Tuesday, April 9, 2024

The 11 Best Luxury Cruise Lines, According to T+L's Experts

10 best cruise lines

Paul Gauguin Cruises operates just one ship, but it is exquisite, hosting 330 guests and sailing only in the South Pacific to destinations like Tahiti, Fiji, Tonga, and the Cook Islands. The ship is small enough to access private ports at remote beaches and take travelers well off the beaten path. Named the best small-ship ocean cruise line in T+L's 2022 World's Best Awards, Golden said the line is known for Tahitian-inspired massage techniques in the onboard spa and noted that cruisers particularly love the wonderful staff.

Holland America Line

“There’s also a greater space ratio onboard, allowing for less crowding and more space for guests to spread out and enjoy,” she says. As the most discerning, up-to-the-minute voice in all things travel, Condé Nast Traveler is the global citizen’s bible and muse, offering both inspiration and vital intel. We understand that time is the greatest luxury, which is why Condé Nast Traveler mines its network of experts and influencers so that you never waste a meal, a drink, or a hotel stay wherever you are in the world.

Oceania Cruises

Her writing has appeared in The Wall Street Journal, Departures, TripSavvy, and other publications. The Caribbean and the Mediterranean remain hugely popular because of their accessible locations, predictable weather, and range of ports, but many possible destinations have seen a big increase in popularity in recent years. Although cruises are not always all-inclusive as standard, there are usually packages that you can purchase on top of your ticket which pretty much turn any cruise into an all-inclusive one. Silversea Cruises topped the list as Best Luxury Cruise Line for the second year in a row.

Virgin Voyages

The line’s newest ship, Silver Nova, which holds 728 passengers was ranked as the Best New Luxury Ship. This environmentally-friendly ship, which began its inaugural cruise in August, 2023 is the industry’s first hybrid luxury cruise ship. Today’s ships are extremely stable, which is why it’s unlikely you will get seasick. However, if you end up suffering from seasickness, there is always a medical center onboard stocked with motion sickness tablets, pressure bands, and injections if the feeling persists. You’ll feel right at home on MSC Cruises’ new World, Meraviglia, and Seaside Class vessels if you’re a megaresort lover.

10 best cruise lines

Oceania Cruises has just seven ships, but the debut of the brand-new Oceania Vista catapults this cruise line into the luxury division. The cruise line's relatively new Go Local shore excursions for small groups bring travelers to under-the-radar destinations, T+L contributing editor and long-time cruiser Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon reported recently. Her 2022 cruise on Riviera included 70 excursions "from canoeing Croatia’s Cetina River to cooking classes in Athens."

Marina — Oceania CruisesArrow

Luxury cruises tend to be longer than other cruises, so they appeal to guests who have ample time for vacation,” she adds. Its lively and fun-filled atmosphere makes Carnival Cruise Line a top choice for those seeking a vibrant and energetic cruise experience. Carnival offers an array of exciting onboard activities, from water parks and thrilling waterslides to high-energy shows and lively nightclubs. Dining options cater to every taste and preference, ensuring a delightful culinary journey. Carnival Cruise Line’s itineraries cover a wide range of destinations, including the Caribbean, Mexico, and the Bahamas, promising sun-soaked adventures and unforgettable memories for all. French luxury cruise line Ponant aims to make passengers feel as if they're traveling on their own private yachts.

Are Cruises Always ‘All-Inclusive’?

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If you've ever dreamed of having your own butler, Silversea is the luxury cruise line for you. In fact, Silversea's butlers take white-glove service to a whole new level — they'll handle your laundry with more care than you do, scour port towns to find your favorite tastes of home, and even help you pack and unpack your suitcase. Further, Silversea's new culinary program, nicknamed S.A.L.T. (for Sea and Land Taste), brings the taste of destinations on board through cooking classes. Of course, there's no need to cook for yourself aboard a Silversea ship, as each one features several restaurants with multi-course menus to whet your appetite every night.

Paul Gauguin Cruises

Whether it's a river or an ocean you want to cruise, Scenic can take you there in style. On board, you'll find fine dining, expansive spas and fitness facilities, and butler service. Windstar Cruises' luxury small ships call on 150 ports throughout Europe, Central America, the Caribbean, and the South Pacific, and there's no way you'll go hungry on the journey. Exquisite onboard menus have been designed by acclaimed chefs from Michelin-starred restaurants.

