Choosing A Cruise Line

Choosing the perfect cruise line for your first voyage can significantly enhance your travel experience. There are lines tailored to every type of traveler and budget. Start by considering the kind of cruise you desire—whether it’s a family-friendly adventure, a luxury getaway, or a budget-friendly option.

For families, lines like Carnival offer great value with fun activities for all ages, while Royal Caribbean has innovative ships with skydiving tunnels, bumper cars, and FlowRider surfing amenities. Virgin is an adult-only operator. Cunard and Holland America also lean toward adults.

But look beyond the overall cost; understanding what is included—like dining options, onboard activities, alcoholic drinks, and gratuities.

Additionally, look at the itineraries, because that may be the deciding factor in choosing the ship instead.

Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean International (RCI) is a premier cruise line known for its innovative ships. Founded in 1968, the company has pioneered numerous advancements in the cruise industry, including the introduction of the first ice-skating rink and surf simulator at sea.

With over two dozen ships, Royal Caribbean caters to multigenerational families from two to ninety-two. Passengers can enjoy a wealth of onboard activities, such as rock climbing, zip-lining, and Broadway-style entertainment. Some vessels have multi-bedroomed suites, accommodating up to nine guests. They also cater to solo passengers and have a “virtual balcony” interior cabin which live streams the views outside.

The line is also committed to sustainability, implementing initiatives to reduce its environmental impact. While RCI is the parent company, it also owns Celebrity Cruises and Silversea.

Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises caters to families but attracts mostly mature travelers who want comfort, good service, and a calm onboard atmosphere. Their “Medallion” technology is a first, replacing a cruise card with a round device that opens stateroom doors and acts as a credit card.

The line has a long history in Alaska, having sailed there for more than 50 years. It owns its own lodges and provides a cruise-to-land experience with its rail service.

Princess Cruises is renowned for its World itineraries of over 150+ days. They focus on scenic destinations, engaging shore excursions, and an experience suited to couples and older adults who enjoy relaxed travel.

Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises offers a modern, premium experience with stylish ships and a wide variety of destinations. They attract adults and couples who want comfort without formality.

Their focus on great dining, elegant design, and relaxed luxury sets them apart. Their suites offer exclusive dining in Blu and Luminae restaurants.

Choose Celebrity if you want an upscale cruise that feels refined, easygoing, and well-planned. They are the only line that offers cruises to the Galapagos Islands.

Holland America Line

Part of Carnival Corporation & plc, Holland America Line has a smaller fleet and caters to an older demographic. Their vessels have a timeless feel, with traditional decor, and are known for their artwork and music-themed venues.

They have offered Alaska itineraries for over 75 years, and their “Taste Alaska” cuisine is hard to beat. Some ships proudly declare, “We love Alaska.”

Like Princess, Holland America’s itineraries are diverse, from one-day itineraries to world cruises.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line pioneered its studio cabins for solo travelers. While small, these staterooms have access to a studio lounge on some vessels. They recently added solo interiors, oceanviews, and balcony cabins.

Their ships cater to families, with some having giant laser tag spaces and a go-kart track at sea. Entertainment is top-notch, with the Beatles Experience and the Jersey Boys Show.

Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Corporation owns Carnival Cruises, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, Costa Cruises, Seabourn Cruise Line, Cunard Line, AIDA Cruises, and P&O Cruises. Each line has a different feel.

Carnival Cruises is budget-friendly and well-suited for families. Its Seuss at Sea program is a hit with kids. Other great features include the Skyride, an overhead bicycle ride, the Skycourse (an overhead rope course), and Dreamscape. The latter is a 25-foot swirling LED screen in the Atrium that changes throughout the day.

They also pioneered the Havana Cabana cabins. Located on the Promenade Deck, these staterooms feature ample outdoor spaces with access to a private beach club.

Cunard

Cunard is the smallest line with just five vessels. Their vessels cater to those who like the tradition of dressing for dinner. They have a strict dress code and host gala nights during their voyages, during which men must wear tuxedos and women must wear ball gowns.

They have a strong focus on Transatlantic voyages, as their vessels are designed as ocean liners. Queen Mary 2 has 24 kennels, allowing cruise guests to bring along their dog or cat on a Transatlantic crossing for a fee.

Cunard offers a ship-within-a-ship experience with its Queens Grill and Princess Grill suites.