cruise lines ranked uk

Cruise Lines Ranked From Worst to Best

Looking to make your next adventure a seafaring one? Or maybe you want an all-inclusive vacation that doesn’t require a ton of planning? We have the skinny on the world’s best and worst cruise line operators.

Generally speaking, if you’re booking a cruise, you’ll fall into one of three categories: mainstream, premium or luxury. Mainstream cruises come in all types, but they are generally the most affordable. Premium lines tend to be more laid-back and thus attract an older clientele. The food and cabins are far better on these boats, but you’ll pay more for the privilege — and the serenity. Lastly, luxury cruises will run over $400 a night, but you’ll see and feel the difference. The food will be some of the best you’ve ever had and the room may be larger than your own home.

With all this in mind, check out how each of the best-known cruise lines rank before booking your next voyage.

19. Costa Cruises

Rating: 3.2 Class: Mainstream Fleet: 18 ships Top departure points: Barcelona, Venice (Italy), Savona/Genoa (Italy), Pointe-A-Pitre (Guadeloupe), Singapore Top destinations: Asia, Africa, Middle East, Europe, transatlantic Starting price: $119/night

Note: The rating information was sourced from Cruiseline's pre-pandemic numbers; however, we've excluded any cruise lines that have since shuttered.

Bottom Line: Costa Cruises

It’s hard to forget the 2012 disaster involving a Costa Concordia that killed 32 people and left a capsized boat bobbing off the coast of Italy for over a year. Even without that accident, Costa doesn’t have the best reputation.

It mostly caters to Europeans looking to party hard at a good price. But families will find the kids' areas to their liking, including the children-sail-free promotions. Folks looking for peace and quiet best avoid these boats, and the tobacco averse among us be warned: Every bar has a designated smoking section.

Costa is known for its fun entertainment options and it was the first cruise line to offer spa cabins. 

What Customers Say About Costa Cruises

Overall rating: 3.3 Cruise: 7 Night Blue Is The Color (Rome roundtrip) Date: November 2017 Ship: Costa Pacifica Cabin type: Oceanview Traveled as: Large group

“[Whirlwind] tour of a lifetime. The ports and excursions were well worth the trip, though I would not sail this particular cruise line again. I recommend taking time after the excursion, which are usually only 4 hours or so, and touring the cities on your own to get away from the commercial aspects.” — amnayo

18. MSC Cruises

Rating: 3.3 Class: Mainstream Fleet: 19 Top departure points: Miami, Barcelona, Rio De Janeiro, Genoa (Italy), Civitavecchia (Italy) Top destinations: Transatlantic, Europe (northern, western and Mediterranean), Asia, Africa, Middle East, South America Starting price: $69/night

Bottom Line: MSC Cruises

No matter where you sail with MSC, which is based in Italy, it will have 50 to 85 percent European passengers. Regardless of nationality, folks who pick this operator are looking for a budget cruise for the whole family, as kids 3-11 are free and 12- to 17-year-olds board at reduced prices.

Passengers book "experiences," which are much different than U.S.-based cruise operators. These determine what type of cabin you occupy and any extra perks.

The ships are nice and the newest in the industry, but there is a lot more permitted smoking aboard the European cruises than those based in the U.S. Don’t expect amazing food or a party atmosphere. 

What Customers Say About MSC Cruises

Overall rating: 2.6 Cruise: 9 Night Mediterranean (Barcelona roundtrip) Date: October 2018 Ship: MSC Preziosa Cabin type: Balcony Traveled as: Couple

“We were surprised at the number of senior citizens. Unclear if it was the ship, the itinerary or the time of trip, but after 4 MSC cruises, this was the first where it felt like a retirement home." — evieward

17. Norwegian Cruise Line

Rating: 3.5 Class: Mainstream Fleet: 17 Top departure points: Miami, New York City, Seattle, Port Canaveral (Florida), Civitavecchia (Italy) Top destinations: Caribbean, Alaska (inside passage), Europe (Mediterranean) Starting price: $146/night

Bottom Line: Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian is best known for the quality and creativity of its food, and it was the first cruiser to offer flexible dining options. The upscale suites are more akin to a luxury hotel than a ship cabin, with a private sundeck and restaurant. And there’s plenty for the kids, like Nickelodeon-themed breakfasts and Cirque du Soleil-inspired entertainment.

Parents will enjoy the Broadway-caliber performances and comedy. Some ships also feature a water park and sports decks that include a bungee trampoline, spider web climbing frame, multiple corkscrew water slides and a ropes course.

Drawbacks include small cabins with tight bathrooms and extra charges for the best food options. 

What Customers Say About Norwegian Cruise Lines

Overall rating: 3.9 Cruise: 7 Night Southern Caribbean (San Juan roundtrip) Date: December 2019 Ship: Norwegian Epic Cabin type: Balcony Traveled as: Singles/friends

“I have cruised NCL many times, but it may be my last. I am still not happy they changed the itinerary after I booked the cruise, and the overall attention to guest satisfaction has gone way down. Unless you have to financially, DO NOT take advantage of the airfare option. They had me fly from Seattle to Fort Lauderdale to Atlanta and then to Puerto Rico. Many other guests I spoke with had a similar experience. Also, seriously look for other options/companies that offer shore excursions than NCL. They were my favorite.” — Wisest1

16. Carnival Cruise Lines

Rating: 3.7 Class: Mainstream Fleet: 23 ships Top departure points: Miami, Galveston (Texas), Port Canaveral (Florida), Fort Lauderdale, (Florida) New York City Top destinations: Caribbean, Panama Canal, Mexico Starting price: $124/night

Bottom Line: Carnival Cruise Lines

The jester of the mainstream cruise lines, Carnival has a reputation for its boisterous boats. These cruises are popular with party animals and singles — especially if those folks enjoy hairy chest contests, endless buckets of beer bottles (these cost extra, FYI), late-night comedy and food endorsed by Guy Fieri.

Children are, of course, welcome as well. To that end, Carnival hosts Dr. Seuss-themed brunches and story hours for the youngsters, or the kid in all of us.

There are few quiet spaces on Carnival boats, with music, loud and colorful decor, and regrettable adult decision-making ruling the roost. 

What Customers Say About Carnival Cruise Lines

Overall rating: 3.8 Cruise: 4 Night Western Caribbean (Miami roundtrip) Date: January 2020 Ship: Carnival Victory Cabin type: Suite Traveled as: Family (older children)

“We had fun on a four-day getaway for a reasonable cost. Ship was clean and food was delicious. I will take a newer Carnival if I go on a longer cruise. The ocean suites are worth the cost.” — bonnycorn

15. Princess Cruises

Rating: 3.8 Class: Mainstream Fleet: 21 Top departure points: Fort Lauderdale (Florida), Yokohama (Japan), Southampton (England), Sydney (Australia), Vancouver (Canada) Top destinations: Asia, Africa, Middle East, transatlantic, South Pacific, Europe (Mediterranean) Starting price: $89/night

Bottom Line: Princess Cruises

Princess offers quality at an affordable price. Families and couples are drawn to the shorter cruises while longer ones tend to attract retirees and empty-nesters. Educational classes are included, for adults and kids — and there’s even yoga for children. Couples can get married on board in a chapel.

Food is solid, and there are no restrictions on mealtimes. Unfortunately, childcare is lacking for kids 3 and under. And for an extra charge, folks can enter a lottery for behind-the-scenes ship tours.

This is not a cruise line for singles and hard partiers. 

What Customers Say About Princess Cruises

Overall rating: 4.6 Cruise: 17 Night Roman Passage (Rome to Fort Lauderdale) Date: December 2018 Ship: Pacific Princess Cabin type: Suite Traveled as: Couple

“This cruise was a wonderful experience for both my wife and me. We especially enjoy the ‘days at sea,’ and the transatlantic aspect included eight consecutive days at sea crossing the Atlantic Ocean. There is nothing like sitting on your balcony and seeing nothing but ocean waters all around you. It gives you a perspective on the world and the universe around you.” — draronson

14. Royal Caribbean

Rating: 3.9 Class: Mainstream Top departure points: Fort Lauderdale (Florida), Miami, Sydney (Australia), Cape Liberty (New Jersey), Shanghai (China) Top destinations: Asia, Africa, Middle East, Caribbean, South Pacific Starting price: $154/night

Bottom Line: Royal Caribbean

Families looking for a great experience at a good cost — essentially an alternative to Disney — want to book with Royal Caribbean . And outdoors, sporty folks will love the adrenaline-rush activities at sea. Think rock climbing, surfing simulations, ice skating, ziplining, skating and even boxing.

Entertainment options include Broadway-caliber performances as well as ice skating, dive shows and original productions. If you’re antisocial or looking for quiet relaxation, this is not your boat. 

What Customers Say About Royal Caribbean

Overall rating: 3.5 Cruise: 7 Night Western Caribbean (Miami roundtrip) Date: January 2020 Ship: Oasis of the Seas Cabin type: Balcony Traveled as : Couple

“Please serve sweetened ice tea. Sugar does not melt easily in cold tea. The main dining room needs an efficiency review because it's much too slow. Servers very often carry one little item, disappear for long periods and are inefficient! They are well-meaning and pleasant but need a manager with good organizational and efficiency skills to make it work smoothly.” — pacificanelia

13. Holland America Line

Rating: 3.9 Class: Mainstream Fleet: 15 Top departure points: Fort Lauderdale (Florida), Amsterdam (Netherlands), San Diego, Venice (Italy), Vancouver (Canada) Top destinations: Europe (northern and Mediterranean), transatlantic, Asia, Africa, Middle East, Panama Canal Starting price: $79/night

Bottom Line: Holland America Line

If you’re looking to spend the majority (or all) of your time on board, entertained day and night with a thumping party atmosphere, then steer far clear of Holland America. These cruises are for multigenerational families and folks who want to explore the various port stops for more than an hour.

Holland America curates special itineraries like an after-hours tour of St. Petersburg’s State Hermitage Museum. The lounge/bar areas are low-key and upscale, and the libraries are New York Times-themed. There are a blues club and solid restaurant options.

Deck dining leaves much to be desired, and the lack of robust entertainment options might weigh on younger kids and teenagers. 

What Customers Say About Holland America Line

Overall rating: 4.0 Cruise: 7 Night Alaskan Inside Passage (Vancouver roundtrip) Date: September 2019 Ship: Noordam Cabin type: Balcony Traveled as: Couple

“Except for our experience with you medical personnel and the embarkation process, it was a good cruise.” — bocathill

12. Silversea Cruises

Rating: 3.9 Class: Luxury Fleet: 13 Top departure points: Barcelona, Piraeus (Greece), Venice (Italy), Ushuaia, Tierra Del Fuego (Argentina), Fort Lauderdale (Florida) Top destinations: Asia, Africa, Middle East, Europe (northern, western, eastern and Mediterranean) Starting price: $2,970

Bottom Line: Silversea Cruises

Older couples who like a formal atmosphere and attentive service flock to these boats. It helps that fares include gratuities, wine, and top-shelf champagne and spirits. But there are also smaller indulgences like Bulgari toiletries and Pratesi linens that keep guests coming back.

The restaurants are exceptional, and multi-course dinners can be served in your cabin, which is more than likely a suite since most of the fleet only has this type of accommodation.

Laid-back folks might find the vibe too stuffy, and families want to avoid these journeys at all costs. Children have little to do among such refinement. 

What Customers Say About Silversea Cruises

Overall rating: 3.7 Cruise: 7 Night Alaska (Seward to Vancouver) Date: June 2018 Ship: Silver Shadow Cabin type: Balcony Traveled as: Couple

“Have sailed twice on Princess — you can get a penthouse suite on Princess and get just as good of service and twice as much room and regular unlimited food. Silver Shadow has great personal service, but at the penthouse level on other ships, you get the same for far less money. I would recommend Silver Shadow only to someone willing to pay a high price to be alone on a ship.” — traveldan

Rating: 4.0 Class: Premium Fleet: 3 Top departure points: Southampton (England), Sydney (Australia), New York City, Tokyo, Melbourne (Australia) Top destinations: Asia, Africa, Middle East, South Pacific, transatlantic, Europe (western, northern) Starting price: $299/night

Bottom Line: Cunard

Board a Cunard ship for its sophisticated atmosphere and top-notch activity slate, complete with quality lectures and classes and theater-screened movies. The Queen Mary 2 features a planetarium for those dark, starry nights at sea. British touches include traditional afternoon tea and plenty of fish and chips at the pub.

Passengers skew older, more in the retiree realm, but summer attracts families who want upscale at a good price. And if parents do travel with toddlers, they can have dinner out with Cunard’s night nursery service.

Some sections are closed off to lower-paying guests, and the nightlife is almost nonexistent.

What Customers Say About Cunard

Overall rating: 4.1 Cruise: 7 Night Transatlantic Eastbound (New York to Southampton) Date: September 2019 Ship: Queen Mary 2 Cabin type: Balcony Traveled as: Singles/friends

“The best, of course, was a beautiful open ocean to stare at for days. It is a great crossing for an older crowd. Some of the activities were a bit corny. The food quality was like a very good wedding. Don't be afraid to request or mix ingredients of the entrees.” — jjcohen31

10. Celebrity Cruises

Rating: 4.0 Class: Mainstream Fleet: 15 ships Top departure points: Fort Lauderdale (Florida), Sydney (Australia), Southampton (England), Barcelona, Civitavecchia (Italy) Top destinations: South Pacific, Asia, Africa, Middle East, transatlantic, Europe (Mediterranean), western Caribbean Starting price: $162/night

Bottom Line: Celebrity Cruises

Cruisers looking for style and substance without breaking the bank hop aboard Celebrity boats. Their floating cities feature actual patches of grass and world-renowned art collections, along with innovative dining options, educational classes and playful activities like water volleyball with ship personnel.

Nighttime entertainment might be a comedy burlesque show or a few top-shelf bourbons at any of the several swanky nightclubs. Or relax in the spa, take a steam or just call the concierge and have it all brought to your cabin. There are even babysitting options for families.

Drawbacks include tons of extra charges for things like the specialty restaurants and the stage shows that don’t measure up to the competition.

What Customers Say About Celebrity Cruises

Overall rating: 4.2 Cruise: 8 Night Norwegian Fjords (Dublin roundtrip) Date: May 2019 Ship: Celebrity Reflection Cabin type: Balcony Traveled as: Couple

“The trip was very enjoyable. The service was very good, the ports were good, the entertainment was good except for Clare Maiden, and the food was very good. However, compared with the food and entertainment we had on our cruise aboard the Celebrity Millennium in December, which was outstanding, this cruise was OK.” — inwechter26

9. Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Rating: 4.1 Class: Luxury Fleet: 5 Top departure points: Miami, Barcelona, Venice (Italy), Civitavecchia (Italy), Vancouver (Canada) Top destinations: Asia, Africa, Middle East, Europe (Mediterranean, northern), Caribbean, Alaska Starting price: $2,899/night

Bottom Line: Regent Seven Seas Cruises

For those willing to spend, a trip aboard Regent comes with everything included in the price. And by everything, that means roundtrip airfare, alcohol and gratuities, curated shore excursions at every stop and a pre-cruise night in a hotel. Couples and singles love these cruises, but families not so much.

