top 5 cruise companies in the world

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

By Condé Nast Traveller

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

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

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

The best cruise lines in the world 2023

Mega ships (More than 4,000 passengers)

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

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

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

Medium ships (500 to 2,500 passengers)

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

Small ships (Fewer than 500 passengers)

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

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

Expedition ships

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

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The 15 Largest Cruise Lines In The World

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Largest Cruise Lines Research Summary

The largest cruise line in the world is Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) , with a revenue of $22.86 billion .

As of 2022, the global cruise line industry has a market size of $7.67 billion.

A person can spend between $1,300 – $2,000 on the average 7-day sailing with a mainstream cruise line.

The global cruise line market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 11.2% through 2028.

Cruise lines or cruise companies are classified as passenger shipping corporations, associations, or organizations. The cruise line industry offers individuals leisure travel without needing to hop on a plane.

The cruise ships developed for these organizations are massive, offering everything from a travel experience, great food, company, entertainment, and tours. Many of the individual brands provide unique activities and signature amenities to their clients aboard the vessels.

The four top cruise lines own much of the cruise line market, with their market share projected to grow to 87.6% by 2021. Many of these companies are well-established passenger shipping brands, founded in the latter half of the 20th century when cruise ships became more popular.

There are a variety of different cruise lines, but typically, they can be classified into 3 different types: mainstream, premium, and luxury.

From luxury brands to budget deals, there’s something for everyone on a cruise ship. The 15 largest cruise lines in the world are as follows:

Diving Deeper into the Top 15 Cruise Lines in the World

Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC)

2022 Annual Revenue : $22.86 billion Number of Passengers : 1.4 million

Founded in 1970 in Naples, Italy, MSC is a Swiss-Italian-owned shipping line with a presence in all the major ports of the world. Their cruise line division, MSC Cruises focuses on holiday cruises for their passengers.

MSC Cruises is the world’s largest privately held cruise company, and fourth-largest in the world, boasting a 7.2% share of all cruise line passengers in the market.

In 2019, MSC Cruises rolled out the world’s first personal cruise assistant , called ZOE. This device is found in every room on the ship and is available to ask questions about your stay, reserve excursions, check your bill, and more.

Find Mediterranean Shipping Company Jobs Near Me

Carnival Corporation

2022 Annual Revenue : $12.2 billion Number of Passengers : 5.8 million

Founded in 1972, Carnival Corporation is a British-American cruise operator and currently holds the title of the world’s largest travel leisure company .

Carnival boasts over 100 vessels over ten different cruise line brands. It is a dual-listed company, meaning it operates as two companies, Carnival Corporation and Carnival plc, functioning as a single entity.

The company was initially publicly offered on the New York Stock Exchange in 1987 with the intention to generate capital for future acquisitions. During the 1990s, Carnival acquired a variety of companies including Holland America Line, Windstar Cruises, Seabourn Cruise Line, among others.

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Royal Caribbean Group

2022 Annual Revenue : $8.8 billion Number of Passengers : 3.3 million

Founded in 1997 when Royal Caribbean Cruise Line purchased Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean Group is an American-owned global cruise company based out of Miami, Florida . It holds the title of second-largest cruise line operator in the world.

This organization owns three cruise lines, Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea Cruises. In addition to their cruise lines, Royal Caribbean Group has a 50% stake in TUI Cruises in a joint venture with TUI AG.

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NCLH-Norweigan

2022 Annual Revenue : $4.844 billion Number of Passengers : 1.3 million

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH) is a holding company domiciled in Bermuda and headquartered in Miami, Florida . This organization owns and operates three different cruise lines, Norwegian Cruise Lines, Oceania Cruises, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

In February 2011, NCLH was incorporated as a Bermuda exempt company before debuting on the NASDAQ in 2013. NCLH is the third-largest cruise operator in the world, controlling 9.5% of the cruise market’s share.

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Viking Cruises

2022 Annual Revenue : $2.1 billion Number of Passengers : 143,700

Based in Switzerland and headquartered in Los Angeles, California , Viking Cruises is a cruise line that provides adventures on rivers, ocean, and expeditions. Their three divisions are named Viking River Cruises, Viking Ocean Cruises, and Viking Expeditions.

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Disney Cruise Line (DCL)

2022 Annual Revenue : $1.6 billion Number of Passengers : 312,200

This cruise line is a subsidiary of the Walt Disney Company. In 1996, the Magical Cruise Company Limited launched their first vessel in London, with headquarters in Celebration, Florida .

Find Disney Cruise Line Jobs Near Me

TUI Cruises

2022 Annual Revenue : $1.32 billion Number of Passengers : 330,100

TUI cruises is a German-based cruise company, formed in 2007 between TUI AG and Royal Caribbean Cruises as a joint venture. This specific line is targeted towards German tourists and competes heavily with AIDA Cruises.

Their fleet features cruise ships across three brands, TUI Cruises, Hapag-Lloyd Cruises, and Marella Cruises. This is a premium cruise line and its amenities include food, entertainment, and amenities, all tailored for a German experience.

Virgin Cruises

2022 Annual Revenue : $973.3 million Number of Passengers : 111,100

Headquartered in Florida, Virgin Voyages was the result of Virgin Group and Bain Capital merging together to form the organization in 2015. In June 2020, there was only one single ship in their fleet, with three more scheduled to make their debut for up to 2,700 passengers each.

Genting Hong Kong: Dream Cruises

2021 Annual Revenue : $723 million Number of Passengers : 264,100

This holding company operates cruise and resort businesses, with their largest cruise line being Dream Cruises. Headquartered in Hong Kong, Genting established Dream Cruises in 2015 as an Asian luxury cruise line, debuting their first cruise in November of 2016.

Fred Olsen Cruise Lines

2022 Annual Revenue : $327.3 million Number of Passengers : 110,700

This Norwegian-owned cruise shipping line is based in Suffolk, UK. Currently, its operation includes four cruise ships, but the company was founded in 1848 by three Olsen brothers.

Hurtigruten AS

2021 Annual Revenue : $334 million Number of Passengers : 122,300

This Norwegian-based company is a ferry service and cruise line operating out of Norway. Part of their business is operating a ferry service along the Norweigan coast, while the other part is their cruise line.

Marella Cruises

2021 Annual Revenue : $281 million Number of Passengers : 102,900

This British cruise line entered the cruise line market in 1973 but due to financial difficulties, shut down its operations in 1976. In 1995, they were in a position to open up their line again, after a competitor entered the cruise line industry.

Ponant/Paul Gauguin Cruises

2021 Annual Revenue : $233 million Number of Passengers : 85,400

Founded in 1988, Ponant, or Compagnie du Ponant is a French-owned cruise ship operator. Founded by officers from the French Merchant Navy, this organization now operates eleven ships. This luxury cruise company offers all kinds of cruises, including Antarctica.

Star Cruises

2021 Annual Revenue : $219 million Number of Passengers : 80,200

Headquartered in Hong Kong, Star Cruises operates primarily in the Asia Pacific market including destinations to Japan, Vietnam, and other Asian destinations. This organization is another offshoot of Genting Group in Malaysia.

Celestyal Cruises

2021 Annual Revenue : $175 million Number of Passengers : 64,100

Founded in 2014, Celestyal Cruises is the only cruise company based in Greece. Currently, their fleet consists of four ships with expeditions to Greek, Turkish, and Cuban ports.

Largest Cruise Lines FAQ

How much does the average person spend on a cruise?

The average cruise can cost someone $237 per day. For the average 7-day sailing with a mainstream cruise line, a person can spend between $1,300 and $2,000. This typically includes both fare and onboard spending.

What is the most popular cruise line?

The most popular cruise line is Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC), with an average revenue of $22.86 billion. The second most popular cruise line is Carnival Corporation with a revenue of $12.2 billion, followed by Royal Caribbean Group with $8.8 billion in annual revenue.

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Caitlin Mazur is a freelance writer at Zippia. Caitlin is passionate about helping Zippia’s readers land the jobs of their dreams by offering content that discusses job-seeking advice based on experience and extensive research. Caitlin holds a degree in English from Saint Joseph’s University in Philadelphia, PA.

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Top 5 Cruise Companies In The World

By Siegmund Gallup On 7 September 2023 08:01 AM

Top 5 Cruise Companies in the world are 1 Royal Caribbean International 2 Carnival Cruise Line 3 Norwegian Cruise Line 4 MSC Cruises and 5 Costa Cruises.

20.4 million passengers spend vacation through ocean cruises in 2022. The number of cruise travelers is increasing as companies are spending billions on building new ships.

It is dominated majorly by U.S.-based companies, carrying almost two-thirds of the customers. It is expected to reach 29.7 million passengers in 2023 and create 1.8 million jobs.

The cruise market is a more popular travel choice than other sectors because there is a homely environment and city vibe.

1. Royal Caribbean International (2.65 Million Passengers Annually)

Royal Caribbean International has some of the top 5 biggest cruise ship in the world. It controls 19.2% of passengers from the global market.

The company has been operating since 1998 and has built two private resorts in Cocokay (Bahamas) and Labadee (Haiti).

Royal Caribbean International Ship Features:

The company has some of the best ship for families with onboard activities like Slide Aqua Park, Surf Simulator and Latin Dance Classes.

Royal Caribbean's Oasis-class ships are loaded with Central Park, Neighborhood & Bars. The adults-only retreat is the best thing couples can do in their vessels.

Their ship has the world's largest family suite spread over 1,800 sq. ft. and features attractions like the North Star, Rock Climbing, Surfing, etc.

Royal Caribbean International Fleet:

Royal Caribbean International has 26 ships currently operating under 5 classes. Their newest Icon class ship Icon of the Seas is scheduled for its maiden voyage in 2024.

Oasis Class:

The Oasis-class ships are the biggest ones in the world. It has the capacity to carry 6,296 passengers in double occupancy.

There are 16 decks in these vessels - divided into seven neighborhoods.

• Wonder of the Seas
• Symphony of the Seas
• Harmony of the Seas
• Allure of the Seas
• Oasis of the Seas

Quantum Class:

Quantum class ships have a capacity of 4,905 guests.

• Odyssey of the Seas
• Spectrum of the Seas
• Ovation of the Seas
• Quantum of the Seas
• Anthem of the Seas
• Freedom Class:
• Independence of the Seas
• Liberty of the Seas
• Freedom of the Seas

Radiance Class:

Radiance class ships can carry 2,501 passengers.

• Jewel of the Seas
• Serenade of the Seas
• Brilliance of the Seas
• Radiance of the Seas

Voyager Class:

Voyager class vessels are capable of accommodating 3,602 passengers.

• Mariner of the Seas
• Navigator of the Seas
• Adventure of the Seas
• Explorer of the Seas
• Voyager of the Seas

Vision Class:

The vision class is the smallest one in Royal Caribbean's category, with a capability of a maximum of 2,446 passengers.

• Vision of the Seas
• Enchantment of the Seas
• Rhapsody of the Seas
• Grandeur of the Seas

2. Carnival Cruise Line (2.52 Million Passengers Annually)

Carnival Cruise Line operates 1,500 voyages annually. It is the biggest cruise company in the world, with 120,000 employees globally.

The company has calling on ports from Cozumel to Ketchikan. Carnival Cruise Line hosts more than 24,000 performances a year by comics in the Punchliner Comedy Clubs on its ships.

Carnival ships are the world's largest live comedy provider.

Carnival Cruise Ship Features:

Carnival Cruise ship features the first IMAX theater at sea. It also has America’s first onboard brewery and the bike-ride-in-the-sky aerial attraction SkyRide.

Some ships feature BOLT - the ultimate Sea Coaster and waterworks. Adults can relax in Cloud 9 SPA or Kid free retreat.

Passengers can eat global delicacies in restaurants like Guy's Burger Joint, Big Chicken, Rudi's Seagrill & more.

Also, Carnival cruise drink packages are rated the best among cruise liners, with varieties of options on board.

Carnival Cruise Line Fleet:

Carnival Cruise has 24 ships operating globally. Their popular destinations include the Bahamas, the Caribbean and Alaska.

Do not get confused about Carnival Cruise with Carnival Corporation - as it is the parent organization of this company. The corporation handles cruises like Princess Cruises, AIDA Cruises, Holland America & others.

Excel, Holiday & Destiny Class:

The Capacity of these ships ranges from 1,452-5,402 passengers. It has 10-18 decks, according to their class.

• Carnival Jubilee
• Carnival Celebration
• Carnival Radiance 

Vista & Sunshine Class:

These vessels can carry 3,002-3,934 passengers. There are 12-14 decks on the ship.

• Carnival Panorama
• Carnival Horizon
• Carnival Vista
• Carnival Sunrise
• Carnival Sunshine

Dream Class:

Dream class vessels can accommodate 3,646 passengers and have 14 decks.

• Carnival Breeze
• Carnival Magic
• Carnival Dream

Spirit Class:

Relatively smaller, these carriers only incorporate 2,610 guests and have 12 decks.

• Carnival Luminosa
• Carnival Miracle
• Carnival Legend
• Carnival Pride
• Carnival Spirit

Concordia & Fantasy Class (3,700 Passengers) :

• Carnival Splendor
• Carnival Paradise
• Carnival Elation

Conquest Class (2,980 Passengers):

• Carnival Freedom
• Carnival Liberty
• Carnival Valor
• Carnival Glory
• Carnival Conquest

3. Norwegian Cruise Line (1.66 Million Passengers Annually)

Norwegian Cruise Line controls 8.6% of the total market globally. The top 5 biggest cruise ships in the world 2023 is Norwegian Encore.

The company operates all-year-round trips to the Caribbean, Transatlantic, Europe and more. Norwegian Cruise To Alaska is the best itinerary provided by the company.

Norwegian Cruise Line Ship Features:

Each cruise liners have distinct features so as the NCL has. It has the world's first thrilling race track (speedway) on the ocean.

Their vessels have duty-free shops that offer jewelry, premium branded clothes & liquors. Passengers can play basketball and volleyball on the top deck whereas they can ride 4*4 and even do a roller coaster ride.

Kids mostly love Mini-Golf or Aquapark waterslides in NCL ships.

Norwegian Cruise Line Fleet:

Norwegian Cruise Line has 17 ships existing in their fleet. These are separated into five classes with a capacity of 2,004 - 4,095 passengers.

Their oldest ship is the Norwegian Spirit, whereas the newest is Norwegian Viva.

Prima Class :

• Norwegian Viva
• Norwegian Prima

Breakaway & Breakaway Plus Class :

• Norwegian Bliss
• Norwegian Joy
• Norwegian Escape
• Norwegian Encore
• Norwegian Getaway
• Norwegian Breakaway

Epic & Jewel Class:

• Norwegian Gem
• Norwegian Jade
• Norwegian Pearl
• Norwegian Jewel
• Norwegian Epic

Dawn & Sun Class:

• Norwegian Dawn
• Norwegian Star
• Norwegian Sun
• Norwegian Sky
• Norwegian Spirit
• Pride of America

4. MSC Cruises (1.41 Million Passengers Annually)

MSC Cruises was established in 1989 in Switzerland. MSC corporation is the largest industrial supplier company in the world.

MSC Cruises to Caribbean are ranked best, following Mediterranean, World Cruise & the Persian Gulf.

The company offers vacations for families, adults and party lovers. Their vessels use the cleanest marine fuel LNG - are more tech-friendly and labeled as eco-friendly.

MSC Cruises Ship Features:

MSC ships have some of the largest waterparks on the Ocean and high-tech theater. They also have crew members assigned to babysit toddlers.

Parents can feel free to enjoy onboard activities like Swimming, White-Themed parties and late-night disco. The major attraction of this tour company is the wide selection of massage treatments with beauty treatments.

Their specialty restaurants serve continental, fully American, Mediterranean & seafood. If you are a MSC yacht member, you will get heavy discounts in the casino.

MSC Cruises Fleet:

MSC Cruises operates 21 ships and most of them tour in the Mediterranean. Its first ship was MSC Lirica in 1989; the newest is MSC Virtuosa.

The Swiss company has MSC World Europa as the largest carrier that can accommodate up to 6,742 guests. The smallest ship in their fleet is MSC Armonia which can carry 2,520 guests.

Seaside Evo-class:

• MSC Seacape
• MSC Seashore
• MSC Seaview
• MSC Seaside

World-class:

• MSC World Europa
• Meraviglia Plus class
• MSC Virtuosa
• MSC Grandiosa
• MSC Bellissima
• MSC Meraviglia

Fantasia Class:

• MSC Preziosa
• MSC Splendida
• MSC Fantasia

Musica Class:

• MSC Magnifica
• MSC Orchestra

Lirica Class:

• MSC Sinfonia
• MSC Armonia

5. Costa Cruises (862,400 Passengers Annually)

Costa Cruises is an Italian cruise line owned by Carnival Corporation. It is the oldest cruise line on our list and was established in 1948.

Sadly, Costa does not operate in the United States. It has tours ranging from the Mediterranean to South America.

Athens, Buenos Aires, Barcelona & Rome are the significant ports that this cruise liner operates from.

In 2012, an incident happened to the company known as - Costa Concordia Disaster . 32 people died after the vessel sank in Sola del Giglio in Tuscany.

However, the accident didn't impact much to their loyal passengers as it became 5th most popular cruise company in 2022.

Costa Cruises Ship Features:

The cruise vessels have pools, water slides, hot tubs & kids club mostly for families. Adults like spa treatments, casinos and party nights.

Some ships have extra features such as a 4D cinema. Costa Cruises doesn't have mega-ships, so they are relatively smaller.

Onboard activities are limited and are not much focused on the outdoors. Yet, they have some of the finest indoor activities like dancing lessons, art classes, mini golf, etc.

Costa Cruises Fleet:

Costa Cruises has 12 ships in their fleet till 2023. Costa Fortuna is their oldest ship, whereas Costa Toscana is the newest one.

