Which cruise ship is right for you?

We reckon everyone’s a cruiser at heart — they just might not know it yet. Because really, what’s not to love? You unpack once and wake up somewhere new every day. The world rolls out before you, one unforgettable port at a time, and onboard? It's like a floating resort, complete with dreamy dining, top-notch entertainment and all the time in the world to relax.

Cruising’s the perfect way to sample more of the world — especially with incredible shore excursions that let you dive deep into local cultures, cuisines and coastlines.

Now, we get it — with so many styles of cruising to choose from, picking your perfect one can feel a little overwhelming. So let’s simplify things.

Start by asking yourself: What kind of cruiser are you?

Once you’ve got a feel for the type of experience you’re after — from relaxed and refined to fun-filled and family-focused — it becomes much easier to pick the destination, the cruise line, and the ship that’s just right for you.

And when it comes to cruise ships, size definitely matters. Not just for space, but for style.

“Small ships offer much more intimate, low-key onboard experiences and often visit smaller, off-the-beaten-track ports with more personalised excursions,” says Jeff Leckey, House of Travel’s General Manager Cruise Australasia.

“But the trade-off is fewer dining and bar options onboard, and less entertainment during sea days.”

Big ships? They’re a holiday in themselves.

“On larger ships, you’ll find everything from spas, kids clubs and surf simulators to fitness classes, Broadway-style shows and a world of dining,” Jeff explains.

“It’s why we always recommend thinking not just about where you want to go — but how you want to holiday while you get there.”

So, ready to find your cruise style? Take a peek below at our cruiser personality profiles and discover the lines that cater best to your travel vibe. Even better — pop into your local House of Travel store and chat with one of our cruise specialists.

We’ll help match you to the ship that suits your holiday dreams.
Your best. Cruise. Ever? Starts right here.

The resort cruiser 

You’re not just here for the destination — you’re here for the ride. For you, a cruise is like a resort holiday that floats. It’s about the buzz, the entertainment, the energy. From sunrise yoga and surf simulators to outdoor movies under the stars, Broadway-worthy shows and late-night cocktails — you want options. Lots of them.

Spa day or poolside laze? Trivia challenge or salsa class? You love having the freedom to fill your days your way — and when it comes to meals, you’re keen on flexible dining and a choice of flavours, from casual bites to fine dining delights.

Our favourite cruise lines for resort cruisers:

Carnival Cruises. Ocean cruising to Alaska, Australia, Caribbean, Hawai‘i, Mexico, South Pacific.

Norwegian Cruise Line. Ocean cruising to Asia, Alaska, Australia & New Zealand, Caribbean, Europe, Hawai‘i, South America.

Royal Caribbean. Ocean cruising to Asia, Alaska, Australia & New Zealand, Caribbean, Europe, Hawai‘i, South America.

The sophisticated cruiser 

You’ve got a taste for the finer things — and when you holiday, you holiday well. For you, it’s not about how much is on offer, but how beautifully it’s done. You’re all about thoughtful touches and seamless service: baristas who remember your order, sommeliers who know their syrah from their sangiovese, and a bed you can absolutely melt into at the end of the day.

You’re not chasing crowds or chaos. You prefer a refined, boutique-style onboard atmosphere where everything feels a little quieter, a little calmer — and a lot more considered.

And when it comes to the destinations? You’re after immersive experiences that feel meaningful — private tours, exclusive access, slow travel. After all, you’re not just ticking off ports. You’re collecting pinch-me memories.

Our favourite cruise lines for sophisticated cruisers:

Celebrity Cruises. Ocean cruising to Asia, Alaska, Australia & New Zealand, Caribbean, Europe, Galapagos, Hawai‘i, South America, South Pacific.

Holland America Line. Ocean cruising to Asia, Alaska, Australia & New Zealand, Caribbean, Europe, Hawai‘i, Tahiti, South America, South Pacific.

Oceania Cruises. Ocean cruising to Asia, Africa, Alaska, Australia & New Zealand, Caribbean, Cuba, Europe, Hawai‘i, South America, South Pacific, World.

Princess Cruises. Ocean cruising to Asia, Alaska, Australia & New Zealand, Caribbean, Europe, Hawai‘i, Japan, South America, South Pacific, World.

The luxury cruiser 

If the world’s your oyster, you’ll take it with a glass of Champagne — the good stuff, of course. For you, a cruise isn’t just a holiday, it’s a statement. You’re chasing the pinnacle of comfort, the finest of flavours, and experiences that feel truly once-in-a-lifetime.

