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- Two More Of The Best Cruise Lines In The U.S. (Ranked By Rating)
Summary
- Diverse Cruise Options: From Carnival Cruise Line to Viking Ocean Cruises, travelers have a wide array of choices, catering to various preferences and travel styles.
- Value for Money: Many cruise lines featured in the article, such as Costa Cruises and Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, offer excellent value for the money, as highlighted by traveler and expert rankings.
- Tailored Experiences: Each cruise line, from Disney Cruise Line to Seabourn Cruise Line, caters to different demographics and preferences, offering specialized experiences for families, luxury seekers, and niche travelers.
Selecting a cruise line can be a challenge. There are at least a dozen major cruise ship companies to choose from. They vary greatly in ship size and amenities offered. Some have all-inclusive pricing, while others don’t. Some are all-suite ships; some aren’t. And the ambiance onboard cruise ships varies greatly and is something guests should know before booking.
But a key factor for most vacationers is price. Many cruise lines listed here rank highest in value for the money by travelers and experts in a listing published by U.S. News and World Report. Affordability, amenities, and reputation were taken into account. Going on vacation doesn't mean someone needs to break the bank. Which cruise ship would be the best?
Every cruise line on this list has been carefully chosen based on a number of factors, including cost, amenities, and destinations. We sorted the top cruise lines according to ratings on cruisecritic.com, a TripAdvisor company, and took into account the U.S. News Cruise Lines Rankings. We have included a wide range of cruise lines, such as solo, adult-only, family, all-inclusive, affordable, luxury, and many more, with cruise line rankings to provide a cruise suitable for every type of traveler.
UPDATE: 2024/02/08 10:25 EST BY REENA JAIN
Two More Of The Best Cruise Lines In The U.S. (Ranked By Rating)
The best cruise lines in the United States take guests to some of the most beautiful vacation destinations while also allowing them to enjoy a broad range of amenities, activities, and experiences. Fortunately, there are many! We expanded this list of the best US cruise lines with two new entries that deserve to be there.
20 Costa Cruises
Cruise Critic Rating: 3.0/5
- This Italian-based cruise line is known for lower rates
- Europeans tend to book this cruise line for their vacations
- There is an all-inclusive rate option available for guests
Based in Italy, Costa has lower rates than competitors, the ranking found, especially for cruises in the Mediterranean. Its ships attract mostly Europeans, so American cruisers should be prepared for a more international atmosphere than the other ships on this ranking list.
Costa ships have amenities for families and adults traveling without children, such as theater shows and casinos. It also offers an all-inclusive rate option and is among the ten Best Cruise Lines for the Money. This may be an excellent option for longer cruises with extended days on the water.
- Number of Ships in Fleet: 9
- Popular Destinations: Caribbean, Mediterranean, South America, World Tour, Northern Europe, Transoceanic, Dubai
- Recommended Cruise: Costa Deliziosa's Cruise Around The World
- Duration: 32 Nights and 33 Days
- Price: Starting at USD 4,916 per person
Cruising on Costa's ship "Deliziosa" may be the better premium choice for those wanting to make the most of their vacation. This ship has various routes, with one being its 70-night voyage across the world.
19 Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection Cruise
Cruise Critic Rating: 3.3/5
- The luxury yacht cruise line offers personalized services and exceptional amenities
- The all-inclusive price provides the ultimate cruise experience
Offering the sophistication and luxuries of an upscale hotel while floating over the wide ocean, the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection is a fascinating new cruise line in the US. Its all-inclusive fare, which covers meals, beverages (including alcoholic ones), and gratuities, makes it possible to have a hassle-free sea vacation without worrying about extra costs. The fleet is made up of luxurious yachts with staterooms and modern amenities, guaranteeing an unforgettable vacation. Personalized services, stunning destinations ranging from the Caribbean to the Mediterranean to Northern Europe, and exquisite dining all set it apart. Also, the Ritz Kids program provides activity sessions for kids ages 4 to 12, making it one of the best all-inclusive family cruises in the US.
