Take a fantastic day excursion or plan a whole weekend, this train journey starts in Cordele, Georgia just west of Interstate 75.
Ride in a 1949 vintage air-conditioned car, and explore a mix of romantic yesteryear and today’s new South. The SAM Shortline stops in a number of cute historic towns filled with history, attractions, restaurants and shopping.
Plains – This small Georgia town, made famous by President Carter is a stop on the Sam Shortline Excursion Train. Visit President Carter’s campaign museum, buy a bag of peanuts and visit Plain Peanuts for their famous Peanut Butter Ice Cream. If you’re planning a weekend consider the Plains Inn recently refurbished and beautifully decorated.
Another stop is Leslie the home of one of Georgia’s most unique museums. The Rural Telephone Museum is situated in a restored cotton warehouse and features a huge collection of antiques, switchboards, classic cars, colorful murals – and, of course, antique telephones. It is home to one of the largest collections of antique telephone and telephone memorabilia in the world. Train riders are charged a reduced rate of only $4.
The Victorian town of Americus is another stop. While in Americus, browse all the wonderful and quaint shops. The award-winning 1892 Windsor Hotel & Spa is the perfect place to turn your train excursion into a relaxing weekend vacation. You can even take in a show at the breathtaking 1921 Rylander Theatre.
Habitat For Humanity International Be sure and save some time for the Habitat For Humanity Global Village & Discovery Center, where you will learn how Habitat for Humanity International works in partnership with families to build strength, stability and self-reliance.
The 6-acre village is a unique way to see life-size Habitat houses from countries around the world without leaving Southwest Georgia. It features examples of their home construction around the world along with examples of living conditions in some of the worlds poorest areas where they do work. The Global Village & Discovery Center is a valued addition to the historical attractions of the area and a favorite stop on the SAM Shortline Excursion Train route.
If you have children I can’t think of a more educational experience than to walk through this village’s grounds. Every American child should learn how people in poorer countries live. Avery thought provoking and emotional experience.
As the travel industry entered the twenty-first century an amazing thing happened. The popularity of cruising was growing rapidly and cruise line companies reacted by launching a whole new generation of mega-ships. To attract passengers they added amusement parks, dozens of gourmet restaurants, water features, nightclubs, sports facilities, spas and more. They are marvels of engineering and have become actual floating cities.
In the last century the aircraft carrier was the unchallenged behemoth of the seas but now in comparison they are shorter and while still wider, the new class of cruise ships have significantly more length, mass, and total displacement.
Not only are these wonders a total, all inclusive resort experience that put most land based resorts to shame. They also take their guests on an adventure, visiting countries and wonders all around the world. I don’t know any other experience that comes close.
Not sure what cruise line to explore and ships to consider? Her we offer the most complete list of current cruise ships anywhere. Each ship listing includes date launched, size, number of passengers and most recent refurbishment. Each ship listing is also a link to its cruise line description page for additional information. Our plan is to add to and update this list every three to four months.
The following listings include key information for understanding what the cruise ship offers, including:
Date the Ship Entered Service– How old a ship is matters. Each new generation incorporates new features that older ships normally didn’t include.
GT or Gross Tons – Just like age, size matters too and GT is a good indication of how big the ship is. The bigger the ship the more things are included onboard.
Number of Passengers – Like gross tons the number of passengers is something to consider. Consider your taste. Small and intimate or big and bold.
Refurb (refurbishment) – At the least that means new furniture and upgraded decor but major refurbishments can add major redesigns adding features like more restaurants and lounges.
Disney Cruise Line
Disney Cruise Line is a The Walt Disney Company. The company was incorporated in 1996 as Magical Cruise Company Limited
Princess Cruises is owned by Carnival Corporation and is incorporated in Bermuda with headquarters are in Santa Clarita, California. It is the second largest cruise line by revenue. It was previously a subsidiary of P&O Princess Cruises, and is managed by Holland America Group, which controls the Princess Cruise brand.
