Classes of cruise companies
Cruise Line Types (Classes)
There are three main types of cruise companies: Standard, Premium and Luxe.
By the way, Standard and Premium classes are under constant improvement and there is almost no difference between them. Besides, individual wishes of the tourist are taken into consideration. Let´s have more detailed look.
Standard Class: Costa Cruises, Croisi Europe, MSC Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Lines, Silversea.
- Huge sizes of the vessels and large tourist capacity - from 2000 people and more;
- Cabin size - from 14-17 sq m;
- Average cruise duration - 7 days;
- Standard ports of arrival - Dubai, Barcelona, Rome etc;
- Low prices and regular discounts;
- Focused on mass tourism;
- entertainment programmes for kids;
- Lots of bars, restuarants and fast food zones;
- Cruise vessels with 3-4 stars service class,
- Circular route.
Premium Class: Princess Cruises
- Middle size of the vessels and lower tourist capacity;
- More service personnel;
- Average cruise duration - 10 days;
- Focused on mass tourism as well as specialised;
- Cruise vessels with 4-5 stars service class;
- Circular routes as well as not circular;
- Less number of fast food zones;
- Bigger number of exclusive restaurants and bars;
- Less focused on entertainment for kids.
Luxe Class: Crystal Cruises, Ponant, Regent Seves Seas Cruises, Seabourn Cruise Line
- Small size of the vessels;
- Small capacity - 800 people;
- Big cabins. Usually there are no interior cabins;
- Exclusive level of service 5-6 stars;
- Unusual routes;
- High price of the cruise;
- entertainment for kids is limited or absolutely absent.
Frequently asked questions
Cruise lines are divided into four main classes: Contemporary (mass market) — MSC Cruises, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, Costa; Premium — Celebrity Cruises, Holland America, Princess; Luxury — Oceania, Regent Seven Seas, Silversea; and Ultra-Luxury — Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, Explora Journeys. Classes differ in service level, inclusions, ship size, and pricing.
Premium lines (Celebrity, Holland America) have fewer passengers, higher cuisine quality, more inclusions (drinks, Wi-Fi), refined interior design, and a calmer atmosphere. Mass market lines (MSC, Royal Caribbean) offer more entertainment, water parks, and attractions — ideal for families and younger travelers. The price difference is approximately 30-60%.
Luxury cruises (Oceania, Regent, Silversea) typically include everything: beverages (including alcohol), specialty restaurants, Wi-Fi, shore excursions, gratuities, and sometimes airfare. Cabins are balcony-only or suites. The crew-to-passenger ratio is significantly higher than on mass market lines.
Mass market lines like MSC Cruises or Royal Caribbean are great for first-time cruisers. They offer diverse entertainment, an easy-to-understand service system, and affordable prices. After the first experience, many passengers move up to premium or luxury class. Center Cruises consultants can help find the best option for your budget and preferences.