Marco Polo

Classic Design: Marco Polo was built in the days when ships looked the part, with classic lines and teak decks. A deep draft helps with stability, and because the vessel accommodates just 800 passengers, it is small enough to nip in and out of harbors that big ships have to pass by.

British Embarkation Ports: Marco Polo sails roundtrips from seven ports in the UK, making it an especially great choice for Brits who want to forgo the hassle of airports and for Americans who want to extend their stay overseas.

Wallet-Friendly Fares: These cruises are always low cost but, on top of that, they are usually on sale, too. Keep an eye out for either a 50 percent discount or a buy-one-get-one-half price deal.

Retirees and Other Older Cruisers: British travelers aged 65-plus who like formalities such as assigned seating and formal nights, will feel right at home here, where entertainment includes guest speakers from the UK and comedians from TV shows popular 30 to 40 years ago. Children under 16 are not allowed on board.

This Is Not a New Ship: Cabins are compact and mostly configured with twin beds, and there are no modern cruise "must-haves," such as balconies, speciality restaurants, and ship-wide Wi-Fi. (Internet connection is available only in the reception area.)