cruise viva one

Luc & June

Travel & Food Blog

Review: the VIVA One river cruise ship

City hopping from Belgium to Germany and back on the VIVA One.

Last year, we almost booked a 14-day VIVA cruise on the Danube.

However we hadn’t traveled with VIVA before, and felt like it would be a better option to travel with and experience this company during a much shorter trip if possible. Just imagine that it is not really what we like, that would be a very long 14 days.

We receive an offer for a 5-day river cruise on board the VIVA One, from Antwerp to Rotterdam, Düsseldorf and Amsterdam back to Antwerp.

Sounds like the perfect opportunity to get to know VIVA river cruises!

Did we like it, and would we book again?

Let’s find out!

We fully paid for our trip on board the VIVA One and didn’t get or ask anything in return for this review.

We made a video of our stay on board the VIVA One.

You can watch it here:

The VIVA One was built in 2022.

The ship has 88 cabins and suites, accommodating a total of 176 passengers. On board there are 2 restaurants: the VIVA Bistro and the Riverside restaurant, both included in the price.

VIVA Cruises offers an extensive all-inclusive formula in which meals, drinks, tips and minibar on board are all included.

Embarkation starts at 2:30pm.

The VIVA One is docked right at the Antwerp Cruise Terminal, that is a 25 minute walk from our doorstep. We get there around 3pm, a staff member writes our cabin number on a little label, attaches is to our luggage and has his colleague take the luggage up to the ship.

We follow, head up the short passenger boarding bridge and receive our room keys at the reception desk.

Our cabin is located on the Ruby deck of the VIVA One, one flight of stairs down from the reception and bar area.

We are staying in stateroom 216, a ‘double cabin’ class room on the starboard side of the ship.

As soon as we step inside, we like the soft colors and wood tones. Even though it is a very cloudy and grey rainy day, still a lot of light is flowing in from the large French balcony windows that reach from the floor all the way up to the ceiling.

The cupboards, desk, bed, linens, walls, decoration… It all looks very pristine and clean.

Let’s start off with the bedroom itself.

Cozy is the feeling we get here: the colors, yellow light, wood tones and rug all give this room a very homey vibe. Plus it is nice and warm inside. The bed looks very inviting, with its high mattress and fluffy pillows.

On both sides of the bed is a bedside table, a lamp and light switches to control the lights in the room. Also on both sides is an electric socket, no USB port though, which we find surprising since a ship built in 2022.

A digital clock is also present, however we unplugged it was too bright during the night.

Next to the window is a comfortable soft chair and a coffee table, a nice spot for a cup of coffee in the morning.

Opposite the bed is a wall full of cupboards and storage space , a wardrobe, a TV and a small desk.

The wardrobe holds a large safe, 2 bathrobes and 2 pairs of slippers, a blue blanket, shelves and plenty of clothes hangers. Underneath the TV are 2 more large drawers to store stuff. You can easily put your empty luggage under the bed once you have unpacked.

Plenty of storage room to arrange and organise our stuff, we thought!

Also underneath the TV is a mini bar that is free: it contains fruit juice, Fanta, regular Coke, Coke zero and 2 beers. A bottle of sparkling wine was waiting for us on the desk when we arrived so we put it in the fridge as well. A bottle opener is also present, as well as 2 wine glasses.

The mini bar is restocked if you drink something.

We used the coffee machine daily: it comes with 6 coffee capsules, milk, sugar and sweetener. Same thing here if you drink a coffee: the capsules are restocked daily.

The transparent plastic reusable VIVA water bottles are a nice touch, you can refill them with water and sparkling water at the water station near the reception. And you can take them home at the end of your river cruise.

Was there anything we didn’t like?

The aircon and heating unit was a bit loud we thought. We didn’t need or use the TV, however if you are a TV watcher, all the TV and radio channels were German. Again, not a problem for us but other guests might find that disappointing.

We also thought that the room wasn’t very soundproof, the cabin door was quite thin and we could hear quite a lot of noise from the hallway from people walking past, whether they were talking or not. We had cabins under, above and next to us but no noise complaints there.

The bathroom is brightly lit and again looks immaculate.

Very clean and well maintained vanity and shower, as if it has never been used before.

The shower is not spacious but still large enough. Good water pressure and temperature from the rain shower. Both glass shower doors open to the inside and outside. We loved the fragrant Ritual bath products, excellent quality shower gel, shampoo and conditioner!

The one sink vanity provides enough space to organize and store your bathroom amenities.

Provided are a shower cap, Rituals soap bar and body lotion, hand towels, a spare toilet roll and hair dryer. Kleenex can be found on the desk in your room.

The bath towels were good, and were changed every time you would put them on the floor during morning service and turndown service in the evening.

Very good bathroom here on the VIVA One, can’t fault it.

There is a turndown service in the evening while you enjoy dinner. Beds are not really made up like the staff does in the morning, just neatly rearranged. Towels are changed if necessary, minibar and coffee is restocked.

Next day’s daily program is left on your bed together with 2 small hazelnut chocolate bars.

The reception area is in the centre of the ship.

It is where all 3 stateroom floors, bar and lounge area and Riverside restaurant kind of connect. A small atrium let’s call it. There is an elevator as well if necessary.

The reception has 2 desks where you can find at least one receptionist at all times during your stay. Here you are welcome if you have any type of questions, want to make a restaurant reservation, book a massage or pedicure, connect your devices to the onboard wifi, or if you have any type of question or request.

Right after checkin in and getting to know our cabin, we requested 2 extra pillows at the reception which were delivered within 10 minutes. Making a dinner reservation for the next day was taken care of instantly as well.

The staff was very polite, friendly and hands on. Excellent service at the reception!

Also in this area opposite the reception desk is the excursions desk where you can book your guided trips and tours, or get extra information about the cities you are about to visit, rent (free) bikes, specific docking location etc. We didn’t book any excursions with VIVA, we decided to explore Rotterdam, Düsseldorf and Amsterdam on our own.

Next to the excursions desk is a small shop that sells accessories such as scarfs, jewellery, sunglasses, hats, caps, handbags, Ritual perfumes etc.

One flight of stairs down is the atrium where you can find the water refill station for your reusable VIVA water bottles, public toilets, and a messaging board where you can check today’s menus for both restaurants.

Lounge and bar

Next to the reception area is the lounge and bar area.

It is the heart of the ship where evening entertainment, captain’s welcome drink, afternoon tea and events take place. It is nicely decorated with lovely colors, comfortable chairs and fresh flowers.

The wide windows give you a lovely view on the surroundings once the ship is on the move, very enjoyable.

Here you can come and sit to read a book, meet up with people, enjoy a drink and relax.

The bar opens at 10am and closes at midnight.

All drinks a la carte are included: water, hot beverages, soft drinks, beers (bottled and on tap), cocktails, prosecco, champagne, wine, liquors and spirits… It is all included and of good quality.

We thought that the service was quite attentive and fast.

Afternoon tea

On some days afternoon tea is served in the lounge, check the daily program in your room for the right hours.

Come and enjoy a collection of sweet and savory treats such as sandwiches, pies, tarts, patisserie, pan cotta, cheese, crackers, biscuits and warm bread pudding.

Plenty of choice, we really liked the quality of the treats on offer. Excellent patisserie, scones with cream and jam, yummy sandwiches. That together with a cup of tea or a glass of champagne, made it a lovely afternoon bite. Very enjoyable moment. A pianist plays some classic tunes on a grand piano as well, excellent.

If afternoon tea isn’t served, you can still ask the bar staff for a slice of cake or pie in the afternoon.

The lounge is pretty quiet in the morning, after lunch it tends to fill up fast. When afternoon tea is served and live piano is played, this place is packed and it gets extremely noisy. We have been on other river cruises and the lounges were very comparable in size. It was never this noisy before, so we blamed it on the bad acoustics?

The seating area at the very end behind the bar was more enjoyable so we preferred to sit there before and after dinner. More about evening entertainment later in the post.

Riverside restaurant

The Riverside main dining room is located under the reception and bar lounge area.

Here breakfast, lunch and dinner is served.

Again it is a nicely decorated place that looks very inviting.

But again the unbelievable bad acoustic design really made it hard to have a proper conversation with fellow guests at our table without shouting.

The service at the restaurant was really excellent, with again a very attentive and super friendly staff.

Breakfast on the VIVA One is served buffet style in the Riverside restaurant.

It is open from 7:30am until 9:30am.

We very much liked the choice there was.

Cold items included several Danish pastries, a nice choice of breads, marmalades, cold cuts, cheeses, smoked salmon, pickled herring, fruit juices, prosecco, raw vegetables, muesli, granola, yogurts.

On the hot station: scrambled eggs, bacon, sausages, potato croquettes, and a daily changing choice of waffles, pancakes, tomatoes, mushrooms, roast potatoes.

Besides the buffet items, you also have the possibility to have eggs to order. Omelettes with ham, cheese, smoked salmon, tomatoes, mushrooms, peppers and/or onions. Fried eggs, freshly scrambled eggs, boiled or poached eggs.

Warm cereal was also on the menu: semolina or oat porridge.

Our eggs to order were always cooked perfectly, and made in no time. We never had to wait long to get them delivered to our table. The scrambled eggs on the hot buffet were delicious as well, we have to add. Nicely seasoned and creamy, not the dry powdery stuff you often get in hotels. The bacon wasn’t crispy but very flavorful and nicely salty though.

Excellent quality, we really enjoyed our breakfasts here. Yum!

Staff was great, always welcoming and fast to prep a table if necessary. Coffee was also served in coffee jugs that were placed on your breakfast table. We really appreciate that. We drink quite a few cups of coffee for breakfast and always find it annoying to having to ask for extra coffee refills 10 times or more.

Great start of our day, very happy with the breakfast on board the VIVA One!

Lunch is served in the Riverside restaurant from 12:30pm until 2pm.

It consists of a starter, main dish and dessert.

Mains included steak, fish and chips, and pasta or a salad. Vegetarian options are available as well.

We had lunch on the VIVA One just once, in the Bistro (more on that later). On all other days we visited the cities where we were docked and had lunch in town.

Dinner is served in the Riverside restaurant from 7pm until 9pm.

It consists of an appetizer, soup, main (meat, fish or vegetarian) and dessert.

We had dinner here 3 times, and apart from one main course we loved all the dishes that we ordered. Excellent food, fresh ingredients, perfect execution and top notch seasoning.

The dishes that we loved the most were the juicy beef tenderloin, rosé duck fillet and turbot. Every single one was amazing, and served in excellent company of perfectly cooked vegetables, mashed potatoes, celeriac puree and gnocchi.

The only time we were let down was when we ordered the pot of fresh mussels cooked in white wine with vegetables. The mussels were chewy, as if they had been cooked in advance and then reheated. Pity.

The appetisers, salad and soups on the dinner menus were also very appetising: we remember the poached egg with broad beans and prosciutto, smoky split pea soup, cream of cauliflower soup with truffle foam and roasted vegetable medley with bresaola and bread sticks.

Same song for the desserts: the sweet desserts were excellent, but what we loved the most was the cheese plate. Lovely mix of flavorful hard and soft cheeses, served at room temperature with fresh fruits, crackers and nuts. Yum.

During dinner there are 2 wine suggestions, red and white. You can also get rosé wine but you have to ask for it. The wines were OK, French and South African wines. We were expecting to see more German wines on this ship since VIVA is a German river cruise company, and Germany was the destination of the trip. Germany has excellent and very affordable wines, our trip would have been even better to see some here on the VIVA One to accompany our dinners.

Staff again was always very hands on, extremely friendly and attentive.