Wi-Fi is only included in the upper tiers of cabin accommodations, but free throughout common spaces. And while the boats are spacious and never feel crowded, that can sometimes be a negative, as you might feel like the only person who showed up for the party that night. 

What Customers Say About Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Overall rating: 4.6 Cruise: 10 Night Flamenco Flourish (Monte Carlo to Barcelona) Date: May 2019 Ship: Seven Seas Voyager Cabin type: Suite Traveled as: Couple

“Everything on board the ship was EXQUISITE! Unfortunately, we felt so cheated by the poor tours that Regent had arranged. The tour guides were either disorganized or unable to communicate, and we just left feeling shortchanged. We've been on other cruises where the cruise ship company had arranged really enriching and wonderful excursions. Sadly, this is the only area Regent fell short. But the experience onboard did exceed all of our expectations.” — SunseekerChuck

8. Oceania Cruises

Rating: 4.1 Class: Premium Fleet: 6 Top departure points: Barcelona, Miami, Southampton (England), Civitavecchia (Italy), Venice (Italy) Top destinations: Europe (northern, western and Mediterranean), Asia, Africa, Middle East Starting price: $999/night

Bottom Line: Oceania Cruises

It’s hard to beat the dining options aboard Oceania ships, with a bistro from venerable French chef Jacques Pepin, a highly rated Pan-Asian restaurant and the all-inclusive packages. Before or after a meal, check out the star-studded art collection with names like Picasso, Miró and Hirst.

These journeys are aimed at couples looking for upscale travel and amazing food and wine experiences with a healthy dose of culture. It might not be the best family experience unless your children are extremely precocious and want Mommy and Daddy to have a memorable experience.

Try to book the newer Riviera or Marina, as some of the older ships lack the pizzazz and amenities of these two. 

What Customers Say About Oceania Cruises

Overall rating: 4.5 Cruise: 18 Night Sunny Islands and Andes (Santiago to Miami) Date: January 2020 Ship: Marina Cabin type: Suite Traveled as: Couple

“Our first cruise with Oceania. Exceptional food. We loved that so much was included — specialty dining (which was like eating in 5-star restaurants) didn't cost extra, bottled water was handed out at every port, espresso drinks and pastries were always available, laundry was included (and if you wanted to do it yourself, it was free). The hands-on cooking classes were fantastic. The lectures were interesting. Afternoon tea with a string quartet was a nice touch. They were serious about keeping us healthy with hand washing and plastic wrap around buffets. We went to ports where norovirus is endemic, and to their great credit, no one got sick. Great service, and always with a smile.” — elenaprior

7. Seabourn

Rating: 4.2 Class: Luxury Fleet: 9 Top departure points: Piraeus (Greece), Barcelona, Civitavecchia (Italy), Singapore, Miami Top destinations: Europe (Mediterranean, western, northern), Asia, Africa, Middle East Starting price: $2,499/night

Bottom Line: Seabourn

Seabourn takes guests to amazing ports, but they truly shine in the onboard experience.

Several of their ships have all-suite accommodations, and some of those are spa suites unmatched by any other ocean liner. Cruises usually come with a Marina Day in which the crew offers a variety of aquatic activities and a saltwater pool.

Folks looking for a formal cruise experience might be turned off by Seabourn’s casual luxury. But those looking for an upscale experience and port stops where few others go, this is your bag.

Just leave the kids behind, as these journeys are designed for adults.

What Customers Say About Seabourn

Overall rating: 4.6 Cruise: 7 Night Greek and Italian Jewels (Athens to Rome) Date: October 2018 Ship: Seabourn Odyssey Cabin type: Suite Traveled as: Couple

“We had an incredible time on the cruise! This is certainly the type of cruise for people who like a quieter, calmer ship. We really loved the destinations, tours and FOOD! The food on board was incredible! As well as the accommodations in the room and the service. The staff was so friendly, warm and responsive!” — JCraigfeld

6. Paul Gauguin Cruises

Rating: 4.2 Class: Premium Fleet: 2 Top departure points: Papeete (Tahiti), Lautoka (Fiji Islands) Top destinations: South Pacific Starting price: $3,145/night

Bottom Line: Paul Gauguin Cruises

Even if this cruise isn’t memorable for you, it will be for your accountant.

It would be hard not to enjoy all the bang for your buck, which includes all-inclusive fares that cover some wine and spirits and all onboard gratuities. They also offer roundtrip airfare from Los Angeles, a cabin with an ocean view and likely a balcony (70 percent have them), incredible food options in a Parisian-Polynesian fusion theme, and a swim and snorkel session at Paul Gaugin’s private French Polynesian island.

This tiny fleet isn’t great for singles or families, but couples seeking a yacht-like jaunt through the South Pacific will be well rewarded.

What Customers Say About Paul Gauguin Cruises

Overall rating: 5.0  Cruise: 7 Night Tahiti and The Society Islands (Papeete roundtrip)  Date: February 2017 Ship: Paul Gauguin Cabin type: Balcony Traveled as: Singles/friends

“The stateroom was very comfortable, the service was excellent and the excursions were awesome. We swam with rays and sharks in the Lagoonairium in Moorea. We didn't book this through the ship, but we learned about it on Tripadvisor. We saved a lot on the taxi (we used Teva Taxi) and were treated to a very good tour of the island on the way there and back. We rented a waverunner for 3 hours in Bora Bora. Fantastic!” — cruiseconverts

5. Azamara Club Cruises

Rating: 4.2 Class: Premium Fleet : 3 ships Top departure points: Piraeus (Greece), Barcelona, Venice (Italy), Southampton (England), Civitavecchia (Italy) Top destinations:  Caribbean, Central and South America, South Pacific, Africa, Europe (northern, western and Meditterranean) Starting price: $580/night

Bottom Line: Azamara Club Cruises

Azamara excels at its branded and abundant shore excursions in places like the Mediterranean and Caribbean. Although the decor is dated and stodgy, the pool and hot tub area is small and the cabin bathrooms are tight, you’ll be easily enticed off the ship by nighttime entertainment options in port.

Azamara offers up to 17-day travel for serious adventurers, hitting numerous stops in its 240 ports spread across 66 countries. House alcohol and gratuities are included with the high daily cost, and the spacious and lightly crowded ships make cruising ideal.

Best to leave the kids and older family members onshore for this ride.

What Customers Say About Azamara Club Cruises

Overall rating: 4.6 Cruise: 9 Night Cuba Intensive (Miami roundtrip) Date: February 2019 Ship: Azamara Journey Cabin type: Balcony Traveled as: Couple

“Excellent cruise to three Cuban ports: outstanding music/dance performances and opportunity to soak up the color and flavors of Cuba.” — artistjuge

4. Viking Ocean Cruises

Rating: 4.3 Class: Premium Fleet : 7 Top departure points: Bergen (Norway), Piraeus (Greece), Civitavecchia (Italy), Barcelona, Venice (Italy) Top destinations: Europe (northern, eastern and Mediterranean), Asia, Africa, Middle East, transatlantic Starting price: $1,999/night

Bottom Line: Viking Ocean Cruises

Viking is only a few years into its expansion from river cruises to the high seas, but it didn’t take long for people to notice the luxury aboard these ships and itineraries that put a premium on destinations — some lasting for as many as six months.

All cabins have their own private veranda, and the fare includes one complimentary shore excursion at each stop.

These trips are designed for couples and adults who want a refined experience that could last for several weeks to a few months, and for this reason, there is no programming aboard for children.  

What Customers Say About Viking Ocean Cruises

Overall rating: 5.0 Cruise: Catalonia to Constantinople - Barcelona to Athens Date: March 2016 Ship: Viking Star Cabin type: Balcony Traveled as: Couple

“Viking meticulously managed every aspect of a wonderful trip. All features of the ship and its operation were perfect. A wide option of onshore activities was offered at each port and guided by local professional and highly experienced guides. The Viking staff and crew were extremely friendly and thorough in carrying out their duties to the ship and its guests. We were extremely impressed with the constant effort to make our trip comfortable and enjoyable. Dining and menu options provided for every need and appetite from a wide-offering buffet setting to fine dining in a non-formal setting.” — JETEX

3. Windstar Cruises

Rating: 4.3 Class: Premium Fleet: 6 Top departure points: Athens (Greece), Lisbon (Portugal), Barcelona, San Juan (Puerto Rico) Top destinations: Europe (northern, Mediterranean), Caribbean, transatlantic Starting price: $999/night

Bottom Line: Windstar Cruises

True to its name, Windstar attempts to recreate the experience of sailing while aboard a massive cruise liner (it looks cool, though). Families with teenage children or well-behaved youngsters will find much to love on the decks of Windstar’s recently renovated fleet. Ships sport retractable marinas for water skiing, sailing, kayaking and snorkeling.

The overall experience skews casual in atmosphere and dress, but there isn’t much to keep younger and more active children entertained. Food is well prepared, but alcoholic beverages are not included with the daily fare and cabins don’t have Wi-Fi.

Older ships are also showing their age.

What Customers Say About Windstar Cruises

Overall rating: 3.5 Cruise: 14 Night Ocean Crossings (Saint Maarten to Lisbon) Date: April 2019 Ship: Wind Surf Cabin type: Oceanview Traveled as: Couple

“A little long with only one port of call. Would I repeat this trip? No. Can I recommend the cruise line? Yes. This is a quiet environment with no bingo tournaments and excessive drinking. Customers are older, above 55 and reasonable.” — gerhardrauh

2. Disney Cruise Line

Rating: 4.4 Class: Mainstream Fleet: 4 ships Top departure points: Port Canaveral (Florida), San Diego, Miami, Galveston (Texas), Dover (England) Top destinations: Caribbean, Mexico, Northern Europe Starting price: $672/night

Bottom Line: Disney Cruise Line

Disney is the ultimate cruise line for families. There is no reason to book this expensive option unless you’re bringing the kids, as it is entirely geared toward their enjoyment with some of the best stage shows in the business.

It’s also pricey for its class, but there’s a good reason for that. Entertainment options for kids abound, day and night, and Disney is the top cruise operator for amenities geared toward babies and toddlers, like drop-off childcare and diapers in the gift shop.

Adults have plenty to do themselves, like soak up the sun poolside or traipse around the private island. One thing adults cannot do aboard these ships is gamble, which Disney has forbidden in the name of a family-centric atmosphere.

What Customers Say About Disney Cruise Line

Overall rating: 4.6 Cruise: 5 Night Western Caribbean (Miami roundtrip) Date: April 2019 Ship: Disney Magic Cabin type: Inside Traveled as: Family (young children)

“The value is worth the money! Castaway Cay and the musical shows on board (Twice Charmed and Rapunzel Before Ever After) are must watch!” — DCL2019

1. Hurtigruten Cruises

Rating: 4.7 Class: Premium Fleet: 18 Top departure points: Bergen (Norway), Kirkenes (Norway), Reykjavik (Iceland), Hamburg (Germany), Halifax (Nova Scotia) Top destinations: Europe (western, northern), Asia, Africa, Middle East, Canada, New England, New York, South America Starting price: $944/night

Bottom Line: Hurtigruten Cruises

Remote and mysterious best describe the trips offered by this Norwegian fleet. Hurtigruten ships take guests throughout Northern Europe and as far as the North Pole for memorable and breathtaking views of the Norwegian coast and Northern Lights.

These are bucket-list, once-in-a-lifetime journeys, and they don’t come cheap. The high-end cruiser is known for its beautifully designed boats, like the Art Deco-style MS Finnmarken with massive spaces both public and private, a rooftop lounge, library, terrific spa amenities and excellent cuisine.

What Customers Say About Hurtigruten Cruises

Overall rating: 5.0 Cruise: 6 Night Coastal Expeditions (Bergen to Kirkenes) Date: October 2017 Ship: MS Finnmarken Cabin type: Balcony Traveled as: Couple

“This is one of the few vacations we have been on where we started planning our return before the original trip was completed.” — TrophyClub1

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

By Condé Nast Traveller

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

The Best UK Cruise Companies – Complete Comparison

If you are considering a cruise you may be considering a British cruise line.

British cruise lines are not only a great option for people from Britain but they’re also popular with Americans, Canadians, Australians, and anybody who wants to British experience onboard a cruise ship.

British cruise lines have a lot to offer that differs from American and other European cruise lines.

In this article, we will explore the best British cruise lines and learn a little about what it’s like to cruise with each.

Which Are The Best British Cruise Lines?

The most popular British cruise line is P&O cruises followed by Cunard Line. This is followed by Marella Cruises, Fred Olsen Cruise Line, and Saga Cruises. All provide a quintessentially British experience and are well-loved by many. 

There is a lot of variety between the British cruise lines. Some have large modern ships and some older.

Many hold onto the traditions of cruising such as dress codes and formal nights but you’ll also find a lot of variety within the British cruise line market.

You’ll find a wide variety of passenger ages onboard but the primary passenger nationality onboard all lines mentioned in this post is people from the UK.

Best British Cruise Line For First Time Cruisers: P&O Cruises

P&O Cruises are the largest and most popular cruise line in the UK. They are owned by Carnival and have six cruise ships in their fleet.

The oldest ship currently in the fleet is Aurora built in the year 2000 and the newest was launched this year.

All P&O ships have a union jack on the bow and you’ll find British touches throughout. There are Yorkshire puddings in the buffet, UK plug sockets in the cabins, and afternoon tea served with cakes and scones.

P&O cruise out of the UK year-round and usually have a number of ships in Southampton.

They do cruise further afield but they’re well known for their cruises from the UK and are popular with cruisers of all ages.

My Experience Cruising With With P&O Cruises

I’ve only been on one P&O cruise to date but have recently booked two more because I really enjoyed the first. The cruise which I took was a Norwegian Fjords cruise on board Britannia.

The cruise was brilliant. I loved the food, the service, the ship, and the entertainment onboard.

I was very impressed with the way that P&O cruises dealt with food intolerances and my cabin was one of my favorites.

I had the opportunity to do things like learn to cook with Celebrity chef Marco Pierre White which was a lot of fun!

How do P&O Cruises Compare to American Cruise Lines?

The atmosphere on board a P&O cruise is generally speaking more relaxed than you’d find on a big American cruise line like Royal Caribbean or Norwegian Cruise Line but P&O is one of the more lively British lines.

You won’t find go-kart tracks or flow riders but you will find ships with plenty of top deck space and a friendly atmosphere onboard.

The daily schedule also isn’t as busy as that that you’d find on American cruise lines but there is plenty to keep you busy if you want to be doing things throughout the day.

The food is designed to cater to British passengers so you’ll find British favorites onboard like Beef Wellington, Toad in the Hole, and Fish and Chips!

There is a lot of variety when it comes to food onboard with food from all over the world being served. I’ve cruised with 7 cruise lines to date and P&O cruises have some of the highest quality food in my experience.

Who Would Like a P&O Cruises Cruise?

P&O Cruises are great for families and cruisers of all ages. The atmosphere onboard is fairly relaxed and friendly.

A P&O cruise is great for somebody who wants to relax by the pool and enjoy high-quality food.

I’d strongly recommend a P&O cruise to first-time cruisers as P&O makes the whole process of cruising very easy.

Who Are Typical P&O Cruises Passengers?

On a P&O cruise, you’ll find a variety of passengers. On the older, smaller ships you’ll generally find an older crowd than on the newer bigger ships like Britannia and Iona.

