types of cruise itinerary

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17 bucket list cruise itineraries.

Take a once-in-a-lifetime trip to world-class destinations around the globe.

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Soak up unforgettable scenery and experiences on an epic voyage.

Sail from Paris to Normandy, France.

Embark on a voyage across Africa.

Admire tulips and windmills in Holland and Belgium.

Explore Alsace, France.

Take a trans-Atlantic crossing.

Explore the best of Northern Europe.

Take a glamorous voyage to Monaco.

Cruise through the Cyclades islands.

Experience the South Pacific.

Discover Southeast Asia.

Explore Seychelles, the Maldives and Sri Lanka.

Visit Antarctica, South Georgia and the Falkland Islands.

Embark on an around-the-world cruise.

Sail through the Panama Canal.

Cruise from New York to Montreal in the fall.

Embrace the Last Frontier.

Explore America's heartland.

Bucket List Cruise Itineraries

• Paris to Normandy, France
• Tulip season: Holland and Belgium
• Alsace, France
• Trans-Atlantic crossing
• Northern Europe
• Cyclades islands, Greece
• South Pacific
• Southeast Asia
• Seychelles, Maldives, Sri Lanka
• Antarctica, South Georgia, Falkland Islands
• Around-the-world cruise
• Panama Canal
• Autumn: New York to Montreal
• America's heartland

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What are the types of cruise itinerary?

Planning your next cruise trip? Read on to discover the best cruise itineraries for a great cruise experience.

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A suitable cruise itinerary offers convenient connections, affordable prices, and destinations as per your preferences. It would allow you to explore the world in the best way possible. The reputed cruise lines around the globe are known for offering various itineraries that stop at exotic islands, towns, and breathtaking natural wonders. There are distinct types of cruise itineraries designed by the cruise lines. These focus on the seasonality of demands and meeting the needs of various passengers. While choosing an itinerary , several factors must be considered. You can consider three main cruise itinerary types: Perennial, Seasonal, and Repositioning. 

Different Cruise Itineraries Available to You:

1. perennial:.

This cruise itinerary is suitable for destinations with relatively persistent weather conditions. Perennial cruise itineraries usually have a stable demand around the year. The Mediterranean and the Caribbean are two of the most known perennial cruise itineraries.

2. Seasonal:

Seasonal cruise itineraries are only available during specific seasons or months. These cruise itineraries allow you to experience seasonal activities, cuisines, and other authentic factors of a place. The Baltic, Alaska, and Norwegian cruises provide the most renowned seasonal cruise itineraries.

3. Repositioning:

This type of cruise itinerary involves one-way sailings that take the ship to various parts of the world. Repositioning cruises cross multiple oceans and countries throughout their voyage. The itineraries would allow you to enjoy extended days of cruising that are generally longer than a week. Transatlantic and transpacific cruises are two of the known repositioning cruises. 

Things Must Be Considered while Choosing a Cruise Itinerary:

1. based on the cruise length:.

The duration of cruise itineraries can range from weeks to even months. If you can afford a few day’s vacation, then it is necessary to choose a short cruise itinerary . Cruise itineraries to the Caribbean and the Bahamas are usually short and can be completed in a week. Long cruise itineraries would allow you to explore multiple places in one trip. Such cruises usually have a robust itinerary with ample days at the sea. 

2. Based on the embarkation port:

You must also consider the embarkation port while selecting a cruise itinerary. If the embarkation port for a particular itinerary is nearby, you can reach there by road or even find accommodation to reach the port a day earlier. You can also take a flight to the embarkation port for your cruise. In this case, the budget for your cruise may change due to added airfare.

3. Based on the nature of the vacation you want:

Choosing a cruise itinerary may also depend on your desired vacation type. You need to decide what type of cruise you want to travel on family-friendly, expedition, enrichment, or couples-only. By deciding this, you can comfortably enjoy the cruise amenities, including shore excursions, onboard activities, and entertainment options.

4. Based on the type of cruise ship:

Deciding on the type of cruise ship you want to travel on is necessary. While traveling on mega ships, you can find many onboard activities, dining, and entertainment options. Small ships, yachts, and river ships carry about 1,000 passengers. Such cruises would allow you to experience a quiet voyage with limited passengers. Expedition cruises are equipped for visiting rugged areas like the Arctic and Antarctica. You’ll find an onboard expedition team who will guide you on shore excursions.

5. Based on your budget:

While looking for a suitable cruise itinerary , it is necessary to find a budget-friendly option. Several cruise itineraries allow you to experience a range of amenities at little additional cost. Look for facilities that would cost an extra amount apart from your cruise fee.

Also Read:  Your Ultimate Guide on How to Choose a Cruise Itinerary

Conclusion:

An ideal cruise itinerary would offer you many amenities and an opportunity to explore your dream destinations. Whether you want to go on a perennial, seasonal, or repository cruise, it is important to choose your itinerary wisely. The cruise length, embarkation port, nature of vacation, cruise ship, and budget are some factors to be considered when choosing a cruise itinerary. Cruise lines like the Royal Caribbean , Norwegian , Celebrity , and Carnival offer some of the best pocket-friendly cruise itineraries. To book your next cruise itinerary, visit cruisebooking.com. 

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• Choosing the Perfect Cruise Itinerary

Choosing an itinerary can be a daunting task at the best of times. You can be left scratching your head at the amount of choice that you have and which type of cruise would be best for you. The volume of choice can almost be a bad thing as you simply can’t make any decisions.

There are steps you can take though, to make your life easier. In this article we will guide you through the process and enable you to have a clear idea about exactly what cruise itinerary is right for you. Before you know it, you’ll be sailing off to some of the best destinations in the world. 

Why is planning a cruise so complicated?

What does choosing a cruise itinerary entail, river cruises are also a fun option, how can i decide if there are still too many options, enjoy the cruise itinerary search.

There are many questions that you need to consider before you book your cruise and it’s important to get answers to these in order to prevent any mistakes. A lot of people get frustrated as they are not sure what they need to take into account. This can be even worse for novice cruisers. 

The number of people going on your cruise is a vital consideration as this can affect the types of cruises that you can board. If you are taking children, for example, then you need to know which cruise lines are suitable for younger passengers. 

Your budget is always going to be a key factor in deciding your cruise itinerary and you need to ask yourself how much luxury you want, how long you want to travel for and on what type of carrier. Answering these questions will help to narrow down your options and allow you to have a clearer picture of your ideal schedule. 

After you have answered those questions then there are also other questions such as whether or not you have a favorite  cruise line , what type of shore excursions you would prefer to be on and what type of activities you want to do aboard your ship.

As we can see here, trying to match the type of cruise that you want along with the destinations that you prefer to see can present some difficulties. Answering these initial questions will help get you started and once you’ve finished reading this you’ll have a clear idea on how to choose a cruise itinerary that is perfect for you.

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In choosing a cruise itinerary there are different factors that you need to take into account. Choosing the right cruise destinations for you can be difficult enough but sometimes you might be restricted by your budget, your embarkation port and the dates you can travel. 

There are standard routes that a lot of cruises will take as they know that these are favorites among frequent cruisers. For a lot of passengers this will give them an easy selection as they will choose a small region to travel rather than caring about specific islands or destinations.

For longer cruises though there might be some variants on these well-known routes. This will add a greater number of destinations to your cruise and allow you to see a wide variety of different places that you’ve never seen before. 

For more experienced cruisers, choosing the right itinerary can even be more difficult as you don’t want to repeatedly go to the same destinations that you have been to before. This is why cruise companies will alter their routes to prevent them from becoming stale. Therefore, you should check out which  new cruise itineraries  have been added by the cruise lines. 

In order to choose the best itinerary for you, you need to know where you can depart from, which area you want to visit and see which destinations are offered. Different cruises offer different things, even in a very similar area and here we will break it down for you.

Where is your nearest embarkation port?

Very few people are fortunate to live close to a port that supports cruise ships and for the vast majority of passengers this means an initial period of travel before you can set off on your cruise. There are only a handful of ports that are situated in North America . 

There are numerous departure points dotted around the coasts of the USA and Canada and there is plenty of choice for those that live relatively close to the sea. There are also embarkation ports in other parts of the US, namely Hawaii, Puerto Rico and US Virgin Islands.

While these may be great for some people, they can still present a lot of difficulties for others. If you live anywhere central then all of these ports are going to be an option as it will take a considerable amount of travel to get there. 

Starting your cruise abroad

It’s also worth pointing out that you don’t have to stay in the country you’re in to set sail on your cruise. There are many great itineraries available that start in the western Caribbean, for example, where you can fly out to a beautiful destination then head off on your cruise from there. You shouldn’t feel restricted to just using the port closest to you.  

Travel to the cruise port

Once you’ve chosen your embarkation point then you are going to have to work out how to get there. The first question you will have to ask yourself is if you are going to drive to your port or whether you are going to fly.

For cruisers that live far away, this is not going to be much of a question as whether or not you should fly there. For those that don’t mind driving, you have to consider fuel and toll charges as well as parking fees, in addition to finding a secure parking lot or garage where you can be confident in leaving your vehicle for the duration of your cruise. 

For a lot of passengers, they will either fly to an airport then go straight to the cruise port or stay in a hotel the night before, to make sure that they can get there in time. Choosing how best to get to your port also requires some forward planning as you want to make sure that you get there without any mishaps.

Some cruise companies will host a shuttle from a hotel to the embarkation port, or you also have the chance to get a taxi to ensure that you get there on time. If you’re traveling directly from the airport then you also have the option of getting a taxi or you could also look for public transport, which can be a bit more inconvenient and riskier. 

Pick your ideal cruise destination

When it comes to your cruise, choosing the right cruise destination is going to be vital as you want to make sure that you are catering to your needs and what you want to see. There are many great destinations out there to visit.

It’s important to know whether or not you want the most relaxing cruise possible or whether you’d prefer to have something a little more adventurous. This could involve a cruise including visiting exquisite countries such as Antarctica or Alaska, or you might want to scuba dive in Mexico or hike in the luscious hills of St. Lucia overlooking the magnificent Caribbean Sea. 

The company you use is also going to be important. If you have young children then you might not wish to go to more exotic destinations and instead might prefer to stay closer to the North American coast and use a child-friendly ship with fun themes for your little cruisers.

If you are more interested in sampling different cultures and exploring history, then heading off to Europe or Asia might give you memories that you will never forget, with incredible shore excursions. It all depends on where your interests lie and how you want to spend your time. 

Intermediate ports of call

In addition to amazing cruise destinations there are also intermediate ports of call that you are going to be visiting along your journey too. These offer a huge variety of unique experiences and can give you the opportunity to visit a destination several times - each time from a different perspective.

If you wanted to really explore a destination then looking for a cruise that offers overnight stays would allow you to have more time to take in more landmarks. This can take the stress out of constant clock watching and wondering when you have to be back on the ship.

Also, visiting destinations with large ports generally means that you don’t have to venture too far to immerse yourself in the new the culture and way of life there. Smaller ports often require transfers in order to get to where you want to go.

Choose your optimal cruise dates

The date that you are planning on heading off on your cruise vacation is important and choosing the right time to cruise depends on where you are going and taking in other factors such as temperature and also your budget too.

If you want to cruise when it is a regions off-season then there is a good chance that you are going to get a cheaper deal than you otherwise would. If you have a set budget, then this means that you might be able to take a longer cruise and see more destinations, but there are dangers such as hurricanes on a Caribbean cruise as well as monsoons among other natural climate related phenomena common in certain regions.

If you want to see a destination in peak season then it’s important to check exactly when that is so you can make the most of your trip. Booking your cruise early or getting a last minute deal can also give you great savings and allow you to get more out of your cruise.

