Enjoy a Memorable Small-Ship Voyage With Windstar Cruises

Although there is so much overhype regarding the Coronovirus, the cruise industry is strong. Windstar Cruises specializes in casually elegant, small-ship voyages to alluring ports and secluded harbors. The cruise line has a fantastic selection of travel destinations. Isn’t it time you consider a luxury cruise?

What is nice is Windstar’s ships carry fewer than 350 passengers. Therefore, all cabins and suites have ocean views. The luxurious rooms are outfitted in fine Egyptian linens, and marble bathrooms. Also, these thoughtfully designed spaces come with ample room for storage.

There is lots to do on a Windstar Cruises ship. You can go swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking or water skiing off the aft Watersports Platform. In addition, get a massage in the WindSpa or unwind with a book in the Library. Next, visit the Bridge to chat with the ship’s officers and get a look at the navigation charts and the view.

Plus, guest speakers on some voyages give presentations on a variety of topics. Learn about oceanography or Polynesian culture. Lastly, The Lounge hosts live music, while the crew show and feature some of the ship’s talented staff members. What a passenger favorite event.

Dining venues include Veranda for buffet-style and full-service meals. Try the main restaurant Amphora, alfresco Candles and the Wind Surf’s French-inspired Stella Bistro. Also, the deck barbecue is a popular highlight of each sailing. Hence, it’s often planned for the itinerary’s most scenic port call. Room service is available around the clock.

Windstar Cruises is proud to be the official cruise line of the James Beard Association. As a result, it offers regionally themed James Beard Foundation Culinary Cruise Collection voyages with guest chefs and sommeliers. Therefore, enjoy wine-pairing dinners, cooking demonstrations, local market tours and wine, spirit or beer tastings.

Anthony Sasso, a past guest chef, returns to Windstar to open the Spanish-themed Cuadro 44 aboard the three power ships this year. Meanwhile, James Beard Award-winning author, TV cook and grill master Steven Raichlen will debut the alfresco Star Grill. Dine for delicious grilled, smoked and rotisserie specialties aboard the same vessels.

Windstar offers Signature Expeditions on Alaska cruises. Six experts on the land’s glaciers, wildlife and culture spend time with cruise guests. There is so much to do. For example, try lead optional hiking, kayaking and Zodiac excursions in pristine locales like Kenai Fjords National Park.

Now you can save up to 68% with big discounts and exclusive pricing on select sailings. On select departures booked at eligible rates, you pay a reduced deposit. Then get two free bottles of wine and a choice of one perk based on the type of cabin.

For ocean-view cabins, choose a shipboard credit of up to $400 per cabin or free Wi-Fi. For select suites, choose a shipboard credit of up to $1,000 per cabin or a package. Those include drinks, gratuities, laundry service and Wi-Fi. Book by March 14.

See below for a list of Windstar Cruises departure dates and prices.

1) Caribbean, 7 nights departing San Juan Mar 21, suite starting at $1,599, save 65%.
2) Transatlantic, 13 nights departing San Juan Mar 28, suite starting at $1,299.
3) Caribbean, 7 nights departing St. Maarten Mar 28, oceanview starting at $1,599.
4) Pacific U.S. & Canada, 10 nights departing San Diego Jun 16, suite starting at $1,799.
5) British Isles, 8 nights departing Dublin Jun 22, oceanview starting at $2,999.
6) Norway, 10 nights departing Edinburgh Jun 30, oceanview starting at $2,999.
7) Mexico, 7 nights departing Puerto Vallarta Jun 9, suite starting at $3,299.
8) Alaska, 11 nights departing Anchorage Jul 11, suite starting at $3,999, save 49%.
9) Tahiti & South Pacific Islands, 7 nights departing Papeete Jul 16, oceanview starting at $3,999, save 26%.
10) Baltic, 10 nights departing Copenhagen Jul 10, oceanview starting at $5,599.

So are you ready to enjoy an incredible vacation on Windstar Cruises? Contact The Life of Luxury today and make your dream getaway come true! Book soon because these awesome prices won’t last long.

We hope you enjoyed reading about Windstar Cruises and there incredible cruise packages. Stop by soon and follow our luxury blog for the latest luxury travel news.

Photo: Windstar Cruises




Ultimate Luxury Cruise on the Sky Princess or Enchanted Princess

Is one of the items on your Bucket List to sail on a luxury cruise ship? Consider the new Sky Princess from Princess Cruises. The new Sky Princess will sail Caribbean voyages from Fort Lauderdale through early April. In addition, it will be calling on the stunning islands as St. Maarten, Cozumel and St. Thomas.

Its sister ship is the Enchanted Princess. This luxury cruise ship launches in June and will cruise in the Mediterranean until the fall. Net, Then it repositions to the Caribbean in November.

