Suite Sailing

Enjoy more space and exciting perks
in these upscale seagoing accommodations

By Emily Coleman

On an ocean voyage, you can visit several diverse destinations in a week's worth of vacation time, and you'll only need to unpack your suitcases once. But if your stateroom comes with complimentary butler service, someone may do that unpacking for you. Upgrade to a suite on your next cruise and you'll get extra space to spread out, special amenities, more personalized service and access to VIP areas. Certain pools, lounges and dining venues on board often are reserved for suite passengers.

Of course, these little luxuries come with a higher price tag than standard ship accommodations, but now is an excellent time to book one of these high-end cabins. "The average price point is down a little bit due to the economic climate," says Cheryl Cunningham, director of groups and special projects at Vacations To Go, a national agency that specializes in discounted cruises.

While the very top tiers of suites, such as the penthouses and owner's suites, typically are not reduced, Cunningham says that "when it comes to minisuites and many other categories of suites, there are quite a few promotions and discounts out there."

Travelers who purchase suites may be eligible for onboard credits that can be redeemed in the ship's shops, spa, photo studio or at the shore excursion desk. "In many cases," says Cunningham, "on select sail dates, the higher category you book, the more spending money you'll get on board." You can see which lines are offering shipboard credits with Vacations To Go's 90-Day Ticker; these savings are listed in the far right column.

Below we've profiled suite accommodations on a variety of ships. You can call (800) 338-4962 to speak with a Vacations To Go cruise specialist or browse itineraries here.


Holland America Line

Launched in 2008, Holland America Line's Eurodam is a five-star ship that will spend late spring and summer in Northern Europe and the Mediterranean. It moves to New England for several fall itineraries, then repositions to the Caribbean in October for five months of tropical sailing.

Guests who book Deluxe Veranda Suites can take in views of the ocean and ports from floor-to-ceiling windows. The private balcony is the perfect place to enjoy high tea or complimentary hors d'oeuvres, delivered upon request.

Special privileges at embarkation and disembarkation and priority boarding for tender service ashore mean you'll spend less time waiting in line. And don't bother overstuffing your suitcase with outfits for every day, because laundry service, pressing and dry cleaning are complimentary for Deluxe Veranda Suite guests. Other thoughtful touches include a corsage and boutonniere for the first formal evening, the use of binoculars and umbrellas during the cruise and an invitation to cocktails with the ship's officers.

These suites also include access to the private Neptune Lounge, a great place to relax or socialize. The lounge is outfitted with worktables, a large-screen television, library and comfy furniture, and refreshments are served throughout the day. A concierge is available to assist with requests, and when the lounge is closed the concierge can be reached by phone.


Royal Caribbean International

The innovative Oasis of the Seas -- a 5,400-passenger, 18-deck vessel that debuted last year -- offers an exciting, urban-style experience on the water. Its seven distinct neighborhoods give the illusion of a city at sea, where guests can stroll through the Central Park or browse the shops along the Boardwalk.

This urban concept is extended to guest accommodations, too. Royal Caribbean is the first cruise company to offer loft suites, spacious two-story balcony staterooms with double-height windows. The 28 lofts feature contemporary decor and abstract art pieces for a sleek design aesthetic. The lower level of the loft functions as living space, which guests can view from the bedroom above. Both levels have a bathroom, and the master bath upstairs features his-and-her showerheads and fog-free mirrors. There's even a separate vanity area, a luxury in living at sea.

Most of these accommodations are designated as Crown Loft Suites, with all the details listed above. Sky Loft Suites have a roomier living space and balcony, while the superlative Royal Loft Suite -- which accommodates up to six people -- has a wet bar, library, baby grand piano and a whirlpool on the balcony.

The Oasis of the Seas currently is sailing weeklong trips to the Caribbean from Fort Lauderdale. Its sister ship, Allure of the Seas, will debut in December and also sail to the Caribbean.


Celebrity Cruises

The Solstice Class ships are the latest additions to Celebrity's fleet, and the company's largest ships, each carrying 2,850 guests. They include the Celebrity Solstice, launched in 2008; last year's Celebrity Equinox; and the Celebrity Eclipse, due on the high seas in late April. Among them, they primarily offer itineraries in the Caribbean, Europe, Mexico and Central America.

Travelers who opt for a Celebrity Suite aboard the Solstice Class ships have the benefit of a generously sized stateroom with sliding- glass doors onto a balcony. There are televisions in both the bedroom and separate living area; the latter is wired for surround sound and has a large sectional sofa. The bathroom has a tub and a shower. Perks include Frette bathrobes to be used while on board, champagne on arrival, fresh flowers and a Celebrity tote bag that's yours to keep. Along with these top-notch appointments, suites are staffed by experienced butlers who can help you unpack, give your shoes a quick shine, bring your breakfast and deliver a board game or the daily news.

Suite guests are granted priority check-in, departure and luggage delivery, and a complimentary dinner in one of the specialty restaurants on cruises of seven nights. They also receive free access to the Persian Garden, a meditation area in the AquaSpa with saunas and steam rooms infused with exotic scents.