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Select a cruise duration that suits you

The number of days at sea is going to have a large impact on the distance the cruise ship is going to be able to cover and the type of destinations that will be available to you. This could be the difference between having a North American tour and getting to see Europe.

How much you can get out of your cruise duration can depend on a few factors such as the type of cruise lines that operate from your embarkation point. Sometimes it’s worth going further afield to get the specific cruise that you are looking for.

If you intend on only going away for a week, then you are still going to be able to find a great range of destination options. If it is only going to be a matter of a few days with a short cruise then you are going to be a lot more restricted and you might have to look deeper in order to get the itinerary that you want.

The traditional type of cruise isn’t your only option if you want a relaxing break away on the water. There are some great options in North America as well as a whole host of great river cruises that are available throughout Europe.

The Mississippi has a lot of great cruise options in various parts of its length and there are also fantastic river cruises in the likes of New York, Alaska, Florida, Minnesota and many more. The European options also enable you to sample a lot of history and culture.

River cruise ships won’t be as large as ocean liners but they can still offer a great amount of luxury. You’ll still be able to enjoy a similar experience as with bigger liners, just in a smaller ship environment, which some cruisers might prefer.

Even with all this information it can be hard to make up your mind. The great aspect of having all these brilliant cruise companies is that there are plenty of destinations, ships and duration to choose from to allow you to select your perfect cruise vacation.

A lot of the times you’ll see a great cruise only to find out that it doesn’t quite fit in with your budget. A great idea is to  set up Cruisewatch alerts  with your budget in mind so that any alerts you receive are affordable to you.

Clearly there many aspects to think about when choosing the right cruise itinerary for you. If you consider all the points that we have looked at here then you are instantly going to be able to rule out a lot of itineraries that aren’t right for you.

That will leave you with a pool of options to choose from which is going to be a lot less confusing and will allow you to think with a lot more clarity. This will help you to enjoy the experience of choosing the best cruise itinerary for you that will meet your vacation expectations.

Check out these articles for more information on planning your cruise:

• Choosing the Best Cruise Destination
• Choosing the Right Cruise Line
• Choosing the right time to book your cruise

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10 Types of Cruises You Must Experience at Least Once

Last updated: August 14th, 2023

• Find a Cruise

From breathtaking sailings around Alaska to fun-filled, island-hopping journeys in the Caribbean, there are dozens of unforgettable types of cruises you should experience at least once.

With itineraries that visit tropical beaches, charming towns, and natural wonders—sometimes all in the same trip—cruising offers a unique vacation that often can’t be experienced any other way. Sit back and relax while all of the details—meals, accommodations, activities, and entertainment—are all taken care of for you.

If you’re looking for inspiration for your next awe-inspiring vacation, here are 10 of the best types of cruises to consider.

Weekend Cruise

Nassau, Bahamas

Even if you don’t have a lot of vacation days in your calendar, you can still experience the thrill of a cruise over the weekend. Typically departing from Fort Lauderdale and Miami, Florida, weekend cruises to the Bahamas make for the perfect escape.

Departing either Friday or Saturday afternoon, these short cruises to the Bahamas allow you to enjoy two nights of fun and entertainment on board and an entire sun-filled day in Nassau, where your ship will be docked from early in the morning until the late afternoon.

Browse Bahamas Cruise from Miami

Pearl Island in Nassau, Bahamas

On a cruise to Nassau , you can easily spend the day on a lounge chair while admiring the turquoise ocean and white sand in front of you as you sip a tropical cocktail.

If you’re looking for a more adventurous experience, dive into the ocean and go scuba diving or snorkeling near Nassau , where there are dozens of coral reefs and underwater treasures to explore. Paddle around Cable Beach’s gentle shores, where you can swim with sea turtles, starfish, and colorful schools of fish, or head to the waters of Green Turtle Cay, where you’ll find excellent visibility and easy swimming conditions.

Atlantis Resort in Nassau, Bahamas

If you’re traveling with family, one of the most exciting things to do during a Fort Lauderdale or Miami to Nassau cruise is to spend the day at the Atlantis Resort. Kids can experience the thrill of going down a seven-story water slide, relaxing on the river rapids, or swimming in one of the eleven pools at the hotel.

Blue Lagoon Island in Nassau, Bahamas

Get up close to local marine life at Blue Lagoon Island and sign up for a once-in-a-lifetime swim with dolphins. You’ll learn all about these friendly animals as you play and splash with them in the water, and later cool down under a shady palm tree or cozy hammock by the shore.

You’ll have another night to explore all of the venues and amenities on board the ship before disembarking early on either Sunday or Monday morning, just in time to go back to work and show off your new tan. A weekend cruise is one of the most fun cruises you’ll ever experience.

Read: Why Cruises Are the Best Family Vacation

Fjords Cruise

Experience the magic of sailing through one of Mother Nature’s most spectacular wonders on a fjords cruise. There’s nothing like cruising down these ancient inlets of water, where you’ll be surrounded by towering mountains, cascading waterfalls, and breathtaking scenery.

There are a few different destinations where you can experience the beauty of sailing through fjords. One of the best things to do on New Zealand’s South Island is to visit the massive wonderland known as Fiordland National Park, where you’ll sail past soaring waterfalls, craggy cliffs, and lush rainforests.

Milford Sound, New Zealand

During a New Zealand fjords cruise, you’ll sail down Milford Sound, one of the country’s most popular destinations and part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its landscapes are so beautiful, it was once described as “the eighth wonder of the world” by the author of the Jungle Book, Rudyard Kipling.

Most New Zealand cruises also sail through Dusky Sound, one of the country’s largest fjords, and Doubtful Sound, a serene and untouched oasis that is often described as “the sound of silence” because of its peaceful atmosphere.

Geiranger, Norway

In Europe, sail across the unforgettable landscapes of the Norwegian fjords and encounter picturesque seaside towns and villages throughout your journey. Venture into Nærøyfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a jaw-dropping wonder full of snowy hills, waterside farms, and cascading waterfalls.

In Stavanger , you’ll have the chance to explore Lysefjord, where there’s plenty of outdoor adventures to be experienced. When you visit Geiranger, you’ll sail down Geirangerfjord’s emerald green waters, where you can spot the famous Seven Sisters waterfalls.

All the way down in the Southern Hemisphere, you can also board a cruise around the Chilean fjords and see mammoth glaciers, panoramic lakes and mountains, and an abundance of marine wildlife as you make your way across the Strait of Magellan and Tierra del Fuego.

Repositioning Cruise

Celebrity Edge

For a truly memorable journey at sea, consider going on a transatlantic or transpacific cruise. These types of cruises, also known as repositioning cruises , offer longer itineraries that spend several consecutive days at sea.

Read: What Is a Transatlantic Cruise?

Relive the glamour of taking a journey across the ocean on a cruise to Europe from USA or South America to Europe (or vice versa). Embark from cosmopolitan cities like Rome, Lisbon, Boston, and Barcelona, and stop in exotic destinations like the Canary Islands or the Azores on your way to your disembarkation port.

Transpacific cruise itineraries are just as exciting. Set sail from British Columbia or Hawaii towards Japan or Australia (or vice versa) and sail for over two weeks on an unforgettable journey across the world. Along the way, you’ll stop in gorgeous beach destinations such as Bora Bora and Moorea in French Polynesia; Sapporo in Japan; and the Bay of Islands in New Zealand.

Pool on Celebrity Edge

During these lengthier journeys, spend serene days at sea and experience all of the amenities and entertainment on board, including world-class dining, dazzling music and dance performances, gorgeous outdoor areas, and restorative treatments at the onboard spa.

Read: What Is a Repositioning Cruise?

Anniversary Cruise

What better way to celebrate your love than with an anniversary cruise vacation ?

Rhodes, Greece

On one of the best cruises for couples , sail off to romantic destinations that you’ve always wanted to visit together. Explore the gorgeous island of Hawaii, the charming seaside cities of the Mediterranean, the rugged beauty of Alaska, or the tropical allure of the Caribbean.

Go on thrilling shore excursions like diving into the Caribbean Sea for a snorkeling session, kayaking in Alaska near icebergs, or whale watching in California. If you’re looking for more laidback activities, you can also go on walking tours through dazzling European towns and cities, take a couple’s cooking class, or simply spend a lazy day by the sparking ocean in the Bahamas.

On board, there are plenty of ways to relax and reconnect. Book a couple’s massage at the spa, make a reservation at one of the specialty restaurants, and catch a Broadway-level music or dance show at the state-of-the-art theater.

For a truly unforgettable romantic getaway , arrange to have a vow renewal ceremony officiated by the ship’s captain on board. Allow an events specialist to take care of all the details of your special day, including flowers, cake, and photography.

Read: Cruises vs Resorts: Which Is Best?

Fall Foliage Cruise

Acadia National Park in Bar Harbor, Maine

Experience the beauty of the changing of the seasons while on a fall foliage cruise to New England and Canada.

Fall foliage cruises set sail in late September and early October, allowing you to witness the gorgeous hues of autumn and take endless photos against the stunning scenery of rich reds, burnt oranges, and mustard yellows that you’ll see throughout your vacation.

Along with the stunning seasonal landscapes, you’ll visit a number of interesting cities brimming with historic and cultural treasures. Discover America’s revolutionary during a day in Boston , where you can visit historic landmarks and former battlefields. Sample local lobster in Portland, Maine, and discover the vast beauty of Acadia National Park in Bar Harbor.

Read: Fun Things to Do in Maine With Kids

Chateau Frontenac, Old Quebec City

In Canada, admire the picturesque countryside in Nova Scotia , brush up on your French skills in Quebec City, and fall in love with the seaside cliffs of Charlottetown in Prince Edward Island.

Holiday Cruise

Celebrate the holidays aboard a cruise ship and make memories that will last a lifetime. On holiday cruises , relish in the festive spirit of the season and enjoy the decorations, songs, and food that make the holidays so special—without having to do any of the planning.

On a Christmas cruise , feast on traditional holiday meals, watch holiday-themed shows at the theater, and sing along with carolers. Young ones will even have the chance to meet Santa, who makes a special appearance and hands out gifts to kids.

Celebrate Hanukkah on board with a traditional menorah lighting ceremony, fun Hanukkah-themed crafts for kids, and traditional foods.

Read: Incredible Places to Spend Christmas on the Beach

New Year’s Eve party on Celebrity

Ring in the New Year in style at a New Year’s Eve party on board, where you’ll count down to midnight with fun holiday favors and complimentary champagne.

Read: Best 5-Day Cruises

Additional holiday cruises include Halloween, when you can dress up for a costume party and kids can enjoy trick or treating; Thanksgiving, when you can eat a traditional turkey dinner without the dishes; and Valentine’s Day for all the sweethearts on board.

Read: Thanksgiving Cruises From Florida

Glacier Cruise

Witness the majesty of towering glaciers and sparkling icebergs from up close during a glacier cruise. These natural wonders can be traced back to the Ice Age and remain one of the most exciting things to see while on a cruise around Alaska or Antarctica.

Hubbard Glacier, Alaska

During a trip to the Last Frontier, you could visit glaciers like Hubbard Glacier or Dawes Glacier. Hubbard Glacier is one of the most popular glaciers in Alaska . Roughly 76 miles long, the largest tidewater glacier in North America, nicknamed the “Galloping Glacier,” advances at a rapid pace each year. On a cruise through Endicott Arm to Dawes Glacier, you’ll marvel at its magnificent calving displays, where large chunks of ice plummet into the waters below.

Read: Hubbard Glacier vs. Glacier Bay vs. Endicott Arm & Dawes Glacier

Petzval Glacier, Antarctica

You’ll also have the chance to see glaciers on a cruise to Antarctica . This once-in-a-lifetime vacation begins in Buenos Aires, Argentina, a cosmopolitan city full of romance and history. Then you’re off to the ends of the earth, where you’ll encounter exciting marine wildlife including humpback whales and elephants seals, snow-capped mountains, frozen bays, and Petzval Glacier, one of the most beautiful glaciers in the region.