The Toscana has a capacity of 6,600 passengers; on the flip side, Costa Luminosa can only carry 2,892 guests.

Excellence-Class:

• Costa Toscana
• Costa Smeralda

Vista Class:

• Costa Firenze
• Costa Venezia
• Costa Deliziosa
• Costa Luminosa

Concordia Class:

• Costa Pacifica
• Costa Serena
• Costa Fascinosa
• Costa Favolosa

Dream & Destiny Class:

• Costa Diadema
• Costa Fortuna

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U.S. News Announces the 2023 Best Cruise Lines

Virgin Voyages earns its first No. 1 ranking in the Best for the Money category.

U.S. News 2023 Best Cruise Lines

Washington, D.C. – U.S. News & World Report, publisher of Best Hotels , Best Vacations and Best Travel Rewards Programs , today released its annual rankings of the Best Cruise Lines .

The 2023 rankings highlight 17 cruise lines to help every type of traveler find the cruise that’s right for them. For the first time, Virgin Voyages takes the No. 1 spot in the Best Cruise Lines for the Money ranking, offering the best value among cruise lines. U.S. News considered the overall cruise line quality and average base fare per night, as well as extra benefits such as free gratuities, Wi-Fi access and all-inclusive package options. Carnival Cruise Line, known for its budget-friendly fares and frequent sales, and Celebrity Cruises, which offers a more upscale experience at reasonable rates, rank No. 2 and No. 3, respectively.

For the ninth consecutive year, Disney Cruise Line is the Best Cruise Line for Families . The family-oriented line offers ships with character meet-and-greets, themed dinners, nighttime fireworks, waterslides and more. Royal Caribbean International comes in at No. 2, thanks to its onboard amenities that cater to guests of all ages, while Carnival Cruise Line ranks No. 3, offering family-friendly perks like water parks, basketball courts and ropes courses on its ships.

"After more than two years of sailing restrictions and limited voyage options due to the coronavirus pandemic, cruisers and cruise lines are excited to be on the seas again,'' said Nicola Wood, senior travel editor at U.S. News. "The Best Cruise Lines rankings evaluate a variety of cruise types, making it easy for travelers to find the best options that fit their budgets, cruising styles and desired destinations."

U.S. News ranks cruise lines in six categories: Best Cruise Lines for the Money, Best Cruise Lines for Families, Best Cruise Lines for Couples, Best Cruise Lines in the Caribbean, Best Cruise Lines in the Mediterranean and Best Luxury Cruise Lines. The rankings follow a comprehensive, transparent methodology that factors in expert evaluations of ship quality, traveler ratings, health assessment results and more.

This year's rankings are accompanied by editorial roundups of the top gay cruises for 2023, the top cruise lines for solo travelers and the best cruise insurance ; each piece aims to provide helpful advice and planning information to a wide community of cruisers. U.S. News also offers additional cruise tips and recommendations, such as what to pack on a cruise , the top river cruise lines , fun adults-only cruises and more.

2023 Best Cruise Lines Rankings

See the full rankings here .

Best Cruise Lines for the Money 1. Virgin Voyages 2. Carnival Cruise Line 3. Celebrity 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. Azamara

Best Cruise Lines in the Caribbean 1. Disney Cruise Line 2. Virgin Voyages 3. Celebrity Cruises

Best Cruise Lines in the Mediterranean 1. Viking Ocean Cruises 2. Seabourn Cruise Line 3. Azamara

Best Luxury Cruise Lines 1. Viking Ocean Cruises 2. Seabourn Cruise Line 3. Regent Seven Seas Cruises

For more information on the Best Cruise Lines , explore Facebook , Twitter and Instagram using #BestCruises.

Media Contact: Michelle Day, [email protected] , 202-955-2212

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

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The 8 best luxury cruise lines in the world, ranked

• Luxury Travel Intelligence (LTI) ranked the top luxury cruise lines of 2019.
• To do so, they created an algorithm which scored each luxury cruise line based on a series of "touch points," taking into account the overall performance of the company, rather than individual ships. 
• Seabourn topped LTI's list, scoring a 79.6% out of 100%.
• Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories.

Luxury Travel Intelligence (LTI) , a members-only organization which provides travel reporting for affluent voyagers, has released their list of the best luxury cruise lines of 2019. 

LTI spent the year assessing the luxury cruise industry at large, and created an algorithm which analyzes 124 touch points. The maximum score a cruise line could get was 4511, which was then translated into a percentage out of 100. 

The numerous touch points referred to the overall performance of the company, rather than each individual ship in the line. 

"Our 124 touch points relate to the overall company performance, rather than its individual ships. It's all about the cruise line's ability to deliver: its passion, commitment, ethos and values, as well as the quality of its management and staff," said Michael Crompton, founder of LTI. "Investment and how well it is executed are also major factors, particularly in new ships and the refurbishment of existing ones."

Keep reading to see which luxury cruise lines ranked the highest, according to LTI.

8. Cunard — 67.7%

Cunard is known for its ships the Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria, and Queen Elizabeth, which have carried numerous notable guests, according to the company's website. 

Its destinations include Norway and the Northern Lights, the Baltics, and the Canary Islands.

Source:  Cunard

7. Azamara — 69.4%

Azamara is known for its small, intimate cruises. 

The company's ships travel all around the world, including places such as Cuba and the South Pacific. Azamara's ship are noteworthy for their ability to visit ports where larger cruise ships can't fit, such as those in Venice , Amalfi, and Crete. 

Source:  Azamara

6. Oceania — 71%

Oceania was founded in 2002. It offers four cruise ships which can accommodate 684 guests, and two which can hold up to 1,250 guests. Its itineraries includes trips to Australia, Africa, Europe, the South Pacific, and the Americas.

According to its website, Oceania's mission statement is to do things the "R.I.T.E. way — Respect, Integrity, Trust and Excellence are the foundation of all our actions, every day, in everything we do."

Source:  Oceania

5. Viking Ocean — 73.8%

Founded in 1997, Viking Cruises has grown to become one of the top luxury cruise companies in the world. Its ships travel to destinations in New Zealand, Africa, Scandinavia, and South America.

The company also offers lengthy globe-spanning World Cruises , including one from Auckland, New Zealand, to Vancouver, Canada, which visits 15 countries in 93 days.

Source:  Viking Cruises

4. Silversea — 75.4%

Silversea is particularly known for its excellent fine dining. It has ships ranging in size from 50 to 304 suites, offering voyagers the option of a more intimate experience as they travel the globe. 

The cruise company goes to over 900 different destinations on all seven continents. Some locations include South America, eastern Russia, Galápagos Islands, Greenland, and Antarctica. 

Source:  Silversea

3. Regent Seven Seas — 76.9%

Regent Seven Seas travels all around the world, with ships that go to nearly every continent.

The company also offers round-trip flights with various airlines, unlimited shore excursions, beverages, open bars and lounges, and unlimited WiFi as part of their packages.

Source:  Regent Seven Seas

2. Crystal — 77.8%

Crystal Cruises travels to 818 different locations and offers 2,000 different excursions. 

The cruise line also offers a butler service in each Penthouse suite, with 24-hour room service. There's also a 360-degree Promenade Deck, which, their website notes , is rare to see on cruise ships today.

Source:  Crystal Cruises

1. Seabourn — 79.6%

Seabourn , which tops LTI's inaugural cruise line ranking, travels to locations all around the world, ranging from the Panama Canal to the Amazon and even the Arctic circle.

Known for an elegant yet intimate travel experience, Seabourn is also the official cruise partner of UNESCO World Heritage . 

In 2009, the company launched the Seabourn Odyssey, which only carries 458 guests and, according to the company's website, offers the "highest ratio of space per guest in the cruise industry."

Source: Seabourn

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10 Best Cruises Lines in the World According To Our Readers

• Best Of Travel
• Best Of Travel Awards: 2023
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Note: The Travel Awaits team regularly updates content to provide the latest, and most accurate information to our readers. The updated content in this article may not reflect the views or opinions of the original author.

These cruise lines have been recognized for their exceptional service, luxurious amenities, unforgettable experiences, and unparalleled customer satisfaction. So, without further ado, let’s embark on a journey to discover the best cruises lines, as chosen by our readers.

10 Best Cruises Lines According To Our Readers

Quickly learn about the 10 best cruise lines by checking out this short video, or read on to learn about each of the top cruises in more detail:

1. Royal Caribbean International (Winner)

Royal Caribbean International takes the top spot on our list and it’s no surprise why. With their innovative ships, thrilling onboard activities like rock climbing and surfing, Broadway-style entertainment, and world-class dining options, Royal Caribbean offers an unforgettable experience for all travelers. From Caribbean adventures to Mediterranean voyages , their itineraries cater to diverse interests, ensuring a truly remarkable cruise experience.

Book Now on Expedia

2. Viking Cruises

Last year’s winner gets knocked down to #2. Renowned for its elegant ships and immersive cultural experiences, Viking Cruises takes cruising to a whole new level. Offering destination-focused itineraries and smaller vessels that can navigate through picturesque rivers and stunning coastlines, Viking Cruises provides a more intimate and enriching journey. Impeccable service, enriching onboard lectures, and exquisite regional cuisine make each voyage with Viking a true exploration of culture and history.

Taking a cruise with Viking? Here are 11 Viking Cruise Line Secrets No One Tells You and 5 Important Things To Do To Prepare For Your Viking Cruise .

3. Holland America Line

Coming in third place, Holland America Line combines timeless elegance with modern amenities, appealing to discerning travelers seeking refined experiences. With a fleet of mid-sized ships, Holland America Line provides an intimate atmosphere and personalized service. From Alaska’s breathtaking glaciers to Europe’s captivating ports, their carefully curated itineraries offer a mix of iconic destinations and hidden gems. Culinary delights, engaging enrichment programs, and an array of entertainment options further elevate the onboard experience.

4. Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises has been enchanting passengers for decades with its dedication to exceptional service and a diverse range of itineraries. Known for luxurious ships , Princess Cruises offers a plethora of onboard activities, including world-class entertainment, gourmet dining, and rejuvenating spa experiences. Whether you’re sailing through the stunning fjords of Norway or exploring the tropical paradise of the South Pacific, Princess Cruises ensures a seamless vacation filled with unforgettable moments.

5. Celebrity Cruises

For those seeking a sophisticated and upscale celebrity cruises, Celebrity Cruises is a perfect choice. Combining modern luxury, stylish design, and exceptional service, their ships redefine elegance on the high seas. For foodies, Celebrity Cruises offers a variety of specialty dining options and culinary-centric onboard activities, including cooking classes and wine tastings. From the stunning beaches of the Caribbean to the iconic landmarks of Europe, itineraries cater to both relaxation and exploration.

6. Disney Cruise Line

A favorite among families, Disney Cruise Line ensures a magical and unforgettable vacation for both children and adults alike. Combining Disney’s signature entertainment, character meet-and-greets, and Broadway-style shows with world-class dining and exciting deck parties, Disney Cruise Line creates an immersive experience that transports guests into a fairy-tale world. From the Caribbean to the Mediterranean, their itineraries offer enchanting destinations and exceptional service that keeps visitors coming back for more. So if you want to spend some quality time with your children, this Disney family cruise is definitely for you!

7. Norwegian Cruise Line

Synonymous with freedom and flexibility, Norwegian Cruise Line offers a Freestyle Cruising experience that allows passengers to create their own perfect vacation. With a wide range of dining options, exciting entertainment choices, and a multitude of onboard activities, Norwegian Cruise Line ensures that every guest can tailor their experience to suit their preferences. Whether you’re looking for a thrilling adventure on the water slides or a peaceful retreat at the spa, Norwegian Cruise Line has it all. Their diverse itineraries, which span from the Caribbean to Europe and beyond, provide ample opportunities for exploration and discovery.

8. Carnival Cruise Line

Its lively and fun-filled atmosphere makes Carnival Cruise Line a top choice for those seeking a vibrant and energetic cruise experience. Carnival offers an array of exciting onboard activities, from water parks and thrilling waterslides to high-energy shows and lively nightclubs. Dining options cater to every taste and preference, ensuring a delightful culinary journey. Carnival Cruise Line’s itineraries cover a wide range of destinations, including the Caribbean, Mexico, and the Bahamas, promising sun-soaked adventures and unforgettable memories for all.

If you want to escape the crowd and are more into an intimate atmosphere, you could opt for a small ship cruise .

9. Virgin Voyages

Virgin Voyages’ trophy cabinet is not bursting with accolades in 2023 for nothing. Virgin Voyages ’ approach to sailing is winning hearts left and right. Whether you’re looking to just switch off and relax, or you want to party the night away, its ships do have something for everyone. Well, not for everyone as all Virgin Voyages’ cruises are for adults only. 

In addition to its presence in the Caribbean and the Bahamas, Virgin Voyages is now offering seasonal sailings in the Mediterranean and voyages to Australia and New Zealand. With its upscale atmosphere, Michelin-star chef-curated menus, and wellness activities, Virgin Voyages’ three-ship line stands out.

Book Now on Virgin Voyages

10. MSC Cruises

Being a major player in Europe for a while, MSC Cruises is growing fast in North America with a lineup of brand-new, mega-ships packed with amenities and activities tailored to woo more Americans. 

Known for its Mediterranean-inspired elegance and diverse itineraries, MSC Cruises offers a blend of modern amenities and cultural experiences on its stylish cruise ships.

You’ll feel right at home on MSC Cruises’ new World, Meraviglia, and Seaside Class vessels if you’re a megaresort lover. Their ships can rival the biggest ones from the Royal Caribbean and Norwegian for their array of onboard amusements.

They also offer some of the lowest pricing among the world’s biggest ships.  Book Now on Expedia

Honorable Mentions

• Sea Cloud Cruises : Embodying the epitome of luxury executive sailing, Sea Cloud Cruises is renowned for its iconic tall ship, the Sea Cloud, offering a unique blend of timeless elegance, personalized service, and intimate voyages.
• Grand Circle Cruise Line : Focused on cultural immersion and small-ship exploration, Grand Circle Cruise Line caters to mature travelers, providing in-depth experiences and educational opportunities.
• Alaskan Dream Cruises : Offering intimate expedition cruises through Alaska’s scenic wilderness, Alaskan Dream Cruises provides small-ship adventures with a focus on wildlife, native culture, and personalized service.
• Oceania Cruises : Renowned for its luxurious and mid-sized ships, Oceania Cruises delivers a sophisticated cruising experience with gourmet dining, diverse itineraries, and an emphasis on destination exploration.
• Paul Gauguin Cruises : Specializing in celebrity cruises and South Pacific and French Polynesia voyages, Paul Gauguin Cruises provides a luxurious, all-inclusive experience on a smaller ship, blending comfort with exotic destinations.

Our readers have spoken, and these cruise lines have emerged as the top choices in the industry. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, cultural immersion, or family fun, these cruise lines have proven their excellence in providing exceptional experiences.

With their diverse itineraries, luxurious amenities, attentive service, and commitment to guest satisfaction, these cruise lines offer the perfect getaway for travelers of all ages and interests. Embark on a journey with any of these cruise lines and prepare to create memories that will last a lifetime. Bon voyage!

Are Cruises Always ‘All-Inclusive’?

No, it depends on the cruise line and your specific deal. Although cruises are not always all-inclusive as standard, there are usually packages that you can purchase on top of your ticket which pretty much turn any cruise into an all-inclusive one. 

Is Cruising Expensive?

Cruise fares range from extremely cheap sale prices to premium rates for fancy suites on luxury lines. However, when you factor in all of the costs you’d incur on a land vacation, you’ll discover that you can often save money by booking the right cruise line.

What Should I Wear on a Cruise?

 It all depends on the length and type of your cruise. Casual sportswear is the order of the day both at sea and ashore in hotter climates. For evening dining, keep with what you would wear to a nice restaurant at home and at least one attire for a formal dining night.

What if I Get Seasick on a Cruise?

Today’s ships are extremely stable, which is why it’s unlikely you will get seasick. However, if you end up suffering from seasickness, there is always a medical center onboard stocked with motion sickness tablets, pressure bands, and injections if the feeling persists.

Which Cruise Destinations Are Most Popular?

The Caribbean and the Mediterranean remain hugely popular because of their accessible locations, predictable weather, and range of ports, but many possible destinations have seen a big increase in popularity in recent years. Namely Northern Europe, Alaska, and South America.

Laura Ray has lived in Atlanta, the Bay Area, SoCal, and Austin. After moving from Texas, she and her husband rambled about the Midwest in a camper for a couple of years before finally settling on 35 acres in their home state of Kentucky. When she isn't clacking around on the keyboard (cat in lap), you can find her practicing yoga, gardening, or playing the ukulele. This travel-lover's favorite destinations include Italy, the Greek isles, and Kentucky Lake.

The Best New Cruises in the World: 2024 Hot List

By CNT Editors

It’s inevitable: Every spring when we pull together the Hot List , our annual collection of the world’s best new hotels, restaurants, and cruise ships, a staffer remarks that this latest iteration has got to be the best one ever. After a year’s worth of traveling the globe—to stay the night at a converted farmhouse in the middle of an olive grove outside Marrakech , or sail aboard a beloved cruise line’s inaugural Antarctic voyage—it’s easy to see why we get attached. But this year’s Hot List, our 28th edition, might really be the best one ever. It’s certainly our most diverse, featuring not only a hotel suite that was once Winston Churchill’s office, but also the world’s largest cruise ship and restaurants from Cape Town to Bali. We were surprised and inspired by this year’s honorees, and we know you will be too. These are the Hot List cruise winners for 2024.

Click here to see the entire Hot List for 2024 .

All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you book something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

This story appears in Condé Nast Traveler 's Hot List issue. Never miss out when you subscribe to Condé Nast Traveler .

