Not-so- Plain Sailing

Luxurious cruising comes in a number of guises.

A242sqm-plus pad with a veranda and windows that envelop the dining, living and bedrooms, overlooking the ocean; a penthouse with walk-in closet, dual walk-through showers and a soaking tub; a glass- enclosed duplex with private plunge pool. An everyday story of ultra-luxury apartments? Not quite.

These are all suites or villas on Celebrity Cruises’ new Celebrity Edge cruise liner designed by Dubai’s Burj al Arab architect, Briton Tom Wright. High- tech features include the Magic Carpet, the world’s first cantilevered, floating platform that soars 13 storeys above sea level.

Inside, British interior designer Kelly Hoppen MBE has put her signature mark on the accommodation. “The concept of designing individual rooms on the sea was irresistible,” says Hoppen. “We were inspired by the notion that it is possible to sail away from the demands of modern living, and retreat to a breathtaking space with an endlessly changing view.” Classic, elegant glamour combined with a penchant for geometric shapes is expressed in a neutral palette punctuated with colourful accents. In addition to the two Iconic Suites, she has fitted out the two Penthouse suites, six duplex Edge and 146 Sky Suites in styles from urban chic to the crisp blues of the Greek island of Santorini. Hoppen loves textures – and all suites have plush, king-sized cashmere mattresses. In Luminae Restaurant, lighting has been used to maximum effect to complement the fittings and finishes from the bespoke c urated a rtworks t o the marble inlays at the entrance. www.celebritycruises.com ≠