An insider’s guide to finding your cruise style

Just like hotels, every cruise line has its own ways of winning over clientele. This means that depending on your own unique preferences the cruising experience can vary wildly from person to person.

Travellers are spoilt for choice when it comes to lines and itineraries, and it can often seem a little overwhelming. So to help you make the right decision we’ve put together an insider’s guide to finding your cruise style.

Are you all about onboard entertainment, celebrity inspired restaurants and value for money? Maybe you’re willing to pay for an exclusive atmosphere, or crave an intrepid experience?

Contemporary
Pioneered by lines with Carnival, Royal Caribbean and P&O, contemporary cruising is all about BIG experiences. With some ships capable of housing up to 5000 passengers, you’ll quite literally feel like you’re living on a floating resort. From skydiving simulators and wave machines to Broadway style shows and luxe day spas, onboard entertainment is endless. Plus, you’ll be treated to a huge range of itineraries and sailing dates which mean you can customise your holiday experience.

Premium
If you like the sound of contemporary cruising you’ll love the premium edition. These lines elevate cruising to the next level, with first-class amenities and an upscale environment. Ships generally fall within the medium to large scale which means they can visit both major ports and offbeat destinations. If you’re looking for a full frills experience lines like Azamara, Celebrity and Holland America pride themselves on boutique environment.

Small Ship
Smaller ships tend to come with exceptional service and an utter sense of exclusivity and cater to travellers who appreciate the finer things in life. If you have the budget for luxury, lines like Cunard, Silversea and Seabourn will cater to your every wish, want and whim. Itineraries are destination oriented and carefully curated which means you’ll go beyond the usual tourist trail. Boutique line Voyages to Antiquity sails exclusively to the Mediterranean and the Far East, with beautifully crafted itineraries that focus on history, culture and immersion. Crystal Cruises is another line synonymous with luxury, famous for its all-inclusive voyages and upmarket aesthetic. This calibre of cruising is a fantastic option for seasoned travellers and retirees in search of an international atmosphere.

Expedition
Whether you’re nostalgic for your backpacking days or have always harboured an adventurous streak, Expedition style cruising pushes the industry to its limit. Sailing to exotic destinations like the Galapagos Islands, Antarctica and Greenland, there’s a unique focus on dramatic scenery, wildlife encounters and cultural immersion. Ship amenities range from simple accommodations to ultra-luxurious suites which means you can pick and choose your level of comfort. Lines we love include Expedition Cruising, Celebrity Xpeditions and G Adventures.

River
If you’re the kind of traveller that likes to take things slow, river cruising will have you enamoured. Unlike ocean liners that are forced to dock at commercial ports, river vessels glide their way into the heart of a destination. They can also navigate their way to ‘off the beaten track’ destinations that larger ships could simply never visit. Passengers are usually capped at around 200 which means that whether you choose a budget conscious line like Travelmarvel or an ultra-luxurious experience with Uniworld, Scenic or APT, you’ll always enjoy an intimate atmosphere.

Family
Shining the spotlight firmly on fun, family cruise lines welcome little ones with open arms. Unsurprisingly, Disney Cruise Line takes the cake when it comes to family friendly itineraries. That said, other contemporary lines do a fantastic job of catering to the needs of families, with everything from kid’s clubs and pool parties to creche services and child-friendly menu options.