Grand Circle Cruise Line Review: Cruise Ship Guide, Itineraries, Bookings & Deals

Grand Circle Cruise Line stands out in the world of cruising for its commitment to authentic travel experiences, cultural immersion, and exceptional value. With a fleet of small ships designed for exploration, Grand Circle offers travelers the opportunity to discover the world’s most fascinating destinations in comfort and style. The heart of the Grand Circle experience lies in its fleet of intimate and purpose-built small ships, each carefully crafted to provide a comfortable and immersive journey. Whether sailing along Europe’s scenic rivers or exploring remote corners of the globe, these vessels offer a cozy and welcoming atmosphere that feels like home away from home. With a capacity of just 50 to 200 passengers, Grand Circle ships provide an intimate setting where travelers can forge lasting friendships and enjoy personalized service from a dedicated crew.

In a Nutshell…

1. River Cruises: Grand Circle’s river cruise ships accommodate 86 to 162 passengers and sail on various European rivers, including the Danube, Rhine, Moselle, Main, Elbe, Rhone, and Seine .
2. Small Ship Cruises: Their small ships serve 24 to 98 passengers and offer itineraries covering destinations such as the Baltic states, British Isles, Mediterranean, Middle East, South Pacific, and Antarctica .
3. Privately Owned Small Ships: Grand Circle’s 50-passenger Mediterranean small ships, M/V Clio (89 passengers), and M/V Corinthian (98 passengers) are privately owned. This ensures meticulous management of every aspect of the voyage, from crew to meals, during trips to Europe, Antarctica, or the Middle East .
4. Intimate Experiences: With a focus on travelers over 50, Grand Circle provides impactful intercultural experiences worldwide .
5. Popular River Cruises:
   • The Great Rivers of Europe: A 16-day journey.
   • Romance of the Rhine & Mosel: Another 16-day exploration.
   • Eastern Europe to the Black Sea: A 14-day adventure .
6. Popular Land Tours:
   • Spain & Portugal in Depth: A 15-day exploration.
   • England, Scotland & Wales: A 16-day tour.
   • Impressions of Italy: The Amalfi Coast & Tuscany: A 16-day cultural experience .
7. Foundation and Giving Back: Grand Circle is committed to giving back through its Grand Circle Foundation, supporting communities around the world.
8. Award-Winning: Recognized as the #4 Best Intimate-Ship Ocean Cruise Line.
9. Freedom to Personalize: Grand Circle offers travelers the freedom to personalize their experiences.
10. Vacation Ambassador Referral Program: An opportunity for travelers to share their love for Grand Circle with others.

History of The Grand Circle Cruise Line Cruises

Grand Circle Cruise Line is a U.S.-based cruise line that has been providing unique and immersive travel experiences for over 60 years. The cruise line was founded in 1958 by Ethel Andrus, a retired schoolteacher who saw an opportunity to provide educational travel experiences to older adults. Today, Grand Circle Cruise Line operates a fleet of 10 ships, each offering a personalized and intimate cruise experience with a focus on adventure, exploration, and cultural immersion.

The first ship in the Grand Circle Cruise Line fleet was the M/S Explorer, which was launched in 1967. The ship was designed to offer a luxurious and immersive travel experience, with a range of amenities and activities, including a large outdoor pool, a spa and wellness center, a variety of dining options, and live entertainment. The M/S Explorer was also one of the first cruise ships to offer an onboard enrichment program, with lectures and presentations led by expert guides and local experts.

The second ship in the Grand Circle Cruise Line fleet was the M/S Discoverer, which was launched in 1976. The M/S Discoverer was designed to offer a similar travel experience to the M/S Explorer, with a focus on luxury and enrichment. The ship featured a range of amenities and activities, including a library, a fitness center, and a variety of dining options.

The third ship in the Grand Circle Cruise Line fleet was the M/S Corinthian, which was launched in 1990. The M/S Corinthian was designed to offer a more intimate and personalized travel experience, with a smaller number of passengers and a high staff-to-guest ratio. The ship featured a range of amenities and activities, including a spa and wellness center, a library, and a variety of dining options.

