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How can you choose the right cruise for you? In the cruise industry, major cruise lines are separated into two categories: premium and contemporary. While contemporary and premium cruise lines have many similarities, you will notice some important differences as a cruise traveler.

Choosing the right cruise line can make or break your vacation. This is why knowing the differences between a premium and contemporary cruise line is important.

With that being said, here are the pros and cons of premium and contemporary cruise lines and which cruise line is best for you.

What Is a Premium Cruise Line?

Premium cruise lines are designed for passengers seeking a more sophisticated and refined cruising experience while maintaining an accessible price point. These cruise ships offer a more intimate and upscale experience, setting them apart from contemporary cruise lines.

When it comes to the size of cruise ship, you’ll typically find options from mid-size to large. Keep in mind that each cruise line has it’s own personality and cruises aren’t one size fits all.

Premium Cruise Lines:

• Celebrity Cruises
• Princess Cruises
• Holland America Line
• Virgin Voyages
• Disney Cruise Line
• Cunard

What Is a Contemporary Cruise Line?

Contemporary cruise lines tend to have the largest cruise ships with the most entertainment options and onboard attractions. The wide array of options allows cruise passengers to choose the type of cruise experience they desire.

Typically, contemporary cruise lines are more affordable than premium cruise lines.

Contemporary Cruise Lines:

• Carnival Cruise Line
• Royal Caribbean
• Norwegian Cruise Line
• MSC Cruises

Pros and Cons of a Premium Cruise Line

Pro: Passenger Space Capacity

One of the key factors that can significantly influence your cruise experience with a premium line is the passenger-to-cruise ship space ratio. 

Take, for example, the Celebrity Apex, a 130,000-ton ship designed to accommodate a maximum of 3,400 passengers. In contrast, the Carnival Venezia, is a 135,000 ton cruise ship, and holds over 5,200 cruise passengers.

Although Carnival Venezia is a bit bigger, there is a vast difference in passenger capacity for the space. The 1,800 extra passengers mean that the cruise ship will likely more crowded in public areas.

Premium cruise lines have maximized public areas to allow for more space, which contributes to less lines and queues, making for a more relaxed vacation environment.

Pro: Food Quality

The food options, quality, and overall dining experience are better onboard a premium cruise line. Everything from the casual dining venues to the main dining room and specialty restaurants will be noticeably better than contemporary cruise lines.

This includes the food that’s included in the cruise fare, where you’ll see a good variety of offerings.

When it comes to food, Virgin Voyages is a premium cruise line that I want to highlight. Instead of having specialty restaurants, every restaurant is included in the price.

Furthermore, the restaurants have very interesting menus and excellent quality. From sushi to filet mignon, Virgin Voyages has some of the best dining options at sea.

Overall, premium cruise lines are certainly worth the price if you’re a foodie. They offer amazing food, which will make your cruise vacation extra special.

Related: 10 Dining Mistakes Not to Make on a Cruise

Pro: Passenger to Crew Ratio

When you sail on a premium cruise line, there will be a better passenger-to-crew ratio. This means the service will be more attentive, and you’ll get to know the crew better on a premium cruise line.

Naturally, a better passenger-to-crew ratio means more attention to detail. If you value good service, you will appreciate a cruise line with an excellent passenger-to-crew ratio.

Pro: Turn Down Service

While years ago twice a day housekeeping was the norm, one of the biggest changes cruise lines made after the pandemic was several cruise lines cutting back to once a day.

With few exceptions, premium cruise lines continue to offer daily housekeeping with a turn down service. This little extra attention to detail is a nice perk that can be found on Holland America, Princess and Celebrity Cruises.

Pro: Cold Towels in Port

On premium cruise lines like Celebrity, Holland America, and Princess, you will be given cold towels whenever you’re in port. These cold towels are a nice touch and feel great on a hot day.

When I cruise on contemporary cruise line, the cold towels are something a definitely miss. Sure, cold towels are just a small luxury. However, they’re something I really do appreciate and they enhance my overall cruise experience.

Related: 15 Most Popular Souvenirs to Buy on a Cruise Vacation

Pro: Interesting Itineraries

Typically, premium cruise lines have more interesting itineraries. This doesn’t mean that contemporary lines won’t have good itineraries, but they may not be as interesting as those on a premium cruise line.

For instance, Holland America offers cruises that span over 130 days, a true adventure for those seeking to explore the world at a leisurely pace!

