best cruise line in the world 2022

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The Best Cruise Ships in the World: The Gold List 2024

Consider Gold List the answer to the question our editors get asked more than any other: What are your favorite places to stay? Our 30th annual iteration of the world’s greatest hotels and cruises captures nearly a year’s worth of work: This collection represents hundreds of hours of researching, scouting, and impassioned debating by our team of editors in seven cities across the globe. But more than that, it reflects our ongoing love affair with the places where we stay, which often become our gateways to entire destinations. Read on to inspire your next cruise.

See the full Gold List here .

Oceania Cruises' Marina is one of 12 ships chosen by our editors for 2024.

Celebrity Beyond Arrow

Cruise ships often get compared to floating hotels or resorts, but here’s one that feels like a floating Vegas show. Applause, please, for the glittering peacock made from Swarovski crystals and the Magic Carpet platform that shimmies up and down the ship, cantilevered over the water for some of the best seats in the house, while in the Martini Bar, a troupe of bartenders juggle shakers to the sound of “We Didn’t Start the Fire.” Beyond is one of the largest ships in Celebrity’s Edge class, and all that space is used to maximize the drama. A whole corridor is filled with a glowing installation of bronze sculptures reflected in infinity mirrors; a favorite anchorage was Eden, a beautiful, biophiliac bubble for hiding away in, watching the ship’s wake through triple-height windows and dawdling in swivel chairs that resemble green carnations. As for the cast, there are some stellar performers: Kelly Hoppen designed most of the interiors; Daniel Boulud’s debut signature restaurant at sea, Le Voyage, has an impeccable, globe-trotting menu alighting on Brazilian moqueca and tamarind prawns. But top of the bill is Captain Kate McCue, the first American woman to captain a cruise ship. A captain hasn’t been this synonymous with their ship since the days of Merrill Stubing; follow her social media for a glimpse into the art of ship navigation. During our short, prelaunch cruise, we had an itinerary that involved looping round and round the Isle of Wight—a short trip, but one that was big on sheer spectacle. Three-night sailings from $300 per person. —Rick Jordan

Delfin II Arrow

The Amazon River has the opacity of chocolate milk and is almost deathlike in its stillness—which is wild when you consider how much life thrives there. It was on a nine-day journey through Peru with Lindblad Expeditions and National Geographic that I learned this, as we spent five of those days exploring the jungle by boat. Our chariot: the Delfin II , a Relais & Châteaux vessel with 14 thoughtfully appointed staterooms.

Most days began with a crack-of-dawn skiff ride soundtracked by the squall of jewel-winged, dusky-headed parakeets. The photographers pulled out their football lenses and the birders gasped from behind their binoculars as naturalists pointed out an elegant snowy egret picking its way through a mudbank, a neotropic cormorant spreading its gothy black wings like a vampire, and the somber Jabiru stork, the largest flying bird in South America, standing like a dour English butler on a naked tree limb. Also flagged were capuchin monkeys, giant river otters, flamboyant bromeliads, and—after dark—scores of caimans and capybaras.

We spent one muggy morning in a Kukama village, where indigenous women wove raffia bowls and cooked catfish, and another morning paddling the river—an outing which culminated with a pod of pink river dolphins leaping from the water mere feet from our kayaks. (Even our seen-it-all naturalist, Sandro, clapped like a schoolgirl.)

This deep in the Amazon jungle, there were no other tourists. When we did see signs of human life, they were usually fishermen or park rangers. And because there was no Wi-Fi on the Delfin II and a near total blackout on cell reception, downtime was spent attending lectures on Amazonian ecology, sampling native fruits (how the aptly named ice cream bean hasn’t been pitched on Shark Tank yet, I’ll never know), and buddying up to the ship bar, where I made fast friends of fellow guests. (Expedition cruises always draw a fascinating lot; my cohort included a microbiologist, metaphysical transcendentalist, and one of the earliest Apple employees.)

The highlight of the trip, however, was hiking through the jungle with a local tracker who showed us a brown-throated three-toed sloth, Goliath bird-eating tarantula, junior anaconda, and a century-old strangler fig. When we finally emerged from the bush, we were treated to a spectacular tangerine-and-charcoal sunset punctured by bolts of lighting. It was surreal and intense, just like everything else in this untouched corner of the world. Eight-day sailings from $5,730 per person. —Ashlea Halpern

Ritz-Carlton Evrima Arrow

Ritz-Carlton’s first foray into cruising, the Evrima is a hotel-at-sea experience that might just be the antidote to all the big ship itineraries. Think ultra-small ship luxury (at half the capacity of the Seabourns and Regents) with plenty of scenery options to choose from—the European Mediterranean (routes from Turkey to the Canary Islands) from spring through fall, and the Caribbean (San Juan to St. Barts) in winter—and a younger crowd than most of the luxury cruise market; mostly culture lovers with a dearth of cruising experience who can't wait to get ashore to the Côte d’Azur village restaurants. The 624-foot ship is the first in a fleet of three emerging over the next few years, and it still feels spacious with 149 suites, two pools, a cigar humidor, six bars (the interior Living Room and top-floor Observation Lounge, The Bar, and bars located at the Marina Terrace, the Pool House, and Mistral), a beauty salon and spa deck, water-level marina terrace with water toys, and a fitness center. The 246 staff range from deck crew to your cabin’s personal concierge, all of whom are dubbed the ship’s Ladies and Gentlemen—but titles feel almost superfluous aboard Evrima , where everyone from the tender drivers to dining leads will pause to actually get to know you and recall your name and story (and even your drink order) to make the entire experience feel organic and warm. It’s almost like you’re spending the night in someone’s home, which just so happens to be a 624-foot mega-yacht. And the Evrima itinerary has plenty of free time and overnight ports of call in its sailings, so you can head ashore for a day, or even an entire evening late into the night—gallivanting, dining, and imbibing with the new friends you'll no doubt meet onboard. Seven-night sailings from $5,800 per person. —Shannon McMahon

Oceania Marina Arrow

Is there any Marina passenger who doesn’t wish—even for a second—to confine himself to his stateroom on debarkation day? Perhaps only the smarty pants who booked their next cruise before this one ends. Otherwise, how can an epicurean cruiser (that’s Marina ’s crowd) not pine for another shot at the new wine list starring 80 highly coveted, hard-to-snag labels, including swoon-worthy Super Tuscans? You’ll long for one more brag-worthy chance to sip The Mascot, a label from Harlan family pedigree (think cult fave Harlan Estate); the Polo Grill’s deft sommelier knows exactly which prime steak pairs best. Despite eight compelling complimentary restaurants (Red Ginger’s signature lobster pad thai is still a must-devour), Marina vibes far more than great meals. Work up a sweat storm playing pickleball on deck 16 or braving core conditioning in the gym. Melt into a marine detox wrap (I love the juniper and lemon scent) at Aquamar Spa + Vitality Center, then sink into the spa terrace’s bubbling hot tub. Get down and dirty in the artist loft by painting a Venetian mask and playing Impressionist. In the hands-on culinary center, learn to cure a fish or preserve a lemon. Come May 2024, Marina debuts a splashy redo. Fall in love again with revamped avocado toast—bravo to the taco-spiced shrimp topping—in the new wellness-driven Aquamar kitchen. Where you lie your head hardly matters. An entry 291-square-foot stateroom starring a four-pillow, soft-sheet bed feels mighty spacious and sports Bulgari shampoo. That said, the top-to-bottom penthouse suites’ glam reno is beyond covetable, from the expanded bath to a boatload of enviable perks. Ten-day sailings from $1,999 per person. —Janice Wald Henderson

Trollfjord Arrow

Who better to guide you through Norway’s most remote reaches—including the Svalbard archipelago, the northernmost inhabited islands on the planet—than a Norwegian cruise company that knows the area’s every crag and fjord? Hurtigruten is an Oslo-based line whose ships have traversed these waters since 1893, ferrying freight, mail, and passengers to the communities along the rugged coast. In 2023, to celebrate its 130th anniversary, the company’s flagship, the newly refurbished, 500-passenger MS Trollfjord (named for a fjord in the Vesterålen archipelago) began sailing two hybrids of its original 34-port Norwegian Coastal Express, calling at several of the towns and villages on the original route. From September through April, the North Cape Express (a 13-day, 16-port itinerary) sails from Oslo to the North Cape and then south to Bergen. In the summertime, the Svalbard Express’s eight-day journey begins in Bergen and progresses north, with extended port calls and excursions in seven towns before entering the Arctic Circle and pulling into Longyearbyen, a mining town on Spitsbergen, Svalbard’s main island. On both routes Trollfjord offers its (mostly European) passengers an uncommon way to explore the region, with uniquely Nordic cultural touches to connect them to the country. There’s a pre-boarding spread of Norwegian fare in the ship’s departure lounge, and Trollfjord ’s three restaurants prioritize Scandinavian cuisine (salmon, reindeer, and lingonberries, oh my!) and the food culture of the indigenous Sámi people. The ship’s 277 staterooms and 12 suites (with walk-in closets, corner bathtubs and floor-to-ceiling windows) offer a cozy retreat from the sometimes-harsh weather. And typically Nordic diversions such as aquavit tastings, oceanview saunas and polar plunges leave you in no doubt about where you are and who you’re sailing with. 10-day sailings from $3,082 per person. —Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon

Seven Seas Navigator Arrow

Imagine the most luxurious hotel you’ve ever stayed in. That’s precisely what stepping onboard the Regent Seven Seas Cruises Navigator feels like. And while the opulence and grandeur shine through every square inch of space, it’s worth mentioning that the staff are what make the experience memorable, remembering your name, preferences, likes, and dislikes from the second you step afoot the eight-deck vessel.

The 248 ultraluxe all-suite accommodations feel like your home away from home—despite their capacious interiors—and your personalized steward makes sure of that with thoughtful touches from the moment you check in. Thanks to a revamp in 2019, the ship feels pristine with a new library—complete with a faux fireplace—and sleek state-of-the-art furnishings (including the cruise line’s bespoke mattresses and bed linens) in each of the rooms. However, what makes the Navigator stand out from its counterparts is its intimate size, as it’s the smallest in Regent’s fleet. Everything onboard feels just an arm’s reach away, and you’ll quickly bond with fellow passengers after spending the day together on one of the complimentary shore excursions, such as tours by local guides, cooking classes, and other intimate adventures.