- Number of Ships in Fleet: 1 and 2 upcoming
- Popular Destinations: Mediterranean, Caribbean, Northern Europe, Baltic, Crossing Voyages
- Recommended Cruise: Ritz-Carlton Evrima's round-trip cruise from San Juan to San Juan
- Duration: 4 Nights, 5 Days
- Price: Starting at USD 5,800 per person
18 MSC Cruises
Cruise Critic Rating: 3.3/5
- MSC is an Italian cruise line brand
- There are limited ships from MSC coming to the United States
- Traveling on an MSC ship is typically lower than staying on land in Europe
The Italian line MSC Cruises has just a few ships sailing from U.S. ports and is mainly Europe-focused. But the ranking report found that, even with airfare to Europe, the cost of an MSC cruise will be more affordable than a typical land vacation on the continent. Some Mediterranean cruises start at $100 per person, and promotions often allow children to sail free. MSC Cruises was ranked #5 in Best Cruise Lines for Families by U.S. News for offering a range of modern amenities and exciting activities for travelers of all ages.
- Number of Ships in Fleet: 23
- Popular Destinations: Caribbean, Bahamas, Ocean Cay, MSC Marine Reserve, Europe, Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Bermuda, Canada & New England
- Recommended Cruise: MSC Magnifica's Cruise to The Bahamas
- Duration: 4 Nights and 5 Days
- Price: From USD 169 per person
MSC cruises regularly run children's sail-free promotions for their Mediterranean voyages, which may be helpful for larger families. Rates are already low for this specific destination, which is something to remember.
17 Norwegian Cruise Line
Cruise Critic Rating: 3.6/5
- Norwegian Cruise Line has 20 ships currently sailing
- Many NCL ships can hold upwards of 4,000 guests
- Guests may need to buy all-inclusive packages to save money on food and drinks
Norwegian has 20 sailing ships, many quite large and accommodating more than 4,000 guests. Fares cover standard dining but not specialty venues; however, money-saving all-inclusive packages can be booked for dining and drinks. Ranked #4 in Best Cruise Lines for Families, it features colorful cruise ships, abundant onboard amenities, and children's clubs to make a family vacation fulfilling.
The cruise line’s Freestyle Dining policy has no fixed dining times or assigned seating. Like other big cruise lines, Norwegian ships offer complimentary activities and amenities, making it one of the best all-inclusive cruise lines in the U.S. Norwegian Cruise Line also partners with Caesars Entertainment, meaning guests can earn points between companies.
- Number of Ships in Fleet: 20
- Popular Destinations: Australia, Alaska, Asia, New Zealand, Mediterranean, Europe, Caribbean, Southern America, Transatlantic, Hawaii, Africa
- Recommended Cruise: Norwegian Joy's Cruise to the Eastern Caribbean
- Duration: 11 Nights, 12 Days
- Price: Starting at USD 559 per person
16 Regent Seven Seas Cruises
Cruise Critic Rating: 3.7/5
- All-inclusive packages include specialty dining, shore excursions, and alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages
- Cruise costs include round-trip airfare and ground transfers
Regent Seven Seas Cruises was ranked #3 in the Best Luxury Cruise Lines as it received high ratings from experts and cruisers alike for its all-inclusive packages and luxury services. All six of Regent's ships have all-suite rooms, a personnel-to-passenger ratio of almost one to one, and personalized experiences. Its popular routes stop at more than 500 ports across the United States, Alaska, Africa, Asia, Europe, the Caribbean, and other regions. Each experience, from exploring amazing places, dining at specialty cruise restaurants, and taking in the evening's onboard entertainment to relaxing in a private haven at sea, is absolutely priceless.
