Picking the right cruise line can mean the difference between a dream vacation and a disappointing trip. In 2025, some cruise lines are earning great reviews for their exceptional service, entertainment, and dining, while others are falling short with frustrated passengers sharing their disappointment.
If you’re wondering which cruise lines are truly worth your time and money, this guide will rank them from best to worst based on passenger feedback and industry insights.
From luxurious ships with impressive amenities to budget-friendly options that still deliver, we’ll highlight cruise lines that are getting it right — and those that fall short with inconsistent service, outdated ships, or forgettable dining.
Let’s dive in and see how the top cruise lines of 2025 stack up.
How I Sourced the Data
To ensure this ranking reflects real passenger experiences, I sourced the ratings directly from Cruise Critic, a well-known and trusted cruise forum where people share detailed reviews.
To ensure the information was accurate and fair, I focused on recent reviews from 2024 and 2025 to capture the most up-to-date experiences. I also looked for trends across multiple reviews rather than relying on just one or two opinions.
Viking Ocean Cruises (4.6/5)
Rating: 4.6/5 (⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐)
Type: Luxury
Ideal for: Mature travelers, couples, and those seeking enriching experiences rather than party-centric cruises
Viking Ocean Cruises is best known for offering elegant, adult-focused cruises that focus on destination immersion and cultural enrichment. With a focus on refined experiences rather than family entertainment or bustling nightlife, Viking’s smaller ships provide a relaxed yet luxurious atmosphere.
Passenger reviews consistently praise Viking’s elegant ship design, spacious cabins, and top-notch service. Guests highlight the ship’s calm ambiance, with no casinos, minimal crowds, and plenty of quiet spaces for reading or relaxation. Dining reviews are largely positive, with Manfredi’s Italian steakhouse and The Chef’s Table being top choices.
However, some passengers expressed disappointment over limited reservation slots at these specialty restaurants. While cultural talks and live music are popular onboard, some guests seeking excitement may find the experience a little too relaxed.
Cabin reviews are overwhelmingly positive, with guests appreciating the spacious rooms, heated bathroom floors, and thoughtful storage solutions. The staff consistently receive great feedback for their attentiveness and warm service.
Lindblad Expeditions (4.4/5)
Rating: 4.4/5 (⭐⭐⭐⭐☆)
Type: Premium
Ideal for: Nature lovers, wildlife photographers, and those looking for immersive adventure experiences
Lindblad Expeditions, best known for its partnership with National Geographic, specializes in adventure-focused cruises that emphasize wildlife encounters and environmental education. Expert naturalists, photographers, and historians guide guests through remarkable destinations like Antarctica, Alaska, and the Galapagos.
Passenger feedback reveals consistent praise for Lindblad’s knowledgeable expedition teams, who are frequently described as passionate and highly skilled. Guests often highlight the interesting lectures, onboard photography workshops, and the ability to engage closely with naturalists throughout the trip.
Dining gets mixed reviews — some praise the food, while others find it lacking variety or inconsistent in quality. Cabins are functional yet comfortable, with thoughtful touches like heated floors and lots of storage. However, some guests report issues with booking and communication, especially about flights and itinerary changes.
While entertainment is minimal, Lindblad’s cruises focus on immersive experiences rather than stage shows or casinos. Daily excursions such as zodiac rides, kayaking, and guided hikes are highlights for active cruisers.
On the downside, some guests have noted limited onboard activities during sea days, especially on longer itineraries. Additionally, while most guests appreciate the ship’s intimate size, some reviews mention slower boarding procedures due to the active and elderly demographic onboard.
Azamara Cruises (4.2/5)
Rating: 4.2/5 (⭐⭐⭐⭐☆)
Type: Premium
Ideal for: Experienced cruisers seeking destination-focused itineraries, extended port stays, and a more intimate ship atmosphere
Azamara Cruises is recognized for its immersive itineraries, featuring extended port stays and overnight visits for deeper exploration. Its intimate ships, accommodating around 700 guests, provide a relaxed and personal atmosphere.
