Cruise Lines

The following is a directory of cruise lines listed in alphabetical order.  The text in quotations was provided by the cruise line or copied from their Web site.  Comments are labeled and italicized.  Cruise lines not listed here may request a link.

Abercrombie & Kent "Abercrombie & Kent pioneered the concept of luxury holidays to exotic and previously inaccessible places. In 1962 our first tented safaris showed clients the wonders of African wildlife close-up, whilst providing a standard of hospitality that was then unheard of in the bush. Since then we've grown, and now have an extensive worldwide infrastructure, ensuring you experience every destination up close and personal, alongside unequalled levels of service, style and luxury. Our promise is a memorable travel experience on each and every occasion."

America Cruise Lines.  "American Cruise Lines is the leader in small ship cruising! Carrying no more than 92 passengers, our brand new small ships are able to easily navigate America's smooth, inland waterways and dock in the heart of each charming port. From Maine to Florida, our itineraries are designed to allow our passengers to experience intimately each area's local culture, fascinating history and natural splendor."

American Canadian Caribbean Cruise Line.  "Today, ACCL has a fleet of three specially designed ships that feature Luther’s patented designs. With many itineraries to choose from each year, passengers keep coming back to repeat the ACCL experience.

Our ships are cozy and comfortable with an informal atmosphere evident in our BYOB policy and relaxed dress code. Our itineraries are specially tailored to the active, inquisitive and eco-conscious audience. We choose our crew, chefs, guest lecturers, outside entertainment, and land tours carefully to provide a top-notch vacation. We hope you will find ACCL to be as special as we do."

American West Steamboat Company. "American West Steamboat Company brings sternwheeler cruising back to America's most historic and scenic rivers aboard the faithfully recreated 19th century sternwheelers Queen of the West and Empress of the North."

Arctic Umiag Line.  "Passenger ships in route along the west coast of Greenland, from Nanortalik in the very south to Uummannaq in the north.Watch whales and icebergs pass by
as you travel along our coast together with the local population.  To fares that nobody can match!"

Celebrity Cruises.  "Since its inception in 1989, Celebrity has held true to its original commitment of taking the very best aspects of classic, elegant cruising and updating them to reflect current lifestyles. In 1997, we merged with Royal Caribbean International to form Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.

What sets Celebrity apart from other vacation choices today is the cruise line's passionate dedication to providing guests with a cruise experience that exceeds expectations. This extraordinary performance level has become the definition of Celebrity Cruises, and has set the worldwide standard for today's expression of what first made cruising famous -- high quality, superior design, spacious accommodations, grand style, attentive service and exceptional cuisine."

Clipper Cruise Line.  "Reach your hand into the icy spray of an Alaskan waterfall - from the ship's rail. Sail into the bustling harbors of the Far East; dock in the heart of European medieval villages; snorkel the Great Barrier Reef; and see North America as early explorers did - from the the deck of a ship. Our itineraries bring you up close to places of natural beauty and cultural interest. We hope you will join us."

Costa Cruise Line. Caribbean and European cruises.  When you visit their Web site be sure to look at their Web cams.  It's almost like being there.

Cruise West   "If you've traveled with big ship cruise lines in the past, it's time to forget everything you thought you knew about cruising. And if you've avoided cruising because you thought it would be like traveling in a floating mall, it's time to think again. This is something else altogether."

Crystal Cruises.  ""Luxury" is an overused and much-misunderstood term, especially in cruising. At Crystal Cruises, luxury is clearly defined. Through our uncompromising focus on service, choice, and guest satisfaction, Crystal Cruises has redefined the category. As a result, we have become the benchmark against which our guests judge not only all other cruise lines, but all luxury vacation experiences. And it is this commitment to quality which has led readers of Condé Nast Traveler and Travel + Leisure magazines to name Crystal Cruises "World's Best Large Ship Cruise Line" in their annual readers' polls for the past seven and eight years, respectively."

