If you somehow haven't noticed, cruising has evolved from a rather stuffy sort of sea voyage to a holiday that offers everything from genuinely fine dining from celebrity chefs, five-star accommodation to rival the great hotels and expeditions in far-flung corners of the globe — and a lot of amazing and surprising options in between.
Sailing the world's oceans today are cruise ships that vary in size from 50 passengers to 6000; that cater for young families, extended families, couples and singles from age 20 to 80, the budget-conscious, adventure-minded and well-heeled travellers.
Then there are river cruises that ply the waterways of Europe and, increasingly, south-east Asia, India and America, yet another way to travel to fascinating destinations comfortably, easily and safely.
"In recent years there has been a dramatic increase in ships visiting our shores," says Brett Jardine, general manager of CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association) Australasia, "which has meant that holidaymakers are seeing a constant parade of local and international ships."
This piques interest, and when people discover "the great value of a cruise holiday - wrapping transport, accommodation, meals and entertainment into one fare", they tend to come back again and again.
Yet scepticism persists. It's with that thought in mind that we've prepared a special guide, based on typical traveller personalities, to prove the point that these days there really is a cruise for everyone.
So check out our guide and see what sort of cruiser you could be - and find out what the whole world is talking about.
■ The Perfectionist
"Nothing but the best for me."
Five-star ships were made for you. They are "small" (251-750 passengers) or "mid-size" (751-1750 passengers), offer suite-style accommodation, stylishly decorated public spaces and fascinating itineraries. Cuisine is world-class and attention to detail throughout is paramount.
Try: Crystal Cruises, Oceania Cruises, Seabourn and Silversea for ocean cruises and APT, Avalon Waterways and Scenic for river cruises.
■ The Extrovert
"How many clubs are there?"
Modern, resort-style ships that have lots of bars, non-stop entertainment and clubs are perfect for those looking for fun, in groups, solo or couples. The ship often becomes as much the destination as the ports with on-board restaurants, state-of-the-art fitness centres and spas.
Try: Carnival Cruise Lines, Celebrity Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line and P&O Cruises.
■ The Busy Bee
"I can't stand the idea of being bored."
Choose an ocean cruise that has a short itinerary or plenty of port stops, physically challenging shore excursions and a ship that offers lots of on-board activities such as ice rinks, rock-climbing walls, flow-riders and huge sports courts.
Try: Royal Caribbean International, Carnival Cruise Lines and Hurtigruten for ocean cruises and APT, Evergreen Tours and Travelmarvel for river cruises.
■ The Traditionalist
"What's the point of an ice-skating rink on a ship?"
You can't get much more traditional than a trans-Atlantic cruise with Cunard's Queen Mary 2, which boasts the largest library and ballroom at sea, offers afternoon tea with white-glove service, and dressing for dinner is still de rigueur.
Try: Azamara Club Cruises, Cunard and Holland America Line for ocean cruises and APT, Botanica and Evergreen Tours for river cruises.
■ The Mind Expander
"When I travel I like to learn something."
Choose a cruise with destinations you want to learn about and a ship that offers quality "enrichment" activities such as jewellery-making, painting, sculpting, advanced photography or dance workshops.
Try: Cunard, Crystal Cruises, Holland America Line and Silversea.
■ The Romantic
"I love luxury, seclusion, individual style."
A few days relaxing in balmy, tropical French Polynesia on a small ship that caters for sophisticated grown-ups would fulfil your cravings - we're talking about the 332-passenger Paul Gauguin. Or you could embark on a traditional tall ship. Sea Cloud Cruises and Star Clippers operate ships that combine contemporary creature comforts with old-fashioned wind-power.
Try: The above mentioned or Celebrity Cruises, Crystal Cruises or Princess Cruises.
■ The Parent
"Keeping everyone from Grandpa to the toddlers happy is a big call."
Modern resort-style ships are ideal for a multi-generational holiday. Ships that carry from 1751-6500 passengers offer interconnecting and quad-share cabins, kids' clubs, adults-only pools and sun decks.
Try: Carnival Cruise Lines, Celebrity Cruises, Disney Cruise Line and P&O Cruises.
■ The Adventurer
"Take me far from the madding crowd."
Boutique, soft-adventure and expedition ships can take you to places of peace and solitude that are often accessible only by sea. Destinations that appeal include the Kimberley, the Russian Far East, Africa, Micronesia and the polar extremes, Antarctica and the Arctic.
Try: Aurora, Heritage, Adventure Associates, One Ocean Compagnie du Ponant and Hapag-Lloyd Cruises.
Cruising is boring
As a wise person said to me when I was a child, only boring people get bored. You can do as much or as little as you like on a cruise. Apart from stops in different ports, which you will have a day or more to explore, there are plenty of activities on board. Whether you enjoy a rigorous gym workout, relaxing in the sun with a cocktail and a good book or learning a new skill, there's bound to be something to suit. Check out what activities different cruise lines offer, before you book.
I'll feel trapped
Going on a cruise doesn't mean you are confined to a cabin. Whatever size ship you're on, it will have open deck space, lounges, restaurants, cafes, a pool or two, a spa, a theatre, a library and an internet cafe. Even when you're on a megaship with 3000 passengers, the ship is designed to ensure there's plenty of space for everyone. If you think you'll feel claustrophobic, book a cabin with a balcony. It costs a bit more, but is worth every extra cent.
Cruising is just for seniors
Cruises of eight to 10 days are increasingly popular with young families, couples and singles, and recent statistics from CLIA Australasia show that nearly half of all cruisers are under the age of 50. Multi-generational cruising is a fast-growing trend, but on the whole it's only well-heeled retirees who can afford longer and more expensive trips such as a world or grand cruise of 30 to 90 days.
Cruising makes you put on weight
If you're like most people, who can resist anything but temptation, be prepared to work off a few extra cruise kilojoules. Cruises offer opportunities to indulge in delicious meals and snacks all day (and half the night), so if you're likely to put on weight, make a deal with yourself to go to the gym, walk the decks, avoid the lifts or do whatever works for you. Meanwhile, try to avoid the buffet, remember that cocktails, wine and beer are loaded with sugar and don't bring any "big" clothes.
I'll get seasick
Modern ships have stabilisers and often you barely feel that you're sailing, but if you're prone to motion sickness, be prepared. The cabins in the middle of the ship are the most stable and spending time in the fresh air helps banish queasiness. Try drug-free remedies, such as ginger pills, green apples or acupressure wrist bands, or check with your doctor or pharmacist about medication or patches.