Here Are The Different Types of Cruises You Can Take in 2026

When preparing to dive into the world of cruising, you have three main categories to choose from: mainstream lines, premium lines, and luxury lines. All are great entry choices for delving into cruising. However, there are other types of cruises that exist too. These include river cruises, expedition cruises, and even themed cruises.

Before you decide which is right for you, you should acquaint yourself with some of the benefits of cruising. You should also know which cruise lines fall into which categories, the amenities featured on each, and some popular cruise destinations.

We cover all this and more in our complete list of all the different types of cruises you can take in 2026.

First things first though. Should you go on a cruise? Well, a ship is essentially a floating resort. It includes accommodations, three meals per day, activities, and entertainment. These benefits alone put this type of vacation at the top of the list for many travelers — and they’re just a few of the many benefits of cruising.

Benefits of Cruising

• You get to visit multiple destinations — and enjoy being on the ocean — while only having to unpack once.
• Many meal options are included, with a choice to upgrade to for-fee specialty restaurants if you wish.
• You don’t have to do any grocery shopping, meal prep, dishwashing, cleaning, etc.
• Most mainstream cruise ships have complimentary clubs for kids and teens.
• You will have access to swimming pools, hot tubs, sports courts, lounges, theater entertainment, live music, nightclubs, and other amenities and activities.
• Larger family-friendly ships offer some high-energy options such as a rock-climbing wall, waterslides, zip-lining, a ropes course, and more.
• Port stops include options for guided tours or independent activities.
• You will meet people from around the world.
• Lectures, demonstrations, presentations, and destination talks offer insights into the destinations you’re visiting during the voyage.
• Those with dietary restrictions will find that with advanced notice, their needs can be accommodated in the restaurants.
• Those with limited mobility will find accessible cabins. Though, you’ll need to book early to make sure you can secure one.
• There are often specials for those sailing with more than two in a cabin, offering potential savings for families.
• When you consider what it would cost to visit the same destinations by car or flight, you will realize a significant savings.
• Cruise lines offer loyalty programs with perks for their repeat cruisers.

If you are deciding between a cruise or an all-inclusive resort for your next vacation, we weigh the pros and cons of each here.

Different types of cruise ships

Cruise ships come in all shapes and sizes. Whether you want to sail the open sea or enjoy a river cruise, there’s a perfect vacation for you. Within these categories, you can further drill down into a variety of experiences: big ship, small ship; mainstream, premium, luxury, ultra-luxury; family-friendly, adults only; expedition and masted sailing. The sky (or the sea) is the limit.

With so many options available, especially if you’re a first-time cruiser, we’d suggest finding a knowledgeable travel advisor. They’ll help you find your perfect style of cruising, ensuring that your experience will be everything you’re hoping for.

All cruise ships aren’t the same, but there are definitely similarities amongst the brands. Just like hotels, the offerings vary and guests often become loyal members to a certain cruise line. Others enjoy trying a variety of cruise lines for several reasons — the size, the atmosphere, the itinerary, the age of the ship, as well as the ease and cost of reaching the port. Cruising offers so many different options and styles.

Ocean Cruising

When most people think of cruising, they envision ocean cruising. Yet, sailing the seven seas still offers plenty of choices in terms of style of cruising and sizes of ships. Most first-time cruisers choose one of the mainstream or premium ocean cruise lines.

Overview

Whether you are looking at a short cruise, long cruise, transatlantic sailing, or anything in between, ocean cruising has something for you. From mainstream to ultra-luxury brands, big or small ships, the choices might make your head spin.

Popular destinations

The most popular destinations for ocean ships are the Caribbean and Bahamas. Easily accessed from U.S. ports, these destinations attract cruisers looking for warm and sunny destinations. You will find the greatest selection of ships sailing to these destinations from Florida homeports.

Other popular destinations for cruisers are Alaska, the Mediterranean, and Bermuda. Hawaii, Canada/New England, the Mexican Riviera, and northern Europe are also big ocean cruising regions. Additionally, don’t forget that many cruise lines have their own private destinations, most found in the Caribbean or Bahamas. With lots of amenities, these destinations are often a high point for cruisers.

Mainstream Cruise Lines and Their Amenities

Many of these cruise lines offer Broadway-style entertainment included in the fare. Complimentary clubs for kids and teens under 18 keep young sailors engaged and allow parents freedom to pursue adult activities. Free dining can be found in both the main dining room and buffet. Search around the ship for other complimentary casual dining options.

