Analyzing the Best Cruises in the World!
Discover the best cruise lines for your next vacation, from Virgin Voyages to Cunard.
I (and the staff at Brooke In The Air) have maintained that cruises are not the best choice for a vacation. However, if you are set on taking a cruise, we will not try to talk you out of it—that is not our business model. We provide advice; we don’t debate with our clients. Brooke has curated a list of the best cruise options if you’re committed to cruising. Enjoy!
Virgin Voyages
The newest of the mainstream cruise lines, Virgin Voyages first set sail in 2021 and has quickly become a favorite among cruise passengers. Even cruise writers and review sites consistently rate it highly. Platforms like CruiseCritic.com have awarded it “Editor’s Choice Awards” for Best Food and Nightlife two years in a row. With an overall passenger rating of 4.1 out of 5, it ranks #1 in global cruise rankings.
Virgin Voyages falls into the “premium” category, alongside brands like Celebrity, Holland America, Disney, and Princess. While it is on the pricier side, many travelers appreciate that it is an adults-only experience. Passengers—referred to as “sailors”—must present valid ID and a passport to board.
Crystal River Cruises
River cruises are becoming increasingly popular, often offering a more affordable and scenic alternative to traditional ocean cruises. One standout option is the Rhine River cruise in Germany (Rheinkreuzfahrt in German).
While associated with Crystal River Cruises, many of these journeys are operated by local cruise operators (LCOs).
As noted by Travel & Leisure:
“Today’s travelers want affordable experiences, and on rivers as diverse as the Danube, Rhine, Seine, and others in Europe; Egypt’s Nile; the Mekong in Vietnam and Cambodia; America’s Mississippi; and the Peruvian Amazon, you can find just that with these varied inland ships.”
Viking Cruise Lines
Taking third place on this list, Viking Cruise Lines is known for its small-ship experiences. While these ships may not offer the same volume of entertainment as larger vessels, that is precisely what appeals to many cruisers and reviewers.
In 2022, Viking launched two 189-cabin expedition ships, introducing ambitious Arctic and Antarctic itineraries. These ships quickly became fan favorites, earning top rankings in the small-ship category at the World’s Best Awards for three consecutive years.
Passengers appreciate that these ships combine the comfort of larger vessels with unique features, such as hidden speakeasies. Many also highlight the educational aspect—onboard lecturers and experts, as well as real scientific research conducted during voyages, including collaborations at locations like McMurdo Station in Antarctica. Viking also offers more traditional luxury cruises, particularly throughout Scandinavian regions.
Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection
“A voyage with The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection offers an unprecedented opportunity to live untethered…”
Ritz-Carlton’s own description captures the essence of this experience. Earning fourth place on our list, this option delivers an ultra-luxury cruise experience focused on exclusivity, flexibility, and curated travel.
That said, this level of luxury comes at a significant cost. While the experience is undeniably opulent, some may find the presentation leans more toward aesthetic than substance.
Cunard
Rounding out the list in fifth place is Cunard. For travelers who appreciate a traditional and formal dining experience at sea, Cunard is difficult to surpass.
With a rich maritime history—including its association with the Titanic in 1912—the brand leans into tradition and elegance. Guests are assigned a main dining room based on their stateroom category, while additional options include casual cafés, pub-style fare, and specialty venues such as the Steakhouse at The Verandah.
Afternoon tea service remains a signature Cunard tradition, continuing to distinguish the line from its competitors.
Thank you for reading. While we don’t generally recommend spending your hard-earned money on cruises, we respect your preferences. If you choose to cruise, we’re here to help you find the best possible option for your budget and travel goals.
After all, this is about you—not us.
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