Passenger reviews highlight Azamara’s exceptional service, with staff frequently praised for going above and beyond to create memorable experiences. Dining experiences are generally positive, with specialty restaurants like Aqualina and Prime C receiving high marks for quality and attentive service.
However, some guests have found the main dining room to be less impressive, especially compared to competitors like Viking and Celebrity. The buffet’s layout and food temperature have been noted as areas for improvement, and some guests were disappointed by repetitive dinner menus. The staff consistently receives
While Azamara’s smaller ships create a cozy environment, this also means fewer entertainment options — though the intimate Cabaret Lounge performances and onboard musicians are generally well-received.
Cabins are described as comfortable but somewhat dated on most ships. Bathrooms are small, and some guests found them challenging to navigate. On certain ships, the pool area drew mixed reviews, with its small size and ladder-only access proving difficult for some older passengers.
While Azamara’s shore excursions are often well-organized and informative, they can be costly compared to other options. Also, some guests reported issues with excursion coordination and onboard communication. Notably, the cruise line’s signature “AzAmazing Evenings” events received great reviews for their immersive cultural experiences.
Disney Cruise Line (4.2/5)
Rating: 4.2/5 (⭐⭐⭐⭐☆)
Type: Premium
Ideal for: Families, Disney fans, and those seeking entertainment
Disney Cruise Line is best known for its magical, family-focused experience that offers Disney’s signature storytelling with top-tier entertainment at sea. From themed dining to Broadway-style shows, Disney Cruises are designed to immerse passengers in the magic of Disney.
Passenger reviews are mostly positive, with guests praising the food, especially on newer ships like Disney Treasure and Disney Wish. Palo Steakhouse, Smokestack Barbecue, and shows like Tales of Moana are standout highlights, along with the family-friendly Castaway Cay.
However, some reviewers found the dining experience disappointing on certain cruises, describing the food as bland or poorly presented. Several guests also noted that adult-focused entertainment was lacking, with few engaging options in the evenings.
Cabin experiences are quite popular, especially for their thoughtful design, comfortable beds, and Disney-themed interior. The split bathroom design is a favorite feature, although some newer ships have been criticized for reducing storage space.
One major downside mentioned in reviews is overcrowding in public areas, especially at pools and dining venues. Adults seeking relaxation may find limited quiet spaces, and some guests found embarkation day chaotic, with long lines and slow service.
P.S: If you’re planning a Disney cruise, be sure to check out our guide ranking the ships from best to worst based on real passenger experiences.
Hurtigruten Cruises (4.2/5)
Rating: 4.2/5 (⭐⭐⭐⭐☆)
Type: Premium
Ideal for: Nature lovers, photographers, and travelers seeking scenic, slow-paced journeys
Hurtigruten Cruises is known for its scenic journeys along Norway’s beautiful coastline, offering immersive experiences that highlight the Arctic, fjords, and coastal villages. Its expedition cruises combine comfort with adventure, attracting travelers seeking unique destinations.
Passenger reviews are mostly positive. Hurtigruten’s dining options receive great feedback for their quality and variety, with standout experiences in restaurants like Rost offering memorable wine pairings and attentive service. Additionally, the Norwegian Coast’s stunning scenery, wildlife sightings, and unique excursions are major highlights for many.
Some guests have reported disorganization during embarkation and disembarkation, with luggage issues and delayed transfers. While some cabins offer comfort and storage, others feel cramped or outdated. Service quality also varies, with some staff praised for their warmth and others described as inattentive.
Onboard entertainment is minimal, focusing on lectures, scenic views, and cultural experiences over shows and nightlife. While excursions can be pricey, guests often find them worthwhile for memorable moments like Northern Lights sightings.
Seabourn Cruise Line (4.1/5)
Rating: 4.1/5 (⭐⭐⭐⭐☆)
Type: Ultra-Luxury
Ideal for: Couples, adventure seekers, and travelers seeking personalized service and smaller ships
Seabourn Cruise Line offers an ultra-luxury experience, with intimate ships, personalized service, and fine dining. It’s especially popular for expedition cruises to remote destinations like Antarctica. Its smaller ships create a social atmosphere where guests and crew often form close connections.
