By this we mean a relatively small group of vessels that carry 500-1200 passengers each : but despite its small size the group is a very disparate one. It incorporates some very special ships in the ultra-luxury category, that offer top levels of food and service alongside resort style facilities.

It also incorporates some vessels that are clinging on from the days prior to the modern cruise industry, when the phrase “economies of scale” was not on the lips of every cruise executive.

In addition, there are a few companies operating modern, well-priced ships in this bracket for those who are reluctant to join the modern-day behemoths. Medium sized ships tend to offer longer itineraries and more interesting destinations. They may be necessarily less intimate and personal than the smaller ships, and less facility-laden than the bigger ships, but there are nevertheless some superb cruises to be had in this category.