Panama Canal Cruise

Experience the wonder of sailing through the Panama Canal, the engineering marvel that connects the Pacific and the Atlantic Ocean. Panama Canal cruises depart from either Florida or California and venture to tropical ports of call in Central and South America along the journey.

Not only will you travel through the famous locks of the Panama Canal, you’ll also experience some of the best places to visit in Central America , including the lush rainforests of Costa Rica and ancient Mayan ruins in Guatemala.

Read: Tips for Visiting the Panama Canal

Tropical Cruise

George Town, Grand Cayman

A tropical escape is one of the most relaxing and reinvigorating vacations you can go on. Explore some of the best beaches in the Caribbean on itineraries that visit Cozumel and Grand Cayman; the Eastern islands of Puerto Rico, St. Maarten, and St. Kitts; and the ABC Islands of the Southern Caribbean.

Oahu, Hawaii

In Hawaii , explore the lush green mountains, endless waterfalls, and striking volcanos that populate the islands of Oahu, Maui, and the Big Island. While in the South Pacific, venture off to exotic destinations like Tahiti, More, and Bora Bora in French Polynesia and the Bay of Islands in New Zealand.

Read: Best Things to Do in Bora Bora

Treat yourself to a one-of-a-kind vacation by splurging on a stay at The Retreat , our all-inclusive luxury vacation experience, where we make sure you’ll never have to lift a finger during your cruise.

Make yourself at home in one of The Retreat’s breathtaking suites that feature expansive views of the ocean, cashmere mattresses, modern design, and spacious verandas that allow you to breathe in the fresh sea air and watch the ocean go by.

During this indulgent VIP cruise , you’ll have exclusive access to Luminae, The Retreat’s private restaurant, which has an elegant setting and menu options not found anywhere else on board.

On available ships, you’ll also be able to lounge by the pool at The Retreat Sundeck, an outdoor sanctuary where attendants are ready to help you with fresh towels, refreshing beverages, and snacks.

Retreat Sundeck

Indoors, head to The Retreat Lounge, a private oasis where you can snack on gourmet bites, sip on complimentary beverages, and unwind in style while a personalized concierge assists you with any of your needs on board or off, such as dinner reservations, shore excursions, and more.

Are you ready to go on one of these unforgettable types of cruises? Book your next once-in-a-lifetime vacation on CelebrityCruises.com .

Related Itineraries

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• 5 nights ON CELEBRITY SUMMIT
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Eastern Caribbean

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• DEPARTING FROM FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA
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Ultimate Southern Caribbean

• 10 nights ON CELEBRITY EQUINOX
• Starting from $2397 USD

Southern Caribbean

• 11 nights ON CELEBRITY BEYOND
• Starting from $2792 USD
• 10 nights ON CELEBRITY BEYOND
• Starting from $2951 USD

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A Bermuda cruise showcases what Bermuda is best known for. Pink coral beaches, colonial British culture, world class golf, spectacular diving and warm crystal waters to name a few. The shopping in Bermuda is world class and a cruise to Bermuda will leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated with memories that will last forever.

Enjoy the tranquility of the Caribbean on a Caribbean cruise. Visit many islands, explore many cultures and relax on the warm beaches surrounded by turquoise waters. Adventure abounds with opportunities to snorkel, swim with the dolphins, take a zip line tour, go boating or enjoy many great deals while shopping.

Cruises to Cuba offer first-hand experiences in its fascinating legacy, rich history and vibrant culture. E explore Havana and learn about its history as you view its classic architecture, museum, rhythmic island music and people.

A Mexican cruise offers a wonderful vacation filled with white sand beaches, lively music, and water sports galore. Meander through wonderful markets, climb the pyramids and learn about Mexico's history and ancient civilizations. Whatever the ports, a cruise to Mexico will be filled with rich experiences, relaxing days and fun in the sun!

Alaska Cruises and CruiseTours

Taking an Alaska cruise is the experience of a lifetime. The people, the places and the beauty is like no other place on earth. Dramatic fjords, breathtaking glaciers and abundant wildlife surround you as you cruise majestic Alaska. Its fascinating history and multi-cultural heritage offers a piece of America that will be remembered forever.

Explore Alaska on an Alaska CruiseTour and experience some the Alaska's off the beaten track treasures. Travel by domed rail cars as you visit the interior wilderness sights of Denali, the Klondike and the Yukon. Expand your cruise experience with an Alaska CruiseTour and get a bird's eye view of Alaska's unsurpassed beauty.

U.S. and Canada Cruises

A cruise to Canada and New England is filled with the history and character that created a nation. Walk the streets where American forefathers walked. Venture into small towns as you discover New England and meander through the streets of Montreal and experience the French Canadian culture as you cruise to Canada and New England.

Explore the enchanting cities of the US Pacific coast and Canada. Visit Vancouver and see the sights of Seattle. Head further south to California, view the dramatic pacific coast, visit the romantic wine country, Big Sur and the amazing city of San Francisco.

Away from the hustle of big cities taking a US river cruise on one our nations many rivers lets you travel into the heart of towns and cities that dot the US and Canada. Cruise on the famous Great Lakes, down the Mississippi or down the Columbia River. Taking a North American river cruise a wonderful relaxing and enlightening experience.

The Great Lakes are the largest group of freshwater lakes on Earth and on a Great Lakes cruise you can explore their natural beauty.

Short Getaway Cruises

Are you looking for something new to do with your friends or co-workers? Need a place to go for a girls/guys night out? Overnight cruises are a great option. Come aboard and experience all that cruising has to offer. Enjoy great dining, exciting entertainment and a chance to be pampered.

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Panama Canal Cruises

Experience the wonders of a Panama Canal cruise as you sail from the Caribbean Sea to the Pacific Ocean while enjoying all of the ports along the way including stops in the Caribbean, Mexico and Central America. Traverse the actual Panama Canal and watch as your ships transits the colossal set of locks-an absolute wonder!

River Cruises

A River Cruise offers a unique cruise experience. Your ship is your home away from home that will take you past exciting cities, quaint villages and beautiful landscapes. One of the best things about a river cruise is that they dock right in the heart of each city that is visited putting you in the center of it all. Most river cruises offer a complimentary excursion in each port.

Europe Cruises

A European cruise is an ideal way to become immersed in some of the world's most fascinating history, art, architecture, and diverse cultures. A cruise to Europe offers a blend of the old and the new along with a chance to explore quaint villages, dine on regional specialties and partake in some of the world's best shopping.

Cruising has been a way of life in northern Europe since the days of the Vikings. What better way to experience some of the worlds most beautiful fjords, learn first hand about both ancient and modern history and experience the different cultures that make up the Scandinavia and Baltic regions.

A Mediterranean cruise showcases the best of Europe's many cities and highlights the great architecture, fascinating history, and beautiful landscapes and beaches of southern Europe. Visit cities and villages and learn about the different cultures that make the Mediterranean region so special and unique.

Hawaii and South Pacific Cruises

Hawaii cruises offer the opportunity to visit all of Hawaii in one leisurely and relaxing vacation. Explore some of the world's most beautiful beaches, snorkel of scuba in paradise, climb to the top of a volcano or golf on some of the greatest championship courses. There is no better way to see Hawaii than on a cruise.

A Tahiti cruise will take you on a romantic journey to some of the most unspoiled islands left in the world. In Tahiti and the South Pacific the waters are soothing and the lands are tranquil and filled with tropical flowers, spectacular waterfalls and deep valleys.

South America and Antarctica Cruises

Stretching from the world's highest waterfall to the world's southernmost port a South America cruise offers something for all world explorers. From Brazil to Argentina and Chile to Peru the history and cultures of South America are quite diverse and its beautiful landscapes and unique wildlife are beyond memorable.

Galapagos cruises offer a unique opportunity to see nature that few humans get the opportunity to experience. In the Galapagos, nearly half of the species are found nowhere else in the world. A cruise to the Galapagos features some of the worlds most unique animals and marine creatures in their own natural setting.

The Amazon River boasts some of the world's greatest rainforests filled rare animal species, uncharted jungles and a huge variety of flora that are not found anywhere else in the world. Learn about the different Amazon tribes that live much as their ancestors did thousands of years ago as you cruise to many incredible ports.

Cruise to Antarctica and discover the earth's last, unspoiled frontier. Antarctica is home to whales, penguins, icebergs and dramatic glaciers and a cruise to Antarctica will leave even the most experienced traveler awestruck with memories that will last forever.

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A world cruise spans the globe, visits multiple continents and offers an endless array of sights to behold. A world cruise is a lifetime experience like no other filled with diverse cultures, dramatic landscapes, scores of history and the unique opportunity to transcend time and place all on one glorious cruise.

An Africa cruise offers the adventure of a lifetime. Here you can take a safari tour and come face to face with some of the world's most amazing and even endangered animals. Experience a combination of rich history, distinct cultures and awe inspiring landscapes on the many different African cruises that are offered.

Combine dramatic landscapes with bustling cosmopolitan cities by taking a cruise to Australian and New Zealand. The Australian and New Zealand people are friendly and prod of what their countries offer. Beautiful coral reefs, Aboriginal history, and spectacular glaciers are just some of the amazing things that you will find on a cruise to Australia and New Zealand.

A cruise to Asia is like no other and the cruise experience allows you to become immersed in a diverse land of history and culture and beauty that fills the senses with unique sights, sounds and aromas. The Asian people are warm and friendly and will make your Asia cruise a delightful and memorable experience.

Leave the bustling world behind as you take a step back and embark on a transatlantic cruise reminiscent of the days of the great ocean liners. Savor travel at a different pace as you relax at sea and enjoy some of the little known outposts that dot the world's magnificent oceans on a transatlantic or repositioning cruise.

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12 Types of Cruises to Book for Your Next Vacation

By Author Meg Frost

Posted on Last updated: October 22, 2023

Categories Travel Tips

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When most people think of cruises, they think of Caribbean locales, fruity drinks, and cheesy shore excursions.

But that’s not all there is to cruises, believe it or not.

I’ve rounded up the best types of cruises to suit pretty much every travel type. Let’s get to it.

Vacation cruises

A vacation cruise is similar to a resort vacation where you don’t leave the resort grounds.

All entertainment, food, and drink is on board, with pit stops in warm and sunny destinations like Mexico or the Caribbean.

There’s usually a formal dinner, concerts, dance clubs, several pools, and shopping.

This is usually what comes to mind when most people think of cruises.

A lot of people shy away from cruises because they think all cruises are like vacation cruises.

And while there is a time and a place for these types of cruises, they aren’t for everyone or every vacation.

Read on for more cruises to consider for your next vacation.

Wilderness cruises

If you’re into outdoor and adventure travel, a wilderness cruise is a great way to see gorgeous, remote landscapes and interesting wildlife.

My top picks for wilderness cruises are Alaska, Antarctica, the Arctic, and the Galápagos Islands.

Alaskan cruises

Depending on the cruise line, cruises to Alaska typically tour only the southern coast.

Rather than hopping from beach to beach, Alaskan cruises bring you to gorgeous parks and seaside towns where you can partake in outdoor activities like fishing, kayaking, and dog sledding.

If you’re a fan of wildlife, you’ll likely enjoy the many opportunities to see whales, seals, bald eagles, bears, and other Alaskan wildlife.

While there are over a dozen cruise lines that include Alaska voyages, the cruise lines I recommend for Alaskan cruises are Celebrity Cruises, Discovery Voyages, Oceania Cruises, Princess Cruises, and Uncruise Adventures.

