Travel is . . .

. . .Travel is

A tale of two ships.

I spent four of the last seven days on two new cruise ships. Along with media from all over the country we toured and ate, listened to executives and explored the vessels. It was tiring, but it was fun and the ships? Both were amazing.

I spent Tuesday-Thursday on Seabourn Sojourn, a wonderful vessel and the newest addition to the Seabourn fleet. Earlier ships accommodated 200-something guests. While the new ship - and a sister, Seabourn Odyssey which debuted last year - still have that yacht-like wonderful intimacy, they feature space for 450 guests. Seabourn has long been a favorite for me. I've sailed to some spectacular ports, through South America, and at another time, New England and Canada, but the ship has always been the destination for me.

Seabourn Sojourn will leave Port Everglades for a 109-day world cruise in January. The all-suite ship is delightful. The decor is soothing. The Spa features the newest spa amenities and entertainment is low-key and superb. It is a famously gracious vessel.

Friday - Sunday were spent on Royal Caribbean's new Allure of the Seas, a sister ship to Oasis of the Seas, but five centimeters longer, (that's only two inches, but who's counting?)

The ship is a marvel - 26 places to dine, a dozen lounges, entertainment that ranges from an ice show to an aqua show, from a Broadway show to a parade of DreamWorks characters. Active travelers can choose from Zip Lines, FlowRiders or rock climbing and pools and sunning areas are plentiful.

The ship, which accommodates 5,400 guests, is dynamite and perfect for families and singles, for anyone who enjoys a shipboard vacation with amenities galore.

Both vessels are cutting edge. Technology and design are major components and once again indicate how varied the cruise industry really is.

Two very different ships, part of that proverbial something for everyone that is cruising in the 21st century. Check them out.