LUXURY CRUISE LINES sail the most diverse cruise schedules and sailing itineraries and offer high-end dining, service, and amenities. Many luxury cruise ships rival 4- and 5-star hotels in their appointments and amenities and cruisers pay top prices for an exclusive, luxury cruise experience. Luxury cruise ships range widely in size, but are generally much smaller than mainstream and premium ships, with some no larger than private yachts.
Crystal Cruises - Hovering somewhere between the premium and high-end luxury markets, Crystal Cruises offers two well-appointed and elegant cruise ships each carrying around 1,000 passengers. The ships never stick to one area long, and generally circumnavigate the globe annually.
Sails to: Africa, Alaska, Australia/New Zealand, Caribbean, Caribbean Eastern, Central America/Panama Canal, Eastern Seaboard, Hawaii, Indian Ocean, Inland Waterways, Mediterranean, Mexico, Oceania/South Pacific, Scandinavia/Northern Europe, South America, The Orient, Transatlantic, Transpacific, and World Cruises.
Hapag-Lloyd Cruises
Hapag-Lloyd is a venerable German line that traces its root all the way back to the 19th century. Catering primarily to Germans and English-speakers, Hapag-Lloyd offers a variety of high-end cruises for well-heeled passengers around Northern Europe and the Mediterranean, as well as expedition-style trips to the Northwest Passage and Antarctica. Sails to:
Africa
Alaska
Antarctica
Arctic Circle
Atlantic Coast
Australia/New Zealand
British Isles
Caribbean
Central America/Panama Canal
Eastern Seaboard
Indian Ocean
Mediterranean
Mediterranean Eastern
Mediterranean Western
Mexico
Middle East
Oceania/South Pacific
Scandinavia/Northern Europe
South America
Southeast Asia
The Orient
Transatlantic
Transpacific
West Coast
Paul Gauguin Cruises - Paul Gauguin Cruises is a very high-end venture, operating a single luxuriously-appointed ship on Tahitian itineraries. The line's only ship, Paul Gauguin, is named for the line's President and is the largest, best-appointed vessel cruising the French Polynesia.
Sails to: Oceania/South Pacific
Regent Seven Seas Cruises operates a modern, high-end, three-ship fleet that offers itineraries in every major cruise region in the world (except Antarctica). Accommodations are luxurious and the vast majority are suites. Passengers are generally a mix of older, well-heeled North Americans, Europeans and Australians.
Sails to: Africa
Alaska
Australia/New Zealand
Bermuda
Caribbean Eastern
Caribbean Southern
Caribbean Western
Central America/Panama Canal
Eastern Seaboard
Egypt/Nile River
Inland Waterways
Mediterranean
Mediterranean Eastern
Mediterranean Western
Middle East
Scandinavia/Northern Europe
South America
Southeast Asia
Transatlantic
Transpacific
World
SeaDream Yacht Club operates a two ship fleet (SeaDream I & II) that each carry 100 passengers in roomy, luxurious accommodations. The vessels generally divide their time between the Mediterranean and Caribbean, offering top-notch food, service and spa treatments to well-heeled passengers and charter groups.
Sails to: Caribbean
Caribbean Eastern
Indian Ocean
Mediterranean
Transatlantic
Silversea Cruises - Family-owned by the Lefebvres of Rome, Silversea projects an Italian heritage and caters primarily to older well-heeled North Americans, with some Europeans, Australians and Asians joining the mix. All five Silversea vessels offer enrichment lecturers and feature an Italian decor with highlights like Murano-glass fixtures.
Sails to: Africa
Alaska
Antarctica
Arctic Circle
Australia/New Zealand
Caribbean
Caribbean Western
Eastern Seaboard
Inland Waterways
Mediterranean
Mediterranean Western
Middle East
Scandinavia/Northern Europe
South America
Southeast Asia
The Orient
Transatlantic
Transpacific
World
The Yachts of Seabourn - provide some of the finest food and service afloat. The steep, but truly all-inclusive rates appeal to well-heeled North Americans and Europeans, and the line offers a wide variety of itineraries all over the world. The SeaDream Yacht Club is probably the closest competitor, but its vessels are much smaller than Seabourns.
Sails to: Africa
Australia/New Zealand
Caribbean
Eastern Seaboard
Inland Waterways
Mediterranean
Mediterranean Eastern
Mediterranean Western
Oceania/South Pacific
Scandinavia/Northern Europe
South America
Southeast Asia
Transatlantic
World
PREMIUM CRUISE LINES offer similar cruise schedules to mainstream cruise ships, but generally cater to an older, more discerning passenger seeking a higher level of service, ship amenities, and accommodations at higher cruise prices.
Azamara Club Cruises
Celebrity Cruises
Cunard Line
Holland America Line
Oceania Cruises
ResidenSea Ltd
Sea Cloud Cruises
Windstar Cruises
MAIN STREAM CRUISE LINES generally operate mid- to mega-size cruise ships offering an array of amenities and cabin grades. They are marketed to middle-class passengers and offer a variety of cruise schedules and itineraries that are great for family cruises.
AIDA Cruises - This German cruise line has a fleet of seven ships and offers quality accommodations on a variety of European itineraries. Ships generally sail out of German ports, with three vessels homeporting in Hamburg during 2010.
Sails from German ports.
Carnival Cruise Lines is famous for pioneering the Fun Ship concept and opening the cruise industry to middle-class passengers. Although the line began with a shaky start in 1972, it now boasts more than 20 ships carrying primarily North American passengers on Caribbean, Mexican and Alaskan itineraries (although Mediterranean offerings are growing in number).
Sails to: Alaska
Bahamas
Bermuda
Caribbean Eastern
Caribbean Southern
Caribbean Western
Central America/Panama Canal
Eastern Seaboard
Hawaii
Mediterranean
Mexico
Nowhere
Costa Cruise Lines - Europe's largest cruise line, Costa Cruises offers more than a dozen ships in a variety of sizes and themes. Décor ranges from traditional and sleek on the older vessels while the newer megaships sport colorful and glitzy interiors designed by Carnival's Joe Farcus. The line is popular among middle-class Europeans and Italian newlyweds.
Sails to: Caribbean Eastern
Caribbean Western
Eastern Seaboard
Mediterranean
Mediterranean Western
Middle East
Scandinavia/Northern Europe
South America
The Orient
Transatlantic
Disney Cruise Line - Built specifically to cater to families, Disney's ships offer an incredible array of amenities and activities. The ships are largely divided between areas for children and adults, allowing kids to have all the fun they want under the watch of well-trained staff, while parents can relax in adult-only bars, lounges, restaurants and swimming pools.
sails to: Alaska
Bahamas
Caribbean Eastern
Caribbean Southern
Caribbean Western
Central America/Panama Canal
Inland Waterways
Mediterranean
Mediterranean Western
Mexico
Scandinavia/Northern Europe
Transatlantic
InnerSea Discoveries - InnerSea Discoveries, parent company of American Safari Cruises, is launching new wilderness adventure voyages in 2011 to Southeast Alaska on the Wilderness Adventurer and Wilderness Discoverer.
Sails to Alaska
Louis Cruise Lines Ltd - Currently the largest operator of Greek cruise ships, Louis Cruise Lines is based in Cypriot and offers a fleet of midsize second-hand vessels that vary significantly in design, layout and quality. They generally offer port-intensive itineraries at reasonable rates, but without all the high-tech amenities of North American cruise ships.
MSC Cruises - Mediterranean Shipping Cruises (MSC) is a fast-growing, European-based outfit whose fleet currently boasts a dozen ships. The ships and itineraries cater to the European mass-market, with the vessels bearing Italian interiors and itineraries split between the Mediterranean and Caribbean.