The smaller older ships tend to provide a more traditional cruising experience and in 2019 Arcadia, Aurora and Oriana became adults only.

P&O do advertise heavily to the family market and often have discounted children’s rates. That said, you won’t find things like waterslides or rock-climbing walls on P&O ships.

The ship designs are fairly traditional but the ships do have kids clubs that cater to children of varying ages. The groups are split by age and children are able to attend the activities as they wish.

What is P&O Cruises Dining Like?

P&O Cruises offer both flexible and fixed dining which I love. We never had to wait for a table when I cruised on Britannia and the food was always of high quality.

I never found anybody who had any problem with any element of the food.

I ate in many of the specialty restaurants on board Britannia and found that all were very good. If you’re a fan of Indian visiting Sindu is a must.

The buffet was open late into the night and on some ships there are other places where you can grab food to go. The grab and go section by the pool was one of my favorite things about Britannia, it made it so easy to grab a snack as you sat by the pool.

Most cruise lines have a poolside grill that serves things like hot dogs and burgers but it was nice to have a different option such as a salad or a sandwich.

To find out more about the grab and go section and to learn what else you shouldn’t miss on the ship Britannia, check out this post:

P&O Britannia – 8 free ‘must do’ activities (MV Britannia)

Top tip: If you’re having breakfast in the buffet lookout for the bread rolls with icing on the top. They’re great! Probably not very nutritious and they are literally covered in sugar, but they’re very very yummy. 

On most P&O ships you’ll find a mixture of fixed and flexible dining. I usually always opt for flexible dining and you are still able to table share if you do want to do this. Equally, if you want a table for 2 or 3 that shouldn’t be a problem.

Can You Book a P&O Cruise From Outside The UK?

If you are from outside of the UK it can be difficult to book a P&O cruise. There are limited agents that are able to book P&O cruises and it’s usually easier to book directly with P&O.

Be aware though that if you do this you will have to organize your own flights, hotel, and transfers. One website which does allow Americans to book P&O cruises is VacationsToGo .

P&O cruises currently include gratuities in the cruise fare, all meals are included and your entertainment is too.  Drinks cost extra and there are specialty restaurants that cost extra if you’d like to try them too but they are not mandatory.

To learn more about gratuities, including how they also affect drinks and spa treatments, check out this post so that you don’t have any nasty surprises on your cruise:

Cruise Gratuities: A Simple Step by Step Guide For First Time Cruisers

I personally feel as though P&O cruises offer some of the best value for money. I recently booked a two-week cruise on board P&O’s Iona for £800 ($1000). Considering that the price includes gratuities, that’s incredible!

If you are interested in learning how to book a cruise for the best price, including where and where to book, consider enrolling in our How to Cruise For Less cruise course. You’ll learn everything that you need to know to save 60% on cruise prices and even more when onboard.

Best British Cruise Line For Traditional Cruisers: Cunard Line

Cunard Line is a British cruise line also owned by Carnival. They were founded 180 years ago and focus heavily on the traditional cruising market. Cunard currently has three ships in the fleet, one of which is the only remaining ocean liner.

Cunard cruises have strictly enforced formal nights, dress codes, and the best afternoon tea at sea (in my opinion).

A Cunard cruise is actually the reason why I started this website.

I took my first Cunard cruise and sat onboard thinking, why did nobody tell me that it would be like this? I had no idea about quite how strictly the dress codes were enforced or what a Cunard cruise would actually be like.

I did really enjoy it but it’s very important that anybody cruising with Cunard knows what to expect before the cruise as they’re much more traditional than the majority of other lines.

My Experience With Cunard

I have only been on one Cunard cruise to date but would love to cruise with them again. We cruised on the Queen Mary and I loved the elegant feel of the ship, the relaxed atmosphere, and the most amazing afternoon tea!

I was definitely the youngest person on the cruise by 20 or 30 years (apart from my younger brother) but that didn’t bother me.

I found the entertainment somewhat limited compared to cruising with other lines and I was not a huge fan of the enforced dress codes. That said, I had a great time and would definitely cruise with Cunard again.

I’d particularly like to cruise across the Atlantic on the Queen Mary 2. The Queen Mary is the only remaining ocean liner which in itself is very cool.

To learn what the difference is between a cruise ship and an ocean liner, including why ocean liners aren’t built anymore, check out this post:  Cruise Ships vs Ocean Liners: 5 Fundamental Differences.

My top tip to anybody cruising with Cunard would be to make sure that you are prepared for how strict the dress codes are. Informal nights on a Cunard cruise are more formal than formal nights on most other lines. Below you’ll find dress code examples from members of our Facebook group. 

Cunard Dress Code – (Mens, Womens, Childrens, Real Examples 2021)

How do Cunard Cruises Compare to American Cruise Lines?

The atmosphere on board a Cunard cruise is much more relaxed than that which you’d expect on most American cruise lines. The atmosphere is pretty quiet even within British cruise lines.

It isn’t uncommon for there to be gaps in the daily schedule and most events onboard are pretty relaxed.

You won’t find things like silent discos, flowriders or gameshow onboard that is for sure. You’re more likely to find lectures in the theatre, afternoon tea in the ballroom, and a quiz in the pub.

The decor onboard is very traditional and the ships are designed to be very elegant. Below are a few photos from my Cunard cruise onboard the Queen Victoria.

Who Would Like a Cunard Cruise?

A Cunard cruise would appeal to guests who enjoy traditional elements of cruising such as formal nights and dress codes.

Cunard cruises are perfect for those who want to enjoy afternoon tea, relax in the conservatory, or learn to ballroom dance. There isn’t much nightlife on a Cunard cruise so the line would suit passengers who like to go to bed relatively early.

Given the cruise lines’ incredibly 180 year history the cruises would suit people interested in maritime history and those who appreciate classic cruise ship design.

The cruise line sails frequently from the UK and the Queen Mary 2 regularly completes transatlantic voyages to New York. Dogs are actually allowed on transatlantic Cunard cruises which makes it a very popular choice for passengers wishing to relocate their pets across the Atlantic.

Ed Sheeran actually recorded part of his Divide album on the Queen Mary 2 doing a transatlantic crossing.

What Are Cunard Cruise Line Passengers Like?

Cunard does tend to attract an older market. That said, if you are younger you won’t feel out of place on a Cunard cruise. I’ve cruised with Cunard in my 20s and enjoyed it very much.

It is usually the older market that enjoys the traditional dress codes and set dining times of Cunard.

The atmosphere onboard is quite quiet and you’ll find things like draughts and knitting on the daily schedule.

What is Cunard’s Dining Like?

All dining on Cunard cruises is fixed and we always found the quality to be very high. There is also a buffet and a pub onboard where you can have your meals if you’d like to.

My favorite part about my Cunard cruise in regards to dining was the fact that room service is free onboard! If you are taking a Cunard cruise make sure that you try it at some point.

To learn more about the included food options, check out this post:

Do Cunard Cruises Include Meals? Your Guide To Whats Included

Room service is a great option if you don’t want to take part in a formal night, to learn more about how to skip formal night (if you’d like to), check out this post:  You Can Skip Formal Nights on a Cruise: Here’s How

Best British Cruise Lines For Families: Marella Cruises

Marella Cruises are a British cruise line formerly known as Thomson. They currently have four cruise ships in their fleet, two were previously Royal Caribbean cruise ships and two previously belonged to Tui.

All ships have been very well looked after and renovated to a high standard.

Marella is one of my favorite cruise lines due to the relaxed lively atmosphere on board. Cruises with Marella are all-inclusive as standard but they still remain good value for money as the price isn’t too high.

Gratuities and alcoholic drinks are included in the cruise fare on all Marella cruises.

They are popular with families, young cruisers, and older cruisers alike. They are probably the most lively of the British cruise lines and I thought that the onboard entertainment was brilliant.

My Experience With Marella

I’ve been on two Marella cruises and both were fantastic.

The first was a two-week cruise onboard the Marella Discovery. She was formerly Splendour of The Seas for Royal Caribbean and the Royal Caribbean influence in her design is obvious.

I loved the ship, the entertainment, and the number of included food options onboard.

On the majority of cruises, your included food options are the main dining room, buffet, and possibly a poolside grill. With Marella, there were other included restaurant options too and all of the food was great.

The food definitely is geared towards British tastes but as I’m British that suited me perfectly.

The second cruise I took with Marella was a 90s themed cruise on board the Marella Explorer. This was my first themed cruise and we had SO much fun.

The cruise felt like a three day festival at sea with famous artists from the 90s playing concerts on the pool deck. The all-inclusive pricing structure made the whole cruising process very easy and I left the cruise without a single charge on my onboard account. Amazing!

How do Marella Cruises Compare to American Cruise Lines?

Marella are probably the most lively of the British cruise lines with the youngest average age. The daily schedule is relatively busy and I personally really enjoyed the entertainment onboard.

This does, of course, depend on the cruise, shorter cruises tend to have a younger passenger demographic but the majority of Marella cruises are popular with families and cruisers of all ages.

The ships are mostly from the 1990s so they aren’t the biggest or most exciting but that said they have been incredibly well renovated and I’ve been on much newer ships which felt much older.

The food and entertainment on board is geared towards a British audience and the majority of passengers on board are British. That said, if you are from elsewhere you’ll be welcomed on board!

What is Marella’s Dining Like?

The dining on a Marella cruise is completely freestyle and there are loads of options. On the Marella discovery, there were a number of free options including the main dining room, an Italian restaurant, a Pizza/Tapas restaurant, a Grab and go style restaurant, and a buffet.

Marella do have a formal night of sorts but the dress codes are quite relaxed. If you are a man it’s recommended that you wear a shirt with a collar, this could be a polo shirt.

For women as long as you are wearing a smart (ish) dress or trousers/top you’d be fine. I never saw anybody be turned away from the main dining room for not being adequately dressed.

Best Small Independent Cruise Line:  Fred Olsen Cruise Line

Fred Olsen are a relatively small independent cruise line. They currently have 4 cruise ships in their fleet all of which were built before the year 2000. Fred Olsen have recently purchased two more ships from Holland America.

The experience onboard a Fred Olsen cruise is fairly traditional and the onboard schedule is quite quiet.

Due to the smaller size of the Fred Olsen ships, they are able to visit ports that other larger ships can’t visit and they actually offer mystery cruises!

A mystery cruise is basically a cruise where you know the start, end and how long the cruise will take but don’t know any of the ports along the way.

I was recently interviewed on BBC radio after there were complaints from guests on a mystery cruise who didn’t like the ports that they visited on the cruise, safe to say I wasn’t really very sympathetic. If you book a mystery cruise you get a mystery!

To learn more about mystery cruises, including just how much of it is a mystery, check out this post:  What is a Mystery Cruise? (Cruise Guide and Examples).

How do Fred Olsen Cruises Compare to American Cruise Lines?

The experience on a Fred Olsen cruise is much quieter and more relaxed than that which you’d find on most American cruise lines.

The experience is geared towards British guests with the majority of passengers being from Britain. The Britishness of the cruise line is evident in the onboard food and entertainment.

Who Would Like a Fred Olsen Cruises Cruise?

A Fred Olsen cruise would suit a passenger who wanted a relaxing traditional cruise on small cruise ships. The typical passengers on a Fred Olsen cruise do tend to be older than some other lines.

Fred Olsen cruises would suit guests who are interested in visiting unique ports and are destination-focused.

Check out the Fred Olsen website here.

Best British Cruise Line For 50+ Cruisers: Saga Cruises

Saga are a 50+ cruise line that focuses on the luxury market. Saga cruises are more expensive than the other lines mention in this post but in my opinion, the cruises are well worth it.

You’ll find more included on a Saga cruise than most other cruise lines and I recently spent a few nights onboard the Spirit of Discovery. It was GORGEOUS!

You do have to be 50+ to cruise with Saga so I’ve got quite a while to wait. If you’re 40+ you’re able to cruise with somebody 50+.

My Experience With Saga

I was lucky enough to spend a few days on board the Spirit of Discovery prior to her naming ceremony in Dover, UK. I was blown away by the ship and I stayed in a ‘solo’ cabin which was HUGE and so beautiful.

It felt as though everything onboard had been really well thought out and the ship felt very luxurious. I’m not too sure what I expected from a Saga cruise but it definitely wasn’t anything as gorgeous as the ship actually was.

I visited the ship as part of a press cruise so the ship was busy late into the night and we had things like parties by the pool and drag queens in the theater! That isn’t to be expected on a usual Saga cruise which would be much more relaxed.

How do Saga Cruises Compare to American Cruise Lines?

The experience on a Saga cruise is much quieter than that which you’d find on the majority of American cruise lines.

The ship felt to me to be much more spacious than the likes of ships owned by lines like Royal Caribbean or Norwegian Cruise Line.

The experience of taking a Saga cruise is undeniably British. You’ll find UK plug sockets in the cabins, kettles, and even a photo of the queen onboard!

Who Would Cruise With Saga?

A Saga cruise would suit somebody who wants a touch of luxury when they cruise all while being surrounded by British comforts.

Saga passengers do have to be 50+ which does mean that the cruise line has an older than average age demographic and as a result, the onboard daily schedule and atmosphere aren’t as lively as that which you’d find on some other lines.

That said a Saga cruise is perfect for those who want to enjoy good food, great service, and beautiful ships.

To learn more about the cruise lines mentioned in this post and many others that haven’t been mentioned check out my complete recommended cruise lines page here: Recommended Cruise Lines, Full List.

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13 of the best luxury cruise lines for 2024

While all ultra-luxury cruise lines have fine dining, superb accommodation and impeccable service, each has its own personality, style and devoted following. here are some of the best.

C ruising doesn’t have to mean enormous floating cities with thousands of passengers — there are plenty of ultra-luxury lines offering adventures on small ships with a much more intimate atmosphere. The best of the best has everything from butler service to helicopter flights, from infinity pools to world class cuisine. Their ships sail everywhere from Antarctica to the Caribbean, often calling in at smaller ports for exclusive excursions. Intrigued? Here are the best luxury cruise lines to book with.

Main photo: the Owner’s Penthouse deck on Scenic Eclipse

1. Oceania Cruises

You’ll enjoy some of the best food at sea on this line. The latest addition to the fleet, the 1,200-passenger Oceania Vista, launched in 2023. It became the seventh ship in the fleet and the first of two new Allura-class vessels, with the second scheduled for delivery in 2025. Created to reflect the glamorousbelle époque era of Paris, the Grand Dining Room, with a ceiling that’s almost two decks high, is a standout feature on Vista. There’s also a dedicated cabin category for solo travellers. Suggestions from officers and crew members helped shape Oceania Vista, so you can expect a ship that is full of practical and aesthetic touches.

2. Silversea

Italian flair is part of Silversea’s appeal, with acres of marble and cool design touches adorning its fleet of elegant ships. In 2023, the line launched Silver Nova, with accommodation for up to 728 guests that includes aft suites with 270-degree views; a sister ship, Silver Ray, is due to sail in summer 2024. Silversea service is highly personal, with a butler for every suite, and there’s a wide choice of fine-dining restaurants. These include SALT (Sea and Land Taste) Kitchen, showcasing regional cuisine from the destinations visited. Fares include all dining (except La Dame, which offers the finest French cuisine), a wide range of spirits and fine wines, crew tips, most gym classes and excursions in every port. Many cruises include flights and transfers too. On expedition cruises, all activities are included.

