best cruise ships in 2022

The Best Cruise Ships in the World: The Gold List 2024

By CNT Editors

Consider Gold List the answer to the question our editors get asked more than any other: What are your favorite places to stay? Our 30th annual iteration of the world’s greatest hotels and cruises captures nearly a year’s worth of work: This collection represents hundreds of hours of researching, scouting, and impassioned debating by our team of editors in seven cities across the globe. But more than that, it reflects our ongoing love affair with the places where we stay, which often become our gateways to entire destinations. Read on to inspire your next cruise.

See the full Gold List here .

Oceania Cruises' Marina is one of 12 ships chosen by our editors for 2024.

Celebrity Beyond Arrow

Cruise ships often get compared to floating hotels or resorts, but here’s one that feels like a floating Vegas show. Applause, please, for the glittering peacock made from Swarovski crystals and the Magic Carpet platform that shimmies up and down the ship, cantilevered over the water for some of the best seats in the house, while in the Martini Bar, a troupe of bartenders juggle shakers to the sound of “We Didn’t Start the Fire.” Beyond is one of the largest ships in Celebrity’s Edge class, and all that space is used to maximize the drama. A whole corridor is filled with a glowing installation of bronze sculptures reflected in infinity mirrors; a favorite anchorage was Eden, a beautiful, biophiliac bubble for hiding away in, watching the ship’s wake through triple-height windows and dawdling in swivel chairs that resemble green carnations. As for the cast, there are some stellar performers: Kelly Hoppen designed most of the interiors; Daniel Boulud’s debut signature restaurant at sea, Le Voyage, has an impeccable, globe-trotting menu alighting on Brazilian moqueca and tamarind prawns. But top of the bill is Captain Kate McCue, the first American woman to captain a cruise ship. A captain hasn’t been this synonymous with their ship since the days of Merrill Stubing; follow her social media for a glimpse into the art of ship navigation. During our short, prelaunch cruise, we had an itinerary that involved looping round and round the Isle of Wight—a short trip, but one that was big on sheer spectacle. Three-night sailings from $300 per person. —Rick Jordan

Delfin II Arrow

The Amazon River has the opacity of chocolate milk and is almost deathlike in its stillness—which is wild when you consider how much life thrives there. It was on a nine-day journey through Peru with Lindblad Expeditions and National Geographic that I learned this, as we spent five of those days exploring the jungle by boat. Our chariot: the Delfin II , a Relais & Châteaux vessel with 14 thoughtfully appointed staterooms.

Most days began with a crack-of-dawn skiff ride soundtracked by the squall of jewel-winged, dusky-headed parakeets. The photographers pulled out their football lenses and the birders gasped from behind their binoculars as naturalists pointed out an elegant snowy egret picking its way through a mudbank, a neotropic cormorant spreading its gothy black wings like a vampire, and the somber Jabiru stork, the largest flying bird in South America, standing like a dour English butler on a naked tree limb. Also flagged were capuchin monkeys, giant river otters, flamboyant bromeliads, and—after dark—scores of caimans and capybaras.

We spent one muggy morning in a Kukama village, where indigenous women wove raffia bowls and cooked catfish, and another morning paddling the river—an outing which culminated with a pod of pink river dolphins leaping from the water mere feet from our kayaks. (Even our seen-it-all naturalist, Sandro, clapped like a schoolgirl.)

This deep in the Amazon jungle, there were no other tourists. When we did see signs of human life, they were usually fishermen or park rangers. And because there was no Wi-Fi on the Delfin II and a near total blackout on cell reception, downtime was spent attending lectures on Amazonian ecology, sampling native fruits (how the aptly named ice cream bean hasn’t been pitched on Shark Tank yet, I’ll never know), and buddying up to the ship bar, where I made fast friends of fellow guests. (Expedition cruises always draw a fascinating lot; my cohort included a microbiologist, metaphysical transcendentalist, and one of the earliest Apple employees.)

The highlight of the trip, however, was hiking through the jungle with a local tracker who showed us a brown-throated three-toed sloth, Goliath bird-eating tarantula, junior anaconda, and a century-old strangler fig. When we finally emerged from the bush, we were treated to a spectacular tangerine-and-charcoal sunset punctured by bolts of lighting. It was surreal and intense, just like everything else in this untouched corner of the world. Eight-day sailings from $5,730 per person. —Ashlea Halpern

Ritz-Carlton Evrima Arrow

Ritz-Carlton’s first foray into cruising, the Evrima is a hotel-at-sea experience that might just be the antidote to all the big ship itineraries. Think ultra-small ship luxury (at half the capacity of the Seabourns and Regents) with plenty of scenery options to choose from—the European Mediterranean (routes from Turkey to the Canary Islands) from spring through fall, and the Caribbean (San Juan to St. Barts) in winter—and a younger crowd than most of the luxury cruise market; mostly culture lovers with a dearth of cruising experience who can't wait to get ashore to the Côte d’Azur village restaurants. The 624-foot ship is the first in a fleet of three emerging over the next few years, and it still feels spacious with 149 suites, two pools, a cigar humidor, six bars (the interior Living Room and top-floor Observation Lounge, The Bar, and bars located at the Marina Terrace, the Pool House, and Mistral), a beauty salon and spa deck, water-level marina terrace with water toys, and a fitness center. The 246 staff range from deck crew to your cabin’s personal concierge, all of whom are dubbed the ship’s Ladies and Gentlemen—but titles feel almost superfluous aboard Evrima , where everyone from the tender drivers to dining leads will pause to actually get to know you and recall your name and story (and even your drink order) to make the entire experience feel organic and warm. It’s almost like you’re spending the night in someone’s home, which just so happens to be a 624-foot mega-yacht. And the Evrima itinerary has plenty of free time and overnight ports of call in its sailings, so you can head ashore for a day, or even an entire evening late into the night—gallivanting, dining, and imbibing with the new friends you'll no doubt meet onboard. Seven-night sailings from $5,800 per person. —Shannon McMahon

Oceania Marina Arrow

Is there any Marina passenger who doesn’t wish—even for a second—to confine himself to his stateroom on debarkation day? Perhaps only the smarty pants who booked their next cruise before this one ends. Otherwise, how can an epicurean cruiser (that’s Marina ’s crowd) not pine for another shot at the new wine list starring 80 highly coveted, hard-to-snag labels, including swoon-worthy Super Tuscans? You’ll long for one more brag-worthy chance to sip The Mascot, a label from Harlan family pedigree (think cult fave Harlan Estate); the Polo Grill’s deft sommelier knows exactly which prime steak pairs best. Despite eight compelling complimentary restaurants (Red Ginger’s signature lobster pad thai is still a must-devour), Marina vibes far more than great meals. Work up a sweat storm playing pickleball on deck 16 or braving core conditioning in the gym. Melt into a marine detox wrap (I love the juniper and lemon scent) at Aquamar Spa + Vitality Center, then sink into the spa terrace’s bubbling hot tub. Get down and dirty in the artist loft by painting a Venetian mask and playing Impressionist. In the hands-on culinary center, learn to cure a fish or preserve a lemon. Come May 2024, Marina debuts a splashy redo. Fall in love again with revamped avocado toast—bravo to the taco-spiced shrimp topping—in the new wellness-driven Aquamar kitchen. Where you lie your head hardly matters. An entry 291-square-foot stateroom starring a four-pillow, soft-sheet bed feels mighty spacious and sports Bulgari shampoo. That said, the top-to-bottom penthouse suites’ glam reno is beyond covetable, from the expanded bath to a boatload of enviable perks. Ten-day sailings from $1,999 per person. —Janice Wald Henderson

Andrea Cheng

Jessica Puckett

Sophie Yun Mancini

Trollfjord Arrow

Who better to guide you through Norway’s most remote reaches—including the Svalbard archipelago, the northernmost inhabited islands on the planet—than a Norwegian cruise company that knows the area’s every crag and fjord? Hurtigruten is an Oslo-based line whose ships have traversed these waters since 1893, ferrying freight, mail, and passengers to the communities along the rugged coast. In 2023, to celebrate its 130th anniversary, the company’s flagship, the newly refurbished, 500-passenger MS Trollfjord (named for a fjord in the Vesterålen archipelago) began sailing two hybrids of its original 34-port Norwegian Coastal Express, calling at several of the towns and villages on the original route. From September through April, the North Cape Express (a 13-day, 16-port itinerary) sails from Oslo to the North Cape and then south to Bergen. In the summertime, the Svalbard Express’s eight-day journey begins in Bergen and progresses north, with extended port calls and excursions in seven towns before entering the Arctic Circle and pulling into Longyearbyen, a mining town on Spitsbergen, Svalbard’s main island. On both routes Trollfjord offers its (mostly European) passengers an uncommon way to explore the region, with uniquely Nordic cultural touches to connect them to the country. There’s a pre-boarding spread of Norwegian fare in the ship’s departure lounge, and Trollfjord ’s three restaurants prioritize Scandinavian cuisine (salmon, reindeer, and lingonberries, oh my!) and the food culture of the indigenous Sámi people. The ship’s 277 staterooms and 12 suites (with walk-in closets, corner bathtubs and floor-to-ceiling windows) offer a cozy retreat from the sometimes-harsh weather. And typically Nordic diversions such as aquavit tastings, oceanview saunas and polar plunges leave you in no doubt about where you are and who you’re sailing with. 10-day sailings from $3,082 per person. —Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon

Seven Seas Navigator Arrow

Imagine the most luxurious hotel you’ve ever stayed in. That’s precisely what stepping onboard the Regent Seven Seas Cruises Navigator feels like. And while the opulence and grandeur shine through every square inch of space, it’s worth mentioning that the staff are what make the experience memorable, remembering your name, preferences, likes, and dislikes from the second you step afoot the eight-deck vessel.

The 248 ultraluxe all-suite accommodations feel like your home away from home—despite their capacious interiors—and your personalized steward makes sure of that with thoughtful touches from the moment you check in. Thanks to a revamp in 2019, the ship feels pristine with a new library—complete with a faux fireplace—and sleek state-of-the-art furnishings (including the cruise line’s bespoke mattresses and bed linens) in each of the rooms. However, what makes the Navigator stand out from its counterparts is its intimate size, as it’s the smallest in Regent’s fleet. Everything onboard feels just an arm’s reach away, and you’ll quickly bond with fellow passengers after spending the day together on one of the complimentary shore excursions, such as tours by local guides, cooking classes, and other intimate adventures.

During my Mediterranean voyage, days were spent immersing ourselves in new cities, whereas nights began with a freshly shaken ice-cold martini followed by an exuberant dinner, with a stop in the Seven Seas Lounge for whatever was on tap that night, ranging from cabaret to karaoke. At the end of the journey, I left wanting more and with a suitcase full of clean clothes, thanks to one of the many attentive touches onboard: the included laundry service. 10-night sailings from $3,360 per person. —Rachel Dube

Seabourn Ovation Arrow

“We are not the Rat Pack,” quips Andrew Pedder, the witty Yorkshire-born captain of Seabourn Ovation. He's referring to himself and the other senior officers, for any guests who may have wandered into their impromptu panel session instead of the musical show taking place later that evening. The Q&A—which covers everything from the prettiest ports to the number of Champagne bottles typically consumed during a seven-day voyage—is part of a last-minute program of activities arranged for an unexpected sea day when it’s too windy to dock in the South of France. This is mid-October, on one of the ship’s jaunts around the Mediterranean for the season, and no one seems to mind the change of plan (although when we do explore, all the islands we visit—Menorca, Corsica, Elba—are blissfully tourist-free). It simply means more time for spa treatments, soaks in the outdoor hot tubs, and afternoon tea in the observation bar. Even then, it only feels like there are 60 passengers onboard, rather than 600. The restaurants are excellent, from Sushi, where you can sit at the counter watching the Japanese chefs at work, to poolside Earth & Ocean for Tandoori-style rotisserie chicken and Madras-style white bean cassoulet. Suites are spacious, each one with a balcony. West End–standard entertainment includes a magician and a chart-topping classical singer. But what makes this ultraluxe ship really memorable is the relaxed, on-point service by staff who remember your name and coffee order, or even a familiar face from a sailing five years ago. Seven-day sailings from $2,649 per person. —Emma Love

Silver Endeavour Arrow

Silversea is defined by its far-flung itineraries and exceptional onboard service (think Moët Champagne as you take in an iceberg calving in Antarctica). But the 220-passenger Silver Endeavour, new to the fleet and already a classic, raises every bar. Rooms start at a spacious 356 square feet and have luxury perks like pillow menus and a personalized bar, making them the best in all of Silversea’s array of ships. As far as food goes, premium Ars Italica Osetra caviar is complimentary and around-the-clock, though the Dover sole paired with a label from the rare wine menu at La Dame would have you believing you were in Paris. And the signature Otium spa celebrates pampering as much as it does wellness—don’t skip on the oxygen-boosting Golden Radiance facial. You may find yourself at any given hour glimpsing ice walls through the Drake Passage and remembering that the best part about this ship is the awe-inspiring places it dares to take you. 10-day sailings from $13,150. —Janice Wald Henderson

Scarlet Lady Arrow

Although new to the cruise industry, Virgin Voyages has already begun to set itself apart from its predecessors. When first stepping on the Scarlet Lady, cruisers are met with a rousing, upbeat staff that serve as gurus around the ship and are experts on everything from beauty to juicing. While the Scarlet Lady takes you on a familiar route around the Caribbean, the on-shore excursions available are what make this sail memorable. Take a leap of faith on daring outings such as the Waterfalls of Damajagua in Puerto Plata, where guests make their way down seven of the 27 natural slides and waterfalls. After the exhilarating experience, travelers can sit down with locals and come together over Dominican staples such as pollo guisado, tostones, and mangú. You can always get local delicacies while docked, but while onboard, you must snag a reservation at the Test Kitchen. It’s an experimental dining experience where the menu always evolves. You go in only seeing a small card with ingredients listed for the night’s meal, but everything else is up to the imagination. One might find cucumbers puréed and frozen into ice cream as dessert, or beets formed and prepared like steak. While en route to the next port, the hard reset one does at the Redemption Spa leaves your body feeling anew; it’s impossible to come back from vacation feeling the same as when you departed. On any Virgin Voyages ship, you’ll love the indulgent atmosphere, whether you’re catering to your sweet tooth by narrowing down your favorite gelato of the day, grabbing a drink at one of the five bars that stake claim to having the largest tequila supply on the seven seas, or finally getting that tattoo you’ve been thinking about for ages after visiting the ship’s tattoo parlor, Squid Ink. Seven-day sailings from $2,100 per person. —Paris Wilson

Queen Mary 2 Arrow

Six days sailing from England to New York across the vast Atlantic had the potential to bore me to stupefaction, but it turned out I had nothing to fear. “The ship is the destination,” said an entertainment director for Queen Mary 2 , who oversees a program that makes this cruise liner the undisputed hub of creative and intellectual stimulation on the high seas. Where else can you attend the annual Literature Festival At Sea, meeting top fiction and nonfiction authors like the late PJ O’Rourke, Bernadine Evaristo, and Louis de Bernières? And where else can you visit a planetarium, watch a Royal Shakespeare theater production, or hear guest speakers discuss artwork investments and the history of airport drug mules?