Sails to: Caribbean
Caribbean Eastern
Caribbean Southern
Caribbean Western
Eastern Seaboard
Mediterranean
Scandinavia/Northern Europe
South America
Transatlantic
Norwegian Cruise Line - Originally debuting as the Norwegian Caribbean Line in 1966, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) got its new name (and several new ships) in the late 1990s and now competes with Carnival, Princess and Royal Caribbean. The line operates more ships from U.S. ports than any other, and is known for its Freestyle Cruising concept where guests are allowed to eat meals and participate in activities as the please.
Sails to: Alaska
Bahamas
Bermuda
Caribbean
Caribbean Eastern
Caribbean Southern
Caribbean Western
Central America/Panama Canal
Eastern Seaboard
Hawaii
Inland Waterways
Mediterranean
Mediterranean Western
Mexico
Nowhere
Scandinavia/Northern Europe
Transatlantic
West Coast
Pearl Seas Cruises - Pearl Seas Cruises is a brand-new venture from the owners of American Cruise Lines, a coastal and inland cruise company making their first foray into open-water cruising. Their only ship, the Pearl Mist, will carry 210 passengers to the Great Lakes, St. Lawrence Valley and Caribbean when it debuts later in 2010.
Princess Cruises - Part of Carnival Corp. since 2003, Princess Cruises operates 17 vessels based around the world in North and South America, Europe, the western Pacific and Australia. Despite its strong international presence and past reputation as a premium line, the Princess now caters primarily to middle-market American cruisers looking for a dependable and affordable experience.
Sails to: Africa
Alaska
Australia/New Zealand
Bermuda
Caribbean
Caribbean Eastern
Caribbean Southern
Caribbean Western
Central America/Panama Canal
Eastern Seaboard
Hawaii
Inland Waterways
Mediterranean
Mediterranean Eastern
Mediterranean Western
Mexico
Middle East
Oceania/South Pacific
Scandinavia/Northern Europe
South America
Southeast Asia
The Orient
Transatlantic
Transpacific
West Coast
World
Royal Caribbean Cruise Line boasts a fleet of the world's largest ships, with eight of them weighing 135,000 tons or more. Royal Caribbean ships are basically cities at sea, arguably offering the best variety of bells and whistles out of all the mainstream cruise lines. Main competitors are Carnival and NCL.
Sails to: Alaska
Australia/New Zealand
Bahamas
Bermuda
Caribbean
Caribbean Eastern
Caribbean Southern
Caribbean Western
Central America/Panama Canal
Eastern Seaboard
Hawaii
Inland Waterways
Mediterranean
Mediterranean Eastern
Mediterranean Western
Mexico
Middle East
Scandinavia/Northern Europe
South America
Southeast Asia
Transatlantic
Saga Cruises operates one vessel, the Saga Ruby, which features a classic ocean-liner exterior and caters exclusively to older travelers. Itineraries are usually longer than a week (as most passengers are retired), extending up to world cruises that can last 100 days or more. Passengers are mostly elderly Britons with a few North Americans joining the mix.
Sails to:
TUI Cruises is a brand new line currently offering one ship, the 1,914-passenger Mein Schiff. A joint venture between German tour operator TUI AG and Royal Caribbean, the TUI Cruises currently offers 2- to 14-day itineraries from Kiel, Hamburg and Palma de Mallorca.
Sails to: British Isles
Scandinavia/Northern Europe
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Ibero Cruises is a largely Carnival-owned venture, catering to the middle-class Spanish-speaking market. The line has three ships carrying between 800 and 1,400 passengers on itineraries in Europe and the Caribbean.
Sails to Mediterranean
Coming soon to the Caribbean
Pullmantur Cruises
Owned by Royal Caribbean, Pullmantur Cruises currently operates a fleet of five cruise ships ranging in size from 1,400 to 2,800 passengers. Catering primarily to the Spanish market, the line offers a variety of one-week itineraries of the western Mediterranean and Canary Islands. Their main competitor is Ibero Cruises.
EXPEDITION CRUISE LINES cater to adventure-seeking travelers and offer cruise schedules to destinations like the Galapagos Islands, Antarctica, and Greenland. Expedition cruises generally focus on remote scenery or wildlife viewing. Amenities range widely from cruise ship to ship, from basic accommodations to luxurious appointments.
Amazon Tours & Cruises offers a variety of vacation options throughout the Amazon basin, catering to ecotourists from North America, South America and Europe. They offer a variety of itineraries with extensions reaching as far into the upper Amazon.
Canodros SA's primary function is operating the Galapagos Explorer II, a expedition-style ship that offers surprising luxury and Galapagos itineraries. Cruises are marketed primarily to ecotourists and the company also manages an Ecuadorian rain-forest lodge that can be added as an extension.
Ecoventura operates three yachts of Ecuadorian registry, all cruising to the Galapagos Islands. Ecoventura was the first Galapagos operation to become completely carbon-neutral, offsetting their emissions through various projects with Native-Energy Travel Offsets.
Elegant Cruises & Tours - In addition to marketing boutique ships like Sea Cloud, Elegant Cruises & Tours also has two small ships of their own. Both ships are luxuriously appointed and in addition to sailing a variety of itineraries from Antarctica to the Mediterranean, both ships are available for full or partial charters.
GAP Adventures - A Toronto-based company founded in 1990, GAP Adventures primarily operates expedition-style land tours (close to 1,000), but also offers a limited number of cruises aboard their only ship, the M/S Expedition. Itineraries can range widely, but the majority of cruises are to the Arctic or Antarctic.
GreenTracks, Inc - Catering to ecotourists and those with a taste for adventure, Greentracks Inc. offers Peruvian river cruises that focus on wildlife viewing and cultural education. A naturalist or zoologist accompany all Greentracks cruises to ensure a safe and educational experience.
International Expeditions, Inc - International Expedition has a fleet of three ships (La Amatista, M/V Evolution, Sepik Spirit) carrying between 18 and 32 passengers down the Amazon, to the Galapagos Islands or Papua New Guinea. All offer a high-end and educational experience to generally well-heeled ecotourists.
Kleintours of Ecuador - Kleintours offers 3, 4 and 7 day cruises of the Galapagos Islands.
Lindblad Expeditions is a family-owned operation that pioneered expedition-style cruising in the 1960s. Their fleet of small but well-appointed ships offer some of the best enrichment programs at sea and the line has partnered with National Geographic to provide passengers with an even wider choice of experts and lecturers.
Sails to: Alaska
Antarctica
Central America/Panama Canal
Egypt/Nile River
Inland Waterways
Mediterranean
Mexico
Scandinavia/Northern Europe
South America
Metropolitan Touring started back in 1953, offering land-based tours of Ecuador and Peru. The company now offers one 90-passenger vessel that is one of the most comfortable ships sailing the Galapagos. All their Galapagos cruises are accompanied by naturalist guides who give educational talks and accompany passengers on shore excursions.
Orion Expedition Cruises - Belonging to a relatively new single-ship cruise line, the 106-passenger Australian-based Orion offers cultural and expedition-style trips throughout Australasia and the Antarctica.
Quark Expeditions operates a fleet of 10 ships ranging from research vessels to ice-breakers and expedition-style passenger ships. The line offers a wide variety of Arctic and Antarctic itineraries with comfortable accommodations and educational enrichment programs.
Swan Hellenic Cruises is in a class by itself. The British expedition line operates a single ship, the 350-passenger Minerva, with a high-end British country-hotel atmosphere, superb lecture programs and top-notch service. The closest equivalent would be American-based Lindblad Expeditions, although they operate much smaller ships.