During my Mediterranean voyage, days were spent immersing ourselves in new cities, whereas nights began with a freshly shaken ice-cold martini followed by an exuberant dinner, with a stop in the Seven Seas Lounge for whatever was on tap that night, ranging from cabaret to karaoke. At the end of the journey, I left wanting more and with a suitcase full of clean clothes, thanks to one of the many attentive touches onboard: the included laundry service. 10-night sailings from $3,360 per person. —Rachel Dube

Seabourn Ovation Arrow

“We are not the Rat Pack,” quips Andrew Pedder, the witty Yorkshire-born captain of Seabourn Ovation. He's referring to himself and the other senior officers, for any guests who may have wandered into their impromptu panel session instead of the musical show taking place later that evening. The Q&A—which covers everything from the prettiest ports to the number of Champagne bottles typically consumed during a seven-day voyage—is part of a last-minute program of activities arranged for an unexpected sea day when it’s too windy to dock in the South of France. This is mid-October, on one of the ship’s jaunts around the Mediterranean for the season, and no one seems to mind the change of plan (although when we do explore, all the islands we visit—Menorca, Corsica, Elba—are blissfully tourist-free). It simply means more time for spa treatments, soaks in the outdoor hot tubs, and afternoon tea in the observation bar. Even then, it only feels like there are 60 passengers onboard, rather than 600. The restaurants are excellent, from Sushi, where you can sit at the counter watching the Japanese chefs at work, to poolside Earth & Ocean for Tandoori-style rotisserie chicken and Madras-style white bean cassoulet. Suites are spacious, each one with a balcony. West End–standard entertainment includes a magician and a chart-topping classical singer. But what makes this ultraluxe ship really memorable is the relaxed, on-point service by staff who remember your name and coffee order, or even a familiar face from a sailing five years ago. Seven-day sailings from $2,649 per person. —Emma Love

Silver Endeavour Arrow

Silversea is defined by its far-flung itineraries and exceptional onboard service (think Moët Champagne as you take in an iceberg calving in Antarctica). But the 220-passenger Silver Endeavour, new to the fleet and already a classic, raises every bar. Rooms start at a spacious 356 square feet and have luxury perks like pillow menus and a personalized bar, making them the best in all of Silversea’s array of ships. As far as food goes, premium Ars Italica Osetra caviar is complimentary and around-the-clock, though the Dover sole paired with a label from the rare wine menu at La Dame would have you believing you were in Paris. And the signature Otium spa celebrates pampering as much as it does wellness—don’t skip on the oxygen-boosting Golden Radiance facial. You may find yourself at any given hour glimpsing ice walls through the Drake Passage and remembering that the best part about this ship is the awe-inspiring places it dares to take you. 10-day sailings from $13,150. —Janice Wald Henderson

Scarlet Lady Arrow

Although new to the cruise industry, Virgin Voyages has already begun to set itself apart from its predecessors. When first stepping on the Scarlet Lady, cruisers are met with a rousing, upbeat staff that serve as gurus around the ship and are experts on everything from beauty to juicing. While the Scarlet Lady takes you on a familiar route around the Caribbean, the on-shore excursions available are what make this sail memorable. Take a leap of faith on daring outings such as the Waterfalls of Damajagua in Puerto Plata, where guests make their way down seven of the 27 natural slides and waterfalls. After the exhilarating experience, travelers can sit down with locals and come together over Dominican staples such as pollo guisado, tostones, and mangú. You can always get local delicacies while docked, but while onboard, you must snag a reservation at the Test Kitchen. It’s an experimental dining experience where the menu always evolves. You go in only seeing a small card with ingredients listed for the night’s meal, but everything else is up to the imagination. One might find cucumbers puréed and frozen into ice cream as dessert, or beets formed and prepared like steak. While en route to the next port, the hard reset one does at the Redemption Spa leaves your body feeling anew; it’s impossible to come back from vacation feeling the same as when you departed. On any Virgin Voyages ship, you’ll love the indulgent atmosphere, whether you’re catering to your sweet tooth by narrowing down your favorite gelato of the day, grabbing a drink at one of the five bars that stake claim to having the largest tequila supply on the seven seas, or finally getting that tattoo you’ve been thinking about for ages after visiting the ship’s tattoo parlor, Squid Ink. Seven-day sailings from $2,100 per person. —Paris Wilson

Queen Mary 2 Arrow

Six days sailing from England to New York across the vast Atlantic had the potential to bore me to stupefaction, but it turned out I had nothing to fear. “The ship is the destination,” said an entertainment director for Queen Mary 2 , who oversees a program that makes this cruise liner the undisputed hub of creative and intellectual stimulation on the high seas. Where else can you attend the annual Literature Festival At Sea, meeting top fiction and nonfiction authors like the late PJ O’Rourke, Bernadine Evaristo, and Louis de Bernières? And where else can you visit a planetarium, watch a Royal Shakespeare theater production, or hear guest speakers discuss artwork investments and the history of airport drug mules?

In between spa massages and table tennis rallies, I nourished my mind in the mahogany library before nourishing my body at the Princess Grill and Queens Grill restaurants, scarfing dishes like croquette of suckling pig, paired with excellent vintages and followed by mango panna cotta. On the final stretch of the journey, as dolphins leapt over the horizon and the Statue of Liberty loomed into view, my heart sank a little—New York City awaited, yet I didn’t want to disembark. That’s quite an achievement. Seven-day sailings from $1,389 per person. —Noo Saro-Wiwa

World Navigator Arrow

During my first few hours aboard the Atlas Ocean Voyages World Navigator, I felt a bit like I had inadvertently crashed a family reunion: Seemingly everyone else aboard this Arctic expedition had just sailed to Antarctica on the Navigator six months before, so several crew members and guests spent much of embarkation day hugging and catching up. With a maximum occupancy of 196, it’s already an intimate ship, but the fact that the relatively young brand, which debuted in 2019, could develop such an impressive number of repeat travelers in such a short spell speaks volumes. Many told me they were drawn to Atlas because of its eco-friendly bona fides (the new-build ship makes use of hybrid engines from Rolls-Royce designed to leave minimal impact), but the creature comforts on board certainly help. While the star attraction of such an expedition voyage is what lies beyond the decks—access to remote Antarctic fjords that larger vessels can’t dream of traversing, or spotting polar bears loping along pearly glaciers in the Arctic—I made the most of my time in between Zodiac expeditions. The multi-jet shower in my stateroom was sublime after damp and rigorous treks, the heated massage beds in the only L’Occitane Spa at sea are a dream, and the Arctic summer’s 24 hours of sunshine made the Dome observation deck a prime perch to cozy up with a book at any time of day or night. There was neither internet nor cell phone connectivity during my entire eight-day journey sailing thanks to the remote latitudes (though Atlas guests now have access to full Starlink satellite coverage), which meant this was the longest I’d been offline since the 1990s—and yet somehow, drifting through the surreal landscape in this cosseting bubble, I didn’t miss scrolling or chatting with the outside world one bit. Seven-night sailings from $4,749 per person. —Sarah Khan

Westerdam Arrow

A passenger who is well below senior age dances the robot to classic rock, to R&B, to country music, and to disco hits as talented singers and a live band perform most nights in the Rolling Stone Lounge, on Holland America Line’s Westerdam . His mechanical movements are a source of amusement and encouragement; if he can take over the dance floor, so can we with our own moves. The 1,916-passenger Westerdam is beloved as a traditional cruise ship, with its smaller-than-mega-ship size, deep blue hull, wraparound outdoor promenade deck, and details such as fresh flowers all around, celebrating the 150-year-old cruise line’s Dutch roots. Tradition does not mean staid. There’s rock and roll. There’s a trendy top-of-ship pickleball court.

On an Alaska cruise, my husband and I start our days with a jolt of caffeine via the baristas at Explorations Central, the ship’s cushy, contemporary, forward-facing observation lounge, before heading off on adventures such as joining other passengers in synchronized paddling a large canoe to see the ancient yet diminishing ice of Juneau’s Mendenhall Glacier. Back on the ship, we indulge in excellent burgers, topped with Gouda and applewood-smoked bacon and served in fast-food wrapping from a stand at the covered Lido pool. We enjoy sustainable Alaska seafood—grilled salmon, fennel-crusted halibut, fried cod—in between cocktails made with local gin, served on real glacial ice. From the veranda of our classic aft cabin, mesmerizing views of the ship’s wake, seemingly endless forest, and a distant, blue-tinged glacier clear our brain. We’re ready for more of the dancing man. Seven-day sailings from $379 per person. —Fran Golden

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The best cruise lines in the world: 2023 Readers' Choice Awards

The survey for the 2024 Readers' Choice Awards is open, vote now for your favourite places, hotels, airports, cruise lines, travel fixers and more.

Cruises are booming right now, buoyed partly by the popularity of domestic seacations that hauled in first-time sailors. So much so that Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ 34,000-mile world trip for 2024 sold out in just over two hours, while the adults-only Virgin Voyages, which aims to throw cruise stereotypes overboard, rose to first place in Large Ships. And we’ve brought back last year's new category showcasing the expedition cruises – small, often sustainable vessels with a shoal of scientific experts onboard – that follow in the wake of adventurers such as Sir Ernest Shackleton.

These are the best cruise lines in the world, according to the 2023 Readers' Choice Awards .

The best cruise lines in the world 2023

Mega ships (More than 4,000 passengers)

4. MSC Cruises. Score 83.42 3. Carnival Cruise Line. Score 85.35 2. Royal Caribbean International. Score 86.69 1. Norwegian Cruise Line. Score 86.72.

Large ships (2,500 to 4,000 passengers)

10. MSC Cruises. Score 83.77 9. Royal Caribbean International. Score 84.31 8. Norwegian Cruise Line. Score 86.41 7. Holland America Line. Score 87.79 6. Costa Cruises. Score 87.95 5. Celebrity Cruises. Score 88.57 4. Princess Cruises. Score 89.42 3. Cunard. Score 89.55 2. Disney Cruise Line. Score 92.21 1. Virgin Voyages. Score 94.07

Medium ships (500 to 2,500 passengers)

15. Carnival Cruise Line. Score 80.56 14. P&O Cruises. Score 83.29 13. Princess Cruises. Score 84.84 12. Marella Cruises. Score 85.60 11. Hurtigruten. Score 86.23 10. Cunard. Score 86.33 9. Holland America Line. Score 86.42 8. Celebrity Cruises. Score 86.68 7. Azamara. Score 87.50 6. Silversea Cruises. Score 87.74 5. Oceania Cruises. Score 87.99 4. Regent Seven Seas Cruises. Score 91.07 3. Seabourn. Score 91.67 2. Disney Cruise Line. Score 92.92 1. Viking. Score 94.98

Small ships (Fewer than 500 passengers)

10. Variety Cruises. Score 86.75 9. SeaDream Yacht Club. Score 89.66 8. Silversea. Score 89.93 7. Seabourn. Score 91.34 6. Ponant. Score 91.45 5. Windstar Cruises. Score 91.87 4. Sea Cloud Cruises. Score 91.94 3. American Cruise Lines. Score 92.88 2. Paul Gauguin Cruises. Score 92.94 1. Emerald Cruises. Score 95.27

10. AmaWaterways. Score 93.09 9. Sanctuary Retreats. Score 93.14 8. Uniworld River Cruises. Score 93.24 7. Pandaw. Score 95.28 6. Grand Circle Cruise Line. Score 95.69 5. Les Bateaux Belmond. Score 95.90 4. Oberoi Hotels & Resorts. Score 95.91 3. Tauck. Score 96.14 2. American Cruise Lines. Score 96.66 1. Viking. Score 97.32

Expedition ships

15. Alaskan Dream Cruises. Score 80.77 14. Lindblad Expeditions. Score 91.23 13. Silversea Cruises. Score 91.81 12. Hurtigruten. Score 91.87 11. Ponant. Score 92.25 10. Quark Expeditions. Score 93.15 9. Seabourn. Score 93.37 8. Metropolitan Touring. Score 94.71 7. Quasar Expeditions. Score 94.91 6. Celebrity Cruises. Score 95.38 5. Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours. Score 95.80 4. Ecoventura. Score 95.82 3. Aqua Expeditions. Score 95.97 2. UnCruise Adventures. Score 96.41 1. Viking. Score 96.52

U.S. News Announces the 2022 Best Cruise Lines

U.S. News Announces Best Cruise Lines

Washington, D.C. – U.S. News & World Report, publisher of Best Hotels , Best Vacations and Best Travel Rewards Programs , today announced the 2022 Best Cruise Lines rankings , designed to provide up-to-date information on the leading cruise lines.

With much of the world reopening to international travel, U.S. News surveyed travelers to understand the effects of COVID-19 on cruiser sentiments. U.S. News unveiled the survey results at the Seatrade Global Conference in October which found that cruisers – both first-time and longtime – are booked at higher levels than before the pandemic. U.S. News survey data also revealed that of the frequent travelers who indicated that they would cruise again, 20% are already signed up for their next sailing.

"Though most avenues of travel have been impacted throughout the coronavirus pandemic, the cruise industry has seen the most challenges," said Nicola Wood, travel editor at U.S. News. "U.S. News is excited to once again highlight the leading cruise lines and provide in-depth information on ships, onboard activities and itineraries to travelers looking to research and book a cruise vacation."