In between spa massages and table tennis rallies, I nourished my mind in the mahogany library before nourishing my body at the Princess Grill and Queens Grill restaurants, scarfing dishes like croquette of suckling pig, paired with excellent vintages and followed by mango panna cotta. On the final stretch of the journey, as dolphins leapt over the horizon and the Statue of Liberty loomed into view, my heart sank a little—New York City awaited, yet I didn’t want to disembark. That’s quite an achievement. Seven-day sailings from $1,389 per person. —Noo Saro-Wiwa

World Navigator Arrow

During my first few hours aboard the Atlas Ocean Voyages World Navigator, I felt a bit like I had inadvertently crashed a family reunion: Seemingly everyone else aboard this Arctic expedition had just sailed to Antarctica on the Navigator six months before, so several crew members and guests spent much of embarkation day hugging and catching up. With a maximum occupancy of 196, it’s already an intimate ship, but the fact that the relatively young brand, which debuted in 2019, could develop such an impressive number of repeat travelers in such a short spell speaks volumes. Many told me they were drawn to Atlas because of its eco-friendly bona fides (the new-build ship makes use of hybrid engines from Rolls-Royce designed to leave minimal impact), but the creature comforts on board certainly help. While the star attraction of such an expedition voyage is what lies beyond the decks—access to remote Antarctic fjords that larger vessels can’t dream of traversing, or spotting polar bears loping along pearly glaciers in the Arctic—I made the most of my time in between Zodiac expeditions. The multi-jet shower in my stateroom was sublime after damp and rigorous treks, the heated massage beds in the only L’Occitane Spa at sea are a dream, and the Arctic summer’s 24 hours of sunshine made the Dome observation deck a prime perch to cozy up with a book at any time of day or night. There was neither internet nor cell phone connectivity during my entire eight-day journey sailing thanks to the remote latitudes (though Atlas guests now have access to full Starlink satellite coverage), which meant this was the longest I’d been offline since the 1990s—and yet somehow, drifting through the surreal landscape in this cosseting bubble, I didn’t miss scrolling or chatting with the outside world one bit. Seven-night sailings from $4,749 per person. —Sarah Khan

Westerdam Arrow

A passenger who is well below senior age dances the robot to classic rock, to R&B, to country music, and to disco hits as talented singers and a live band perform most nights in the Rolling Stone Lounge, on Holland America Line’s Westerdam . His mechanical movements are a source of amusement and encouragement; if he can take over the dance floor, so can we with our own moves. The 1,916-passenger Westerdam is beloved as a traditional cruise ship, with its smaller-than-mega-ship size, deep blue hull, wraparound outdoor promenade deck, and details such as fresh flowers all around, celebrating the 150-year-old cruise line’s Dutch roots. Tradition does not mean staid. There’s rock and roll. There’s a trendy top-of-ship pickleball court.

On an Alaska cruise, my husband and I start our days with a jolt of caffeine via the baristas at Explorations Central, the ship’s cushy, contemporary, forward-facing observation lounge, before heading off on adventures such as joining other passengers in synchronized paddling a large canoe to see the ancient yet diminishing ice of Juneau’s Mendenhall Glacier. Back on the ship, we indulge in excellent burgers, topped with Gouda and applewood-smoked bacon and served in fast-food wrapping from a stand at the covered Lido pool. We enjoy sustainable Alaska seafood—grilled salmon, fennel-crusted halibut, fried cod—in between cocktails made with local gin, served on real glacial ice. From the veranda of our classic aft cabin, mesmerizing views of the ship’s wake, seemingly endless forest, and a distant, blue-tinged glacier clear our brain. We’re ready for more of the dancing man. Seven-day sailings from $379 per person. —Fran Golden

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USA TODAY 10Best

These are the best cruise ships and cruise lines of 2022

July 22, 2022 // By 10Best Editors

By 10Best Editors July 22, 2022

Cruising is among the most popular ways to see the world. Unpack once and take in the sights of the world’s rivers and seas from your floating hotel. More than a dozen new vessels are introduced each year, making the sheer variety of cruises overwhelming.

To help narrow it down, we invited our readers to vote for their favorites. After four weeks of voting, the results are in.

Click on each category below to see the full winners list:

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Best Adventure Cruise Line: Adventure Canada

While Adventure Canada does indeed lead small ship adventures through the rivers, icy fjords and secluded waterways of Canada, this expedition cruise company also takes travelers to experience landscapes and cultures further afield, places like Scotland, Iceland, Ireland, the Faroe Islands and Greenland. The company shines with an always stellar lineup of onboard experts and guides.

Full list of winners: Best Adventure Cruise Line »

Best Boutique Cruise Line: Viking Ocean Cruises

Viking Cruises earned its reputation through its affordable, destination-focused river cruises, and after expanding into sea voyages, the line now has six ocean vessels too. All cabins come with balconies and are notably larger than the industry average, and while the ships lack a casino and kids' club, they offer the same destination-intensive programming that made river cruising so popular.

Full list of winners: Best Boutique Cruise Line »

Best Large Ship: Celebrity Reflection

The 3,046-passenger Celebrity Reflection is all about cruising sophistication. At The Art Studio, master artists from The ArtCenter/South Florida host hands-on demos and classes in a range of art mediums. Passengers enjoy nightly live music scattered throughout the ship, as well as big production shows, stand-up comedy, music and magic performances at the two-level Reflection Theater. There are over a dozen dining venues to choose from, as well as a half dozen bars and lounges.

Full list of winners: Best Large Ship »

Best Mid-Sized Ship: Rotterdam - Holland America Line

Launched in October 2021, Rotterdam is the newest Pinnacle-class line flagship for Holland America. Over 60% of the 1,340 passenger cabins have balconies and offer amenities such as specialty soaps and luxurious bathrobes. Live music is the ship’s entertainment focus, and venues include a blues club, a live rock room and a piano bar. Various dining opportunities are available, including New York pizza, sushi, a poolside grill, and French, Italian, and Far Eastern cuisines.

Full list of winners: Best Mid-Sized Ship »

Best Ocean Cruise Line: Viking Ocean Cruises

Viking Cruises earned its reputation through its affordable, destination-focused river cruises. With the debut of Viking Star in April 2015, the line made a grand entrance into the world of ocean cruising. Now the line has nine ocean vessels. All cabins come with balconies and are notably larger than the industry average, and while the ships lack a casino and kids' club, they offer the same destination-intensive programming that made river cruising so popular.

Full list of winners: Best Ocean Cruise Line »

Best River Cruise Line: Avalon Waterways

River cruisers in Europe will find the largest standard staterooms and suites aboard Avalon’s fleet of luxurious ships. Onboard amenities include fitness centers, a Sky Deck with a whirlpool and shade system, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs and a self-serve beverage station. The Avalon Choice program allows cruisers to customize the details of their experience, ensuring each vacation is a perfect fit.

Full list of winners: Best River Cruise Line »

Best River Ship: Avalon Envision

The newest addition to the Avalon Waterways fleet debuted in 2019. Two decks of Panorama Suites offer wall-to-wall and floor-to-ceiling windows and window-facing “Beds with a View.” Guests enjoy free wi-Fi access, a fitness center and adventure center for bikes and other gear, multiple dining venues and an observation lounge.

Full list of winners: Best River Ship »

Best Ship for Dining: Koningsdam - Holland America Line

Guests sailing on Holland America Line's Koningsdam have 10 dining options to choose from. In addition to the main dining room, there's Asian specialties at Tamarind, French seafood at Sel de Mar, authentic Italian at Canaletto, poolside burgers at Dive-In and the chance to take hands-on cooking classes at the Culinary Arts Center presented by Food & Wine magazine.

Full list of winners: Best Ship for Dining »

Best Ship for Families: Regal Princess - Princess Cruises

A favorite feature among kids aboard the Regal Princess is the SeaWalk, a glass-bottomed walkway extending 28 feet over the ship’s edge. The ship's youth and teen center has teamed up with the California Science Center for some interactive edutainment at sea. The three kids' spaces are excellent, and teens even have their own outdoor hot tub.

Full list of winners: Best Ship for Families »

Best Small Ship: Royal Clipper - Star Clippers

Designed after the tall ship Preussen, the Royal Clipper is the world’s largest full-rigged sailing ship, complete with 42 sails. The vessel carries just 227 guests with luxurious accommodations and modern amenities like three swimming pools, relaxed dining and a marina platform for water sports. Passengers can even don a harness and climb the mast to a crow's nest.

Full list of winners: Best Small Ship »

Congratulations to all these winners! Remember to visit 10Best.com daily to vote in our Readers' Choice contests.

U.S. News Announces the 2022 Best Cruise Lines

U.S. News Announces Best Cruise Lines

Washington, D.C. – U.S. News & World Report, publisher of Best Hotels , Best Vacations and Best Travel Rewards Programs , today announced the 2022 Best Cruise Lines rankings , designed to provide up-to-date information on the leading cruise lines.

With much of the world reopening to international travel, U.S. News surveyed travelers to understand the effects of COVID-19 on cruiser sentiments. U.S. News unveiled the survey results at the Seatrade Global Conference in October which found that cruisers – both first-time and longtime – are booked at higher levels than before the pandemic. U.S. News survey data also revealed that of the frequent travelers who indicated that they would cruise again, 20% are already signed up for their next sailing.

"Though most avenues of travel have been impacted throughout the coronavirus pandemic, the cruise industry has seen the most challenges," said Nicola Wood, travel editor at U.S. News. "U.S. News is excited to once again highlight the leading cruise lines and provide in-depth information on ships, onboard activities and itineraries to travelers looking to research and book a cruise vacation."

Celebrity Cruises takes the No. 1 spot as the Best Cruise Line for the Money . Viking Ocean Cruises is the No. 1 Best Cruise Line for Couples and Best Luxury Cruise Line thanks to its adult-focused environment and luxurious and romantic amenities, such as fireplaces in each ship's common area and private verandas in every stateroom.

Disney Cruise Line, which offers ships tailored specifically to children and families, has remained the No. 1 Best Cruise Line for Families since U.S. News began ranking cruise lines. Additionally, for the eighth consecutive year, Disney is also the No. 1 Best Cruise Line in the Caribbean . Viking Ocean Cruises takes the spot of No. 1 Best Cruise Line in the Mediterranean for 2022.

The rankings help travelers select the best cruise by brand, region, traveler type and budget. This year's rankings are accompanied by an editorial rundown of the most popular river cruise lines for those looking for guidance on a different type of cruise that still offers itineraries with multiple destinations.

The methodology for the Best Cruise Lines rankings factors in expert evaluations of cruise ship quality, reputation among travelers, results from health assessments conducted by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and other factors, such as price class and itinerary offerings.

2022 U.S. News Best Cruise Lines Rankings

For the Money

• Celebrity Cruises
• Holland America Line
• Royal Caribbean International
• Viking Ocean Cruises
• Seabourn Cruise Line
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises

For Families

• Disney Cruise Line
• Carnival Cruise Line

For Couples

In the Mediterranean

In the Caribbean

To share your thoughts about the Best Cruise Lines rankings, visit Facebook , Twitter and Instagram using #BestCruises.

Media Contact: Sarah Javors, [email protected] , 202-955-2153

About U.S. News & World Report

U.S. News & World Report is the global leader in quality rankings that empower citizens, consumers, business leaders and policy officials to make better, more informed decisions about important issues affecting their lives. A multifaceted digital media company with Education, Health, Money, Travel, Cars, News and 360 Reviews platforms, U.S. News provides rankings, independent reporting, data journalism, consumer advice and U.S. News Live events. More than 40 million people visit USNews.com each month for research and guidance. Founded in 1933, U.S. News is headquartered in Washington, D.C.

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The 7 most anticipated new cruise ships of 2022

Cruise lines may have canceled many of their sailings over the past two years due to the coronavirus pandemic . But they didn't cancel orders for new ships.

As 2022 begins, major cruise operators such as Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line are moving forward with plans to unveil more than 20 new oceangoing vessels during the year. That's a big number in the cruise world — on par with the years before the pandemic.

For more cruise guides, news and tips, sign up for TPG's new cruise newsletter .

The new ships are coming even as many lines have yet to resume sailings with all the vessels in their existing fleets.

In some cases, the new ships will be arriving months behind schedule due to pandemic-related construction delays at the shipyards that are building them. Thanks to such delays, the arrival of a few ships that had been scheduled for delivery in 2022 will be pushed to 2023.

But it'll be a big year for new cruise ships nevertheless.

Among the most notable newcomers will be Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas , the biggest cruise ship ever built (and by big, we're talking about a ship that can hold nearly 7,000 passengers). Originally set to debut in 2021, it's now scheduled to begin sailing in March .

There also will be major new ships coming from Norwegian Cruise Line, MSC Cruises and Disney Cruise Line . The latter, notably, hasn't had a new vessel debut in 10 years.

In all cases, the new ships that are on the way already are available for booking — and, indeed, booking up fast. Cruise fans always love to be on the latest and greatest.

Here, a list of the seven new ships arriving in 2022 we're most excited about:

Viking Octantis (Viking)

Maiden voyage: Jan. 12

Fast-growing Viking has rolled out more than 70 new river cruise ships and oceangoing vessels since its founding in 1997. But there's never been one like this.

