Celebrity Cruises has unveiled an unprecedented European deployment for 2028–2029, featuring four of its Edge-class vessels in the region simultaneously for the first time.
The announcement, made on 10th August 2026, marks the cruise line’s most extensive European season to date whilst also expanding itineraries across all seven continents.
Unprecedented Edge-Class Deployment Reshapes European Strategy
The deployment of Celebrity Beyond, Celebrity Xcel, Celebrity Ascent, and Celebrity Apex throughout Northern Europe represents a significant strategic shift for the premium cruise line.
This marks the first time Celebrity Cruises has positioned such a substantial portion of its newest and most advanced vessel class in European waters during a single season.
Celebrity Beyond’s inclusion is particularly notable, as the 141,420 gross-tonne ship has not visited European shores since 2023.
Her return follows a comprehensive dry dock overhaul scheduled for November 2026, which will introduce new onboard venues including the Mediterranean restaurant Bora and the Celebrity Pool Club.
These enhancements position the vessel to compete more effectively in the premium European cruise market, where dining and outdoor spaces are increasingly important differentiators.
The Edge-class ships, known for their outward-facing design philosophy and innovative features such as the Magic Carpet cantilevered platform, offer a modern interpretation of luxury cruising that has resonated particularly well with contemporary travellers.
By concentrating four of these vessels in Europe, Celebrity is making a clear statement about the region’s importance to its overall commercial strategy.
Northern European Itineraries Span Iceland To Norway’s Fjords
Celebrity Beyond will anchor the Northern European programme with 14-night itineraries exploring Iceland’s dramatic landscapes.
These voyages will call at Reykjavik, Isafjordur, Akureyri, and Seydisfjordur, offering guests comprehensive access to the island nation’s geological wonders, from geothermal areas to volcanic formations.
The vessel will subsequently navigate through Norway’s legendary fjords, visiting Geiranger, Alesund, Flam, Nordfjordeid, and Bergen.
These Norwegian itineraries have become increasingly sought-after amongst cruise enthusiasts, with the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Geiranger fjord remaining one of the most photographed natural attractions in Scandinavia.
Celebrity Summit, measuring 91,003 gross tonnes, will later complement these offerings with round-trip voyages from Reykjavik.
This positioning allows guests to spend additional time exploring Iceland’s capital whilst using the ship as a floating hotel, a deployment strategy that has proven successful for cruise lines seeking to maximize time in destination rather than transit.
Scandinavian And British Isles Programmes Expand Regional Coverage
Celebrity Apex will undertake 12-night Scandinavian voyages encompassing Oslo, Skagen, Stockholm, Tallinn, Helsinki, and Copenhagen.
These itineraries provide a comprehensive survey of Baltic capitals, each offering distinct cultural experiences from Stockholm’s island architecture to Tallinn’s medieval old town.
The vessel will also operate 12-night British Isles cruises visiting England, Scotland, and Ireland.
British Isles itineraries have experienced renewed popularity in recent years, driven partly by passengers seeking English-language destinations and partly by the region’s rich maritime heritage and dramatic coastal scenery.
This dual deployment strategy for Celebrity Apex maximizes the vessel’s utilization during the European season whilst offering two distinct product offerings.
Passengers interested in Nordic culture can select the Scandinavian itineraries, whilst those drawn to Celtic heritage and British history have an alternative option aboard the same ship class.
Mediterranean Deployments Feature Three Edge-Class Vessels
Celebrity Xcel, Celebrity Ascent, and Celebrity Eclipse will concentrate on Mediterranean itineraries ranging from seven to 11 nights.
These voyages will encompass Italy, France, Spain, Morocco, Portugal, Greece, and Turkey, providing access to some of the world’s most historically significant destinations.
The Mediterranean has long represented the backbone of European cruise deployment, with the region’s combination of favourable weather, cultural attractions, and well-developed port infrastructure making it ideal for cruise operations.
Celebrity’s decision to position three ships in this region reflects both passenger demand and the market’s capacity to absorb additional capacity.
Celebrity Constellation, measuring 90,940 gross tonnes, will complement these deployments with 10- to 11-night voyages through Italy and Croatia.
