This article looks at the 5 best cruise lines in the US. If you wish to view our detailed analysis of the cruise lines industry, you may head over to 15 Best Cruise Lines in the US.
5. Celebrity Cruises
IM Score: 16
Cruise Critic Rating (19,608 reviews): 4.1
Cruise line Rating: 4.3
Celebrity Cruises provides an upscale (yet economical) and intimate experience to cruisers. Its decks are lined with beautiful lawns and contemporary décor that has proved extremely popular with those interested in a relaxing and tranquil cruising time. Celebrity takes a vibrant and artistical approach towards entertaining its passengers, with theater performances, ocean view lounges, and plenty of outdoor space to enjoy a kiss from the sun. At the same time, there are plenty of offshore excursions and onboard scavenger hunts to entertain younger families, along with a vast array of dining options including private butlers in some of the more chic accommodations.
4. Viking Cruises
IM Score: 16
Cruise Critic Rating (16,682 reviews): 4.6
Cruiseline Rating: 4.2
Viking Cruises are another adult-only cruise liner that carries out ocean, river, and expedition cruises. Despite its Swiss origin, it has been a popular feature among American cruisers for quite some time. Most of Viking’s fleet comprises of smaller to medium sized vessels, as the company focuses on providing a personalized and individualistic experience to passengers. Further, passengers are allowed to experience one free offshore excursion at each port which includes the option of kayaking, paddle-boarding, and other destination specific activities. Many of the ship’s itineraries are focused on adults wanting to unwind from their care taking/ parenting duties. In 2023, Vikings launched the Viking Mississippi cruise, which is a purpose-built cruise for the Mississippi river, thus expanding its river expeditions in the North American market.
3. Carnival Cruise Line
IM Score: 16
Cruise Critic Rating (27,572 reviews): 3.8
Cruise line Rating: 4.2
Carnival offers highly budget friendly cruises and is by far the industry leader among all cruise liners. It offers a diverse range of activities whilst ensuring there are minimal pay walls so that all passengers can entertain themselves without having to incessantly expend beyond their tickets. Carnival also offers unique and innovative features such as roller coasters, water parks, and live game shows. Furthermore, these activities are available at a fraction of the price demanded by Disney cruises, making Carnival a popular alternative among families. Carnival’s cruises are geared towards conquering the US market, meaning that most of its cruises embark from the US. Its staff is regarded as being extremely cooperative and the overall ambience is considered much more causal than other cruises. Moreover, it provides much more affordable dining options, with a range of fast-food eateries that make its US-centric demographic feel right at home.
2. Norwegian Cruise Line
IM Score: 17
Cruise Critic Rating (41,834 reviews): 3.6
Cruise line Rating: 4
Norwegian Cruise Line has large sized cruises, the largest of which carry more than 4,000 passengers. Although it is more expensive than Carnival, NCL offers passengers optional all-inclusive packages that can help bring the costs down significantly. In return, the cruises provide some of the best entertainment in the world. Broadway quality theater and musical productions allow for an unrivaled family experience. The cruises are equipped with water-slides and extensive Go-karting tracks. The Norwegian Prima features a 10 story free fall dry slide, a 3 level Go-Kart track, a virtual gaming complex. Such revolutionary entertainment activities allow for an exhilarating experience of the high seas. Moreover, the cruise line owns a private island in the Bahamas by the name of Great Stirrup Cay, which is exclusive to guests aboard NCL’s cruises. Due to its one of a kind experience, we rank it as the second best cruise line in the US.
1. Royal Caribbean International
IM Score: 18
Cruise Critic Rating (43,517 reviews): 3.9
Cruise line Rating: 4.3
There is nothing that cements the age-old adage of “size matters” quite like the fleet of the Royal Caribbean. This liner owns the top 5 largest cruise ships in the world, each of which can carry a minimum of 5,000 passengers. These maritime behemoths offer the most diverse range of entertainment activities imaginable. Rock walls, escape rooms, laser tag, indoor skydiving, and water slides are just the tip of the iceberg. In terms of variety, there is no other cruise that matches the amenities and excursions of this cruise liner, which is what helps it secure the top spot as the best cruise line in the US.
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