Choosing the right cruise line can feel overwhelming. With so many options available, from well-known giants like Carnival and Royal Caribbean to smaller, more specialized operators such as Windstar Cruises, where do you even begin? It’s like navigating a vast ocean of choices! This guide provides a clear comparison of popular cruise lines, helping you chart a course to your ideal vacation.
The cruise industry offers incredible variety. Some lines, like Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, and MSC Cruises, boast massive ships that are essentially floating resorts, packed with water parks, multiple pools, and endless activities. Others focus on a more intimate experience with boutique-style ships. You’ll find cruise lines catering to every taste and budget. Carnival Cruise Line is known for its affordable, fun-filled voyages, while luxury lines such as Regent Seven Seas Cruises offer unparalleled opulence, with suites that can cost thousands of dollars per day.
This overview isn’t meant to be an exhaustive review, but rather a helpful tool to understand the landscape of cruise options. Think of it as a Compare Cruise Lines Chart in article form, providing you with essential details to determine which cruise operators might best suit your preferences.
Once you’ve identified a few lines that pique your interest, it’s time to delve deeper. Explore their specific ships, itineraries, departure ports, and pricing. Consider consulting a cruise travel agent for expert advice. Remember, resources like The Points Guy offer in-depth guides to individual cruise lines, which you can access through the links provided in each section below.
Related: TPG’s ultimate guide to picking a cruise line
Azamara
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With a small fleet of just four ships, each accommodating fewer than 700 guests, Azamara stands out for its intimate and upscale cruising experience. This line attracts travelers who appreciate a refined atmosphere, inclusive amenities like gratuities and alcoholic beverages, and a strong emphasis on destination immersion. Azamara prides itself on offering longer port stays, including overnight visits, allowing for deeper exploration. The ships have a boutique hotel ambiance, and while the pricing is higher than mass-market lines, it’s not quite as extravagant as ultra-luxury options. Consider Azamara if you value in-depth destination experiences and a sophisticated, smaller-ship feel.
Related: 5 things to love about Azamara’s newest ship
Carnival Cruise Line
Alt text: Carnival Dream cruise ship showcasing fun ship concept, highlighting family cruise vacation and affordable travel.
Carnival Cruise Line, the self-proclaimed “Fun Ship” line, dominates the market for short, budget-friendly, and entertainment-focused cruises departing from U.S. ports to destinations like the Caribbean, Bahamas, and Mexico. Popular among roughly one in five cruisers, Carnival ships are known for their vibrant, lively atmosphere and exciting features such as expansive water parks with thrilling waterslides. If you’re seeking a cruise packed with fun and affordability, Carnival is a strong contender. However, it’s important to note that the focus is on high-energy experiences rather than luxury or refined elegance. Ideal for families and those seeking a lively and accessible cruise vacation.
Related: The ultimate guide to Carnival Cruise Line
Celebrity Cruises
Alt text: Celebrity Beyond cruise ship exterior, emphasizing modern cruise ship design and premium cruise line experience.
Designed to be a step above mainstream lines like Carnival while maintaining relative affordability, Celebrity Cruises is a Miami-based “premium” line recognized for its stylish and contemporary large ships. Expect sophisticated design, impressive art collections, and trendy dining venues. Celebrity aims to attract a discerning audience seeking a more refined experience than the party-centric atmosphere of some mass-market lines, though it doesn’t position itself as a luxury brand. Celebrity’s Edge Class ships – Celebrity Edge, Apex, Beyond, and Ascent – feature innovative “infinite veranda” cabins with floor-to-ceiling glass walls that open to create a balcony-like space, blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor living. Perfect for travelers seeking modern design, upscale dining, and a sophisticated cruise experience without the ultra-luxury price tag.
Crystal Cruises
Alt text: Crystal Cruises ship in Sydney Harbour, depicting luxury cruise travel and global destinations.