Croatia has emerged as one of the Mediterranean’s fastest-growing cruise destinations, with ports such as Dubrovnik and Split offering well-preserved historic centres and stunning Adriatic coastal scenery.
Year-Round European Presence Includes Return To Egypt
Celebrity Infinity will maintain a year-round European presence, extending Celebrity’s regional footprint beyond the traditional summer season.
This deployment includes the cruise line’s first visits to Egypt since 2023, reopening access to one of the world’s most historically significant destinations.
Egypt’s return to Celebrity’s programme signals renewed confidence in the region’s stability and infrastructure.
The country’s ancient monuments, particularly those accessible from Mediterranean ports, represent some of the most sought-after shore excursion opportunities in cruising.
Visits to Egyptian ports typically feature excursions to archaeological sites that have captivated travellers for centuries.
Year-round deployment also allows Celebrity to capture shoulder season demand, when travellers seeking milder temperatures and fewer crowds often find optimal conditions for cultural exploration.
This strategy has become increasingly important as cruise lines work to extend their operating seasons and improve vessel utilisation rates.
Global Deployment Spans Alaska To Antarctica
Beyond Europe, Celebrity Cruises has detailed comprehensive global deployments for 2028–2029.
In Alaska, Celebrity Edge will return for a fifth consecutive season, establishing the vessel as a mainstay in the region.
She will be joined by Celebrity Equinox, which at 121,878 gross tonnes will undertake her inaugural Alaska season with seven-night Vancouver to Seward voyages.
Celebrity Millennium will offer round-trip Alaska sailings from Vancouver, providing an alternative for passengers who prefer not to arrange positioning flights to different cities.
Alaska cruising has experienced consistent growth, with the region’s glaciers, wildlife, and indigenous culture drawing increasing numbers of visitors each summer season.
“We’re delighted to give our guests more ways than ever to experience the world’s most extraordinary destinations in 2028 and 2029,” said Laura Hodges Bethge, president of Celebrity Cruises.
“From the breathtaking fjords of Norway to the untouched beauty of Antarctica, these itineraries offer endless opportunities to explore.”
South Pacific And Asian Itineraries Expand Destination Portfolio
Celebrity Edge and Celebrity Solstice will operate 23 sailings across the South Pacific, departing from Sydney and Auckland.
These deployments cater to the Australasian market whilst also attracting international travellers seeking to explore the region’s island nations and coral reef systems.
Celebrity Solstice and Celebrity Millennium will subsequently explore Asia, offering diverse itineraries across Japan, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, and China.
Asian deployments have become increasingly important for cruise lines, with the region’s growing middle class and improving port infrastructure creating new opportunities for growth.
A particular highlight includes Celebrity Millennium’s overnight stay in Hong Kong on New Year’s Eve.
Overnight port calls allow guests to experience destinations more thoroughly, including evening entertainment and dining options that day calls cannot accommodate.
Hong Kong’s spectacular New Year’s Eve fireworks display over Victoria Harbour provides an especially compelling reason for the extended stay.
South American And Antarctic Voyages Offer Expedition-Style Experiences
Celebrity Equinox will operate 12- to 16-night voyages across South America and Antarctica, spanning five countries.
These itineraries will feature local cuisine, wildlife exploration, and a special 16-night holiday sailing through Antarctica over New Year’s Eve.
Antarctic cruising represents one of the industry’s premium offerings, with limited vessel capacity and high operating costs resulting in higher per-passenger revenues.
The continent’s pristine wilderness, penguin colonies, and dramatic ice formations create experiences that passengers often describe as life-changing.
The South American components of these voyages provide cultural context for the Antarctic exploration, with ports in Argentina and Chile offering distinct culinary traditions and landscape diversity.
This combination of cultural immersion and natural wonder has proven particularly appealing to experienced cruisers seeking destinations beyond traditional Caribbean and Mediterranean routes.
Industry Context Reflects Growing Cruise Demand
Celebrity’s expansive 2028–2029 deployment comes against a backdrop of robust industry growth.
