What’s the difference between the luxury cruise lines? I’m doing my
best to find out, one ship at a time!
SeaDream Yacht Club
Passengers: 110
This was my first-ever cruise and it’s proven tough to beat. Casual
onboard, but exceptional service, food and fun events such as the
poolside Caviar and Champagne Splash and an onboard marina (imagine
jetskiing in the Med). I also liked the younger crowd, aged 40-60. All
alcohol, dining, tips and activities are included in the fare. The only
negative is that cabins don’t have balconies.
Silversea
Passengers: 130-540
I felt very pampered on my sailing from Sydney to Cairns earlier this
year. All rooms are classified as suites, so everyone gets a butler. The
Silver Spirit was so captivating that I only got off the ship once all week.
The specialty restaurants are memorable because they were a little bit
different, especially Stars Supper Club and the Hot Rock grill above the
pool deck. All drinks and crew tips are included in the fare.
Seabourn
Passengers: 200-450
To join the world voyage of the Sojourn for only three days was such a
tease. There are no butlers but the crew provide truly personal service
that makes you feel like you’re on the holiday of a lifetime. Restaurant 2
and lunch in the galley (no surcharges) were great experiences.
Seabourn Square and the thermal suite are pleasant indoor hangouts,
but the real action is poolside, with free ‘massage moments’ and the fun
Sky Bar. Drinks and crew tips included.
Sea Cloud Cruises
Passengers: 100
My surprise of the year was River Cloud II, largely for its great food and
hilarious waiters. The line’s other two vessels are masted tall ships,
which are a novelty for those seeking something different to an ocean
liner. House wine and beer are free with lunch and dinner.
Regent Seven Seas Cruises
Passengers: 490-700
Renowned as the world’s most all-inclusive cruise line – even the shore
excursions are complimentary. I have never sailed on or inspected
Regent ships so can’t comment from personal experience, but definitely
worth looking into.
Crystal Cruises
Passengers: 922-1072
Ditto, not yet been invited on Crystal, but I have heard these cruises are
amazing. Not all-inclusive – you even have to pay for a glass of wine with
your dinner. These are the biggest ships in the luxury market, but this
means there are more facilities and entertainment options.
Hapag Lloyd
Passengers: 164-698
I had lunch onboard Berlitz’s top-rated ship, Europa, and it was enough
to see that passengers are spoilt. The ship isn’t as sexy as you might expect,
and alcohol isn’t free, but the service is superb and there are no dining
surcharges, including Michelin-starred chef Dieter Müller’s restaurant.
Compagnie du Ponant
Passengers: 64-264
CW columnist Rod Eime is currently cruising in Antarctica aboard the new
vessel, which he describes as a “floating Sofitel”. Stay tuned for his
review next week.