Princess Cruises:

Last year, Princess Cruises celebrated 50 years of Alaska. Most of the cruise line’s itineraries include a day of sailing around Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve. Therefore, you might spot humpback whales, harbor seals and even bears.

Alaska cruise and land tours provide a more in-depth exploration. They combine a coastal sailing with escorted touring and hotel stays in destinations, such as Denali National Park and Preserve.

Both of the new vessels, the Sky Princess and Enchanted Princess offer a no-kids Sanctuary retreat. The new cruise ships provide more private cabanas than previous Princess liners. In addition, enjoy infinity-style pools at the aft and top-deck Sky Suites that accommodate up to five guests.

Onboard activities include culinary demonstrations, outdoor movies shown on a giant poolside screen. There is supervised fun for kids and stargazing sessions. Plus, dining venues range from main restaurants serving multicourse meals and pizzerias to specialty restaurants. For example, try Sabatini’s for Italian cuisine and Share by Curtis Stone, a six-course fine dining experience.

The Princess Cruises MedallionClass program provides more personalized service thanks to Princess’ OceanMedallion technology. For example, the wearable OceanMedallion device is about the size of a quarter. It performs an array of useful functions during your cruise. First, it unlocks your cabin as you approach the door. Next, it allows you to order beverages on demand and have them delivered anywhere on the ship. Now that is a VIP experience.

MedallionClass is currently offered on the Caribbean Princess, Regal Princess, Royal Princess, Crown Princess and Sky Princess. The cruise loyalty program will be rolled out to the Ruby Princess this month. Continuing, five more vessels will offer it throughout 2020. In 2021, the Discovery Princess debuts next year.

Princess offers tropical Caribbean sailings nearly year-round. Many of the cruises spend time at Princess Cays. This private 40-acre beach retreat is surrounded by translucent blue water. Outdoor lovers can snorkel or paddle a clear-bottom kayak. You can even try surf fishing for Nassau grouper or snapper. Plus, cruise ship passengers can join a dune buggy or bicycling tour. For an unforgettable experience, interact with stingrays at the isle’s private stingray habitat.

The Life of Luxury can help you plan and book your luxury cruise vacation. We offer outstanding travel packages.  Make your dreams come true and enjoy a VIP experience.  Your exotic destination getaway awaits!

Live a luxury lifestyle by taking a luxury cruise from Princess Cruises. Sail in VIP style on either the new Sky Princess or Enchanted Princess. Follow our luxury blog to read about the latest luxury news and vacation getaways.
Photo: Princess Cruises




Cruise on the Norwegian Jade – Pitbull After Dark Party 2018

If you ever dreamed of taking a luxury cruise with a celebrity, you are in luck! Pitbull After Dark Party 2018 is your chance to cruise on the Norwegian Jade ship. Celebrate in VIP style with music superstar Pitbull.

Sixthman is clearly the leader in hosting music festivals at sea. We have covered past celebrity cruises including: KISS Kruise VI – Sail in VIP Rock and Roll Style, Party With NFL Star Rob Gronkowski at Super Bowl After-Party, and Alabama 40th Anniversary Celebration – Music Festival at Sea.

Pitbull After Dark Party 2018 will be an awesome way to party both day and night with the iconic, international music superstar Pitbull. You’ll leave from Miami, Florida and cruise the Caribbean to Nassau, Bahamas. This epic cruise will take place March 2 to 5, 2018. Clearly, it is a great way to party along with 2,200 other passengers.

You definitely want to make your plans soon. Pitbull After Dark Party 2018 will sell out like others celebrity cruises from Sixthman. The company is now celebrating their 16th year in business. As a result, they have hosted 104 festivals, hosted over 230,000 guests at sea. Past cruises included the following world class artists – KISS, Zac Brown Band, Kid Rock, Train, Lynyrd Skynyrd, John Mayer, Florida Georgia Line, Pitbull, Barenaked Ladies, Paramore, Lyle Lovett, Diplo, Sister Hazel, 311 and Joe Bonamassa.

During the Pitbull After Dark Party 2018 pre-sale, any guest who books this Pitbull cruise will get the opportunity for an exclusive, VIP experience. You will get a photo with Mr. Worldwide, plus a fun Teppanyaki dinner party that included a toast from Pitbull. In addition, enjoy a Voli cocktail hour with Pitbull and maybe introduce Pitbull on stage prior to his Motivational Conversation.

But that is not all. We are happy to announce that in addition to Pitbull, this celeb cruise will also include rap icon Flo Rida. This floating music festival doesn’t end there. Both DJ Laz and DJ Soulman are also scheduled to attend plus the sexy The Most Bad Ones dancers.