Other activities like waterslides, zip lines, rock climbing walls, pickleball, and even ice skating are just a few of the many recreational options offered. The daily programs include fun events like trivia, dance classes, fitness classes, bingo, crafts, and more. Some of these activities are complimentary, while others come with an additional charge.

Further, gyms keep guests in shape, while spas offer a wide variety of treatments and thermal areas for relaxation. While the fitness center is free, you’ll have to pay for spa treatments (and often have to pay for access to the spa’s thermal suite).

While there are several mainstream cruise lines, here are some details on the four most popular: Carnival, MSC, Norwegian, and Royal Caribbean.

Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival has welcomed over 100 million guests aboard its ships throughout the decades. With so many passengers sailing with this cruise line, it’s logical to deduce that many first-time cruisers choose to sail with Carnival. The line emphasizes “fun” in its branding, and even features Shaquille O’Neal as its Chief Fun Officer.

Many Carnival ships depart from Florida ports, and cruises to warm weather destinations like the Caribbean are numerous. Short three and four-night voyages all the way up to longer 14+ cruises are available, with longer sailings often visiting more off-the-beaten-path destinations.

Those looking for a culinary experience will find several specialty restaurants featuring fare from renowned chefs. Chef Emeril Lagasse, who serves as Carnival’s Chief Culinary Officer, has his own bistros aboard Carnival’s three newest ships, as well as other dining experiences. Guy Fieri has Guy’s Burger Joint and Guy’s Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que, while Shaq has a quick-service chicken spot called Big Chicken. For an additional charge, guests can enjoy Fahrenheit 555 steakhouse, Rudi’s Seagrill, and Il Viaggio.

MSC Cruises

This cruise line boasts beautiful ships featuring Swarovski crystal staircases. Primarily a European line that’s currently expanding its presence in the U.S., MSC Cruises attracts a diverse group of cruisers from North America and abroad. The ship interiors are stunning.

Additionally, these vessels have upscale private areas with cabins and restaurants. Known as the MSC Yacht Club, this exclusive area also has its own pool.

The entertainment on MSC’s ships features classical music, acrobats, and large productions shows. Outdoor areas with pools and hot tubs are popular with guests. MSC sources its own goods for their shops rather than depending on the same vendor that other cruise lines use. One favorite is the Venchi chocolate shop.

As a privately owned company, MSC is not beholden to shareholders. Often, the line’s cruise fares are quite attractive.

If that’s not enough, MSC cruisers can enjoy the newer Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, MSC’s private Bahamas island.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Known for its freestyle concept of open dining, Norwegian Cruise Line and innovation go hand-in-hand. NCL was one of the first cruise lines to relax the dress code. Dress Up or Not nights usually happen a few times per cruise.

Unique to mainstream cruising, NCL’s American-flagged ship, Pride of America, sails the Hawaiian Islands round-trip from Honolulu. It lacks a casino, but saves the long and sometimes rough crossing from the West Coast of the U.S.

The ship-within-a-ship concept on many NCL ships is a private retreat with its own dining, bars and lounges, and pool. Guests in The Haven can still enjoy the shows and public spaces on the ships, but can relax in the comfort of their own exclusive area on board as well.

Ships in the Norwegian Cruise Line fleet range from small to large. The smaller ships often sail more exotic itineraries.

Entertainment on NCL ships includes Broadway-style shows, musical groups, video arcades, casinos, comedians, and performances like Howl at Sea by Howl at the Moon. Entertainment varies by ship.

Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean competes with itself on the size of its ships. Its newest and largest ship, Star of the Seas, is jam-packed with activities and amenities for the whole family.

The neighborhoods on the Oasis and Icon-class ships each have a different character, and they are easy enough to navigate to find just the right spot for food and entertainment. On the newer ships, the Suite Neighborhood offers the ship-within-a-ship concept. Like other ships, this neighborhood has special amenities for guests. Exclusive dining and bars in addition to a private pool area are available to those residing in that neighborhood.

Although Royal Caribbean boasts the largest cruise ship on the seas, it also has several smaller ships in its fleet. Its smallest ship, Grandeur of the Seas, sails the Caribbean. Although smaller ships have fewer or smaller public venues, finding a variety of entertainment options is still possible.

As with many of the mainstream cruise lines, each class of ship is different, with different deck plans and options for various types of travelers.

