Looking for a unique vacation experience that combines the best parts of a resort, a destination vacation, and the serenity of the sea?
You should consider booking a cruise.
Cruises allow you to explore destinations across the globe while enjoying a wide range of amenities and activities while en route. Most popular cruise lines provide a diverse assortment of activities, entertainment and dining options to suit everyone in your party.
What to Consider When Booking a Cruise
Before booking a trip, consider whether the cruise line you’re looking at meets your needs and preferences by looking for the following details:
- Destination: Different cruise lines specialize in different regions. Consider where you want to visit and choose a line with itineraries in that area.
- Budget: Cruise prices vary widely, both in terms of base cost and add-ons. Some lines cater to luxury travelers, while others offer vacations for the budget conscious. Also, consider whether you are willing to pay only for a basic package, if you’re willing to pay for additional fees for add-ons, or if you’d rather pay a lump sum for an all-inclusive experience.
- Ship size and style: Ships range from small, intimate vessels to large, resort-style ships. Consider whether you prefer a more exclusive experience or if you prioritize lots of onboard features.
- Onboard amenities: Look at the amenities and specialty areas offered by each cruise line, such as pools, spas, fitness centers, and children’s spaces.
- Dining options: Have dietary restrictions? Want to eat a certain cuisine? When reviewing dining options, look for menus, accommodations, and dining hours.
- Entertainment: Consider the ages and interests of all passengers to ensure you book the perfect cruise. Some lines cater primarily to children or families, with several activities and fun zones. Others are exclusive to adults and may have easier access to their ships’ bars and casinos.
- Cruise insurance: Vacations are an investment, and it’s good to protect that investment with travel insurance. For cruises especially, there is no such thing as a late start; if, for example, your flight is delayed, it’s possible you’ll miss the cruise entirely. Cruise travel insurance can protect you in the event of unfortunate circumstances like travel delays, canceled trips, and lost or delayed luggage.
Popular Cruise Lines for Every Type of Vacation
The most popular cruise lines are favored for a reason. Whether they provide a premium luxury experience or feature beloved characters, cruises offer a vacation unlike any other.
Here are some of the most popular cruise companies:
Carnival Cruise Line: Lively, family-friendly, lots of activities
Carnival Cruise Line is known for its affordable pricing and value-packed cruise packages, making it accessible to a wide range of travelers. With competitive rates and frequent promotions, Carnival offers an affordable option for those looking to enjoy a cruise vacation without breaking the bank. It’s one of the world’s largest and most popular cruise lines, a favorite among families, young adults, and groups looking for a lively vacation experience.
Celebrity Cruises: Upscale, sophisticated, romantic
Celebrity Cruises offers upscale experiences with modern amenities and elegant surroundings. Its ships feature contemporary decor, spacious accommodations, and a refined ambiance that appeals to discerning travelers. Known for its modern luxury ships, gourmet dining, and personalized service, Celebrity is favored by couples, honeymooners, and mature travelers.
Cunard Line: Luxurious, refined, iconic
Cunard Line has a storied legacy dating back to the 19th century, with a reputation for elegance, sophistication, and world-class service. Founded in 1839, Cunard offers traditional destination-focused trips as well as transatlantic crossings and world cruises aboard its iconic Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria, and Queen Elizabeth ships. The line is popular among travelers seeking a refined and elegant cruise experience. Their ships feature grand ballrooms, traditional afternoon tea, and formal evenings, providing a romantic setting reminiscent of a bygone era.
Disney Cruise Line: Themed, kid-friendly, a favorite among fans
Disney Cruise Line offers family-friendly cruises with Disney-themed entertainment, character experiences, and activities for all ages. While popular among families with young children, Disney cruises also offer adult-only areas and experiences for couples, such as unique excursions in destinations like Castaway Cay. Disney Cruise Line also offers themed sailings throughout the year, including holiday cruises, Marvel Day at Sea, Star Wars Day at Sea, and Pixar-themed cruises.
Holland America Line: Classic, immersive, traditional
Holland America Line offers premium cruises with a focus on traditional cruising traditions, fine dining, and enriching onboard experiences. It’s popular among mature travelers and those seeking a refined atmosphere.
Princess Cruises: Classic, personalized, family-friendly
Princess Cruises offers a classic cruising experience with a touch of elegance and sophistication. Its ships feature traditional maritime decor and spacious public areas. Known for its excellent service, gourmet dining, and enrichment programs, Princess appeals to couples, families, and mature travelers.
Norwegian Cruise Line: Flexible, entertaining, variety
Norwegian Cruise Line is known for its “Freestyle Cruising” concept, which offers flexibility and freedom in dining, entertainment, and activities. NCL ships feature diverse dining options without fixed hours or seating arrangements, Broadway-style shows, and a variety of cabin choices. From large, resort-style ships to smaller, more intimate vessels, NCL’s fleet caters to different preferences and travel styles.
Windstar Cruises: Boutique, romantic, intimate
Windstar specializes in small ship cruises with a romantic atmosphere. Their sailings often feature intimate settings, gourmet dining, and personalized service. With a capacity of 148 to 342 guests, Windstar’s ships provide a sense of camaraderie and exclusivity. These ships offer a unique way to explore coastal destinations and remote ports of call, with the ability to visit smaller harbors and anchorages inaccessible to larger ships.
Stay Prepared for Your Cruise Vacation
Purchasing travel insurance, especially for a cruise, offers several benefits that can provide peace of mind and financial protection throughout your journey, including coverage for cancellations, medical emergencies, delays, luggage, and more. A cruise insurance policy can offer you the financial protection you need during your cruise vacation.