YACHT-STYLE CRUISING VS SMALL-SHIP CRUISING - WHAT'S THE DIFF?
Yacht-style cruising is gaining steam.
Marriott has The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, Yachts by Kensington Tours, Windstar Cruises has their Star Plus Class and Wind Class, to name a few.
Photo: Ritz Carlton Yacht Collection
Small-ship style of cruising has more in common with private yachting than traditional cruising.
But what's the difference between yacht-style cruising and small-ship cruising, and is it only for the ultra-affluent? Is it merely branding and marketing?
In today's world, the terms are used liberally and means different things to different people. And what does "small" mean?
Considered a subset of small-ship cruising, yacht-style cruising doesn't have the same size range. Even the largest yachts carry no more than 500 people.
The smallest typically carry about 100, but there're cruise lines offering smaller yachts, with cruise-style itineraries.
Photo: Windstar Cruises - Wind Star Classic Sailing Yacht
Still confused?
Because of their size, yacht-style cruises tend to go to smaller ports than even some of the small-ship cruise companies. They can moor up in a marina and explore a quaint town or anchor in a secluded bay to experience the best of sun and sea.
Some companies offer a fleet of small luxury ships that evoke the feeling of yachts. They sail to off-the-beaten-path and iconic destinations that large ships simply can't access, giving opportunities to explore unique ports-of-call and hidden harbours.
Photo: Your Own Stretch of Paradise
Additionally, yacht cruises often spend more time in a given port, with later stays and more overnights, providing more of that leisurely style of exploration it's known for.
Onboard experiences have a similar feel; the feel of a private yacht - no casino, show lounge or formal nights - the freedom to design your day as you wish.
Aft marina is another common characteristic. It gives you the ability to swim and snorkel from the back of the boat.
Photo: Windstar Cruises - Aft Marina experience
The pinnacle of luxury is a yacht. They're spacious, have lux touches and convey a feeling of pampering. The ability to explore as one wishes, exclusivity and indulgence - making the yacht itself, the destination.
Photo: Ritz Carlton Yacht Collection - Owners Suites Dayroom
Yachting also indicates a more casual elegance, outdoor, active experiences on the water - and unique port destinations. Away from the rushing crowded world and exotic, with heightened personalized service.
Attainable? Yes. Budget Option? No.
Yacht-style cruising is not only for the ultra-affluent, but it's also not a budget option. Prices generally start at about waht you'd find at the upper end of teh premium ocean cruise segment, at several thousands of dollars per person. There's not much below that.
When you consider accommodations, transportation between islands and some meals included, it's easy to see value for money. Some lines even include all meals and non-alcoholic drinks, even some include alcoholic drinks and excursions.
Photo: Luxury On Board
Chartering a private yacht is a lot more expensive per person, than sailing with one of the yacht-style cruising companies, because of the inclusions.
Yes, pricing is higher than the big cruise ships, but compared to a private yacht, it's incredible value based on the fact it's so highly inclusive, making it exceptional bang for your buck.
And just in case you thought it - vessels designed for excess typically garner a bad rap when it comes to the environment.
A sustainable superyacht sounds like somewhat of an oxymoron - but there's been immeasurable growth over the past 5-10 years in the superyacht industry in terms of innovation and technology, because of the stronger demand from buyers and those chartering yachts.
Need my help to plan your next Yachting Experience? CONTACT ME (not Robin Leach) cause Planning A Vacation Makes You Happy (me too!)
Photo: Is this You?!
Does making a difference in your world, matter to you? CLICK HERE for How You're Giving Back - by booking with me.
Want to always be in the KNOW ABOUT TRAVEL? CLICK HERE and let's get you signed up for my fun and informative newsletter. OR pick your passion by CLICKING HERE.
For sending me yor email and signing up, I'll send you a FREE DESTINATION GUIDE to a country or destination of your choice (with some REAL TIME INFO).
Did you know you can share this with other people? Friends or not friends, family or no family .. anyone you think might love this!
And I would be forever grateful to you, for doing that ....