Antarctic Cruises

Aside from working at an Antarctic research station, one of the only other opportunities to see the 7th continent of Antarctica is via a cruise.

Antarctic cruises aren’t like most types of cruises.

The ships are typically smaller and the on and off-board activities are geared toward the outdoorsy and nature loving type.

Some Antarctic cruises are actually research ships, so if learning is your jam, an Antarctic cruise sounds right up your alley!

Arctic cruises

Arctic cruises are like Antarctic cruises in that they are usually small ships and catered to outdoorsy travelers.

Arctic cruises visit Northern European nations such as Greenland, Denmark, and Norway.

There are even Arctic cruises that include treks to the real North Pole, but they’ll cost you upwards of $30,000.

A girl can dream, right?

Galápagos Islands cruises

A Galápagos Islands cruise is on my ever-expanding travel bucket list.

On a Galápagos Islands cruise, you’ll visit these famed South American islands to explore beautiful landscapes and watch (from a respectable distance) wildlife that only exists in the Galapagos.

There are also some spots where you can snorkel and scuba dive if wildlife spotting or photography is too passive of an activity for you.

Disney cruises

If you’re a fan of Disney Parks, then you’ll love the Disney Cruise Line.

With over a dozen destinations and a host of special celebrations, such as Star Wars Day, chances are high that Disney Cruise Line will have the perfect itinerary for you.

Disney Cruise Line even owns a private island, Castaway Cay, in the Bahamas.

Aside from plenty of itinerary options, Disney’s cruise ships are filled with fun for families.

But don’t worry, these types of cruises aren’t just for families! There are plenty of areas on Disney’s cruise ships that are adults-only.

So if you’re looking for a sans-kid trip with the magical Disney amenities that you’re used to at the parks, you’ll have plenty to do without feeling like you’re the odd one out among families with kids.

If you’re booking a Disney cruise, check out these Disney cruise tips from The Roaming Family.

Family cruises

Disney Cruise Line is a natural choice for a family cruise, but it’s certainly not the only family friendly cruise out there.

Carnival Cruise Lines has a seemingly endless list of options on board and offshore for families with kids.

They have poolside movies, mini golf, water slides, teen clubs, video game lounges, a Build-a-Bear Workshop, and Dr. Seuss themed activities.

Royal Caribbean Cruises has a partnership with Universal Orlando to create discounted vacation itineraries that include time at the Universal park and at sea.

Most Royal Caribbean cruises also include character breakfasts, movie screenings and other activities themed around Dreamworks movies, such as Shrek , Madagascar , and Kung Fu Panda .

Long term cruises

Got money and time? Spend several months or more at sea on a long-term cruise. And take me with you.

If you play your budget right, you might even be able to work out living aboard a long-term cruise ship without needing a permanent home on land.

This option is starting to become popular with retirees looking to travel the world at a slower pace.

Princess Cruises, Holland America Line and Seabourn Cruises are just a few cruise lines that offer long-term cruises of at least 3 months.

Oceania Cruises offers several long-term cruise itineraries per year, with the shortest around 4.5 months and the longest at 6 months.

Mundy Cruising’s frankensteined itinerary takes the cake, though, with a whopping 357 days.

As they are a travel agency, the itinerary is actually a mish-mash of several cruises back to back with the goal of hitting all 7 continents and seeing many of the world wonders and attractions.

Party cruises

Sometimes you just want to leave your worries behind and party ’til you can’t party no more on your vacation. Why not do it at sea?

These types of cruises aren’t for everyone, as there’s not too much quiet time, but they can be a ton of fun.

Love EDM? Add Holy Ship to your bucket list.

This party cruise sails out each year in early January for 4-5 days with a sick line up of the best EDM acts, like A-Trak, Chromeo, Kaskade, and Steve Aoki.

Holy Ship has proved so popular that a second itinerary has been added in recent years.

Sorta new to the party cruise scene is Inception at Sea, having first set sail in 2016.

The concept is similar to Holy Ship in that the cruise includes a music festival.

This party cruise, however, is designed to be a college Spring break destination, and typically sets sail in March.

If you’re avoiding Spring Breakers, the same folks who put on Inception at Sea also put on Groove Cruise, which sets sail from Miami and LA once a year.

River cruises

As the name suggests, river cruises set sail along a major river with stops along the riverbank.

River cruises generally carry a different vibe than ocean cruises.

The ships are smaller, the pace is slower, and land is always in sight.

River cruises are most popular in Europe, with routes along the Seine, Danube, and Rhine Rivers, among others.

Other popular routes outside of Europe include the Amazon River in South America, the Nile River in Egypt, and the Yangtze River in China.

Popular river cruise lines include Avalon Waterways, Disney Cruise Line, Uniworld and Viking River Cruises.

Semester at Sea

Semester at Sea is a study abroad program aboard a cruise ship.

Students enroll in college classes just like they do on campus, with mini courses at each port.

The program is run through Colorado State University, so students can earn credit toward their degree.

Not a college student? No problem!

Enroll as a lifelong learner or sign up for a job aboard the ship.

Jobs on Semester at Sea only last a semester, so they are great for a sabbatical, seasonal workers, or retirees.

Theme Cruises

Still can’t decide what types of cruises are for you? If you’re a fan of something , there’s probably a theme cruise for you.

Like the Walking Dead? Check out the Walker Stalker Cruise.

Still in love with the Backstreet Boys? Yup, they’ve got a cruise too!

Yoga, scrapbooking, blogging, poker, and even personal finance are all themed cruises that I easily found while writing this blog post.

Whatever your passion is, there just might be a cruise that works your favorite topic or hobby into the itinerary or activities.

Many of the big name cruise lines host these theme cruises or work with event planning organizations, so you’ll likely luck out finding them on their websites or newsletters.

Some cruise lines specialize in theme cruises, such as Uncruise Adventures, which hosts cruises that focus on topics such as photography, birdwatching, and craft beer.

Which types of cruises will you consider for your next trip?

Be sure to drop a comment below to let me know which kind of cruise you’ve booked!

Next up, check out more of my favorite travel tips:

• Cruise Packing Tips: What to Pack for a Cruise
• 11 Most Haunted Places in the USA for a Spooky Time
• Where to Stay in Boston, MA From a Local
• 10 Perfect Ideas for a New Year Getaway
• How to Choose the Best Sunscreen for You

About the author

Meg Frost is a Boston-based travel blogger that helps people embrace technology to make vacation planning and traveling wicked easy, affordable, and fun.

She holds an M.A. in Journalism from Northeastern University and B.S. in Communication & American Studies from University of Miami.

Read more →

This post was originally published May 16, 2017. It was last updated November 2, 2022.

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Cruise Line Types- Figuring out what the different categories mean

Cruise line types.

One of the key elements of a happy cruise is finding the line that’s right for your particular needs.  The cruise lines fall into various categories, and to help you navigate the waters (so to speak) of choosing one, we’ve created a guide to what these categories mean.  Bear in mind, cruise lines can fall into more than one category, Luxury Expedition, for example, but these descriptions should help to steer you in the right direction. See which lines fall into these categories, and what amenities they offer, by visiting our All-Inclusive Chart.

CONTEMPORARY CRUISE LINES

The contemporary cruise lines offer a variety of cruise schedules and itineraries that are perfect for younger adults and family cruises. These are the lines with the largest ships, the most onboard entertainment options, and the widest variety of amenities. This great array of options allows you to choose the type of vacation experience you want once you are on board the ship.

Lines that fall into this category are:

• Aida Cruises
• Carnival Cruise Line
• Costa Cruise Lines
• Celestyal Cruises
• Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines
• P & O Cruises
• P & O Cruises Australia
• Star Cruises
• Your Cuba Cruise

These lines are well suited for:

• Families with young children
• Families with teenagers
• Family reunions and multi-generational families
• 20- and 30-somethings looking for light adventure and various sports activities
• 40- and 50-somethings looking for a couple’s vacation
• Travelers looking for a wide array of activities
• Seniors looking for new friends
• Solo travelers
• Couples looking for romantic getaways
• Destination weddings
• Adventure travelers looking for high thrills

UPSCALE CONTEMPORARY CRUISE LINES

These lines offer all the benefits of the contemporary cruise lines, but take things a step futher, with finer amenities and a more upscale environment.

• MSC Cruises
• Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)
• Royal Caribbean International (RCI)

PREMIUM CRUISE LINES

Premium cruise lines tend to be large, but not mega-type ships, though they offer similar voyages, plus voyages to exotic locales. Due to the size of these ships, they do not dock in the heart of the town or village like the ultra-premium lines. These lines cater to travelers seeking luxurious accommodations, enhanced dining, excellent service, extensive activities, and enrichment opportunities. The onboard experience is sophisticated and the service above average. These lines will have enhanced spa and wine options.   They tend to cater to more mature and discerning passengers who are seeking a sophisticated level of service, ship amenities, and accommodations at somewhat higher prices. These lines also offer children’s programs for all ages.

• Celebrity Cruises
• Disney Cruise Line
• Holland America Line
• Princess Cruises
• Those seeking both classic and modern luxury, contemporary and conservative design, and dining experiences in which the atmosphere is as important as the food and wine.
• Families wishing to travel with young children where the environment is a little more subdued.
• Families who are looking for an educational experience for the family

ULTRA-PREMIUM CRUISE LINES

The ultra-premium cruise lines tend to have smaller ships and offer voyages to popular ports, and unique itineraries featuring smaller, less-traveled destinations. They primarily cater to discerning passengers who are seeking a sophisticated level of service, ship amenities, and accommodations at upscale prices. Some lines may offer numerous included amenities. These lines are generally priced higher than the premium cruise lines.

• Azamara Club Cruises
• Cunard Line
• Oceania Cruises
• Viking Ocean Cruises
• Windstar Cruises
• Seasoned travelers
• Adults who are destination-oriented and enjoy the finer things in life
• Travelers looking for a boutique experience with a destination immersion.
• Travelers who find the small touches make all the difference—from the service to the food to the ships themselves.
• Adults seeking a “country club casual” experience with very upscale surroundings and amenities

ULTRA-LUXURY CRUISE LINES

These are high end cruises, both in price and in amenities.  They are designed for those who desire the finer things in life and have the budget for luxury.  These cruise lines specialize in service and will cater to the traveler’s every desire.

• Crystal Cruises
• Hapag Lloyd Cruises
• Paul Gauguin Cruises
• Regent Seven Seas
• Sea Cloud Cruises
• SeaDream Yacht Club
• Adults looking for a small ship and boutique type of experience
• Cruisers seeking a destination immersion
• Travelers seeking an over-the-top experience with ultra-luxury everything
• Cruises seeking an international atmosphere
• Travelers seeking a large ship with high-end amenities
• Cruisers with a great deal of knowledge about the fine arts and cuisine, and are experts in matters of taste
• Travelers looking for exceptional service and a level of comfort and style rare in today’s world

SMALL SHIP CRUISES

Small ships fill a niche for cruisers that are looking for more in-depth exploration of the regions they visit. They can visit ports that are inaccessible to larger ships, and exotic itineraries are the standard. Most river cruise ships and almost all of the luxury lines have ships that fall into this category.

