Setting Sail in Style: The Ships and Destinations Defining Luxury Cruising for 2026 and Beyond

Sonia
Jan 20
5 min read

Updated: Jan 21

aerial view of the new Four Seasons Yacht

What’s New in Luxury Cruising for 2026

Cruising does not look the way it used to, and that is very good news. Today’s luxury cruising is defined by smaller ships, thoughtful design, and itineraries that feel intentional rather than overwhelming. Many of the most exciting experiences at sea now come from boutique-style yachts, familiar luxury brands entering the space, and destinations that sit well outside the usual cruise map. Even if you have never considered yourself a cruiser, I can confidently say there is something coming in 2026 that may change your mind. From design-forward yachts to far-flung routes across Asia, the South Pacific, and the polar regions, this is a year worth paying attention to.

Ships to Know About in 2026

Four Seasons I, Four Seasons Yachts (March 2026)

Four Seasons Yacht setting sail in the Mediterranean

Four Seasons I makes its highly anticipated debut in spring 2026 and brings exactly what you would expect from the brand: polished service, beautiful design, and a strong sense of ease. With space for just 190 guests, this yacht feels far closer to a floating boutique hotel than a traditional cruise ship.

Expect oversized suites, elegant public spaces, and a crew-to-guest ratio that allows for genuinely personalized service. The inaugural season focuses on the Mediterranean and Greek Isles, with itineraries built around smaller ports, quiet beaches, and places that larger ships simply cannot reach. For travelers who love Four Seasons on land, this is an easy transition to sea.

Aman at Sea (2027)

Aman lovers rejoice! Reservations are now open for Aman at Sea’s first luxury yacht, Amangati, marking the ultra-luxury brand’s debut on the water. Amangati is scheduled to begin its inaugural sailings in spring and summer 2027, with Mediterranean itineraries that include the French and Italian Rivieras, the Greek Isles, and beyond. Built for only 94 guests across 47 suites with private terraces, the yacht reflects Aman’s signature focus on space, serenity, and minimalist design, and will offer multiple dining venues, a spa with a Japanese garden, a Beach Club, and more

Orient Express Corinthian, Orient Express Sailing Yachts (June 2026)

Image of the Orient Express three mass yacht

Orient Express Corinthian marks the legendary brand’s first move into sailing yachts, and it does so with confidence. Hosting just 110 guests, this ship leans into timeless European glamour with refined cabins, stylish lounges, and a strong emphasis on slow, elegant travel.

Its first season centers on the French Riviera and the broader Mediterranean. Days are designed around unhurried sailing, charming coastal towns, and long afternoons at anchor in calm bays. This is cruising for travelers who appreciate aesthetics, atmosphere, and the joy of lingering a little longer.

Emerald Kaia, Emerald Cruises (April 2026)

Front deck of the Emerald Kaia with a plung pool and lounge chairs

Emerald Kaia is Emerald Cruises’ most intimate oceangoing ship to date, carrying only 128 guests. It strikes a nice balance between modern luxury and approachability, without venturing into full expedition territory.

The design is contemporary and airy, public spaces feel relaxed, and the overall mood is refreshingly unfussy. Its inaugural itineraries explore the Mediterranean, Greek Isles, and Adriatic, making it a strong choice for travelers interested in easy island hopping, coastal villages, and culture-forward ports that favor scenery over spectacle.

Explora III, Explora Journeys (Summer 2026)

Spacious cabin of the Explora III featuring ample seating, dining table and desk

Explora III continues to build on Explora Journeys’ vision of relaxed, design-led luxury at sea. Carrying just under 1,000 guests, this ship prioritizes space, calm, and a strong wellness focus. Suites are generous, their dining offerings are highly rates, and there is plenty of room to truly unwind.

The inaugural itineraries begin in the Mediterranean before heading north to Northern Europe, Iceland, and Greenland. It is a great option for travelers who want variety without sacrificing comfort or style.

Destination Trends to Watch in 2026

South Pacific

The South Pacific continues to gain momentum, with cruise lines expanding well beyond French Polynesia. If there is any region where the case for being on the water rather than land is truly compelling, it is here, thanks to the ability to reach remote island chains that are otherwise difficult, time consuming, or impossible to access.

Windstar Cruises is adding new itineraries to Fiji, Tonga, and the Cook Islands starting in 2026. These routes offer access to remote island chains that feel far removed from the everyday and are ideal for travelers seeking a slower, more immersive pace.

Oceania Cruises is also leaning into the region with roughly 19 voyages scheduled between February 2026 and December 2027. These sailings cover French Polynesia, the Cook Islands, Fiji, Niue, Samoa, American Samoa, and beyond.

Seabourn Pursuit continues to explore lesser-visited atolls and culturally rich destinations across the South Pacific, blending expedition-style discovery with Seabourn’s signature luxury and service.

Asia

Asia remains one of the most exciting regions for luxury cruising, especially for travelers who value cultural depth and smaller ports.

One of the most talked about additions is Disney’s new Disney Adventure cruise setting sail from Singapore beginning in March 2026. This is the first Disney Cruise Line ship to be based out of Singapore, and it brings Disney storytelling and themed experiences to sea in a completely new way. The Disney Adventure offers short 3- and 4-night sailings that are 100 percent focused on onboard experiences, with themed areas inspired by Disney, Pixar, and Marvel. Guests can explore seven imaginative zones packed with live entertainment, immersive spaces, and signature dining that make the journey as engaging as the places you might visit ashore. The ship itself is the destination with guests planning time before and after exploring Singapore and neighboring countries.

Silversea has released its 2026 to 2027 Asia program, featuring immersive itineraries on elegant, smaller ships. These voyages are all-inclusive and emphasize high-touch service, curated excursions, and access to intimate harbors that larger ships cannot reach. This is an excellent fit for travelers who want a refined experience both onboard and ashore.

The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection is offering Asia itineraries that focus on overnight stays in major cultural cities such as Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh City, and Hong Kong. These sailings prioritize deeper exploration ashore along with yacht-style experience when back on board.

South America and Antarctica

For travelers seeking something truly unforgettable, South America and Antarctica continue to stand out.

Silversea leads the luxury segment in South America with voyages that highlight culture, cuisine, and immersive exploration. One standout offering is the Grand Voyage 2027 Circle South America, a 76-day journey aboard Silver Nova that circumnavigates the continent with extensive shore excursions and cultural encounters.

Seabourn offers experiential luxury cruising across South America and Antarctica, often blending classic upscale cruising with expedition-style adventures in places like Patagonia and the Amazon. Ships such as Seabourn Venture are designed for travelers who want curated adventure paired with top-notch dining and service.

Scenic Eclipse continues to operate luxury expedition yachts in Antarctica, offering high levels of inclusivity while delivering meaningful exploration. Other respected expedition operators such as Aurora Expeditions, Quark Expeditions, and Hurtigruten HX continue to innovate in vessel design and onboard education, making polar travel more engaging than ever.

Whether you are a cruise fanatic, cruise curious, or firmly in the “not usually my thing” camp, the luxury cruise landscape in 2026 looks very different than it did even a few years ago. Smaller ships, thoughtful itineraries, and brands you already trust are changing what it means to travel by sea. The right ship and route can open up places that are harder to reach by land, while still giving you space, comfort, and time to actually enjoy the journey. And that, in my book, is always worth considering.