or affordable luxury sailings (in fact, Seabourn, Regent Seven Seas, and Cunard all tend to offer significant  discounts within 100 days of departure ), it’s far more likely to find fares up to 5 times as expensive as mainstream cruise prices. While these prices can seem sky-high, it's important to bear in mind that most luxury cruises are all-inclusive. This means that you pay more for upfront (sometimes significantly more), but you avoid the nickel-and-diming that happens on standard or mainstream cruises. From specialty restaurants to gratuities, costly cocktails, and shore excursions, standard cruises can quickly add up  extra fees that can leave a sour taste at the end of your cruise. 

Don't believe us? Check out this price comparison of three Caribbean cruises - one on a luxury line, one on a premium cruise line, and one on a standard cruise line:

Price comparison for 7 Night Caribbean Cruise

Prices shown are per person for double occupancy. They do not include taxes & fees.

2. More space for passengers in suites and common areas

Luxury accommodations are one perk of paying higher prices, and almost all luxury lines offer all-suite staterooms. These more spacious suites also feature ocean views and balconies, and many are bedecked with finer furnishings, including designer toiletries from Bulgari, L’Occitane, and Hermès. While common areas and dining rooms may lack the grandeur of larger ships, they still offer breezy comfort and uncramped coziness.

3. Better service before, during, and after the cruise

It goes almost without saying that the onboard service of luxury cruise lines is excellent, with personal touches that exceed expectations being the norm. However, even before you board or after you disembark, these cruise lines go above and beyond with their standard of service.  Airport transfers are often included and are just the beginning - many lines also offer pre- and post-cruise accommodation in luxury partner hotels or superb, stylish shore experiences (Regent Seven Seas and Silversea Cruises are two such lines). These extra perks may cost extra, but for many cruisers, the peace of mind is well worth it.

On many luxury cruises, the staff-to-guest ratio is a mere 1-to-2, meaning that attentive service is available day or night. Staff and crew also undergo rigorous training, and the butler service offered by many luxury cruises anticipates needs and handles requests without passengers having to ask.

4. Exotic itineraries

Tired of visiting the same ports and tourist hubs cruise after the cruise? Perhaps you’re a seasoned traveler who’s new to cruising and you’re looking for something unconventional to tempt your wanderlust? With luxury cruises, it’s much easier to  find itineraries that are off the beaten path. As luxury lines typically feature smaller ships, more isolated ports are available in every region - from  exclusive Mediterranean islands to tough-to-reach Alaskan hideaways or hidden  beaches in the Caribbean . Not only that but luxury cruises also often plan overnight stays in more popular ports so passengers can have time and space to immerse themselves after the crowds from larger cruise ships have dispersed.

5. Enrichment over entertainment

Luxury and premium cruises tend to cater to an older, quieter clientele, many of whom are well-heeled and cosmopolitan and value immersive small-group courses over action-packed entertainment. That’s not to say there isn’t any entertainment on high-end cruises. Rather, the focus tends to be more on the people on board, connecting passengers with each other, and in the experience of each port’s unique culture, cuisine, and camaraderie. While some luxury ships do still offer full theatrical productions, that’s about as showy as it gets.

6. Fine dining

Dining options aboard a luxury cruise leave almost nothing to be desired. In fact, most luxury lines have their own preferred partner chef curating culinary creations for the specialty restaurants on the small ships. Thomas Keller, the chef behind many a Michelin-starred restaurant, has lent his expertise to Seabourn, and his recipes can be sampled on all of Seabourn’s ships. Similarly, Crystal Cruises has partnered with chef Nobu Matsuhisa to offer Japanese dining and Paul Gauguin Cruises paired with French chef Jean-Pierre Vigato.

If you have a hankering for something specific, you can always alert the maitre and the resident chef, who will be happy to whip up something special for you with a bit of notice. If food is an important aspect for you, check out our article including the best premium and luxury cruises for foodies.

7. All-inclusive fares

While luxury cruise fares may seem steep upfront, the vast majority of high-end cruises are all-inclusive. This means that everything - from drinks and meals to Wi-Fi and gratuities - is covered in the cost of your ticket. Some cruise lines, like Viking Ocean Cruises and SeaDream Yacht Club , also include a shore excursion in every port. While Crystal Cruises doesn’t have a line-wide included shore tour, their yacht Crystal Esprit does come with an included excursion.

