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There are two types of people in the world — those who love cruises and those who say, “hell no!” If you’re like me and fall into the first category, chances are you know about the secret, elite world of luxury cruising. And if you’re in the second category, you may find yourself in the first by the end of this article.
Maybe you’ve dreamed of stepping foot onto Norwegian Cruise Line’s The Haven, Royal Caribbean’s Royal Suite Class or MSC’s Yacht Club—the designated luxury areas offering the Gold Standard, VIP treatment you know you deserve. Who isn’t worthy of chocolates on their pillow every night and room service lattes upon waking each morning?
If you’re thinking of booking a luxury cruise (and you should be), I’m here to help because, let’s face it, the details are overwhelming. I reached out to Jeffrey Clearly, Cruise Consultant at Amazing World Cruises LLC, to get the 411. Here’s what you need to know:
What is a Luxury Cruise?
Essentially, you are paying for the VIP treatment and the luxury of privacy, relaxation and one-on-one attention from a private butler who will remember your name and favorite beverage. According to Cleary, MSC’s Yacht Club offers “a ship within a ship” with exclusive amenities and butler service. Norwegian’s The Haven and Royal Caribbean’s Royal Suite provide similar experiences, and all promise fewer crowds, little to no lines at bars and the buffet, and attention to every detail from personalized pillow selection (MSC’s Yacht Club) to more spacious cabins.
Most luxury ship experiences include their own dining rooms, which offer gourmet menus and ensure you can eat whenever you choose. You also gain access to exclusive areas of the ship (usually on the top decks), including a thermal spa, adult-only pools and exclusive buffets and bars. There is one drawback — ask anyone who has traveled this way and they’ll warn you: once you cruise luxury, you will never go back to basic cabins. Buyer beware.
Do Your Homework
If you want to upgrade your cruise experience to luxury, you will have to decide on a cruise line. Cruising is about personal preference, and repeat guests often become attached to a particular line when booking the average cabin. When reserving luxury accommodations, however, it’s best to remain flexible.
Comparing lines can be especially helpful when it comes to rates and getting the most bang for your back. Prices vary based on itinerary, travel dates and cabin type, but expect to pay anywhere from $1,500 to $4,000 more per person to secure the elevated cruise experience. MSC is known to have more affordable fares, making the luxury experience more accessible to a variety of guests. “MSC Yacht Club seems to be the preference of my clients,” says Cleary. “I book more Yacht Club than The Haven.”
Roll the Dice, or Not
Here’s where it gets tricky. There are a few different ways to reserve your luxury cabin. If you book it directly, you will likely pay full price. Or, you can roll the dice: Book a regular cabin and hope for the chance to upgrade to a luxury cabin for less — if luxury cabins remain un-booked as the embarkation date approaches, you may be given the opportunity to bid for one. Guests choose the amount they are willing to pay and wait to see if the cruise line accepts the offer. It’s a gamble, but it can save you hundreds (or more) if you are one of the lucky few.
According to Cleary, it’s not always worth the risk. “The best way is to book what you want,” he says. “Upgrade bids are not guaranteed and are only offered when there’s availability.” He also points out that upgrades are never ideal for solo travelers because “the upgrade offers are always [for double rooms].” There are, however, other ways to save.
“The absolute best deals are for flexible travelers who can book last minute,” advises Cleary. “Booking in advance will usually get you a good Advance Booking fare as well as some added amenities. But, those that can wait and [book] within two to four weeks of travel can get the best deals as cruise lines will try to fill cabins if any are available. You have to be flexible. It's helpful if you can drive [to] the port and not have to involve flights.”
Koreen McNutt, SVP Sales and Trade Engagement & Commercial Sales Officer, MSC Cruises USA, suggests that guests pay attention to “wave season — the largest sale season for cruise lines that takes place each year from January through March.”
Book It
When you are ready to book, it’s not a bad idea to reach out to a cruising expert like Cleary. The process can be overwhelming and there is no need to go it alone. Luxury is luxury, friends, so it’s hard to go wrong when booking the best!
Photo credits (top to bottom): Rick Diaz/Courtesy Norwegian Cruise Line; Ivan Sarfatti/Courtesy MSC Cruises; Chris Sanders/Courtesy Royal Caribbean Group
Have any of you ever been on a cruise? Where did you go? Let us know in the comments below.