On the third night on the VIVA One a Gala dinner was announced on the daily program we received the night before, and a captain’s cocktail right before that. What wasn’t mentioned is that all guests were supposed to sit down for dinner at 7pm. We went for a drink in the lounge at 7:30pm and the bar man asked if we were skipping dinner. He said that tonight dinner started at 7pm for everyone, so we made our way to the Riverside restaurant with our drinks. A waiter showed us to a table of 6 where 4 other guests were in the middle of eating their starters. He brought us our appetiser, soup and starter in no time, so that by the time the main dish was served we had already caught up with everyone.

Bistro restaurant

At the end of the Diamond deck hallway in the back of the ship is another restaurant called VIVA’s Bistro.

It is a small place with seating for about 32 people.

The Bistro is open for an early bird breakfast from 7am until 7:30am, lunch from 12:30pm until 2pm and dinner from 7pm until 9pm. When it is the Gala dinner night at the Riverside restaurant, the Bistro is closed.

For dinner you need to make a reservation in advance at the reception.

As the VIVA One was leaving Rotterdam at 1pm, we decided to have lunch here at the Bistro.

There were only 2 other couples who had the same idea, so it was very quiet. We had a table by the window and enjoyed our lunch while watching our ship leave Rotterdam and head for Düsseldorf. Even though it was a grey and cold autumn day, the landscapes and panorama were great.

The waiter promptly brought us menus and took care of our drink order.

On the menu simple items such as soup, salads, grilled sandwiches and burgers. Which sounded perfect after walking around in Rotterdam in the cold icy weather.

We ordered the tomato soup, caesar salad with chicken, and both the grilled pastrami sandwich.

The food is prepared in a small kitchen on the spot, and since there is almost no one in the restaurant our food arrives at light speed. The waiter also tops up our wine glasses and gets us an extra portion of bread and butter.

The soup is creamy and hot, just what I was craving after our walk. Yum, excellent.

On the opposite side of the table sits the caesar salad with chicken, super crispy and fresh little gem lettuce in a light dressing covered with shaved parmesan cheese, croutons and juicy strips of chicken breast. Perfectly seasoned, very good caesar salad. Loved it!

Our sandwiches arrive not much later after our waiter has cleared our table.

Grilled caraway seed rye bread, stuffed with pastrami, sauerkraut and cheese. It looks a little thin at first, but the flavor is absolutely there. There’s extra mustard on the side if you like.

And the fries that come with the sandwich are good as well. Crispy and well cooked, with ketchup and mayo on the side.

We decide to skip dessert and go to our room for a shower and a nap.

This was a delicious lunch!

On our second night on the VIVA One we booked a table for dinner at the Bistro.

The place is fully booked.

We get the last free table, a table for 2 near the entrance. The same waiter who took care of us during lunch here the other day hands out menus and brings a bottle of water. Another waiter stops by with bottles of red and white wine and fills our glasses.

It takes a while before we can place our order. It seems like a lot of dishes are coming out of the kitchen at the same time. Some plates are dying in the window, it feels like the staff doesn’t know where to look first. Anyway, the wine is still being topped up, and the bread and butter are again delicious to munch and snack on. We are in no hurry.

20 minutes later service is back on track and our orders are taken. Cured meats and roasted vegetables for starters, chimichurri steak and prawns for mains and sticky toffee pudding for dessert.

Both starters are cold, so they arrive pretty fast.

Prosciutto and salami, served with bread sticks and a spicy tomato jam. Good, not mind blowing but a nice little starter.

The roasted vegetables are a mixture of carrot, zucchini, bimi broccoli and tomatoes, served with a dipping sauce drizzled with balsamic vinegar and bread sticks as well.

Again a simple starter, nice. Opens up our palates.

Our mains arrive.

The prawns are steaming hot, clearly microwaved. But they are surprisingly juicy and plump. The buttery sauce that is served with it is a tad spicy and quite pleasant. It could have been served with some more grilled bread than just 2 slices.

The side dish consists of oven baked cauliflower with cheese and capers. An odd flavor combo but it works. Just not alongside these buttery spicy prawns we think.

The steak is supposed to be a sirloin, however it is not what you would expect it to be. No sear on it, it looks like this slice was cut off a larger cooked beef cut. Even though the chimichurri is zippy, it can’t hide the poor an pale look. Not a lot of flavor in this ‘steak’. And it was lukewarm at best. We left more than half of it on our plate. Nobody asked why.

The sweet potato fries were crispy, but a bit dry. And again a surprising side dish that sounded odd at first but turned out to taste really nice: cooked black beans topped off with feta cheese.

Happy with our main meals? Not really, if we had more days left on this VIVA One cruise trip, we would not come back here in the evening.

Fortunately dessert was absolutely to die for: sticky toffee pudding served warm with ice cream, strawberries, sliced banana and syrup. What a heavenly treat!

Sundeck and jacuzzi

Take the outside steps at reception level and they will lead you to the sundeck on the very top of the VIVA One.

Plenty of space here to enjoy the surrounding landscapes when the ship is on the move, or just docked in a beautiful place. This is also the only place where smoking is allowed.

There are sun loungers, chairs and tables, covered by a removable sun canopy and even a couple of hammocks.

At the end of the sundeck is a small jacuzzi.

On our trip the weather wasn’t great, lots of rain, cloudy skies and wind. So not the best time to sit outside, however the jacuzzi was working and the water was nice and warm. Not that we ever saw anyone brave enough for a quick dip in the pool.

But we can imagine that when the sun is out, this sundeck must be lovely to come sit in a lounger, read, nap, have a drink and enjoy.

Entertainment

After dinner the bar and lounge area fills up again with guests.

Drinks are being served, the bar staff is extremely busy and fast to take and bring your order.

Depending on the day, evening entertainment starts at 9pm or 9:30pm.

ON our VIVA One trip a singing duo would entertain guests with a synthesiser and perform songs by Tom Jones, Boney M., Barry White and so. The people loved it, the dance floor would be packed each night. However this kind of music is not our cup of tea, a bit too tacky and mellow. Other guests were having a great time, which is great. It was just not for us. We would usually stay for a drink or 2 and then go to our room.

During afternoon tea a pianist plays classics on the grand piano next to the bar.

One morning after breakfast an Antwerp comedian and singer would perform, but we left before that to explore Düsseldorf instead.

Wellness and gym

The VIVA One has a sauna, steam bath, gym and wellness on board.

You can book your treatments at the reception area.

Internet connection was great and very fast.

Upon embarkation, link your device(s) to the wifi network and have a member of the reception team scan the QR code to connect you to the onboard wifi.

The internet speed was good enough even to download episodes on Netflix and such, excellent!

Bike rental

VIVA One has (non-electric) bikes on board that you can use for free.

Ask a member of the reception or excursion staff if you are interested.

Depending on the capacity, it is possible to take your own bikes with you on board the ship. Make sure to ask in advance when you book your trip.

Would we recommend the VIVA One river cruise ship?

Yes, it is a beautiful ship.

We really liked the feeling of being surrounded, in our room and public spaces, by things looking very spic and span, and fresh and bright.

The food in the Riverside restaurant for us was a true highlight. Excellent, a real treat.

The staff all around the ship was superb, extremely helpful and fast.

There were a couple of things that we didn’t quite like, however keeping those in mind we now know what to expect on a VIVA cruise.

So would we book again with VIVA and on the VIVA One?

Yes, definitely!

This 5 day trip was an excellent way to find out if VIVA cruises is a river cruise company for us.

• fresh, bright and modern river cruise ship
• comfortable and beautiful design of the cabin and bathroom
• very good mattress and pillows
• excellent housekeeping
• all inclusive food, drinks, tips and minibar
• excellent food on the Riverside dinner menu
• very helpful and attentive staff and service
• excellent and fast internet connect
• unbelievably bad acoustics, very noisy lounge bar and main restaurant
• underwhelming quality of the Bistro dinner menu
• evening entertainment was not our cup of tea

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Viva Cruises launches its first new build ship, VIVA ONE

River cruise specialist, VIVA Cruises, has welcomed its first new build ship to the family.

VIVA ONE was christened in its home port of Düsseldorf (Germany) recently, in a ceremony attended by over 160 guests including Andrea Kruse, COO of VIVA Cruises, Arno Reitsma, CEO of Swiss shipping company, Scylla AG, VIVA Cruises’ parent company, Josef Hinkel, mayor of Düsseldorf; and Judith Rakers, a well-known German TV personality who is the Godmother of VIVA ONE. VIVA ONE will be offering a variety of exciting itineraries on the Rhine and Moselle rivers throughout this year, with more to come in 2023.

VIVA ONE, whose name refers to being the very first ship built by VIVA Cruises, has 88 modern cabins for 176 guests – including double beds and junior suites (most of them equipped with French balconies) and four suites featuring balconies with a table and two chairs. The new ship features VIVA Cruises’ look and feel, including a modern design in blue tones, wooden furniture and a casual atmosphere.

Guests on board VIVA ONE will be able to enjoy, amongst other features, the ship’s spacious sun deck, spa and wellness area and its two restaurants: Riverside and VIVA’s Bistro. Riverside is VIVA ONE’s main restaurant, featuring a wide selection of breakfast, lunch and dinner menus – including vegetarian and vegan meals. On the other hand, VIVA’s Bistro offers a casual atmosphere and a wide selection of snacks and smaller dishes available from early morning until late at night – including salads, sandwiches and burgers.

VIVA ONE is also the first ship in the VIVA Cruises fleet to use state-of-the-art hybrid technology that is kinder to the environment. The ship has 68 solar cells distributed on the sun deck; uses sulphur-free GTL (Gas to Liquid) fuel, which significantly reduces CO² consumption and emissions; and features an improved autopilot function which does not only simplify navigation but also helps to reduce the consumption of fuel. VIVA ONE is also seeing an important reduction of plastic on board with the installation of two water stations in the lobby, so guests can refill their reusable water bottles and cut down the use of cups.

The brand new ship will be offering a variety of five- and seven-night itineraries on the Rhine and Moselle rivers throughout 2022 and 2023 – most of them departing from the port of Düsseldorf, where VIVA Cruises is based. All 2022 and 2023 itineraries are already available on the VIVA Cruises website.

Andrea Kruse, COO of VIVA Cruises, said: “After lots of hard work and a couple of uncertain years, we are thrilled to have launched our first ever new build ship. VIVA ONE has been carefully designed using VIVA Cruises’ ethos and environmentally friendly technology to bring unique moments and exclusive experiences to our guests – without forgetting our VIVA All-Inclusive product. We are truly looking forward to welcoming the U.S. market on our new ship – they will have a whole new river cruise experience like never before.”

All VIVA ONE itineraries will feature VIVA Cruises’ signature VIVA All-Inclusive product, which includes snacks; full board, high-quality alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages; self-service coffee stations and water stations; minibar; beauty products from luxury cosmetic brand, Rituals; Wi-Fi and all tips and gratuities. www.viva-cruises.com

Review overview

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• River Cruising

Photo review: VIVA One Rhine river March 31, 2022

By steamboats , April 3, 2022 in River Cruising

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We had the pleasure to be onboard the new river cruise ship VIVA One for a 2 night naming ceremony cruise (including the naming ceremony of course). It´s been just a trip from Duesseldorf to Koblenz and back again. So the main focus is on the ship. VIVA Cruises is part of Scylla and was founded in 2018. Scylla started out in 1973 building river cruise ships for third parties (like Tauck or Riviera River Cruises). During the pandemic the new builts were halted and VIVA Cruises did use other ships not needed by international river cruise operators. Today the first new built for VIVA Cruises, the VIVA One, started on her maiden voyage with passengers. Here´s my photo intense review of the new VIVA One. The text is in German but automatic translation works pretty well. The first part is a deck by deck review of the ship. There are more to follow (a total of 7 parts, one part each day for the next 6 days). VIVA Cruises do sell internationally and therefore onboard language is German and English. The all inclusive concept includes beverages, wifi and gratuities. Laundry services, shore excursions, spa treatments are not included but there are decent prices.

