I’ve been asked this question numerous times over the years and I answer with another question: What are your interests and lifestyle?    If you use this as criteria when looking at the pro’s and con’s of each cruise line you’ll find your own “best ship”. 

basketball.jpgFor example, I know a fancy Italian who tried to pooh-pooh cruising as something that’s not for him. I asked what his favorite leisure activities are, and he replied “golf, basketball and fine dining.” It was a cinch: I pointed out that nearly all cruise lines offer golf packages in any port where golf is an option, including the Caribbean, Hawaii and Europe. Aboard the larger ships, such Royal Caribbean’s Voyager- and Freedom-class vessels, he can not only play basketball on deck but also watch games in a sports bar with live ESPN. I pointed out that if the ship’s normal culinary fare doesn’t meet his aristocratic standards, he can dine each evening in an alternative restaurant with a higher quality of food and wine. And, there are luxury ships with outstanding cuisine and golf packages.

My friend proves that no matter what your interests or tastes, there’s a perfect ship for you. You can opt for a smaller ship: Oceania Cruises and Princess have purchased the 680-passenger ex-Renaissance Cruises  R-class ships.  Families with children should check out the kids’ facilities when weighing the pros and cons of various vessels, but don’t forget to consider your own passions when picking a ship. For example, if non-stop activities make you happy, head for the larger Royal Caribbean and Carnival ships. You’ll also find the best and most diverse nightlife on Carnival, which also has very large staterooms and excellent cuisine. 

ship-dining.jpgOn both Norwegian Cruise Line and Princess, you’ll find the widest range of dining options.  NCL now allows passengers to wear jeans in the dining room, not the environment I want to be in.  Princess is a bit classier, the ships elegant and I love the option to dine when and with whom I please. And, the Lido Restaurant is open 24 hours per day, another plus for this cruiser.

So, what is your criteria for the perfect ship?