Categories of Cruise Companies

Below is a list of the major cruise lines in the industry separated by service category (Mainstream, Premium, and Luxury). Each cruise name links to a list of cruise ships for that respective company.

Mainstream
-Carnival Cruise Lines
-Disney Cruise Line
-Norwegian Cruise Line
-Royal Caribbean International

Premium
-Celebrity Cruises
-Holland America Line
-Princess Cruises
-Costa Cruises

Luxury
-Cunard Lines
-Crystal Cruises
-Oceania Cruises
-Orient Lines
-Radisson Seven Seas Cruises
-Seabourn Cruise Line
-Seadream Yacht Club
-Silversea Cruises
-Windstar Cruises

For the time being I have used the typical names for each category of cruise line. Each description (Mainstream, Premium, and Luxury) do not do a great job in explaining the true nature of each company, therefore I have listed below a more in depth description of each category.

Mainstream: These companies typically have the largest ships and sail in and out of major ports. Around vacation time these cruises are filled with families. While being the most inexpensive category of the three, it still manages to offer enough programs to suit families of all ages.

Premium: This is a step up from mainstream. Expect to pay a little more for these cruise lines as they typically have less passengers and better service than the Mainstream cruise lines. These companies have ships both big and small and try to serve the major ports of the Mainstream cruise lines as well as small ports that the Mainstream cruise line ships can not service. I highly recommend this category for families of all ages who want to have a little taste of luxury while on their cruise. If you start cruising with young kids I recommend the Mainstream category originally and then as your children get older progress to the Premium cruise lines.

Luxury: These cruise lines are the most expensive and the least family friendly. Expect retirees and elders on these ships. They provide top-notch service and an amazing vacation if you can manage the leave the kids behind. These lines have the smallest ships of the three categories, and by far the most elegant ships afloat. With such small ships these cruise lines have the ability to service ports that most people have never heard of and stop in the most remote exotic places in the world, making for an interesting and beautiful vacation. Keep in mind that these ships will also service the main ports of the Mainstream and Premium cruise lines so double-check the itinerary before booking. I highly recommend these ships for people who are willing to pay top dollar for a vacation while never having to dip into your pockets once on your voyage. Luxury cruise lines are best for older couples who want to get away and think about nothing but relaxing.

Just remember, as with anything, in the cruise business, you pay for what you get. Much more is included on the Luxury cruise lines compared to the other two. If you are traveling as a family and you want great service, Premium is the way to go. For those people who are on a budget or who do not mind a little lapse in service and huge crowds on ships, Mainstream cruise lines are right for you.

Also, keep in mind that just because it costs more does not mean that it fits your needs the best. There are plenty of people who can afford luxury cruises, but I would never recommend they go on a luxury cruise because they are traveling with young kids. Each category of cruise company is suited for a different style and type of cruiser. I hope this blog helps you find the cruise that fits you best.