Celebrity Cruises takes the No. 1 spot as the Best Cruise Line for the Money . Viking Ocean Cruises is the No. 1 Best Cruise Line for Couples and Best Luxury Cruise Line thanks to its adult-focused environment and luxurious and romantic amenities, such as fireplaces in each ship's common area and private verandas in every stateroom.

Disney Cruise Line, which offers ships tailored specifically to children and families, has remained the No. 1 Best Cruise Line for Families since U.S. News began ranking cruise lines. Additionally, for the eighth consecutive year, Disney is also the No. 1 Best Cruise Line in the Caribbean . Viking Ocean Cruises takes the spot of No. 1 Best Cruise Line in the Mediterranean for 2022.

The rankings help travelers select the best cruise by brand, region, traveler type and budget. This year's rankings are accompanied by an editorial rundown of the most popular river cruise lines for those looking for guidance on a different type of cruise that still offers itineraries with multiple destinations.

The methodology for the Best Cruise Lines rankings factors in expert evaluations of cruise ship quality, reputation among travelers, results from health assessments conducted by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and other factors, such as price class and itinerary offerings.

2022 U.S. News Best Cruise Lines Rankings

For the Money

• Celebrity Cruises
• Holland America Line
• Royal Caribbean International
• Viking Ocean Cruises
• Seabourn Cruise Line
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises

For Families

• Disney Cruise Line
• Carnival Cruise Line

For Couples

In the Mediterranean

In the Caribbean

To share your thoughts about the Best Cruise Lines rankings, visit Facebook , Twitter and Instagram using #BestCruises.

Media Contact: Sarah Javors, [email protected] , 202-955-2153

About U.S. News & World Report

U.S. News & World Report is the global leader in quality rankings that empower citizens, consumers, business leaders and policy officials to make better, more informed decisions about important issues affecting their lives. A multifaceted digital media company with Education, Health, Money, Travel, Cars, News and 360 Reviews platforms, U.S. News provides rankings, independent reporting, data journalism, consumer advice and U.S. News Live events. More than 40 million people visit USNews.com each month for research and guidance. Founded in 1933, U.S. News is headquartered in Washington, D.C.

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USA TODAY 10Best

These are the best cruise ships and cruise lines of 2022

July 22, 2022 // By 10Best Editors

By 10Best Editors July 22, 2022

Cruising is among the most popular ways to see the world. Unpack once and take in the sights of the world’s rivers and seas from your floating hotel. More than a dozen new vessels are introduced each year, making the sheer variety of cruises overwhelming.

To help narrow it down, we invited our readers to vote for their favorites. After four weeks of voting, the results are in.

Click on each category below to see the full winners list:

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Best Adventure Cruise Line: Adventure Canada

While Adventure Canada does indeed lead small ship adventures through the rivers, icy fjords and secluded waterways of Canada, this expedition cruise company also takes travelers to experience landscapes and cultures further afield, places like Scotland, Iceland, Ireland, the Faroe Islands and Greenland. The company shines with an always stellar lineup of onboard experts and guides.

Full list of winners: Best Adventure Cruise Line »

Best Boutique Cruise Line: Viking Ocean Cruises

Viking Cruises earned its reputation through its affordable, destination-focused river cruises, and after expanding into sea voyages, the line now has six ocean vessels too. All cabins come with balconies and are notably larger than the industry average, and while the ships lack a casino and kids' club, they offer the same destination-intensive programming that made river cruising so popular.

Full list of winners: Best Boutique Cruise Line »

Best Large Ship: Celebrity Reflection

The 3,046-passenger Celebrity Reflection is all about cruising sophistication. At The Art Studio, master artists from The ArtCenter/South Florida host hands-on demos and classes in a range of art mediums. Passengers enjoy nightly live music scattered throughout the ship, as well as big production shows, stand-up comedy, music and magic performances at the two-level Reflection Theater. There are over a dozen dining venues to choose from, as well as a half dozen bars and lounges.

Full list of winners: Best Large Ship »

Best Mid-Sized Ship: Rotterdam - Holland America Line

Launched in October 2021, Rotterdam is the newest Pinnacle-class line flagship for Holland America. Over 60% of the 1,340 passenger cabins have balconies and offer amenities such as specialty soaps and luxurious bathrobes. Live music is the ship’s entertainment focus, and venues include a blues club, a live rock room and a piano bar. Various dining opportunities are available, including New York pizza, sushi, a poolside grill, and French, Italian, and Far Eastern cuisines.

Full list of winners: Best Mid-Sized Ship »

Best Ocean Cruise Line: Viking Ocean Cruises

Viking Cruises earned its reputation through its affordable, destination-focused river cruises. With the debut of Viking Star in April 2015, the line made a grand entrance into the world of ocean cruising. Now the line has nine ocean vessels. All cabins come with balconies and are notably larger than the industry average, and while the ships lack a casino and kids' club, they offer the same destination-intensive programming that made river cruising so popular.

Full list of winners: Best Ocean Cruise Line »

Best River Cruise Line: Avalon Waterways

River cruisers in Europe will find the largest standard staterooms and suites aboard Avalon’s fleet of luxurious ships. Onboard amenities include fitness centers, a Sky Deck with a whirlpool and shade system, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs and a self-serve beverage station. The Avalon Choice program allows cruisers to customize the details of their experience, ensuring each vacation is a perfect fit.

Full list of winners: Best River Cruise Line »

Best River Ship: Avalon Envision

The newest addition to the Avalon Waterways fleet debuted in 2019. Two decks of Panorama Suites offer wall-to-wall and floor-to-ceiling windows and window-facing “Beds with a View.” Guests enjoy free wi-Fi access, a fitness center and adventure center for bikes and other gear, multiple dining venues and an observation lounge.

Full list of winners: Best River Ship »

Best Ship for Dining: Koningsdam - Holland America Line

Guests sailing on Holland America Line's Koningsdam have 10 dining options to choose from. In addition to the main dining room, there's Asian specialties at Tamarind, French seafood at Sel de Mar, authentic Italian at Canaletto, poolside burgers at Dive-In and the chance to take hands-on cooking classes at the Culinary Arts Center presented by Food & Wine magazine.

Full list of winners: Best Ship for Dining »

Best Ship for Families: Regal Princess - Princess Cruises

A favorite feature among kids aboard the Regal Princess is the SeaWalk, a glass-bottomed walkway extending 28 feet over the ship’s edge. The ship's youth and teen center has teamed up with the California Science Center for some interactive edutainment at sea. The three kids' spaces are excellent, and teens even have their own outdoor hot tub.

Full list of winners: Best Ship for Families »

Best Small Ship: Royal Clipper - Star Clippers

Designed after the tall ship Preussen, the Royal Clipper is the world’s largest full-rigged sailing ship, complete with 42 sails. The vessel carries just 227 guests with luxurious accommodations and modern amenities like three swimming pools, relaxed dining and a marina platform for water sports. Passengers can even don a harness and climb the mast to a crow's nest.

Full list of winners: Best Small Ship »

Congratulations to all these winners! Remember to visit 10Best.com daily to vote in our Readers' Choice contests.

Cruise Line Reviewer

The Best Cruise Ships In The World: The Gold List 2022

The Readers’ Choice Awards, which are selected by you, our cherished audience, the Hot List, which compiles the new and noteworthy from the previous year, and this one, which is ultimately about the places and experiences that our editors carry in their hearts are the three great lists that are published annually in Condé Nast Traveler. All of these lists have changed as a result of the events that have occurred over the past two years. This year, when we refer to CNT’s editors, we mean the entire global crew, which works in locations ranging from California to Beijing. In addition, we have expanded the parameters of the list to include not only the hotels and cruises you’ve seen in previous years, but also the locations that we hold dear. This year, our editors will be working in locations ranging from California to Beijing. The Gold List is compiled by humans for other humans, which is something that is required now more than it has ever been in the past. Here are some of our top picks for cruise ships from around the world.

Princess of the Kingdom

On board the ship operated by Princess Cruises , there is truly something for everyone to enjoy: Pajama movie night at the outdoor cinema and Lego boat-building for the little ones; a Roman-style heated detox chamber for those who went big the night before. Broadway-level talent for theatre buffs. Pajama movie night at the outdoor cinema. However, the ship really comes into its own when it comes to the excursions it offers. Take a look at the fifty different activities that are available at the port of call in Skagway, Alaska. These activities range from learning how to pan for gold to taking a walking tour of this historic Klondike town and even taking a cooking class to learn how to smoke Alaskan salmon.

This all-suite ship transformed Silversea from a comfortable luxury line into a food-centric floating retreat that channels the style of a Milan hotel. There is the avant-garde art, such as the bronze hair-dryer sculpture by the stairwell on Deck 9, and there are white-tailed butlers who deliver complimentary caviar at any hour of the day. However, the most significant change brought about by the design was the departure from the mundane industry norms that occurred with the eight onboard dining options. At Spaccanapoli, the bubbling fior di latte tops the hot pizzas; at La Dame’s, the lobster bisque is loaded with chunks of fresh seafood; and at Atlantide, the world’s finest beef, including Japanese Wagyu and American prime Angus, is prepared to order. All three restaurants are located in the same building.

It’s the Queen Mary 2

Only the Cunard flagship Queen Mary 2 is capable of making the regal transatlantic journey that is on everyone’s bucket list. When sailing from Southampton to New York City over the Atlantic Ocean, the seven consecutive days at sea go by so swiftly that some believers choose to remain onboard in order to make an immediate return. Each day is jam-packed with a variety of exciting activities, such as afternoon tea, planetarium displays, captivating lectures, and fencing classes. Even passengers who have been assigned inside cabins make an effort to look presentable for the evening. Attendees are expected to wear black tie and gowns to gala nights. When you go to the Art Deco–gilded Queens Room, which is the largest and most gorgeous ballroom at sea, you will be mesmerised by the graceful couples who are sashaying across the floor as if they were one being. The accommodations at the Princess and Queens Grill, which are on a higher tier and include suites as well as dedicated cocktail bars, come with a number of enhancements. These include an increased amount of space as well as amenities, as well as posh private restaurants and a lounge, and outstanding service. This ocean liner is popular among passengers of all ages. The Carinthia Lounge is frequented by young people who enjoy listening to jazz, while the Golden Lion English pub is usually bustling with activity. Here, the fish and chips are extra-crispy, and the beer is served on tap.

Star Legend

The previous year, Windstar Cruises increased the razzle-dazzle of Star Legend by expanding the casually elegant yacht (don’t overpack), adding a larger pool, more deck space, a remodelled spa and fitness centre, and two new restaurants (Cuadro 44 by Anthony Sasso presents delightful modern tapas such as paella croquettes; barbecue guru Steven Raichlen’s Star Grill slow cooks drool-worthy Texan bris All of the suites in the hotel have been recently renovated and feature granite bathrooms. After dark, guests staying in a Star suite with queen beds located close to French balconies can anticipate breathtaking views of the night sky. However, despite having 312 passengers, it was not difficult to secure cushioned loungers, the attention of the crew, or any reservations. If you have a longing for chicken curry, make sure to let the chef know at least one day in advance; he can satisfy almost any craving by the time dinner rolls around. Star Legend is able to enter small ports in the Mediterranean and the Caribbean with ease, allowing it to dodge large ships and the throngs they attract. The watersports marina, which is filled with equipment like kayaks, paddleboards, and floating mats, and the open-air Deck 8 Star Bar are both permanent hangouts, and the boisterous deck BBQ provides a feast as well as a bash.

What is the Quantum of the Seas?

