OTHER LEADING CRUISES FOR ALL TASTES
Silversea
Seabourn’s only serious rival for luxury, it’s possible that Silversea even exceeds Seabourn when it comes to room design and service – the Silver Whisper ship, for example, has more space per passenger than any other ship in the world, while the staff to passenger ratio is an almost excessive 1.3 to 1. Its six ships tour the world, and the fleet features the 132-guest Prince Albert, which has an ice-strengthened hull for luxurious – and extreme – expeditions. European cruises in June start at £2,578. www.silversea.com
Abercrombie and Kent A multi-purpose luxury travel company, A&K specialises in adventure trips and its cruises reach the farthest reaches of the world. Destinations include Antarctica, South Georgia and the Falkland Islands, Alaska and the north-Western coast of America. Think glaciers, comfy cabins and on-board saunas. Eight days off the coast of America from $3,995.
www.abercrombiekent.com
Disney
This is a dream for parents on the hunt for a cruise that will delight their kids so much so that they’ll be permanently occupied. There are age-specific children activities and programmes and facilities, ranging from nursery to teenage. As in Disney World, the staff is super-friendly. It’s not just for kids – many facilities appeal to both child and adult and some are for adults only. Most routes are round the Caribbean, with a few in Europe and the Pacific. From about $2,500 for a family of four on a four-day Bahamas cruise in June.
www.disneycruise.disney.go.com
Regent Seven Seas
Considered best for romance and a honeymoon favourite, Regent’s smallest ship, the Paul Gauguin, sails to the Polynesian Islands, including Tahiti, Moorea and Bora Bora. French dining, spa treatments, watersports, and shore excursions make this a good choice. $8,060 for 11 days in Europe. www.rssc.com