Regal Princess 2014 • 141,000 GT – Featuring more than 1,400 balconies and the SeaWalk®, a glass-floor walkway extending 28 feet beyond the edge of the ship! From the tranquil Sanctuary, a retreat reserved for adults, to the dazzling Princess WaterColor Fantasy light and water show and more, you’ll find something for everyone on the Regal Princess.
TBA 2025 175,000 GT ship to be powered by liquefied natural gas
Holland America Line
Holland America Line is a British/American-owned line, a subsidiary of Carnival Corporation headquartered in Seattle, Washington.
Holland America Line was founded in the Netherlands and from 1873 to 1989, it operated as a Dutch shipping line, a passenger line, a cargo line and a cruise line, operating mostly between the Netherlands and North America.
MS Noordam 2006 • 82,318 GT • 1,924 passengers • Refurb September 2019
Signature Class
MS Eurodam2008 • 86,273 • 2,104 passengers – The Eurodam recently received many exciting updates. Guests on this graceful ship can enjoy the full Music Walk™ experience, including Lincoln Center Stage, B.B. King’s Blues Club and Billboard Onboard. Explore onboard at a cooking class or hands-on workshop with America’s Test Kitchen, BBC Earth Experiences and a Digital Workshop Powered by Windows®. Dine in your choice of specialty restaurants.
MS Koningsdam 2016 • 99,863 • 2,650 passengers – at 975 ft. long and a width of 114.8 ft. The first of Holland America Line’s Pinnacle-class ships, Koningsdam inspired by music, her design features innovative, new dining and entertainment venues, with the dazzling, two-story World Stage to Music Walk™, Lincoln Center Stage, B.B. King’s Blues Club and Billboard Onboard.
Carnival Cruise Line is an international cruise company with headquarters in Doral, Florida. Its logo is the funnel found on their ships, with red, white and blue colors. The funnels are shaped like a whale’s tail. Currently, Carnival is the largest cruise line in the world, based on passengers carried annually, and total number of ships in fleet. Carnival is one of ten cruise line brands owned by the world’s largest cruise ship operator, the American-British Carnival Corporation.
Vista Class
Carnival Horizon 2018 • 133,500 GT • 3,960 passengers – Horizon features lots of fabulous restaurants, a popular pub and brewery, a thrilling bike-ride-in-the-sky attraction, an IMAX movie theatre and a huge water park with an exhilarating 455-foot-long water tube slide.
Carnival Valor 2004 • 110,000 GT • 2,980 Passengers – Onboard are food spots like Blue Iguana Cantina and Guy’s Burger Joint, Scarlett’s Steakhouse. Let yourself be swept away to RedFrog Pub or Alchemy Bar, or get a little carried away in SkyBox Sports Bar. Kids get caught up in the excitement of being kids, hanging with others their age at Carnival Valor’s three supervised youth venues.
Royal Caribbean International (RCI), also known by its former name Royal Caribbean Cruise Line (RCCL), is a cruise line brand founded in 1968 in Norway and organized as a wholly owned subsidiary of Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. since 1997. Based in Miami, Florida, United States, it is the largest cruise line by revenue and second largest by passengers counts.
Freedom of the Seas 2006 • 154,407 GT • 4,515 passengers • Refurb March 2020- To be refurbished in 2020 – Freedom Class features an interior promenade with food and drink venues, dual racer water slides the Typhoon℠ and Cyclone℠, 40-foot-long FlowRider® surf simulator and completely reimagined restaurants, onboard games for all ages and Broadway quality stage shows.
Quantum of the Seas 2014 • 168,666 GT • 4,905 passengers Features the “Sports Court” on deck 15 with the Wave Loch Flowrider surf simulator a rock-climbing wall and new a feature on the Quantum class the “RipCord by iFLY”, a skydiving simulator. The “North Star” observation tower a glass-walled capsule on the end of a 41-meter-long crane arm lifts groups of up to 14 guests over the edge of the ship, reaching heights of up to 91 meters above sea level.
