The best cruise lines come in all shapes and sizes, whether that means the best cruise line for adults, best cruise line for kids or even the best cruise line to choose for solo sailing. How to search for for the best cruises? Google won’t help but possibly the latest U.S. News & World Report on cruises will. For those on a search for the best cruise for their needs, here is the upshot of 2025’s Best Cruise Lines rankings.
These ”Best” cruise line rankings highlight 18 of the most popular cruise lines in six categories catering to various travelers, including couples, families and those in search of luxury or a scenic Mediterranean adventure.
Top Places
Topping the best cruise line list, whether the best cruise line for adults or simply the best cruise line for quick getaways is the Best Cruise Lines for the Money, giving Celebrity Cruises the lead as the best value among ranked cruise lines. Disney Cruise Line continues to dominate the competition in the Best Cruise Lines for Families, while also claiming the No. 1 spot in Best Cruise Lines in the Caribbean. In addition, Viking Ocean Cruises continues its reign as No. 1 in three categories: Best Luxury Cruise Lines, Best Cruise Lines for Couples and Best Cruise Lines in the Mediterranean.
“With so many cruise lines to choose from, it may be hard to know where to start when it comes to finding the perfect cruise vacation,” said Nicola Wood, senior travel editor at U.S. News. “The 2025 Best Cruise Lines rankings not only recognize the top cruise lines, but also provide a way for travelers to compare features, amenities and offerings to find the right cruise for an exciting experience at sea.”
The rankings are based on a comprehensive and transparent methodology that takes into account expert evaluations of ship quality, traveler ratings, health assessment results and other relevant factors.
2025 Best Cruise Line for Adults Lines Rankings
Best Cruise Lines for the Money
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- Celebrity Cruises
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- Virgin Voyages
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- MSC Cruises
Cruise Lines for Families
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- Disney Cruise Line
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- Royal Caribbean International
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- Norwegian Cruise Lines
Best Cruise Lines for Adults and Couples
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- Viking Ocean Cruises
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- Seabourn Cruise Line
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- Celebrity Cruises
Best Cruise Line for Adults in the Caribbean
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- Disney Cruise Line
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- Celebrity Cruises
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- Virgin Voyages
Cruise Line for Adults in the Mediterranean
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- Viking Ocean Cruises
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- Seabourn Cruise Line
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- Celebrity Cruises
Best Cruise Line for Adults
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- Viking Ocean Cruises
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- Seabourn Cruise Line
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- Regent Seven Seas Cruises
Cruise line and cruise ship profiles – updated annually – can help travelers learn more about each cruise carrier’s features, including its onboard activities, immersive excursions and food offerings. Profiles feature “Insider Tips” from cruise industry experts to help consumers discover what stands out about each line. New this year, cruise line profiles now feature a section detailing the latest news and exciting happenings on board for the upcoming sailing season.
Sneak Peek: Most Anticipated Cruise Ships of 2025
Furthermore As we bid farewell to 2024, cruise enthusiasts and travelers eagerly await the arrival of a new fleet of magnificent cruise ships in 2025. With each passing year, these vessels seem to outdo their predecessors in terms of size, amenities, and environmental friendliness. From industry giants like MSC Cruises and Royal Caribbean to luxury lines like Oceania Cruises and The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, the maritime landscape is abuzz with excitement. In this article, we will provide an overview of some of the most anticipated cruise ships debuting in 2025, their key features, and the enchanting destinations they will explore.
MSC World America
Moreover Leading the pack is MSC World America, the sister ship to the highly acclaimed World Europa. Set to debut in Miami, Florida in April 2025, this ship promises an array of new and updated cabins, amenities, and spaces that will surely delight MSC Cruises fans. With seven unique districts, expansive swimming pools, and a captivating World Promenade boasting an 11-deck dry slide and nightly light shows, World America is a marvel in itself. Not to mention the largest and most luxurious Yacht Club in MSC’s fleet, along with stunning Infinite Ocean View cabins offering breathtaking views. Departing from Miami, World America will journey to destinations such as San Juan, Costa Maya, Cozumel, Roatan, Puerto Plata, and MSC Cruises’ private island in the Bahamas, Ocean Cay Marine Reserve.