According to the Cruise Lines International Association’s 2026 State of the Cruise Industry Report, global cruise passenger volume reached 37.2 million in 2025, demonstrating cruising’s increasing appeal as a holiday format.
European cruising has particularly benefited from this growth, with multiple cruise lines expanding their regional offerings.
The continent’s combination of cultural attractions, diverse port options, and well-developed tourism infrastructure makes it especially suitable for cruise deployment.
Additionally, European itineraries typically command higher per-passenger revenues than Caribbean voyages, making them financially attractive for premium cruise lines.
Celebrity’s expansion also reflects confidence in the broader economic environment and consumer spending on travel experiences.
The deployment of newer, larger vessels suggests the cruise line anticipates sustained demand through the end of the decade.
Fleet Expansion Supports Increased Global Presence
Celebrity Cruises has steadily expanded its global presence in recent years.
The cruise line’s newest vessel, Celebrity Xcel, debuted in November 2025 as reported by industry observers, adding significant capacity to the fleet.
The cruise line is scheduled to introduce Celebrity Xcite, its sixth Edge-class ship, in 2028.
Construction of the vessel began with a steel-cutting ceremony in October 2025, marking another milestone in Celebrity’s fleet modernisation programme.
The Edge-class ships have proven commercially successful, justifying continued investment in the design platform.
This fleet expansion enables Celebrity to increase deployment across multiple regions simultaneously without reducing presence in core markets.
The ability to position four Edge-class ships in Europe whilst maintaining comprehensive programmes in Alaska, Asia, and other regions demonstrates the operational flexibility that a larger, more modern fleet provides.
Marella Cruises has unveiled a significant expansion of its non-alcoholic drinks portfolio, adding 28 new zero-alcohol options across its entire fleet from August 2026.
The UK cruise line will offer 18 alcohol-free cocktails, six zero-percent ABV spirits, four alcohol-free wines, plus non-alcoholic beer and cider alternatives as part of its All Inclusive package.
The enhancement comes after Marella Cruises reviewed customer feedback and identified gaps in its existing beverage programme.
Luke Saunders, food and drink development manager at Marella Cruises, confirmed the line had listened carefully to guest requests for more sophisticated non-alcoholic alternatives.
“We are pleased to be expanding our non-alcoholic drinks menus onboard across our ships,” Saunders said.
“After listening to customer feedback and reviewing the gaps in our menu, we want to enhance a customer’s experience onboard and cater to those who would prefer a non-alcoholic alternative.”
The move reflects a broader industry trend towards inclusivity in cruise ship beverage programmes, acknowledging that growing numbers of passengers are reducing alcohol consumption or abstaining entirely.
This shift mirrors consumer behaviour globally – not just in the cruise sector – where health-conscious travellers increasingly seek premium zero-alcohol alternatives that don’t compromise on taste or sophistication.
All Inclusive And Premium Package Enhancements Detailed
With the changes, all passengers sailing with Marella Cruises will benefit from an expanded selection of non-alcoholic beverages included within the line’s standard All Inclusive offering.
The base package will now feature zero-percent red, white, rosé and sparkling wines, alongside Heineken 0 percent beer and Somersby 0 percent cider.
Additionally, Marella has confirmed it will introduce gluten-free Estrella beer to its All Inclusive drinks selection, addressing another frequently requested dietary accommodation from guests.
This addition demonstrates the cruise line’s commitment to catering for diverse dietary requirements beyond just alcohol-free preferences.
Guests who upgrade to Marella’s Premium All Inclusive package will enjoy access to an even more extensive selection, including six premium zero-percent ABV spirits from the acclaimed Lyre’s range and 18 specially crafted alcohol-free cocktails.
This tiered approach ensures all passengers have access to quality non-alcoholic options whilst providing enhanced choices for those seeking the premium experience.
Lyre’s Premium Spirit Range Joins Marella’s Bar Programme
The Premium All Inclusive package will feature six distinct zero-alcohol spirits from Lyre’s, a brand recognised globally for producing non-alcoholic spirits that closely replicate the taste profiles of traditional liquors.