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notamermaid

Thank you for sharing and congratulations on the invitation by Viva Cruises. I am sure it was a great experience for you two. I do not recall - have you reported on a christening before?

A pity that Viva Cruises have not made an English press release. German tourist websites have reported of course, saw the first ones on Saturday but I cannot find English articles yet.

The Viva One looks stylish, modern interior but not too cool. The woods help. Pleasant.  Perhaps, one day, I will be able to sail.

Looking forward to seeing the Viva One on the river in my area when she comes up from the Netherlands itineraries.

25 minutes ago, notamermaid said: I do not recall - have you reported on a christening before?

Yes, I´ve been on a couple of naming ceremonies - river and ocean. Last one was the A-Rosa Alva.

Host Jazzbeau

What is the language(s) onboard Viva cruises?

Love the "Bubbles without troubles". 🙂

Great writeup, looking forward to seeing more.

1 hour ago, steamboats said: Last one was the A-Rosa Alva.

Ah, the one in Portugal. Where is my memory...

19 minutes ago, Host Jazzbeau said: What is the language(s) onboard Viva cruises?

It is German and English. But I am not sure about one thing: @steamboats do you know if that is an automatic arrangement? Or do they require a certain amount of English-speaking guests for tours to be in English? Are there exclusive sailings for German or English language?

Looking at the excursion choices and prices will be interesting. I still like this arrangement of not having this all-inclusive but people signing up and paying for tours individually.

Thank you @steamboats  great photos, as it was for me mostly a picture review. I did understand bits and pieces.  Particularly that which makes every river cruise . . .  eine Kaffeemaschine zur Selbstbedienung. Is there a vessel on the European rivers without one?  

15 hours ago, Host Jazzbeau said: What is the language(s) onboard Viva cruises?

VIVA Cruises does sell internationally so onboard language is German and English. Most of the crew is much better in English.

6 hours ago, CPT Trips said:  Kaffeemaschine zur Selbstbedienung. Is there a vessel on the European rivers without one?

At least on the German market it´s not that common to have a coffee machine for self service. This one has cappuccino and latte macchiato or espresso as well. So not just regular coffee.

You have really made a great effort photographing what feels like every nook and cranny of the ship. ☺️ I have read the next installments. So mainly what you pay extra for on top of the listed price are the excursions; drinks etc. are included. When I booked my river cruise in 2013 I went for the pre-cruise bookable package and then added a couple more excursions on the first evening after briefing.

Thank you for the Instagram walkthrough video. From it I think I can see that the rooms are a little small but within the range of standard hotel rooms. The bed is a double but could be turned into a twin it appears.

Interesting that the ship is the split level design. I did not expect Viva Cruises to go for that.

Yes, you can separate the beds. But... I thought they are pretty small. I didn´t have anything to measure but it felt like 80 cm (one bed). The standard two bed cabins are 16 sqm.

And another yes, you basically pay for excursions if you want to go on a guided ship tour. But the prices are really decent. When you check their website you can already see the offered excursions. There are also package where you can save even more.

If you go for a spa treatment - that´s extra too. Or laundry service. But that´s it.

There are more walk through reels for the other cabin categories. You will find them on IG. The links are also in tomorrow´s entry.

Now I have to find a way to get that naming video online. IG always turns it sideways when I want to make a reel out of it. It worked in the story (or highlight).

I have the problem with the sideways video here on CC. There is probably a simple solution but I have no idea what.

80cm would be really small for German standards. But hotel beds are of course different from home arrangements. Perhaps they are ninety and look small? Whichever it is, comfy is what counts.

Will need to look for a short cruise (three nights) on the One later in the year, perhaps it will work out.

Or one of the other ships from Viva Cruises. I find them all inviting.

I´m used to a 1 m bed (or 2 by 2 as a double). And this time my DH and I had problems finding our space so that´s why I assume it´s just 80 cm as I don´t have any problems in 90 cm wide beds.

For some reason IG thought my video is "sideways" and turned it for the reel. I now made a video on my computer and uploaded it as video on IG. That worked.

Interesting. Smaller beds of course increase space for walking.

Thanks for the effort, will look at the next installment and the video.

Unfortunately, it appears the Viva One does not do very short itineraries this year, so I will look at the other ships for a short trip. Unless I can find someone who funds my travels...

Thx, the ship looks very interesting! I’m not sure where they found the space to put all those rooms on board. Maybe that’s why the cabins are small. Anyway, it looks really good! I might like to try it sometime. I might get a chance to practice my German. I just finished two semesters of college German, but I’ve already forgotten it all and can’t remember anything now! I’m flying into Frankfurt on 1 July, so I guess I better brush up soon  😜

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MS VIVA ONE

The viva one, where the exclusive is always inclusive.

Welcome to  VIVA One a newly commissioned (2022) luxury vessel.  You will j ourney through the heart of Europe as you travel along several of the continent’s most important waterways. VIVA One has everything a traveler could ask for: castles and monasteries, vineyards and villages, cathedrals and a wealth of epicurean delights to be savored at every bend. On our scenic-packed journeys, you’ll see and experience it all while enjoying all-inclusive 5-star service on our modern fleet designed to put the best of Europe at your fingertips.  Start off with the cruise of your dreams along one of Europe’s fabled rivers.

On the Diamond Deck, there are four luxurious balcony suites, which invite you to enjoy the beautiful view with a size of 25 m² and a balcony (about 2m²). On the Diamond Deck, as well as on the Ruby Deck, there are 18 m² Junior Suites, which have a French balcony. The main part of the cabins is made up of 2-bed cabins of 17 m². These have French balconies on the Diamond and Ruby Decks and non-opening windows on the Emerald Deck. All cabins are perfectly equipped with flat-screen TV, included minibar, beauty products from RITUALS®, hairdryer, safe, air conditioning, shower and toilet.

Dining on the VIVA One is a true pleasure. Seated at tables for lunch and dinner, you will dine on a multi-course gourmet menu.  Freshly prepared dishes made with local ingredients are graciously served along with a curated selection of regional wines. Breakfasts on the VIVA One  are presented service à la française , with a bounty of unique and tasty options that will have you heading back to the buffet ‘just one more time.’ As part of our all-inclusive concept, selected alcoholic drinks and high-quality, non-alcoholic drinks (mineral water, soft drinks, juices, various coffee specialties, tea, and cocoa) and snacks are available to enjoy all day.  

As you’d expect from any 5-star hotel, each cabin on the VIVA One delivers passengers a well-appointed retreat to call home. Sink into beds dressed in the finest linens after a full day of exploring.   Luxury bath & body products, individual air/heating thermostats, to help you to settle in, as well as a flat-screen satellite TV, should a lazy afternoon be preferred.

At the heart of this modern ship are the people you’ll share your journey with. The talent and professionalism of the VIVA One’s warm and caring crew, combined with the camaraderie forged with your new adventure-loving cruise mates will make this a one-of-a-kind experience you can’t wait to repeat!

Staterooms & Suites

Double cabin - ruby deck & diamond deck.

• Ruby or Diamond Deck
• 2 single beds (with optional twin-bed configuration)
• Floor-to-ceiling French balcony
• Table with two armchairs
• Exclusive beauty products from RITUALS®
• Minibar stocked with complimentary water, beer, and soft drinks, replenished daily
• Welcome bottle of Sparkling wine
• Reusable Water Bottle
• Nespresso® machine
• Complimentary wi-fi access
• Telephone, safe and individual climate control
• Private bathroom with shower
• Easy under-bed luggage storage
• Large shower featuring rainfall shower head
• Complimentary state-of-the-art audio headsets for all optional shore excursions.

Double Cabin - Emerald Deck

Cabin features:.

• Emerald Deck
• Window (cannot be opened)
• Telephone, safe, and individual climate control

Junior Suite - Ruby Deck and Diamond Deck

Balcony Suite - Diamond Deck

• Diamond Deck
• Located on the upper passenger deck –
• Located on the upper passenger deck
• Lounge area
• Minibar stocked with complimentary water, beer and soft drinks, replenished daily
• SPA bathrobes plus slippers
• Balcony with two chairs

• At only 135 meters, The VIVA One’s modest size allows the captain greater flexibility when navigating changing river levels, bridges and locks
• 3 decks (Emerald, Ruby and Diamond)
• Panorama lounge on the Diamond Deck
• Sundeck with  swimming pool
• Attentive crew members, a diverse team of associates with fluency in multiple languages
• Maximum capacity of only 176 guests
• Concierge services, laundry, a 24/7 Business Center, and safe deposit boxes in each room
• Each cabin is equipped with an individual thermostat for air conditioning & heating, flat-screen TV with satellite, and minibars (complimentary and refreshed daily
• Bathrooms include magnifying mirror, hairdryer, and daily towel service.
• Tips and Gratuities for onboard crew included

Dining on the VIVA One is a true pleasure. Seated at tables for lunch and dinner, you will dine on a multi-course gourmet menu.  Freshly prepared dishes made with local ingredients are graciously served along with a curated selection of regional wines. Breakfasts on the VIVA One are presented service à la française , with a bounty of unique and tasty options that will have you heading back to the buffet ‘just one more time.

On all river cruises, you can fully enjoy our All-Inclusive concept.

• full board with breakfast buffet, lunch, dinner, and snacks with free choice of table and flexible meal times

• all-day high-quality, non-alcoholic drinks (mineral water, soft drinks, juices, various coffee specialties, tea, cocoa)

• selected alcoholic drinks all day long (sparkling wine, aperitif, white wine, red wine, rosé, champagne, various beers, long drinks, cocktails, spirits, liqueurs)

• High Tea: once per cruise a fine selection of sweet and savory delicacies –  for example, scones, sandwiches, cupcakes, chocolates, macarons, and exclusive teas

Welcome Aboard cocktail reception & Captain’s Farewell gala dinner.

• always refreshed minibar in the cabin

This ship is embarking upon the following cruises:

Instagram Code:

• Terms and Conditions

• Shipyard Vahali Shipyards Zasavica (Sremska Mitrovica, Serbia)
• Length 135.00 m
• Beam 12.00 m
• Passengers 176
• Crew/Pax ratio 1 : 3.67
• Currency EUR
• Language English
• Flag Switzerland

Viva One, joining the fleet in 2022, can accommodate up to 88 passengers who can enjoy moments of wellness on board. On the Diamond Deck, there are four luxurious suites, offering splendid views with a size of 25 m² and a balcony. Both on the Diamond Deck and the Ruby Deck, there are 18 m² junior suites, which feature a French balcony. The remaining cabins are 17 m² in size and feature either a French balcony or large non-opening windows. The ship also features a main restaurant "RIVERSIDE" with flexible meal times and open seating; "VIVA's Bistro" as an alternative to the main restaurant with classic dinner options, a fitness center, wellness area, rooftop sun deck pool, and complimentary bike rentals. From a technical and sustainable perspective, VIVA ONE boasts innovations and special features. A total of 68 solar panels support the onboard electrical system, the water treatment system is state-of-the-art, and there are water stations in the lobby and at the bar onboard, where guests can refill their reusable VIVA water bottles at any time. Giorgia Lombardo

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• CruiseMapper

MS VIVA One deck plans

Deck layouts, review of facilities, activities, amenities.

MS VIVA One deck plan review at CruiseMapper provides newest cruise deck plans (2024-2025-2026 valid floor layouts of the vessel) extracted from the officially issued by VIVA Cruises (Scylla Cruises) deckplan pdf (printable version).