Sails to: Africa
Indian Ocean
Mediterranean
Mediterranean Eastern
Mediterranean Western
Middle East
Scandinavia/Northern Europe
The Orient
Travel Dynamics International is a New-York based, special-interest cruise line offering top-notch educational cruises to destinations around the world. Passenger capacity ranges from 34 to 114 depending on the ship, and itineraries can last from a week to a month.
Sails to: Africa
Inland Waterways
Mediterranean
Mediterranean Eastern
Voyages of Discovery is a British-owned line operating a single ship, the 650-passenger Discovery. The Discovery is slightly larger than most expedition ships, so travelers with moderate incomes can partake in Antarctic itineraries and other expedition-cruises that usually have much higher rates.
Sails to: Inland Waterways
Mediterranean
Scandinavia/Northern Europe
Zegrahm Expeditions operates a fluctuating fleet of chartered and sub-chartered vessels ranging in size from less than 100 passengers to 180. Itineraries vary in length and focus from expedition-style to cultural and destination-oriented. Passengers are generally older travelers seeking the group bonding of small ship and the excitement of seeing new places in the world.
Sails to: Alaska
The Orient
Specialty Cruise Lines and Ships offer a wide variety of amenities, schedules, and itineraries and general focus on a specific destination or theme. Sail-assisted motor ships, coastal ships, catamarans and dual-purpose cargo/passenger ships all generally qualify as "specialty."
Abercrombie & Kent is a high-end travel company marketing a variety of cruising experiences. Itineraries and vessels range from Antarctic expedition style voyages to luxurious river cruises of European waterways, to include cruising Egypt/Nile River. Highlights include attention to detail and excellent local guides.
Afloat in France - Originally started by two American women in 1987, Afloat in France is now part of Orient-Express and offers high-end, boutique-style barges cruising French rivers and canals. The fleet is comprised of five ships, all carrying a pilot, chef, guide and occasionally one additional sailor.
American Cruise Lines is a U.S.-flagged (rare these days) company specializing in coastal cruises that builds all its ships in its own yard in Salisbury, Maryland. After being sold and going bankrupt in the 1980s, the line has since been revived by the original owner and operates a variety of itineraries along the East Coast.
American Safari Cruises - Started in 1997 with a single yacht, American Safari Cruises now boasts a fleet of three ships small but luxurious yachts. Itineraries are expedition-style and visit destinations like Alaska, the Pacific Northwest and Sea Cortes.
Sail to: Alaska
Inland Waterways
West Coast
Aqua Expeditions - Luxury Cruise Line sailing the Amazon.
Blount Small Ship Adventures, previously the American Canadian Caribbean Line, offers basic and affordable cruises aboard three shallow-draft vessels. Specializing in coastal and inland voyages, Blount Small Ship Adventures enjoys loyal passengers who return time and again to try new itineraries.
Sail to: Eastern Seaboard
Inland Waterways
Compagnie Polynesienne de Transport Maritime offers vessels serving double-duty as cargo and passenger ships. Accommodations are of a surprisingly high-quality and itineraries usually confined to the South Pacific, focusing on the Polynesian island chains of Marquesas and Tuomotus.
Club Med Cruises - Best-known for its all-inclusive resorts, Club Med also caters to well-heeled cruisers with the Club Med 2, a sail-assisted motorship carrying 392 passengers. Delicious French cuisine is a highlight aboard Club Med Cruises and a variety of Caribbean and Mediterranean itineraries are offered.
Comprised of three modestly-sized vessels (two catamarans and one expedition ship), Coral Princess Cruises is an Australian-owned line offering cruises of the Great Barrier Reef and South Pacific. All three vessels have a casual atmosphere and reasonable prices.
Cruise & Maritime Voyages is a brand new British line offering two ships, the Marco Polo and Ocean Countess, and itineraries to the British Isles and Northern Europe. Passengers can expect generally high-end accommodations and good service.
Sails to: Inland Waterways
Scandinavia/Northern Europe
Transatlantic
Cruise West - With a family history of cruising stretching back to World War II, Cruise West is one of the more revered and historic expedition-style line's in the world. Nine small vessels with experienced and well-trained crews carry well-heeled clientele on a variety of Pacific coast itineraries.
Sails to:
Alaska
Australia/New Zealand
Central America/Panama Canal
Eastern Seaboard
Inland Waterways
Mediterranean
Oceania/South Pacific
Scandinavia/Northern Europe
South America
Southeast Asia
West Coast
European Waterways - An upscale U.K.-based company founded in 1974, European Waterways boasts a fleet of 17 luxurious barges that sail itineraries throughout England, Scotland, Ireland, France, Holland, Belgium and Italy. Although itineraries are themed around sightseeing, delicious food is always one of the highlights on a European Waterways cruise.
French Country Waterways is actually an American-owned venture based in Massachusetts. The line has a fleet of five luxurious hotel barges that offer a variety of itineraries in Burgundy, Upper Loire and Alsace-Lorraine.
Gota Canal Steamship Co Ltd - The Gota Canal Steamship Company owns three tiny vessels carrying between 50 and 58 passengers. All offer scenic summer cruises of Sweden's Gota Canal , a 19th-century waterway connecting Stockholm and Gothenburg.
Sail to: Scandinavia/Northern Europe
Hurtigruten - A daily coastal passenger and cargo service linking three-dozen cities and towns on Norways rugged coast, Hurtigruten (fast route) has been operating for well over a century and only become a tourist attraction in the last few decades. Originally ships offered only the most basic accommodations but Hurtigruten has slowly larger and more modern cabins, panoramic lounges, conference facilities and some summertime entertainment.
Sail to: Scandinavia/Northern Europe
Le Boat Inc - Part of the enormous TUI Travel, Le Boat specializes in chartering barges, renting self-drive boats, and selling individual hotel barge bookings on European river cruises. Their fleet is comprised of 62 yachts and two dozen barges.
Sail to: European Inland Waterways
The Magna Carta Steamship Company is a London-based firm offering cruises of the River Thames and Scottish coast aboard two luxuriously appointed vessels. Catering primarily to North Americans and a few Britons, the vessels offer the comfort and style of a Scottish hotel and are sometimes chartered by Lindblad Expeditions.
Sail to: British Isles
Ola Cruises caters primarily to the Central and South American market, although North Americans and Europeans may occasionally add to the mix, with Southern Caribbean itineraries and reasonable accommodations. Their fleet currently consists of one ship, the Ola Esmeralda (previously the Black Prince of Fred. Olsen).
Ontario Waterway Cruises Inc - A family-owned, Ontario-based venture, Ontario Waterway Cruises has a single vessel that carries 45 passengers and crew of 11. The line caters primarily to older middle-class Americans and Canadians who enjoy the ship's homey feel and family-style meals.
Sail to: Inland Waterways
Orient Express operates Road to Mandalay, a riverboat operation cruising the Ayeryarwady River in Myanmar. A single 82-passenger vessel carries well-heeled travelers in luxurious appointments and features excellent regional cuisine and Asian décor.
Sail to: Southeast Asia
Real Journeys is a New Zealand-based outfit operating three vessels, two of which troll the majestic Milford Sound and a third that explores further reaches of the South Island and its famous Fiordland National Park. Accommodations are basic but comfortable, and passengers range from well-heeled tourists to backpacking students.
Spirit of Adventure Cruises currently operates a single vessel, the 352-passenger Spirit of Adventure, and offers a wide variety of destination-based cruises that visit smaller ports passed over by megaships. The ship was originally designed for the German middle-class market and offers quality accommodations and a European atmosphere.
