Ease of Use:  

The well-defined categories and links make CruiseDirect.com efficient and computer-novice friendly. Each page includes a shortcut list to allow users to find information quickly and skip to different areas of the site.

Once you find the cruise you're looking for, information fields and drop-down lists guide you through the booking process, making it understandable and stress-free.

Feature Set:  

CruiseDirect.com doesn't include some of the basic features we like to see such as a low price guarantee and price protection. Though we missed seeing a collection photographs and virtual tours of the destinations, we were quite impressed with some other features.

CruiseDirect.com has a shore excursion page and sign-up process that sets it apart-it's the best we've seen. Once you find the right cruise you're looking for in the excursion search menu, simply click on the cruise and you'll receive a complete list of all of the excursions offered. The list includes pictures, price listing and a detailed paragraph about each excursion.

This website features a "Travel Essentials" list that includes helpful information as well as an online store where you can purchase maps, books and other cruise related items.

Occasionally CruiseDirect.com offers bonus trips when you book a cruise, such as a free three day/two night getaway-this is a nice perk, giving you something to look forward to aft er your cruise.

Search Capabilities:  

CruiseDirect.com offers an assortment of search options including: destinations, departure ports, cruise lines, ships, departure dates and cruise lengths.

You can search for articles and books about cruising and the Caribbean by selecting the "Books & Maps" link under the "Travel Essentials" column. CruiseDirect.com offers a wide variety of books and maps, but be prepared to pay for them. We would like to see more free online information on the Caribbean and travel.

Ease of Booking:  

Booking a cruise on CruiseDirect.com is straightforward, but top-ranked cruise services offer more concise booking forms. After you have booked the cruise you want, an itinerary overview allows you to preview the entire package to see that everything is correct.

Help/Support:  

CruiseDirect.com offers email support, a FAQs page and a toll-free number every day from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. EST. The website also offers live chat so you can get help instantly, right from your computer. The live chat representative was polite, helpful and responded quickly.

If you're feeling adventurous you'll want to pay a visit to CruiseDirect.com, the lengthy shore excursions they offer with each cruise will fill your days with safari, water activities and tours. CruiseDirect.com has an efficient website and stellar customer service to help you plan your next vacation.