Designed to hold just 378 passengers, Viking Octantis is the line's first "expedition" cruise ship — a type of cruise ship specifically designed to take travelers to the most off-the-beaten-path parts of the world, including Antarctica and the Arctic.

As is typical for expedition ships, it's a tough vessel , with a reinforced bow that lets it bump through ice in polar regions and extra tanks for fuel and food. It also has its own landing craft on board to bring people ashore in remote locations as well as kayaks and even submarines for exploring (the latter being something that is relatively rare on cruise vessels of any type).

Like other expedition ships, Viking Octantis also sails with a large and seasoned "expedition team" that includes biologists, botanists, geologists, glaciologists and ornithologists who lecture regularly.

But there are several new and unusual features to Viking Octantis, too. Most notable is The Hangar, an enclosed marina that allows passengers to transfer to the ship's Zodiac landing craft while still in the protected interior of the ship. It's a first for an expedition cruise ship.

Viking Octantis also is upscale. Like all of Viking's vessels, it has an elegant Scandinavian design. Its restaurants include a version of Viking's signature Italian spot, Manfredi's, and the Scandinavian-inspired Mamsen's outlet. Also familiar is a top-of-the-ship, glass-walled Explorers' Lounge promising stunning views of passing scenery.

In another first for polar expedition cruise vessels, every cabin on the vessel has floor-to-ceiling glass walls that slide partially open from the top to create a balcony-like feel.

The details: Viking Octantis debuted in January with sailings to Antarctica out of Ushuaia, Argentina and is repositioning to the Great Lakes for the summer. Fares for 12-night Antarctica trips start at $14,995 per person, not including taxes and fees. Great Lakes sailings start at $6,495 per person, not including taxes and fees. For more information, call 855-338-4546 or visit viking.com .

Wonder of the Seas (Royal Caribbean)

Maiden voyage: March 4

Royal Caribbean is going big again with its next ship — really big. The latest in the line's groundbreaking Oasis Class of vessels , Wonder of the Seas will measure 236,857 tons, making it the biggest cruise ship ever built.

That's about 4% bigger than the current size leader in the cruise world, which also is part of Royal Caribbean's Oasis Class: The 3-year-old Symphony of the Seas .

Wonder of the Seas will be similar to Symphony of the Seas and three earlier Oasis Class vessels with a few new twists that will contribute to its bigger size, including a dedicated suite area with a private lounge, restaurant and sun deck. Like the four earlier Oasis Class ships, it will be 18 decks high and nearly 1,200 feet long — the equivalent of more than three football fields.

Royal Caribbean's first Oasis Class ship, Oasis of the Seas, debuted in 2009. The line added additional Oasis Class vessels in 2010, 2016 and 2018. Each of the ships has been a little bigger than the last, and they're all more than 20% bigger than any other cruise vessels afloat.

Like the earlier Oasis Class ships, Wonder of the Seas will offer multiple main pool areas, a kiddie splash zone, surfing simulators, a miniature golf course, a basketball court and even a zip line. And that's just on its top deck. Inside the vessel, you'll find more lounges, bars, restaurants and shops than you can imagine, plus a huge casino, spas and theaters with real Broadway shows.

As with earlier Royal Caribbean ships, it'll even have an indoor ice-skating rink.

The details: Wonder of the Seas initially will be based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, for sailings to the Caribbean, before moving to the Mediterranean for the summer. Fares for seven-night Caribbean voyages start at $763 per person, not including taxes and fees. For more information, call 866-562-7625 or visit royalcaribbean.com .

Related: The ultimate guide to Royal Caribbean ships and itineraries

Evrima (The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection)

Maiden voyage: May 6

We feel like a broken record on this one, as we placed it on our list of the most anticipated new cruise ships of 2020 (the year it originally was scheduled to debut) and then shouted it out again on our list of the most anticipated new ships of 2021 . But after a seemingly never-ending series of delays blamed first on shipyard troubles and then on the COVID-19 pandemic, the very first ship from startup line The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection , the new luxury cruise division of The Ritz-Carlton , failed to debut during either year.

Now the line is adamant that it is truly coming in May. If it does (and we're sure hoping so), it'll be a notable event in the cruise world, marking the entry of one of the luxury hotel world's most famous brands into cruising.

Holding just 298 passengers, Evrima will be a small, yacht-like vessel with an elegant, residential look (as you might expect for Ritz-Carlton). Standout features will include spacious cabins, a stylish spa and lots of deck-top lounge space for sunning, plus five separate restaurants including an à la carte venue designed by Sven Elverfeld of the three Michelin-starred Aqua at The Ritz-Carlton, Wolfsburg, Germany .

Fans of Ritz-Carlton, for sure, are excited about the new vessel.

The details: After a series of five delays that have resulted in the cancellation of more than two years worth of cruises, Evrima now is scheduled to debut in May in Europe before repositioning to the Caribbean for the winter. Fares start at $3,900 per person, not including taxes and fees, for a seven-night voyage in the Caribbean. For more information, call 833-999-7292 or visit ritzcarltonyachtcollection.com .

Disney Wish (Disney Cruise Line)

Maiden voyage: July 14

It's been a long time coming. But Disney Cruise Line finally is coming out with a new ship this year — its first in 10 years.

At 140,000-tons, Disney Wish will just be a tad bigger than Disney's last two new ships (Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy). But it'll have a whole new array of trademark Disney wow on board, from a Star Wars-themed "hyperspace lounge" that offers a "window" view of passing starships to Marvel- and "Frozen"-themed restaurants.

Cabins on the ship will include seven oceanview rooms located over the bridge — a first for Disney Cruise Line. These rooms will have an extended living area with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the bow and out across the ocean. And if all that isn't enough, there will be four Royal Suites with a Sleeping Beauty theme — two of which feature an insane two-story floorplan.

Among other notable features will be a reimagined Oceaneers Club (the area for kids 3 to 12 on Disney ships) where children can enter via a "magical slide." The Oceaneers Club also will offer a Marvel Super Hero Academy where kids can design (and virtually fly) in their own super suit. The club also will house Rapunzel's Art Studio, Belle's Library and Anna and Elsa's Sommerhus where there will be a variety of mini-games with Olaf serving as the host.

Disney Wish is just the first of three new "Triton Class" ships that Disney Cruise Line has on order for delivery over the next few years — an expansion that will nearly double its size when measured by passenger capacity.

The details: Disney Wish will sail three- and four-night trips to the Bahamas out of Port Canaveral, Florida. Fares start at $771 per person, not including taxes and fees. For more information, call 800-951-3532 or visit disneycruise.disney.go.com .

Related: The ultimate guide to Disney Cruise Line

Seabourn Venture (Seabourn)

Maiden voyage: July 15

Viking isn't the only major line getting into expedition cruising in 2022. So is Seabourn. Seabourn Venture will be the 33-year-old luxury line's very first expedition ship.

Like Viking Octantis, Seabourn Venture will be a hardy vessel specifically built to travel to some of the world's most remote places, including Antarctica and the Arctic. Indeed, it's scheduled to spend much of its time each year in the polar regions, while also offering sailings to such off-the-beaten-path, warm weather places as the Amazon.

Designed to carry just 264 passengers, it'll be a ship loaded with outdoor equipment for off-ship adventure, including kayaks and bikes. It'll also boast a staggering 24 Zodiac boats for waterborne exploring and landings in remote areas — enough to get every passenger off the ship at the same time (something that isn't always the case with expedition ships). And it'll be home to 26 expedition guides including scientists, historians and naturalists who will lecture regularly on board and lead guided tours on land.

But perhaps Seabourn Venture's standout adventure feature will be its two six-person submarines. As on Viking Octantis, passengers on Seabourn Venture will be able to explore the world under the water in polar regions as well as what's above the waterline.

The ship also will have a high-definition Cineplex camera that can pick up wildlife like a polar bear up to 4 miles away, streaming the footage into the Discovery Center while leaving the wildlife undisturbed.

On the luxury side of things, every room on Seabourn Venture will be a suite and have its own balcony — something that often isn't the case with expedition ships. And the ship's restaurants will serve elegant cuisine crafted in part by leading American chef Thomas Keller.

The details: Seabourn Venture will spend much of its first summer sailing in the Arctic before repositioning to Antarctica for the winter. Fares for Arctic sailings start at $11,099 per person, not including taxes and fees. For more information, call 206-626-8351 or visit seabourn.com .

Norwegian Prima (Norwegian Cruise Line)

Maiden voyage: Aug. 17

For the first time in nearly 10 years, Norwegian Cruise Line is getting an entirely new class of ships. Under development since 2017, Norwegian Prima will be the first of six sister vessels scheduled to debut between 2022 and 2027 that collectively will be known as the Prima Class.

At 142,500 tons, Norwegian Prima will be notably smaller than the vessels the line has been adding in recent years, such as the 2-year-old, 169,116-ton Norwegian Encore — a factor that will allow it to access smaller ports around the world. But Norwegian Prima still will pack a lot of over-the-top amenities, including a go-kart track that spreads over three decks (a cruise industry first).

The ship also will boast The Drop, a 10-story dry slide that the line says will provide more G-force than an accelerating F1 racecar. Additionally, the vessel will be home to a three-deck theater that converts into a Las Vegas-style nightclub, and a list of interactive real-life gameshows, including at-sea versions of "The Price Is Right," "Supermarket Sweep," "Press Your Luck" and "Beat the Clock."

But Norwegian Prima will be about more than flashy entertainment and activities. It'll also mark a more upscale turn for the line. Norwegian says Norwegian Prima will offer the largest variety of suite categories (13) for a large ocean ship as well as the largest three-bedroom suites of any new cruise vessels as well as the brand's largest-ever inside, oceanview and balcony cabins.

Norwegian also says Norwegian Prima will offer the most outdoor deck space of any new cruise ship including more total pool deck space than any other ship in the brand's fleet.

The details: Norwegian Prima initially will sail in Northern Europe during the summer before repositioning to North America in the fall. Fares start at $799 per person, not including taxes and fees, for a five-night trip to Mexico out of Port Canaveral, Florida. For more information, call 800-657-5773 or visit ncl.com .

Related: The ultimate guide to Norwegian Cruise Line

MSC World Europa (MSC Cruises)

Maiden voyage: Dec. 20

It won't be quite the world's biggest cruise ship, though it will be close. At around 205,000 tons, MSC World Europa will be nearly as big as Royal Caribbean's record-size Oasis Class vessels, including the aforementioned Wonder of the Seas.

By one measure, it'll be even bigger. MSC World Europa will be 21 decks high — three decks higher than the Oasis Class ships. But it'll be less long and less wide than the Oasis Class ships, leaving it about 10% smaller in overall size.

Like the Oasis Class ships, MSC World Europa will be able to hold nearly 7,000 passengers with all berths filled — 6,762 to be exact.

As for its onboard offerings, MSC Cruises is taking a page from Royal Caribbean's playbook by breaking down the public areas of MSC World Europa into districts. They will include an adults-only "Zen district" and a separate "family district" that houses as many as 10 new kids facilities. There also will be a central interior promenade with entertainment, shops and bars.

In addition, MSC World Europa will have six pools and 14 hot tubs, making it one of the most pool-covered ships at sea. The watery offerings will include an Aquapark with multiple waterslides that will integrate virtual reality technology. There also will be a family sundeck.

MSC World Europa also will have 13 dining venues, including the new-for-the-line Chef's Garden Kitchen (an outlet focused on microgreens) and La Pescaderia, a traditional seafood grill with alfresco seating. In a twist, the ship will have three separate buffet restaurants as well, each with its own ambiance.

Drinking spots will include an English-style pub serving beer made on board as well as a new gin bar concept, a first for MSC Cruises. Dubbed Masters of the Sea Pub, it'll span two decks.

The details: MSC World Europa initially will sail in the Persian Gulf out of Dubai before repositioning to the Mediterranean for the summer of 2023. Fares for seven-night sailings start at $559 per person, not including taxes and fees. For more information, call 877-868-8870 or visit msccruisesusa.com .

Related: The ultimate guide to MSC Cruises

Other newcomers

In addition to the above, newcomers for 2022 also include several more small expedition ships and other small vessels from such cruise operators as Silversea Cruises , Emerald Cruises and Atlas Ocean Voyages. There also are two new ships debuting for start-up line Virgin Voyages and new ships coming for Princess Cruises , Carnival Cruise Line and Celebrity Cruises — all sisters to previously unveiled vessels.

Viking also has several other new ships debuting in addition to Viking Octantis.

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The Best New Cruise Ship Journeys for 2022

An abstract term used by the Romans, otium refers to well-earned leisure time.

By Becca Hensley

Roman poets and philosophers felt most connected to their surroundings (and to their own souls) during a time of reflective repose, which they called otium. An abstract term, otium refers to well-earned leisure time. For early Romans, that might have meant a fruitful retirement spent following one’s bliss, whether soaking in thermal baths, gobbling grapes by the bunch, creating great works or napping in the sun. For passengers of Silversea’s new and opulent cruise ship, Silver Dawn, otium will have similar connotations in 2022.

As the luxury cruise line’s newly launched, proprietorial wellness concept, Otium — currently available only on Silver Dawn — is both an ethos that pervades the ship and a spa. Guests can embrace as much healthiness, or as little, as they like. Rekindling on Silver Dawn might mean a detox day of celery juice and hydrotherapy soaks in the Roman Bath-inspired spa, but it might also be a couple’s massage en suite, with champagne and chocolate at arm’s reach.

Infused with the salubrious tenets of the Mediterranean diet and lifestyle, Otium guides guests to a mind-body reset. On board, you’ll find otium in myriad aspects of Silver Dawn, from the specially designed Otium beds to the S.A.L.T. (Sea And Land Taste) culturally immersive culinary program. With itineraries starting in November 2021, Silver Dawn and her 298 ocean-view suites remind travelers that living well is the best revenge.