There’s new cruising royalty on the horizon with the 3,000-passenger Queen Anne. Setting sail in 2024, the latest flagship is the line’s first new vessel in 12 years and will combine Cunard’s trademark art deco heritage with modern design details. The top suites on Cunard’s current trio of elegant Queens (Mary 2, Victoria and Elizabeth), are graded either Princess Grill or Queens Grill, and represent some of the most prestigious accommodation at sea — particularly the duplex suites that resemble smart private apartments. Each Grill class has its own fine-dining restaurant and Grill passengers have a private cocktail lounge. You’ll enjoy all the features of a big ship too, from top-notch guest speakers to grand theatrical productions and glittering black-tie balls.

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Azamara’s four mid-sized luxury ships — most recently joined by Azamara Onward, which shares the same DNA as its fleetmates — offer affordable, destination-focused cruising with plenty of flair. Glamorous White Nights deck parties receive rave reviews, while every cruise includes an AzAmazing evening, a spectacular cultural event ashore. Itineraries focus on late departures, or overnights in port. You’ll be spoiled with its choice of restaurants, including a grill, Prime C, and a romantic Italian, Aqualina. Included are crew tips, most drinks and all dining apart from the two speciality restaurants. Suite guests get extra perks, including speciality dining. And, while most fares include flights and transfers, you’ll pay extra for shore excursions, premium drinks and, unless you’re in one of the top cabins, wi-fi.

5. Seabourn

A fleet of contemporary small ships offering intuitive, all-inclusive service, sumptuous all-suite accommodation and superb dining. Seabourn offers un-stuffy luxury with a vibe that’s more superyacht than luxury cruise ship. The line has some impressive partnerships, not least with the renowned chef Thomas Keller, Sir Tim Rice and the wellness guru Dr Andrew Weil. All dining, including speciality restaurants, crew tips and a comprehensive menu of cocktails and fine wines is included. Some voyages include flights too. You’ll pay extra for premium wines, wi-fi, access to the Retreat (an exclusive alfresco lounge on the top deck) and shore excursions.

6. Uniworld

Specialists in river cruising, Uniworld has cornered the market for extravagant ships that are inspired by their itineraries — and they have vessels all over the world, covering Europe, Asia, Africa and South America. SS La Venezia, for example, decked out in Murano glass and decadent Venetian detailing, sails only northern Italy, including Venice and its islands. On board, everything is included, including a curated selection of excursions. If you want to do your own thing, there are walking sticks and bicycles you can borrow.

7. SeaDream Yacht Club

The service is what sings on this tiny boutique cruise line, which operates just two 112-passenger megayachts that in 2022 underwent bow-to-stern revamps totalling nearly £10 million. All staterooms on SeaDream I and SeaDream II have been completely refurbished, and there are gleaming new teak decks mirroring the centuries-old yachting tradition. Attentive crew cater to guests’ every whim, while the food is exceptional, not least the imaginative vegetarian and vegan dishes. Life onboard is relaxed and informal, with the dress code best described as chic. Every voyage includes a decadent Champagne & Caviar Splash party, either around the pool or in the surf, with free-flowing bubbles. You can swim off the ship too and, for a touch of romance, sleep on deck under a duvet and a canopy of stars. Dining, crew tips and drinks apart from premium wines are included in the price.

Viking’s nine near-identical, adult-only ships carry 930 passengers and embody Scandi chic with their stylish, soothing interiors, gorgeous light-filled lounges and spacious cabins, every one of which has a private veranda. Highlights include an infinity pool on the aft deck, a superb spa with free access to the hydro pool, saunas and steam rooms, and the Wintergarden — a sunlit space with a retractable roof for warm days. Torshavn, an intimate little nightclub, is as fun as any jazz club you’ll find ashore. The package includes all dining, drinks with meals, wi-fi, crew tips, flights and transfers, and an excursion in every port. Bar drinks and optional excursions cost extra.

9. Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Regent’s classy ships have touches reminiscent of grand hotels, with elegant cocktail lounges and imaginatively designed restaurants. The suites on the two newest ships, Seven Seas Explorer and Seven Seas Splendor, are especially covetable, with opulent decor and butler service. Regent is arguably the world’s most luxurious — and most inclusive — of the luxury lines. All dining, most wines and spirits, crew tips, gym classes, wi-fi, excursions, flights and transfers, and even pre and post-cruise hotel stays are included. Spa treatments, premium drinks and some of the optional excursions are all you’ll pay extra for.

Megayacht Scenic Eclipse marked the first foray into the luxury ocean cruise scene for Australian-owned Scenic; the 228-guest sister vessel Scenic Eclipse II followed suit in spring of 2023. Every spacious suite has a balcony and you can expect upmarket interiors reminiscent of a contemporary boutique hotel. Standards don’t slip when it comes to gastronomy, where you can take your pick from Asian fusion, classic French and everything in between. Both ships are designed for polar expedition cruising, but also offer warm-water voyages. Whatever the climate, there’s plenty to keep guests entertained, be it e-bikes or stand-up paddleboarding, a helicopter flight or a dive in the submarine, which both cost extra. Practically everything is included: most drinks, all dining, crew tips, a stocked minibar, flights and transfers, excursions and activities.

11. Explora Journeys

Explora Journeys is the first luxury oceangoing brand from international shipping giant the MSC Group. Explora I, the first of six ships, debuted in 2023, and the rest will follow between 2024 and 2028. The sea-facing cabins — described as homes at sea — have balconies, walk-in wardrobes and heated bathroom floors. Entry level accommodation is larger than average and goes up to a huge Owner’s Residence, complete with a private terrace, hot tub and butler. Restaurants will feature cuisine from around the globe.

12. Swan Hellenic

One for culture hounds, British line Swan Hellenic has itineraries to many adventurous destinations on the cruise circuit, from the polar regions to countries in east Africa and the Indian Ocean. You get to really experience it all, too, as a shore excursion is included for every stop. Its small fleet of three ships has been designed with expeditions in mind, but none of them scrimps on comfort — expect saunas with spectacular views, lounges with cosy fireplaces and cabins furnished with boutique hotel aesthetics.

swanhellenic.com

French-owned Ponant operates a fleet of stylish expedition ships, the smartest of which are arguably the six Ponant Explorers, with clever design features — most notably a multisensory underwater viewing lounge. Every cabin has a balcony and luxurious, tactile finishes in leather and suede. On board you’ll find luxury French brands such as Veuve Clicquot champagne and Hermès bath products, as well as classic French cuisine overseen by the chef Alain Ducasse. The latest addition to the fleet is the icebreaker Le Commandant Charcot, tailor-made for thrilling polar expeditions. Costs cover dining, most drinks, a stocked minibar, wi-fi, crew gratuities and — on expedition cruises — most activities. You’ll pay extra for excursions and, on some voyages, flights.

Additional reporting by Qin Xie

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The 11 Best Luxury Cruise Lines, According to T+L's Experts

These luxury cruise lines offer stunning suites, fine dining, and exceptional itineraries.

Meena Thiruvengadam is a lifelong traveler and veteran journalist who has visited more than 50 countries across six continents. Her writing has appeared in The Wall Street Journal , Departures , TripSavvy , and other publications.

Cruising is back — and you might even say it's better than ever. "Vacations at sea are suddenly one of the biggest things in travel," Travel + Leisure cruise expert Paul Brady reported recently, as summer air travel is looking progressively messier but the cruise industry continues to stabilize post-pandemic. For those looking to plan a cruise, whether it's a last-minute trip for the summer or a 2024 around-the-world cruise, we've narrowed down the best luxury cruise lines to ferry you to some of the world's most mesmerizing destinations in comfort. Here, our favorite luxury cruise lines in the world.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

When this luxury cruise line says it's all-inclusive, it's not overstating. Everything from shore excursions, Wi-Fi, and laundry to gratuities, top-shelf liquor, and business-class international flights are included with Regent Seven Seas Cruises ' fares. While each luxurious suite features ocean views, nothing beats the view from the epic 4,000-square-foot, two-bedroom Regent Suite, which has two wraparound balconies, three walk-in closets, two Picasso lithographs, and a grand piano.

For the best in-suite views, book a room at the back of the ship, Kelly Cochrane, executive chef of Regent Seven Seas Cruises tells T+L.

Oceania Cruises

Oceania Cruises has just seven ships, but the debut of the brand-new Oceania Vista catapults this cruise line into the luxury division. The cruise line's relatively new Go Local shore excursions for small groups bring travelers to under-the-radar destinations, T+L contributing editor and long-time cruiser Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon reported recently. Her 2022 cruise on Riviera included 70 excursions "from canoeing Croatia’s Cetina River to cooking classes in Athens."

If you've ever dreamed of having your own butler, Silversea is the luxury cruise line for you. In fact, Silversea's butlers take white-glove service to a whole new level — they'll handle your laundry with more care than you do, scour port towns to find your favorite tastes of home, and even help you pack and unpack your suitcase. Further, Silversea's new culinary program, nicknamed S.A.L.T. (for Sea and Land Taste), brings the taste of destinations on board through cooking classes. Of course, there's no need to cook for yourself aboard a Silversea ship, as each one features several restaurants with multi-course menus to whet your appetite every night.

Viking Cruises

Viking Cruises is a river and ocean cruise line that recently added expedition sailings and the Great Lakes trips to its repertoire. "T+L readers rave about the consistency of Viking's vessels and their Scandinavian design," cruise expert Fran Golden reported when Viking once again topped T+L's World's Best Awards last year. Viking came in at No. 1 in T+L's best mid-size ship category and river cruise category. Golden said the WBA Hall of Fame honoree's 50 river "longships" are "light-filled floating boutique hotels."

Laureen Robert / Courtesy of Ponant

French luxury cruise line Ponant aims to make passengers feel as if they're traveling on their own private yachts. Guests enjoy Ladurée macarons, Veuve Clicquot Champagne, and luxurious Hermès bath products on board. Each of the company's ships features an onboard spa with massage cabins and either a Turkish bath or sauna. Ponant's luxurious small ships sail to remote destinations like Antarctica, incorporating once-in-a-lifetime experiences such as eclipse spotting from the edge of the earth. The company also partners with Smithsonian and Disney on certain sailings.

Seabourn cruises to all seven continents, and most recently launched Seabourn Venture , "marking the first time the Carnival Corporation–owned luxury cruise line will offer adventurous sailings on an expedition ship built for extreme environments," Brady reported. (The sibling ship to Venture , Seabourn Pursuit arrives later this year.) The World's Best Award-winning cruise line has all-suite ships and "is known for its onboard service and over-the-top food including complimentary caviar and Thomas Keller steakhouses on ships such as the  Seabourn Ovation, " Brady said.

Windstar Cruises

Windstar Cruises ' luxury small ships call on 150 ports throughout Europe, Central America, the Caribbean, and the South Pacific, and there's no way you'll go hungry on the journey. Exquisite onboard menus have been designed by acclaimed chefs from Michelin-starred restaurants. (You'll have to pay extra for alcohol, but all meals and a Windstar signature onboard barbecue — a feast of whole suckling pig, shrimp brochette, and more — are included.) The cruise line is not only a T+L World's Best Awards Hall of Fame honoree, it has a "long-standing partnership with the James Beard Foundation ," Brady reported, and regularly brings chefs on board for culinary-focused sailings. Yes, chef.

Courtesy of Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours

Whether it's a river or an ocean you want to cruise, Scenic can take you there in style. The luxury cruise line operates river cruises in Europe and Asia, while ocean cruises on Scenic Eclipse (and the forthcoming Scenic Eclipse II ) can take guests to Antarctica, the Arctic, Australia, South America, and Greenland, among other coveted destinations. On board, you'll find fine dining, expansive spas and fitness facilities, and butler service.

Cunard Line

Jonathan Atkin / Courtesy of Cunard Line

This British luxury cruise line is known for its transatlantic service, which also transports pets between its headquarters in Southampton, England, and New York City. Cunard operates three ships with a fourth in the works, though only the Queen Mary 2 sails the transatlantic route. It's a cruise line that takes formality seriously; white-gloved waiters serve afternoon tea each day at 3:30 p.m. State rooms include 24-hour room service and evening turndown service with chocolates. Don't forget your tux, the gala nights are black tie.

Paul Gauguin Cruises

Roger Paperno / Courtesy of Paul Gauguin Cruises

Paul Gauguin Cruises operates just one ship, but it is exquisite, hosting 330 guests and sailing only in the South Pacific to destinations like Tahiti, Fiji, Tonga, and the Cook Islands. The ship is small enough to access private ports at remote beaches and take travelers well off the beaten path. Named the best small-ship ocean cruise line in T+L's 2022 World's Best Awards, Golden said the line is known for Tahitian-inspired massage techniques in the onboard spa and noted that cruisers particularly love the wonderful staff.

Celebrity Cruises

Steve Dunlop / Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises ' new Edge Series ships are taking things up a notch. Celebrity's signature Iconic Suites on board the Celebrity Edge and Apex offer panoramic views from above the ship's bridge; each suite boasts more than 2,500 square feet of space, including expansive 690-square-foot terraces, and comes with two bedrooms and two bathrooms. Celebrity Beyond , which debuted in 2022, accommodates 3,260 guests has 32 bars and restaurants, like Le Voyage by chef Daniel Boulud, and two-story villas on board. Beyond 's sibling ship, Ascent , will be delivered later this year.

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The best and worst cruise lines of 2023 revealed by Which? - Noble Caledonia is No.1 and Viking is second... with Princess Cruises named 'one to avoid'

• Which? looked at 23 ocean cruise companies and asked more than 1,700 passengers to rate their experiences 
• Cruise companies were rated based on 11 categories, including value for money and entertainment  
• READ MORE:  Best beaches in the world for 2023 ranked by Tripadvisor - with Brazil fielding the winner

By Ailbhe Macmahon For Mailonline

Published: 03:46 EDT, 3 March 2023 | Updated: 11:24 EDT, 3 March 2023

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The best and worst cruises for 2023 have been named by Which? - and it's Noble Caledonia that's number one.

The small ship cruising company, which has also been named the best cruise line for luxury, is followed by Viking Cruises in second place.

Third place goes to the British company Saga, which has also been named the best mid-range cruise line.

Bottom of the table, meanwhile, is Princess Cruises, marked out by the Which? study as 'one to avoid'.

The research looked at 23 ocean cruise companies and asked more than 1,700 passengers to rate their experiences out of five across 11 categories, including cabin quality, port excursions, entertainment, social atmosphere and onboard facilities.

The best and worst cruises for 2023 have been named by Which? - and it's Noble Caledonia that's number one

First-place Noble Caledonia (above) receives a customer score of 90 per cent, with five stars in categories such as customer service, passenger experience and itinerary, and is the only cruise line to receive the full five stars for excursions – which are included in the headline fare

Small ship cruising company Noble Caledonia, as well as being the overall No.1, has been named the best cruise line for luxury. Which? notes: 'Noble Caledonia's cruises are eye-wateringly expensive, but worth every penny according to its loyal customers'

First-place Noble Caledonia receives a customer score of 90 per cent, with five stars in categories such as customer service, passenger experience and itinerary, and is the only cruise line to receive the full five stars for excursions – which are included in the headline fare.

