Cruise Lines Ranked From Worst to Best

These rankings will help you determine your next voyage.

Cruise Lines Ranked From Worst to Best

Looking to make your next adventure a seafaring one? Or maybe you want an all-inclusive vacation that doesn’t require a ton of planning? We have the skinny on the world’s best and worst cruise line operators.

Generally speaking, if you’re booking a cruise, you’ll fall into one of three categories: mainstream, premium or luxury.

Mainstream cruises come in all types, but they are generally the most affordable. While many cater to hard partiers, there’s plenty of room for families and folks looking for real adventure.
Premium lines tend to be more laid-back and thus attract an older clientele. The food and cabins are far better on these boats, but you’ll pay more for the privilege — and the serenity.
Lastly, luxury cruises will run over $400 a night, but you’ll see and feel the difference. The food will be some of the best you’ve ever had, and the room will be larger than your own home (maybe).

With all this in mind, check out how each of the best-known cruise lines rank before booking your next voyage.

20. Costa Cruises

Note: The ranking information comes from Cruiseline.

Rating: 3.2
Class: Mainstream
Fleet: 18 ships
Top departure points: Barcelona, Venice (Italy), Savona/Genoa (Italy), Pointe-A-Pitre (Guadeloupe), Singapore
Top destinations: Asia, Africa, Middle East, Europe (northern, western and Mediterranean), transatlantic
Starting price: $119/night

Bottom line: It’s hard to forget the 2012 disaster involving a Costa Concordia that killed 32 people and left a capsized boat bobbing off the coast of Italy for over a year. Even without that accident, Costa doesn’t have the best reputation.

It mostly caters to Europeans looking to party hard at a good price. But families will find the kids areas to their liking, including the children-sail-free promotions. Folks looking for peace and quiet best avoid these boats, and the tobacco averse among us be warned: Every bar has a designated smoking section.

Costa is known for its fun entertainment options, and it was the first cruise line to offer spa cabins.

What to bring: OFF! FamilyCare Bug Spray and Mosquito Repellent, Unscented, Non-Greasy, 6 oz (Pack of 2), $13.98

What Customers Say About Costa Cruises

Overall rating: 3.3
Cruise: 7 Night Blue Is The Color (Rome roundtrip)
Date: November 2017
Ship: Costa Pacifica
Cabin type: Oceanview
Traveled as: Large group

“[Whirlwind] tour of a lifetime. The ports and excursions were well worth the trip, though I would not sail this particular cruise line again. I recommend taking time after the excursion, which are usually only 4 hours or so, and touring the cities on your own to get away from the commercial aspects.” — amnayo

19. MSC Cruises

Rating: 3.3
Class: Mainstream
Fleet: 19
Top departure points: Miami, Barcelona, Rio De Janeiro, Genoa (Italy), Civitavecchia (Italy)
Top destinations: Transatlantic, Europe (northern, western and Mediterranean), Asia, Africa, Middle East, South America
Starting price: $69/night

Bottom line: No matter where you sail with MSC, which is based in Italy, it will have 50 to 85 percent European passengers. Regardless of nationality, folks who pick this operator are looking for a budget cruise for the whole family, as kids 3-11 are free and 12- to 17-year-olds board at reduced prices.

Passengers book "experiences," which are much different than U.S.-based cruise operators. These determine what type of cabin you occupy and any extra perks.

The ships are nice and the newest in the industry, but there is a lot more permitted smoking aboard the European cruises than those based in the U.S. Don’t expect amazing food or a party atmosphere.