Odyssey of the Seas 2020 • 169,379 GT • 4,200 passengers Quantum Ultra-class cruise ship
TBA Oasis class 2 021 230,000 GT Under construction
Norwegian Cruise Line
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), also known in short as Norwegian, is a cruise line founded in 1966 and based in the United States. It is the third-largest cruise line in the world by passengers.
Norwegian Spirit Launched 1998 Joined Norwegian in 2004 • 75,904 GT • Refurb February 2020
Norwegian Getaway 2014 • 145,655 GT • refurb scheduled in 2019 – Stroll The Waterfront, an innovative, industry-first open-air promenade designed to connect guests with the ocean like no other cruise line. Explore more than 28 dining options, experience the thrill of five water slides, and three levels of action-packed activities in the sports complex. The excitement and entertainment continues with Broadway musical Million Dollar Quartet.
Celebrity Cruises is a cruise line which was founded in 1988 by the Greece-based Chandris Group. In 1997, Celebrity Cruises Ltd. merged with Royal Caribbean Cruise Line to form Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd., and has been a wholly owned subsidiary of the latter since then. The company has its headquarters in Miami, Florida. Celebrity’s signature logo is an “Χ” displayed on the funnel of Celebrity ships, and is the Greek letter chi, for “Chandris”.
Celebrity Solstice 2008 • 121,878 • GT 2,850 passengers • Refurb October 2021 – Celebrity Solstice is one of our most decorated ships at sea with a world of innovations. The first Lawn Club at sea. The first cruise line to have five women redesign its staterooms. Outstanding cuisine takes dining to a whole new level. Celebrity Solstice® also features Canyon Ranch Spa® and fitness center. Pamper yourself with spa treatments.
Celebrity Equinox 2009 •121,878 GT •2,850 passengers• refurb in 2019
Celebrity Eclipse 2010 •121,878 GT• 2,850 passengers• Refurb November 2020
Celebrity Edge 2018 •130,818 GT • 2,918 passengers – The Edge Class of ships was designed to shatter expectations. Featuring luxuriously designed rooms that erase the boundary between indoors and out, a cantilevered Magic Carpet SM soaring above the sea, and a collection of 29 world-class restaurants, bars, and lounges, Celebrity Edge has been voted Best New Ship by the editors of Cruise Critic.
Cunard Line is a British–American cruise line based at Carnival House in Southampton, England, operated by Carnival UK and owned by Carnival Corporation. Since 2011, Cunard and its ships have been registered in Hamilton, Bermuda.
In addition to the major lines listed above there are a number of smaller and often luxury cruise companies in the marketplace. They include:
Viking
Silver Seas
Seabourn. Who doesn’t love a ship on which your private minibar is pre-stocked with all your favorite brands of water, wine and spirits prior to your arrival?
SeaDream Yacht Club’s
Regent Seven Seas
Additional cruise lines include Azamara Cruises,P&O Cruises (America) andCosta Cruise Line that are European based cruise lines. P&O is based in England and is owned by Carnival Corp. Founded in 1977 as a subsidiary of a shipping line which was founded in 1837 and first operated a cruise ship in 1844 making P&O Cruises, along with its sister company in Australia the oldest cruise line in the world.
MSC Cruise Line Founded in 1970 MSC the Mediterranean Shipping Company, is now the 2nd largest ocean container carrier in the world. A European based company MSC Cruises launched in 1988 and has become one of the fastest growing cruise companies in the world, with a fleet of 16 ships currently in service. More and more MSC cruises are being offered out of U.S. ports primarily for trips to the Caribbean.
IndividualCruise Ships Ratings ★★★★★
In comparing one ship with another, generally it is a competition between superlatives. The following is a cruise ship rating list compiled in 2019 using three different rating articles and as you’ll see 4 and 5+ stars predominate. Lower priced lines and older cruise ships usually have slightly lower ratings but even those are excellent values with above average appointments and quality of service.
