CRUISING 101: Choosing a Cruise Line

Cruise Lines are not a one size fits all, and while all, except for one, will gladly welcome any cruiser on board the reality is that each Cruise Line will cater to specific demographics, experiences and budget. Here’s a breakdown.

Luxury:

Starting with luxury, you get what you pay for, like Michelin Star Dining experience, a personal butler, concierge service, included excursions, twice daily room service and so much more. If you have a lot of discretionary income you might want to check out Cruise Lines like Oceania, Silver Seas or Viking.

Expedition:

Similar to the luxury experience this is pricey but offers a very unique intimate adventure not available anywhere else. You could visit penguin colonies in Antarctica, get up close to icebergs in the Arctic, sail up the Amazon, discover the Northwest Passage, take part in scientific research, and more. Expeditions are supported by specialists who will educate you along the way. Viking or Hurtigruten Cruise Lines stand out.

River Cruising:

Offering pricey exclusive experiences are river cruises. This is a different kind of cruise ship designed specifically to navigate rivers like the Rhine. They’re a luxury experience with the vacation being the journey itself and features incredible scenery, castles, local markets, vineyards. If interested check out Avalon, Amawaterways or Viking.

Party Time:

For those more interested in the night life or party atmosphere then Carnival is queen. However, Virgin, MSC and other European Cruise Lines tend to have a late night party vibe as well.

Solo Cruisers:

Historically Cruise Lines have been forcing double occupancy charges for solo travellers. Fortunately times have changed. Norwegian Cruise Lines was the first to embrace the solo cabin which is contained in an exclusive solo traveller area, inclusive of a bar/lounge. A few other Cruise Lines have since joined the ranks. Holland America even offers solo balcony cabins.

Adults (18+) Only:

If you’re looking for a cruise without having someone else’s vacationing kids running all over the place then check out Virgin Voyages adult only Cruise Line. All restaurants are included in the price and the buffet is actually set up like a food court where they serve you. The ships are newer and clean, and the crew have a refreshing fun loving and an all-inclusive attitude. If there’s a downside its the questionable bed/couch design of most staterooms, where the bed has to be reconfigured daily in order to have any seating during the day.

Family:

For a family there’s a clear winner, Disney Cruise Lines, but it comes with a premium price. The larger ships from Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Lines have many kid/teen friendly activities and the newer ships in MSC’s fleet have wonderful age specific venues.

Seniors:

Seniors tend to prefer ships with old world charm, void of all the bells and whistles of the larger ships. Holland America, Celebrity and the older ships in the Princess fleet are best options.

Having detailed the above we should point out that each cruise line will have features and experiences which you may find appealing. For example, the old world charm isn’t just appealing to seniors, and kid friendly Cruise Lines also feature adults-only sections. Even expedition type of experiences are offered by the more mainstream Cruise Lines. This post is intended only as a guide and a reference point for you to start your planning so do your research and find what fits your vacation objective and see you on board.