[See also: The Most Innovative Cruise Lines of the 21st Century]

Aqua Expeditions newest vessel Aqua Nera, a design-savvy ship / ©Aqua Expeditions

Silversea’s newest and most opulent ship, Silver Dawn / ©Filippo Vinardicruise

In other cruise news, why settle for just one of the Maldives’ 1,192 Indian Ocean islands when you can cruise between some of its finest? Board Four Seasons Explorer, a lavishly appointed, three-deck catamaran with just 11 staterooms for its new three-, four- and seven-day winter itineraries. Led by an on-vessel marine biologist, guests have the chance to investigate different atolls in one trip.

Snorkel or dive to swim through underwater caves, visit shark havens, swim with whale sharks and manta rays, and be awed by coral canyons. At the end, tuck into your final port, one of Four Seasons Maldives’ pampering resorts, Kuda Huraa or Landaa Giraavaru.

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[See also: Luxury Cruise Industry Back and Stronger Than Ever]

Aqua Expeditions introduced its newest vessel Aqua Nera, a design-savvy ship, with just 20 spacious staterooms last summer. Built to carry passengers on three-, four- and seven-night itineraries through the tributaries of the Peruvian Amazon and the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve, the stylish ship incorporates local elements like sustainably sourced, lacquered hardwood and draws its interior motifs from the region. When not exploring villages and engaging in nature outings, guests enjoy the spa, gym and river-facing plunge pool.

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For those who prefer something tropical during the holidays, Greek family-owned Variety Cruises goes beyond the Cyclades to offer an eight-day jaunt through the Caribbean. Aboard the megayacht Panorama, cruisers can experience an island hop that goes from Barbados to Grenada, to include such jaw droppers as the Piton Mountains in St Lucia and diminutive, glimmering Canouan. Known for intimate sailings, cultural itineraries, and affable staff, Variety brings some Greek storge to every trip.

Megayacht Panorama in Costa Rica / ©Paul Papanek

[See also: Regent Suite Unveiled On Board Seven Seas Grandeur]

This article appears in the 29 Nov 2021 issue of the New Statesman, Winter 2021/22

Becca Hensley

Latest in luxury, the explorer.

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U.S. News Announces The Best Cruise Lines For 2022

Sarah Bretz, Contributor

• November 9, 2021

U.S. News & World Report has announced its 2022 Best Cruise Lines rankings .

The publication surveyed travelers to understand the effects of COVID-19 on cruiser sentiments. It unveiled the results at the Seatrade Global Conference in October which found that cruisers — both first-time and longtime — are currently booked at higher levels than before the pandemic.

Survey data also revealed that among the frequent travelers who indicated that they would cruise again, 20 percent are already booked on their next sailing.

“Though most avenues of travel have been impacted throughout the coronavirus pandemic, the cruise industry has seen the most challenges,” said Nicola Wood, travel editor at U.S. News. “U.S. News is excited to once again highlight the leading cruise lines and provide in-depth information on ships, onboard activities and itineraries to travelers looking to research and book a cruise vacation.”

The method used to collect these rankings factor in expert evaluations of cruise ship quality, reputation among travelers, results from health assessments conducted by the CDC, and other factors such as price class and itinerary offerings.

Celebrity Cruises took the top spot as the Best Cruise Line for the Money. Viking’s ocean cruises venture is number 1 for couples and luxury cruising, thanks to its adults-only environment and amenities such as fireplaces in common areas and balconies in every stateroom.

Disney Cruise Line has remained number 1 for Best Cruise Line for Families since U.S. News began ranking cruise lines, and for the eighth consecutive year, is also Best Cruise Line in the Caribbean.

Viking’s ocean ships also allowed the line to rank top for Best Cruise Line in the Mediterranean.

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Here are this year’s top four rankings in each category:

For the Money

• Celebrity Cruises
• Holland America Line
• Royal Caribbean International
• Norwegian Cruise Line
• Viking (ocean)
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises

For Families

• Disney Cruise Line
• Carnival Cruise Line

For Couples

• Crystal Cruises

In the Mediterranean

In the caribbean.

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Home » Cruise Tips » Best New Cruise Ships For 2022

Best New Cruise Ships For 2022

Some of the most innovative cruise ships will be setting sail soon. Start planning your trips now with our picks for Best New Cruise Ships for 2022.

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With cruising set to be back in full swing in 2022, cruise lines are unveiling some of the most innovative cruise ships to date. In addition to all the great ships making their debuts this fall, the coming year will see even more new builds sailing to various destinations around the world. If you are ready to make up for lost time, you should consider booking a trip on one (or more) of these Best New Cruise Ships for 2022.

We already have plans to sail on a few of these ships and might just book a few more. Which new cruise ship for 2022 are you most excited to check out?

Related Post: Ultimate Cruise Planning Guide

WATCH OUR LATEST VIDEO OF THE BEST CRUISE SHIPS FOR 2022!

Best New Cruise Ships for 2022

Norwegian prima.

As Norwegian Cruise Line’s first new class of ships in nearly 10 years, Norwegian Prima will debut many new features and experiences. Norwegian Prima will be the first of six ships in this new class.

Norwegian Prima will set sail in August of next year, and she will certainly be one of the best new cruise ships for 2022.

The ship’s inaugural season will take place in Northern Europe visiting popular ports in the Baltic region and Norwegian Fjords. She will then transition to North America offering a variety of cruises from New York, Galveston, Miami, and Port Canaveral.

This 142,500 gross tons ship will be the “Industry’s Most Spacious New Cruise Ship” when she debuts. Norwegian Prima will offer the most outdoor deck space of any new build.

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Norwegian Prima Features

We are big fans of Norwegian Cruise Line’s Waterfront area. So, we are thrilled that Norwegian Prima will offer an expansive new open-air deck aptly named Ocean Boulevard. This new outdoor promenade will be twice as large as its predecessors.

This additional space offers cruisers the opportunity to get closer to the ocean, while enjoying some unique experiences found only on Norwegian Prima. For instance, there’s the Concourse, an outdoor sculpture garden, and two Oceanwalk glass walkways. These transparent structures provide one of a kind views over the ocean. 

Not to mention, the Ocean Boulevard on Norwegian Prima will offer infinity pools on both sides of the ship, putting guests much closer to ocean level than the traditional pool deck.

Norwegian Prima will also debut a Food Hall. This “upscale open-air marketplace” will be home to several different eateries featuring some reimagined favorites like Starbucks, Coco’s, and Q Texas Smokehouse, as well as some brand new additions. Don’t worry, other popular specialty restaurants can still be found on the ship, including our new favorite Onda by Scarpetta which debuted on Norwegian Encore.

Finally, Norwegian Prima will also offer some of the most spacious accommodations at sea with the brand’s largest-ever bathrooms and showers. Ranging from Studio Cabins to Suites and everything in between, the ship will offer cabins to satisfy all types of travelers. 

Celebrity Beyond

Celebrity Beyond is the third ship in Celebrity Cruises popular Edge Class of ships. When Celebrity Beyond debuts in April 2022, she will be longer, taller, and more luxurious than her sister ships, Celebrity Edge and Apex. With a 20 meter stretch and 1 deck taller, the ship will feature targeted increases in space for a feeling of more openness.

Celebrity Beyond will sail a variety of European cruises through the summer of 2022. The ship will then reposition to Florida in October for a winter season in the Caribbean. 

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Celebrity Beyond Features

The popular Rooftop Garden will be 20% larger on Celebrity Beyond. This area will have increased seating with new private nooks. There will also be more spaces for movie watching, enjoying live music, and outdoor dining at the expanded Rooftop Grill. Along with being larger, the Rooftop Garden also has enhancements for shielding from the wind and two cantilevered float pools.

If the Resort Deck on Edge Class ships wasn’t already glamourous enough, this area will also be bigger providing more outdoor space. The Resort Deck will feature a 25-yard lap pool surrounded by a terraced pool deck and new sunken seating areas. It will also include enhanced lighting details and a new iconic art sculpture. Of course, Celebrity Beyond will also feature the Magic Carpet. 

Perhaps the biggest transformation on Celebrity Beyond is the Sunset Bar. This now multi-level area will be 180% larger! This Moroccan-inspired escape is reminiscent of a modern-day Casablanca. It will feature small niches and covered enclaves for more intimate conversations, cascading terraces, and a rather impressive bar.

The Grand Plaza will also receive some enhancements. Larger than the Grand Plazas on sister ships, the Celebrity Beyond Grand Plaza has an airier atmosphere. The added space also allows for the reconfiguration of the Martini Bar into the center of the venue as a full, circular bar.

In terms of dining, one new restaurant has been revealed so far for Celebrity Beyond. Le Voyage is an intimate 50-seat restaurant by world-renowned chef Daniel Boulud. Aptly named Le Voyage, travel is the inspiration for the globally inspired flavors at this upscale specialty restaurant. We are sure more dining details will be revealed soon.

Finally, Celebrity Beyond’s Retreat for suite guests will be completely re-imagined as well. This exclusive area will include all new suites, a new two-story Retreat Sundeck, and the relocated private restaurant Luminae.

Disney Wish

Disney Cruise Line’s newest ship, Disney Wish, is certainly one of the best cruise ships for 2022. This ship will make its debut in Summer 2022. The Disney Wish will sail its maiden voyage, a five-night cruise to Nassau, Bahamas and Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay, on June 9th. The ship will then sail an inaugural season of three- and four-night cruises to the same destinations from Port Canaveral, Florida.

Disney Wish is the 5th ship in the cruise line’s fleet and the first LNG ship for the brand. For the first time, the artwork on the bow of the ship will feature Captain Minnie Mouse. The stern of the ship will feature a Rapunzel sculpture. This artistic princess will be decorating the exterior of the ship with the help of her chameleon pal, Pascal.

Disney Wish will bring to life the worlds of Disney, Pixar, Marvel, and Star Wars with unique dining, entertainment, and onboard activities.

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Disney Wish Features

The Grand Hall will set the stage for cruisers as they first step onboard Disney Wish. This Castle on the Seas is the ship’s grand 3-story Atrium. It will feature a bronze statue of Cinderella, a grand staircase, a starry chandelier, and a bit of pixie dust.

Continuing with Disney Cruise Line’s rotational dining concept, Disney Wish will offer 3 brand new restaurant concepts. Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure brings the kingdom of Arendelle to life through immersive live entertainment featuring favorite characters like Elsa, Anna, Kristoff, and Olaf.

Worlds of Marvel is the first-ever Marvel cinematic dining adventure. In this unique dining experience, guests will play an interactive role in an action-packed Avengers mission that unfolds around them. Lastly, the third new restaurant concept takes guests back in time to Hollywood. Named for the year the Walt Disney Company was founded, 1923 is an elegant celebration of the company’s legacy.

Disney Wish will also feature adult-only specialty dining. Palo Steakhouse is an evolution of the Palo restaurant that Disney cruisers know and love. This new rendition of the restaurant now combines authentic Italian dining with a modern steakhouse. Enchanté will offer the most luxurious dining experience on Disney Wish. This upscale specialty restaurant will feature a gourmet menu crafted by Michelin-starred Chef Arnaud Lallement.

The AquaMouse is sure to make a big splash on Disney Wish as well. This brand new attraction will bring to life the adventures of The Wonderful World of Mickey Mouse animated shorts. This first-of-its-kind water ride at sea will send guests swirling through winding tubes suspended high above the upper decks.

Further, Star Wars fans will love the new Hyperspace Lounge. This immersive and interactive bar, styled like a luxurious yacht-class spaceship, will offer signature beverages inspired by the films. This is sure to be one out-of-this-world experience.

Not to mention, Disney Wish will feature an adaptation of Disney’s Aladdin – A Musical Spectacular, other entertainment zones, a better than ever pool deck, and some of the most magical staterooms at sea.

Wonder of the Seas

Wonder of the Seas is Royal Caribbean’s fifth Oasis-Class ship. We were shocked to learn back in September that this largest ship to date was being repositioned  from China to the U.S. and Europe beginning in March of 2022. With this great news, Wonder of the Seas is now definitely one of the best new cruise ships for 2022!

Wonder of the Seas will set sail from a new homeport of Fort Lauderdale, Florida on March 4, 2022. Then, she will make her way to Barcelona and Rome in May for a summer season in the Mediterranean.

While in the Caribbean, Wonder of the Seas will sail a variety of Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries, all including a visit to  Perfect Day at CocoCay .

Wonder of the Seas Features

Weighing in at a whopping 236,857 gross tons, Wonder of the Seas will steal the title of world’s largest cruise ship from her sister Symphony of the Seas.

With all this space, Royal Caribbean is taking your ultimate cruise vacation to the next level with more ways to wonder than ever.

Expanding upon the neighborhood concept from previous Oasis-Class ships, Wonder of the Seas will have 8 exciting neighborhoods. Debuting on this ship is the brand new Suite Neighborhood.

Guests will also find the lively Caribbean pool deck on Wonder of the Seas. With the new fan-favorite Lime & Coconut bar taking center stage, the Caribbean Pool Deck on Wonder of the Seas will feature all the same Caribbean vibes as the other amplified ships in the fleet, in addition to the largest poolside movie screen in the Royal Caribbean fleet.

New to Wonder of the Seas is the Wonder Playscape. The kids will love this new underwater-themed play area. With slides, climbing walls, games, an interactive mural activated by touch, and puzzles, this open-air playground comes to life. 

The new feature on Wonder of the Seas that we are perhaps the most excited about is The Vue. The Vue is a cantilevered bar offering panoramic ocean views from high above on the pool deck. After sunset, it shines bright with a colorful mosaic canopy.

Of course, Wonder of the Seas will still have all your other Royal Caribbean and Oasis Class favorites for you to enjoy beginning in March 2022!

MSC Seashore

MSC Cruises’ newest flagship, MSC Seashore, is elevating the guest experience to a whole new level. Thus, this latest ship in the MSC Cruises’ rapidly expanding fleet should also top your list of the best cruise ships for 2022. This new ship will debut in Miami this November, making it a perfect choice for your next cruise vacation. MSC Seashore will sail 7-night cruises to The Bahamas and Caribbean, including stops at the new private island, Ocean Cay Marine Reserve.

With 65 percent of the public spaces completely reimagined, MSC Seashore boasts some of the most outdoor space at sea. This includes redesigned outdoor venues and bars, new al fresco dining areas, and more.

