Cruises are cool again and these are the most luxurious ships you can sail on in 2024 – without spending a fortune
FORGET about those saying cruises are for retirees - life at sea is becoming cool again.
Booked by millennials and gen-z to influencers and footballers, there are some luxurious ships that you could book in 2024 - without spending a fortune.
One of the many reasons why cruises are becoming loved again is convenience.
Travellers love not having to continuously pack and unpack and travel to see multiple destinations.
And the vast range of activities on board makes it fun even when travelling from one stop to the next.
Social connections are another significant factor, as the younger generations are all for shared experiences, and remote working is extremely popular, making cruises the perfect environment.
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Social media has also had a significant impact on making cruises cool again - and holiday companies are keeping up with the demand for Instagram and TikTok-worthy spaces and destinations.
In fact, these are the most luxurious cruises that you can sail in 2024:
1. Royal Caribbean’s Icon Of The Seas
Sailing for the first time in January, the Icon Of The Seas was six years and more than £1.2billion in the making.
The ship has a capacity of 7,600 people, with eight distinct zones and more than 40 restaurants and bars.
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The ‘Hideaway’ has a beach club vibe with the world’s first suspended infinity pool at sea.
There are whirlpools and a unique bar with a regular DJ for the perfect sundowners.
Thrill-seekers won’t want to miss Frightening Bolt, the highest onboard drop slide, and Pressure Drop, the first open freefall slide capable of throwing riders over the ship’s edge for the ultimate view.
Travel Editor Lisa Minot went abroad last month and revealed that the ship is longer than the Eiffel Tower of London's Shard skyscraper.
- 7 nights 'Eastern Caribbean & Perfect Day' on Icon Of The Seas -
Sailing to: Miami, Philipsburg, Charlotte Amalie and Coco Cay
2. Marella Explorer 2
The Marella Explorer 2 is a combination of classic and luxury.
Holidaymakers can experience the charm of The 19th Hole, a pub with a golf theme and simulator, or dance the night away at the Indigo Club.
Take a dip in one of the two swimming pools or four Jacuzzis, or relax in the Champneys Spa.
The adult-only ship boasts several bars and lounges, including the Broadway Show Lounge and ‘Movies by Moonlight’ the open-air cinema.
- 7 nights 'Mediterranean Medley' on Marella Explorer 2 -
Sailing to: Majorca, Livorno, Savona, Toulon, Barcelona and Valencia
3. Disney Wish
This one is loved by children and adults alike. The latest addition to the Disney Cruises line is where enchantment and luxury meet.
On board, you’ll find world-class entertainment in the Grand Hall, featuring daily Disney characters meet & greets and shows.
You’ll also experience AquaMouse, ‘the first-ever Disney attraction at sea’ - an exciting two-minute experience with music effects, television screens, and sixty water nozzles that spray you all over.
The Little Mermaid, Disney Seas, and Aladdin are three Broadway-style musicals you can watch while sailing.
The restaurants also follow the theme, with Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure and Worlds of Marvel.
- 3 nights 'Bahamian Cruise' on Disney Wish -
Sailing to San Juan, Puerto Rico
4. Carnival Celebration
Carnival Celebration features the world’s second rollercoaster at sea.
The ship is an upgraded and more spacious version of its sister, the Mardi Gras.
The attractions onboard include Guy’s Burger Joint, Waterworks, Punchliner Comedy Club, and the Alchemy Bar, which have a sleek and modern design.
Kids aged 2-11 can take part in the innovative Space Cruisers program, collaborating with the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex.
The program promises NASA-inspired activities, from constructing and racing Mars Rovers to space-themed bingo and personalised mission patch design.
- 7 nights 'Exotic Western Caribbean' on Carnival Celebration -
Sailing to: Miami, Cozumel, Mahogany Bay and Costa Maya
First time at sea? We’ve revealed the ultimate Canary Island cruise for first-timers with four pools and open-air cinema, from £517pp.
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Meanwhile, these are the best cruises to book in 2024 to the Caribbean, Spain and Norwegian Fjords.
Alternatively, if you'd rather stay inland, thousands of European city breaks are on sale for less than £250pp this winter.