Each of the MS VIVA One cruise ship deck plans are conveniently combined with a legend (showing cabin codes) and detailed review of all the deck's venues and passenger-accessible indoor and outdoor areas. A separate link provides an extensive information on MS VIVA One staterooms (cabins and suites), including photos, cabin plans and amenities by room type and category.

MS VIVA One cruise ship deck plan shows 88 passenger cabins, 3 Restaurants (Riverside Dining Room, Viva's Bistro & Bar, Sundeck Alfresco Buffet), Bar Lounge (Panorama), Lobby/Foyer (ship entrances, Travel Desk/Tour Office, Reception Desk, Gift Shop), Wellness facilities (Gym, Spa, Nail & Hair Salon, Sauna, Steam Bath), Sun Deck with Wheelhouse, retractable Awnings (shaded seating), Alfresco Lounge (full bar service), aft Putting Green (Mini-Golf) and Whirlpool (spa pool), sunbathing area (with padded sun loungers and deckchairs).

One Lift (passenger elevator) interconnects all cabin decks.

A Stairlift connects to Sundeck.

Staircases connect all decks.

Deck layouts

Deck 01 - emerald-spa-crew, deck 02 - ruby-lobby-restaurant, deck 03 - diamond-lounge-bistro, deck 04 - sundeck-pool.

MS VIVA One deck plans are property of VIVA Cruises (Scylla Cruises) . All deck layouts are for informational purposes only and CruiseMapper is not responsible for their accuracy.

The best new cruises in the world: 2024 Hot List

By CNT Editors

It’s inevitable: every spring when we pull together the Hot List, our annual collection of the world’s best new hotels, restaurants, and cruise ships, a staffer remarks that this latest iteration has got to be the best one ever. After a year’s worth of travelling the globe – to stay the night at a converted farmhouse in the middle of an olive grove outside Marrakech or sail aboard a beloved cruise line’s inaugural Antarctic voyage – it’s easy to see why we get attached. But this year’s Hot List, our 28th edition, might really be the best one ever. It’s certainly our most diverse, featuring not only a hotel suite that was once Winston Churchill’s office, but also the world’s largest cruise ship and restaurants from Cape Town to Bali . We were surprised and inspired by this year’s honorees, and we know you will be too. These are the Hot List cruise winners for 2024.

Celebrity Ascent, Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity is a premium big-ship cruise brand, focusing on exquisite dining, cutting-edge amenities, Instagram-worthy public spaces chock-full of bespoke art pieces, and avant-garde onboard entertainment. The ship makes passengers feel, in a word, glamorous. Celebrity Ascent’s sumptuously designed interiors are flooded with natural light and evoke an air of playful sophistication that makes a week on board an escape worth cherishing. Passengers may find themselves longing to return for just one more succulent crab claw at Raw on 5, one more martini poured by bottle-spinning bartenders in the Martini Bar, or one more dazzling, acrobatic stage show, in the days following their farewells to this beautiful ship. From around £574 per person for a seven-night sailing. Scott Laird

Emerald Sakara, Emerald Cruises

Now with two oceangoing vessels joining Emerald’s more established fleet of nine river-dedicated “Star-Ships,” the decade-old cruise line is extending a brand built on unpretentious luxury to more corners of the world. Christened last August , the 100-guest superyacht, Sakara, is a near twin to Azzurra, which in 2022 ushered in a new era for Emerald by taking to the high seas. Sakara, like its sister, delightfully blurs the line between the luxury and ultra-luxury cruise categories, offering attentive service, gourmet cuisine, tasteful decor, and an eclectic slate of activities at a price point friendly to more budgets. The cherry on top with both superyachts is a slew of perks atypical of small-ship sailing, ranging from an impressively comprehensive spa to a marina platform well equipped for more fun in the sun. Despite having so much good stuff, each vessel is remarkably spacious. Getting a sense of being on a private yacht is easy like Sunday morning. Sakara is homeported in the Caribbean and the Mediterranean through at least March 2026; Azzurra, too, in addition to the Middle East, Kenya, and the Seychelles . Emerald’s river operations are based in Europe and Southeast Asia. (Note that a third ship, the Kaia, has just been announced by the cruise line; it debuts in April 2026, and, for all the early birds, it is now open for bookings.) From around £3,112. David Dickstein

Explora I, Explora Journeys

With a showpiece lobby bar, upscale restaurants, and a sultry infinity pool, Explora Journeys' relaxed luxury-resort-at-sea vibe strikes the perfect balance on Explora I. Launched in August 2023, the all-inclusive ship is disarmingly beautiful. A sleek navy blue exterior cocoons 461 suites, all with deep balconies, walk-in closets, and marble bathrooms. There is free-flowing Champagne, 7,500 square feet of wellness space, and 18 drinking and dining venues. From Emporium Marketplace, with its decadent raw bar, to pan-Asian restaurant Sakura, the dining on Explora I is sensational. Marble & Co. Grill is an intimate steakhouse where ageing meats hang in temperature-controlled cabinets. At Anthology, the ship's only supplementary restaurant, guest chefs – such as Claude Le Tohic of San Francisco's O' by Claude Le Tohic – curate sublime tasting menus. There's more: The only Rolex boutique at sea, huge hot tubs, and a shore program that sees some land experiences developed in partnership with revered explorer Mike Horn. From around £564 per person per night. Kerry Spencer

Icon of the Seas, Royal Caribbean International

Aboard the Icon, you can really get lost. The behemoth is just plain big, with a capacity for nearly 8,000 when combining passengers and crew across 20 decks and 250,800 gross tons. Two and a half laps around the ship’s jogging track, a particular highlight onboard, and you’ve run a mile. So one can find themselves in need of a map – forgetting your sunscreen , for example, in your cabin is a bit of a chore depending on how far you’ve made it. But the abundance of things to do is also narcotic, and you feel a bit like a lotus-eater attempting to navigate it all while keeping your head. Amid the relentless entertainment, not to be missed are the top-notch performers present everywhere, from the Olympic-level aquatics show that you can watch from the windows of the speciality seafood restaurant should seating be elusive (it often is) to the cafeteria, where crewmembers dressed as food items sing songs reminding (commanding, actually, which is fabulous) passengers to wash their hands at sinks near the entrance. If you wish to enjoy the largest waterpark at sea, by the way, do what I did not and pack a swimsuit without zippers. From around £1,818 . Charlie Hobbs

Lauren Burvill , CN Traveller

Olivia Morelli

CNT Editors

CNT Editors , CN Traveller

MSC Euribia, MSC Cruises

Looking at a row of cruise ships in port, you'll spot MSC Euribia right away. She's covered bow to stern by an ocean-themed mural by German artist Alex Flämig that bears the hashtag #SaveTheSeas nodding to the MSC's dedication to sustainable cruising: the Italian cruise line aims to be net-zero by 2050. MSC Euribia brings it one step closer to that goal, as it's the fleet's greenest ship yet, operating on liquified natural gas (LNG) and running advanced water and waste treatment systems onboard. But enough with the technical details – this mega-ship is packed with activities and entertainment, with 10 restaurants, 21 bars, five pools, two performance venues, and a bevvy of family-friendly amenities, like an F1 simulator, a waterpark, and a bowling alley. More adult-oriented highlights include the MSC Aurea Spa, with a thermal suite outfitted with thalassotherapy pools, a salt cave, and a snow room, as well as the Helios Wine Maker bar for wine tastings. Itineraries from around £420. Stefanie Waldek

Norwegian Viva, Norwegian Cruise Line

The second entry in Norwegian Cruise Line’s new Prima Class, Viva is like an Irish twin of older sister Prima. There’s the same stateroom count at 1,586, done in pristine and pleasing neutrals, as well as familiarly tricked-out amenities like the zippy 1,400-foot go-kart racing track that undulates over-the-top decks. Importantly, the Ocean Walk, which my colleague Mercedes Bleth adored aboard the Prima, remains. But round two afforded the premier name in large-ship cruising a chance to tweak and perfect, with an influx of seating options both in the ship’s complimentary dining hall as well as on its myriad decks. Across from the signature “zero-waste” Metropolitan Bar, where yummy drinks are whipped up from the ship’s food waste (I particularly enjoy a buttery Croissant Mai-Tai, for which hardening pastries are boiled down into sweetening syrup; the same is done with banana peels) is an interactive piece of digital art 52 feet wide that sees butterflies flit beside passersby. Breezy class all around. From around £791. Charlie Hobbs

Oceania Vista, Oceania Cruises

Vista, Oceania’s first new ship in more than a decade and the first of its Allura Class, debuted with small but mighty upgrades to its previous ships: better stabilisers for a smoother sailing experience; stronger Wi-Fi; lighting and architecture designed to make the ship’s common spaces look and feel roomier; a resort-like pool deck; and balconies in every cabin. The real star of the show, though, is the food and beverage experience – Vista’s culinary program delivers on its promise of top-quality venues you’ll want to make the rounds at. New to the lineup are Ember, a steakhouse with decor straight out of Napa Valley , and Aquamar Kitchen, serving up lighter fare that doesn’t skimp on taste. Celebrate a birthday, an anniversary, or a just-because occasion with the Cellar Masters Wine Luncheon, a five-course meal and wine pairing. And don’t miss the elaborate sea day brunch, where towers of lobster, crab, and caviar await. Of course, the ship is just one destination. This year, Vista is splitting time between the Mediterranean and the Caribbean; next year, it will venture farther into Europe with ports of call like Istanbul , Stockholm, and Klaipeda, Lithuania. Its sister ship, Allura, sets sail in 2025. From around £2,182. Madison Flager

Scenic Eclipse II, Scenic Luxury Cruises and Tours

The eagerly awaited Scenic Eclipse II is the new and improved version of Scenic's first expedition vessel, Scenic Eclipse. Dubbed "discovery yachts" for their sleek look and top-tier service, the sisters are nearly identical, with most changes so subtle that most guests might not even notice them, such as the slight enlargement of the steam room in the spa. But a big difference can be found on deck 10, where a plunge pool with jets for simulated lap swimming has taken the place of two hot tubs – and there's a new Sky Bar up here. Otherwise, Scenic Eclipse II has the same beloved amenities of its sister, most notably 10 exceptional dining experiences, from a sushi bar to a French restaurant with an attached Champagne bar; a 5,920-square-foot spa; two helicopters; and a submersible. Capable of sailing all over the world, including the polar regions, Scenic Eclipse II has itineraries for every type of traveller. From around £6,025. Stefanie Waldek

Seabourn Pursuit, Seabourn Cruise Line

Pursuit is a small, “yacht-like” expedition ship with a distinct green exterior whose destinations range from Antarctica to warmer climes like the Kimberley in Australia. The decadent cabins, bigger than some standard hotel rooms, feel spacious and relaxing, complete with all the subtle touches that make you feel immediately at home. You can hang your evening attire in the walk-in closet and dry your wet swimwear – or damp Arctic expedition gear – in the built-in warming compartment; have sunrise breakfasts or sunset cocktails mixed at the in-room wet bar on your private balcony; and sleep in a plush, queen-sized bed. But what truly sets this cruise apart is the attentive and personable staff who quickly learn your name and personal preferences, providing VIP treatment throughout the journey. From around £8,729. Taylor Eisenhauer

