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Scenic Crystal

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MS Scenic Crystal

Laidback elegance and relaxing luxuries are paramount features of the MS Scenic Crystal. Enjoy panoramic views of Europe as you walk the outdoor track on the Sun Deck; or, for a more intimate experience, relax on your private balcony. Gourmet meals with wine are available each day in the dining room or on selected evenings in Portobello’s, an exclusive Italian restaurant. A butler service is available to attend to your needs, including coffee and tea, which are available all day. Each cabin and suite boasts a superior queen bed and other amenities, including a flat screen television and minibar. After a full day of touring relax to live piano music in the ship’s lounge.

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Scenic Crystal Deck Plans & Reviews

Scenic Crystal

Activities & entertainment.

• Enrichment Lectures
• Fitness Centre
• Local Entertainers
• Nightly Briefings
• Nightly Music
• Onboard Bicycles
• Riverview Terrace
• Salt Therapy Lounge
• Walking Track
• Wellness Area
• River Cafe - Casual Cafe
• Table La Rive - Degustation
• Crystal Dining - International
• Lounge & Bar - Panoramic Bar
• Portobellos Restaurant - Regional

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Home Scenic River Cruises Scenic Crystal

Scenic Crystal

MS Scenic Crystal was built in 2012 and is the sister-ship to MS Scenic Jewel . Like her sister, she offers her 169 guests an all-inclusive, luxury river cruise experience through some of Europe’s most picturesque waterways.

Onboard, guests will instantly feel the sense of space that MS Scenic Crystal offers, as well as be charmed by her luxurious surroundings, modern amenities and five-star suite accommodations. The only thing to remind you that you are aboard a boat will be the passing scenery.

Her dining options are varied, with The Crystal Dining Room offering a fine dining experience and the River Café offering a somewhat less formal experience throughout the day. Portobello’s Restaurant is also worth experiencing – reservations must be made for this restaurant.

Scenic River Cruises  aboard MS Scenic Crystal include the Rhine, Danube, Black Sea and Holland.

MS SCENIC CRYSTAL ACCOMMODATION

MS Scenic Crystal offers 16 different accommodation options, including balcony staterooms, Royal Suite, Junior Balcony Suite and oceanview. All accommodations feature flat-screen TV’s, mini Mac computers, L’Occitane bath products, mini-bar, hairdryer, safe, plush bathrobes and Scenic’s “Scenic Slumber Bed” with Egyptian cotton sheets.

All staterooms located on Sapphire and Diamond decks feature “Sun Lounge” balconies which have floor to ceiling retractable glass windows.

MS SCENIC CRYSTAL FEATURES & FACILITIES

MS Scenic Crystal offers all the modern luxury that guests have come to expect from a luxury Scenic Tours vessel, including a large Salon and Spa; Panorama Lounge and bar, which offers superb views from the Danube Deck; Crystal Dining Room; Portobello’s Restaurant; Fitness Centre; Gift Shop; Sun Deck and Walking Track.

If you would like more information regarding river cruises aboard MS Scenic Crystal, then please call our Cruise Experts on 0800 008 6677 .

Alternatively, please choose your preferred cruise from the river cruise selection below and make an online enquiry.

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Additional Information

Royal Owner’s Suite

Single Balcony Suite

Balcony Suite

Located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks these stylishly decorated suites feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive Scenic Sun Lounge and offer private bathrooms with a luxurious vanity basin and shower.

Royal Panorama Suite

At 30m²/325ft², these are the largest suites on the ship. Located on the Diamond Deck, both suites enjoy fantastic views of the passing scenery from your private balcony complete with Scenic Sun Lounge. Each Suite has a lounge area and a luxurious bathroom.

Standard Suite

Standard Suites are located on the Jewel Deck with large picture windows to ensure a great view. They have a spacious design and clever layout alongside all the usual luxurious amenities and furnishings.

Royal Balcony Suite

These Suites located on the Diamond Deck are the ultimate in luxury with more space, impeccable service, thoughtful touches, an outdoor balcony, lounge area and an oversized bathroom.

Junior Balcony Suite

These spacious Suites, located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks, have a private full-length balcony complete with a Scenic Sun Lounge and elegant en-suite bathrooms featuring a large vanity basin and shower.

Deluxe Balcony Suite

Located in prime locations at the front of the ship on both the Sapphire and Diamond Decks, they offer all the features of our private Balcony Suites with our ingenious Scenic Sun Lounge, but with even more space to relax.

Sapphire Deck

Diamond Deck

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Scenic Crystal deck plans

Deck layouts, review of facilities, activities, amenities.

Scenic Crystal deck plan review at CruiseMapper provides newest cruise deck plans (2024-2025-2026 valid floor layouts of the vessel) extracted from the officially issued by Scenic Cruises deckplan pdf (printable version).

Each of the Scenic Crystal cruise ship deck plans are conveniently combined with a legend (showing cabin codes) and detailed review of all the deck's venues and passenger-accessible indoor and outdoor areas. A separate link provides an extensive information on Scenic Crystal staterooms (cabins and suites), including photos, cabin plans and amenities by room type and category.

Scenic Crystal (built 2012) is the first in a series of five, new-design  Scenic Tours ships launched in the 2012-2016 period – together with its fleet mate sisters Gem ,  Jade ,  Jewel  and  Amber (2016). These three luxury river ships, along with 2015-launched Jasper  and  Opal , are part of the company’s fleet expansion program, making Scenic Tours one of the best European river cruise lines with all-inclusive fares. All Scenic Tours Europe cruise ships are ~20% longer and with smaller passenger capacity in comparison to standard riverboats operating on the major European waterways. This design allows for larger accommodations and public space.

Scenic Crystal cruise ship deck plan has a total of 85 staterooms for 169 passengers served by 53 crew/staff. The ship features 4 passenger decks (incl 2 full decks of Balcony Suites), 2 restaurants, spacious top-deck (with shaded relaxation area, served terrace, passenger-use bikes station), gourmet dining options, Gym and Spa, 1 elevator (connecting all 3 cabin decks).

Scenic Crystal is an all-inclusive luxury riverboat. Scenic Tours cruises as deals are inclusive of:

• gratuities (both on board and shore excursions/tours)
• ScenicFreeChoice shore excursions (guided sightseeing tours, walking and biking tours, city tours)
• hotel stays and transfers (to/from the boat)
• beverages (tea, coffee, soft drinks, bottled water) and alcohol (beer and wine by the glass at lunch and dinner)
• Wi-Fi Internet access ((shipwide coverage) – all cabin TVs are with Apple computer setups (cordless keyboard and mouse).
• Scenic Crystal itineraries are port intensive. Depending on itinerary/dates, sometimes, Scenic river cruise prices are with included airfare.

Deck layouts

Deck 01 - jewel-spa, deck 02 - sapphire-dining, deck 03 - diamond-lobby-lounge, deck 04 - sun.

Scenic Crystal deck plans are property of Scenic Cruises . All deck layouts are for informational purposes only and CruiseMapper is not responsible for their accuracy.

MS Scenic Crystal

Laidback elegance and relaxing luxuries are paramount features of the MS Scenic Crystal. Enjoy panoramic views of Europe as you walk the outdoor track on the Sun Deck; or, for a more intimate experience, relax on your private balcony. Gourmet meals with wine are available each day in the dining room or on selected evenings in Portobello’s, an exclusive Italian restaurant. A butler service is available to attend to your needs, including coffee and tea, which are available all day. Each cabin and suite boasts a superior queen bed and other amenities, including a flat screen television and minibar. After a full day of touring relax to live piano music in the ship’s lounge.

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Scenic Eclipse

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Scenic Eclipse II in Australia

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Ultra-luxury cruising

In a class of its own.

Popular destinations

Create stories for life.

Great stories are born of unforgettable moments. With Scenic it’s more than ultra-luxury travel. It’s seldom-seen lands, unrestricted global navigation and state-of-the-art ships allowing a front row seat to nature and culture as it unfolds before your eyes.

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Stay up to date and be inspired

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Scenic Gem River Cruise Review: Luxury Sailing on the Seine River

I was glad for my last minute decision to switch excursions when my guide showed up in character dressed as Richard the Lionheart for a hike to the hilltop Chateau Gaillard in Les Andelys, France. It was the first port stop on an 11-night Normandy & Gems of the Seine River cruise with Australian-based Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours .

The hike was fairly short but steep and along the way our group learned about the medieval king and area history from our knowledgeable and entertaining guide, Ben Bailey. From the hilltop, we could see the Seine River below, with our elegant ship, the Scenic Gem, waiting for us.

My travel partner was my young adult son, Michael, and this was our first river cruise in Europe. From the ship and crew to ports and excursions, the cruise exceeded our expectations. Here’s why I recommend sailing with Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours, and what I enjoyed about our ship, Scenic Gem.

About Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours

The Scenic name may not be familiar to some Americans but the company has been around since 1986. It was founded by Glen Moroney, who began operating coach tours throughout his native Australia. He launched the Scenic cruise line’s “Space-Ships” in 2008, introducing outside balconies to river boats for the first time. The Scenic Group also owns and operates ocean yachts and Emerald Waterways. River cruise itineraries include the waterways of the Danube, Rhine, Rhone and Seine.

Scenic Gem  Itinerary on the Seine River

Michael and I sailed on the Scenic Gem , one of three Scenic Space-Ships based in France. The roundtrip Scenic river cruise began in Paris and traveled to Les Andelys, Rouen, Honfleur, Caudebec-en-Caux, Vernon-Giverny and Conflans-Sainte-Honorine – with many adventures along the way. Scenic Gem’s small size makes it among the few river boats able to sail along the Seine to the English Channel.

The itinerary included three days in Paris . Pre- and post cruise extensions are available. We added additional days in Paris  at the back end of our cruise.

Embarkation couldn’t have been smoother. Within minutes of boarding, we got our room keys and were settled in our stateroom.

As we set sail, we had views of the Eiffel Tower and a smaller reproduction of the Statue of Liberty, which commemorates the centennial of the French Revolution.

Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours Amenities

Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours is a fully all-inclusive cruise line, with transfers and gratuities included.

And once you step onboard, you never need your credit card (except for a haircut or spa). The cruise line offers luxury experiences that include private butler service, free room service, unlimited complimentary beverages and spirits including a complimentary mini-bar restocked daily and full-size private balconies and sun lounges.

At the press of a button, the balcony window opens and closes and sliding glass panels can extend the room for more space or close for privacy. This feature enabled my son and I to have our own space in our stateroom when needed.

While I enjoyed morning coffee and freshly baked croissants served by our butler, Yasmin, on the balcony, Michael could sleep in. I loved having my breakfast delivered to me each morning. It was a relaxing way to start the day. Yasmin was also efficient in replenishing snacks and the mini-bar.

A little fun feature was the lighting in the shower. By turning the dial, you could adjust the lighting and color of the water.  

Convenient amenities included a pillow menu, one free laundry service per stateroom, free WiFi, and a refillable souvenir water bottle, which was handy for excursions.

Scenic Gem Excursions: Monet’s Garden

The option to choose shore excursions (included in the price) and change my mind last minute was one of my favorite features about Scenic. Often it was hard to choose between a guided bike ride or a walking tour.

Fortunately, Cruise Director Mandy Kinnell was always available to answer questions and offer suggestions about excursions and where to shop and eat in port stops (her tip to find the best oysters on the waterfront in Honfleur was spot on). Her role is extensive. She serves as program coordinator, concierge, organizing excursions, overseeing dietary requests, and more. “I love it. It’s not a job you can do if you don’t like it,” she said.

When I asked her about the difficulty level on a guided bike tour to Monet’s Garden in Vernon-Giverny, she assured me I could handle it. After all, she said, “I see you every morning doing stretch exercises with Paulina,” the onboard wellness coach.

The guided bike tour (led by Mandy) wound up being my favorite excursion. Scenic Gem has e-bikes onboard for tours and to explore villages on your own – another great feature. It began drizzling as we got on our bikes and put on ponchos. Contemplating the wet streets, I debated whether to stay or go. “Come on, get on,” said my new friend Elliot.

I was glad I did. The skies soon cleared up as our group of seven rode along the Seine River to Monet’s Garden, where we met up with fellow passengers who had opted for a bus ride. After walking through the beautiful colorful gardens that inspired his paintings, we toured Monet’s house. Then Elliot, Michael and I hopped on our e-bikes and rode to Au Coin du Paintre Giverny, a nearby bakery for warm, flaky croissants (another great Mandy tip). Riding bikes along the Seine River was simply magical.

Back onboard the Scenic Gem, we joined a painting class, in the style of impressionists, led by a local artist.

Scenic Gem  Excursions: History, Art & Music

Throughout the river cruise, we enjoyed many diverse shore excursions, which included visiting Van Gogh’s home and grave, and the site where Joan of Arc spent her last days. At the Somme Battlefields we walked through trenches where soldiers spent days at a time during WWI, and where, incredibly, there are still active land mines.

We also walked around the 330-foot long Lochnagar Crater, formed by an explosion during WWI. Two days later, we visited the Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial, containing the graves of 9,387 soldiers. By then it began to rain, making for a cold and wet visit on our next stop: the Normandy Beaches of Utah and Omaha, site of the WWII D-Day Landings. This was the same weather soldiers endured during the military operation, said Ben (the same guide who was dressed as Richard the Lionheart and Rolo the Viking in Rouen). These somber excursions brought WWI and WWII history home.

“It makes me realize that these historical events aren’t as long ago as I thought,” said Michael.

Other excursions were laid back and scenic. On the drive to Etretat’s alabaster coastline, we drove through the French countryside by fields of potatoes, flax and grains before reaching the town known for coastal rock formations. Here, we saw typical Normandy timber frame houses built with thatched roofs.

The daily excursions were well-paced, allowing us time to enjoy onboard meals and activities. Afterall, part of the joy of river cruising is relaxing onboard and watching the passing scenery. Castles, rural communities and open green spaces. Plus, it was fascinating watching the river locks, which control water levels that raise and lower boats along the canals.

Scenic Enrich Cultural Experiences

One enchanting evening, we attended a private classical concert at the 12th century Chateau de La Rouche-Guyon, built into a steep rock face. This concert was an exclusive Scenic Enrich cultural event for Scenic Gem cruise passengers.

From the ship, we walked through a garden and to the castle for a wine reception before the lovely concert. Scenic Enrich events vary with the ship and itinerary.

Scenic Gem Activities

The ship’s intimate size made it easy to mingle with fellow passengers in the Panorama Lounge, the main venue for evening drinks, games, programs and entertainment.

On the sun deck, we played a challenging game of cornhole and other activities organized by Vili, enrichment manager.

Dining on Scenic Gem

The dining options on Scenic Gem were varied and featured French, American and international cuisine. For a quick meal, we ate at the casual River Cafe, which serves breakfast items, sandwiches, pizzas, soups and desserts (and macaroons!) at the bow of the ship. I enjoyed the nice daily selection of cheeses, olives and bread.

Mostly we ate in the Crystal Dining Room, where tables for four to eight made it conducive for conversation while enjoying appetizers, a main course, cheese and dessert. Among tapas, there was Quiche Lorraine, marinated brie cheese and cream of celery root. Entrees included coq au vin, pasta and steak. And even tasty cheeseburgers and fries.

One evening an elaborate French dessert buffet was prepared by a local patissier. On another day, there was a delightful cheese and wine tasting. And after our walking tour in Rouen, a delicious barbecue was served on the sundeck.

Since the ship carries no more than 149 passengers, most people get to experience at least one specialty dinner. At the L’Amour Restaurant, located at the bow, we indulged in a five-course meal paired with imported and French wines. We were thrilled to get invited  to Table La Rive, a private chef’s dinner with seven courses in the Crystal Dining Room. There is no extra charge for these dinners but reservations are required.  It’s worth noting that the chef accommodates various dietary preferences. So be sure to inform the cruise director.

 Too soon, our cruise was over and it was time to say au revoir to our crew. Michael and I both enjoyed the leisurely focus on one country. Sailing along the Seine enabled us to visit numerous pretty storybook villages and to gain a better understanding of France’s history and culture. And to meet interesting characters like Richard the Lionheart.

The post Scenic Gem River Cruise Review: Luxury Sailing on the Seine River appeared first on She Buys Travel .

The Best New Cruises in the World: 2024 Hot List

By CNT Editors

It’s inevitable: Every spring when we pull together the Hot List , our annual collection of the world’s best new hotels, restaurants, and cruise ships, a staffer remarks that this latest iteration has got to be the best one ever. After a year’s worth of traveling the globe—to stay the night at a converted farmhouse in the middle of an olive grove outside Marrakech , or sail aboard a beloved cruise line’s inaugural Antarctic voyage—it’s easy to see why we get attached. But this year’s Hot List, our 28th edition, might really be the best one ever. It’s certainly our most diverse, featuring not only a hotel suite that was once Winston Churchill’s office, but also the world’s largest cruise ship and restaurants from Cape Town to Bali. We were surprised and inspired by this year’s honorees, and we know you will be too. These are the Hot List cruise winners for 2024.

Click here to see the entire Hot List for 2024 .

All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you book something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

This story appears in Condé Nast Traveler 's Hot List issue. Never miss out when you subscribe to Condé Nast Traveler .

Celebrity Ascent — Celebrity Cruises Arrow

Celebrity is a premium big-ship cruise brand, focusing on exquisite dining, cutting-edge amenities, Instagram-worthy public spaces chock-full of bespoke art pieces, and avant-garde onboard entertainment. The ship makes passengers feel, in a word, glamorous. Celebrity Ascent ’s sumptuously designed interiors are flooded with natural light and evoke an air of playful sophistication that make a week on board an escape worth cherishing. Passengers may find themselves longing to return for just one more succulent crab claw at Raw on 5, one more martini poured by bottle-spinning bartenders in the Martini Bar, or one more dazzling, acrobatic stage show, in the days following their farewells to this beautiful ship. From $710 per person for a seven-night sailing. —Scott Laird

Emerald Sakara — Emerald Cruises Arrow

Now with two oceangoing vessels joining Emerald’s more established fleet of nine river-dedicated “Star-Ships,” the decade-old cruise line is extending a brand built on unpretentious luxury to more corners of the world. Christened last August, the 100-guest superyacht, Sakara, is a near twin to Azzurra, which in 2022 ushered in a new era for Emerald by taking to the high seas. Sakara, like its sister, delightfully blurs the line between the luxury and ultra-luxury cruise categories, offering attentive service, gourmet cuisine, tasteful decor, and an eclectic slate of activities at a price point friendly to more budgets. The cherry on top with both superyachts is a slew of perks atypical of small-ship sailing, ranging from an impressively comprehensive spa to a marina platform well equipped for more fun in the sun. Despite having so much good stuff, each vessel is remarkably spacious. Getting a sense of being on a private yacht is easy like Sunday morning. Sakara is homeported in the Caribbean and the Mediterranean through at least March 2026; Azzurra, too, in addition to the Middle East, Kenya, and the Seychelles. Emerald’s river operations are based in Europe and Southeast Asia. (Note that a third ship, the Kaia , has just been announced by the cruise line; it debuts in April 2026, and, for all the early birds, it is now open for bookings.) From $3,850. —David Dickstein

Explora I — Explora Journeys Arrow

With a showpiece lobby bar, upscale restaurants, and a sultry infinity pool, Explora Journeys' relaxed luxury-resort-at-sea vibe strikes the perfect balance on Explora I. Launched in August 2023, the all-inclusive ship is disarmingly beautiful. A sleek navy blue exterior cocoons 461 suites, all with deep balconies, walk-in closets, and marble bathrooms. There is free-flowing Champagne, 7,500 square feet of wellness space, and 18 drinking and dining venues. From Emporium Marketplace, with its decadent raw bar, to pan-Asian restaurant Sakura, the dining on Explora I is sensational. Marble & Co. Grill is an intimate steakhouse where aging meats hang in temperature-controlled cabinets. At Anthology, the ship's only supplementary restaurant, guest chefs—such as Claude Le Tohic of San Francisco's O' by Claude Le Tohic—curate sublime tasting menus. There's more: The only Rolex boutique at sea, huge hot tubs, and a shore program that sees some land experiences developed in partnership with revered explorer Mike Horn. From $698 per person per night. —Kerry Spencer

Icon of the Seas — Royal Caribbean International Arrow

Aboard the Icon, you can really get lost. The behemoth is just plain big, with capacity for nearly 8,000 when combining passengers and crew across 20 decks and 250,800 gross tons. Two and a half laps around the ship’s jogging track, a particular highlight onboard, and you’ve run a mile. So one can find themselves in need of a map—forgetting your sunscreen, for example, in your cabin is a bit of a chore depending on how far you’ve made it. But the abundance of things to do is also narcotic, and you feel a bit like a lotus-eater attempting to navigate it all while keeping your head. Amid the relentless entertainment, not to be missed are the top-notch performers present everywhere, from the Olympic-level aquatics show that you can watch from the windows of the specialty seafood restaurant should seating be elusive (it often is) to the cafeteria, where crew members dressed as food items sing songs reminding (commanding, actually, which is fabulous) passengers to wash their hands at sinks near the entrance. If you wish to enjoy the largest waterpark at sea, by the way, do what I did not and pack a swimsuit without zippers. From $2,249. —Charlie Hobbs

Harrison Pierce

María Casbas

CNT Editors

MSC Euribia — MSC Cruises Arrow

Looking at a row of cruise ships in port, you'll spot MSC Euribia right away. She's covered bow to stern by an ocean-themed mural by German artist Alex Flämig that bears the hashtag #SaveTheSeas nodding to the MSC's dedication to sustainable cruising: the European cruise line aims to be net-zero by 2050. MSC Euribia brings it one step closer to that goal, as it's the fleet's greenest ship yet, operating on liquified natural gas (LNG) and running advanced water and waste treatment systems onboard. But enough with the technical details—this mega-ship is packed with activities and entertainment, with 10 restaurants, 21 bars, five pools, two performance venues, and a bevy of family-friendly amenities, like an F1 simulator, a waterpark, and a bowling alley. More adult-oriented highlights include the MSC Aurea Spa, with a thermal suite outfitted with thalassotherapy pools, a salt cave, and a snow room, as well as the Helios Wine Maker bar for wine tastings. From $519. —Stefanie Waldek

Norwegian Viva — Norwegian Cruise Line Arrow

The second entry in Norwegian Cruise Line’s new Prima Class, Viva is like an Irish twin of older sister Prima . There’s the same stateroom count at 1,586, done in pristine and pleasing neutrals, as well as familiarly tricked-out amenities like the zippy 1,400-foot go-kart racing track that undulates over the top decks. Importantly, the Ocean Walk, which my colleague Mercedes Bleth adored aboard the Prima, remains. But round two afforded the premier name in large-ship cruising a chance to tweak and perfect, with an influx of seating options both in the ship’s complimentary dining hall as well as on its myriad decks. Across from the signature “zero-waste” Metropolitan Bar, where yummy drinks are whipped up from the ship’s food waste (I particularly enjoy a buttery Croissant Mai-Tai, for which hardening pastries are boiled down into sweetening syrup; the same is done with banana peels) is an interactive piece of digital art 52 feet wide that sees butterflies flit beside passersby. Breezy class all around. From $979. —Charlie Hobbs

