2010 and 2011 are shaping up to be very special years for travelers seeking new and even more luxurious ways to explore the globe. That's because roughly half of the world's leading luxury cruise lines will enter at least one all-new ship into service during that timeframe, ships that will offer passengers an even greater array of indulgences – more gourmet dining venues, more accommodation options, and more opportunities for personal enrichment – while retaining the comfortable, intimate ambience that experienced luxury customers have come to expect and adore.

New luxury cruise ships of note include Cunard Line's magnificent Queen Elizabeth and Oceania Cruises' first-in-class Marina. Seabourn, meanwhile, will launch no less than three brand-new yachts in the year to come. Please see below for a sampling of sailings aboard these and other ships that have recently debuted or are on the horizon.