Seven Seas Grandeur, Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Ports in the Caribbean, the Greek islands , and the Riviera might be the draw, but the all-inclusive luxury line Regent Seven Seas Cruises produces ships that have travellers looking forward to those days at sea, as its sixth offering, Grandeur, further proves. All of the 372 suites, which start at a roomy 307 square feet, are decorated in calming neutral blues and beige, and feature furnished balconies; most have L'Occitane bubbles for the marble tub. Quiet comfort can also be had in the Serene Spa & Wellness outdoor lounge area, following a massage on a quartz crystal bed that mimics the feel of warm sand. Cravings for a porterhouse or a vegetarian Salisbury steak can be sated by Prime 7, with other venues serving speciality pan-Asian cuisine, French fare, ample buffets, and Italian offerings. Mainstay Compass Rose has been reimagined as a light, airy space where diners breakfast under playfully elegant pillars that resemble crystal trees. Grandeur's whimsy extends to its reception area, where guests can check out Journey in Jewels, the Fabergé egg made specifically for the vessel, where it will remain for the rest of its jewelled ovoid days. The maximum number of 744 guests ensures unhurried service and uncrowded environs as you recover from a sunny day of swimming with Caribbean pigs. From around £3798. Alexandra Sanidad

Silver Nova, Silversea Cruises

A voyage on Silversea’s latest ship, Silver Nova, is one of taste and style. With expansive glass features throughout each of the 11 decks, and an ocean-facing saltwater swimming pool , the ship’s unique asymmetrical design leaves room for adults to run and play (with swank, of course). The Nova’s reimagined culinary experience, SALT (Sea and Land Taste), is the first large-scale, regional restaurant at sea, and acts as an invitation to guests to experience more than an excursion. While initially introduced on Silver Moon, the Nova’s SALT program includes SALT Lab by day: an intimate cooking class with highly acclaimed chefs and regional cuisine recipes inspired by the next destination. With one nightly seating, SALT Chef's Table offers an exclusive and creatively interactive dining experience. It’s all very intimate – as chefs showcase the art of their crafts firsthand, guests peek into a new culture and place before even disembarking. From around £2465. Jessica Chapel

Viking Aton, Viking River Cruises

In the style of all Viking ships, the Rottet Studio – designed Aton is intended for comfortable and thought-provoking exploration – just look to the book-filled shelves in the cabins, curated by London’s Heywood Hill library, and the revolving door of on-board lecturers (on my trip, an English curator spoke about the evolving depictions of Egypt in 1900s popular art). It should be no surprise that in a destination as rich and storied as Egypt ’s Nile, where the Aton is permanently based, the guides set apart what may read as a quintessential itinerary. On the Pharaohs & Pyramids journey, which takes travellers from the Valley of the Kings, where King Tut lies, to the Great Pyramid of Giza and well beyond over 12 days, esteemed Egyptologists oscillate from translating hieroglyphics on temple walls in real-time to shepherding travellers through modern night markets with endless fervour. On this ship it isn’t just what you see but how much you listen – and the team here, predominantly Egyptian, has much to say. These days, travellers crave perspective-altering experiences more than ever; get on the Aton, and you’ll get once-in-a-lifetime access (until that is, your next Aton sailing). From around £4849. Megan Spurrell

Resilient Lady, Virgin Voyages

Stepping onto Resilient Lady feels a bit like heading to summer camp. The massive vessel is like a giant playground for adults, which is why it draws a fun-loving crowd. Theme night parties, a nostalgic arcade room, plenty of board games, and basketball courts are just a few of the seemingly limitless onboard activities. Compared with its sister ships, the newest Virgin Voyages addition includes upgraded onboard entertainment and exciting new ports of call like the Greek Islands, Bali, and Mumbai . Most of the shows on this specific ship are new to the line, such as Persephone, an interactive performance developed in collaboration with famed Brooklyn nightclub House of Yes, and Another Rose, an immersive dinner experience. Dining options are abundant on the ship – 20-plus to be exact – and all of them are included with every passenger ticket. Plus, you can’t miss out on a visit to the several different sauna experiences in the Thermal Suite inside the Redemption Spa. From around £1616 . Rachel Dube

World Voyager, Atlas Ocean Voyages

There are superbly comfortable spaces and floor-to-ceiling windows aplenty on World Voyager, the latest vessel from Atlas Ocean Voyages. On an Antarctica expedition, you might watch turquoise icebergs float by from the sauna or the spa’s relaxation room, with its heated loungers perfectly positioned in front of a wall of glass. Back in your cosy stateroom, Champagne and strawberries await, as do the views from a Juliet or walkout balcony. The look throughout the 100 cabins and public spaces is Scandinavian modern, thanks to blond woods, marble floors, plush carpets in geometric patterns, and curvaceous furniture draped in velvety fabrics. In the elegant dining room, the focus is on international cuisine with a farm-to-table slant – think mushroom risotto and smoked duck with chargrilled vegetables. Meanwhile, the multipage cocktail menu beckons guests to a pair of spacious lounges. Blending yacht-style elegance and boutique-resort intimacy, this is a ship where you can make new friends easily but also retreat to a favourite spot to enjoy high tea in peaceful solitude while awaiting details from the crew on the adventures that lie ahead. From around £1495. Celeste Moure

More winners from Hot List 2024

See all Hot List 2024 winners

The best new hotels in the world

The best new restaurants in the world

I dropped 10 stories on Norwegian Cruise Line's new ship. Here's what it was like.

The Atlantic Ocean was the last thing I saw before the floor beneath me disappeared.

As I stood inside a metal tube at the top of The Drop last month, a free-fall slide on Norwegian Cruise Line’s new ship Viva , a robotic voice gave me a four-second countdown before I dropped 10 stories. I slid from Deck 18 to Deck 8 in seconds.

When I fell, my stomach dropped, too, and I clutched the straps of the cloth liner I’d been given a little tighter. But as I rounded the first turn, my shock turned to awe when the opaque tubes gave way to a translucent section.

The blue horizon appeared briefly before I went hurtling back toward the ship. Norwegian billed the attraction as the world’s first free-fall dry slide when it debuted last year on Viva’s sister ship, Prima. And unlike water slides, it’s a no-muss, no-fuss way to get a theme-park quality adrenaline fix.

Norwegian designed the slide for the Prima Class after hearing from guests who had limited time to ride previous drop water slides and didn’t want to don a bathing suit, according to Julie Valeriote, the line’s Director of Entertainment Operations.

“So, it's just much more convenient, and I think more people are willing to do it,” Valeriote told USA TODAY. “It expands the opportunity for the guests to have a really cool experience.”

When I emerged from the slide, I stood up, finally exhaled and headed to the onboard Starbucks to go about my day.

Who can ride The Drop?

Passengers who meet height and weight requirements can ride the slide (riders must be at least 55 inches tall – 4 feet and 7 inches – for instance). Only one guest can ride at a time.

How much does The Drop cost?

The slide is included in the cruise fare.

What other activities does Norwegian Viva have?

The Drop is just one of many activities Viva has on offer, including:

• The Rush and The Wave: The Rush is another 10-story dry slide – albeit without the free-fall component – with two chutes that allow for multiple riders. But water slide lovers won’t have to do without: The Wave, which marked the line’s first Tidal Wave water slide when it launched on Prima, makes an appearance on Viva as well.
• Viva Speedway: The three-level go-kart track is back with a new name on Viva. If you’re looking for a thrill, it’s sure to do the trick – even if you come in last place like I did. Just try not to get distracted by the ocean views. The attraction costs $15 per person.
• “Beetlejuice” The Musical: The stage production made its at-sea debut on Viva. And while it may be a “show about death,” as the characters tell the audience, it’s packed full of comedy and a striking set. Valeriote said the ship’s 90-minute adaptation uses replicas of set pieces used on Broadway.
• Galaxy Pavilion: The virtual-reality arcade from Norwegian’s Breakaway Plus Class ships was reimagined for its Prima Class. Guests will find flying simulators; a Topgolf Swing Suite where they can try their hand at golf, football and other sports; two escape rooms and more.

Passengers can choose from multiple packages and play as much as they want. For $29, guests get unlimited access for one hour or for a whole day for $49. The escape rooms cost $15 per person. They can also select activities a la carte.

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

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The best Norwegian Cruise Line ship for every type of traveler

W hat's the best Norwegian Cruise Line ship? Over the years, I've sailed on all but three of Norwegian's 19 vessels, and my personal favorite is Norwegian Prima. I love its stylish design and upscale feel, as well as its wide mix of eateries, bars and entertainment.

Still, Norwegian Prima isn't necessarily the best Norwegian Cruise Line ship for you. Whether you'll have a better time on one of the other 18 vessels in the Norwegian fleet will depend a lot on the type of traveler you are.

Norwegian has some vessels, such as Norwegian Encore, that are loaded with family-friendly attractions such as waterparks and go-kart tracks that are perfect for families with teens and tweens. To me, Norwegian Encore is an even better choice than Norwegian Prima for families with school-age kids.

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Other Norwegian cruise ships, such as Norwegian Epic and Norwegian Sun, have specific features that might make them better options for solo travelers or retirees. Certain Norwegian ships are best for budget travelers, while others are best for luxury travelers.

In short, the best Norwegian cruise ship for you will depend on a bunch of factors, and which ship is best for a trip with your family might not be your top pick for a couple's cruise or girlfriends' getaway.

Here we list our top picks for the best Norwegian cruise ships for five different types of travelers.

Norwegian Encore: Best for families

The best Norwegian Cruise Line ships for families, hands down, are the four giant, activity-packed ships of its Breakaway-Plus class: Norwegian Encore , Norwegian Bliss, Norwegian Joy and Norwegian Escape. Of these, Norwegian Encore — the biggest of them all — is our top pick.

At 169,116 tons and carrying 3,958 passengers, Norwegian Encore is the largest ship in the Norwegian fleet. That means it has the most space for the many over-the-top family fun zones that are at the core of the four Breakaway-Plus vessels — a series of ships that was specifically designed with families in mind.

For starters, Norwegian Encore is home to some of the most thrilling waterslides at sea, as well as a kiddie splash zone that will have your little ones squealing with delight. But those are just the appetizers when it comes to family fun on the top deck of the ship.

Norwegian Encore is also the setting for one of the biggest go-kart racing tracks at sea . (Yes, this is a thing — Norwegian debuted the concept on its Breakaway-Plus-class ships and now has a go-kart track on five vessels.) Two decks high and nearly 1,150 feet long, the Norwegian Encore Speedway includes four sections that extend up to 13 feet over the sides of the vessel. The racecourse also features a middle-of-the-track observation area where your family and friends can cheer you on to victory — and even shoot you with "lasers" that'll give you a boost of power.

Related: The 5 best cruise lines for families

In addition, Norwegian Encore has a large laser tag area on its top deck (one that I can tell you from personal experience is a blast) and a massive indoor gaming and virtual reality zone called the Galaxy Pavilion. Both are tween and teen favorites.

That's all on top of dedicated children's play areas, pools and family-friendly entertainment that will keep your family busy from morning to night.

In short, there are so many family-friendly things to do on Norwegian Encore that you and your kids likely won't be able to do it all in a single, weeklong cruise.

Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva: Best for luxury lovers

Luxury lovers have two new top choices in the Norwegian fleet: Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva .

Unveiled in 2022 and 2023, respectively, the 3,195-passenger vessels are the first entrants in a new class of Norwegian ships that the line has designed to be more upscale than its earlier vessels. An "elevation" of the brand is how executives describe it.

The upscale turn included loading Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva with the largest variety of suites and high-end cabins (13 categories in all) of any ships in the NCL fleet, including the largest three-bedroom suites of any new cruise vessel. If it's swanky digs you're after (and you have the money to spend), you'll find plenty of options on these ships.

Extra suite categories are just the start of what makes Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva the best Norwegian cruise ships for luxury lovers.

Notably, the entire back of each of these ships is dedicated to an upscale luxury zone for the fancy set called The Haven. Rising eight decks high, it's home to 107 of the aforementioned suites, a sprawling private indoor lounge area, private outdoor lounge and pool areas, and a private restaurant — all exclusively for the use of the deep-pocketed biggies who pay up for one of its suites.

