(there are plenty of others) :
We’ll be adding more cruise lines over time
Pop us an email to tell us which one you’d like to see.”
Not all cruises are the same holiday. The right line for a couple wanting black-tie dinners is the wrong one for a family chasing waterslides — or a group of friends after a grown-up party at sea. Here’s a plain-English guide to the four lines we track, and who each one suits.
Cunard — classic British elegance
Cunard is the grande dame of cruising: ocean liners, white-glove service, afternoon tea and proper black-tie “gala” evenings. The famous Queen Mary 2 still does genuine transatlantic crossings. Best for: couples and travellers who love tradition, refinement and a slower, more formal pace. Less ideal for: young families or anyone after a casual, anything-goes holiday.
Royal Caribbean — big ships, big fun
Royal Caribbean builds some of the largest, most feature-packed ships afloat — surf simulators, rock-climbing walls, ice rinks, waterslides and West End-style shows. There’s relentless choice for all ages. Best for: families and active travellers who want the ship to be the destination. Less ideal for: those seeking peace, quiet and intimacy.
Virgin Voyages — adults-only and stylish
Virgin Voyages threw out the rulebook: 18+ only, no formal nights, no buffets (proper sit-down restaurants instead), tattoo parlours, great music and tips included. It feels more boutique hotel than traditional cruise. Best for: couples and groups of friends who want a stylish, party-friendly, kid-free escape. Less ideal for: families, or anyone who loves cruising tradition.
P&O — great-value family cruising from the UK
P&O sails largely from UK ports (Southampton), so there’s no flight needed — a big saving and a stress-reducer. It offers familiar, well-priced family holidays with both family-friendly and adults-only ships in the fleet. Best for: UK families and first-time cruisers wanting value and convenience. Less ideal for: those chasing ultra-luxury or a more international crowd.
So which should you choose?
A quick rule of thumb:
- Romance & tradition → Cunard
- Families & non-stop activity → Royal Caribbean
- Adults-only & style → Virgin Voyages
- UK departures & value → P&O
The smarter move: compare them by value
Once you’ve shortlisted a line by style, choose your actual sailing by value. The cheapest headline price rarely tells the real story — a longer cruise can cost far less per night than a short one. That’s why we compare every sailing by Price Per Person Per Night (PPPN).
(Not sure what that means? Here’s the 2-minute guide →)
Our free tracker shows live prices across all four lines side by side, ranked by PPPN, with price-drop and lowest-yet flags so the best-value sailing rises to the top.
Compare them free on the homepage →
CruisePriceSpy is free to use. We only earn a small commission if you click through and book — at no extra cost to you.