How to Choose a Cruise Holiday: Ocean, River or Expedition

The type of cruise you choose decides almost everything about the holiday, from how many other passengers are on board to where the ship can go, so it makes more sense to decide that before you look at ships and dates. Ocean, river and expedition cruises are three different kinds of holiday that happen to share a name.

Ocean, river or expedition

Ocean cruises use larger ships that sail to popular destinations such as the Caribbean, the Mediterranean and Alaska, with pools, spas, several restaurants and entertainment on board. They suit families, groups and anyone who likes plenty to do and company while they do it.

River cruises use smaller ships on rivers such as the Rhine, the Danube or the Nile, with close views of landscapes and cultural landmarks. They suit couples and anyone who prefers a leisurely pace and a holiday built around the journey. If the Danube appeals, my article on river cruising on the Danube is a good place to start.

Expedition cruises use small ships that reach places larger ships cannot, such as Antarctica, the Galápagos Islands and the Arctic. The days are built around exploration and learning from the expedition team, which suits travellers who want to be immersed in a remote place. My polar tours page covers the Antarctic and Arctic options.

Matching the cruise to what you enjoy

If culture matters most, river cruises stop at historic cities and towns, so you explore local art, architecture and food. Ocean cruises in the Mediterranean also take in ancient ruins, museums and busy markets.

If you want nature up close, expedition cruises are the strongest choice, whether that is the glaciers of Antarctica, the wildlife of the Galápagos or the fjords of Norway. If you want to switch off, ocean cruises have spas, calm sea views and plenty of deck space for sun.

Choosing a cruise line

Cruise lines have distinct personalities. Disney Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean cater to families, with kids’ clubs, water parks, shows and sports for every age. Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas are known for refined service and fine dining. Lindblad Expeditions and Hurtigruten specialise in expedition cruises to remote and wild destinations.

Budget

Cruises vary widely in cost, depending on the ship, cabin type and itinerary. Ocean cruises often offer the best value and the widest range of price points. River cruises tend to be more inclusive but can cost more because the ships are small. Expedition cruises are usually the most expensive, reflecting the specialised ships and remote destinations.

The advertised price is rarely the full story. Gratuities, drinks packages, shore excursions and your choice of cabin all add to what you pay in the end, so I compare the full cost and not only the headline fare. My first-time cruise guide explains what is included and what costs extra.

Life on board

Think about how you want the evenings and days to feel. If you enjoy live shows, casinos and themed parties, look for a line with a lively evening scene. If food matters most, look for specialty restaurants and celebrity chef partnerships. If you like to stay active, look at ships with climbing walls, fitness centres and a good choice of shore excursions.

Why book your cruise with me

With 30 years of adventure travel experience, I select operators who deliver the best possible holidays for my clients. I remain independent and have the flexibility to provide you with the best package to suit your specific needs and budget. I search the whole market to find the best deals for every aspect of your trip so that you don’t have to, providing honest and impartial advice.

I compare cruise lines, ships and cabins and recommend the one that fits how you like to travel, so you do not have to work through the brochures. I do not charge a planning fee, and your holiday is financially protected through ATOL and ABTA. You can see the cruises and sailing trips I plan on my cruise holidays and sailing adventures page.

I plan every holiday around what matters to you, and I follow my Animal Welfare Policy on wildlife experiences. If your holiday includes flights, it includes a payment to Sustainable Travel International, a non-profit working to protect vulnerable destinations and the communities who live there. It is part of the price, you can’t opt out of it, and I keep a record of each payment. You can read my Traveller’s Pledge and the rest of my approach on my Responsible Travel page.