The selection includes Lyre’s London Dry Gin, American Malt Bourbon, White Cane Rum, Agave Blanco Tequila, Coffee Originale and Lyre’s Italian Spritz.
Lyre’s has established itself as a leader in the non-alcoholic spirits category, with products available in more than 70 countries worldwide.
The brand’s inclusion in Marella’s offering signals the cruise line’s commitment to sourcing premium, recognised names rather than generic alternatives.
These spirits provide the foundation for Marella’s expanded cocktail menu, enabling bartenders to create sophisticated zero-alcohol versions of classic cocktails.
The spirits can be enjoyed neat, over ice, or mixed into any of the 18 signature alcohol-free cocktails now available fleetwide.
Eighteen Crafted Alcohol-Free Cocktails Debut Across Fleet
Marella’s new alcohol-free cocktail menu features 18 specially developed drinks designed by the cruise line’s beverage development team.
These cocktails utilise the Lyre’s spirits range combined with fresh ingredients to deliver complex flavour profiles that rival their alcoholic counterparts.
Signature offerings include the “Grapefruit Refresher”, which combines Lyre’s London Dry with pink grapefruit and soda for a crisp, refreshing drink.
The “Nojito” reimagines the classic mojito using Lyre’s White Cane rum alternative with fresh mint, lime and soda.
For guests seeking more complex flavours, the “Summer Sour” blends Lyre’s London Dry with lemon, soda, mint and basil, whilst the “Gentle Fashioned” offers a zero-alcohol take on the Old Fashioned, using Lyre’s American Malt with bitters and orange peel.
Each cocktail has been crafted to provide visual appeal and taste sophistication without the alcohol content.
The inclusion of these cocktails in the Premium All Inclusive package means guests can experiment with different flavour combinations throughout their voyage without additional charges.
This represents considerable value for passengers who might otherwise face premium pricing for speciality cocktails.
Marella’s All Inclusive Model Continues To Evolve
Marella Cruises operates an All Inclusive pricing model that distinguishes it from many competitors in the UK cruise market.
The line’s standard package includes meals across multiple dining venues, selected drinks throughout the day, and gratuities, providing guests with predictable cruise costs.
The Premium All Inclusive upgrade extends the beverage selection to include premium spirits, branded drinks, and now this comprehensive zero-alcohol range.
This tiered structure allows Marella to cater to different passenger preferences and budgets whilst maintaining the simplicity of inclusive pricing.
By incorporating these new non-alcoholic options into existing packages rather than charging separately, Marella reinforces its commitment to the All Inclusive philosophy.
Passengers selecting alcohol-free options receive the same value proposition as those consuming alcoholic beverages, eliminating any sense of penalty for choosing not to drink.
This approach contrasts with some cruise lines where premium non-alcoholic options carry additional charges, potentially discouraging guests from selecting them.
Marella’s inclusive model removes this barrier entirely.
Industry Context And The Mindful Drinking Movement
The cruise industry has witnessed significant growth in demand for quality non-alcoholic beverages, reflecting broader societal trends around mindful drinking and wellness-focused lifestyles.
Research indicates that younger generations particularly are consuming less alcohol than previous cohorts, with many adopting “sober curious” approaches to social drinking.
This demographic shift has prompted hospitality businesses globally to enhance their zero-alcohol offerings, moving beyond basic soft drinks to include sophisticated alternatives that allow non-drinkers to participate fully in social experiences.
Premium hotels, restaurants and bars have invested heavily in developing non-alcoholic drink programmes to meet this demand.
Cruise lines have been somewhat slower to respond to this trend compared to land-based hospitality venues, making Marella’s comprehensive expansion particularly noteworthy.
The decision to include 28 new options represents one of the most significant non-alcoholic beverage enhancements announced by a UK-focused cruise line.
Additionally, many passengers choose not to drink for health, religious, or personal reasons unrelated to wellness trends.
Pregnant women, designated drivers returning from port excursions, and those taking medication all benefit from having appealing alternatives to alcoholic beverages throughout their cruise.
Implementation Timeline And Fleet Coverage
The enhanced non-alcoholic drinks programme will roll out across Marella’s entire fleet from August 2026, ensuring consistency of offering regardless of which ship passengers choose.