Of course, it’s important to keep in mind that “all-inclusive” doesn’t always cover all costs on every luxury cruise. While lines like  Azamara Club Cruises  include gratuities and alcoholic beverages, others, like  Viking Ocean Cruises , do not. Keep reading to see a breakdown of what is included (and what isn’t) for the industry’s leading luxury cruise lines.

Finding your perfect luxury cruise line can be very difficult. At first sight, all luxury cruise lines seem to be quite similar. They all stand out with high-class service, excellent cuisine, mind-blowing itineraries, and spacious, elegant cabins. But if you dig a little deeper you will discover many differences. Perhaps it’s the inclusiveness of the fares, the itineraries, or the luxury ship sizes that will make you choose one cruise line over another. We had a closer look at the four most popular luxury cruise lines ranked by LTI - the  Luxury Travel Intelligence to give you a sense of how they differ and what you can expect from luxury cruise lines. 

1. Seabourn Cruise Line

Seabourn Cruise Line excels in all the luxury areas: Intuitive service, first-class cuisine, and relatively inclusive fares offering an elegant but unpretentious atmosphere at the same time. It’s mid-size, 450-passenger vessels offer well-appointed veranda suites, a huge spa complex, modern pool decks, a retractable water sports marina, fantastic gourmet cuisine and a full complement of entertainment staff that performs throughout the ship. Seabourn also travels to locations all around the world ranging from the Calan to the Amazon and even the Arctic circle. Through their partnership with UNESCO, they offer shore excursions and onboard enrichment that focus on World Heritage sites and projects.

2. Crystal Cruises

2020 heralds Crystal Cruises 30th year of luxury travel. It’s fleet including the largest ships of major luxury brands (Crystal Serenity packing 1070 passengers), travels to 818 different locations and offers 2000 different shore excursions. On a Crystal Cruises ship, you can not only find Michelin-inspired cuisine in 24h in-suite dining, Master sommeliers and Connoisseurs Wine Lists, high-tech computers, and paradisiacal Spas but also industry-leading staff-to-guest service ratios. When it comes to destinations, you do not have to make any concessions with crystal cruises. From luxury cruises to the Mediterranean , ocean voyages to global destinations including epic World Cruises, Expedition adventures from pole to pole or River cruises on the Danube, Rhine, Main & Moselle rivers, your inner adventurer will get his money worth. Despite the thoroughly luxurious character of the ships, the dinner times and dress codes are more flexible than on other luxury cruise ships.

3. Regent Seven Seas

Regent Seven Seas is one of the most inclusive of all the luxury lines. Their fares cover cruise prices, pre- and post-cruise tours and hotel stays, transfers, gratuities, internet, shore excursions, beverages, and sometimes also airfares. Their ships go to nearly every continent including round-trip flights with various airlines and also offer unlimited shore excursions across more than 450 ports of call around the globe. Passenger counts ranging from 490 to 750 people at double occupancy. On a Regent Seven Seas Cruise, you can enjoy the spa, culture, and entertainment at its finest. Regent Seven Seas Cruises generally targets upper-middle-class or elites as its fares are quite high. It offers ideal luxury cruises for couples . Voyagers who opt for a Regent cruise are usually mature and highly-qualified individuals

4. Silversea Cruises

Silversea cruises fleet is very diverse - they offer four older under 400 passenger ships and three luxury expedition ships, including one that sails exclusively in the breath-taking landscapes of the Galapagos. Their fleet includes the smallest luxury cruise ships with no children’s programming and a minimum of scheduled onboard activities. You will also get pampered by exclusive butler service in every cabin and an array of outstanding dining venus, including the only Relais & Chateaux restaurant at sea. Especially middle-age and older couples are attracted by Silversea. With the combination of onboard pampering with adventurous destinations, all kind of cruisers will get their money worth. Their expedition vessels seek out to exotic locales for both soft adventures in places like Asia and Australasia and rugged exploration in Antarctica or the arctic. Of course, also luxury cruises to the Caribbean are included. Silversea offers the perfect combination between typical luxury cruises and upscale adventures. 

As mentioned earlier, when it comes to choosing which luxury cruise line is right for you, it’s important to keep in mind what’s actually included in the fare. If you’re a digital nomad, you’ll want to pick a line with included Wi-Fi, as daily usage rates can rack up fast. If the network connection is less important, but shore experiences are a high priority, opt for a line like Viking or Regent Seven Seas. Here’s what you can expect to be included in the cost of your cruise.

What's included by cruise line?