Sail to: Atlantic Coast
British Isles
Scandinavia/Northern Europe
St Helena Line Ltd
Serving one of the most remote places on earth, the St. Helena Line is a one ship fleet carrying mail, passengers and any cargo residents of St. Helena require. The ship offers basic accommodation for 128 passengers and carries a wide variety of cargo from frozen food to medical supplies and mail-order catalog purchases.
Sail to: Africa
Star Clippers - The brainchild of Swedish yachting enthusiast Mikael Krafft, Star Clippers operates a fleet of three sail-assisted motor ships catering to people who own their own yachts or those who are simply turned-off by the mainstream cruise experience. The line offers port-intensive itineraries.
Sail to:
Africa
Caribbean Eastern
Central America/Panama Canal
Indian Ocean
Mediterranean, Thailand and Tahiti.
The Barge Company, based in France and operating luxurious hotel-barges, caters primarily to well-heeled Americans looking for a relaxed, culturally-oriented vacation. Passengers will appreciate the excellent food and attention to detail.
Variety Cruises
Founded in 2005 and based in Athens, Variety Cruises operates eight vessels ranging from small sailing ships to mega-yachts. Itineraries focus on the Greek Islands, Turkish coast, Red Sea and Persian Gulf.
Sail to:
Africa
Mediterranean
Voyages to Antiquity is a small ship niche cruise line, introduced by Gerry Herrod, original founder of Orient Lines, and managed by former Orient Line executives. The new line features unique 14 day cruises exploring the history, archaeology, architecture, art history and cultural aspects of the ancient civilizations of the Mediterranean, Adriatic, Aegean and Red Seas. Operating one ship, the 350 guest Aegean Odyssey, offers boutique-style cruising, open seating dining and an extensive expert lecture program. As a premium line, fares include all shore excursions, gratuities, wine with dinner and transfers for air/sea guests.
Sail to: Mediterranean
Mediterranean Eastern
Middle East
River cruising is quickly becoming one of the most popular form of cruise travel. River cruises offer a chance to sail a destination's inland waterways and rivers in order experience the country from a whole new perspective. Unlike typical ocean cruises, river cruises allow the passengers to disembark frequently so that they may deeply explore and tour some less traveled sites.
AMA Waterways - This European riverboat operator is California-based and won several awards for river cruise innovation. AMA Waterway's fleet of luxury vessels range in size from 60 to 72 cabins.
Sail to: European Inland Waterways
The Orient
Avalon Waterways is a river cruise operator offering primarily European itineraries, although itineraries along the Nile, Yangtze and to the Galapagos are also occasionally offered. Passengers can expect high-quality accommodations and service and plenty of great scenery (90% of their riverboat cabins have French balconies).
Sail to: Egypt/Nile River
European Inland Waterways
Scandinavia/Northern Europe
Luftner Reisen Cruises offer European river cruises on fleet of nine luxurious vessels. The line caters primarily to Europeans but North American passengers occasionally join in the mix. Music-themed cruises offer an educational and culturally rich experience.
Tauck World Discovery operates three luxurious and innovative river-cruising vessels, plying the canals and waterways of Europe on a variety of itineraries. Passengers enjoy high-tech amenities like plasma TVs and individual air-conditioning not usually found on River Cruisers.
Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection offers river cruises in Russia, Ukraine, Egypt and China, but their main focus is a 10 ship fleet cruising exclusively on European waterways. The line caters to well-heeled, English-speaking travelers seeking high-quality accommodations, food and service.
Victoria Cruises, Inc
Getting its start in 1994, Victoria Cruises is one of the top lines cruising the Yangtze River. The line's ships are basic in design and accommodation and passengers often take the cruise as part of a longer China tour.
Viking River Cruises - Founded in 1997 by former officials from the Royal Viking Line, Viking River Cruises boasts one of the largest and newest fleets of riverboats in Europe. The fleet is comprised of 20 vessels, all built in the last few years, and has expanded far beyond the Rhine and Danube offering itineraries across Europe, Russia and China.
Sail to: Inland Waterways
Scandinavia/Northern Europe
The Orient
Azamara Club Cruises currently has a two-ship fleet of small passenger cruise ships that provide an alternative to the megaship experience. Interior décor is in the style of an English hotel and the line offers itineraries around the world from the Caribbean, to the Mediterranean and Asia.
Sail to: Caribbean
Inland Waterways
Mediterranean
Mediterranean Western
Mexico
Scandinavia/Northern Europe
South America
Southeast Asia
Transatlantic
See All Azamara Club
Celebrity Cruises represents a high-end choice for cruisers in the mainstream market. Good food, excellent service and a sophisticated atmosphere are hallmarks of the Celebrity experience and the line offers a wide array of itineraries around the world.
sail to: Alaska
Bahamas
Bermuda
Caribbean
Caribbean Eastern
Caribbean Southern
Caribbean Western
Eastern Seaboard
Inland Waterways
Mediterranean
Mediterranean Eastern
Mediterranean Western
Scandinavia/Northern Europe
South America
Transatlantic
West Coast
Cunard Line - The oldest name in the cruise industry, the Cunard line began in 1840 and is now owned by parent company Carnival Corp. Cunard is the only line to provide regularly scheduled Atlantic crossings, and is best known for the Queen Mary 2 (the world's largest passenger ship at its debut in 2003).
Sail to: Caribbean
Caribbean Eastern
Eastern Seaboard
Hawaii
Inland Waterways
Mediterranean
Mediterranean Western
Mexico
Middle East
Oceania/South Pacific
Scandinavia/Northern Europe
Southeast Asia
The Orient
Transatlantic
Transpacific
World
Holland America Line
Beginning as a trans-Atlantic mail, cargo and passenger carrier in 1872, Holland America is now one of the biggest names in commercial cruising and caters to those seeking a more refined and quieter alternative to lines like Royal Caribbean and Carnival. Their 14 ship fleet is fairly homogenous, and cruisers can expect service a notch above the competition. Sail to: Alaska
Australia/New Zealand
Bermuda
Caribbean Eastern
Caribbean Southern
Caribbean Western
Central America/Panama Canal
Eastern Seaboard
Hawaii
Inland Waterways
Mediterranean
Mediterranean Western
Mexico
Oceania/South Pacific
Scandinavia/Northern Europe
South America
The Orient
Transatlantic
Transpacific
West Coast
World
Oceania Cruises is a mid-market line with a fleet of three vessels and two more on order. The line offers a variety of port-intensive itineraries around the world and is known for occasionally offering great deals that set them apart from competitors like two-for-one rates and free air. Sail to: Africa
Caribbean
Mediterranean
Oceania/South Pacific
South America
Transatlantic
ResidenSea is the brainchild of Norwegian visionary Knut Kloster Jr., who conceived the idea for this full-size cruise ship where apartments are sold like condominiums. The ship, cleverly named The World, sold out several years ago, but turnover and subletting allows for openings.
Sea Cloud Cruises operates a varied high-end fleet of two river boats and two very different motor sailers. The line is German-owned offers a wide variety of itineraries for individual bookings and charter groups. Ships feature a social atmosphere and elegant dining. Sail to: Caribbean
European Inland Waterways
Mediterranean
Scandinavia/Northern Europe
Transatlantic
Windstar Cruises operates a fleet of three sail-assisted motor ships carrying around 150-passengers each. The vessels sail a variety of 7-day itineraries in the Caribbean, Mediterranean and Pacific Coast. Windstar ships provide a romantic atmosphere and superior food and service to their Sea Cloud and Star Clipper competition. Sail to: Caribbean Eastern
Caribbean Southern
Central America/Panama Canal
Mediterranean
Mediterranean Western
Transatlantic
Crystal Cruises - Hovering somewhere between the premium and high-end luxury markets, Crystal Cruises offers two well-appointed and elegant cruise ships each carrying around 1,000 passengers. The ships never stick to one area long, and generally circumnavigate the globe annually.