Passenger feedback highlights several consistent themes. On the positive side, Seabourn is widely praised for its exceptional staff, who are friendly, attentive, and committed to providing outstanding service. The cabins, particularly the Penthouse Spa Suites and Verandah Suites, are spacious, comfortable, and well-maintained.
Dining receives mixed reviews—while some passengers enjoyed high-quality meals, others felt the food lacked seasoning or fell short of expectations for an ultra-luxury cruise. Specialty venues like Solis and Seabourn Square are highlights, while the main dining room and buffet experiences received more mixed feedback.
Expedition cruises to Antarctica and other adventurous regions are highly rated, with experienced guides, breathtaking scenery, and memorable wildlife encounters leaving a lasting impression. However, some guests found the entertainment underwhelming or felt certain itineraries had too many sea days.
Virgin Voyages (4.1/5)
Rating: 4.1/5 (⭐⭐⭐⭐☆)
Type: Premium
Ideal for: Adults seeking a vibrant, social cruise with great dining and entertainment
Virgin Voyages is known for its fresh, adults-only approach to cruising, with vibrant nightlife, diverse dining experiences, and modern, stylish ships. Their all-inclusive pricing covers gratuities, basic Wi-Fi, and dining at high-quality restaurants. The onboard vibe is youthful and social, featuring lively events like Scarlet Night alongside more laid-back options.
Passenger reviews often praise the excellent dining options, with standout options being restaurants like Pink Agave, The Wake, and Extra Virgin. Guests love the food quality, especially the fresh, served-to-you style of The Galley, which many find better than traditional buffets.
While the service is frequently described as exceptional, some reviewers have faced frustration with the onboard app, Wi-Fi limitations, and reservation mix-ups. Public restrooms and cabin layouts have also received criticism, with some finding the spaces cramped and difficult to navigate.
Entertainment is a highlight, with themed parties like Scarlet Night and lively DJ sets, though some guests felt the lineup lacked variety. The Bimini Beach Club is praised for its relaxing vibe, while the pool area is often seen as too small and crowded.
For travelers who appreciate a more social, lively cruise with great food and service, Virgin Voyages offers an exciting option — but those seeking a quieter, traditional cruise experience may find the bold vibe less appealing.
Windstar Cruises (4.1/5)
Rating: 4.1/5 (⭐⭐⭐⭐☆)
Type: Premium
Ideal for: Travelers seeking intimate, yacht-like cruising with personalized service
Windstar Cruises is best known for offering intimate, yacht-style cruising experiences with smaller ships that focus on beautiful destinations and high-quality service. With ships that accommodate fewer than 350 guests, Windstar is perfect if you’re seeking a more relaxed, crowd-free atmosphere with high-end dining and attentive crew.
On the positive side, Windstar earns great reviews for its standout service. Dining also is popular, particularly in restaurants like Cuadro 44 and Candles, which are known for flavorful, well-prepared meals. However, some guests noted that food in the main dining venues could occasionally be bland or undercooked.
Cabins, particularly the owner’s suites and those on Star Breeze, are incredibly spacious and comfortable. Some older ships like Wind Surf have faced maintenance concerns, such as broken elevators and plumbing problems. Entertainment is relaxed and intimate, which may not suit those seeking a more energetic vibe.
Excursions received mixed reviews. While some liked the well-organized tours and guides, others described certain excursions as touristy or poorly planned. Guests particularly enjoyed the beach barbecues and marina days, where they could swim, kayak, or paddleboard directly from the ship’s marina platform.
Margaritaville at Sea (4.1/5)
Rating: 4.1/5 (⭐⭐⭐⭐☆)
Type: Budget
Ideal for: Travelers seeking an affordable, casual cruise with tropical vibes
Known for its island-inspired vibe, Margaritaville at Sea offers relaxed cruises with casual dining, upbeat music, and a carefree atmosphere. Its affordable prices and short itineraries make it ideal for budget-friendly getaways.
