Four Seasons sets sail, private butlers and all

Sign up now: Get ST's newsletters delivered to your inbox

Luxury companies are targeting non-cruisers and counting on brand loyalty to coax hotel guests to sea.

Luxury companies are targeting non-cruisers and counting on brand loyalty to coax hotel guests to sea.

PHOTO: CAMILLE MCOUAT/NYTIMES

Ceylan Yeginsu

On a sunny morning in late May, the Four Seasons I, carrying nearly 200 passengers, glided through the glistening waters of the Saronic Gulf with the ease of a private yacht before anchoring just off the Greek island of Spetses.

Free of airports, cruise terminals and cars, the lush, pine-scented island is a well-kept secret among discerning travellers.

See more on