What to bring: Contigo AutoSeal Chill Water Bottle, 24 oz., Scuba, $22.99

What Customers Say About MSC Cruises

Overall rating: 2.6
Cruise: 9 Night Mediterranean (Barcelona roundtrip)
Date: October 2018
Ship: MSC Preziosa
Cabin type: Balcony
Traveled as: Couple

“We were surprised at the number of senior citizens. Unclear if it was the ship, the itinerary or the time of trip, but after 4 MSC cruises, this was the first where it felt like a retirement home." — evieward

18. Norwegian Cruise Line

Rating: 3.5
Class: Mainstream
Fleet: 17
Top departure points: Miami, New York City, Seattle, Port Canaveral (Florida), Civitavecchia (Italy)
Top destinations: Caribbean, Alaska (inside passage), Europe (Mediterranean)
Starting price: $146/night

Bottom line: Norwegian is best known for the quality and creativity of its food, and it was the first cruiser to offer flexible dining options. The upscale suites are more akin to a luxury hotel than a ship cabin, with a private sundeck and restaurant. And there’s plenty for the kids, like Nickelodeon-themed breakfasts and Cirque du Soleil-inspired entertainment.

Parents will enjoy the Broadway-caliber performances and comedy. Some ships also feature a water park and sports decks that include a bungee trampoline, spider web climbing frame, multiple corkscrew water slides and a ropes course.

Drawbacks include small cabins with tight bathrooms and extra charges for the best food options.

What to bring: World's Best Cozy-Soft Microfleece Travel Blanket, 50 x 60 Inch, Charcoal, $10.99

What Customers Say About Norwegian Cruise Lines

Overall rating: 3.9
Cruise: 7 Night Southern Caribbean (San Juan roundtrip)
Date: December 2019
Ship: Norwegian Epic
Cabin type: Balcony
Traveled as: Singles/friends

“I have cruised NCL many times, but it may be my last. I am still not happy they changed the itinerary after I booked the cruise, and the overall attention to guest satisfaction has gone way down. Unless you have to financially, DO NOT take advantage of the airfare option. They had me fly from Seattle to Fort Lauderdale to Atlanta and then to Puerto Rico. Many other guests I spoke with had a similar experience. Also, seriously look for other options/companies that offer shore excursions than NCL. They were my favorite.” — Wisest1

17. Carnival Cruise Lines

Rating: 3.7
Class: Mainstream
Fleet: 29 ships
Top departure points: Miami, Galveston (Texas), Port Canaveral (Florida), Fort Lauderdale, (Florida) New York City
Top destinations: Caribbean, Panama Canal, Mexico
Starting price: $124/night

Bottom line: The jester of the mainstream cruise lines, Carnival has a reputation for its boisterous boats. These cruises are popular with party animals and singles — especially if those folks enjoy hairy chest contests, endless buckets of beer bottles (these cost extra, FYI), late-night comedy and food endorsed by Guy Fieri.

Children are, of course, welcome as well. To that end, Carnival hosts Dr. Seuss-themed brunches and story hours for the youngsters, or the kid in all of us.

There are few quiet spaces on Carnival boats, with music, loud and colorful decor, and regrettable adult decision-making ruling the roost.

What to bring: Back From Bali Women's Sarong, $19.95

What Customers Say About Carnival Cruise Lines

Overall rating: 3.8
Cruise: 4 Night Western Caribbean (Miami roundtrip)
Date: January 2020
Ship: Carnival Victory
Cabin type: Suite
Traveled as: Family (older children)

“We had fun on a four-day getaway for a reasonable cost. Ship was clean and food was delicious. I will take a newer Carnival if I go on a longer cruise. The ocean suites are worth the cost.” — bonnycorn

16. Princess Cruises

Rating: 3.8
Class: Mainstream
Fleet: 21
Top departure points: Fort Lauderdale (Florida), Yokohama (Japan), Southampton (England), Sydney (Australia), Vancouver (Canada)
Top destinations: Asia, Africa, Middle East, transatlantic, South Pacific, Europe (Mediterranean)
Starting price: $89/night

Bottom line: Princess offers quality at an affordable price. Families and couples are drawn to the shorter cruises while longer ones tend to attract retirees and empty-nesters. Educational classes are included, for adults and kids — and there’s even yoga for children. Couples can get married on board in a chapel.