Related: The 8 best cruise lines for elegance and exclusivity

We've seen these private The Haven suite areas on Norwegian ships before but never on this scale. If it's living large on a Norwegian ship that's your goal, you're not going to find anything better than this.

Outside of The Haven, other areas on these ships have a more elegant feel of the sort you find in the fleets of Norwegian's higher-end sister brands, Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises — albeit on a bigger scale.

The entryway to each of these ships, for instance, deposits you at the three-story-high Penrose Atrium, which may be the most beautiful atrium of any big ship at sea. It has a curvy, sculptural feel as if the entire space were an art piece.

It's a look that carries over to a bevy of high-end eateries, including Nama, a new-for-Norwegian sushi restaurant with a design that is as sophisticated as the sushi it serves. Also striking is the look of a version of Le Bistro, Norwegian's signature French eatery, that can be found on both of these vessels. Both of the spaces are built around three massive crystal chandeliers costing nearly $100,000 that hang down to the floor — a showstopper of a design element. Gold-leaf wallpaper lines its booth seating.

Notably, the public areas that include these restaurants feel more spacious than many of the other ships in the Norwegian fleet. Indeed, they are. Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva were built with a higher ratio of space to passengers than earlier Norwegian vessels, which itself is an upscale touch. The ships also have a higher crew-to-passenger ratio than many Norwegian ships, leading to better service.

In short, these are the Norwegian ships to book when you want to take things up a notch.

Norwegian Sky: Best for budget travelers

Norwegian Sky is the Norwegian ship to pick when you're looking for a low-cost, easy-to-do getaway — at least in the summer months.

Based in Miami for part of the year, the 24-year-old vessel operates a mix of short three- to five-night voyages to the Bahamas out of the cruise hub as well as longer trips to the Caribbean from spring to fall that have one thing in common: They're unusually affordable on a per-night basis.

In many cases, Norwegian Sky sailings out of Miami will start under $100 a day per person, though it depends on the week and pricing for sailings can vary significantly. We sometimes see the ship's shorter sailings starting as low as $249 per person for the entire cruise.

Indeed, the ship often is at the top of the list when you sort cruises by lowest price on Norwegian's website.

For would-be Norwegian cruisers, Norwegian Sky's shorter sailings out of Miami serve as a sort of "test the line" opportunity. Their short time frame and low pricing mean you're not out a lot in time or money if you don't love it as much as you hoped. These shorter sailings cater heavily to first-time cruisers and Florida locals who can book on short notice and drive into the port for a quick escape.

One of two ships in the line's Sun class that date to the turn of the millennium, Norwegian Sky is far from the snazziest ship in the Norwegian fleet. This is both because of its age but also its size. At 77,104 tons and carrying 1,944 passengers, it's just half the size of Norwegian's biggest ships and has far fewer venues, from bars and restaurants to entertainment spaces. There is no giant water park on its top deck or a go-kart track to keep the kids busy all day, so it's not the best Norwegian Cruise Line ship for families.

Related: The 8 classes of Norwegian Cruise Line ships, explained

That said, Norwegian Sky has its allures, one of which is that it has a much more intimate feel than the line's bigger vessels. It's a great choice for adults on a budget who are satisfied with the basics.

Norwegian Epic: Best for solo travelers

When it comes to the best Norwegian cruise ship for solo travelers, one ship stands out above all the others: Norwegian Epic.

Unveiled in 2010, Norwegian Epic caters to solo travelers like no other large cruise ship at sea — from any line, not just Norwegian — with an unusually large private zone for solo travelers that has its own two-story lounge for solo mixers as well as special solo cabins.

Tucked away in the middle of the ship, this "studio" zone is essentially a private escape for solos, with more solo cabins — 128 — than you'll find on any other ship at sea.

The cabins measure just 100 square feet but are superbly designed to maximize storage space. They're also clustered around the exclusive Studio Lounge, which has its own private bar and a television area where solo travelers can mingle at daily hosted happy hour gatherings.

Only solos staying in the solo cabins (via keycards) can access the Studio Lounge, meaning that you and your new solo friends will have the place to yourselves.

Related: The best cruise lines for solo travelers

Norwegian Epic was the first Norwegian ship with an exclusive solos zone, and it was such a hit the line later added them to eight more vessels. But none of the latter zones are as big as the one on Norwegian Epic.

The bigger Norwegian Encore, Norwegian Escape and Norwegian Bliss all have an 82-cabin solo complex, while two older ships — Norwegian Breakaway and Norwegian Getaway — have solo areas with 59 cabins. The line's two newest vessels, Norwegian Prima and Norwegian VIva, have 72-cabin solo complexes spread over two decks.

Norwegian also offers four solo cabins on its Hawaii-based Pride of America.

Having sailed in one of Norwegian Epic's cabins for one, I can confidently declare them among the coolest solo digs at sea. I particularly love the "Jetsons" futuristic-style design and the multicolored mood lighting.

One big caveat: They're all inside cabins without an ocean view, although most have a window that looks out onto a corridor.

Related: Why a windowless inside cabin isn't so bad

A bigger caveat, perhaps, is that these solo cabins have become so popular they often sell out far in advance and at prices that aren't much better than booking a cabin for two.

Norwegian Sun: Best for retirees

For older travelers looking for a Norwegian ship that isn't filled to the gills with children, Norwegian Sun is the perfect option.

Dating to 2001, Norwegian Sun is one of Norwegian's oldest and smallest vessels, and it lacks many of the family-focused onboard attractions that are typical for the line's newer and bigger vessels. You won't find big waterparks, go-kart racing tracks or laser tag zones on this ship.

Norwegian Sun's top deck mostly comprises sunning areas, with a single pool and whirlpools, as is typical for ships built more than two decades ago.

As a result, it draws far fewer families than most of the vessels mentioned above and caters more to an older crowd of mostly couples.

Norwegian Sun also is the ship that Norwegian deploys on some of its longest and most destination-focused itineraries, the type that particularly appeals to retirees looking to see more of the world.

Related: The 7 best cruises for seniors who love to travel

Over the next two years, for instance, Norwegian Sun is sailing lots of long voyages out of such less-common home ports as Benoa, Indonesia; Melbourne, Australia; Auckland, New Zealand; Buenos Aires, Argentina; and Papeete, Tahiti.

The sailings out of Papeete will offer the chance to visit such iconic French Polynesian islands as Bora Bora, Raiatea and Moorea. ia and Thailand in-depth, with departures ranging from 13 to 18 nights — the sort of cruise that appeals more to older couples than families.

The sailings in and out of Buenos Aires and Melbourne, all on the longer side, will offer in-depth explorations of the southern half of South America (Argentina, Uruguay and Chile) and New Zealand, respectively.

Norwegian Sun is also one of the smallest and least kid-focused of the five ships the line deploys to Alaska in summer, making it a good choice for retirees wanting to visit that destination. Families with kids naturally gravitate to the two giant, activity-packed vessels Norwegian sends to Alaska each summer — Norwegian Encore and Norwegian Bliss.

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Norwegian ship

At 78,309 tons, Norwegian Sun is less than half the size of the biggest Norwegian ships, and it holds just 1,878 passengers at double occupancy. (Compare that to more than 4,000 for Norwegian's biggest vessels.) Expect a far more intimate experience than what you'll find on most of the ships mentioned above.

Note that due to the ship's small size, some of Norwegian's signature features, including a private The Haven suite complex and solo cabins, aren't found on the ship. Still, you'll find more than half a dozen eateries, including several main dining rooms, a casual buffet, a diner-style pub, a steak house, an Italian trattoria and a French bistro as well as a showroom with nightly shows, a casino, a multipurpose basketball/volleyball court, golf driving nets and a jogging track.

Bottom line

Norwegian Cruise Line's fleet consists of 19 ships that come in a wide range of sizes and feature differing mixes of venues and activities. Some are jampacked with fun zones that make them perfect for families, while others are geared toward couples and retirees. Some ships have attributes that make them stand out for luxury, solo or budget travelers.

If you're considering a Norwegian cruise, it pays to study not just the itineraries that are available from the line but the specific ships that are operating the itineraries. You want to make sure you end up on the best Norwegian Cruise Line ship for you.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

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• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
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Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

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Norwegian Cruise Line Launches 2024 Europe Season: New Homeports, Endless Adventure and Unmatched Value

This Year, NCL Offers More than 100 Immersive Europe Itineraries from 13 Homeports Across Nine Ships, Including Its Newest Prima Class Vessels

Company to Launch First-Ever Summer Season of Sailings Between New York City to Reykjavik, Iceland Beginning July 2024 

NCL Delivers an Incredible Value-for-Money Travel Experience with Inclusive Vacation Enhancing Benefits with its Free at Sea Offer

• Norwegian Viva - Aerial - Lisbon Norwegian Viva in Lisbon during her first call on Aug. 19, 2023
• Norwegian Escape - Santorini - Composite
• Norwegian Prima in Reykjavik, Iceland
• Norwegian Star - Aerial Norwegian Star at sea Pacific Coast

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), the innovator in global cruise travel with a 57-year history of breaking boundaries, launched its 2024 Europe travel season on April 19, 2024 with the arrival of Norwegian Epic to its seasonal homeport of Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy, before embarking on a 10-day Greek Isles and Italy voyage.

During this summer travel season, guests embarking on NCL cruises in Europe will have the opportunity to choose from 101 distinctive itineraries with 38 roundtrips and 63 open-jaw sailings, calling to 140 captivating ports across Northern Europe, the Mediterranean, Greek Isles, and the Atlantic Coast.  Additionally, guests can fully explore highlight destinations such as Istanbul, Turkey; Florence (Livorno), Italy and Reykjavik, Iceland with select itineraries offering overnight calls. Cruises will be departing from 13 homeports with New York City; Le Havre (Paris), France; and Oslo, Norway being three brand new options for NCL voyages to Europe.  The Company will have a total of nine ships 1 in region, including its newest innovative vessels, Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva , as well as Norwegian Escape , which returns to Europe following its first successful season in 2022.

With an average of 10 hours in port, guests can explore at their leisure or choose from a wide range of shore excursions designed to provide guests with an in-depth experience of each destination. For more immersive experiences, NCL offers a unique collection of shore excursions including, Beyond Blueprints, where guests uncover the design secrets and stories of Europe's most iconic architectural landmarks; Gourmet Tours, designed for the foodie-driven traveler allowing them to go behind the scenes of local cuisines; and Go Local, a selection of excursions inviting guests to unveil the everyday rhythms and customs of life in destinations. Guests aiming to spend even more time in Europe and dive deeper into the rich history of the region can take advantage of NCL's expanding Cruisetours program, a pre- or post-cruise-option that includes roundtrip flights, hotel stays, transportation and excursions. Cruisetours are currently available in 10 European destinations, such as Istanbul, Turkey; Paris, France; Barcelona, Spain; Reykjavik, Iceland; Rome and Venice, Italy, amongst others.

“As we return to Europe for this season, our goal remains consistent—curating unmatched and captivating experiences for guests to immerse in Europe’s most iconic and sought-after destinations, while delivering value for them to maximize their journey with us,” says David J. Herrera, president of Norwegian Cruise Line. “In fact, we have found that cruising to Europe with NCL offers up to 40% 2  more value than a similar land-based vacation, making it not just a memorable experience, but a cost-effective one. There is still time for guests to book that last-minute trip to Europe with NCL and enjoy the beauty of waking up in a new destination nearly every day.” 

