Choosing the right cruise line can feel overwhelming. With so many options available, from family-friendly mega-ships to intimate luxury yachts, knowing where to start your comparison is crucial. This guide provides an expert overview to Compare Cruise Lines, helping you navigate the sea of choices and find the perfect voyage for your needs and preferences.
The cruise industry is vast and varied. Major players like Royal Caribbean and Carnival Cruise Line are household names, operating massive vessels that are essentially floating resorts. On the other end of the spectrum, smaller, boutique operators like Windstar Cruises offer a more personalized and intimate experience.
Some cruise lines, such as Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, and MSC Cruises, are known for their large ships packed with attractions – think water parks, Broadway-style shows, and countless dining options. These are like bustling cities at sea. Others focus on providing a more refined and luxurious experience, rivaling upscale land-based resorts. Luxury lines like Regent Seven Seas Cruises offer opulent suites and all-inclusive experiences that can come with a hefty price tag, sometimes reaching thousands of dollars per day.
This guide is designed to help you compare cruise lines effectively. It offers concise profiles of some of the most popular brands, highlighting their key features and target audiences. Think of it as your starting point. Once you identify a few cruise lines that pique your interest, we encourage you to delve deeper into their specific ships, itineraries, and pricing. Consider consulting a travel agent specializing in cruises for personalized advice, or explore the in-depth guides available on reputable travel websites like The Points Guy, linked within each cruise line description below.
Related: TPG’s ultimate guide to picking a cruise line
Azamara
Azamara stands out for its commitment to destination immersion. With a small fleet of just four ships, each accommodating fewer than 700 guests, Azamara offers an upscale, intimate cruise experience. Known for its loyal following, Azamara appeals to travelers who appreciate inclusive amenities like gratuities and alcoholic beverages, and a strong focus on exploring destinations.
A hallmark of Azamara cruises is longer port stays, often including overnight visits, allowing for deeper exploration of each location. The ships themselves have a boutique hotel ambiance, offering a refined yet relaxed atmosphere. While priced higher than mass-market lines, Azamara provides a more accessible luxury compared to ultra-premium brands.
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Related: 5 things to love about Azamara’s newest ship
Carnival Cruise Line
Carnival Dream. DANNY LEHMAN/CARNIVAL CRUISE LINE
Carnival Cruise Line, self-proclaimed as the “Fun Ships,” dominates the market for short, budget-friendly, and activity-packed cruises. Popular with roughly one in five cruisers, Carnival’s ships are known for their lively atmosphere and abundance of entertainment options. Sailing primarily from U.S. ports to destinations like the Caribbean, Bahamas, and Mexico, Carnival is synonymous with accessible fun at sea.
Expect vibrant, energetic ships brimming with features like expansive water parks and thrilling waterslides. While not focused on luxury, Carnival delivers a high-energy, value-oriented cruise experience perfect for those seeking a fun getaway without breaking the bank.
Alt text: Carnival Dream cruise ship exterior, showcasing family fun cruise line.
Related: The ultimate guide to Carnival Cruise Line
Celebrity Cruises
Celebrity Beyond. CELEBRITY CRUISES
Positioned as a step up from mainstream lines like Carnival, Celebrity Cruises offers a “premium” experience that remains relatively affordable. Based in Miami, Celebrity is recognized for its stylish, contemporary ships that blend sophistication with modern amenities.
Celebrity focuses on providing a refined cruise experience, emphasizing high-end design, curated art collections, and trendy dining venues. The line aims to attract sophisticated travelers seeking a step above the party-centric atmosphere, without venturing into the realm of ultra-luxury.
Celebrity’s Edge Class ships – Celebrity Edge, Celebrity Apex, Celebrity Beyond, and Celebrity Ascent – are notable for their innovative “infinite veranda” cabins. These cabins feature a unique design where a glass wall opens from the top, seamlessly merging the cabin space with the sea and creating a balcony-like atmosphere.
Alt text: Celebrity Beyond cruise ship, highlighting modern design and premium cruise experience.
