Luxury Ferry Cruises: What You Should Know

Going to splurge on your next ocean voyage? Luxury ferry cruises marry the ease of being on a ferry with high-end amenities. Imagine sailing ferries to Greece with gourmet meals, private balconies, and spa massages. These cruises are designed for style-seekers and relaxation buffs. Keep reading for what you should know before you book.

What Makes a Ferry Cruise "Luxury"?

Luxury ferries focus on comfort, service, and exclusivity. They have large cabins, gourmet restaurants, and services like priority boarding. Think fewer passengers, more staff, and a focus on detail. Regular ferries get you from A to B, while luxury cruises make the journey worthwhile.

Popular Routes for Luxury Ferries

Luxury ferry routes often connect scenic or high-demand destinations. The Mediterranean is a hotspot, with trips linking Italy’s Amalfi Coast to Greek islands like Santorini or Mykonos. Nordic routes feature fjord views in Norway or Sweden. Southeast Asia offers journeys between Thailand’s beaches and Malaysia’s cultural hubs.

Onboard Amenities You’ll Love

Forget plastic chairs and snack bars. Luxury ferries include lounges with ocean views, wellness spas, and even pools. Some have cinemas, libraries, or fitness centers. Free Wi-Fi, concierge services, and live music are common. You’ll feel like you’re on a mini cruise ship—without the crowds.

Dining That Rivals Top Restaurants

Luxury ferries include fine dining. Local cuisine and international cuisine reign supreme on the menus. Savor fresh seafood on a journey up the Aegean or wine and cuisine pairings up the French Riviera. Many have 24/7 room service and specialty coffee shops. Special diets? Chefs will usually prepare special meals at your request.

Cabins Designed for Relaxing

Eliminate tight bunks. Their luxury cabins feel like hotel rooms with plush bedding, en-suite bathrooms, and air conditioning. Upgrade to suites for extra indulgences like an outdoor balcony, minibar, or butler service. Some ferries offer family-sized rooms with a divided living space.

Who Would Benefit from Luxury Ferry Cruise?

These cruises are ideal for people who love comfort and abhor airport nuisance. They are great for couples, seniors, or families wanting stress-free holidays. Fancy slow travel with sightseeing thrown in? A luxury ferry is the ticket. Budget conscious? Look out for off-season sales or shorter voyages.

How to Book Smart

Luxury ferries fill up fast in peak season (summer in Europe, holidays in Asia). Book early for decent cabins and prices. Shop around among operators—some include meals and amenities in the price, others have additional fees. Check reviews for feedback on service and sanitation. Travel agents can score such extras as onboard credits or upgrades.

Pack Like a Pro

Pack light, but pack in layers for lounging on deck. Dress code on most luxury ferries is casual-chic, so sundresses or linen tops come to mind. Smart casual will likely pass for fancy night diners. Don't depart without sunscreen, motion sickness patches, and a refillable water bottle.

Venturing Beyond the Ferry

The majority of luxury ferries have excursions as extras in collaboration with tour operators. Book a Crete guided trek, a Sicily winery tour, or a Dubrovnik walking tour. These excursions simplify planning and often offer VIP amenities.

For a mix of charm and convenience, travel by ferries to England from Belgium or France. Luxury routes like Dover to Calais feature champagne lounges, gourmet bistros, and panoramic decks. Arrive in London refreshed and ready to explore—no jet lag or baggage claim.

Luxury ferry cruises are costly, but the journey is worth it. Select routes that speak to your interests, whether food, culture or the wilderness. Keep an eye out for cancellation policies—nature can be fickle. Most importantly, relax and enjoy. Slow travel lets you enjoy every wave and every sunset.

A Technical Content Strategist at Fix My Home Guide