How to choose a cruise that's right for you
More Aussies are cruising than ever before.
But with so many cruise companies now serving Australia as well as the rest of the world, it can be hard to decide which to book with.
Expert cruise travel agents can help.
As well as usually being avid cruises themselves, they also have a detailed knowledge of each company and even every ship and what they offer.
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How do you choose the right cruise? RSSC
Samantha Riches, Cruise Product manager at mycruises.com.au is a cruise booking expert.
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She gave 9Travel a handy quick and easy guide to help you decide which cruise lines you should look at when looking for a holiday.
Best cruises for families
Carnival
"Designed for families, they have kids clubs on every cruise and Dr Seuss at Sea – lots of activities around this and characters onboard," Riches said.
They also have waterslides - Carnival Splendour and Spirit are based in Australia, with many other Carnival ships sailing around the world.
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Look for activities for kids. Supplied
Best cruises for couples
Virgin Voyages
The adults-only cruise line with Michelin Star-inspired dining is the top choice for adults, Riches said.
However, it's not returning to Australia next season, so you might have to head to the Med or Caribbean to get on board.
Check out Mycruises.com.au's special packages here.
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Celebrity Cruises
Celebrity Cruises, which has new ships including Celebrity Edge, currently sailing from Australia is also a good pick for couples.
You can also often get deals including drinks package and WiFi.
It's one of the more modern ships, Riches said, comparing it to a "relaxed luxury resort at sea."
It would also be a great choice for a romantic honeymooners cruise, she said.
Look for good packages when you book. Kate Geraghty
Cruises for Groups
Royal Caribbean
Riches said this remains one of the more affordable options, and has plenty of on-board activities to keep everyone busy if you're in a group.
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Norwegian Cruise Line
Riches highlighted this company for its onboard value with the "Free at Sea" packages which include drinks.
Some of the latest ships have a go kart track onboard too, among other fun highlights.
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Zoom around the top decks of Norwegian Viva on the speedway. Norwegian
Best super luxury cruises
Regent Seven Seas
If you really want to live it up, this firm is one of the most lavish experiences at sea.
Fares come with shore excursions and are "six star".
All staterooms are suites and anybody sailing at penthouse level and above gets a butler.
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P&O Cruises have low-cost journeys to the South Pacific. P&O
Best budget cruises
P&O
The company has ships based in Australia year-round and offers an affordable way to get into cruising for families, couples or multi-generational groups.
You can sail around the nation or head further afield such as to the South Pacific, and it has all the typical cruise favourites, from top-class food to amazing crew, all at a great price.
9Travel has a commercial arrangement with Ignite Travel.
