Six Star – Regent Seven Seas – Crystal Cruises – Silversea
With a 6-star line, absolutely everything will be included. Flights if needed and shore excursions (on board Regent), alcoholic and soft beverages, open bars and even an in-suite mini bar that’s stocked with all your favourite drinks and gets replenished daily. You don’t have to worry about carrying around extra money for tipping either because gratuities are included.
One of the key differences with 6 star cruises is that almost all the rooms on board are suites, with most having balconies. Regent boasts a whopping 90% of suites with balconies on all their ships, excluding their Navigator ship.
A huge perk to 6 star is the fact that all drinks and food are included! Due to the popularity of some of the specialty restaurants, booking is essential and you may have to pay a small fee to reserve a table, but who can complain about that when you’re being treated to the finest food at sea? As speaker you will be considered after paying passengers.
Five Star – Viking – Oceania – Cunard
Now don’t jump to conclusions and think that it means it’s not as grand, because it’s still extremely luxurious. On most 5* lines the majority of things will be included, but be prepared to see a few add on charges for extra services,
Staterooms – On a 5* cruise your accommodation options are much more varied. Enrichment speakers generally are given exterior cabins with window (not balcony) some only give standard passenger cabin in staff area.
The cruise lines will have the option to purchase a reasonably priced beverage package once you are onboard. Some such as Viking and Oceania basic beer, wine, sodas are included. Wi-Fi & gratuities are included. The restaurants on 5* will still be top of the line and inspired by top chefs, but specialty dining will usually be an additional charge.
Four Star – Royal Caribbean – Princess
Staterooms are generally interior and some like Princess are standard officer type cabin. Royal offer passenger cabins mostly interior & surprises do happen with exterior from time to time. No balconies and no upgrades are available.
Drinks are extra and you can purchase a beverage package one on board, but not before hand. Gratuities are payable onboard and added to your bill. Tours, Flights and transfers are at your own cost.