Cunard. "For more than 160 years, Cunard ships have reigned on the high seas and rarely have there been more exciting times for our Company. This year is already off to a tremendous start with the successful launch of Queen Mary 2 – the largest ocean liner ever built. The world-wide interest in our newest Queen has amazed us all, and she is greeted with fanfare and celebrations at every port of call."

Custom Alaska Cruises. "Custom Alaska Cruises are private yacht charters customized to meet your group’s unique interests. As long as weather permits, we can take you virtually anywhere you want to go. We offer suggested itineraries and activities, and can plan your Alaska cruise with as much or as little input as you would like to give. We can focus on your specific interest. Whether you are looking for small ship luxury cruise, an opportunity for an Alaskan adventure or a chance for some premium Alaskan wildlife viewing."

Cruising the Great Lakes.  "Ten thousand years ago, the last great glaciers retreated leaving us with the legacy of the Great Lakes. Their timeless beauty can be enjoyed today, and what better way than by Cruising! So many places to go and things to see. Full of contrasts - from opera in one of our Great Cities to the solitude of a sunset in Lake Superior, from the excitement of baseball to fishing the St. Mary's River, from Great Golf to frontier history. The Great Lakes offer something for everyone."

Discovery Cruise Lines.  "Discovery is known as America's favorite one day cruise for very good reasons. Discovery offers all the amenities and activities of a traditional cruise in one fun-filled day. Enjoy the outdoors on one of our spacious sun decks, take a dip in the pool, participate in our limbo contest, or simply move to the island music. Your cruise includes three lavish buffet meals that will delight your palate and have you come back for more. There's also bingo, a video arcade, shows, a disco and other live entertainment. Gaming enthusiasts will want to try their luck at our Las Vegas-style casino with a slew of slots, table games, poker, roulette, blackjack and more. Join in on all the fun that makes getting to Grand Bahama just as much fun as getting back on your roundtrip Discovery Cruise. Discoveryis also the perfect venue for groups, meetings and special occasions."

Delta Queen Steamboat Company, Inc.  "A unique blend of American beauty and history, its sumptuous river cuisine, lively "showboat" style entertainment, and the adventure of exploring Mark Twain's riverside America. Charming, historic river ports. Lively cities. Stately plantations. And what a unique way to discover them!"

Disney Cruise Line. "Escape on a fantasy unlike anything you've imagined. A Disney Cruise Line® vacation. Here, adults find excitement and indulgence. Children have the time of their lives. And all make memories to last a lifetime. So start planning your Disney Cruise Line vacation today, and set sail on a dream."

First European Cruises.

Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines.  "The company originated in Hvitsten, a small town on Oslofjord in Norway, when the three Olsen brothers, Fredrik Christian, Petter and Andreas, bought their first ships and began an international shipping company in 1848.

Four generations later, the family now operates companies skilled in various aspects of the tanker, liner, cruise and passenger trade, as well as aviation, ships' crewing, shipbuilding and offshore industries."

French Country Waterwys, Ltd.  "French Country Waterways is known and trusted for operating the finest fleet of luxury hotel barges cruising on France's inland waterways. Our five deluxe barges have been carefully designed and outfitted to provide unparalleled passenger comfort. Extensive annual refurbishments and meticulous maintenance ensure that each of our vessels meets the highest standards of quality and safety."

Glacier Bay Cruise Line.  "In addition to viewing glaciers, wildlife and spectacular scenery, visit all the well-known ports of Alaska's Inside Passage."

Harmony Cruises.  "The Harmony Cruises ships are the ideal alternative to the typical cruises on board large ships.

With deluxe facilities for up to 44 passengers, upscale service plus exciting and unusual itineraries, life on a Harmony ship will be blissfully relaxed, very much like being on a private yacht.

All this with the safety and comfort found only on much larger ships."

Hapag-Lloyd Cruises. "Market leader in the luxury segment
Hapag-Lloyd Cruises is the leading operator for premium and luxury cruises in German-speaking countries. Its ships Europa (5 star plus), Hanseatic (5 star), Bremen (4 star) and Columbus (3 star plus) operate in various market segments, providing cruises all over the world. The fleet also includes the oceangoing sailing ships Sea Cloud and Sea Cloud II as well as two 5 star river cruise vessels. The flagship of the fleet is the "Europa", which entered service in September 1999. The "Europa" is a leader in the cruise market in terms of interior design, space per passenger and service. She was chosen as the world's finest cruise ship by the prestigious "Berlitz Cruise Guide 2004" for the fourth time in succession. Hapag-Lloyd Cruises achieves sales of 151,4 million Euros (2002)."

