Over 25 million people will take a cruise this year, and while these numbers are staggering, so is what the cruise industry is doing to attract and accommodate this growing, and increasingly demanding, clientele. Ships are larger and more spectacular than ever before, and with even the most budget-friendly cruise lines offering tiered service and an impressive list of amenities, what does it mean to take a luxury cruise these days? Of course, the definition of luxury is highly subjective, but for those looking for a truly exceptional experience, let me introduce you to the world of true luxury cruising.

What sets a true luxury cruise apart from its mass-market counterparts? First, the size of the boats. True luxury cruises from lines such as Crystal, Regent, Seabourn and Silversea rarely carry more than 500-750 passengers, with many ships topping out at around 250. This small manifest ensures a level of personalized service that is hard to achieve on a larger ship. Imagine the ambiance of a private club, where perfectly prepared cocktails are sipped in before a gourmet dinner.

If this sounds inherently dignified, that’s because it is. While ultra-luxury cruises aren’t for everyone; families with young children and those looking for an endless party might be better served elsewhere. They are an extraordinarily refined way to explore the world! Sailings are usually accompanied by renowned lecturers in the arts and sciences, onboard piano bars, host jazz singers and classical musicians. Shore excursions are often included and are small group affairs that range from private tours to authentic cultural experiences.
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The food and wine is world-class as well, and onboard restaurants often feature menus curated by internationally celebrated partners such as Thomas Keller and Relais & Châteaux. Staterooms are typically suites with spacious verandas and bathrooms. Luxuriously appointed suite staterooms, spacious well-designed public spaces and serene spas are standard on all the lines. If an authentic luxury cruise sounds like something you might enjoy, keep in mind that they can also be a very good value considering the level of service and amenities. A seven-day Caribbean cruise can cost as little as $2,500 per person including food and beverages, gratuities.  On some lines the cost even includes flights and shore excursions!

Luxury cruising is without a doubt my favorite way to travel. And, it is certainly a vacation experience you will not forget!

To learn more contact - [email protected] 

Love is always in the air, especially in February when Valentine’s Day rolls around. And that is great news for you, because couples in love have always loved taking cruises.

What is more romantic than a stroll on deck under the stars? Sharing an elegant dinner with a flute of something bubbly? Or having hot coffee and breakfast brought to you in bed. How about someone else making the bed and doing the cleaning?! 

Because of all the perks, couples are turning to cruises more and more to celebrate their most romantic milestones; anniversaries, honeymoons and even the wedding itself! Increasing in popularity are vow-renewal ceremonies, in which couples celebrate a major anniversary.  More often than not, couples are bringing along their, children, friends and other family members.

They are also great for multi-generational groups and second weddings. On a cruise, the captain can marry them.  On an island, the wedding planner is already included and she'll arrange everything. Professional photographers are available to capture moments and create galleries. Cruise lines, like all inclusive resorts offer wedding packages, which can be customized to include whatever the couple wants.

As an All Inclusive Expert and Honeymoon Destination Wedding Specialist, I’ve watched business grow as more travelers and engaged couples embrace the all inclusive concept. More couples are choosing a wedding in a cruise port or aboard ship because it’s easy and much less expensive that many ceremonies at home. They prefer to use their money for a down payment on a house rather than for a blow-out bash. Wedding cruises are fun, affordable and a great way to gather friends and family in a carefree setting. Planning the perfect, stress-free cruise Wedding and Honeymoon is a breeze when done properly.

Luxury cruises are also popular for upscale clients planning to renew their vows or celebrate milestone anniversaries.  Whether it is a romantic dinner for two or your group at one of the specialty restaurants, ship staff handle all the details so the process is seamless and enjoyable for you.  With chapels and reception rooms with ocean views onboard, it’s everything you dreamed and more. 

People today are more focused on their families and their return on life. They want to do experiential things that they will remember, rather than just go on vacation. Experienced travelers know that cruises are a good value and relaxing way to go. 

I love being in the happiness business and helping clients get the best value and experience for their special trip! Contact destination wedding and cruise specialist, CHRIS RAKES to get started. 

Pearl Seas Cruises’ has added a new opportunity to travel the Maine coast to the Bay of Fundy. Considered one of the seven natural wonders of North America, the Bay of Fundy itinerary sails roundtrip from Portland, Maine to call on Rockland, Maine; Eastport, Maine; St. Andrews, New Brunswick, Canada; St. John, New Brunswick, Canada; Grand Manan Island and Bar Harbor, Maine.
Departures are scheduled in May and October 2018. Expert guides will lead guests on a journey punctuated by timeless towns, picturesque scenery and wildlife spotting—whale-watching and bird watching among them.
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For these and other American cruise itineraries, contact [email protected]