Choosing the “best” cruise line really depends on what you’re looking for in a vacation! But before deciding the line, here are important things to decide / have ready before booking:
– Itinerary / route / destination — which regions you want, how many port stops
– Departure port / embarkation & disembarkation
– Cruise line / ship / class / onboard amenities — different ships have different strengths
– Cabin type / deck location (interior, balcony, suite, etc.)
– Duration (number of nights)
– Add-ons / extras: excursions, drink packages, specialty dining, shore tours, WiFi, spa packages
– Budget for onboard expenses and gratuities
– How you’ll travel to the port (flight, road)
– Cancellation / refund / change policy — what happens if you need to adjust
– When to book — in many cases earlier is better for selection, but there may also be deals closer in to sailing
Here’s a breakdown of some popular cruise lines, their general characteristics, itineraries, and amenities, along with factors that make them appreciated by different types of travelers:
1. Royal Caribbean International
- Vibe: Innovative, active, family-friendly, high-energy.
- Itineraries: Caribbean (very strong presence), Alaska, Europe, Bermuda, Bahamas, Asia, Australia/New Zealand. They have their private island, CocoCay, which is very popular.
- Amenities: Known for “first-at-sea” features like surf simulators (FlowRider), rock-climbing walls, ice-skating rinks, zip lines, and the North Star observation capsule. Wide range of dining options, Broadway-style shows.
- Appreciated For: Families with kids of all ages, active travelers, those who want lots of activities and entertainment, cutting-edge ship features.
- Ideal For: Families, multi-generational groups, adventurers.
- Vibe: Fun, lively, party atmosphere, budget-friendly, casual. Often called “The Fun Ship” line.
- Itineraries: Caribbean (dominant), Bahamas, Mexico, Alaska, Europe. Shorter cruises are common.
- Amenities: WaterWorks (water parks with slides), Guy’s Burger Joint (free, very popular), BlueIguana Cantina, Serenity Adult-Only Retreat, Punchliner Comedy Club. Lots of live music and deck parties.
- Appreciated For: Budget-conscious travelers, younger crowds, groups looking for a party, first-time cruisers.
- Ideal For: Friends, couples, families who prioritize value and fun.
3. Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)
- Vibe: “Freestyle Cruising” – relaxed, flexible, no set dining times or dress codes, diverse entertainment.
- Itineraries: Europe (strong presence), Alaska, Caribbean, Bahamas, Bermuda, Hawaii (only major line with year-round inter-island cruises), Panama Canal.
- Amenities: Go-karts at sea, laser tag, elaborate spas, a wide variety of specialty restaurants (extra cost), excellent entertainment options. The Haven is their exclusive ship-within-a-ship luxury area.
- Appreciated For: Travelers who dislike formal nights and set schedules, foodies, those looking for varied entertainment.
- Ideal For: Couples, groups, families who want flexibility.
- Vibe: Classic cruising, sophisticated but not overly formal, focus on destination enrichment, good for couples.
- Itineraries: Alaska (very strong, known for cruisetours), Europe, Caribbean, Mexico, Asia, Australia/New Zealand, South America, World Cruises.
- Amenities: “Movies Under the Stars” outdoor cinema, Sanctuary adults-only retreat, Discovery at Sea enrichment programs, MedallionClass technology (wearable device for seamless service, expedited boarding, etc.). Excellent service.
- Appreciated For: Couples, repeat cruisers, those who value good service and classic cruising without being stuffy, destination-focused travelers.
- Ideal For: Couples, older families, those seeking enrichment.
- Vibe: Modern luxury, sophisticated, upscale dining and design, excellent service, art-focused.
- Itineraries: Europe (especially Mediterranean), Alaska, Caribbean, Galapagos, Bermuda, Asia.
- Amenities: World-class dining, Canyon Ranch SpaClub, the Lawn Club (real grass on deck), Rooftop Terrace, excellent art collections. Focus on culinary experiences and elegant design.
- Appreciated For: Foodies, couples, those seeking a more refined experience without the ultra-luxury price tag, spa enthusiasts.
- Ideal For: Couples, discerning travelers, adults, multi-generational groups seeking an elevated experience.
- Vibe: Family-focused magic, unparalleled service, high-quality entertainment and character experiences.
- Itineraries: Caribbean, Bahamas (with private island Castaway Cay), Alaska, Europe, Mexico.
- Amenities: Elaborate rotational dining, Broadway-caliber shows, character meet-and-greets, dedicated kids’ clubs (some of the best at sea), adult-only areas (pools, restaurants, nightclubs), Aquaduck water coaster.
- Appreciated For: Families with young children, Disney fans, those willing to pay a premium for a top-tier family experience.
- Ideal For: Families with children, Disney enthusiasts.
- Vibe: Traditional, classic cruising, destination-focused, refined, quieter, enrichment programs.
- Itineraries: Alaska (strong, many land+sea options), Europe, Caribbean, Panama Canal, World Cruises, exotics (Asia, South America).
