Five ways to sail luxury.
These five get compared more than any others I book. They're all excellent, but they include very different things. Here's the honest side-by-side, and I'll price the two that fit you best.
Questions? Text or call 202-802-0990
Photos courtesy of Explora Journeys, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, Four Seasons Yachts, Scenic, Celebrity Cruises.
What each one includes.
| Line | Ship style | Dinner | Drinks | Gratuities | Excursions | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Explora Journeys | Ocean, ~460 suites | Yes | Yes | Yes | Extra | Food-and-wine lovers, balcony upgraders |
| Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection | Yacht, 149 to 226 suites | Most | Yes | Yes | Extra | Small harbors, Ritz-Carlton fans |
| Four Seasons Yachts | Yacht, 95 suites | Breakfast only | Extra | Yes | Extra | Space, families, Four Seasons loyalists |
| Scenic river cruises | River, small Space-Ships | Yes | Yes | Yes | Included | Europe's rivers, everything handled |
| Celebrity Retreat | Big ship, suite class | Yes (Luminae) | Yes | Separate | Extra | Value, big-ship fun, multi-gen |
Summarized from each line's published inclusions as of October 2026. "Most" means a small number of venues or bottles cost extra. Celebrity Retreat gratuities are $24.50 per person per day unless prepaid or included in a promotion. Four Seasons includes breakfast only and suggests budgeting about $250 per person per day for food and drink.
If you want this, book that.
Nothing to sign for
Scenic on the rivers, or Explora on the ocean.
Yacht feel, small ports
The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, or Four Seasons if you want more space and don't mind a bill.
Best value luxury
Celebrity's Retreat: private restaurant, lounge and butler for less than most luxury lines.
A family trip
Four Seasons for per-suite pricing, or The Retreat for one ship that suits every age.
What sailors say.
5.00 average from 38 client reviews on Fora.
When NatGeo/Lindblad notified us at the last minute of a mistake on their end, Derek communicated it to me and handled it smoothly, while also getting me an additional credit.
What stood out most was Derek’s ability to personalize the travel experience. He took the time to understand my preferences and travel style, offering thoughtful recommendations that perfectly suited my needs.
He booked our cruise and handled reservations for all our onboard activities, dinners and shows. From flight to Greece, our meals, hotel accommodations, excursions, shopping and sight seeing, he planned it all. … If he found a better deal after he booked he would run it by us 1st then handle all the changes.
Luxury cruise comparison FAQ
Which luxury cruise line is the most all-inclusive?
Of these five, Scenic river cruises and Explora Journeys include the most: drinks, Wi-Fi and gratuities, and Scenic also includes excursions. The Ritz-Carlton yachts are close behind. Four Seasons is a la carte by design, and The Retreat includes drinks and dining but adds daily gratuities.
What is the difference between Explora and the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection?
Explora's ships are bigger, with about 460 suites, more restaurants and more space. The Ritz-Carlton yachts carry 298 to 452 guests, feel more like a private yacht and reach smaller harbors. Both include drinks, Wi-Fi and gratuities.
Is Four Seasons Yachts worth the price?
If you love Four Seasons hotels and want the most space and staff per guest, yes. Just budget for lunch, dinner and drinks, which Four Seasons estimates at about $250 per person per day.
Is Celebrity Retreat a luxury cruise?
It's luxury inside a premium ship. You get a private restaurant, lounge, butler and premium drinks, plus the restaurants and shows of a big ship. It's usually the best value of the five.
Do I pay more booking luxury cruises through an advisor?
No. You pay the cruise line's fare, I charge $0 planning fees, and booking through Fora, a Virtuoso member, adds amenities on many sailings.
More luxury guides.
Let's narrow it to two.
Tell me your dates, region and travel style. I'll price the two best fits side by side with the Virtuoso amenities included.
Or call 202-802-0990 · derek@ateasetravel.co