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These cruise lines have been recognized for their exceptional service, luxurious amenities, unforgettable experiences, and unparalleled customer satisfaction. So, without further ado, let’s embark on a journey to discover the best cruises lines, as chosen by our readers.
10 Best Cruises Lines According To Our Readers
Quickly learn about the 10 best cruise lines by checking out this short video, or read on to learn about each of the top cruises in more detail:
1. Royal Caribbean International (Winner)
Royal Caribbean International takes the top spot on our list and it’s no surprise why. With their innovative ships, thrilling onboard activities like rock climbing and surfing, Broadway-style entertainment, and world-class dining options, Royal Caribbean offers an unforgettable experience for all travelers. From Caribbean adventures to Mediterranean voyages, their itineraries cater to diverse interests, ensuring a truly remarkable cruise experience.
2. Viking Cruises
Last year’s winner gets knocked down to #2. Renowned for its elegant ships and immersive cultural experiences, Viking Cruises takes cruising to a whole new level. Offering destination-focused itineraries and smaller vessels that can navigate through picturesque rivers and stunning coastlines, Viking Cruises provides a more intimate and enriching journey. Impeccable service, enriching onboard lectures, and exquisite regional cuisine make each voyage with Viking a true exploration of culture and history.
Taking a cruise with Viking? Here are 11 Viking Cruise Line Secrets No One Tells You and 5 Important Things To Do To Prepare For Your Viking Cruise.
3. Holland America Line
Coming in third place, Holland America Line combines timeless elegance with modern amenities, appealing to discerning travelers seeking refined experiences. With a fleet of mid-sized ships, Holland America Line provides an intimate atmosphere and personalized service. From Alaska’s breathtaking glaciers to Europe’s captivating ports, their carefully curated itineraries offer a mix of iconic destinations and hidden gems. Culinary delights, engaging enrichment programs, and an array of entertainment options further elevate the onboard experience.
4. Princess Cruises
Princess Cruises has been enchanting passengers for decades with its dedication to exceptional service and a diverse range of itineraries. Known for luxurious ships, Princess Cruises offers a plethora of onboard activities, including world-class entertainment, gourmet dining, and rejuvenating spa experiences. Whether you’re sailing through the stunning fjords of Norway or exploring the tropical paradise of the South Pacific, Princess Cruises ensures a seamless vacation filled with unforgettable moments.
5. Celebrity Cruises
For those seeking a sophisticated and upscale celebrity cruises, Celebrity Cruises is a perfect choice. Combining modern luxury, stylish design, and exceptional service, their ships redefine elegance on the high seas. For foodies, Celebrity Cruises offers a variety of specialty dining options and culinary-centric onboard activities, including cooking classes and wine tastings. From the stunning beaches of the Caribbean to the iconic landmarks of Europe, itineraries cater to both relaxation and exploration.
6. Disney Cruise Line
A favorite among families, Disney Cruise Line ensures a magical and unforgettable vacation for both children and adults alike. Combining Disney’s signature entertainment, character meet-and-greets, and Broadway-style shows with world-class dining and exciting deck parties, Disney Cruise Line creates an immersive experience that transports guests into a fairy-tale world. From the Caribbean to the Mediterranean, their itineraries offer enchanting destinations and exceptional service that keeps visitors coming back for more. So if you want to spend some quality time with your children, this Disney family cruise is definitely for you!
7. Norwegian Cruise Line
Synonymous with freedom and flexibility, Norwegian Cruise Line offers a Freestyle Cruising experience that allows passengers to create their own perfect vacation. With a wide range of dining options, exciting entertainment choices, and a multitude of onboard activities, Norwegian Cruise Line ensures that every guest can tailor their experience to suit their preferences. Whether you’re looking for a thrilling adventure on the water slides or a peaceful retreat at the spa, Norwegian Cruise Line has it all. Their diverse itineraries, which span from the Caribbean to Europe and beyond, provide ample opportunities for exploration and discovery.
8. Carnival Cruise Line
Its lively and fun-filled atmosphere makes Carnival Cruise Line a top choice for those seeking a vibrant and energetic cruise experience. Carnival offers an array of exciting onboard activities, from water parks and thrilling waterslides to high-energy shows and lively nightclubs. Dining options cater to every taste and preference, ensuring a delightful culinary journey. Carnival Cruise Line’s itineraries cover a wide range of destinations, including the Caribbean, Mexico, and the Bahamas, promising sun-soaked adventures and unforgettable memories for all.