Food is solid, and there are no restrictions on mealtimes. Unfortunately, childcare is lacking for kids 3 and under. And for an extra charge, folks can enter a lottery for behind-the-scenes ship tours.

This is not a cruise line for singles and hard partiers.

What to bring: AiRunTech Waterproof Pouch with Waist Strap (2 Pack), $14.85

What Customers Say About Princess Cruises

Overall rating: 4.6
Cruise: 17 Night Roman Passage (Rome to Fort Lauderdale)
Date: December 2018
Ship: Pacific Princess
Cabin type: Suite
Traveled as: Couple

“This cruise was a wonderful experience for both my wife and me. We especially enjoy the ‘days at sea,’ and the transatlantic aspect included eight consecutive days at sea crossing the Atlantic Ocean. There is nothing like sitting on your balcony and seeing nothing but ocean waters all around you. It gives you a perspective on the world and the universe around you.” — draronson

15. Royal Caribbean

Rating: 3.9
Class: Mainstream
Top departure points: Fort Lauderdale (Florida), Miami, Sydney (Australia), Cape Liberty (New Jersey), Shanghai (China)
Top destinations: Asia, Africa, Middle East, Caribbean, South Pacific
Starting price: $154/night

Bottom line: Families looking for a great experience at a good cost — essentially an alternative to Disney — want to book with Royal Caribbean. And outdoors, sporty folks will love the adrenaline-rush activities at sea. Think rock climbing, surfing simulations, ice skating, ziplining, skating and even boxing.

Entertainment options like water parks and parades with characters from "Madagascar," "Shrek," "Kung Fu Panda" and other DreamWorks properties will keep kids smiling and happy. And parents will be delighted by the Broadway-caliber performances of "Chicago" or "Hairspray."

If you’re antisocial or looking for quiet relaxation, this is not your boat.

What to bring: Profile by Gottex Women's Off The Shoulder One Piece Swimsuit, $49.25-$128

What Customers Say About Royal Caribbean

Overall rating: 3.5
Cruise: 7 Night Western Caribbean (Miami roundtrip)
Date: January 2020
Ship: Oasis of the Seas
Cabin type: Balcony
Traveled as: Couple

“Please serve sweetened ice tea. Sugar does not melt easily in cold tea. The main dining room needs an efficiency review because it's much too slow. Servers very often carry one little item, disappear for long periods and are inefficient! They are well-meaning and pleasant but need a manager with good organizational and efficiency skills to make it work smoothly.” — pacificanelia

14. Holland America Line

Rating: 3.9
Class: Mainstream
Fleet: 15
Top departure points: Fort Lauderdale (Florida), Amsterdam (Netherlands), San Diego, Venice (Italy), Vancouver (Canada)
Top destinations: Europe (northern and Mediterranean), transatlantic, Asia, Africa, Middle East, Panama Canal
Starting price: $79/night

Bottom line: If you’re looking to spend the majority (or all) of your time on board, entertained day and night with a thumping party atmosphere, then steer far clear of Holland America. These cruises are for multigenerational families and folks who want to explore the various port stops for more than an hour.

Holland America curates special itineraries like an after-hours tour of St. Petersburg’s State Hermitage Museum. The lounge/bar areas are low-key and upscale, and the libraries are New York Times-themed. There are a blues club and solid restaurant options.

Deck dining leaves much to be desired, and the lack of robust entertainment options might weigh on younger kids and teenagers.

What to bring: Zomake Lightweight Travel Backpack, $19.99

What Customers Say About Holland America Line

Overall rating: 4.0
Cruise: 7 Night Alaskan Inside Passage (Vancouver roundtrip)
Date: September 2019
Ship: Noordam
Cabin type: Balcony
Traveled as: Couple

“Except for our experience with you medical personnel and the embarkation process, it was a good cruise.” — bocathill

13. Silversea Cruises

Rating: 3.9
Class: Luxury
Fleet: 13
Top departure points: Barcelona, Piraeus (Greece), Venice (Italy), Ushuaia, Tierra Del Fuego (Argentina), Fort Lauderdale (Florida)
Top destinations: Asia, Africa, Middle East, Europe (northern, western, eastern and Mediterranean)
Starting price: $2,970

Bottom line: Older couples who like a formal atmosphere and attentive service flock to these boats. It helps that fares include gratuities, wine, and top-shelf champagne and spirits. But there are also smaller indulgences like Bulgari toiletries and Pratesi linens that keep guests coming back.

