U.S. News ranks cruise lines in six categories: Best Cruise Lines for the Money, Best Cruise Lines for Families, Best Cruise Lines for Couples, Best Cruise Lines in the Caribbean, Best Cruise Lines in the Mediterranean and Best Luxury Cruise Lines.
This year’s rankings are accompanied by editorial roundups of the top gay cruises for 2023, the top cruise lines for solo travellers and the best cruise insurance; each piece aims to provide helpful advice and planning information to a wide community of cruisers.
“The Best Cruise Lines rankings evaluate a variety of cruise types, making it easy for travellers to find the best options that fit their budgets, cruising styles and desired destinations.” For the first time, Virgin Voyages takes the No. 1 spot in the Best Cruise Lines for the Money ranking, offering the best value among cruise lines. Royal Caribbean International comes in at No. 2, thanks to its onboard amenities that cater to guests of all ages, while Carnival Cruise Line ranks No. 3, offering family-friendly perks like water parks, basketball courts and ropes courses on its ships.
The 2023 rankings highlight 17 cruise lines to help every type of traveller find the cruise that’s right for them.
“After more than two years of sailing restrictions and limited voyage options due to the coronavirus pandemic, cruisers and cruise lines are excited to be on the seas again,” said Nicola Wood, senior travel editor at U.S. News. Carnival Cruise Line, known for its budget-friendly fares and frequent sales, and Celebrity Cruises, which offers a more upscale experience at reasonable rates, rank No. 2 and No. 3, respectively.
For the ninth consecutive year, Disney Cruise Line is the Best Cruise Line for Families. U.S. News considered the overall cruise line quality and average base fare per night, as well as extra benefits such as free gratuities, Wi-Fi access and all-inclusive package options. The rankings follow a comprehensive, transparent methodology that factors in expert evaluations of ship quality, traveller ratings, health assessment results and more. The family-oriented line offers ships with character meet-and-greets, themed dinners, nighttime fireworks, waterslides and more.
U.S. News also offers additional cruise tips and recommendations, such as what to pack on a cruise, the top river cruise lines, fun adults-only cruises and more.
2023 Best Cruise Lines Rankings
See the full rankings here.
Best Cruise Lines for the Money Best Cruise Lines for Families
- Virgin Voyages 1. Disney Cruise Line
- Carnival Cruise Line 2. Royal Caribbean International
- Celebrity Cruises 3. Carnival Cruise Line
Best Cruise Lines for Couples Best Cruise Lines in the Caribbean
- Viking Ocean Cruises 1. Disney Cruise Line
- Seabourn Cruise Line 2. Virgin Voyages
- Azamara 3. Celebrity Cruises
Best Cruise Lines in the Mediterranean Best Luxury Cruise Lines
- Viking Ocean Cruises 1. Viking Ocean Cruises
- Seabourn Cruise Line 2. Seabourn Cruise Line
- Azamara 3. Regent Seven Seas Cruises
Written by: William Trevan