Sails to: Africa, Alaska, Australia/New Zealand, Caribbean, Caribbean Eastern, Central America/Panama Canal, Eastern Seaboard, Hawaii, Indian Ocean, Inland Waterways, Mediterranean, Mexico, Oceania/South Pacific, Scandinavia/Northern Europe, South America, The Orient, Transatlantic, Transpacific, and World Cruises.
Hapag-Lloyd Cruises
Hapag-Lloyd is a venerable German line that traces its root all the way back to the 19th century. Catering primarily to Germans and English-speakers, Hapag-Lloyd offers a variety of high-end cruises for well-heeled passengers around Northern Europe and the Mediterranean, as well as expedition-style trips to the Northwest Passage and Antarctica. Sails to:
Africa
Alaska
Antarctica
Arctic Circle
Atlantic Coast
Australia/New Zealand
British Isles
Caribbean
Central America/Panama Canal
Eastern Seaboard
Indian Ocean
Mediterranean
Mediterranean Eastern
Mediterranean Western
Mexico
Middle East
Oceania/South Pacific
Scandinavia/Northern Europe
South America
Southeast Asia
The Orient
Transatlantic
Transpacific
West Coast
Paul Gauguin Cruises - Paul Gauguin Cruises is a very high-end venture, operating a single luxuriously-appointed ship on Tahitian itineraries. The line's only ship, Paul Gauguin, is named for the line's President and is the largest, best-appointed vessel cruising the French Polynesia.
Sails to: Oceania/South Pacific
Regent Seven Seas Cruises operates a modern, high-end, three-ship fleet that offers itineraries in every major cruise region in the world (except Antarctica). Accommodations are luxurious and the vast majority are suites. Passengers are generally a mix of older, well-heeled North Americans, Europeans and Australians.
Sails to: Africa
Alaska
Australia/New Zealand
Bermuda
Caribbean Eastern
Caribbean Southern
Caribbean Western
Central America/Panama Canal
Eastern Seaboard
Egypt/Nile River
Inland Waterways
Mediterranean
Mediterranean Eastern
Mediterranean Western
Middle East
Scandinavia/Northern Europe
South America
Southeast Asia
Transatlantic
Transpacific
World
SeaDream Yacht Club operates a two ship fleet (SeaDream I & II) that each carry 100 passengers in roomy, luxurious accommodations. The vessels generally divide their time between the Mediterranean and Caribbean, offering top-notch food, service and spa treatments to well-heeled passengers and charter groups.
Sails to: Caribbean
Caribbean Eastern
Indian Ocean
Mediterranean
Transatlantic
Silversea Cruises - Family-owned by the Lefebvres of Rome, Silversea projects an Italian heritage and caters primarily to older well-heeled North Americans, with some Europeans, Australians and Asians joining the mix. All five Silversea vessels offer enrichment lecturers and feature an Italian decor with highlights like Murano-glass fixtures.
Sails to: Africa
Alaska
Antarctica
Arctic Circle
Australia/New Zealand
Caribbean
Caribbean Western
Eastern Seaboard
Inland Waterways
Mediterranean
Mediterranean Western
Middle East
Scandinavia/Northern Europe
South America
Southeast Asia
The Orient
Transatlantic
Transpacific
World
The Yachts of Seabourn - provide some of the finest food and service afloat. The steep, but truly all-inclusive rates appeal to well-heeled North Americans and Europeans, and the line offers a wide variety of itineraries all over the world. The SeaDream Yacht Club is probably the closest competitor, but its vessels are much smaller than Seabourns.
Sails to: Africa
Australia/New Zealand
Caribbean
Eastern Seaboard
Inland Waterways
Mediterranean
Mediterranean Eastern
Mediterranean Western
Oceania/South Pacific
Scandinavia/Northern Europe
South America
Southeast Asia
Transatlantic
World
PREMIUM CRUISE LINES offer similar cruise schedules to mainstream cruise ships, but generally cater to an older, more discerning passenger seeking a higher level of service, ship amenities, and accommodations at higher cruise prices.
Azamara Club Cruises
Celebrity Cruises
Cunard Line
Holland America Line
Oceania Cruises
ResidenSea Ltd
Sea Cloud Cruises
Windstar Cruises
MAIN STREAM CRUISE LINES generally operate mid- to mega-size cruise ships offering an array of amenities and cabin grades. They are marketed to middle-class passengers and offer a variety of cruise schedules and itineraries that are great for family cruises.
AIDA Cruises - This German cruise line has a fleet of seven ships and offers quality accommodations on a variety of European itineraries. Ships generally sail out of German ports, with three vessels homeporting in Hamburg during 2010.
Sails from German ports.
Carnival Cruise Lines is famous for pioneering the Fun Ship concept and opening the cruise industry to middle-class passengers. Although the line began with a shaky start in 1972, it now boasts more than 20 ships carrying primarily North American passengers on Caribbean, Mexican and Alaskan itineraries (although Mediterranean offerings are growing in number).
Sails to: Alaska
Bahamas
Bermuda
Caribbean Eastern
Caribbean Southern
Caribbean Western
Central America/Panama Canal
Eastern Seaboard
Hawaii
Mediterranean
Mexico
Nowhere
Costa Cruise Lines - Europe's largest cruise line, Costa Cruises offers more than a dozen ships in a variety of sizes and themes. Décor ranges from traditional and sleek on the older vessels while the newer megaships sport colorful and glitzy interiors designed by Carnival's Joe Farcus. The line is popular among middle-class Europeans and Italian newlyweds.
Sails to: Caribbean Eastern
Caribbean Western
Eastern Seaboard
Mediterranean
Mediterranean Western
Middle East
Scandinavia/Northern Europe
South America
The Orient
Transatlantic
Disney Cruise Line - Built specifically to cater to families, Disney's ships offer an incredible array of amenities and activities. The ships are largely divided between areas for children and adults, allowing kids to have all the fun they want under the watch of well-trained staff, while parents can relax in adult-only bars, lounges, restaurants and swimming pools.
sails to: Alaska
Bahamas
Caribbean Eastern
Caribbean Southern
Caribbean Western
Central America/Panama Canal
Inland Waterways
Mediterranean
Mediterranean Western
Mexico
Scandinavia/Northern Europe
Transatlantic
InnerSea Discoveries - InnerSea Discoveries, parent company of American Safari Cruises, is launching new wilderness adventure voyages in 2011 to Southeast Alaska on the Wilderness Adventurer and Wilderness Discoverer.
Sails to Alaska
Louis Cruise Lines Ltd - Currently the largest operator of Greek cruise ships, Louis Cruise Lines is based in Cypriot and offers a fleet of midsize second-hand vessels that vary significantly in design, layout and quality. They generally offer port-intensive itineraries at reasonable rates, but without all the high-tech amenities of North American cruise ships.
MSC Cruises - Mediterranean Shipping Cruises (MSC) is a fast-growing, European-based outfit whose fleet currently boasts a dozen ships. The ships and itineraries cater to the European mass-market, with the vessels bearing Italian interiors and itineraries split between the Mediterranean and Caribbean.
