Best for Cruising: Matching Ships with Experience

Best for cruising awards are in season again and U.S. News & World Report, publisher of Best Hotels, Best Vacations and Best Travel Rewards Programs, just unveiled its 10th edition of the Best Cruise Lines rankings.

As Wave Season closes in, these 2024 best for cruising tables highlight 17 cruise lines that cater to every kind of traveler. But not all cruise lines are equal in the types of experiences they offer. In this table, cruise lines are divided into six categories: Best Cruise Lines for the Money, Best Cruise Lines for Families, Best Cruise Lines for Couples, Best Cruise Lines in the Caribbean, Best Cruise Lines in the Mediterranean and Best Luxury Cruise Lines. Depending on what one wants in a cruise vacation, these delineations can mean a world of difference.

Overall Winners: Best for cruising

Securing the No. 1 spot in the Best Cruise Lines for the Money ranking for its second consecutive year, Virgin Voyages delivers the best value among cruise lines. U.S. News considered the overall cruise line quality, average base fare per night and extra benefits, such as free gratuities, complimentary Wi-Fi access and all-inclusive package options. Celebrity Cruises, which provides an upscale experience at reasonable rates, is No. 2, and Princess Cruises, famous for its television appearance on the classic 1970s TV series, “The Love Boat,” holds the No. 3 ranking.

Disney Cruise Line has been named the Best Cruise Line for Families for the 10th consecutive year. The family-focused cruise line features ships that host character meet-and-greets, themed dinners, nighttime fireworks and various activities tailored for children. Royal Caribbean International comes in at No. 2, thanks to its onboard amenities and wide array of dining options that cater to guests of all ages, while Carnival Cruise Line ranks No. 3, offering family-friendly features such as water parks, basketball courts and a wide range of activities.

“This year has seen an enormous resurgence in the popularity of cruises,” said Nicola Wood, senior travel editor at U.S. News. “After the unprecedented cruising shutdown during the peak of the pandemic, people are eager to sail the world’s oceans and tour multiple destinations in a single trip. The Best Cruise Lines rankings provide a variety of cruise recommendations, making it easy for cruisers to choose the best options for them.”

Rankings: Best for cruising

The 2025 rankings are accompanied by an editorial compilation of the top cruise lines making progress to become more sustainable for the environmentally conscious traveler, and the best new cruise ships for 2024 and beyond. Travelers can also discover the best gay cruises and top cruise lines for solo travelers. In addition, consumers can peruse helpful advice and find useful planning tips for their next cruise, including the essential cruise packing list, what to wear on a cruise and more.

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.