While Margaritaville at Sea doesn’t have the best reputation, it holds a surprisingly high rating on Cruise Critic. Many guests praised the friendly crew, describing them as helpful and attentive, with some standout staff members earning special mention.
Dining feedback was mixed — while some guests raved about the flavorful food, particularly gluten-free options and the enjoyable brunch at the steakhouse, others felt the food was limited in choice or lukewarm at best.
Entertainment was also hit or miss. Some cruisers enjoyed the live shows and onboard activities, others found karaoke frustrating due to outdated equipment and limited song options. The relaxed pool deck atmosphere and casual vibe were popular, but some guests found the ship’s age noticeable.
On the positive side, Margaritaville at Sea’s cruises are well-loved for their fun, carefree energy, especially if you’re seeking a budget-friendly getaway or a lively social scene. Even so, frequent cruisers may notice that the ship’s offerings are less impressive than those found on larger cruise lines.
Celebrity Cruises (4/5)
Rating: 4/5 (⭐⭐⭐⭐☆)
Type: Premium
Ideal for: Adults seeking a refined cruise experience, couples, and those who enjoy upscale dining and sophisticated entertainment
Celebrity Cruises is well-known for offering a premium cruise experience with elegant décor, exceptional dining, and a focus on adult-oriented relaxation. The cruise line tends to attract travelers seeking a more refined experience, often featuring upscale amenities, high-end dining venues, and sophisticated entertainment.
Passenger reviews are mixed, but many praise Celebrity’s well-maintained ships, attentive staff, and standout specialty dining — particularly Murano. The buffet also earns praise on some ships for its variety and quality.
Some reviewers found the main dining room service inconsistent, with long waits for meals and communication issues. While entertainment is generally described as enjoyable, some travelers noted that the shows felt repetitive or lacked variety.
Cabin experiences also vary. Suites in The Retreat area often receive high praise for their spaciousness, excellent service, and exclusive perks. Though, some standard cabins — particularly those near noisy areas — have disappointed guests due to vibrations or sound disturbances.
Wondering which Celebrity ship offers the best experience? Our guide breaks down the top picks based on feedback from real cruisers.
Royal Caribbean (3.9/5)
Rating: 3.9/5 (⭐⭐⭐⭐☆)
Type: Mainstream
Ideal for: Families, adventure-seekers, and social cruisers
Royal Caribbean is popular for its innovative ships packed with exciting features and entertainment, making it a popular choice for families and adventure-seekers. With standout attractions like skydiving simulators, rock climbing walls, ice skating rinks, and even surf simulators, Royal Caribbean offers a fun, high-energy atmosphere.
Royal Caribbean’s crew is praised for their friendliness and excellent service. Many guests highlight memorable experiences with attentive staff, especially in specialty restaurants and dining rooms.
The entertainment also earns high marks, with impressive shows like the Aqua shows, ice skating performances, and stage productions. Though, some reviews mention frustrations with dining quality — with some describing bland or disappointing food, particularly in buffets and specialty restaurants.
Cabins vary in comfort, with some older ships featuring outdated designs and uncomfortable beds. Additionally, guests have reported issues with crowded pool areas, slow elevators, and unreliable Wi-Fi on certain ships.
Despite being rated only 3.9/5, Royal Caribbean is generally considered a solid choice with reliable service and enjoyable experiences. Families will find plenty of entertainment for kids, while adults seeking relaxation can take advantage of adult-only zones like Hideaway Beach on newer ships.
For an honest look at Royal Caribbean cruise ships, check out our ranking guide based on insights from past passengers.
Princess Cruises (3.8/5)
Rating: 3.8/5 (⭐⭐⭐⭐☆)
Type: Premium
Ideal for: Mature couples, families, and travelers seeking a balance of relaxation and enrichment
Princess Cruises is known for offering a premium cruising experience with a focus on comfort, quality dining, and engaging entertainment. With a reputation for quality service and inviting onboard experiences, it’s a great choice for mature couples or families seeking a memorable journey.