Princess Cruises Star Princess
Following the successful launch of Sun Princess in 2024, Princess Cruises is gearing up to introduce Star Princess in September 2025. Designed as a sister ship to Sun Princess, Star Princess offers a similar layout with an impressive central atrium, inviting outdoor spaces, and a variety of dining options. Noteworthy features include a multi-level dining area, the Spellbound by Magic Castle dining experience, and cabana mini-suites with indoor-outdoor areas. Star Princess will set sail from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, offering captivating itineraries in the Caribbean and later venturing into the stunning landscapes of Alaska in 2026.
Oceania Cruises Allura
For those seeking a luxurious culinary experience at sea, Oceania Cruises presents Allura, their newest ship launching in July 2025. With a focus on creating unforgettable gastronomic adventures, Allura offers a range of cabins and suites, including the lavish Penthouse Suite with 24-hour butler service. Embarking on its inaugural season in Europe, Allura will traverse the Mediterranean, taking passengers on a journey through breathtaking destinations such as Greece, Italy, and Portugal.
Viking Vesta
Moreover Continuing their tradition of excellence, Viking is set to launch Viking Vesta in the summer of 2025. This smaller-sized ocean vessel, with 499 staterooms accommodating 998 guests, will explore the Mediterranean and Northern Europe. Designed to be one of the best cruises line for adults, especially for adventure-seeking adults, Viking Vesta offers an array of features and dining options, including the Kitchen Table, Manfredi’s Italian Restaurant, and the elegant Explorer’s Lounge. Guests can also enjoy the sports deck, cocktails, and the ship’s intimate atmosphere in upgraded cabins like the Owner’s Suite and Explorer Suite.
Luminara (Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection)
The best cruise line for adults can also be found within the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection. The line is preparing to wow passengers with their new vessel, Luminara, debuting in 2025. This super-yacht boasts 226 suites, each featuring a private terrace. Onboard, guests can indulge in luxurious spa treatments, relax in spacious common areas, and embark on unforgettable journeys in the Mediterranean and Adriatic. With ports of call in Greece, Italy, Portugal, Spain, and Turkey, Luminara promises a truly enchanting experience.
Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas
Furthermore Royal Caribbean International is set to launch yet another megaship in 2025 with Star of the Seas. Boasting a staggering 5,610-guest capacity, this behemoth offers a plethora of amenities and attractions. From eight unique neighborhoods to an AquaTheater, a rock climbing wall, and multiple pools, Star of the Seas ensures that passengers of all ages will find something to enjoy. Departing from Port Canaveral, Florida, it will offer Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries, including stops at Royal Caribbean’s private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay.
Norwegian Aqua
Moreover Norwegian Cruise Line introduces Norwegian Aqua in 2025, offering travelers new and exciting amenities. With a focus on wide-open spaces, the ship features a thrilling Aqua Slidecoaster, providing a unique blend of roller coaster and waterslide experiences. Guests can choose from various cabin categories, including interior, ocean view, balcony cabins, and luxurious suites within The Haven, NCL’s exclusive “ship within a ship” concept. Norwegian Aqua sets sail from Miami, Florida, with itineraries encompassing destinations such as Belize, Cozumel, Puerto Plata, Tortola, and Bermuda.
Disney Destiny
Finally Disney Cruise Line unveils Disney Destiny in November 2025, embarking on its maiden voyage from Fort Lauderdale, Florida. True to the Disney experience, this ship offers live shows with beloved characters, themed meals, and an abundance of fun-filled activities across its ten pools and water play areas. Parents can escape to adult-only areas such as De Vil’s lounge, the Haunted Mansion Parlor, and a Beauty and the Beast-themed cocktail lounge.
Best Cruise Line for Adults
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