Pitbull is wrapping up his North American summer tour with Latin sensation Enrique Iglesias. Pitbull’s latest album is titled “Climate Change”. It includes the music hits “Messin’ Around” and “Greenlight.”

The awesome Norwegian Jade cruise ship from Norwegian Cruise Line is pure floating luxury. Cruise guests will enjoy 15 dining experiences and 11 onboard lounges and bars. Relax and take in the Caribbean sun with an outdoor swimming pool and hot tubs. After a long day of partying, unwind and get pampered with a spa treatment. At night, enjoy a great tasting meal and gamble in the cruise ship’s own casino.

Contact The Life of Luxury for more information about the Pitbull After Dark Party 2018 cruise. Pricing for staterooms start at just $760 per person, double occupancy. Come back again and follow our top luxury blog.

Photo: Sixthman / Carlee Thomas




Enjoy the Ferrari Branded Race Track on New Norwegian Joy Cruise Ship

Norwegian Joy is expected ot be christened on June 27, 2017. This luxury Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) ship becomes the first one built for the growing Chinese market. If you like car racing, you will really love the awesome Ferrari branded race track!

In partnership with Ferrari Watches and ​Scuderia Ferrari Watches, Norwegian Cruise Line has developed the very first racetrack at sea. Located on the top deck of the new Norwegian Joy cruise ship, the Ferrari branded race track covers two-levels. Adjacent to the track, shop for Scuderia ​Ferrari Watches in the retail store.

When the NCL Norwegian Joy cruise ship sets sail on its maiden voyage, 3,850 passengers will have a VIP experience in sleek, electric go-carts. The goal of the Norwegian Joy cruise ship is to offer “First Class at Sea” experiences. I’m sure you will agree that flying around the Ferrari branded race track in the middle of the ocean meets that criteria.

Up to ten ​drivers ​can race at one time. What a cool way to have fun. Race each other and when done, your picture will be taken at the finish line to capture your experience. If you are staying in the ship’s The Haven and Concierge class, you will receive a number of complimentary rides.

The ​Norwegian Joy call both ​Shanghai and ​Tianjin, as her home port. The christening ​ceremony in June should be an unbelievable event. It’s exciting to know that the “King ​of Chinese Pop” ​Wang ​Leehom will be featured.

All of the luxury cruise ship’s experiences and amenities have been tailored specifically to the vacation desires of Chinese guests. Expect the best accommodations available. For example, The Haven by Norwegian is NCL’s exclusive, ship-within-a-ship suite luxury complex. Guests will enjoy an all-new Observation Deck. As a result, you can expect amazing 180 degree views.

In the ship’s Concierge level, discover an all-new accommodations category. Privileged guests will be treated to a VIP
experience. With endless luxury amenities and larger balcony staterooms, it will be like living in royalty style. The luxury cruise ship offers staterooms designed especially for families. Another nice option is a connected stateroom. Therefore, perfect for extended family passengers or large groups.

In addition to the awesome two-level Ferrari branded race track, cruise passengers can enjoy an open-air laser tag course, interactive video walls, two multi-story water slides, plus thrilling simulator rides. To get some time alone, stroll in the peaceful open space park.

If shopping is your passion, you are in luck. The Norwegian Joy will feature a large, upscale shopping district. It is the biggest among all NCL cruise ships. Stroll along and choose from the best luxury retail brands, in addition to duty-free shops. A great way to pick up the perfect luxury gift or simply shop for yourself.

To enjoy the Ferrari branded race track, please contact us to book a luxury cruise on the new Norwegian Joy cruise ship. Come back again to read more luxury travel stories, here in our luxury blog.

Photo: Norwegian Cruise Line




KISS Kruise VI – Sail in VIP Rock and Roll Style

The cruise industry keeps pushing the envelop each year. All the major cruise brands continually try to leap frog over their competitors by offering more and more! Here’s one that’s tough to be beat. Now you can cruise in VIP rock and roll style by sailing the Caribbean with rock band icon KISS on KISS Kruise VI.

Sixthman is widely known to offer some of the most incredible VIP experiences on the high seas. Their music themed cruises are awesome and definitely a memorable time for all. Go crazy and get on board for the upcoming KISS Kruise VI. It’s an incredible opportunity to sail with legendary rock and role ban KISS. Meet Gene, Paul, Eric and Tommy in person!

But in addition to KISS, other performers on KISS Kruise VI will include – Whitford/St. Holmes, King’s X, Skid Row, Enuff Z’Nuff, Magnetico, The Dead Daisies, Cleveland’s Breakfast Club plus more to be announced. This once in a lifetime, Caribbean cruise is scheduled for 5 days, from November 4 to 9, 2016. That’s a lot of partying and concert time with KISS.