From designer suites and butler service to Michelin-worthy menus and vintage wine pairings, you expect every moment to feel effortlessly exceptional. The spaces are polished, the service is second-to-none, and you can bet the spa robes are fluffier than anything you’ve got at home.

When you’re off the ship, you’re not just sightseeing — you’re stepping into curated, private excursions guided by experts. Think secluded beaches, backstage access, and immersive cultural encounters few others get to experience.

And your destination wishlist? Exotic, remote, and undeniably wow-worthy.

Our favourite cruise lines for luxury cruises:

Avalon. River cruising to Asia, Europe, South America.

Cunard. Ocean cruising to Asia, Africa, Alaska, Australia & New Zealand, Caribbean, Europe, South America, South Pacific.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises.Ocean cruising to Asia, Africa, Alaska, Australia & New Zealand, Caribbean, Cuba, Europe, South America, South Pacific.

Scenic. Ocean and river cruising to Asia, Europe, Russia.

Viking. Ocean and river cruising to Asia, Australia, Africa, Caribbean, Europe, Russia, South America, World.

Windstar Cruises. Yacht cruising to Asia, Alaska, Caribbean, Europe, Tahiti.

Crystal. Ocean, Yacht & River cruising to Asia, Africa, Alaska, Australia & New Zealand, Caribbean, Cuba, Europe, South America, South Pacific.

The adventure cruiser 

You’re not here for shuffleboard and daiquiris by the pool. You’re here to explore. For you, cruising is simply the smartest way to reach the world’s wildest corners — from the icy majesty of Antarctica to the untouched beauty of the Galápagos, and everywhere in between.

You’re an intrepid soul with a curious mind, and your dream holiday includes expert-led lectures, zodiac landings, wildlife encounters and boots-on-the-ground exploration. You’re drawn to sailings that go deep — culturally, geographically and intellectually.

Luxurious linens and cocktail menus? Nice to have, sure. But for you, it’s all about being in the moment — staring down a glacier, spotting whales at sunrise, or hiking where few have ever walked. This is real adventure. And you wouldn’t have it any other way.

Our favourite cruise lines for adventure cruisers:

Seabourn. Ocean cruising to Asia, Alaska, Africa, Antarctica, Australia & New Zealand, Caribbean, Europe, South America, South Pacific.

Silversea.Ocean cruising to Asia, Alaska, Africa, Arctic, Antarctica, Australia & New Zealand, Caribbean, Europe, South America, World.

Ponant.Ocean cruising to Asia, Alaska, Arctic, Antarctica, Caribbean, Europe, Hawai‘i, Tahiti, South America.

Coral Expeditions. Small ship cruising to Australia, South Pacific, Indian Ocean

HX Hurtigruten Expeditions . Environmentally friendly cruising to Arctic, Antarctica.

The solo cruiser 

You’re flying solo — and loving it. Whether this is your first solo adventure or one of many, you’re ready to explore the world entirely on your own terms. No compromises, no waiting on anyone else’s schedule — just you, your suitcase and the open sea.

You’re after cruise ships that don’t just accommodate solo travellers — they celebrate them. Think dedicated single cabins, fun group excursions, and plenty of onboard events designed to help you meet like-minded adventurers. From solo mixers to hosted dinners and friendly happy hours, you’re never short on good company (unless you’re craving a little alone time — which is easy to find, too).

You want immersive experiences in port, enriching activities on board, and the freedom to do exactly what you want, when you want. This is your holiday, your way.

Our favourite cruise lines for solo cruisers:

Cunard. Ocean cruising to Asia, Africa, Alaska, Australia & New Zealand, Caribbean, Europe, South America, South Pacific.

Norwegian Cruise Line. Ocean cruising to Asia, Alaska, Australia & New Zealand, Caribbean, Cuba, Europe, Hawai‘i, South America.

Princess Cruises. Ocean cruising to Asia, Alaska, Australia & New Zealand, Caribbean, Europe, Hawai‘i, Japan, South America, South Pacific, World.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises. Ocean cruising to Asia, Africa, Alaska, Australia & New Zealand, Caribbean, Cuba, Europe, South America, South Pacific.

Silversea. Ocean cruising to Asia, Alaska, Africa, Arctic, Antarctica, Australia & New Zealand, Caribbean, Europe, South America, World.

Inspired to set sail on a journey like no other? Discover the world from a new perspective, with endless horizons and unforgettable destinations. Connect with our cruise specialists today and start planning your dream voyage!