The world's big cruise media authorities, like the Cruise Critic website, for example, rate ships based on their amenities (lectures quality, itinerary/destination, special/unique experience).
- 5,5 stars rating - a top luxury cruising, impeccable and highly personalized service, finest quality food & amenities; attention to detail, perfect maintenance, spacious accommodations, gourmet cuisine, highest level of service, authentic furnishings, top of the line fitness & spa facilities. 5 stars rating - a highest level of food/service in a premium cruising market, high quality meals, attentive service, well equipped staterooms (not necessarily large), list of cabin amenities includes bathrobes; butler service, public spaces are with beautiful decors. 4,5 stars rating - friendly decor, good maintenance, full range of onboard activities. 4 stars rating - best overall experience, above average food & service, satisfactory entertainment. 3,5 stars rating - an average overall experience, very small to large accommodations, good service, delicious food, kids facilities without dedicated areas, mediocre entertainment. 3 stars rating - modest experience on an older cruise ship, may not have balcony cabins, mediocre food & lack of proper service, expect interesting destinations/itineraries. 2 stars rating - the ship is comparable to a low-budget hotel, a major cruise ship refurbisment needed for major refit and renovation of public areas and staterooms, lousy service (the staff will only supply the most basic service), itineraries with little or not popular (cheap charges) ports of call.