With so many outstanding cruise lines competing for your business, you may not know what is the best option for you. Everyone has different requirements, preferences and budgets. We will work with each client to choose the best cruise line, recommend the proper itinerary, ship and stateroom/suite to suit your needs.
All ocean cruise lines can be sorted into different levels of quality, service, and amenities. Below are our preferred partners as well as a brief rundown on what you can expect from each level of service.
Contemporary Cruise Lines like Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, and Carnival are best for families with their waterparks, kids’ programs, and multiple eateries on board. These are best in terms of lower pricing but aren’t for everyone since the ships are usually enormous with up to 5000 passengers.
Premium Cruise Lines like Celebrity, Princess, and Holland America offer more sophisticated service and entertainment options at a price that is not much more than the contemporary cruise lines. Premium Cruise lines are an excellent step up for the cruiser looking for a richer experience. Geared towards all types of travelers (couples, singles, families, groups), these lines are an excellent value.
Those looking for a bit higher level of quality and more varied itineraries, often with overnight stays, can look to Azamara and Oceania for their “near luxury” levels of service. These ships have a country club-like atmosphere and are less formal than other lines.
Luxury Cruise Lines are more exclusive than others and cater to the well-educated and sophisticated person. Travelers on luxury lines typically like experiencing foreign cultures and places with historical significance. On board luxury ships, you will find elegant suites, butler service, and exclusive amenities along with enrichment programs in the culinary arts, music, and foreign languages. Though the price is quite a bit higher, the value received often compensates for the cost. The ships are quite a bit smaller than in the other categories, ensuring a high guest to crew ratio.
Many of the luxury lines are now all-inclusive. Some of the benefits include pre-paid gratuities, specialty dining, fine wines & premium spirits, as well as special seminars and events. It’s important when comparing price to look at what is included and what type of experience you are seeking. Our favorites include Regent Seven Seas, Crystal Cruises, Silversea, and Seabourn.
In addition to helping you find the best cruise for you, StruxTravel will coordinate and book pre- and post-cruise extensions, arrange transfers and excursions, and advise you on the best travel insurance to help protect your investment. Ask us for more information about cruising in a post-Covid19 world and all of the measures the cruise lines will be implementing to ensure that you have a safe and healthy journey.
