£8299pp—Ultra-lux Japan cherry blossom cruise, save £2700

Explore Japan on an ultra-luxury cruise with an almost 1-to-1 crew-to-passenger ratio. Start with a stay at the Ritz-Carlton in neon-lit Tokyo, then sail to historic Kochi, famous for its temples. In Osaka, wander the grounds of Osaka Castle, one of the city’s best spots for cherry blossom viewing in late March. 

This offer is £8298 per person. You'll pay an extra JPY200 (approximately £1) in city taxes at the Tokyo hotel, making the total £8299.

What's included

• Return direct flights, with 23kg checked baggage
• Private transfers
• One night in Tokyo at The Ritz Carlton Tokyo, in a Deluxe Room with breakfast
• A 14-night cruise aboard Seabourn Encore, in a Veranda Suite (V1)
• All-inclusive board during the cruise, covering all meals, speciality dining, premium drinks, an in-suite bar, a caviar service, and unlimited Wi-Fi
• All port taxes and fees

When
Fly from London Heathrow on 11 March, 2027.

For more information, see our partner's website.

Itinerary
Begin in Tokyo with an overnight stay at The Ritz Carlton Tokyo. This 5-star hotel offers "world-class glamour in the clouds" (The Daily Telegraph)—it's located in the top nine floors of the second-tallest skyscraper in the capital. It's in the Roppongi District, Tokyo's hotspot for entertainment.

In the morning, admire city views as you enjoy breakfast, then join Seabourn Encore and call at:

• Kochi... take in panoramic city views from Kochi Castle, a historic landmark that has survived since the feudal era. 
• Hososhima... this tranquil coastal town boasts traditional architecture and white-sand beaches. Pay a visit to the Hososhima Shrine, which dates back over 1000 years, and sample seafood delicacies, such as sashimi.
• Kagoshima... known as the Naples of the East due to its smouldering stratovolcano, Sakurajima. This city is famous for its samurai heritage—it's said to be the home of the last true samurai, Saigo Takamori. 
• Nagasaki... has much to offer outside its tragic history. Take in stunning bay views, explore  Japan's oldest Chinatown, and pay your respects at the Peace Memorial Park. 
• Busan... this city in South Korea is known for its beaches and mountain hiking trails. Busan Tower, in Yongdusan Park, offers panoramic views of the city's harbour (admission fee applies).
• Fukuoka... sits on the northern shores of Kyushu Island. Discover ancient temples, pristine beaches, and excellent shopping opportunities here. 
• Hiroshima... learn of the city's devastating past at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum (chargeable), and wander the grounds around the reconstructed Carp Castle.
• Osaka... this is the second-largest city in Japan, and offers some of the best cherry blossom viewing. Osaka Castle Park is planted with over 3000 fruit trees that come into bloom in late March. 
• Shimizu... admire Mount Fuji as you sail towards the port—there are great views, depending on clear weather. The mountain is around 90 minutes from the port.

Ship details
Seabourn Encore is an ultra-luxurious ship with a 5/5 rating by Cruise Critic editors. They praise the "generous outside space", the "rich, sophisticated look", and "superb food". It carries just 600 guests at full capacity, with a crew-to-guest ratio of nearly 1-to-1. Its size allows visits to ports inaccessible for larger ships.

Seabourn is a member of Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, a gastronomic society devoted to fine dining. Your all-inclusive package allows you to eat at any of the seven onboard restaurants. These include Solis, the Mediterranean restaurant; Sushi, offering Japanese seafood; and the al fresco Colonnade. In-suite dining is available for no extra cost.

Premium spirits, fine wines, champagne, and caviar are included at all times. Your minibar is replenished with your preferred drinks throughout the voyage.

Relax at the pool or join yoga or Pilates classes. You can also work out in the gym, with a personal trainer if you'd like. Enrich your experience by attending conversations with experts from the fields of arts and history. Or, watch a show or dance under the stars in the evenings.

Other options

• Add three nights pre-cruise at the The Ritz Carlton Tokyo, in a Deluxe Room with breakfast, from an extra £749 per person
• Upgrade to the Penthouse Suite during the cruise from an extra £9099 per person

Transfers & bagagge
Both are included.