Cruises come is all sorts of shapes and sizes.From the mass market floating cities that pack them in and cruise the Med to the intimate, sail-powered Dahabiya cruise vessels on the Nile, there?s a cruise package and a range of destinations to suit almost anyone.Despite the prevailing economic environment, the ultra luxury cruise market continues to be robust, catering to modern, more affluent travellers often in partnership with the world’s most respected luxury brands.

Success in the very high end luxury cruise sector requires a fleet of ships purpose-built for the ultra-luxury market. They tend to be smaller, more intimate vessels that can slip into more exotic ports off the beaten path. Small is of course a relative term as these ships can accommodate up to 300 ? 400 guests in exquisite luxury.These elite vessels are designed for fewer guests, afford more cabin and suite space and deliver high levels of personal service with a typical crew to passenger ratio of 1:3.Despite their smaller overall size combined with larger and more luxurious dining space and accommodation, these vessels still incorporate the facilities found on larger ships, such as a show lounge for nightly entertainment, casino, spa and state-of-the-art fitness facilities. Entertainment is not glitzy and Vegas-style - more low-key but very high-class, in keeping with the sort of clientele these ships attract.

Silversea cruises is one company specialising in the ultra luxury cruise market born out of generations of maritime and travel experience. Established in the early 1990s, it operates some the highest quality ships in the ultra-luxury segment. The modern fleet of small, intimate ships have a very friendly onboard atmosphere and are ideal for the discerning guest who wants all-inclusive 5-star quality in an intimate and friendly environment. One word of warning though - the atmosphere and ambience onboard these vessels can be addictive.After a day or two you get so seduced by the pampering and the first-class service that when you reach a port of call it may be hard to actually leave the ship!