While you can still find space, Europe cruises are selling like hot cakes thanks to the weak U.S. dollar so I wouldn’t wait much longer if you plan to book in 2008.  While cruising is always a good value, it’s especially true in the Mediterranean, the Baltic, Greek Isles and British Isles.

 After taking numerous cruises in European, Baltic, Mediterranean and Aegean waters, I’ve found the criteria for picking a ship there to be different than in the Caribbean.In Europe, the most important factor is itinerary. When comparing ships, check the length of stay in port — you’ll want as much time as possible in sightseeing-intensive destinations. How many times in your life will you visit cities like Venice and Florence? On a Baltic cruise, the two best ports are Stockholm and St. Petersburg. In the latter city, aim for a ship that stays in port three days instead of two. These days, more and more ships are eliminating or greatly reducing nights when formal wear is required. If you don’t want to lug along a suitcase full of fancy dress, check the suggested attire of vessels. On a Europe cruise, you might want to skip the extra cost of a balcony cabin since the ship is in port nearly every day. Better to spend the saved money on shore excursions or buying a few trinkets.

 Another critical area to consider is shore excursions. Princess is my pick for the best excursions available. They have an edge over other cruise lines because of the volume of passengers they carry each year. They have first shot at the best guides, can demand special treatment and have the ground arrangements perfected.The perfect Europe ship will offer casual dining in the Lido restaurant for nights when you’re too tired from sightseeing to get dressed up and dine for several hours. Princess, Oceania and Norwegian Cruise Line offer the best casual dining options.On a Europe cruise the focus is much more on what’s ashore; the ship is secondary. It’s work! You go ashore at 8:30 a.m. and you are walking or driving until late afternoon.  On Europe cruises, many passengers skip the nightlife and turn in early. In terms of cruise discounts, look at the off-season.  April through mid-June, mid-September through November are not only the best time of year to visit — fewer crowds and balmy temperatures — but that’s when cruise prices are lowest.

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