Costa Cruises Costa Deliziosa (2010) ★★★★+ Costa Diadema (2014) ★★★★ Costa Fascinosa (2012) ★★★+ Costa Favolosa (2011) ★★★+ Costa Fortuna (2003) ★★★ Costa Luminosa (2009) ★★★★ Costa Magica (2004) ★★★★ Costa Mediterranea (2003) ★★★ Costa Romantica (1993) ★★★+ Costa Pacifica (2009) ★★★★ Costa Smeralda (2019) ★★★★+ Costa Victoria (1996) ★★★+
Cunard Queen Elizabeth (2010) ★★★★★ Queen Mary 2 (2004) ★★★★★ Queen Victoria (2007) ★★★★★
Windstar Star Breeze (1989) ★★★★★ Star Legend (1992) ★★★★★ Star Pride (1988) ★★★★★ Wind Spirit (1988) ★★★★★ Wind Star (1986) ★★★★★ Wind Surf (1990) ★★★★★+
Royal Caribbean Adventure of the Seas (2001) ★★★★+ Allure of the Seas (2010) ★★★★★ Anthem of the Seas (2015) ★★★★★ Brilliance of the Seas (2002) ★★★★+ Empress of the Seas (1990) ★★★★ Enchantment (1997) ★★★★+ Explorer of the Seas (2000) ★★★★+ Freedom of the Seas (2006) ★★★★★ Grandeur of the Seas (1996) ★★★★+ Harmony of the Seas (2016) ★★★★★ Independence Seas (2008) ★★★★★ Jewel of the Seas (2004) ★★★★+ Liberty of the Seas (2007) ★★★★★ Majesty of the Seas (1992) ★★★★ Mariner of the Seas (2003) ★★★★★ Navigator of the Seas (2002) ★★★★+ Oasis of the Seas (2009) ★★★★★ Odyssey of the Seas (2020) ★★★★★ Ovation of the Seas (2016) ★★★★★ Quantum of the Seas (2014) ★★★★★ Radiance of the Seas (2001) ★★★★+ Rhapsody of the Seas (1997) ★★★★+ Serenade of the Seas (2003) ★★★★+ Spectrum of the Seas (2019) ★★★★★ Symphony of the Seas (2018) ★★★★★ Vision of the Seas (1998) ★★★★+ Voyager of the Seas (1999) ★★★★+
Overall, the cruise industry encompasses a wide range of options from budget-friendly to ultra-luxurious experiences, ensuring that there is something for every type of traveler.Cruise lines vary significantly in terms of their target demographics, experiences offered, and overall luxury levels. For instance:
Carnival Cruise Line
Carnival Cruise Line is known for its budget-friendly options and family-oriented activities, making it a popular choice for those looking for affordable vacations that still provide excellent dining and entertainment.
Royal Caribbean
In contrast, Royal Caribbean is recognized for its innovative ships that feature amenities like surf simulators and rock climbing walls, catering to a broad audience that includes families and adventure seekers. Its newest classes of ships are designed to be a destination in their own right.
Regent Seven Seas
For luxury cruise lines Regent Seven Seas Cruises offers opulent experiences, with some suites costing up to $11,000 per day, appealing to travelers seeking high-end accommodations and personalized service. Additionally, there are niche markets such as river cruises, which provide a more intimate experience and focus on cultural excursions along rivers.
Viking Ocean Cruises
Viking Ocean Cruises is renowned for its small fleet of ships that emphasize understated elegance and modern Scandinavian design, making it a preferred choice for travelers seeking a luxurious yet intimate cruising experience. The vessels are designed with a focus on exploration and comfort, accommodating around 930 passengers, which allows for a more personalized atmosphere compared to larger cruise lines.
Norwegian Cruise Line
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is renowned for its contemporary fleet and unique cruising experience. With 20 ships, NCL offers a versatile selection of vessels that cater to various preferences and styles of cruising. The company is particularly noted for its “Freestyle Cruising” concept, which emphasizes flexibility in dining and a wide array of onboard activities, allowing guests to tailor their vacation according to their desires.
