Best cruise lines overall
The best cruise lines overall as ranked by verified reviews submitted over the past 12 months. This list is continuously updated as we receive new reviews from our members, so be sure to check back often! Note, a minimum of 40 reviews are required to be part of this list.
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AmaWaterways’ intimate, modern river ships cruise the rivers and canals of Europe, Russia, Southeast Asia, and Africa, making stops in charming towns and city centers where passengers can walk right off the gangway and into the action. Onboard, passengers enjoy the swimming pool or hot tubs, gourmet meals, and exceptional service.
Crystal Ocean Cruises are perfect for travelers who want superior service with high-end touches, minus a stuffy, dated experience. The line’s medium-sized ocean vessels circumnavigate the globe with voyages in Europe, the Middle East, Panama Canal transits, and more. Sailings are all-inclusive, which includes specialty dining options.
For families and big Disney fans alike, Disney Cruise Line is a fantastic fit. Themed activities, immersive dining, and character meet-and-greets abound, but there are also laid-back adult-only spaces and a serene spa to enjoy. Most cabins have split bathrooms that make getting ready a breeze. Of course, entertainment is of the highest quality you would expect from Disney.
Windstar is perfect for those looking for a very small ship, personal experience. As indicated by the name, half of the ships in the fleet have actual sails, though wind is not necessary when the engines are doing their work. Water sports off the retractable marina at the aft are available, and the sailaway sunset barbecue is a great way to recap the day with new friends.
Viking’s small fleet of small ships provide a laid-back, casual but refined ocean cruising experience. Onboard features include multiple swimming pools, a complimentary thermal suite in the spa, and all-balcony cabins. The interior design is modern Scandinavian, with a neutral color scheme and lots of comfy lounge areas.
Avalon Waterways is an exceptional way to travel the enchanted waterways of Europe, Egypt, Asia, and South America. The line’s sleek vessels offer panoramic views, elegant dining rooms and lounges, as well as relaxing and spacious staterooms. Onboard, guests can expect to experience exquisite dining options and fantastic entertainment options.
Azamara is a luxury cruise line with three mid-sized ships – Azamara Pursuit, Azamara Quest, and Azamara Journey – sailing to all seven continents of the world. Through the brand’s ‘Destination Immersion’ programming, the line is able to offer curated itineraries that bring the ships to exotic and marquee ports, and include longer port stays.
P&O Cruises is the oldest cruise line in the world, and the largest line catering to the British market. Their large, family-friendly ships are immediately recognizable thanks to the Union Jack painted on each hull. Amenities on P&O ships include kids and adults-specific pools, designated kid’s club areas, a spa, casino, and a variety of dining options.
These ships can dock in smaller ports, like the mouth of a fjord or Kotor, Montenegro. But you’ll remember the onboard experience as much as the destinations: The line’s spa suites offer direct access to the thermal area, which is considered the finest at sea. Best of all, most itineraries offer a Marina Day, when the crew unfurls a marina complete with a saltwater pool.
Uniworld is a luxury river cruise line offering sailings throughout Europe, Russia, Egypt, and Asia. The company’s fleet features exquisite ships with an average capacity of only 130 guests. The line features the highest staff-to-guest ratio in the river cruise industry, enticing shore excursions, lavish staterooms, gourmet cuisine, and impeccable service.
