What are Luxury Cruise Holidays?

Luxury Cruise Holidays are premium cruise experiences designed for travellers who want exceptional comfort, personalised service, and immersive destinations. They typically feature smaller ships, spacious suites, fine dining, and carefully curated shore excursions, creating a holiday that feels refined, relaxed, and effortless from start to finish.

What is usually included in Luxury Cruise Holidays?

Most Luxury Cruise Holidays are highly inclusive. Depending on the cruise line, this can include gourmet dining, premium drinks, gratuities, Wi-Fi, and a wide range of shore excursions. Many also include transfers, flights, and onboard enrichment, meaning you can enjoy your holiday without constantly reaching for your wallet.

Are Luxury Cruise Holidays all-inclusive?

Yes, many Luxury Cruise Holidays are genuinely all-inclusive, especially with high-end cruise lines. This often covers dining in multiple speciality restaurants, premium beverages, entertainment, and excursions. Booking with a specialist like Jamie Wake Travel helps ensure you understand exactly what is included before you travel.

Which destinations are best for first-time Luxury Cruise Holidays?

The Mediterranean and Caribbean are ideal for first-time Luxury Cruise Holidays. They offer iconic destinations, calm sailing conditions, and a wide choice of luxury ships. These regions provide a perfect balance of culture, scenery, and relaxation, making them an excellent introduction to luxury cruising.

Are Luxury Cruise Holidays suitable for couples and honeymooners?

Absolutely. Luxury Cruise Holidays are particularly popular with couples and honeymooners thanks to their intimate atmosphere, elegant dining, and romantic destinations. Many ships offer adults-only areas, private excursions, and spacious suites designed for privacy and comfort.

Can solo travellers enjoy Luxury Cruise Holidays?

Yes, Luxury Cruise Holidays can be a wonderful option for solo travellers. Smaller ships create a friendly, sociable atmosphere, and many luxury cruise lines offer hosted tables, enrichment programmes, and sometimes reduced single supplements. Jamie Wake Travel can help identify the best sailings for solo guests.

Do Luxury Cruise Holidays include shore excursions?

Most Luxury Cruise Holidays include a selection of shore excursions at each port, often led by local experts or specialist guides. These excursions are designed to be immersive and unrushed, allowing you to experience destinations in greater depth than standard cruise tours.

What is the dress code on Luxury Cruise Holidays?

Luxury Cruise Holidays tend to have a relaxed but elegant dress code. During the day, casual attire is fine, while evenings usually call for smart-casual clothing. Formal nights are rare, and the focus is on feeling comfortable rather than following strict rules.

How far in advance should I book Luxury Cruise Holidays?

It’s best to book Luxury Cruise Holidays as early as possible, especially for popular destinations or smaller ships. Early booking often gives you the best choice of suites, sailing dates, and added-value offers. Jamie Wake Travel can also advise on the best times to book for value and availability.

Luxury Cruise Holidays: The Best Destinations to Explore in Style

Luxury Cruise Holidays are no longer just about elegant ships and attentive service. Today, they are about where you go, how deeply you experience it, and how effortlessly everything flows from the moment you step onboard.

From champagne sunsets in the Mediterranean to polar silence broken only by cracking ice, Luxury Cruise Holidays offer something land-based travel simply cannot: multiple world-class destinations, wrapped in five-star comfort, with unpack-once ease.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through the very best destinations for Luxury Cruise Holidays, sharing where they shine, when to go, and which luxury cruise styles suit each region best. I’ll also explain how booking with a specialist like Jamie Wake Travel turns a beautiful cruise into a flawless holiday.

So, if you’re wondering where in the world feels truly extraordinary by sea, you’re in exactly the right place.

Why Destination Matters on Luxury Cruise Holidays

Luxury Cruise Holidays are defined by immersion, not itinerary overload. The destination shapes everything — from the ship size and shore experiences to dining, excursions, and even the pace of your days.

The best Luxury Cruise Holidays offer:

Longer stays and overnights in iconic ports
Smaller ships that reach places larger vessels cannot
Curated excursions led by local experts
Seamless service that lets the destination take centre stage

Choosing the right destination is where luxury begins.

Why the Mediterranean is perfect for Luxury Cruise Holidays

The Mediterranean remains one of the most beloved destinations for Luxury Cruise Holidays — and for good reason. Few places combine history, glamour, cuisine, and scenery so effortlessly.

Many Luxury Cruise Holidays focus on iconic Mediterranean coastlines, where historic ports, gourmet cuisine and sun-soaked sailing combine effortlessly.

