Cruise Comparison FAQ
Quick answers for travelers choosing between lines and ships.
Get Side-by-Side Cruise QuotesStraight answers for travelers deciding between cruise lines and ships.
How many cruise lines should I compare?
Usually two to four. Narrow the field by category and personality first; comparing ten lines at once tends to confuse more than it helps.
Should I compare the same cabin type?
Yes. Compare inside with inside, balcony with balcony, and the same dates. Otherwise the price difference may simply reflect the room.
Does an older ship mean a worse cruise?
Not necessarily. Older ships are often refurbished, can be calmer and less crowded, and sometimes reach ports newer, larger ships cannot.
How do I compare cruise lines for a family?
Look at kids’ club ages and hours, family cabin sizes, connecting cabins and whether the activities your children want are included or extra.
What makes a cruise line luxury?
Generally smaller ships, more space and crew per guest, suites or large cabins, and fares that include much of what other lines charge for. Our sister site Cruising First Class covers this in depth.
Is a river cruise comparable to an ocean cruise?
They are different products. River cruises are smaller, port-intensive and calm; ocean cruises offer more onboard variety and sea days. Decide which style you want before comparing prices.
Are all-inclusive cruises better value?
They are if you would use what is included. Add up what you would spend on a less inclusive line and compare the totals.
Can I trust cruise ratings?
Use them as a guide. Read recent, detailed reviews from travelers like you, and look for repeated themes rather than averages.
Does a cruise comparison cost anything?
No. Quotes from our cruise advisors at Mister Cruise are free.
Next Steps
Start with the categories, narrow by personality, then work out the total cost of your shortlist. When you are down to two or three options, send them to us and we will compare them for you.
A Simple Comparison Worksheet
When two or three cruises remain on your list, write them side by side and score each on the things that matter to your group. Keep it simple: a mark out of five is enough.
- Ship atmosphere and size — does it match how you want to spend sea days?
- Itinerary — ports you genuinely want to see, and time in each.
- Cabin — type, size and location for the same budget.
- Dining — how many included venues, and how much you expect to spend on extras.
- Total cost — fare plus everything you will add on board.
- Getting there — flights or a drive to the homeport, and a pre-cruise night if needed.
The cruise with the highest total is rarely the cheapest, and that is the point: you are choosing the best trip for the money, not the lowest number on a screen.
Send Us Your Shortlist
Two or three cruises you cannot decide between? Our cruise advisors at Mister Cruise will compare them honestly and send free quotes.
Get Free Cruise Quotes