Don’t get me wrong. Cruise getaway packages are always better than land-based getaways if you are able to choose your cruise package wisely. Because some cruise offers simple package deals, with lodging, food, and entertainment all fixed it one amount. Just that cruise experiences don’t allow you to explore in cities like how you could do when you went in for land-based getaways. In this article, Mrpocu.com will list best 20 top cruise companies to make your trip an amazing one if you thinking of choosing a cruise package.
Each year the U.S News & World Report releases its annual list of the top world’s best cruise. This list or ranking is based on cruise affordability, health monitoring, and reputation among experts and travelers. Cruise traveling isn’t a new thing to the world, it has had a compelling growth over the last century. Ranging from some luxurious cruises to family-friendly cruises, with outrageous amenities like roller coasters and robot bartenders on the high seas. There are lots of cruise companies to make your trip the best.
Check out my 20 top cruise companies for your next trip.
NB; Because of the outbreak, traveling might be complicated now. Use some of my travel tips to plan your next vacation.
Top Cruise Companies
In this list, I’m going to outline which cruise suits your travel type or the kind of cruise you need for your next trip.
Mega Ship Lines ( 4,000 Passengers and more)
1. Royal Caribbean International
If you’re a lover of cruises, you will know this was going to be first on the list. If you’re looking for a city floating on water, Royal Caribbean is one of the best cruise companies for you, and it has the four largest cruise ships in the world.
The cruise line brand was founded back in 1968 in Norway and organized as a wholly-owned subsidiary of Royal Caribbean Group since 1997. the ship is said to be the largest cruise line by revenue and second-largest by passengers counts (about 6,700 at full capacity). Length (nearly 1,200 feet long), and gross tonnage (more than 225,000 tonnes).
So with all the hype, just think about the amenities on board and even plenty you can’t even imagine. From luxury bars, restaurants that are staffed by robots to double-decker suites with slides for the kids and waterparks to world-class medical productions. Royal Caribbean provides you with all the amenities you need for your vacation and you won’t even think of land-based getaways. The cruise line also has private resorts they use as stops. Each resort features canopies for eating, lounge chairs, palm trees, white-sand beaches, and all you can think of.
2. MSC Cruises
MSC Cruises are second on my list because the company is the largest private-owned cruise line in the world and have build five of the 25 largest ships in the world. Each can host about 5,300 and 6,300 passengers at maximum capacity. Although MSC, ships differ in size, the whole fleet receives hype from previous passengers for its advanced ambiance and usefulness of its itineraries.
Their newest cruise, MSC Grandiosa is advance with an artificial intelligence innovation providing virtual assistance that can help you with any question or requests on board. Is that not worth your money? Visiting an array of 239 amazing locations all over the globe, MSC Cruises have a lot to offer, from classic dining options, outdoor space for sunbathing, evening live shows, parties, and contest. While shore excursions cover everything from tours of the Acropolis in Athens, Greece to seeing Dunn’s River Fall in Ocho Rios and Jamaica. But don’t forget shore excursions cost extra.
3. Norwegian Cruise Line
Known in short as Norwegian, and also popular because of its colorful ships. It is an American cruise line founded in 1966, incorporated in Bermuda, and headquartered in Miami. Norwegian is the third-largest cruise line in the world by passengers and the company control about 8.7% of the total worldwide of the cruise market by passengers as of 2018.
Norwegian is on the mega-ship list after the breakthrough in 2010 with their new Norwegian Epic, and it can carry over 5,000 passengers at full occupancy. After, the company has introduced five others in the Breakaway-Plus class. It is a perfect cruise for families who want to experience adventure with amenities like virtual reality gaming, waterparks, and go-kart racing through the companies new ship, Norwegian Bliss.
If you looking to experience luxury among the Norwegian, check out the Norwegian Encore which is the most luxurious among them.
Large Ship Lines (2,500 to 4,000 Passengers)
Royal Caribbean International, Norwegian Cruise Line, and MSC Cruise are on the mega-ship line list but they also have quite a number of large ships too. MSC Cruises with their Musica and Fantasia classes all fall into the large ship list or category. Whiles Royal Caribbean also has Voyager of the Seas and Freedom of the Seas in the large ship category. Norwegian now has six ships on order as part of the Project Leonardo which each will hold 3,300 passengers.
