Before the coronavirus pandemic, cruise vacations were becoming increasingly popular, with almost 30 million passengers boarding cruise ships annually. Now that travel protocols have been lifted, people are once again returning to sea.
Now is the perfect time to book your cruise, and when you travel with AAA, you receive best-price guarantees and additional discounts on add-on amenities.
Take the quiz below to find what is the best cruise line for you! After receiving our top recommendations, read the descriptions below to help narrow your search. The cruise line breakdowns give an overview of where the cruise lines travel and what you can expect regarding what's included, the environment, and more.
AmaWaterways offers unique river cruises throughout Europe, Africa, and Asia. The company has been sailing for 20 years and holds several awards and accolades for best and leading river cruise line.
The European cruises sail 22 ships across France, Portugal, Germany, Switzerland, Austria, and more. There are two African cruises — one sails the Chobe River and offers safari excursions, while the other sails the Nile River in Egypt to view famous pyramids and sites. The Asian tour sails the Mekong River in Vietnam and Cambodia. They are adding a Colombian cruise along the Magdalena River in 2024 and a second Egyptian tour at an unannounced date.
Each cruise offers a different experience, but most ships have similar amenities.
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One of America's longest-running cruise lines, Carnival first set out for sea in 1972. The cruise line's 23 ships sail out of all U.S. coasts, Australia, and Europe. They are well-known for their wide range of Caribbean cruises.
Carnival cruises can be a good option for both families and those looking for adult fun. Shorter cruises usually attract a party crowd celebrating bachelorette parties and getaways with friends. Longer cruises are likely to have a more balanced crowd that appeals to families. Some ships offer waterslides on the pool deck and the first rollercoaster at sea.
Carnival also offers wedding packages where couples can celebrate with family and friends aboard the ship at a port or on land at a special destination. Symbolic weddings at sea are also available. Carnival also offers honeymoon packages.
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Celebrity Cruises hit all seven continents with over 300 destinations in 79 countries. Among dozens of awards, the cruise line was named the best premium cruise line in 2021, a title they've held for 14 consecutive years. They have 16 ships that hold anywhere from 16 to more than 3,000 guests.
With hundreds of itineraries, there are trips for everyone aboard Celebrity Cruises. However, the upscale ships are not known for being vibrant party scenes. The cruise line offers various activities for children and adult attractions like casinos and spas.
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Setting sail in 1995, the famous Disney Cruise Line keeps a small fleet of five ships today. The ships travel across the world and even to Disney Castaway Cay, their own private island in The Bahamas.
Disney is known for catering to families with young children, as there are plenty of characters and other activities aboard. Voyage fares include meals, meet and greets, endless ice cream, and Broadway-style entertainment.
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It's safe to say that Royal Caribbean International is a fan favorite. The cruise line has been sailing since 1968 and has held the title of best cruise line overall for 19 years. It has 26 ships, with four more coming by 2026.
Royal Caribbean leads the industry in onboard entertainment and activities, with zip lines, water slides, surf simulators, and more. There's so much to do that you likely won't have time for everything in one week of sailing.
For that reason, this cruise line makes a good choice for families with teens and those looking for a fun, active vacation. If you're looking for a calm, relaxing environment, this cruise line might not be right for you.
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Another older cruise line, Princess Cruises first set sail in 1965 and now runs 15 ships to over 330 destinations across all seven continents. They boast over 170 itineraries ranging from three to 111 days.
Princess Cruises are known for offering a traditional cruise experience — you won’t find water parks or go-karts aboard their fleet. They also have dress code requirements and lean into typical cruise entertainment, such as theater and game shows, karaoke nights, escape rooms, shopping, and spas. While the cruise line may attract a mature crowd, there is something for everyone aboard.
As the “love boat,” Princess Cruises offer wedding and honeymoon packages. Couples can choose to say their vows at sea, harborside, or ashore. Wedding packages start at $2,000 and include special touches like flowers, cake, and keepsakes.
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Regent Seven Seas Cruises' six ships sail between six continents, including transoceanic crossings, with over 450 destinations. The cruise line celebrated its 30-year anniversary in 2022. It has won numerous awards, such as best boutique cruise line, best spa facilities, and best luxury cruise line.
This top-rated cruise line is all-inclusive, including airfare and ground transfers, excursions, drinks, gratuities, specialty dining, Wi-Fi, and valet laundry. The luxurious environment caters to an older, sophisticated crowd, but the ships are not adult-only.
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Azamara sails in nine regions across the globe — from Australia to Europe to Central America. This cruise line also offers multiple transoceanic luxury cruises. Think of a place, and Azamara can likely get you there.
They strive to bring local culture aboard their ships, so guests aren't limited to immersive experiences only at ports. Azamara is known for its more relaxed environment and mature crowd. If you're looking for a party scene or a ship dedicated to children, this likely isn't the best cruise line for you. However, that's not to say they don't offer entertainment or nightlife.
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Oceania Cruises' six ships sail from over 450 ports, visiting destinations in Europe, Asia, the tropics, North America, and even Antarctica. Though it's a newer cruise line, founded in 2002, Oceania has been recognized for its excursions and dining.
Oceania Cruises attracts affluent retirees, solo travelers, and couples without children with its country club-like feel. Though these ships may not be optimal for children, they are not adult-only.
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The oldest cruise line on the list, Holland America Line was founded in 1873 and operated out of Rotterdam, Netherlands, until 1989. In that time frame, it sailed cruise liners, cargo ships, passenger ships, and shipping lines between North America and the Netherlands. It's now an American cruise line with 11 ships sailing from more than 470 ports in 98 destinations.
Holland America is known for its traditional amenities, which cater to a mature crowd, and its grand voyages and world cruises. While it's not extravagant in its entertainment productions, musicians and shows play into the night. The bars boast classy and unique cocktails, and the library feels a bit more like a bookstore without the charge.
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With more than 300 ocean cruises and over 500 river cruises sailing the globe today, there's a cruise line sure to meet your needs. You can book one of the best cruise lines with AAA Vacations and know you're traveling safely by booking a AAA Diamond cruise.
Other Sources:Forbes | Cruise Market Watch | USA Today