Why 2027 Cruises Are Booking Up Fast

Written By Krista Nannery

The new Orient Express Corinthian

New luxury cruise lines are setting sail—and if you want the best cabins, now is the time to act.

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Now Let’s Talk Cruising…

I’m on my way to Greece right now! Follow my adventures on Instagram at @antidote.travel. While I’m getting ready to board a cruise ship, let’s talk about cruising…

If you’re the type who likes to wait until the last minute to book a cruise, I’m here to gently (okay, maybe firmly) tell you: this is not the moment to procrastinate.

2027 is shaping up to be a game-changer for luxury cruising. We’re seeing iconic names like Orient Express and Four Seasons dive into the world of yachting. Celebrity Cruises is launching an entirely new river cruise line. And Explora Journeys—MSC’s ultra-luxe brand—is expanding with even more immersive voyages.

But here’s the catch: the first sailings of these ships are already generating a buzz. Early itineraries are limited. Suites and best-in-class cabins are going quickly. And if you want to be part of the inaugural magic (or just get the best room with a view), you’ll want to start planning now.

Why You Need a Travel Agent

I get it. With so much online, you’re still not sure you need a travel agent to book a cruise. Here are some key reasons to use me…

  • Virtuoso amenities you can’t get on your own, usually in the form of onboard credits.

  • Early access to new sailings. Many inaugural cruises book up before the public even knows they exist.

  • If you need time to get organized, I can hold cabins for longer than you can.

  • Priority for waitlists.

  • I can escalate when you need special treatment or a sticky problem solved.

  • I plan the whole trip, not just the cruise, so every piece fits together.

  • I often have access to Virtuoso group space that offers lower pricing and better perks—without needing to travel with a group.

  • Cruise line air programs aren’t always the best deal. I evaluate whether it makes sense—or if you’re better off with a bespoke flight plan.

Make sense? If so, let’s take a look at what’s on the horizon:

Orient Express Sailing Yachts – The Grand Return of Iconic Elegance

You know Orient Express from their legendary trains, but in 2026, they’re setting sail. Their first yacht, the Orient Express Corinthian, is a 220-meter sailing ship that blends old-world glamour with cutting-edge design. Expect Mediterranean and Caribbean itineraries that focus on immersive, slow travel—not mega-ship mayhem.

This isn’t mass-market cruising. The yacht will carry just 120 suites, each with its own private terrace. Think understated luxury: hand-stitched leather, marble baths, and a level of service that feels more private yacht than cruise ship.

The buzz? Orient Express is selling exclusivity. Their inaugural season will be a trophy trip for well-traveled clients looking for the next “I was there first” bragging right. If you want in, don’t wait. These suites are going to move fast—especially the top-tier accommodations with panoramic views.

⛵️👉See all the sailings here.

Four Seasons I

Four Seasons Yachts – The Ultimate Floating Resort Experience

If you’ve ever stayed at a Four Seasons and thought, “Can I just live here?”—your ship has literally come in.

Launching in 2026, Four Seasons Yachts will redefine ultra-luxury cruising. The debut vessel will host only 190 guests across 14 decks, offering suites that start at a generous 581 square feet. The crown jewel? A four-level, 9,600-square-foot “Funnel Suite” with a private pool and spa.

These are not cruise cabins; they’re sea-view apartments.

Expect seamless land-to-sea experiences, Michelin-level dining, and a staff-to-guest ratio that borders on excessive—in the best way possible. Four Seasons is betting big on personal service and bespoke experiences, and travelers are already lining up.

I can’t stress this enough: with a guest list this small, the best suites will not linger. If Four Seasons is your style, let’s get your name on that waitlist before it becomes a wishlist.

⛵️👉See all the sailings here.

Celebrity is launching their own river cruises in Europe!

