The Best Cruise Styles for 50+

River, premium, luxury, expedition or world cruise: find the style that fits the way you travel.

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The biggest decision is not the destination — it is the style of ship. Here is how the main cruise styles compare for experienced travelers.

Style	What it is	Best for
River cruises	Small ships (typically under 200 guests in Europe), a new town most days, excursions and wine with meals often included	Culture, history, little time at sea; walking tours on cobblestones
Premium ocean	Mid-size ships with more space and quieter lounges — e.g. Holland America, Celebrity, Princess, Cunard	Great value; classic cruising with enrichment talks
Upper-premium & luxury	Oceania, Azamara, Viking Ocean; Regent, Silversea, Seabourn, Explora Journeys	Food, space and inclusions; fewer guests
Expedition	Small ships with naturalist guides to Antarctica, the Galápagos, the Arctic and Alaska	Once-in-a-lifetime wildlife; some agility needed for Zodiac landings
World & grand voyages	Segments of 20+ nights up to full world cruises of three months or more	Travelers with time; deep destination immersion

Five Questions to Ask Yourself

Do I want to see a new place every day, or enjoy days at sea?
Do I want everything included, or pay only for what I use?
How do I feel about children onboard?
How much walking and climbing can I comfortably do in port?
Do I want enrichment — lectures, cooking classes, local performers — or entertainment and nightlife?

Your answers point to a style. A specialist can then narrow the choice to specific lines and ships.

Compare the luxury lines side by side.

Antarctica, Galápagos and the Arctic on small ships.

Every river line and itinerary worldwide.

Describe your ideal trip. Specialists will recommend ships and send free quotes.