Onboard Royal Caribbean International’s Quantum of the Seas, passengers can participate in a variety of adrenaline-pumping activities on a daily basis, including as skydiving, crashing bumper cars, and solving mind-bending puzzles in an escape room. Still not impressed? Then, you can order a single-malt Scotch from a robot on Deck 5’s Bionic Bar (tap your WOWband on a tablet), binge on Bulgari bling, or simply stand in awe in North Star, an observation capsule that holds the Guinness World Record and features 360-degree views of the ocean from some 300 feet above the water. It should come as no surprise that high-energy events such as Starwater, which take place on such a dynamic ship, feature enormous RoboScreens “moving” in tune with the music while acrobats and other live artists perform. Silk, a restaurant with an Asian-inspired menu, is one of the many primary eateries; to have Vietnamese tacos or ramen, ask for a booth on the side of the restaurant. The surreal atmosphere of Deck 5’s specialty restaurant Wonderland, which is designed to look like a dreamscape, serves dishes like gazpacho with bread foam and liquid lobster to conjure up Alice’s psychedelic adventures. Every onboard moment is filled with joy, regardless of whether you’re sailing in the South Pacific or Alaska.

The Oceania Cruises’ Marina continues to improve its offerings. The new menus, which draw inspiration from throughout the world, feature more than 250 different plant-based dishes. Learning how to cook through hands-on training means becoming an expert not just in the melting-pot food of the United Kingdom but also in the cuisine of Argentina. The artisanal ice cream at Humphry Slocombe is made fresh every day; be sure to try the outrageous raw blackberry honey from the Pacific Northwest served with graham crackers made in-house. An acupuncturist and a restorative Himalayan massage using salt stones bathed in personally selected aromatics are both waiting for you at the Aquamar Spa + Vitality Center, where you can also balance out your indulgence. In addition, the facility provides health discovery trips. For example, who wouldn’t like to practise yoga, pranayama breathing, and meditation in a boutique Chilean winery? When you get back onboard, you may take pleasure in the updated decor, which includes newly upholstered headboards and walnut panelling in guestrooms. Additionally, on Deck 14, there are new baristas that are resplendent in black-and-white marble. Whether you order the tequila neat or the cappuccino with the most foam from the stylish Victoria Arduino espresso machine, you can take in the expansive views of the ocean. Marina travels the world , visiting places as diverse as South America and the Mediterranean Sea, as well as the breathtaking fjords of Norway.

Known as Celebrity Edge .

The Magic Carpet is the first cantilevered venue space at sea, and it floats over the water and moves between decks to become a sky-high alfresco bar on Deck 14. Additionally, the ship’s captain, Kate McCue, is the only American woman who has ever helmed a major cruise ship . This ship, which is only three years old, is a pioneer in many ways, including its name, which implies that it is a trailblazer. On top of that, there are six two-story Edge Villas, each of which has a private plunge pool and outdoor lounge. Additionally, there are enormous hot tubs in the shape of martini glasses, an outdoor art gallery on the pool deck, a jogging path that winds around a sprawling rooftop garden, and a jogging path that winds around a sprawling rooftop garden.

Viking Star

The Viking Star, the company’s first ocean liner, has won the hearts of cruisers by blazing a trail in the direction of Scandinavian-style near-luxury and being packed to the gills with all-inclusive amenities. These amenities include complimentary Wi-Fi, an excursion in each port, mealtime beer and wine, and specialty restaurant dining (Manfredi’s Italian dishes are delicious). The bathrooms in the staterooms consistently garner high marks; the heated floor, spacious shower, and anti-fog mirror are all features that are difficult to find at this price point, let alone any other. There are a lot of public places that have luxury-oriented amenities, such as the cosy animal throws in the two-story Explorers’ Lounge, the deft violinists playing classical music in the Living Room every night, and the retractable roof over the heated pool, which is idyllic on a rainy day in Iceland. There are a lot of public places that have luxury-minded amenities. Above all else, cruisers are blown away by the spa at the Nordic health paradise. There is no additional fee required to enter the Thermal Suite, which features a cold plunge pool, dry sauna, snow grotto, thalassotherapy pool, and steam room. After giving yourself a refreshing dunk in the ice water bucket, make your way to a heated tile lounger to experience the exhilarating sensation of feeling both energised and relaxed at the same time.

Encore was the first ship in the Seabourn fleet to feature Adam D. Tihany’s bespoke interior design appointments. Despite this, the ship managed to strike a balance between the laid-back sophistication of a yacht and the opulence of a country club. There is a lot to admire, such as the buttery leather chairs, the marble-drenched baths, the curvaceous lines, and the gleaming brass. Well-being can be taken to new heights by receiving instruction from a mindful living coach who is also a certified yoga and meditation practitioner. Feeling content isn’t difficult to achieve when one is socialising in Seabourn Square or lazing around in a plush suite. Those who are in the know about cruising frequent Deck 7’s one whirlpool all the way forward. Soaking in the whirlpool alone, almost completely encircled by water, induces deep exhales. Recharge your batteries in the luxurious 15-cabana Retreat located on the ship’s top deck. Its concierge makes paradise uniquely yours; enjoy a glass of vintage Cabernet stored in your refrigerator, watch a football game on the television, or place an order for a bespoke cocktail—perhaps an avocado daiquiri—from a mixologist. Treat yourself to some Evian-mist sprays and a deep tissue massage in the spa cabana. You won’t regret it. Take a deeper dive into happiness in the whirlpool located in the Retreat.

Seven Seas Explorer

In 2016, Regent Seven Seas Cruises introduced its newest and largest ship , which was also the line’s first brand-new vessel in the past decade. The smallest suites on board measure 307 square feet and feature spacious balconies from which passengers can observe the ship’s arrival in cities like Istanbul and Venice. And then there’s the 2,500-piece art collection that cost $7 million, which allows passengers to stand with a martini in hand just inches from Picasso’s Le Taureau Noir; Sunday brunch at Compass Rose is for scoring no-one’s-counting caviar-topped blini. In the year 2024, the ship will cruise from Miami to the Mediterranean Sea with stops at Jerusalem’s Dome of the Rock, which dates back to the seventh century and is a highlight of Israel regardless of how you go there.

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Our 10 Favorite Cruise Lines In The World

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If your dream vacation includes leaving the logistics to others and being transported from destination to destination while enjoying scrumptious meals, exciting entertainment, and gorgeous panoramic views, a cruise may be in your future. From all-inclusive, luxury accommodations to budget-friendly State-side excursions, you need only pick the journey that best suits you.

Are you feeling overwhelmed by the thought of planning a cruise? Consider one of these 10 great options, handpicked by our readers as their favorites. From small-ship to mega-ship, and everything in between, these are our readers’ 2022 picks for favorite overall cruise line.

1. Viking (Winner)

Viking is well-known — and beloved — in the river cruise market. But did you know they also offer small ship ocean cruises as well as intimate expeditions to the Arctic and Antarctic? All in all, Viking’s fleet of around 80 ships is ready to help you explore the world in comfort, no matter where your wanderlust wants to take you.

Viking put river cruising on the map for many travelers, perfecting the process from beginning to end, especially across Europe. Enjoy luxury accommodations as you float down the Danube, Rhine, Douro, and Elbe rivers among other European waterways. Their services have expanded to include cruises along the Nile, Mississippi, and Mekong River in Vietnam and Cambodia.

Viking ships do not include casinos and do not allow children under 18 onboard, as they seek to create an inviting atmosphere for sharing meaningful experiences with their guests, free from distraction. What is more, Wi-Fi and alcohol come included in your ticket, so once you purchase your ticket, just sit back and enjoy the experience.

2. Royal Caribbean

The name alone should tell you that you will be treated like royalty while on board. Set sail around the Caribbean on a classic Royal Caribbean journey with a stop at their privately owned island oasis in the Bahamas: CocoCay. Spend the day on dry land — or in the water — enjoying the thrills of the water slides, zip lines, cabanas, and the largest fresh-water pool in the Bahamas. This is one cruise line that knows how to do a Caribbean cruise right.

That said, the cruise line’s fleet of over 25 ships don’t stay only in the Caribbean. With Royal Caribbean, you can experience the beauty of the Mediterranean, the gorgeous glaciers of Alaska, the many islands of the South Pacific, or even embark on a nine-month-long trip of a lifetime, visiting over 60 countries and each of the seven continents.

Dining, beverage, and Wi-Fi packages can be purchased in addition to your fare to enhance your experience while limiting the cost of daily incidentals. And it is always helpful to book shore excursions through the cruise ship as well; the boat won’t wait for guests who arrive back late from personally curated off-ship activities. Keep this in mind so you don’t miss the boat!

3. Norwegian Cruise Line

Like their competitor in the number two spot, Norwegian has grown past the destination in its name. Norwegian Cruise Line will take you everywhere from Norway to the Panama Canal, Africa to Australia. Set sail for a weekend or three weeks, the choice is yours. Determine where you want to go, and what you want to experience, and then choose the cruise that best fits your desires.

If you decide on a Caribbean cruise, be sure to enjoy a day at Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas, a 268-acre island paradise solely for guests of Norwegian Cruise Line. Here you will enjoy private beaches covered in white sand, experience native wildlife, and have ample opportunities to enjoy the water up close.

4. Disney Cruise Line

The magic of a Disney Cruise cannot be overstated as the customer experience has always been at the heart of the Disney business model. The moment you step on board, your childhood dreams begin to become reality. Dine alongside your favorite Disney Princess, experience a Broadway-worthy musical experience, or enjoy the thrill of an onboard water coaster.

Castaway Cay is Disney’s private island oasis for Bahamian and Caribbean cruise passengers to enjoy. Go snorkeling in the lagoon while watching out for a hidden Mickey, experience the Pelican Plunge water-play area, or sneak off to Serenity Bay, an adults-only oasis for when you need a break from the excited youngsters scurrying about.

Consider a Disney cruise to Alaska or Canada, enjoy the brisk waters of the Baltic in northern Europe, or enjoy a cruise around the British Isles. No matter the destination, Disney’s staff will ensure you are entertained and leave the ship with a return trip already being planned in your head.

5. Holland America

Holland America has been sailing the seven seas for almost 145 years. Enjoy South America, New England, Mexico, or a classic cruise through the Caribbean or Mediterranean aboard one of Holland America’s 11 elegant ships. With staterooms ranging in size from 150 square feet to Pinnacle Suites with nearly 1,300 square feet of living space, you will find a room to fit your group, and your budget.

Having trouble deciding on the perfect Holland America itinerary? Work with a personal cruise consultant to help you navigate the uncertain waters and nail down a plan that is perfect for you and your family.

6. Princess Cruises

The Princess Cruise fleet includes 14 large-ship vessels, ready to take you just about anywhere you want to go. Enjoy a three-week-long cruise from Sydney to Hong Kong, a month-long trans-Pacific journey from LA to Sydney with stops in Hawaii and the South Pacific, or a more traditional week-long trip around Alaska or the Caribbean.

Entertainment includes Broadway-worthy productions, magic shows, and comedians. Enjoy a hand crafted cocktail and indulge in the many dining options available onboard, many of which come included in your fare — even some fine dining!

7. Celebrity Cruises

Set sail for just about anywhere in the world on a Celebrity Cruise . From South America and the Galapagos to the South Pacific and Europe. The 14-ship fleet is primarily made up of mid-size and large ships that can house anywhere from 2,200 to 3,200 guests.

That said, they also have a sub-fleet of small-ship vessels dedicated to the Galapagos that provide a more intimate experience for enjoying this natural paradise. From the 16-person Xploration to the 100-person Flora , enjoy the beauty of Darwin’s Galapagos up close with Celebrity.

8. Silversea Cruises

Silversea Cruises boasts a staff-to-guest ratio of nearly one to one, ensuring someone will be available to provide exactly what you need, when you need it. Guest capacity on their 11-ship fleet ranges from just 100 aboard the Silver Origin of the Galapagos to 728 on their newest ship, the Silver Nova .

