Set Adrift

Life on the water has never looked this good with a slew of exciting launches and experiences.

- MAVIS TEO

CRUISE EUROPE FOR 46 DAYS 

With many European hotels and cruise itineraries selling out this recent summer, it seems that the world cannot get enough of the continent as travel resumes. Will summer 2023 see a similar demand? The industry thinks so. Uniworld Boutique River Cruises has just announced four brand-new itineraries for Europe next year. The grandest of them is the 46-day Rivers of the World cruise, which starts in Egypt on the African continent. The voyage will take guests to eight other countries through the Mediterranean, the Alps, Central Europe and Northern France on five different luxury super ships.

FROM LAND TO SEA

More luxury brands well-known for their finesse in hotels on land are progressing to the high seas. At the Monaco Yacht Show in September, Four Seasons announced the launch of its first vessel in a fleet of Four Seasons Yachts, which will be unveiled over the next five years. The debut ship is currently being designed by ship-builder Fincantieri in Trieste, Italy. When launched in 2025, it is expected to make its maiden voyage in the Mediterranean and Caribbean. The suites, each costing about US$44.2 million to build, start at 581 sqft. 

FLOATING PALACE

With 39 stunning apartments that range from 1,600sqft to 6,500sqft, the 221m Somnio lays claim to being the world's most luxurious residential yacht to launch. Costing an estimated US$600 million to build, the price tag of the units is expected to start from US$11 million. To add exclusivity, the residences are only available for sale by invitation. Norwegian shipbuilder VARD expects to complete the construction of Somnio by 2024.

A TOAST TO BOATING