Yacht-inspired cruises are the pinnacle of luxury travel, combining the privacy and elegance of yachting with the convenience and amenities of larger ships. These voyages offer discerning travelers a refined way to explore exclusive coastlines, hidden islands, and breathtaking natural wonders. From the Mediterranean’s glittering waters to the far-flung polar regions, yacht-inspired cruises provide an intimate experience, often with fewer guests and a heightened focus on personalized service.
Here’s a roundup of the best yacht-inspired cruises, from highest capacity to smallest, available today, including the exciting new entrant, Explora Journeys.
Explora Journeys
Explora Journeys is a relatively new luxury cruise line launched by MSC Group, offering an exceptional yacht-inspired experience. Its first ship, Explora I, epitomizes refined luxury with a design that fuses contemporary elegance and ocean-inspired comfort. The spacious ocean-front suites, each with its own private terrace, emphasize a seamless connection to the sea, making it feel more like a private yacht than a traditional cruise.
With an emphasis on slow-paced travel, Explora Journeys allows guests to linger longer in ports and explore at their leisure, offering immersive shore experiences and exclusive access to secluded destinations. Onboard, guests enjoy Michelin-inspired dining across various venues, a serene spa, multiple pools, and a focus on wellness and relaxation. The service is highly personalized, and the ambiance exudes casual elegance, making it a perfect fit for travelers seeking both luxury and adventure.
Explora’s itineraries include Mediterranean treasures like the Amalfi Coast and Corsica, Caribbean gems, and off-the-beaten-path Northern European destinations such as the Norwegian fjords. With a focus on guest-centric experiences, this yacht-like cruise aims to provide a sense of intimacy and exclusivity, with flexible journeys designed to meet individual desires.
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Destinations
Mediterranean, Caribbean, Northern Europe, and Transatlantic
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Vibe
Sophisticated European elegance with a modern twist
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Capacity
461 suites (900 guests)
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Destinations
Mediterranean, Caribbean, Northern Europe
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Vibe
Luxury resort meets yacht life
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Capacity
149 suites (298 guests)
Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection
Ritz-Carlton’s venture into yachting, with the Evrima, offers an ultra-luxury, yacht-like experience with the signature Ritz-Carlton service. Spacious suites, most with private terraces, fine dining by Michelin-starred chefs, and personalized itineraries make this a top-tier option. Guests can visit boutique ports and hidden gems that larger ships can’t access, like Porto Cervo and Corsica, making every journey more exclusive.
The elegant design, combined with thoughtfully curated excursions, creates an exceptional luxury experience at sea.
Windstar Cruises
Windstar Cruises combines the romance of sailing with casual luxury on their fleet of small yachts and motorized sailboats. Ships like the Wind Surf and Wind Star offer the chance to sail under towering white sails, while their all-suite yachts such as Star Breeze focus on comfort and spaciousness.
Windstar’s itineraries bring guests to small harbors and secluded islands in destinations such as the Greek Isles, Tahiti, and Alaska. Windstar is known for its casual, relaxed atmosphere where guests enjoy luxurious service in a more informal setting, making it an ideal option for those seeking yacht-inspired adventures without the formality.
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Destinations
Mediterranean, Caribbean, Tahiti, Alaska
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Vibe
Casual luxury with a focus on sailing
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Capacity
148 to 342 guests (depending on the ship)
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Destinations
Antarctica, Arctic, Mediterranean, and more
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Vibe
Expedition meets luxury yacht
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Capacity
228 guests (200 in polar regions)
Scenic Cruises
Scenic Eclipse is dubbed the “World’s First Discovery Yacht,” blending the thrill of exploration with six-star luxury. With helicopter and submarine excursions, guests can explore some of the world’s most remote destinations, such as Antarctica and the Arctic, from an entirely new perspective. The ship is designed for expedition cruising but offers lavish suites, personalized butler service, and all-inclusive dining options.
The Scenic Eclipse is perfect for those who seek adventure without compromising on luxury, providing a yacht-like experience with a strong emphasis on exploration.
Emerald Cruises
Emerald Azzurra, part of the Emerald Cruises fleet, is a superyacht designed for modern travelers who appreciate sleek design and intimate, personalized service. Its itineraries focus on the Mediterranean, Adriatic, and Red Sea, offering guests the chance to visit smaller ports and lesser-known destinations.
With chic staterooms, a spa, an infinity pool, and gourmet dining, Emerald Azzurra blends contemporary style with a sense of exclusivity. Perfect for travelers seeking a sophisticated, laid-back yacht experience.
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Destinations
Mediterranean, Adriatic Coast, Red Sea
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Vibe
Sleek, modern yacht luxury
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Capacity
50 cabins (100 guests)
Yacht-inspired cruises offer an unmatched combination of privacy, luxury, and adventure. Whether you’re exploring the Greek Isles, navigating through polar icebergs, or relaxing in the Caribbean, these yacht-like vessels deliver an intimate, personalized journey that large ships cannot match. From the refined elegance of Explora Journeys to the adventurous spirit of Scenic Eclipse, these cruises redefine what it means to sail the world in style.