Cruising has never been more diverse or exciting. For travel advisors, that’s both an opportunity and a challenge—because not all cruises are created equal. Whether you’re new to selling cruises or a seasoned professional looking to refine your pitch, understanding the key differences between river, yacht, luxury, expedition, and ocean cruises will help you match the right client with the right experience.
Here’s your guide to 5 major cruise categories and how to position them effectively with your clients.
1. River Cruises
- What they are: River cruises take place on inland waterways like the Danube, Rhine, Nile, or Mekong with amazing brands such as Ama Waterways, Antara, Viking just to name a few.
- Client fit: Perfect for clients who love culture, history, and immersive experiences. Passengers are often well-traveled, 50+, and enjoy slower-paced, scenic journeys.
- Advisor tip: Highlight the convenience—unpack once, yet visit multiple cities. Shore excursions often feel like curated tours, making them attractive to clients who enjoy guided cultural experiences.
2. Yacht Cruises
- What they are: Intimate, small-ship experiences on luxury yachts (think SeaDream, Emerald Yacht Cruises, WindStar, etc).
- Client fit: Great for affluent travelers, honeymooners, or those who prefer exclusivity and a personalized atmosphere. Often attracts clients who might otherwise charter a yacht or book a boutique luxury hotel.
- Advisor tip: Emphasize exclusivity—fewer passengers, access to hidden ports, and top-notch VIP service. These are not mass-market experiences but rather “floating boutique hotels.”
3. Luxury Cruises
- What they are: Premium lines offering upscale amenities, gourmet dining, and personalized service (Silversea, Regent Seven Seas, Seabourn).
- Client fit: Travelers who want indulgence and elegance without sacrificing comfort. Typically higher income, value all-inclusive pricing, and expect impeccable service.
- Advisor tip: Position these as stress-free luxury. Many luxury lines include airfare, excursions, fine dining, and even gratuities, making them attractive for clients who prefer upfront value.
4. Expedition Cruises
- What they are: Cruises that focus on adventure and exploration, often traveling to remote destinations like Antarctica, the Galápagos, or the Arctic with National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions and Poseidon Expeditions.
- Client fit: Ideal for explorers, wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and adventure seekers. Ages vary but often include active retirees or younger professionals looking for a “bucket list” experience.
- Advisor tip: Stress the educational and immersive aspects—expedition teams, naturalists, and scientists are often onboard. These are about experiences, not luxury entertainment.
5. Ocean Cruises
- What they are: The most traditional and widely recognized cruise style, typically on large ships that sail across oceans, seas, and coastal routes (Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, Carnival, etc.).
- Client fit: Families, groups, first-time cruisers, and those seeking entertainment, variety, and great value. Ships range from affordable to premium, catering to a wide spectrum of travelers.
- Advisor tip: Ocean cruises are the gateway for many clients into the cruise world. Use them as an entry point—once clients enjoy the convenience of a cruise vacation, they may upgrade to luxury, river, or expedition cruises later.
How Advisors Can Use This Knowledge
- Matchmaking matters: Every client has different expectations. Listening carefully to their travel style will help you recommend the right type of cruise.
- Cross-sell opportunities: A client who loved their first ocean cruise may be ready for a river or luxury cruise next. Plant the seed early.
- Leverage supplier training: Many cruise lines offer advisor certifications that give you insider knowledge, sales tips, and often bonus commission opportunities based on volume.
As a travel advisor, your role isn’t just to sell a cruise—it’s to curate the perfect experience. Knowing the differences between river, yacht, luxury, expedition, and ocean cruises empowers you to guide your clients with confidence. Remember, every cruise type has its unique magic. The more you learn, the more you can match your clients with journeys that create lasting memories—and grow your business in the process.
And don’t forget—the power of yourTRUE Accreditation ensures you’re recognized as a professional and keeps you in control of your earnings. By booking directly with cruise suppliers under your TRUE code, you keep 100% of your commissions—a major advantage that helps you maximize profitability while delivering top service to your clients.