Cruise vacations have become increasingly popular in the past decade, so throw those stereotypes overboard and find out why over nine million people took a cruise last year. What used to be reserved for the very rich is now within reach of most people who are considering a vacation. Of course, there are still high-end luxury trips out there, but they are no longer the norm in cruising.

Whether it's a fortnight away with the kids, a no-frills cruise around the Med or looking for love in St Lucia, the age of Julie McCoy and the Pacific Princess is no more. Cruises cater to all demographics from business conferences with a twist, to golfing fanatics and even nudists.

Cruises with a difference

Disneyland... on water? The crew are there to entertain the kids while you sit back and relax. Disney also has its very own Castaway Cay island complete with Flying Dutchman pirate ship from the film Pirates of the Caribbean. Unfortunately, Johnny Depp is nowhere in sight.

On a budget? EasyCrusie makes cruising around the Med and Caribbean affordable with its no frills service (there's no pool on the deck). The ship docks in port at night so you can partyuntil the wee hours. You can also jump on an existing EasyCruise liner where and when you like. Their target market is young people on a budget, so watch out if you're not looking for a booze cruise.

Looking for love or just a holiday fling? Try a singles cruise. What better way to meet Mr (or Ms) Right than being trapped at sea with hundreds of other singletons enjoying cocktail mixers and "speed meetings".

Adventure Cruises? Long gone are the days of ping-pong, shuffleboard and bridge tournaments as the only cruise entertainment going. Cruises now offer activities such as rock climbing, ice-skating, computer classes and on-board movie theatres.

Cost

Things to consider when looking at the price of a cruise include when you want to travel, where you want to go and the duration of the cruise. The cost of a basic cruise includes your passenger fare, onboard food, some free amenities and applicable taxes and port fees. Alcohol is not included in the basic cost, nor are tips and gratuities, some onboard services and shore excursions. 

Taking a cruise can still be a bargain when considered alongside similar land-based vacations. Before booking your passage, check the fine print carefully so that you understand exactly what is included in your fare. For even cheaper fares try cruise auction sites; Europe-based EasyCruise offer package deals on eBay with bids starting from as little as £1 GBP/$1.8 USD.

Choosing a cabin

Quality of accommodation is one of the main differences between cruise lines. Stateroom (cabin) size and location can vary substantially within the same price range on different ships. Luxury liners have much larger rooms than mainstream ships. The least expensive is the standard inside cabin. They are usually tiny and only have a shower. If you're just looking for somewhere to lay your head, this is a great option, claustrophobics and those who don't like jailhouse ambience may wish to shell out a little extra for an upgrade.

Often the only difference between outside ocean view cabins and inside cabins (apart from the price) is the window. Modern ships lean towards having large windows rather than portholes, however they also can't be opened. Porthole cabins tend to be on older ships and on the lowest decks and there isn't really a view.

Cabins with balconies have sliding glass doors so you can go outside. Balcony cabins are larger than the standard cabins, although most balconies are not big enough to lie down and sunbathe. If you want a larger balcony, look for cabins at the rear of the ship.

Suites are cabins with balconies and a separate sleeping and sitting area. Most also have bigger bathrooms with tubs. On luxury liners most cabins are suites.

Choosing the right cabin location is important unless you want to end up under the dance floor listening to the Macarena at two in the morning. The lower decks are the cheapest and have a smoother ride during rough seas; drawbacks include engine noise, being further away from amenities (i.e. the pool) and anchor noise. The higher decks are more expensive but nearer the pool and amenities. On smaller boats there may be more rocking, something to keep in mind if you are prone to motion sickness. Aft (back) cabins have less motion whereas bow (front) cabins are for those with real "sea legs" not to mention a strong stomach. Often bow cabins have balconies to take advantage of the boat's shape.