Hebridean Island Cruises.  "Hebridean Island Cruises is perhaps the world's most unusual cruise company, flying in the face of fashion to operate only small ships.

Our fleet comprises just two vessels, each dedicated to providing the finest holidays afloat. A crew to passenger ratio of nearly one-to-one assures an extraordinary level of personal service and a unique experience for the few - never something ordinary for a crowd.

The rare, the beautiful and the rewarding are our specialty

Holland America Line.  "We are very excited about our new $225-million investment in unparalleled product and service enhancements on our fleet of 12 five-star ships. Called 'Signature of Excellence,' this comprehensive initiative will strengthen our position as the premium cruise leader and centers around five main components of Holland America Line’s cruise experience:

• dining
• accommodations
• service
• activities
• destinations

This nearly quarter-of-a-billion-dollar commitment is the most significant product investment in our industry and will clearly cement our leadership position. We will continue our promise of delivering the best premium cruise experience available.

We are evaluating and assessing just about every aspect of our operation to ensure that we provide our guests with a truly extraordinary experience and tremendous value. Holland America Line clearly sets the industry standard in premium cruising, and we need to challenge ourselves diligently and deliberately to ensure our excellent product of today is even better in the future. With “Signature of Excellence” we will ensure that our premium product is well matched to meet the expectations of tomorrow’s sophisticated travelers."

Imperial Majesty Cruise Line.  "Find paradise onboard the MV Regal Empress as you cruise to Nassau/Paradise Island with Imperial Majesty Cruise Line. Enjoy live entertainment, fine dining, spacious staterooms as well as unlimited activities. It's the perfect getaway."

Jadrolinija.  "Jadrolinija connects major Croatian Islands and ports on the Adriatic Coast : Rijeka, Split, Pula, Zadar, Dubrovnik, Korčula, Hvar.

International lines connect Croatian with Italian Coast.

For an unforgettable expirience in sea travel on our local and international lines we offer you comfortable accomodation in tourist cabins, equipped with showers and toilets or in suites.

We also offer entertainment with music and dance, duty free shops, movies and a playroom for children.

In our restaurants you can enjoy exquisite food prepared by established Chefs and in selected, top-level local and international wines."

Kristina Cruises.  "A cruise on Kristina Regina is a combination of a nostalgic voyage on a Finnish ship, interesting destinations and a leisurely journey. This is what a genuine cruise is about. We wish you welcome!

Interesting destinations are an essential part of a cruise. The itineraries of our cruises are planned to cover different kind of cities, with shore excursions offering various possibilities for visiting several places of interest. As you are traveling on the ship, you can enjoy new destinations without having to worry about your luggage. Almost every morning the ship arrives to a new port and you can spend all day visiting sights and getting familiar with the local life-style. If you like, you may explore the city also on your own."

Lindblad Expeditions.

Mariposa Cruise Line.  "Over the past decade, Mariposa Cruise Line has built the largest hospitality cruise operation in Canada. We are clearly an established leader in Toronto Harbour Cruises and Toronto waterfront tours. Our fleet comprises seven ships, varying in size and style to accommodate groups of 20 to 600 passengers.

For your next corporate function, business meeting, employee get-together, product launch, company event, family outing, event or wedding, charter one of our vessels to ensure your event is a unique and memorable experience."

Maris Freighter Cruises. 

MSC Italian Cruises.  "Mediterranean Shipping Company, a privately owned company with a longstanding history on the seas headed by captain Gianluigi Aponte, entered the cruise industry in 1988. After acquiring the Starlauro, a prestigious shipping company, and executing a total renewal and re-launch, MSC Cruises was officially born.