- Number of Ships in Fleet: 6
- Popular Destinations: Alaska, Arabia, Africa, Asia, Caribbean, Bermuda, Canada, Mediterranean, Northern Europe, South Pacific, South America, Transoceanic, World Tour
- Recommended Cruise: Regent Seven Seas Navigator's Cruise to the Mediterranean
- Duration: 10 Nights, 11 Days
- Price: Starting at USD 4,099 per person
15 Silversea Cruises
Cruise Critic Rating: 3.8/5
- Smaller ships with all-suite accommodations travel to less-traveled locations
- Included in the cruise ticket is one complimentary shore excursion per port
Silversea Cruises is known for its ultra-luxurious all-inclusive cruises with unlimited drinks and gratuities. With excellent service and butlers for every guest, it's ranked #5 among the Best Luxury Cruise Lines. Its fleet of small cruise ships provides a wealth of chances for global exploration in over 900 intriguing locations throughout all seven continents. Travelers can pick any classic voyage, visiting well-known ports and emphasizing total destination immersion, or consider an expedition trip, which visits some of the most remote and breathtaking locations on Earth.
- Number of Ships in Fleet: 12
- Popular Destinations: Caribbean, Alaska, Africa, Antarctica, Arctic, Asia, Australia, Canada, French Polynesia & Pacific, Galápagos Islands, Kimberley, American West Coast, Northern Europe, Mediterranean, South America, Transoceanic
- Recommended Cruise: Silver Spirit's Cruise to the Caribbean
- Duration: 7 Nights, 8 Days
- Price: Starting at USD 3,450 per person
14 Cunard Line
Cruise Critic Rating: 3.8/5
- Cunard is a British ship and among the Best Cruise Lines for Couples
- These ships tend to be more classic-feeling
- Some of the Cunard Line's best voyages are through Europe
The Cunard cruise line is one of the smaller brands on the market. This cruise company was started in 1840, so Cunard has a rich history. Furthermore, Cunard offers one-way, round-trip, and transatlantic sailings to major US cities and extensive European trips.
Furthermore, Cunard sails to a variety of North American ports, including New York City, Boston, Los Angeles, and Miami.
- Number of Ships in Fleet: 4
- Popular Destinations: Australia, Alaska, Asia, New Zealand, Baltics, Caribbean, Mediterranean, Central America, Europe, South America, Transatlantic
- Recommended Cruise: Queen Mary 2's Cruise to Australia and New Zealand
- Duration: 10 Nights, 12 Days
- Price: Starting at USD 5,279 per person
13 Carnival Cruise Line
Cruise Critic Rating: 3.8/5
- Carnival Cruise Line is often called the "Fun Ships" line
- These cruises are budget and family-friendly
- Most dining is included in the original fare (minus specialty restaurants)
Carnival Cruise Line, aka the Fun Ships line, is considered budget-friendly because its base fares are typically low. The cruise line offers many short cruises of three or four days and longer itineraries. Traditional dining is covered in the fare, but specialty restaurants are not.
Guests can minimize costs by avoiding those venues. Also, drinks and dining packages are available, and the line frequently offers discount promotions. U.S. News named Carnival as the third-best cruise line for families.
- Number of Ships in Fleet: 27 and 1 upcoming
- Popular Destinations: Caribbean, Bahamas, Mexico, Bermuda, Alaska, Europe, Transatlantic, Australia, Panama Canal, Hawaii, Canada
- Recommended Cruise: Carnival Celebration's Cruise to the Caribbean
- Duration: 7 Nights, 8 Days
- Price: Starting at USD 589 per person
12 Princess Cruises
Cruise Critic Rating: 3.8/5
- Princess Cruises generally includes onboard events in the fare price
- This cruise line is more adult-friendly than family-oriented
- Guests must pay a fee to dine at specialty restaurants
Princess Cruises fares typically cover onboard events such as cooking classes and lectures and offer an atmosphere geared more toward adults than families with children. Main dining rooms are included in the cruise fare, and guests pay a fee to dine at specialty restaurants.
Packages are offered to cruisers who expect to dine frequently at a special venue, and there are also drinks packages. All in all, Princess Cruises stands out for its amenities and services and was ranked #3 in Best Cruise Lines for the Money by U.S. News.
