Cruising is more popular than ever and 2025 is already shaping up to be another stellar year for cruise line companies. When selecting a cruise line there are many factors to consider; such as number 1-your budget- prices vary from the time of year that you travel to ship amenities. Then perhaps the destinations you’re interested in, the type of onboard experiences you want, and are you traveling with children or seeking an adults only cruise. River cruises tend to be more intimate and destination-focused, while ocean cruises offer a wider range of onboard activities, parties and entertainment.
Carnival Cruise Line
- Pros:
- Affordable pricing with frequent deals and promotions.
- Family-friendly with lots of activities for all ages.
- Fun, lively atmosphere with plenty of entertainment options.
- Extensive itineraries, especially in the Caribbean.
- Cons:
- Can be crowded and noisy.
- Extra charges for many dining and entertainment options.
- May attract a younger, party-focused crowd on shorter itineraries.
Celebrity Cruises
- Pros:
- Stylish, modern ships with an emphasis on design.
- Excellent dining options, including specialty restaurants.
- Focus on wellness with spas and fitness programs.
- More adult-oriented with fewer kids’ activities.
- Cons:
- Fewer options for families with young children.
- Higher price point than some mass-market lines.
- Smaller fleet with fewer itinerary options.
Holland America Line
- Pros:
- Elegant, mid-sized ships with a classic cruising experience.
- Excellent service and high crew-to-passenger ratio.
- Strong cultural and enrichment programs (cooking demos, lectures).
- Focus on longer itineraries and unique destinations.
- Cons:
- Older ships in the fleet.
- Limited onboard activities and entertainment for younger passengers.
- Geared toward an older demographic.
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)
- Pros:
- “Freestyle Cruising” with no fixed dining times or dress codes.
- Wide range of dining and entertainment options.
- Good value with frequent promotions and discounts.
- Family-friendly ships with water parks and kids’ clubs.
- Cons:
- Extra charges for many activities, dining, and beverages.
- Some ships can feel crowded.
- Service can be inconsistent.
Princess Cruises
- Pros:
- Excellent service and well-maintained ships.
- Strong reputation for Alaskan and Mediterranean itineraries.
- Good balance of activities and relaxation.
- Focus on traditional cruising experience (set dining times, formal nights).
- Cons:
- Fewer innovative features compared to newer lines.
- Extra charges for many services and activities.
Royal Caribbean International
- Pros:
- Wide variety of ships, including some of the largest in the world.
- Extensive onboard activities (surf simulators, rock climbing, ice skating).
- Family-friendly with numerous options for kids and teens.
- Diverse itineraries around the globe.
- Cons:
- Can be crowded, especially on larger ships.
- Extra charges for many activities and dining options.
- Shorter cruises may attract a party crowd.
Virgin Voyages is a relatively new entrant to the cruise industry, offering a unique and modern approach to cruising, especially targeted towards adults.
Pros:
-
- Exclusively for guests aged 18 and over, offering a mature atmosphere.:
- Over 20 unique dining venues with no additional charges for specialty restaurants.
- Stylish, contemporary design with innovative technology and flexible cabin layouts.
- Includes dining, basic beverages, fitness classes, Wi-Fi, and gratuities in the fare.
Cons:
-
- Fewer destinations compared to more established cruise lines, mainly focusing on the Caribbean and Mediterranean.
- The edgy, modern approach may not suit those who prefer traditional cruising experiences.
- Entertainment and nightlife can skew towards a younger adult audience, which might not appeal to all older adults
- Not an option for families traveling with children or teens.
- Fares can be on the higher end, even though many extras are included.
There are several cruise lines that I left out due to space and we just can’t cover every travel option. Other lines to look into are AmaWaterways, Avalon Waterways, Disney Cruises, Tauck River Cruises, Uniworld Boutique River Cruises. Cruising is a great way to see several cities, countries in one trip. I never thought I would be a cruise person but after my first mediterranean cruise I was hooked! I have made life long friends that I have met on ships. Seriously this is a great way to travel.
Email me if you would like me to plan your next vacation: karen@50isjustanumber.com