Crystal Cruises, a beloved luxury line, has recently relaunched under new ownership after an 18-month hiatus. For many years, Crystal was considered the epitome of luxury cruising. Post-relaunch reviews confirm it’s even better than before, maintaining its commitment to exceptional service and opulent experiences. Initially, Crystal has resumed operations with two ships but has ambitious plans to expand its fleet significantly over the next six years. If you’re looking for a truly luxurious and all-inclusive cruise experience with a focus on impeccable service and refined elegance, Crystal Cruises should be high on your list.
Cunard
Alt text: Queen Mary 2 ocean liner, illustrating transatlantic cruise and classic ship design.
Cunard, a historic line with roots tracing back to the 1800s, is renowned for its flagship, the Queen Mary 2. This iconic vessel lives up to its reputation as a true ocean liner, offering regular transatlantic voyages between Southampton, England, and New York. Cunard enthusiasts appreciate the line’s more formal ambiance, including nightly dress codes, and its embrace of ocean liner traditions, such as evenings with ballroom dancing. Cunard’s fleet of four ships, including the newly debuted Queen Anne, offers a unique blend of classic elegance and modern amenities. Ideal for those who appreciate tradition, formal nights, and the grandeur of ocean travel.
Related: Our take on Cunard’s new Queen Anne
Disney Cruise Line
Alt text: Disney Wish cruise ship exterior, showcasing family cruise and Disney themed vacation.
Disney Cruise Line is synonymous with family-friendly cruising. Meet-and-greets with beloved Disney characters, Broadway-caliber Disney-themed shows, and the most extensive children’s areas at sea are just a few of the allures. For Disney aficionados, nothing quite compares to the immersive Disney experience at sea. However, if Disney themes aren’t your preference, this line might not be the best fit. The primary drawback is the cost; similar to Disney parks on land, Disney cruises are a premium-priced vacation. Perfect for families with children and Disney enthusiasts seeking a magical and immersive cruise experience.
Related: Disney Wish: 9 things to know about Disney’s newest ship
Holland America
Alt text: Holland America cruise ship sailing, representing traditional cruise experience and destination focused travel.
Tradition has long been a hallmark of Holland America Line, a company dating back to 1873. Known for its carefully planned, global itineraries on mid-sized ships, Holland America appeals to travelers seeking a more refined and destination-focused cruise. However, Holland America has been evolving in recent years, introducing lively venues like B.B. King’s Blues Club to broaden its appeal. The primary demographic for this line is couples and retirees. Families with young children might find other lines more geared towards their needs. Consider Holland America for longer itineraries, cultural immersion, and a classic cruise experience with modern touches.
MSC Cruises
Alt text: MSC World Europa aerial view, emphasizing large modern cruise ship and family cruise options.
MSC Cruises, a European cruise giant based in Switzerland, is aggressively expanding its presence in the North American market. With newer, larger ships sailing year-round from Florida to the Caribbean and Bahamas, and also offering departures from New York City, MSC is becoming a significant player. Similar to Royal Caribbean and Norwegian, MSC Cruises operates large, resort-style ships that appeal to a broad audience. Highlights of MSC cruises in North America include stops at Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, their private island in the Bahamas. MSC offers a blend of European flair and large-ship amenities, appealing to families and those seeking a vibrant and diverse cruise experience.
Norwegian Cruise Line
Alt text: Norwegian Prima aerial shot, showcasing mega cruise ship and onboard attractions like water slides and race tracks.
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is known for its giant, resort-like ships packed with thrilling attractions. Multistory waterslides, ropes courses, and even go-kart race tracks are just some of the “wow” factors found on NCL vessels. These ships also feature a wide array of dining options, bars, casinos, and entertainment venues. NCL is particularly recognized for its entertainment offerings, including Broadway-caliber shows like “Beetlejuice.” If you’re seeking a Las Vegas-style resort experience at sea with a focus on entertainment and activities, Norwegian Cruise Line is a strong choice.
Related: The ultimate guide to Norwegian Cruise Line
Oceania Cruises
Alt text: Oceania Vista cruise ship, representing upscale small ship cruise and destination cruises.