MSC Cruises combines a deep heritage at sea with an enthusiastic, young and motivated management team to present a company philosophy of “Innovation = Tradition”. MSC Cruises uniquely blends maritime traditions, culture and famous Mediterranean cuisine to deliver the ultimate cruise experience while displaying a real commitment to the finest hospitality afloat. In essence, MSC Cruises has made true Italian service the heart of its business and its key point of differentiation in the cruise industry."

North Star Cruises.  "North Star Cruises Australia is now the Kimberley’s longest established adventure-cruise operator, having provided unique cruise options since 1987. The company has won both state and national tourism awards, is an undisputed market leader and offers a suite of itineraries for the most discerning adventurer."

Norwegian Coastal Voyage, Inc.  "With 34 ports of call (35 in the summer), the Norwegian Coastal Voyage is a lifeline along a stretch of coast characterized by vast distances, a sparse population and dramatic scenery.

There is an air of history about the Norwegian Coastal Voyage. It has always been a part of coastal life, has always arrived at the ports and has always been there to rely on for more than 100 years. The ships take children to their christenings, newly-weds on their honeymoons and carry milk and vegetables to remote island communities. Works by recognized artists have helped the new ships gain renown as floating galleries. The Norwegian Coastal Voyage is a unique combination of first-class passenger ship and working ship. The fleet comprises 13 ships, most of which were built since 1993. It is the perfect alternative to the traditional cruise for the independent, seasoned traveler. Enjoy a panoramic view of ever-changing, breathtaking scenery from the comfort of a deck chair or a chair in the lounge."

Oceana Cruises.  "Oceania Cruises was formed in 2002 by cruise industry veterans Joe Watters and Frank Del Rio. Best in class cuisine, destination oriented itineraries, and outstanding value define Oceania Cruises' five-star product and position the company as the cruise line of choice for traditional premium and luxury category cruisers.

The onboard atmosphere is relaxed and reminiscent of the casual elegance of a country club. Tuxedos and gowns are never a requirement for dining so you can dress and enjoy the evening comfortably. The overall feeling is one that is never stuffy and void of any pretension.

You will enjoy the flexibility of four open seating restaurants; you dine when, where and with whom you choose. Our 5 Star menus are crafted under the meticulously watchful eye of renowned master chef Jacques Pépin, our Executive Culinary Director. Host of numerous public television series, he is one of America's best known chefs, food columnists and cook book authors. He has also served as the personal chef to no less than three French heads of state, including Charles de Gaulle."

Odyssey Cruises.  "For parties of two to a gala event for hundreds, Odyssey offers elegant, climate-controlled dining decks for brunch, lunch, dinner or moonlight cruises. Boston, Chicago, and Washington, D.C."

To help us better serve you, please select a group size for the city you are interested in.

Orient Express Cruises.  "Few places on earth remain untouched in their natural beauty and charm from one century to the next. The ancient land of Burma, now known as Myanmar, is however, an exception to the rule, and on board the Road To Mandalay we bring you the best of this fascinating, unspoilt country.

A journey along the Ayeyarwady River is a voyage of a lifetime. From this mighty river, which runs the length of the country, treasures can be admired which have for so long been hidden from the world’s gaze.

With the style and comfort for which the Orient-Express is famous, the Road To Mandalay provides the ultimate vantage point from which to absorb the surrounding serene beauty, taking in its golden-spired pagodas, ancient temples, sleepy riverside settlements and saffron-clad monks."

Orient Lines.  "Exciting cruise vacations to the world's greatest destinations."  Comment: When I was a child, I used to go to the docks in San Francisco and Los Angeles and watch passengers board Orient Lines ships on their way to exotic destinations.  There is something special that is almost indescribable about the excitement about leaving port on a cruise ship.

Pacific Catalyst.  "Unique adventure cruises in the sheltered coastal waters of the Pacific Northwest, British Columbia, and Southeast Alaska aboard the historic wooden vessels M/V Catalyst and M/V Westward."