Silversea cruises touch all seven continents, with ports in over 900 locations. Spend up to 140 days at sea — or as few as five. The luxury begins as soon as you leave your home, with a chauffeured ride from your home to the airport as part of the Silversea experience.

9. Oceania Cruises

Small ship luxury at its finest is what you will receive when you step on board one of Oceania’s ships. With four ships housing around 650 guests and two more that can hold just over 1,200, Oceania ships are built small to ensure the service you receive is top notch.

Sail through the Panama Canal, explore the sites around the Baltic Sea and Scandinavia, Or, for just over $50,000 per person, embark on a seven-month-long journey around the world. This Miami to New York trip will take you through the Panama Canal (twice) and down to Antarctica, and it includes stops in Europe, Africa, Asia, and all of the Americas.

10. Windstar Cruises

If you are looking for a more intimate cruise experience, Windstar Cruises is ready to set sail. There are six ships in their fleet, ranging from the 342-guest Wind Surf flagship sailing ship, down to the 148-guest Wind Star and Wind Spirit . If there is somewhere you want to cruise, there is a good chance that Windstar can get you there.

Yes, you can enjoy the Caribbean and Mediterranean, but have you considered a Black Sea cruise? Or how about a tour of the Holy Lands, Northern Europe, or the South Pacific? Book today and enjoy world-class accommodations while getting up close and personal with local culture through the cruise line’s many shore excursion options.

Did our readers’ overall picks whet your appetite? Be sure to enjoy our readers’ picks in each of these individual cruise categories as well:

• 7 Best Caribbean Cruise Lines
• 7 Best Mediterranean Cruise Lines
• 8 Best Alaska Cruise Lines
• 5 Best Small Ship Cruise Lines
• 6 Best River Cruise Lines

It’s imperative to feel comfortable and safe while traveling. Medjet provides premier air medical transport, travel security, and crisis response memberships, providing peace of mind for an affordable price.

He has traveled to 44 states and has taken several trips outside of the U.S.; he experienced London as a tourist during college and took immersive trips to both Mexico City and Athens through a former career with a college student ministry. One of his favorite travel memories was serving a Christmas meal to refugees in Athens and hearing their stories of hope; Athens is truly the crossroads of European, Asian, African, and Middle Eastern cultures and shouldn't be missed!

• Cruise News

U.S. News Announces The Best Cruise Lines For 2022

Sarah Bretz, Contributor

• November 9, 2021

U.S. News & World Report has announced its 2022 Best Cruise Lines rankings .

The publication surveyed travelers to understand the effects of COVID-19 on cruiser sentiments. It unveiled the results at the Seatrade Global Conference in October which found that cruisers — both first-time and longtime — are currently booked at higher levels than before the pandemic.

Survey data also revealed that among the frequent travelers who indicated that they would cruise again, 20 percent are already booked on their next sailing.

“Though most avenues of travel have been impacted throughout the coronavirus pandemic, the cruise industry has seen the most challenges,” said Nicola Wood, travel editor at U.S. News. “U.S. News is excited to once again highlight the leading cruise lines and provide in-depth information on ships, onboard activities and itineraries to travelers looking to research and book a cruise vacation.”

The method used to collect these rankings factor in expert evaluations of cruise ship quality, reputation among travelers, results from health assessments conducted by the CDC, and other factors such as price class and itinerary offerings.

Celebrity Cruises took the top spot as the Best Cruise Line for the Money. Viking’s ocean cruises venture is number 1 for couples and luxury cruising, thanks to its adults-only environment and amenities such as fireplaces in common areas and balconies in every stateroom.

Disney Cruise Line has remained number 1 for Best Cruise Line for Families since U.S. News began ranking cruise lines, and for the eighth consecutive year, is also Best Cruise Line in the Caribbean.

Viking’s ocean ships also allowed the line to rank top for Best Cruise Line in the Mediterranean.

MORE:  Kid-Free Options on Carnival’s Mardi Gras

Here are this year’s top four rankings in each category:

For the Money

• Celebrity Cruises
• Holland America Line
• Royal Caribbean International
• Norwegian Cruise Line
• Viking (ocean)
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises

For Families

• Disney Cruise Line
• Carnival Cruise Line

For Couples

• Crystal Cruises

In the Mediterranean

In the caribbean.

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7 best all-inclusive cruise lines in the world

• Many cruise companies bundle food-and-beverage packages and other perks into the up-front cost, but only a few are truly all-inclusive cruise lines.
• These major cruise lines stand out for their luxe offerings and truly all-inclusive approach to cruising.

While many cruise lines offer food-and-beverage packages and other inclusive options, only a few can accurately claim to be fully all-inclusive. Most all-inclusive cruise lines tend to offer high-end luxury cruises, and typically these cruises have a large up-front cost with little to no final bill at the end of the voyage.

For most all-inclusive cruise lines, the price covers a double occupancy stateroom, the majority of meals and gratuities; onboard activities; laundry service; and all drinks, including alcoholic beverages, bottled water, soft drinks, etc.; plus taxes and fees. Some also offer free onboard Wi-Fi, flights, specialty dining, and many activities and shore excursions. What’s not typically included even on all-inclusive cruise lines are premium purchases such as spa treatments and top-shelf spirits.

And while these lines cover a lot, keep in mind that there are usually optional activities outside of the parameters of the all-inclusive cruise, which would cost extra.

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The best all-inclusive cruise lines in the world

Several major ocean cruise lines, along with smaller and more intimate cruise companies, operate as fully all-inclusive. At the top of our list are Regent Seven Seas, Scenic, Seabourn, Silversea, Viking, Virgin Voyages, and Azamara. Here’s what you should know about each of these all-inclusive cruise lines.

1. Regent Seven Seas Cruises

All-inclusive cruises with Regent Seven Seas come with a hefty price tag, but each of its six ships are a nearly perfect example of luxury at sea. And because the luxury fleet sails to 500+ ports of call, you can go pretty much anywhere in the world in a high-end cruise environment, a place where nearly every expense is included in the up-front cruise price.

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What’s included on Regent Seven Seas Cruises

An all-inclusive cruise with Regent Seven Seas includes round-trip airfare (in business class for cruises that embark from an overseas departure port), airport-to-ship transfers, 24-hour room service, open bar, gratuities, Wi-Fi, laundry service, and unlimited shore excursions. There are also occasional offers that add on things like complimentary pre- and post-cruise overnight hotel stays or two-for-one cruise fares.

Rooms on Regent Seven Seas Cruises

The all-suite rooms on each Regent Seven Seas all-inclusive cruise are beautifully designed to give you ample space to spread out and enjoy your private space. Different room categories offer a variety of layouts, but each is designed with luxury in mind. Each room also has a verandah.

Optional extras on Regent Seven Seas

Nearly everything is included when you book an all-inclusive cruise with Regent Seven Seas, but optional extras may include spa treatments or special activities such as cooking classes. 

2. Scenic Luxury Cruises and Tours

Known for over-the-top luxury paired with once-in-a-lifetime adventures, Scenic Luxury Cruises offers all-inclusive river cruises and ocean voyages that are all about experiential travel in some of the world’s most spectacular places.

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What’s included on Scenic Luxury Cruises

With Scenic, an all-inclusive cruise means full onboard butler service, dining experiences with cocktails, free Wi-Fi, an in-suite mini-bar refreshed daily, spa experiences (including meditation classes, aromatherapy showers, and saunas), and transportation to and from the airport. Gratuities are covered in the cost of your cruise, including gratuities for shore excursions. Also included are shore excursions and special onboard programs led by destination and subject matter experts.

Scenic Luxury Cruises sometimes offers two-for-one specials (i.e., “second guest sails free”) on select ocean voyages. Solo travelers can sometimes take advantage of waived solo supplement charges on select sailings.

Rooms on Scenic Luxury Cruises

All of Scenic’s ships offer suites with adjustable Scenic Slumber Beds and luxury linens and bath products, plus a pillow menu. Depending on the vessel, rooms have separate sleeping and lounge areas, ambient lighting, private verandas (some with the Scenic Sun Lounge system, which allows you to transform a balcony into a conservatory with the touch of a button).

Optional extras on Scenic Luxury Cruises

Helicopters and submarine excursions are not included in the all-inclusive price and come at an additional cost. One-on-one spa treatments and fitness classes are also extra. 

3. Seabourn Cruises

All-inclusive cruises on Seabourn have a distinct country club vibe. Carrying just a few hundred passengers per ship, each of Seabourn’s seven all-suite vessels emphasize comfort, intimacy, and perhaps most of all, food. All onboard restaurants are included in the price of your cruise, including The Grill by Thomas Keller.

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What’s Included on Seabourn Cruises

The cruise price on Seabourn ships includes both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, specialty dining experiences, onboard activities, use of water sports equipment, some shore excursions, and gratuities. Some specially priced packages also include round-trip airfare as well as pre-cruise hotel stays.

Rooms on Seabourn Cruises

Seabourn’s cruise ships feature all-suite accommodations with custom beds, walk-in closets, marble bathrooms with full tub, shower, and luxury products. There’s an in-suite bar with complimentary wine and spirits. And each stateroom includes a suite host and suit attendant, who can do everything from draw you a bath to personalize your nightly turndown service.

Optional extras on Seabourn Cruises

Wi-Fi, airfare, spa services, and most shore excursions are not part of Seabourn’s all-inclusive cruise rate.

4. Silversea Cruises

If you’re looking for an all-inclusive cruise that will take care of every detail of your trip from the moment you leave home until the moment you return (including privately chauffeured door-to-door transfers to and from your home), Silversea is the cruise line for you. With sailings that call on 900 destinations, the options feel nearly endless. Silversea’s ships max out at 250 staterooms (most are smaller), so the experience feels exclusive and intimate.

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What’s included on Silversea Cruises

In addition to private airport transfers, Silversea cruises include round-trip airfare, butler service, Wi-Fi, laundry services, one shore excursion per port, onboard entertainment (including dancing and cooking lessons), all meals, most alcoholic beverages, and a pre-cruise hotel stay.

Rooms on Silversea Cruises

All Silversea’s suites feature ocean views, and most staterooms have private teak verandahs. All suites include the services of a butler, who will customize your stateroom with optional amenities like personalized stationery, your favorite wines, and select toiletries. Rooms feel bright and airy, with separate living and sleeping areas.

Optional extras on Silversea Cruises

Spa treatments and top-shelf wines and spirits are not included in the cruise price.

5. Viking Ocean Cruises

While it doesn’t consider itself a luxury cruise line, Viking Cruises offers top-of-the-line cruises that most people would consider “trip of a lifetime” material. Viking cruises are also kid-free (no one under the age of 18), which makes its all-inclusive cruises perfect for adult couples and groups of friends.

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What’s included on Viking Ocean Cruises

Viking’s all-inclusive price includes non-alcoholic drinks and some alcoholic beverages at lunch and dinner, a shore excursion in each port, access to the spa’s thermal suite, various fitness classes, 24-hour room service, laundry services, free Wi-Fi, and airport transfers. Some special promotions also include round-trip airfare.

Rooms on Viking Ocean Cruises

Because there are no interior staterooms on Viking cruises, every room comes with a verandah. Rooms range in size from a modest 270 square feet to an enormous 1,448 square feet. Amenities are based on what room type is purchased, but all rooms include a spacious bathroom and a king-sized bed. 

Optional extras on Viking Ocean Cruises

Viking’s all-inclusive cruise prices do not include spa treatments, gratuities, or cocktails. 