- Number of Ships in Fleet: 29 and 3 upcoming
- Popular Destinations: Caribbean, Bermuda, Jamaica, Bahamas, Mexico, Alaska, Cozumel and Cancun, Europe, Asia, North America, South Pacific, Transatlantic
- Recommended Cruise: Regal Princess' Cruise to the Southern Caribbean
- Duration: 12 Nights and 13 Days
- Price: Starting at USD 779 per person
11 Oceania Cruises
Cruise Critic Rating: 3.8/5
- Oceania Cruises are on the more luxurious side of the market
- This cruise line is based in Miami, Florida
- Most Oceania voyages last between 10 and 14 days
Oceania Cruises, #4 in Best Luxury Cruise Lines, may be worth considering for those wanting more elegance and luxury on the open waters. This cruise company's stand-out feature is its longer-than-average trip schedules.
For example, most Oceania cruises are out at sea for between 10 and 14 days, with some cruises lasting 195 days. The boats are mid-size, often boasting lavish decor and beautiful rooms/suites.
- Number of Ships in Fleet: 8
- Popular Destinations: Caribbean, South America, Panama Canal, Europe, Mediterranean, Mexico, Holy Lands, North America, Central America, South Pacific, Transatlantic, Asia, Around the World
- Recommended Cruise: Oceania Regatta Cruise to Around The World
- Duration: 41 Nights, 42 Days
- Price: Starting at USD 14,499 per person
10 Holland America Line
Cruise Critic Rating: 3.9/5
- Holland America is a more exclusive luxury cruise ship option
- There are better deals for those headed to the Caribbean
- Each guest will receive attention on this line
Considered a premium cruise line, Holland America can be a good bargain, particularly for Caribbean cruises, which can cost under $300 per person for five days of sailing. The ranking shows that the line does not skimp on service but offers individualized attention to guests.
The line provides free room service and several all-inclusive pricing options that can be booked as packages before sailing, ranking it as #5 in Best Cruise Lines for the Money. The cruise line attracts mainly an adult and older adult crowd and offers many onboard programs such as lectures, cooking classes, and music performances.
- Number of Ships in Fleet: 11
- Popular Destinations: North & South America, Europe, Asia, South Pacific, Transatlantic
- Recommended Cruise: Holland America Nieuw Statendam's Cruise to the Eastern Caribbean
- Duration: 7 Nights and 8 Days
- Price: Starting at USD 999 per person
Holland America is a fancier, more exclusive cruise line option. If someone prefers to live lavishly on the open seas, this company may be the best choice.
9 Royal Caribbean International
Cruise Critic Rating: 3.9/5
- Royal Caribbean owns some of the largest cruise ships
- Rates for Royal Caribbean cruise ships tend to be affordable
Royal Caribbean has 29 ships in its fleet, including some of the largest sailing vessels. The ranking survey found that it can keep overall rates low because it accommodates many cruisers per ship. Some cruises can start at under $250 per person. The line offers itineraries across the globe and, like some other cruise lines, has its own private island in the Bahamas.
Overall, Royal Caribbean is #2 in Best Cruise Lines for Families and is also a great choice for those traveling solo, as there is always something to see, do, and experience.
- Number of Ships in Fleet: 29 and 3 upcoming
- Popular Destinations: Caribbean, Bermuda, Jamaica, Bahamas, Mexico, Alaska, Cozumel and Cancun, Europe, Asia, North America, South Pacific, Transatlantic
- Recommended Cruise: Oasis of the Seas' Cruise to the Western Mediterranean
- Duration: 7 Nights and 8 Days
- Price: Starting at USD 1,028 per person
8 Windstar Cruises
Cruise Critic Rating: 4.1/5
- Small cruise ships for an intimate and personalized experience
- The onboard dining is seasonal and sourced from a port along the journey
For those looking for an intimate experience packed with luxuries with fewer passengers around, Windstar Cruises serves all purposes. With a fleet of six yachts, each accommodating between 148 and 342 guests and providing intimacy, space, and freedom, it is one of the best small-ship cruise lines in the U.S. Also, it offers modern amenities and immersive entertainment to ensure a vacation full of priceless memories. It offers luxury trips to more than 50 countries and 150 ports worldwide, including Europe, the Caribbean, the South Pacific, the US West Coast, and Central America.