Not only does a NCL cruise in Europe offer a great value when compared to a similar land-based vacation with comparable services and inclusions 2 , but it also provides a significantly enhanced experience with a variety of offerings to enjoy on board, including high-production value entertainment; up to 20 world-class dining options; and a wide array of shipboard activities suitable for the whole family, from thrilling races on the only three-level racetracks at sea to serene moments in the award-winning Mandara Spa ® .  Moreover, with NCL's Freestyle Cruising philosophy, guests have the freedom to tailor their vacation experience to their preferences, with no fixed schedules or dinner times.  NCL’s freedom of choice and value proposition invites guests to explore the world while enjoying the convenience of unpacking just once and waking up in a new and exciting destination almost every day.  Plus, with NCL’s Free at Sea offer, guests can customize their vacation even more to their desires by receiving value-enhancing vacation perks such as specialty dining, unlimited beverage package, shore excursion credits, free airfare for the second guest, and others.

As we return to Europe for this season, our goal remains consistent-curating unmatched and captivating experiences for guests to immerse in Europe's most iconic and sought-after destinations, while delivering value for them to maximize their journey with us. In fact, we have found that cruising to Europe with NCL offers up to 40% 2  more value than a similar land-based vacation, making it not just a memorable experience, but a cost-effective one. There is still time for guests to book that last-minute trip to Europe with NCL and enjoy the beauty of waking up in a new destination nearly every day.  

Itinerary highlights for NCL cruises in Europe include:

Norwegian Star Sails a Series of Open-Jaw Sailings to Iceland, Greenland and Canada

Norwegian Star, the only ship in NCL's award-winning fleet equipped for polar navigation, which makes it possible for it to reach ports above the Arctic Circle.  As such, the ship will be the first in the NCL fleet to offer a new summer series of breath-taking and port-rich 12- to 14-day open-jaw sailings between New York City and Reykjavik, Iceland with calls to Akureyri and Grundarfjordur, Iceland; Qaqortoq, Greenland; and St. John's (Newfoundland) and Halifax, Canada. These itineraries will embark in July and August 2024.

Explore the Blue and White Greek Isles with Norwegian Getaway

Norwegian Getaway will homeport in Athens (Piraeus), Greece on June 25 embarking on seven- to 10-day Greek Isles roundtrip itineraries . Each day, the ship will moor at a new port allowing guests to explore bucket-list destinations like Istanbul, Turkey; Iraklion, Santorini and Mykonos, Greece as well as hidden gem Izmir (Ephesus), Turkey. Select departures include overnight stays in Istanbul giving guests more than 24 hours to visit Hagia Sophia, Topkapı Palace and the Grand Bazaar.

Norwegian Viva’s Cruises to the Mediterranean

Between May and November 2024, NCL's newest ship, Norwegian Viva, offers guests a selection of nine, 10- and 11-day open-jaw voyages cruising the Mediterranean. These unique itineraries feature a different embarkation and disembarkation port in sought-after destinations such as Athens (Piraeus), Greece; Lisbon, Portugal; Venice (Trieste) and Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy, allowing travelers the opportunity to plan an extended vacation either pre- or post-cruise. 

Almost No Days at Sea Onboard Norwegian Escape’s Mediterranean Sailings

Norwegian Escape will be the Company's largest vessel in Europe this season at nearly 165,000 gross tons. The ship will homeport in Barcelona, Spain; Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy; and Trieste (Venice), Italy sailing eight- to 10-day roundtrip sailings in the Western Mediterranean calling to a sun-kissed port each day as well as seven- to 11-day open-jaw sailings with stints in Italy, Greece and France with only one day at sea.

Additionally, NCL cruises in Europe are already on sale through December 2025 giving guests the chance to plan and book their next summer getaway early.

For more information about the Company's award-winning 19-ship fleet and worldwide itineraries, or to book a cruise, please contact a travel professional or visit  www.ncl.com .   

1 Norwegian Dawn, Norwegian Epic, Norwegian Escape, Norwegian Getaway, Norwegian Pearl, Norwegian Prima, Norwegian Sky, Norwegian Star, and Norwegian Viva.

2 For the comparison, Norwegian Cruise Line compared the total prices for Fly-Cruise-Packages on peak season sailings onboard Norwegian Escape (Italy, France and Spain) to 4-star hotels in Spain and Italy. The comparison accounted for total prices including roundtrip flights from the U.S. to Spain or Italy, transfers at the destination, staterooms (incl. balcony with sea view), all-inclusive board or Free at Sea upgrade as well as service charges/tips.

The Best New Cruises in the World: 2024 Hot List

By CNT Editors

It’s inevitable: Every spring when we pull together the Hot List , our annual collection of the world’s best new hotels, restaurants, and cruise ships, a staffer remarks that this latest iteration has got to be the best one ever. After a year’s worth of traveling the globe—to stay the night at a converted farmhouse in the middle of an olive grove outside Marrakech , or sail aboard a beloved cruise line’s inaugural Antarctic voyage—it’s easy to see why we get attached. But this year’s Hot List, our 28th edition, might really be the best one ever. It’s certainly our most diverse, featuring not only a hotel suite that was once Winston Churchill’s office, but also the world’s largest cruise ship and restaurants from Cape Town to Bali. We were surprised and inspired by this year’s honorees, and we know you will be too. These are the Hot List cruise winners for 2024.

Click here to see the entire Hot List for 2024 .

All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you book something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

This story appears in Condé Nast Traveler 's Hot List issue. Never miss out when you subscribe to Condé Nast Traveler .

Celebrity Ascent — Celebrity Cruises Arrow

Celebrity is a premium big-ship cruise brand, focusing on exquisite dining, cutting-edge amenities, Instagram-worthy public spaces chock-full of bespoke art pieces, and avant-garde onboard entertainment. The ship makes passengers feel, in a word, glamorous. Celebrity Ascent ’s sumptuously designed interiors are flooded with natural light and evoke an air of playful sophistication that make a week on board an escape worth cherishing. Passengers may find themselves longing to return for just one more succulent crab claw at Raw on 5, one more martini poured by bottle-spinning bartenders in the Martini Bar, or one more dazzling, acrobatic stage show, in the days following their farewells to this beautiful ship. From $710 per person for a seven-night sailing. —Scott Laird

Emerald Sakara — Emerald Cruises Arrow

Now with two oceangoing vessels joining Emerald’s more established fleet of nine river-dedicated “Star-Ships,” the decade-old cruise line is extending a brand built on unpretentious luxury to more corners of the world. Christened last August, the 100-guest superyacht, Sakara, is a near twin to Azzurra, which in 2022 ushered in a new era for Emerald by taking to the high seas. Sakara, like its sister, delightfully blurs the line between the luxury and ultra-luxury cruise categories, offering attentive service, gourmet cuisine, tasteful decor, and an eclectic slate of activities at a price point friendly to more budgets. The cherry on top with both superyachts is a slew of perks atypical of small-ship sailing, ranging from an impressively comprehensive spa to a marina platform well equipped for more fun in the sun. Despite having so much good stuff, each vessel is remarkably spacious. Getting a sense of being on a private yacht is easy like Sunday morning. Sakara is homeported in the Caribbean and the Mediterranean through at least March 2026; Azzurra, too, in addition to the Middle East, Kenya, and the Seychelles. Emerald’s river operations are based in Europe and Southeast Asia. (Note that a third ship, the Kaia , has just been announced by the cruise line; it debuts in April 2026, and, for all the early birds, it is now open for bookings.) From $3,850. —David Dickstein

Explora I — Explora Journeys Arrow

With a showpiece lobby bar, upscale restaurants, and a sultry infinity pool, Explora Journeys' relaxed luxury-resort-at-sea vibe strikes the perfect balance on Explora I. Launched in August 2023, the all-inclusive ship is disarmingly beautiful. A sleek navy blue exterior cocoons 461 suites, all with deep balconies, walk-in closets, and marble bathrooms. There is free-flowing Champagne, 7,500 square feet of wellness space, and 18 drinking and dining venues. From Emporium Marketplace, with its decadent raw bar, to pan-Asian restaurant Sakura, the dining on Explora I is sensational. Marble & Co. Grill is an intimate steakhouse where aging meats hang in temperature-controlled cabinets. At Anthology, the ship's only supplementary restaurant, guest chefs—such as Claude Le Tohic of San Francisco's O' by Claude Le Tohic—curate sublime tasting menus. There's more: The only Rolex boutique at sea, huge hot tubs, and a shore program that sees some land experiences developed in partnership with revered explorer Mike Horn. From $698 per person per night. —Kerry Spencer

Icon of the Seas — Royal Caribbean International Arrow

Aboard the Icon, you can really get lost. The behemoth is just plain big, with capacity for nearly 8,000 when combining passengers and crew across 20 decks and 250,800 gross tons. Two and a half laps around the ship’s jogging track, a particular highlight onboard, and you’ve run a mile. So one can find themselves in need of a map—forgetting your sunscreen, for example, in your cabin is a bit of a chore depending on how far you’ve made it. But the abundance of things to do is also narcotic, and you feel a bit like a lotus-eater attempting to navigate it all while keeping your head. Amid the relentless entertainment, not to be missed are the top-notch performers present everywhere, from the Olympic-level aquatics show that you can watch from the windows of the specialty seafood restaurant should seating be elusive (it often is) to the cafeteria, where crew members dressed as food items sing songs reminding (commanding, actually, which is fabulous) passengers to wash their hands at sinks near the entrance. If you wish to enjoy the largest waterpark at sea, by the way, do what I did not and pack a swimsuit without zippers. From $2,249. —Charlie Hobbs

Steph Koyfman

Shannon McMahon

Charlie Hobbs

MSC Euribia — MSC Cruises Arrow

Looking at a row of cruise ships in port, you'll spot MSC Euribia right away. She's covered bow to stern by an ocean-themed mural by German artist Alex Flämig that bears the hashtag #SaveTheSeas nodding to the MSC's dedication to sustainable cruising: the European cruise line aims to be net-zero by 2050. MSC Euribia brings it one step closer to that goal, as it's the fleet's greenest ship yet, operating on liquified natural gas (LNG) and running advanced water and waste treatment systems onboard. But enough with the technical details—this mega-ship is packed with activities and entertainment, with 10 restaurants, 21 bars, five pools, two performance venues, and a bevy of family-friendly amenities, like an F1 simulator, a waterpark, and a bowling alley. More adult-oriented highlights include the MSC Aurea Spa, with a thermal suite outfitted with thalassotherapy pools, a salt cave, and a snow room, as well as the Helios Wine Maker bar for wine tastings. From $519. —Stefanie Waldek

Norwegian Viva — Norwegian Cruise Line Arrow

The second entry in Norwegian Cruise Line’s new Prima Class, Viva is like an Irish twin of older sister Prima . There’s the same stateroom count at 1,586, done in pristine and pleasing neutrals, as well as familiarly tricked-out amenities like the zippy 1,400-foot go-kart racing track that undulates over the top decks. Importantly, the Ocean Walk, which my colleague Mercedes Bleth adored aboard the Prima, remains. But round two afforded the premier name in large-ship cruising a chance to tweak and perfect, with an influx of seating options both in the ship’s complimentary dining hall as well as on its myriad decks. Across from the signature “zero-waste” Metropolitan Bar, where yummy drinks are whipped up from the ship’s food waste (I particularly enjoy a buttery Croissant Mai-Tai, for which hardening pastries are boiled down into sweetening syrup; the same is done with banana peels) is an interactive piece of digital art 52 feet wide that sees butterflies flit beside passersby. Breezy class all around. From $979. —Charlie Hobbs