Phillips' Cruises.  "The Klondike Express is a 137-foot, high speed catamaran and has a capacity for 342 passengers. The vessel has three decks, two of which are enclosed and heated. Comfortable upholstered booths with tables are available for all passengers and the large picture windows provide a view from every seat. A saloon, snack bar, gift shop and seven restrooms are a few of the other amenities available to the passengers."

Princess Cruises.  "From its modest beginnings in 1965 with a single ship cruising to Mexico, Princess has grown to become one of the premiere cruise lines in the world. Today, its fleet carries more than 800,000 passengers each year to more worldwide destinations than any other major line.

The most recognized cruise line in the world was catapulted to stardom in 1977 when Pacific Princess was cast in a starring role on a new television show called The Love Boat. The weekly series, which introduced millions of viewers to the still-new concept of a sea-going vacation, was an instant hit and both the company name and its “seawitch” logo have remained synonymous with cruising ever since."

Quark Expeditions.  "Quark Expeditions has been one of the leading innovators and operators of expedition cruises, especially in polar regions, since 1991. The company has pioneered and developed a concept of fantastically adventurous journeys in first class comfort on powerful, polar icebreakers. This concept is unique and many "First Ever" passenger voyages have been successfully operated: the first North Pole voyage, the first transpolar voyage through the North Pole, the first Circumnavigation of Antarctica, the first "Far Side" of Antarctica voyage, the first Weddell Sea voyage, the first Northeast Passage and the first Circumnavigation of the Arctic are all part of this tradition."

Radisson Seven Seas Cruises.  "At Radisson Seven Seas, we offer an incomparable program of exploration and discovery to over 300 ports on six continents, including Antarctica. Our luxury vessels are designed for guests numbering in the hundreds rather than the thousands. The ambiance on board is personal, individual, accommodating... upscale but not uptight. And all ships also share certain distinctions in accommodations, service, dining and amenities that elevate them to the lofty vantage point of our enviable six stars."

ResidentSea.  "The World" "The World is like a private yacht, seaside villa or exclusive country club offering you personal service, privacy and supreme style as you travel from one destination to another.

Aboard The World, flexibility is paramount. As a resident or guest on this ship, your time is your time. To do with as you please. To experience the world at your own pace.

This is a voyage like no other you've known."

Royal Mail Ship St. Helena.  "RMS St Helena is unique.

First of all, she is the only ocean-going vessel in the world still to carry the venerable title of Royal Mail Ship, held in the past by so many famous British passenger liners, the Queen Elizabeth and Queen Mary amongst them.

Second, she does the unique job of supplying the remote South Atlantic island of St Helena with pretty well everything it needs - St Helena has no airfield and this means that everything has to be brought in by sea.

Not quite unique, RMS St Helena is one of very few genuine passenger-cargo liners in the world (there is another plying the Pacific), making regular scheduled voyages.

A voyage on the RMS is an unforgettable experience: a blue water voyage on a working ship to lonely and remote tropical islands."

Royal Caribbean International.  "For more than 30 years, the success of Royal Caribbean International has been built on our unwavering commitment to service and our desire to deliver the most outstanding vacation experience on land or sea."

Royal-Olympic-Cruises.  "We are known around the world for our custom designed vacations and our personalised service. Enjoy with Royal Olympia Cruises a European or Mediterranean cruise, a cruise to the Greek islands & Turkey, cruises to Central & South America, Africa or the Caribbean."

Seabourn Cruise Line.  "Seabourn Cruise Line is generally regarded by the traveling public and the travel industry as the most celebrated cruise line in the world, having consistently received top awards, ratings and honors in travel and cruise guidebooks and other authoritative publications. Voyages range from 4 to 72 days.

SeaDream Yacht Club.  "SeaDream Yacht Club is an innovative, new yachting company that operates the twin, ultra-luxury mega yachts SeaDream I and SeaDream II. When they were originally introduced they soon became the prototypes of the casual and intimate yachting experience. SeaDream Yacht Club has built upon this legacy and today the two sleek and rakish SeaDream yachts are highly acclaimed by discerning travelers seeking a unique seagoing experience and by travel industry observers everywhere."

