British or American cruising…………whats your preference?

Now we’re into the ‘Peak’ booking period I’ve had a few calls from ‘new to cruise’ customers asking me,  What do you recommend, British or American Style cruising…………Now thats a little tricky to answer as its all about opinions but for me as i’ve said in previous blogs i’m all for Princess Cruises so American style for me I suppose!

American-style cruising tends to be a more vibrant affair with huge emphasis on entertainment. Cruise lines such as Silversea / Regent are at the 6* luxury end of the market, Celebrity Cruises offer great value 5* cruises, the likes of Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Lines are the 4* affordable cruises. On-board Royal Caribbean and NCL you will find everything from ice-rinks, water-slides and climbing walls to Broadway-style productions and an upbeat atmosphere. 

As I’ve said already my favourite cruise line is Princess. The décor is glamorous not gaudy, the atmosphere is relaxed, service really does come with a smile, and there’s a cosmopolitan mix of passengers on board. What also makes Princess appealing is the choice. There are big ships, there are small ships. You can opt for fixed dining, eating when and where they tell you, or go for the popular “Any time” option, which lets you eat when and with whom you want. Princess cruises is a cruise line that offers American-style cruising, and it wouldn’t seem an obvious favourite for the British, but this is American with a twist.

You then have British-style cruises and cruise lines. Cunard, the 5* luxury cruise line with it’s famous ships (American owned obviously but very traditional british onboard). Next you are looking at P&O Cruises, a 4* cruise line renowned for great service and modern ships. Fred Olsen Cruises offer affordable holidays on their smaller ships and Thomson Cruises are a great value line with an informal atmosphere and great itineraries. One of the best things about cruising is the safe environment, whether for older people or for children. So why not put them together, and let mum and dad have a break of their own? P&O Cruises gives you the best of both worlds: a traditional British-style cruise that grandparents will feel comfortable with, and ships with great facilities for the youngsters.  

Cruising is about finding the right ship for you. I prefer the elegance of Princess Cruises and the mid sized ships, some people love the size and incredible entertainment on Royal Caribbean’s ships and other, well… are just after a top notch cocktail!  I’ve done both Royal Caribbean and Princess and although we had a fantastic time on Navigator of the Seas I do still prefer Princess.

I will let you decide, American or British, Dollar or the Pound (worth about the same now aren’t they?)? Honestly I don’t think you can go wrong with either, I’ve had some fantastic cruises on both. Let me know which you would vote for.  

If you’re thinking of trying a cruise for the first time i’m sure you’ll be happy whatever you choose.  Let me know if you need any advice or guidance, call me on my freephone 0800 408 6107.

Take care

Haydn