Azamara Club Cruises

Azamara Cruises has altered its name and enhanced its style of cruising. Now as Azamara Club Cruises, it provides sophisticated yet relaxed voyages focused on interesting destinations and experiences. On either of the company's vessels, guests enjoy boutique cruising on a smaller ship, with longer stays at unique ports. House wine is served at lunch and dinner, while coffee and bottled water are available throughout the day.

Staying in a suite, you'll have a complimentary butler to anticipate your needs, floral arrangements, afternoon canapes and predinner appetizers. If you want to relax in your quarters, meals can be delivered and even spa treatments can be brought to you. Whether you need your shoes shined or garments pressed, the service on board is personal and thorough. Several items can be left at home, since on the ship complimentary umbrellas, binoculars and lavish robes are provided.

Azamara Quest spends summers in the Mediterranean and also sails itineraries in the Middle East and Asia. Azamara Journey also offers sailings in the Mediterranean, as well as Northern Europe, Central America and the Caribbean.


Carnival Cruise Lines

A brand-new addition to the Carnival family, the 3,646-passenger Carnival Dream brings two miniature golf courses, a water park, resort- style pool and elaborate Cloud 9 spa to the open ocean. Based in Port Canaveral, FL, year-round, the ship visits the Bahamas and ports in both the Eastern and Western Caribbean, including Belize and Honduras.

Various suite arrangements on board offer more space and excellent service, but booking a Cloud 9 Spa Suite affords guests private access to the spa and other benefits. Two fitness classes (per individual) are complimentary and priority is given for treatment appointments. The decor is spa-inspired, and Elemis bath and body products extend the therapeutic atmosphere into your room.

The spa itself is substantial, spanning two decks and 40,000 square feet. A thalassotherapy pool massages away tension with currents of warm mineral saltwater. The Thermal Suite will banish any remaining stress with its steam baths and heat chamber. Select from a menu of treatments, such as a body wrap or hot-stone massage.


Norwegian Cruise Line

The Norwegian Epic is as grand as its name implies. More than 1,000 feet in length, the ship is the largest in the Norwegian Cruise Line fleet. Its inaugural season will start with a trans-Atlantic voyage in June, followed by Caribbean sailings the rest of the year.

Suite life on the Epic is beyond comfortable and spacious -- it's also exclusive. The two decks of the suite complex, called The Villas, are located at the top of the ship and are reserved for guests in those accommodations only. Secluded and accessible only by private elevator, the area also includes a courtyard with pool, cabanas, hammocks, steam room and exercise facilities. It's as if guests in the suites are on their own personal cruise.

The sizeable Courtyard Villas can each accommodate up to six people, and include two separate bathrooms. The living space doubles as a dining area for in-suite meals. Dining at the Epic Club is another privilege afforded residents of The Villas. Pearl-strung drapes and glass sculptures embody elegant design in the intimate dining space. Butler and concierge service take care of the details, so guests can fully relax on vacation.


Silversea Cruises

Guests who sail the Silver Spirit enjoy a six-star experience, and everyone gets a suite -- the liner has all-suite accommodations, the majority with private teak balconies. They feature a separate sitting area, a walk-in closet and flat-screen televisions with DVD players and satellite reception. In the marble bathroom, there's a full-sized tub and double vanity.

Upon arrival, guests will find champagne, fresh fruit and flowers in their suite. Beverage cabinets are stocked to your preference, and beds are outfitted with soft linens and plush pillows.

Your butler will maintain order in your room and closet, replenish the bar as necessary and coordinate activities and shore excursions if desired. You also can enjoy meals in your suite, whether it's breakfast in bed or a multicourse romantic dinner.

Silver Spirit, which debuted in 2009, is the fleet's largest ship yet carries only 540 guests. Its sailing schedule includes many seven- night cruises in the Mediterranean; also planned are voyages to Tahiti, Australia, Asia, the Panama Canal and the Caribbean. Next January, it embarks on a 120-day world cruise.


Cunard Line

The opulent interior of Cunard's Queen Victoria invokes the memory of the gilded age of ocean liners. Vintage style is found throughout the ship from the heights of the Grand Lobby to the private boxes at the Royal Court Theatre.

Luxury extends to guest accommodations on the Queen Victoria, where dining venues are paired with suite choices. Guests in the Princess Grill suites dine on the 11th deck. The suites are appointed with sitting areas, marble bathrooms and balconies. Upon arrival, guests will find bon voyage champagne, fresh fruit and personalized stationery.

Those in the Queens Grill suites are afforded further amenities including a butler, whirlpool bath, a bar stocked with spirits, wine and soft drinks, and fresh flowers. Nightly dining is available at a reserved table in the Queens Grill.

The expeditions of the Queen Victoria touch nearly every continent, and most itineraries last more than two weeks. Cunard will debut another globetrotting ocean liner, Queen Elizabeth, in the fall of this year.

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