The World's Most Luxurious Cruise Ships

Considered one of the most luxurious ways to travel, cruises have reached a zenith in the number of travel destinations offered, with modern liners traversing everything from vast oceans and wide rivers to narrow straits and cramped canals.

Click here to see the World's Most Luxurious Cruise Ships (Slideshow)

But being on a cruise is often about more than just the destinations: Cruise lines often compete to provide the most luxurious experience money can buy, offering everything from white-glove butler service to large suites with private balconies overlooking the ocean.

In addition to their sterling service and lavish nature, cruises have also gained prominence in the travel industry for providing an indulgent all-inclusive experience, where many wining and dining options and activities are paid for upfront in an all-in-one package. 

While the thought of spending days, or even weeks, at sea (or on the river) can be daunting, our list of top cruise ships proves that fine dining, with a range of options, goes just as well with luxury cruises as it does with traditional travel. 

With traveling epicureans used to fresh and varied food options, cruise liners have upped the ante in terms of their dining options, providing the gastronome with choices from celebrity-chef-run haunts to Relais & Châteaux-approved restaurants to private cooks who will cater each meal to your timely desires.

Click here to see our slideshow of the top eight luxury cruises, and the fine dining options they provide.

Chinmoy is a Hong Kong-based travel and food writer, focusing on bringing the rising East and its unique culture to the rest of the world. Chinmoy is still in search of that 'perfect meal'. Let him know if you find it by sending a tweet at @chinmoylad.