Celebrity Ascent — Celebrity Cruises Arrow

Celebrity is a premium big-ship cruise brand, focusing on exquisite dining, cutting-edge amenities, Instagram-worthy public spaces chock-full of bespoke art pieces, and avant-garde onboard entertainment. The ship makes passengers feel, in a word, glamorous. Celebrity Ascent ’s sumptuously designed interiors are flooded with natural light and evoke an air of playful sophistication that make a week on board an escape worth cherishing. Passengers may find themselves longing to return for just one more succulent crab claw at Raw on 5, one more martini poured by bottle-spinning bartenders in the Martini Bar, or one more dazzling, acrobatic stage show, in the days following their farewells to this beautiful ship. From $710 per person for a seven-night sailing. —Scott Laird

Emerald Sakara — Emerald Cruises Arrow

Now with two oceangoing vessels joining Emerald’s more established fleet of nine river-dedicated “Star-Ships,” the decade-old cruise line is extending a brand built on unpretentious luxury to more corners of the world. Christened last August, the 100-guest superyacht, Sakara, is a near twin to Azzurra, which in 2022 ushered in a new era for Emerald by taking to the high seas. Sakara, like its sister, delightfully blurs the line between the luxury and ultra-luxury cruise categories, offering attentive service, gourmet cuisine, tasteful decor, and an eclectic slate of activities at a price point friendly to more budgets. The cherry on top with both superyachts is a slew of perks atypical of small-ship sailing, ranging from an impressively comprehensive spa to a marina platform well equipped for more fun in the sun. Despite having so much good stuff, each vessel is remarkably spacious. Getting a sense of being on a private yacht is easy like Sunday morning. Sakara is homeported in the Caribbean and the Mediterranean through at least March 2026; Azzurra, too, in addition to the Middle East, Kenya, and the Seychelles. Emerald’s river operations are based in Europe and Southeast Asia. (Note that a third ship, the Kaia , has just been announced by the cruise line; it debuts in April 2026, and, for all the early birds, it is now open for bookings.) From $3,850. —David Dickstein

Explora I — Explora Journeys Arrow

With a showpiece lobby bar, upscale restaurants, and a sultry infinity pool, Explora Journeys' relaxed luxury-resort-at-sea vibe strikes the perfect balance on Explora I. Launched in August 2023, the all-inclusive ship is disarmingly beautiful. A sleek navy blue exterior cocoons 461 suites, all with deep balconies, walk-in closets, and marble bathrooms. There is free-flowing Champagne, 7,500 square feet of wellness space, and 18 drinking and dining venues. From Emporium Marketplace, with its decadent raw bar, to pan-Asian restaurant Sakura, the dining on Explora I is sensational. Marble & Co. Grill is an intimate steakhouse where aging meats hang in temperature-controlled cabinets. At Anthology, the ship's only supplementary restaurant, guest chefs—such as Claude Le Tohic of San Francisco's O' by Claude Le Tohic—curate sublime tasting menus. There's more: The only Rolex boutique at sea, huge hot tubs, and a shore program that sees some land experiences developed in partnership with revered explorer Mike Horn. From $698 per person per night. —Kerry Spencer

Icon of the Seas — Royal Caribbean International Arrow

Aboard the Icon, you can really get lost. The behemoth is just plain big, with capacity for nearly 8,000 when combining passengers and crew across 20 decks and 250,800 gross tons. Two and a half laps around the ship’s jogging track, a particular highlight onboard, and you’ve run a mile. So one can find themselves in need of a map—forgetting your sunscreen, for example, in your cabin is a bit of a chore depending on how far you’ve made it. But the abundance of things to do is also narcotic, and you feel a bit like a lotus-eater attempting to navigate it all while keeping your head. Amid the relentless entertainment, not to be missed are the top-notch performers present everywhere, from the Olympic-level aquatics show that you can watch from the windows of the specialty seafood restaurant should seating be elusive (it often is) to the cafeteria, where crew members dressed as food items sing songs reminding (commanding, actually, which is fabulous) passengers to wash their hands at sinks near the entrance. If you wish to enjoy the largest waterpark at sea, by the way, do what I did not and pack a swimsuit without zippers. From $2,249. —Charlie Hobbs

Laura Walsh

Alex Erdekian

Charlie Hobbs

MSC Euribia — MSC Cruises Arrow

Looking at a row of cruise ships in port, you'll spot MSC Euribia right away. She's covered bow to stern by an ocean-themed mural by German artist Alex Flämig that bears the hashtag #SaveTheSeas nodding to the MSC's dedication to sustainable cruising: the European cruise line aims to be net-zero by 2050. MSC Euribia brings it one step closer to that goal, as it's the fleet's greenest ship yet, operating on liquified natural gas (LNG) and running advanced water and waste treatment systems onboard. But enough with the technical details—this mega-ship is packed with activities and entertainment, with 10 restaurants, 21 bars, five pools, two performance venues, and a bevy of family-friendly amenities, like an F1 simulator, a waterpark, and a bowling alley. More adult-oriented highlights include the MSC Aurea Spa, with a thermal suite outfitted with thalassotherapy pools, a salt cave, and a snow room, as well as the Helios Wine Maker bar for wine tastings. From $519. —Stefanie Waldek

Norwegian Viva — Norwegian Cruise Line Arrow

The second entry in Norwegian Cruise Line’s new Prima Class, Viva is like an Irish twin of older sister Prima . There’s the same stateroom count at 1,586, done in pristine and pleasing neutrals, as well as familiarly tricked-out amenities like the zippy 1,400-foot go-kart racing track that undulates over the top decks. Importantly, the Ocean Walk, which my colleague Mercedes Bleth adored aboard the Prima, remains. But round two afforded the premier name in large-ship cruising a chance to tweak and perfect, with an influx of seating options both in the ship’s complimentary dining hall as well as on its myriad decks. Across from the signature “zero-waste” Metropolitan Bar, where yummy drinks are whipped up from the ship’s food waste (I particularly enjoy a buttery Croissant Mai-Tai, for which hardening pastries are boiled down into sweetening syrup; the same is done with banana peels) is an interactive piece of digital art 52 feet wide that sees butterflies flit beside passersby. Breezy class all around. From $979. —Charlie Hobbs

Oceania Vista — Oceania Cruises Arrow

Vista, Oceania’s first new ship in more than a decade and the first of its Allura Class, debuted with small but mighty upgrades to its previous ships: better stabilizers for a smoother sailing experience; stronger Wi-Fi; lighting and architecture designed to make the ship’s common spaces look and feel roomier; a resort-like pool deck; and balconies in every cabin. The real star of the show, though, is the food and beverage experience— Vista ’s culinary program delivers on its promise of top-quality venues you’ll want to make the rounds at. New to the lineup are Ember, a steakhouse with decor straight out of Napa Valley, and Aquamar Kitchen, serving up lighter fare that doesn’t skimp on taste. Celebrate a birthday, an anniversary, or a just-because occasion with the Cellar Masters Wine Luncheon, a five-course meal and wine pairing. And don’t miss the elaborate sea day brunch, where towers of lobster, crab, and caviar await. Of course, the ship is just one destination. This year Vista is splitting time between the Mediterranean and the Caribbean; next year it will venture farther into Europe with ports of call like Istanbul, Stockholm, and Klaipeda, Lithuania. Its sister ship, Allura, sets sail in 2025 From $2,699. —Madison Flager

Scenic Eclipse II — Scenic Luxury Cruises and Tours Arrow

The eagerly awaited Scenic Eclipse II is the new and improved version of Scenic's first expedition vessel, Scenic Eclipse . Dubbed "discovery yachts" for their sleek look and top-tier service, the sisters are nearly identical, with most changes so subtle that most guests might not even notice them, such as the slight enlargement of the steam room in the spa. But a big difference can be found on deck 10, where a plunge pool with jets for simulated lap swimming has taken the place of two hot tubs—and there's a new Sky Bar up here. Otherwise, Scenic Eclipse II has the same beloved amenities of its sister, most notably 10 exceptional dining experiences, from a sushi bar to a French restaurant with an attached Champagne bar; a 5,920-square-foot spa; two helicopters; and a submersible. Capable of sailing all over the world, including the polar regions, Scenic Eclipse II has itineraries for every type of traveler. From $7,455. —Stefanie Waldek

Seabourn Pursuit — Seabourn Cruise Line Arrow

Pursuit is a small “yacht-like” expedition ship with a distinct green exterior whose destinations range from Antarctica to warmer climes like the Kimberley in Australia. The decadent cabins, bigger than some standard hotel rooms, feel spacious and relaxing, complete with all the subtle touches that make you feel immediately at home. You can hang your evening attire in the walk-in closet and dry your wet swimwear—or damp Arctic expedition gear—in the built-in warming compartment; have sunrise breakfasts or sunset cocktails mixed at the in-room wet bar on your private balcony; and sleep in a plush, queen-sized bed. But what truly sets this cruise apart is the attentive and personable staff who quickly learn your name and personal preferences, providing VIP treatment throughout the journey. From $10,799. —Taylor Eisenhauer

Seven Seas Grandeur — Regent Seven Seas Cruises Arrow

Ports in the Caribbean, the Greek Isles, and the Riviera might be the draw, but the all-inclusive luxury line Regent Seven Seas Cruises produces ships that have travelers looking forward to those days at sea, as its sixth offering, Grandeur, further proves. All of the 372 suites, which start at a roomy 307 square feet, are decorated in calming neutral blues and beige, and feature furnished balconies; most have L'Occitane bubbles for the marble tub. Quiet comfort can also be had in the Serene Spa & Wellness outdoor lounge area, following a massage on a quartz crystal bed that mimics the feel of warm sand. Cravings for a porterhouse or a vegetarian Salisbury steak can be sated by Prime 7, with other venues serving specialty pan-Asian cuisine, French fare, ample buffets, and Italian offerings. Mainstay Compass Rose has been reimagined as a light, airy space where diners breakfast under playfully elegant pillars that resemble crystal trees. Grandeur 's whimsy extends to its reception area, where guests can check out Journey in Jewels, the Fabergé egg made specifically for the vessel, where it will remain for the rest of its jeweled ovoid days. The maximum number of 744 guests ensures unhurried service and uncrowded environs as you recover from a sunny day of swimming with Caribbean pigs. From $4,699 . —Alexandra Sanidad

Silver Nova — Silversea Cruises Arrow

A voyage on Silversea’s latest ship, Silver Nova, is one of taste and style. With expansive glass features throughout each of the 11 decks, and an ocean-facing saltwater swimming pool, the ship’s unique asymmetrical design leaves room for adults to run and play (with swank, of course). The Nova ’s reimagined culinary experience, SALT (Sea and Land Taste), is the first large-scale, regional restaurant at sea, and acts as an invitation to guests to experience more than an excursion. While initially introduced on Silver Moon, the Nova ’s SALT program includes SALT Lab by day: an intimate cooking class with highly acclaimed chefs and regional cuisine recipes inspired by the next destination. With one nightly seating, SALT Chef's Table offers an exclusive and creatively interactive dining experience. It’s all very intimate—as chefs showcase the art of their crafts firsthand, guests peek into a new culture, and place, before even disembarking. From $3,050. —Jessica Chapel

Viking Aton — Viking River Cruises Arrow

In the style of all Viking ships, the Rottet Studio–designed Aton is intended for comfortable and thought-provoking exploration—just look to the book-filled shelves in the cabins, curated by London’s Heywood Hill library, and the revolving door of on-board lecturers (on my trip, an English curator spoke about the evolving depictions of Egypt in 1900s popular art). It should be no surprise that in a destination as rich and storied as Egypt’s Nile, where the Aton is permanently based, the guides set apart what may read as a quintessential itinerary. On the Pharaohs & Pyramids journey, which takes travelers from the Valley of the Kings, where King Tut lies, to the Great Pyramid of Giza and well beyond over 12 days, esteemed Egyptologists oscillate from translating hieroglyphics on temple walls in real time, to shepherding travelers through modern night markets with endless fervor. On this ship it isn’t just what you see but how much you listen—and the team here, predominantly Egyptian, has much to say. These days, travelers crave perspective-altering experiences more than ever; get on the Aton and you’ll get once-in-a-lifetime access (until, that is, your next Aton sailing). From $5,999. —Megan Spurrell

Resilient Lady — Virgin Voyages Arrow

Stepping onto Resilient Lady feels a bit like heading to summer camp. The massive vessel is like a giant playground for adults, which is why it draws a fun-loving crowd. Theme night parties, a nostalgic arcade room, plenty of board games, and basketball courts are just a few of the seemingly limitless onboard activities. Compared with its sister ships, the newest Virgin Voyages addition includes upgraded onboard entertainment and exciting new ports of call like the Greek Islands, Bali, and Mumbai. Most of the shows on this specific ship are new to the line, such as Persephone, an interactive performance developed in collaboration with famed Brooklyn nightclub House of Yes, and Another Rose, an immersive dinner experience. Dining options are abundant on the ship—20-plus to be exact—and all of them are included with every passenger ticket. Plus, you can’t miss out on a visit to the several different sauna experiences in the Thermal Suite inside the Redemption Spa. From $2,000 . —Rachel Dube

World Voyager — Atlas Ocean Voyages Arrow

There are superbly comfortable spaces and floor-to-ceiling windows aplenty on World Voyager, the latest vessel from Atlas Ocean Voyages. On an Antarctica expedition, from the sauna or the spa’s relaxation room, with its heated loungers perfectly positioned in front of a wall of glass, you might watch turquoise icebergs float by. Back in your cozy stateroom, Champagne and strawberries await, as do the views from a Juliet or walkout balcony. The look throughout the 100 cabins and public spaces is Scandinavian modern, thanks to blond woods, marble floors, plush carpets in geometric patterns, and curvaceous furniture draped in velvety fabrics. In the elegant dining room, the focus is on international cuisine with a farm-to-table slant—think mushroom risotto and smoked duck with chargrilled vegetables. Meanwhile, the multipage cocktail menu beckons guests to a pair of spacious lounges. Blending yacht-style elegance and boutique-resort intimacy, this is a ship where you can make new friends easily but also retreat to a favorite spot to enjoy high tea in peaceful solitude while awaiting details from the crew on the adventures that lie ahead. From $1849. —Celeste Moure

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15 largest cruise companies in the world.

In this article, we are going to list the 15 Largest Cruise Companies in the World . You can skip our detailed analysis of the cruise industry and its outlook in 2021 and beyond and go to 5 Largest Cruise Companies in the World .

The cruise industry was one of the biggest casualties of the coronavirus crisis, suffering heavy losses and layoffs as millions of customers cancelled their bookings are asked for refunds. But there are clear signs of recovery in the industry and analysts think now could be the right time to invest in cruise companies. Cruise review website Cruise Critic saw a 40% increase in interest from customers in January. Shares of top 3 cruise companies are up about 50% over the last 6 months.

Not a Smooth Sail

In 2018, the industry posted a 10-year growth of 74.9% globally in sourced cruise passengers. Then came the pandemic which brought the industry to a complete halt. The suspension of cruise activities has caused over 245,000 job losses and about $32 billion in monetary losses, according to the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA).

In 2019, the U.S. cruise industry generated an economic impact of $55.5 billion, up 5.3% from 2018, according to CLIA's annual report. The 13.8 million U.S. passenger embarkations in 2019, up nearly 8% from 2018, created $25.1 billion in direct spending and supported 436,600 jobs.

The U.S. government is preparing to pass a stimulus package of about $2 trillion to aid the economy and businesses. Unfortunately, the largest cruise ship companies in the world are not headquartered in the US. The CLIA confirmed that the Royal Caribbean (NYSE: RCL ), Norwegian Cruise Line (NYSE: NCLH ), and Carnival Corp (NYSE: CCL ) are incorporated in other countries, and they won't be eligible for the $500 billion aid for the large conglomerate in the massive bill from the Senate. But thanks to the Fed, Carnival Corp reported having raised $6 billion in April 2020, and the company sold $4 billion in senior secured notes due in 2023 at an 11.5% interest rate and another $1.75 billion in convertible notes due in 2023 at a 5.75% interest rate. The company also raised $625 million by selling an additional common stock at a low price of $8 per share.

Should You Buy Cruise Stocks in 2021?

According to Statista , the number of global cruise passengers has increased to 29.7 million in 2019 from 17.8 million in 2009 with an annual growth rate of 5.4%. Besides, the cruise industry has generated total revenue of $150 billion globally. In a CLIA-Qualtrics Survey, two out of three cruisers are willing to cruise within the next year. And specifically, 58% of international vacationers who have never cruised are likely to try it in the next few years. In 2020, Expedia posted a 30% surge in search numbers for cruises in October and November. With the vaccines being rolled out since the beginning of this year, booking activities for cruises continue to rise.

In October 2020, shares of the largest cruise companies rose after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention declared the new " Conditional Sailing Order " after the 8 months of no-sail order. This new order will help cruise lines recover.

Rawpixel/Shutterstock.com

Ready to Set Sail in 2021

Although operations are still restricted in the U.S., the rest of the world is sailing back to the seas. TUI Group's Hapag-Lloyd Cruises set sail to Hamburg in July 2020. The new normal in boarding a cruise ship requires a negative COVID-19 test. Onboard, the company installed a testing lab and invested in cold fog machines for disinfecting public areas and cabins. No COVID cases have been reported after 30 completed trips carrying more than 4,000 passengers.

Sailing in a pandemic is far from what it used to be before. Everyone is required to wear a mask and observe social distancing. Buffet stations are now manned by servers which is safer. And most of all, cruise ships are embarking with 50% of their passenger capacity.

To protect their customers, cruise lines have invested in innovative technologies that will contain the spread of COVID-19. Royal Caribbean provides a snap-on electronic wrist band per passenger that gives digital access to their pre-registers for boarding, promotes cashless purchases, and gives them digital access to their cabin. Cruise companies have also improved their air filtration systems for safety.

