European Cruises

When one thinks of a European cruise one of the first words that comes to mind is luxury. However, not all cruise companies are created equal. Yes, if you’ve never been sailing in Europe before then no matter what voyage you choose it will likely seem very luxurious, but there are certain cruise lines that take it that extra mile, pampering their guests with impeccable service and every conceivable amenity. Spending time aboard these ships is tantamount to staying in the world’s poshest hotels, with the added benefit of being able to visit new destinations every day without having to pack and unpack.

So which cruise lines deliver such an extraordinary level of luxury? We’ve outlined some of the best just below:

Regent Seven Seas - Originally two companies (Radisson and Seven Seas) this company has grown steadily ever since merging. They do not boast some of the massive ocean liners that can be found in other fleets, but their smaller ships have plenty to offer in the way of luxury and state of the art features. Fall asleep on the finest European cotton linens, watch flat screen TV, listen to your iPod on a high end Bose stereo system, surf wi-fi internet, and even talk on your cellphone while at sea. If you are a technology buff then Regent Seven Seas is the cruise ship for you.

Silversea Cruises - The company with an “Uncompromising Commitment to Service” may only boast 4 ships in its fleet, but this cruise line has managed to carve a nice niche for itself, and a voyage with Silversea is synonymous with luxury. Like Regent Seven Seas their ships are much smaller than offerings from Carnival or Princess, and their first ship, Silver Cloud, is only equipped to handle 296 passengers. What really sets Silversea apart from their competitors is their all-inclusive mentality. The price might seem expensive, but remember that everything from port charges to alcoholic beverages are included in the tally. It is rare to find an all-inclusive cruise that bundles so much in the deal. If you want to experience true pampering while sailing the Mediterranean, or even the Antarctic give Silversea a try.

Seabourn - With more than 20 years in the business Seabourn has established itself as one of the very best players in the ultra luxury cruise market. Like the other companies mentioned the ships are small and in fact Seabourn markets its ships as the Yachts of Seabourn. In fact the Seabourn Legend, Pride and Spirit all feel more like floating country clubs than ships. Bar drinks are complimentary, and dinner aboard one of these ships is an experience comparable with dining at the finest restaurants in Paris or Rome. Customers are looking forward with great anticipation to the launch of the Seabourn Odyssey this June, which will be three times the size of the aforementioned ships. Privacy and exclusivity are the keywords here, as despite the tripling in size the ship will only cater to twice the number of passengers.

Crystal Cruises - With only two ships in its fleet - Crystal Symphony and Crystal Serenity - booking a European cruise with this luxury line may be a challenge indeed. However, if you can manage to get your name on the passenger list rest assured that the experience will be more than worth the aggravation. Crystal Cruises is a company with small ships that prides itself on offering large cruise ship luxury. They are particularly known for their incredible dining experience which includes sushi bars and large wine cellars offering some of the world’s finest vintages. Though most luxury cruise lines don’t specifically cater to kids Crystal has carved out a sub-niche in the luxury market by offering activity centers for children. Though they are certainly not on the level of a Disney ship, there is enough to keep your children occupied while you relax on the pool deck with a drink.

These are just a few of the luxury European cruise lines, but they are among the best. If you want a more private, exclusive cruising experience while traveling the Mediterranean, British Isles or Western Europe then give one of these companies a try. Once you’ve experienced their exemplary service you might never go back to the big cruise lines.

Related posts:

1. Seabourn Cruise Lines - Luxury Cruising At Its Finest
2. European Cruise Lines Review - Regent Seven Seas (Radisson)
3. Oceania Cruise Line - Take a Luxury European Cruise
4. European Cruise Line Reviews - Silversea
5. Carnival Cruise Lines Review

Filed under: Cruise Reviews, European Cruise Lines, European Cruises, Luxury Cruises