Premium Cruise Lines and Their Amenities

As cruisers age out of some top-deck attractions, become empty-nesters, or simply want a more relaxing cruise atmosphere, the premium cruise lines provide many options.

Many of the cruisers on these ships are well-traveled. Their interest lies more in the areas that they visit rather than in the high-energy options found on the mainstream cruise ships. The guests typically are a bit older than on mainstream cruises, but families are always welcome (except on Virgin, which is adults-only).

Though, be aware that during certain times if there are not enough children on a particular sailing, the kids’ clubs may be either closed or have limited hours.

The emphasis on food and drink with chef-driven menus tempts the palates of premium-style cruisers, while the ship’s aesthetic elevates the overall experience.

Among the most popular premium cruise lines are Celebrity, Cunard, Disney, Holland America, Princess, and Virgin Voyages.

Celebrity Cruises

With 15 ships that sail to all seven continents and visit 300+ destinations, it’s easy to move up the Royal Caribbean ladder to this premium cruise line. The ships have a refined elegance without being stuffy.

Each ship class features something different, so you have the choice of sticking with the atmosphere you love or trying out a different style. Think comfortable spaces and a relaxed ambiance, yet with plenty of entertainment options and even amenities for families.

Camp at Sea explores S.T.E.M. topics appropriate for kids. Art, culinary, and recreation complement the S.T.E.M. program and keep kids engaged.

Ships in the newer Edge Class feature the ship-within-a-ship concept, The Retreat. Solstice Class lures guests to relax at the Lawn Club with real grass.

If you’re considering a Celebrity cruise, keep these tips and tricks in mind.

Cunard

Known for its British atmosphere, Cunard offers ballroom dancing and tea time with white-glove service. Cruisers may choose from different classes of staterooms, with the Grills appealing to those seeking a more exclusive and proper area.

Highlights of Cunard’s four-ship fleet include well-stocked libraries — including the largest library at sea — and regular crossings on the Atlantic. Queen Mary 2 was designed to do the crossing and even includes pet kennels for your furry friends.

Cunard keeps traditions alive with the black tie formal nights. And how about trying your hand at fencing?

Disney Cruise Line

Disney hardly needs any introduction. Its fans know every detail about Disney and its characters. “Where Magic Meets the Sea” sets the stage for Disney cruises, with each ship having a different focus.

Guests may choose their favorite movies or characters and choose the ship that is right for them. And speaking of characters, Disney fans have multiple options for joining their favorite stars on one of their soon-to-be seven ships. Disney Wish and Disney Treasure feature several new amenities for the brand including the first Disney attraction at sea, the AquaMouse.

If you’re planning a Disney cruise, you’ll want to keep in mind these tips and tricks.

Holland America Line

Having recently celebrated its 150^th year of cruising, Holland America now celebrates over 75 years of cruising Alaska. If Alaska is on your bucket list, you will appreciate that Holland America enjoys prime slots for sailing in Glacier Bay National Park.

Alaska isn’t the only itinerary that Holland America sails. You will find them sailing all over the world. And if music is your passion, Holland America will certainly keep you entertained.

Although some think that HAL attracts older people (that is true!), they also cater to multi-generational families. With activities for the kids as well as for their parents and grandparents, the entire family can explore the many activities on Holland America ships.

Music isn’t the only highlight on HAL cruises. The culinary council ensures that guests have plenty of dining options, including restaurants by Rudi Sodamin. Additionally, curated menus feature favorites of other members of the culinary council.

While Alaska offers many longer itineraries that deviate from the typical seven-day cruises that mainstream ships sail, Holland America’s smaller ships venture into lesser-known ports as well.

Princess Cruises

Another cruise line choice that has been sailing Alaska for a long time, Princess Cruises also is at the top of the list for the coveted spots into Glacier Bay National Park. The line also has many lodges throughout Alaska for land tours combined with Alaska cruises.

Alaska isn’t the only destination Princess ships visit. The line offers longer itineraries that take cruisers off the beaten path. How refreshing it is to be the only ship in a port rather than sharing it with thousands of passengers from other ships.

Princess features intimate shows, several dining choices with chef partnerships, and outdoor areas. Although more adults typically sail with Princess, there are kids’ clubs on board.

Princess cruise ships also vary in size. The brand’s largest and newest vessels, Sun and Star Princess, are a complete evolution for the brand, looking to appeal to more multigenerational groups.

Virgin Voyages

A relatively new cruise line, Virgin Voyages aimed to turn the cruise experience upside down. Definitely not a traditional cruise, this adults-only cruise brand features the unexpected.