This fleetwide implementation requires coordination across multiple vessels and training for bar staff to prepare the new cocktails to standard specifications.
Marella currently operates five ships: Marella Explorer, Marella Explorer 2, Marella Discovery, Marella Discovery 2, and Marella Voyager.
These vessels serve predominantly UK passengers with cruises departing from British ports including Southampton, Newcastle, and Dover, alongside fly-cruise itineraries from Mediterranean and Caribbean homeports.
The August 2026 timeline provides Marella with adequate lead time to procure stock, train crew members, and update menus and promotional materials across all vessels.
It also allows the cruise line to market this enhancement to guests booking cruises for late summer 2026 onwards.
Luke Saunders expressed enthusiasm about the upcoming launch: “We are looking forward to our new and returning customers trying out 0 percent cocktails for when they are next onboard.”
This statement suggests Marella anticipates the new options will appeal both to loyal repeat passengers and first-time cruisers.
Competitive Positioning In The UK Cruise Market
Marella’s beverage enhancement strengthens its competitive position within the UK cruise market, where it competes primarily with P&O Cruises, Cunard, and Ambassador Cruise Line for British passengers.
Each line takes different approaches to beverage pricing and inclusivity, with Marella’s All Inclusive model representing a key differentiator.
P&O Cruises traditionally operates on a pay-as-you-go beverage model, though it has introduced drinks packages in recent years. Ambassador Cruises is similar – drinks packages are available, but entirely optional.
Cunard similarly charges for most beverages beyond basic options.
By expanding its non-alcoholic range significantly, Marella addresses an underserved segment of the market whilst reinforcing its value proposition.
The enhancement provides tangible benefits to existing customers and offers a compelling talking point for sales and marketing efforts targeting new guests.
The timing also positions Marella favourably as consumer interest in wellness travel continues to grow.
Cruise lines increasingly compete on lifestyle and experience factors beyond traditional measures like ship size or destination variety, and a comprehensive zero-alcohol programme aligns well with wellness positioning.
Free cruises sound like the ultimate travel hack – and for some people, they’re very real. Not through loyalty points or casino perks, but by sharing something they already love doing.
From teaching bridge to leading photography walks at sunrise, cruise lines regularly bring guests onboard to run sessions, workshops, and talks.
And the surprising bit? Many of these roles don’t require you to be a world-famous expert. But there’s a catch most people don’t hear about until much later.
What “Teaching Onboard” Actually Means
Cruise lines often run enrichment programmes – think of them as a timetable of activities that go beyond quizzes and pool games. On longer sailings especially, there’s demand for structured, engaging sessions that give passengers something to learn or immerse themselves in.
That’s where guest hosts come in. Instead of being full crew members, they’re usually passengers with a skill to share. In return for hosting sessions – whether that’s a daily class, a few talks across the voyage, or informal meet-ups – they may receive a free or heavily discounted cabin.
The exact deal varies wildly, which is where things get interesting.
Who Can Get Free Cruises By Teaching On A Cruise?
1. Bridge And Card Game Instructors
Bridge is a cruise staple, particularly on longer voyages and more traditional lines. A dedicated bridge instructor will typically organise daily sessions, tournaments, and beginner lessons.
It’s not just about knowing how to play – you need to be able to teach it clearly and keep a group engaged over multiple sea days. Some instructors travel almost full-time this way, moving from one sailing to another. On certain lines, it’s one of the more established “free cruise” routes, but competition can be surprisingly high.
2. Clergy And Faith Leaders
Many cruise lines – especially those with a large British or American passenger base – will have a clergy member onboard for Sunday services and pastoral support.
This role is often more about presence than packed schedules. Services might only take place once or twice during a sailing, but the expectation is that the clergy member is available to passengers throughout. In return, they’re typically offered a complimentary cabin, sometimes for themselves and a partner.
3. Guest Lecturers And Enrichment Speakers
If you’ve got a deep knowledge of a subject – history, wildlife, politics, even true crime – guest lecturing can be one of the most rewarding ways to cruise.
