Dozens of cruise lines sail hundreds of ships, and each one is built for a different kind of traveler. Once you know how the industry fits together, choosing a cruise that suits you gets much easier.
How the cruise industry is structured
The choice is wide, so it helps to know which part of the market each cruise line aims at.
Three corporations own most of the familiar names: Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings.
Independent cruise lines sail alongside them, each with its own style and its own audience.
Common mistakes
Booking on price and itinerary alone, without checking who the cruise line is built for.
Treating the first cruise as a trial run. It sets the tone for how you feel about cruising.
Leaving your travel partner's preferences out of the decision.
Recommendations
Decide what you want from a cruise, and what you would rather avoid.
Find out which cruise lines cater to your preferences and your age group.
Choose your first cruise with care, so it leaves you looking forward to the next one.
Ask StaffTraveler Cruises which line fits your preferences and budget.
Work through these points, and you can book with confidence, knowing the cruise suits your taste and your budget.