How to Choose a Cruise
by Rachel Ward, Designer Travel
As a Utah travel agency, we get asked so many questions about cruises. Should we take an ocean cruise or a river cruise? Which cruise line is best? Where should we go on a cruise and so on. The answers to these questions depend a lot on a number of factors. We always try to answer all of these questions when we talk to people and we will try and break down a few of the answers to some of the questions we regularly get that will help you decide what cruise to sail on and where to go for your next ocean cruise! We dove into online cruise reviews to find some answers.
Let’s talk about Cruises
We all work hard and deserve to have the best time possible when we travel. At Designer Travel, we know that planning vacations can often be stressful and we want to help reduce that stress.
It seems like everyone has a story about a cruise that didn’t go very well, or maybe just that they went on a cruise and decided they are not “cruise people”. We have found that many people book a cruise based on price, or timing, or they choose a cruise because someone else liked it. Well, we don’t choose what movies to go to or what food we like based on these reasons, and they are not the ideal reasons to choose what cruise to take.
Most of the time when we talk to people about their bad experiences, it is clear that the cruise they went on was really just not a great fit for them, and if they had made a different choice (of cruise line or destination) they may have had a totally different experience. There are so many options, and we bet there are choices out there that you didn’t even know existed. Among so many other reasons, this is another reason why you should choose a travel agent when deciding what cruise to go on. So, let’s talk about cruises! Today, in addition to discussing the benefits of cruising, we are going to focus on some of the differences between a few of the major ocean cruise lines. We’ll dive into a few of the major river cruise lines later!
Top 5 reasons to take a cruise
- 1. Convenience: Unpack once and wake up in a new destination each day without the hassle of multiple flights or hotel check-ins.
- 2. Luxurious Accommodations: Enjoy well-appointed cabins, gourmet dining, world-class entertainment, and top-notch service.
- 3. Diverse Destinations: Explore multiple destinations in one trip, from tropical islands to bustling cities, all while cruising in style.
- 4. Onboard Activities: From relaxing by the pool to adrenaline-pumping waterslides, onboard activities cater to all ages and interests. Full days at sea are anything but boring with so many things to do for adults and kids.
- 5. Economical: It’s often less expensive to cruise through various parts of the world rather than book hotel rooms and pay for expensive restaurants.
Cruise Line Comparisons
Ships: Virgin Voyages offers a modern and vibrant cruise experience with sleek, adults-only ships designed for a sophisticated yet fun atmosphere. Onboard, guests can enjoy world-class dining options with a variety of gourmet restaurants, innovative entertainment from live performances to immersive shows, and stylish, comfortable cabins equipped with high-tech amenities. With a focus on wellness and luxury, Virgin Voyages ensures an unforgettable journey filled with relaxation and excitement.
Cruises: Sail worldwide, including the Caribbean, with stops in places like the Dominican Republic, the Bahamas, and Mexico, as well as voyages through the Mediterranean, visiting iconic ports in Italy, Greece, Spain, and Croatia.
Audience: Adults only desiring a children-free cruise
Price Range: $$ – $$$
Reviews: 4.1 star average out of 5 stars based on 1,179 reviews*
*According to cruisecritic.com
2. Royal Caribbean International
Ships: Royal Caribbean’s fleet features some of the largest and most innovative ships in the industry, complete with rock-climbing walls, surf simulators, and Broadway-style entertainment. Have you seen pictures of their new “Icon of the Seas”? It’s a massive ship that literally has something for everyone. Reviews range from ship to ship. We recommend looking at reviews for the specific ship you’re looking at taking and we are always happy to provide our input.
Cruises: Sail worldwide, including destinations in the Caribbean, Europe, Alaska, and Asia.
Audience: Ideal for families, couples, and adventure seekers.
Price Range: $$ – $$$
Reviews: 3.9 star average out of 5 stars based on 42,760 reviews*
3. Carnival Cruise Line
Ships: Known for their fun and lively atmosphere, Carnival ships offer waterslides, live music, and diverse dining options. As Carnival is a lower-priced cruise line many reviews we looked at described the food as poorer and it is definitely more of a party atmosphere. The ships are big however, and allow for people to get away from activities they don’t enjoy. The onboard entertainment was rated high as was the value for the money. Many cruisers are loyal Carnival fans and return time and time again. Carnival is a great option for many vacations.
Cruises: Primarily sail to popular destinations in the Caribbean, Mexico, and the Bahamas.
Audience: Geared towards younger crowds, families, and first-time cruisers.
Price Range: $ – $$
Reviews: 3.8 star average out of 5 stars based on 27,730 reviews*
*According to cruisecritic.com
4. Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)
Ships: NCL provides a laid-back cruising experience with specialty dining options, entertainment, and onboard activities. Norwegian ships are mainly designed for middle-class travelers with affordable cabins. However, they also offer high-end suites and services that attract many luxury-seeking guests. One thing many guests like about Norwegian is their “Freestyle Dining”, which means no fixed dining times or assigned seating.
Cruises: Explore destinations worldwide, with a focus on Alaska, the Caribbean, and Europe.