The restaurants are exceptional, and multi-course dinners can be served in your cabin, which is more than likely a suite since most of the fleet only has this type of accommodation.

Laid-back folks might find the vibe too stuffy, and families want to avoid these journeys at all costs. Children have little to do amongst such refinement.

What to bring: Organic Aloe Vera Gel With 100 Percent Pure Aloe, $19.95

What Customers Say About Silversea Cruises

Overall rating: 3.7
Cruise: 7 Night Alaska (Seward to Vancouver)
Date: June 2018
Ship: Silver Shadow
Cabin type: Balcony
Traveled as: Couple

“Have sailed twice on Princess — you can get a penthouse suite on Princess and get just as good of service and twice as much room and regular unlimited food. Silver Shadow has great personal service, but at the penthouse level on other ships, you get the same for far less money. I would recommend Silver Shadow only to someone willing to pay a high price to be alone on a ship.” — traveldan

12. Cunard

Rating: 4.0
Class: Premium
Fleet: 3
Top departure points: Southampton (England), Sydney (Australia), New York City, Tokyo, Melbourne (Australia)
Top destinations: Asia, Africa, Middle East, South Pacific, transatlantic, Europe (western, northern)
Starting price: $299/night

Bottom line: Board a Cunard ship for its sophisticated atmosphere and top-notch activity slate, complete with quality lectures and classes and theater-screened movies. The Queen Mary 2 features a planetarium for those dark, starry nights at sea. British touches include traditional afternoon tea and plenty of fish and chips at the pub.

Passengers skew older, more in the retiree realm, but summer attracts families who want upscale at a good price. And if parents do travel with toddlers, they can have dinner out with Cunard’s night nursery service.

Some sections are closed off to lower-paying guests, and the nightlife is almost nonexistent.

What to bring: Dramamine Motion Sickness Less Drowsy, Travel Vial, 8 Count, $4.99

What Customers Say About Cunard

Overall rating: 4.1
Cruise: 7 Night Transatlantic Eastbound (New York to Southampton)
Date: September 2019
Ship: Queen Mary 2
Cabin type: Balcony
Traveled as: Singles/friends

“The best, of course, was a beautiful open ocean to stare at for days. It is a great crossing for an older crowd. Some of the activities were a bit corny. The food quality was like a very good wedding. Don't be afraid to request or mix ingredients of the entrees.” — jjcohen31

11. Celebrity Cruises

Rating: 4.0
Class: Mainstream
Fleet: 15 ships
Top departure points: Fort Lauderdale (Florida), Sydney (Australia), Southampton (England), Barcelona, Civitavecchia (Italy)
Top destinations: South Pacific, Asia, Africa, Middle East, transatlantic, Europe (Mediterranean), western Caribbean
Starting price: $162/night

Bottom line: Cruisers looking for style and substance without breaking the bank hop aboard Celebrity boats. Their floating cities feature actual patches of grass and world-renowned art collections, along with innovative dining options, educational classes and playful activities like water volleyball with ship personnel.

Nighttime entertainment might be a comedy burlesque show or a few top-shelf bourbons at any of the several swanky night clubs. Or relax in the spa, take a steam or just call the concierge and have it all brought to your cabin. There are even babysitting options for families.

Drawbacks include tons of extra charges for things like the specialty restaurants and the stage shows that don’t measure up to the competition.