Crystal Cruises
A Crystal Cruises ship sailing into Sydney. CRYSTAL CRUISES
Crystal Cruises is a legendary name in luxury cruising, recently relaunched under new ownership after an 18-month hiatus. For many years, Crystal was considered the pinnacle of luxury cruising, and its revived operation has only enhanced its reputation for exceptional service and opulent experiences.
Currently operating with two ships, Crystal plans significant expansion, adding four more ships in the coming years. Even in its initial relaunch phase, Crystal maintains its position as a top-tier luxury option, offering an unparalleled level of refinement and attention to detail.
Alt text: Crystal Serenity cruise ship entering Sydney harbor, showcasing luxury cruise travel.
Related: Restart of Crystal Cruises with new owners
Related: Crystal Serenity cruise ship review after relaunch
Related: Crystal Cruises expanding fleet with new ships
Cunard
Cunard boasts a rich history dating back to the 1800s and is synonymous with classic ocean liner travel. Its flagship, the Queen Mary 2, is a true ocean liner offering scheduled transatlantic crossings between Southampton, England, and New York.
Cunard attracts passengers who appreciate a more formal cruise experience, including nightly dress codes and traditional elements like ballroom dancing. The line’s atmosphere evokes a sense of maritime heritage and refined elegance. With the recent addition of Queen Anne, Cunard’s fleet expands to four ships, continuing its legacy of sophisticated voyages.
Alt text: Queen Mary 2 ocean liner, iconic Cunard ship for transatlantic voyages.
Related: Review of Cunard’s new Queen Anne ship
Disney Cruise Line
Disney Wish. STEVE DIAZ/DISNEY CRUISE LINE
Disney Cruise Line is the ultimate choice for families and Disney enthusiasts. Character meet-and-greets, Broadway-caliber Disney-themed shows, and elaborate kids’ clubs define the Disney cruise experience. For those who love the magic of Disney, there’s no comparable cruise line.
The immersive Disney experience comes at a premium. Similar to Disney parks, Disney cruises are a significant investment. However, for families seeking an unforgettable, all-encompassing Disney vacation at sea, the cost is often considered worthwhile.
Alt text: Disney Wish cruise ship, highlighting family-friendly features and Disney branding.
Related: 9 things to know about Disney’s newest ship, Disney Wish
Holland America
Holland America is steeped in tradition, dating back to 1873, and known for its meticulously planned itineraries and mid-sized ships. Historically, Holland America has appealed to a mature demographic seeking classic cruising experiences.
In recent years, Holland America has introduced more contemporary elements, such as venues like B.B. King’s Blues Club, while maintaining its core appeal to couples and retirees. Families with young children might find other lines more catered to their needs, but Holland America remains a strong choice for those valuing refined service and destination-focused itineraries.
Alt text: Holland America cruise ship, emphasizing traditional cruise experience with modern updates.
MSC Cruises
MSC World Europa. ACTIONDRONE/MSA
MSC Cruises, a major European cruise line based in Switzerland, is aggressively expanding its presence in the North American market. With newer, larger ships sailing year-round from Florida and New York, MSC is directly competing with lines like Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line.
MSC Cruises offers large, resort-style ships appealing to a broad audience, similar to its competitors. A highlight of MSC cruises in the Caribbean and Bahamas is stops at Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, MSC’s private island in the Bahamas, offering an exclusive beach experience.
Alt text: MSC World Europa cruise ship aerial view, showcasing large resort-style vessel.
Related: Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve guide
Norwegian Cruise Line
Aerial shot of Norwegian Prima. NORWEGIAN CRUISE LINE
Norwegian Cruise Line is synonymous with “Freestyle Cruising” and high-energy onboard activities. Its massive, resort-like ships are packed with attractions, including multi-story waterslides, ropes courses, and even go-kart tracks.
Entertainment is a key focus for Norwegian, with Broadway-caliber shows like “Beetlejuice” featured on some ships. If you’re seeking a Las Vegas-style resort experience at sea with a wide array of dining, entertainment, and activity options, Norwegian Cruise Line is a strong contender.