Oceania Cruises has carved a niche in the cruise market with its relatively small, upscale ships. Offering a step up from mass-market lines but not quite reaching the price points of luxury brands, Oceania provides a premium experience at a more accessible price. Its ships feature a relaxed, country club ambiance and exceptional dining, appealing to a mature demographic. Itinerary-wise, Oceania is known for destination-intensive voyages, typically lasting 10 nights or longer, including extensive world cruises up to 180 days. If you prioritize fine dining, destination immersion, and a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere on a smaller ship, Oceania is an excellent option.
Related: Take a look at Vista, Oceania’s stunning new ship
Ponant
Alt text: Ponant expedition ship in Antarctica, illustrating expedition cruise and adventure travel.
Ponant, a France-based line, specializes in expedition cruising. This unique style of cruising involves traveling to remote and challenging destinations on small, robust ships equipped with their own landing craft. With a rapidly growing fleet of upscale expedition ships, none carrying more than 264 passengers, Ponant is renowned for voyages to destinations like Antarctica and the Arctic. If you’re seeking adventure, exploration of remote regions, and a focus on nature and wildlife rather than typical cruise ship amenities, Ponant is your line. Waterslides and laser tag are definitely not part of the Ponant experience.
Related: This epic Ponant trip will take you to the North Pole
Princess Cruises
Alt text: Discovery Princess in Mexican Riviera, highlighting popular cruise line and diverse cruise itineraries.
Princess Cruises, the “Love Boat” line, is popular with middle-aged couples, retirees, and multigenerational families. Princess ships are generally not as large or flashy as those of Royal Caribbean or Norwegian, which is exactly what their loyal customer base appreciates. Princess customers value the line’s wide array of itineraries, including destinations in Asia, Australia, and the Caribbean. Princess has long been a dominant cruise line in the Alaska market. If you’re looking for a comfortable, well-rounded cruise experience with diverse itineraries and a focus on classic cruising, Princess is a reliable choice.
Related: The ultimate guide to Princess Cruises
Regent Seven Seas Cruises
Alt text: Regent Seven Seas Cruises suite, portraying luxury cruise suite and high-end cruise experience.
Regent Seven Seas Cruises is a Miami-based luxury line operating some of the most opulent ships at sea. Their Explorer-class ships are considered among the most expensive luxury vessels ever built on a per-berth basis. Regent is particularly famous for its over-the-top suites, some larger than average American homes, as well as its incredibly inclusive fares and exceptional service. However, this level of luxury comes at a significant cost. Rooms on Regent ships start around $1,000 per person per day and can reach up to $5,500 per person per day. For travelers seeking the ultimate in luxury, all-inclusive cruising with unparalleled service and opulent accommodations, Regent Seven Seas Cruises is in a class of its own.
Royal Caribbean
Alt text: Royal Caribbean Icon of the Seas sea trials, illustrating mega cruise ship and family entertainment on cruise ships.
For fans of mega-resorts, Royal Caribbean is in a league of its own. The line’s largest ships are the biggest in the world (MSC Cruises ships are the closest in size) and feature an incredible array of attractions, from rock climbing walls and surfing simulators to Broadway shows and ice skating rinks. Families, in particular, will love Royal Caribbean due to the abundance of family-friendly activities and venues. Royal Caribbean ships sail worldwide, with a strong presence in the Caribbean and Europe. If you’re looking for a high-energy, activity-packed cruise vacation on a massive ship with endless entertainment options, Royal Caribbean is the go-to choice.
Related: The ultimate guide to Royal Caribbean
Seabourn
Alt text: Seabourn cruise ship, showcasing luxury small ship cruise and global itineraries.
Seabourn is another leading luxury cruise line, offering all-suite ships, exceptional service, and gourmet cuisine. Like other luxury lines, Seabourn offers a wide variety of itineraries around the globe. Seabourn has also expanded into expedition-style cruising with two new 264-passenger ships designed for polar regions like Antarctica and the Arctic. If you desire a luxurious and intimate cruise experience with a focus on fine dining, personalized service, and global exploration, Seabourn is an excellent option.
