STRICTLY VACATIONS
WORLD CLASS CRUISE AND TRAVEL SPECIALISTS
Why book with
Strictly Vacations?
You don’t pay anything extra, in fact, it is quite the opposite. We work for you, using our more than 30 years experience and insider connections, we provide our clients with exclusive pricing, added amenities, and special experiences that travelers are often unable to get on their own.
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“To move, to breathe, to fly, to boat, to gain all while you give, to roam the roads of lands remote, to travel is to live.”
— Hans Christian Andersen.
Client Testimonials
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The Strictly Vacations Team
Discover luxury travel with Strictly Vacations, your premier bespoke travel agency since 1989. Helping you plan unforgettable cruise experiences across the world. Our experts, Zak and Steven, are here to help with their extensive firsthand knowledge of luxury cruises, five star hotels and unique hidden gems.
We answer your questions from our firsthand knowledge, and we know how to create a seamless and unforgettable experience. Our dedication to exceptional customer service is unmatched, and we're committed to ensuring that our customers feel confident in their choice to book with us.
Steven E. Shulem
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And I love luxury travel. I love it so much I’ve made it my life’s work. Named by Conde Nast Traveller as one of the “World’s 125 Top Travel Specialists” six years running, I have been in luxury travel, focusing on luxury cruising, for more than 30 years.
My travels have taken me across all seven continents, exploring the world’s best. I keep a finger on the pulse of the ever-changing trends of the luxury cruise industry and use my well-established relationships within the luxury hotel circle. I have a wealth of connections that allow me to enhance your luxury cruise experience, making it an unforgettable vacation that is uniquely yours.
Helping you is what excites me. Being able to find that little hidden gem that you’ll love, getting a table at that restaurant that you’ve never heard of but will never forget, and sourcing an authentic but luxurious experience: that is why I started Strictly Vacations and it’s why I can’t wait to help you plan your next vacation.
Be it that bucket-list expedition or that next grand voyage across the seas, I put myself at your service; all you need to do is say the word.
Zak Winduss
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Originally from New Zealand, I’ve spent my life exploring the world—having traveled to over 60 countries across all seven continents. This global journey has shaped not only my perspective but also my deep passion for travel, which I now channel into crafting unforgettable experiences for others.
As a fellow traveler, I understand the excitement and expectations that come with planning a vacation. That’s why I approach every client’s journey with the same care, attention to detail, and personalized touch I would expect for my own travels.
I’ve personally sailed with some of the world’s most prestigious cruise lines, including Explora Journeys, Crystal Cruises, Regent Seven Seas, Oceania Cruises, Silversea, Virgin Voyages, and Windstar—just to name a few. My firsthand experience aboard these ships means when I am speaking with you, I don’t rely on brochures or generic information. Instead, I speak from genuine insights and recommendations drawn from my own time at sea. In 2026 I was named by Conde Nast Traveler as a top travel specialist.
When you plan your next voyage with me, you can be confident you’re working with someone who doesn’t just sell travel—but lives it.
Ready for an unforgettable vacation?
Get in touch with a luxury travel expert today.
Our Favorites
Below are a selection of our favorite travel partners. You can find a brief overview of each to find one that works best for your travel style. Click the search button to learn more or search upcoming sailings.
EXPLORA JOURNEYS
Explora is for the modern and sophisticated. Ultra luxurious, cutting-edge ships with a focus on well-being and serenity at sea. Explora is the newest name in the luxury cruise industry but is quickly becoming one of the leaders in the market.
Average Passenger Capacity: 900
Standout: Immersive Luxury Experience, Ocean Cruising
REGENT SEVEN SEAS CRUISES
Regent lives up to its name as a luxury cruise leader. Regent can be looked up to as having a reputation of owning one of the most luxurious fleets afloat, and the service one receives onboard is second to none.
Average Passenger Capacity: 750
Standout: World Cruises, Ocean Cruising
CRYSTAL CRUISES
Crystal Cruises is beloved by clients of Strictly Vacations. Crystal has the reputation of having the finest onboard staff in the world. Their World Cruise itineraries are among the most popular in the industry, with sell-outs and waitlists being a regular occurrence.
Average Passenger Capacity: 670
Standout: World Cruises, Exceptional Service
SILVERSEA
Silversea excels in all areas and is considered a luxury cruise market leader. It must be noted, however, that their expedition fleet is unparalleled. Their ships in the Arctic, Antarctic, and Galapagos must be looked up to as the most beautiful expedition ships in the world.
Average Passenger Capacity: 600 (200 on Expeditions)
Standout: Expedition and Ocean Cruising
TAUCK TOURS
Tauck has a long history in the travel world, and their tours are among the best. Tauck is known for its ability to make their guests feel like insiders. On a Tauck Tour, you will feel like an honored guest at every stop, often getting access to places or private events that you would never see on your own. Strictly Vacations recommends Tauck for anyone considering a European River cruise.
Average Passenger Capacity: 120 (35 on Land Tours)
Standout: River Cruising, Land Tours