What to bring: Bagsmart Toiletry Bag Travel Bag with Hanging Hook, $22.99-$27.99

What Customers Say About Celebrity Cruises

Overall rating: 4.2
Cruise: 8 Night Norwegian Fjords (Dublin roundtrip)
Date: May 2019
Ship: Celebrity Reflection
Cabin type: Balcony
Traveled as: Couple

“The trip was very enjoyable. The service was very good, the ports were good, the entertainment was good except for Clare Maiden, and the food was very good. However, compared with the food and entertainment we had on our cruise aboard the Celebrity Millennium in December, which was outstanding, this cruise was OK.” — inwechter26

10. Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Rating: 4.1
Class: Luxury
Fleet: 5
Top departure points: Miami, Barcelona, Venice (Italy), Civitavecchia (Italy), Vancouver (Canada)
Top destinations: Asia, Africa, Middle East, Europe (Mediterranean, northern), Caribbean, Alaska
Starting price: $2,899/night

Bottom line: For those willing to spend, a trip aboard Regent comes with everything included in the price. And by everything, that means roundtrip airfare, alcohol and gratuities, curated shore excursions at every stop and a pre-cruise night in a hotel. Couples and singles love these cruises, but families not so much.

Wi-Fi is only included in the upper tiers of cabin accommodations, but free throughout common spaces. And while the boats are spacious and never feel crowded, that can sometimes be a negative, as you might feel like the only person who showed up for the party that night.

What to bring: Amazon Essentials Women's Classic Fit Long-Sleeve Full-Zip Polar Soft Fleece Jacket, $22.90

What Customers Say About Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Overall rating: 4.6
Cruise: 10 Night Flamenco Flourish (Monte Carlo to Barcelona)
Date: May 2019
Ship: Seven Seas Voyager
Cabin type: Suite
Traveled as: Couple

“Everything on board the ship was EXQUISITE! Unfortunately, we felt so cheated by the poor tours that Regent had arranged. The tour guides were either disorganized or unable to communicate, and we just left feeling shortchanged. We've been on other cruises where the cruise ship company had arranged really enriching and wonderful excursions. Sadly, this is the only area Regent fell short. But the experience onboard did exceed all of our expectations.” — SunseekerChuck

9. Oceania Cruises

Rating: 4.1
Class: Premium
Fleet: 6
Top departure points: Barcelona, Miami, Southampton (England), Civitavecchia (Italy), Venice (Italy)
Top destinations: Europe (northern, western and Mediterranean), Asia, Africa, Middle East
Starting price: $999/night

Bottom line: It’s hard to beat the dining options aboard Oceania ships, with a bistro from venerable French chef Jacques Pepin, a highly rated Pan-Asian restaurant and the all-inclusive packages. Before or after a meal, check out the star-studded art collection with names like Picasso, Miró and Hirst.

These journeys are aimed at couples looking for upscale travel and amazing food and wine experiences with a healthy dose of culture. It might not be the best family experience unless your children are extremely precocious and want Mommy and Daddy to have a memorable experience.

Try to book the newer Riviera or Marina, as some of the older ships lack the pizzazz and amenities of these two.

What to bring: Upgraded 4 Pack Wine Wings Reusable Bottle Protector Sleeve, $19.95

What Customers Say About Oceania Cruises

Overall rating: 4.5
Cruise: 18 Night Sunny Islands and Andes (Santiago to Miami)
Date: January 2020
Ship: Marina
Cabin type: Suite
Traveled as: Couple

“Our first cruise with Oceania. Exceptional food. We loved that so much was included — specialty dining (which was like eating in 5-star restaurants) didn't cost extra, bottled water was handed out at every port, espresso drinks and pastries were always available, laundry was included (and if you wanted to do it yourself, it was free). The hands-on cooking classes were fantastic. The lectures were interesting. Afternoon tea with a string quartet was a nice touch. They were serious about keeping us healthy with hand washing and plastic wrap around buffets. We went to ports where norovirus is endemic, and to their great credit, no one got sick. Great service, and always with a smile.” — elenaprior

8. Seabourn

Rating: 4.2
Class: Luxury
Fleet: 9
Top departure points: Piraeus (Greece), Barcelona, Civitavecchia (Italy), Singapore, Miami
Top destinations: Europe (Mediterranean, western, northern), Asia, Africa, Middle East
Starting price: $2,499/night

Bottom line: Seabourn takes guests to amazing ports, but they truly shine in the onboard experience.