To give you accurate insights into the largest cruise companies in the world, we ranked the global cruise companies based on their market cap and total assets.

Let's take a look at the largest cruise companies in the world starting from number 15.

15. OneSpaWorld (NASDAQ: OSW )

Based in The Bahamas, OneSpaWorld ranks among the 15 larges cruise companies in the world because of its massive exposure to the cruise industry. It is a provider of wellness and health services onboard cruise ships. In the third quarter, OSW reported total revenue of $117.1 million , a 72% decrease from $422.8 million with total liquidity of $62.2 million. The services offered by the company include body, salon, and skin care services, and products, personal training, and detoxification programs. OSW is operating in over 16 luxury cruise lines including Carnival, Costa Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Silversea, and Princess Cruises.

In May 2020, OSW received a $75 million rescue deal from global spa service provider Steiner Leisure.

dean bertoncelj/Shutterstock.com

14. Viking Line ABP (HEL: VIK1V)

Ranking 14th on our list of the 15 largest cruise companies in the world is Finland-based Viking Line with a market cap of $203 million. Aside from recreational travel services, the company also provides cargo carrier services and sails through the Baltic Sea between Estonia, Sweden, and Finland. Based on the company's 2020 year-end report, Viking Line sales amounted to $227 million and total assets are worth $512 million.

Shares of VIK1V fell 16.13% over the past twelve months.

Sergey_Bogomyako/Shutterstock.com

13. Virgin Group

Ranking 13th on our list of the 15 largest cruise companies is London-based Virgin Voyages, a subsidiary of the Virgin Group with $347.5 million worth of assets and $83.7 million net profit. Virgin Voyages is a new cruise line offering trips to Havana, Bimini, the Bahamas, Puerta Plata, and Costa Maya. Virgin Group was founded by serial entrepreneur Richard Branson in 1970 and today operates as a venture capitalist conglomerate. As an investment firm, Virgin Group operates in different sectors including travel and leisure, TV and radio, mobile, health, and finance.

Virgin Voyages Scarlet Lady is set to sail in the second quarter of 2021. The extravagant ship will have ultra-fast Wi-Fi onboard provided by telecom and satellite company SES Network.

12. Genting Hong Kong (OTC: GTHKF)

Genting Hong Kong ranks 12th on our list of the largest cruise companies in the world with a market cap of $557 million. Genting owns world-famous fleets of cruise ships including Star Cruises, Dream Cruises, and the luxurious Crystal Cruises. In 2019, the company reported total revenue of $1.5 billion , a decrease of 2.4% from $1.6 billion in 2018. Genting's cruise revenue amounted to $1.3 billion making it the main driver for the growth of the company.

Shares of GTHKF fell 12% over the past twelve months.

11. Hurtigruten AS

Norwegian transportation company Hurtigruten is a trusted provider of cruises to the most remote areas of Antarctica, Norway, Western Europe, the Baltic Sea, and Greenland. The company also operates as a public transportation service providing buses, ferries, and high-speed vessels not only in Europe but also in the US and South America. The company recently posted a loss of $195 million for 2020, citing pandemic-related restrictions.

In June 2020, Hurtigruten was the first cruise company to restart cruise operations with four ships navigating through the Norwegian coastal tours between Bergen and Kirkenes.

10. Saga Plc

UK-based Saga Plc ranks 10th on our list of the 15 largest cruise companies in the world with a market cap of $737 million. Saga plc provides insurance and travel services for customers aged 50 and above. As of 2020, the company has net assets worth $816.9 million . Saga reported forward booking of the cruise in 2021/2022 amounting to $40 million. In 2020, its underlying profit before tax came in at £109 million.

Shares of SAGA fell 9.30% over the past twelve months.

Spotmatik Ltd/Shutterstock.com

9. Lindblad Expeditions Holdings (NASDAQ: LIND )

Ranking 9th on our list of the 15 largest cruise companies in the world is NY-based Lindblad Expeditions Holdings with a market cap of $1.04 billion. Lindblad Expeditions owns over 50 specialized cruise ships that sail to the most remote areas on Earth such as Antarctica, Galapagos, Alaska, and Egypt.

In the third quarter of 2020, LIND announced tour revenues of over $1 million , down from $100 million in the same quarter in 2019.

Vlad G/Shutterstock.com

8. NYK Line (OTC: NPNYY)

Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha ranks 8th on our list of the largest cruise companies in the world, with a market cap of $4.84 billion. NYK Line operates as a cruise and shipping company with global operations. The company owns a fleet of 615 vessels making it the largest marine transporter in Japan. NYK Cruises was one of the Asian cruise companies that were allowed to operate in the middle of the pandemic in November 2020. NYK Cruises and terminal and harbor transport services account for approximately 20% of the company.

Shares of NPNYY increased by 102.32% over the past twelve months.

7. TUI AG (OTC: TUIFF)

Germany-based Touristik Union International, or TUI Group, ranks 7th on our list of the largest cruise companies in the world, with a market cap of $6.6 billion. The company provides global tourism services from cruises to airlines, hotels, and resorts. TUI Group owns TUI Cruises, Marella Cruises, and Hapag-Lloyd Cruises. In 2020, TUI generated total revenue of $9.5 billion . In July 2020, the company's TUIS Mein Schiff 2 sailed back to the sea carrying 1,200 passengers to have a Norwegian cruise.

Shares of TUIFF increased by 28.8% over the past twelve months.

6. Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. (NYSE: NCLH )

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. is one of the major cruise lines in the world, with a market cap of $9.3 billion. The company owns and operates the Norwegian Cruise Lines, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, and Oceania Cruises. The company owns a total of 28 ships sailing through more than 490 destinations across the globe.

In 2020, the company's revenue came in at $1.2 billion , an 80.2% decrease from $6.5 billion in 2019. Yet the company remains positive as they secured $1.2 billion of advance ticket sales and approximately $0.85 billion future cruise credits by the end of 2020.

The company plans to sell a total of $500 million of its 5.875% Senior Notes due in 2026 in a private offering. Norwegian Cruise Lines continues its cruise suspension through the end of May 2021.

Shares of NCLH decreased by 13.11% over the past twelve months.

Click to continue reading and see the 5 Largest Cruise Companies in the World .

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Disclosure: None. 15 Largest Cruise Companies in the World is originally published at Insider Monkey.

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• World's Best

The Top 10 River Cruise Lines in 2021

Paul Brady is the news director at Travel + Leisure and the brand's expert on cruise travel. He has been covering the travel industry for more than 15 years for outlets including Condé Nast Traveler , Skift , and The Huffington Post .

Note: If you’re looking for our most recent recommendations, check out the 2023 list of our favorite river cruise lines.

This year's World's Best Awards survey was open for voting January 11 through May 10, 2021, as destinations around the world were lifting COVID-19 restrictions. Survey rules have always allowed readers to reflect on their travel experiences over a three-year period. We hope that this year's honorees will inspire your own travels as you get back out into the world.

The past year put the entire travel industry through the wringer, perhaps no segment more so than cruising. Though the pandemic forced ships around the world to remain in port , readers nevertheless looked back fondly on their times at sea while ranking the world's top 10 river cruise lines for Travel + Leisure's World's Best Awards.

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

Though many European countries have been off-limits for travelers, memories of recent trips to one of the world's iconic river cruising destinations helped inform voters' choices this year. Tauck moved up two places in T+L's 2021 rankings to grab the No. 2 spot with an eye-popping score above 96. The iconic river ships of No. 3 Viking Cruises also fared well this year, with readers giving the stalwart high marks, moving it up three places. Viking has river ships across Europe, of course, but also sails the Mekong and the Nile. In 2022, the company plans to launch trips on the Mississippi.

Other high-ranking lines won praise for their journeys outside the traditional rivers of Europe. No. 4 Aqua Expeditions, for example, sails to such destinations as Indonesia, Peru, and Vietnam. (The company's newest ship, the Aqua Nera, debuted this summer on the Amazon.) And No. 5 American Queen Steamboat Company, which didn't make T+L's top 10 last year, keeps its focus strictly domestic, with trips on the Columbia, the Mississippi, the Ohio, and other U.S. waterways.

But this year's highest-ranked line goes just about everywhere. No. 1 Uniworld Boutique River Cruises earned one of the highest scores of any cruise line — river or ocean — this year, impressing readers with flawless service, imaginative itineraries, top-flight design, and wonderful food. "We were treated like royalty," gushed one traveler who sailed on the Maria Theresa. "Our experience was an 11 out of 10." Can't do much better than that.

Find the rest of the list — and what other qualities set Uniworld apart — below.

1. Uniworld Boutique River Cruises

This global operator of 19 ships sails rivers across Europe, plus waterways in Cambodia, Egypt, India, Peru, and Vietnam. Among the newest in the fleet are the Bon Voyage, based in France, and the La Venezia, recently relaunched in Italy. And while readers certainly raved about the line's ships, they saved their highest praise for the ask-and-you-shall-receive mentality of the Uniworld crews. "My experience exceeded all expectations," said one traveler, who toured Europe on the Antoinette . "Staff consistently went above and beyond to ensure a pampered vacation. When one of our party asked if there was a guitar on board so we could sing in the parlor one evening, a staffer said he would arrange it — and proceeded to purchase a guitar at our stop the next day!" Other respondents made note of Uniworld's overall attention to detail, with excursions, meals, entertainment, and logistics expertly handled in just the right way. "It was among our most favorite vacations ever — everything was perfect," said one voter, who traveled on the Beatrice . "The best experience I have ever had on any ship," said another. A third reader summed it up like this: "This was my first experience with Uniworld, and I cried when I had to leave. Everything wowed me."

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Score: 96.79 More information: uniworld.com

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Score: 96.30 More information: tauck.com

3. Viking Cruises

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Score: 93.65 More information: vikingcruises.com

4. Aqua Expeditions

Score: 92.69 More information: aquaexpeditions.com

5. American Queen Steamboat Company

Score: 92.68 More information: americanqueensteamboatcompany.com

Score: 92.07 More information: belmond.com

7. Avalon Waterways

Score: 91.29 More information: avalonwaterways.com

8. Scenic Cruises

Score: 91.08 More information: scenicusa.com

9. AmaWaterways

Score: 90.64 More information: amawaterways.com

10. Crystal Cruises

Score: 88.23 More information: crystalcruises.com

See all of our readers' favorite hotels, cities, airlines, cruise lines, and more in the World's Best Awards for 2021 .

• CruiseMapper
• Ships and Lines

Largest Cruise Shipping Companies

See here the complete list of the world's largest cruise companies (passenger shipping corporations), associations and organizations. Corporate cruise line ownership - who are the owners of all cruise brands. As this is a very long survey, for your convenience next links jump down directly to largest cruise corporations (shipowners) , list of ALL cruise lines , RIVER travel brands and NEW brands .

According to official cruise industry statistics, the world's 4 largest cruise companies slowly conquered the market. Their combined market share was projected to grow over the forecast period 2015-2021 from 83,2% to 87,6%. World's largest (by combined fleet's passenger capacity/stats 2020-Q4) are Carnival Corporation (39%), RCG-Royal Caribbean Group (24$), MSC (11,5%), NCLH-Norwegian (8,3%). All other companies had combined market share (2020-Q4) 17,2%.

For the ones that are no more, see CruiseMapper's list of DEFUNCT companies .

What is a cruise line?

Cruise company's business is leisure travel, cruise tours, and entertainment. Most brands have unique activities and signature amenities offered exclusively onboard their vessels. Many activities and land tours are additionally (optionally) offered in ports of call along the ship's itinerary route.

Cruise ship companies typically hire two separate types of staff: crew (commanded by the Captain) and service staff (hotel and dining operations) supervised by Hotel Manager.

The cruise line is a passenger shipping company operating privately-owned, parent-owned or chartered vessels. Cruise brands differ from ferry companies, which operate Ro-Ro ships and offer combined passenger and cargo shipping services on a limited number of routes and in just a few regions/destinations.

Most companies are well-established passenger shipping brands. Most were founded in the second half of the 20th century, and specifically for cruising. Some were founded over 100 years ago as cargo shipping lines. Failures and consolidations in the 1990s resulted in many subsidiary companies existing as "brands" within large corporations. Brands exist partly because of their repeat customer loyalty, also to offer different levels of quality and services. Corporative shipowners frequently sell, renovate or simply rename their vessels to keep up with the travel industry's trends.

All brands offer complimentary onboard live entertainment, leisure facilities, daily scheduled activities, enrichment program, youth programs, buffet dining.

Cruise lines classification

According to the quality and price of their product, brands are classified into 4 distinct types.

CHEAPEST brands (aka mass-market/mainstream) offer good product at affordable prices. Fares range from $50-300 (Inside-Suite) pp per day. Itineraries range from 3 to 10 days. Typical passengers are a mix of veterans and first-timers, many kids and couples in their 50s. Ships are large-sized (over 3000 passengers), providing large resort-like experience. Examples include Carnival, Royal Caribbean, NCL, MSC, Costa, Holland America, AIDA, TUI.

BUDGET brands fares range from $200-500 pp per day. Itineraries range from 3 to 17 days. Typical passengers are predominantly first-timers, singles, families, kids. Ships are smaller and older, usually serving regional markets. Examples include NCL Norwegian, Disney, Celebrity, Princess, Star Cruises, Marella, P&O, Pullmantur, Phoenix Reisen, Fred Olsen, Bahamas Paradise.

LUXURY brands are Viking OCEAN, Resorts World, Cunard, Oceania, Hapag-Lloyd, Ponant, Saga UK. Services are premium (including 24-hour highly personalized concierge), prices are affordable, and the boats are new (refurbished more often), but the product is not all-inclusive.

ALL-INCLUSIVE brands are Seabourn, Silversea, RSSC-Regent, Azamara, Crystal, Virgin Voyages, NYV-Norwegian Yacht Voyages, Four Seasons Yachts, Ritz-Carlton Yachts, SeaDream Yachts. Onboard product is the industry's best and includes 24-hour personal butler service, all beverages, specialty dining, Internet, shore excursions, gratuities, flights, transfers, sophisticated enrichment programs (world-class performers, professional lectures and classes, art auctions), fewer mega-ship seaports, more yachting destinations. Vessels are mid-sized (mega-yachts) with a capacity between 200-1000 passengers, industry's highest ratios (passenger-to-space and passenger-to-staff), usually without kids facilities (babysitting arranged with off-duty staff). Passengers are sophisticated, highly social, wealthy, adventurous. Itineraries are diverse and global. Most mega-yachts provide alternative private ship-charter deals to large corporations and the world's richest families. The smallest boats are yachts with capacity from 100 up to 300 passengers. Some accommodate up to 700-800 guests. Most luxury ships operate in Europe (Mediterranean), Asia, Oceania, Alaska, Galapagos Islands, Around South America, Around the World .

EXPEDITION TRAVEL brands operate nature-themed voyages to unusual destinations (Arctic, Antarctica, Galapagos, Indian Ocean islands, Alaska). Prices depend on itinerary (fares from $150-500+ pp per day. Itineraries range from 1-3 weeks. Passengers are older and more experienced. Ships are usually with ice-strengthened hull (also icebreakers), marina platform (watersports) and Zodiacs (large boats for landings). Examples include Windstar, Lindblad-National Geographic, Quark Expeditions, Uncruise Adventures, Star Clippers, Metropolitan Touring.

RIVER TRAVEL brands operate modern boats on inland waterways (lakes, rivers, and canals), mainly in Europe and USA-Canada, also in Russia, China, Egypt, Peruvian Amazon. Fares range from $250-450 pp per day. Itineraries are 1-2 weeks. Passengers are regular and loyal. Most boats accommodate between 90-200 passengers (over 300 on Russian ships). Shipboard amenities and services are of premium quality. The market's largest are Viking, Uniworld, CroisiEurope, AmaWaterways, Avalon Waterways, Scenic, Scylla, Luftner, American Cruise Lines, Russia ( Vodohod , Mosturflot , Infoflot , Doninturflot-Orthodox ).

Cruise Lines List

Small cruise lines list.

The following small ship cruise companies (and cruise ferry lines) are well-known brand names. Some of them operate locally, others operate expedition ships. Most companies are in the "small ship luxury cruise" business.

RIVER Cruise Lines List

River cruise lines provide as product a very "especially modern" style of travel cruising. It's the perfect combination of the world's best river cruise itineraries (in Europe, USA, Asia, Africa), tranquility and style, vessels with innovative design and top technology, highest standards of service, all-inclusive cruise deals prices - and much more.

NEW Cruise Lines (2021-2024)

World's largest cruise companies.

The biggest cruise companies - they all are very big, some are bigger big, one is the biggest. They all are very very very much rich!

(No 1) Carnival Corporation & plc (1972-founded American-Panamanian company) is the world's largest cruise shipowner, with 1/2 share of the market. The company is dual-listed (as Carnival Corp and Carnival plc), Southampton-headquartered, has a combined fleet of 100+ ships, 160,000+ berths, 10,000+ employees, ~75,000 crew, USD 38,9 billion in assets, USD 16,4B revenue (data 2016). Carnival owns the following brands (in brackets - the year of acquisition/establishment) - AIDA (2000), CCL-Carnival (1972), Costa (2000), Cunard (1998), HAL-Holland America (1989), Ibero (2007), P&O UK and P&O Australia (2003), Princess (2003), Seabourn (1992). Carnival's major stock-holder is the company founder's Arison family (47%).

(No 2) Royal Caribbean Group (RCG) - 1997-founded as an American-Norwegian cruise company. RCG is the 2nd largest cruise shipowner in the world, controls over 1/4 of the cruise market, with 58,000 employees, nearly USD 20 billion in assets, and almost USD 7B in revenue (data 2011). The combined fleet includes the brands Royal Caribbean International , Celebrity , Pullmantur (purchased 2006), CDF Croisieres de France (est 2008 / merged with Pullmantur in 2017). RCG also fully owns Air Pullmantur, and 50% of TUI Cruises (2009-founded joint venture with TUI AG).