• Blount Small Ship Adventures
• Blue Lagoon Cruises
• Captain Cook Cruises
• Great Lakes Cruise Company
• Hebridean Island Cruises
• Pearl Seas Cruises
• Saga Holidays, Ltd.
• Swan Hellenic Discovery Cruises
• Tauck Small Ship Cruising
• Voyages to Antiquity
• Adults looking for a sophisticated, intimate small ship experience
• Travelers seeking an educational experience and a vacation filled with history, and culture
• Seasoned travelers and, adults who are destination-oriented
• Those seeking to meet experts in their field who have a vast knowledge of the cities visited
• Those who enjoy traveling and enjoying the company of conversation with noteworthy academic experts

RIVER CRUISES

Unlike ocean cruises, rivers provide easy access to city centers. Passengers sail directly into the heart of every destination and dock in the middle of town, then walk right off the ship and move easily into whatever city or town you are visiting. You spend less time getting there and more time being there. A river cruise allows for a more intimate experience as well. Because most of these ships accommodate only 30 to 200 guests, it is easier to meet your traveling companions. You can share a drink with the couple you met on the day’s tour or dine with interesting passengers in an open-seating restaurant. Another benefit: you can also forget about waiting in long lines to embark, debark, or have a meal. These river cruises are immensely popular and keep growing. Many lines have begun adding amenities previously restricted to ocean cruise lines, such as French balconies attached to the rooms.

U.S. River Cruise Lines

• American Cruise Lines
• American Queen Steamboat Co.

Contemporary River Cruise Lines

• AFC Vacations
• CroisiEurope
• Farah Nile Cruises
• Imperial River Cruises
• President Cruises (China)
• Vantage Travel

Upscale Contemporary River Cruise Lines

• Amras Cruises
• Emerald Waterways
• St. Lawrence Cruise Lines
• Value World Tours, Inc.
• World Quest Cruises
• YMT Vacations

Premium River Cruise Lines

• Amadeus Cruises
• Avalon Waterways Haimark Line-Luxury Coastal Expeditions
• Pandaw River Cruises
• Sonesta Cruise Collection
• Tauck River Cruising

Luxury River Cruise Lines

• AmaWaterways
• A-ROSA Cruises
• Crystal River Cruises
• Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection
• Viking River Cruises
• Those seeking an immersion experience of the regions they visit, in wine, food, and culture.

LUXURY HOTEL BARGES

The hotel barge became popular in the 1960s, and has now grown into a very large network of hundreds operating on the rivers and canals of France, Belgium, Germany, Scotland, and the UK. These luxury hotel barges vary greatly in size, configuration, scale and quality of accommodations, and standard and amount of catering. The largest barges take twenty-four guests, the smallest just four. All hotel barges have a high staff-to-guest ratio, but the smaller barges typically provide more personal attention and perhaps comfort. You can expect to get to know the other travelers well due to the intimate environment. These luxury hotel barges are wonderful for chartering and having your own private vacation.

• Abercrombie and Kent
• Afloat in France
• European Waterways
• France Cruises
• French Country Waterways
• The Barge Company
• Destination-oriented travelers
• Travelers who enjoy the finer things in life and are looking for a small ship or boutique type of experience.
• Travelers seeking an immersion in small towns and villages

EXPEDITION CRUISE LINES

Expedition cruise lines typically attract adventure and unusual thrills seekers. These lines have very unique and exotic destinations such as the Galapagos Islands, Antarctica, and Greenland. Expedition cruises tend to focus on very isolated scenery or wildlife up- close and personal.  On an expedition line, you will experience undergo a multitude of new experiences: new cultures, new foods, and new smells, as all of your senses are awakened as and you commune with nature. The amenities range from simple accommodations to ultra-luxury environments.

• Adventure Smith Explorations
• Alaskan Dream Cruises
• Fantasy Cruises
• G Adventures
• Hurtigruten
• Lindblad Expeditions
• Poseidon Expeditions
• Sanctuary Retreats
• Semester at Sea
• Un-Cruise Adventures
• Travelers seeking eco- friendly expeditions
• Those seeking remote scenery and wildlife viewing
• Those who may be willing to forego luxurious amenities in exchange for remote locations with exotic birds and animals.
• Travelers seeking a small ship experience with high impact adventure
• Travelers looking for a small ship experience
• Those looking for expedition and unique cruises off the beaten track

LINES WITH SAILING VESSELS AND YACHTS

This segment of the cruise industry is unusual, offering a different type of experience and ship. Seasoned travelers as well as budget- conscious travelers will have an interest in these lines. These typically smaller cruise lines offer immersion experiences in at various destinations. Some are yachts, sail-assisted ships, and dual-purpose cargo/passenger ships. All generally are regarded as the “”specialty lines.”

• Bora Bora Cruises
• Festiva Sailing Vacations
• Island Windjammers
• North Star Cruises Australia
• Star Clippers
• Travelers seeking an educational experience and a vacation filled with history and culture
• Highly educated travelers looking for an historically rich vacation
• Those who enjoy an educational type of vacation

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Types of Cruise Itineraries

Cruise lines set itineraries to maximize customer satisfaction (and revenues) but must take into consideration the seasonality of the demand. These fundamental market characteristics imply that three main types of itineraries are used:

• Perennial . Concern markets that are serviced year round because of stable demand and relatively constant weather conditions (tropical and sub-tropical). The two most significant perennial markets are the Caribbean (with Miami as the main turn port) and the Mediterranean (with Barcelona as one of the main turn ports). Perennial markets can have a seasonality implying that although they are serviced throughout the year, there have periods of lower demand.
• Seasonal . Ideally, cruise lines would prefer to only service perennial markets since this would represent a close to optimal use of their ship assets. However, like the tourism industry in general, seasonality is an important component of the demand implying that some markets are going to be serviced for a few months, mostly during the summer. The most important seasonal markets cover Baltic, Norwegian and Alaskan cruises that are serviced during summer.
• Repositioning . This mostly takes place between seasons when ship assets need to be repositioned from seasonal to perennial itineraries (or vice-versa). For instance, during the summer, several cruise ships are repositioned from the Caribbean to the Mediterranean, while in the Fall the same ships will be repositioned back to the Caribbean. Repositioning cruises are usually point-to-point between turn ports.

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Different Types of Cruise Ships Explained

We are often left in awe looking at the magnificent engineering marvels called the cruise ships. In our previous article, we had a detailed discussion about the differences between cruise ships and their former counterparts called ocean liners, which were once the only reliable means of global passenger transportation before the revolutionizing advent of aviation.

The indispensability of passenger shipping as the monopoly in public intercontinental travel gradually waned away roughly coinciding with the same timeline as the concept of ocean liners saw a departure, thanks to the flourishing of the aviation sector, and cruise ships became increasingly synonymous with passenger vessels .

As contrary to ocean liners which were commercial vessels for passenger transportation and sometimes carriage of cargo, mail services and other utilities regularly, cruise vessels are mostly for pleasure purposes and tourism.

They are solely dedicated to the hospitality and amenities of the passengers while onboard for vacation, excursions or pleasure. While we have described the differences between ocean liners and cruisers, let us now look at the different types of cruise ships that commonly exist.

Different Sizes of Cruise Ships

Cruise ships can be of various types and sizes. Speaking of sizes, like other cargo or general-purpose ships, passenger ships can be categorized as being of multiple sizes depending on operations, service location, purpose, passenger preference, and overall business scenario.

Furthermore, the size of the vessel is a simple indicator of the number of passengers it can sustain onboard and the extent of the facilities and amenities it can cater to.

A particular cruise line providing passenger services can also have multiple sizes of ships in its fleet based on the requirements.

For the past decades, cruise ships have increased considerably in size and have evolved to accommodate a large number of passengers and at the same time provide a plethora of modern amenities which could not have been envisaged before.

Based on sizes and carrying capacity, cruise ships can be categorized into the following types:

Mega Cruise Ships

These are the largest of their kind and are known to accommodate more than 5000 passengers on board! When ocean liners were still predominant, cruise ships were seldom known to exceed 50000 GT in terms of their size. However, as said before, over the years with improved technology and innovation, cruise ship sizes have increased manifold.

In terms of their tonnage capacity, mega-cruise ships are very much above 135000 GT. Currently, there are more than 50 cruise ships in service having over 135000 Gt and are classified under Mega Cruise Ships. They are often distinguished by their large hull and towering superstructure sizes.

The largest designated cruise ship as of present-day is the very recent Wonder of the Seas, with a whopping gross tonnage of 236860, a length of over 360 meters, a width of 65 meters, and can accommodate nearly 7000 passengers on board!

Launched in January 2022, it is slated to create history by embarking on its maiden voyage in March. In concordance with their majestic sizes, Mega Cruise Ships house state-of-the-art facilities for passenger services, luxury, and recreation, drawing parallels to ultramodern five or seven-star rated hotels.

From swimming pools to movie theatres, indoor game infrastructures to world-class health centres, casinos to large restaurants and pubs, conference halls to banquets, shopping malls to pavilions, commodious suite rooms to wellness clubs, the litany can be enough to motivate holiday-seekers to amass more on their savings and plan a dream vacation.

Moreover, it is obvious that other than catering to passenger recreation and comfort, they also offer essential services like hospitals and dispensaries on a round-the-clock basis for any unwarranted needs that may arise.

Other biggest names following Wonder of the Seas are Symphony of the Seas, which held the top spot for being the largest cruise ship till last year, Harmony of the Seas, which had its realm from 2016 to 2018, Oasis of the Seas, which ruled the lot for 7 long years from 2009 to 2016, and Allure of the Seas, which became a joint claimer to the throne since its maiden voyage just a year after its predecessor (in 2010), with comparable size and capacity (very slightly less in GT).

All these are Oasis-class sister ships with GT over 200000 and operate under the parent organization, Royal Caribbean International line, an industry leader in cruise shipping tourism and hospitality headquartered in Miami, Florida, United States.

Large Cruise Ships

These are somewhat smaller than Mega Cruise Ships and can hold anywhere between 2500 to 3500 passengers for all normal purposes. In terms of tonnage capacity, they are 10000 GT or more but mostly less than 135000 GT.

Voyager of the Seas from the slightly old Voyager-class, also owned by Royal Caribbean, is an acclaimed ship of this category, but with a borderline capacity of around 3600 passengers and approximately 137000 GT, and an overall length of 310 meters, it is also often interchangeably deemed as pertaining to the category of Mega Cruise Ships.

Similar are the cases with MSC Divina, of the Fantasia-class, having 140000 GT and 3500-passenger capacity, and another recent vessel Costa Venezia, a Vista-class cruise ship, having a GT of exactly 135000 and a passenger capacity of over 4000, quite above the demarcating line for large cruisers.

Other notable names amongst many include Crown Princess (2006) belonging to the Crown-class, having 113500 GT, Celebrity Solstice from Solstice-class, rated over 120000 GT and 2850-passenger capacity, and MS Koningsdam which roughly has a capacity of just 10000 GT can hold up to 2650 passengers with doubled occupancy.

Large cruise ships can be considered as relatively smaller forms of their modern, mega variants, and started coming into being over two decades back at the turn of the century. However, like the examples cited, modern-day cruisers are commonly built in this size range with more advancements in terms of technology, design, luxury, and amenities.

Cruise ships, since mostly dedicated to tours and pleasure and seldom encounter adverse mid-sea weather conditions, can have some slack in terms of powering and structural requirements as compared to their predecessors, ocean liners.

But coming-of-age cruisers, mostly mega and large ones, have broken such conventions and have showcased significant developments.

Priorities for passenger safety and comfort have seen a sharp uptick increasingly over time.

Furthermore, with the global economy rapidly changing in a direction such that the several affluent sections of the society have continued to become richer, the predilection for cruise travel for leisure has garnered more popularity.

This has converted to more profits for cruise lines, who have also taken the opportunity to rework their business models to continue with this lucrative drive by not only providing more appealing facilities to their clientele but also stepping upon their services in terms of frequent tours and venturing into deeper territories and newer destinations across longer distances.

Hence, this has led to the modern bigger fleet having sturdier structures, escalated design efficiency, and of course, enhanced propulsive applications.

