A Beginner’s Guide to Luxury Cruises: FAQs
For many, the jump from a standard cruise line to a luxury brand feels like stepping into a different world. It’s the difference between a crowded resort and a private boutique hotel; instead of thousands of passengers and constant announcements, you’ll find intimate spaces, intuitive service, and a pace of travel that actually allows you to relax.
However, with the higher price point comes a higher set of expectations – and plenty of questions. If you’re used to “penny-pinching” on mainstream ships, the transition to an all-inclusive model can be confusing. To help you navigate the waters of high-end travel, we’ve answered the top 10 questions every newcomer asks before booking their first five-star voyage.

Here are the top 10 most frequently asked questions about luxury cruises:
What is actually included in the “all-inclusive” price?
This is the most common question. On luxury lines (like Regent Seven Seas, Silversea, or Seabourn), the fare typically covers:
Wi-Fi and laundry: Many lines include unlimited internet and even self-service or valet laundry.
Alcoholic beverages: Fine wines, premium spirits, and Champagne.
Gratuities: Tipping is usually included and not expected separately.
Specialty dining: Unlike mainstream ships, there is rarely an extra cover charge for high-end restaurants.
Is there a strict dress code?
Luxury cruises are shifting away from “tuxedo-only” nights. Most now follow a “sophisticated casual” or “elegant resort” style. While some lines still host optional formal nights, the standard evening wear is typically a blazer for men and a cocktail dress or elegant trousers for women.
How do luxury ships handle motion sickness?
Since luxury ships are often smaller than “mega-ships,” travellers worry about stability. However, modern luxury vessels use advanced stabiliser technology that significantly reduces rolling. Additionally, because they are smaller, they can often navigate away from bad weather more easily than giant ships.
Are shore excursions included?
This depends on the line. Regent Seven Seas is famous for including almost all excursions, while others like Seabourn or Silversea may include some or offer them as paid “boutique” experiences. Even when not included, luxury excursions tend to have smaller groups (10–15 people) compared to the 40+ people on mainstream lines.
Are children allowed on luxury cruises?
While most luxury lines allow children, they are generally adult-oriented. You won’t find water slides or massive kids’ clubs. Lines like Crystal or Cunard have better facilities for families, while others like Explora Journeys are actively targeting “multi-generational” luxury travellers.
How does the dining work? (Open Seating vs. Set Times)
Almost all luxury cruises offer Open Seating, meaning you can eat whenever you want and with whomever you choose, rather than being assigned a specific table and time for the duration of the cruise.
Do I need a butler, and what do they actually do?
Many luxury suites come with a butler. Guests often ask what is “appropriate” to request. Butlers can:
- Unpack and pack your luggage.
- Draw a scented bath or polish your shoes.
- Arrange in-suite cocktail parties.
Will the ship feel “stuffy” or “old”?
A common myth is that luxury cruises are only for the elderly. While the demographic leans older (50+), the “vibe” is shifting toward “quiet luxury” – modern, sleek design, high-tech amenities, and active, expedition-style itineraries (like cruising Antarctica or the Galapagos Islands).
Do I need a passport and visas?
Yes. Even for “round-trip” cruises (starting and ending in the same country), luxury lines almost always require a valid passport (usually 6 months past your travel date). Because luxury itineraries often hit multiple countries in one week, the cruise line will usually collect your passport at embarkation to handle customs for you at every port. See more here.
Should I book with a travel professional?
Booking with a specialist like Deluxe Cruises – rather than booking directly with a cruise line or through a massive online agency – is often the preferred choice for regular luxury travellers.
As a boutique agency based in the UK, we focus specifically on the “Ultra-Luxury” and “Niche” markets. Here are the primary reasons customers choose us:
1. The “Deluxe Cruise Concierge” Service
Unlike standard call centres, Deluxe Cruises assigns you a specific Deluxe Cruise Concierge. This person acts as your single point of contact from your initial inquiry until you return home.
- Relationship-based: We learn your specific preferences (cabin location, dietary needs, medical requirements).
- Technical Expertise: We have first-hand knowledge of the ships and can tell you, for example, which suites on a specific deck might have an obstructed view or more engine noise.
2. Financial Protection
Booking via a UK-based agent provides a layer of legal and financial security that booking directly with an overseas cruise line might not.
- All the holidays we sell are financially protected.
3. Price Guarantee & No Booking Fees
Many travellers assume agents are more expensive, but Deluxe Cruises specifically markets a price guarantee:
- Lower than Direct: We offer prices lower than booking directly with the cruise line.
- No Hidden Fees: We do not charge booking fees, credit card charges, or service fees (which can save you between £25 and £100 per booking compared to some other agencies).
4. Exclusive Perks and “Hosted” Voyages
Because of our relationships with lines like Seabourn, Silversea, and Regent Seven Seas, we are often able to offer:
- Hosted Voyages: Special sailings where a representative from Deluxe Cruises is physically on the ship to host private cocktail parties and assist guests in person.
5. Emergency 24-Hour Backup
Luxury travel often involves complex logistics. Deluxe Cruises provides a 24-hour emergency service to handle unforeseen issues like flight cancellations, weather delays, or medical emergencies, meaning you aren’t left waiting on a general customer service line during a crisis.

Standard vs. Luxury Comparison at a Glance
To help visualise the shift in experience, here is how the two worlds typically compare:
| Feature | Mainstream/Large Ships | Luxury Cruise Lines |
|---|---|---|
| Guest Capacity | 3,000 to 6,000+ | 100 to 750 |
| Staff-to-Guest Ratio | 1:3 | 1:1 or 1:1.5 |
| Standard Room | Small “Interior” or “Oceanview” | Almost entirely “All-Suite” |
| The Bill | Extra for drinks, tips, & dining | Most items included in fare |

Your ultra-luxury voyage starts with us.
Whether you’re dreaming of the Mediterranean or an expedition to Antarctica, let our experts guide you to the right ship at the best price.
Start your journey here: Call Deluxe Cruises on +44 (0)1202 767926 or email us.