- Number of Ships in Fleet: 6
- Popular Destinations: Canary Islands, Caribbean, South America, Panama Canal, Latin America, Europe, Mediterranean, Mexico, Middle East, U.S. Coastal, Tahiti
- Recommended Cruise: Windstar Star Legend's Cruise to Greece
- Duration: 8 Nights, 9 Days
- Price: Starting at USD 3,599 per person
7 Celebrity Cruises
Cruise Critic Rating: 4.1/5
- Celebrity Cruises are known to have excellent service and employees
- Rates are historically cheaper for those headed to the Bahamas and the Caribbean
- Room service is free on this ship, minus specialty drinks
Celebrity Cruises has a good reputation for service. Furthermore, some prices for the Bahamas and Caribbean cruises can be less than $250 per cruiser, ranking it as #2 in Best Cruise Lines for the Money. The survey points out that the line offers perks such as free room service and many complimentary amenities. Dining, drinks, spa, and Wi-Fi packages can be bought in advance, helping cut costs.
- Number of Ships in Fleet: 16 and 1 upcoming
- Popular Destinations: Alaska, Antarctica, Australia, Bahamas, Bermuda, Caribbean, Europe, Galápagos, Greek Island, Hawaii, Mediterranean, Mexico
- Recommended Cruise: Celebrity Silhouette's Cruise to the Bahamas
- Duration: 4 Nights 5 Days
- Price: Starting at USD 250 per person
Celebrity Cruises may be a good choice for travelers wanting to go to the Bahamas and the Caribbean. This cruise line offers various packages to help cut down on Wi-Fi, food, drink, and spa prices.
6 Hurtigruten Expeditions
Cruise Critic Rating: 4.1/5
- Hurtigruten Expedition provides fascinating global adventure cruises to several interesting locations
- Every ship in the fleet today has been thoughtfully designed to combine contemporary amenities with authentic charm
Originally well-known for its trips to the Arctic and Antarctic, Hurtigruten Expeditions (now HX) has expanded its offerings. At present, it operates expedition cruises to some of the most secluded and unspoiled locations in the world. Its fleet includes small boats built for difficult waters that make their way to places like the Galápagos Islands, Africa, Antarctica, and the Arctic. Every expedition ship provides visitors with the finest possible expedition experience and exploration while also taking advantage of the first-rate leisure and wellness facilities available.
- Number of Ships in Fleet: 6
- Popular Destinations: Alaska, Antarctica, British Isles, Caribbean, Europe, Galápagos Islands, Greenland, Iceland, North America, South America, Canada, Norway, Svalbard, Transoceanic, West Africa
- Recommended Cruise: Hurtigruten Roald Amundsen's Cruise to the USA
- Duration: 8 Nights, 9 Days
- Price: Starting at USD 3,202 per person
5 Seabourn Cruise Line
Cruise Critic Rating: 4.1/5
- Known for offering the crème de la crème cruise experiences
- It is an all-suite cruise, with each suite offering majestic ocean views
Sebourne is one of the cruise lines ranked as the #2 Best Luxury Cruise Lines, with an abundance of upscale amenities and trips to the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, and Alaska, as well as exotic destinations in Asia, Australia, and even the Arctic. There is a wide range of dining choices, onboard entertainment options, and excursions on all cruises.
The cruise line's eight ships feature a fitness center, spa, salon, casinos, pools, nine-hole golf courses, and live music venues, among other features. All the ships have suites with ocean views as accommodations.
- Number of Ships in Fleet: 8
- Popular Destinations: Europe, South Pacific, Transatlantic, North & South America, Asia, Australia
- Recommended Cruise: Seabourn Ovation's Cruise to the Southern Caribbean
- Duration: 7 Nights, 8 Days
- Price: Starting at USD 3,799 per person
4 Virgin Voyages
Cruise Critic Rating: 4.1/5
- U.S. News named Virgin Voyages as the Best Cruise Line for the Money
- This cruise line is all-inclusive, meaning food/drink/Wi-Fi costs will not be added
- Virgin ships are adult-only, so those with children can not book a trip
Virgin Voyages ranked at the top of the list for value. The cruise line created by British mogul Richard Branson is mostly all-inclusive, meaning nearly everything is covered in the cruise fare. The exception is some high-end spirits at certain venues.
