A guide to major cruise ships, and cruise lines. It provides information on: vital statistics; on-board attractions; travel necessities; and, ports of call.

Pelican�s luxury-travel expert Steven B. Stern completely updates this guide each year to provide the most current and accurate descriptions of nearly 300 cruise ships. These listings include not only Alaskan, Mediterranean, and Caribbean cruises but also offbeat destinations like European barge trips and more. Every new edition also contains actual shipboard menus, activity schedules, price categories, and hints on how to best enjoy an eight-hour stay in port.

“The extent of detail given . . . is good not only for the novice cruiser finding their way around . . . but also for the veteran cruiser who wants to know the latest about the newest ships.” “This is the book with which to gain a full and thorough understanding of the wonderful world of cruising. Repeat cruisers and novices alike will gain from the volume of features, menus, daily schedules, photos, as well as details on every cruise ship and port of call throughout the world. This should be the encyclopedia for any cruise aficionado” (World of Cruising). “People who’ve never cruised before or those who have but find themselves faced with a confusing onslaught of new ships need to know a great deal, and this book goes a long way in providing it” (Chicago Tribune). “Stern’s Guide to the Cruise Vacation is one of the most comprehensive authorities and a must-have for both the novice and the seasoned cruiser” (Porthole Cruise Magazine).

This valuable guide assists you in selecting the ship best suited to your taste, advises you on how to prepare for your cruise, and explains what to expect once you are onboard. Stern discusses every major port of call worldwide, listing details on attractions, beaches, hotels, restaurants, shopping, sports, and other recreation. He also includes guidelines on how to make the most of an eight-hour stay in port.