It is pretty nice for these cruise companies to scale back from mega-ships and decide to also compete in the large ship market.
4. Disney Cruise Line
According to U.S News, the Disney Cruise line is one of the best cruises for families and kids. Just like their parks and resort managements, Disney Cruise does well with hospitality. So this is the right cruise to select for the family vacation. All four ships are designed for families, the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder which carry about 2,400 passengers, and Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy which also carry about 4,000 passengers.
There are a lot of plenty adult areas design for any adult on board, which you will be separated from the little ones. Disney ships are old-fashion though, design inspiration from the early 20th-century ocean style. There are more ships Disney is planning to add between 2022 and 2023 so maybe they will give us some advanced decor like the Norwegian Cruise.
5. Cunard
Just imagine how royal ships looks like. Cunard Line is a British cruise line based in Carnival House at Southampton, England, operated by Carnival Uk and Owned by Carnival Corporation & Plc. You probably want to jump into one of their three ships and feel like you are from the royal family. Maybe it will be the Queen Mary 2, which is the world’s only true transatlantic ocean liner, designed specifically for ocean crossings, as well as the world’s only pet-friendly ship.
Queen Elizabeth and Queen Victoria still haven’t changed and are almost as same as then, 180 years ago. It’s the best ship line if you to experience some back-in-time moments. It has that cultural atmosphere and all the modern safety measures.
6. Princess Cruise
The Carnival Corporation is always leading the cruise market somehow. As part of the family, the Princess Cruise is one of the best cruise lines in the world. The company is incorporated in Bermuda and its headquarters are in Santa Clarita, California. In 2018, it was the largest cruise line by net revenue, with its 17 ships.
Princess Cruise line became famous because of their American television series The Love Boat, in which their ship Pacific Princess was featured. After 2012, Royal Princess, the Royal-class ship and the largest ship constructed for Princess became the flagship of Princess Cruise in May 2013.
If you are looking to experience luxury then you might love to book their Sky Suites, which is the line’s most luxurious offering. The cruise line is looking to launch two new ships in 2021, The Enchanted Princess and Discovery Princess.
7. Holland America Line
Over 147 years, Holland America Line has been a recognized leader in cruising. The cruise line was foundered in 1873 to ferry passengers, which most of these passengers were emigrants, between the Netherlands and the United States. In recent times, Holland America Line is operating broadly to more than 470 ports around the globe on its 11 ships and is popularly regarded for its Alaska itineraries.
It’s the best cruise if you want to visit some of the historical destinations around the world. I see Holland line as an adult cruise line and that is the right ship for some classic live music programs onboard. We looking forward to the Rotterdam ship, which is said to be out in 2021 with a capacity of 2,650 passengers.
8. Carnival Cruise Line
Carnival is also one of the best cruises for cruise lovers and families traveling on a budget. With a great range of entertainment onboard, the family is going to love it. All their 26 amazing ships are going to offer you all you need in a cruise vacation including live music, themed parties, swimming pools, and also cool adult areas you can leave your kids around and also enjoy your vacation.
The cruise line is also known for its amazing upper decks that are similar to an amusement park at sea. And enjoy every destination island Carnival Cruise Line is going to take you to, in the Bahamas, Caribbean, Hawaii, and the Mexican Riviera.
9.P&O Cruise
It is one of the most popular cruise lines in the United Kingdom and also the oldest in the world, operating since 1837. Their Pacific Aria in the fleet is more modern cruise ships. featuring 14 decks and a total of 630 staterooms. The Pacific Aria has a complete new concept in dining.
It is going to be a great vacation if you book their largest ship, the Pacific Explorer, which is also the most recent addition to the P&O fleet. Featuring a total of 999 passenger cabins and 14 decks and host some outstanding onboard facilities, dining, and entertainment making it a perfect vacation cruise.
10. Costa Cruise
Costa Cruise has a little bit of history, an Italian cruise line that works under the Carnival Corporation. The cruise line was the first founder in 1854 which was a cargo shipping company, distributing olive oil and textiles around the globe. And last, in 1959 they converted it into a leisure cruise line.