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MSC Seashore Features

With an expansive Waterfront Boardwalk, the impressive glass-floored Bridge of Sighs, and six pools including the new aft infinity pool, this ship is ideal for warm weather cruises.

MSC Seashore will offer 18 bars and lounges (12 indoor and 6 outdoor venues), five specialty restaurants with al fresco dining options, and four main dining restaurants.

The Chef’s Court on Deck 8 will host these 5 specialty restaurants featuring international flavors. These venues include the Butcher’s Cut steakhouse, Kaito Sushi Bar complete with a a sushi conveyor belt, HOLA! Tacos & Cantina, the Ocean Cay seafood restaurant, and Kaito Teppanyaki.

MSC Seashore will also feature a larger shopping experience, an expanded casino, and more thrills for all ages. In addition to the F1 simulator and XD cinema, the ship debuts the first of its kind ultimate rafting simulator. The new and improved aquapark, The Pirates Cove Aquapark, features exciting activities for the whole family including a virtual reality experience on the main waterslide.

For those who like to vacation in luxury, MSC Seashore will have the largest Yacht Club in the fleet. This exclusive ship within a ship concept will span four decks with unparalleled sea views, offering a private pool, restaurant, and lounge.

Scarlet Lady (or Valiant Lady, Resilient Lady)

At long last, Virgin Voyages’ Scarlet Lady has arrived in North America! After several delays beyond the new cruise line’s control, Scarlet Lady begins sailing from Miami this October. If you are looking for the perfect adult-only getaway in 2022, look no further than Scarlet Lady. Even if you wouldn’t ordinarily consider a cruise vacation, this edgy new ship might sway you.

Perhaps one of the most appealing aspects of Virgin Voyages is the all-inclusive nature . All cruise fares on Virgin Voyages include basic beverages like soda, bottled water, non-pressed juices, coffee, and tea. Cruise fares also include all gratuities, even on services such as spa treatments.

Other inclusions that are normally an up-charge on competitor brands are basic WiFi and group fitness classes. Dining in all venues is also part of the cruise fare. That’s right, there will be no additional costs to dine at the line’s signature steakhouse.

Book a Cruise with Virgin Voyages Now for Exclusive Savings!

Scarlet Lady Features

Speaking of dining, Scarlet Lady breaks the mold when it comes to traditional cruise dining. The ship does not have a main dining room or a buffet. Instead, there are 20+ dining options that are all included in the cruise fare.

From casual options to upscale dining experiences, there will be no up-charges to dine at any of the restaurants. These options include Wake, the glamourous steak and seafood restaurant, and Extra Virgin, an Italian trattoria serving handmade pasta. There is also the lively Korean BBQ restaurant, Gunbae, and Pink Agave, an upscale Mexican restaurant.

Scarlet Lady also features some of the most unique cabin categories at sea. Ninety-three percent of all cabins on the ship have an ocean view. While 86% of the cabins have a balcony, complete with hammocks of course.

For those looking to upgrade to a suite, all come with marble bathrooms with premium amenities and a peek-a-boo shower, a European king bed, and a fully stocked minibar.

In 2022, Scarlet Lady is sailing the Caribbean on a variety of 4 and 5-night itineraries, all including a stop at the private Beach Club at Bimini.

If you are looking to venture beyond the Caribbean, Scarlet’s newest sister ship, Valiant Lady, also debuts in early 2022. Valiant Lady will make her debut in the UK this March before sailing the Med next summer from her homeport of Barcelona.

The third vessel in the Virgin fleet, Resilient Lady, will also debut in 2022 on the heels of Valiant Lady. Resilient Lady will debut in Greece, sailing the Adriatic Sea to some of the region’s hidden gems.

Odyssey of the Seas

Yes, technically Odyssey of the Seas is currently sailing. Though, as the newest and most innovative ship in Royal Caribbean’s fleet, Odyssey of the Seas is certainly one of the best cruise ships for 2022.

Odyssey of the Seas is now sailing the Caribbean on 6-8 night itineraries. At the end of April 2022, the ship will reposition to Europe to offer exciting itineraries to Greece and the Holy Lands. Finally, the ship will transition to Florida once again sailing the Caribbean beginning in November 2022.

SAVE BIG on Odyssey of the Seas Cruises!

Odyssey of the Seas Features

As the second Quantum-Ultra Class ship, Odyssey features many familiar favorites in addition to a few new features of her own. Thrill seekers will love the Ripcord by iFLY, the SkyPad, and the North Star.

Ripcord by iFLY is a 60-second hair-raising skydiving simulator that is free on port days. The Sky Pad is a complimentary virtual reality bungee experience. Finally, North Star is an observation capsule that rises 300 feet above sea level for extraordinary panoramic views. Currently, North Star is also complimentary on port days.

The SeaPlex on Odyssey of the Seas has been reimagined. Debuting on Quantum Class ships, this largest and most revolutionary indoor space at sea yet is home to bumper cars, a sports court, XBox gaming, and more.

Not to mention, the popular Playmakers Sports Bar and Arcade has a new home on Odyssey of the Seas. This prime location offers club-level views of the arena below, TVs at every angle, and classic games. 

Brand new on Odyssey is a 4D virtual reality experience, Zone Zero. Unlike other digital games, players will have the ability to freely roam the universe.

Cruisers who love the pool deck on the newly amplified ships in the fleet can rejoice. Odyssey of the Seas features a similar multi-level resort style pool deck. This area is home to two pools, plenty of comfy lounge furniture, and the popular Lime and Coconut Bar.

Odyssey of the Seas is also home to numerous complimentary and specialty dining venues . Some complimentary options include the Main Dining Room, El Loco Fresh located near the pool, the Solarium Bistro, and Café Two70.

For specialty restaurants, this new ship delivers a diverse culinary experience. From the Royal Caribbean staple Chops Grille, to the newly imagined Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen, Izumi Sushi, the brand-new Teppanyaki, and Wonderland, you can’t go wrong.

In terms of entertainment, Odyssey of the Seas features the signature Quantum Class venues, Two70 and the Music Hall. Two70 is an aft located space serving as your living room by day and a multidimensional theater by night.

The main theater hosts a variety of nightly entertainment, including the signature productions of The Effectors and Showgirl. With its high-tech lighting, digital effects, and drones, The Effectors should not be missed.

Carnival Mardi Gras (or Celebration)

Similar to Royal Caribbean, Carnival Cruise Line’s hottest new ship just debuted! Carnival Mardi Gras is the largest ship in the Carnival fleet with several new features and amenities. Thus, she is certainly one of the best cruise ships for 2022.

Carnival Mardi Gras is now sailing Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries from Port Canaveral, Florida, and it will continue to do so throughout 2022.

While paying homage to the original TSS Mardi Gras, this new version features many firsts for the cruise line. With the new “zones” concept, cruisers can enjoy a variety of themed dining and entertainment in these six unique areas.

If one ship is not enough, sister ship Carnival Celebration will also debut in late 2022 in time for the cruise line’s 50th birthday celebration! Now, that’s two best cruise ships for 2022 from Carnival Cruise Line.

Score Deals on Carnival Mardi Gras!

Carnival Mardi Gras Features

The French Quarter is among the more popular zones on Carnival Mardi Gras. Inspired by New Orleans, the French Quarter feature several bars and restaurants. These include Emeril’s Bistro 1396 (a brand-new partnership with Emeril Lagasse), Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse, and the three craft cocktail bars. The Alchemy Bar, Brass Magnolia, and the Fortune Teller bar are all popular choices.

While the French Quarter is great, you can’t miss the Ultimate Playground. This zone debuts the first rollercoaster at sea. Bolt is an all-electric thrill ride that puts you in control as you zip around this open-air course high above sea level. Bolt does require an up-charge to ride. Of course, this zone is also home to the largest WaterWorks, a full mini-golf course, a ropes course, and more.

Some other notable additions to Carnival Mardi Gras are Center Stage in Grand Central, the Piazza, and a reimagined Lido Deck. Center Stage is the hub of the typical cruise ship atrium and hosts an abundance of entertainment throughout the day. La Piazza is Mardi Gras’ Italian-themed zone. Here, you will find Cucina Del Capitano and the new Piazza Panini and Pizzeria del Capitano.

Lastly, Mardi Gras has taken the typical pool deck to a whole new level. The Red Frog Rum Bar is now the Red Frog Tiki Bar, a two-story watering hole. Guy’s Burger Joint has moved up a deck, expanding in size and offering a more outdoor restaurant vibe.

Not to mention, Mardi Gras has debuted Shaq’s Big Chicken on the Lido Deck. While we have yet to experience it for ourselves, the reviews speak for themselves. This new quick-service venue gets two thumbs up from cruisers.

Enchanted or Discovery Princess

The fifth Royal Class ship in the Princess Cruises fleet is Enchanted Princess, and Discovery Princess will follow as the last in this class of ships.

Enchanted Princess will begin her inaugural season of 10-day cruises from Fort Lauderdale in November of this year sailing to the Southern and Eastern Caribbean.

For the Summer season, the ship will transition to Europe offering Scandinavia and Russia cruises. Then, she will complete a Fall season in New York sailing Canada/New England cruises, before rounding out 2022 in the Caribbean once again.

Discovery Princess will debut in the port of Los Angeles in Spring 2022 with California Coast and Mexican Riviera cruises. She will then sail the Summer season in Alaska offering roundtrip cruises from Seattle. Then, Discovery Princess will return to California to round out 2022 with similar West Coast itineraries.

Related Post: Majestic Princess Alaska Cruise Review

Enchanted and Discovery Princess Features

Regardless of which ship you choose, you will be treated to the same Princess MedallionClass experience. With the use of this technology, Princess Cruises can deliver a more contactless and personalized cruise vacation. From ordering on-demand food and beverages, to having your stateroom door unlock as you approach, all of this is possible with the wearable Ocean Medallion.

The ships will share all of the spectacular style and luxury of their predecessors including the overwater SeaWalk and an expansive Piazza, as well as some other enhancements of their own.

Enchanted Princess and Discovery Princess will feature world-class dining. This includes familiar favorites like Bistro Sur La Mer, Crown Grill Steakhouse, and Sabatini’s Italian Trattoria specialty restaurants.

Additionally, the ships boast the most pools and whirlpools ever. This includes two pools with sunken seating and the Wakeview infinity pool and bar where you can score some amazing aft views.

Cruisers can enjoy comedy and other live performances in Princess Live!, original nighttime productions in the enhanced Princess Theater, and the line’s signature Movies Under the Stars. Not to mention, relive the Jazz era in the only jazz theater at sea, the new Take Five lounge.

The ships will also feature a redesigned adult-only Sanctuary and the Sky Suites with the cruise line’s largest balconies at sea.

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Holland America Line’s Rotterdam is the third vessel in the Pinnacle Class series for the brand. This 7th iteration of the historic Rotterdam will feature many of the amenities and innovations found on sister ships Koningsdam and Nieuw Statendam.

The cruise line took delivery Rotterdam   on July 30th of this year. However, the ship will remain in non-guest operations until its transatlantic crossing. This crossing from Amsterdam, Netherlands to Fort Lauderdale, Florida will occur in October 2021. Rotterdam will then begin her maiden season in the Caribbean.

The ship will sail Eastern and Western Caribbean routes for the Winter before transitioning back to Europe in April 2022. Here, she will spend the Summer sailing a variety of itineraries from Amsterdam. Finally, she will reposition back to North America in the Fall to round out the year in the Caribbean.

Related Post: Holland America’s Nieuw Amsterdam Review

Holland America’s Rotterdam Features

Rotterdam will continue to offer the exquisite dining for which the brand is known, guided by the world’s leading chefs. Signature specialty restaurants including Rudi’s Sel de Mer, the Pinnacle Grill, Canaletto, and the Pan-Asian Taramind can all be found on this new vessel.

Music is front and center on this new cruise ship, from the decks named after famous composers to several onboard music venues. Repeat HAL cruisers will be glad to find that Lincoln Center Stage, B.B. King’s Blues Club, and Billboard Onboard are all present on Rotterdam. Lincoln Center Stage features orchestra performances from talented musicians, while B.B. King’s brings the best of soul, blues, and funk to the high seas.

Billboard Onboard is Holland America Line’s piano bar with two musicians performing all the chart-topping hits from the decades. New to Rotterdam is the Rolling Stone Rock Room. This venue will feature an exclusive collection of world-class rock performances nightly. Of course, there is also the 270-degree surround-screen World Stage, elevating main theater entertainment to the next level.

With well-appointed staterooms and unique itineraries, Rotterdam is sure to appeal to those globetrotters looking for great dining and enriching entertainment.

Book NOW For Savings on Holland America Cruises!

Viking Mississippi (Or Several Other New Builds)

2022 is a big year for Viking. The luxury brand is debuting several new vessels next year that might be on your list of best cruise ships for 2022.

From ocean ships Viking Mars (early 2022) and Viking Neptune (late 2022) to expedition vessels Viking Octantis (early 2022) and Viking Polaris (mid 2022), the brand is giving cruisers plenty of options to explore the world in comfort.

Though perhaps, the most highly anticipated ship to debut in 2022 for the brand is Viking Mississippi. To further its destination-focused itineraries, Viking is bringing river cruising closer to home for many guests. Viking Mississippi is the new 386-guest vessel that will launch in America’s heartland in August 2022. Upon debut, it will be the most environmentally friendly passenger ship on the Mississippi River.

This modern river vessel will sail voyages between New Orleans, Louisiana and St. Paul, Minnesota, providing a commitment to U.S. tourism in many communities along the river. The 2022-2023 inaugural season will offer 4 different cruise itineraries.

Viking Mississippi Features

Viking Mississippi will be inspired by both the brand’s iconic river and ocean ships. All rooms will feature a veranda or French balcony, a king-sized bed, a large glass-enclosed shower, heated bathroom floors, 24-hour room service, and other luxury amenities. Which is why it tops our list of the best new cruise ships of 2022.

This 5-deck ship, purpose-built for the Mississippi River, will be the largest and most modern vessel in the region. It will feature Viking’s signature Scandinavian design, expansive windows, and other comfortable amenities.

