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.
Carnival Cruises’ premium brand, the Seabourn Cruise Line uses their lower than usual number of guests to maximize a feeling of freedom especially in their more diminutive ships. Their ships are designed with sophistication in mind while their amenities and facilities could easily be the best in the bunch. You can enjoy the definite country club feel, exclusivity and the latest gadgets to play with from the thinnest flatscreens to the latest Apple personal products. The fact that each guest has their own personalized stationary is an excellent touch. The cuisine choice is wide, along with the options for clothing. Unfortunately, this cruise line packs a lot of hidden charges. But Seabourn Cruise Line is definite class without the pretension.
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.
Choose Silversea Cruise Line if your tastes run to the formal garb with the best cuisine. A lack of flexibility could better be interpreted with only expecting the best, which may explain why there are lacking dining choices. But the Concierge leaves nothing to chance with their in-port experiences. In the end, sophistication is an apparent goal.
With an accurate reading of their market of retirees, Crystal Cruises hits their targets with utmost precision. You can only expect the best food and entertainment with them. With a restaurant run by a renowned chef, you know that it is all worth it. With the crew members going out of their way to be friendly and considerate, it is difficult to leave without feeling like you’ve just made a lot of new friends.
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.
Word of mouth aids in keeping the Sea Dream Yacht Club the best luxury line you may have never heard of. Especially since they do without the stuffy world of dressing in formal wear for dinner and opt for more memorable experiences, each trip is only made better by the pampering done especially for you. The smarter but still shrewd traveler will respect the policy of charging only what you expect, but will come back for the exceptional luxury.
Make sure to consider your own expectations and non-negotiables when you choose a cruise line. And trust the numerous firsthand accounts on the internet, and consider if the complaints if there are any are things you can live with. Who said you can’t be smart about getting away? Though what is most important that you find joy in your escaping from the daily grind!
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