As 2020 cruises by with barely a holiday in sight thanks to the current Covid-19 pandemic, many of us are beginning to look ahead to 2021 and plan a truly spectacular getaway to make up for the ones we’ve missed. And, when it comes to getting the rest, relaxation and all out luxury you crave, what could be better than the prospect of a luxury six-star cruise?
Yes, you heard that right – six-star. Gone are the days when a five-star experience was as good as it got, and in 2021, it’s all about pushing the boat out and going one bigger and better. The highly coveted six-star recognition is awarded only to the most exquisite cruise ships around the world, so book onto one, and you’ll be guaranteed only the finest in everything, from the moment you set foot on board, to the moment you disembark.
Six-star cruise ships offer a slightly more intimate experience than their five-star counterparts, with a maximum of only 800 passengers on board at any one time. Cabins already start at suite level – balcony included – with all-inclusive food (fine dining, of course), drinks and spa access with your stay. And, of course, the service is second to none, with a greater crew-to-passenger ratio than you’d find on any other cruise – so you’re guaranteed to want for nothing at any point on this truly lavish trip.
So, where exactly can you find yourself one of the best six star cruises to book for 2021? We’ve rounded up five of the best.
Crystal Cruises
Popular amongst families and solo travellers alike, the Crystal Cruises experience is perfect for those in search of an off-the-beaten-track adventure. Taking you to harder to reach destinations like Antarctica, the Crystal Endeavour offers impeccable service, mouth-watering cuisine and a huge array of complimentary amenities on board. And, with an emphasis on entertainment, you can enjoy cabaret and bingo by night. It’s definitely worth brushing up your skills and checking out some bingo offers online beforehand, because the sizeable prizes on offer on board are not to be sniffed at.
Seabourn
A top choice amongst foodies, Seabourn cruises offer an extra-intimate experience, with just 300 suites on board each ship in total, and an impressive crew-to-passenger ratio (the highest in the industry, in fact) to guarantee impeccable service throughout.
Pushing the boat out on entertainment, Seabourn cruises offer special events such as beach parties and steel band performances, while watersports are available to enjoy at your leisure. The spas on board are not to be missed, either, offering guests hours of rest and relaxation with opulent massages, facials and other treatments all included.
With their unrivalled sense of style and elegance, Seabourn’s luxury cruise ships will take you to far flung destinations around the world, from Asia to Alaska, offering a feeling of real exclusivity with its highly personalised service.
Regent Seven Seas
If immersing yourself in culture is one of your favourite ways to spend your luxury getaway, then don’t hesitate t book yourself onto a six-star cruise with Regent Seven Seas. The most luxurious cruise line currently at sea provides an intimate and exclusive space on board, with the Executive Collection offering an even greater level of exclusivity than other passengers. You’ll get to enjoy numerous shore excursions, five-star hotel stays and fine dining experiences, all included in your package – plus, your trip is entirely customisable, allowing you to tailor it to suit your own personal tastes.
Regent offers some great itineraries, and is a great choice if you’re keen to take in some of the most glamorous cities in Europe in style, with trips touring the likes of Barcelona, Montecarlo, Stockholm and more. If you’ve got plenty of time on your hands, then why not take the Barcelona to Auckland or Lisbon to Cape Town route, both of which will allow you to take in multiple continents?
Silversea Cruises
Offering gourmet dining, sprawling luxury suites and world class service, a Silversea cruise is guaranteed not to disappoint. With over 900 destinations on its roster, highlights include the Galapagos Islands and South America, and with a crew to passenger ratio of almost 1:1, you’ll practically have your own personal butler throughout.
Offering an extra attractive package for those opting to cruise solo, you can even book yourself a dinner host and a dance partner for the evening, in an intimate setting where you’ll never feel short of company and conversation.
Our top pick? Cruising the South Pacific Islands, where you’ll take in the likes of Easter Island, Tahiti and Valparaiso. Paradise beaches don’t get much better than this.
If you’re planning a getaway to end all getaways in 2021 after a year of standing still, then a six-star cruise is a great way to go. Offering all the convenience of a standard cruise and opulence coming as a premium throughout, it’s the perfect way to see the world, soak up a little culture and relax in all-out luxury.