10 High-Design Cruises

Best known for its river cruise ships, Viking is gaining recognition for its ocean vessels, including the first ship, Viking Star, which began sailing in 2015. Since then, three sister ships have been christened, including Viking Sea. Each ship design emanates Scandinavian influences in the color palette of pale blues and pure whites, as well as in the light-colored woods. One of the more striking interiors is the Wintergarden lounge, an open, airy communal space stylized to feel as though you are sitting under a forest canopy. More specifically, the Tree of Life.

AmaWaterways has long been drawn to interior designs and color schemes that evoke warmth as a way to welcome guests aboard their home away from home. Vibrant colors, like corals, goldenrods and teals, as well as soft textures can be found throughout the fleet, including on their newest ship, AmaKristina. From bright, patterned linens in the staterooms to chic, turquoise sofas in common spaces, even fruit tree-printed booths in the main dining room, guests will find that interiors across the ship burst with color and personality.

Hurtigruten ships have been cruising the coast of Norway for more than a century, and just this last year, they gave several of their ships, including the 590-passenger MS Nordkapp, a much-deserved Scandinavian-style makeover. The new "Arctic Interior" design is relaxed and informal, yet comfortable and sensibly luxurious. Using raw materials, like driftwood and slate, as well as natural colors, like navy, forest green and burgundy, the ships take their cues from the sea, fjords and greenery, even fishing villages, that can be seen throughout the voyage.

The newest ship in the Princess Cruises fleet, Majestic Princess, is not only the largest ship, accommodating more than 3,500 passengers, but it’s also one of the most stylish. Interiors throughout the ship infuse a blend of design elements, like mosaic tile floors and custom floral carpets, as well as metallic glass and embedded wooden décor. From the staterooms to the dining rooms, the Majestic Princess exudes elegance. Book an evening at the Crown Grill, which boasts a delightful private dining space set amongst racks of fine wines.