Follow
Subscription Form

Top 5 Best Cruise Lines for the Money

A vacation at sea can often be of better value than a land-based trip since lodging, food, and…
Top 10 Cruise Ship In The World

A vacation at sea can often be of better value than a land-based trip since lodging, food, and entertainment are all included in one price—if you choose carefully. To help you get the best value for your money, U.S. News ranked cruise lines using a method that considers itinerary costs, including amenities, health ratings, and feedback from experts and travelers. Keep reading to discover this year’s top cruise lines for the best value, and don’t forget to check out the latest cruise deals for an even more affordable vacation.


1. Virgin Voyages

Top 10 Cruise Ship In The World

Virgin Voyages, created by British entrepreneur Richard Branson, is a trendy, adults-only cruise line that offers a unique experience compared to other cruises. According to many passengers, it delivers something different in a great way. Virgin Voyages’ ships feature a sleek, superyacht-inspired design, upscale dining options, free Wi-Fi, stylish staterooms, and wellness activities. The fleet includes four ships: Scarlet Lady, Valiant Lady, Resilient Lady, and the upcoming Brilliant Lady (set to debut in 2024). They sail to the Caribbean, Europe, and the South Pacific destinations, departing from ports like Miami, San Juan, Barcelona, Athens, Dubai, Singapore, Melbourne, and Auckland. Itineraries range from two to 15 nights.

Virgin Voyage passengers can enjoy various amenities, including stylish pools with lounge seating, group workout classes, unique evening performances, and more. Food lovers will appreciate the 20+ dining venues and specialty bars, with sodas, drip coffee, and other “essential drinks” included in the cruise fare. Shore excursions, called “Shore Things,” offer exciting activities like snorkeling and exploring Mayan ruins in Mexico, cultural tours and beach club relaxation in the Bahamas, or scenic bike rides and food tastings in Corfu, Greece. These excursions may change based on the season, weather, and availability.

U.S. News Insider Tip: One thing to know about Virgin Voyages is that all four ships are almost identical and have the same layout. This makes it easy to choose a cruise based on the dates and itinerary you prefer without comparing different ships or amenities. – Holly Johnson, Contributor


Pros & Cons

  • Adults-only cruise line with brand-new ships
  • Focus on food, wellness, and technology (including free Wi-Fi)
  • Unique evening entertainment options
  • High-tech features may not appeal to traditional cruisers
  • New line means there are fewer ships to choose from
  • No traditional buffets on board

Explore Photos

Top 10 Cruise Ship In The World
Resilient lady
Top 10 Cruise Ship In The World
Scarlet lady
Top 10 Cruise Ship In The World
Valiant lady

2. Celebrity Cruises

Top 10 Cruise Ship In The World

Passengers and experts highly rate Celebrity Cruises for its elegant design and creative cuisine. The fleet departs from U.S. cities like Honolulu, Miami, Boston, and Seattle. You can choose a smaller ship like Celebrity Xpedition, which carries 48 passengers, or a larger ship like Celebrity Beyond, which holds up to 3,260 guests.

No matter which ship you pick, you’ll receive excellent customer service, with around one crew member for every two passengers. Celebrity ships sail worldwide, stopping in popular places like Asia, Europe, and the Caribbean. Voyages last from three to 18 nights, with excursions depending on the trip length and itinerary.

Onboard, you’ll find plenty to do, from wine workshops to glassblowing classes and relaxing spa treatments. Enjoy options like the Main Restaurant and specialty venues throughout the fleet.

U.S. News Insider Tip: Download the Celebrity Cruises app a few weeks before your trip to maximize its features, like scanning your passport and selecting an arrival time. Onboard, the app lets you start your safety briefing, chat with loved ones, book dining and excursions, track spending, and manage your daily schedule. On Edge Series ships, the app can also control your stateroom’s TV, lighting, temperature, and window shades. – Skye Sherman, Contributor.

Pros & Cons

  • Access to exclusive events and promotions through the Captain’s Club rewards program
  • Cost-saving packages available for specialty restaurants
  • Wide roster of kids and teens activities
  • Must purchase a beverage package (or stay in select suites) for unlimited soft drinks and alcoholic beverages
  • Cruise fares do not cover shore excursions.
  • More limited onboard offerings for adults compared to some other cruise lines

Explore Photos

Top 10 Cruise Ship In The World
Celebrity beyond
Top 10 Cruise Ship In The World
Celebrity edge
Top 10 Cruise Ship In The World
Celebrity apex
Top 10 Cruise Ship In The World
Celebrity silhouette
Top 10 Cruise Ship In The World
Celebrity eclipse
Top 10 Cruise Ship In The World
Celebrity equinox
10 Best Cruise Lines For The Money
Celebrity solstice
10 Best Cruise Lines For The Money
Celebrity millennium
10 Best Cruise Lines For The Money
Celebrity summit

3. Princess Cruises

Top 10 Cruise Ship In The World

Princess Cruises became famous for its role in the 1977 TV show The Love Boat, but it has since continued to impress with exciting onboard activities and flexible itineraries. The cruise line’s fleet of 15 ships sails to destinations like Alaska, Mexico, Europe, Hawaii, and the Caribbean, departing from U.S. cities such as Los Angeles and Fort Lauderdale. Depending on your preferences, you can choose between midsize and larger ships.