However, all restaurants and virtually all beverages are included, along with sports facilities and group fitness classes, including yoga. Even crew tips are covered. Virgin Voyages ships are among the industry’s best cruise lines for adults only, with a minimum guest age of 18.
- Number of Ships in Fleet: 4
- Popular Destinations: South Pacific, Caribbean, Europe, Transatlantic, Australia, Mediterranean, Adriatic
- Recommended Cruise: Virgin Voyages Scarlet Lady's Cruise to the Caribbean
- Duration: 4 Nights, 5 Days
- Price: Starting at USD 726 per person
3 Azamara
Cruise Critic Rating: 4.2/5
- Comparatively, small ships offering an intimate atmosphere for couples
- Cruise cost includes gratuities and most nonalcoholic and alcoholic beverages
Azamara, the fourth-best cruise line for couples, provides its passengers with a variety of exciting activities, delectable food, and luxurious cabins. Whether passengers choose a four-night cruise or a 26-night trip, each offers amenities such as onboard lounges, fitness centers, dance classes, wine tastings, and evening dance and music performances.
Along with onboard activities, passengers have the opportunity to learn about the culture, traditions, and history of the port cities, making this small-ship cruise line a favorite among frequent travelers.
- Number of Ships in Fleet: 4
- Popular Destinations: America, Caribbean, Transoceanic, Australia, New Zealand, Europe, Asia, Africa, Middle East
- Recommended Cruise: Azamara Quest's Cruise to South America
- Duration: 17 Nights, 18 Days
- Price: Starting at USD 2,380 per person
2 Disney Cruise Line
Cruise Critic Rating: 4.2/5
- Disney Cruise Line is the Best Cruise Line for Families
- This company offers the magic of its theme parks onboard each ship
Disney Cruise Line is one cruise ship company that continues to grow and improve. This company, which started in 1995, has become a premier option for travelers wanting a luxurious yet family-friendly option on the open waters.
It's also worth mentioning that Disney Cruise Lines allow visitors to experience character meet-and-greets, interactive experiences, and one-of-a-kind dining, shopping, and amenities. All in all, Disney Cruise Line is the best for families traveling with younger kids (particularly for children under 10 years).
- Number of Ships in Fleet: 29 and 3 upcoming
- Popular Destinations: Bermuda, Caribbean, Jamaica, Mexico, Alaska, Bahamas, Cozumel and Cancun, Asia, North America, Europe, South Pacific, Transatlantic
- Recommended Cruise: Disney Dream's Cruise to the Bahamas
- Duration: 4 Nights, 5 Days
- Price: Starting at USD 1,114 per person
1 Viking Ocean Cruises
Cruise Critic Rating: 4.6/5
- Viking Ocean Cruises are often smaller ships
- This company is based in Switzerland and specializes in European destinations
Wondering which cruise line has the highest rating? Well, Viking Cruises has the highest ranking on this list. This company is based in Basel, Switzerland, and its marketing headquarters are in Los Angeles, California. This company mainly focuses on river, ocean, and expedition cruises.
Viking ships tend to be on the smaller side, so this could be a great way to meet others on board and have a more intimate experience at sea. The smaller boat sizes also allow them to move effortlessly along less-traveled paths, which is neat. Ranked #1 in Best Cruise Lines for Couples by U.S. News, Viking Oceans is ideal for a romantic retreat at sea.
- Number of Ships in Fleet: 12
- Popular Destinations: America, Europe, Scandinavia, Asia, Caribbean, Mediterranean, Australia
- Recommended Cruise: Viking Venus' Cruise to the Baltic Sea
- Duration: 12 Nights, 13 Days
- Price: Starting at USD 10,999 per person