Categories
Cruise Line Categories
First Class Cruise Lines
Cruise lines in this classification have a little something for everyone.
- The ships in this category are the largest afloat. They carry between 2000-3500 passengers.
- Staterooms range from inside cabins for three- to four-people to a variety of outside cabin configurations with and without balconies. Top-notch suites may or may not come with extra amenities.
- Entertainment tends to be high-energy Las Vegas-style production shows, lounges and discos for dancing, and piano bars for quieter pursuits.
- Large spas with fully equipped gyms, exercise rooms, and jogging tracks are as common as the multiple swimming pools and hot tubs.
- Dining is generally shipboard traditional with two assigned seatings in the main restaurant. However, first class cruise lines are experimenting with variations of open-seating dining and alternative restaurant options that allow passengers to dine when and with whom they please. Choice is the key word, and there is always something to eat, either from 24-hour room service or a variety of locations. Food is often likened to banquet-style fare.
- Service is ranked 3-4 star.
- Ideal for families, these cruise lines offer some of the most extensive programs for children and teens.
- Price point is $-$$$
Passengers: First Class cruise lines are ideal for singles, families, and groups--anyone looking for a fun and exhilarating vacation.
Cruise Lines: Carnival, Costa, Disney, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian
Premium Cruise Lines
A more subdued atmosphere and refined style characterize cruise lines in this category.
- Ships tend to be newer mid-size to large vessels that carry 1500-2000 passengers and are more spacious.
- Expect a glamorous subtle decor with toned-down colors and extensive art collections.
- Staterooms range from inside cabins for three- to four-people and outside cabins with or without balconies, to suites with numerous amenities, including butlers.
- In addition to traditional cruise activities, on-board lectures are common. Port talks often include history and cultural topics in addition to the usual shopping advice.
- Production shows are somewhat more sophisticated, and gentlemen hosts on some sailings keep single ladies dancing the night away.
- An exercise regime is a pleasure in the fully outfitted gyms and spas.
- Dining is traditionally two seatings. Casual alternative dining options are often available, as various cruise lines offer open seating at various specialty-dining venues (some may charge extra), along with bistros. High marks are afforded the quality cuisine and presentation.
- 4-5 star service is polished and unobtrusive.
- Programs for children and teens are well run but not as comprehensive as those found on First Class vessels.
- Price Point is $$-$$$
Passengers: Premium lines attract families, singles, and groups. They are family friendly but more adult oriented.
Cruise Lines: Celebrity, Holland America, Oceania, Princess
Luxury Cruise Lines
A true luxury cruise is defined by the highest levels of quality and personalized service. Luxury cruisers are discerning travelers who desire the best of everything. Expensive when compared to the rest of the industry, luxury lines deliver great value by offering more inclusive pricing than other cruise lines and opportunities to travel to exotic destinations. They are also often surprisingly informal. caviar crowd.
- Ships are small and space is abundant. The number of passengers ranges from 300-800 per sailing.
- Tasteful and elegant surroundings might include, among other special touches, authentic antiques and priceless art collections.
- Spacious staterooms are often termed all-suite. On the newest ships, suites feature an ocean view or balcony. Look for extra touches such as fine linens and freshly cut flowers. Some lines include complimentary in-suite bar setups for all categories, and butlers for guests in the exclusive top category suites.
- Enrichment programs with celebrity and scholarly guest speakers and culinary classes augment traditional shipboard activities. Libraries are well stocked with books and videos.
- Evening entertainment varies by ship size, from cabaret to stylish production shows.
- Health clubs and spas are fully equipped and staffed with professionals. After jogging or a serious workout, guests can wind down with a swim or savor a relaxing soak in bubbling hot tubs.
- Gourmet cuisine is provided. Top Cordon Bleu chefs are tapped for their culinary expertise in designing menus, using the freshest ingredients. Complimentary wines accompany meals on most lines. Open seating is the standard, and guests dine where and with whom they please.
- Service is 5-6 star.
- Luxury cruise lines are usually inappropriate for children and teens. However, during high travel season (school breaks, summer, and holidays) some luxury lines do offer organized children's activities.
- Price point is $$$$$.
Cruise Lines: Crystal, Cunard, Regent Seven Seas, Seabourn, Sea Dream, Silversea