Selecting the cruise ship that will provide you and your family with the holiday to remember is not simple, given that there are some many to choose from, offering so many varied experiences.
There are five categories of cruise ships ranging from the very highest end to cruises for those with a limited budget.
Our guide tries to help ease the way, and let you know what you can expect for your money.
ULTRA-DELUXE
The handful of lines who can deliver the true luxury experience. This is the preserve of the small, boutique-type ships who can deliver genuine 5-star service and style, and a few larger ships.
DELUXE
A wide-ranging category that covers some particularly well preserved liners and the most sophisticated of the large modern vessels. They all boast a 4-star touch in cuisine and service.
PREMIER
The new mass-market of cruising, a 4-star equivalent that features some of the most modern hardware and up-to-date developments.
SUPERIOR
Older ships that have been more thoughtfully maintained and up-dated to fit into this 3-star plus level, along with ships of more recent vintage that have been eclipsed by the modern breed of superliner.
STANDARD
The budget-minded entry level of modern day cruising. Equivalent to a 3-star hotel rating, the ships tend to be older, more traditional vessels that have been up-graded by various tour operators, plus classic liners still being operated by a number of lines.