While it’s certainly true that there are plenty of included amenities and services onboard a luxury cruise, there are also some things you definitely won’t find. In order to ensure the best experience, it’s important to bear in mind the things that you won’t likely encounter on a luxury cruise.

We touched on this earlier, but it’s worth mentioning again. Because luxury cruises tend to cater to an older, more refined demographic, you’re unlikely to find costumed characters, Broadway-style musicals, or off-color comedy shows while onboard. Entertainment options on luxury cruises tend to be in the realm of cooking and yoga classes, wine tastings, and the occasional theatrical performance.

Party atmosphere

While many cruise lines market themselves as fun, vibrant vacations where you can let loose or unleash your inner kid, luxury cruises tend to focus more on providing high-quality service, top tier itineraries, and delectable dining. Enrichment programs are easy to find and smaller ship sizes mean more memorable connections with fellow passengers, but after-dark entertainment tends more toward jazz club than a nightclub, with many passengers in bed by midnight.

Theme parties

Perhaps you’re sensing a bit of a theme (no pun intended). Theme parties, costume contests, or other playful pursuits tend to be limited on luxury cruises if they happen at all. It’s true that some lines still offer the occasional theme night, but these tend to be upscale, elegant, and formal. While many luxury lines have almost entirely done away with formal or semiformal dress codes, you’ll still be hard-pressed to find a karaoke night or drag show on a luxury cruise.

Can't wait to go on a Luxury Mediterranean Cruise now? Simply use our  cruise search  to narrow your focus and activate a free price alert to be automatically notified of any price changes. You can also take advantage of our price prediction analytics to save even more money.

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Check out these articles for more information on luxury cruises:

• Top 8 Luxury Mediterranean Cruises: Best Ports and Excursions
• Luxury Caribbean Cruises: What to Know and Where to go
• Luxury Cruises for Couples: Best Cruise Lines, Activities and Destinations

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5 secrets to getting a luxury cruise for less

Editor's Note

Luxury cruises range in price from expensive to outrageously expensive. But the value of high-end ships is clear: For the money, you get more fare inclusions, nicer accommodations, upscale dining and higher space-to-passenger and crew-to-passenger ratios than on big, mass-market ships.

Still, sometimes you want the luxe for less.

You'll never find a cheap luxury cruise, but you can find sailings that are less expensive than others (either when sorting by the total cost or the per-night rate). You might have to compromise on sail dates or take a risk with the weather, but you can get great value by choosing the cruise less traveled.

Here are the five most affordable luxury cruises we could find so you can save a little bit when you sail in style.

For more cruise guides, news and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Fall Caribbean cruises

Caribbean cruises might be the bread and butter of mass-market cruise lines, but they don't have the same prominence among the itineraries of the luxury lines. Tropical cruises on luxury lines tend to be shorter sailings, taking place in the fall and winter (rather than year-round) and often targeting younger professionals who might not have the time to take two-week vacations.

Combine those factors with a shoulder-season fall travel date (between mid-September and the week before Christmas), and you have yourself a more affordable luxury cruise.

For example, Regent Seven Seas Cruises ' 2024-2025 Caribbean season runs from November through March. The least expensive sailing for the season takes place in early December in the travel lull between Thanksgiving and Christmas. Fares start at $4,299 per person for a weeklong round-trip cruise from Miami. A similar seven-night sailing costs $4,999 ($700 more) in February.

Related: How to snag cruise ship suites for less

Shoulder-season Alaska cruises

No matter which cruise line you sail, it's a truth universally acknowledged that the first and last Alaska sailings of the season are the most affordable. Why? Timing and weather.

The Alaska cruise season begins in late April or May and runs through September and occasionally October. These travel dates are often nonstarters for families who wait for the summer school break to take their vacations. Even travelers not bound by school schedules sometimes shy away from these cruises because of the imperfect weather conditions.

In May, temperatures can still be chilly in Alaska, waterways in glacier areas can be clogged with ice, Alaska's famous salmon haven't started to run and bus service at Alaska's famed Denali National Park hasn't yet begun. In September and October, the temperatures start dropping — and the rain keeps falling — and attractions such as Denali begin to close.

All that said, if you're willing to take a risk on the weather and aren't planning a land tour up to Denali, you can score a deal on a high-end Alaska sailing during these off-peak times.

In 2025, a September Alaska cruise on Silversea starts at $4,500 per person on Silver Moon. The same cruise in July starts at $5,900, making the shoulder-season cruise $1,400 less expensive. Even better, May is less rainy than July, so you could experience sunnier days on the more affordable sailing.

