Passenger expectations on the best luxury cruise lines can be very high. One way in which stellar service is accomplished is through a 2 to 1 staff to passenger ratio. For every two passengers on board, there is one highly trained crew member ready to provide friendly, prompt and unobtrusive service. Butlers are a common amenity in suite accommodations and concierge-style services are usually available to all guests. Staff are expected to remember not only your name, but an entire array of personal preferences. On the most luxurious cruise ship, you shouldn't have to ask for anything twice.

Among the luxury cruise lines, you'll find a host of prestigious and extraordinary ships. Spacious and un-crowded, you may feel as though you're on your own private yacht as you'll sail with as few as 100 other passengers, while the larger luxury cruise ships can hold as many as 900. This is significantly less than can be found on contemporary and premium ships, where 1,500 - 3,000 other passengers may be on board. Cabin accommodations are much larger than in the contemporary market, with the smallest rooms usually being twice as large as standard accommodations on other ships and most with private balconies.

One of the major differences on the most luxurious cruise ships are the stateroom accommodations. Many luxury cruises are all-suite vessels, many with private balconies. In addition to more square footage, suites can have sleek and elegant interiors, large walk-in closets, marble bathrooms with twin sinks and bathtubs with Jacuzzis, and large sitting areas with coffee tables that convert to a dining table for intimate meals served course by course by room service. You may also find upgraded mattresses, high quality sheets and bedding with down duvets; frette bathrobes; in-room internet access; complimentary mini-bar; personalized stationery; and same day laundry and dry-cleaning. Some suites, depending on the category may also have butler service.

Luxury cruise itineraries travel off the beaten path with lengthy itineraries from 14-30 nights visiting the most exotic ports on earth. Of course, luxury travelers can take a luxury Caribbean cruise or visit Alaska and Europe where many other cruises go, but you shouldn't be surprised by sold-out sailings to the Orient, Africa, South America and the South Pacific. Luxury cruise lines even offer around-the-world cruises.