(No 3) Mediterranean Shipping Company SA (MSC, founded in 1970, owned by the Aponte family) - the 2nd largest shipping line in the world (by container ship capacity), with more than 555 vessels of almost 2,2 million TEU (including 11 under construction - some of the world's largest container ships ever built, with capacity 15,000 TEU each). The MSC shipping line serves 270 ports worldwide, with over 29,000 employees.

(No 4) Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd (NCLH) ownership is 43,4% Genting Group, 32,5% Apollo Management and 10,8% TPG Capital (Texas Pacific Group, large private equity global investments firm). NCL controls ~8% of the global cruising market.

Genting Group (founded in 1964, headquartered in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia). Genting is a leading Asian multinational company (developing, operating and marketing in Tourism, 1,800 ha Resorts World Genting, Gaming (casinos), Real Estates, 54,000 ha Plantations, Power Generation, Oil-Gas, e-commerce, over 58,000 employees, USD 5,1 billion revenue, USD 13,5B in assets). One of the most famous tourist features of Malaysia is the "Genting Highlands" resort, with a world-class casino and a theme park. Owns about 20% of Star Cruises (the world's 3rd largest operator).

Apollo Global Management LLC (founded in 1990 as Apollo Advisors). Apollo is one of the world's largest private investment companies (over USD 37 billion in assets, USD 16B in companies, headquartered in NYC). The firm specializes in private equity funds (buyout transactions, and purchasing distressed securities), and capital markets (with hedge funds and real estate funds, corporate restructuring, and consolidations).

The Walt Disney Company - founded in 1923, and nowadays the largest and richest media conglomerate in the world. Headquartered in Burbank CA, and owning 6 major divisions, 10 subsidiaries (almost 150,000 employees, USD 71 billion in assets, USD 38B revenue - data 2011). Amongst Disney's best-known (and priced) assets are the ABC media, the ESPN cable network, and the PIXAR Animation Studios, along with all the Disney Parks and Resorts worldwide.

P&O Princess Cruises PLC was a restructured company between 2000 and 2003. This company was the successor of "Peninsular & Oriental Steam Navigation Company" (P&O/1837-founded). P&O owned 6 line brands and 26 ships. The company merged into Carnival Corp in 2003.

NYK Line ("Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha", translated as "Japan Mail Shipping Line"), main headquarters Chiyoda (Tokyo) and regional in London, NYC, Singapore, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Sydney, Sao Paulo. Established in 1870, a core Mitsubishi company and currently the world's 10th largest cargo-container and shipping company. In the recent past, the majority of Japan's merchant fleet sailed under its flag (1900-1950). Entered the passenger cruise ship business with one of the most expensive cruise lines in the world - its newly-formed in 1989 subsidiary Crystal Cruise Lines. The NYK Line also operates the MS Asuka II (the ex MS Crystal Harmony), catering to the Japanese market exclusively. Financial data: revenue about USD 25 billion, about 55,000 employees worldwide, with 240 offices in 26 countries.

Largest cruise industry organizations

CLIA (Cruise Line International Association) - since December 17, 2012, this is a Global Trade Association (umbrella company) for 9 of the largest cruise industry associations:

• CLIA itself (world's largest, representing brands, operators, agents, port authorities, partners; engaged in training-marketing-research)
• ECC (European Cruise Council)
• ACA (Asia Cruise Association)
• PSA (Passenger Shipping Association)
• CLIA France (France, Association Francaise des Compagnies de Croisieres)
• ABREMAR (Brazil)
• NWCCA (Northwest and Canada Cruise Association)
• ACA (Alaska Cruise Association)
• ICCA (International Cruise Council Australasia)

ICOMIA (International Council of Marine Industry Associations) - ICOMIA is a global (marine industry) trade association with the majority of its members being national marine industries and manufacturers. The biggest (full members) are:

• IMCI (International Marine Certification Institute)
• CCYIA (China Cruise and Yacht Industry Association)
• FIN (French Nautical Industries Federation)
• DBSV (German Boat and Shipbuilders Association)
• JBIA (Japan Boating Industry Association)
• HISWA (Dutch Boating Industry Association)
• BMF (British Marine Federation)
• NMMA (National Marine)

Now the list of all the rest large organizations:

• ACE (Association of Cruise Experts / UK)
• LCA (Leading Cruise Agents / UK)
• AECO (Association of Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators)
• CSA (Caribbean Shipping Association)
• ECSA (European Community Shipowners Associations)
• FCCA (Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association), members list includes the brands AIDA, Azamara, Carnival, Celebrity, Costa, Cunard, Disney, Holland America, MSC, NCL Norwegian, P&O, Princess, Royal Caribbean, Seabourn, TUI.
• IG River Cruise (Europe)
• JOPA (Japan Oceangoing Passenger Ship Association)

This article is integrated with CruiseMapper's list of the world's largest shipbuilding companies .

The 7 Best Luxury Cruises

First-class service, fine wines and gourmet cuisine, picture-perfect itineraries, and high crew-to-passenger ratios are just some of the hallmarks of the best luxury cruise ships. But cruise ships -- even the world's most luxurious -- have their own unique personalities and some will be more suited to your vacation style than others.

For instance, SeaDream's intimate yachts can stealthily visit ports that large ships can't manage. Regent Seven Seas packs all-inclusive gourmet dining and suites into their luxury offerings. While Scenic Eclipse makes adventurous expedition sailing a posh white-gloved affair. To help you navigate the waters of luxury cruises (and to help you find the best pampering cruise ship), check out the seven best luxury cruises sailing right now.

On This Page

• Seven Seas Splendor, Regent Seven Seas Cruises
• Oceania Riviera, Oceania Cruises
• Viking Venus, Viking Ocean Cruises
• Seabourn Ovation, Seabourn Cruises
• Silver Moon, Silversea Cruises
• SeaDream II, SeaDream Yacht Club
• Scenic Eclipse, Scenic Luxury Cruises and Tours

1. Seven Seas Splendor, Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Passenger-to-Crew Ratio: 750 passengers to 542 crew (1.38:1)

What Makes Regent Splendor One of the Best Cruises? Regent Seven Seas Cruises once again aimed for “Luxury Perfected” with the 2020 launch of Seven Seas Splendor . Splendor features the exquisite cuisine and generous all-inclusive rates for which Regent is known, with some of the most luxe rooms at sea.

All 366 cabins are suites aboard this small luxury ship. And if you love balconies, the suites on Regent Seven Seas Splendor are some of the largest afloat, ranging from 83 to 1,292 square feet. (Some apartment-dwellers in Manhattan don't have that kind of space). Likewise, public spaces aboard Splendor are stunning. Granite and Italian marble are found all over, and there are almost 500 chandeliers made of Czech crystal and glass throughout the ship. There are also 2,500 pieces of art on display, including works by masters such as Pablo Picasso and Joan Miro.

For foodies, all you need to know is that each restaurant on Seven Seas Splendor excels. The two main restaurants are Compass Rose and La Veranda/Sette Mari. La Veranda is the buffet option for breakfast and lunch, and the space transforms to Sette Mari in the evening, offering a hybrid experience that includes a buffet as well as an a la carte menu. There are also three complimentary specialty restaurants: the pan-Asian Pacific Rim; Chartreuse, which has a French flair; and the line's signature steakhouse, Prime 7.

About Regent Seven Seas Cruise Line's Luxury Offerings: When it comes to pampering, you can't do better than the completely all-inclusive nature of a cruise aboard Regent Seven Seas. The fare includes business-class intercontinental flights for all U.S. passengers, as well as premium alcohol, wine, spirits, beer, soda, water and sports drinks plus all dining (with at least one meal at every specialty restaurant on board), unlimited Wi-Fi, unlimited shore excursions (though there is also a list of upgraded tours with a la carte pricing) and gratuities. Throw in free use of the ship's thermal suite -- even if you don't have a spa treatment booked -- and the list of inclusions is one of the longest at sea.

Who Sails Regent Splendor: The passenger mix skews to English speakers: mainly Americans, Canadians and Australians, with some travelers from the U.K., as well. Nearly all are 60 or older and are seasoned cruisers or repeat Regent guests. You won't see many children or families, with the exception of summer and holiday sailings when the little ones are traveling with their parents and/or grandparents.

Other Ships in the Regent Seven Seas Fleet: Regent has four additional ships in its fleet. Seven Seas Explorer is nearly identical to Splendor. Two of them -- Seven Seas Mariner and Seven Seas Voyager -- host 700 travelers per cruise, while Seven Seas Navigator is the smallest ship in the fleet, with a capacity of 490.

Read the full Regent Seven Seas Splendor review here.

2. Oceania Riviera, Oceania Cruises

Passenger-to-Crew Ratio: 1,238 passengers to 776 crew (1.6:1)

What Makes Oceania Riviera One of the Best Luxury Cruises? Oceania Riviera dining is legendary across all of the cruise ship's dining venues, including complimentary specialty restaurants. Dining venues include the Grand Dining Room and Jacques, a French bistro with menus created by famed chef Jacques Pepin; Polo Grill, a refined steakhouse serving USDA prime and dry-aged beef; the Italian restaurant Toscana, where tables are set with custom-designed Versace china; and Red Ginger, which serves Asian classics.

If you're willing to pay, up to 24 passengers a night can enjoy a seven-course meal at La Reserve by Wine Spectator. As you can imagine, the wine pairings are of special note there and three menus are available.

Foodies might also wish to pay a visit to the well-equipped Culinary Center onboard Oceania Riviera (as well as on twin sister ship Oceania Marina). It's a self-contained cooking school at sea that offers hands-on experience at 12 individual cooking stations (two people per station). Classes focusing on a variety of topics do incur an extra fee, but get rave reviews from past participants.

When it comes to Oceania Riviera cabins, this is the ship for anyone wishing to book a suite: There are 147 of them in various configurations, in addition to 478 non-suite staterooms. If you do want a suite, book as soon as you can because they sell out fast. Oceania sweetens the deal with priority check-in for suite guests, priority luggage delivery, 24-hour butler service, priority online specialty restaurant reservations, unlimited access to the Canyon Ranch SpaClub's private Spa Terrace and much more. The perks make a suite worth considering. And if you're really looking to splash out, the 2,000-square-foot Owner's Suite is a knockout, featuring Ralph Lauren furnishings throughout.

About Oceania Cruises' Luxury Offerings: Oceania Cruises ' pricing structure is more a la carte than all-inclusive, but its offerings in terms of accommodations, itineraries and dining venues means easily put the line in league with others on this list. Oceania's OLife promotions on select itineraries level the cruise-fare field with offerings such as free airfare from certain gateways and a choice of perks such as free shore excursions, a house beverage package and/or shipboard credit. Wi-Fi is also free for all passengers.

Who Sails on Oceania Riviera: Expect to see a 65+ crowd on Riviera with the exception of its shorter voyages, which draw younger vacationing professionals. Most cruisers are American or Canadian but you will encounter some Australians, Brits and travelers from other European countries. You won't find many families sailing except on holiday or summertime itineraries, or in Alaska where the line offers the Alaska Explorer Youth Program.

Other Ships in Oceania's Fleet: Oceania Marina is nearly identical to Riviera, so check it out if the Riviera is fully booked. The line also sails four 684-passenger ships: Nautica , Insignia and Regatta , which were part of Oceania's original ship lineup, and Sirena that was added to the fleet in April 2016 after an extensive refurbishing. All four smaller vessels are R-class ships that formerly sailed for Renaissance Cruises. These well-designed ships are favorites among cruisers, who find it easy to get around onboard and love the layout of the cabins.

Read the full Oceania Riviera review here.

3. Viking Venus, Viking Ocean Cruises

Passenger-to-Crew Ratio: 930 passengers to 550 crew (1.7:1)

What Makes Viking Venus One of the Best Luxury Cruises? The first thing you notice about Viking Venus is its open, airy feel and the care put into the design of every space onboard. All accommodations include a veranda, and even the tightest quarters -- the Deluxe Veranda and the Veranda categories -- are comfortably sized at 270 square feet. Larger accommodations include the Penthouse Veranda at 338 square feet, the 405-square-foot Penthouse Junior Suite and the Explorer Suite, which spans 757 to 1,163 square feet, including balcony. Thoughtful touches in all cabins include bedside USB ports, quiet-closing drawers, heated bathroom floors and anti-fog mirrors.

All restaurants are included in the cruise fare on Viking Venus, except The Kitchen Table. The Restaurant (the main dining room) and The World Cafe (buffet) serve international menus in light-filled venues, with options to open floor-to-ceiling windows on balmy days. Manfredi's is arguably the best restaurant onboard andoffers Italian fare, while you can sample Norwegian dishes inspired by the mother of Viking chairman Torstein Hagen at Mamsen's. But it's the Kitchen Table -- which books up early -- that wins raves.

According to Cruise Critic Editor-in-Chief, "The Kitchen Table is a must for foodies who love visiting vast local markets, seeing ingredients up close, then watching them transform into a gourmet meal. You can enjoy the meal prep as a voyeur, sipping wine as Viking's chefs whip up creative courses while explaining why the ingredients and dishes are significant to the culture of the region you've visited."

About Viking Ocean's Luxury Offerings: Adults-only Viking Ocean Cruises is more of an upper-premium line, but it rivals luxury lines when it comes to the inclusiveness of its fares, spa options and style. Scandinavian design sensibility and emphasis on destination immersion have made Viking Ocean as popular as the line's riverboats.

The line's ships are sleek and modern, and sail to some of the world's most interesting ports of call. A focus on the destination at hand means that Viking Ocean Cruises stay longer in port -- often overnight -- so passengers can get a true taste of the destination. As a tip of the hat to its river cruise roots, the line offers a choice of included tours in every port (though there are for-fee options available as well). Itineraries range from eight-night voyages to cruises of more than a month. On the flip side, onboard daytime and evening entertainment options are limited.

Fares include transfers, complimentary wine and beer at lunch and dinner, no-fee specialty restaurants and free unlimited internet.

Who Sails the Ship: Viking originally targeted well-traveled passengers ages 50 and older who were value-oriented. While you'll still find plenty of older but adventurous travelers on Viking Star, it also draws a younger crowd that appreciates itineraries that emphasize the destination over sea days, and the amazing Nordic-style spa that's complete with a refreshing snow grotto. The line does not cater to families, and does not welcome children younger than 18.

Other Ships in Viking Ocean's Fleet: All of Viking's ships are nearly identical, including Viking Mars , Viking Star and more. A fleet of new ships will also arrive soon: Viking Neptune and Viking Saturn.

Read the full Viking Venus review here.

4. Seabourn Ovation, Seabourn Cruises

Passenger-to-Crew Ratio:  600 passengers to 450 crew (1.3:1)

What Makes Seabourn Ovation one of the Best Luxury Cruises?   Seabourn 's newest ship,  Seabourn Ovation , is the second in the line's Encore Class, the next generation of Seabourn's popular Odyssey-class ships. Ovation is practically identical to Seabourn Encore.

Beautiful interiors and intuitive spaces that are designed for the way people want to gather and relax are hallmarks of Seabourn Ovation's indoor and outdoor public areas, which were created by renowned designer Adam D. Tihany. All 300 suites have balconies that are perfect for enjoying breakfast, drinks or dinner alfresco.

The ship is notable for its many dining venues, including a restaurant by Thomas Keller (the famed chef known for his restaurants Per Se in New York and The French Laundry in Napa Valley). You'll also find a sushi venue, new and upscale alfresco dinner option on the pool deck, plus the main restaurant and buffet/casual dining venue. As with all Seabourn ships, Champagne and caviar are available, gratis, at all times and in any spot onboard.

Seabourn Ovation also features The Retreat , a private, VIP-access-only outdoor lounge area on Deck 12 that's unique to the Encore Class. A daisy-shaped canopy stretches over The Retreat so you'll find both sun and shade. Fifteen cabanas are available, and come outfitted with flat-screen TVs, Evian misters, a beverage-filled mini-fridge and fresh fruit. The cabanas are conveniently arranged around the hot tub, which is a focal point of The Retreat, but expect a hefty daily fee to use them.

About Seabourn's Luxury Offerings:  Travelers looking for top-notch but friendly service are partial to Seabourn and consider it one of the best luxury cruise lines out there. The line's all-inclusive fares include interesting itineraries as well as entertainment and all meals. There isn't even a surcharge for the line's Thomas Keller restaurant (available fleetwide). The fare also includes open bars offering fine wines, beer and spirits throughout the ship (although there is an additional list of select vintage and spirits that do cost extra). Tipping is neither required nor expected onboard, making the experience stress-free.

Who Sails on Seabourn Ovation: Seabourn cruisers know a good thing when they see it, and many remain loyal to the line. Ovation's high-end passengers are generally well traveled, social and between the ages of 40 and 70.

Other Ships in the Seabourn Fleet:   Seabourn Encore is Ovation's nearly identical twin. The line also sails a trio of 450-passenger Odyssey-class ships: Seabourn Odyssey , Seabourn Sojourn and Seabourn Quest . They offer the same intuitive service and most of the same onboard experiences, minus The Retreat and sushi.

Read the full Seabourn Ovation review here.

5. Silver Moon, Silversea Cruises

Passenger-to-Crew Ratio: 596 passengers to 411 crew (1.5:1)

What Makes Silver Moon One of the Best Luxury Cruises? One word: Food. Underlining this idea is the SALT program aboard Silver Moon , an immersive cultural and dining experience that endeavors to broaden guests’ understanding of the food they are eating and its relation to the destinations throughout each voyage. Additionally, Silver Moon forgoes a traditional main dining room and instead has eight smaller restaurants at which passengers can dine any night. Six are free, but require reservations, while Kaiseki and La Dame cost extra.

