Regarding cruise vacations, people tend to fall into two drastically opposing categories: fervent advocates or overzealous naysayers. For critics, cruising is a divisive concept that typically elicits visions of massive, outdated ships, less-than-desirable travel companions, and cookie-cutter itineraries that feel more like lackluster field trips than authentic, once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Cue the caricature of an obnoxious tourist looming over the cruise ship buffet in his loudest Hawaiian print button-down.
Although that unsavory depiction undoubtedly exists in some form or another, it’s certainly no longer the norm — at least not when it comes to luxury ships. For the uninitiated, the cruise industry’s luxury segment is booming. Now more than ever, leaders in space are attracting well-heeled holidaymakers and transporting them to some of the most stunning destinations on Earth.
Moreover, the vessels currently sailing the high seas are so impressive that you could easily mistake their swoon-worthy suites for some lavish European hotel — and nobody would blame you. Ask anyone dining at The Grill by Thomas Keller aboard Seabourn Ovation or beckoning their butler on Silversea’s Silver Muse. ‘It’s a far cry from the long-standing stigma that has traditionally plagued the industry and nothing like that spring break booze cruise you may (or may not) remember.
But the latest trend in luxury cruising looks beyond simply combining stellar service with world-class accommodations and a database of exclusive destinations. Nowadays, an increasing number of passengers insist that options for unforgettable adventures and out-of-the-box excursions are folded into the mix. Luckily for them, the cruise lines are willing to listen and are eager to oblige.
The demand for expedition-themed offerings has become so prevalent that many of the industry’s key players are already preparing for the rising trend. More than 50 expedition ships are slated to be constructed over the next five years alone to usher in this swelling wave of adventure-chasing cruise enthusiasts. The move indicates a fundamental shift in how “cruise people” are choosing to travel.
A Reimagined Approach
Many newcomers will draw inspiration from their luxurious sister ships and incorporate thoughtful design details not commonly found in expedition vessels. Historically, expedition ships offered little more than bare-bone essentials, making logical sense, considering their main purpose was functionality. Tough but elegant, they served as a launchpad for intrepid pursuits during the day and a simple place to sleep at night. But that mindset is finally beginning to shift as elegant new vessels gear up to make their grand debut.
“The changes taking place in the expedition category are a natural evolution of the cruise industry that responds to the curiosity of today’s traveler,” said Richard Meadows, president of Seabourn. “I’m confident that these consumer interests will continue to grow in the years ahead.”
Built specifically for adventurous excursions, these vessels can still access far-flung corners of the earth (like their predecessors). Still, they’ll do so in unprecedented style while incorporating immersive itineraries and experiences that impress any thrill-seeker. This revolutionary approach marks the first real effort to expand passengers’ focus from the destinations alone and include the actual vessels in the overarching experience. And it’s going to change the cruising industry as we know it.
Notable Newcomers of 2019
This year will welcome an innovative fleet of newcomers to set the bar high for future iterations. One of the most buzzed-about forthcoming ships is Hurtigruten’s MS Roald Amundsen. Her arrival this July marks the revered company’s first hybrid ship. Designed by Rolls Royce, the 530-passenger ship will employ sustainable technology powered by renewable, fossil-free, liquefied biogas produced by dead fish and organic waste. Adrenaline-fueled itineraries will include a 17-night trip along Alaska’s coast, a journey through Chilean fjords and Antarctica’s pristine landscapes ($10,105 per person), and exploring Viking heritage in Iceland and Greenland (starting at $8,457).
“With an eye on the next generation of responsible adventure travel, we set out to develop ground-breaking vessels,” said Daniel Skjeldam, CEO of Hurtigruten. According to Skjeldam, guests can also look forward to “a fleet of Blueye underwater drones, kayaks, and large inflatable Explorer Boats used for landings in otherwise inaccessible destinations.”