Audience: Appeals to individuals and families seeking flexibility in dining and entertainment choices.
Price Range: $$ – $$$
Reviews: 3.6 star average out of 5 stars based on 41,404 reviews*
*According to cruisecritic.com
5. MSC Cruises
Ships: MSC boasts elegant European-style ships with varied entertainment options, spas, and family-friendly activities. MSC Cruises has been ranked based on expert evaluations of their luxury level, user reviews, and health ratings. They are #5 in Best Cruise Lines for Families, #6 in Best Cruise Lines for the Money, #7 in Best Cruise Lines in the Mediterranean, and #9 in Best Cruise Lines in the Caribbean.
Cruises: Sail to destinations in the Mediterranean, the Caribbean, Northern Europe, and beyond.
Audience: Caters to travelers looking for a touch of European flair and international cuisine.
Price Range: $$ – $$$
Reviews: 3.3 star average out of 5 stars based on 1,315 reviews*
*According to cruisecritic.com
6. Princess Cruises
Ships: Princess offers a refined cruising experience with diverse dining options, entertainment, and enrichment programs. Princess ships are generally more upscale and can be more expensive than other options, but that doesn’t mean you’ll always pay luxury prices. Room costs vary greatly depending on when you travel, with higher prices during the holidays. One of the favorite features of frequent Princess Cruise travelers is a dramatic over-water SeaWalk, a top-deck glass-bottomed walkway extending more than 28 feet beyond the edge of the vessel.
Cruises: Explore destinations worldwide, with a focus on the Mediterranean, Alaska, the Caribbean, and Asia.
Audience: Suited for couples, solo travelers, and those seeking an upscale experience.
Price Range: $$ – $$$$
Reviews: 3.8 star average out of 5 stars based on 1,783 reviews*
*According to cruisecritic.com
7. Celebrity Cruises
Ships: Celebrity ships are synonymous with modern luxury, exquisite cuisine, and personalized service. Celebrity’s modern ships offer all the luxury of a high-end resort and are the first cruise line to be Star Rated by Forbes Travel Guide. Another lesser-known fact: Celebrity Cruises meets all the needs for senior cruises with over 300 global destinations, a range of luxury staterooms, top-notch amenities, world-class dining, exciting entertainment, and easy-to-navigate ships.
Cruises: Sail to destinations in Alaska, the Caribbean, Europe, and the Galapagos Islands. Audience: Celebrity’s ships attract a narrower, more upscale demographic, mostly Gen Xers in their 40s and 50s and retirement-age baby boomers, with some childless millennials, too.
Price Range: $$$ – $$$$
Reviews: 4 star average out of 5 stars based on 19,763 reviews*
*According to cruisecritic.com
8. Holland America Line
Ships: Holland America offers classic cruising with elegant decor, culinary experiences, and enriching programs. Holland America stands beside Celebrity at the top of the major cruise line ratings. Holland has top ratings for the friendliness of their staff and a more “personalized” experience.
Cruises: Explore destinations worldwide, with a focus on Alaska, Europe, and the South Pacific.
Audience: Appeals to mature travelers and those seeking a traditional cruising experience. Holland has more recently updated their onboard programs geared toward kids.
Price Range: $$$
Reviews: 3.9 star average out of 5 stars based on 8,689 reviews*
*According to cruisecritic.com
9. Disney Cruise Line
Ships: Disney ships cater to families with themed entertainment, character experiences, and exceptional service. Kids of all ages can enjoy various Character experiences throughout the cruise. Each ship also features kids’ pools, splash areas, youth clubs, family lounges, arcades, and activity centers. Disney cruises are known for being pricey, but adding extras like a concierge room and spa visits can significantly increase the cost. The most affordable cruises usually depart from San Diego and are also the shortest trips. When you want to take your family on a Disney cruise there’s just no substitute.
Cruises: Primarily sail to destinations in the Caribbean, Bahamas, and Alaska.
Audience: Perfect for families and Disney enthusiasts of all ages.
Price Range: $$$ – $$$$
Reviews: 4.3 star average out of 5 stars based on 786 reviews*
*According to cruisecritic.com
10. Costa Cruises
Ships: Costa Cruises offer Italian-inspired experiences with vibrant decor, diverse dining, and lively entertainment. Costa is a budget friendly cruise line where the stand is more everyday than luxury.
Cruises: Explore destinations in the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the Caribbean, and beyond.
Audience: Attracts travelers seeking a European ambiance and vibrant onboard atmosphere.
Price Range: $$ – $$$
Reviews: 2.8 star average out of 5 stars based on 34 reviews*
*According to cruisecritic.com
At Designer Travel, we are cruise experts and will put in the time to get to know you, your family and your group so that we match the best cruise line, budget and destination to make your next cruise vacation the best one yet. Whether you want to go on a cruise, stay at an all-inclusive resort or plan out your perfect custom itinerary give us a call! Your next big adventure awaits! Call 801-935-8652, email us at
in**@de******************.com
or book a discovery call to start planning.
Let’s go cruising!!