Contemporary cruise lines are made up by the largest cruise companies including Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Lines and Princess Cruises, in addition to others. These cruise lines feature mega-ships, the largest ships afloat.
Contemporary lines generally provide less costly vacations than
premium cruises or
luxury cruise lines, and offer very good overall value. Daily per person prices can start as low as $70 per person per day inclusive of accommodations, meals, and onboard activities and entertainment. You might compare a contemporary cruise with a Sheraton or Hilton resort.
All contemporary lines have, in recent years, improved onboard service, dining, spa services, amenities and comforts to meet the demand of more sophistictated travelers who demand higher standards. Most also offer alternative dining restaurants.
The difference between a good contemporary cruise and a premium cruise can be little more than the size of the ship and number of people, or the individual styles each offers.
While a contemporary cruise may appear less expensive than a premium or luxury cruise, it's best to be aware of the "extras" you may be paying for onboard.
A balcony stateroom or junior suite on a contemporary cruise line may not be less expensive than a standard cabin on a premium ship or luxury cruise, where comfort, dining and service may be superior. Our
cruise experts can help you shop for the best value in a cruise vacation that meets your priorities.
Read more about each line or view current offers:
We invite you to read more about our featured contemporary cruise lines:
Norwegian Cruise Lines, or
NCL America (cruises to Hawaii)
Princess CruisesBy selecting the contemporary cruise line links below, you can view our current offers with each:
Carnival CruisesCosta Cruise LineNCL America (Hawaii cruises)Norwegian Cruise LinePrincess Cruises (link not available)
Royal Caribbean
Perhaps you'd care to consider and review Luxury Cruises, Premium Cruises or our review of Small Ships & River Cruises.