Repeat cruisers will recognize many of the venues too. These include the Explorers’ Lounge, the Living Room, the Restaurant (Viking’s main dining room), and the Aquavit Terrace. The Explorers’ Lounge will be a two-story venue that opens to The Bow, a new outdoor seating area all the way forward on the ship.

In addition, the ship will debut the new River Café. This indoor/outdoor venue will offer alternative dining in an al fresco setting with American classics and Mamsen’s Norwegian specialties.

Similar to Viking’s ocean ships, this vessel will have an infinity plunge pool, so guests can take a dip while enjoying the scenic views. There will also be a 360-degree outdoor promenade on Deck 1. 

Of course, Viking will extend its all-inclusive value to these Mississippi River cruises as well. This means that guests will receive one complimentary shore excursion in each port of call. Guests can also expect all onboard meals including specialty restaurants, beer and wine with lunch and dinner service, 24-hour room service, and Wi-Fi for no additional costs.

Related Post: Everything Included on Viking Cruises

So, there you have it. These are our picks for the best cruise ships for 2022. Do you have plans to sail on any of these new vessels?

Which of these best new cruise ships for 2022 are you most excited to check out? Are you already booked on any of these ships? Drop us an anchor below to share your 2022 cruise plans.

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Hello, I didn’t see any mention of Wonder of the Seas. The ship is a new addition to the Royal Caribbean fleet departing from Fort Lauderdale Florida ?

DB & The Princess

Welcome Aboard! We are Don and Heidi, the husband and wife travel team behind EatSleepCruise.com. We took our first cruise vacation together 13 years ago and have been hooked ever since. Follow along as we share our travel tips, cruise reviews, information on ports of call, and the latest cruise news to help you plan the ultimate cruise vacation. Are you ready to embark on your journey to “sea the world, one port at a time”?

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12 Best Cruise Ships of 2022 | Best of Travel 2022

Now that the world is starting to get back on its feet, travelling is possible more than ever. People have a lot of catching up to do in order to cross out must-see sites on their travel-the-world bucket lists, given that we lost around two years of our lives to the pandemic. And what better way to travel the world (or at least, a part of it) than onboarding a cruise ship? These days, cruise ships are getting bigger and bigger – even fancier! They are the perfect way to see the world, with the bonus of sailing the seas in first-class style. Cruise ships are also a great place for your honeymoon, or even the ultimate family vacation of your life. In our Best of Travel series, we have rounded up the 12 Best Cruise Ships of 2022 for one of the most remarkable journeys you will ever experience post-pandemic.

This post was last updated on 8 July 2022.

12 Best Cruise Ships of 2022

1. wonder of the seas , royal caribbean international.

World’s biggest wonder in a cruise ship

As the world’s newest biggest cruise ship, Wonder of the Seas from the Royal Caribbean truly deserves a spot on this list. Whether you want to explore the postcard-perfect Caribbean shores or to take a moment in history’s most storied beautiful European ports, Wonder of the Seas brings the best of both worlds within reach. On par with its bigger size, the Wonder of the Seas also brings bigger adventures to every passenger on board. You will probably never run out of things to do! From watching jawdropping feats at the AquaTheatre to enjoying a whole immersive spin on mini-golf. And if you travel with thrill-seeking youngsters, they would be happy to know that the Wonder of the Seas also includes the all-new Playscape , an underwater world of fun. A league tenfold your ordinary playground, Playscape is studded with slides, climbing walls, and games – perfect for both kids and kids-at-heart! 

After a day of experiencing endless thrills in the cruise ship (with a dash of some island touring, of course!), you deserve to recharge in the ship’s superior suites and staterooms . If you have the budget, you can experience prime luxury in the all-new Suite neighbourhood, which is located high up in the ship’s most prime location. Guests in this literal suite spot will be able to enjoy five-star dining at the exclusive Coastal Kitchen, soak up the sun and unparalleled ocean views in the brand-new Suite Sun Deck. And of course, relish total VIP treatment in the luxurious suites. 

Cruise ship highlights:

• 18 deck-cruise ship with a gross tonnage of 236,857
• 6,988 passengers to 2,300 crew members ratio
• Incredible dining experience onboard – f r om fine dining to simple on-the-go-food
• Equipped to accommodate individuals with special needs
• Total of 14 bars and lounges to choose from for the ultimate nightlife experience on the sea

2. Carnival Celebration ™ , Carnival Cruise Line

Fun-filled celebratory cruise

With the sailing of the Carnival Celebration from Miami this 2022, Carnival will celebrate its 50th birthday year in the cruise line industry. And just like in an actual celebration, the guests are expected to bring unique fun spirits to match the cruise ship’s exemplary features. They are even including six “zones” in the ship, which are basically themed areas that bring incredible experiences and flavours onboard. The Carnival Celebration is also the second-ever Carnival cruise ship to feature the BOLT™ , an onboard extreme rollercoaster that’s certainly not for the fainthearted. Bonus is that you get to be high, high above sea level! The cruise ship also brings back innovations like Bonsai Teppanyaki™, RedFrog® Tiki Bar, Family Feud™ Live , Havana Bar™, Seuss at Sea™, Playlist Productions™ – which are all well-loved amenities from the 50 years of the amazing sailing experience with Carnival. 

If you are travelling with the entire family, we suggest that you check out the Family Harbor Staterooms. Guests will have access to the Family Harbor Lounge, where you can spend chill nights with the company of board games, family movies, and video games. And if you want to have a date night with your partner, you can enjoy a free evening of Night Owls™ babysitting service at Camp Ocean™. If you don’t have kids yet, maybe stay in the Havana Interior staterooms wherein you get to enjoy a flavourfully decked room – old-Havana style! Plus, you get to have exclusive access to the Havana Pool area.

• 19 deck-cruise ship with a gross tonnage of 180,800
• 5,374 guest capacity to 1,735 crew members onboard 
• With thrilling activities for everyone (i.e., ultimate sea coster, onboard waterpark)
• Dedicated room stewards in every stateroom
• Around-the-world dining onboard – from Japanese to Mexican to Chinese cuisines

3. Celebrity Beyond , Celebrity Cruises

A chic escape

A place where the everyday gives way to the extraordinary, Celebrity Beyond is another cruise ship for you to consider. But what we really love about this cruise ship is its innovative outward-facing design, which makes it one of Celebrity’s ships in the revolutionary Edge® Series. The design creates an even closer connection between you, the sea, and every exciting place on the horizon. This means float pools, bar (with live music performances), and suite verandas cantilevered over the open ocean! While there are also plenty of fun things to do onboard , we highly suggest that you really take a moment just to relax with the ship’s incredible resort deck, outdoor garden, and wellness spas . Or if you want to stray away from kids and parents screaming, you can also check out the adults-only Solarium for a perfectly serene atmosphere to unwind.

For the ultimate luxurious and relaxing experience, The Retreat on Celebrity Beyond is the place for you. Guests on the posh resort-within-a-resort will have a choice of stunning suite accommodations, including the two-story Edge Villas with outdoor plunge pools and the roomy Iconic Suites that offer some of the best ocean views in the ship. Moreover, every guest will have their own Personal Retreat Host so they never have to lift a finger while relaxing in their Cashmere ™ mattresses or in-room whirlpool tubs.

Take a closer look at Celebrity Beyond in the video below.

[ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XbgxUdtgHpY ] 

• With a tonnage of 140,600
• Autism-friendly cruising – sensory-friendly films and toys, dietary menu options, and overall autism-friendly training for Camp at Sea.
• Globally-starred menu crafted by a Michelin-starred chef
• Revolutionary fun activities – Vegas-style casino, upscale shopping extravaganza, gigantic theatre, and more

4. Oddysey of the Seas , Royal Caribbean International

Adventure for all ages

Another gem from the award-winning cruise line, Oddysey of the Seas will turn your wanderlust into reality. This cruise ship lets you discover adventure from St. Tomas to Santorini but also offers incredible thrills while navigating the seas. By thrills, we mean adventure for all ages onboard! When you hop in the Oddysey, get ready to play on a whole new level – bumper car showdowns, gravity-defying fun on the RipCord®by iFLY®simulator, glow-in-the-dark laser tag, fully immersive 4D VR experience, and so much more. The fun doesn’t stop even after the dark, as you can still enjoy memorable experiences with the epic musical productions and other ground-breaking multimedia spectaculars onboard.

Of course, you also have to rest in-between all those adventures. For the most relaxing stay, you can book a room in the Royal Suite Class . Other than the comfortable accommodation, you also get to reap exclusive access and unique cruise experiences, crafted just for you by a Royal Genie or dedicated Concierge. But if you don’t have the budget yet for a luxurious suite, the staterooms are also excellent places to unwind and to spend time with your loved ones.

Cruise ship highlights: 

• 16-deck cruise ship with 169,300 tonnage
• Can accommodate 4,284 passengers and 1,551 crew members
• Global culinary journey onboard
• Upper deck transformed as the most interactive arcade on the sea
• Resort-style pool deck with plenty of casitas, hammocks, and cocktail bars to enjoy

5. MSC World Europa , MSC Cruises

Cutting-edge environmental technology 

With the MSC World Europa, not only will you be able to travel in luxurious comfort, but also with peace of mind that the cruise ship is more on the environmentally-friendly side. As the largest LNG-fueled (cleanest marine fuel) cruise vessel ever built, this ship brings MSC’s fleet closer to the ultimate goal of “zero emissions operations”. Not only that, the ship also features a new-generation wastewater treatment system! Beyond the environmental commitment, what we love about the ship is its groundbreaking layout to match every passenger’s preference. From a tranquil zen zone for adults to a lively partially open promenade with entertainment options for everyone – you will never run out of things to do while onboard. Not to mention ‘The Spiral’, which is an 11-deck state-of-the-art slide that makes roaming around the cruise so much easier.

The MSC World Europa is also known for its MSC Yacht Club , a ship-within-a-ship concept. This club offers guests a private experience in the world of luxury, including premium suites, the best ocean views, 24-hour butler service, access to the thermal suite in MSC Aurea Spa , and more. It’s the ultimate VIP experience while cruising the seas!

• With a gross tonnage of 153,516
• Can accommodate up to 5,079 passengers and 1,413 crew members
• Wide variety of fine-dining restaurants, buffets, bars, and café to satisfy every craving
• Award-winning MSC Kids Club – with dedicated play area for children and tailor-made programs designed for each age group
• Themed deck locations + waterpark onboard

6. Discovery Princess℠ , Princess Cruises

Next-level technology for every passenger’s comfort.

Setting sail in Spring 2022, cruise ship fans will have to look forward to the launching of the Discovery Princess℠. From the moment you step aboard, the ship would instantly make you feel at home, making it a great place to spend your holiday. But if your work seems to haunt you wherever you are, do not fret since this cruise ship offers speedy WiFi onboard. That said, you also have access to SNS at all times and will be able to post those breathtaking ocean snaps in real-time. When it comes to activities and amenities, you will find so many things to do while sailing with the Discovery Princess℠.  Perhaps indulge in the finest dining on the sea, play in the Vegas-style casino, or enjoy some spectacular new productions that are exclusive to the ship’s Princess Theatre.

The hospitality extends to the accommodation, of course. And if you really want to enjoy some panoramic sea views, we suggest that you book a room in the ship’s Sky Suites. Each Sky Suite hosts up to five guests and boasts the largest balcony at sea, dazzling you with a 270-degree panorama view throughout your entire voyage. 

• 19-deck ship with a tonnage of 141,000
• 3,660 passengers and 1,346 crew capacity
• With reliable WiFi and TrulyTouchless™ experiences (contactless payments, mobile casino)
• Open-air poolside amphitheatre for feature films, concerts and sporting events
• Wide range of culinary delights – buffets, cafes, bars, and 5-star restaurants

7. Resilient Lady , Virgin Voyages

Entertainment galore

With a name inspired by the early Virgin Atlantic plane, Resilient Lady is Virgin Voyages’ take on luxurious cruising over the waters. Guests, or what they call Sailors, will have the best holiday on the sea with a variety of immersive and modern entertainment onboard, including a sea cabaret, a circus remix of Romeo and Juliet, an acrobatics show, and pop-up shows in every deck of the ship. If you’re a foodie, you will surely find something that tickles your taste buds in the massive selection of restaurants onboard.

And since the staterooms are where you spend a huge chunk of your time while sailing, we love how the Scarlet Lady makes them more than just a place to sleep in. You can transform your room at the touch of a button to match your current mood. Adjustable coloured lights, configurable Seabed, and other in-cabin tech – we can’t ask for more!

• 17-deck cruise ship with a gross tonnage of 110,000
• 2,770 passengers and 1,160 crew members capacity
• Michelin-starred chef collective for incredible dining experiences onboard
• Planet-friendly staterooms filled with natural products and energy-conserving appliances and fixtures
• WiFi onboard

8. Ambience , Ambassador Cruise Line

Refurbished classic cruise ship

Ambience of Ambassador Cruise Line is probably one of the smallest cruise ships on this list, but that doesn’t mean that you won’t have fun on your voyage. Since it’s much compact, the ship offers a sense of intimacy and camaraderie, which makes days spent at the sea more comfortable. Entertainment-wise, you will be spoilt for choices! Guests will be able to enjoy some late-night disco and cabaret shows at the Observatory, place best bets and cards forward at the bridge and card room and the Ambassador Casino, and rejuvenate in the onboard Wellness Centre. 

Moreover, the ship cabins look just like your regular hotel suite – you won’t probably even notice that you are miles away in the ocean. Even if you easily get seasick! What’s also great is that all cabins are air-conditioned, with en-suite facilities that will make anyone feel at home. 

• 19-deck cruise ship with a 70,285 tonnage
• 1400 guests capacity 
• Large screen on the pool deck for outdoor movies and sporting events

9. Prima , Norweigan Cruise Line

Unparalleled ocean views

When it comes to the best ocean views in cruise ships, the Norweigan Prima may be tough to beat. This ship has its very own Ocean Boulevard , offering you breathtaking 360-degree views of the sea. Enjoy a dip in the ship’s infinity beach, with the ocean right in front of you. The best part is, you can literally walk across the water via a glass bridge! The ship also features the first free-fall dry slide at sea for a guaranteed adrenaline rush, as well as a duelling side for some fun slide racing with your company. And did we mention that the Norweigan Prima also has a three-level race track onboard? The Prima Speedway is longer, larger, and zoomier than ever – you will forget that you are actually on a sea voyage!