6. Virgin Voyages

Another all-inclusive cruise line known for its adults-only voyages (passengers must be at least 18 years old), Virgin Voyages is geared more toward younger adults than empty nesters and retirees. It sails to destinations around the world, including the South Pacific, Europe, and the Caribbean on its “Lady” ships ( Scarlet Lady, Valiant Lady, Resilient Lady , and the  Brilliant Lady ). 

NO KIDS ALLOWED: 10 best adults-only all-inclusive Caribbean resorts for couples

What’s included on Virgin Voyages

Virgin’s approach to 24-hour dining is what really sets is apart from others ( read our full review here ). Instead of buffets, Virgin’s all-inclusive sailings invite guests to dine at nearly two dozen different specialty restaurants onboard.

Each cruise with Virgin Voyages also includes Wi-Fi, tips and gratuities, theatrical productions, and group workouts. Non-alcoholic drinks are also included, but alcoholic beverages are sold at a per drink price starting at $5.

Rooms on Virgin Voyages

Virgin’s cabins range from interior with a porthole view to elaborate suites. By its count, 86% of its staterooms come with its signature “Sea Terrace Hammock,” a perfect way to kick back and rock with the gentle lolling of the ship on your terrace. Staterooms feel modern and sleek, and suites are over-the-top affairs with lots of extras like curated in-room bars, roomy balconies, and private lounge access.

Optional extras on Virgin Voyages

Spa treatments, alcoholic beverages, and shore excursions are not included in the cost. And if you decide to get a tattoo at sea at Squid Ink, that’s on both you and your bill. 

Azamara’s luxury cruise ships are small (each ship can accommodate roughly 700 guests) and feel more like boutique hotels than mega cruise liners. With fewer guests than most other all-inclusive cruise lines, Azamara is able to cater to its guests in a more personal way.

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What’s included on Azamara Cruises

Included with your all-inclusive booking are gratuities for staff, select alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, self-service laundry, shuttle service to and from port, and concierge service. Each room also has fresh-cut flowers delivered, which is a nice luxury touch.

Rooms on Azamara Cruises

Azamara ships have traditional staterooms and suites. Most rooms come with balconies where you can enjoy the sunrise or to take in the view as you leave each day’s port of call. No matter which category of stateroom you select, you will have access to an onboard Destination Celebration or “AzAmazing Evenings” event (generally private VIP tours of cultural interest). The most luxurious class of rooms, however, also come with butler service, afternoon tea, in-room spirits, specialty dining seating, and an onboard credit.

Optional extras on Azamara Cruises

Shore excursions, spa services, and transportation from your home to the ship are not include in the all-inclusive cruise price with Azamara.

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The post 7 best all-inclusive cruise lines in the world appeared first on FamilyVacationist .

Best Disney Cruise Line Ships In 2024, Ranked

Since 1998, the award-winning Disney Cruise Line has expanded to five ships, each offering vacation experiences unlike anything at the Disney Parks or any other cruise line at sea.

In 2024, the Disney Cruise Line fleet consists of the Magic, Wonder, Dream, Fantasy, and the Wish with a new ship, the Treasure, set to debut in December.

Given their varying sizes, restaurants, on-board amenities, and designs, the question amongst longtime cruisers (and first-time guests) is which Disney Cruise Line ship is ranked the best? 

[ Disney Reveals 22 New MCU-Themed Foods on Cruise Line ]

Ranking the Best 2024 Disney Cruise Line Ships 

The following ranked list of Disney Cruise Line ships is based on info U.S News & World Report's rankings, personal travel experience, and fan consensus beginning with the worst and ending with the best.

5. Disney Wonder

The second ship to sail under the Disney Cruise Line banner, the Disney Wonder is one of the smallest in the fleet and the vessel Disney traditionally uses for its Alaska sailings. 

The 2,400-passenger Disney Wonder first debuted in 1999 with an Art Nouveau meets nautical motif, three pools, a trio of themed dining rooms, and various adults-only spaces. 

Highlights : The Disney Cruise Line is famous for its Broadway-style performances, and the Wonder offers one of the most popular shows at sea, Frozen, A Musical Spectacular .

A relatively new addition is Tiana's Place restaurant which features live jazz music, a New Orleans-style menu, and a Mardis Gras party starring characters from Disney's The Princess and the Frog (and likely other cruisers and the ship's serving staff!). 

Critiques : The Disney Wonder may be a little too "cozy" for guests familiar with the industry's focus on mega-ships and who want to be constantly entertained. There is also no AquaDunk, which is Disney Cruise Line's free-fall drop water slide, or AquaDuck, Disney's popular water coaster at sea.

4. Disney Dream

Disney Cruise Line's third ship and the first within its Dream Class (which is bigger than the Magic and Wonder from the '90s) is the Disney Dream.

The 4,000-passenger Dream is the sister ship of the Disney Fantasy and offers two adults-only restaurants, Palo and Remy, as well as an Art Deco Grand Atrium.

The Dream was also the first of Disney's ships to feature the AquaDuck, a 765-foot water coaster that runs high above (and over the side of) the ship's top deck with clear views of the ocean below. 

Highlights : The AquaDuck never disappoints, nor does the Dream's Beauty and Beast stage show. But the Dream's Oceaneer's Club (which is the kid's club but open to adults at select times) features a whole Millennium Falcon area, complete with a cockpit, that's larger than Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge's Millenium Falcon: Smugglers Run ride. 

Note : This fall, the Disney Dream will receive several new updates that may help its spot in the rankings, including a Marvel WEB Workshop for its Oceaneer Club, a new Fantasia -themed suite within one of the ship's funnels, an expanded concierge lounge with a Hercules theme, and additional changes to the ship's spa and tween club. 

Critiques : While the Dream's food is top-notch, its lounges and two of its three main restaurants lack strong theming. The most Disney of the dining rooms is its Animator's Palate, but this version focuses more on Finding Nemo than animation and is mainly a converted Turtle Talk with Crush experience from Epcot. It is fun for kids, hilarious for willing adults, but nerve-wracking for introverts.

3. Disney Wish

The Wish is not only the newest Disney Cruise Line ship, having only set sail in 2022, but it is also the biggest. 

Apart from its upgraded size, the 5,500-passenger Wish is a departure from the design of Disney's previous ships in that Imagineering introduced a new (and surprising?) layout, a bright and sparkly "castle at sea" aesthetic, and dining options themed after Star Wars and the MCU .

Highlights : The Wish being Disney Cruise Line's first new ship in over a decade, coupled with its size, is an obvious highlight, and its new design and roster of amenities is understandably a huge draw. 

But particular things that stand out include the Disney Wish's bright and elegant Grand Atrium, updated staterooms (bigger TVs!), an indoor, air-conditioned gymnasium, and the Oceaneer's Club with spaces dedicated to Imagineering, the MCU, and Star Wars Cargo Bay . For Marvel fans, there is also the Worlds of Marvel restaurant boasting an original, interactive mini-Avengers movie and a themed menu. 

Critiques : The Disney Wish features a different layout than previous Disney Cruise Line ships; and for many cruisers, it is not an improvement.

In addition to only having two sets of stairs and elevators, the adults-only section is tucked at the back of the ship with only one way in or out. Plus, it is a bit cramped. Lack of space is also a common critique with its Star Wars: Hyperspace Lounge, as is the lack of a main pool in exchange for several small pools.

2. Disney Fantasy 

First launched in 2012, the 4,000-passenger Disney Fantasy debuted in the wake of its sister ship, the Disney Dream, and with its own distinct Art Nouveau motif. It's also the ship Disney typically utilizes for its 7-night itineraries. 

Highlights : Along with its own AquaDuck water coaster, the Fantasy's Animator's Palate restaurant offers two versions, including "Animation Magic." The popular Frozen, A Musical Spectacular is also one of the shows offered on board.

The Fantasy is also appreciated for its layout which groups its two adults-only restaurants and cohesively-themed European lounges in their own dedicated corners of the ship.

Critiques : Like the Dream, two of the ship's three main restaurants are lightly themed. 

1. Disney Magic

Disney Cruise Line's original ship, the Disney Magic is one of the smallest in the fleet, but seasoned cruisers love it for having maintained the charm, service, and personality that put Disney Cruise Line on the map back in the '90s. 

The 2,713-passenger Disney Magic launched in 1998 and was recently refurbished in 2023 where it gained a new lounge, show, and various other upgrades. 

Highlights: The Disney Magic is the only Disney Cruise Line ship featuring the AquaDunk, a freefall drop waterslide, as well as Rapunzel's Royal Table which offers a Tangled-inspired dinner show and hilarious, table-to-table interactions with the Snuggly Duckling's Ruffians.

Guests will also find the first-ever Animator's Palate restaurant with the two best versions of the experience, as well as "Twice Charmed: An Original Twist on the Cinderella Story" show. 

Critiques : While the Magic's fan base is loyal and still encapsulates the Disney Cruise Line experience, it's still the oldest and one of the smallest. 

In addition to the Disney Treasure which sets sail in December 2024, the Disney Adventure is set to debut in 2025, followed by the Disney Destiny in 2026.

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Subscriber only, travel | disney cruise line partners with japan company to add ship to fleet.

The deal with OLC, which owns and operates Tokyo Disney Resort, calls for a sister ship to Disney Wish to be constructed at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany for sailing expected to begin in early 2029.

While technically the yet-to-be-named ship will be the ninth vessel in the DCL fleet, it’s OLC that has entered into the construction contract, and will operate the vessel under a licensing agreement with Disney.

It would be the fourth Wish-class ship for the DCL fleet following 2022’s Wish, this year’s Disney Treasure and next year’s Disney Destiny. Wish will be joined by Treasure later this year with both sailing out of Port Canaveral while Destiny’s home port has yet to be announced.

New cruise ship Disney Treasure gets 1st taste of water

Disney is also set to welcome in 2025 the Disney Adventure, which is headed to Singapore.

The Japan deal expands on a relationship between Disney and OLC that is more than 40 years old. Tokyo Disneyland opened in 1983 and OLC also operates the ocean-themed Tokyo DisneySea, which opened in 2001. Both theme parks falling within Tokyo Disney Resort, which has like Walt Disney World has its own monorail, entertainment and dining complex and hotels.

“Disney Cruise Line has ambitious plans to bring family vacations and Disney storytelling to more guests around the world than ever before,” said Josh D’Amaro, chairman of Disney Experiences, in a press release. “We are thrilled to continue the success of this expansion as we collaborate with Oriental Land Co. to introduce another distinctly Disney vacation experience to families and fans in Japan.”

The ship will be operated by OLC and be registered in Japan.

The Wish class are slightly larger than the Disney Dream and Fantasy with about 1,250 staterooms and a 4,000-guest capacity including children. The release noted the ship will feature many guest-favorite venues and experiences that can be found on Disney Wish “with select modifications specially designed with Japanese guests in mind.”

Disney Wish features the AquaMouse water coaster that is part dark ride, part tube run, a Marvel-themed restaurant and dinner theater venue themed to “Frozen.”

“I am sincerely proud that Disney and Oriental Land will be able to work together to create a world-class cruise business in Japan,” said Yumiko Takano, representative director, chairperson and CEO, Oriental Land. “Oriental Land will use their knowhow from the theme park business to continue pushing boundaries and provide family entertainment cruise experiences filled with inspiration and surprise.”

Disney’s first ship Disney Magic debuted in 1998 followed by sister ship Disney Wonder in 1999. Dream and Fantasy doubled the fleet with their debuts in 2011 and 2012 before the recent rapid expansion to double the fleet again with four new ships from 2022-2025.

The line also created a second Florida year-round home port taking over a cruise terminal at Port Everglades and this summer debuted its new Bahamas private destination Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point.

Editor’s note: An earlier version of this story reported DCL had ordered the ship construction. OLC ordered it.

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Our Readers' Favorite Intimate-ship Ocean Cruise Lines in 2022

A new category for Travel + Leisure's World’s Best Awards — the best intimate-ship ocean cruise lines — recognizes the smallest ships sailing the great blue sea.

