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The Ultimate Guide to the Best Cruise Lines
For
all of those seeking solstice and refuge on the high
seas, we've compiled an easy-to-browse Cruise Guide.
A brief description of each major cruise line, their
class ranking (chrome, silver or platinum) and a link
to their site make finding your perfect ship easier than
you ever imagined.
Carnival
Cruise Line
Self-dubbed
the "fun ship," Carnival is the largest cruise
line in the world, made up of 21 ships that host 3.3
million guests every year. Packed with plenty of on-board
amenities and activities, Carnival draws a crowd of
all ages, the majority ranging from 35-55.
Carnival Cruise Line Website.
Cruise
Rank: Chrome
Celebrity
Cruises
Upscale
and sophisticated style is what Celebrity brings to
the waters. With an emphasis on fine art, exquisite
cuisine and a pampered lifestyle, you'll find many travelers
looking for a taste of the good life. Celebrity draws
a more professional crowd, mostly middle age and older
couples, but offers a variety of cruises that welcome
all. Celebrity Cruises Website [UK Website]
Cruise
Rank: Silver
Costa Cruises
Europe's
largest cruise line, Costa Cruises offers a foreign
flair, predominantly Italian, to travelers from all
over. Guests enjoy this slightly themed line, which
emphasizes Italy's relaxed, playful atmosphere and long,
romantic evenings. Costa Cruises Website
Cruise
Rank: Chrome
Crystal
Cruises
With
a focus on extreme luxury, Crystal Cruises are known
world-wide for their steadfast attention to detail,
elegant features and anything-you-ask-for service. Winner
of several travel awards, including Travel and Leisure's "Worlds Best Cruise Line" award for several
years running. You'll find affluent couples make up
most of this line's guest list. Crystal Cruises Website
Cruise
Rank: Platinum
Cunard
Line
Cunard
marks many firsts in the history of cruise lines, including
the first company to make scheduled transatlantic cruises
available to the public in 1840. This company strives
to recreate the "golden age" of cruising -
and offers plenty luxurious perks along the way. Expect
superb service, fine accommodations and, of course,
afternoon tea on deck each day. Cunard Cruise Line Website
Cruise
Rank: Platinum
Disney
Cruise Line
This
family friendly cruise line welcomes guests of all ages
and offers a fun and playful atmosphere that encourages
interaction with all things Disney. With characters
walking the deck and Mickey-themed décor, Disney
captures the kid in all of us. One perk is the line's
exclusively-owned Caribbean island, Castaway Cay, that
offers beaches, water sports, hiking and even adult-only
areas for relaxation and seaside massages. Disney Cruise Line Website. Cruise
Rank: Chrome
Holland
America Line
Offering
the most variety of cruise destinations, Holland America
is a line that prides itself on a traditional and comfortable
atmosphere. From spacious accommodations to their famous
Holland Bread Pudding, this cruise line is a top choice
for families and couples. Holland America Website.
Cruise
Rank: Silver
Norwegian
Cruise Line
Known
for its lively atmosphere and abundance of activities
and on-board options, Norwegian is a staple choice for
active families and couples. Popular in the U.S., this
line offers plenty of entertainment and is increasing
in popularity due to it's "Freestyle Cruising" program - which frees travelers from many typical cruise
constraints. Norwegian Cruise Line Website
Cruise
Rank: Chrome
Oceania
Cruises
European
flair distinguishes Oceania Cruises from others. English
charm in a country-club atmosphere make this line an
ideal choice for middle age and up couples who long
for a relaxing week at sea. Fine dining, comfortable
accommodations and impeccable service are trademark. Oceania Cruises Website.
Cruise
Rank: Platinum
Princess
Cruises
Gourmet
meals, plenty of pampering and a relaxed and casual
atmosphere make Princess Cruises a good choice for anyone
who wants to "truly escape." Elegant and stylish
interiors, entertainment and the option of "Personal
Choice Cruising" add to the Princess appeal. Princess Cruise Line Website
Cruise
Rank: Silver
Radisson
Seven Seas Cruises
Elegance
and service are key on Radisson Seven Sea Cruises, which
cover most of the globe with their worldly cruises.
Passengers are primarily adults who are looking to enjoy
a luxury vacation complete with gourmet goods (perhaps
private cooking demonstrations with a top chef?), close
attention to detail and top-notch service. Radisson Seven Seas Website
Cruise
Rank: Platinum
Royal
Caribbean Cruise Line
If
choices are what you want, than Royal Caribbean is your
cruise. Lively entertainment, high-energy atmosphere
and an emphasis on fun make this ship well loved by
all. Families and couples alike enjoy large, spacious
staterooms and abundant dining options. Rock climbing
anyone? Royal Caribbean now offers that among ice skating,
shopping and anything else you can think of.
Royal Caribbean Website [UK Website].
Cruise
Rank: Chrome
Silversea
Cruises
Silversea
is known for setting the standard of elegance on a cruise
ship. All-suite ships are preferred by well-traveled
adults who enjoy an up-beat atmosphere. Cruises are
all inclusive and service is impeccable. This line visits
many ports of call and offers plenty of destination
options to an adult-preferred clientele.
Silversea Cruises Website.
Cruise
Rank: Platinum |