These speakers are particularly common on expedition cruises or itineraries with a strong destination focus. Think talks on Norwegian fjords before sailing through them, or wildlife briefings ahead of an Antarctic landing. Cruise lines usually look for credible experience or professional backgrounds, but you don’t always need to be an academic – engaging delivery matters just as much.
4. Arts And Crafts Hosts
From watercolour painting to knitting circles, arts and crafts sessions are hugely popular with passengers looking for a slower-paced activity.
Hosts might run daily workshops or drop-in sessions, helping people complete small projects over the course of the cruise. It’s a sociable role, often with repeat attendees, and it suits people who are patient and happy to guide beginners. Materials are sometimes provided by the cruise line, but not always – and that’s one of those small details worth checking upfront.
5. Photography Experts
Photography hosts often wear a few hats. They might run classroom-style sessions on composition or editing, host photo walks in port, and offer informal advice throughout the sailing.
With so many people keen to improve their holiday photos, this is a popular enrichment area. Cruise lines tend to favour those with a strong portfolio or teaching experience, but enthusiasm and approachability count for a lot. Early mornings and late evenings can be part of the deal if you’re chasing the best light.
6. Dance Instructors
Ballroom and Latin dance are cruise classics, especially on ships with dedicated dance floors. Instructors usually host classes ranging from absolute beginner to more advanced sessions, often leading into evening dances.
Some roles are filled by professional couples, but solo instructors can also be brought onboard. It’s a fairly visible position – you’re not just teaching, you’re helping to create a lively atmosphere onboard. Energy levels matter here just as much as technical skill.
7. Language Teachers
On longer or more culturally focused itineraries, basic language sessions can be a hit. Think “Italian for travellers” or simple conversational Spanish before a series of port stops.
These aren’t formal classes – they’re designed to be fun, accessible, and immediately useful. You don’t necessarily need to be a qualified teacher, but you do need to keep things light and engaging. Passengers aren’t looking for homework – they want confidence to order a coffee or ask for directions.
8. Fitness And Wellness Coaches
Yoga, Pilates, meditation, even posture workshops – wellness has become a big part of cruise programming in recent years.
Some ships already have dedicated fitness staff, but guest instructors may be brought in for specific styles or themed sailings. Sunrise yoga on deck is a common highlight. It’s worth noting that this can be one of the more demanding roles physically, with multiple sessions and high expectations around professionalism.
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9. Music And Performance Coaches
This is a slightly lesser-known one, but some cruises bring onboard vocal coaches, choir leaders, or even amateur theatre directors.
Passengers might rehearse throughout the sailing and then put on a small performance at the end. It’s a great way to build a sense of community onboard, but it does require organisation and confidence managing groups. Not every cruise line offers this, but it’s more common than people think.
10. Cookery And Food Demonstrators
Food-focused sessions can range from simple demonstrations to interactive workshops. Think knife skills, regional dishes, or even chocolate-making.
These roles are sometimes filled by guest chefs or specialists rather than professional instructors. On certain itineraries, there’s a strong link to destinations – local cuisine, wine pairings, that sort of thing. It’s a good fit if you’re comfortable speaking in front of a crowd and keeping things entertaining as well as informative.
11. Technology Tutors
Not everyone onboard is confident with smartphones, tablets, or cameras – and that’s where tech tutors come in.
These sessions can be surprisingly popular, covering everything from organising photos to using social media or video calling family back home. Patience is key here, as skill levels vary massively. It’s less glamorous than some roles, but often in steady demand.
12. Wine And Drinks Experts
Wine tastings, cocktail workshops, whisky appreciation – these sessions can be a real highlight for guests.
Cruise lines usually look for formal qualifications or industry experience here, particularly for wine. Sessions might be ticketed rather than included, which changes the dynamic slightly. It’s not just about knowledge – presentation and storytelling play a big role in making these events memorable.
13. Special Interest Hosts (From Genealogy To Astronomy)
This is where things get really varied. Genealogy experts helping passengers trace family roots, astronomy guides leading stargazing sessions at sea, even hobbyists running niche interest groups.
