Premium vs Luxury Cruise Lines: Price, Inclusions & Differences

Choosing the right cruise line is more than just picking a ship — it’s about finding the experience that fits your style, expectations, and budget. Yes, even when booking a luxury or premium cruise line, it doesn’t always mean paying top dollar. But we’ll talk more about that later.

If you’ve been researching cruise options, you’ve probably come across several terms when comparing cruise lines, from “budget” and “mainstream” to “luxury” and “premium”. While most of us probably have a good grasp of budget vs mainstream cruise lines, in this article we wanted to explore the difference between luxury vs premium cruise lines.

We’ll break down the key distinctions, what you get at each level, and which type of cruise might be the best fit for your next voyage.

What is a premium cruise line?

Premium cruise lines offer an elevated experience compared to mainstream brands, with higher-quality dining, service, and accommodations — without reaching the price point (or exclusivity) of the popular luxury lines.

Popular premium cruise lines include:

Key Features of Premium Cruise Lines:

They are typically mid-sized ships, holding between 2,000–3,500 passengers
They have stylish, comfortable cabins with optional suite upgrades
Multiple dining options, including specialty dining restaurants
They have enrichment programs and a wide-variety of entertainment
Some included extras (but many are à la carte unless you pay for “the works”
The dress codes vary, ranging from casual and smart casual, to formal on some nights

Premium lines appeal to travelers who want a more refined experience than budget lines without the price tag of the premium lines.

What Is a Luxury Cruise Line?

Luxury cruise lines focus on delivering a personalized, all-inclusive, and ultra-comfortable experience. These ships are typically smaller, more intimate, and offer exceptional service, gourmet cuisine, and unique itineraries. Since these are often smaller ships, they are able to travel to unique ports where larger ships just won’t fit.

Popular luxury cruise lines include:

Key Features of Luxury Cruise Lines:

Smaller ships with typically less than 1,000 passengers
All-suite or all-balcony accommodations
Nearly all-inclusive pricing, with drinks, gratuities, Wi-Fi and even shore excursions
Personalized service, such as cabin butlers, concierge, etc.
Fewer crowds, more space per passenger
Unique or off-the-beaten-path itineraries – smaller ships get into less crowded ports
Sophisticated onboard atmosphere

Luxury cruises are ideal for those who want a worry-free, indulgent experience with everything included upfront.

“Luxury Lite”: Azamara Cruise Line
Now I have to give a shout-out to a unique line that is considered more “luxury lite”, and that’s Azamara Cruise Line, delivering an upper premium cruise experience with luxury touches. We traveled on the Azamara Pursuit on an Intensive Italy trip, and found aspects of the cruise that screamed luxury and others of course that were more premium.

Azamara’s ships are small, accommodating about 700 guests, and offer a more refined and intimate experience over most premium lines. They focus on “destination immersion” with longer stays and overnights in port, have attentive and personalized service, all with a quiet and elegant atmosphere geared towards seasoned travelers.

While their dining was excellent, it’s just not on par with ultra-luxury lines like Seabourn or Silversea. It’s not all-inclusive, though the deal we got did include all gratuities and a full beverage package. We’re always looking for a deal, even on more upscale cruise lines.

Side-by-Side Comparison

Feature	Premium Cruise Lines	Luxury Cruise Lines
Ship Size	Medium to large (2,000–3,500 guests)	Small to mid-size (200–1,000 guests)
Cabin Types	Inside to suites	All suites or balconies
Dining	Upscale, à la carte options	Fine dining, usually all-inclusive
Service Level	Attentive	Highly personalized (often includes butlers)
Included Extras	Limited (drinks, tips, Wi-Fi cost extra)	Nearly all-inclusive
Excursions	Available at additional cost	Often included or highly curated
Dress Code	Smart casual with optional formal	Resort elegant to formal
Average Cost per Night	$150–$350	$500+

Which One Should You Choose?

Choosing between luxury and premium cruise lines depends on your travel priorities:

Choose a premium cruise if you want elevated comfort and flexibility without going all-in on price. Great for frequent travelers, families with older kids, or couples looking for a mix of value and quality.
Choose a luxury cruise if you’re looking for a more intimate, curated experience where everything is handled for you — from champagne on arrival to off-the-beaten-path shore excursions.

Savings on Luxury and Premium Cruise Lines

Now in true MAK’n Waves fashion, there are deals to be found when cruising on both premium and luxury cruise lines. If you follow some of the same basic rules found in our 12 Cruise Hacks That Can Save You Money on Your Next Sailing, with a little bit of persistence and some “right place, right time”, there are some great deals to be had.

Book Early … or Very Late
- Early booking (9–18 months out) often unlocks the best availability and early-bird perks like free upgrades or onboard credit.
- Last-minute deals (30–90 days out) can be deeply discounted if the ship has unsold cabins — especially for flexible travelers.
Be Flexible with Dates and Itineraries
- Shoulder seasons (spring and fall) are generally less expensive than peak summer or holiday sailings.
Use a Cruise-Specialist Travel Advisor
- Advisors often have access to group rates, exclusive promotions, or extra perks (like onboard credit or free upgrades).
Book Onboard Through Future Cruise Desk
Look at the “Inclusive Value”, and Not Just the Price
- A luxury cruise might seem pricey at first, but factor in everything that’s included — excursions, drinks, tips, airfare, etc. – it might cost the same or less than a premium cruise once you add it all up.

Now if it’s your first cruise and you’re testing the waters, a premium line may be the perfect starting point. If you’ve cruised before and want to take things to the next level (or simply want to indulge with higher quality and less people), a luxury line is a great upgrade for you.

MAK’n It Work

When it comes to luxury vs premium cruise lines, the difference lies in the details — from ship size and service to what’s included in your fare. Premium cruises deliver a high-quality vacation with options to customize, while luxury cruises offer an all-in-one experience designed to pamper from start to finish.

Whichever route you choose, the right cruise line can turn a good vacation into a truly unforgettable one.