Related: This 10-night Seabourn adventure in Australia will wow you
Silversea Cruises
Alt text: Silver Dawn cruise ship, representing ultra luxury cruise and expedition cruise travel.
Silversea Cruises, based in Monaco, is synonymous with exquisite service, refined dining, and beautifully appointed accommodations. With a fleet of over a dozen vessels, Silversea is also known for its industry-leading selection of off-the-beaten-path itineraries. Their growing fleet of small expedition ships can take you in style from the Arctic to Papua New Guinea. If you seek ultra-luxury cruising with a focus on personalized attention, unique and adventurous itineraries, and a sophisticated atmosphere, Silversea is a top contender.
The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection
Alt text: Ritz-Carlton Ilma pool deck, depicting luxury yacht cruise and upscale travel experience.
Fans of the Ritz-Carlton hotel chain will feel right at home on the yacht-like vessels of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection. This relatively new cruise line, the cruising arm of Ritz-Carlton, has been operating for about two years with two smaller ships designed to appeal to Ritz-Carlton loyalists. The ships offer an elegant, residential ambiance and sail worldwide, primarily in the Caribbean and Mediterranean. Pricing is at the very high end of the luxury cruise market. If you desire the Ritz-Carlton level of service and luxury in a yacht-like cruise setting, and price is not a primary concern, this collection is worth exploring.
Related: The ultimate guide to the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection
Viking
Alt text: Viking Sky in Norway, illustrating Viking cruise and destination focused adult cruise.
Viking has dominated the river cruise industry for North Americans for years and has become a significant player in upscale ocean cruising in the last decade. With over 80 river ships operating on major rivers worldwide and 11 ocean ships (up from just one in 2015), Viking offers a vast range of destinations. Viking is known for impeccably designed ships with modern Scandinavian interiors and unique, port-intensive itineraries. Operating with a mostly all-inclusive model and a “no nickel-and-diming” philosophy, Viking provides a transparent and value-driven experience. However, it’s important to note that Viking is adults-only; guests under 18 are not permitted. Ideal for adults seeking destination-focused cruising, cultural immersion, and a sophisticated, all-inclusive experience without children onboard.
Related: The ultimate guide to Viking cruises
Virgin Voyages
Alt text: Virgin Voyages pool deck on Scarlet Lady, showcasing modern cruise design and adult only cruise experience.
Virgin Voyages, backed by Richard Branson’s Virgin Group, is redefining mainstream cruising with a trendier, more inclusive, and younger vibe (though still adults-only). Think tattoo parlors, karaoke booths, and no extra charges for gratuities or dining in specialty restaurants. Virgin Voyages’ first three ships, Scarlet Lady, Valiant Lady, and Resilient Lady, feature suites designed by Tom Dixon. Destinations include the Caribbean, Mexico, a private beach club in the Bahamas, as well as parts of Europe and Australia. A fourth ship, Brilliant Lady, is scheduled to launch soon. If you’re looking for a modern, adults-only cruise experience with a focus on entertainment, inclusivity, and a departure from traditional cruising norms, Virgin Voyages offers a fresh and exciting option.
Related: I’ve been on more than 150 cruise ships; here’s why I loved my first Virgin sailing
Windstar Cruises
Alt text: Windstar sailing ship, depicting small ship cruise and sailing cruise vacation.
If the idea of large cruise ships is unappealing, Windstar Cruises, a small-ship specialist, might be the perfect alternative. Windstar’s six ships carry between just 148 and 342 passengers, creating a wonderfully intimate atmosphere. For those seeking romance, Windstar offers three sailing vessels, a rarity in modern cruising. Food enthusiasts can opt for James Beard-themed cruises, featuring market tours and cooking demonstrations with James Beard Award-winning chefs. Windstar is ideal for travelers seeking a small-ship experience, intimate atmosphere, unique itineraries, and a focus on destinations and culinary experiences.
More guides that will help you plan a cruise:
