3 new luxury cruise ships to watch out for

Seabourn Encore

Launch Date: December 2016

Seabourn’s largest ship ever is currently under construction. Although the ship will hold a third more passengers than Seabourn’s current ships, it will still remain relatively small in size, with a capacity of just over 600 passengers.

Seabourn’s fleet is already the newest and most modern of all the ultra-luxury cruise lines, and this new vessel promises to be the jewel in the crown. A sister ship, Seabourn Ovation will also be delivered in April 2018.

This all-suite ship will have the feel of a private yacht, based on the same design as Seabourn’s other three ships, but with one more deck and expanded public areas to make her slightly larger. The food is sure to be a talking point, with menus crafted by master chef Thomas Keller and two new speciality restaurants. Like all Seabourn cruises, dining never incurs an extra charge and beverages, from teas and coffees to fine wines and spirits, are included too. Tipping is neither required nor expected.

The Retreat will also be a welcome new addition, with a flower-shaped canopy and 15 private cabanas featuring large TV screens a fridges stocked with a personalised selection of drinks.

Silver Muse

Launch Date: Spring 2017

Silversea’s new ship will be its largest ever, with capacity for almost 600 guests, and will bring the fleet total to nine. Silversea promise that this ship will raise the bar in the ultra-luxury cruise market – offering a wealth of enhancements to the on-board experience.

Offering the same service as the other ships in Silversea’s fleet, guests will enjoy a butler service in all suites, complimentary mini-bars, all-day Champagne, as well as complimentary gratuities and transport from ports of call. Silver Muse also will feature eight restaurants, including the only Slow Food restaurant at sea, a French restaurant with menus from the Relais & Chateaux team and one where you can cook your own food on hot lava stones.

Crystal Endeavor

Launch Date: August 2018

Crystal Endeavour will be the world’s first purpose-built mega-yacht when she launches in two years’ time. With 100 guest suites, the vessel will be the largest and most spacious megayacht at sea when she begins her expeditions in Arctic, Antarctic, and tropical conditions.

Crystal Endeavour is aimed at particularly daring passengers, who value comfort and luxury as much as life-changing adventures. State-of-the-art technology will be used to ensure that the ship is able to cruise through the icy Polar Regions as well as floating over coral reefs without the use of anchors which could damage the terrain.

This 200-passenger ship will also feature a range of ‘toys’ including two helicopters, two 7-person submarines, eight amphibious zodiacs, jet skis, kayaks, scuba equipment, off-road vehicles and even underwater scooters.

Crystal’s highly-acclaimed butler service will be available to all guests, with a one-to-one crew ratio meaning that 200 crew members will serve 200 guests on board.

If you’d like to know more about the latest luxury cruise ships, or would like any advice on booking your next cruise, our Cruise Concierge team are on hand to help. Just give us a call on 0207 980 2848.