Best Cruise Lines 

With each passing year a new cruise line rises in popularity. Among the big names that have been around forever and the newer lines just getting their sea legs, it can be quite hard to figure out which line is actually good or not. Are the common-name ones good simply because they have been around for a while? Is the cost worth it? Then, when we look at newer ships and newer lines, we simply wonder if they know what they are doing and if the low-cost sacrifices enjoyment. Here I’ve come to talk about it. Over the past spring, I’ve spent my weekends embarking on the most common cruises to find which is the best cruise line and if the cost is worth it. Let’s get started with the ranking so you can find the best cruise lines for you and your family!

Carnival Cruise

Coming in the fifth spot of the best cruise lines in Carnival Cruise Line. I know this may be controversial, and some wouldn’t put it on the list at all, but Carnival Cruise Line has redeemable qualities that earn its spot on this list. This is because of the cost and its accessibility for first-time cruisers. I get it, sometimes cruises aren’t for everyone. Especially as a beginner, you don’t know what you are looking for or what type of experience. So, if you are unsure, why pay such a big price for the big-name action-packed cruises? Carnival Cruise line is perfect for families on a budget and families looking to dip their toes in the water before embarking on such a hobby as cruising.

Carnival Cruise line has the best basics for a moderate price. You’ll find standard comedy shows, casinos, water slides, arcades, and so much more. On these cruises, you can also find the quickest destinations such as weekend cruises to the Bahamas, Key West, Puerto Rico, and more. Along with this, Carnival is known as the party cruise line. You’ll find a plethora of on-deck parties, lounges, and clubs for those looking to have fun. Carnival is a great beginner cruise for those who don’t know what to expect and don’t want to spend a fortune. 

Celebrity Cruises

Next on our list of best cruise lines, we have Celebrity Cruises. The name of Celebrity Cruise’s game is luxury. This is one of the most luxurious cruise lines anyone can embark on. With luxury dining, large fancy staterooms, and beautiful outdoor and pool areas, each Celebrity cruise is a utopia. Then, the service is phenomenal. Celebrity cruises offer butler service for your cabin, great dining experiences, and tops the chart for relaxation and lounging. Unlike Carnival, you won’t find blasting music and running children. This cruise line instead offers a more chill experience for those focused on the literal cruise aspect of cruising.

Though it is full of luxury experiences, I place it as fourth on the list simply because of how expensive cruises are and the lack of family excitement, such as slides, athletic courts, and high-energy shows, that are standard on most cruise lines now. It is more of a cruise for specific types of cruisers rather than a cruise for everyone. For older adults and those looking for heightened luxury, Celebrity Cruises is one of the best cruise lines for sophistication. It feels like you are staying in an expensive resort amongst the affluent, rich, and famous. 

Disney Cruise Line

Then, we have the Disney Cruise Line. The only reason I put this cruise in the middle spot is because of the cost. The high price of Disney cruises makes it not as easily accessible as the other family cruises. Cost aside, Disney Cruise Line is an incredible experience for cruisers traveling with children. As with the Disney Parks and all places with the Walt Disney name, the theming is top tier. All ships on Disney Cruise Lines’ fleet are decadent with glittered curtains, deep mahogany floors, and intricate glass chandeliers. As soon as you step onto the ship you will feel like royalty on a fantasy ship to Wonderland.

Then, Disney cruise lines travel to more than the basic Caribbean locations. With ports in Hawaii, Australia, Alaska, Rome, and so much more, Disney Cruises lets you take the magic anywhere and allows your kids to appreciate travel and the wonders of the world. As for activities, the ship is filled with theater shows, water slides, character meetups, and fireworks shows. For parents looking to enjoy their vacation too, there are numerous childcare centers where you can drop your kid off and enjoy the spa, pool, or other lounges 

Disney cruises are the best way to introduce a little magic and travel into a family’s lives. It offers a luxurious and magical experience. The only con for Disney cruises is just the price, but if you can afford it, it is one of the best. 

Norwegian Cruise Line

Then, on the list of best cruise lines, we have Norwegian Cruise Line. Now, Norwegian Cruise Line is near and dear to my heart as it is the first cruise line I have ever been on. In fact, it is so hard to put it in the second spot, as it is so close to being the very best. However, bias aside, Norwegian Cruise Line is one of the top-rated cruise lines for many reasons.

To start, Norwegian Cruise Lines offers special treatment for every age group and every traveler. First in their category, this cruise line introduced solo cabins for solo travelers. Instead of paying double for a room or finding an even number of friends and family to travel with, you can book a room just for you. As part of the solo cabin, you’ll also find a social club and exclusive areas for those solo traveling.

Then, if you are traveling with family, Norwegian offers a multitude of youth programs. From tiny toddlers to growing teenagers, there are multiple clubs and activities tailored specially to them. While the kids are doing their thing, the parents get to spend their time relaxing and indulging in the numerous casinos, clubs, restaurants, and lounge areas without having to keep up with everyone in the family. 

Royal Caribbean

Last, and number one on this list, we have Royal Caribbean. Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean were neck and neck to deserve the top spot on my list. However, there are several reasons why Royal Caribbean takes the cake over all other cruises. Royal Caribbean is the best in all aspects. Though they don’t have specific solo cabins for travelers, all the other amenities make it worth the cost for both solo and family travelers. Royal Caribbean has been pushing out the biggest and most exciting world-class ships over the past decade. 

On their biggest ships, you’ll find giant multi-deck water slides, mini golf courses, ice skating rinks, athletic courts, theaters, and so much more. That is along with the numerous relaxing spas, clubs, and pool areas. Whatever entertainment you may want, Royal Caribbean has it all. Often when I am on a long cruise, I find myself bored with the options by the last day, but with Royal Caribbean, instead, I cling to my cabin door refusing to leave until I’ve done everything. Cruising with Royal Caribbean is more than cruising, it is more like living in a theme park. 

Bon Voyage!

All in all, though cruises aren’t for everyone, there is a cruise for everyone. If you want elegance and luxury, find yourself on a Disney or Celebrity Cruise. If you are looking for family excitement, delicious food, and a story to take home to the land dwellers, stick to Norwegian or Royal Caribbean. However, if you have never been on a cruise and are unsure whether you’d like to fork up the money for one, head over to Carnival Cruise and get a taste of the cruising life.

With so many cruise lines and cruise ships growing yearly, it is hard to decide where to start and what is right for you. It is even more complicated once you calculate prices, deals, and the type of people in your family. After this guide, the decision should be much easier. You know exactly the price point, what is offered, and what energy matches what cruise. Now all there is left to do is book and say bon voyage!

Preparing for your first cruise? You’re going to love it! Before you go, here is my list of tips for your first cruise.