6 Best Ships for Onboard Learning

There are a number of reasons why people go on cruises, but only a handful of passengers go for the educational experiences onboard. The smaller vessels are far more equipped and have a much more educated clientele than do most of the larger ships when it comes to instruction and education onboard.


American Queen (Majestic America)

Although most Mississippi River cruises are populated by gamblers, the American Queen is more populated by historians. Civil War battlefields in Minnesota, Iowa, Illinois, and Missouri are frequent visitor favourites, while Mark Twain fans can relive his childhood in his own hometown. Even Native American and Amish farms are evident along the scenic itinerary. And there is always the prides of Iowa, the John Deere mansions.


MV Mozart (Peter Deilmann)

Classical music fans agree that the best place to study and hear it is right at the source of the composers' inspiration, on the Danube River. Daytime sightseeing of such relics as concert theatres and famous pianos (such as the one belonging to Beethoven), and evening classical music concerts are just what each passenger enjoys.


Oberoi Zahra (Oberoi Hotels)

This small ship which cruises the Nile River includes both Thai massages for your body and an onboard Egyptologist for your brain. Unlike the other Nile cruise ships, the Oberoi Zahra sails for a full week at a much more leisurely pace. Even each guide isn't for the entire ship of 54 passenger, but instead stay with just 6 people or so per guide. And specific to this ship is a stop at Dendarah Temple.


Queen Mary II (Cunard)

Certainly the largest of the educational vessels, the Queen Mary II have rotating guests that travel onboard as guests of the cruise line. Famous novelists, scientists, bridge lecturers, and planetarium workers abound onboard this especially lovely and massive vessel. Even London's Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts hosts a special onboard acting class for those wishing to participate.


River Countess/Dutchess (Uniworld)

Eastern European rivers are not ignored by these exciting ships which travel longer itineraries and to far more countries than do the others. Local universities provide lecturers on Eastern European history.


Seven Seas Mariner (Regent Seven Seas)

This particular cruise ship has a worldwide itinerary, and world-class educational experiences ranging from photography to yoga to French cuisine. Classes and lectures range from food and wine to architecture and onward to literature. Unfortunately, though, some of the classes have fees, but they are well worth it when you see who is teaching them and the quality of small group education that you receive.

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