The line's cruises, which take passengers everywhere from the Antarctic to Japan, are priced at a hefty £675 per night, though Which? notes: 'Noble Caledonia's cruises are eye-wateringly expensive, but worth every penny according to its loyal customers.'

Second-place Viking, meanwhile, earns a customer score of 87 per cent. With cruises costing £413 per night, it receives five stars for value for money, and also snaps up a five-star rating in categories such as food and drink and cabin quality.

Bronze medal winner Saga, which earns a customer score of 85 per cent, is described by Which? as 'hard to fault'. It says that the liner, with cruises priced at £351 per night, is 'an (almost) all-inclusive, high-end experience without the luxury price'.

The rest of the top five is comprised of Seabourn Cruises in fourth place with a score of 84 per cent, and Oceania (83 per cent) fifth.

Moving down to the lower end of the table, Costa Cruises and Azamara are joint-third-last (14th) with a customer score of 69 per cent.

Second from the bottom is MSC Cruises (15th), which lands a customer score of 68 per cent. The Italian cruise line receives just two stars for customer service, though it achieves four-star ratings in categories including cabin quality and port excursions.

Finally, last-place Princess Cruises (16th) earns an overall customer score of 67 per cent, with three-star ratings in categories such as entertainment and customer service.

Which? looked at 23 ocean cruise companies and asked more than 1,700 passengers to rate their experiences out of five across 11 categories

Viking Cruises ranks in second place - it receives five stars for value for money, and also snaps up a five-star rating in categories such as food and drink and cabin quality

Viking Cruises' trips generally cost £413 per night, Which? reveals. Above is an infinity pool aboard Viking Star 

Third place goes to the British company Saga, which has been named the best mid-range cruise line

Saga, which earns a customer score of 85 per cent, is described by Which? as 'hard to fault'

That said, the cruise brand doesn't earn any less than three stars across each of the categories, and has been awarded several four-star ratings.

Which? says: 'This American cruise line's enormous ships have decent facilities but almost everything else is mediocre, according to our survey. The long list of add-ons also irked passengers, who had to pay extra for everything from performances by special guests to better food.'

In general, the watchdog's verdict is that 'the alternative options are better'.

Breaking down the results into separate awards, Which? hands Marella Cruises (sixth, 81 per cent) the gong for the best bargain cruise line.

With cruises priced at £212 a night, the cruise line's 'informal cruises get higher ratings than many much more expensive lines, offering great value for money', according to Which?

It says: 'Several customers complimented the "efficient and friendly" staff, a raft of speciality restaurants (some cost extra) and "top-quality" entertainment, which ranges from ballroom dancing classes to glitzy West End-style shows and an open-air cinema.'

Which? also pitted big-brand cruise lines P&O Cruises, Cunard and Carnival head to head. Carnival (eighth overall) came out on top with a customer score of 79 per cent, with the watchdog noting: 'If you're after big-ticket attractions and American-style entertainment, this is better than rivals.'

Bottom of the table - or 16th overall - is Princess Cruises, marked out by the Which? study as 'one to avoid' 

Even though it ranks last, Princess Cruises doesn't earn any less than three stars across each of the categories, and has been awarded several four-star ratings

Second from the bottom is MSC Cruises (15th), which lands a customer score of 68 per cent

MSC Cruises receives just two stars for customer service, though it achieves four-star ratings in categories including cabin quality and port excursions

Which? hands Marella Cruises (sixth) the gong for the best bargain cruise line

With cruises priced at £212 a night, Marella Cruises' 'informal cruises get higher ratings than many much more expensive lines, offering great value for money', according to Which?

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The most 'loved' and the most 'hated' major airlines in the world have been revealed. And it's Canada's Bearskin Airlines that is the most adored - and India's Go First that is the most disliked.

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Of the three, Cunard (12th overall) is second with a score of 73 per cent, while P&O Cruises (13th overall) falls behind at 72 per cent.

Elsewhere, the survey looked at cruise lines that are designed specifically for adults or kids. It found that Richard Branson's adult-only Virgin Voyages (joint seventh, £296 per night) is 'rated highly by passengers' with a score of 80 per cent, with the line's food and drink offering a particular stand out, earning a five-star rating.

Which? notes that 'traditionalists might want to steer clear' of the cruise company, however, with one customer telling the watchdog: 'It's aimed at younger people, but I still enjoyed the atmosphere and party vibe.'

Child-friendly Disney Cruise Line, meanwhile, ranks ninth with a customer score of 78 per cent.

Which? says that unless you have your heart set on meeting Elsa from Frozen aboard one of these 'floating theme parks', which are priced at £478 per night, then 'you can save a bundle by booking with a cruise line with facilities and entertainment just as good, such as Carnival'.

Four cruise lines have been awarded the coveted Which? Recommended Provider status - Noble Caledonia, Viking, Saga and Marella Cruises.

Reflecting on the survey, a statement from Which? says: 'It's no coincidence that this year's top-rated ocean cruise companies are all-inclusive. Some brands lure you in with a low headline price, but costly extras can soon mount up once you're on board, from drinks and meals to excursions and service charges… with so many extras, it's often cheaper to go with a higher-rated brand that throws most things in.'

Rory Boland, Editor of Which? Travel, added: 'This year the highest-rated cruises in our survey all had one thing in common - excellent customer service, and a sense of true value for money. Holidaymakers particularly appreciated the value on offer with all-inclusive cruises, finding that even with a lower upfront cost, paying for tips and extras on other cruises as you go can really stack up.

'Whichever kind of trip you decide on, always make sure you take out a comprehensive insurance policy at the time of booking, and take note of the medical cover included. This can help protect you from costly bills in the event you need treatment for minor accidents or illnesses while on board.'

A Princess Cruises spokesperson said: 'Princess Cruises maintains very high guest service standards and is committed to delivering amazing holidays experiences for our guests.

'During the summer of 2022, severe labour shortages unfortunately adversely impacted our service delivery which likely influenced our showing in the most recent Which? Survey.

'We are pleased to share that those shortfalls have been rectified and we look forward to 2023 continuing to be an exceptional year, with our hardworking crew delivering the superior guest experience that Princess is renowned for.'

For the full survey results visit www.which.co.uk/reviews/cruise-lines/article/best-and-worst-cruise-lines .

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Find the Best Cruise for You

U.S. News has ranked more than 150 cruise ships. Find the best cruise for your vacation.

Cruise Line Rankings

U.S. News has made it easier to find the cruise that's right for you with our Best Cruise Lines rankings, which identify the best cruise lines for a variety of traveler types in a range of regions.

Best Cruise Lines for the Money

• # 1 Virgin Voyages
• # 2 Celebrity Cruises
• # 3 Princess Cruises

Best Cruise Lines for Families

• # 1 Disney Cruise Line
• # 2 Royal Caribbean International
• # 3 Carnival Cruise Line

Best Cruise Lines for Couples

• # 1 Viking Ocean Cruises
• # 2 Seabourn Cruise Line
• # 3 Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Best Cruise Lines in the Caribbean

• # 3 Virgin Voyages

Best Cruise Lines in the Mediterranean

• # 3 Celebrity Cruises

Best Luxury Cruise Lines

Cruising 101.

Cruise Packing List: 35 Essentials for Your 2023 Cruise

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These Are The Best Cruise Lines In The U.S. (Ranked By Rating)

This list can help would-be cruisers get the best bang for their buck while sailing the high seas.

Read update

Two More Of The Best Cruise Lines In The U.S. (Ranked By Rating)

• Diverse Cruise Options : From Carnival Cruise Line to Viking Ocean Cruises, travelers have a wide array of choices, catering to various preferences and travel styles.
• Value for Money : Many cruise lines featured in the article, such as Costa Cruises and Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, offer excellent value for the money, as highlighted by traveler and expert rankings.
• Tailored Experiences : Each cruise line, from Disney Cruise Line to Seabourn Cruise Line, caters to different demographics and preferences, offering specialized experiences for families, luxury seekers, and niche travelers.

Selecting a cruise line can be a challenge. There are at least a dozen major cruise ship companies to choose from. They vary greatly in ship size and amenities offered. Some have all-inclusive pricing, while others don’t. Some are all-suite ships ; some aren’t. And the ambiance onboard cruise ships varies greatly and is something guests should know before booking .

But a key factor for most vacationers is price. Many cruise lines listed here rank highest in value for the money by travelers and experts in a listing published by U.S. News and World Report. Affordability, amenities, and reputation were taken into account. Going on vacation doesn't mean someone needs to break the bank. Which cruise ship would be the best?

Every cruise line on this list has been carefully chosen based on a number of factors, including cost, amenities, and destinations. We sorted the top cruise lines according to ratings on cruisecritic.com, a TripAdvisor company, and took into account the U.S. News Cruise Lines Rankings. We have included a wide range of cruise lines, such as solo, adult-only, family, all-inclusive, affordable, luxury, and many more, with cruise line rankings to provide a cruise suitable for every type of traveler.

UPDATE: 2024/02/08 10:25 EST BY REENA JAIN

The best cruise lines in the United States take guests to some of the most beautiful vacation destinations while also allowing them to enjoy a broad range of amenities, activities, and experiences. Fortunately, there are many! We expanded this list of the best US cruise lines with two new entries that deserve to be there.

Related: This 33-Day Luxe Cruise Itinerary Calls At 28 Exotic Ports

20 Costa Cruises

Cruise critic rating: 3.0/5.

• This Italian-based cruise line is known for lower rates
• Europeans tend to book this cruise line for their vacations
• There is an all-inclusive rate option available for guests

Based in Italy, Costa has lower rates than competitors , the ranking found, especially for cruises in the Mediterranean. Its ships attract mostly Europeans, so American cruisers should be prepared for a more international atmosphere than the other ships on this ranking list.

Costa ships have amenities for families and adults traveling without children, such as theater shows and casinos. It also offers an all-inclusive rate option and is among the ten Best Cruise Lines for the Money . This may be an excellent option for longer cruises with extended days on the water.

• Number of Ships in Fleet: 9
• Popular Destinations: Caribbean, Mediterranean, South America, World Tour, Northern Europe, Transoceanic, Dubai
• Recommended Cruise: Costa Deliziosa's Cruise Around The World
• Duration: 32 Nights and 33 Days
• Price: Starting at USD 4,916 per person

Book this cruise

Cruising on Costa's ship "Deliziosa" may be the better premium choice for those wanting to make the most of their vacation. This ship has various routes, with one being its 70-night voyage across the world.

19 Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection Cruise

Cruise critic rating: 3.3/5.

• The luxury yacht cruise line offers personalized services and exceptional amenities
• The all-inclusive price provides the ultimate cruise experience

Offering the sophistication and luxuries of an upscale hotel while floating over the wide ocean, the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection is a fascinating new cruise line in the US. Its all-inclusive fare , which covers meals, beverages (including alcoholic ones), and gratuities, makes it possible to have a hassle-free sea vacation without worrying about extra costs. The fleet is made up of luxurious yachts with staterooms and modern amenities, guaranteeing an unforgettable vacation. Personalized services, stunning destinations ranging from the Caribbean to the Mediterranean to Northern Europe, and exquisite dining all set it apart. Also, the Ritz Kids program provides activity sessions for kids ages 4 to 12, making it one of the best all-inclusive family cruises in the US.

• Number of Ships in Fleet: 1 and 2 upcoming
• Popular Destinations: Mediterranean, Caribbean, Northern Europe, Baltic, Crossing Voyages
• Recommended Cruise: Ritz-Carlton Evrima's round-trip cruise from San Juan to San Juan
• Duration: 4 Nights, 5 Days
• Price: Starting at USD 5,800 per person

18 MSC Cruises

• MSC is an Italian cruise line brand
• There are limited ships from MSC coming to the United States
• Traveling on an MSC ship is typically lower than staying on land in Europe

The Italian line MSC Cruises has just a few ships sailing from U.S. ports and is mainly Europe-focused. But the ranking report found that, even with airfare to Europe, the cost of an MSC cruise will be more affordable than a typical land vacation on the continent. Some Mediterranean cruises start at $100 per person, and promotions often allow children to sail free. MSC Cruises was ranked #5 in Best Cruise Lines for Families by U.S. News for offering a range of modern amenities and exciting activities for travelers of all ages.

• Number of Ships in Fleet: 23
• Popular Destinations: Caribbean, Bahamas, Ocean Cay, MSC Marine Reserve, Europe, Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Bermuda, Canada & New England
• Recommended Cruise: MSC Magnifica's Cruise to The Bahamas
• Duration: 4 Nights and 5 Days
• Price: From USD 169 per person

MSC cruises regularly run children's sail-free promotions for their Mediterranean voyages, which may be helpful for larger families. Rates are already low for this specific destination, which is something to remember.

Related: The Best River Cruises In The World

17 Norwegian Cruise Line

Cruise critic rating: 3.6/5.

• Norwegian Cruise Line has 20 ships currently sailing
• Many NCL ships can hold upwards of 4,000 guests
• Guests may need to buy all-inclusive packages to save money on food and drinks

Norwegian has 20 sailing ships, many quite large and accommodating more than 4,000 guests. Fares cover standard dining but not specialty venues; however, money-saving all-inclusive packages can be booked for dining and drinks. Ranked #4 in Best Cruise Lines for Families , it features colorful cruise ships, abundant onboard amenities, and children's clubs to make a family vacation fulfilling.

The cruise line’s Freestyle Dining policy has no fixed dining times or assigned seating. Like other big cruise lines, Norwegian ships offer complimentary activities and amenities, making it one of the best all-inclusive cruise lines in the U.S. Norwegian Cruise Line also partners with Caesars Entertainment, meaning guests can earn points between companies.

• Number of Ships in Fleet: 20
• Popular Destinations: Australia, Alaska, Asia, New Zealand, Mediterranean, Europe, Caribbean, Southern America, Transatlantic, Hawaii, Africa
• Recommended Cruise: Norwegian Joy's Cruise to the Eastern Caribbean
• Duration: 11 Nights, 12 Days
• Price: Starting at USD 559 per person

16 Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Cruise critic rating: 3.7/5.

• All-inclusive packages include specialty dining, shore excursions, and alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages
• Cruise costs include round-trip airfare and ground transfers

Regent Seven Seas Cruises was ranked #3 in the Best Luxury Cruise Lines as it received high ratings from experts and cruisers alike for its all-inclusive packages and luxury services. All six of Regent's ships have all-suite rooms, a personnel-to-passenger ratio of almost one to one, and personalized experiences. Its popular routes stop at more than 500 ports across the United States, Alaska, Africa, Asia, Europe, the Caribbean, and other regions. Each experience, from exploring amazing places, dining at specialty cruise restaurants, and taking in the evening's onboard entertainment to relaxing in a private haven at sea, is absolutely priceless.

• Number of Ships in Fleet: 6
• Popular Destinations: Alaska, Arabia, Africa, Asia, Caribbean, Bermuda, Canada, Mediterranean, Northern Europe, South Pacific, South America, Transoceanic, World Tour
• Recommended Cruise: Regent Seven Seas Navigator's Cruise to the Mediterranean
• Duration: 10 Nights, 11 Days
• Price: Starting at USD 4,099 per person

15 Silversea Cruises

Cruise critic rating: 3.8/5.