- Amenities: Live music (BB King’s Blues Club, Rolling Stone Rock Room), Culinary Arts Center, excellent service, spacious staterooms. More emphasis on enrichment lectures and cultural activities.
- Appreciated For: Older couples, those seeking a more traditional and less hectic cruise experience, destination enthusiasts, classical music lovers.
- Ideal For: Mature travelers, couples, those seeking longer voyages and in-depth experiences.
8. MSC Cruises
- Vibe: European elegance meets modern innovation. Cosmopolitan, stylish, family-friendly yet upscale. A mix of lively entertainment and refined relaxation.
- Itineraries: Mediterranean (core strength), Northern Europe, Caribbean, South America, Middle East, Asia, Transatlantic, World Cruises. Increasing presence in North America with sailings from Florida and New York.
- Amenities: Lavish ships with Swarovski crystal staircases, LED domes, and chic lounges. Diverse dining with international cuisine, including Michelin-inspired options. Kids clubs, water parks, and LEGO partnerships for family fun.
- Appreciated For: Stylish ships, affordability, European ambiance, family-friendly features, and luxury options. Appeals to travelers who enjoy a global mix of cultures and languages onboard.
- Ideal For: Everyone seeking a blend of value, elegance, and variety.
Factors to Consider When Choosing:
- Budget: Cruise prices vary significantly by line, cabin type, itinerary, and time of year.
- Travel Style: Do you want non-stop action, relaxation, cultural immersion, or a mix?
- Travel Companions: Are you traveling with kids, as a couple, solo, or with a group?
- Itinerary/Destination: Where do you want to go? How many sea days vs. port days do you prefer?
- Ship Size: Large ships often have more amenities but can feel crowded. Smaller ships offer a more intimate experience.
- Onboard Activities: Do you want water slides and zip lines, or quiet lounges and enrichment lectures?
- Dining Preferences: Do you prefer flexible dining, set times, or lots of specialty restaurants?
- Atmosphere: Casual and lively, or elegant and refined?
Best Itineraries:
- Caribbean: Most popular for first-timers, sun-seekers, and families. Shorter cruises (3-7 days) are common.
- Alaska: Stunning scenery, wildlife, glaciers. Best experienced June-August. Many lines offer “cruisetours” that combine a cruise with land excursions.
- Europe (Mediterranean & Northern Europe): Culture, history, beautiful cities. Generally longer cruises (7-14+ days).
- Bahamas/Mexico: Good for shorter, budget-friendly getaways.
- Galapagos: Unique wildlife experience, typically on smaller, expedition-style ships (e.g., Celebrity, Silversea).
- World Cruises/Exotics: For seasoned cruisers with more time and budget, visiting multiple continents.
Top things to know and ask (before) about the cruises
What is included in the cruise fare vs. what costs extra?
Many things are included (accommodation, most meals, entertainment, some shore excursions), but extras often include alcohol/drinks, specialty dining, tips / gratuities, WiFi, shore excursions, spa services, etc.
What documentation do I need (passport, visas, etc.)?
You’ll often need a passport valid for a certain period after the cruise ends (sometimes 6+ months), visas for some ports, proof of citizenship, sometimes additional documents if traveling with children.
What’s the best cabin type and where should it be located?
Interior vs. outside vs. balcony vs. suite. Also deck level matters (higher deck = more views but possibly more motion; midship is usually more stable).
When should I book and are there good times/off-seasons for deals?
Booking early can get you better selection; some lines offer last-minute deals. The season, demand, and itinerary affect price. Off-peak times can be cheaper.
What are health, safety, and medical facilities like onboard?
What happens if someone gets sick; whether there’s a doctor or clinic; what are the ship’s health and sanitary protocols; any vaccinations required.
Will I get seasick / how stable is the ship?
For people sensitive to motion: look into whether the ship has stabilizers, how rough the seas are likely to be, what cabins reduce motion effect. Bring meds just in case, especially for smaller ships or rough seas.
How much free time will I have at each port / what do shore excursions cost and how to plan them?
Itineraries vary; sometimes stops are short; excursions can be booked through the cruise line or independently (cheaper but more risk).
What is the dress code? What to pack?
For daytime and evenings (casual, smart casual, formal nights). Also depending on the destinations, climate, onboard vs shore.
What is the cancellation / change policy? What happens in bad weather or unexpected events?
Understanding what you lose if you cancel or change; refund policies; what the ship does if itinerary changes; insurance.
How do I stay connected (phone, internet)? What communication options are available onboard?
WiFi availability, cost, signal strength; whether your mobile phone will work; how to stay in touch with people ashore.
Sometimes it’s better to pack a carry-on with essentials. Your checked luggage might take hours to arrive at your cabin. Include swimwear, meds, documents, and a change of clothes.
Bring power strips or USB hubs, cabins often have limited outlets.
No cash needed onboard, your room key doubles as a charge card. All purchases go to your onboard account.
