Cruising in luxury class is by definition a top upscale product in the industry, not only is it a five-star but a six-star service. The luxury cruising ships are designed to satisfy every top-class demand from people who are used to ultimate standards in luxury.

On the basis of crew-to-passenger (C/P) ratio and space-per-passenger ratio (tonnage/number of passengers) criteria, it can be clearly seen that this class of ships provides the best service and most spacious rooms onboard.

This is also followed by an exceptional offer of onboard amenities. The 180-square feet suites are equipped with fine and elegant furniture, TV/VCR systems, room service, refrigerators and mini-bars. The private verandas with ocean view also make part of top class standards.

The crew is carefully selected and highly motivated to provide top service. They always offer something extra to fulfill the guests' wishes. A level of sophistication is set by the standards of world-class resorts.

To make the experience complete, luxury lines offer some of the most exotic itineraries, such as not so well known, but beautiful ports in Africa, South America, in the South Pacific, Middle East, Far East and in Europe.

However, the cost difference between cruise in luxury and premium class is not that big as you may think.

While on the premium cruise you initially pay a seemingly low price, you have been charged actually all the time onboard. Whether you pay for your drinks, sport activities or anything else, the final price you pay can significantly increase and vary from the initial price.

This is not the case with the luxury ship. If not all of them, most charges are included in the price. In this way passengers are spared of hassle signing for each drink they have or for an hour in the gym they attend. This is another step towards definition of "luxury". You've got one price, period.

Today's cruise lines in luxury class are:

• Crystal Cruises, a line with many awards for excellence
• Cunard, a legendary brand with classic British heritage, with the ocean travel experience longer than 150 years
• Radisson Seven Seas Cruises, unique and luxurious ships with a small number of fortunate passengers
• Sea borne, small, elegant, yacht-like vessels providing the highest level of personalized service.
• Silver sea Cruises, all-inclusive ultra-luxury fares aboard small ships for passengers accustomed to more intimate atmosphere, but also offering most features as the large vessels do
• Wind star Cruises, ships like no others, with computer-controlled sailboats, the line offers unique experience followed by a superb cuisine in a casual, intimate ambience.

Whichever line you choose, you can be sure to have a superior vacation that will meet all of your high-class demands and provide you a magical sea experience with a personal touch.

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