Luxury cruising will take a new direction as the world’s most prestigious hotel brands trade the lobby for the lido deck. With the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection’s new Luminara (along with sister ships Ilma and Evrima) leading the charge, 2026 will see Four Seasons, Waldorf Astoria and Orient Express making their own maritime debuts.
They join heritage cruise lines such as Viking and Regent Seven Seas in efforts to offer the most exclusive experiences at sea, ranging from residential-style suites to gourmet dining. Here are the 10 luxurious liners we look forward to boarding in 2026.
EXPLORA III
When EXPLORA III sets sail next summer, it will mark the halfway point in Explora Journeys’ mission to launch a fleet of six luxury cruise ships. Like her two older sisters, EXPLORA III will come with elevated amenities, including 461 spacious oceanfront suites with private verandas, an intimate yacht-inspired design, gourmet culinary offerings and an elegant European feel.
However, guests can expect subtle changes in this latest addition, such as expanded outdoor spaces and an increased number of higher-end accommodation categories. Ocean Penthouses will now account for 24% of the inventory, while Ocean Residences will represent 9%.
Orient Express Corinthian
The Orient Express pioneered luxury rail travel, but the brand is branching out. The company opened its first hotel, Orient Express La Minerva in Rome, this year. Next, it will look to conquer the high seas.
The 722-foot Corinthian will be the world’s largest sailing yacht when it comes out in June. Designed by architect Maxime d’Angeac, the yacht will feature 54 plush suites adorned with wood, leather and marble. Guests can indulge in a spa by the renowned French beauty brand Guerlain, enjoy entertainment in an art deco-inspired cabaret venue, visit a 1920s speakeasy and dine in restaurants curated by acclaimed chef Yannick Alléno.
Four Seasons I
Expectations for Four Seasons Yachts are high, and the inaugural 222-passenger vessel aims to meet and exceed them. With Aristotle Onassis’ superyacht, Christina O, serving as inspiration, the yacht will have accommodations ranging from 500 to 9,975 square feet, each with a private terrace. The interiors, created in collaboration with Tillberg Design of Sweden and Prosper Assouline, ensure that the 95 cabins rival the best accommodations found on land.
Featuring an innovative floating marina that provides guests with direct water access while at sea, an ocean pool and a chic bar, Four Seasons is staking its claim on luxury cruising.
Seven Seas Prestige
The Seven Seas Prestige marks the beginning of a new chapter for Regent. Launching the brand’s first new ship class in 10 years, this 822-passenger vessel will set sail next December. Passengers can look forward to a stylish design that blends contemporary elements with classic elegance, a higher guest-to-space ratio and new accommodation categories.
The Skyview Regent Suite, at nearly 9,000 square feet, will be the largest on any all-inclusive cruise ship. Outfitted with two bedrooms, two-and-a-half bathrooms, a private in-suite elevator, a gym and a sauna, the two-level suite will serve as the Prestige’s crown jewel, reflecting the brand’s commitment to a new era of all-inclusive luxury.
Waldorf Astoria Nile River Experience
Those looking for an adventure of a lifetime but refuse to compromise comfort will want to book one of the 29 suites aboard the Waldorf Astoria’s Nile cruise. Starting late next year, spend four to six nights surrounded by the stunning scenery surrounding the world’s longest river, with an itinerary that includes sites such as the Luxor Temple and the Valley of the Kings.
The onboard experience is fit for a pharaoh, with a Peacock Alley bar — a Waldorf Astoria signature — personal concierges, wellness facilities and a rooftop deck, the ideal setting to enjoy the romance of the storied waterway.
Star Explorer
The Star Explorer is the second ship in Windstar’s new line of small vessels designed to provide passengers with top-notch service and premium amenities. Most of the 112 spacious, bright suites have either balconies or floor-to-ceiling windows, allowing guests to fully enjoy the warm breeze of the Mediterranean when the ship debuts next December.
Loyal fans of the Windstar brand will be pleased to know that, despite the new design and the introduction of the specialty restaurant Basil + Bamboo, beloved amenities such as the watersports platform, Yacht Club Café and the ship’s personable atmosphere will remain.
ms Serene & ms Lumière
After celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2025, Tauck will follow it up with the addition of two new riverboats. The family-owned company will expand its presence in France with the ms Serene sailing the River Seine and the ms Lumière cruising along the Rhône.
Both custom-designed vessels are scheduled to launch in 2026. Each accommodating about 130 passengers, the riverboats will feature a deck plan that maximizes spaciousness, The Retreat — a dedicated wellness space filled with natural light and offering beautiful river views — and a sundeck with a pool, along with plenty of room for alfresco dining.
Viking Mira
Kicking off her inaugural season in the Mediterranean and Northern Europe, the Viking Mira will welcome up to 998 guests. All 499 staterooms boast private verandas, heated bathroom floors and the understated elegance of Viking’s signature Scandinavian design. The destination sits at the center of the onboard experience, inspiring the seven restaurants, immersive itineraries and programming.
The ship’s Nordic Spa will contain a snow grotto, cold plunge, steam room and Finnish sauna, and is sure to be a highlight of the adults-only cruise once the ship sets sail in the spring.
Transcend Connect
When it gets unveiled next April, Transcend Connect will offer something unique in the cruising market: customizable private river cruise charters. Whether attending with a company, clients or for an event, the vessel can host 120 guests in 60 comfortable staterooms, all of which can connect to become two-bedroom suites. In fact, nearly every space is convertible, including the seating at the restaurant, the two-story amphitheater outfitted with full AV equipment and the lounge with a dance floor that can get sectioned off into smaller rooms.
Choose how to use the vessel’s public spaces, three-level wellness area and outdoor top deck while gliding down the Rhine River.
