Cruises are often stereotyped as being a travel option for only those with a lot of money. The idea stems basically from old cinema, where luxurious cabins and picturesque decks formed the backdrop mostly for well-to-do characters. The narrative, however, has gradually changed with people prioritizing time over luxury. Therefore, cruises have been much more affordable despite significant improvement in their underlying design and facilities compared to some decades ago.
Celebrity Reflection
Built in 2012 and owned by the Royal Caribbean Cruises, the Reflection offers not just excellent all-round service but does so at an affordable price. The vessel is run by a 1000-strong crew and has a top-deck Lawn Club, 14 bars, three pools, and one casino.
It is highly recommended by passengers, who are especially fond of the Alcoves – a crowd-free cabana lounging. Among its other standout facilities include a Basketball court, a wide variety of suite cabins, and the Lawn Club Grill, where you can cook yourself or have a chef do it for you.
Nieuw Statendam
With worldwide cruises starting at a reasonable price, the Nieuw Statendam offers tremendous services, which include Live Music at Music Walk, Rolling Stone Rock Room, and Lincoln Center Stage. There is also a World Stage theatre, a two-tier Lido Deck with a movie screen, and a wine-making venue called Blend.
Given this Holland America Line cruise was launched less than two years ago, it has a lot of freshness in its cabins, hallway, and restaurants. The cruise has a blend of peace and vibrance that serves both youngsters and adults, while its prices are as affordable as possible.
Disney Fantasy
Operated by Disney Cruise Line, which is part of The Walt Disney Company who entered the business only in 2012, the Disney Fantasy is a dream for its fans. It features a Marvel Super Heroes Academy, a Star Wars-themed command post, and a Tiffany & Co. retail store.
Some of the other onboard activities are a live musical comedy based on Disney’s Aladdin, Star Wars Day at Sea, and a thrilling sky-high water ride called AquaDuck, among others. There are 10 themed dining venues, Goofy’s Sports Deck activity center, a virtual sports simulator, and Quiet Cove Pool. Despite such luxury, the Fantasy’s prices are not that high, making them more than worth it.
Symphony of the Seas
Another classic run by the Royal Caribbean International, the Symphony of the Seas, is one of the world’s largest passenger ships. It houses 6,680 passengers, a 2000-plus crew, and 18 decks filled with every activity you can imagine.
There is a surf simulator, an indoor ice skating rink, two 40-foot rock walls, a zip line, a 10-story slide, and 15 quick-service and sit-down eateries. The pretty reasonable fare includes meals at Windjammer Marketplace buffet, Park Cafe, El Loco Fresh, Solarium Bistro, Cafe Promenade, and Boardwalk Dog House.