On the positive side, many praise the ships’ elegant décor, spacious cabins, and exceptional service. Dining quality varies depending on the venue — specialty restaurants like Sabatini’s and the Chef’s Table often receive high marks, while the buffet can feel crowded and hit-or-miss in terms of food quality.
Entertainment is well-received, with standout shows like Tom Franek and “Movies Under the Stars.” Some guests mention slow dining service, crowded elevators, and occasional itinerary changes. The Medallion system is appreciated for its convenience but criticized for glitches.
Cabins are consistently described as comfortable, with plenty of storage and thoughtful layouts. While some staterooms may feel dated on older ships, the beds are quite popular for their comfort.
Common frustrations include noisy locations near theaters or elevators, so choosing your cabin carefully is recommended. As for excursions, while Princess offers a wide range of options, experienced cruisers suggest booking independently to save money and gain more flexibility.
Carnival Cruise Line (3.8/5)
Rating: 3.8/5 (⭐⭐⭐⭐☆)
Type: Budget/Mainstream
Ideal for: Families, groups, and budget-conscious travelers
Carnival Cruise Line is best known for offering fun, affordable cruises that cater to a wide range of travelers. Often considered the “fun ship” brand, Carnival attracts families, groups, and budget-conscious cruisers looking for a casual, lively atmosphere.
Many reviewers highlight Carnival’s casual dining options, such as Guy’s Burger Joint and Mongolian Grill, with some describing their meals as fresh and satisfying. Service is generally seen as friendly and efficient, especially in areas like embarkation, where travelers usually report a smooth, quick boarding process.
Dining experiences can be hit or miss, with some guests complaining about repetitive menus, lukewarm buffet food, and long lines at popular spots. Cabins are generally clean and functional, though older ships like Carnival Elation show signs of wear.
Entertainment reviews are mixed — while trivia games and themed nights get positive feedback, some guests find the shows underwhelming or poorly organized. Common complaints also include crowded pool decks, elevator issues, and extra costs for things like bottled water and certain dining options.
Holland America Line (3.8/5)
Rating: 3.8/5 (⭐⭐⭐⭐☆)
Type: Premium
Ideal for: Mature travelers, couples, and those seeking a relaxed and traditional cruise experience
Holland America Line is known for its classic cruise experience, offering traditional charm with modern comforts. The cruise line is especially appreciated for its high-quality service, diverse dining options, and relaxed atmosphere that appeals to travelers seeking a refined experience.
The cruise line earns praise for its food quality in the main dining room and specialty spots like Canaletto and Tamarind. However, some guests reported long waits and poor service at Pinnacle Grill. Entertainment reviews are mixed — live music gets positive feedback, but main theater shows received some criticism.
Cabins are often described as comfortable, with occasional issues like worn carpets, tired décor, and minor maintenance concerns. Despite this, passengers highlight the attentive service from crew members, often noting how well they felt cared for throughout their journey.
Oceania Cruises (3.8/5)
Rating: 3.8/5 (⭐⭐⭐⭐☆)
Type: Premium
Ideal for: Food lovers, mature travelers, and those seeking a relaxed, casual luxury experience
Known for its gourmet dining and a relaxed yet refined vibe, Oceania Cruises is favored by travelers seeking top-notch cuisine and attentive service. Its intimate ships and strong guest-to-crew ratio make it especially popular with older, affluent guests.
The cruise line receives outstanding reviews for its outstanding dining options, particularly the specialty restaurants and buffets with regional dishes and fresh seafood. Guests also compliment the high service standards, with staff described as helpful, attentive, and willing to go the extra mile.
On the other hand, while most travelers find the cabins clean and comfortable, the bathrooms — especially on smaller ships — are frequently criticized for being cramped. Oceania’s entertainment is pleasant but simpler than what larger cruise lines offer.
Guests often praise Oceania’s elegant decor, relaxing vibe, and well-maintained ships. Although there are some complaints, including unreliable internet, limited pool space, and service delays. Excursions receive mixed reviews, with some suggesting independent bookings for better value.