Sails to: Caribbean
Caribbean Eastern
Caribbean Southern
Caribbean Western
Eastern Seaboard
Mediterranean
Scandinavia/Northern Europe
South America
Transatlantic
Norwegian Cruise Line - Originally debuting as the Norwegian Caribbean Line in 1966, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) got its new name (and several new ships) in the late 1990s and now competes with Carnival, Princess and Royal Caribbean. The line operates more ships from U.S. ports than any other, and is known for its Freestyle Cruising concept where guests are allowed to eat meals and participate in activities as the please.
Sails to: Alaska
Bahamas
Bermuda
Caribbean
Caribbean Eastern
Caribbean Southern
Caribbean Western
Central America/Panama Canal
Eastern Seaboard
Hawaii
Inland Waterways
Mediterranean
Mediterranean Western
Mexico
Nowhere
Scandinavia/Northern Europe
Transatlantic
West Coast
Pearl Seas Cruises - Pearl Seas Cruises is a brand-new venture from the owners of American Cruise Lines, a coastal and inland cruise company making their first foray into open-water cruising. Their only ship, the Pearl Mist, will carry 210 passengers to the Great Lakes, St. Lawrence Valley and Caribbean when it debuts later in 2010.
Princess Cruises - Part of Carnival Corp. since 2003, Princess Cruises operates 17 vessels based around the world in North and South America, Europe, the western Pacific and Australia. Despite its strong international presence and past reputation as a premium line, the Princess now caters primarily to middle-market American cruisers looking for a dependable and affordable experience.
Sails to: Africa
Alaska
Australia/New Zealand
Bermuda
Caribbean
Caribbean Eastern
Caribbean Southern
Caribbean Western
Central America/Panama Canal
Eastern Seaboard
Hawaii
Inland Waterways
Mediterranean
Mediterranean Eastern
Mediterranean Western
Mexico
Middle East
Oceania/South Pacific
Scandinavia/Northern Europe
South America
Southeast Asia
The Orient
Transatlantic
Transpacific
West Coast
World
Royal Caribbean Cruise Line boasts a fleet of the world's largest ships, with eight of them weighing 135,000 tons or more. Royal Caribbean ships are basically cities at sea, arguably offering the best variety of bells and whistles out of all the mainstream cruise lines. Main competitors are Carnival and NCL.
Sails to: Alaska
Australia/New Zealand
Bahamas
Bermuda
Caribbean
Caribbean Eastern
Caribbean Southern
Caribbean Western
Central America/Panama Canal
Eastern Seaboard
Hawaii
Inland Waterways
Mediterranean
Mediterranean Eastern
Mediterranean Western
Mexico
Middle East
Scandinavia/Northern Europe
South America
Southeast Asia
Transatlantic
Saga Cruises operates one vessel, the Saga Ruby, which features a classic ocean-liner exterior and caters exclusively to older travelers. Itineraries are usually longer than a week (as most passengers are retired), extending up to world cruises that can last 100 days or more. Passengers are mostly elderly Britons with a few North Americans joining the mix.
Sails to:
TUI Cruises is a brand new line currently offering one ship, the 1,914-passenger Mein Schiff. A joint venture between German tour operator TUI AG and Royal Caribbean, the TUI Cruises currently offers 2- to 14-day itineraries from Kiel, Hamburg and Palma de Mallorca.
Sails to: British Isles
Scandinavia/Northern Europe
WANT A TOTAL SPANISH SPEAKING CRUISE ? KEEP UP YOUR SPANISH TODAY !!
Ibero Cruises is a largely Carnival-owned venture, catering to the middle-class Spanish-speaking market. The line has three ships carrying between 800 and 1,400 passengers on itineraries in Europe and the Caribbean.
Sails to Mediterranean
Coming soon to the Caribbean
Pullmantur Cruises
Owned by Royal Caribbean, Pullmantur Cruises currently operates a fleet of five cruise ships ranging in size from 1,400 to 2,800 passengers. Catering primarily to the Spanish market, the line offers a variety of one-week itineraries of the western Mediterranean and Canary Islands. Their main competitor is Ibero Cruises.
EXPEDITION CRUISE LINES cater to adventure-seeking travelers and offer cruise schedules to destinations like the Galapagos Islands, Antarctica, and Greenland. Expedition cruises generally focus on remote scenery or wildlife viewing. Amenities range widely from cruise ship to ship, from basic accommodations to luxurious appointments.
Amazon Tours & Cruises offers a variety of vacation options throughout the Amazon basin, catering to ecotourists from North America, South America and Europe. They offer a variety of itineraries with extensions reaching as far into the upper Amazon.
Canodros SA's primary function is operating the Galapagos Explorer II, a expedition-style ship that offers surprising luxury and Galapagos itineraries. Cruises are marketed primarily to ecotourists and the company also manages an Ecuadorian rain-forest lodge that can be added as an extension.
Ecoventura operates three yachts of Ecuadorian registry, all cruising to the Galapagos Islands. Ecoventura was the first Galapagos operation to become completely carbon-neutral, offsetting their emissions through various projects with Native-Energy Travel Offsets.
Elegant Cruises & Tours - In addition to marketing boutique ships like Sea Cloud, Elegant Cruises & Tours also has two small ships of their own. Both ships are luxuriously appointed and in addition to sailing a variety of itineraries from Antarctica to the Mediterranean, both ships are available for full or partial charters.
GAP Adventures - A Toronto-based company founded in 1990, GAP Adventures primarily operates expedition-style land tours (close to 1,000), but also offers a limited number of cruises aboard their only ship, the M/S Expedition. Itineraries can range widely, but the majority of cruises are to the Arctic or Antarctic.
GreenTracks, Inc - Catering to ecotourists and those with a taste for adventure, Greentracks Inc. offers Peruvian river cruises that focus on wildlife viewing and cultural education. A naturalist or zoologist accompany all Greentracks cruises to ensure a safe and educational experience.
International Expeditions, Inc - International Expedition has a fleet of three ships (La Amatista, M/V Evolution, Sepik Spirit) carrying between 18 and 32 passengers down the Amazon, to the Galapagos Islands or Papua New Guinea. All offer a high-end and educational experience to generally well-heeled ecotourists.
Kleintours of Ecuador - Kleintours offers 3, 4 and 7 day cruises of the Galapagos Islands.
Lindblad Expeditions is a family-owned operation that pioneered expedition-style cruising in the 1960s. Their fleet of small but well-appointed ships offer some of the best enrichment programs at sea and the line has partnered with National Geographic to provide passengers with an even wider choice of experts and lecturers.
Sails to: Alaska
Antarctica
Central America/Panama Canal
Egypt/Nile River
Inland Waterways
Mediterranean
Mexico
Scandinavia/Northern Europe
South America
Metropolitan Touring started back in 1953, offering land-based tours of Ecuador and Peru. The company now offers one 90-passenger vessel that is one of the most comfortable ships sailing the Galapagos. All their Galapagos cruises are accompanied by naturalist guides who give educational talks and accompany passengers on shore excursions.
Orion Expedition Cruises - Belonging to a relatively new single-ship cruise line, the 106-passenger Australian-based Orion offers cultural and expedition-style trips throughout Australasia and the Antarctica.
Quark Expeditions operates a fleet of 10 ships ranging from research vessels to ice-breakers and expedition-style passenger ships. The line offers a wide variety of Arctic and Antarctic itineraries with comfortable accommodations and educational enrichment programs.
Swan Hellenic Cruises is in a class by itself. The British expedition line operates a single ship, the 350-passenger Minerva, with a high-end British country-hotel atmosphere, superb lecture programs and top-notch service. The closest equivalent would be American-based Lindblad Expeditions, although they operate much smaller ships.