Aside from the excellent entertainment options, the Norweigan Prima also provides the most spacious accommodations at sea. And if you are willing to spend more, you can enjoy world-class luxury by staying in The Haven . A stunning sundeck, exclusive amenities and personalised service – it will be like you are in a ship within a ship.

• 142,500 gross tonnage
• 3,215 guest capacity
• Seaside dining with a variety of global cuisine choices
• With a high-tech recreational family centre on board complete with escape rooms, flying theatre simulators, and TopGolf
• Kids’ Aqua Park – cascading water feature and infinity hot tubs

10. Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Variety of voyage choices

With a total of 148 new voyages coming soon in 2022 (up to 2023!), Seven Seas Cruises satisfies your wanderlust in every aspect. Whether you want to travel from the East to the West part of the world, you can easily do so with the variety of choices in this cruise ship line. Moreover, their cruises are great if you are looking for a long voyage – imagine, around 3 months at the sea! You will get to see a multitude of ports all over the world, with a bonus of the various tourist sites that you can go to off port. It is always a great idea if you have the budget. After all, a week-long cruise vacation may be too short for the endless attractions to explore while on board. 

11. Disney Wish , Disney Cruise Line

Best cruise ship for the entire family .

A famous Disney song said that a dream that you wish for will come true, and that’s certainly what happened with the Disney Wish. Starting 2022, you will be able to experience all-enchantment while sailing through the seas, with your favourite Disney, Marvel, Pixar, and Star Wars characters brought to life in the most unique way possible. Disney Wish is the cruise ship version of most kids’  favourite place on Earth, Disneyland, so for sure, your youngsters will have the time of their lives while on board. Not only the little ones, but even grown adults, too!  The bonus is that every guest will enjoy some amazing ocean views on the side, as well. Cinematic dining experience, spectacular Broadway-style shows, fun-filled water slides – Disney Wish is your happily ever after in the sea!

The Disney theme does not only stop at the cruise ship’s entertainment options. The staterooms are also overflowing with the Disney enchantment, which can be seen in the  artworks and subtle touches that celebrate iconic elements of Disney films. From magic castles to enchanted woodlands to the spirit of the sea!

• 144,000 tonnage
• 4,000 passengers capacity with 1,555 crew members onboard
• With multiple themed spaces bursting with Disney storytelling and fun activities
• Disney Uncharted Adventure interactive game onboard for everyone for the ultimate immersive Disney experience
• Variety of Disney-themed dining options

12. Cunard’s New Ship

Newest addition

Last but definitely not least, is the newest cruise ship from Cunard. We may not know its name yet, but we are already looking forward to the distinctive Cunard signatures and new experiences that await in this cruise ship. Also, this ship will be the first new Cunarder for well over a decade, so we can only expect great things from this one. After all, its construction is too many years in the making and involves a world-class design team.

We hope that our guide on the 12 Best Cruise Ships of 2022  will help you find the best cruise ship for the ultimate sea vacation of your life. If you found this useful, please share it with your friends and family! 

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• World's Best

The 5 Best Mega-ship Ocean Cruise Lines in 2022

The best cruise lines for mega-ships, according to Travel + Leisure readers, embrace the ethos of bigger means better with over-the-top entertainment and amenities.

Note: If you’re looking for our most recent recommendations, check out the 2023 list of our favorite mega-ship ocean cruise lines.

The world's largest cruise ships were back in business last summer following the COVID-19 shutdowns. The ships, at least initially, sailed with limited capacity, but the cruise fans on those voyages were no less enthusiastic about being on the giants of the seas.

Every year for our World's Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Readers rated individual cruise ships on their cabins and facilities, food, service, itineraries and destinations, excursions and activities, and value. Those assessments were combined to generate results for the cruise lines in six categories, including river cruising.

The World's Best Awards cruise categories are now based on the number of cabins, rather than passenger capacity. Mega-ships are defined as those with 1,500 or more cabins. The smallest of the big ships in this category, with its 1,523 cabins and suites, is the Celebrity Reflection of the Celebrity Cruises fleet, which claims the No. 1 mega-ship position. (You'll find the rest of the Celebrity Cruises fleet recognized in the new large-ship category.) Of the Reflection , one voter wrote, "Always world-class service and amenities."

Coming in close behind Celebrity Cruises in this category is first-time World's Best Awards winner Virgin Voyages, the new adults-only, all-inclusive cruise line. Its first ship, Scarlet Lady, impressed readers with DJ-led dance parties and creative nightlife, as well as complimentary dining options that include a Korean BBQ accompanied by drinking games. British billionaire Richard Branson wanted to turn cruising on its head and he succeeded, according to T+L readers. "No kids allowed in a good way," wrote one fan. Added another reader, "Oh my, this cruise line was simply incredible! I cannot stop gushing over it — it was such a wonderful experience."

The No. 3 spot goes to a perennial favorite in the World's Best Awards, Princess Cruises. One of the newest additions to its fleet, the Enchanted Princess, earned raves from voters, with one person calling it "gorgeous." The same voter also noted that "Princess has made a real effort in their health protocols."

Scroll on to see the full list of the best cruise lines for mega-ships and learn more about why readers loved Celebrity in particular.

1. Celebrity Cruises

"We have sailed three times on this ship. The experiences have all been exceptional," said one reader about the 10-year-old Celebrity Reflection, the fifth and largest ship in Celebrity Cruises's award-winning Solstice class. As a mega-ship, the Celebrity Reflection does not do the ice skating rinks, waterparks, and amusement-park attractions found on sister line Royal Caribbean International. Instead, the wows are the sophisticated décor and cuisine, an impressive modern art collection — with Jeff Koons, Robert Rauschenberg, and Kiki Smith among artists represented — and a real grass lawn up on top. "Seems to be always world-class service and amenities," said one T+L reader, who also praised the "amazing crew."

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Score: 87.80

More information: celebritycruises.com

2. Virgin Voyages

Score: 87.37

More information: virginvoyages.com

3. Princess Cruises

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Score: 83.90

More information: princess.com

4. Royal Caribbean International

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Score: 83.66

More information: royalcaribbean.com

5. Norwegian Cruise Line

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Score: 83.35

More information: ncl.com

• Nationwide Travel Insurance
• AXA Assistance USA
• Seven Corners Travel Insurance
• HTH Worldwide Travel Insurance
• World Nomads Travel Insurance

Cruise Travel Insurance Tips

• Why You Should Trust Us

Best Cruise Insurance Companies of April 2024

Affiliate links for the products on this page are from partners that compensate us (see our advertiser disclosure with our list of partners for more details). However, our opinions are our own. See how we rate insurance products to write unbiased product reviews.

A cruise vacation can take much of the stress out of planning a vacation. With a pre-set itinerary on the high seas, you don't have to worry about how you're getting to your destination and what you're going to do there. However, an unexpected emergency can take the wind out of your sails and money out of your travel budget. So you'll want to ensure you have the best travel insurance coverage that won't leave you high and dry in an emergency.

Best Cruise Insurance Companies

• Nationwide Travel Insurance : Best Overall
• AXA Assistance USA : Best for Affordability
• Seven Corners Travel Insurance : Best for Seniors
• HTH Worldwide Travel Insurance : Best for Expensive Trips
• World Nomads Travel Insurance : Best for Exotic Locations

Compare the Top Cruise Insurance Offers

• Trip cancellation coverage of up to 100% of trip costs (for cruises) or up to $30,000 (for single-trip plans)
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Three cruise-specific plans to choose from
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Annual travel insurance plans available
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Strong trip cancellation coverage
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Cancel for any reason coverage available
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. CFAR insurance not available with every single plan
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Medical coverage is lower than what some competitors offer

Nationwide Travel Insurance offers many of the standard benefits you might see with a travel insurance policy. This can include things like trip cancellation coverage, so you can recover pre-paid costs or trip interruption in the event your vacation is interrupted by an unexpected event. There's also baggage delay coverage and medical coverage.

• Cancel for any reason coverage available

• Trip cancellation coverage of up to 100% of the trip cost
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Generous medical evacuation coverage
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Up to $1,500 per person coverage for missed connections on cruises and tours
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Covers loss of ski, sports and golf equipment
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Generous baggage delay, loss and trip delay coverage ceilings per person
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Cancel for any reason (CFAR) coverage only available for most expensive Platinum plan
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. CFAR coverage ceiling only reaches $50,000 maximum despite going up to 75%

AXA Assistance USA keeps travel insurance simple with gold, silver, and platinum plans. Emergency medical and CFAR are a couple of the options you can expect. Read on to learn more about AXA.

• Silver, Gold, and Platinum plans available
• Trip interruption coverage of up to 150% of the trip cost
• Emergency medical coverage of up to $250,000

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Diverse coverage options such as CFAR, optional sports equipment coverage, etc.
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Available in all 50 states
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Prices are higher than many competitors
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Reviews around claims processing are mixed
• Trip cancellation insurance of up to 100% of the trip cost
• Trip interruption insurance of up to 150% of the trip cost
• Cancel for any reason (CFAR) insurance available

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Three plans to choose from
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Reasonable premiums
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. CFAR coverage available with some plans
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. High medical emergency and evacuation coverage
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Special coverages for pets, sports equipment, etc not available
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Limited reviews with complaints about claims not being paid
• Trip cancellation of up to $5,000 with the Economy plan and up to $50,000 with the Preferred plan
• Cancel for any reason insurance and missed connection insurance available with the Preferred plan
• Baggage delay insurance starting after 24 or 12 hours depending on the plan

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Coverage for 200+ activities like skiing, surfing, and rock climbing
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Only two plans to choose from, making it simple to find the right option
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. You can purchase coverage even after your trip has started
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. If your trip costs more than $10,000, you may want to choose other insurance because trip protection is capped at up to $10,000 (for the Explorer plan)
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Doesn't offer coverage for travelers older than 70
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. No Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) option
• Coverage for 150+ activities and sports
• 2 plans: Standard and Explorer
• Trip protection for up to $10,000
• Emergency medical insurance of up to $100,000
• Emergency evacuation coverage for up to $500,000
• Coverage to protect your items (up to $3,000)

Cruise Insurance Reviews

Best cruise insurance overall: nationwide travel insurance.

Nationwide Travel Insurance  is a long-standing and reputable brand within the insurance marketplace that offers cruise insurance plans with solid coverage and reasonable rates.

It has three cruise insurance options: Universal, Choice, and Luxury. The Nationwide Choice plan, for example, offers $100,000 in emergency medical coverage and $500,000 in emergency medical evacuation coverage.

The right plan for you depends on your budget and coverage needs. But each plan offers cruise-specific coverages like ship-based mechanical breakdowns, coverage for missed prepaid excursions if your cruise itinerary changes, and covered service disruptions aboard the cruise ship.

Read our Nationwide Travel Insurance review here.

Best Cruise Insurance for Affordability: AXA Travel Insurance

AXA Assistance USA  offers three comprehensive coverage plans: Gold, Silver, and Platinum. Each of these plans offers coverage for issues like missed flights, medical emergencies, lost luggage, and more.

The highest-tier Platinum plan provides $250,000 in medical emergency coverage and $1 million in medical evacuation coverage. The baggage loss coverage is $3,000 per person, and their missed connection coverage is $1,500 per person for cruises and tours.

In addition, travelers can take advantage of AXA's concierge service, which provides an extensive network of international service providers. They'll be able to assist you with things like restaurant reservations and referrals, golf course information, and more. This service could come in handy if you're stopping at a variety of unfamiliar destinations during your cruise.

The coverage limits on AXA's policies are on the higher end compared to other providers. And you can buy coverage for a little as 4% of your trip cost depending on your age, travel destination, and state of residence.

Read our AXA Travel Insurance review here.

Best Cruise Insurance for Seniors: Seven Corners Travel Insurance

Seven Corners Travel Insurance lets cruisers enjoy traveling in their golden years with the knowledge they're covered in the event of an accident or emergency. While other providers do offer coverage to those 80+ years old, Seven Corners is known for its affordable premiums while offering above-average medical expenses and medical evacuation coverage limits — two areas of travel insurance coverage that are even more important as we get older.

Seven Corners also offers the option of a preexisting conditions waiver and CFAR insurance at an additional cost, plus "Trip Interruption for Any Reason" coverage, which you won't find on many policies.

You can choose between the Trip Protection Basic or Trip Protection Choice plans, with the higher-tier Choice plan costing more but providing more coverage.

Read our Seven Corners Travel Insurance review here. 

Best Cruise Insurance for Expensive Trips: HTH Worldwide Travel Insurance

HTH Worldwide Travel Insurance  offers three levels of trip protection: TripProtector Economy, Classic, and Preferred. The higher the tier, the more coverage you'll get for things like baggage delays, trip delays & cancellations, and medical expenses. But their premiums remain reasonable even at the highest tier of coverage.

Not only does the HTH Worldwide Trip Protector Preferred plan offer higher-than-average medical emergency and evacuation coverage limits ($500,000 and $1 million, respectively), but you'll also get a baggage loss coverage limit of $2,000 per person and coverage for trip interruption of up to 200% of the trip cost. You also have the option to add CFAR coverage for an additional cost.

Read our HTH Worldwide Travel Insurance review here.

Best Cruise Insurance for Exotic Locations: World Nomads Travel Insurance

World Nomads Travel Insurance  has been a top choice for comprehensive travel insurance for many years now. And it's a great option when it comes to cruise coverage, too.

Even the most basic Standard Plan comes with $100,000 in medical emergency coverage and $300,000 in emergency evacuation coverage. And you'll get higher coverage limits with their Premium Plan. Plus, unlike many other providers, World Nomads trip cancellation and emergency medical coverage include COVID-19-related issues.

What sets World Nomads apart from many other insurance companies is that its policies cover 200+ adventure sports. This can be important for adventurous cruisers who plan to take part in activities like jet skiing, scuba diving, or parasailing during their cruise.

Read our World Nomads Travel Insurance review here.

