With so many cruise lines vying for your attention and business, it can be difficult to select the one you will enjoy the most. This can be a hard decision for experienced sailors as well as those new to cruising.. Let’s take a look at four different lines – each caters to a different category of cruisers. I had clients who enjoyed each.
VIKING – While it offers both river and ocean Cruises, Viking is known primarily for its river journeys, and for a very good reason. It is the largest river cruise company as well as the most experienced. It has a focus on classic itineraries which makes it a good choice for those new to this type of cruise. It has plenty of experienced cruisers as well though. In fact, if you are looking for a line that is mostly all-inclusive as well as created for adults, you will most likely enjoy it. Nobody under 18 is allowed!
ROYAL CARIBBEAN – In many ways it is the anti-Viking! Rather than a contemplative, adult experience, it caters to families. With active kids clubs and a number of activities directed specifically at children, it is a great option. I well remember the freedom it offered my husband and I when our children were young. We could spend our time on more adult activities (well ok occasionally the casino!) knowing our kids were having fun and being watched by the friendly folks supervising their clubs. Royal Caribbean also is basically a floating resort, with nearly every activity one could imagine. The numerous pastimes were great for those sea days! Despite its name, this line travels to a number of locations.
OCEANIA – Relaxed and upscale, this line tends towards longer voyages and, like Viking, an older crowd.While its atmosphere is refined, it is also relaxed – definitely not stuffy! While children are allowed on Oceania sailings, the focus is definitely on adults. Oceania is known for smaller ships with far-flung destinations and longer stays in port. They are known for their cuisine -in fact great food is a point of pride for this cruise line!
VIRGIN – Yep, it is something entirely different! Virgin is another adult line that does not allow children. The atmosphere is high-energy and it is the perfect cruise for active, fun-loving people! While its advertising appears to be directed towards a young crowd, the reality is that it has people of all ages who enjoy the dance floor and might consider visiting one of the tattoo parlors on the ship! The people who sail Virgin are a diverse bunch and the line is quite welcoming to the LGBTQ community. If you are sociable and exuberant, you will love a Virgin cruise!
These lines are only a small sample of what is available on contemporary cruise lines. Questions? Put them in the comments below and I will do my best to answer!
I would like to thank you for this topic as it provides new ideas and insights. I am currently gathering as much information as possible. Very inspiring.