Sails to: Africa
Indian Ocean
Mediterranean
Mediterranean Eastern
Mediterranean Western
Middle East
Scandinavia/Northern Europe
The Orient
Travel Dynamics International is a New-York based, special-interest cruise line offering top-notch educational cruises to destinations around the world. Passenger capacity ranges from 34 to 114 depending on the ship, and itineraries can last from a week to a month.
Sails to: Africa
Inland Waterways
Mediterranean
Mediterranean Eastern
Voyages of Discovery is a British-owned line operating a single ship, the 650-passenger Discovery. The Discovery is slightly larger than most expedition ships, so travelers with moderate incomes can partake in Antarctic itineraries and other expedition-cruises that usually have much higher rates.
Sails to: Inland Waterways
Mediterranean
Scandinavia/Northern Europe
Zegrahm Expeditions operates a fluctuating fleet of chartered and sub-chartered vessels ranging in size from less than 100 passengers to 180. Itineraries vary in length and focus from expedition-style to cultural and destination-oriented. Passengers are generally older travelers seeking the group bonding of small ship and the excitement of seeing new places in the world.
Sails to: Alaska
The Orient
Specialty Cruise Lines and Ships offer a wide variety of amenities, schedules, and itineraries and general focus on a specific destination or theme. Sail-assisted motor ships, coastal ships, catamarans and dual-purpose cargo/passenger ships all generally qualify as "specialty."
Abercrombie & Kent is a high-end travel company marketing a variety of cruising experiences. Itineraries and vessels range from Antarctic expedition style voyages to luxurious river cruises of European waterways, to include cruising Egypt/Nile River. Highlights include attention to detail and excellent local guides.
Afloat in France - Originally started by two American women in 1987, Afloat in France is now part of Orient-Express and offers high-end, boutique-style barges cruising French rivers and canals. The fleet is comprised of five ships, all carrying a pilot, chef, guide and occasionally one additional sailor.
American Cruise Lines is a U.S.-flagged (rare these days) company specializing in coastal cruises that builds all its ships in its own yard in Salisbury, Maryland. After being sold and going bankrupt in the 1980s, the line has since been revived by the original owner and operates a variety of itineraries along the East Coast.
American Safari Cruises - Started in 1997 with a single yacht, American Safari Cruises now boasts a fleet of three ships small but luxurious yachts. Itineraries are expedition-style and visit destinations like Alaska, the Pacific Northwest and Sea Cortes.
Sail to: Alaska
Inland Waterways
West Coast
Aqua Expeditions - Luxury Cruise Line sailing the Amazon.
Blount Small Ship Adventures, previously the American Canadian Caribbean Line, offers basic and affordable cruises aboard three shallow-draft vessels. Specializing in coastal and inland voyages, Blount Small Ship Adventures enjoys loyal passengers who return time and again to try new itineraries.
Sail to: Eastern Seaboard
Inland Waterways
Compagnie Polynesienne de Transport Maritime offers vessels serving double-duty as cargo and passenger ships. Accommodations are of a surprisingly high-quality and itineraries usually confined to the South Pacific, focusing on the Polynesian island chains of Marquesas and Tuomotus.
Club Med Cruises - Best-known for its all-inclusive resorts, Club Med also caters to well-heeled cruisers with the Club Med 2, a sail-assisted motorship carrying 392 passengers. Delicious French cuisine is a highlight aboard Club Med Cruises and a variety of Caribbean and Mediterranean itineraries are offered.
Comprised of three modestly-sized vessels (two catamarans and one expedition ship), Coral Princess Cruises is an Australian-owned line offering cruises of the Great Barrier Reef and South Pacific. All three vessels have a casual atmosphere and reasonable prices.
Cruise & Maritime Voyages is a brand new British line offering two ships, the Marco Polo and Ocean Countess, and itineraries to the British Isles and Northern Europe. Passengers can expect generally high-end accommodations and good service.
Sails to: Inland Waterways
Scandinavia/Northern Europe
Transatlantic
Cruise West - With a family history of cruising stretching back to World War II, Cruise West is one of the more revered and historic expedition-style line's in the world. Nine small vessels with experienced and well-trained crews carry well-heeled clientele on a variety of Pacific coast itineraries.
Sails to:
Alaska
Australia/New Zealand
Central America/Panama Canal
Eastern Seaboard
Inland Waterways
Mediterranean
Oceania/South Pacific
Scandinavia/Northern Europe
South America
Southeast Asia
West Coast
European Waterways - An upscale U.K.-based company founded in 1974, European Waterways boasts a fleet of 17 luxurious barges that sail itineraries throughout England, Scotland, Ireland, France, Holland, Belgium and Italy. Although itineraries are themed around sightseeing, delicious food is always one of the highlights on a European Waterways cruise.
French Country Waterways is actually an American-owned venture based in Massachusetts. The line has a fleet of five luxurious hotel barges that offer a variety of itineraries in Burgundy, Upper Loire and Alsace-Lorraine.
Gota Canal Steamship Co Ltd - The Gota Canal Steamship Company owns three tiny vessels carrying between 50 and 58 passengers. All offer scenic summer cruises of Sweden's Gota Canal , a 19th-century waterway connecting Stockholm and Gothenburg.
Sail to: Scandinavia/Northern Europe
Hurtigruten - A daily coastal passenger and cargo service linking three-dozen cities and towns on Norways rugged coast, Hurtigruten (fast route) has been operating for well over a century and only become a tourist attraction in the last few decades. Originally ships offered only the most basic accommodations but Hurtigruten has slowly larger and more modern cabins, panoramic lounges, conference facilities and some summertime entertainment.
Sail to: Scandinavia/Northern Europe
Le Boat Inc - Part of the enormous TUI Travel, Le Boat specializes in chartering barges, renting self-drive boats, and selling individual hotel barge bookings on European river cruises. Their fleet is comprised of 62 yachts and two dozen barges.
Sail to: European Inland Waterways
The Magna Carta Steamship Company is a London-based firm offering cruises of the River Thames and Scottish coast aboard two luxuriously appointed vessels. Catering primarily to North Americans and a few Britons, the vessels offer the comfort and style of a Scottish hotel and are sometimes chartered by Lindblad Expeditions.
Sail to: British Isles
Ola Cruises caters primarily to the Central and South American market, although North Americans and Europeans may occasionally add to the mix, with Southern Caribbean itineraries and reasonable accommodations. Their fleet currently consists of one ship, the Ola Esmeralda (previously the Black Prince of Fred. Olsen).
Ontario Waterway Cruises Inc - A family-owned, Ontario-based venture, Ontario Waterway Cruises has a single vessel that carries 45 passengers and crew of 11. The line caters primarily to older middle-class Americans and Canadians who enjoy the ship's homey feel and family-style meals.
Sail to: Inland Waterways
Orient Express operates Road to Mandalay, a riverboat operation cruising the Ayeryarwady River in Myanmar. A single 82-passenger vessel carries well-heeled travelers in luxurious appointments and features excellent regional cuisine and Asian décor.
Sail to: Southeast Asia
Real Journeys is a New Zealand-based outfit operating three vessels, two of which troll the majestic Milford Sound and a third that explores further reaches of the South Island and its famous Fiordland National Park. Accommodations are basic but comfortable, and passengers range from well-heeled tourists to backpacking students.
Spirit of Adventure Cruises currently operates a single vessel, the 352-passenger Spirit of Adventure, and offers a wide variety of destination-based cruises that visit smaller ports passed over by megaships. The ship was originally designed for the German middle-class market and offers quality accommodations and a European atmosphere.