Silversea Cruises (3.8/5)
Rating: 3.8/5 (⭐⭐⭐⭐☆)
Type: Ultra-Luxury
Ideal for: Mature travelers seeking intimate, luxurious cruising experiences
Silversea Cruises is known for its luxurious, all-suite ships that offer personalized service, spacious accommodations, and an elegant atmosphere. Catering to affluent travelers seeking a refined cruise experience, Silversea is well-known for its intimate ships, gourmet dining, and attentive butler service.
Passenger feedback highlights both impressive strengths and some recurring frustrations. On the positive side, guests praise the spacious and comfortable suites, with standout features like roomy balconies and elegant bathrooms. Many also rave about the exceptional staff, especially the dedicated butlers who improve the personalized service.
Dining reviews are mixed — Atlantide and The Grill earn praise, while La Dame and SALT face criticism for being overpriced or underwhelming. Excursions also vary, with some guests enjoying memorable outings while others find them lacking value.
Onboard amenities and entertainment are generally well-received, with enrichment lectures, small-scale theaters, and elegant lounges earning praise. However, some ships have been described as feeling dated, and logistical issues like unreliable internet, disorganized embarkation, and excursion problems have frustrated some guests, especially given the cruise line’s premium pricing.
Regent Seven Seas Cruises (3.7/5)
Rating: 3.7/5 (⭐⭐⭐⭐☆)
Type: Ultra-Luxury
Ideal for: Travelers seeking an all-inclusive luxury experience with top-tier service
Regent Seven Seas Cruises is best known for offering an ultra-luxury cruise experience with an all-inclusive model that sets it apart from other lines. Guests can expect top-tier dining, spacious suites, attentive service, and a focus on enriching onboard experiences.
Passenger reviews highlight key themes. Regent earns praise for spacious cabins, quality dining, and standout restaurants like Prime 7 and Pacific Rim. Service is often described as exceptional, though some guests reported issues with last-minute excursion changes.
Keep in mind that some older ships in the fleet show signs of wear, and service in dining rooms like Compass Rose has been criticized for delays and confusion. Entertainment tends to be low-key, catering more to relaxation than late-night excitement.
Cunard Line (3.7/5)
Rating: 3.7/5 (⭐⭐⭐⭐☆)
Type: Premium
Ideal for: Mature travelers, fans of classic cruising, and those seeking formal, refined experiences
Cunard Line is best known for its elegant, classic cruising experience offering traditional British charm with sophisticated onboard activities. Iconic ships like Queen Mary 2, Queen Elizabeth, and Queen Victoria set the stage for a refined journey. Heritage takes center stage with ballroom dancing, formal evenings, and live music performances.
Passenger reviews of Cunard are mixed. Guests often praise the specialty dining, venues like Britannia and Verandah Grill, and the impressive entertainment. Spacious cabins, helpful stewards, and Cunard’s old-world charm also earn positive mentions.
However, common frustrations include inconsistent service quality, with some guests reporting staff who seemed disengaged or unhelpful. Food in the main dining rooms was occasionally described as repetitive or underwhelming, and the buffet experience was criticized for poor hygiene practices.
The cruise line leans heavily on British-style service and formal traditions, so those expecting a more casual or fast-paced environment may find it less appealing. While some guests report issues like slow service or billing problems, others praise the overall atmosphere and luxurious touches that Cunard is famous for.
P.S: Want to know which Cunard ship is the right one for you? Our guide ranks them all based on reviews from past guests.
Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines (3.7/5)
Rating: 3.7/5 (⭐⭐⭐⭐☆)
Type: Premium
Ideal for: Mature travelers, couples, and those seeking smaller ships and traditional cruise experiences
Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines is best known for its smaller, more intimate ships that offer a traditional cruising experience. This cruise line caters primarily to mature travelers looking for relaxing itineraries, particularly in Northern Europe, the Arctic, and the Caribbean. Fred. Olsen ships are celebrated for their ability to access smaller ports that larger ships can’t reach.