A new classification designed to honor the smallest oceangoing vessels, the best intimate-ship ocean cruise lines category recognizes ships with fewer than 150 cabins. More nimble than their larger counterparts, these petite ships often take travelers to farther-flung and less-frequented ports, from tropical destinations to both poles.

Every year for our World's Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Readers rated individual cruise ships on their cabins and facilities, food, service, itineraries and destinations, excursions and activities, and value. Those assessments were combined to generate results for the cruise lines in six categories, including river cruising.

Coming in second is Overseas Adventure Travel, which operates in destinations such as Patagonia and the Chilean fjords, Antarctica, the Arctic, the Red Sea, and the coast of Italy. "Outstanding crew and great tour leaders," wrote one voter. In third place: the eight-ship Greek-owned line Variety Cruises, which another reader lauded for its "relaxed, very friendly manner."

French line Ponant, with a fleet that includes the eco-friendly polar expedition ship Le Commandant Charcot, ranked No. 4. "Staff and activities were amazing," wrote one voter who sailed on L'Austral . "The expedition crew hired for Antarctica was unreal!" SeaDream Yacht Club, with its impeccable vessels and amiable hospitality, fills out the top five. "The service is beyond compare," enthused a reader. "SeaDream makes you feel like a friend coming back on the boat."

Below, find the full list of the best intimate-ship ocean cruise lines — and more on what sets this year's winner, Quasar, apart.

1. Quasar Expeditions

"This is one of the most romantic ships in the Galápagos and by far the classiest and most iconic," wrote one T+L reader who sailed on the historic yacht Grace , which Grace Kelly received as a wedding gift from Aristotle Onassis when she wed Prince Rainier III in 1956. The two-ship line's Evolution also earned considerable praise. "I highly recommend this company to anyone looking to visit Ecuador and the Galápagos," said another reader who had sailed on the 32-passenger ship.

Score: 98.69

More information: quasarex.com

2. Overseas Adventure Travel

Score: 97.17

More information: oattravel.com

3. Variety Cruises

Score: 94.16

More information: varietycruises.com

Score: 93.59

More: us.ponant.com

5. SeaDream Yacht Club

Score: 92.55

More information: seadream.com

6. Windstar Cruises

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Score: 91.83

More information: windstarcruises.com

7. Celebrity Cruises

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Score: 91.52

More information: celebritycruises.com

8. Silversea

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Score: 90.89

More information: silversea.com

9. Lindblad Expeditions

Score: 88.96

More information: expeditions.com

10. Alaskan Dream Cruises

Score: 82.97

More information: alaskandreamcruises.com

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Protect Your Trip »

Cruise packing list: 56 essentials chosen by experts.

This cruise packing list includes all of the essentials – plus items you didn't know you needed.

Essentials to Pack for a Cruise

Packing for any trip takes some planning, but cruise vacations present a unique challenge – particularly due to limited stateroom storage space and sparse (or overpriced) options for purchasing accidentally forgotten items.

To help you decide what to pack for a cruise, we've curated a list of essentials recommended by cruise experts who regularly sail the high seas. Download the U.S. News Cruise Packing List pictured above to reference while you pack, and read on to learn more about the recommended items and where you can purchase them if needed.

• For packing and planning
• For travel and embarkation day
• For the cabin
• For the ship and shore excursions

Find your perfect cruise

Carry-on bag

Regardless of whether you bring checked luggage, you'll need some type of carry-on bag . Since checked bags need to go through security as they do at airports – and because you may need to wait for your stateroom to be ready, just like at a hotel – you'll want to be able to access any necessities pre-cruise. These might include a swimsuit, sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat for the pools; medications; a bottle of water; and your smartphone, of course. You'll also want to keep your credit card , passport, and any other important documentation or valuables close by. A carry-on backpack works especially well since it can double as a day bag for shore excursions.

Checked bag

While you'll likely want to bring a checked bag, consider sharing one with your shipmate(s) to maximize stateroom storage space. Or, consider bringing medium-sized luggage, such as the The Medium by Away , for checking in.

Garment bag

Courtesy of Halfday

While many cruises are less formal these days, a garment bag can still be handy for keeping select garments wrinkle-free (since clothing irons are prohibited on cruise ships). Top-rated options include the The Garment Duffel by Halfday and the Briggs and Riley Baseline 22" Carry-On 2-Wheel Garment Bag , both of which double as traditional luggage. If you pack your luggage right, you can make this your only suitcase, in addition to a carry-on bag.

Packing cubes or vacuum-sealed bags

Packing cubes are one of the best ways to organize your belongings for travel – especially in a tight cruise ship cabin. Top-rated options include the Veken packing cubes on Amazon (usually priced around $20) and all of the Pack-It Sets by Eagle Creek. The Pack-It Starter Set is especially ideal for cruising since it includes a garment folder designed to minimize wrinkles in clothing. Some cruisers also swear by vacuum-sealed bags , even though they can be a bit more tedious to pack.

Carry-on caddy

Ashley Kosciolek, senior cruise writer at The Points Guy, recommends a carry-on caddy , particularly if you're flying to your embarkation point. "I have a fabric sleeve that slides down over the telescoping handle on my carry-on to provide pockets for my passport, phone, coffee – all the things I used to have to juggle during check-in."

Digital luggage scale

The compact Etekcity scale – approximately $10 on Amazon – can weigh bags up to 110 pounds and help you avoid overweight baggage fees. You can often find these scales at your local Marshalls and HomeGoods stores too.

Bungee cord

"Especially for travelling with the family, I use a bright-green bungee cord to strap multiple pieces of luggage together," says Aaron Saunders, senior editor at Cruise Critic. "It's a lifesaver when boarding trains or disembarking ships, particularly when you ' re maneuvering a stroller and a little one around, too."

Luggage tracker

Courtesy of Apple

A luggage tracker isn't just useful for air travel. Attach one to your checked cruise luggage to see when it has arrived in your stateroom (or if it's stalled at security). Chris Gray Faust, executive editor at Cruise Critic, doesn't go anywhere without her Apple AirTag after her luggage got stuck in Vancouver for over a week last June. "My AirTag use has expanded beyond my checked luggage, too. I also have AirTags in my handbag, my carry-on, my keychain and my wallet."

Cruise insurance

Due to the unpredictable nature of travel, cruise insurance can be a wise purchase ahead of your voyage. Travel policies can cover unforeseen expenses such as trip interruptions and medical emergencies.

While a passport is often required for cruising, rules can vary depending where you're traveling. Determine whether you need a passport for your upcoming cruise ; if you do, triple-check that you have it packed the day of departure.

Credit cards and local currency

When cruising internationally, consider getting small amounts of each country's currency to have on hand in port. Depending where you go, some local markets may only accept their own country's currency, not U.S. dollars or credit cards. It's also nice to leave cash gratuities for cab drivers, tour guides or servers; in the European Union, 1- and 2-euro coins are convenient and appropriate tips. In ports with vendors that do accept credit cards, be sure to carry a Visa or Mastercard , as some shops and restaurants do not take American Express .

RFID wallet

It's important to protect your travel documents with an RFID wallet like the TIGARI Passport Holder or the ZOPPEN RFID Travel Passport Wallet , the latter of which can hold multiple passports for a family. "Thieves and hackers can steal your credit card information just by using skimming devices," explains Jill Schildhouse, a cruise expert and U.S. News contributor who always travels with her RFID wallet. "And because your wallet wasn't even touched, you won't know it happened until you see your credit card statement."

Medications

Pack more than enough of your prescription medications as well as any over-the-counter medicines you'll need, just in case you encounter an itinerary change or travel delay. While some travelers find it easiest to bring personal medicines in their prescription bottles, others find travel pill boxes to be especially helpful for organization. The Sukuos Weekly Pill Organizer is a well-rated option, with detachable boxes for each day as well as compartments for morning and evening medications.

Sheet masks

Since flying can be so drying for the skin, Faust likes to use sheet masks. "My first step the night before I board (because you should always fly in a day early) is to hydrate with a sheet mask (usually from a Korean brand like Ballon Blanc or FaceTory )," she says. "If I'm meeting up with a friend, I bring an extra sheet mask so our trip starts out feeling a bit like a spa day!"

Magnetic hooks

A surprising fact: Cruise ship cabin walls are made of metal, which means you can optimize your storage space by hanging some of your belongings on magnetic wall hooks. The hooks are perfect for holding bulky coats or boots if you're traveling to a colder climate. You can also use them for wet gear on expedition ships and adventure cruises, or for drying out bathing suits after days at the beach or pool. Purchase a set of magnetic hooks for less than $10 on Amazon.

Like hotels, cruise ships can only provide so many hangers. Bring a few extras from home or pick up a pack from your local dollar store. You might also try packable hangers .

Wrinkle release spray

Whether or not you bring a garment bag, a travel-size bottle of wrinkle release spray, such as Downy Wrinkle Releaser spray , is useful to have on board. If you combine a spritz or two with the steam from your shower, you should be able to smooth out some of the wrinkles in your clothing.

Laundry detergent

"If you don't want to pay for laundry service or spend precious time in the self-service laundry room, bring a small bottle of laundry detergent like Woolite to wash key items in the sink: underwear, bras, quick-dry hiking shorts, bathing suits, etc.," recommends Schildhouse. "Every cruise ship shower has a retractable clothesline you can extend to drape the clothes over while they dry. This can also help cut down on the number of items you need to pack."

Over-the-door organizers

Over-the-door organizers with clear or mesh pockets allow you to find your feminine hygiene products, makeup, jewelry and other small items quickly – without having to hunt through multiple drawers or a tight stateroom closet. It's a good idea to purchase a two-pack like this option by Simple Houseware Store (available on Amazon), since you can also use one to store shoes and maximize floor space.

Courtesy of Poo-Pourri

It goes without saying, but to say it anyway: A toilet spray like Poo-Pourri is a must for your cruise packing list. Any smell – pleasant or not – will travel quickly in small staterooms with small bathrooms. Buy a travel-size bottle to keep in your cabin.

Shampoo and conditioner

Cruise experts agree it's best to bring your own shampoo and conditioner in travel-size bottles, as most cruise ships don't provide separate shampoo and conditioner anymore; instead, they offer all-in-one dispensers. Colleen McDaniel, editor-in-chief at Cruise Critic, likes to pack her shampoo and conditioner in the popular Cadence Capsules , noting she also uses them for another essential: sunscreen. "These capsules are easy to fill, never leak and have clear labels, which you can customize," she says.

Wine or Champagne

Most major cruise lines allow each guest to bring one to two bottles of wine or Champagne on board, while some luxury cruise lines allow even more than that. Disney Cruise Line also gives guests the option to bring a six-pack of beer instead of wine or Champagne. Be sure to consult your cruise line's policies when packing for your trip.

If you plan to bring wine or Champagne, you'll likely need a corkscrew . While some cruise lines may prohibit corkscrews, others allow them on board; check your cruise line's policy before sailing. Bringing wine with a twistable cap may be a good alternative.

Portable humidifier

Cruise ship cabins can feel dry – especially in the colder months. A portable humidifier like the GENIANI Erie (around $25 on Amazon) can provide some relief. At about half a pound, this USB-powered device will fit neatly into your checked bag or carry-on luggage. The travel humidifier features two mist settings and has an automatic shut-off option, plus a night light to help you see around your cabin in the dark.

International travel adapter or converter

You'll likely need a travel adapter, since cruise lines homeported in international locales may have different electrical sockets and voltage strengths than you're used to in the U.S.