Several of their ships have all-suite accommodations, and some of those are spa suites unmatched by any other ocean liner. Cruises usually come with a Marina Day in which the crew offers a variety of aquatic activities and a saltwater pool.

Folks looking for a formal cruise experience might be turned off by Seabourn’s casual luxury. But those looking for an upscale experience and port stops where few others go, this is your bag.

Just leave the kids behind, as these journeys are designed for adults.

What to bring: Coolife Luggage Expandable Suitcase, $89.99

What Customers Say About Seabourn

Overall rating: 4.6
Cruise: 7 Night Greek and Italian Jewels (Athens to Rome)
Date: October 2018
Ship: Seabourn Odyssey
Cabin type: Suite
Traveled as: Couple

“We had an incredible time on the cruise! This is certainly the type of cruise for people who like a quieter, calmer ship. We really loved the destinations, tours and FOOD! The food on board was incredible! As well as the accommodations in the room and the service. The staff was so friendly, warm and responsive!” — JCraigfeld

7. Paul Gauguin Cruises

Rating: 4.2
Class: Premium
Fleet: 2
Top departure points: Papeete (Tahiti), Lautoka (Fiji Islands)
Top destinations: South Pacific
Starting price: $3,145/night

Bottom line: Even if this cruise isn’t memorable for you, it will be for your accountant.

It would be hard not to enjoy all the bang for your buck, which includes all-inclusive fares that cover some wine and spirits and all onboard gratuities. They also offer roundtrip airfare from Los Angeles, a cabin with an ocean view and likely a balcony (70 percent have them), incredible food options in a Parisian-Polynesian fusion theme, and a swim and snorkel session at Paul Gaugin’s private French Polynesian island.

This tiny fleet isn’t great for singles or families, but couples seeking a yacht-like jaunt through the South Pacific will be well rewarded.

What to bring: EltaMD UV Sheer Face Travel Size Sunscreen, $30

What Customers Say About Paul Gauguin Cruises

Overall rating: 5.0
Cruise: 7 Night Tahiti and The Society Islands (Papeete roundtrip)
Date: February 2017
Ship: Paul Gauguin
Cabin type: Balcony
Traveled as: Singles/friends

“The stateroom was very comfortable, the service was excellent and the excursions were awesome. We swam with rays and sharks in the Lagoonairium in Moorea. We didn't book this through the ship, but we learned about it on Tripadvisor. We saved a lot on the taxi (we used Teva Taxi) and were treated to a very good tour of the island on the way there and back. We rented a waverunner for 3 hours in Bora Bora. Fantastic!” — cruiseconverts

6. Azamara Club Cruises

Rating: 4.2
Class: Premium
Fleet: 3 ships
Top departure points: Piraeus (Greece), Barcelona, Venice (Italy), Southampton (England), Civitavecchia (Italy)
Top destinations: Caribbean, Central and South America, South Pacific, Africa, Europe (northern, western and Meditterranean)
Starting price: $580/night

Bottom line: Azamara excels at its branded and abundant shore excursions in places like the Mediterranean and Caribbean. Although the decor is dated and stodgy, the pool and hot tub area is small and the cabin bathrooms are tight, you’ll be easily enticed off the ship by nighttime entertainment options in port.

Azamara offers up to 17-day travel for serious adventurers, hitting numerous stops in its 240 ports spread across 66 countries. House alcohol and gratuities are included with the high daily cost, and the spacious and lightly crowded ships make cruising ideal.