• Smaller ships with all-suite accommodations travel to less-traveled locations
• Included in the cruise ticket is one complimentary shore excursion per port

Silversea Cruises is known for its ultra-luxurious all-inclusive cruises with unlimited drinks and gratuities. With excellent service and butlers for every guest, it's ranked #5 among the Best Luxury Cruise Lines . Its fleet of small cruise ships provides a wealth of chances for global exploration in over 900 intriguing locations throughout all seven continents. Travelers can pick any classic voyage, visiting well-known ports and emphasizing total destination immersion, or consider an expedition trip, which visits some of the most remote and breathtaking locations on Earth.

• Number of Ships in Fleet: 12
• Popular Destinations: Caribbean, Alaska, Africa, Antarctica, Arctic, Asia, Australia, Canada, French Polynesia & Pacific, Galápagos Islands, Kimberley, American West Coast, Northern Europe, Mediterranean, South America, Transoceanic
• Recommended Cruise: Silver Spirit's Cruise to the Caribbean
• Duration: 7 Nights, 8 Days
• Price: Starting at USD 3,450 per person

14 Cunard Line

• Cunard is a British ship and among the Best Cruise Lines for Couples
• These ships tend to be more classic-feeling
• Some of the Cunard Line's best voyages are through Europe

The Cunard cruise line is one of the smaller brands on the market. This cruise company was started in 1840, so Cunard has a rich history. Furthermore, Cunard offers one-way, round-trip, and transatlantic sailings to major US cities and extensive European trips.

Furthermore, Cunard sails to a variety of North American ports, including New York City, Boston, Los Angeles, and Miami.

• Number of Ships in Fleet: 4
• Popular Destinations: Australia, Alaska, Asia, New Zealand, Baltics, Caribbean, Mediterranean, Central America, Europe, South America, Transatlantic
• Recommended Cruise: Queen Mary 2's Cruise to Australia and New Zealand
• Duration : 10 Nights, 12 Days
• Price : Starting at USD 5,279 per person

13 Carnival Cruise Line

• Carnival Cruise Line is often called the "Fun Ships" line
• These cruises are budget and family-friendly
• Most dining is included in the original fare (minus specialty restaurants)

Carnival Cruise Line , aka the Fun Ships line, is considered budget-friendly because its base fares are typically low. The cruise line offers many short cruises of three or four days and longer itineraries. Traditional dining is covered in the fare, but specialty restaurants are not.

Guests can minimize costs by avoiding those venues. Also, drinks and dining packages are available, and the line frequently offers discount promotions. U.S. News named Carnival as the third-best cruise line for families .

• Number of Ships in Fleet: 27 and 1 upcoming
• Popular Destinations: Caribbean, Bahamas, Mexico, Bermuda, Alaska, Europe, Transatlantic, Australia, Panama Canal, Hawaii, Canada
• Recommended Cruise: Carnival Celebration's Cruise to the Caribbean
• Price: Starting at USD 589 per person

12 Princess Cruises

• Princess Cruises generally includes onboard events in the fare price
• This cruise line is more adult-friendly than family-oriented
• Guests must pay a fee to dine at specialty restaurants

Princess Cruises fares typically cover onboard events such as cooking classes and lectures and offer an atmosphere geared more toward adults than families with children. Main dining rooms are included in the cruise fare, and guests pay a fee to dine at specialty restaurants.

Packages are offered to cruisers who expect to dine frequently at a special venue, and there are also drinks packages. All in all, Princess Cruises stands out for its amenities and services and was ranked #3 in Best Cruise Lines for the Money by U.S. News.

• Number of Ships in Fleet: 29 and 3 upcoming
• Popular Destinations: Caribbean, Bermuda, Jamaica, Bahamas, Mexico, Alaska, Cozumel and Cancun, Europe, Asia, North America, South Pacific, Transatlantic
• Recommended Cruise: Regal Princess' Cruise to the Southern Caribbean
• Duration: 12 Nights and 13 Days
• Price: Starting at USD 779 per person

Book this tour

11 Oceania Cruises

• Oceania Cruises are on the more luxurious side of the market
• This cruise line is based in Miami, Florida
• Most Oceania voyages last between 10 and 14 days

Oceania Cruises , #4 in Best Luxury Cruise Lines , may be worth considering for those wanting more elegance and luxury on the open waters. This cruise company's stand-out feature is its longer-than-average trip schedules.

For example, most Oceania cruises are out at sea for between 10 and 14 days, with some cruises lasting 195 days. The boats are mid-size, often boasting lavish decor and beautiful rooms/suites.

• Number of Ships in Fleet: 8
• Popular Destinations: Caribbean, South America, Panama Canal, Europe, Mediterranean, Mexico, Holy Lands, North America, Central America, South Pacific, Transatlantic, Asia, Around the World
• Recommended Cruise : Oceania Regatta Cruise to Around The World
• Duration : 41 Nights, 42 Days
• Price : Starting at USD 14,499 per person

10 Holland America Line

Cruise critic rating: 3.9/5.

• Holland America is a more exclusive luxury cruise ship option
• There are better deals for those headed to the Caribbean
• Each guest will receive attention on this line

Considered a premium cruise line, Holland America can be a good bargain, particularly for Caribbean cruises, which can cost under $300 per person for five days of sailing. The ranking shows that the line does not skimp on service but offers individualized attention to guests.

The line provides free room service and several all-inclusive pricing options that can be booked as packages before sailing, ranking it as #5 in Best Cruise Lines for the Money . The cruise line attracts mainly an adult and older adult crowd and offers many onboard programs such as lectures, cooking classes, and music performances.

• Number of Ships in Fleet: 11
• Popular Destinations: North & South America, Europe, Asia, South Pacific, Transatlantic
• Recommended Cruise: Holland America Nieuw Statendam's Cruise to the Eastern Caribbean
• Duration: 7 Nights and 8 Days
• Price: Starting at USD 999 per person

Holland America is a fancier, more exclusive cruise line option. If someone prefers to live lavishly on the open seas, this company may be the best choice.

Related: Explore Far-Flung Ports With This All-Suite Cruise Line

9 Royal Caribbean International

• Royal Caribbean owns some of the largest cruise ships
• Rates for Royal Caribbean cruise ships tend to be affordable

Royal Caribbean has 29 ships in its fleet, including some of the largest sailing vessels . The ranking survey found that it can keep overall rates low because it accommodates many cruisers per ship. Some cruises can start at under $250 per person . The line offers itineraries across the globe and, like some other cruise lines, has its own private island in the Bahamas .

Overall, Royal Caribbean is #2 in Best Cruise Lines for Families and is also a great choice for those traveling solo, as there is always something to see, do, and experience.

• Recommended Cruise: Oasis of the Seas' Cruise to the Western Mediterranean
• Price: Starting at USD 1,028 per person

8 Windstar Cruises

Cruise critic rating: 4.1/5.

• Small cruise ships for an intimate and personalized experience
• The onboard dining is seasonal and sourced from a port along the journey

For those looking for an intimate experience packed with luxuries with fewer passengers around, Windstar Cruises serves all purposes. With a fleet of six yachts, each accommodating between 148 and 342 guests and providing intimacy, space, and freedom, it is one of the best small-ship cruise lines in the U.S. Also, it offers modern amenities and immersive entertainment to ensure a vacation full of priceless memories. It offers luxury trips to more than 50 countries and 150 ports worldwide, including Europe, the Caribbean, the South Pacific, the US West Coast, and Central America.

• Popular Destinations: Canary Islands, Caribbean, South America, Panama Canal, Latin America, Europe, Mediterranean, Mexico, Middle East, U.S. Coastal, Tahiti
• Recommended Cruise: Windstar Star Legend's Cruise to Greece
• Duration: 8 Nights, 9 Days
• Price: Starting at USD 3,599 per person

7 Celebrity Cruises

• Celebrity Cruises are known to have excellent service and employees
• Rates are historically cheaper for those headed to the Bahamas and the Caribbean
• Room service is free on this ship, minus specialty drinks

Celebrity Cruises has a good reputation for service. Furthermore, some prices for the Bahamas and Caribbean cruises can be less than $250 per cruiser, ranking it as #2 in Best Cruise Lines for the Money . The survey points out that the line offers perks such as free room service and many complimentary amenities. Dining, drinks, spa, and Wi-Fi packages can be bought in advance , helping cut costs.

• Number of Ships in Fleet: 16 and 1 upcoming
• Popular Destinations: Alaska, Antarctica, Australia, Bahamas, Bermuda, Caribbean, Europe, Galápagos, Greek Island, Hawaii, Mediterranean, Mexico
• Recommended Cruise: Celebrity Silhouette's Cruise to the Bahamas
• Duration: 4 Nights 5 Days
• Price: Starting at USD 250 per person

Celebrity Cruises may be a good choice for travelers wanting to go to the Bahamas and the Caribbean. This cruise line offers various packages to help cut down on Wi-Fi, food, drink, and spa prices.

6 Hurtigruten Expeditions

• Hurtigruten Expedition provides fascinating global adventure cruises to several interesting locations
• Every ship in the fleet today has been thoughtfully designed to combine contemporary amenities with authentic charm

Originally well-known for its trips to the Arctic and Antarctic, Hurtigruten Expeditions (now HX) has expanded its offerings. At present, it operates expedition cruises to some of the most secluded and unspoiled locations in the world. Its fleet includes small boats built for difficult waters that make their way to places like the Galápagos Islands, Africa, Antarctica, and the Arctic. Every expedition ship provides visitors with the finest possible expedition experience and exploration while also taking advantage of the first-rate leisure and wellness facilities available.

• Popular Destinations: Alaska, Antarctica, British Isles, Caribbean, Europe, Galápagos Islands, Greenland, Iceland, North America, South America, Canada, Norway, Svalbard, Transoceanic, West Africa
• Recommended Cruise: Hurtigruten Roald Amundsen's Cruise to the USA
• Price: Starting at USD 3,202 per person

5 Seabourn Cruise Line

• Known for offering the crème de la crème cruise experiences
• It is an all-suite cruise, with each suite offering majestic ocean views

Sebourne is one of the cruise lines ranked as the #2 Best Luxury Cruise Lines , with an abundance of upscale amenities and trips to the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, and Alaska, as well as exotic destinations in Asia, Australia, and even the Arctic. There is a wide range of dining choices, onboard entertainment options, and excursions on all cruises.

The cruise line's eight ships feature a fitness center, spa, salon, casinos, pools, nine-hole golf courses, and live music venues, among other features. All the ships have suites with ocean views as accommodations.

• Popular Destinations: Europe, South Pacific, Transatlantic, North & South America, Asia, Australia
• Recommended Cruise: Seabourn Ovation's Cruise to the Southern Caribbean
• Price: Starting at USD 3,799 per person

4 Virgin Voyages

• U.S. News named Virgin Voyages as the Best Cruise Line for the Money
• This cruise line is all-inclusive, meaning food/drink/Wi-Fi costs will not be added
• Virgin ships are adult-only, so those with children can not book a trip

Virgin Voyages ranked at the top of the list for value. The cruise line created by British mogul Richard Branson is mostly all-inclusive, meaning nearly everything is covered in the cruise fare. The exception is some high-end spirits at certain venues.

However, all restaurants and virtually all beverages are included, along with sports facilities and group fitness classes, including yoga. Even crew tips are covered . Virgin Voyages ships are among the industry’s best cruise lines for adults only , with a minimum guest age of 18.

• Popular Destinations: South Pacific, Caribbean, Europe, Transatlantic, Australia, Mediterranean, Adriatic
• Recommended Cruise: Virgin Voyages Scarlet Lady's Cruise to the Caribbean
• Price: Starting at USD 726 per person

Cruise Critic Rating: 4.2/5

• Comparatively, small ships offering an intimate atmosphere for couples
• Cruise cost includes gratuities and most nonalcoholic and alcoholic beverages

Azamara , the fourth-best cruise line for couples , provides its passengers with a variety of exciting activities, delectable food, and luxurious cabins. Whether passengers choose a four-night cruise or a 26-night trip, each offers amenities such as onboard lounges, fitness centers, dance classes, wine tastings, and evening dance and music performances.

Along with onboard activities, passengers have the opportunity to learn about the culture, traditions, and history of the port cities, making this small-ship cruise line a favorite among frequent travelers.

• Popular Destinations: America, Caribbean, Transoceanic, Australia, New Zealand, Europe, Asia, Africa, Middle East
• Recommended Cruise: Azamara Quest's Cruise to South America
• Duration: 17 Nights, 18 Days
• Price: Starting at USD 2,380 per person

2 Disney Cruise Line

• Disney Cruise Line is the Best Cruise Line for Families
• This company offers the magic of its theme parks onboard each ship

Disney Cruise Line is one cruise ship company that continues to grow and improve. This company, which started in 1995, has become a premier option for travelers wanting a luxurious yet family-friendly option on the open waters.

It's also worth mentioning that Disney Cruise Lines allow visitors to experience character meet-and-greets, interactive experiences, and one-of-a-kind dining, shopping, and amenities. All in all, Disney Cruise Line is the best for families traveling with younger kids (particularly for children under 10 years).

• Popular Destinations: Bermuda, Caribbean, Jamaica, Mexico, Alaska, Bahamas, Cozumel and Cancun, Asia, North America, Europe, South Pacific, Transatlantic
• Recommended Cruise: Disney Dream's Cruise to the Bahamas
• Duration : 4 Nights, 5 Days
• Price : Starting at USD 1,114 per person

1 Viking Ocean Cruises

Cruise critic rating: 4.6/5.

• Viking Ocean Cruises are often smaller ships
• This company is based in Switzerland and specializes in European destinations

Wondering which cruise line has the highest rating? Well, Viking Cruises has the highest ranking on this list. This company is based in Basel, Switzerland, and its marketing headquarters are in Los Angeles, California. This company mainly focuses on river, ocean, and expedition cruises.

Viking ships tend to be on the smaller side, so this could be a great way to meet others on board and have a more intimate experience at sea. The smaller boat sizes also allow them to move effortlessly along less-traveled paths, which is neat. Ranked #1 in Best Cruise Lines for Couples by U.S. News , Viking Oceans is ideal for a romantic retreat at sea.

• Popular Destinations: America, Europe, Scandinavia, Asia, Caribbean, Mediterranean, Australia
• Recommended Cruise: Viking Venus' Cruise to the Baltic Sea
• Duration : 12 Nights, 13 Days
• Price : Starting at USD 10,999 per person

Factbox-Baltimore Port: What Impact Will Bridge Collapse Have on Shipping?

FILE PHOTO: A view shows the port as U.S. President Joe Biden (not pictured) visits the Port of Baltimore, Maryland, U.S., November 10, 2021. REUTERS/Evelyn Hockstein/File Photo

LONDON (Reuters) -A major bridge collapsed in the U.S. port of Baltimore in the early hours of Tuesday after being struck by a container ship, plunging cars into the river below.

Traffic was suspended at the port until further notice, Maryland transportation authorities said.

PORT FEATURES

It is the deepest harbor in Maryland's Chesapeake Bay, closer to the Midwest than other East Coast ports, with five public and 12 private terminals, according to Maryland government website.

It is one of the smallest container ports on the Northeastern seaboard, handling 265,000 containers in the fourth quarter of last year, according to container shipping expert Lars Jensen.

