Adventure cruising; Ships Classes - Cruise Line Fans: Cruise Forum, Reviews and Chat From Real Cruisers

*Lars* · 10-26-2008, 07:18 AM

Definitions of the various Adventure cruise ship classes used:

Expedition Cruise Ships

Spacious, comfortable passenger vessels designed for smooth sailing with deluxe accommodations and services. These ships offer larger cabins, as well as deluxe amenities such as roomier public areas, lounges and bars, gift shops, and fitness facilities.

Ice Breaker Ships

Former ice breaker research ships converted to passenger vessels. These larger ships offer many deluxe amenities including fitness facilities, gift shops, and multiple bars and lounges, but maintain the expeditionary style and feel of former "working" ships.

Luxury Expedition Ships

These expedition cruise ships offer luxury 5-star amenities and services. Whether you're gliding along the rivers of West Africa or plunging through the icy waters of Antarctica, you'll enjoy the detailed touches onboard that make these luxury vessels. These vessels allow travelers the opportunity to take advantage of the adventurous land excursions and up-close wildlife viewing that is best experienced on a small expedition ship without sacrificing the creature comforts traditionally found on much larger cruise ships.

Motor Yachts

Motor yachts are small, intimate vessels, offering an affordable way to enjoy the beauties of nature. Able to maneuver through waters that larger ships cannot, these vessels explore remote and unique shores. Passengers stay in small but comfortable twin share cabins with shared facilities.

Research Ships

Former research ships refurbished for small-group passenger travel. These ships feature large decks and open bridges, but maintain the expeditionary feel of their former status. Offer economical options for solo travelers who want to share accommodations with other passengers in a wide range of cabin categories.

River Cruise Ships

River cruise ships are specially designed to ply the shallow waters of rivers around the world. These ships offer comfortable cabins with lower beds and private facilities. Some offer luxurious suites and deluxe onboard amenities such as lounges and bars, fitness facilities, and spacious public areas.

Galapagos Yachts

Category 1

These yachts offer an affordable way to enjoy the beauty of the Galapagos Islands in small but comfortable twin share cabins. These yachts are often referred to as Tourist or Tourist Superior yachts, and they have private bath/shower and bunkbeds in most cabins. These yachts tend to travel to the more central Galapagos Islands and have a certified, bilingual naturalist guide on every cruise.

Category 2

Yachts in this category have larger cabins and a greater variety of bed types (twin, bunk, double). You may see them called Deluxe or First Class yachts. They have more spacious lounges, decks and dining rooms to enhance your Galapagos experience. These Galapagos cruises may travel to the more remote islands and offer top level bilingual naturalist guides.

Category 3

These yachts offer all of the amenities of the other Galapagos yacht classes and more. These are the nicest yachts, and are often called First Class or Luxury yachts in the Galapagos. They boast the most spacious accommodations, top level cuisine, and superior service onboard to ensure an unforgettable Galapagos experience!

Char · 10-26-2008, 08:26 AM

Thanks Lars! I didn't know much about the smaller ships.