A Real Talk Guide to Choosing the Right Cruise (Wanderlust Wednesday)

Confused by all the cruise line options out there? In this Wanderlust Wednesday episode, Nick and Wil, dive deep into the unfiltered truth about cruise lines, from the ones heavily advertised on TV to hidden gems seasoned travelers swear by. 

Whether you're planning your first cruise or looking to upgrade your experience, this episode arms you with everything you need to make the best choice for your travel style, family needs, and budget.

Key Takeaways:

• There is no single “best” cruise line because it all depends on your travel style, preferences, and who you're cruising with.
• Cruise lines vary not only by brand but also by ship, destination, demographic, and onboard experience.
• Most people only consider the top 5 or 6 advertised cruise lines and miss out on over 30 global options.
• Cruise lines that heavily advertise often inflate prices to cover marketing costs.
• Using a travel agent can save you money, reveal better cruise options, and match you with the right experience.
• Cruising isn’t necessarily more expensive than an all inclusive vacation when you compare value per day.
• Tier 1 cruise lines like Carnival and MSC offer budget friendly party atmospheres best for young adults or families on a budget.
• Royal Caribbean and Norwegian are slightly elevated entry level options that balance affordability with broader appeal.
• Virgin Voyages is adult only and offers top tier dining but drink packages work differently and can be more costly.
• Celebrity Cruises stands out for Mediterranean itineraries and a premium experience in the mid tier range.
• Princess Cruises is the top recommendation for Alaska due to its custom designed ships and exclusive lodges.
• Holland America is tailored for retirees and long haul world cruises with slower paced entertainment and elegant dining.
• Cunard Cruises offers upscale transatlantic travel and classic elegance attracting an older refined crowd.
• Explora Viking Ocean Oceania and Silver Sea offer luxury small ship experiences with better service ratios and unique ports.
• Explora is newer but quickly improving in areas like onboard entertainment and passenger experience.
• Ultra luxury lines like Regent and Seabourn provide the highest level of service dining and exclusivity.
• Seabourn and Atlas are also known for polar destinations like Antarctica and the Arctic.
• Private yacht charters can be surprisingly affordable for large groups offering unmatched flexibility and personalization.
• Kensington Tours helps coordinate private luxury land and sea travel including fully staffed yachts in Greece and Ireland.
• Cruise loyalty programs can sometimes be overvalued and many cruise lines will match your current loyalty status if you switch.
• River cruising is another category entirely with lines like AmaWaterways Viking River and Avalon offering intimate cultural journeys.
• Celebrity is entering the river cruise space in 2027 signaling even more growth in cruise options.
• When planning a cruise think beyond destination and consider dining ship size age demographic entertainment and port access.
• Working with a knowledgeable travel advisor can open doors to better