Related: The best time to go on a cruise

Transatlantic crossings

Many travelers choose their cruise for the ports of call. Cruisers are drawn to the destinations, whether they're checking exotic ports off their bucket list or love spending time on the beach. It's no surprise, then, that longer-than-average itineraries with few to no port calls are not warmly embraced by many cruise fans (except for devoted sea-day lovers).

Because many cruise ships regularly reposition between Europe (where they spend the summer) and the Caribbean (where they spend the winter), transatlantic crossings are inevitable. To attract guests, the cruise lines add interesting onboard activities and guest lecturers to the voyage, and they lower prices. If you love relaxing sea days and would revel in spending day after day in the middle of the ocean, an ocean crossing is a surefire way to get a luxury cruise experience for less.

Small, all-inclusive line SeaDream is a solid example of how affordable transatlantic sailings can get. In 2025, SeaDream 1 will sail its last Mediterranean cruise of the season from Barcelona to Malaga, Spain, and cruise prices start at $6,799 for an eight-night cruise. The ship then sails from Malaga across the Atlantic to San Juan, Puerto Rico. That 13-night sailing is five nights longer than the preceding cruise, but its starting price is $3,799 — a $3,000 difference.

Entry-level cabins

As a traveler chasing luxury, you're all about the upgrade. To get a great price on a high-end cruise ship, you might want to reconsider your aversion to booking the cheapest rooms.

Entry-level suites on the nicest ships are not the windowless closets you'll find on some of the mass-market ships. They're spacious cabins with either windows or private balconies and separate sleeping and sitting areas; many have nicely appointed, reasonably sized bathrooms and often walk-in or large closets. You'll get the same personal service, have access to the same gourmet dining and can enjoy the same ship amenities (a spa, a serene pool deck, social lounges and more) as folks in the top suites.

Also, you'll pay less. For example, an entry-level suite on luxury line Seabourn 's Seabourn Encore is a veranda suite measuring 246 to 302 square feet with a 68- to 83-square-foot private balcony. On a seven-night Greece and Turkey cruise departing in June 2025, prices for these rooms start at $5,499 per person. Opt for the next suite level up — a 450-square-foot penthouse suite with a 93- to 103-square-foot balcony — and prices start at $9,299. That's an increase of $3,800, all for a suite you won't spend much time in on this port-intensive itinerary.

Related: The best luxury cruise lines for elegance and exclusivity

Suite enclaves on big ships

Several big-ship cruise lines have entered the luxury travel space with suite enclaves that come with extra amenities, and the options can be affordable by luxury standards. These cruises are ideal for families looking for upscale accommodations combined with robust children's programming or luxury travelers who prefer a more casual vibe or a wealth of entertainment and activity options on board.

Options include Norwegian Cruise Line 's The Haven, Royal Caribbean 's Royal Suite Class and MSC Cruises ' Yacht Club. Travelers who book these suites get VIP treatment compared to their shipmates. They have access to exclusive restaurants, lounges and sun decks; get priority boarding and theater seating; and might even receive more fare inclusions such as drink packages, internet access, gratuities and butler service (depending on the category booked).

Cruise fares in these top suites aren't cheap, but they can be comparatively affordable in two ways. First, Royal Caribbean, MSC and Norwegian cruise ships typically sail shorter itineraries than true luxury lines, so you could book a short cruise to spend less on your total vacation cost. Second, while prices are comparable to the luxury lines and can skyrocket when ships start to sell out, you can sail in the ship's top suites for what you'd pay for midlevel on a luxury ship.

For example, you can book an aft-facing penthouse with a large balcony (619 to 668 square feet with a 199- to 248-square-foot balcony) on a seven-night Caribbean cruise on Norwegian Encore for $4,426 per person (including fees) on a February 2026 sailing. It comes with all of NCL's Free at Sea inclusions (drinks, dining, Wi-Fi and shore excursion credit), as well as the services of a butler and concierge, and access to The Haven's private lounge, restaurant and sun deck.

A weeklong Regent Seven Seas cruise to the Caribbean in February costs $10,349 per person for a 655-square-foot Grandeur Suite (with a 166- to 263-square-foot balcony). The cheapest veranda suite on that sailing starts at $4,999 per person — still more expensive than a suite in Norwegian's The Haven.