Complimentary choices on Silver Moon include Asian-fusion Indochine, Italian La Terrazza, seafood grill Atlantide, tapas restaurant and bar Silver Note, pizza place Spaccanapoli, and The Grill, a grill-your-own meat venue. During the day, La Terrazza is the ship's buffet, offering breakfast and lunch. Likewise, Atlantide is the closest to a main dining room you'll find, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner for those who prefer a sit-down option.

Keeping in line with the line's luxurious reputation, Silver Moon has lovely, understated public spaces, including an expansive pool deck featuring comfortable lounge chairs, a large pool and dedicated pool stewards ready to cater to any needs that arise. There's also a cool Arts Cafe, where coffee- and tea-drinkers can feed their habit while noshing healthy bites amid funky art.

Suites are also a highlight, with more than enough space plus personal butlers and large bathrooms complete with bathtubs and separate showers. All cabins also have a neat hidden TV feature -- flat-screen televisions are embedded into huge mirrors, and when they're turned off, you can't even see them.

About Silversea's Luxury Offerings: Silversea shines across its fleet when it comes to personalized service. Staff is trained by The Leading Hotels of the World, a well-regarded hospitality consortium. The crew is friendly and intuitive; they seemingly know what you want when the very thought has just crossed your mind. This is especially evident in the lounges, where the bartenders quickly memorize your drink preferences and always have your favorites (along with a few savory treats) waiting for you.

Butler service for every cabin is Silversea's claim to fame . Butlers are educated by the Guild of Professional English Butlers and will assist you when it comes to unpacking and packing your luggage, serving breakfast on your balcony, making arrangements for shore tours and dining times, and even serving dinner -- course by course -- in your suite.

Silversea also loves to throw a good soiree and does so on every warm-weather cruise in the form of its deck party. Chefs spend the day preparing for this pull-out-all-the-stops event at which they serve roast suckling pig, carved meats, pasta, salads and an array of mouth-watering desserts.

Who Sails on Silver Moon: Silver Moon has fans from many walks of life, but most passengers are older couples from North America, Great Britain and Europe. It's rare to see children onboard, though they're more likely to be seen during school breaks or summer vacations, when families (often with multiple generations) sail together.

Other Ships in the Silversea Fleet: Silversea offers a traditional luxury experience with its fleet of ships that includes Silver Muse , Silver Wind , Silver Shadow , Silver Spirit and Silver Whisper . It also has an expedition fleet, which includes Silver Cloud Expedition , Silver Explorer , Silver Galapagos (which sails the Galapagos Islands year-round) and Silver Discoverer.

Read the full Silver Moon review here.

6. SeaDream II, SeaDream Yacht Club

Passenger-to-Crew Ratio: 112 to 95 (1.2:1)

What Makes Seadream II One of the Best Luxury Cruises? SeaDream Yacht Club 's SeaDream II offers an intimate and luxurious yachting experience. With just 56 cabins, travelers and crew get to know each other quickly, and it really does feel like you're traveling on a friend's yacht instead of a cruise ship.

Two things make this ship exceptional: Balinese sun beds and the aft retractable marina. The marina offers glass-bottom kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, banana boats, snorkel equipment and Laser sailboats. You can even go water skiing or ride a Jet Ski.

Being that this is a cozy yacht, you won't find massive suites. The cabins are roomy, but none is fitted with a balcony. Instead, in-room amenities -- think Belgian linens, down duvets, wool blankets and Bvlgari bath products -- are the focus. Passengers always get a kick out of the monogrammed pajamas that are laid out in their stateroom upon arrival.

SeaDream Yacht Club's Luxury Offerings: SeaDream offers several signature experiences across its two-ship fleet. One is spending an evening sleeping under the stars on the Balinese beds on Deck 6. These are booked on a first-come, first-served basis and sell out quickly. On the evening of the sleepout, crewmembers rope off the area and set up the beds with linens, duvets and pillows. Sleeping on the deck of a yacht is an experience that isn't easily replicated -- unless you happen to own a yacht!

If you like spending the evening outdoors but prefer to sleep inside, check out the line's Starlit Movies series. On balmy evenings, the crew pops copious amounts of popcorn for cruisers who show up on the Pool Deck to enjoy a film as part of this program.

And let's not forget that the cruise line offers its signature Champagne and Caviar Splash on Caribbean voyages. This decadent spread includes a Champagne toast and buffet loaded with caviar and other snacks, all to be enjoyed during a shoreside beach barbecue.

Who Sails on SeaDream II: Those traveling with SeaDream tend to skew a bit younger than the average cruiser, but the demographic really includes anyone who enjoys the camaraderie of a small ship and is looking for some of the finest cuisine at sea. The relaxed dress code (resort casual is the norm every night) also draws a younger, hipper crowd.

Other Ships in the SeaDream Fleet: SeaDream I is identical to SeaDream II.

Read the full SeaDream II review here.

7. Scenic Eclipse, Scenic Luxury Cruises and Tours

Passenger-to-Crew Ratio: 228 to 176 (1.3:1)

What Makes Scenic Eclipse One of the Best Luxury Cruises? The first ocean cruising vessel for Australian company Scenic , Scenic Eclipse offers the experience of a luxury yacht as opposed to an oversized cruise ship. It’s a ship with super luxury features like two helicopters and a submarine on board, plus eight restaurants and modern suites.

Spaces inside are contemporary, and the ship is easily one of the best expedition options for adventurous luxury travelers. Why? Private butlers make this suite-only yacht feel like a luxury boutique hotel, single-malt scotches, dedicated specialists for shore excursions and wildlife expereinces, and all-inclusive dining and drinking all make Scenic Eclipse a great expedition ship with plenty of pampering details. Every suite has its own balcony and separate lounge area, and you can expect fine-dining quality meals at spots like the Chef's Table.

Scenic Luxury Cruises and Tours Luxury Offerings: Australian travel company Scenic has a reputation for providing luxurious experiences to travelers on its land tours and river cruise itineraries, which span the globe from Russia, Central Europe, Portugal, and Southeast Asia.

Who Sails on Scenic Eclipse: Explorer-minded passengers enjoy sailing on Scenic, particularly retirees who appreciate luxury travel and food. A large percentage of passengers will be Australian, as well as North Americans and U.K. travelers. Not recommended for young families.

Other Ships in the Scenic Fleet: Scenic is the first ocean vessel in the line, soon to be joined by nearly identical Scenic Eclipse II. Scenic also has a fleet of river ships.

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The 30 best cruise lines for every kind of traveller

With so many lines out there we’ve done all the hard work for you.

W hether you’re a first-time cruiser or have a couple of sailings under your belt, choosing the best cruise line for you can prove to be an impossible task. There are dozens of companies out there, offering hundreds of options ranging from enormous vessels packed with activities to small ships with a focus on the destination. But while it seems that every line is trying to appeal to everyone, some are better suited than others. To make it easy, we’ve picked out the best cruise line for every kind of traveller, including the stand-out ships to sail on.

Main photo: Scenic Sapphire in Avignon, France

Best large-ship cruise lines

1. Royal Caribbean

Best for active families Royal Caribbean operates some of the most innovative ships in the world, along with the biggest — Icon of the Seas (debuting in 2024). There are plenty of “wow” moments, from skydiving simulators and zip-lining to dazzling ice shows, high diving displays and a bar that glides up and down between decks. The youth programme, Adventure Ocean, is one of the finest at sea, whether you’re travelling with babies or adrenaline-hungry teens — and the Ultimate Family Suite has a slide between two floors.

• 12 of the best Royal Caribbean ships

Best for glamour and tradition Cunard’s three Queens offer the epitome of elegance at sea. The flagship Queen Anne launches in 2024; the first time since 1999 that Cunard has had a four-vessel fleet. This is the line to choose if you love dressing up, ballroom dancing and the sense of sailing on a ship that turns heads in every port. A transatlantic crossing between Southampton and New York on Queen Mary 2 is on many a traveller’s bucket list, harking back to the golden age of transatlantic liners.

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3. P&O Cruises

Best for Brits P&O’s fleet sails from Southampton all summer, with fly-cruises in winter in sun-soaked destinations including the Caribbean and the Canaries. Two ships, Arcadia and Aurora, are aimed at adults only, while others are ideal for families, thanks to the first-rate children’s clubs. The line’s Food Heroes, including chefs Marco Pierre White and José Pizarro, and wine expert Olly Smith, often join special themed cruises. Iona was the biggest ship ever built for the UK market and comes complete with dazzling entertainment venues, a cookery school and its own gin distillery. In 2022 it was joined by sister ship Arvia.

4. Marella Cruises

Best for spa Marella’s friendly, informal cruises are affordable and all-inclusive, with a wide range of departures to join its ships from regional airports in the UK . In summer 2023, the family-orientated Marella Voyager became the latest member of the fleet. Spa fans should go for Marella Explorer or Marella Explorer 2, both of which feature a superb spa by Champneys, the only seagoing venture for the wellness brand. Otherwise, expect high energy entertainment aimed at British tastes and a friendly vibe.

5. Celebrity Cruises

Best for contemporary style Celebrity offers an upmarket, elegant experience on 14 ultra-modern ships featuring high-tech entertainment and a wide choice of dining venues. Celebrity Edge and its younger sisters, Celebrity Apex and Celebrity Beyond, are perfect for a younger audience looking for buzzing nightlife, while their five predecessors come with the lovely feature of a 2,000 sq m lawn on the top deck, the perfect spot for lounging in the sun with a glass of Pimm’s. Upgrade to The Retreat for perks including Kelly Hoppen-designed accommodation and access to Luminae, an exclusive restaurant for suite guests.

6. MSC Cruises

Best for the full big-ship experience Italian-owned MSC operates big, glitzy ships with Swarovski crystal staircases aimed at an international audience looking for lively entertainment and high-end shopping. The line grew even more in autumn 2022 with the launch of the 6,774-passenger World Europa, MSC’s longest, tallest and biggest ship. The MSC Yacht Club is a ship-within-a-ship, with access to an exclusive lounge, sun deck area and restaurant, and is well worth the upgrade. Look out for offers in the school holidays; MSC does some great deals for families.

7. Princess Cruises

Best for multigenerational groups In early 2022, Princess Cruises took delivery of its newest ship, Discovery Princess — the fifth and final Royal-class ship — to enhance an already young and modern fleet. Princess is known for its glitzy entertainment, glamorous (but not overly formal) dress-up nights and its impressive dining choices, not least Sabatini’s, an Italian restaurant on each ship. Princess pioneered the concept of Movies Under the Stars, with a giant screen on deck, and the impressive technology of Ocean Medallion, a wearable device that does everything from opening your cabin door and having food and drink delivered wherever you are, to locating your family around the ship.

8. Fred. Olsen Cruises

Best for imaginative itineraries Fred. Olsen has a loyal following of mature British cruise fans who come back regularly for the friendly service, imaginative itineraries and traditional feel of the line’s four ships, all of which have a sleek, classic profile. The Olsen Art Studio was recently unveiled on its newest ships, Bolette and Borealis, offering destination-themed classes such as painting the northern lights in Norway and embroidery sessions on the island of Madeira, which is known for its needlework.

9. Norwegian Cruise Line

Best for families Round-the-clock razzle dazzle is the vibe on Norwegian’s big, brightly coloured ships, which feature everything from original Broadway shows to waterslides, an outdoor nightclub and the longest go-kart track at sea. For thrill-seekers, Norwegian Prima has the world’s first free-fall dry slide at sea. Each ship offers multiple restaurants, many of them included in the fare, and the family entertainment is unrivalled. For a peaceful retreat from the action, upgrade to the suites in The Haven.

• Biggest cruise ships in the world

10. Holland America Line

Best for a traditional cruising experience Holland America Line’s sleek, stylish ships embrace maritime traditions and appeal to a more mature traveller who enjoys fine food and imaginative itineraries. Its latest ship, Rotterdam, is the seventh to carry the historic name — first used in 1872 — for the line. The newest ships have a superb live music scene, thanks to partnerships with BB King’s Blues Club, Rolling Stone and Lincoln Center Stage. Holland America sails all over the world but is especially strong in Alaska, where it offers a range of land tours and train journeys in conjunction with its cruises.

• 12 of the best Alaska cruises

Best small-ship cruise lines

11. Silversea

Best for luxury Silversea’s 13 ultra-luxurious, all-inclusive ships attract affluent, active travellers who enjoy the line’s Italian flair, fine dining and the attentive service on board. Four of the fleet are expedition ships, roaming the world, offering high-end adventure cruising in the company of expert guides; while Silver Origin, a recent addition, elevates Galapagos cruising to a new level. The line’s newest ships, including Silver Dawn, offer the SALT (Sea and Land Taste) programme, which features in-depth culinary tours and experiences.

12. Star Clippers

Best for sheer romance Star Clippers’ three traditional square-riggers offer swashbuckling adventure on some of the world’s most beautiful sailing ships, all gleaming wood, polished brass and teak decking. Help the crew hoist the sails, climb up to the crow’s nest for dizzying views or simply lounge in the bowsprit nets, watching for dolphins. The ships sail in the Mediterranean, Asia, the Caribbean and — for the first time in almost ten years — Central America, with emphasis on small, out-of-the-way ports and peaceful anchorages.

13. Oceania Cruises

Best for fine dining Oceania prides itself on its food and has won multiple awards for its speciality dining options, which range from elegant steakhouses on each ship to gourmet Asian, classic French and modern Italian, with all restaurants included in the price. The line’s six medium-sized ships sail all over the world, offering destination-intensive cruises that maximise time in port. The 1,200-passenger Oceania Vista joined the fleet in 2023. Designed with input from officers and crew members, the all-balcony staterooms feature a new cabin category for solo travellers.

• Best small-ship cruises in the world

14. Azamara

Best for cultural excursions Azamara’s four mid-sized ships explore the world with a focus on cultural excursions and creative itineraries that allow maximum time in port with overnights and late departures. The line is known for its included AzAmazing Evenings ashore, which include private concerts or cultural shows in exceptional settings, not least the magnificent archaeological site of Ephesus in Turkey. Every cruise also features a glamorous White Nights party under the stars.

15. Seabourn

Best for adventure in comfort Seabourn’s five ultra-luxurious ships sail all over the world, including to Antarctica, offering the highest standards of cuisine and cultural experiences. All-suites accommodation, all-inclusive dining and drinks attract a well-travelled, discerning crowd, many of them repeaters, which creates a happy vibe akin to that of a private club on board. A purpose-built expedition ship, the 264-guest Seabourn Venture, set sail in 2022. It’s equipped with two submarines that seat six people for underwater viewing adventures.

16. Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Best for service One of the finest of the luxury cruise lines, Regent justifiably prides itself on the beauty of its ships, which resemble opulent boutique hotels, with all-suites accommodation and everything imaginable included, right down to shore excursions, airport transfers and wi-fi, as well as fine dining in a choice of restaurants and all drinks. The ships sail worldwide; look out for Seven Seas Explorer’s Alaska season in summer, a chance to experience the region’s pristine wilderness in ultimate comfort.

17. Hurtigruten

Best for a taste of Norwegian culture Hurtigruten offers two styles of cruising. The traditional fleet operates a year-round service up and down Norway’s fjord-indented west coast, with excellent chances of seeing the northern lights in winter. A high tech expedition fleet, meanwhile, explores everywhere from the high Arctic to Antarctica on the world’s first hybrid-powered ships, with a team of marine and wildlife experts.

global.hurtigruten.com

18. Noble Caledonia

Best for included tours Adventurous small-ship itineraries with an emphasis on culture — including closer-to-home journeys around the British Isles — make Noble Caledonia a favourite with well-heeled Brits looking for an educationally enriching cruise with all tours included. You won’t find casinos or Broadway entertainment, just a social, friendly vibe. These are excellent cruises for solo travellers thanks to shared tables at mealtimes and the fact that you’re on tour together most days.

noble-caledonia.co.uk

19. SeaDream Yacht Club

Best for hedonists SeaDream’s two 112-passenger ships offer a cruise experience as close to a private yacht as you’ll find, with intuitive service, superb dining and an open bar. The twin yachts have both had a multi-million pound refurbishment with top-to-toe cabin upgrades and new public areas including indulgent hot tubs for couples. Life revolves around time on deck as the ships follow the sun to the Caribbean and Mediterranean, with champagne-fuelled pool and beach parties.

20. Variety Cruises

Best for Grecophiles Greek-owned Variety Cruises offers culturally orientated itineraries worldwide, from the Greek islands to the Seychelles and French Polynesia, on small, classic ships with an informal atmosphere where guests mingle with the captain and officers. In Greece , many of the cruises are half board, so you have plenty of chances to enjoy restaurants ashore, although the meals on board are outstanding.

varietycruises.com

• Best cruises in Greece

21. Saga Cruises

Best for older travellers Over-50s specialist Saga operates two almost identical ships, the 987-passenger Spirit of Discovery and Spirit of Adventure. A private balcony for every cabin, beautiful interior design and entertainment geared to British tastes combine to create a high-end experience. Saga is ideal for solo travellers, too, with many events created to make singles feel welcome and — unusually — spacious suites for those who want to have plenty of space to themselves.

22. Celestyal Cruises

Best for value Celestyal aims to create true immersion in Greek culture on its sailings out of Athens, with Greek food and entertainment and thoughtfully planned excursions for what’s usually a very diverse international audience. As well as short cruises and three-night weekend breaks around the Greek islands, the line offers longer trips taking in ports in Turkey and Israel. Expect port-intensive itineraries that can include two stops a day, so you can pack as many sights as possible into your trip.

celestyal.com

Best river-cruise companies

23. Riviera Travel

Best for a leisurely pace Riviera Travel is the UK’s largest provider of European river cruises and its smart, friendly ships attract a mainly British audience looking for affordability, comfort and included excursions. There’s a wide variety of itineraries, some sailing at a pleasingly slow pace, going deeper into the destinations. Flights or train travel and transfers are included in the cruise price, making this line excellent value.

