People embarking on a cruise holiday used to fall into two distinct groups. One wanted a cruise ship with all the bells and whistles plus a hint of elegance: a gym, an extensive spa and pool, an official black-tie Captain’s Dinner, shops on board and a West End-worthy entertainment pro- gramme. At the other end of the spectrum you had those who wanted to feel like adventurers, capable of surviving on the ocean without fripperies. If you wanted to travel to places like Antarctica, you knew you would be traveling on a spartan ship, usually a former research vessel converted for tourists whose luggage consisted solely of sturdy, functional clothing. While this undoubtedly has a certain charm, what’s so bad about watching the icebergs while you sit in an outdoor Jacuzzi and sip a glass of bubbly?

Nostalgic windjammer: the Sea Cloud Spirit unites sailing with the bespoke luxury of an exclusive yacht trip. © Sea Cloud Cruises

Floating luxury for all

One of the most recent megatrends is the acknowledgment that adventure and luxury do not have to be mutually exclusive. Ships have transformed themselves into five-star hotels, while at the same time boasting all the scientific equipment of an oceanographic research vessel. Just like flying, the overall trend is to travel less, but when you do travel, to do so in style and in a private jet. One consequence of the pandemic is a reluctance to be part of a crowd; people want more space and are eschewing cramped cabins that lack a private balcony. Modern cruise yachts only offer suites with a sea view and their own personal terrace; most suite categories now include a bespoke butler service.

Relax by the pool: the new luxury ship Explora, launching in 2023, features a spacious spa. © Explora Journeys

The renowned hotel group Ritz-Carlton has set a new standard with its yacht EVRIMA, which features elegantly furnished suites, private terraces and luxurious dining areas far removed from the canteen style found on many other ships. Designed for 298 guests, the yacht delivers an intimate experience with the benefit of conviviality when required.

Sophisticated luxury: with large terraces in every suite, the Ritz-Carlton yacht EVRIMA sets new standards in cruising. © Ritz-Carlton

HISTORICAL SAILING SHIPS

If your tastes run to a combination of nostalgia and modern amenities, then the Sea Cloud Spirit – a historical windjammer with all the luxuries of a private yacht – will definitely float your boat. The charter fleet also includes many other traditional-style wooden sailing ships that are guaranteed to make you feel like a pirate roaming the oceans. Smaller charter yachts like the SHALIMAR II are designed for eight guests; the daily rate in the low season is around £8,490. Its relatively small size allows this agile vessel to reach even the most remote beaches.

Family outing: motor yachts like the SHALIMAR II are designed for eight guests and are agile enough to get into every bay. © Nacho Dorado Photographer/www.nachodorado.com

The superyacht Cloudbreak can accommodate 12 guests and has everything needed for a memorable holiday, including a pool and a spacious gym with a ballet barre, jet skis, kayaks and wakesurf boards. The amenities on board have changed to cater to an active lifestyle, which has become even more aspirational during the pandemic: modern luxury yachts now offer hammams, cryosaunas and super-sized showers. Toys like floating beach clubs are all the rage; these swimming platforms are tethered to the rear of the yacht and provide an additional water-level sundeck for those who want to get closer to the waves. There are numerous appealing innovations in yacht design these days, including inflatable sea-level pools and super low platforms for easy access after swimming.

Ready for take-off: the superyacht Cloudbreak has a helipad – in case you need to jet off to a meeting. © Christopher Scholey

Booking app or broker?

The lifestyle and luxury magazine Robb Report recently published tips on how to charter a yacht. There are many apps and online platforms, such as Ahoy Clubthat make the booking process child’s play. Nevertheless, the magazine advises using a professional charter broker to avoid the pitfalls of fraudulent listings. The broker will handle all details in advance, including determining how large the crew needs to be and ensuring that all dietary needs are catered for. They will also discuss personal preference, such as whether you’re looking for a quiet trip or want to party every evening, whether the yacht should be suitable for business meetings or whether working with ocean protection initiatives is a priority. A professional can also clarify all security considerations in advance, because stars and other HNWI charter clients don’t want to be photographed by intrusive paparazzi drones. But that, admittedly, is next-level travel.

Easy luxury: hotels like Patina Maldives offer their guests yacht excursions to explore the stunning world of the islands. © Mohamed Rizhan