Costa cruise now operated 17 ships and most of them accommodated between 2,800 and 5,300 passengers, that is how come they could make it up to the large cruise lines. The cruise line has said to release its new fleet in 2021.
Medium Ships (500 to 2,500 Passengers)
There are cruise lines in the mega and large category that a still making their way in the medium-ship category. With some cruise lines operating about 17 to 20 ships, sure they will appear in any category with some of their small fleets. So here are list of some medium cruise companies that haven’t appear in any category.
11. Crystal Cruise
With its two ocean-going ships, Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony, It is one of the budget-friendly cruise lines in all categories. Most cruise lines charge guests for special dining and alcohol, Crystal cruise includes all in their fare including premium spirit and wine. Even though it might be in the medium category, but it is one of the luxurious cruise lines in the world.
As for dining, Crystal features specialty restaurants with dishes crafted by celebrated chefs, like Nobu Matsuhisa, and don’t forget you have one special dinner reservation as included in the fare.
12. Viking Ocean Cruise
Viking cruise was founded in 1997 with four ships in Russia and in 2000, the cruise line start operating n Europe’s KD River Cruise in other to help them grow its fleets. So it was originally a river cruise line and in 2015 they set afloat six ocean-going ships.
It is not a family-friendly cruise and you do not want to bring the kids on board. Their most recent ship, Viking Jupiter was launched in 2019. The ships nearly look the same and carrying about 930 passengers each. offering you a housed in a balcony stateroom, free excursion at the port ( they sail Northern Europe, though there are some off-season Mediterranean itineraries), free beer, wine, and also free Wi-Fi connection.
13. Regent Seven Seas Cruise
Another budget-friendly cruise line in my medium category. Since everything from meals and alcohol is all been fix in the fare, then you should book a vacation with the Reheng Seven Seas cruise. And the minibar is free, but there are few things you still have to pay for, which are the spa, laundry, and the casino.
The cruise line is one of the luxurious lines in the United State, with their five ships each carrying about 750 passengers or fewer. But their ships are pretty large, giving each guest a special space for an amazing vacation.
14. Oceania Cruise
According to most reviews I have read online, I think the food experience on the Oceania cruise is amazing. It’s 1,250-passenger MS Marina and MS Riviera have onboard restaurant by Jaques Oaoin, a six-course Dom Perignon dinner with the pairing of three vintages, a cooking center where passengers of all cooking skills levels can make classes, culinary-themed excursions.
Oceania Cruises are lines based in Miami, Florida and they operate six cruise ships on worldwide itineraries. Most of their offers last about 10 to 14 days, but they are also known for their long cruises lasting up to 195 days.
15. Silversea Cruises
As part of the Royal Caribbean Group, the Silversea cruise is one of the most luxurious among the family. Founded in 1994 by the Vlasov Group of Monaco and the Lefebvre family go Rome. The cruise line has five ships, and two of these were able to make it to the medium category, with passenger counts of around 600 people.
Though they might be small, but their cruises has a restaurant on board of their passenger and all who are accommodated in spacious suites.
Small Ships (500 Passengers or less)
We all have our ways of traveling and you might not like the idea of having your best moment with a lot of people on board. Booking some of these small ships maybe be what you would like to enjoy your moment at. Cruise companies also have small ships that carry 500-passenger or less. So check out my small ships list for your next vacation.
16. Windstar Cruises
First on my small hips category is the Windstar cruises, which operates a fleet of small luxury cruise ships. The line has six ships and three sailing yachts, which is good at visiting ports that don’t allow large ships, like the Byzantine hilltop town of Monemvasia on the Greek Island. In 2014, Windstar added to its sailing yacht by adding the Star Pride power yacht, followed by the Breeze and star legend in 2015.
17. Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic
With most activities and meals included in the expedition cost, there is no need to worry about any extra cost. Unless you want to get something out of the box. Lindblad Expedition National Geographic is led by knowledgeable local guides and blends fun, hands-on exploration with a meaningful encounter with people and culture in all their 15 ships. If you looking to choose adventure over luxury, Lindblad is the best cruise line to choose.