No matter the ship, you’ll experience a refined atmosphere and personalized service, with about one crew member for every two or three passengers. Cruises range from two to 116 days and offer activities like stargazing with experts, stage shows, and “Movies Under the Stars” screenings by the pool.

There are plenty of shore excursions when the ship docks, from sightseeing in Barcelona, Spain, to rum tastings in Barbados. If you want more time to explore on land, some sailings include Cruisetours, which allow you to extend your trip with a few extra nights before or after your cruise.

Pros & Cons

  • Flexible dining times and a variety of culinary options
  • Wheelchair-accessible cabins are available, with special features like lowered closet railings and bath distress alarms
  • Groups can coordinate their travel plans with Celebration Group packages
  • Cruise rates do not cover some onboard amenities
  • High-capacity ships can usher in heavy crowds
  • Shore excursions can be pricey

Explore Photos

Top 10 Cruise Ship In The World
Sky princess
Top 10 Cruise Ship In The World
Regal princess
Top 10 Cruise Ship In The World
Enchanted princess
Top 10 Cruise Ship In The World
Ruby princess
Top 10 Cruise Ship In The World
Crown princess
Top 10 Cruise Ship In The World
Majestic princess
Top 10 Cruise Ship In The World
Caribbean princess
Top 10 Cruise Ship In The World
Emerald princess
Top 10 Cruise Ship In The World
Coral princess
Top 10 Cruise Ship In The World
Diamond Princess
Top 10 Cruise Ship In The World
Island princess
Top 10 Cruise Ship In The World
Sapphire princess

4. Royal Caribbean International

Top 10 Cruise Ship In The World

Despite its name, Royal Caribbean International offers cruises to over 270 destinations across 61 countries on all seven continents. You can sail to popular spots like the Caribbean and Mexico or explore places like Alaska, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand.

Depending on your itinerary, you can enjoy local cuisine, join a sightseeing tour, or go snorkeling on shore excursions. Royal Caribbean ships depart from various U.S. ports, including Seattle, Boston, and Fort Lauderdale, as well as numerous international locations. Cruises typically last from two to 28 nights, with the option of The Ultimate World Cruise, a 274-night journey covering all seven continents.

With a fleet of 28 ships (and two more on the way), Royal Caribbean offers a range of options. Smaller ships like Rhapsody of the Seas hold about 2,400 guests, while larger ships like Allure of the Seas and Oasis of the Seas can carry over 6,700 passengers each, and the upcoming Icon of the Seas will hold up to 7,600! Each ship has around one crew member for every three passengers and features a variety of dining options and activities for all ages, including kids’ programs and adults-only pool areas.

Pros & Cons

  • Numerous ships and destinations to choose from
  • Onboard amenities cater to cruisers of all ages
  • Wide variety of onboard dining options, including specialty dining packages
  • Some beverages cost extra.
  • High-capacity ships may feel crowded, especially around the holidays.
  • Shore excursions are not covered in cruise rates

Explore Photos

Top 10 Cruise Ship In The World
Odyssey of the seas
Top 10 Cruise Ship In The World
Symphony of the seas
Top 10 Cruise Ship In The World
Wonder of the seas
Top 10 Cruise Ship In The World
Allure of the seas
Top 10 Cruise Ship In The World
Harmony of the seas
Top 10 Cruise Ship In The World
Adventure of the seas
Top 10 Cruise Ship In The World
Ovation of the seas
Top 10 Cruise Ship In The World
Vision of the seas
Top 10 Cruise Ship In The World
Navigator of the seas

5. Holland America Line

Top 10 Cruise Ship In The World

Holland America Line caters to affluent adults with midsize ships that accommodate 1,432 and 2,668 guests. Each ship offers top-notch service, with two to three crew members per passenger. Holland America’s ships sail to various destinations, including Australia, Mexico, the Caribbean, Canada, Southeast Asia, Europe, South America, and Antarctica. Cruises depart from U.S. cities like Boston, Fort Lauderdale, and San Diego and can last anywhere from one to 128 days.