If you want to escape the crowd and are more into an intimate atmosphere, you could opt for a small ship cruise.
9. Virgin Voyages
Virgin Voyages’ trophy cabinet is not bursting with accolades in 2023 for nothing. Virgin Voyages’ approach to sailing is winning hearts left and right. Whether you’re looking to just switch off and relax, or you want to party the night away, its ships do have something for everyone. Well, not for everyone as all Virgin Voyages’ cruises are for adults only.
In addition to its presence in the Caribbean and the Bahamas, Virgin Voyages is now offering seasonal sailings in the Mediterranean and voyages to Australia and New Zealand. With its upscale atmosphere, Michelin-star chef-curated menus, and wellness activities, Virgin Voyages’ three-ship line stands out.
Book Now on Virgin Voyages
10. MSC Cruises
Being a major player in Europe for a while, MSC Cruises is growing fast in North America with a lineup of brand-new, mega-ships packed with amenities and activities tailored to woo more Americans.
Known for its Mediterranean-inspired elegance and diverse itineraries, MSC Cruises offers a blend of modern amenities and cultural experiences on its stylish cruise ships.
You’ll feel right at home on MSC Cruises’ new World, Meraviglia, and Seaside Class vessels if you’re a megaresort lover. Their ships can rival the biggest ones from the Royal Caribbean and Norwegian for their array of onboard amusements.
They also offer some of the lowest pricing among the world’s biggest ships.
Book Now on Expedia
Honorable Mentions
- Sea Cloud Cruises: Embodying the epitome of luxury executive sailing, Sea Cloud Cruises is renowned for its iconic tall ship, the Sea Cloud, offering a unique blend of timeless elegance, personalized service, and intimate voyages.
- Grand Circle Cruise Line: Focused on cultural immersion and small-ship exploration, Grand Circle Cruise Line caters to mature travelers, providing in-depth experiences and educational opportunities.
- Alaskan Dream Cruises: Offering intimate expedition cruises through Alaska’s scenic wilderness, Alaskan Dream Cruises provides small-ship adventures with a focus on wildlife, native culture, and personalized service.
- Oceania Cruises: Renowned for its luxurious and mid-sized ships, Oceania Cruises delivers a sophisticated cruising experience with gourmet dining, diverse itineraries, and an emphasis on destination exploration.
- Paul Gauguin Cruises: Specializing in celebrity cruises and South Pacific and French Polynesia voyages, Paul Gauguin Cruises provides a luxurious, all-inclusive experience on a smaller ship, blending comfort with exotic destinations.
Our readers have spoken, and these cruise lines have emerged as the top choices in the industry. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, cultural immersion, or family fun, these cruise lines have proven their excellence in providing exceptional experiences.
With their diverse itineraries, luxurious amenities, attentive service, and commitment to guest satisfaction, these cruise lines offer the perfect getaway for travelers of all ages and interests. Embark on a journey with any of these cruise lines and prepare to create memories that will last a lifetime. Bon voyage!
FAQs
Are Cruises Always ‘All-Inclusive’?
No, it depends on the cruise line and your specific deal. Although cruises are not always all-inclusive as standard, there are usually packages that you can purchase on top of your ticket which pretty much turn any cruise into an all-inclusive one.
Is Cruising Expensive?
Cruise fares range from extremely cheap sale prices to premium rates for fancy suites on luxury lines. However, when you factor in all of the costs you’d incur on a land vacation, you’ll discover that you can often save money by booking the right cruise line.
What Should I Wear on a Cruise?
It all depends on the length and type of your cruise. Casual sportswear is the order of the day both at sea and ashore in hotter climates. For evening dining, keep with what you would wear to a nice restaurant at home and at least one attire for a formal dining night.
What if I Get Seasick on a Cruise?
Today’s ships are extremely stable, which is why it’s unlikely you will get seasick. However, if you end up suffering from seasickness, there is always a medical center onboard stocked with motion sickness tablets, pressure bands, and injections if the feeling persists.
Which Cruise Destinations Are Most Popular?
The Caribbean and the Mediterranean remain hugely popular because of their accessible locations, predictable weather, and range of ports, but many possible destinations have seen a big increase in popularity in recent years. Namely Northern Europe, Alaska, and South America.
