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cruising experts as well as
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Did you
know the most overlooked way to stretch your dollar is to
form your own cruise group. Traveling with family or friends, or
both, can lower costs enough so
you can travel even when the economies not that good. Of course,
most of us don't have the time - or inclination - to make the calls
and do the research for
an entire group. It's a big job. On the
other hand, booking a group cruise is easy for a professional travel
agent. Your agent can create a package that works for you, while
your group will realize across-the-board savings from group
discounts that your agent discovers. Find out more information about
Cruise Critic Cruise Ship Ratings and Cruise Reviews
Cruise Critic rates cruise ships based on the amenities required to enjoy a cruise vacation, such as the quality of its lectures, itinerary and/or exotic destination and the unique experience of the vessel. It then awards cruise ships and specialty vessels with orange stars to show how they compare- below is a list of star ratings and their definitions:
Expect a luxury cruise experience with the finest
service, food and amenities; extraordinary attention to
detail and perfect maintenance. Cabins are spacious and
meals are memorable. This is a cruise of a lifetime
offering the highest level of personal service
available. The decor emphasizes authentic furnishings.
The dining alternatives provide a variety of menus using
the freshest quality foods available. And although,
typically not a ship for small children ,the fitness/spa
facilities are top of the line.
The highest levels of food and service in a premium
market are signatures of this star. Dining is typically
two seatings with high quality meals and attentive
service. Experience a full range of standard cruise ship
activities with a few unique offerings. Cabins are well
equipped but not necessarily large, with amenities such
as, bathrobes and hair dryers; butler service is
available. The vessel is beautifully decorated, the
staff warm and gracious and fitness/children's
facilities are extensive and well-run.
A ship with amiable decor, warm service and tasty
cuisine create this category. Cabins are equipped with
basic amenities, good maintenance, and vary in size
depending on category. There is a full range of ship
activities; fitness, recreational and children's
activities are extensive and well run.
Enjoy a great overall cruise experience, with above
average levels of food and service. Staterooms may vary
in size, depending on the specific vessel. A full range
of fitness/recreational activities is provided and
entertainment is generally satisfactory.
Expect an average cruise experience. This vessel offers
cabins ranging from minuscule to large. The staff is
generally good and food may be surprisingly tasty for
the amenities. Smaller gyms, children's facilities
without special areas, and mediocre entertainment
accompany this rating.
Be prepared for a modest cruise experience. The ship
will probably be older with limited facilities and in
need of a refurbishment. Cabins come in varying sizes
from minuscule to large. Some ships in this range do not
have balconies. Cuisine is generally mediocre and
service will be lacking. These ships may, however, have
interesting itineraries.
Bypass this ship for a better vessel in its price range.
Staying on this ship is comparable to staying inmost
budget hotels. This ship will be in need of an upgrade
to its public areas and cabins. The staff will pay
little or no attention to detail and will only supply
the most rudimentary service.