Onboard, you can enjoy enrichment programs such as digital photography workshops, cooking demonstrations, and mixology classes. For fitness enthusiasts, there are spin and Pilates classes, followed by a relaxing spa experience. Shore excursions, which vary by itinerary, are generally geared toward adults and offer activities like animal encounters, bike tours, and helmet diving.

At Holland America, dining is a delightful experience designed to cater to your preferences. Whether you prefer a leisurely five-course meal in the main Dining Room, a seafood feast in the Pinnacle Grill, or the convenience of 24-hour room service, the choice is always yours.

U.S. News Insider Tip: Booking non-repeating, back-to-back Collectors’ Voyages is an excellent way to explore multiple areas of a region and visit several countries on a single cruise.Jill Schildhouse, Contributor

Pros & Cons

  • Smaller guest capacities make ships feel spacious
  • Around-the-world voyages available
  • Cruisers praise friendly crew members
  • Typically more expensive than competitors like Princess and Royal Caribbean
  • Wi-Fi access costs extra.
  • Limited onboard activities and dining venues than lines with bigger ships

Explore Photos

Top 10 Cruise Ship In The World
Rotterdam
Top 10 Cruise Ship In The World
Koningsdam
Top 10 Cruise Ship In The World
Eurodam
Top 10 Cruise Ship In The World
Oosterdam
Top 10 Cruise Ship In The World
Nieuw statendam
Top 10 Cruise Ship In The World
Nieuw amsterdam 
Top 10 Cruise Ship In The World
Westerdam
Top 10 Cruise Ship In The World
Zaandam

Conclusion

the top 5 cruise ships in the world offer a variety of exceptional experiences, luxurious amenities, and unique destinations. These ships—whether known for their size, service, or innovative features—provide an unforgettable journey for travelers. From gourmet dining and entertainment to exciting shore excursions, these cruise ships are designed to cater to every type of traveler, making them some of the best options for your next vacation at sea.


FAQs

Q1: What makes a cruise ship one of the top in the world?

Ans: A cruise ship is considered among the best due to its luxurious amenities, excellent service, unique itineraries, and high-quality onboard entertainment. Ships with innovative design, spacious accommodations, and diverse dining options are also highly rated.

Q2: Which cruise ships are considered the top 5 in the world?

Ans: Some top cruise ships include Wonder of the Seas by Royal Caribbean, Symphony of the Seas, Celebrity Beyond, Scarlet Lady by Virgin Voyages, and Ovation of the Seas.

Q3: What kind of amenities do top cruise ships offer?

Ans: These ships often feature gourmet dining, multiple pools, spas, fitness centers, entertainment venues, theaters, casinos, and kids’ clubs. Many also offer exclusive services like private suites, personalized concierge service, and VIP areas.

Q4: How do I choose the best cruise ship for my vacation?

Ans: Consider your travel style, budget, destination preferences, and the onboard experiences you’re looking for. Larger ships with extensive entertainment and activities are ideal for families, while couples might prefer ships with adult-only areas and luxury suites.

Q5: Are the top cruise ships suitable for first-time cruisers?

Ans: The top cruise ships cater to all types of travelers, including first-timers. They provide easy ship navigation, helpful staff, and a wide range of activities, making the experience enjoyable for new cruisers.

Q6: What are the largest cruise ships in the world?

Ans: The Wonder of the Seas by Royal Caribbean is currently the largest cruise ship, followed by Symphony of the Seas and Harmony of the Seas. These massive ships are designed to accommodate thousands of passengers while offering a variety of activities and dining options.

Q7: How long are cruises on these top ships?

Ans: Cruises on these top ships vary in duration, from short weekend getaways of 3 to 4 nights to longer voyages lasting up to 14 nights or more. Some world cruises can span months and cover multiple continents.

Q8: Are there exclusive areas for luxury travelers on these top ships?

Ans: Yes, many top ships feature exclusive areas, such as private suites, VIP lounges, and dedicated restaurants for luxury travelers. These areas often provide more personalized service, enhanced privacy, and exclusive amenities.

Q9: Which destinations do top cruise ships visit?

Ans: The top cruise ships travel to popular destinations like the Caribbean, Mediterranean, Alaska, Asia, and Australia. Some also offer unique itineraries, such as exploring the Norwegian fjords or cruising through the South Pacific.

Q10: Do top cruise ships offer family-friendly activities?

Ans: Absolutely. Ships like Wonder of the Seas and Symphony of the Seas have extensive family-friendly activities, including water parks, mini-golf, rock climbing, kids’ clubs, and live shows, making them perfect for family vacations.


Total
0
Shares
Related Posts
Total
0
Share