Princess Cruises
Princess Cruises is a well-established American cruise line, part of the Carnival Corporation & plc, with its headquarters located in Santa Clarita, California. Since its inception in 1965, the company has aimed to create a personal and immersive travel experience for its guests, emphasizing that cruising should feel both welcoming and unforgettable.
The character of Princess Cruises is defined by its commitment to thoughtful service, which gives passengers a sense of familiarity and comfort, akin to coming home. This focus on personalized experiences is further enhanced through innovative technology, such as the Medallion app, which allows guests to tailor their journey according to their preferences and interests.
Holland America
Holland America Line is celebrated for its elegant cruising experience, characterized by exceptional service and a strong focus on personalized attention [1]. The crew is dedicated to ensuring that every guest feels valued, contributing to an extraordinary voyage from the moment they step on board [1]. With a rich history spanning 150 years, Holland America has established itself as a leader in the cruise industry, offering spacious and comfortable ships that blend modern amenities with a touch of old-world charm.
Disney Cruises
Disney Cruises offer a magical experience with beloved Disney characters featured prominently throughout the journey. Guests can meet iconic characters such as Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, and Goofy, who are available for photo opportunities and autographs on every cruise. Additionally, characters from Disney, Pixar, and Marvel appear in themed costumes that reflect the cruise’s theme, enhancing the immersive experience.
Each ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet, including the Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy, and Disney Wish, hosts character greetings at various locations, including deck parties and kids’ clubs.
Azamara Cruises
Azamara Cruises is recognized for its unique cruising experience that emphasizes personalized service and destination immersion. The fleet consists of four R-class boutique ships, which create an intimate atmosphere akin to small luxury hotels, catering to a maximum of 694 passengers per ship.
The onboard experience is characterized by a highly trained international staff dedicated to providing top-tier service, ensuring that guests feel well cared for throughout their journey Azamara focuses on “destination immersion,” allowing travelers to enjoy extended stays in port, often including evenings and overnights, which enhances the overall travel experience by fostering deeper connections with the destinations visited.
Virgin Voyages
Virgin Voyages is a unique cruise line that focuses on providing an adult-only experience, catering specifically to travelers aged 18 and older. The cruise line, a partnership between the Virgin Group and Bain Capital, aims to redefine luxury at sea with offerings that include gourmet dining, entertainment, and modern amenities.
A distinctive feature of Virgin Voyages is its incorporation of fictional characters, such as Scarlet, Valiant, Resilient, and Brilliant, who represent different aspects of the Sailor experience—passion, courage, resilience, and wisdom. These characters serve as visual symbols within the Virgin Voyages brand, enhancing the overall guest experience.
If you haven’t cruised before and aren’t sure what cruise line to select our advice is to talk to a local travel agent. Discuss your interests, budget and expectations with an agent as their expertise is well suited to helping you find the perfect cruise line and itinerary to meet your family’s needs.
Quick links to help you search for your next cruise
Cruising allows you to meet different people, explore many cultures, traditions and see amazing landscapes. Choose your destination and explore the cruise possibilities.
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Created by frequent cruisers for both novice cruisers and experienced cruisers alike. Take your time, explore this Cruise Life section, we think you’ll find it interesting.Created by frequent cruisers for both novice cruisers and experienced cruisers alike. Take your time, explore this Cruise Life section,
Created by frequent cruisers for both novice and experienced cruisers alike. Take your time, explore this Cruise Life section, we think you’ll find it interesting.
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From selecting the right itinerary, looking for information on ports of call or tips on selecting the right stateroom or saving money – find good advice in our Cruise Life section. Welcome Aboard!
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A Listing Of Most Cruise Ships In Service Today
Grand Class 2,600 passengers and 1,150 crew
Panamax-Class 1,970 passengers and 895 crew
The Intentional Travelers 