The Water Feels Nice: Luxury Cruising Seems to Be All the Rage
- Ava Vitiello
- Aug 6
- 2 min read
Updated: Aug 14
Cruising is having a resurgence. Gone are the days of massive crowds, watered-down cocktails, and subpar, sweaty buffet food. Over the past several years, a few institutional names in the luxury hospitality space have brought cruising back to life–this time for those seeking a small ship experience that feels like your own private charter, but with the service and amenities of a five-star hotel.
The cruise industry continues to attract passengers of all ages, with Gen-Y and Millennials leading the way. The value spread between cruises and land-based alternatives stands at 25–30% today versus 10–15% pre-pandemic, reports J.P. Morgan. Younger travelers are more selective about where and how they spend their money. According to Travel Market Report, Gen Z and Millennial travelers were the most likely to seek out curated, tech-forward, and wellness-driven perks when cruising. Enter: small-ship, luxury cruising
This summer, The Ritz-Carlton set sail its long-awaited Luminara. The inaugural cruise was star-studded, with guests including Alix Earle, Martha Stewart, Kate Hudson, and Tom Brady.
In addition to the Luminara, below are a few other luxury, small-ship cruises that should be on your radar.
The brand’s maiden yacht is expected to set sail in 2026. Embracing the connection between land and sea, this vessel will feature a standout marina experience and seaside programming, featuring unique sea-level platforms for activities and leisure. Additional amenities include an omakase bar, a champagne and caviar bar, a cigar lounge, and L’Oceana Spa.
Known for the iconic luxury sleeper trains, Orient Express has announced its first luxury yacht, which also happens to be the world’s largest sailing yacht: The Corinthian. The ship is planned to set sail in 2026. Heritage to the brand’s refined luxury nature, The Corinthian has only 54 suites. On board, amenities include a roaring twenties speakeasy, a restaurant by multi-Michelin-starred Chef Yannick Alléno, a pub, a barber, salon, and spa, a wine and tea tasting experience, a cinema, and even a Parisian cabaret theater.
Aman’s very own cruising yacht, Amangati, is under construction and expected to set sail in 2027. Comprised of just 47 suites, this vessel is set to be a stunning sanctuary of immersion and seclusion.
Evirma launched in 2022, Ilma in 2024, and Luminara set sail in 2025. This yachting experience is "Unlike the Rest," illustrating the brand's commitment to curating voyages that inspire curiosity, foster genuine connections, and unlock life's most meaningful moments. Destinations currently include Alaska, Asia, the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, Northern Europe & Baltic, and the South Pacific.
Interested in planning a trip? Contact Ava to book and plan your bespoke travel experience.
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