One area of luxury cruising which is gaining more and more international attention, growth, and funding is sustainability. "How can a cruise be sustainable?" you may ask. Well, each year, more cruise lines are looking to develop new ways of cruising which are more environmentally friendly. After all, cruising is a fantastic way to feel at one with nature and the ocean, so why not try to do this as gently and sustainably as possible?

PONANT is one such cruise line constantly looking to better their methods of sustainable cruising.

Ponant’s fleet of luxury, small ship vessels draw an international client base. Guests from the US, Australia, Europe and of course, their home country of France are to be found on every voyage. Le Lyrial was launched in 2015 and has an ice classification (1C) hull, which enables her to sail in both the Polar regions. Her 6 decks and shallow draft of just 15ft, mean that she is able to navigate into much smaller ports than many other vessels – making her a perfect expedition style, luxury cruiser.

As the sun sets on the glittering Adriatic, you’d be forgiven for thinking you were a million miles away from the UK…but Croatia, the pearl of the Adriatic, is a mere two hour flight away. A land rich in culture, pristine nature, fabulous culinary traditions, a beautifully mild climate, and extraordinary crystal clear waters. Choosing to cruise along the Croatian coast is a holiday that will delight you.

With svelte yachts offering a glimpse into the elusive cosmos inhabited by A-listers and fashionistas, suddenly cruising has dropped anchor in a new realm. Boutique-style offers a unique insight into the wunderkinds of cruising. Unlike gin palaces where bohemians rub shoulders with billionaires and rock stars mingle with royals; our collection is less ostentation, more sophistication.

For many people, when they think of a luxury cruise, their mind immediately jumps to 'Caribbean'. They're certainly not wrong, as many luxury ocean cruises and super yachts visit the myriad of beautiful islands and sail the crystal blue waters of the Caribbean Sea. In fact, most seasoned cruisers have probably been on at least one Caribbean cruise throughout their time.

But where are the hidden gems in this well-known area?

The Mediterranean is top of most people’s lists for holidays and cruises alike. Full of charming towns, glittering beaches, vibrant cities, and clifftop fortresses, no port lining the Mediterranean Sea is the same.

A few years ago I sailed from Athens to Dubrovnik on board the gorgeous Crystal Cruises yacht, Crystal Esprit, and at every step of the journey I was met with exceptional service, incredible food (which is a must for me) and a warm, relaxed atmosphere.

The check-in process was effortless as it’s done in your suite, where you get to meet your butler and I was very impressed to find I also had two dedicated cabin stewardesses too! Hosting just 62 guests on board, the crew are a huge part of the experience and by the end of the week, it felt almost like leaving friends behind.