Best to leave the kids and older family members on shore for this ride.

What to bring: WearMe Pro - Reflective Lens Round Trendy Sunglasses, $16.99

What Customers Say About Azamara Club Cruises

Overall rating: 4.6
Cruise: 9 Night Cuba Intensive (Miami roundtrip)
Date: February 2019
Ship: Azamara Journey
Cabin type: Balcony
Traveled as: Couple

“Excellent cruise to three Cuban ports: outstanding music/dance performances and opportunity to soak up the color and flavors of Cuba.” — artistjuge

5. Viking Ocean Cruises

Rating: 4.3
Class: Premium
Fleet: 7
Top departure points: Bergen (Norway), Piraeus (Greece), Civitavecchia (Italy), Barcelona, Venice (Italy)
Top destinations: Europe (northern, eastern and Mediterranean), Asia, Africa, Middle East, transatlantic
Starting price: $1,999/night

Bottom line: Viking is only a few years into its expansion from river cruises to the high seas, but it didn’t take long for people to notice the luxury aboard these ships and itineraries that put a premium on destinations — some lasting for as many as six months.

All cabins have their own private veranda, and the fare includes one complimentary shore excursion at each stop.

These trips are designed for couples and adults who want a refined experience that could last for several weeks to a few months, and for this reason, there is no programming aboard for children.

What to bring: Lencent 2 Pack Europe to U.S. Plug Adapter, $12.99

What Customers Say About Viking Ocean Cruises

Overall rating: 5.0
Cruise: Catalonia to Constantinople - Barcelona to Athens
Date: March 2016
Ship: Viking Star
Cabin type: Balcony
Traveled as: Couple

“Viking meticulously managed every aspect of a wonderful trip. All features of the ship and its operation were perfect. A wide option of onshore activities was offered at each port and guided by local professional and highly experienced guides. The Viking staff and crew were extremely friendly and thorough in carrying out their duties to the ship and its guests. We were extremely impressed with the constant effort to make our trip comfortable and enjoyable. Dining and menu options provided for every need and appetite from a wide-offering buffet setting to fine dining in a non-formal setting.” — JETEX

4. Windstar Cruises

Rating: 4.3
Class: Premium
Fleet: 6
Top departure points: Athens (Greece), Lisbon (Portugal), Barcelona, San Juan (Puerto Rico)
Top destinations: Europe (northern, Mediterranean), Caribbean, transatlantic
Starting price: $999/night

Bottom line: True to its name, Windstar attempts to recreate the experience of sailing while aboard a massive cruise liner (it looks cool, though). Families with teenage children or well-behaved youngsters will find much to love on the decks of Windstar’s recently renovated fleet. Ships sport retractable marinas for water skiing, sailing, kayaking and snorkeling.

The overall experience skews casual in atmosphere and dress, but there isn’t much to keep younger and more active children entertained. Food is well prepared, but alcoholic beverages are not included with the daily fare and cabins don’t have Wi-Fi.

Older ships are also showing their age.

What to bring: Womens Sun Straw Hat Wide Brim UPF 50, $22.99-25.99

What Customers Say About Windstar Cruises

Overall rating: 3.5
Cruise: 14 Night Ocean Crossings (Saint Maarten to Lisbon)
Date: April 2019
Ship: Wind Surf
Cabin type: Oceanview
Traveled as: Couple

“A little long with only one port of call. Would I repeat this trip? No. Can I recommend the cruise line? Yes. This is a quiet environment with no bingo tournaments and excessive drinking. Customers are older, above 55 and reasonable.” — gerhardrauh

3. Crystal Cruises

Rating: 4.4
Class: Luxury
Fleet: 4 ships
Top departure points: Civitavecchia (Italy), Miami, Piraeus (Greece), Barcelona, Dover (England)
Top destinations: Asia, Africa, Middle East, Europe (Mediterranean, western and northern), Canada, New England, New York
Starting price: $1,699/night

Bottom line: Cruisers look to Crystal for luxury without the pretension, along with impeccable service and world-class dining from star chefs. The fleet also brings guests to exotic locations around the world.