Related: The 7 best cruise ship suites — picked by someone who has seen them all

Bottom line

A luxury cruise will never be cheap, but you can find ways to spend less when you travel on high-end ships. Booking early and taking advantage of limited-time promotions will also help you save when you sail in style.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

Amazing Deals: How to Find Discounted Luxury Cruises

C ruising is an excellent way to explore more of the world, and for some travelers, it's especially ideal. They can see multiple destinations during their vacation and feel less overwhelmed about the trip's logistics because most of the planning details are handled already. Cruise deals are an excellent option for cruisers who want to avoid overpaying for travel.

Standard cruise lines aren't the only brands that promote cruise deals. You can book discounted luxury cruises if you prefer more luxury amenities while traveling. Are you ready to set sail? Here are four tips to help you find luxury cruise deals that won't drain your bank account .

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1. Act fast to lock in the lowest prices

Luxury cruise lines typically offer the best prices to those who book early. As more travelers book, prices rise due to greater demand and reduced cabin availability. Last-minute cruise deals exist, but there are no guarantees that you'll be able to score a last-minute deal -- so don't delay. If you want to book a specific luxury cruise, make your reservation as early as possible to get the best price.

2. Browse cruise deal websites for promotions

If you want to book a luxury cruise without the high price tag, it can be beneficial to dig into websites that aggregate cruise deals. These websites highlight the latest cruise sales to help travelers like you get the best deal. Here are a few cruise deal websites to consider:

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• Cruises.com
• CruiseDirect
• Cruise Critic

3. Consider booking an entry-level cabin

You may also be able to save money another way: check the pricing for entry-level cabins. You can enjoy the many benefits of sailing with a luxury brand without having to spring for a premium cabin with a higher price tag. You'll enjoy the same food, amenities, and service.

Entry-level cabins are smaller than premium cabins, but generally, the cabins on luxury cruise ships are much bigger than those found on ships for more mainstream lines. The best part is you'll still be treated like a VIP -- but you'll get a better deal on the price of your cruise.

4. Look to your favorite luxury brands for sales

Luxury cruise lines aren't known for having frequent sales, but you can still score a deal if you find a sale. If a specific cruise isn't doing as well, a luxury brand may run a sale to fill more cabins. Follow luxury cruise lines on social media and sign up for email newsletters so you don't miss out on upcoming sales that could help you stretch your vacation budget further.

Make dreams of taking a luxury cruise a reality

Even on a tight budget, you can cruise the world in style. Use the above tips to find more affordable luxury cruise options. If the higher price point is holding you back, begin setting aside money in your vacation fund. Every little bit saved adds up and gets you close to your goal.

Over time, your savings will grow and you'll have the money you need to book an exciting cruise adventure in the future. But make sure you keep your savings in a high-yield savings account so you earn interest. For additional money-saving tips, check out our personal finance resources .

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The 13 best solo cruises for 2024 (no supplement fare).

Set sail for a solo adventure at sea.

The Best Solo Cruises

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Relax by the pool, attend shows, dine with new friends and more on your next solo cruise.

Whether you're embarking on your first cruise alone or you've been on solo cruises before, single travelers will find more options than ever when it comes to cruising solo. Many cruise lines offer single staterooms with the same amenities as other cabins, at a price similar to what you'd pay with double occupancy fares. You'll also find special promotions where the single supplement fee is reduced or waived, making it more affordable to reserve a spacious stateroom or luxurious suite with even more amenities – including personalized butler service, an added perk of booking with many luxury lines .

If you're ready for a maritime adventure, an extended vacation or simply a quick getaway from home, these top cruise lines offer some of the best options for solo travelers on waterways around the world.

Lines with solo accommodations and waived fees

Norwegian cruise line.

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Launched in 2010, Norwegian Epic was the first cruise ship in the industry to feature studio accommodations for solo travelers. Norwegian Cruise Line offers this category on nine of the 19 ships in its fleet, including the newest ship, Norwegian Viva. These cabins, at an average size of 100 square feet, are designed and priced with the solo traveler in mind. They have no single supplements – and studio rooms on board Norwegian Bliss even boast virtual windows.

Guests of the studios get access to the private Studio Lounge. In this exclusive space, you can socialize with other solo travelers and enjoy complimentary refreshments. There are also singles meetups throughout the voyage and plenty of fun-filled onboard activities to mingle with like-minded cruisers. Solo travelers can check out all the fun for singles on Norwegian Viva this winter on a cruise to the Caribbean , or in spring 2024 as the ship sets sail for the Mediterranean .