If there’s a genuine audience for it, there’s a chance it could work onboard. These roles tend to pop up on themed cruises or longer voyages where passengers are looking for something a bit different.
What Cruise Lines Expect In Return
This isn’t a free holiday where you occasionally show up for an hour. Cruise lines expect commitment, reliability, and a polished experience for guests.
You’ll usually be given a schedule in advance – sessions, meet-and-greets, possibly even social hosting duties in the evenings or helping out on excursions.
You’ll likely have to provide your own resources, such as art supplies or musical instruments.
You’ll be epresenting the cruise line, so professionalism matters. It’s closer to a working holiday than a traditional break.
How You Actually Land One Of These Roles
There’s no single application portal for this, which is where many people get stuck.
Some cruise lines work with agencies that specialise in guest speakers and enrichment hosts. Others recruit directly, particularly for niche skills. Networking can play a surprisingly big role – having a visible profile in your field, even at a local level, helps.
A clear proposal outlining what you can offer – including session ideas and how they’d benefit passengers – can go a long way. It’s not just about what you know, but how you’d translate that into an onboard experience.
Not Actually “Free”
Here’s the bit most people don’t realise: “free” rarely means everything is covered.
You might get a complimentary cabin, but still need to pay port taxes, gratuities, flights, or even some onboard expenses. Internet access and drinks packages aren’t always included either.
And then there’s the time commitment. You’re not free to do whatever you like all day – your schedule comes first. That said, you still get to experience the ship, visit ports, and enjoy the journey in a way most crew can’t.
Final Word
Getting a free cruise by teaching your hobby isn’t a myth – but it’s not quite as effortless as it sounds either. For the right person, though, it’s a brilliant way to travel with purpose. You’re not just ticking off destinations, you’re adding something to the experience for other passengers too.
And if you’ve got a skill people genuinely want to learn? You might be closer to your next cruise than you think.
September can be one of the best months to cruise. School holiday crowds begin to disappear, prices often become more attractive and temperatures remain pleasant in many parts of the world.
But it’s also a month when some destinations face their biggest weather challenges of the year.
From hurricane-prone islands to rough Atlantic crossings, there are a few itineraries that deserve a little extra thought before you hit the book button.
Here are the cruise destinations we’d avoid in September.
1. The Eastern Caribbean
If there’s one destination that stands out above all others in September, it’s the Eastern Caribbean.
September is typically the most active month of the Atlantic hurricane season. Islands across the region can experience tropical storms, heavy rainfall and periods of rough seas.
Cruise lines are experts at adapting. Ships will change course long before a storm becomes a safety concern. However, that often means altered itineraries and missed ports.
If you’ve got your heart set on visiting specific islands, September probably isn’t the month to take the risk.
2. The Western Caribbean And Gulf Of Mexico
The Western Caribbean faces many of the same challenges as the Eastern Caribbean during September.
Destinations in Mexico, Belize and Honduras can all be affected by tropical weather systems. The Gulf of Mexico is also particularly vulnerable during the peak of hurricane season.
Again, the main concern isn’t safety. It’s the increased likelihood that your carefully planned itinerary could look very different by the end of the week.
Some cruisers are happy to go wherever the captain points the ship. Others prefer a little more certainty.
3. Japan
September is one of the most active months of the Pacific typhoon season.
Typhoons are essentially the same type of weather system as hurricanes, just with a different regional name. While cruise lines monitor conditions carefully, storms can lead to itinerary changes and occasional port cancellations.
Japan remains an extraordinary cruise destination, with fascinating cities, beautiful scenery and outstanding food. But September isn’t always the easiest month to experience it.
Travellers seeking calmer conditions may find spring or late autumn more appealing.
4. Bay Of Biscay Crossings
Not every cruise challenge comes from tropical storms.
The Bay of Biscay, located between western France and northern Spain, has a reputation among experienced cruisers for producing some lively sea conditions.
September marks the start of a more unsettled weather pattern across parts of the North Atlantic. While plenty of crossings remain perfectly smooth, the chances of rough seas begin to increase compared with the height of summer.
If you’re prone to seasickness, this is one route that deserves careful consideration.
This might be the most controversial destination on the list.