There are 2 amazing concerts planned. The first – Unmasked Electric Sail Away – will be held on the gigantic pool deck of the cruise ship. Then in the ship’s Stardust Theater, see 2 different performances of their Creatures Tour fro.m 1982. What a wonderful, musical trip to the past.

Here’s a video from Sixthman that highlights the successful KISS cruise held in 2015.

Proof the apple doesn’t fall from the family tree, you’re in luck. Sophie Simmons is the daughter of KISS founding member Gene Simmons. You can see her perform as well. In addition, check out The Dives. This New York City band features Evan Stanley. The band’s frontman is the son of famous dad – Paul Stanley of KISS. In total, there will be dozens of different musical performances covering’s the cruise ships’ six stages. Wow, KISS Kruise VI is gonna rock!

But don’t think there will nothing else to do but attend concerts for 5 days. No way. This cruise is packed with a variety of fun events and activities. There’s a full service tattoo parlor, face painting and many chances for photo opportunities with KISS and the other bands.

The Norwegian Pearl cruise ship will be your party home away from home. The ship has 15 massive decks, jam packed with entertainment and dining options. Enjoy an outdoor pool, award-winning spa and several hot tubs for some wet and wild fun. Chow down at 19 dining experiences and party down at 13 bars and lounges.

Don’t worry, that’s not all. In fact, it barely breaks the surface of things to do at KISS Kruise VI. The Norwegian Pearl cruise ship features the Pearl Club Casino to gamble the night away, play basketball on the sports court and even try to score a perfect 300 on the ship’s own bowling alley.

The cruise ships itinerary departs from Miami, Florida and sails to Cozumel, Mexico and George Town, Grand Cayman, before returning to Miami. Enjoy an awesome time in the Caribbean. Dock and check out small Caribbean villages or just chill on white sand beaches under the warm tropical sun. Ahhhhhhh!

The Life of Luxury loves sharing incredible VIP experiences all over the world. Whether it’s the KISS Kruise VI in the Caribbean or a re carpet award show in Hollywood, let us be your source of VIP access. Check back soon and follow our luxury blog for more amazing announcements.

Photo: Sixthman




Cruise the Yangtze River on the Renovated Victoria Jenna Ship from Victoria Cruises

Since its first luxury cruise down the Yangtze River in China in 1994, Victoria Cruises set the bar high and established a new level of excellence. Based in New York City, Victoria Cruises has been busy renovating all its cruise ships. Work on their Victoria Jenna ship was just completed last month and it joined the rest of the five-star fleet.

The Victoria Jenna returned to cruise the Yangtze River between the cities of Chongqing and Yichang. This popular Chinese river cruise is titled Three Gorges Highlights program. The ship sets sail each week on Monday and Thursday. The luxury cruise ship first sailed in 2009 and its renovation included touches of modern elegance and additional luxurious amenities.

Victoria Cruises also finished work on its Victoria Katarina vessel. It went through two different, overhaul projects in 2010 and 2014. Following strict Western standards, all Victoria Cruises ships are designed with the ultimate safety and comfort. Their goal is that each ship’s performance surpasses the high standards expected by both American and European travelers.

As the leading Yangtze River cruise company, Victoria Cruises is proud to have achieved the coveted five-star rating from the China National Tourism Administration on all its luxury cruise ships. In 2010. the Victoria Jenna earned the Silver Award Winner for the Magellan Awards’ River Cruise Ship category by Travel Weekly.

Larry Greenman is the manager of PR and customer service for Victoria Cruises and was quoted, “Since the launch of the Victoria Jenna in 2009, the vessel has been surpassed by our own innovations as we’ve modernized the rest of our fleet one ship at a time. This is a particularly meaningful milestone for us as we’ve restored the six-year-old vessel’s position as the flagship at the forefront of our elegant, five-star fleet. It also signifies the completion of the extensive fleet-wide redesign we began in 2010.”

Victoria Jenna ship Executive Suite

Similar to the other cruise ships, the Victoria Jenna features a large private balcony. It’s ideal to sit back, relax and enjoy the mist-shrouded views of the mighty Yangtze River. As you cruise along the river, take in incredible sights such as centuries-old pagodas, temples and impressive stone carvings.

The ship’s Executive Suites measure 333 square feet in size. These roomy suites with private balcony allow plenty to relax and enjoy your luxury cruise. The Shangri-La Suites are a spacious 587 square feet. The suite also has a private balcony, measuring an additional 215 square feet of space.

The Yangtze is the longest river in Asia, in addition to being the third-longest anywhere in the world. The Nile River is #1 and Amazon River #2. It measures almost 4,000 miles long and its waters eventually flow into East China Sea north of Shanghai.