Book a Norwegian Cruise Line voyage on GoToSea, a service of U.S. News.

MSC Cruises

Courtesy of MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises offers interior and balcony solo cabins for single cruisers on its Meraviglia-class ships: the MSC Meraviglia, Bellissima, Grandiosa, Virtuosa and the newest vessel in the fleet, MSC Euribia. The second-newest ship, MSC World Europa, has 28 cabins – 10 Studio Interior and 18 Studio Ocean View staterooms – designed specifically for solo travelers. MSC World America, set to debut in 2025, will also feature the solo studio staterooms.

During voyages with MSC Cruises , single cruisers are invited to a complimentary, hosted cocktail party to mix and mingle with other solo travelers. The daily program is also an excellent source to discover additional activities, entertainment and opportunities to meet other cruisers. You'll have onboard special events like the themed 70s-inspired Flower Party and the White Party, where the ship is decked out in festive white decor and guests don their best white attire. In addition, there are various sports tournaments, or you can show off your culinary expertise during a MasterChef competition.

MSC's Caribbean and Bahamas cruises departing from Miami and New York City feature an overnight visit to Ocean Cay, the line's private island and marine reserve. While there, singles can participate in fun-filled evening activities like a Champagne Sunset Cruise or a glow paddleboarding excursion in the lagoon, then attend the lively Luna Libre Party and the lighthouse show.

Find an MSC Cruises itinerary on GoToSea.

Holland America Line

Michel Verdure | Courtesy of Holland America Line

Three of Holland America Line's newest ships each offer 12 solo cabins to accommodate single travelers: the Pinnacle-class Nieuw Amsterdam, Rotterdam and Konigsdam. These ocean view staterooms range in size from 127 to 172 square feet and feature the same amenities as the double occupancy cabins but with a double bed. The cruise line's Single Staterooms are priced for one person. If a guest chooses to book a different stateroom, single supplements for double occupancy cabins are as much as 100% over the standard fare, depending on the voyage and the cabin category.

Long committed to solo travelers, the line offers many activities where guests can meet other singles such as wine tastings, cocktail mixers, exercise classes, daily quizzes, sports challenges and more. If you're a solo traveler and a member of AARP, Holland America is now the exclusive cruise benefit provider to AARP's members. Solo cruisers will have access to an AARP member-only onboard credit that ranges from $50 to $200, depending on the itinerary and stateroom category.

For itineraries, Holland America's Alaska cruises and cruisetours are perfect for solo travelers, offering many opportunities to connect with fellow cruisers. Another favorite for singles is the line's fall voyages sailing from Boston to Québec City or Montreal.

Explore Holland America Line deals on GoToSea.

Royal Caribbean International

Michel Verdure | Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean International features studio staterooms on select ships that range in size from 101 to 199 square feet. These solo accommodations include interior rooms, virtual balcony staterooms and a super studio ocean view stateroom with a balcony. The cabins do not carry the single supplement fee singles encounter when booking other types of staterooms, making them an attractive option when traveling alone.

Once on board the ship, solo cruisers will have countless options to engage and socialize with other travelers. When it comes to dining with Royal Caribbean , make a reservation at the Japanese restaurant Teppanyaki for an entertaining meal with new friends, or join fellow foodies for the intimate Chef's Table experience (the dining venues vary by ship). Singles can also participate in onboard activities like trivia contests, drink seminars, escape rooms, dance classes and pool parties.

If you need more thrills to stay busy and to meet people, Royal Caribbean's ships feature world-class shows and entertainment alongside adrenaline-pumping rides and attractions. If you're sailing in the Caribbean, there are plenty of opportunities to meet and chat with other passengers at the line's private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Compare Royal Caribbean International cruises on GoToSea.

Atlas Ocean Voyages

Luxury line Atlas Ocean Voyages offers single cruisers 183 square feet of beautifully appointed space in solo accommodations that come without single supplement fees. These ocean view staterooms feature a queen bed, a panoramic picture window, a private spa bathroom with a rain shower and body jets, a stocked minifridge replenished daily with personal favorites, and other luxurious amenities. Single guests can also book other stateroom or suite categories with single supplements starting at 50% of the double occupancy price.

The line's three intimate yacht-style cruise ships – World Navigator, World Traveller and the new World Voyager, whose inaugural season begins in Antarctica in November 2023 – are all-inclusive . Meals at all the dining venues, premium beverages and wines, gratuities, culturally immersive excursions, and more are included in the fare. With fewer than 200 guests on board, there's an atmosphere of conviviality on these ships – especially when exploring remote destinations with like-minded and adventurous travelers during expeditions in Antarctica and the Arctic.

