AIDAperla

AIDAperla is the younger of AIDA’s two Hyperion-class ships, entering service in 2017 as a twin to AIDAprima. Like her sister, she was built around the idea of a holiday that doesn’t depend on the weather: the Beach Club sits under a transparent foil dome with loungers, a pool and a warm, beachy feel, and the Four Elements zone adds waterslides and climbing. She is designed for German-speaking guests, with AIDA’s casual club-ship style, a large choice of buffet and à la carte restaurants and plenty for children to do. AIDAperla has sailed the Mediterranean, northern Europe and the Caribbean, so she suits winter-sun and summer trips alike.

Best for: German-speaking families who want a modern ship with all-weather pool space and plenty of activities.

AIDA Cruises is Germany’s largest cruise line and a German-language product from top to bottom: announcements, entertainment, menus and service are designed for guests from Germany, Austria and Switzerland. It runs casual, buffet-centered “club ships,” recognizable by the red lips painted on every bow. North Americans who don’t speak German will feel like outsiders, so this line suits German speakers and adventurous travelers who want an immersive European experience.