If we were to ask the 34.6 million people who according to the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) sailed in 2024, what were their favorite days of the cruise, most would probably say the times in port. While I love exploring ashore –I mean, snorkeling among rainbows of fish in the Great Barrier Reef, riding a camel at the Pyramids in Egypt and admiring Michelangelo’s works in the Vatican are some of the big reasons why we cruise—I also really, really enjoy sea days.

Few names in travel history evoke the same sense of romance, refinement, and timeless elegance as Orient Express. Now, that legendary brand is redefining luxury once again—this time on the open sea. Orient Express Sailing Yachts represents an entirely new category of ultra-luxury travel, blending the glamour of classic yachting with cutting-edge maritime design and the impeccable service standards the brand is known for.

Follow along with Cruise Specialists Voyage Hosts, Keith and Susie Boyland in this detailed review of the Ultimate Mediterranean Voyage aboard Volendam which departed October 7, 2025.