Midsized cruise ships

They are smaller than their larger counterparts, appear like their somewhat scaled-down versions, and can hold around 1500-2500 passengers. These ships have GTs of less than 100000 and more than 50000. Large global shipping lines do not go less than this category.

Likewise, they are also replete with most of the amenities and facilities sought for, though on a comparatively lesser scale. They may occasionally ply between continents and oceans but mostly travel on an intracontinental country to country basis or between different ports of call in a country.

In terms of powering and structure, they are also on the lower side of bigger vessels but aesthetically they are equally attractive. A large number of vessels under this category are in operation globally. Carnival Spirit, having a tonnage of 88500 GT and a complement of over 2100 passengers, and Pacific Explorer, of approximately over 77000 GT and 2000-passenger capacity, both owned by Carnival Plc., are popular vessels in this category.

Smaller Midsized Cruise Ships

These ships can also be considered on the lower spectrum of midsized cruisers. Mostly similar, they have tonnages more or less around 50000 GT or lower and can accommodate 800-1500 passengers. They are mostly intended for intracontinental or intranational travel and do not venture into very high seas. They are also capable to travel in shallow drafts like rivers, canals/channels or lakes apart from seas.

They also feature passenger pleasure and recreation attributes, but on a much-reduced scale, like small pools, indoor gaming rooms, dining and party halls, restaurants, bars, fitness centres, card rooms, conference lounges, kids’ game zones, etc.

There are numerous vessels of this type all around the world without any widely notable names. Viking Star-class Sister ships Viking Sea, Viking Star and Viking Sky, operated by Viking Ocean Cruises, and having slightly less than 50000 GT are some frontrunners in this category.

Small Cruise Ships

Any cruise vessel having a passenger-carrying capacity of less than 700-800 are coined as a small cruise ship. These ships ply in rivers, estuaries, channels, canals, confined water bodies like lakes, and sometimes in seas along or near to the coast within a specified limit.

As expected, these vessels are not structurally and functionally fit to venture into deep seas. Different kinds of bodies from liners to regional or national tourism providers operate these vessels on a time-to-time basis. The duration of a voyage in these cruisers range from a few hours to at most a day or two. As for small cruisers, the facilities onboard are limited and depends on the size of the vessel and operationality.

For larger vessels on the upper side of the capacity spectrum, for instance, 500-800, amenities for luxury and entertainment are present, though not on a scale similar to supreme level cruise ships. For even smaller cruisers with a passenger capacity of around 100-200 or lesser, most of the amenities are absent and mostly operate on an hourly basis to or from a destination or are rented out for some special occasions.

Often, they have a high demand and run on a rush booking order due to their small size and low, attractive fares. India has plenty of these vessels often in coastal areas like Mumbai, Chennai, Cochin or popular tourist destinations like Goa or the world’s largest riverine delta and mangrove reserve, Sundarbans in West Bengal. Ferries, which are exclusively referred to as small to moderate-sized vessels for carrying passengers, often along with cars and vehicles across a body of water, can be considered to belong to the last two categories.

Tonnages for ferries vary widely and can be anything as significant as over 50000 GT or as low as hardly 1000 GT. They may be intended for point-to-point or round trips with or without stops. Ferries comprise a significant part of the public transport system in several places.

As alluded to in the previous article, the concept of ferries was first conceived in Istanbul during the 19th century and can be rightfully considered as being precursors to the widespread popularization of modern-day cruise ships superseding the era of ocean liners.

Types of Cruise Ships Based on Purpose 

Though cruisers are primarily categorized based on sizes, they may also be divided based on purpose, operation, and utilities.

Mainstream Cruise Ships

These types of cruise ships are the vast majority of all cruise ships that carry passengers for leisure and tours. In a broad sense, these cruisers can be anything between mega to smaller midsized with differences as described above.

Some also tend to further categorize these vessels based on the degree of luxury and amenities from ultra-premium to semi-deluxe. They can be oceangoing, coastal or river-plying and can cater to a wide range of trips of varying durations as explained above.

Adventure Cruise Ships

These are customized and bespoke small vessels for adventure lovers. Most of these vessels are either privately owned or are lent by agencies or dealers at certain rates. Often people set out in groups in these 10-50 passenger-capacity vessels for a myriad kinds of activities from whale watching to exploring reefs and islands. Though strictly not permitted to venture beyond certain sea limits, concerned authorities may sometimes give extra relaxations looking at sea and weather conditions or the ‘fitness’ of the vessel.

River Cruises

They are shallow-draft and low-width vessels belonging to the small cruiser category and are capable of plying in rivers for passenger tours and pleasure. They are mostly for an hourly basis and operate daily.

Due to their small sizes, they do not pose a major obstruction to river traffic and can manoeuvre easily when required. Other than the iconic Venice in Italy, famous rivers around the world like Nile, Amazon, Hudson, Thames and Danube offer cruise services regularly.

Hotel Ships

They mainly remain afloat in water or travel small distances and are chiefly floating hotels for a luxury experience. Most hotel ships are on rivers or seasides hemming cities and popular tourist destinations. They are generally not very big but sometimes can be exceptions when converted from large vessels out-of-service.

For example, Queen Elizabeth 2, which was the last oil-and-steam fired ocean liner of its kind, has been converted to a massive luxury floating hotel in Dubai after her retirement in 2008 following 40 years of operation. When on a sea coast, they remain anchored to a particular place as they are not deemed to sail. But on rivers, because of the low depth and calmness of the water, they can travel as well.

Expedition Cruises

They are specially designed vessels for venturing into the most uncharted and inhospitable places on earth like the polar regions. They are built as per ice-class regulations and everything from powering to systems are incorporated in such a way that they can sustain in harsh conditions. Such cruises are limited and only specifically authorized people are permitted to travel to such extreme locations.

Yachts and private crafts: Such vessels are privately owned by affluent sections of the society who prefer to spend their leisure time in the water. Usually, they are quite small in size and are suited to accommodate around 20-30 people at most within the owner’s family or close circles.

You might also like to read:

• Top 10 Largest Cruise Ships in 2022
• Top 10 Most Expensive Cruise Ships in 2022
• How Are Cruise Ships Powered?
• How Do Cruise Ships Get Fresh Water?
• 8 Ways Cruise Ships Can Cause Marine Pollution

Disclaimer:   The authors’ views expressed in this article do not necessarily reflect the views of Marine Insight. Data and charts, if used, in the article have been sourced from available information and have not been authenticated by any statutory authority. The author and Marine Insight do not claim it to be accurate nor accept any responsibility for the same. The views constitute only the opinions and do not constitute any guidelines or recommendations on any course of action to be followed by the reader.

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Interior vs. Cruise Balcony vs. Suite: Choosing the Best Stateroom on Your Cruise

W hen I recommend hotels, I generally suggest that the traveler strongly consider how they will use the room before paying for upgrades like suites and a good view. With a cruise, however, I feel that stateroom selection is even more important. You’ll probably be in the room more than you would for other types of vacations.

In addition, staterooms are notoriously small, and if you are sailing for a longer period, you may find that you need more space or may want other factors like a private balcony. On some cruise lines, a suite may also include bonus amenities, like exclusive access to a concierge lounge. 

Here are some considerations when choosing between interior staterooms, cruise balcony rooms, or suites on your next cruise vacation. While this won’t necessarily help you find the best rooms on a cruise ship, it is a good start.

This post contains affiliate links. A purchase/click through one of these links may result in a commission paid to us at no cost to you. 

Considerations when choosing between interior staterooms, cruise balcony rooms, or cruise suites

Before you decide what type of room is best for you, you’ll want to look at the specifics of the cruise line that you are sailing. There will be different stateroom categories, and you can take a look at deck plans.

Typically, you can choose your cruise cabin from among the available rooms, although this isn’t always the case ( Virgin Voyages , for instance, chooses the room for you, once you pick the category). Once you know what your options are, then you can start considering the items below. 

Cost is the biggest thing you’ll want to look at when choosing a stateroom and stateroom features. Once you choose a cruise line and an itinerary, the stateroom type that you choose will vary the price the most. The price difference between an inside cabin, a balcony room, and a suite can often be pretty significant. 

If you are on a strict budget, inside rooms are going to be the most affordable option. Of course, price isn’t the only factor to consider, but it is a major consideration. If you have some flexibility in dates, you may also look at different itineraries and dates which can also affect the cost of the sailing.

Need for Outside View: Cruise Ship Balcony Room

Cruise ships are often pretty big, but cruise ship staterooms aren’t. For some people, that can be a big issue.

If you are prone to claustrophobia or might feel a little cramped in a room without a window or balcony, you may need to have a cruise balcony.  This is an important consideration because it can change your experience. 

Number of People in the Room

Many staterooms, including balcony staterooms and ocean-view staterooms, can accommodate three or four people – often in twin beds, bunk beds, Murphy beds, or other configurations.

But, a cruise ship cabin at full capacity can often seem cramped, especially on longer sailings. You’ll want to make sure you have enough space for everything. 

If you are traveling with the entire family, you may want to look at family suites. These often offer more space, with a separate sitting area, and an extra desk vanity for getting ready.

While they are more expensive than a standard stateroom, the extra space may be worth it. Another option with a family is to consider getting two cruise balcony staterooms.

There won’t be a separate sitting room, but you will have two bathrooms, which can be helpful when traveling with a family or a group. You may also be able to request adjoining staterooms, so you’ll be able to go in and out of the two staterooms. 

If you are choosing between a cruise balcony vs suite stateroom, you should consider whether the extra bathroom or the amenities are more important.

If you are sailing alone, an interior stateroom will be much easier to handle than if you are with others. It can also be a great way to save money on a single stateroom.  You can always leave the room and go to one of the decks to see the outside if necessary. 

How Much Time You Will Spend in the Room

Most people don’t go on a cruise to spend all of their time in a stateroom. However, you’ll never be too far from your room, so you will spend some time there. The length of time of your cruise is also important because you’ll have fewer things with you if you are on a short trip.

Think about how you will use your room. Maybe, for instance, you’ll want to have room service breakfast delivered each morning so that you can eat on your balcony. Or perhaps you’ll need to go back to the room in the afternoon for a younger child’s nap. 

Also, take a look at the specifics of your cruise itinerary. If you will be leaving the ship for several ports of call, that may mean you’ll spend less time in the room. In that case, you may be comfortable booking a cheaper type of cabin. 

However, based on what you plan on doing in the room, it may make it worthwhile to decide to pay extra for the balcony. Enjoying that morning coffee outside on a private balcony can really be a relaxing way to start the day. 

What Amenities Come With a Suite

Suites are something else you really should consider, especially if you are traveling with a family. Every cruise line and cruise ship is different, but there are some really beautiful cruise ship suites (especially on the newer ships). While these come with an added expense, often suite guests get additional perks.

Benefits vary by cruise line, but some of the benefits may include access to concierge service and concierge lounge, complimentary WiFi access, a special sundeck or pool area, early priority boarding, and exclusive restaurants. Some cruise lines have junior suites available which may offer more space than a traditional stateroom, but may not come with these additional amenities

If your sailing isn’t at capacity, several cruise lines (including Royal Caribbean ) send opportunities for guests to bid for an upgrade. These aren’t always available but can be a great way to get a suite at a great price.

Once your bid is accepted, you’ll get all of the same extra perks that come with the stateroom. Just be sure you understand the different types of suites before bidding. 

All of these factors should be considered when choosing your room. I personally like to have the balcony (called a verandah on the Disney Cruise Line), because I do enjoy looking out at the water.

But, I rarely choose connecting staterooms, because I don’t want to spend the extra money. As long as I have a private balcony, I don’t mind being a little cramped for sleeping.

What type of stateroom do you prefer? Do you need to have a balcony when cruising? 

To find cruise deals, visit Cruise Critic which offers a page with current deals . 