The Port of New York and New Jersey handled around 2 million containers in that same period, and Norfolk Port in Virginia handled 850,000, so the flow of containers to Baltimore can likely be redistributed to bigger ports, Jensen said.

Photos You Should See

CURRENT STATUS OF CARGO SHIPS INSIDE PORT

More than 40 ships remained inside Baltimore port, including small cargo ships, tug boats and pleasure craft, data from ship tracking and maritime analytics provider MarineTraffic shows. 

At least 30 other ships had signaled their destination was Baltimore, the data showed.

It is the busiest U.S. port for car shipments, handling more than 750,000 vehicles in 2023, according to data from the Maryland Port Administration.

The port handles imports and exports for major automakers including Nissan, Toyota, General Motors, Volvo Car, Jaguar Land Rover and Volkswagen, including luxury models for Audi, Lamborghini and Bentley.

It is also the largest U.S. port by volume for handling farm and construction machinery, as well as agricultural products.

Imports of agricultural products totaled 3 million tonnes last year, including 1.2 million of sugar and salt, as well as gypsum, fertilisers and forest products, according to Ishan Bhanu, lead agricultural commodities analyst at Kpler.

U.S. sugar company ASR Group, which operates a refinery near the center of Baltimore, said it does not expect short-term impacts to its operations.

Other top imports were paper/paperboard and plywood/veneer/particle board, the Maryland authority website shows.

The Curtis Bay Piers coal terminal is around 3 miles from the highway which ran over the bridge.

During the first nine months of 2023, Baltimore was the second-biggest port for U.S. coal exports, behind Norfolk, Virginia, according to the latest data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA).

Baltimore exported about 20.3 million short tons of coal, up from 14.3 million short tons during the same period in 2022.

About 13.3 million short tons of exports from Baltimore during the first nine months of 2023 were steam coal and 7.0 million short tons were metallurgical coal

The Baltimore port also exports smaller amounts of other metals and minerals.

Other top export commodities by weight in 2022 were liquefied natural gas (LNG), waste-paper, ferrous scrap, and automobiles/light trucks, according to Maryland government data.

Cove Point liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal, which is upstream from the bridge, is the nearest LNG terminal.

The terminal's operator, U.S. energy firm Berkshire Hathaway Energy, said operations were not impacted by the collapse of the bridge, adding it continues to work closely with the U.S. Coast Guard to ensure that the facility is operating safely.

ICIS ship tracking data shows Cove Point typically exports about 500,000 tonnes of LNG per month.

CRUISE SHIPS

It is also a cruise terminal, with Norwegian, Carnival and Royal Caribbean, all using the port for Caribbean, Canadian, and other Atlantic destinations.    

In 2023, cruises carrying more than 444,000 passengers departed from the port, the Maryland government website says.

LONDON METAL EXCHANGE WAREHOUSES

In Baltimore warehouses registered with the London Metal Exchange, there are 756 metric tons of nickel, 150 tons of tin and 50 tons of copper, LME data shows.

BUNKER FUEL

Bunker fuel traders said deliveries to the port of Baltimore and Annapolis Anchorage are likely to be affected from the suspension of traffic and ports in Pennsylvania and Virginia could serve as potential bunkering alternatives.

This could affect vessel schedules and may lead to an increase in bunker fuel prices at the alternative ports, depending on how long the port of Baltimore remains inaccessible.

(Reporting by Josephine Mason, Nick Carey, Helen Reid, Jonathan Saul, Nigel Hunt, Marwa Rashad, Scott DiSavino, Shariq Khan and Eric Onstad;Compiled by Josephine Mason and Nina Chestney; Editing by Nick Macfie and Nick Zieminski)

Copyright 2024 Thomson Reuters .

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Best Budget Cruise Lines, Ranked

E ven if you make a point of earmarking money in your budget for vacations, the sticker shock can be hard to stomach. Between eating out, fun activities and all the little incidentals along the way, costs sure add up quickly.

If you’re looking for an exciting trip that won’t break the bank, why not go on a cruise? Everyone can do their own thing, coming together at mealtimes or for a dip in the pool. All-inclusive rates for accommodations, entertainment and food are often lower than what you'll find on land.

Luckily, U.S. News & World Report has done all the legwork for you when it comes to choosing the best cruise line for your wallet. It sifted through traveler ratings, expert reviews and health ratings from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (a must after the past few years) to come up with a list of the top nine budget-friendly cruise lines for the money.

9. Costa Cruises

Year founded:  1854

Headquarters:  Genoa, Italy

Number of destinations:  59

Note: Rankings come from the U.S. News & World Report's 2023 "Best Cruise Lines for the Money" report.

Bottom Line: Costa Cruises

Costa is one of the oldest cruise lines in the world and boasts particularly affordable Mediterranean itineraries. 

If you’re looking for a chance to meet people from outside the U.S. during your vacation, this is the cruise line to book. Since it's based in Italy, there’s an eclectic mix of passengers from the U.S. and countries in Europe as well as a diverse age range among travelers.

You can sail from three to 128 nights with Costa on a vessel that matches your style — some are smaller and more intimate, while others are larger and have a lively vibe. Either way, Costa has roughly one crew member for every three cruisers, so you’re guaranteed to receive quality service on your trip.

What Travelers Say About Costa Cruises

"Did the cruise meet expectations? Yes, on the whole, we enjoyed it. Some things were better than we expected and somethings as described in other reviews. Folks need to remember that you're often paying 50 percent less than in other lines to be on a Costa cruise. Would we book again, yes, I think we would. Will we book 'better' cruises as well? Yes we will [and have]." — ani4ani

Note: Reviews may be edited for punctuation, spelling and other grammatical errors.

Best Bang-for-Your-Buck Costa Cruises Trip

If you have the time for an extended trip, consider one of Costa’s transoceanic cruises . Sample itineraries include a 17-day cruise that starts in Savona, Italy and ends in the French Caribbean territory of Guadeloupe. 

Alternatively, you could sail from La Romana in the Dominican Republic to Marseilles in France.

8. Norwegian Cruise Line

Year founded:  1966

Headquarters:  Miami, Florida

Number of destinations:  490

Bottom Line: Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian gets high marks for being a fun, laid-back cruise line that won’t break the bank. It’s a top choice for both families and budget-friendly travelers. Why? Norwegian doesn’t have a lot of rules — there’s no dress code, no fixed dining assignments and a general “anything goes” atmosphere. 

Norwegian has 28 vessels in its fleet, accommodating from 1,936 to 4,266 passengers. Despite the large crowds, Norwegian says it has one crew member for every two to three travelers, so you’ll still get top-notch service.

Plus, you can pick from an array of journeys in destinations like Alaska, Cuba, Hawaii and many others. As a bonus, Norwegian has special cabins designed for solo travelers.

What Travelers Say About Norwegian Cruise Line

"We upgraded to the Penthouse Suite in the Haven; it was our very first Haven experience and it was spectacular! We cannot say a single bad thing about this cruise other than it wasn't long enough! We enjoyed every single minute of it but we especially loved the Haven bar each night. Before we'd go to dinner, we'd first go to the Haven bar and enjoy several cocktails. We were treated so well; our names and drink preferences were remembered, the staff just went out of their way to make sure all the little details were put in place and well executed." — HonkyTonkAngel

Best Bang-for-Your-Buck Norwegian Cruise Line Trip

You don’t need to have a lot of cash on hand to book a Norwegian trip — just $50 will reserve your spot in certain types of rooms (if you book early enough). Plus, the total price of your trip will be reasonable— a seven-day trip through the Hawaiian islands starts at just $2,051, for instance.

After departing from Honolulu, you’ll head to ports on Maui, Big Island and Kauai. Though you can certainly relax on the beach all you want, you can also take advantage of tons of other cool excursions, like a day spent touring a lavender farm and vodka distillery on Maui or a train trip through a plantation on Kauai.

Visiting Volcanoes National Park, hiking to waterfalls and participating in luaus are also highly recommended.

7. Holland America Line

Year founded:  1873

Headquarters:  Seattle, Washington

Number of destinations:  470

Bottom Line: Holland America

While not as cheap as some other lines on this list, Holland America is a bargain compared to its competitors in the upscale space, like Cunard and Silversea.

The line tends to attract older travelers who want a more traditional experience, but also offers family-friendly trips and has special offerings for kids. The Club HAL program, for instance, offers everything from sing-along storytimes for younger kiddos to ice-cream-eating contests for tweens.

You can cruise choose from a wide swath of worldwide destinations like Northern Europe, the Mediterranean, Australia and Asia. It has a fleet of 11 vessels ranging in size from 1,432 to 2,668 cruisers while maintaining a high level of service and a low passenger-to-crew ratio. Exciting onboard activities include mixology workshops, photography classes and cooking demonstrations.

What Travelers Say About Holland America

"Beautiful & immaculate ship, outstanding crew. Entertainment tried but not great, movies were not very good but sitting by the pool was beautiful. Main dining room was very good. Felt sad for the waitstaff - young and inexperienced, but happily they got it together by the end of the cruise. What they lacked in experience they made up with their eagerness to get things right, smiling faces & cheerful attitudes." — HAL Oldie

Best Bang-for-Your-Buck Holland America Line Trip

Up for a real adventure? Book one of Holland’s Grand Voyages , which offer a more immersive experience and tend to be longer than your average cruise. One must-book itinerary spans 24 days and visits ports in Japan, China, Vietnam and Singapore . Rates start at $4,899 per person — a very reasonable rate for such an extensive journey.

Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to visit the Great Wall of China, explore the city life in Shanghai and visit Japan’s Taal Volcano, the smallest volcano in the world. There are several days at sea built into the journey, so you can dance the night away at B.B. King’s Blues Club and attend live cooking demonstrations and wine tastings.

Have less money to burn? Consider a seven-night eastern Caribbean cruise starting at just $549 per person.

6. Royal Caribbean International

Year founded:  1968

Number of destinations:  300

Bottom Line: Royal Caribbean

Not only is Royal Caribbean one of the largest cruise lines out there, but it’s also one of the friendliest to your bank account. Travelers may find itineraries to popular destinations for less than $200 per person.

With Royal Caribbean, you can choose from 26 total vessels — “smaller” ships accommodate up to 2,400 guests, while larger vessels can hold 6,700 travelers.

Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a family vacation, Royal Caribbean offers a little something for everyone — there are adults-only pool areas, as well as entertainment options just for kids.

What Travelers Say About Royal Caribbean

"What we especially like about the Serenade was all the windows throughout the public areas wonderful for ocean watching — even from a set of elevators. There is also a true fully around the ship promenade deck on which you can actually get out to the helicopter pad and see the cruise from the bow of the ship. Great lounge chairs line both sides of this deck for quiet reading and relaxing.

The Centrum was beautiful and, during many of the days, single performers on piano or guitar entertained (we especially liked the pianist), instead of piped-in music. At night it was the main dance floor with a funk band...For the younger set, there was the DJ directed dance sets in the disco." — fan1965

Best Bang-for-Your-Buck Royal Caribbean International Trip

You can find some great deals on Royal Caribbean cruises. For as little as $208, take a four-night cruise from Pacific coastal cruise . You go from Los Angeles to Astoria, Oregon and make your way to Victoria and Vancouver in Canada.

You'll get to see how different each of these cities are, despite being in the same area. Get some fresh salmon in Astoria, visit the Royal British Museum in Victoria and enjoy urban green spaces in Vancouver.

5. Princess Cruises

Year founded:  1965

Headquarters:  Santa Clarita, California

Number of destinations:  330

Bottom Line: Princess Cruises

If you’re traveling on a budget and want to get away from the little ones, consider a trip with Princess . The cruise line is owned by Carnival and boasts similarly wallet-friendly rates. But unlike its parent company, Princess often caters to travelers 18 and up.

With 15 ships in its fleet, Princess cruises to the Caribbean, Mexico, Europe, Alaska and beyond on itineraries ranging from two to 111 days. Princess also offers special “cruise tours” that let you extend your vacation and explore your departure or end port in more depth.

You’ll also get high-quality service aboard Princess, which says it has approximately one crew member for every two to three travelers.

And you won’t get bored at night or during days at sea, either. Princess trips promise poolside movie screenings, magic shows and other fabulous entretainement.

What Travelers Say About Princess Cruises

"First thing is that dining room food is great, but the buffet was minimal. Minimal crowd so that was nice. Cruise Director and staff are really something special. Gary and Steff and the lot-wonderful. I'd say being an older ship it was good but not great. But the entertainment is great. We're only [a] couple days in and the shows have been the highlight." — Dougie Fresh

Best Bang-for-Your-Buck Princess Cruises Trip

You can rest assured that while Princess cruises are easy on your wallet, they aren’t lacking in adventure or diversity. A 10-day trip from San Francisco, California, to Alaska and back starts at $749 per person.

During your cruise, you’ll visit four ports, including one in Victoria, Canada. On the agenda for the day: a stroll through Butchart Gardens, a bucket-list-worthy spot that features 55 acres filled with colorful flowers, enchanting walkways and photo opportunities at every turn.

In Skagway, Alaska, you can meet (and cuddle with) a lovable team of sled dogs, pan for gold and take a ride on the historic White Pass Railway. Or, for something more active, go rock climbing, take a bicycle tour through the rainforest or hit up the ziplines.

If you have only a few days and couple hundred bucks to spare, book a three-night jaunt from Vancouver to Seattle . The starting rate is dirt cheap: $249 per person.

4. MSC Cruises

Year founded:  1989

Headquarters:  Geneva, Switzerland

Number of destinations:  250

Bottom Line: MSC Cruises

Caribbean itineraries on MSC Cruises can be particularly cheap. But low rates are a guarantee no matter where you're traveling.

One awesome perk offered by this high-quality line if you’re cruising on a budget? Kids under 11 always sail free, and kids 12 to 17 sail for free on certain trips and at certain times of the year. This offer is contingent on kids staying in the same cabin as their parents.

There are plenty of reasons mom and dad will want to sail with MSC Cruises, too. For starters, this Swiss cruise line has adults-only pools and theaters showing 4D movies.

Plus, MSC Cruises has great on-board actitivies on each of the 21 ships within its fleet. Ships range in size from 2,520 to 6,762 passengers, so you can pick what suits you best.

What Travelers Say About MSC Cruises

"Food in the YC or on their private island was very good to excellent. We eat all of our breakfast and dinner in the dining room. Lunches were done at the YC grill, which is a little buffet area in the YC. Several times we do lunch on the private island in YC area. Their lunch meal has lobster roll, burger, carne asada...

We did this cruise based on the recommendation of my travel agent...She was correct and that even loved this one more, we will be back on MSC." — jimk727  

Best Bang-for-the-Buck MSC Cruises Trip

For a truly unique and culturally enriching experience, consider an MSC cruise that takes you to Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Oman . Rates start at $229 per person for a seven-night journey.

During a day docked at Muscat, Oman, you can explore one of the oldest cities in the Middle East. Wander around the city's old town, particularly Muttrah, once the most important commercial centers of the country.

When the ship sails to Abu Dhabi, fulfill your need for speed at the Ferrari World Theme Park or by going behind the scenes at the Yas F1 Track, which hosts Formula 1 races and other car-related events.

3. Celebrity Cruises

Year founded:  1988

Bottom Line: Celebrity Cruises

The third spot goes to Celebrity Cruises , popular among travelers for its tasty onboard food options, diverse itineraries and — of course — low rates. 