Oceania Vista — Oceania Cruises Arrow

Vista, Oceania’s first new ship in more than a decade and the first of its Allura Class, debuted with small but mighty upgrades to its previous ships: better stabilizers for a smoother sailing experience; stronger Wi-Fi; lighting and architecture designed to make the ship’s common spaces look and feel roomier; a resort-like pool deck; and balconies in every cabin. The real star of the show, though, is the food and beverage experience— Vista ’s culinary program delivers on its promise of top-quality venues you’ll want to make the rounds at. New to the lineup are Ember, a steakhouse with decor straight out of Napa Valley, and Aquamar Kitchen, serving up lighter fare that doesn’t skimp on taste. Celebrate a birthday, an anniversary, or a just-because occasion with the Cellar Masters Wine Luncheon, a five-course meal and wine pairing. And don’t miss the elaborate sea day brunch, where towers of lobster, crab, and caviar await. Of course, the ship is just one destination. This year Vista is splitting time between the Mediterranean and the Caribbean; next year it will venture farther into Europe with ports of call like Istanbul, Stockholm, and Klaipeda, Lithuania. Its sister ship, Allura, sets sail in 2025 From $2,699. —Madison Flager

Scenic Eclipse II — Scenic Luxury Cruises and Tours Arrow

The eagerly awaited Scenic Eclipse II is the new and improved version of Scenic's first expedition vessel, Scenic Eclipse . Dubbed "discovery yachts" for their sleek look and top-tier service, the sisters are nearly identical, with most changes so subtle that most guests might not even notice them, such as the slight enlargement of the steam room in the spa. But a big difference can be found on deck 10, where a plunge pool with jets for simulated lap swimming has taken the place of two hot tubs—and there's a new Sky Bar up here. Otherwise, Scenic Eclipse II has the same beloved amenities of its sister, most notably 10 exceptional dining experiences, from a sushi bar to a French restaurant with an attached Champagne bar; a 5,920-square-foot spa; two helicopters; and a submersible. Capable of sailing all over the world, including the polar regions, Scenic Eclipse II has itineraries for every type of traveler. From $7,455. —Stefanie Waldek

Seabourn Pursuit — Seabourn Cruise Line Arrow

Pursuit is a small “yacht-like” expedition ship with a distinct green exterior whose destinations range from Antarctica to warmer climes like the Kimberley in Australia. The decadent cabins, bigger than some standard hotel rooms, feel spacious and relaxing, complete with all the subtle touches that make you feel immediately at home. You can hang your evening attire in the walk-in closet and dry your wet swimwear—or damp Arctic expedition gear—in the built-in warming compartment; have sunrise breakfasts or sunset cocktails mixed at the in-room wet bar on your private balcony; and sleep in a plush, queen-sized bed. But what truly sets this cruise apart is the attentive and personable staff who quickly learn your name and personal preferences, providing VIP treatment throughout the journey. From $10,799. —Taylor Eisenhauer

Seven Seas Grandeur — Regent Seven Seas Cruises Arrow

Ports in the Caribbean, the Greek Isles, and the Riviera might be the draw, but the all-inclusive luxury line Regent Seven Seas Cruises produces ships that have travelers looking forward to those days at sea, as its sixth offering, Grandeur, further proves. All of the 372 suites, which start at a roomy 307 square feet, are decorated in calming neutral blues and beige, and feature furnished balconies; most have L'Occitane bubbles for the marble tub. Quiet comfort can also be had in the Serene Spa & Wellness outdoor lounge area, following a massage on a quartz crystal bed that mimics the feel of warm sand. Cravings for a porterhouse or a vegetarian Salisbury steak can be sated by Prime 7, with other venues serving specialty pan-Asian cuisine, French fare, ample buffets, and Italian offerings. Mainstay Compass Rose has been reimagined as a light, airy space where diners breakfast under playfully elegant pillars that resemble crystal trees. Grandeur 's whimsy extends to its reception area, where guests can check out Journey in Jewels, the Fabergé egg made specifically for the vessel, where it will remain for the rest of its jeweled ovoid days. The maximum number of 744 guests ensures unhurried service and uncrowded environs as you recover from a sunny day of swimming with Caribbean pigs. From $4,699 . —Alexandra Sanidad

Silver Nova — Silversea Cruises Arrow

A voyage on Silversea’s latest ship, Silver Nova, is one of taste and style. With expansive glass features throughout each of the 11 decks, and an ocean-facing saltwater swimming pool, the ship’s unique asymmetrical design leaves room for adults to run and play (with swank, of course). The Nova ’s reimagined culinary experience, SALT (Sea and Land Taste), is the first large-scale, regional restaurant at sea, and acts as an invitation to guests to experience more than an excursion. While initially introduced on Silver Moon, the Nova ’s SALT program includes SALT Lab by day: an intimate cooking class with highly acclaimed chefs and regional cuisine recipes inspired by the next destination. With one nightly seating, SALT Chef's Table offers an exclusive and creatively interactive dining experience. It’s all very intimate—as chefs showcase the art of their crafts firsthand, guests peek into a new culture, and place, before even disembarking. From $3,050. —Jessica Chapel

Viking Aton — Viking River Cruises Arrow

In the style of all Viking ships, the Rottet Studio–designed Aton is intended for comfortable and thought-provoking exploration—just look to the book-filled shelves in the cabins, curated by London’s Heywood Hill library, and the revolving door of on-board lecturers (on my trip, an English curator spoke about the evolving depictions of Egypt in 1900s popular art). It should be no surprise that in a destination as rich and storied as Egypt’s Nile, where the Aton is permanently based, the guides set apart what may read as a quintessential itinerary. On the Pharaohs & Pyramids journey, which takes travelers from the Valley of the Kings, where King Tut lies, to the Great Pyramid of Giza and well beyond over 12 days, esteemed Egyptologists oscillate from translating hieroglyphics on temple walls in real time, to shepherding travelers through modern night markets with endless fervor. On this ship it isn’t just what you see but how much you listen—and the team here, predominantly Egyptian, has much to say. These days, travelers crave perspective-altering experiences more than ever; get on the Aton and you’ll get once-in-a-lifetime access (until, that is, your next Aton sailing). From $5,999. —Megan Spurrell

Resilient Lady — Virgin Voyages Arrow

Stepping onto Resilient Lady feels a bit like heading to summer camp. The massive vessel is like a giant playground for adults, which is why it draws a fun-loving crowd. Theme night parties, a nostalgic arcade room, plenty of board games, and basketball courts are just a few of the seemingly limitless onboard activities. Compared with its sister ships, the newest Virgin Voyages addition includes upgraded onboard entertainment and exciting new ports of call like the Greek Islands, Bali, and Mumbai. Most of the shows on this specific ship are new to the line, such as Persephone, an interactive performance developed in collaboration with famed Brooklyn nightclub House of Yes, and Another Rose, an immersive dinner experience. Dining options are abundant on the ship—20-plus to be exact—and all of them are included with every passenger ticket. Plus, you can’t miss out on a visit to the several different sauna experiences in the Thermal Suite inside the Redemption Spa. From $2,000 . —Rachel Dube

World Voyager — Atlas Ocean Voyages Arrow

There are superbly comfortable spaces and floor-to-ceiling windows aplenty on World Voyager, the latest vessel from Atlas Ocean Voyages. On an Antarctica expedition, from the sauna or the spa’s relaxation room, with its heated loungers perfectly positioned in front of a wall of glass, you might watch turquoise icebergs float by. Back in your cozy stateroom, Champagne and strawberries await, as do the views from a Juliet or walkout balcony. The look throughout the 100 cabins and public spaces is Scandinavian modern, thanks to blond woods, marble floors, plush carpets in geometric patterns, and curvaceous furniture draped in velvety fabrics. In the elegant dining room, the focus is on international cuisine with a farm-to-table slant—think mushroom risotto and smoked duck with chargrilled vegetables. Meanwhile, the multipage cocktail menu beckons guests to a pair of spacious lounges. Blending yacht-style elegance and boutique-resort intimacy, this is a ship where you can make new friends easily but also retreat to a favorite spot to enjoy high tea in peaceful solitude while awaiting details from the crew on the adventures that lie ahead. From $1849. —Celeste Moure

A company is turning former cruise ships into floating hotels — see inside its largest 'floatel'

• Bridgemans ServicesGroup operates a fleet of former cruise ships turned into hotels. 
• Its "floatels" are designed to house workers during long-term projects.
• See its largest 652-cabin floatel with a game room and buffet.

Some old and unwanted cruise ships meet their demise at ship-breaking yards , where they are disassembled and sold for scrap.

Other vessels find a more fortunate fate, receiving a second chance to do what they already do best: serve as floating hotels.

Canada-based Bridgemans Services Group buys and charters former cruise ships to turn into "floatels," outfitted with standard cruise amenities like daily housekeeping, buffets, and relaxing lounges.

But the ships aren't designed to transport tourists from one destination to another anymore. Instead, companies turn to Bridgeman when they need to house workers for a long-term project, whether it be the construction of an offshore wind farm in Europe or the shooting of a major film in a remote destination.

Floatels can accommodate workers in remote destinations where hotels might not be an option.

In more metropolitan areas, Bridgemans says its ships could lessen the stress an inundation of workers might have on the local housing market.

And once they are no longer needed, the vessels depart and "leave no trace behind," the company said.

Over the last decade, Bridgemans has deployed its ships for 15 projects on every continent, Brian Grange, the company's president, told Business Insider.

Grange said that its deployments — most often for liquified natural gas companies — last for an average of two years.

In the past, it has also provided accommodations for MSC Cruises at its Ocean Cay private island and housing for more than 1,000 workers in the Philippines' on a project for the Manila International Airport during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The company's three ships range from 150 to 652 cabins.

The floatel operator acquired its largest ship, the 561-foot-long MV Isabelle X, in 2023.

In its past life, the 35-year-old vessel sailed around the Baltic Sea as one of Estonia-based Tallink Gruipp's cruise ships.

But gone are its days of leisurely cruising. The 35,000 gross-ton ship is now on its first deployment in Howe Sound, just north of Vancouver, where it's housing more than 600 workers who are building Woodfibre LNG's "net zero" LNG export facility.

Isabelle X underwent a six-month retrofit before it was sent to Howe Sound.

The process included updating the ship's cabins and adding amenities like a game room and an 8,000-square-foot gym.

The latter two are especially important: "We need to make sure we delineate between work and home," Grange told BI. "We have to create a social environment on board these vessels that makes it attractive for workforces around the world."

During their free time, workers can play billiards, relax in the outdoor lounge, or use the ship’s WiFi to catch up on social media.

The sports lounge has large television screens, while the games lounge has darts, ping pong tables, and air hockey.

The 'quiet lounges' are the go-to space for people who need to unwind after a long work day.

Or, they could recharge and catch up on the latest shows in their cabins, which all come with desks, storage, and 32-inch televisions.

Like a typical cruise ship, Bridgemans' vessels have buffets with live cooking stations, a dessert bar, and the occasional themed night.

The ships' chefs tailor their menus to the demographic and dietary restrictions of the workers on board, the company's president told BI.

Residents can expect at least four protein options, plenty of veggies, and handmade bread and desserts.

Unlike most cruise lines, Bridgemans can pre-purchase all the food it needs before deployment.

Grange says this allows the ships to maintain food quality and consistency in remote locations.

Remember that deployment in the Philippines during COVID-19? He said the ship had packed almost 800 tons of food ahead of the project.

He wouldn’t disclose the cost to rent one of Bridgemans’ floatels.

But he did note that the cost of a cabin on the Woodfibre LNG project in Howe Sound is comparable to a hotel room in nearby Vancouver, as is the case with most of its projects near major cities.

The company’s most recent acquisition, the 150-cabin Diamond XI, is currently being retrofitted and would be ready for deployment this year.

According to the company's president, the vessel is small and high-end, likely to be used for sporting events and movie shoots.

It could also be the start of a greater expansion: He hopes to add two or three more vessels to its fleet in the next five years.

"The world has opened up to this as a valued alternative to housing," Grange told BI.

Who knows, the next time you see a cruise ship off the coast, there's a slim but possible chance it could be housing workers — not vacationers.

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