Marco Polo | ShermansTravel

Editor's note: Cruise & Maritime Voyages has ceased operations and is no longer in business.

Marco Polo is one of the oldest cruise ships still in operation, having celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2015. The ocean liner's long history began in 1965, when it was built by the Soviet Union’s Baltic Steamship Company as Alexandr Pushkin. Since then, it's passed through the hands of now-defunct Orient Lines, as well as Norwegian Cruise Line and Greek-owned Global Maritime, before finally making its way to Cruise & Maritime Voyages in 2010. It now sails from the UK and is designed to suit British travelers.

What We Love

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.

Best Known For

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.

Who It's Best For

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.

Don't Say We Didn't Warn You

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.)

Jane Archer

Deal Expert / Travel Blogger