McDaniel recommends the OneWorld65 Travel Adapter . "I've used a lot of different travel adapters over the years, but this is my favorite. It charges up to six devices at once, has USB and mini-USB options, and works in over 200 countries," she says. "While many cruise ships have U.S. outlets, most usually also have European outlets. This adapter lets me take advantage of that outlet I'd otherwise ignore." She also notes that while cruise lines are getting better about having more outlets on their ships, it never feels like enough to keep your phone, camera battery, tablet, watch, headphones/earbuds and laptop charged (times two or more if you're traveling with others).

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Sound machine

Cruise experts agree a sound machine can be helpful for blocking out the sound of late-night partiers returning to their staterooms (or your snoring spouse). Schildhouse likes the LectroFan Micro 2 for cruising. "It plays non-looping white noise and doubles as a speaker to play tunes while you get ready for dinner."

Tech organizer

Courtesy of Bagsmart

A tech organizer like the BAGSMART electronics organizer case – available on Amazon for about $20 – can store all your cables, plugs, SD cards and earphones in one zippered, compact bag that will fit easily in your carry-on luggage. Despite its small size, it can also hold bulkier items like a small laptop charging cord.

First-aid kit

A first-aid kit is a good thing to have on hand no matter where you go. You can make your own using supplies you already have at home, or buy a premade first-aid kit on Amazon for about $20. While all cruise ships have medical facilities, it's useful to have these items with you on shore excursions, especially those involving active adventures.

Hand sanitizer

Regularly washing your hands and/or using hand sanitizer is essential to staying healthy while traveling, especially on a cruise ship. Stock up on a few travel-size bottles of hand sanitizer (less than $2 each at Walmart) ahead of your trip. If you're looking for something with less alcohol that's also less drying, check out Babyganics Alcohol-Free Foaming Hand Sanitizer .

If you're a parent, you know that your infant or toddler needs a very specific size – and in some cases brand – of diapers, which may very well be unavailable to you on your cruise ship or in the ports of call. Bring more than enough diapers to play it safe at sea.

Most cruise lines also require that non-toilet-trained infants and toddlers wear swim diapers in the children's water play areas. For the sake of sanitation, kids must be toilet-trained to use the pools on cruise ships.

Many cruisers like to personalize their cabin with stateroom door decor. Not only is it a fun tradition, but decorating the door can make it easier to locate your room, too. You can find lots of fun decor ideas on Pinterest as well as Amazon.

" Duct tape is a life-saver in many situations," says Kosciolek. "I primarily use it to attach my printed luggage tags, but it's also great for mending clothing issues on the fly and fixing broken luggage until you can get it back home."

"As a parent, I like to bring lanyards with sleeves so my kids can wear their keycards and not lose them," says Erica Silverstein, senior cruise editor at The Points Guy. "We hang them on the magnetic hooks I put on the wall, so they don't get lost in the cabin either."

Courtesy of Sea-Band

If you're prone to (or think you may be prone to) motion sickness on cruise ships, put a pair of Sea-Bands on your cruise packing list. These soft wristbands use acupressure to prevent and minimize nausea and vomiting on board, and they are a reusable, drug-free alternative to traditional anti-nausea medications. You can purchase Sea-Bands on Amazon or at most drugstores.

If you need something a bit stronger than Sea-Bands (or to use in conjunction with them), Dramamine remains a tried-and-true solution for both preventing and treating sea sickness. Choose the Less Drowsy formula to avoid getting sleepy, and consider the chewable tablets (dye-free) if traveling with kids who are prone to queasiness. Many travelers like Bonine as a remedy for sea sickness as well.

Mix-and-match clothing

Pack a variety of mix-and-match items, also known as a capsule wardrobe, for your cruise. To do this, choose a base color – black or navy blue – for your wardrobe. Next, pack plain, neutral-colored items, then add a few patterned items to the mix. Remember to include a variety of styles (T-shirts, long-sleeved shirts, pants, shorts, dresses, rompers and jumpsuits) and also consider reversible clothing and outfits that can easily transition from day to night.

Sports jacket or blazer

Adam Coulter, executive editor of Cruise Critic UK and Australia, recommends packing a sports jacket or blazer. "While cruise lines are getting more casual, what happens if you get that last-minute invite to meet the captain, or there's a meet and mingle where you want to look put together? A jacket will always elevate your elegance (even if you're wearing a T-shirt underneath)," he says. If you're in need of a travel blazer, Bluffworks has some well-rated options; the Gramercy , in particular, gets great reviews.

Themed party attire

Some cruise lines host themed voyages or parties on select nights where passengers can dress up to participate in the fun. You'll want to review your cruise itinerary before you go so you're prepared for the festivities. Bring your buccaneer gear if you're sailing aboard Disney Cruise Line; ships host fun events like Pirate Nights, pirate-themed dinners and a "Pirates in the Caribbean" show. On "The Love Boat"-themed cruises offered by Princess Cruises , pack your platform boots, glittery dresses, bell-bottom pants and halter tops for the line's 1970s-inspired disco party on the deck. No matter the theme, you can't go wrong with a couple of cruise captain hats .

Travel wrap

A travel wrap is a versatile accessory that's useful for any trip – even more so on a cruise ship where it can get chilly when the sea breeze picks up. Available in nearly 10 different colors, J.Crew's Oversized Cashmere Wrap is a timeless staple, albeit a bit of an investment; for something less expensive but well rated, try this off-brand pashmina shawl on Amazon .

Packable jacket

Courtesy of Patagonia

If you're cruising to a cold weather destination such as Alaska, you'll need something heavier than a travel wrap, but not so bulky that it requires additional luggage. Consider a packable jacket that folds easily and compactly; travel experts highly recommend the Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket .

Packable hat

If you're headed to the Caribbean or another warm weather destination, you'll want a beach hat to protect your scalp and face from the sun. This packable straw hat by FURTALK (available on Amazon for about $25) is a stylish women's option that features a broader brim and offers UPF 50 sun protection.

Comfortable walking shoes

Courtesy of Allbirds

Even if you never step foot off the ship, there is still plenty of walking to do between bow and stern. Closed-toe shoes or sandals with straps are safer than flimsy flip-flops when boarding a slippery tender into port (if your ship can't dock directly). Check out our recommendations for the most comfortable walking shoes , which include the popular Allbirds Wool Runners and the ECCO Yucatan Sandals .

Water shoes

Depending on your scheduled shore excursions, you might also need a pair of water shoes. For something that's both functional and fashionable, Crocs' Classic Clogs are a good option. While not totally waterproof, the Native Jefferson is a water-friendly, versatile option.

Versatile heels

"Over the years, I've learned that the key to avoiding overpacking is to bring one neutral pair of low heels that match every single eveningwear outfit I've packed – from flowy pants to dresses," says Schildhouse. The Naturalizer Bristol Sandal is an ideal choice, with a cushioned footbed, a 2.5-inch heel, and great reviews. It's also available in a variety of colors.

Reusable water bottle

A reusable water bottle is useful for filling up at water and beverage stations on your cruise ship; it's also a necessity for shore excursions.

Bathing suit

Pack a couple of swimsuits for the pools, hot tubs and any shore excursions.

Swim cover-up

Another must-have for your cruise packing list is a swimsuit cover-up or two. These are great for wearing over your bathing suit during days at sea, as well as on excursions – especially if you're going on a Caribbean cruise . Amazon sells a variety of stylish, affordable cover-ups, and you can never go wrong with a classic white button-down shirt .

Dry bags are useful for shore excursions where you're likely to get wet but don't want the same to be true for your phone, camera and other precious items. "I use the Outdoor Research Unisex Dry Isolation Pack   and have never had so much as a drop of moisture enter it, which is important for me – it keeps my cameras, documents and important items from getting wet," says Saunders, adding that it functions as a great everyday backpack when it's not raining.

If you need more than one dry bag, cruise expert Brittany Chrusciel recommends the Sea to Summit Lightweight Dry Bag Set . "Having these dry bags, in a variety of sizes, means I can bring all my gear along during a Zodiac cruise or snorkeling excursion without having to worry about it getting wet."

Waterproof phone case

A waterproof phone case is also essential, especially if you plan to take photos. The Hiearcool Waterproof Phone Pouches (available in a two-pack) come with a lanyard so you can both protect your phone and wear it around your neck. They are compatible with most smartphones.

"I like to bring collapsible pails, small shovels , inflatable beach toys, a floppy Frisbee or other things to entertain the kids on the beach if we're going to a private island or beach destination," says Silverstein. "If you can inflate your own inner tube, you don't need to rent a floating mat."

Beach towel

"Although cruise lines provide guests with towels to take off the ship on excursions, they are often bulky and sometimes small," explains Chrusciel. "The Surfer Towel folds up to nearly nothing, so it takes up almost no room in your suitcase and is super convenient to pack in a day bag. What's more, its quick-drying technology means that the lightweight fabric won't be soaking wet when you need to pack up for the day and head back to the ship."

Towel clips

"Even though giant plastic towel clips shaped like a flamingo are a bit cringey, they make it easy to find your spot in a sea of sun loungers," says Chrusciel. "They also solve a common cruise problem: keeping your towel securely fixed to your chair while reading or sunbathing."

Reef-safe sunscreen

Courtesy of Badger

When choosing a sunscreen, look for something that's reef-safe; not only are these sunscreens safer for the environment, but they're also better for you . The active ingredients in reef-safe sunscreens, also known as mineral sunscreens, are zinc oxide, titanium dioxide or a combination of both. Top-rated mineral sunscreen brands include Think , Badger and Raw Elements , all of which also sell lip balm with sunscreen (another essential at sea).

After-sun lotion

You'll want an extra dose of moisturizer if you've been basking in the sun. COOLA makes an after-sun body lotion that cools and hydrates the skin with aloe vera, agave and lavender oil. Previous buyers rave about this lotion, noting they appreciate that the scent isn't overpowering.

A good book

Sea days are the perfect time to kick back and relax with a book you've been meaning to read. Find an oceanfront lounge chair in a shaded area on the pool deck, or grab a cup of tea and settle into a quiet nook indoors. There's no need to pack more than one book, however, as many cruise ships have libraries.

What not to pack for a cruise

Power strip.

Many cruise lines do not permit power strips as they present a fire hazard, while others allow them as long as they are non-surge-protected. Instead of a power strip, purchase a portable charger such as this highly rated one by Anker , which can power up multiple devices at once. This can be especially useful for shore excursions. When packing for your cruise, also think about your luggage: If it has an included charging port, you may not even need to purchase an additional charging block.

Weapons and restraints

Firearms, handcuffs and the like are not permitted on cruise ships. This rule also includes toy guns on most cruise lines.

While most major cruise lines allow guests to pack a limited amount of wine or Champagne per person, they do not permit hard liquor. Of course, those of age can purchase cocktails at any of the bars on board.

Household appliances

Irons and steamers are not permitted on cruise ships, which is why the aforementioned garment bags, wrinkle release spray and packing cubes are recommended for keeping clothing tidy and neat. Coffee makers and mug warmers are also prohibited.

While you can technically bring you own, it's not necessary as hairdryers are available in every bathroom on most ships.

CBD and marijuana

CBD that's derived from hemp and contains 0.3% THC or less is legal at a federal level. However, each state interprets and enforces this law differently; for example, many states require a prescription for it. Due to the ambiguity of the laws, most cruise lines continue to ban CBD in any form.

Marijuana remains illegal under U.S. federal law, which means you cannot bring it on a cruise ship – even if you're legally able to purchase it in your home state for recreational or medical use.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

For the U.S. News Cruise Packing List, travel writers Gwen Pratesi and Amanda Norcross tapped leading industry experts for their cruise essentials. They regularly update this checklist with new and useful items to pack.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Cruise Lines
• The Best Adults-Only Cruises
• The Best All-Inclusive Cruises

Vacation Ideas for Every Traveler

Tags: Travel , Cruises , Travel Gear

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• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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