24. Uniworld

Best for palatial surroundings Uniworld’s ships are extravagantly beautiful and ornate, designed to reflect the history and culture of the regions in which they sail. Recent additions to the fleet include SS Sphinx on the Nile, the Mekong Jewel in Asia and SS Venezia on the Venetian lagoon. The boutique line also offers sailings on the Amazon in Peru. Some of Uniworld’s ships have four-poster beds and indoor pools that cleverly convert to a cosy, intimate nightclub in the evenings.

• Unforgettable luxury Nile river cruises

25. Avalon Waterways

Best for health-conscious cruise fans Avalon’s 19 river ships, which sail in Europe and Asia, are luxurious and contemporary, offering a culturally immersive, active cruise experience. On the European ships, the Panorama Suites, with floor-to-ceiling windows that open into private balconies, are the most prized. Excursions focus on the active and experiential, from hikes, jogging, cycling and kayaking to art classes and immersive cultural tours. Dining mixes regional specialities with Avalon Fresh options, featuring local ingredients and vegetarian dishes.

Best for meticulously planned cruises Viking’s cool Longships embody the Scandinavian concept of hygge: all neutral colours, soothing textures and natural light. Catering solely for adults, the world’s largest river cruise line sails in Europe, Asia, Egypt and, as of 2023, the Mississippi, offering well-planned itineraries with high standards of cuisine, included shore excursions in every port and in many cases, options to add land stays — for example, exploring Transylvania after a Danube cruise. Viking also has an ocean-going fleet of ships that exude a simliar Scandi chic and have all-balcony accommodation and included excursions.

Best for cultural excursions Scenic’s smart, modern “Space Ships” sail the rivers of Europe and Asia in considerable style. Everything is included, from bar drinks to a choice of excursions themed around cultural enrichment, soft adventure, food and wine, varying from a private dinner in the Palais des Papes in Avignon to guided kayaking and cycling. Each ship has a wellness centre and a fleet of e-bikes for independent exploring. The company is Australian-owned, so expect to sail in the company of Australians and New Zealanders.

• Best river cruises in Europe

28. AmaWaterways

Best for wellness AmaWaterways’ five-star fleet offers river cruises in Europe, Asia, southern Africa and Egypt aimed at a mainly North American market looking for a quality, comfortable product. There’s an increasing emphasis on wellness, with a qualified fitness trainer on almost every cruise and a fleet of bicycles on every ship. The extra-wide AmaMagna, which sails the Danube, is one of the most luxurious riverboats in Europe. The line has also pioneered epic 46-night cruises along seven rivers in 14 countries, and in 2024 it will be the first to offer sailings on Colombia’s Magdalena River.

Best for activities APT is an Australian-owned cruise company specialising in luxurious, all-inclusive voyages worldwide. In Europe, APT charters ships from AmaWaterways, a reflection of the quality you can expect. All tours are included, with Signature excursions offering special, tailor-made experiences such as private music recitals and visits to European castles hosted by actual royalty. It also operates the value-for-money Travelmarvel brand on contemporary vessels that include a pub-style bar.

aptouring.co.uk/travel-styles/river-cruising

30. Emerald Cruises

Best for boutique cruising Under the same ownership as Scenic, Emerald Cruises offers a more affordable experience on contemporary Star Ships that would give smart boutique hotels a run for their money. Each of the nine in Europe has an on-board Activity Manager to facilitate yoga classes, cycling, kayaking and hiking trips. While most excursions are included, optional tours are offered, from cookery demonstrations to private music recitals.

• The world’s best river cruises

Take me there

Inspired to book a cruise? Here are the best packages from Six Star Cruises and Marella . Alternatively, try a cruise with one of our partners .

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• Fuel Optimization
• IT Consulting
• ESG Consulting

TOP 15 best cruise lines with most recognisable cruise ships

Therefore, we bring to your attention the best and most recognizable cruise lines in the world., 1. carnival cruise line international, 2. p&o cruises, 3. p&o australia, 4. holland america line, 6. seabourn cruise line, 7. princess cruises, 8. royal caribbean, 9. norwegian cruise line, 10. msc cruises, 11. celebrity cruises, 12. costa cruises, 13. disney cruise line, 14. viking cruises, 15. marella cruises.

• Weather routing and voyage optimization for managing ETA
• Real time monitoring of vessel performance
• Predictive maintenance of equipment onboard
• Reduction in fuel consumption and GHG emissions

5 Largest Cruise Companies in the World

Published on March 3, 2021 at 3:56 am by Trish Novicio in Lists , News

In this article, we are going to list the  5 Largest Cruise Companies in the World . To read our detailed analysis of the cruise industry and its path to recovery following the coronavirus crisis, go to 15 Largest Cruise Companies in the World .

5. MSC Cruises

Geneva-based MSC Cruises is owned and operated by the private shipping company Mediterranean Shipping Co Ltd in Switzerland. MSC Cruises offers trips in the Mediterranean and the Caribbean. Seasonal itineraries are available as well which include South America, China, and the Emirates. MSC Cruises will start sailing again in May 2021 in Northern Europe. 

In 2019, MSC Cruises reported an increase of 42% in its total assets to $13.5 billion from $9.5 billion. In the same year, the company posted a $3.9 billion net income. The company has a total of 17 vessels, as of 2019.

AI Fire Sale: Insider Monkey’s #1 AI Stock Pick Is On A Steep Discount

Published on april 11, 2024 at by inan dogan, phd.

Artificial intelligence is the greatest investment opportunity of our lifetime. The time to invest in groundbreaking AI is now, and this stock is a steal!

The whispers are turning into roars.

Artificial intelligence isn’t science fiction anymore.

It’s the revolution reshaping every industry on the planet.

From driverless cars to medical breakthroughs, AI is on the cusp of a global explosion, and savvy investors stand to reap the rewards.

Here’s why this is the prime moment to jump on the AI bandwagon:

Exponential Growth on the Horizon: Forget linear growth – AI is poised for a hockey stick trajectory.

Imagine every sector, from healthcare to finance, infused with superhuman intelligence.

We’re talking disease prediction, hyper-personalized marketing, and automated logistics that streamline everything.

This isn’t a maybe – it’s an inevitability.

Early investors will be the ones positioned to ride the wave of this technological tsunami.

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Protect Your Trip »

8 Top World Cruises

Dream big and set sail on the monthslong trip of a lifetime.

Getty Images

Sailing for months on a luxurious cruise ship is an exciting way to travel the world.

If your ideal vacation involves spending months sailing around the world – exploring storied, faraway lands and learning the mysteries of ancient civilizations and cultures – then you should consider booking a world cruise. These epic voyages transport guests around the globe to some of the world's top historical and cultural attractions. You'll sample locally inspired cuisines from Asia, Europe and other diverse regions, plus enjoy special events on the ship and in port, including expert guest lectures, cultural programs and memorable themed nights. And best of all: You'll only have to pack and unpack once. Read on to learn why a world cruise may check all the boxes for your dream getaway – and get started on planning your next vacation.

When do world cruises depart, and how long do they last?

World cruises typically begin in January and end in April or May, but some lines, like Viking Ocean Cruises , offer voyages that embark in December. Therefore, full itineraries often last anywhere from around 100 to 150 days, though Royal Caribbean International recently launched the world's longest world cruise at 274 days. If you're not able to set sail for three to five months (or longer), some cruise providers also offer select, shorter segments of their full world cruise itineraries.

Are world cruises in high demand?

Before setting your sights on a particular itinerary, you should know that world cruises are very popular and usually sell out quickly. Post-COVID-19 shutdown, there's been even more pent-up demand for these cruises in the 2022 and 2023 cruising seasons. In fact, many 2022, 2023 and even 2024 world cruises sold out within an unprecedented amount of time this year. Oceania Cruises ' 2024 voyage sold out within 30 minutes of the line announcing the itinerary, and its 2023 cruise was completely booked within one week. Similarly, Viking's world voyages are sold out until the line's 138-day sailing on Dec. 20, 2023.

With so many world cruises booking up in record time, you may wonder what other options are available for travelers seeking a lengthy voyage. Howard Sherman, president and CEO of Oceania Cruises, advises, "In 2024, we are providing guests more extended voyage options to deeply and meaningfully rediscover the world." He adds, "While a globe-circling journey is the pinnacle of life-changing travel experiences, we have specially curated a set of Grand Voyages for seasoned and time-rich travelers to navigate storied seas, straits and oceans that boldly connect diverse and exotic corners of the globe." The line's grand voyages range from 72 to 82 days long.

Torstein Hagan, chairman of Viking, has this to say about Viking's world cruises: "We are delighted to once again offer explorers the opportunity to circumnavigate the world in comfort. Our previous world cruises sold out in a matter of weeks, and we are now seeing more interest in these extended voyages than ever before. Like me, our guests are curious people; we view travel as an opportunity to discover, learn and grow. With that Viking spirit of exploration, our seamless world cruises are possibly the greatest of all adventures."

President of Azamara , Carol Cabezas, agrees that travelers are excited and ready to set sail on a world cruise. She states, "Azamara is thrilled to offer its new World Voyage launching in 2024. As self-described curious travelers, our guests are eager to explore destinations further and make meaningful connections to each destinations' culture and people, spending more time in a given port." Cabezas adds, "Departing from our backyard in Fort Lauderdale , this once-in-a-lifetime World Voyage will take our curious guests to over 40 countries across six continents, giving them the time and opportunity to making these connections and explore the hidden gems and mystical wonders of the world, including the Great Wall of China , Great Pyramids of Giza , Chichén Itzá , Taj Mahal and more."

Anne Scully, a partner at Embark Beyond, a luxury travel agency in New York City, says, "World cruises are always sought after as clients make lifelong friends and travel year after year together. World cruises are the ultimate dream trip, especially for great celebrations such as retirements, special anniversaries and getting out of the cold for the winter!" She notes that some lines' upcoming world cruises may highlight new and unique events. For example, Silversea Cruises ' 2024 world voyage offers an overnight visit to the Buddhist and Hindu temples in Borobudur, Indonesia, two of the country's nine UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

How does pricing work on a world cruise?

When planning a world cruise, it's important to note that fares can vary significantly between cruise lines. Some lines advertise cruise-only fares, which do not include meals at specialty restaurants, alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, excursions, some entertainment or other expenses. On top of that, many cruise lines' base prices exclude port fees and taxes. Given the length of a world cruise, even small expenses can add up after several months on the ship and in ports around the globe. Typically, travelers can expect to spend a base fare of between $15,000 and $95,000 for their world cruise.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises ' all-inclusive fares include almost everything you could need, including door-to-door luggage service, first- and business-class airfare, pre-cruise gala events, unlimited dry cleaning and laundry, prepaid gratuities, meals, open bars and lounges, unlimited Wi-Fi access and more. Other lines may use a mostly all-inclusive payment plan and include additional perks, like Viking's Silver Spirits beverage package. Still, others – like MSC Cruises – may include wine and beer at dinner, but charge extra for select beverages, some excursions and other items throughout the voyage.

Picking your world cruise

To help you choose which world cruise is right for you, U.S. News has compiled a list of some of the best sailings that are still available to book for 2023. Keep in mind, if you're interested in a world cruise that is fully booked, you shouldn't lose hope. Scully advises that there are usually cancellations when trips are booked this far in advance, and you may be able to get on a waitlist through a travel adviser or by contacting the cruise line directly. Otherwise, if you're ready to book your tickets and set sail on the trip of a lifetime, consider one of these eight upcoming world voyages.

Ready to plan a cruise? Find the best value sailings on  GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises: Navigate the World

Courtesy of Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Date: Jan. 7 to May 30, 2023 Length: 143 nights Price: Starts at $94,599 per person (deluxe veranda suite, double occupancy)

Starting on Jan. 7, 2023, 684 guests will call Regent's Seven Seas Mariner home for its 143-night Navigate the World cruise. The ship sails from Miami to Barcelona, with stops in enchanting destinations across South America and idyllic islands like Bora Bora in French Polynesia. There are also stops in Australia, Indonesia, the Philippines, Japan, Vietnam, India, South Africa, the Canary Islands and more.

The cruise fare includes up to 356 complimentary excursions, meals, open bars and other amenities and perks. Guests will also have access to exclusive shoreside experiences in several ports, such as the Moonscapes & Moonlight event in Namibia.

Seabourn Cruise Line: Extraordinary Discoveries

Courtesy of Seabourn

Date: Jan. 6 to May 27, 2023 Length: 140 days Prices: Starts at $71,299 per person (ocean-view suite, double occupancy)

Seabourn Cruise Line 's 140-day itinerary departs from Miami on Jan. 6, 2023. Guests aboard the 448-passenger Seabourn Sojourn will visit 61 faraway destinations in 32 countries across six continents. Highlights of the Extraordinary Discoveries voyage include stops in cities like Lima, Peru ; Sydney and Melbourne , Australia; and Casablanca, Morocco. There are also exotic ports of call in Seychelles and West Africa.

In the South Pacific, you'll visit magical locales like French Polynesia, Fiji, Vanuatu, Easter Island and Papua New Guinea. While here, travelers can also experience an intensive exploration with a team of experts known as Ventures by Seabourn. These skilled professionals host optional Zodiac, snorkeling and trekking excursions in South Pacific destinations like Tonga and the Cook and Solomon Islands.

Other notable features of this itinerary include cruising the Panama Canal, crossing the equator and the international dateline and passing the Cape of Good Hope in South Africa. This incredible journey ends in Barcelona, Spain . Travelers who are interested in a shorter journey can also opt to sail certain segments of the full world cruise ranging from 21 to 30 days; abbreviated sailings travel through Australia, Indonesia, South Africa and more.

Holland America Line: Grand World Voyage

Date: Jan. 3 to May 12, 2023 Length: 128 days Price: Starts at $37,199 per person (veranda cabin, double occupancy)

Holland America Line 's 128-day Grand World Voyage departs on Jan. 3, 2023, and sails round trip from Fort Lauderdale. The extensive itinerary on the 1,964-passenger Zuiderdam features a Panama Canal transit and stops in exotic locales like Papeete, Moorea, Bora Bora and Raiatea, the Society Islands in French Polynesia. Travelers will also visit ports of call in New Zealand and Australia, Madagascar, Mozambique, South Africa, Spain, Morocco, France, Northern Europe and more stunning places in the world.

Princess Cruises: World Cruise

Courtesy of Princess Cruises

Dates: Jan. 5 to April 27, 2023; Jan. 19 to April 27, 2023; Jan. 19 to May 11, 2023 Lengths: 97 to 111 days Prices: Starts at $21,499 to $23,171 per person (interior cabin, double occupancy), depending on route

Princess Cruises offers a 111-day world cruise that sails round trip from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on Jan. 5, 2023, aboard the 2,200-passenger Island Princess . The itinerary includes 50 exotic ports of call, from Cartagena, Columbia, to destinations in Hawaii, French Polynesia and New Zealand. Guests on the world cruise will also visit the United Arab Emirates, transit the Suez Canal in Egypt and tour European cities like Venice, Italy , and towns in Croatia and Slovenia. You'll also enjoy the magical beauty of Provence in the South of France.

Other options for the 2023 world cruise on Island Princess include a 97-day sailing from Los Angeles on Jan. 19, 2023, that returns to Fort Lauderdale. This itinerary features 43 ports of call. Travelers can also hop aboard the ship on the same date in Los Angeles for a longer 111-day round-trip voyage.

If you'd like to sail a shorter section of this world cruise, keep in mind a one 14-day segment is available. This itinerary embarks from Fort Lauderdale and ends in Los Angeles, visiting the Panama Canal, Columbia, Costa Rica , Nicaragua and Mexico along the way.

MSC Cruises: World Cruise

Courtesy of MSC Cruises

Date: Jan. 4 to April 30, 2023; Jan. 5 to May 1, 2023; Jan. 6 to May 2, 2023; Jan. 7 to May 3, 2023 Length: 116 nights Price: Starts at $15,549 per person (interior cabin, double occupancy)

This Jan. 4, 2023, world cruise sailing on the 3,013-passenger MSC Magnifica departs from Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy, for a 116-night voyage around the globe. Other possible departure ports include Genoa, Italy (Jan. 5); Marseille, France (Jan. 6); or Barcelona, Spain (Jan. 7). The transatlantic itinerary boasts 43 incredible destinations, including cities in South America like Ushuaia, Argentina; Punta Arenas, Chile; and Lima, Peru. Guests will also cross the South Pacific Ocean, visiting locales along the Indian Ocean, the Arabian Sea and the Red Sea. The ship will then transit through the Suez Canal into the Mediterranean Sea before returning to Genoa.

Cruise fares include 15 complimentary shore excursions, as well as a Dine & Drink package that features a selection of wines, draught beer, sparkling water and other nonalcoholic beverages in the main restaurants during lunch and dinner. There is also a 30% discount on laundry services. Guests can enjoy themed evenings, guest speakers and language classes while on board.

If you're interested in a shorter voyage along this route, consider booking a 22- to 94-day segment in a region of your choosing. Options include Rome to Sydney, Genoa to Singapore, Barcelona to Sydney and more.

Planning a Mediterranean getaway? See the top  Mediterranean cruises on GoToSea .

Cunard Line: The Centenary World Voyages (Queen Mary 2)

Dates: Jan. 3 to April 30, 2023; Jan. 11 to April 23, 2023 Lengths: 102 or 117 nights Prices: Starts at $20,029 to $21,299 per person (Britannia inside cabins, double occupancy), depending on route

Cunard Line 's Queen Mary 2 departs round trip from Southampton, England, for a 102-night voyage on Jan. 11, 2023. This world voyage travels to Asia, Australia and Africa, while paying homage to the 100th anniversary of Cunard's maiden world sailing. Highlights of this voyage include transiting the Suez Canal and visiting Luxor, Egypt . The ship will also call on Dubai and Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates, plus Muscat, Oman, before heading to Asia, Australia, South Africa, Namibia and Spain.