Yangtze river cruise

There are both three- and four-night cruise options for the Three Gorges Highlights voyage package. Cruise prices begin at only $980 per person, based on double occupancy. For cruise travelers who want a VIP experience, be sure to book the optional, Luxury Amenities program. With this program, you can expect numerous VIP perks. Enjoy upper deck placement on the ship, personalized “white glove” service, exclusive happy hour, complimentary Wi-Fi Internet access, exclusive ship area access, plus enhanced culinary privileges such as a la carte service and wine and beer with your dinner each night.

A key highlight of any cruise is the choice of shore excursions. For only $90, you can tour the famous red pagoda Shibaozhai and the Three Gorges Dam. Float along the Goddess Stream in a traditional sampan and take in the gorgeous scenery and surrounding peaks. Keep yous eyes open an you’ll see monkeys and even mountain goats.

Enjoy a luxury cruise on the Yangtze River in China on the newly renovated Victoria Jenna ship from Victoria Cruises. Our premier concierge service desk can assist with all of your travel needs. Stop by again to follow this popular luxury blog. We enjoy sharing the latest travel industry news and top tour destinations from around the world.

Photo: Victoria Cruises




Cruise in Luxury Style in the Owner’s Suite – Viking Ocean Cruises

Last week, Viking Ocean Cruises announced their next, luxury cruise ship has left the shipyard dry dock in Ancona, Italy. Construction will still continue. The “Viking Sky” ship will hold up to 930 passengers and is scheduled to make its maiden voyage in the first half of 2017.

Each luxury cruise line offers an incredible array of VIP experiences to its passengers. The entire cruise industry continues to evolve as the major brands try to position themselves with an ever increasing list of amenities. For those you want to enjoy an elegant time on sea, consider staying in the Owner’s Suite from Viking Ocean Cruises.

On the Viking Star cruise ship, there are numerous, luxury suite cabins to choose from. There is the Explorer Suite, Penthouse Junior Suite, Penthouse Veranda, Deluxe Veranda and the Veranda. The Owner’s Suite was actually, personally designed by Torstein Hagen, who is the Chairman of Viking Ocean Cruises.

Viking Ocean Cruises - Viking Star cruise ship

Measuring 1,448 square feet, the lavish Owner’s Suite is the ultimate in luxury. It’s also the largest suite on board this luxury cruise ship. This stateroom has a large veranda to relax and take in the awesome ocean views. The spacious suite is equipped with a large flat-screen LCD TV and a complimentary mini-bar that is replenished on a daily basis throughout your cruise.

Don’t worry about missing out on what’s going on in the world. Your suite on the Viking Star cruise ship has a direct-dial satellite phone plus includes complimentary Wi-Fi to surf the web.

The suite’s decor has been described as a modern Scandinavian design. The opulent bathroom includes luxury robes and slippers, a hair dryer, plus high-end toiletries. Don’t worry about keeping your personal valuables safe. The suite comes with a personal safe. Enjoy a cup of coffee with a coffee maker.

When it’s time to turn in for the night and get a good night’s sleep, be pampered in a king-size Viking Explorer bed. The bed is fitted with luxury linens. There’s also a cashmere blanket.

It doesn’t matter what time of the day or night, you can expect prompt attention with complimentary 24-hour room service. Got a spot on your shirt or dress or your pants a little wrinkled? Enjoy the complimentary laundry dry-cleaning service, in addition to free shoe shining.

When you want to get off the ship and tour a port of call, you will receive priority bookings for all shore excursions. This is a great amenity, particularly for those popular destinations.

If interested, we would have to inquire with Viking Ocean Cruises for the latest Owner’s Suite rates. Currently, reserving that cabin begins around $2,120 per person, , per night for double occupancy. This rates is based on Viking’s 10 day “Empires of the Mediterranean” cruise. Applicable taxes and fees are not included in that price.

We are available to help you plan and book that dream, luxury cruise. For a VIP style treat, stay in the Owner’s Suite from Viking Ocean Cruises. We love sharing the latest, luxury cruise news in our luxury blog. We hope you come back soon

Photo: Viking Ocean Cruises – (c) Linda Garrison




Time for a VIP Experience on a Luxury Cruise Ship

Many travelers, even avid ones, still have not had the opportunity to sail on a luxury cruise ship. The majority of travelers go land based, but times are changing. Based on research from the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), cruise industry growth is 23 percent higher than land-based travel.

For 2016, Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) is estimating that 24 million passengers will take a cruise. That number is 1 million higher than in 2015. From appealing destinations like the Caribbean, Mediterranean, Alaska, Panama Canal and more, cruising is extremely popular.