You won’t feel like you’re traveling on a budget cruise when you book with Celebrity, which has 15 elegantly designed ships in its fleet that can accommodate a wide range of travelers. 

Though the cruises are easy on your wallet, they aren’t lacking in customer service — Celebrity maintains an impressive 2-to-1 passenger-to-crew ratio. Cruises take you to tons of ports in the Caribbean, Asia, Europe and elsewhere around the globe.

U.S. News & World Report made a point of mentioning Celebrity’s “variety of dining options," as well as its "full docket of onboard activities, including wine workshops and glassblowing classes."

What Travelers Say About Celebrity Cruises

"The ship is magnificent — no other way to put it. This was unlike anything other ship we've sailed on and we've been about 50 cruises over the last 30 years...The Edge stands alone with its' unique design and well-appointed interior. The best in the business architects and Interior Designers have combined to create the most modern, contemporary interiors you'll ever see on sea. The interiors also contain a floating modern art museum with unique pieces throughout the ship." — loge23

Best Bang-for-Your-Buck Celebrity Cruises Trip

Mediterranean cruises aren't only for the wealthy. Celebrity Cruises offers a seven-night trip through Greece, Croatia and Italy that starts at $949.

You'll start the trip in Athens before sailing to Mykonos and making your way up the Ionian and Adriatic seas. The cruise stops along ports like Corfu in Greece, Split and Dubrovnik in Croatia and finishes in Venice. This region of the Mediterranean is famous for its gorgeous Medieval towns, which have kept the legacy of the Venetian Empire preserved in their architecture. 

There is also indescribable natural beauty, with water that ranges from clear cerulean to deep electric blue, white undulating cliffs that tower over pebbly beaches and arid mountains where you'll find goats lounging about.

2. Carnival Cruise Line

Year founded:  1972

Number of destinations:  425

Bottom Line: Carnival Cruise Line

The name says it all: Sailing with Carnival Cruise Line is like hanging out at a big, awesome party at sea. And don’t think the party is just for adults — Carnival is also one of the best cruise lines for families.

That festive atmosphere is paired with an eye on budgets; finding itineraries for less than $300 is normal on the line's 25 ships.

With Carnival, you get dedicated programming for kids of all ages (there’s Camp Ocean, Circle “C” and Club 02 for various age ranges), lots of onboard nightlife and entertainment options, and tons of sporty activities like ropes courses, mini-golf, ping-pong tables, soccer, volleyball and basketball. Cruises range from two to 16 days.

What Travelers Say About Carnival Cruise Line

"We decided to take our family (eight of us) on a multigenerational cruise. The 4 day, Bahamas length was a perfect introduction to cruising for our two daughter-in-laws and two grandchildren (under 10). Everyone had a great time. Carnival does a tremendous job of offering activities for every interest and age group." — PC Snow

Best Bang-for-Your-Buck Carnival Cruise Line Trip

Carnival tends to attract families and young adults who care more about fun than luxury. That’s why you’ll see trips like a five-day cruise through the Mexican Riviera for $234.

The highlight of the trip will be breathtaking Cabo San Lucas. Famous for the dramatic stone formations that rise from the sea, the Baja California town has plenty to offer in terms of gastronomy, parties and gorgeous beaches. You'll also stop at the cultural city of Ensenada, where at the right time of year, you may see migrating gray whales.

1. Virgin Voyages

Year founded:  2014

Headquarters:  Plantation, Florida

Number of destinations:  100+

Bottom Line: Virgin Voyages

Virgin Voyages is the newest cruise line on here, but that hasn't kept it from rising to the top. One of Richard Branson's ventures, the company seeks to disrupt cruising as we know it — and it definitely succeeds. 

All itineraries on the cruise line's four ships are adults-only and seek to provide elevated luxury. You won't find buffets and dining hours. Rather, you'll get an array of dozens of dining options (with menus designed by Michelin-star chefs) that you can visit whenever you are hungry. 

All-inclusive fun guarantees fitness and wellness classes, food and some drinks. Plus, you'll get access to exclusive beach clubs like the one in Bimini, Bahamas. Entertainment ranges from drag brunch to exclusive acrobatic and theater performances. Despite having a limited fleet, you'll be able to set sail from destinations like Miami, Florida; Barcelona, Spain; Dubai, UAE; Singapore; and even Auckland, New Zealand.

What Travelers Say About Virgin Voyages

"I choose this cruise because of the no-children policy and the dining being all-inclusive. The dining was excellent — many options at the restaurants. I liked the way the Galley was operated but would have liked to have more normal options available more hours of the day. Even though most picky eaters could find something most of the time.

"We were not very interested in the daytime entertainment options, but that gave us time to just relax out on the deck of the ship and watch some movies that we had not seen [...] Overall, I would like to book another VV cruise in the future. The service from everyone that I came in contact with was excellent. The positives greatly outweigh the negatives." — swiltn

Best Bang-for-Your-Buck Virgin Voyages Trip

Sail on the Scarlett Lady on a four-night cruise from Miami to Bimini and Key West. This short but sweet itinerary will let you relax in the impossibly blue waters that grace the Florida Keys and the Bahamas. 

You'll get to spend time at Virgin's Bimini beach club, where you can sip cocktails as you sunbathe. Alternatively, you can get active and do fun off-shore excursions like snorkeling. 

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‘A Lot of Chaos’: Bridge Collapse Creates Upheaval at Largest U.S. Port for Car Trade

A bridge collapse closed Baltimore’s port, an important trade hub that ranks first in the nation by the volume of automobiles and light trucks it handles.

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Shipping in the Port of Baltimore

Monthly cargo handled by the Port of Baltimore

By Peter Eavis and Jenny Gross

• March 26, 2024

The Baltimore bridge disaster on Tuesday upended operations at one of the nation’s busiest ports, with disruptions likely to be felt for weeks by companies shipping goods in and out of the country — and possibly by consumers as well.

The upheaval will be especially notable for auto makers and coal producers for whom Baltimore has become one of the most vital shipping destinations in the United States.

As officials began to investigate why a nearly 1,000-foot cargo ship ran into the Francis Scott Key Bridge in the middle of the night, companies that transport goods to suppliers and stores scrambled to get trucks to the other East Coast ports receiving goods diverted from Baltimore. Ships sat idle elsewhere, unsure where and when to dock.

“It’s going to cause a lot of chaos,” said Paul Brashier, vice president for drayage and intermodal at ITS Logistics.

The closure of the Port of Baltimore is the latest hit to global supply chains, which have been strained by monthslong crises at the Panama Canal, which has had to slash traffic because of low water levels; and the Suez Canal, which shipping companies are avoiding because of attacks by the Houthis on vessels in the Red Sea.

The auto industry now faces new supply headaches.

Last year, 570,000 vehicles were imported through Baltimore, according to Sina Golara, an assistant professor of supply chain management at Georgia State University. “That’s a huge amount,” he said, equivalent to nearly a quarter of the current inventory of new cars in the United States.

The Baltimore port handled a record amount of foreign cargo last year, and it was the 17th biggest port in the nation overall in 2021, ranked by total tons, according to Bureau of Transportation Statistics.

Baltimore Ranks in the Top 20 U.S. Ports

Total trade in 2021 in millions of tons

Baltimore ranks first in the United States for the volume of automobiles and light trucks it handles, and for vessels that carry wheeled cargo, including farm and construction machinery, according to a statement by Gov. Wes Moore of Maryland last month.

The incident is another stark reminder of the vulnerability of the supply chains that transport consumer products and commodities around the world.

The extent of the disruption depends on how long it takes to reopen shipping channels into the port of Baltimore. Experts estimate it could take several weeks.

Baltimore is not a leading port for container ships, and other ports can likely absorb traffic that was headed to Baltimore, industry officials said.

Stephen Edwards, the chief executive of the Port of Virginia, said it was expecting a vessel on Tuesday that was previously bound for Baltimore, and that others would soon follow. “Between New York and Virginia, we have sufficient capacity to handle all this cargo,” Mr. Edwards said, referring to container ships.

“Shipping companies are very agile,” said Jean-Paul Rodrigue, a professor in the department of maritime business administration at Texas A&M University-Galveston. “In two to three days, it will be rerouted.”

But other types of cargo could remain snarled.

Alexis Ellender, a global analyst at Kpler, a commodities analytics firm, said he expected the port closure to cause significant disruption of U.S. exports of coal. Last year, about 23 million metric tons of coal exports were shipped from the port of Baltimore, about a quarter of all seaborne U.S. coal shipments. About 12 vessel had been expected to leave the port of Baltimore in the next week or so carrying coal, according to Kpler.

He noted that it would not make a huge dent on the global market, but he added that “the impact is significant for the U.S. in terms of loss of export capacity.”

“You may see coal cargoes coming from the mines being rerouted to other ports instead,” he said, with a port in Norfolk, Va., the most likely.

If auto imports are reduced by Baltimore’s closure, inventories could run low, particularly for models that are in high demand.

“We are initiating discussions with our various transportation providers on contingency plans to ensure an uninterrupted flow of vehicles to our customers and will continue to carefully monitor this situation,” Stellantis, which owns Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Ram, said in a statement.

Other ports have the capacity to import cars, but there may not be enough car transporters at those ports to handle the new traffic.

“You have to make sure the capacity exists all the way in the supply chain — all the way to the dealership,” said Mr. Golara, the Georgia State professor.

A looming battle is insurance payouts, once legal liability is determined. The size of the payout from the insurer is likely to be significant and will depend on factors including the value of the bridge, the scale of loss of life compensation owed to families of people who died, the damage to the vessel and disruption to the port.

The ship’s insurer, Britannia P&I Club, part of a global group of insurers, said in a statement that it was “working closely with the ship manager and relevant authorities to establish the facts and to help ensure that this situation is dealt with quickly and professionally.”

The port has also increasingly catered to large container ships like the Dali, the 948-foot-long cargo vessel carrying goods for the shipping giant Maersk that hit a pillar of the bridge around 1:30 a.m. on Tuesday. The Dali had spent two days in Baltimore’s port before setting off toward the 1.6-mile Francis Scott Key Bridge.

State-owned terminals, managed by the Maryland Port Administration, and privately owned terminals in Baltimore transported a record 52.3 million tons of foreign cargo in 2023, worth $80 billion.

Materials transported in large volumes through the city’s port include coal, coffee and sugar. It was the ninth-busiest port in the nation last year for receiving foreign cargo, in terms of volume and value.

The bridge’s collapse will also disrupt cruises traveling in and out of Baltimore. Norwegian Cruise Line last year began a new fall and winter schedule calling at the Port of Baltimore.

An earlier version of this article misstated the Port of Baltimore’s rank among U.S. ports. It was the nation’s 17th biggest port by total tons in 2021, not the 20th largest.

How we handle corrections

Peter Eavis reports on business, financial markets, the economy and companies across different sectors. More about Peter Eavis

Jenny Gross is a reporter for The Times in London covering breaking news and other topics. More about Jenny Gross

Rescue ongoing as cars and people fall into water after ship strike causes Baltimore bridge to collapse

Six people are still unaccounted for after the cargo ship Dali hit the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Maryland, causing it to collapse into the Patapsco River. The incident has been described by officials as a "developing mass casualty event".

News reporter @laurenvrussell

Wednesday 27 March 2024 00:38, UK

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A major bridge has collapsed in the US city of Baltimore after it was hit by a cargo ship.

Footage shows a large section of the 1.6-mile-long Francis Scott Key Bridge falling into the Patapsco River, following the collision at around 1.30am local time (5.30am UK time).

Click here for the latest update on this story

Vehicles can be seen in the video falling from the bridge.

Six people remain unaccounted for after two people were rescued from the water.

One of those rescued was in a "very serious condition" and is receiving treatment in hospital while the other was not injured.

According to officials, the ship had issued a mayday call to authorities that it had lost power before the collision. They later said it had lost propulsion and had dropped its anchors before the crash.

Baltimore bridge latest: Follow live updates

CCTV and marine tracking data shows the ship , known as the Dali, lose power, adjust its course and start smoking around 60 seconds before it hits the bridge.

All Baltimore port traffic has been suspended until further notice, the Maryland Transport Authority, said.

In an update on Tuesday afternoon, Wes Moore, governor of Baltimore, and Paul Wiedefeld, secretary of the Maryland Transport Authority, said those still missing are believed to be construction workers who were on the bridge fixing potholes.

All 22 crew members on board the ship, including the two pilots, have been accounted for and there were no reports of injuries.

Mr Moore said intel from a preliminary investigation points to an accident. He said there is no evidence of a terrorism-related attack.

"To the victims of this tragedy and their loved ones all of our hearts are broken we feel your loss we are thinking of you," Mr Moore said.

"We pray for the construction workers who were on the bridge and all who have been touched by this tragedy We will get through this."

Mayor of Baltimore, Brandon Scott, declared a local state of emergency which will be in place for the next 30 days as the search for the missing continues.

He said earlier that the collapse "looked like something out of an action movie".

The National Transportation Safety Board is also conducting an investigation into the incident.

More on the bridge collapse: What do we know about bridge and the ship that hit it? How did catastrophe happen?

The 289m-long container ship was headed to Colombo in Sri Lanka at the time of the collision.

It was chartered by Danish shipping company Maersk, which said it was "horrified by what has happened". It said its thoughts were with everyone affected.

The same ship was previously involved in a minor incident when it hit a quay at the Port of Antwerp in Belgium in 2016, according to Vessel Finder and maritime accident site Shipwrecklog.

The vessel was reportedly damaged in the incident, but there were no injuries or pollution issues reported.

Bridge is 'major artery' for locals

The bridge, which is referred to locally as the Key Bridge, was described as a "major artery" for the area by resident Michael Brown.

"This is like an April Fools' joke right now," Mr Brown told Sky News's US partner network NBC.

"It [the bridge] is a major artery in the area not only for traffic but for the port. Hopefully, everyone is okay that is involved."

Mr Brown said he uses the bridge to visit family and its destruction is a "major issue" - but he noted the "emphasis should be on getting whoever is in the water out".

The Interstate 695 - the road which runs across the bridge - was closed and traffic rerouted by the Maryland Transport Authority.

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Impact on trade

The Port of Baltimore, which oceangoing ships reach by going under the bridge, is the 11th largest in the US, meaning its closure will cause knock-on effects for the industry.

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Richard Meade, editor of Lloyd's List - which provides news on the global maritime industry - said the collision will be a "significant and expensive" operation in terms of diverting marine traffic, the implications on trade and the rebuilding of the bridge itself.

According to data from MarineTraffic, around 40 ships remain inside the closed port, with a further 30 having signalled that the port was their destination.

Built in 1977, the Key Bridge is one of the longest continuous truss bridges in the world, according to the National Steel Bridge Alliance.

It was named after the writer of The Star-Spangled Banner, the national anthem of the US, which was penned after a War of 1812 US-UK battle in Baltimore harbour.

David MacKenzie, chair of engineering consultancy, COWIfonden, predicted that rebuilding the bridge will cost 10 times more than the approximate $60m (£47m) spent on building it in the first place.

Tune into a special edition of The World with Yalda Hakim on Sky News tonight at 9pm.

Related Topics

• Baltimore bridge collapse
• United States