From the pastel villages of the Amalfi Coast to the sun-drenched Greek Islands and the refined sparkle of the French Riviera, this region rewards travellers who want culture by day and indulgence by night.

Luxury cruise ships here are often smaller and more refined, allowing access to intimate ports like Portofino, Saint-Tropez, and Hydra.

Best experiences in the Mediterranean

Private vineyard tastings in Tuscany
Early-morning access to the Vatican or Acropolis
Yacht harbourside dinners in Monaco
Sailing into Santorini at sunset

This is slow, stylish travel — exactly how Luxury Cruise Holidays should feel.

Best time to go

May–June and September–October for warm seas without peak crowds
July and August suit those who enjoy lively ports and guaranteed sunshine

Why the Caribbean shines for Luxury Cruise Holidays

For many travellers, Luxury Cruise Holidays in the Caribbean are about total relaxation. Warm seas, soft sand, and a gentle rhythm of days spent drifting between islands.

Luxury ships in the Caribbean often feature:

Private island beach clubs
Water sports included in the fare
Spa-focused itineraries
Open-air dining and spacious decks

The beauty here is in its simplicity — everything flows.

Best Caribbean islands for luxury cruising

St Lucia – dramatic scenery and boutique excursions
Antigua – calm bays and refined beach clubs
Barbados – culture, cuisine, and history
The Grenadines – exclusivity and yacht-style cruising

Luxury Cruise Holidays in the Caribbean suit couples, honeymooners, and anyone seeking sunshine without compromise.

From the Caribbean to the Indian Ocean, Luxury Cruise Holidays allow you to explore multiple island destinations without unpacking more than once.

Best time to go

December to April for peak weather
November and May offer excellent value with fewer crowds

Why Northern Europe suits Luxury Cruise Holidays

Luxury Cruise Holidays in Northern Europe are about natural drama paired with design-led comfort. Fjords carved by glaciers, stylish Nordic cities, and long summer daylight hours create a refreshing alternative to warmer destinations.

This region appeals to travellers who value:

Clean, contemporary aesthetics
Unspoilt landscapes
Culture without crowds
Thoughtful, slower itineraries

Highlights you won’t forget

Sailing silently through Norway’s fjords
Midnight sun evenings on deck
Reykjavík’s geothermal wonders
UNESCO old towns along the Baltic Sea

Luxury Cruise Holidays here feel serene, spacious, and quietly impressive.

Best time to go

June to August for fjords and Scandinavia
September for fewer crowds and crisp air

Why Asia elevates Luxury Cruise Holidays

Asia brings a unique sense of contrast and calm to Luxury Cruise Holidays. Ancient temples sit beside neon skylines, while peaceful rituals balance bold, modern cities. Travelling by sea allows you to experience this variety without constant packing or internal flights.

Japan, in particular, has become one of the most sought-after Luxury Cruise Holiday destinations, thanks to its order, beauty, and fascinating traditions.

Highlights across Asia

Cherry blossom season in Japan
Bullet train shore excursions
Street-food tours led by local chefs
Overnight stays in Hong Kong and Singapore

Luxury Cruise Holidays in Asia are deeply enriching without ever feeling overwhelming.

Best time to go

March–May for Japan’s spring season
October–November for Southeast Asia’s cooler, drier climate

Why expedition Luxury Cruise Holidays are unforgettable

For travellers seeking something truly extraordinary, Luxury Cruise Holidays to Antarctica deliver life-changing experiences. These journeys combine five-star comfort with expert-led exploration in the world’s most remote regions.

Despite the destination, luxury remains uncompromised.

What makes it special

Zodiac landings with polar guides
Wildlife encounters with penguins and whales
Heated balconies and expedition lounges
Michelin-level dining after adventure-filled days

This is adventure without hardship — a rare balance only luxury expedition cruising achieves.

Best time to go

November to March during the Antarctic summer

Why river cruising suits Luxury Cruise Holidays

River cruising offers a more intimate take on Luxury Cruise Holidays. Smaller ships glide through the heart of Europe, docking steps from historic towns and vineyards.

This style is ideal for travellers who value:

Cultural depth
Easy walking excursions
Fine wine and regional cuisine
A relaxed, sociable atmosphere

Top rivers for luxury

Danube – imperial cities and classical music
Rhine – castles, wine villages, and storybook scenery
Douro – terraced vineyards and Portuguese charm

Luxury Cruise Holidays aren’t one-size-fits-all. The perfect sailing depends on where you want to go, how you like to travel, and what kind of experience you want onboard — from intimate yacht-style ships to all-inclusive ocean voyages.