Think drag and other adult-themed shows and staterooms with lighting for any mood. Although initially marketed for the younger set, Virgin does attract guests of all ages. With several specialty restaurants included in the fare, Virgin tempts its guests to enjoy new culinary experiences.

Pop-up entertainment appeals to some Virgin cruisers, while others will opt for other activities. The outdoor areas have plenty of seating, dining options, and even an outdoor fitness area.

Virgin Voyages visits Bimini, where The Beach Club at Bimini is free for Virgin guests to enjoy during their day on the island.

The staff engage with guests and also perform card tricks, magic, and whatever piques their interests. For a totally different and childless cruise experience, Virgin is worth a try.

River Cruising

On the complete opposite end of the spectrum from ocean cruising is river cruising.

Ideal for those who feel more comfortable with land always in view, river cruising brings guests close into cities full of history, food, and culture. River cruises sail slowly with scenic views and with little worry about seasickness.

Some riverboats even offer the option to charter, meaning family and friends can enjoy a private river cruise adventure.

Overview

Riverboats range in size from very small vessels that may carry just a handful of guests to larger boats that carry up to around 200 passengers. Like expedition and luxury cruises, many river cruise guests come from a demographic that has both the time and money to travel.

While some of the river cruise lines do allow children, a minimum age typically must be met. Cruises designated as family-friendly offer activities for younger sailors, but there aren’t usually dedicated facilities.

When several riverboats visit the same town, it may be necessary to walk across the boats that have rafted up. Keep that in mind if you have mobility issues.

Popular destinations

Wherever you find a lengthy navigable river, you are likely to find a river cruise. Popular rivers in Europe include the Rhine, Seine, Duoro, Danube, and more. The Yangtze and Mekong are popular choices in Asia, while South America includes the Amazon with some of those cruises fitting into the expedition category.

In Egypt, the Nile is popular. Of course, the U.S. offers many waterways for river cruising: Mississippi, Missouri, Columbia, Snake, and Ohio to name just a few. The St. Lawrence Seaway in Canada and the Hudson in New York are other waterways suitable for river cruising.

Some river cruises also sail along coasts, on the coastal waterways, or in other protected areas.

River Cruise Lines and Their Amenities

River cruise lines to try include: AmaWaterways, American Cruise Lines, Avalon, Emerald, Uniworld, Scenic, Tauck, and Viking, among others. Even Disney offers Adventures by Disney trips on riverboats.

The small capacity of riverboats is an amenity in itself. Many riverboats offer bicycles on board. Further, there may be a chance to visit town with a chef and select food for a meal. Riverboats usually dock right in town with easy access to shopping and other attractions. Some shore excursions may be included with options for adding others at additional cost.

Life onboard is relaxed with small-scale entertainment. Locals may be invited onboard to sing, dance, or do a demonstration.

Staterooms are of all different styles. Viking has a Scandinavian feel, while Uniworld has much more formal décor.

Outdoor dining is often possible, but there are usually just a few dining options. Although, Riverside and luxury line Scenic have more dining venues than other riverboats.

Expedition Cruising

A rapidly growing segment of the cruise market, expedition cruises take guests to remote areas around the world. Initially, you may think that expedition cruises are equated with cold destinations, but that is not the case. Expedition cruises sail in many parts of the world.

Overview

Like luxury cruises, expedition cruises use smaller ships, a necessity for cruising into places that limit the number of passengers to be onshore at a time. Small ships reach spots that large ships can’t safely navigate. As with other type of cruises, there are many options and styles of expedition cruising.

Ships sailing in icy destinations feature designs that optimize their ability to safely navigate frozen waters. Additionally, many cruise lines sailing in cold weather destinations provide warm jackets for their guests.

The choices for sailing on an expedition cruise are many. Keep in mind that some tour operators have their own programs using expedition ships. Tauck, G Adventures, Intrepid Travel, and others follow this model.

Popular Destinations

Expedition cruises explore many destinations on all seven continents. Antarctica, Africa, the Arctic, Asia, Australia, Canada, the Galapagos, Alaska, and other off-the-beaten path destinations attract expedition cruises. Wherever history, wildlife, and nature abound, you will likely find an expedition cruise visiting that area.

Expedition Cruise Lines and Their Amenities

Expedition cruise lines include: Adventure Canada, Atlas Ocean Voyages, Aqua Expeditions, Celebrity, HX (Hurtigruten), Lindblad, Ponant, Poseidon Expeditions, Quark, Scenic, Seabourn, Silversea, UnCruise, and Viking.