Admittedly, the average cruiser may not be the primary audience for this type of cruise. However, it serves as a testament to Holland America’s ability to cater to the adventurous and leisurely travelers seeking unique experiences.

Con: Pricing

Generally, premium cruise lines are pricier, especially compared to contemporary lines. However, older premium cruise ships tend to have lower prices and more promotions, making them more affordable.

Furthermore, many ways to save money on a cruise can make a premium cruise more viable. For example, choosing an interior cabin or sailing during the off-season is a great way to save money on a cruise.

Con: Lack of Onboard Attractions

While premium cruise lines may not offer the same level of high-energy attractions as contemporary cruise lines, they provide a different kind of experience. Instead of water slides, roller coasters, or ropes courses, premium cruise lines offer a more refined and laid-back atmosphere, perfect for those seeking a relaxed getaway.

However, Princess Cruises, a premium cruise line, has made significant strides in becoming more family-friendly. A prime example is the Sun Princess, which features Park-19, an activity zone specifically designed for multi-generational families to enjoy.

The Sun Princess stands out as the sole premium cruise offering onboard attractions. Other premium cruise lines, such as Celebrity, Holland America, and Virgin Voyages, prioritize relaxation and pool areas over activity zones.

Con: Lack of Short Cruise Options

Typically, Premium cruise lines are limited in short cruise options. For instance, Holland America does not offer a cruise that is shorter than 7 days.

That said, this might be changing. While most of their cruise itineraries are 7 days and longer, Princess and Celebrity offer some 4-day cruises.

Virgin Voyages is your best bet if you want to take a short cruise on a premium line. Virgin offers a wide range of 4-day itineraries and shorter cruises.

Pros and Cons of a Contemporary Cruise Line

Pro: Affordable Pricing

Generally, contemporary cruise lines offer more affordable pricing than premium cruise lines. For instance, newer MSC and Carnival cruise ships have some fantastic pricing and are a great value.

However, we can’t take this for granted as this isn’t always the case.

For instance, Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas is one of the most expensive cruises you can book now. However, Royal Caribbean’s older ships are more affordable and ideal for cruising on a budget.

Contemporary cruise lines are typically less expensive than premium cruise lines. This significant difference in pricing ensures that a cruise is not just a dream vacation, but a viable and enjoyable option for families, younger cruisers, and budget travelers.

Related: Carnival vs Royal Caribbean – Key Differences & What You Need to Know

Pro: Family Friendly Atmosphere

Contemporary cruise lines are family-friendly as they are more affordable. The activities, entertainment, and food options onboard contemporary cruise lines are catered toward families.

If you’re looking for a family-friendly atmosphere, contemporary cruise lines are more in line with your vacation style.

As a young cruiser, I love contemporary cruise lines and all they have to offer. Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, Carnival and MSC offer amazing activities and a fun, family-friendly environment.

Pro: Entertainment and Activity Options

Onboard contemporary cruise lines, you’ll find more activity and entertainment options that on premium lines.

Take, for instance, Royal Caribbean Oasis-Class cruise ships, where you can experience the thrill of ice skating, the wonder of aqua shows, and the charm of classic theater performances. While premium cruise lines also offer excellent entertainment, they are not as abundant as what you’ll find on contemporary lines.

Contemporary lines, particularly Royal Caribbean, are a haven for families and adventurous cruisers, with a strong emphasis on entertainment and onboard activities and attractions.

Con: Towel Checkout

A negative part of cruising on a contemporary cruise line is that they usually have a towel checkout system.

This means that you must go to the towel stand, check out your towel, and return it before the end of the cruise. If you don’t return your towel, you will be charged.

On a contemporary cruise line, the towel checkout process can be quite repetitive and tedious. You have to wait in line to check out a towel, and then again to return it once you’re done. If you forget or lose a towel, you can expect to pay a $25 fee.

This is a problem that you won’t encounter on a premium cruise line. On a premium cruise line, the process of using and returning towels is much simpler.

Towels will often be placed on deck chairs around the pool, welcoming you to sit and relax. You’ll also find stacks of plush towels readily available, and you can take them as you please.

Once you’re done, you can simply drop them in a laundry bin, making the entire process seamless.

Overall, checking in a towel won’t make or break your vacation. However, it will be an annoying convenience that you’ll have to put up with.

