2009 could offer good deals

On the surface, it would seem as though cruise travelers have smooth sailing ahead. There are more ships than ever — including a 5,400-passenger Royal Caribbean ship to be launched this year — sailing to more regions of the world. And, with the exception of a pesky stretch of the Somalia coast, travel by sea is probably safer than it has ever been.

Yet with the economy doing an epic crash-and-burn, many would-be passengers are wondering if they can afford a cruise.

Here's a look at how the cruise year is shaping up:

Bad economy, good prices?

There's no place like a home port

U.S. river cruises dwindle

Last-minute deals

European cruises

Fuel charges up in smoke

Still some aloha

Size matters