The 5 most decadent cruise ships in the world

If youre looking for a luxury getaway, its no secret that a cruise is many a travellers topchoice. With a wealth of decadent facilities on-board most cruise liners, and five-star service asstandard, cruising really can unlock a new world.Whether youre completely new to cruises, or youve sailed the Seven Seas, this guide to the top5 most decadent cruise ships (in no particular order) is sure to whet your appetite for your nextluxury holiday.Cruise liners can range from huge vessels of the sea to smaller, more intimate yachts. So nomatter what your definition of extravagance, were sure youll find something in this guide tomatch your needs.

Silverseas Silver Cloud

If its indulgence youre after, look no further than the Silver Cloud. Five-star service, the finestgourmet food and open bars provide for an unforgettable nautical experience. Elegant interiors,personable cabin crew and luxurious staterooms are amongst this liners highlights. Travel tosome of the most exotic destinations across the world in the most relaxed manner possible,sipping fine wines and enjoyingexcellent entertainment on the way.

Decadent factor: The on-boardConnoisseurs Corner – with arange of cognacs on offer alongwith a range of premium cigars.

Decadence rating: 7/10

Paul Gauguin Cruises Paul Gauguin

Cruising in French Polynesia and the South Pacific has never been so relaxing. Whether youfancy trying snorkelling or perhaps windsurfing, the liner can accommodate your adventurousside with its retractable water sports platform. If youd prefer something a little less adrenaline-fuelled though, day trips to beautiful private beaches in Motu Mahana and Bora Bora might bemore geared towards your taste. The most impressive thing about this ship, aside from its foodand amenities, is its on-board art. The interior was designed for French Polynesia so the decorreflects that.

Decadent factor: State-of-the-art retractablewatersports marina.

Decadence rating: 7/10

Hebridean Island Cruises Hebridean Princess

A cruise liner used by the Queen. What more could you ask for in terms of luxury? Aftercelebrating her 80th birthday on-board several years earlier, Her Majesty booked the liner againin 2010. With a passenger capacity of just 49 (with 38 crewmembers), you can imagine the levelof service you would receive aboardthis liner. Prices wont be cheap, butmemories will last forever.

Decadent factor: Inglenook fireplacein the Tiree Lounge, and the fact thatthe Queen has booked this linerprivately.

Decadence rating: 8/10

The Carnival Magic

With an on-board spa, steakhouse and theatre, the Carnival Magic is sure to tick the boxes ofmany luxury travellers. Cruising to destinations in the Caribbean, your time on board will breezeby. Featuring a wide-range of activities for all those on-board, the Magic is a unique vessel witha huge capacity for 3,690 passengers. Wow!

Decadent factor: The worldsfirst ropes course at sea, and the factyou can relax in the spa while yourchildren are taken care of by on-boardentertainment staff.

Decadence rating: 6/10

Royal Caribbeans Oasis of the Seas

Not only will you sail your way to some of the most exotic places in the world, but you can doso in ultimate comfort. With on-board staterooms likened to loft apartments in New York anda menu developed by top chef Michal Schwartz, The Oasis of the Seas offers the ultimate inmodern luxury. If you still like that feel of home while youre away, though, the ship even hasan on-board Starbucks!

Decadent factor: On-board Boardwalkand Central Park gardens (you have to seethem to believe them), and the fact the shipis divided into seven neighbourhoods.

Decadence rating: 8/10