Oceania Vista — Oceania Cruises Arrow

Vista, Oceania’s first new ship in more than a decade and the first of its Allura Class, debuted with small but mighty upgrades to its previous ships: better stabilizers for a smoother sailing experience; stronger Wi-Fi; lighting and architecture designed to make the ship’s common spaces look and feel roomier; a resort-like pool deck; and balconies in every cabin. The real star of the show, though, is the food and beverage experience— Vista ’s culinary program delivers on its promise of top-quality venues you’ll want to make the rounds at. New to the lineup are Ember, a steakhouse with decor straight out of Napa Valley, and Aquamar Kitchen, serving up lighter fare that doesn’t skimp on taste. Celebrate a birthday, an anniversary, or a just-because occasion with the Cellar Masters Wine Luncheon, a five-course meal and wine pairing. And don’t miss the elaborate sea day brunch, where towers of lobster, crab, and caviar await. Of course, the ship is just one destination. This year Vista is splitting time between the Mediterranean and the Caribbean; next year it will venture farther into Europe with ports of call like Istanbul, Stockholm, and Klaipeda, Lithuania. Its sister ship, Allura, sets sail in 2025 From $2,699. —Madison Flager

Scenic Eclipse II — Scenic Luxury Cruises and Tours Arrow

The eagerly awaited Scenic Eclipse II is the new and improved version of Scenic's first expedition vessel, Scenic Eclipse . Dubbed "discovery yachts" for their sleek look and top-tier service, the sisters are nearly identical, with most changes so subtle that most guests might not even notice them, such as the slight enlargement of the steam room in the spa. But a big difference can be found on deck 10, where a plunge pool with jets for simulated lap swimming has taken the place of two hot tubs—and there's a new Sky Bar up here. Otherwise, Scenic Eclipse II has the same beloved amenities of its sister, most notably 10 exceptional dining experiences, from a sushi bar to a French restaurant with an attached Champagne bar; a 5,920-square-foot spa; two helicopters; and a submersible. Capable of sailing all over the world, including the polar regions, Scenic Eclipse II has itineraries for every type of traveler. From $7,455. —Stefanie Waldek

Seabourn Pursuit — Seabourn Cruise Line Arrow

Pursuit is a small “yacht-like” expedition ship with a distinct green exterior whose destinations range from Antarctica to warmer climes like the Kimberley in Australia. The decadent cabins, bigger than some standard hotel rooms, feel spacious and relaxing, complete with all the subtle touches that make you feel immediately at home. You can hang your evening attire in the walk-in closet and dry your wet swimwear—or damp Arctic expedition gear—in the built-in warming compartment; have sunrise breakfasts or sunset cocktails mixed at the in-room wet bar on your private balcony; and sleep in a plush, queen-sized bed. But what truly sets this cruise apart is the attentive and personable staff who quickly learn your name and personal preferences, providing VIP treatment throughout the journey. From $10,799. —Taylor Eisenhauer

Seven Seas Grandeur — Regent Seven Seas Cruises Arrow

Ports in the Caribbean, the Greek Isles, and the Riviera might be the draw, but the all-inclusive luxury line Regent Seven Seas Cruises produces ships that have travelers looking forward to those days at sea, as its sixth offering, Grandeur, further proves. All of the 372 suites, which start at a roomy 307 square feet, are decorated in calming neutral blues and beige, and feature furnished balconies; most have L'Occitane bubbles for the marble tub. Quiet comfort can also be had in the Serene Spa & Wellness outdoor lounge area, following a massage on a quartz crystal bed that mimics the feel of warm sand. Cravings for a porterhouse or a vegetarian Salisbury steak can be sated by Prime 7, with other venues serving specialty pan-Asian cuisine, French fare, ample buffets, and Italian offerings. Mainstay Compass Rose has been reimagined as a light, airy space where diners breakfast under playfully elegant pillars that resemble crystal trees. Grandeur 's whimsy extends to its reception area, where guests can check out Journey in Jewels, the Fabergé egg made specifically for the vessel, where it will remain for the rest of its jeweled ovoid days. The maximum number of 744 guests ensures unhurried service and uncrowded environs as you recover from a sunny day of swimming with Caribbean pigs. From $4,699 . —Alexandra Sanidad

