P&O Cruises - Summer 2026 ALL SAILINGS NOW ON SALE! Save 10% when booking Select price + an Extra 5% on Peninsular Club sailings + Additional 5% on us on ALL fare types & ALL sailings + 10% Low Deposit

How to Choose your First Cruise

20 Aug 2018 | by Mary Farmhouse

With so many cruise lines and cruise ships out there, it’s often hard to pinpoint which one fits exactly what you’re looking for. With this in mind, we’ve put together this helpful guide to help you determine just which kind is best for you.




The best cruises for romance

There are many cruises which cater for those who are looking to rekindle, or even meet a new potential partner. With themed ships being more popular than ever, sometimes cruise ships can create an experience of romance which is second to none. So what romantic cruises are there? Princess Cruises has always focused on love since the launch of the infamous ‘The Love Boat’ show which took place onboard the Sun Princess. Since then Princess Cruises - specifically onboard Crown Princess, Emerald Princess, and Ruby Princess - have catered for all things romantic, in particular where activities are concerned. These include the popular ‘Movies under the Stars’, The Sanctuary Spa, and ‘Ultimate Balcony Dinner Experience’ to name a few.

Paul Gauguin Cruises is a cruise line which is highly popular with couples as their itineraries include stops in remote picturesque locations. Paul Gauguin Cruises offer an intimate experience onboard as they cater to a lower number of guests; 300 or less. If intimate cruising with your other half, with added dancing and alfresco dinners, is what you like, Paul Gauguin can certainly deliver.

P&O Cruises have ships Arcadia and Oriana which are adult-only, meaning no boisterous kids on holiday. These ships do carry over 2,000 people, so they certainly aren’t small, but if you and your other half are looking to meet others, this can be perfect for your experience. P&O Cruises also offer a singles night for those looking for love onboard.





The best cruises for families

Carnival Cruises are a great cruise line for families, as they offer so much to do onboard. Fun activities, for example, include the WaterWorks Water Park, various kid’s programmes, and kid’s clubs. Not only for the smallest of children but also for teens. Carnival Cruises manage to create an experience for everyone, with an adult-only retreat where grown-ups can go and get away from it all, and spend time with your other half when the kids are busy splashing!

Many childhoods are revolved around Disney, so what better family holiday than with Disney Cruise Line? Disney Cruise Line truly offers you an unforgettable vacation not only for the children but for the inner child in you too. With entertainment such as Live Disney Shows, Character Experiences, Deck Parties, and Walt Disney Theatre, there will be never a dull moment onboard. There are also many adult lounges where you can take a break from all the excitement, and top Adult- Exclusive Dining to tickle your fine dining taste buds; Disney considers all the family’s needs.

Royal Caribbean is a cruise line which has seemingly uncountable activities for children, with facilities such as H20 Waterparks, RCI DreamWorks, Bumper cars, Roller-skating, Basketball and many more. They certainly don’t leave out the adults either with fun and exhilarating pastimes such as Dance Classes, Latin Fiesta, and the Adult-Only Solarium. To simplify your trip, you may also want to avoid fly-cruises and pick a departure from the UK.






The best cruises for over 50s

Have you ever just wanted to be in an environment with those of the same age? Well, Saga Cruises offers cruises for people over 50 only. The great thing about this is that you know what the experience will give you from the jump. No kids, no teenagers, but a mature experience with likeminded people allowing you to create bonds and friendships. With Saga Cruises, a small cruise line, your holiday will provide an authentic and intimate experience.

Fred. Olsen Cruises is also a cruise line which is more directed towards mature passengers. With the average age on board being 50-65, it’s easily a favourite cruise line to choose. Another point to note is that Fred. Olsen is exclusive to the British market, so expect a traditional British feel onboard.

If you’re into dressing up to the nines with your significant other, look no further than Cunard Cruises. Cunard offers classic cruising with formal dining and formal wear, afternoon tea, and ballroom dancing. This line is a favourite for those who long for the golden days of traditional cruising.

The best cruises for Luxury

Regent Seven Seas; 6* luxury cruise line known as: ‘The Leader in Luxury Cruising’. Regent Seven Seas are among the elite when it comes to luxury. They are known for having some of the biggest balcony spaces in the cruise industry, and all accommodation is suite-level. Regent Seven Seas brand themselves, as ‘all-inclusive,’ with almost everything included in the price tag, from business class flights to the 5-star exquisite cuisine on board.

Crystal Cruises was featured in Forbes magazine as one of the most expensive luxury cruise lines; it certainly isn’t the most affordable line, but luxury it definitely is. Crystal Cruises is known for its breath-taking onboard entertainment, with large west end productions occurring regularly.

Seabourn Cruises has a prestige attitude but a casual approach. With their intimate ships, you are able to explore worldwide destinations in an elegant manner, with comfort and impeccable service. The ratio of passengers and staff around the same, meaning the attention and service given to guests onboard is incredibly personalised.

If you’re still unsure what cruise line is best for you, simply speak to our experts to get more information and some great advice.

Back to cruise guides and features Go

Speak to a Cruise expert

0239 327 7800