Considering a family cruise? Check out our guide to family cruising , with posts about popular cruise terminals, cruise ships, and cruise lines, as well as tips for cruising.

The post Interior vs. Cruise Balcony vs. Suite: Choosing the Best Stateroom on Your Cruise appeared first on Family Travel Magazine .

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• Nationwide Travel Insurance
• AXA Assistance USA
• Seven Corners Travel Insurance
• HTH Worldwide Travel Insurance
• World Nomads Travel Insurance

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Best Cruise Insurance Companies of April 2024

Affiliate links for the products on this page are from partners that compensate us (see our advertiser disclosure with our list of partners for more details). However, our opinions are our own. See how we rate insurance products to write unbiased product reviews.

A cruise vacation can take much of the stress out of planning a vacation. With a pre-set itinerary on the high seas, you don't have to worry about how you're getting to your destination and what you're going to do there. However, an unexpected emergency can take the wind out of your sails and money out of your travel budget. So you'll want to ensure you have the best travel insurance coverage that won't leave you high and dry in an emergency.

Best Cruise Insurance Companies

• Nationwide Travel Insurance : Best Overall
• AXA Assistance USA : Best for Affordability
• Seven Corners Travel Insurance : Best for Seniors
• HTH Worldwide Travel Insurance : Best for Expensive Trips
• World Nomads Travel Insurance : Best for Exotic Locations

Compare the Top Cruise Insurance Offers

• Trip cancellation coverage of up to 100% of trip costs (for cruises) or up to $30,000 (for single-trip plans)
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Three cruise-specific plans to choose from
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Annual travel insurance plans available
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Strong trip cancellation coverage
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Cancel for any reason coverage available
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. CFAR insurance not available with every single plan
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Medical coverage is lower than what some competitors offer

Nationwide Travel Insurance offers many of the standard benefits you might see with a travel insurance policy. This can include things like trip cancellation coverage, so you can recover pre-paid costs or trip interruption in the event your vacation is interrupted by an unexpected event. There's also baggage delay coverage and medical coverage.

• Cancel for any reason coverage available

• Trip cancellation coverage of up to 100% of the trip cost
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Generous medical evacuation coverage
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Up to $1,500 per person coverage for missed connections on cruises and tours
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Covers loss of ski, sports and golf equipment
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Generous baggage delay, loss and trip delay coverage ceilings per person
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Cancel for any reason (CFAR) coverage only available for most expensive Platinum plan
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. CFAR coverage ceiling only reaches $50,000 maximum despite going up to 75%

AXA Assistance USA keeps travel insurance simple with gold, silver, and platinum plans. Emergency medical and CFAR are a couple of the options you can expect. Read on to learn more about AXA.

• Silver, Gold, and Platinum plans available
• Trip interruption coverage of up to 150% of the trip cost
• Emergency medical coverage of up to $250,000

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Diverse coverage options such as CFAR, optional sports equipment coverage, etc.
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Available in all 50 states
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Prices are higher than many competitors
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Reviews around claims processing are mixed
• Trip cancellation insurance of up to 100% of the trip cost
• Trip interruption insurance of up to 150% of the trip cost
• Cancel for any reason (CFAR) insurance available

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Three plans to choose from
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Reasonable premiums
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. CFAR coverage available with some plans
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. High medical emergency and evacuation coverage
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Special coverages for pets, sports equipment, etc not available
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Limited reviews with complaints about claims not being paid
• Trip cancellation of up to $5,000 with the Economy plan and up to $50,000 with the Preferred plan
• Cancel for any reason insurance and missed connection insurance available with the Preferred plan
• Baggage delay insurance starting after 24 or 12 hours depending on the plan

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Coverage for 200+ activities like skiing, surfing, and rock climbing
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Only two plans to choose from, making it simple to find the right option
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. You can purchase coverage even after your trip has started
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. If your trip costs more than $10,000, you may want to choose other insurance because trip protection is capped at up to $10,000 (for the Explorer plan)
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Doesn't offer coverage for travelers older than 70
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. No Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) option
• Coverage for 150+ activities and sports
• 2 plans: Standard and Explorer
• Trip protection for up to $10,000
• Emergency medical insurance of up to $100,000
• Emergency evacuation coverage for up to $500,000
• Coverage to protect your items (up to $3,000)

Cruise Insurance Reviews

Best cruise insurance overall: nationwide travel insurance.

Nationwide Travel Insurance  is a long-standing and reputable brand within the insurance marketplace that offers cruise insurance plans with solid coverage and reasonable rates.

It has three cruise insurance options: Universal, Choice, and Luxury. The Nationwide Choice plan, for example, offers $100,000 in emergency medical coverage and $500,000 in emergency medical evacuation coverage.

The right plan for you depends on your budget and coverage needs. But each plan offers cruise-specific coverages like ship-based mechanical breakdowns, coverage for missed prepaid excursions if your cruise itinerary changes, and covered service disruptions aboard the cruise ship.

Read our Nationwide Travel Insurance review here.

Best Cruise Insurance for Affordability: AXA Travel Insurance

AXA Assistance USA  offers three comprehensive coverage plans: Gold, Silver, and Platinum. Each of these plans offers coverage for issues like missed flights, medical emergencies, lost luggage, and more.

The highest-tier Platinum plan provides $250,000 in medical emergency coverage and $1 million in medical evacuation coverage. The baggage loss coverage is $3,000 per person, and their missed connection coverage is $1,500 per person for cruises and tours.

In addition, travelers can take advantage of AXA's concierge service, which provides an extensive network of international service providers. They'll be able to assist you with things like restaurant reservations and referrals, golf course information, and more. This service could come in handy if you're stopping at a variety of unfamiliar destinations during your cruise.

The coverage limits on AXA's policies are on the higher end compared to other providers. And you can buy coverage for a little as 4% of your trip cost depending on your age, travel destination, and state of residence.

Read our AXA Travel Insurance review here.

Best Cruise Insurance for Seniors: Seven Corners Travel Insurance

Seven Corners Travel Insurance lets cruisers enjoy traveling in their golden years with the knowledge they're covered in the event of an accident or emergency. While other providers do offer coverage to those 80+ years old, Seven Corners is known for its affordable premiums while offering above-average medical expenses and medical evacuation coverage limits — two areas of travel insurance coverage that are even more important as we get older.

Seven Corners also offers the option of a preexisting conditions waiver and CFAR insurance at an additional cost, plus "Trip Interruption for Any Reason" coverage, which you won't find on many policies.

You can choose between the Trip Protection Basic or Trip Protection Choice plans, with the higher-tier Choice plan costing more but providing more coverage.

Read our Seven Corners Travel Insurance review here. 

Best Cruise Insurance for Expensive Trips: HTH Worldwide Travel Insurance

HTH Worldwide Travel Insurance  offers three levels of trip protection: TripProtector Economy, Classic, and Preferred. The higher the tier, the more coverage you'll get for things like baggage delays, trip delays & cancellations, and medical expenses. But their premiums remain reasonable even at the highest tier of coverage.

Not only does the HTH Worldwide Trip Protector Preferred plan offer higher-than-average medical emergency and evacuation coverage limits ($500,000 and $1 million, respectively), but you'll also get a baggage loss coverage limit of $2,000 per person and coverage for trip interruption of up to 200% of the trip cost. You also have the option to add CFAR coverage for an additional cost.

Read our HTH Worldwide Travel Insurance review here.

Best Cruise Insurance for Exotic Locations: World Nomads Travel Insurance

World Nomads Travel Insurance  has been a top choice for comprehensive travel insurance for many years now. And it's a great option when it comes to cruise coverage, too.

Even the most basic Standard Plan comes with $100,000 in medical emergency coverage and $300,000 in emergency evacuation coverage. And you'll get higher coverage limits with their Premium Plan. Plus, unlike many other providers, World Nomads trip cancellation and emergency medical coverage include COVID-19-related issues.

What sets World Nomads apart from many other insurance companies is that its policies cover 200+ adventure sports. This can be important for adventurous cruisers who plan to take part in activities like jet skiing, scuba diving, or parasailing during their cruise.

Read our World Nomads Travel Insurance review here.

Introduction to Cruise Insurance

Cruise insurance may offer unique coverage like missed port of call and medical evacuation coverage. You might not need the flight protections of a regular travel insurance plan if you're catching a cruise at a port near you, but medical and cancel for any reason coverage could be critical.

Understanding the Basics of Cruise Insurance

At its core, cruise insurance is your financial lifeboat, designed to protect you from unforeseen events that could disrupt your sea voyage. Whether it's a sudden illness, adverse weather, or other unexpected occurrences, having the right insurance can make a world of difference.

Why Cruise Insurance is Important

Picture this: You're all set for your dream cruise, but a sudden family emergency means you can't set sail. Or worse, you fall ill in the middle of the ocean. Without cruise insurance, you're not just missing out on an adventure, but also facing potentially huge financial losses. That's why securing cruise insurance isn't just recommended; it's a crucial part of your cruise planning.

Types of Cruise Insurance Coverage

Cruise insurance isn't a one-size-fits-all life jacket. There are various types of coverage, each tailored to protect different aspects of your cruise experience.

Trip Cancellation and Interruption Coverage

This coverage is like your safety net, catching you financially if you need to cancel your trip last minute or cut it short due to emergencies, be it due to personal, health-related, or even certain work conflicts.

Medical Coverage

Being on a cruise shouldn't mean being adrift from medical care. Medical coverage ensures that if you fall ill or get injured, your medical expenses won't sink your finances.

Emergency Evacuation Coverage

In the rare case that you need to be evacuated from the ship due to a medical emergency or severe weather, this coverage ensures you're not left adrift in a sea of expenses.

Baggage and Personal Effects Coverage

Imagine reaching your dream destination only to find your luggage lost at sea. This coverage ensures that lost, stolen, or damaged baggage doesn't dampen your cruise experience.

Buying Cruise Insurance

Securing the best cruise insurance isn't just about finding the best price; it's about ensuring it covers all your potential needs.

When to Purchase Cruise Insurance

Timing is everything. Purchasing your insurance soon after booking your cruise can often provide additional benefits and ensure you're covered for any early surprises. As you get closer to your trip your coverage options may get more expensive, and certain providers may not be able to offer you coverage.

How to Find the Best Deals on Cruise Insurance

Keep a lookout for deals, but remember, the cheapest option isn't always the best. Balance cost with coverage, and ensure you're getting the protection you need at a price that doesn't rock your financial boat. A travel insurance comparison site like SquareMouth is a good place to compare multiple quotes from all of the major carriers at once.

How to Pick The Best Cruise Insurance for You

When buying travel insurance for a cruise, consider the additional risks that are specific to cruising. These include hurricanes and other weather-related concerns, strict cancellation terms, high pre-paid costs of a cruise, and the distance to emergency medical assistance.

To find the policy that's right for you, it's best to compare several different cruise insurance policies based on the pricing and coverage they provide. Remember too that all reputable insurance providers will offer a "free-look period." This allows you to return the policy you've purchased for any reason, within a specific time period, for a full refund.

