Looking for the perfect luxury cruise? 🚢✨ In this episode of RTE-Travel Talk – Ask a Real Travel Expert, Ken sits down with Laurie Bixler of Cruise & Travel Specialists to compare three of today’s most talked-about luxury cruise lines: Seabourn, Viking Ocean, and Explora Journeys.

Laurie has personally sailed with all three, and she shares her insider knowledge on what makes each line truly special — from ship size and suites to dining, service, and itineraries. Whether you’re drawn to Seabourn’s ultra-luxury traditions, Viking’s “thinking person’s cruise,” or Explora’s modern resort-style luxury, this in-depth conversation will help you decide which cruise line best matches your personal style of travel.

We’ll cover:

🛳️ Seabourn’s intimate ships & signature touches (like caviar on demand and world-class cruise directors)

🧳 Viking Ocean’s destination-focused itineraries & all-veranda staterooms designed for curious travelers

🌍 Explora Journeys’ fresh approach to luxury cruising with all-suite living and a chic, resort-inspired design

🍷 Dining experiences across the lines — from buffets and freestanding stations to wine pairings and dining under the stars

👩‍✈️ Service, inclusions, and value for your travel dollar, including crew-to-guest ratios and what’s really included

⚓ Itinerary differences: smaller ports, intense destination days, and world cruise opportunities

💡 How to work with a travel expert to choose the right line and maximize your luxury cruise experience

If you’ve ever wondered which luxury cruise line is right for you — or if you’re new to the world of luxury cruising and want to know where to start — this episode is a must-watch. You’ll come away with clear comparisons, real traveler experiences, and plenty of tips to make your decision easier.