Mainstream Cruise Lines
A great choice for couples, families, singles, and first time cruisers looking for a lively and casual atmosphere focused on fun. With a huge variety of entertainment and educational options, these sailings offer significant bang for the buck, with fares typically ranging from around $50 - $125 per night. Ship sizes tend to be larger, decor brighter, and onboard dining and pool possibilities plentiful. Specialty restaurants, top-shelf drinks, and other services and excursions will cost extra.
Celebrity Cruises
Costa Cruise Lines
Carnival Cruise Lines
Disney Cruise Line
Holland America Line
MSC Cruises
Norwegian Cruise Line
Princess Cruises
Royal Caribbean
Premium Cruise Lines
Premium cruise lines cater to passengers seeking to explore the world comfortably. Respite from crowds not only in port but also on the ship is important for these lines, and most ships lower their capacities to allow for larger, more spacious cabins, and public spaces designed for easy-going socializing. Cuisine tends to be of a higher caliber, with perhaps some included regional wine pairings for refined palates. The average age is slightly older than mainstream cruises, and you can expect to pay roughly $125 - $350 per night.
Cunard
Oceania Cruises
Azamara Club Cruises
Hurtigruten Cruise Lines
Luxury Cruise Lines
With fares starting at $400 per night, luxury cruise lines attract a decidedly well-heeled, well-traveled demographic. Sky high standards mean passengers receive outstanding personalized service, exclusive itineraries to ports all over the world, world-class (occasionally Michelin-rated) cuisine, and luxurious and elegant accommodations. While the price is admittedly steep, most fares are all-inclusive, from onboard amenities to dining, drinks, and even gratuities. Sometimes prices also include flights and transfers, smoothing even the stress of travel. Ships tend to be smaller, more intimate, and finely decorated.