Over the years, Grand Circle Cruise Line has continued to expand and evolve its fleet of ships, with a focus on providing a unique and immersive travel experience. Today, the fleet includes 10 ships, each designed to offer a personalized and intimate cruise experience with a focus on adventure, exploration, and cultural immersion.

One of the standout features of Grand Circle Cruise Line is its commitment to providing a unique and immersive travel experience that showcases the best of local cultures and traditions. The ships are designed to offer a personalized and intimate cruise experience, with a focus on adventure, exploration, and cultural immersion. The ships feature a range of amenities and activities designed to provide a luxurious and comfortable vacation experience, including spacious cabins, attentive service, and a range of dining options.

The cabins on Grand Circle Cruise Line ships are comfortable and well-appointed, with modern amenities and tasteful decor. The cabins feature comfortable beds, private bathrooms, and air conditioning, as well as windows or balconies that provide guests with stunning views of the passing scenery. The ships also feature a range of cabin categories to suit different budgets and preferences, from cozy interior cabins to spacious suites with private balconies.

The dining experience on Grand Circle Cruise Line ships is exceptional, with a focus on regional cuisine and fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The ships feature a range of dining options, from casual buffets to formal, multi-course meals. The menus are designed to showcase the flavors and ingredients of the destinations the ship visits, providing guests with a unique culinary experience. The ships also offer a range of beverages, including fine wines, beers, and spirits, as well as soft drinks and coffee.

The entertainment options on Grand Circle Cruise Line ships are varied and engaging, with a focus on enrichment and cultural immersion. The ships offer a range of lectures and presentations, led by expert guides and local experts, providing guests with a unique insight into the history, culture, and traditions of the destinations they visit. The ships also offer a range of activities and excursions, including hiking, biking, and guided tours, providing guests with the opportunity to explore the destinations they visit in depth.

The ships’ staff is attentive and professional, ensuring that every guest is well taken care of and has a memorable experience onboard. The staff is knowledgeable and experienced, providing guests with a safe and comfortable journey. The ship’s crew is also passionate about exploration and adventure, providing guests with a unique and authentic travel experience.

Destinations of Grand Circle Cruise Line Cruises

Grand Circle Cruise Line: A Journey of Discovery

Grand Circle Cruise Line is dedicated to providing impactful intercultural experiences for American travelers over 50. Their mission is to change lives through travel, adventure, and discovery. Here’s a glimpse into what makes them unique:

1. River Cruises: Grand Circle’s river cruise ships, accommodating 86 to 162 passengers, navigate some of Europe’s most iconic waterways. These include the Danube, Rhine, Moselle, Main, Elbe, Rhone, and Seine rivers. Imagine gliding past medieval castles, charming villages, and vineyard-covered hills while savoring the rich history and culture of Europe .
2. Small Ship Cruises: For those seeking more intimate voyages, Grand Circle offers small ships that serve 24 to 98 passengers. These ships explore diverse regions, including the Baltic states, British Isles, Mediterranean, Middle East, South Pacific, and even Antarctica. Whether you’re tracing the footsteps of ancient civilizations or marveling at pristine wilderness, these small ship itineraries promise unforgettable adventures .

Destinations Explored by Grand Circle Cruise Line

1. The Great Rivers of Europe

• Duration: 16 days
• Highlights: Sail along the Danube, Rhine, and Moselle rivers, passing through picturesque landscapes, historic cities, and charming villages. Explore Vienna, Budapest, Cologne, and more.

2. Romance of the Rhine & Mosel

• Duration: 16 days
• Highlights: Immerse yourself in the romantic allure of the Rhine and Moselle valleys. Visit fairytale castles, vineyards, and quaint towns like Strasbourg and Cochem.

3. Eastern Europe to the Black Sea

• Duration: 14 days
• Highlights: Embark on a journey from Budapest to Bucharest, cruising along the Danube and exploring Bulgaria and Romania. Discover the vibrant cultures and ancient history of the Black Sea region.