Fred. Olsen’s excellent service receives high marks, with many guests praising the friendly and attentive staff. Dining experiences receive mixed feedback — some guests find the food exceptional and reasonably priced, while others describe it as inconsistent, with occasional cold or uninspired dishes.
Entertainment also presents a mixed bag. Some reviewers enjoyed engaging shows, while others felt the in-house performers didn’t meet their standards. Many passengers appreciated the variety of onboard activities, particularly the craft classes, enrichment talks, and social opportunities that cater well to older travelers.
While Fred. Olsen generally excels in creating a cozy and welcoming environment, some reviews point to logistical hiccups. Embarkation and disembarkation can be slow or poorly managed, and some passengers found excursions to be hit-or-miss.
Marella Cruises (3.7/5)
Rating: 3.7/5 (⭐⭐⭐⭐☆)
Type: Budget
Ideal for: Families, first-time cruisers, budget-conscious travelers
Marella Cruises is known for offering relaxed, all-inclusive cruises at budget-friendly prices. This makes it a popular choice for families, first-time cruisers, and those seeking a casual holiday experience. With a fleet of smaller to mid-sized ships, Marella’s cruises focus on easy-going atmospheres, varied dining, and convenient travel itineraries.
Positive feedback frequently highlights the friendly and hardworking crew, with many guests complimenting the staff for their helpfulness and warm service. Dining reviews are more varied; while some passengers enjoyed specialty dining options like Surf & Turf and found buffet selections to be good value, others reported inconsistent food quality, particularly in the buffet areas.
Entertainment also received mixed reviews — some guests loved the lively shows and silent discos, while others found the theater performances underwhelming. Cabins were generally described as comfortable and clean, though some travelers noted issues like dated décor or missing amenities such as fridges.
Excursions and onboard experiences received mixed feedback. Many praised well-organized tours, but some found them lacking value or too time-consuming. While the drinks package was seen as good value, some felt drinks tasted watered down. Wi-Fi and bottled water often came with extra fees, surprising some guests.
Celestyal Cruises (3.7/5)
Rating: 3.7/5 (⭐⭐⭐⭐☆)
Type: Mainstream
Ideal for: Couples, culture seekers, and travelers looking for Greek Isles exploration
Celestyal Cruises is best known for its focus on destination-rich itineraries, especially in the Greek Isles and the Eastern Mediterranean. Travelers seeking a cultural and immersive experience often choose Celestyal for its well-planned shore excursions and smaller ships, which provide an intimate cruising experience.
On the positive side, many guests praised the friendly and attentive service, particularly from dining and housekeeping staff. The food is generally well-received, with some guests highlighting excellent Greek and Mediterranean-inspired dishes.
Entertainment was also noted as enjoyable, with some standout performances and lively onboard activities. Celestyal’s smaller ships offer a cozy, less crowded feel, making them appealing to those who prefer a more laid-back cruise environment.
However, reviews also point to some drawbacks. Embarkation and excursion organization received frequent criticism for being chaotic and poorly managed. Some travelers were frustrated with the cruise’s communication, especially regarding excursion timing.
Dining schedules were seen as restrictive, with limited late-night food options. Additionally, some guests felt the drink packages offered poor value, while others noted concerns with disorganized customer service.
Norwegian Cruise Line (3.6/5)
Rating: 3.6/5 (⭐⭐⭐⭐☆)
Type: Mainstream
Ideal for: Travelers seeking casual dining options, vibrant nightlife, and a relaxed cruise structure
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) offers a relaxed cruising experience with flexible dining, casual dress codes, and varied entertainment. While this laid-back style suits many travelers, some guests have experienced longer waits for dinner, especially in larger groups.
Passenger reviews paint a mixed picture of NCL’s offerings. On the positive side, many guests praise NCL’s vibrant bar service, with standout experiences at venues like Sugarcane and Spice H2O. The buffet often receives better feedback than the main dining rooms, with guests appreciating its variety and consistent quality.