So what is driving the growth and strong interest in cruise travel? Of course it’s a combination of various factors, but a popular trait felt by many is – variety. Today cruise options are plentiful. They range from family cruises with kid friendly experiences, to singles cruises to find that special someone, to a luxury cruise where you feel like you’re staying in a five-star, luxury resort with endless amenities.

The luxury cruise ship sector has seen a surge in popularity. These cruises appeal to a traveler who wants to experience the best services available. Rivaling many of the best resorts and hotels around the world, a luxury cruise provides a unique VIP experience. Attention to detail, the finest quality, high-end accommodations and personal service are important to the affluent traveler.

The luxury cruise ship industry is also in tune with vacationers who desire something different. With a few traditional cruises under their belt, customers begin to demand more and seek new services or destinations. The luxury cruise brands need to stay one step ahead of consumer demands. Once they stagnate, cruise passengers will begin to plateau and eventually decline.

Luxury cruise lines have focused on upscale cabins, non-stop activities, personalized concierge service, unique ports of call and all-inclusive travel packages. The majority of luxury cruise lines today are all-inclusive. This is an important key to their appeal and how they have differentiated themselves from the rest of the cruise industry.

Although appealing at first, many travels balk at the high price for a luxury cruise. But is it really all that expensive? Let’s take a closer look and compare apples to apples. Competition among the numerous, cruise industry brands is very fierce. They often compete simply on price to attract customers. But is that rock-bottom cruise deal really a good deal? We need to take a look at what is included in that package and what the customer must pay once the cruise commences.

In addition to a basic, discounted cruise fare, the cruise passenger will need to pay for many extras. For example there are fees for some restaurants, laundry services, various cruise staff tips, beverage packages, internet access and much more!

For almost all of the luxury cruise lines, there is no charge for alcoholic beverages. These drinks are quite expensive and just a couple a day can really add up over the course of a week or two of traveling the high seas. This usually covers your alcoholic beverages during restaurant meals, in a lounge or bar and even in your cabin’s minibar.

Unless you want to stay on your cruise ship during the entire trip, taking advantage of a shore excursion is a great way to see the world. Learn about a destination’s culture, history and try their local cuisine. These port calls can be really pricey and travelers get home shocked at how much they actually spent. Including free shore excursions is another awesome perk you often receive on a luxury cruise ship. For example, Regent Seven Seas Cruises claims it’s the only luxury cruise brand that offers Free Unlimited Shore Excursions in every port of call. Take as many as you like at no additional fee. Now that’s a terrific deal!

Crystal Cruises - luxury cruise
Crystal Cruises

Gratuities is another area that can really add up. During a typical day, you are dealing with various onboard ship services. There is the dining room staff, room steward or stewardess who does your cabin cleaning, concierge, bartenders, wine steward, and maitre d’. The tips or gratuities can be either daily or per occurrence. You’ll notice a no-tipping policy on a luxury cruise ship. It’s due tot he fact thse fees are included in your per-passenger cruise fare.

Cruise ships get bigger each year and hold many more passengers than ever before. But for those who desire a quiet and relaxing cruise experience, they may not happen with thousands of other passengers. Luxury cruise ships tend by smaller, so it’s more of an intimate environment. Enjoy a luxury experience with higher crew-to-passenger ratios. The service is top notch and you’ll notice an unlimited number of luxury amenities you won’t find on a standard cruise ship. Due to the smaller ship size, you’ll be able to visit intimate ports that the bigger ships can’t access.

Many teaser rates on standard cruises advertise an inside cabin. No window, no fun. Then when you inquire, you notice upgrade costs can be steep. Most luxury cruises offer all-suite accommodations. These provide awesome ocean views and many of these staterooms even have a balcony! Relax, read a book, sip your favorite cocktail and enjoy the view. Now that is what cruising in VIP style is all about.

Seabourn Cruise Line - luxury cruise ship
Seabourn Cruise Line

Of course, one of the highlights of any cruise is the dining. Food is available 24 hours a day. Enjoy fine cuisine and Michelin star dining. Your taste buds will come alive with delicious meals made by the best chefs from around the world. You’ll quickly notice that luxury cruise brands have invested millions of dollars toward renovating their dining rooms. The ambiance is spectacular and provides an appealing environment to enjoy your fine dining experience.

We wanted to share a few, incredible luxury cruise deals available today”

Regent Seven Seas Cruises:
* Their 2017 World Cruise sails roundtrip from Miami, Florida. The cruise on their Seven Seas Navigator ship starts January 5, 2017 to May 13, 2017. Cruise to 6 continents, 31 countries and 62 ports. You will visit 29 UNESCO World Heritage sites and the package also includes 6 overnights stays. Fares begin at $55,999

* They offer 75 different cruises as part of their 2016 Summer and Fall collection. Passengers can enjoy 2-for-1 All-Inclusive Fares. Receive free Roundtrip Air and plus free unlimited WiFi. Take advantage of early booking savings as much as $6,000 per suite.