Sail to: Atlantic Coast
British Isles
Scandinavia/Northern Europe
St Helena Line Ltd
Serving one of the most remote places on earth, the St. Helena Line is a one ship fleet carrying mail, passengers and any cargo residents of St. Helena require. The ship offers basic accommodation for 128 passengers and carries a wide variety of cargo from frozen food to medical supplies and mail-order catalog purchases.
Sail to: Africa
Star Clippers - The brainchild of Swedish yachting enthusiast Mikael Krafft, Star Clippers operates a fleet of three sail-assisted motor ships catering to people who own their own yachts or those who are simply turned-off by the mainstream cruise experience. The line offers port-intensive itineraries.
Sail to:
Africa
Caribbean Eastern
Central America/Panama Canal
Indian Ocean
Mediterranean, Thailand and Tahiti.
The Barge Company, based in France and operating luxurious hotel-barges, caters primarily to well-heeled Americans looking for a relaxed, culturally-oriented vacation. Passengers will appreciate the excellent food and attention to detail.
Variety Cruises
Founded in 2005 and based in Athens, Variety Cruises operates eight vessels ranging from small sailing ships to mega-yachts. Itineraries focus on the Greek Islands, Turkish coast, Red Sea and Persian Gulf.
Sail to:
Africa
Mediterranean
Voyages to Antiquity is a small ship niche cruise line, introduced by Gerry Herrod, original founder of Orient Lines, and managed by former Orient Line executives. The new line features unique 14 day cruises exploring the history, archaeology, architecture, art history and cultural aspects of the ancient civilizations of the Mediterranean, Adriatic, Aegean and Red Seas. Operating one ship, the 350 guest Aegean Odyssey, offers boutique-style cruising, open seating dining and an extensive expert lecture program. As a premium line, fares include all shore excursions, gratuities, wine with dinner and transfers for air/sea guests.
Sail to: Mediterranean
Mediterranean Eastern
Middle East
River cruising is quickly becoming one of the most popular form of cruise travel. River cruises offer a chance to sail a destination's inland waterways and rivers in order experience the country from a whole new perspective. Unlike typical ocean cruises, river cruises allow the passengers to disembark frequently so that they may deeply explore and tour some less traveled sites.
AMA Waterways - This European riverboat operator is California-based and won several awards for river cruise innovation. AMA Waterway's fleet of luxury vessels range in size from 60 to 72 cabins.
Sail to: European Inland Waterways
The Orient
Avalon Waterways is a river cruise operator offering primarily European itineraries, although itineraries along the Nile, Yangtze and to the Galapagos are also occasionally offered. Passengers can expect high-quality accommodations and service and plenty of great scenery (90% of their riverboat cabins have French balconies).
Sail to: Egypt/Nile River
European Inland Waterways
Scandinavia/Northern Europe
Luftner Reisen Cruises offer European river cruises on fleet of nine luxurious vessels. The line caters primarily to Europeans but North American passengers occasionally join in the mix. Music-themed cruises offer an educational and culturally rich experience.
Tauck World Discovery operates three luxurious and innovative river-cruising vessels, plying the canals and waterways of Europe on a variety of itineraries. Passengers enjoy high-tech amenities like plasma TVs and individual air-conditioning not usually found on River Cruisers.
Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection offers river cruises in Russia, Ukraine, Egypt and China, but their main focus is a 10 ship fleet cruising exclusively on European waterways. The line caters to well-heeled, English-speaking travelers seeking high-quality accommodations, food and service.
Victoria Cruises, Inc
Getting its start in 1994, Victoria Cruises is one of the top lines cruising the Yangtze River. The line's ships are basic in design and accommodation and passengers often take the cruise as part of a longer China tour.
Viking River Cruises - Founded in 1997 by former officials from the Royal Viking Line, Viking River Cruises boasts one of the largest and newest fleets of riverboats in Europe. The fleet is comprised of 20 vessels, all built in the last few years, and has expanded far beyond the Rhine and Danube offering itineraries across Europe, Russia and China.
Sail to: Inland Waterways
Scandinavia/Northern Europe
The Orient
Azamara Club Cruises currently has a two-ship fleet of small passenger cruise ships that provide an alternative to the megaship experience. Interior décor is in the style of an English hotel and the line offers itineraries around the world from the Caribbean, to the Mediterranean and Asia.
Sail to: Caribbean
Inland Waterways
Mediterranean
Mediterranean Western
Mexico
Scandinavia/Northern Europe
South America
Southeast Asia
Transatlantic
See All Azamara Club
Celebrity Cruises represents a high-end choice for cruisers in the mainstream market. Good food, excellent service and a sophisticated atmosphere are hallmarks of the Celebrity experience and the line offers a wide array of itineraries around the world.
sail to: Alaska
Bahamas
Bermuda
Caribbean
Caribbean Eastern
Caribbean Southern
Caribbean Western
Eastern Seaboard
Inland Waterways
Mediterranean
Mediterranean Eastern
Mediterranean Western
Scandinavia/Northern Europe
South America
Transatlantic
West Coast
Cunard Line - The oldest name in the cruise industry, the Cunard line began in 1840 and is now owned by parent company Carnival Corp. Cunard is the only line to provide regularly scheduled Atlantic crossings, and is best known for the Queen Mary 2 (the world's largest passenger ship at its debut in 2003).
Sail to: Caribbean
Caribbean Eastern
Eastern Seaboard
Hawaii
Inland Waterways
Mediterranean
Mediterranean Western
Mexico
Middle East
Oceania/South Pacific
Scandinavia/Northern Europe
Southeast Asia
The Orient
Transatlantic
Transpacific
World
Holland America Line
Beginning as a trans-Atlantic mail, cargo and passenger carrier in 1872, Holland America is now one of the biggest names in commercial cruising and caters to those seeking a more refined and quieter alternative to lines like Royal Caribbean and Carnival. Their 14 ship fleet is fairly homogenous, and cruisers can expect service a notch above the competition. Sail to: Alaska
Australia/New Zealand
Bermuda
Caribbean Eastern
Caribbean Southern
Caribbean Western
Central America/Panama Canal
Eastern Seaboard
Hawaii
Inland Waterways
Mediterranean
Mediterranean Western
Mexico
Oceania/South Pacific
Scandinavia/Northern Europe
South America
The Orient
Transatlantic
Transpacific
West Coast
World
Oceania Cruises is a mid-market line with a fleet of three vessels and two more on order. The line offers a variety of port-intensive itineraries around the world and is known for occasionally offering great deals that set them apart from competitors like two-for-one rates and free air. Sail to: Africa
Caribbean
Mediterranean
Oceania/South Pacific
South America
Transatlantic
ResidenSea is the brainchild of Norwegian visionary Knut Kloster Jr., who conceived the idea for this full-size cruise ship where apartments are sold like condominiums. The ship, cleverly named The World, sold out several years ago, but turnover and subletting allows for openings.
Sea Cloud Cruises operates a varied high-end fleet of two river boats and two very different motor sailers. The line is German-owned offers a wide variety of itineraries for individual bookings and charter groups. Ships feature a social atmosphere and elegant dining. Sail to: Caribbean
European Inland Waterways
Mediterranean
Scandinavia/Northern Europe
Transatlantic
Windstar Cruises operates a fleet of three sail-assisted motor ships carrying around 150-passengers each. The vessels sail a variety of 7-day itineraries in the Caribbean, Mediterranean and Pacific Coast. Windstar ships provide a romantic atmosphere and superior food and service to their Sea Cloud and Star Clipper competition. Sail to: Caribbean Eastern
Caribbean Southern
Central America/Panama Canal
Mediterranean
Mediterranean Western
Transatlantic
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