A cruise holiday is no longer the preserve of the wealthy. There are a host of lines and itineraries that offer wonderful experiences without guests having to break the bank.

The Saga spirit

Saga Cruises has continuously pushed the boundaries for on-board experience while giving great value for money. What’s more, it’s preparing to welcome the first of two new-build ships, Spirit of Discovery, in July 2019 and Spirit of Adventure next August. These ships will be fully inclusive from 2020 and promise, among other things, unlimited selected drinks, wifi, unlimited tea, coffee and fruit juices in selected venues and Saga’s renowned nationwide chauffeur service. The four-night Escape to the Continent itinerary, leaving 19 April 2020 on Spirit of Discovery, is priced at £871pp.

Marella magic

Marella Cruises labels itself as one of the most affordable, friendliest services afloat, with an experience that’s tailored to the UK market. However, while it strives to keep its prices as low as possible, it leaves no stone unturned when it comes to providing a spectacular cruising experience – particularly when it comes to entertainment and its spa offering. What’s more, Marella Dream and Marella Celebration recently joined the rest of the fleet as all-inclusive ships. The 11-night Caribbean Escape cruise, sailing on Marella Celebration, departs 10 November 2019. Prices from £1,019pp.

Culture vultures

With Celestyal Cruises, it’s all about cultural immersion. Its strong focus in the Aegean, on mid-sized ships, means it has become a destination expert. The Celestyal Inclusive Experience also promises flexibility with its “must-see” excursions. The Suite Concierge Service, introduced in 2018, provides extra benefits to suite guests such as complimentary room service. Prices for a seven-night Cruise Eclectic Aegean sailing on Celestyal Crystal, visiting six destinations, start at £829pp.

The Avalon way

Avalon Waterways has managed to carve out a niche of ‘relaxed luxury’ – open-air balconies, but no white gloves or black ties, for example – and an extremely well-respected programme of excursions, Avalon Choice. Guests can choose between Discovery, Active and Classic excursions, ranging from cooking classes and kayaking trips to perfume-making sessions, included in the price. Avalon cruises also include full board à la carte dining with wine and beer at lunch and dinner, gratuities and wifi. An eight-day Central European Experience river cruise, departing 5 August 2020, is priced at £2,107pp, cruise only.

Emerald value

The main reason why Emerald Waterways takes a spot in this list is its Emerald value promise. This provides on-board tips, return transfers between airport and ship and return flights in the overall price, as well as a selection of drinking and dining options. Local tours, guided bicycle rides and hikes are also included. In addition, the line launched a loyalty scheme last year –  Emerald explorer – to offer repeat guests exclusive benefits. A Porto to Porto round trip, departing 4 April 2020, starts at £1,745pp.

CMV class

If guests want more traditional cruises on smaller ships, there are few better than Cruise & Maritime Voyages. The line, with six ships in the fleet, has a robust base of repeat cruisers and places a strong emphasis on cultivating guest relationships. A range of meals, drinks entertainment and daytime activities is included in the basic fare, but CMV also has its Additions Packages, which can be used to add, for example, a 50 per cent discount on premium alcoholic drinks. The line is also known for its themed sailings. The 11-night Iceland & Land of the Northern Lights, on Astoria, is priced from £989pp, departing 25 October 2019.