Alt text: Norwegian Prima cruise ship aerial view, highlighting onboard attractions like waterslides.
Related: Go-kart race tracks on Norwegian Prima cruise ship
Related: Broadway musical “Beetlejuice” on Norwegian Viva cruise ship
Related: The ultimate guide to Norwegian Cruise Line
Oceania Cruises
Oceania Cruises occupies a unique niche, offering upscale, smaller ships that bridge the gap between mass-market and luxury lines. Oceania provides a step up in terms of refinement and dining without the ultra-high price tags of luxury brands.
Oceania’s seven ships offer a relaxed, country club atmosphere and exceptional dining experiences, appealing primarily to a discerning, often older, demographic. Itinerary-wise, Oceania is known for destination-rich voyages, typically lasting 10 nights or longer, including extensive world cruises.
Alt text: Oceania Cruises ship, emphasizing upscale smaller ship and destination cruising.
Related: Oceania’s new ship Vista review
Ponant
Ponant, a French-based line, specializes in expedition cruising. Ponant focuses on voyages to remote and less-traveled destinations, utilizing small, robust expedition ships equipped with landing craft.
With a growing fleet of upscale expedition vessels, none carrying more than 264 passengers, Ponant is a leader in polar expeditions, offering voyages to Antarctica and the Arctic. Ponant appeals to adventurous travelers seeking immersive experiences in unique environments, far removed from typical large-ship cruise amenities.
Alt text: Ponant expedition cruise ship in polar region, showcasing expedition cruise travel.
Related: Ponant North Pole cruise guide
Princess Cruises
Discovery Princess in the Mexican Riviera. PRINCESS CRUISES
Princess Cruises is a popular choice, particularly with middle-aged couples, retirees, and multi-generational families. Known as the “Love Boat” line, Princess offers a balance of classic cruising with modern amenities.
Princess ships are generally not as large or flashy as those of Royal Caribbean or Norwegian, which aligns with the preferences of its customer base. Princess is praised for its diverse itineraries, including voyages in Alaska, Asia, Australia, and the Caribbean, holding a particularly strong position in the Alaska cruise market.
Alt text: Discovery Princess cruise ship in Mexican Riviera, highlighting popular cruise line for couples and families.
Related: The ultimate guide to Princess Cruises
Regent Seven Seas Cruises
Regent Seven Seas Cruises is synonymous with ultra-luxury cruising. This Miami-based line operates some of the most opulent ships at sea, including its Explorer-class vessels, considered the most expensive luxury ships built on a per-berth basis.
Regent is renowned for its extravagant suites, some exceeding the size of average homes, its highly inclusive fares, and exceptional service levels. Regent comes with a premium price tag, with fares starting around $1,000 per person per day and reaching upwards of $5,500 per person per day for top-tier suites.
Alt text: Regent Seven Seas Explorer suite, showcasing ultra-luxury cruise accommodations.
Related: First look at Regent cruise ship suite
Royal Caribbean
Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas during sea trials in 2023. ROYAL CARIBBEAN
Royal Caribbean reigns supreme in the mega-resort cruise category. Its largest ships are the biggest in the world (closely followed by MSC Cruises), offering an unparalleled array of onboard attractions and activities.
From rock climbing walls and surfing simulators to Broadway shows and ice skating rinks, Royal Caribbean ships are packed with entertainment. Families are particularly drawn to Royal Caribbean due to its extensive family-friendly offerings. While sailing worldwide, Royal Caribbean has a strong presence in the Caribbean and Europe.
Alt text: Royal Caribbean Icon of the Seas during sea trials, highlighting world’s largest cruise ship.
Related: The ultimate guide to Royal Caribbean
Seabourn
Seabourn is another leader in the luxury cruise sector. This seven-ship line offers all-suite accommodations, impeccable service, and gourmet dining experiences.