18. Paul Gauguin Cruises
Paul Gauguin Cruises has an amazing value in luxury cruising, thanks to their all-inclusive pricing. Spend more time enjoying your vacation without getting worried about little detail when the cruise line has taken care of – from dining to onboard gratuities. Paul Gauguin is one of the best small cruise companies in the world
Their single-chip focusing solely on the pacific, hosting about 332 passengers to some of the amazing and beautiful destinations – Bora Bora, Tahiti, and Fiji year-round. The line also has a private island called Mota Mahana in French Polynesia.
19. Ecoventura
Ecoventure is the perfect yacht if you don’t want a crowded vacation cruise. They operate s fleet of three expedition yachts with just 20 passengers, you will know you getting a personalized experience on board. Ecoventura ships sail two week-ling itineraries in the Galapagos – you can combine them both if you want more time with the islands’ incredible wildlife. It is one of the luxurious small ships with beautiful cabins, a lounge where naturalists provide lectures and briefings before excursions.
20. Quasar Expedition
Explore the wonders of Patagonia and the Galapagos Island with Quasar and thank me later. Quasar will exceed all your wildlife expectations in Luxury. Is the best cruise line for photographer or photo lovers who love to capture unique landscapes, captivating wildlife and maybe a dramatic sunset.
Best Cruise companies Rankings. Extra Tips ( U.S News Ranking).
The U.S News over years has made accurate ranking about cruise lines. Arguably, those rankings are perfect and every cruise line suits their categories. These rankings have made it very easy for travelers to find the cruise that is right for their travel types. In this list, I’m going to list 5 winners of each category. These rankings are based on analysis of expert and user opinions.
Best Cruise For The Money
Some cruise lines have great package deals, with lodging, food, and entertainment all fixed in one fare. So to make your travel easy and budget-wise, U.S News ranking has listed the following cruise lines based on affordable packages, health ratings, and recognition among experts and travelers
- Royal Caribbean International
- Celebrity Cruises
- Norwegian Cruises
- Princess Cruises
- Carnival Cruises
Best Cruise Line For Families
Most cruises don’t allow kids on board and even if they do, I’m pretty sure you are not going to jump into any with your kids. Looking for the best cruise line for the kids or families, U.S News has used the same factors to rank for the best cruise for your kids or family.
- Disney Cruise
- Royal Caribbean International
- Carnival Cruise line
- MSC Cruise
- Costa Cruises
Best Cruise Line For Couples
Wondering about getting the right cruise for your romantic vacation? That serene setting, certainly, but also intimate dinners, relaxing spa treatment, and whatever you looking forward to getting as couples. Here is the best-ranking cruise companies for couples.
- Viking Ocean Cruises
- Seabourn Cruise Line
- Crystal Cruises
- Azamara Club Cruises
- Oceania Cruises
Best Cruise Lines In The Caribbean
When choosing a cruise to the Caribbean, imagine white sand beaches, cerulean water, and plenty of suns. For you to know which best cruise line offers the best Caribbean experience, U.S News have their ranking for the best cruise line for you to choose.
- Disney Cruise Line
- Royal Caribbean International
- Seabourn Cruise line
- Celebrity Cruises
- Carnival Cruise Line
Best Cruise Lines In The Mediterranean
Whether you’re exploring the vibrant street of Barcelona or immersing yourself in Istanbul’s historical sites, the Mediterranean region offers unlimited adventure. And to know which cruise line is best for that experience. U.S News with the same ranking factor has list the best Cruise Lines in the Mediterranean.
- Seabourn Cruise line
- Crystal Cruises
- Viking Ocean Cruises
- Azamara Club Cruises
- Oceania Cruises
Best Luxury Cruise Line
Luxury cruise lines have an amazing way of making your trip a classic one. From fine dining to comfortable cabins and stimulating enrichment programs, here are the best luxury cruise line by U.S News.
- Viking Ocean Cruises
- Seabourn Cruise Line
- Crystal Cruises
- Regent Seven Seas Cruises
- Azamara Club Cruises