Crystal Cruises:
* This brand offers luxury cruise deals starting at just $1,845. If you dream of a boat cruise to Europe, take a look at their Enchanting Europe cruise options. Embark on a 7-day Europe escape on their Crystal Serenity ship. It departs from Barcelona and travels to Monte Carlo. There is also a 12-day itinerary option leaving from Rome and ends in Lisbon.

* Alaska has long been a popular cruise destination. Now sail Crystal Serenity to become the first luxury ship to sail the legendary Northwest Passage. Enjoy a incredible Pacific-Atlantic sea journey and sail beyond the magical Arctic Circle. Take this luxury cruise from Anchorage to New York, leaving August 8. Pricing begins at $21,855.

Seabourn Cruise Line:
*Offering intimate ships with none more than 300 suites, cruise the Mediterranean with your choice of 7 to 21 day itineraries. See Greece, Turkey, Spain, Italy, France and more! Prices begin as low as $2,999 per person.

* Their 21-Day Mediterranean Nights cruise is amazing. Ranging from $8,999 and up, you sail on the Seabourn Sojourn ship. It departs on July 14 from Monte Carlo, Monaco.

There are many luxury cruise ship lines to choose from – Regent, Azamara, Seabourn, Paul Gauguin, Silversea, SeaDream, and more! Isn’t it time you travel in VIP style and take a luxury cruise? Let our luxury cruise booking service make your next vacation magical.

Are you finally ready to enjoy a memorable experience on a luxury cruise ship? Contact The Life of Luxury for help in booking your vacation of a lifetime. Read about other luxury cruise deals by returning to this luxury blog.

Featured photo: Silversea




Experience the Spice Islands Solar Eclipse Sailing Adventure

Wildland Adventures is offering a wonderful opportunity to view a solar eclipse with their Spice Islands Solar Eclipse Sailing Adventure package. This once-in-a-lifetime event is a must for travelers who want a unique and rewarding, VIP experience.

The Spice Islands Solar Eclipse Sailing Adventure package focuses on the upcoming a total solar eclipse, directly over the Equator above the remote Maluku island group of Indonesia.

Passengers will cruise on classic, two-masted sailing schooner. The Indonesian ship will offer an intimate setting as only 24 passengers will set sail on the Ombak Putih. The cruise is 12 days in duration and departs March 7, 2016 and returns March 18. After flying from Bali, travelers will depart from Ternate.

The highlight of this luxury cruise coincides with the total solar eclipse on March 9. The luxury cruise ship will anchor at location 0.4˚N, 127.4˚E. This point is only 24 nautical miles north of the Equator. It’s the ideal place, since it’s right below the track of the moon’s shadow or umbra. The advantage is passengers can experience the solar eclipse for the longest time possible.

With a current $1,000 discount now being offered, the Spice Islands Solar Eclipse Sailing Adventure package is available for $5,495 – per person double rate. What a wonderful chance to view a spectacular show put on by Mother Nature.

The luxury cruise will be amazing as you sail by uninhabited islands with lush, jungle landscapes and majestic volcanoes. Passengers also get the chance to take guided day excursions and evening lectures by escort and guest lecturer Jeffrey Mellefont. He is the research associate of the Australian National Maritime Museum. His experience and wealth of knowledge will enhance your journey. Get the chance to learn more about the cultures, natural history and local customs of the area’s archipelago.

There will be numerous, onboard activities to enjoy during your cruise. The ship provides kayaks, snorkels, paddleboards and much more to have fun in the warm waters. Once on land, take part in a community beach dinner plus tour local farms and even a clove plantation that produces kayu putih oil.

While on the island of Ternate, guests the the chance to visit the old house of Alfred Russel Wallace. He was the British explorer and naturalist that spent years on the island exploring the archipelago. What is fascinating is while Charles Darwin was developing his theory of evolution in the Galapagos, Wallace was doing the same on Ternate.

But of course, the main event will be the total solar eclipse. A partial eclipse stats at 08:35 am (23:35:45 UTC + 9) and the total eclipse gets underway at 9.51 am. The peak maximum eclipse occurs at 9:52:38. While anchored on the Ombak Putih ship, you will get to experience total eclipse for three minutes and 16 seconds.

After the eclipse ends, you embark once and gain and partake in a crossing-the-line ceremony while cruising across the Earth’s equator.

Wildland Adventures was named the #1 Best “Do-it-all” Outfitter on Earth by National Geographic Adventure, as well as one of the World’s Best Tour Specialists by Fordor’s. Wildland Adventures clients 150 unique itineraries covering 37 countries on 6 continents.