Introduction to Cruise Insurance

Cruise insurance may offer unique coverage like missed port of call and medical evacuation coverage. You might not need the flight protections of a regular travel insurance plan if you're catching a cruise at a port near you, but medical and cancel for any reason coverage could be critical.

Understanding the Basics of Cruise Insurance

At its core, cruise insurance is your financial lifeboat, designed to protect you from unforeseen events that could disrupt your sea voyage. Whether it's a sudden illness, adverse weather, or other unexpected occurrences, having the right insurance can make a world of difference.

Why Cruise Insurance is Important

Picture this: You're all set for your dream cruise, but a sudden family emergency means you can't set sail. Or worse, you fall ill in the middle of the ocean. Without cruise insurance, you're not just missing out on an adventure, but also facing potentially huge financial losses. That's why securing cruise insurance isn't just recommended; it's a crucial part of your cruise planning.

Types of Cruise Insurance Coverage

Cruise insurance isn't a one-size-fits-all life jacket. There are various types of coverage, each tailored to protect different aspects of your cruise experience.

Trip Cancellation and Interruption Coverage

This coverage is like your safety net, catching you financially if you need to cancel your trip last minute or cut it short due to emergencies, be it due to personal, health-related, or even certain work conflicts.

Medical Coverage

Being on a cruise shouldn't mean being adrift from medical care. Medical coverage ensures that if you fall ill or get injured, your medical expenses won't sink your finances.

Emergency Evacuation Coverage

In the rare case that you need to be evacuated from the ship due to a medical emergency or severe weather, this coverage ensures you're not left adrift in a sea of expenses.

Baggage and Personal Effects Coverage

Imagine reaching your dream destination only to find your luggage lost at sea. This coverage ensures that lost, stolen, or damaged baggage doesn't dampen your cruise experience.

Buying Cruise Insurance

Securing the best cruise insurance isn't just about finding the best price; it's about ensuring it covers all your potential needs.

When to Purchase Cruise Insurance

Timing is everything. Purchasing your insurance soon after booking your cruise can often provide additional benefits and ensure you're covered for any early surprises. As you get closer to your trip your coverage options may get more expensive, and certain providers may not be able to offer you coverage.

How to Find the Best Deals on Cruise Insurance

Keep a lookout for deals, but remember, the cheapest option isn't always the best. Balance cost with coverage, and ensure you're getting the protection you need at a price that doesn't rock your financial boat. A travel insurance comparison site like SquareMouth is a good place to compare multiple quotes from all of the major carriers at once.

How to Pick The Best Cruise Insurance for You

When buying travel insurance for a cruise, consider the additional risks that are specific to cruising. These include hurricanes and other weather-related concerns, strict cancellation terms, high pre-paid costs of a cruise, and the distance to emergency medical assistance.

To find the policy that's right for you, it's best to compare several different cruise insurance policies based on the pricing and coverage they provide. Remember too that all reputable insurance providers will offer a "free-look period." This allows you to return the policy you've purchased for any reason, within a specific time period, for a full refund.

The most important coverages to look for in cruise insurance are:

• Medical coverage — This coverage will pay for medical bills outside the US. But because treatment can be more expensive while onboard, make sure your policy offers sufficient coverage ($100,000+).
• Medical evacuation coverage — This coverage will transport you to the nearest hospital or even back home if you become sick or injured during your journey. But an evacuation from sea will be more expensive than one from land. So you'll want to make sure your coverage has sufficiently high limits ($250,000+).
• Missed connection (missed port of call) coverage — This type of coverage will help you catch up to your itinerary if you miss your port of call for a covered reason, like a delayed flight on the way to the airport.
• Coverage for hurricane warnings — With this type of coverage, you don't actually need to be affected by the hurricane. You can cancel and be reimbursed for your trip if the NOAA issues a hurricane warning. If you're cruising anywhere during (or on the tail ends) of hurricane season, this can come in handy. Just note: You can't buy travel insurance to cover a weather event once a storm or hurricane has been named.
• Cancel for any reason (CFAR) — This is the most comprehensive coverage you can get, as it allows cancellations and reimbursement for pre-paid expenses for any reason. This can be a wise add-on for cruise coverage given the often higher prepaid expenses associated with cruising. See our guide to the best CFAR travel insurance options to learn more.
• Preexisting conditions — This coverage ensures that no known health conditions are excluded from coverage. Obtaining a preexisting condition waiver usually requires purchasing your travel insurance soon after booking your trip.
• Personal possessions insurance — Because of the events and fancy dinners cruise ships hold, you might take more valuable clothing or jewelry with you on a cruise. This type of coverage will insure your belongings against loss or theft while cruising.
• Baggage loss and delay — This coverage will reimburse you up to a specified amount for essentials if your bags are delayed or if your bags get lost en route.

As a rule of thumb, you can expect to pay between 5% and 10% of your prepaid, nonrefundable trip expenses for cruise insurance coverage. The price will vary depending on factors like your age, your travel destination, and whether you require additional coverage.

If you're booking a cruise, we recommend purchasing travel insurance when you make your first trip payment. That could be for the cruise itself or an expense like airfare to get you to your cruising destination. This way, if you have to cancel your trip, you'll have the most extended coverage period possible.

You can buy your own cruise insurance that isn't offered directly through the cruise line operator. In fact, this could be a better option if you want coverage for your travel to the cruise's departure point, not just for the cruise itself.

The difference between traditional travel insurance and cruise insurance is that cruise insurance offers more specialized coverage, for situations such as missing a departure port and more coverage for medical evacuations, since it's more expensive to evacuate someone at sea than on land. 

Most cruise insurance includes coverage for missing a departure port, so you should be able to claim for a missed port. Just make sure you check the details of your policy before you file a claim, and before you travel so you know what compensation you're entitled to.

Why You Should Trust Us: How We Chose the Best Cruise Travel Insurance

When comparing cruise travel insurance providers, we evaluated them based on the following criteria to come up with our list of top picks:

Customer Satisfaction

We look at ratings from JD Power and other industry giants to see where a company ranks in customer satisfaction. We also look at customer review sites like Trustpilot and SquareMouth.

Policy Types

We look at policy types and offerings, from standard travel protections to adventure sports coverage. We look at the amount of insurance offered

Average Premiums

We compare average premiums per trip. Some companies also offer annual plans, and we compare policies accordingly.

Claims Paid

How frequently do companies pay claims easily and quickly? We check customer reviews and other resources to see which companies honor policies most effectively.

We look at the company's overall behavior. Is it operating ethically? Companies can earn additional points for such behaviors.

You can read more about how Business Insider rates insurance here.

Editorial Note: Any opinions, analyses, reviews, or recommendations expressed in this article are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any card issuer. Read our editorial standards .

Please note: While the offers mentioned above are accurate at the time of publication, they're subject to change at any time and may have changed, or may no longer be available.

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Travel | Disney Cruise Line names its newest cruise ship

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It was bound to happen sometime, but Disney Cruise Line waited until its last of three new sister ships to name one Disney Destiny.

The sister ship to Disney Wish, which debuted out of Port Canaveral in 2022 and the soon-to-debut Disney Treasure arriving in Central Florida this December, the third ship in what was originally called the Trident class had its keel laying ceremony Wednesday at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany.

It won’t start sailing until 2025, and its home port has yet to be named, but among the details revealed for what will be the eighth ship in the cruise line’s fleet was the theme of the vessel, “Heroes & Villains.”

As such, the filigree artwork for the bow will be of Minnie Mouse wearing a superhero-style outfit complete with a cape.

The cruise line said among the characters from which it will mine features on board will be classic Disney animation films, “The Lion King,” “Hercules” and “One Hundred and One Dalmatians.”

Disney of course owns plenty of good vs. evil intellectual property including Star Wars and Marvel.

“The Disney Destiny will celebrate our most legendary Disney stories and characters, bringing them to life in new and exciting ways exclusively for Disney Cruise Line guests,” said Sharon Siskie, senior vice president and general manager for the cruise line, in a press release. “As we continue to expand our fleet, the Disney Destiny will further strengthen our position as a leader in family cruising.”

Just like Disney Wish and Treasure, Disney Destiny will be powered by liquefied natural gas, a cleaner burning fuel that’s part of the cruise industry’s efforts to reduce emissions.

All three are the 144,000 gross-ton, 1,254-stateroom vessels but still targeting the 4,000-passenger capacity of its older ships, 2011’s Disney Dream and 2012’s Fantasy. The line’s first ships are the smaller Disney Magic that debuted in 1998 and Disney Wonder in 1999. They come in at 84,000 gross tons with 875 staterooms.

The line also is finishing construction for an Asia-bound cruise ship named Disney Adventure that will be the largest in the fleet at 208,000 gross tons.

Disney Wish became the line’s first new ship in more than a decade. It continues to do short three- and four-night Bahamas sailings while Disney Treasure will pick up seven-night trips to the Caribbean.

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The Best New Small-Ship Cruises to Book in 2024

A uthentic. It was Merriam Webster's top searched word for 2023 and one that has dominated the travel vernacular in recent years. And while many would not necessarily associate the word with ocean cruising , the growth in popularity of small-ship cruises-particularly sailings with 500 guests or fewer-indicates that in the cruising world, passengers are seeking a more intimate, less crowded, and yes, arguably more authentic sailing experience.

Take expedition cruising , for example. As the number of adventure-focused ships and yachts has exploded in recent years, these cruises are no longer just about extreme voyages in polar regions. They are also about offering a deeper look into the culture, food, history, and environmental fragility of remote wonders of the world.

Although there isn't a huge number of new small ships being introduced, there are a few notable vessels that have either recently launched or are launching this year with a focus on the idea that smaller is not just better, but more sustainable, too. These new small-ship cruises bring with them some exciting and more immersive new itineraries to destinations both warm and wintry that have us ready to pack our bags and sail away.

Sea Cloud Cruises' "Sea Cloud Spirit"

• Suggested itinerary: Reset your mind and body on an eight-night sailing through Spain's Canary Islands and on to Morocco on a special cruise featuring experts in restorative health. Pricing starts at $4,895 per person.

What's more authentic-and sustainable-than setting sail on a tall ship where the sails are hoisted up each day by hand? Although not technically new (it was launched in 2021), the 136-passenger Sea Cloud Spirit and its two sister ships, Sea Cloud and Sea Cloud II , are upping their game in a push to introduce Sea Cloud Cruises' unique product to North American travelers. The German company has traditionally catered to German and British passengers. As part of its effort to expand its reach and appeal, Sea Cloud is adding wellness programs with daily onboard yoga and guest fitness gurus, in addition to special food- and wine-focused sailings with well-known chefs making appearances. Sea Cloud Spirit , the largest of the three-ship fleet with 69 cabins, was meticulously designed to pay homage to the original Sea Cloud , which was the world's largest private sailing yacht when Wall Street broker Edward Francis Hutton had it built in 1931 for his wife, Marjorie Merriweather Post.

The Sea Cloud Spirit combines the experience of decades of traditional seamanship with the modern-day luxuries of a private yacht. Cabins range from 172-square-foot single cabins to 300-square-foot balcony suites with soaking tubs. There's a large fitness center and spa, which has a steam room, sauna, and thermal area for two; indoor and outdoor lounges; and a main dining area, plus a more casual bistro. The action, however, is out on deck, where passengers can stargaze at night or simply gaze in awe at the impressive sails blowing in the wind.

Atlas Ocean Voyages' "World Navigator"

• Suggested itinerary: Go searching for Arctic wildlife on a 12-night cruise from Reykjavík, which sails along the eastern coast of Greenland and to Longyearbyen in the Svalbard archipelago, one of the world's northernmost inhabited areas and home to polar bears, reindeer, arctic foxes, and other Nordic wildlife. Pricing starts at $6,499 per person.

World Navigator , which sailed its maiden voyage in Antarctica this past November, is the third vessel to join the fleet of one of the newest players in small-ship expedition cruising, Atlas Ocean Voyages. The company's 100-cabin expedition yachts are almost identical and provide a hybrid of sorts between traditional expedition and luxury cruising. Cabins are spacious, almost all with balconies, desks, and seating areas. The bathrooms have glass-mosaic tiled showers with rain showerheads, wall jets, and even benches.

Everything on the ship-including the sauna with floor-to-ceiling windows-is designed to provide maximum views. The ships also have spacious pool decks with two hot tubs, a fitness center overlooking the sea, a spa, and water toys like kayaks and paddleboards. There's even extreme camping gear for those willing to brave an overnight under the stars in Antarctica. During North American winters, all three of Atlas's expedition yachts sail in Antarctica. With the addition of World Navigator , the company is launching more Arctic Circle cruises during the North American summers while also adding a host of new epicurean and cultural expeditions in South America, the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, and northern Europe this year.

Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection's "Ilma"

• Suggested itinerary: Spend a little extra time in port on a 10-day sailing from Barcelona to Lisbon, which has three overnight stays, in Palma de Mallorca and Malaga in Spain, and in Lisbon, Portugal, one of Europe's oldest cities. Pricing starts at $10,600 per person.

Another newcomer to luxury small-ship cruising is the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, which debuts its second ship, the Ilma , this year. With 224 suites, the ship is larger than the original Ritz-Carlton yacht, the 149-suite Evrima , which launched in October 2022. On the Ilma , all the suites will have private terraces, including a two-story suite with soaking tub; the coveted, 1,000-square-foot owner's suite has a private outdoor whirlpool. Even the smallest suites are not all that small, at 300 square feet, and come with a personal concierge and 24-hour room service. The yacht boasts what Ritz-Carlton says is the highest ratio of space per guest at sea.

And you can expect to find the same meticulous service standards that you would find at Ritz-Carlton resorts throughout the world as the line aims to impress hotel guests seeking a luxury hotel experience at sea. Onboard are five dining venues, including S.E.A., a European tasting experience designed by chef Sven Elverfeld of Aqua, the three Michelin-starred restaurant at the Ritz-Carlton in Wolfsburg, Germany; Talaat Nam, featuring Southeast Asian cuisine and a sushi bar; and Mistral, a casual come-as-you-are alfresco grill with a Mediterranean-inspired menu. Light bites are served at the marina at the aft of the ship, where you can also hop on a borrowed paddleboard. Oh, and did we mention there are two outdoor pools, too?