The Best of Cruising w/ Cruise Critic Executive Editor
Interested in seeing the world via luxury cruises? Don’t miss this special episode with Chris Grey Faust, executive editor at Cruise Critic. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about cruising!
What are the different types of luxury cruises?
Luxury
Smaller, upscale boat with usually under 1000 people onboard.
Special on-land activities are sometimes included.
More things are included in your fare (such as alcohol packages).
River
Small boats on the river!
These are very popular in Europe as it gives you the opportunity to see a lot of sites throughout the country more easily.
Which is the best OVERALL luxury cruise line?
Chris has been on over 100 cruises, and the top contender is currently Explora Journeys!
This is a newer cruise line that started sailing in 2021.
Explora cruise ships were created with inspiration from a private yacht! This is a great sign, right?!
They have won awards for the best cruise dining options. There are several outstanding, high-end restaurants onboard.
Explora’s cabins are quite spacious and provide everything that you can think of for a luxury experience. Every room has a walk in closet, high end linens, and Dyson hair dryers!
This whole ship really looks and feels like a luxury hotel.
Which is the best OVERALL river cruise line?
AmaWaterways is THE river cruise line you don’t want to miss!
This cruise line provides amazing opportunities to stay active while seeing new places! Once on land, there are walking and bike tours available in most places.
Ama has great options for wine tasting and comparing local wines to American wines.
You will never feel bored on an Ama ship! There is so much to do onboard during your time between cities.
Which is the best for ROMANCE cruise line?
Emerald Yacht cruises are exclusive, romantic, and exciting! These yachts only carry about 100 passengers, giving you a more individual experience.
Usually, these ships visit lesser traveled islands, over the typical busy ports.
If you’re looking for a more romantic river cruise, Uniworld is a great option!
These ships are very ornate and castle-like. The decor takes things to another level. You really feel like you are living in the places that you are visiting on land.
The food is also exceptional on Uniworld cruises.
Which cruise line has the best DINING?
If you are really into great food and wine, you’ll want to check out Explora Journeys!
Every single restaurant and buffet is next level on these ships. We’re talking Michelin level food!
If you are looking for a river cruise specifically with great food, Riverside cruises might be right for you.
Riverside has the highest quality of local food on board along with fantastic chefs and great service.
Depending on your ports you will have different local foods, such as cheese and wine, to try on your immersive journey.
Which cruise line has the best SERVICE?
Everyone wants to have an effortless cruise experience. You want to have a crew that can perfectly anticipate your needs. Crystal cruise line really shows us how this should be done!
You will have a butler assigned to your room who will take care of any of your needs. They are amazing and so attentive to details! They get to know you, your interests, and the things you like in order to prepare the best experience possible.
The restaurant service is also seamless and very enjoyable.
If you are looking for this high level of service on a river cruise, check out Tauck!
From the moment you start booking your trip, to the second you land at the airport, they will be there every step of the way. They will assist you for every step of your vacation.
All the excursions are provided by the company, and they are top notch! They even take care of the details down to getting you the local currency to be able to go buy lunch on land.
Which cruise line has the best ITINERARY?
Are you looking to visit unique ports in beautiful places? Windstar has exceptional itineraries that won’t leave you disappointed.
Windstar is especially known for their Greek cruises. They take you to islands off the beaten path to beautiful places.
These itineraries are crafted with the intention of giving you the most unique and enjoyable vacation possible.
Windstar has a variety of ship types for you to choose from as well. They have smaller yachts in addition to sailing ships. You get to choose your own adventure!
Which cruise line is the CRUISERS CHOICE?
Crystal
Crystal cruise line is a favorite overall! They really anticipate every need and take care of you in every way possible.
Explora Journeys
Since Explora is newer, the prices are a little bit lower than other luxury cruise lines. Their attention to detail and luxurious experiences is amazing!
Viking River Cruises
Viking has both river and smaller ocean cruises! They focus on enrichment and history of the areas you visit.
What is an expedition cruise?
These cruises are created to make it to the lesser traveled parts of the Earth. Some examples include Antarctica, Northern Arctic, Greenland, and the Galapagos Islands.
Expedition cruises used to only have the bare bones when it comes to amenities and cabin quality. However, many cruise lines have really upped their game and created beautiful luxury ships that can take you to far corners of the world.
Cruise Critic’s top expedition cruise line is National Geographic-Lindblad. They have first class guides with endless knowledge about the beautiful places you get to explore.
How should I book a luxury cruise?
When booking a luxury or river cruise, you will probably want to book through a travel advisor. They know all the little details of every ship and destination, so they can make sure you choose the perfect trip.
Cruise Critic also offers articles that can help you to choose the perfect cruise line and destination for you.
Get in touch with Chris!