Cruisers can also opt to depart round trip from New York City on a 117-night voyage from Jan. 3 to April 30, 2023. Or, if you'd rather sail a select segment of this world cruise itinerary, opt for a 9- to 67-day sailing in a region of your choosing. Options include New York City to Southampton, England; Dubai to Singapore; Hong Kong to New York City; Cape Town to Southampton and more.

Cunard Line: The Centenary World Voyages (Queen Victoria)

Dates: Jan. 9 to April 25, 2023; Jan. 11 to April 23, 2023; Jan. 20 to April 23, 2023 Lengths: 92 to 105 nights Prices: Starts at $18,499 to $21,699 per person (Britannia inside stateroom, double occupancy), depending on route

Cunard Line's 105-night Centenary World Voyage aboard the 2,061-passenger Queen Victoria departs round trip from Hamburg, Germany, on Jan. 9, 2023. Other embarkation ports include Southampton, England, on Jan. 11 for a 101-night voyage or New York City on Jan. 20 for 92 nights. Highlights of the journey include spectacular beaches and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, with stops across Hawaii, Australia, the Philippines, Vietnam, the Middle East, Europe and more.

Meals in the main dining room, most onboard entertainment, gala evenings, afternoon tea and other activities are included in the cruise fare. Special wine events and tastings, as well as extras like exercise classes, are an additional cost. Travelers who are interested in booking a portion of this world cruise can opt for a voyage lasting between 12 and 75 days. These segments include routes like San Francisco to Southampton, England; Sydney to Dubai; Dubai to Hamburg and more.

P&O Cruises: World Cruise

Courtesy of P&O Cruises

Date: Jan. 3 to April 13, 2023 Length: 99 nights Price: Starts at $16,388 per person (ocean-view cabin, double occupancy)

P&O Cruises' world cruise departs round trip from Southampton, England, on Jan. 3, 2023. The 99-night sailing on the 2,094-passenger, adults-only Arcadia features international cities, exotic islands, UNESCO World Heritage Sites and stunning coastlines. Ports of call include stops in the Caribbean and Mexico, Hawaii, Fiji, New Zealand and Australia, before heading to Asia and the Middle East. All meals and some nonalcoholic beverages are included in the fare.

Travelers can opt to sail on one segment of the longer itinerary, ranging from 11 to 60 days. Shorter route offerings include Hong Kong to Dubai; Southampton to Fort Lauderdale, Florida; Fort Lauderdale to Sydney and more.

Looking for a Caribbean escape? See the top  Caribbean cruises on GoToSea .

You might also be interested in:

• The Most Anticipated New Cruise Ships
• The Top Cruises on Small Ships
• The Biggest Cruise Ships
• Bucket List Cruises for Seniors and Retirees
• The Top Transatlantic Cruises

Tags: Travel , Cruises , Europe Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

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

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The 10 Biggest Cruise Ships in the World

Where to float on the biggest boats.

E very vessel that's once held the title of "biggest cruise ship" has one thing in common: It is a destination in and of itself. Of course, these enormous passenger cruise ships also transport guests to thrilling ports, exotic islands and remote locations too. It's almost as if you could live on a cruise ship !

These massive ships each have so much going on: theater and music on a multitude of stages, water slides, roller coasters and go-kart tracks, zip lines, ice skating rinks, laser tag arenas—you name it. There are also hidden cruise features waiting to be discovered and more restaurants than you will ever need to feed yourself. They are, simply put, awe-inspiring creations. Have you ever thought about how cruise ships float ?

One of the most important cruise tips for vacationing on one of these big boats is to accept that you won't be able to do it all on your first visit. Thankfully, with many itineraries to choose from, you can sail on the largest cruise ship again and again, learn cruise ship code words and have new experiences every single time you're on board one of these massive ships.

What is largest cruise ship in the world?

The current reigning champion is Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas. But next year, there will be a brand-new biggest cruise ship, the Royal Caribbean Icon of the Seas . Planned with 20 decks, 2,805 staterooms, seven pools and nine hot tubs, the future largest ship in the world is currently being built in Finland. Here are the details about the biggest and grandest ships to sail on.

Wonder of the Seas

Cruise line: Royal Caribbean

Length: 1,188 feet

Width: 215 feet

Guest capacity: 7,084

A true wonder, the current biggest ship in the world delights guests every week with a feast of activities, shows, meals and memories. Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas , an Oasis-class ship that is a city at sea, has 16 guest decks, 2,204 crew members from every corner of the planet and more than 10 bars and 20 dining destinations—nine of which are complimentary. Curiously, even though the Icon of the Seas will eventually take the mantle as the largest cruise ship, Wonder will still have more staterooms than its new big sister, a whopping 2,867 of them.

It also features a carousel on a real boardwalk, a dry slide that twists down 10 decks, surfing simulators, a laser tag arena, an ice skating rink and a zip line that spans the interior width of the ship. It also has interior rooms with balconies that look out over the restaurant and a tree-lined neighborhood that looks like Central Park. Wonder of the Seas will soon lose its crown as the biggest cruise ship in the world, but it'll never lose its ability to provide unique vacations thanks to affordable cruises for every kind of traveler.

World Europa

Cruise line: MSC

Length: 1,093 feet

Width: 154 feet

Guest capacity: 6,762

MSC is not only a privately held shipping company, the largest in the world, they are also the maker of some of the largest cruise ships in the world. The World Europa , which took to the sea for the first time in 2022, is currently escorting passengers all over the Mediterranean, using one of the cleanest marine fuels to do so.

The World Europa features some of the best rooms on a cruise ship, thanks to having the most cabins with a balcony. It also has the world's longest dry slide at sea, taking adventurous cruisers down 12 decks in a shiny, twisting stainless steel tube, and bumper cars in a SportsPlex arena that also hosts rollerblading—not at the same time, however. People looking for something a little less dramatic will enjoy six pools, some surrounded by tropical greenery, 14 whirlpools and MSC's first-ever department store at sea. Finally, you'll never go hungry on this ship , given its 10 restaurants, including four main dining rooms and three buffets.

Cruise line: P&O Cruises

Length: 1,130 feet

Width: 138 feet

Guest capacity: 6,685

Whether you want the sunshine of the Caribbean or the culture found in and around Mediterranean ports, Arvia is P&O's largest cruise ship and one of the biggest cruise ships in the world, with 1,800 crew members, a three-screen cinema complex, a wide range of staterooms to choose from and four pools, including an infinity pool with a swim-up bar. There are also nearly two dozen whirlpool spas, a sauna, steam room and a hydrotherapy pool.

This means that whether you're taking a singles cruise or have children in tow—the Arvia is a family-friendly ship with age-specific kids clubs on board—serious rest and relaxation are definitely on the agenda. Then, when you're feeling spry and ready for some adventure during your vacation at sea, you can try an escape room or ropes course, play in the sports arena or strut your stuff in a dance class.

Costa Toscana

Cruise line: Costa Cruises

Length: 1,105 feet

Width: 137 feet

Guest capacity: 6,600

A sister to the Smeralda , the Costa Toscana became the fleet's largest cruise ship when it took to the water in March 2022. The ship uses LNG propulsion engines to make sea travel more sustainable, both while cruising and in ports of call around the world. An international crew of 1,678 works to deliver dream vacations for up to 6,600 passengers who will love to discover all there is to do, see and experience on board.

The ship has 1,550 staterooms ranging from interior cabins to elaborate suites, a baker's dozen pools and whirlpools, and a total of 20 restaurants, bars and lounges. Costa's new flagship vessel is a smart city at sea, offering subtly high-tech sailings that provide fun for the whole family, thanks to Peppa Pig character parties, an aqua park with water slides and a mind-bending skywalk 213 feet above the ocean! So book a vacation on one of the largest cruise ships in the world, then pack your cruise ducks and your appetite for learning how to cook at Toscana 's Food LAB cooking school, among other adventures at sea.

Celebration

Cruise line: Carnival

Guest capacity: 6,631

As cruise lines jockey for position at the top of the biggest cruise ship in the world leaderboard, the original family-fun ships are also getting larger. A total of 1,735 international crew, famously considered the best in the business, will ensure that every family's cruise on the Celebration not only maximizes the fun but also the memories, and all at some of the most affordable prices in the cruise industry.

This ship has BOLT, the first roller coaster at sea, Dr. Seuss children's themed cruises with character appearances, and incredible water parks with multiple slides. Delicious food is made fast-and-fresh at Guy's Burger Joint, Shaq's Big Chicken and the Seafood Shack, as well as tasty street-food carts located near the pools. Plus, with all the extra space on the largest cruise ship in their fleet, Carnival's Playlist Productions has more stages to dazzle you and your kids with famously fantastic live music and musical theater.

Cruise line: Norwegian

Length: 1,094 feet

Width: 136 feet

Guest capacity: 3,998

With 1,700 crew members and more than 2,000 staterooms, including suites in The Haven—Norwegian's luxurious, private and tranquil ship-within-a-ship concept high atop the ship, which comes with 24-hour butler service and its own lavish sundeck—the Encore ranks among the largest cruise ships in the world. Curiously, this vessel from 2019 is still the largest in the Norwegian fleet! Both Prima  and the forthcoming Viva were built after Encore but are considerably smaller in size, bucking the cruise industry trend of "bigger is better."

Encore shines as a superior and super big ship, the fourth in the Breakaway Plus class, and features a multi-deck go-kart track, the Cavern Club music venue, fashioned after the famous Liverpool room where The Beatles became big, a virtual-reality gaming room, an outdoor laser-tag arena and some of the best food at sea. No doubt, this will become one of every passenger's favorite cruises.

Symphony of the Seas

Width: 216 feet

Guest capacity: 6,680

None of the many all-inclusive cruises take place on the largest cruise ships, but you may be forgiven for thinking you're enjoying an all-inclusive experience on Symphony of the Seas . The ship's many spectacular activities include a zip line that soars above the boardwalk many decks below, an old-fashioned carousel, Broadway-style theater shows, surfing simulators and the 10-story Abyss dry slide. There's also delicious food all over the ship that is 100% complimentary. And while you may fly on the zip line over and over again, you'll probably still wonder, Why do cruise ships have wings ?

After its maiden voyage in April 2018, Symphony was the biggest cruise ship in the world. But because of its ingenious neighborhood concept, guests rarely feel overcrowded. Seven distinct areas carve up the ship into unique spaces to play, eat, stroll, sleep and enjoy live entertainment, and the traffic flows brilliantly to make passengers feel as though they're on a more intimate ship and not cruising with upward of 6,680 other people in more than 2,700 staterooms, some of which are interior cabins with balconies that boast views of the Central Park neighborhood's greenery and eateries.

Cruise line: AIDA

Guest capacity: 6,654

While American travelers looking to cruise the Caribbean may not encounter her, the AIDAnova is not only the largest cruise ship in the AIDA fleet, she's also a revolutionary lady. The ship's Four Elements adventure deck, with its three water slides and climbing garden under the dome of a retractable glass roof, drops jaws on every sailing. The ship's more than 2,600 staterooms with 20 different types, ranging from a glorious two-deck penthouse to budget-friendly interior cabins, allow guests to sleep well and arrive in port well rested, and the two-deck spa offering 80 different treatments provides even more healing and luxury.

But AIDAnova is also impressive because it made history as the world's first cruise ship to be powered in port and at sea by liquefied natural gas (LNG), the world's cleanest burning fossil fuel. It's important that big ships can be more sustainable, but did you ever wonder why there are big balls on cruise ships ?

Sun Princess

Cruise line: Princess

Length: 1,133 feet

Guest capacity: 4,300

The Love Boat is getting much, much bigger! Yes, this is the namesake ship from the beloved '70s TV show. With 2,150 cabins, the Sun Princess is close to carrying 4,300 passengers to Europe for its inaugural season later this year. And then all around the world, people will be asking, "Why do cruise ships have to stop in Canada?"

The third ship in the history of the fleet to be graced with the iconic name, the S un Princess is poised to be a fan favorite. There are more than 29 bars, lounges and restaurants on board, with the Sea View Terrace and Bar ensconced in glass at the top and front of the ship, book-ended by the Wake View Terrace at the back, which has a stunning infinity pool hanging off the edge. Drawing inspiration from the tiered terraces of Santorini, Greece, this evocative area will have an indoor/outdoor pool to enjoy supreme relaxation during the day. But once the sun says goodbye, the pool becomes a stage and the dome above transforms into an entertainment venue with eye-popping lighting effects.

Length: 1,085 feet

Width: 141 feet

Guest capacity: 6,334

Come June 2023, one of the newest and biggest cruise ships at sea will be carrying eager pasengers, and more than 1,700 dedicated crew members, to world-class destinations in Northern Europe and the Mediterranean. While on board the Euribia , cruisers will enjoy a massive amount of personal space (100-plus square feet per person) at any one of five unique pools, including one of the most intricate waterparks at sea, covering more than 10,000 square feet.

These watery areas of rest, relaxation and revelry will comfortably accommodate more than 1,000 guests at a time. Indoors, a 360-foot-long Mediterranean-style promenade is lined with myriad shops, along with some of the 20 bars and 10 restaurants found on the ship. It also features a domed LED screen that magically displays the sky and other animations throughout the day and night. MSC continues to be a favorite cruise line of environmentalist travelers looking to ease their mind and minimize their footprint, as the Euribia has an advanced onboard wastewater treatment system that doesn't allow any water to leave the ship without being treated and cleaned.

The post The 10 Biggest Cruise Ships in the World appeared first on Reader's Digest .

Ukraine-Russia war latest: 'Huge fire breaks out' in port city after missile strike; Russia 'shifting battlefield focus'

Aerial images of the eastern town of Chasiv Yar have revealed the effects of Russian bombardment. A leading thinktank has suggested Moscow's battlefield focus may have shifted towards the town. Listen to a Daily podcast on whether the UK should send troops to Ukraine as you scroll.

Wednesday 1 May 2024 23:39, UK

• Large fire breaks out in Odesa after missile strike  
• Drone footage reveals ghost town left after Russian bombardment  
• The signs Moscow's battlefield focus could be shifting
• Your questions answered: Why can't Ukraine destroy key Crimean bridge?
• Listen to the Sky News Daily above and  tap here  to follow wherever you get your podcasts
• Live reporting by Katie Williams

We're wrapping up our live updates of the Ukraine war for this evening, but will be back soon with more updates.

In the meantime, scroll through the blog below to catch up on the latest events.

A Ukrainian drone attack has  damaged power lines in southern Russia's Kursk region, the local governor has said. 

The attack has left the village of Ponyri without power. 

Regional governor Roman Starovoit said the drone had been downed and repair crews are on site to restore power. 

As we reported earlier, tonight's missile attack on Odesa is the third reportedly carried out by Russian forces since Monday.

The city, particularly its port infrastructure, has been a frequent target of Moscow's during the war.

On 29 April, a Russian missile struck an educational institution in a seafront park in the port city, killing at least five people and injuring 32 others.

Among the wounded were eight people in a serious condition, including a four-year-old child, regional governor Oleh Kiper said. A pregnant woman was also hurt.

He said that in addition to those killed in the attack, a man later died after suffering a stroke related to the strike.

Footage showed the roof of the ornate building destroyed by fire.

Mr Kiper said another Russian missile attacked killed three people and injured three others in Odesa overnight on Tuesday.

He said the strike was carried out by a ballistic missile but didn't provide further details.

The attack also damaged civilian infrastructure, he said.

Regional governor Oleg Kiper reports that an air alarm is sounding in Odesa after this evening's missile strike.

He urged residents in the city and wider region to stay safe in a post to Telegram .

Nova Poshta, a Ukrainian postal and courier company, has confirmed its warehouse has been struck in Odesa.

The firm said none of its employees were injured or dead.

It added that customers would be compensated for parcels destroyed in the strike, which local officials say was carried out by Russia.

There are at least 13 victims as a result of a reported Russian missile strike on Odesa this evening, according to regional governor Oleg Kiper.

He did not specify if the victims had been killed or were injured.

In a Telegram post, Mr Kiper reported a "powerful fire at the point of impact".

Ballistic missiles were used to target the city, he said.

A large fire has erupted in the Ukrainian port city of Odesa after a missile strike, according to local media reports.

Unverified images circulating on social media show flames at the site of the reported strike and large plumes of smoke billowing towards the sky.

It comes after a Russian attack on an educational institution in the city on Monday that killed at least five people and injured 32 others.

Three people were killed in a separate missile attack in Odesa overnight last night.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy has formally dismissed the head of the Ukrainian security service's cybersecurity department after a media probe into his finances.

A decree issued on on his presidential website today shows Illia Vitiuk has been officially removed from the post.

Mr Vitiuk had already been suspended after an investigation by a journalist at independent outlet Slidstvo.info which raised questions over the property holdings of his wife and the source of the couples' wealth.

The journalist was later targeted by enlistment officers in a "revenge" move, the outlet reported.

Washington has accused Moscow of violating an international treaty by using a First World War-era chemical weapon in Ukraine.

The state department said Russia has deployed the choking agent chloropicrin against Ukrainian troops and used riot control agents "as a method of warfare".

According to the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, chloropicrin is an irritant "with characteristics of a tear gas".

It was used by Germany against allied troops during the First World War but has since been banned for military use.

"The use of such chemicals is not an isolated incident and is probably driven by Russian forces' desire to dislodge Ukrainian forces from fortified positions and achieve tactical gains on the battlefield," the state department said in a statement. 

The Russian embassy didn't immediately respond to a request for comment.

In Ukraine's partially occupied Donetsk region, troops continue to fight back against Russian forces on the frontline.

Moscow is heavily focusing on the eastern region, where it claims to have captured several towns and villages.

In these pictures, Ukrainian soldiers fire a howitzer at Russian positions.

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