If you love exploring ashore, then it’s better to choose a smaller ship which offers more port-intensive itineraries. Carnival Cruises’ fantastic kid’s clubs provide younger travellers with plenty of activities to keep them entertained throughout the day, while the line’s nightlife is amongst one of the liveliest in the cruise industry, with the party on-board lasting until the early hours of the morning most nights. The stars among these include the North West Passage from Greenland to Alaska and an ice-breaker cruise to the North Pole. Wide-ranging itineraries, staterooms, amenities, ship sizes, dining and activities are just part of a large list of preferences that need to be considered. Since the mid-1950’s the cruise industry has improved the quality of their ships and the professionalism of their staff.

If something goes wrong, an agent can help rectify the situation faster than you may be able to if you go it alone. This line often works with well-known brands, bringing the likes of Blue Chicago's Second City comedy troupe to its guests, as well as West End stage shows such as Rock of Ages. Perfect for: UK-based couples and solo travellers who enjoy smaller, more intimate cruise ships with a friendly and social atmosphere on-board.Choose long weekend cruises from Fort Lauderdale to Grand Cayman that only last for four nights, where adventure activities include snorkeling with friendly stingrays. For as many reasons as you need a vacation, I guarantee there are more cruise options than you can wrap your head around. Perhaps your goal is posing like a gladiator at the Roman Colosseum or viewing Antoni Gaudi’s cathedral in Barcelona. We always recommend arriving at least a day before the departure of your cruise, especially if the port is far from home, to avoid missing your ship.

For example, if you know that you want to cruise from the UK with Royal Caribbean, then your ship will be Anthem of the Seas because there’s only one ship that does that. Parents with very young children will also appreciate the nursery for youngsters from six months to three years (fee payable) and the fact that staterooms have baths as well as showers. Sky-diving simulators, North Star Observations Platforms, dodgems, inline skating rinks, FlowRider surf simulators, Bionic Bars, ground-breaking entertainment… There are simply so many innovative features and so much to look forward to when you set sail with Royal Caribbean. Children usually love to cruise; they make friends easily and it is a great time for parents to relax.

Regardless of what type of cruise ship you opt for, be on the lookout for numbers like a per-passenger space ratio or a crew-to-passenger ratio that might give you a better idea of how “crowded” the ship might feel. For cruising veterans looking for something out of the ordinary, smaller cruise vessels could be a good solution.