Luxury Yacht Cruising: Why It’s the Holiday Style More People Should Be Talking About
When most people hear the word cruise, they immediately picture enormous ships carrying thousands of passengers, formal nights, packed theatres and endless buffet queues. However, luxury yacht cruising couldn’t be more different.
“People often tell me they’re ‘not cruise people. When I ask why, they describe exactly what they imagine cruising to be – huge ships, dressing up every evening, fixed dining times and big production shows. Then I explain what yacht cruising is actually like and suddenly they’re interested.”
Gilly
With around 100 guests on board, luxury yachts offer a completely different atmosphere. There’s no pressure to dress for dinner, no formal nights, no Broadway-style entertainment and no rushing to secure a sunbed. Instead, life slows down.
Days begin with breakfast overlooking another beautiful bay. You might spend the morning swimming directly from the yacht’s marina platform, paddleboarding in crystal-clear water or exploring ashore before returning for lunch on deck. Evenings are relaxed, with exceptional food, great conversation and the quiet excitement of waking up somewhere new the following morning.
Perhaps the biggest advantage is where these yachts can go.
Unlike large cruise ships, they can slip into secluded bays, anchor off idyllic beaches and visit islands and harbours that simply aren’t accessible to larger vessels.
“That’s the real magic. You’re not looking at beautiful places from a distance – you’re right there. You can swim off the back of the yacht, step ashore in tiny ports and discover places that the big ships can only dream of visiting.”
Gilly
Understated Luxury
The yachts themselves perfectly reflect this more relaxed approach to luxury.
Even the entry-level suites feel warm and welcoming, with large windows ensuring the ever-changing scenery is always part of the experience. Upgrade to a balcony suite and you’ll enjoy your own private outdoor space, but whichever category you choose, the design philosophy remains the same.
Elegant. Contemporary. Uncomplicated.
“The cabins are simply but cosy, beautifully designed and incredibly comfortable. They have everything you need, but they’re never trying too hard because the real luxury is outside your window. So if your idea of luxury is gold taps and marble this isn’t for you!”
Gilly
Why the Seychelles is Perfect by Yacht
If there’s one destination that showcases everything yacht cruising does brilliantly, it’s the Seychelles.
Most visitors choose one luxury resort and stay on one island for the duration of their holiday.
But the Seychelles is made up of 115 islands, each offering its own character, wildlife and spectacular scenery.
The Seychelles is a destination that deserves to be explored. Every island offers something different. One day you’re snorkelling in impossibly clear water, the next you’re walking among giant tortoises or exploring a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Staying in one resort simply doesn’t give you the full picture.
Guests discover the marine life around Sainte Anne Island, visit the protected nature reserve of Cousin Island, explore Praslin and its famous Vallée de Mai, wander the laid-back island of La Digue, meet giant Aldabra tortoises on Curieuse Island and experience the untouched beauty of Aride Island.
The beauty of travelling this way is its simplicity. You unpack once. Your floating boutique hotel travels with you.
Surprisingly Good Value
The words luxury yacht naturally make many people assume eye-watering prices. The reality is refreshingly different.
Emerald’s seven-night Seychelles yacht cruise, including return UK flights, airport transfers, selected shore excursions, complimentary wine, beer and selected cocktails, Wi-Fi, gratuities, marina activities and much more, is available from under £5,000 per person.
The Ultimate Bucket List Holiday
If the Seychelles alone isn’t enough, Emerald also offers an itinerary that combines seven nights exploring the islands by yacht with a six-night Kenyan safari.
After leaving the Indian Ocean behind, guests travel to Samburu National Reserve, Lake Nakuru and the legendary Masai Mara, enjoying unforgettable game drives in search of elephants, lions, rhinos, giraffes and, with a little luck, all of the Big Five.
With return flights from the UK, luxury yacht cruising, safari accommodation, game drives, park fees and more than 40 meals included, the complete experience is available from around £11,000 per person.