Celebrity River Cruises – Edge-Class Luxury Hits Europe’s Waterways

You’ve seen Celebrity’s stunning Edge-class ships with their floating “Magic Carpets” and sleek, open-concept suites. Now imagine that same level of design-forward innovation on Europe’s rivers.

Celebrity is making its river cruise debut in 2027 with a new fleet designed to bring modern luxury to the Rhine and Danube. Think panoramic suites, expanded wellness spaces, and culinary programs that bring a fresh, global perspective to river cruising.

Here’s why it matters: river cruises typically book up 12–18 months in advance. But with Celebrity’s star power and a fleet of just ten ships (to start), we’re expecting these itineraries to fill even faster. If you’ve been “thinking” about a European river cruise, now is the moment to make it real. Want to be one of the first to book one of Celebrity’s river cruises? Book a complimentary vacation consultation here.

The Explora III

Explora Journeys – Luxury at Sea, Reinvented

Explora Journeys may have launched their first ship in 2023, but their momentum is only accelerating. By 2027, they’ll have a growing fleet of ocean ships that focus on immersive, destination-driven experiences—think longer port stays, off-the-beaten-path itineraries, and a shipboard ambiance that feels more like a boutique resort than a floating city.

Suites are spacious (starting at 377 square feet, all with terraces), and the onboard vibe is relaxed luxury: no forced formal nights, no crowds, and a wellness program that’s actually worth your time.

Explora appeals to travelers who are over the big-ship chaos but still want the freedom of ocean cruising. Their new ships are building a loyal following fast, and the inaugural sailings of each are prime real estate. If you want first pick, we need to get ahead of the curve. I’ve toured Explora’s current ships and they are GORGEOUS.

⛵️👉See all sailings.

Aman at Sea – Ultra-Private, Ultra-Luxurious Yachting Redefined

Aman is synonymous with serene luxury resorts, and in 2027, they’re bringing that same ethos to the high seas with Amangati—a 94-guest, boutique yacht that’s more exclusive retreat than traditional cruise. This isn’t about packed buffets or crowded decks. It’s about quiet elegance, minimalist design, and ultra-personalized service.

Aman at Sea is launching with a charter-first model, but individual bookings will be few and far between. Suites are expected to be some of the largest in the industry, with Japanese ryokan-inspired interiors, private terraces, and an onboard spa that mirrors their world-renowned wellness sanctuaries.

Translation: This will be the most exclusive floating escape on the market. If you want a cruise experience that feels more like a private Aman resort (but with a backdrop that changes daily), this is it.

But scarcity is real here. With only 47 suites and a clientele who doesn’t blink at booking out entire ships, availability will be limited. Planning early isn’t optional—it’s mandatory.

The Bottom Line: Don’t Wait

First sailings are not just another cruise. They’re special. They’re memorable. And they’re limited.

From Orient Express’s boutique sailing yachts to Four Seasons’ floating sanctuaries, from Celebrity’s game-changing river ships to Explora’s immersive journeys—these new lines are bringing something fresh and exciting to the world of luxury cruising.

But the best cabins—the ones with the sweeping views, the larger terraces, the perfect locations—are the first to go. And once they’re gone, they’re gone.

If you’re even thinking about making one of these voyages your next great adventure, let’s talk now. Planning early isn’t about being overly organized—it’s about ensuring you get the best of the best.

Your future self will thank you.

Let’s secure your spot on the ship before someone else does. Click here to schedule your cruise planning call with me.

About Krista

I’m a Virtuoso travel advisor based in West Palm Beach, Florida. University of Notre Dame undergrad, University of Chicago MBA. Prior to moving to Florida to take care of my elderly mom with Parkinson’s Disease, I spent over 11 years living and working in London, England. My background and 20 year career in the investment management industry have taken me all over the world. To date, I’ve been to 78 countries. Now I bring the joy of travel to others as a Virtuoso travel advisor. I offer a 30 minute complimentary vacation consultation to anyone looking to plan their next trip.

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Krista Nannery
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