Studies have shown that planning a vacation or even just the mere anticipation of one is just as enjoyable (or even more so) as the vacation itself. So don't be surprised if you've been smiling as you've been surfing the net, comparing cruise lines and options. The internet has really made us smarter shoppers; especially since with the current economy, many cruise lines have had to resort to hidden charges or do without the small and significant touches that makes a cruise memorable. To help ...
Read more …Studies have shown that planning a vacation or even just the mere anticipation of one is just as enjoyable (or even more so) as the vacation itself. So don't be surprised if you've been smiling as you've been surfing the net, comparing cruise lines and options. The internet has really made us smarter shoppers; especially since with the current economy, many cruise lines have had to resort to hidden charges or do without the small and significant touches that makes a cruise memorable. To help you make a smart buying decision, we've gathered the 5 cruise lines with whom you can only expect the best. Besides, spending money on an experience (for example, a vacation) has also been shown to be a better investment in your overall happiness than in a big-ticket item. Memories, especially good ones, are recession-proof.
The Seabourn Cruise Line is the luxury line of Carnival Cruises. Their lower per guest ratios definitely make a difference especially with their smaller ships, and everything is still tastefully detailed and decorated with all amenities and facilities being topnotch. Seabourn guests can revel in the exclusive club feel of these ships, with small personal touches such as the latest technology (flatscreens and the latest i-offerings of Apple,) or even customized stationary. The restaurants are varied and one can be as formal or as laid-back as one likes. One word of caution though, this line is not safe from the practice of surprising surcharges. Definitely sophistication without the stuffiness.
With the largest cabins in their class it is difficult not to enjoy space on the Regent Seven Seas Cruises. It is noteworthy that drinks are included, along with the fine selection of wines; a Cordon Bleu-operated restaurant is also something to look forward to. And with their no tipping policy, one can't help but feel that the service is sincere and unpretentious. Though there are some exceptions, their nightly entertainment tends to be an unbalanced mix of interesting speakers and tired musical standards. But even with their recent buyout, only be good things can be expected from Regent Seven Seas Cruises.
If dressy evenings with excellent food are more your style, then Silversea Cruise Line is definitely the choice. One can't help feeling that because they are so focused on getting the best of best, they can tend to be less flexible and may lack variety especially in terms of cuisine choice that you would see in other lines. But still the attention to detail that the Concierge provides especially with in-port experiences is unmatched. And the formality seems more like an extremely luxurious way of living than a limitation.
Crystal Cruises knows their market, and is very particular about meeting the demands of their mostly retired passengers. High quality food, service and entertainment is often what this cruise line is most associated with. In fact, restaurants on the ship are run by famous chefs and are definitely worth the price. It's the personalized service that makes a Crystal Cruises vacation worth remembering. The crews take pains to remember your name and to make sure that you always feel comfortable.
The World of Residensea is known as "The World's Most Luxurious Cruise Experience," with an average of 175 total guests for a vessel that can actually accommodate 1500 passengers. With the cruise ship more like a vacation home that sails around the world, it stands the cruise experience on its head; the best of everything with a depth of personalization that only ownership can provide with the help of carefully chosen designers. The focus provided by a single ship allows for unique experiences that one knows is not shared by those who have gone before you - making this a singular and unique vacation experience.
A more intimate experience, The Sea Dream Yacht Club is that secret vacation you hear being whispered by people in the know. Definitely not for those who search for the dressy and formal world of typical cruise, these large and well-designed yachts are for a more laid-back traveler except that the exceptional one-on-one service reminds you what true luxury is about. And because it is both casual and high end, the in-port and in-ship experiences are unique without the Vegas flashiness. The Sea Dream Yacht Club embraces transparent pricing policies which is a nice plus for the frugal but discerning traveler.
When deciding on which cruise line to choose, remember to consider the kind of experience that you are hoping to find and to rely more on personal reviews. The opinions of an unbiased silent majority are definitely more valuable than the biased loud minority, so take the time. And definitely, bon voyage!