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Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list. Cruise Critic just announced its annual list of the Best Cruise Lines of The Year. This is the 15th iteration of the list compiled by the online cruise community’s international team of cruise experts. Meena Thiruvengadam is a lifelong traveler and veteran journalist who has visited more than 50 countries across six continents.

Everything from shore excursions, Wi-Fi, and laundry to gratuities, top-shelf liquor, and business-class international flights are included with Regent Seven Seas Cruises' fares. While each luxurious suite features ocean views, nothing beats the view from the epic 4,000-square-foot, two-bedroom Regent Suite, which has two wraparound balconies, three walk-in closets, two Picasso lithographs, and a grand piano. Cruises are booming right now, buoyed partly by the popularity of domestic seacations that hauled in first-time sailors. So much so that Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ 34,000-mile world trip for 2024 sold out in just over two hours, while the adults-only Virgin Voyages, which aims to throw cruise stereotypes overboard, rose to first place in Large Ships. And we’ve brought back last year's new category showcasing the expedition cruises – small, often sustainable vessels with a shoal of scientific experts onboard – that follow in the wake of adventurers such as Sir Ernest Shackleton. Emerald Yacht Cruises, a line best known for its river ships, launched its first ocean-going vessel, Emerald Azzura, in 2022 followed by an identical sister ship, Emerald Sakara, in 2023.

Known for luxurious ships, Princess Cruises offers a plethora of onboard activities, including world-class entertainment, gourmet dining, and rejuvenating spa experiences. Whether you’re sailing through the stunning fjords of Norway or exploring the tropical paradise of the South Pacific, Princess Cruises ensures a seamless vacation filled with unforgettable moments. Royal Caribbean International takes the top spot on our list and it’s no surprise why. With their innovative ships, thrilling onboard activities like rock climbing and surfing, Broadway-style entertainment, and world-class dining options, Royal Caribbean offers an unforgettable experience for all travelers. From Caribbean adventures to Mediterranean voyages, their itineraries cater to diverse interests, ensuring a truly remarkable cruise experience. Coming in third place, Holland America Line combines timeless elegance with modern amenities, appealing to discerning travelers seeking refined experiences.

With a fleet of mid-sized ships, Holland America Line provides an intimate atmosphere and personalized service. From Alaska’s breathtaking glaciers to Europe’s captivating ports, their carefully curated itineraries offer a mix of iconic destinations and hidden gems. Culinary delights, engaging enrichment programs, and an array of entertainment options further elevate the onboard experience.

Cruise fares range from extremely cheap sale prices to premium rates for fancy suites on luxury lines. However, when you factor in all of the costs you’d incur on a land vacation, you’ll discover that you can often save money by booking the right cruise line. Virgin Voyages’ trophy cabinet is not bursting with accolades in 2023 for nothing. Whether you’re looking to just switch off and relax, or you want to party the night away, its ships do have something for everyone.

In addition to its presence in the Caribbean and the Bahamas, Virgin Voyages is now offering seasonal sailings in the Mediterranean and voyages to Australia and New Zealand. With its upscale atmosphere, Michelin-star chef-curated menus, and wellness activities, Virgin Voyages’ three-ship line stands out. Celebrity Beyond, which debuted in 2022, accommodates 3,260 guests has 32 bars and restaurants, like Le Voyage by chef Daniel Boulud, and two-story villas on board. Our readers have spoken, and these cruise lines have emerged as the top choices in the industry. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, cultural immersion, or family fun, these cruise lines have proven their excellence in providing exceptional experiences.

Guests enjoy Ladurée macarons, Veuve Clicquot Champagne, and luxurious Hermès bath products on board. Each of the company's ships features an onboard spa with massage cabins and either a Turkish bath or sauna. Ponant's luxurious small ships sail to remote destinations like Antarctica, incorporating once-in-a-lifetime experiences such as eclipse spotting from the edge of the earth. These cruise lines have been recognized for their exceptional service, luxurious amenities, unforgettable experiences, and unparalleled customer satisfaction. So, without further ado, let’s embark on a journey to discover the best cruises lines, as chosen by our readers.

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