The most important coverages to look for in cruise insurance are:

• Medical coverage — This coverage will pay for medical bills outside the US. But because treatment can be more expensive while onboard, make sure your policy offers sufficient coverage ($100,000+).
• Medical evacuation coverage — This coverage will transport you to the nearest hospital or even back home if you become sick or injured during your journey. But an evacuation from sea will be more expensive than one from land. So you'll want to make sure your coverage has sufficiently high limits ($250,000+).
• Missed connection (missed port of call) coverage — This type of coverage will help you catch up to your itinerary if you miss your port of call for a covered reason, like a delayed flight on the way to the airport.
• Coverage for hurricane warnings — With this type of coverage, you don't actually need to be affected by the hurricane. You can cancel and be reimbursed for your trip if the NOAA issues a hurricane warning. If you're cruising anywhere during (or on the tail ends) of hurricane season, this can come in handy. Just note: You can't buy travel insurance to cover a weather event once a storm or hurricane has been named.
• Cancel for any reason (CFAR) — This is the most comprehensive coverage you can get, as it allows cancellations and reimbursement for pre-paid expenses for any reason. This can be a wise add-on for cruise coverage given the often higher prepaid expenses associated with cruising. See our guide to the best CFAR travel insurance options to learn more.
• Preexisting conditions — This coverage ensures that no known health conditions are excluded from coverage. Obtaining a preexisting condition waiver usually requires purchasing your travel insurance soon after booking your trip.
• Personal possessions insurance — Because of the events and fancy dinners cruise ships hold, you might take more valuable clothing or jewelry with you on a cruise. This type of coverage will insure your belongings against loss or theft while cruising.
• Baggage loss and delay — This coverage will reimburse you up to a specified amount for essentials if your bags are delayed or if your bags get lost en route.

As a rule of thumb, you can expect to pay between 5% and 10% of your prepaid, nonrefundable trip expenses for cruise insurance coverage. The price will vary depending on factors like your age, your travel destination, and whether you require additional coverage.

If you're booking a cruise, we recommend purchasing travel insurance when you make your first trip payment. That could be for the cruise itself or an expense like airfare to get you to your cruising destination. This way, if you have to cancel your trip, you'll have the most extended coverage period possible.

You can buy your own cruise insurance that isn't offered directly through the cruise line operator. In fact, this could be a better option if you want coverage for your travel to the cruise's departure point, not just for the cruise itself.

The difference between traditional travel insurance and cruise insurance is that cruise insurance offers more specialized coverage, for situations such as missing a departure port and more coverage for medical evacuations, since it's more expensive to evacuate someone at sea than on land. 

Most cruise insurance includes coverage for missing a departure port, so you should be able to claim for a missed port. Just make sure you check the details of your policy before you file a claim, and before you travel so you know what compensation you're entitled to.

Why You Should Trust Us: How We Chose the Best Cruise Travel Insurance

When comparing cruise travel insurance providers, we evaluated them based on the following criteria to come up with our list of top picks:

Customer Satisfaction

We look at ratings from JD Power and other industry giants to see where a company ranks in customer satisfaction. We also look at customer review sites like Trustpilot and SquareMouth.

Policy Types

We look at policy types and offerings, from standard travel protections to adventure sports coverage. We look at the amount of insurance offered

Average Premiums

We compare average premiums per trip. Some companies also offer annual plans, and we compare policies accordingly.

Claims Paid

How frequently do companies pay claims easily and quickly? We check customer reviews and other resources to see which companies honor policies most effectively.

We look at the company's overall behavior. Is it operating ethically? Companies can earn additional points for such behaviors.

You can read more about how Business Insider rates insurance here.

Editorial Note: Any opinions, analyses, reviews, or recommendations expressed in this article are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any card issuer. Read our editorial standards .

Please note: While the offers mentioned above are accurate at the time of publication, they're subject to change at any time and may have changed, or may no longer be available.

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• Main content

Baltimore bridge collapse wasn't first major accident for giant container ship Dali

Propulsion failed on the cargo ship that struck the Francis Key Bridge in Baltimore early Tuesday as it was leaving port, causing it to collapse into the frigid Patapsco River. Its crew warned Maryland officials of a possible collision because they had lost control.

“The vessel notified MD Department of Transportation (MDOT) that they had lost control of the vessel” and a collision with the bridge “was possible,” according to an unclassified Department of Homeland Security report. “The vessel struck the bridge causing a complete collapse.”

An official speaking on condition of anonymity confirmed to USA TODAY that the DHS’ Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency is working with federal, state, and local officials “to understand the potential impacts of this morning’s collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge.”

Clay Diamond, executive director, American Pilots’ Association, told USA TODAY power issues are not unusual on cargo ships, which are so large they cannot easily course correct.

“It’s likely that virtually every pilot in the country has experienced a power loss of some kind (but) it generally is momentary,” Diamond said. “This was a complete blackout of all the power on the ship, so that’s unusual. Of course this happened at the worst possible location.” 

The ship in Tuesday's crash, Dali, was involved in at least one prior accident when it collided with a shipping pier in Belgium.

That 2016 incident occurred as the Dali was leaving port in Antwerp and struck a loading pier made of stone, causing damage to the ship’s stern, according to VesselFinder.com, a site that tracks ships across the world. An investigation determined a mistake made by the ship’s master and pilot was to blame.

No one was injured in that crash, although the ship required repair and a full inspection before being returned to service. The pier – or berth – was also seriously damaged and had to be closed.

VesselFinder reports that the Dali was chartered by Maersk, the same company chartering it during the Baltimore harbor incident.

The 9-year-old container ship had passed previous inspections during its time at sea, but during one such inspection in June at the Port of San Antonio in Chile, officials discovered a deficiency with its "propulsion and auxiliary machinery (gauges, thermometers, etc)," according to the Tokyo MOU, an intergovernmental maritime authority in the Asia-Pacific region.

The report provided no other information about the deficiency except to note that it was not serious enough to remove the ship from service.

Follow here for live updates: Baltimore's Key Bridge collapses after ship strike; construction crew missing: Live Updates

Why did Dali crash into the Baltimore bridge?

Officials said Tuesday they’re investigating the collision, including whether systems on board lost electricity early Tuesday morning, which could be related to mechanical failure, according to a U.S. official who was not authorized to speak publicly.

Accidents at sea, known as marine casualties, are not uncommon, the source told USA TODAY. However, “allisions,” in which a moving object strikes a stationary one with catastrophic results, are far less common. The investigation of the power loss aboard the Dali, a Singapore-flagged vessel, will be a high priority.

In a video posted to social media, lights on the Dali shut off, then turned back on, then shut off again before the ship struck a support pier on the bridge.

Numerous cargo and cruise ships have lost power over the years.

The International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea requires all international vessels to have two independent sources of electricity, both of which should be able to maintain the ship's seaworthiness on their own, according to a safety study about power failures on ships , citing the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea.

The Dali's emergency generator was likely responsible for the lights coming back on after the initial blackout, Diamond said.

“There was still some steerage left when they initially lost power,” he said. “We’ve been told the ship never recovered propulsion. The emergency generator is a diesel itself – so if you light off the generator, that’s also going to put off a puff of exhaust.”

Under maritime law, all foreign flagged vessels must be piloted into state ports by a state licensed pilot so the Dali's pilot is licensed by Association of Maryland Pilots .

Diamond described the incident based on information from the Maryland agency that licensed the pilot aboard the ship. His organization represents that group and all other state piloting agencies in the US.

“The pilot was directing navigation of the ship as it happened,” he said. “He asked the captain to get the engines back online. They weren’t able to do that, so the pilot took all the action he could. He tried to steer, to keep the ship in the channel. He also dropped the ship’s anchor to slow the ship and guide the direction.

“Neither one was enough. The ship never did regain its engine power.”

How big is the Dali ship?

The Dali is a 984-foot container vessel built in 2015 by Hyundai Heavy Industries in South Korea. With a cruising speed of about 22 knots – roughly 25 mph. It has traveled the world carrying goods from port to port.

The ship, constructed of high-strength steel, has one engine and one propeller, according to MarineTraffic.com.

The Dali arrived in Baltimore on Sunday from the Port of Norfolk in Virginia. Before that, it had been in New York and came through the Panama Canal.

It remains at the scene of the collapse as authorities investigate.

Who owns and operates the Dali?

It is owned by the Singapore-based Grace Ocean Pte Ltd but managed by Synergy Marine Group, also based in Singapore. It was carrying Maersk customers’ cargo, according to a statement from the shipping company.

“We are deeply concerned by this incident and are closely monitoring the situation,” Maersk said in the statement. 

Synergy, which describes itself as a leading ship manager with more than 600 vessels under its guidance, issued a statement on its website acknowledging the incident and reporting no injuries among its crew and no pollution in the water. There were two pilots on board and 22 crew members in all, according to Synergy, all of them from India.

USA TODAY reached out to Synergy on Tuesday, but the company did not immediately return a call seeking comment.

Contributing: Josh Susong

Cruise lines scramble to find home port alternatives after Baltimore bridge collapse

Following the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore early Tuesday, two cruise lines have to find alternate ports where their ships can dock when their current voyages conclude.

What happened

In the early hours of March 26, a cargo ship leaving the port of Baltimore hit the Francis Scott Key Bridge, causing a total collapse, Baltimore City Fire Department chief James Wallace said during a press conference Tuesday morning .

Several people are confirmed to have fallen into the water. Two were rescued, and the search continues for others. Mayor Brandon M. Scott has declared a state of emergency in the city .

Because the debris from the fallen bridge and the search-and-rescue efforts block the path to the docking area, the Port of Baltimore has suspended vessel traffic into and out of the port until further notice. It is not yet known how long it will be closed to cruise ships or how long cleanup and rebuilding are expected to take.

Which ships are affected

Two cruise ships — Carnival Cruise Line 's Carnival Legend and Royal Caribbean 's Vision of the Seas — currently depart from Baltimore, prompting both cruise lines to search for alternative port options.

Carnival Legend is on a seven-night Bahamas voyage that was set to end in Baltimore on March 31. Vision of the Seas is in the early part of a 12-night sailing, also round trip from Baltimore, that's due to finish April 4. Additionally, Carnival Pride is scheduled to move from its current home port of Tampa to begin offering round-trip voyages from Baltimore starting April 15.

American Cruise Lines also has two ships — American Glory and American Constitution — in the area, but they remain largely unaffected, as both vessels are scheduled to home port in Washington, D.C., this year. (The line has other voyages that are set to sail from Baltimore later in the year. It plans to monitor conditions there and make adjustments as necessary.)

What the lines are saying about itinerary changes

Carnival will temporarily relocate its Baltimore-based vessels to Norfolk, Virginia, until further notice. In a statement, the line said passengers on its current Carnival Legend sailing will be bused, at no cost to them, back to Baltimore after disembarking on March 31. The ship's next sailings will now sail round-trip from Norfolk.

"We will update our future cruise guests on when we will return home to Baltimore, but in the meantime, we appreciate the quick response and support from officials in Norfolk," Carnival Cruise Line president Christine Duffy said.

Royal Caribbean has not yet announced a Baltimore alternative but verified that Vision of the Seas will also not be returning there following its current voyage or for several of its subsequent cruises.

"We are deeply saddened by the tragedy and collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge and extend our heartfelt prayers to all those impacted," Royal Caribbean said in an emailed statement. "We are closely monitoring the situation, and our port logistics team is currently working on alternatives for Vision of the Seas' ongoing and upcoming sailings. Any updates will be communicated to our guests and travel partners once our plans are finalized."

TPG also contacted the Cruise Lines International Association, which serves as an advocate for the cruise industry as a whole. In an emailed statement, CLIA provided port statistics.

"Cruise activity at the port of Baltimore based on 2024 published itineraries includes 12 ships making a total of 115 ship calls during calendar year 2024," CLIA said. "It is the 29th-largest cruise port in the U.S. with 378,000 passenger movements scheduled through the port."

Have more cruise questions? TPG has answers:

• Banned items: What not to pack for a cruise
• Man overboard: Why do people fall off cruise ships?
• What is baked Alaska, and why is it paraded around cruise ships?
• What are the largest cruise ships in the world?
• What is a gentleman host on a cruise?
• What is the Jones Act and how does it affect cruise ships?
• What is a lido deck on a cruise ship?
• What's a cruise cabin guarantee and will it save you money?
• What's the difference between a cruise concierge and a butler?