Would you like to experience viewing the next total solar eclipse? Then contact The Life of Luxury today to book your 12-day Spice Islands Solar Eclipse Sailing Adventure cruise package to Indonesia. Come back soon to follow our luxury blog and read about other amazing, luxury travel excursions.

Photo: Wildland Adventures




New, Luxury China Cruise Liner to Launch in 2020

When complete, the first, luxury cruise liner built in China will be greater than twice as large as the Titanic. Although it won’t be making its maiden voyage until 2020, the new China cruise liner will be massive.

The luxury China cruise liner will be built by the largest largest shipbuilder – China State Shipbuilding Corp or CSSC. In a joint venture with Carnival Corporation, the two companies signed a staggering £2.6 billion agreement. Carnival is the largest cruise ship operator in the world, so it’s a great fit to help build the biggest China cruise liner.

In addition to the two companies named above, China Investment Corp (CIC) is also involved in the joint venture. CIC is one of the biggest sovereign wealth management funds anywhere in the world.

The focus is to clearly create a new luxury cruise-line industry in China and capture a share of this booming, worldwide market. Chinese travelers have caught the cruise bug and are cruising in record numbers. Tourist industry analysts are projecting that mainland Chinese travelers will spend approximately US$11.5 million on cruises by 2018. That number was about US$6.8 billion in 2013, so the estimate is almost doubling

The new cruise ship is expected to carry about 5,000 passengers and weigh about 130,000 tons. The ship will also be about 300 meters long.

Alan Buckelew is the Global Chief Operations Officer at Carnival and was quoted, “This joint venture is a significant step forward for the cruise industry in China and a tremendous opportunity … to increase awareness, interest and demand for cruise vacations among domestic Chinese travelers.”

The role that Carnival Corp will fulfill in this joint venture is to do “ship design and shipbuilding expertise”. Carnival currently operates to other cruise line brands – Princess Cruises in China and Costa Cruises.

To give you a great example of how much mainland China travelers love to cruise, they accounted for about a 45% increase over 2013, totaling almost 740k passengers in 2014. We expect 2015 to also show a large year over year increase.

As China continues to grow as a leading travel country, we should see more news on new cruise ships and joint ventures to capitalize on the business opportunity.

Contact The Life of Luxury to help book your next luxury vacation. Would you like to be one of the first passengers to sail on the new China cruise liner in 2020? Return again to read about the latest luxury news and cruise industry press releases by following this popular, luxury blog.




Party With NFL Star Rob Gronkowski at Super Bowl After-Party

Fall is here and the much anticipated NFL year is underway. Fans and pro football experts alike are already making their Super Bowl predictions. Will the New England Patriots and superstars Tom Brady and Rob Gronkowski get back to the big game and try and repeat as NFL champs?

Well one thing we do know for sure. Either way Rob Gronkowski will be celebrating after the game at the EPIC Super Bowl After-party at sea. This will be an unbelievable VIP experience to party big time with Gronk.

This February after the Super Bowl, party on the luxury Norwegian Pearl cruise ship from NCL. The Norwegian Pearl offers passengers 15 decks of terrific dining and non-stop on-board entertainment. The luxury cruise ship features 19 different dining experiences, 13 bars and lounges, an award-winning spa, plus an amazing outdoor pool and numerous hot tubs.

The Gronk party ship is not the only headliner who will partying on the high seas. In addition, top music rapper Flo Rida, Redfoo (LMFAO band) and Waka Flocka Flame will also be joining Rob Gronkowski. But that’s not all. The celeb list keeps growing. Also see Sammy Adams, 3LAU, Dante, Brooke Evers, Costa, Brazabelle plus Big Rock Show.

The cruise is sponsored by Sixthman, who has been offering themed cruise experiences for bands, major brands, and of course fans since 2001. To date, Sixthman has put on 81 full ship charters and hosted more than 170,000 guests for one of the best, sea vacation experiences money can buy.

This could be you.

Video: TMZ

The list of past participants includes – KISS, John Mayer, Train, Kis Rock, Florida Georgia Line, Zac Brown Band, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Barenaked Ladies, Alabama, Sister Hazel, 311 and many more!

As we get closer to big date, expect to see man other celebrities wanting to be part of this party ship. Space availability is limited so get your party cruise tickets with Rob Gronkowski as soon as possible.

So what are you waiting for? You’ll be the envy of all your friends or family by getting the chance to party with Rob Gronkowski and the rest of the above named performers.

If you want to celebrate in VIP style, then take part in the EPIC Super Bowl After-party at sea with Rob Gronkowski. Get your cruise ship cabin booked today on luxury Norwegian Pearl cruise ship from NCL by contacting us. Stay on top of other luxury experiences by following our luxury blog and read it here first!

Photo: Sixthman