4. Spain & Portugal in Depth

• Duration: 15 days
• Highlights: From Lisbon to Barcelona, experience the Iberian Peninsula’s rich heritage. Explore historic cities, taste local cuisine, and soak in the Mediterranean sun.

5. England, Scotland & Wales

• Duration: 16 days
• Highlights: Discover the British Isles’ captivating landscapes, from the Scottish Highlands to the charming villages of Cornwall. Explore Edinburgh, York, and the Lake District.

6. Impressions of Italy: The Amalfi Coast & Tuscany

• Duration: 16 days
• Highlights: Cruise along the Italian coast, stopping at iconic ports like Sorrento, Salerno, and Siracusa. Explore the Amalfi Coast, Pompeii, and the rolling hills of Tuscany.

Conclusion

Accommodations aboard Grand Circle ships are designed with comfort and convenience in mind. From well-appointed cabins with panoramic views to spacious suites with private balconies, every stateroom offers a cozy retreat after a day of exploration. Guests can relax and unwind in their own private oasis, complete with modern amenities and thoughtful touches that enhance the onboard experience.

Dining aboard Grand Circle ships is a culinary journey that celebrates the flavors of the destinations visited. Each meal is carefully prepared by talented chefs using locally sourced ingredients, creating a menu that reflects the culture and traditions of the region. Whether savoring traditional cuisine in the ship’s elegant dining room or enjoying a casual meal on the sun deck, guests can expect delicious and memorable dining experiences throughout their voyage.

In addition to exceptional dining, Grand Circle offers a variety of onboard activities and enrichment programs designed to enhance the travel experience. From engaging lectures and cultural performances to hands-on cooking demonstrations and language classes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Guests can also take advantage of the ship’s amenities, including fitness centers, libraries, and lounges, or simply relax and soak up the scenery from the comfort of the observation deck.

One of the highlights of a Grand Circle cruise is the opportunity to explore destinations off the beaten path and immerse oneself in the local culture. With carefully curated shore excursions led by knowledgeable guides, travelers can discover hidden gems, meet local artisans, and gain insight into the history and traditions of each port of call. Whether exploring ancient ruins in Greece, sampling wine in France’s Bordeaux region, or cruising through the majestic fjords of Norway, every day brings new adventures and unforgettable experiences.

Grand Circle Cruise Line also prides itself on its commitment to responsible travel and sustainable tourism practices. The company works closely with local communities to minimize its environmental impact and support conservation efforts in the destinations it visits. From reducing waste and carbon emissions to supporting local charities and initiatives, Grand Circle is dedicated to preserving the planet for future generations to enjoy.

In conclusion, a cruise with Grand Circle Cruise Line offers travelers a unique opportunity to explore the world in comfort and style. With its intimate ships, authentic experiences, and commitment to responsible travel, Grand Circle provides a truly immersive journey that leaves a lasting impression. Whether sailing through Europe’s picturesque waterways or venturing to remote corners of the globe, guests can expect a memorable and enriching travel experience with Grand Circle Cruise Line.

– Reviewed by Contributing Author Silvester Thomson

Pin to Pinterest

Enjoyed this guide? Help others find it too! Share the following Pinterest pin to your Pinterest account, by simply clicking on the top left corner. And Remember: Sharing is Caring !

^{N.B. – The information on this review has been compiled by contributing author and Cruise Expert Silvester Thomson for thedigitalglobetrotter.com and is provided “as is” for the convenience of online readers. The Sources come from personal opinions, online research on official and unofficial websites, and in some cases with the help of AI generated content. It should not be taken as fact, as it can be mistaken or altered by future ship modifications from the cruise line done after review. Thedigitalglobetrotter.com does not and cannot verify all information and should not be taken as granted fact. All readers must take measures to find reliable facts by their travel agent or from the official page of the cruise line to verify any doubts.}

* Some links posted in this article may represent an advertisement that provides a small compensation to the website owner