Scotia Prince Cruises.  "New England's Cruise Ferry to Nova Scotia."

Silversea Cruise Line.  "Since our inception in 1994, we’ve dedicated ourselves to defining the elite luxury experience – going above and beyond to achieve the distinction of being the world’s best. Thoroughly modern ships with every technical innovation. Spacious ocean-view suites, with sumptuous furnishings and appointments – most with a private veranda. Inspired cuisine and the finest wines and spirits poured with our compliments. But it is more than these things that set us apart. It’s an understanding of what it takes to make our guests feel at home and welcome."

Society Expeditions.  "In the spirit of discovery and enrichment, we present to you fascinating expedition cruises to seldom-visited corners of Antarctica, Russia, Alaska and the South Pacific. These small ship cruise itineraries promise adventure, magnificent scenery, unparalleled wildlife viewing, and intriguing cultural encounters in places where outside visitors are uncommon, where age-old cultures remain in tact, and nature still reigns supreme."

Spirit Cruises, LLC.  "Classic Spirit Cruises.  High-energy fun for everyone, with dining, dancing, sightseeing and entertainment all rolled into one cruise experience.
Available in Boston, Chicago, New York, Weehawken, (NJ), Norfolk, Philadelphia and Washington.

Spirit Elite Yacht Cruises.  Ideal for private events, meetings or parties, you and your guests will enjoy elegant space, gracious service, delicious food and spectacular views. Available in Boston, MA and Washington, D.C."

Star Clippers.  "Discover a new age of sail, where the traditions of the past are combined with the modern comforts and amenities of the present.

Star Clippers tall ships are perfect for cruising in casual elegance. Our itineraries range from the sun-kissed Mediterranean to the exotic Far East and the Caribbean.

On board you will enjoy a relaxed atmosphere, friendly crew, and international cuisine, all in pampered comfort. If you're a boating enthusiast, you can choose to lend a hand hoisting the sails, you can climb the mast, or you can just lay back and let the crew do all the work."

Star Cruises.  "Star Cruises, the Leading Cruise Line in Asia-Pacific was incorporated in September 1993, representing a bold initiative to tap Asia-Pacific's potential as an international cruise destination."

Swan Hellenic - Discovery Cruises.  "As market leader in discovery cruising we offer a variety of inspiring cruises worldwide for the inquisitive traveller. Our focus is on exploring the history, culture and essence of the many destinations we visit, on our ship Minerva II."

Windjammer Barefoot Cruises.  "Windjammer shipmates are a motley crew of interesting folks from all over the U.S. and abroad. You won't know if the guy or gal sitting next to you is the CEO of a Fortune 500 Company or an average "Joe." And the best part is... no one cares. Once your ship sets sail, it's all about relaxing and getting into the down-island groove. Any pretenses are quickly forgotten, and a familiar sense of camaraderie soon develops among passengers."

Windstar Cruises.  ""Pioneering Line Celebrates 15th Anniversary"
Sailing under the banner of its appropriate tag line "180º From Ordinary," Windstar was created in the mid-1980''s with the vision to offer an alternative to the typical cruise or resort vacation. The Windstar passenger sees the world from a romantic sailing ship with luxurious accommodations, a casual yet elegant atmosphere, and exquisite service and cuisine.

Well known for cruising off the beaten path, throughout 2002 we celebrated our 15th year of sailing to exotic locales and hidden harbors that larger ships cannot access. These stately vessels turn heads from the Mediterranean to the Caribbean to the Far East.

Yucatan Express.  "Introducing the Yucatan Express - a New Vacation Concept
The Yucatan Express is a totally new way to vacation in Mexico. We are a cruise ferry to the Yucatan offering a wide range of new experiences at great prices. Your vacation begins with a day and a half cruise to Mexico followed by a great stay in Merida, or a luxury motorcoach tour, all topped off with a return voyage to Tampa.

Our vacation options including 7, 11 and 14 day vacation packages. To plan your vacation today please call our friendly Travel Consultants toll-free at 1-866-670-3939. They will be pleased to answer your questions and can provide advice on how to make your vacation one to remember."