Luxury Brands Set Sail: The New Era of Yacht Cruises in 2026
As we venture into 2026, an exciting trend is emerging in the travel industry: luxury brands are taking to the water. With a blend of opulence and adventure, these commercial cruises promise to deliver the amenities of a private yacht experience. Holidaymakers from exotic destinations like Saint Barthélemy to bustling Singapore will soon enjoy multistorey suites and gourmet dining while exploring the world’s oceans. This innovative approach is primarily being driven by prestigious hotel brands aiming to extend their five-star service to the high seas. Here’s a closer look at three of the most enticing new offerings.
1. ‘Four Seasons I’
Launching in March, the Four Seasons I marks the debut of a planned fleet by the renowned Four Seasons brand. This state-of-the-art yacht will impress with 95 luxurious suites and 11 exquisite restaurants, ensuring a gastronomical delight for guests. According to Ben Trodd, the chief executive of Four Seasons Yachts, what sets this journey apart is the unmatched guest-to-staff ratio of one to one. This intimate service allows for personalized experiences tailored to every need.
Guests will have exclusive access to hard-to-reach ports, enhancing the allure of discovering unique destinations while indulging in world-class culinary programming. Moreover, the yacht features its own floating marina, equipped for exhilarating activities such as swimming, canoeing, and paddleboarding—making it a true haven for adventure seekers and relaxation enthusiasts alike.
2. ‘Orient Express Corinthian’ by Orient Express Sailing Yachts
In June, the storied Orient Express will introduce the Orient Express Corinthian, a remarkable yacht that brings the elegance of its legendary sleeper train to the sea. Officially recognized as the world’s largest sailing yacht, the 220-metre vessel boasts three majestic masts. Art deco interiors designed by Maxime d’Angeac promise a luxurious atmosphere that contrasts beautifully with the often impersonal luxury associated with many yachts.
The Corinthian will feature 54 sumptuous rooms, each meticulously designed with hardwood walls and marble bathrooms, encapsulating the charm and sophistication reminiscent of the historic Orient Express trains. For those looking for an immersive experience, the yacht also houses a speakeasy, and offers shorter stays—like a four-night cruise to the Venice Film Festival—providing a seamless connection between luxury travel and cultural events.
3. ‘Luminara’ by Ritz-Carlton
Ritz-Carlton has long been a trailblazer in the realm of luxury cruises, and the Luminara demonstrates its commitment to redefining opulent travel. This yacht, larger than its competition, features 226 suites, complete with private terraces for unparalleled views and space. Designed to navigate lesser-known waters, the Luminara will embark on off-the-beaten-path journeys from May to September, including spectacular routes through the icy landscapes of Alaska and Canada.
Voyagers can expect to enjoy weeklong itineraries that blend nature’s beauty with luxury, where the upper deck is the perfect setting for sipping cocktails while gazing at the breathtaking Sawyer Glacier or whale-watching in Icy Strait Point, a destination rarely visited by other yachts.
Discover the Future of Luxury Cruising
These innovative luxury cruises invite travelers to embrace a new era of vacationing. Whether exploring exclusive ports with Four Seasons I, indulging in the vintage charm of Orient Express Corinthian, or adventuring through untamed northern waters aboard Luminara, 2026 promises to be a landmark year for luxury maritime experiences. Each vessel is designed to provide a unique blend of accommodation, fine dining, and adventurous excursions, setting the stage for unforgettable journeys on the high seas.