Silver Nova — Silversea Cruises Arrow

A voyage on Silversea’s latest ship, Silver Nova, is one of taste and style. With expansive glass features throughout each of the 11 decks, and an ocean-facing saltwater swimming pool, the ship’s unique asymmetrical design leaves room for adults to run and play (with swank, of course). The Nova ’s reimagined culinary experience, SALT (Sea and Land Taste), is the first large-scale, regional restaurant at sea, and acts as an invitation to guests to experience more than an excursion. While initially introduced on Silver Moon, the Nova ’s SALT program includes SALT Lab by day: an intimate cooking class with highly acclaimed chefs and regional cuisine recipes inspired by the next destination. With one nightly seating, SALT Chef's Table offers an exclusive and creatively interactive dining experience. It’s all very intimate—as chefs showcase the art of their crafts firsthand, guests peek into a new culture, and place, before even disembarking. From $3,050. —Jessica Chapel

Viking Aton — Viking River Cruises Arrow

In the style of all Viking ships, the Rottet Studio–designed Aton is intended for comfortable and thought-provoking exploration—just look to the book-filled shelves in the cabins, curated by London’s Heywood Hill library, and the revolving door of on-board lecturers (on my trip, an English curator spoke about the evolving depictions of Egypt in 1900s popular art). It should be no surprise that in a destination as rich and storied as Egypt’s Nile, where the Aton is permanently based, the guides set apart what may read as a quintessential itinerary. On the Pharaohs & Pyramids journey, which takes travelers from the Valley of the Kings, where King Tut lies, to the Great Pyramid of Giza and well beyond over 12 days, esteemed Egyptologists oscillate from translating hieroglyphics on temple walls in real time, to shepherding travelers through modern night markets with endless fervor. On this ship it isn’t just what you see but how much you listen—and the team here, predominantly Egyptian, has much to say. These days, travelers crave perspective-altering experiences more than ever; get on the Aton and you’ll get once-in-a-lifetime access (until, that is, your next Aton sailing). From $5,999. —Megan Spurrell

Resilient Lady — Virgin Voyages Arrow

Stepping onto Resilient Lady feels a bit like heading to summer camp. The massive vessel is like a giant playground for adults, which is why it draws a fun-loving crowd. Theme night parties, a nostalgic arcade room, plenty of board games, and basketball courts are just a few of the seemingly limitless onboard activities. Compared with its sister ships, the newest Virgin Voyages addition includes upgraded onboard entertainment and exciting new ports of call like the Greek Islands, Bali, and Mumbai. Most of the shows on this specific ship are new to the line, such as Persephone, an interactive performance developed in collaboration with famed Brooklyn nightclub House of Yes, and Another Rose, an immersive dinner experience. Dining options are abundant on the ship—20-plus to be exact—and all of them are included with every passenger ticket. Plus, you can’t miss out on a visit to the several different sauna experiences in the Thermal Suite inside the Redemption Spa. From $2,000 . —Rachel Dube

World Voyager — Atlas Ocean Voyages Arrow

There are superbly comfortable spaces and floor-to-ceiling windows aplenty on World Voyager, the latest vessel from Atlas Ocean Voyages. On an Antarctica expedition, from the sauna or the spa’s relaxation room, with its heated loungers perfectly positioned in front of a wall of glass, you might watch turquoise icebergs float by. Back in your cozy stateroom, Champagne and strawberries await, as do the views from a Juliet or walkout balcony. The look throughout the 100 cabins and public spaces is Scandinavian modern, thanks to blond woods, marble floors, plush carpets in geometric patterns, and curvaceous furniture draped in velvety fabrics. In the elegant dining room, the focus is on international cuisine with a farm-to-table slant—think mushroom risotto and smoked duck with chargrilled vegetables. Meanwhile, the multipage cocktail menu beckons guests to a pair of spacious lounges. Blending yacht-style elegance and boutique-resort intimacy, this is a ship where you can make new friends easily but also retreat to a favorite spot to enjoy high tea in peaceful solitude while awaiting details from the crew on the adventures that lie ahead. From $1849. —Celeste Moure