Expect to find a variety of naturalists and experts on board. Resources like labs for citizen scientists, educational displays, and access to books on a variety of topics are typical. Further, entertainment is more focused on enrichment.

Some expedition ships provide or rent gear to guests. Use of Zodiacs, kayaks, SUPs, and other water sports equipment is often complimentary. Luxury expedition cruises might even include submarines or helicopters.

Luxury Cruising

Many cruisers start with mainstream ships before moving on to luxury or ultra-luxury cruises. Typically, those who go on luxury cruises are in a slightly older demographic, but that is not saying that younger people and families don’t sail luxury brands. Luxury cruise ships often travel to more exotic destinations, visiting ports that are inaccessible to big ships.

Overview

Attention to detail and upgraded levels of service define luxury and ultra-luxury cruising. With many of the luxury cruises averaging one crew member per guest, “at your service” contributes to the guest experience. 

Fine dining in restaurants overseen by famous chefs, upscale wine, and attentive service similar to an upscale restaurant on land add to the exceptional culinary experience on the ships.

Vessels are smaller with more intimate entertainment. Large theaters are rare, and some ships have no casinos. Entertainment is often self-directed. Libraries for reading, lectures for learning, and daily options for living in the moment resonate with the luxury cruiser.

Don’t expect roller coasters, zip lines, or waterslides. The pool and pool decks give the feel of an exclusive resort. While high-energy activities may be absent from a luxury ship, it’s still possible to participate in activities like shuffleboard, pickleball, or other social activities on a luxury cruise.

Although children are welcome on most luxury cruises, they, too, need to be self-directed. There are often not programs for them and few other children with whom they can socialize.

While the price tag might be higher, there are more inclusions as part of the cruise fare.

Popular Destinations

Luxury and ultra-luxury ships cruise the world. Smaller ships allow docking away from the larger mainstream ships. Not having to explore a destination with thousands of guests from big ships offers an exclusive feel for luxury guests.

Luxury Cruise Lines and Their Amenities

Luxury cruise lines excel at service, fine dining, and a calmer, yet enjoyable style of cruising. Good cruise lines to enter into the luxury arena are: Azamara, Emerald, Oceania Cruises, Paul Gauguin, Viking, and Windstar Cruises.

Think of luxury cruise lines on steroids, and now you have the ultra-luxury cruises. Everything is taken to a higher level. Butlers, free room service, upscale dining, and premium wines may be included.

Included in the ultra-luxury sector are: Atlas Ocean Voyages, Crystal Cruises, Explora Journeys, Ponant, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, SeaDream Yacht Club, Seabourn, Scenic, and Silversea. These brands all compete for the ultra-luxury cruiser.

On luxury and ultra-luxury cruise lines, guests don’t need to feel obligated to choose between a plethora of activities on the daily schedule.

Further, airfare, transfers to the ships, all meals and beverages, and a daily shore excursion are perks of sailing on many luxury ships. Shore excursions may include special access to places without having to wait in line.

The public areas across the ship and staterooms are similar to those of a five-star hotel. In summary, service exceeds expectations when luxury cruising.

Themes and Affinity Groups

Alumni groups, sports groups, celebrities, musical groups, swingers, singles, meetings, and incentives. These are just a few of the special themed groups that can charter part or all of a cruise ship.

Actually, swingers groups and naturists must charter the entire ship. You needn’t concern yourself with accidentally encountering cruisers from these two special-interest groups.

Are you looking for a group of like-minded people to sail with? There are various themed cruises available to book. From music-themed cruises, to Christmas Markets, to literature cruises, and even a Star Trek convention at sea, there’s something for every avid fan.

On the other hand, if you wish to avoid the annual convention of mimes or clowns, just do a Google search adding the group, your potential sailing date, and the name of your ship.

Bottom Line: Selecting the Right Cruise For You

With so many different types of cruises, how do you choose?

In the end, your choice of cruise line comes down to you. Ask a travel advisor who knows the cruise lines you are thinking about sailing. Check with friends who travel like you do for their recommendations. If you do your research, you are certain to find a cruise line that matches your cruise personality.

Remember there are no “bad cruise lines;” they just might not be the right fit for you. If you pick a cruise line and ship that are aligned with your preferences, we think you’ll love cruising just as much as we do.

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