Read: The Top Cruises on Small Ships

Celebrity Cruises

Tim Aylen | Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises' new Edge-class ships offer some of the best options for solo cruisers. The line's two newest vessels, Celebrity Beyond and Celebrity Ascent (set to debut in late 2023), each boast 32 single staterooms with an Infinite Veranda. In addition, Celebrity Apex has 24 solo cabins, and Celebrity Edge features 16 staterooms for individual guests. These one-person accommodations offer a minimum of 131 square feet of space and the same upscale amenities you'll find in other category staterooms on their ships. Solo guests can look for special promotions where the single supplement is waived on select Celebrity voyages throughout the year.

Once on board the vessel, check out the daily program for activities conducive to meeting others – like wine tastings, cocktail-making classes and more. You'll also enjoy thrilling top-notch entertainment around the ship in The Theatre, The Club and Eden. A few popular cruises for singles are the line's Caribbean and Mexico itineraries on Celebrity Beyond.

Book a Celebrity Cruise on GoToSea.

Virgin Voyages

Courtesy of Virgin Voyages

The hip vibe on board the adults-only Virgin Voyages ships is ideal for solo cruisers looking to meet other travelers. Its superyacht-style ships – Scarlet Lady, Valiant Lady and Resilient Lady – offer 40 interior cabins ranging in size from 105 to 177 square feet. There are also six Sea View staterooms with portholes boasting between 130 to 190 square feet of space. These Insider and Sea View cabins are designed and priced for single travelers, with amenities like high-tech mood lighting and roomy rain showers. The line also runs promotions where solo cruisers can book double occupancy staterooms without paying a single supplement.

Activities and festival-like entertainment around the ships foster fast friendships. Diners will enjoy the interactive experience at Gunbae, the lively Korean barbecue venue. The "grog walk" is a fun pub stroll where solo sailors can join fellow mates while sipping and snacking their way through all the signature bars. For even more fun, check out the evening shipwide events such as the themed Scarlet Party, which features live music and immersive experiences. The line also hosts meetups for singles throughout each voyage.

Read: The Top Adults-Only Cruises

Avalon Waterways

Courtesy of Avalon Waterways

Avalon Waterways' river and small-ship cruises traverse waterways around the world, including in Europe, Asia, Africa and South America. The company waives the single supplement on a selection of staterooms, including its Panorama Suites, on select European and Asia departures. The company recommends booking early as the specially priced cabins do sell out. Solo travelers make up about 10% of the passengers on this river cruise line .

Avalon's fleet of Suite Ships operates in Europe and Southeast Asia and features cabins with a minimum of 172 square feet. About 80% of the staterooms are Panorama Suites, which have 200 feet of living space, beds with a view and the river cruise industry's only open-air balcony. With Avalon excursions, solo cruisers have opportunities to meet like-minded guests during immersive tours, cooking classes, wine tastings, yoga or fitness classes, biking or hiking trips, and more. Single guests can choose to dine at tables for just two people or ones that can accommodate up to eight passengers.

Read: Cruise Packing List: Essentials for Your Next Cruise

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AmaWaterways

Courtesy of AmaWaterways

Two single occupancy staterooms are available on four of AmaWaterways' river cruise ships: AmaDolce, AmaDante, AmaLyra and AmaCello. These accommodations do not have single supplement fees. Solo cruisers can also book staterooms with a 20% single supplement on select sailings in Europe and Southeast Asia. (Note that this pricing does not apply to certain stateroom categories and suites.)

With the friendly, small-ship atmosphere, solo cruisers will find it comfortable to socialize with other passengers and the crew. Onboard activities and immersive excursions also create opportunities for fostering friendships, especially among like-minded travelers. Excellent options for solo cruises include themed sailings centered around music and wine or the magical Christmas markets itineraries along the Danube, Rhone and Rhine rivers.

Explore AmaWaterways deals on GoToSea.

Lines with discounted supplement fares

Courtesy of Azamara

Azamara's special offers for solo travelers include reduced single supplements of 25% to 50% of the double occupancy rate on select sailings. The line's four midsized sister ships – carrying no more than 700 passengers – are mostly all-inclusive. Amenities included in the cruise fare include most meals; standard spirits, wines and beers; bottled water, soft drinks, and specialty teas and coffees; shuttle service in port; gratuities; and complimentary AzAmazing Evenings ashore or Destination Celebration experiences on the ship. Dining at the two specialty restaurants is an additional cost unless guests have accommodations in the Club World Owner's Suites, Club Ocean Suite or Club Continent Suite.