Guests praise NCL’s entertainment, especially shows like Beetlejuice and Choir of Man. Prima’s spacious cabins and modern decor also earn positive feedback. However, slow internet, crowded pools, and NCL’s frustrating app are common complaints, along with extra charges for activities like mini-golf and racing.
Cabin experiences vary by ship. Guests on the Epic and Getaway reported cramped layouts, narrow walkways, and uncomfortable beds — especially for taller cruisers. Cleanliness reviews are mixed, with some noting reduced cleaning services and frustrations with towels and turn-down service.
P&O Cruises
Rating: 3.4/5 (⭐⭐⭐☆☆)
Type: Mainstream
Ideal for: Budget-conscious travelers seeking British-style cruising
P&O Cruises is a British cruise line known for its budget-friendly options and focus on British tastes and traditions. The line attracts a broad range of travelers, including families, couples, and retirees. P&O Cruises offers a laid-back vibe with experiences similar to typical mainstream cruises.
Passenger reviews for P&O Cruises are mixed. While specialty dining at Sindhu and The Beach House earns high praise, buffet quality is less consistent. Service in some venues, particularly Andersons, is well-received, and the crew is often noted for being warm and welcoming.
On the downside, reviews frequently mention long queues for dining, drinks, and embarkation. Cleanliness issues were also a concern, with guests noting that tables, buffet stations, and even restrooms were sometimes left unclean for extended periods. Entertainment quality received mixed reviews, with some describing lively shows and great comedy acts, while others found performances stale or poorly executed.
In terms of cabins, feedback was equally mixed. Many guests found their accommodations clean, modern, and spacious, while others were disappointed by small room sizes, limited storage, or worn furnishings.
MSC Cruises (3.3/5)
Rating: 3.3/5 (⭐⭐⭐☆☆)
Type: Budget
Ideal for: Families, budget-conscious travelers, and those looking for lively onboard experiences
MSC Cruises is known for offering budget-friendly cruises with a European flair, combining stylish ship designs with diverse itineraries. While MSC offers a wide range of ships and destinations, their focus on affordability and value makes them popular with families and budget-conscious travelers.
MSC ships are frequently described as modern and clean, with standout entertainment that includes vibrant parties, themed events, and lively performances like ABBA tribute shows. Guests often praise the spacious balcony cabins, especially on newer ships, and appreciate the family-friendly amenities, such as kids’ clubs and water parks.
However, dining is frequently criticized, with complaints about cold or bland food in the buffet and main dining rooms. Service experiences vary widely; some guests praise attentive staff, while others describe service as indifferent or even unfriendly.
While MSC offers good value for the price, their approach to dining, service, and onboard organization has led to mixed opinions. Some travelers recommend MSC for casual vacations with flexible expectations, while others suggest exploring alternatives if top-tier service or gourmet dining is a priority.
Additionally, MSC’s private island, Ocean Cay, receives praise for its relaxing beach vibes, but weather-related cancellations are reportedly common, leaving some guests disappointed.
Costa Cruises (3/5)
Rating: 3/5 (⭐⭐⭐☆☆)
Type: Budget
Ideal for: Travelers seeking affordable European itineraries with Italian flair
Costa Cruises is best known for offering budget-friendly Mediterranean and European itineraries with a distinctly Italian vibe. While some travelers appreciate Costa’s vibrant, casual atmosphere and affordable fares, the cruise line is often criticized for inconsistent service, chaotic dining experiences, and added costs that can quickly pile up.
Costa’s entertainment, including shows, live music, and kid-friendly activities, earns praise, with standout performances at the Heineken Bar. Guests also praised exceptional crew members and described cabins as spacious and well-maintained, with some receiving upgrades.
However, negative reviews frequently cite poor food quality, with multiple travelers comparing the buffet to cafeteria-style dining. Many also noted long waits at busy restaurants, limited free beverage options (with water sometimes costing extra), and a confusing dining structure that left some guests feeling frustrated.
Language barriers were another concern, with some passengers feeling isolated in onboard activities that heavily favored Italian speakers. Additionally, several reviews mentioned staff appearing overworked, which affected service quality.
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