Cruise Line Catagories
Cruise Line Categories
Mainstream Cruise Lines
Cruise lines in this classification have a little something for everyone.
~ The ships are the largest and they carry the largest number of passengers.
~ The décor runs from glitz and glitter to nautical.
~ Staterooms range from inside cabins for 3-4 people to a variety of outside cabins that come with or without balconies. Top suites may or may not come with extra amenities.
~ Entertainment is
~ They offer spas with fully equipped gyms, exercise rooms and jogging tracks. They also offer multiple swimming pools and hot tubs.
~ Dining is usually traditional seating; at least 2 assigned seatings in the main dining restaurant. Some offer alternative restaurants and open seating that allow passengers to dine when and with whom they please. There is always something to eat in the other dining venues (pizza, ice cream, etc.) or you may choose to enjoy 24 hour room service.
~ Service is friendly but not necessarily pampering or polished.
~ Ideal for families they offer extensive programs for children and teens and a lot of different onboard activities that they would enjoy.
**Ideal for singles, families, groups and those looking for fun and excitement.
**Mainstream cruise lines include Carnival, Royal
Premium Cruise Lines
An atmosphere of refined style and a subdued atmosphere.
~ Ships tend to be newer mid-size to large vessels that carry fewer passengers and are more spacious.
~ Décor is more glamorous yet subtle and include extensive art collections.
~ Staterooms range from inside cabins for up to 3-4 people and outside cabins with or without balconies. Suites usually include a number of amenities. Top of the line suites usually include
~ Entertainment include production shows that tend to be more elaborate and sophisticated and some offer gentlemen hosts on some sailings to dance with the single ladies upon request.
~ They include some of the traditional cruise activities, onboard lectures are common and have discussions about the ports of call that may include the history and cultural topics and shopping advice.
~ They also have spas and fully equipped gyms.
~ Dining is traditionally 2 seating. Casual alternative dining options are often available and some offer open seating at various specialty restaurants (some charge an additional cost) and some cruise lines have bistros as well. The quality and presentation of the cuisine is more upscale than the mainstream cruise lines.
~ Service is polished and unobtrusive.
~ Most offer children and teen programs, but are not as extensive as found on the mainstream cruise lines.
**Premium cruise lines attract families, single and groups. However, in general the average age ratio is higher on sailings that are longer than 7 to 10 days.
**Premium cruise lines include Celebrity,
Luxury Cruise Lines
Luxury vessels are exclusive and expensive, catering to those who enjoy champagne and caviar.
~Ships range from mega-yachts to mid size ships. Usually a limited number of passengers per sailing but the ship itself is very spacious.
~ Tasteful and elegant surroundings that may include those luxurious special touches, antiques and priceless art work.
~ Spacious staterooms that are often termed as suites. On the newer ships, suites feature ocean views or balconies. Special touches include fine linens and fresh flowers. Some lines include complimentary bar set ups and the top category of suites include
~ Offer enrichment programs with celebrity and scholarly guest speakers and culinary classes.
~ Evening entertainment varies by ship size, from cabaret to stylish production shows.
~ Spas and fully equipped health clubs are staffed with professionals.
~ Open seating is standard and guests may dine where and with whom they please during restaurant hours. Top Cordon Bleu Chefs lend their culinary expertise in designing menus and using the freshest ingredients. Complimentary wines accompany meals on most lines.
~ Luxury cruise lines are usually inappropriate for children and teens. However, during high travel season (school breaks, summer & holidays) some luxury lines do offer organized children activities.
**Ideal for singles, families and some groups who want to be pampered in luxury.
**Luxury cruise lines include