Similar to other luxury lines, Seabourn offers diverse global itineraries. Seabourn has also expanded into expedition cruising with two new 264-passenger expedition ships designed for polar regions like Antarctica and the Arctic, adding an adventurous dimension to its luxury offerings.
Alt text: Seabourn cruise ship, emphasizing luxury cruise line with global itineraries and expedition options.
Related: Seabourn Pursuit cruise ship review
Related: Seabourn Australia adventure cruise guide
Silversea Cruises
Silver Dawn. SILVERSEA CRUISES
Silversea Cruises, based in Monaco, is a luxury line known for its exceptional service, refined dining, and luxurious accommodations across its fleet of over a dozen vessels. Silversea stands out for its extensive selection of off-the-beaten-path itineraries.
Silversea’s growing expedition fleet provides access to remote destinations worldwide, from the Arctic to Papua New Guinea, all while maintaining a high standard of luxury and comfort.
Alt text: Silver Dawn cruise ship, showcasing luxury Silversea Cruises and refined travel.
The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection
The pool deck of the Ritz-Carlton ship Ilma. RITZ-CARLTON
The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection brings the renowned Ritz-Carlton hotel experience to the sea. Relatively new to cruising, this line operates yacht-like vessels designed to appeal to Ritz-Carlton loyalists, featuring an elegant, residential ambiance.
With two ships currently in operation, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection offers itineraries primarily in the Caribbean and Mediterranean, with global voyages also available. Pricing reflects its ultra-luxury positioning, aligning with the Ritz-Carlton brand.
Alt text: Ritz-Carlton Ilma yacht pool deck, highlighting luxury yacht cruise experience.
Related: The ultimate guide to the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection
Viking
Viking Sky off the coast of Tromso, Norway. VIKING
Viking has established dominance in river cruising and has rapidly expanded in ocean cruising. With over 80 river ships and 11 ocean ships (as of now), Viking offers a wide range of itineraries globally.
Viking is recognized for its Scandinavian-designed ships, port-intensive itineraries, and an inclusive approach, minimizing extra charges. Viking caters to adults only (18+), creating a sophisticated and quiet onboard atmosphere, unsuitable for families with children.
Alt text: Viking Sky cruise ship in Norway, showcasing Viking Cruises’ Scandinavian design and destination focus.
Related: Adults-only cruise lines guide, including Viking
Related: The ultimate guide to Viking cruises
Virgin Voyages
A view over the main pool deck on Virgin Voyages’ Scarlet Lady. ASHLEY KOSCIOLEK/THE POINTS GUY
Virgin Voyages, backed by Richard Branson’s Virgin Group, is a newcomer shaking up the cruise industry. Virgin Voyages aims for a hipper, more inclusive, and younger (adults-only) vibe, reinventing mainstream cruising.
Think tattoo parlors, karaoke rooms, and inclusive pricing with no extra charges for gratuities or many dining options. Virgin Voyages’ ships – Scarlet Lady, Valiant Lady, and Resilient Lady – feature stylish suites designed by Tom Dixon. Destinations include the Caribbean, Mexico, Europe, Australia and a private beach club in the Bahamas. Brilliant Lady, the fourth ship, is launching soon.
Alt text: Virgin Voyages Scarlet Lady pool deck, highlighting modern and adults-only cruise experience.
Related: First Virgin Voyages sailing review
Related: Virgin Voyages Brilliant Lady launch details
Windstar Cruises
Windstar Cruises is the answer for those seeking a small-ship cruise experience. With only six vessels carrying between 148 and 342 passengers, Windstar offers an intimate and personalized cruise style.
Windstar stands out with its three sailing ships, offering a unique and romantic sailing experience. For food enthusiasts, Windstar offers James Beard-themed cruises featuring market tours and cooking demos with James Beard Award-winning chefs.
Alt text: Windstar sailing ship, emphasizing small ship and sailing cruise experience.
More guides that will help you plan a cruise:
- TPG’s ultimate guide to picking a cruise line
- TPG’s cruise line hub pages (linked throughout the guide)
- TPG’s cruise reviews