Use the cruise search below to explore available Luxury Cruise Holidays by destination, cruise line, and travel date. It’s a simple way to discover what’s out there and start shaping ideas, before speaking with our specialists to refine the details, secure the best value, and add the personal touches that make all the difference.

Seen something you like or want expert guidance? Our team is always happy to help turn your search into a holiday that’s truly as unique as you are.

Booking Protections: Why Peace of Mind Matters

Luxury Cruise Holidays deserve complete reassurance. When you book with Jamie Wake Travel, your holiday is protected by:

ATOL protection (where applicable)
Supplier Failure Insurance
Trusted relationships with leading luxury cruise lines
Expert advice before, during, and after travel

Your investment is safeguarded, and your experience fully supported.

Why Book Luxury Cruise Holidays with Jamie Wake Travel

Luxury Cruise Holidays aren’t about clicking “book now”. They’re about tailoring every detail to suit you.

Jamie Wake Travel offers:

Independent advice, not sales pressure
Access to exclusive fares and added-value extras
Honest recommendations based on experience
A powerful website search tool to create holidays as unique as you are

Whether you prefer to browse online, enquire digitally, or speak directly to a specialist, support is always personal.

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Why settle for standard when your holiday can be exceptional?

What are Luxury Cruise Holidays?
Luxury Cruise Holidays are premium cruise experiences designed for travellers who want exceptional comfort, personalised service, and immersive destinations. They typically feature smaller ships, spacious suites, fine dining, and carefully curated shore excursions, creating a holiday that feels refined, relaxed, and effortless from start to finish.
What is usually included in Luxury Cruise Holidays?
Most Luxury Cruise Holidays are highly inclusive. Depending on the cruise line, this can include gourmet dining, premium drinks, gratuities, Wi-Fi, and a wide range of shore excursions. Many also include transfers, flights, and onboard enrichment, meaning you can enjoy your holiday without constantly reaching for your wallet.
Are Luxury Cruise Holidays all-inclusive?
Yes, many Luxury Cruise Holidays are genuinely all-inclusive, especially with high-end cruise lines. This often covers dining in multiple speciality restaurants, premium beverages, entertainment, and excursions. Booking with a specialist like Jamie Wake Travel helps ensure you understand exactly what is included before you travel.
Which destinations are best for first-time Luxury Cruise Holidays?
The Mediterranean and Caribbean are ideal for first-time Luxury Cruise Holidays. They offer iconic destinations, calm sailing conditions, and a wide choice of luxury ships. These regions provide a perfect balance of culture, scenery, and relaxation, making them an excellent introduction to luxury cruising.
Are Luxury Cruise Holidays suitable for couples and honeymooners?
Absolutely. Luxury Cruise Holidays are particularly popular with couples and honeymooners thanks to their intimate atmosphere, elegant dining, and romantic destinations. Many ships offer adults-only areas, private excursions, and spacious suites designed for privacy and comfort.
Can solo travellers enjoy Luxury Cruise Holidays?
Yes, Luxury Cruise Holidays can be a wonderful option for solo travellers. Smaller ships create a friendly, sociable atmosphere, and many luxury cruise lines offer hosted tables, enrichment programmes, and sometimes reduced single supplements. Jamie Wake Travel can help identify the best sailings for solo guests.
Do Luxury Cruise Holidays include shore excursions?
Most Luxury Cruise Holidays include a selection of shore excursions at each port, often led by local experts or specialist guides. These excursions are designed to be immersive and unrushed, allowing you to experience destinations in greater depth than standard cruise tours.
What is the dress code on Luxury Cruise Holidays?
Luxury Cruise Holidays tend to have a relaxed but elegant dress code. During the day, casual attire is fine, while evenings usually call for smart-casual clothing. Formal nights are rare, and the focus is on feeling comfortable rather than following strict rules.
How far in advance should I book Luxury Cruise Holidays?
It’s best to book Luxury Cruise Holidays as early as possible, especially for popular destinations or smaller ships. Early booking often gives you the best choice of suites, sailing dates, and added-value offers. Jamie Wake Travel can also advise on the best times to book for value and availability.
Why book Luxury Cruise Holidays with Jamie Wake Travel?
Booking Luxury Cruise Holidays with Jamie Wake Travel means expert guidance, financial protection, and genuinely personal service. As an independent, ATOL-protected travel agency with Supplier Failure Insurance, Jamie Wake Travel offers reassurance, access to exclusive offers, and tailored advice to create a holiday that is truly as unique as you are.