The Hot List

1. Next-level superyachts

Top: The view of the Nile from an Oberoi river boat; Above: A suite aboard the Explora II

Ritz-Carlton has just launched its newest mega-yacht, adding the 624ft ILMA to its fleet of two ships, with another expected to hit the high seas in 2025. The 224 suites all have private terraces, and the service is a winner, with almost one crew member per guest.

Meanwhile, the Explora II offers a front-row seat to one of the most exhilarating events in the world: the Formula 1 Grand Prix de Monaco. Docked at Port Hercule from 22 to 25 May 2025, this 814ft ship will be just moments from the action, with a choice of 12 indoor and outdoor bars (stocked with plenty of Champagne for celebrating), plus a series of championship-worthy events bringing together the worlds of motorsport and high-end travel.

Also making waves next year, Oberoi will be revealing its latest luxury cruiser on the Nile: the Dahabiya will be launching in March 2025 and will no doubt be as opulent – and popular – as the Oberoi Philae and Zahra; booking early is highly recommended.

SDP tip: “The voyage aboard ILMA was spectacular. Arriving in Saint-Tropez felt like stepping into a postcard, with its chic boutiques, stunning beaches and convenient location. We spent a day exploring the Old Town and relaxing on Pampelonne Beach.” – Jules Maury, Head of SDP

2. A new Maldivian hideaway

Above: Soneva Secret in the Makunudhoo Atoll

When it comes to barefoot luxury, Soneva has long been the gold standard, offering the ultimate tailored-to-you experience whether you’re staying on the original private island in the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve or its playful sister, Soneva Jani. This year, we have our eyes on the group’s newest offering, Soneva Secret: a tiny private island with just 14 villas, the only resort in the Makunudhoo Atoll at the westernmost tip of the Maldives.

Everything from in-villa treatments to sunset dolphin cruises can be organised by your personal Barefoot Guardian, while a dedicated chef brings you the finest local and international dishes, always with a strong view on sustainability. One for the bucket list: Soneva Secret would be the perfect addition to a tour of the Indian subcontinent, with the rich culture and cuisine of Sri Lanka plus southern India’s unforgettable nature and architecture just two hours away by plane.

SDP tip: “The “Out of this World” dining experience at Soneva Secret includes an overwater zipline from the island to a wine cellar for drinks, canapés and stargazing with the resident astronomer.” – Gina Waygood, Private Travel Manager

3. Get ahead on the solar eclipse

Above: The Norwegian archipelago by boat

On 12 August 2026, one of the most anticipated and magnificent natural wonders – the total eclipse of the sun – will be taking place, and we’re helping SDP members see it from the most extraordinary locations. For the ultra-intrepid, we can arrange an overwater expedition through untouched Arctic landscapes; Scenic’s Wonders of the High Arctic Cruise not only captures prime solar eclipse viewing points in Greenland and Iceland, but also takes in the raw wilderness of Norway’s Svalbard archipelago, with deep insights from the expert on-board Polar Discovery Team and a personalised butler for each guest. Perhaps the most unique place to witness the 2026 eclipse is on the island of Mallorca, where the moment the moon passes between the sun and Earth occurs at sunset – a dramatic event that can send dusky pinks and golden colour in every direction.

SDP tip: “For unparalleled access to all the sights, both cosmic and coastal, we recommend mountain-top destinations such as Grand Hotel Son Net and Belmond La Residencia – our savviest guests are already booked in to avoid disappointment.” – Dominic Atterton, Private Relationship Manager

4. Wine and fine-dine like a Sardinian

Above: Romazzino, a Belmond Hotel, Costa Smeralda

Everyone’s talking about Sardinia’s reawakening, and SDP members have the pick of its hottest new openings. The Mediterranean’s second-largest island has much to offer high-end (and hungry) travellers, from the finest circular cuisine at Fradis Minoris on the south coast to local delicacy su filindeu (a rare pasta dish, originating from Sardinia) at Il Rifugio in Nuoro.

To the north east, Costa Smeralda is famed for its secluded white-sand coves and high-profile fans (think Princess Margaret swimming in quartz-clear waters, photographed by Slim Aarons in 1967), with three new exclusive hotels expected by 2026. First to open its doors in the famous Costa Smeralda this year is the iconic Romazzino, A Belmond Hotel, in Arzachena, with a new Mandarin Oriental also planned in Porto Cervo. We’ll arrange the finest new experiences, from wine tastings at the world-renowned Cannonau vineyard to a private boat trip through the nearby Maddalena islands, complete with on-board lunch. Hotel Pitrizza – another 1960s icon – is transforming into Cheval Blanc Pitrizza, opening in 2026. Add to that Rocco Forte’s first Sardinian property, a dreamy two-acre retreat celebrating the slow-paced Mediterranean way of life, and this truly is where il dolce far niente (literally “the sweetness of doing nothing”) reigns supreme.

5. Epic South America

Above: The glass pods of OVO Patagonia

Opening this December and already booking up fast, OVO Patagonia in Argentina is taking immersive travel to literal new heights. Suspended an awe-inspiring 270 metres above the untamed wilderness of Southern Patagonia’s forests, each beautifully crafted OVO glass capsule is secured to the rock face with specially formulated steel cables, offering lung-bursting views of Mount Fitz Roy, incredible sunsets and an unforgettable night of stargazing. This showstopper, once-in-a-lifetime experience begins with a 4x4 transfer from El Chaltén to Estancia Bonanza, followed by a half-day guided hike and a short via ferrata to your private sanctuary in the sky. Non-climbers need not worry: OVO Patagonia is for any active traveller with a sense of adventure.

Deep in the heart of Peru’s Colca Valley, Puqio is a more grounded but no less unique destination: eight safari-style tents and adobe huts blending seamlessly with the striking pre-Inca terraced farms which are still in use today. Since opening in 2023, it has become a bucket-list addition to our Peru journeys, perfectly positioned for high-altitude trekking, soaking up the thermal waters of Uyo Uyo, plus urban hops to Cusco, Arequipa and Titilaka.