However, these boats are not great for the kids (many families even bring nannies aboard) due to a lack of child-focused entertainment. That said, if you do travel with a child or baby, you can be sure they will eat just as well as you.

There isn’t much to knock on these boats except that the cabins are on the smaller side for a luxury liner.

What to bring: Eicolorte Beach Sarong Pareo Women's Semi-Sheer Swimwear Cover Ups Short Skirt with Tassels, $13.99

What Customers Say About Crystal Cruises

Overall rating: 4.1
Cruise: 7 Night Alaskan Adventures (Vancouver roundtrip)
Date: September 2019
Ship: Crystal Symphony
Cabin type: Suite
Traveled as: Couple

“Very enjoyable experience primarily due to crew complement and service. Ports were very nice. Excursion prices were high compared to other cruise lines that offer one free excursion in each port. Ship environment was geared toward older people. Would not recommend this cruise line for kids. Food was excellent. Gym and sauna were excellent. Entertainment and cruise activities were below par. Our penthouse stateroom was excellent.” — Growlerman

2. Disney Cruise Line

Rating: 4.4
Class: Mainstream
Fleet: 4 ships
Top departure points: Port Canaveral (Florida), San Diego, Miami, Galveston (Texas), Dover (England)
Top destinations: Caribbean, Mexico, Northern Europe
Starting price: $672/night

Bottom line: Disney is the ultimate cruise line for families. There is no reason to book this expensive option unless you’re bringing the kids, as it is entirely geared toward their enjoyment with some of the best stage shows in the business.

It’s also pricey for its class, but there’s a good reason for that. Entertainment options for kids abound, day and night, and Disney is the top cruise operator for amenities geared toward babies and toddlers, like drop-off childcare and diapers in the gift shop.

Adults have plenty to do themselves, like soak up the sun poolside or traipse around the private island. One thing adults cannot do aboard these ships is gamble, which Disney has forbidden in the name of a family-centric atmosphere.

What to bring: YanJie Mouse Ears Headband, $10.99

What Customers Say About Disney Cruise Line

Overall rating: 4.6
Cruise: 5 Night Western Caribbean (Miami roundtrip)
Date: April 2019
Ship: Disney Magic
Cabin type: Inside
Traveled as: Family (young children)

“The value is worth the money! Castaway Cay and the musical shows on board (Twice Charmed and Rapunzel Before Ever After) are must watch!” — DCL2019

1. Hurtigruten Cruises

Rating: 4.7
Class: Premium
Fleet: 18
Top departure points: Bergen (Norway), Kirkenes (Norway), Reykjavik (Iceland), Hamburg (Germany), Halifax (Nova Scotia)
Top destinations: Europe (western, northern), Asia, Africa, Middle East, Canada, New England, New York, South America
Starting price: $944/night

Bottom line: Remote and mysterious best describe the trips offered by this Norwegian fleet. Hurtigruten ships take guests throughout Northern Europe and as far as the North Pole for memorable and breathtaking views of the Norwegian coast and Northern Lights.

These are bucket-list, once-in-a-lifetime journeys, and they don’t come cheap. The high-end cruiser is known for its beautifully designed boats, like the Art Deco-style MS Finnmarken with massive spaces both public and private, a rooftop lounge, library, terrific spa amenities and excellent cuisine.

What to bring: C.C Thick Cable Knit Faux Fuzzy Fur Pom Fleece Lined Skull Cap Cuff Beanie, $17.99

What Customers Say About Hurtigruten Cruises

Overall rating: 5.0
Cruise: 6 Night Coastal Expeditions (Bergen to Kirkenes)
Date: October 2017
Ship: MS Finnmarken
Cabin type: Balcony
Traveled as: Couple

“This is one of the few vacations we have been on where we started planning our return before the original trip was completed.” — TrophyClub1