Related: 20 Summer Amazon Travel Essentials for a Cruise

Negative: Long Lines

Since contemporary cruise lines hold more passengers, you will often be faced with long lines. You’re more likely to wait in lines at the buffet and in ports of call.

While waiting in lines can be a part of the cruise experience, it’s certainly more comfortable when they’re shorter. On premium cruise lines, you can expect this added comfort with fewer lines.

For instance, last summer, we sailed on Carnival Venezia to Bermuda. When returning to the cruise ship towards the end of the day, we had to wait about 45 minutes in a long line to reboard our cruise ship. While it wasn’t the end of the world, I have to admit it was annoying after a fun but tiring day.

This was something we haven’t experienced when cruising to Bermuda with Celebrity on past cruises with less passengers.

Negative: Crowded Pool Areas

When you opt for a contemporary cruise line, be prepared for the possibility of crowded pool areas. The pools and hot tubs can get quite busy, and finding a deck chair near the pool might prove to be a challenge.

In comparison, the lido deck onboard premium cruise lines is much less crowded. There is more room in the pools and hot tubs, and it is much easier to find a deck chair.

If your ideal cruise experience involves leisurely poolside relaxation, the pool area could be a crucial factor in your decision between a contemporary or a premium cruise line.

Negative: Food Quality

There is a noticeable difference in the food quality onboard a premium line compared to a contemporary line, specifically when it comes to the included food options.

Although the food is still tasty and plentiful, you’ll find more variety and better quality ingredients on a premium cruise line.

For those seeking a truly elevated culinary adventure, the specialty restaurants are a must-visit. Despite the additional charge, the food options, quality, and service are on par with what you’d expect from a premium cruise line, leaving you with a memorable dining experience.

Related: 20 Cruise Specialty Dining Tips, Tricks & Secrets

What Cruise Line Is Best for You?

The style of cruise line best suited for you depends on several factors. Fortunately, premium and contemporary cruise lines do share many similarities.

However, understanding the differences can help dictate which cruise line fits your vacation style best.

Premium Cruise Lines Are Best for:

For those seeking a refined, relaxing, and upscale cruise experience, premium cruise lines offer a wealth of benefits. While they may be more expensive, the elevated level of service, amazing amenities, and exclusive experiences can make them a compelling choice.

On the other hand, if you’re traveling with a young family, a cruise with more exciting attractions and entertainment might be the perfect fit. Family-friendly cruise lines often feature a wide range of onboard activities and entertainment options tailored to children and teens.

Ultimately, the appeal of a premium cruise line lies in its ability to provide a truly relaxing and enjoyable vacation. The laid-back atmosphere and exceptional dining experiences are perfect for those who value relaxation.

Contemporary Cruise Lines Are Best For:

For those who prefer a fun and family-friendly environment, contemporary cruise lines have their drawbacks. However, they do have a lot to offer, especially at an affordable price point.

If you’re a family, young cruiser, or budget traveler, contemporary cruise lines have so much to offer. With a wide range of activities, onboard attractions, and entertainment options, it’s hard not to love a contemporary cruise line.

Ultimately, contemporary cruise lines are perfect for a reasonably priced and fun travel experience. Their fun atmosphere, combined with the opportunity to visit multiple destinations in one trip, makes them a great way to travel.

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Final Thoughts On What You’ll Find On A Premium Cruise Line VS a Contemporary Cruise Line

Well, there it is, what you’ll find on a premium cruise line compared to a contemporary cruise line.

When it comes to choosing between a premium or a contemporary cruise line, there’s no such thing as a wrong decision. The key is to select the cruise line that best matches your personal travel style and preferences.

As a seasoned traveler who has had the pleasure of experiencing both premium and contemporary cruise lines, I can confidently say that each has its own unique advantages and disadvantages.

If you’re looking for a relaxing and upscale experience, a premium cruise line is for you. If you prefer a fun, adventurous, and family-friendly atmosphere, then you’ll appreciate a contemporary cruise line.

What do you prefer, a premium or contemporary cruise line? Please let me know your thoughts in the comments below.

Happy Cruising!

Ethan

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Author Bio: Ethan Schattauer has been cruising with his family since he was four years old and has been on more than 30 cruises. As a frequent traveler, Ethan shares his unique perspective on what cruising is like from a young person’s perspective. Ethan also writes about men’s fashion, travel and college advice on the website WhatToWearMen.com.