Single guests on Azamara cruises will find events during the sailing and venues around the ship where you can mix and mingle with other solo travelers and chat with the friendly crew. Intimate and culturally immersive excursions also create opportunities to meet passengers with similar interests. Azamara Onward, the latest ship, boasts the new Atlas Bar, a great spot to meet other travelers.

For itineraries, Azamara's signature "Country-Intensive Voyages" are a favorite of solo cruisers, including the 10- or 11-night Greece Intensive Voyage. For an extended sailing, check out the festive 12-night Carnival in Rio Voyage, which features a stop in Rio de Janeiro during the city's famed Carnival.

Compare Azamara cruises on GoToSea.

Cunard Line

Courtesy of Cunard Line

Cunard Line features dedicated solo staterooms on its three ships, priced at approximately 166% to 174% of the equivalent double occupancy cruise fare. Guests can choose between a spacious Britannia Inside or Britannia Oceanview cabin, or opt for a larger stateroom with a single supplement. For a little "me time" pampering while on board, solos will appreciate 24-hour room service, complimentary Penhaligon's toiletries and a chilled bottle of sparkling wine. Single guests will also be invited to get-togethers. You can either dine alone at venues around the ship such as the main dining room or choose to share a table with other passengers.

With an international mix of travelers, single cruisers will find many opportunities to meet and chat with others, especially during a Transatlantic Crossing. During the sailing, you'll find many enriching and relaxing activities that encourage socializing. According to Cunard , there's a sense of camaraderie and a passion around the voyage – and the unique travel experience of crossing the Atlantic Ocean.

Find a Cunard Line cruise on GoToSea.

Silversea Cruises

Courtesy of Silversea Cruises

Luxury line Silversea Cruises offers 25% single supplements on various voyages throughout the year, including expedition cruises to destinations like the Galápagos Islands , Antarctica and the Arctic, and Greenland. The line's all-inclusive fares include luxurious ocean view suites, gourmet dining, complimentary wines and spirits, gratuities, onboard enrichment and entertainment, shore excursions, and more. Solo travelers will even have personalized butler service to indulge their every whim.

The line's fleet of a dozen intimate ships, carrying no more than 728 guests, offers a clubby atmosphere perfect for meeting solo and like-minded travelers. Single guests will also have the opportunity to engage with other solo passengers during a welcome reception with Champagne at the beginning of each voyage. Popular itineraries for Silversea's single cruisers include its Transoceanic journeys, a bucket list trip for many cruisers .

Explore Silversea Cruises deals on GoToSea.

Courtesy of Seabourn Cruise Line

Seabourn has special offers throughout the year where solo cruisers can take advantage of reduced pricing equal to double occupancy fares or discounts on the single supplement starting at 25% above the double occupancy fares. These rates are available on select voyages, including expedition cruises. Frequent solo cruisers and members of the luxury line's Seabourn Club Diamond Elite will also find reduced single supplements on Diamond Elite Single Supplement Sailings. In addition, club members receive invitations to exclusive events, where they can meet and mingle with fellow cruisers. Solo passengers are also invited to sit with the ship's officers, crew and entertainers at dinner – and there are hosted get-togethers for single travelers.

Solo cruisers will enjoy beautifully designed oceanfront suites and all-inclusive amenities on board Seabourn 's intimate ships. These perks include world-class dining; complimentary premium wine and spirits; a spa and wellness program in partnership with Dr. Andrew Weil; included gratuities; and the line's enrichment series, Seabourn Conversations. Single cruisers looking for an extended holiday will enjoy longer voyages on the line's newest purpose-built expedition ship, Seabourn Pursuit.

Compare Seabourn cruises on GoToSea.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has visited destinations around the globe on nearly every type of ship built, including the newest megaships, luxury yachts, expedition vessels, traditional masted sailing ships and intimate river ships on the Mekong River. She used extensive research and experience as a solo cruiser to write this article. Pratesi covers the travel and culinary industries for major publications, including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Party Cruises
• The Top Transatlantic Cruises
• The Top 3-Day Cruise Itineraries
• Solo Travel for Women: The Best Places and Tips
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

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