Posted on Monday, 10 March 2014

No mode of transport says ‘luxury' quite like a cruise ship - and few venues are better for celebrating a special occasion - however, with more cruise lines and ships than ever before, it's not easy to pick your ideal vessel. Here, we've selected five of the very best, based on cabins, facilities, excursions and service. So take out your single trip travel insurance, and get ready for the voyage of a lifetime!

Paul Gauguin – French Polynesia

The Paul Gauguin plies routes around the stunning Society Islands and French Polynesia. Dolphins, whales and a variety of marine animals are found in abundance in these waters.

All of the ship's suites and cabins offer ocean views - with most boasting a balcony too! Extensively renovated at the end of 2011, the Paul Gauguin is in excellent condition, attracting a large number of honeymooners and families celebrating retirements, anniversaries and other big occasions.

A butler service is available in suites of Category B and upwards. Authentic Polynesian entertainment can be enjoyed in the evenings.

Moorea Island in French Polynesia

Silver Spirit – Mediterranean, Caribbean South Pacific and South America

Despite the name, this ship caters to all age groups - not only to mature holidaymakers - and as such, the facilities cater to a wide range of tastes – especially when it comes to dining. A luxurious setting beckons in The Restaurant, while a more relaxed atmosphere is promised in the Stars Supper Club.

Specially trained butlers serve the ship's 270 ocean-view suites and cabins.

A Deck Party is invariably thrown on each warm weather cruise, adding to the very social atmosphere on board, while at the same time offering a real treat for the palate - suckling pig, shrimp and crab cocktail, salads and delicious desserts await.

Capri Island in Mediterranean

Seven Seas Mariner – Trans-Atlantic, Mediterranean, South America

As the first ship to offer balconies in every one of its suites and cabins, the Seven Seas mariner was a mould-breaker. Today, many other ships have been built in the same way, but this vessel is still one of the best in its class.

Aside from the balcony, visitors get a great deal more than usual from the line operator Regent. Cruise fares are all-inclusive, which means meals, drinks (including alcoholic ones), room service, mini bars and as many excursions as you want won't cost you any extra. This level of inclusivity is relatively unheard of in the cruise line business.

Celebrity Eclipse – Caribbean, Europe, and South America

Fancy cruising on aship that boasts the only half-acre patch of grass on the sea? Then the Celebrity Eclipse could be ideal for you. This spotlessly clean ship also offers an iLounge, an innovative internet cafe, an Apple Store, plus 1426 cabins, of which 1212 have balconies.

Evening entertainment offers something for everyone - and includes a glass blowing show. The ten on board restaurants offerAsian, French and Italian food, among others.

This is perfect for a special occasion, whether you're young or not-so-young.

Disney Magic – Mediterranean in Summer; Caribbean in Winter

Not surprisingly, the Disney Magic is ideal for family-friendly fun, with all manner of facilities to keep both adults and kids happy – though not necessarily while in the same part of the ship! The Little Mermaid nursery keeps younger passengers occupied, while teenagers can enjoy video games and films in Vibe. Four adult-only lounges ensure the grown-ups can get some peace and quiet - or not - especially if they visit the Rockin' Bar D.

Even passengers without children love this superbly-run and fun-centric ship. Ideal for a memorable celebration, whether you're ten or one hundred and ten!

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