This distinctive cruise line was founded by Frank Del Rio and Joe Watters, cruise-industry veterans with the know-how to satisfy the wants of inquisitive passengers. By offering itineraries to interesting ports of call and upscale touches -- all for fares much lower than you would expect -- they are succeeding quite nicely. Oceania Cruises set sail in 2003 to carve a unique, almost boutique niche in the cruise industry by obtaining mid-size R-class ships that formerly made up the popular Renaissance Cruises fleet.

Socializing plays a more important role in your lifestyle than boogying the night away.

You love to read. These ships have extensive libraries that are ideal for curling up with a good book.

You have a bad back. You're sure to love the Tranquility Beds.

You like the action in a huge casino. Oceania casinos are small, and seats at a poker table can be difficult to get.

You won't take a cruise without your children. Most passengers book with Oceania anticipating a kid-free atmosphere.

Glitzy production shows are your thing. Oceania's showrooms are decidedly low-key.