7 luxury cruise ships in the world to consider for an ultra luxe holiday (2024)

Whether you’ve recently seen Dil Dhadakne Do or Death on the Nile, or your Instagram feed is covered with the Ambani family’s pre-wedding celebrations (2.0), there is something about luxury cruise ships that just exudes opulence and grandeur. We’ve looked up some luxury cruise ships in the world to consider for your next ultra luxe holiday. Step aboard these cruise ships that redefine luxury, offering everything from 24-hour butler service and gourmet dining to laid-back vibes. These ships whisk you away to incredible destinations, including thrilling expedition routes.

1. Ritz-Carlton’s Evrima

Travelling to: European (Mediterranean) shores like Valletta, Parga, Syros, Athens, Venice, etc.

Price: Between $6,443 to $10,752 for six to ten night stay, which approximately comes to Rs 5,37,266 to Rs 8,96,584 approximately

As its name suggests—Evrima, derived from the Greek word for “discovery”—Ritz-Carlton’s small ship or mega-yacht, whatever you call it, is the ultimate luxury marvel. This cruise features nine deck levels, five of which are accessible to guests, and boasts 149 spacious suite-style cabins, each with a private sea-facing balcony. You can indulge in six restaurants, including an à la carte dining experience crafted by Chef Sven Elverfeld of Aqua, the three Michelin-starred restaurant at The Ritz-Carlton in Wolfsburg. The ship also offers four pools, a cigar humidor, two bars, a beauty salon and spa deck, a water-level marina terrace with water toys, and a fitness centre. Additionally, the cruise provides “shore experiences” with local guides, allowing guests to embark on their own adventures and uncover hidden gems. The multi-day docking facility encourages passengers to explore the mainland at their leisure, both day and night.

2. Oceania Cruises’ Marina

Travelling to: Oslo, Southampton, Copenhagen, Barcelona, Valletta, Rome, Lisbon, Miami, Rio De Janeiro, and more

Price: Between $2,990 to $17,999 for a 12 to 54 day trip onboard, which approximately amounts to Rs 2,49,178 to Rs 14,99,986 approximately, depending on where you’re travelling to or for how many days.

If you are a food connoisseur or looking to embark on a culinary holiday, this cruise should be on your radar. Oceania Cruises, celebrated as the premier cruise line for exceptional culinary experiences and destination explorations, has recently reintroduced its 1,250-passenger vessel, Marina, after a comprehensive renovation. This upgrade includes three exciting new dining concepts. You can now have a taste of the Aquamar Kitchen, a wellness-oriented eatery, a casual poolside ice cream shop that also offers milkshakes and smoothies, and a charming outdoor pizzeria featuring exquisite Italian fare. The refurbishment also enhances the ship’s 124 penthouse suites, adding custom furniture, increased storage space, restyled bathrooms, and modern amenities.

3. Emerald Cruises’ Emerald Harmony

Travelling to: Southeast Asia, including Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, Siem Reap and Cambodia among others.

Price: €2,295 to €5,395 for eight to 21 days, which approximately comes up to between Rs 2,07,975 to Rs 4,88,899

Emerald Harmony offers the perfect sanctuary for exploring the Mekong in Cambodia and Vietnam. Be enchanted by Halong Bay's emerald waters and limestone karsts, stroll through Hoi An's lantern-lit streets, and marvel at Siem Reap’s Angkor Wat. Onboard, enjoy cool, contemporary design with chic Asian accents, beautifully appointed cabins, a pool, and a fitness centre. You can also indulge in five-course dinners featuring local and international cuisine. While the entertainment isn't Las Vegas-style, local performers provide authentic regional culture at various ports. With only 84 passengers, expect personalised service that might just spoil you for life.

4. The Oberoi Zahra by the Oberoi Hotels and Resorts

Travelling to: Egypt

Price: $1,235 to $5,240 for three to eight days, which is approximately about Rs 1,02,956 to Rs 4,36,835

If you want to experience the luxury of a Nile cruise, just like in Kenneth Branagh’s 2022 film Death on the Nile (minus the death and murder), the Oberoi Zahra offers an unforgettable journey. Sailing between Luxor and Aswan, you can spend your days unravelling centuries of Egyptian history and discovering the wonders of the Nile with Egyptologists on board to give you valuable information about the sites visited. With only 27 cabins, you can have an intimate experience on board, while you indulge in their signature Oberoi Spa between the excursions.

5. Queen Mary 2

Travelling to: Southampton, England, and New York City, United States, and an annual world cruise.

Price: Between $1,196 to $ 8,714 for a seven to 30 day trip, which is approximately Rs 99, 729 to Rs 7,26,626

For a taste of British royalty, set sail aboard the iconic Queen Mary 2 across the transatlantic waters. Since taking over from Queen Elizabeth 2 in 2004, she has proudly served as Cunard Line's flagship, officially christened by Queen Elizabeth II herself. Following Queen Elizabeth 2's retirement in 2008, Queen Mary 2 stands as the world's sole remaining ocean liner. Her regular route between Southampton, England, and New York City, United States, along with an annual world cruise, ensures a voyage of grandeur. You too can experience the glamour of Cunard’s art deco-inspired Queen Elizabeth, offering daily afternoon tea, black tie dances, and culinary delights like the Steakhouse at the Verandah. Definitely make sure to explore the ship's elegant library housing over 8,000 books, spanning two decks.

6. Seven Seas Grandeur by Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Travelling to: Caribbean, Central America, North America, and Europe.

Price: Anything between $7,499 to $ 35,199, depending on the number of days and the places, which is approximately about Rs 6,25,442 to Rs 29,35,718

The Seven Seas Grandeur earns its reputation as one of the world’s most luxurious cruise lines, boasting 373 accommodations and seven dining venues, including the esteemed Compass Rose and Asian-inspired Pacific Rim, offering 130 new dishes, with a focus on plant-based options. Its 1,600-piece art collection features the prestigious “Journey in Jewels,” the first Fabergé Egg permanently housed on a cruise ship. Onboard, guests can enjoy a turquoise pool, numerous sun loungers, hot tubs, sports courts, and a variety of daily activities like trivia and live entertainment. Deck 12 hosts outdoor amenities such as bocce, pickleball, shuffleboard, and a golf net inspired by famous courses. Meanwhile, the Observation Lounge, Card Room, Connoisseur Club, and Library on Deck 11 provide cosy spaces to unwind with stocked travel books anticipating your next adventure. There’s also a Constellation Theater, where guests can watch four Broadway-style shows, and boutiques for shoppers to do some retail therapy.

7. Celebrity Beyond

Travelling to: Western Caribbean

Price: Starting from $597 (approximately Rs 49,796), depending on the number of days and the places.

Celebrity Beyond, owned by Celebrity Cruises, epitomises the company's slogan. As the third ship in the Edge class, it was constructed at the Chantiers de l'Atlantique shipyard and began service in April 2022. The cruise is currently under the command of Captain Kate McCue, the first American woman to helm a "mega" cruise ship. Among the largest in its class, Beyond maximises space for dramatic effect, with corridors adorned with glowing bronze sculptures reflected in infinity mirrors. A standout feature is Eden, a serene bubble offering panoramic views through triple-height windows. Designed by Kelly Hoppen, the interiors exude luxury, complemented by Daniel Boulud's exquisite dining at Le Voyage.