September is actually a very popular time to cruise Canada and New England, particularly as autumn colours begin appearing across the region.
The issue is that Atlantic hurricane season doesn’t stop at the Caribbean. Occasionally, tropical systems move northwards and affect parts of the US and Canadian coastline.
Most sailings operate without any problems at all, but the risk of weather-related disruption is higher than many travellers realise.
6. Alaska In Late September
Alaska’s cruise season is drawing to a close by late September.
Temperatures are lower, daylight hours are noticeably shorter and rainfall becomes increasingly common. Wildlife remains active, but some shore excursions and seasonal attractions begin winding down as the season ends.
The scenery is still spectacular, but conditions are much less reliable than they are during midsummer.
For first-time visitors especially, earlier sailings usually provide a better introduction to Alaska.
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Final Word
September sits in an awkward position on the cruise calendar.
In some destinations it’s one of the best months to travel. In others, it’s right in the middle of storm season or the start of worsening weather conditions.
That doesn’t mean you should automatically avoid every destination on this list. Plenty of September cruises operate without a hitch. But understanding the seasonal risks before you book can help you choose an itinerary that’s more likely to deliver the holiday you’re hoping for.
Sometimes the best cruise decision isn’t choosing where to go – it’s choosing when.
It doesn’t look like much, does it? A little coin-sized gadget on a lanyard hardly screams “this will run half your holiday”.
But once you’re on a Princess cruise, the Medallion quickly turns into the thing you use for almost everything.
It’s your cabin key, your onboard spending tool, your way back onto the ship and, in some cases, your shortcut to finding the people you’ve somehow lost between the buffet and the pool deck. Handy is putting it mildly.
Some cruise gadgets feel like they’re there mostly to sound clever. The Princess Medallion is one of the few that genuinely makes life easier onboard. And once you’ve used it for a few days, going back to a standard cruise card can feel a bit old school…
1. Unlock Your Cabin Door Like Magic
This is the feature that usually wins people over within about five minutes.
Instead of fumbling around for a cruise card, your cabin door can unlock as you approach with your Medallion.
Honestly, this is so much better than it might sound. The amount of times I’ve been carrying drinks back to the cabins for the kids, then tried to do that awkward shuffle to get my cruise card out while balancing them…
It’s not quite a sci-fi moment – you still have to open the door yourself, which you can manage with your elbow – but it does feel impressively smooth when it works. After a few days, you stop thinking about it. Then the minute you sail on a ship without it, you suddenly miss it.
2. Board And Reboard Without the Usual Faff
Getting on and off the ship is one of those cruise routines you do over and over again, so anything that makes it quicker is a win.
Your Princess Medallion is part of the boarding and reboarding process, which means you’re not constantly digging around for a separate key card every time you head ashore or come back from port. It becomes second nature pretty quickly – grab your essentials, grab your Medallion, and off you go.
That might not sound thrilling, but on a busy port day when everyone’s queuing to get back onboard, anything that makes the process feel less clunky is worth having.
3. Pay For Drinks, Coffee and Shopping Onboard
Think of the Medallion as your onboard wallet.
Want a cocktail by the pool? Fancy a speciality coffee? Seen a souvenir in one of the shops that you know you’ll regret not buying? Your Medallion links to your onboard account, so purchases can be charged straight there instead of you carrying cash or reaching for a bank card every five minutes.
Again, yes, it’s a cruise card but in small, metal, round form. But it is so much easier than constantly digging it out of a bag or wallet.
It’s one of those features that quietly makes your cruise feel easier. You can travel lighter, keep your essentials to a minimum and stop worrying about where you last shoved your card. Dangerous for the holiday budget, maybe. Convenient, absolutely.
4. Order Food and Drinks to Wherever You’re Sitting
This is where the Princess Medallion starts to feel genuinely clever.
Using the Princess app, you can order food, drinks and other items and have them delivered to your location around the ship. So if you’ve claimed a sun lounger and have no intention of giving it up for the next two hours, you don’t necessarily have to.
It’s especially handy on sea days, when nobody wants to lose a good spot by the pool just because they fancy another drink or a snack. You order, and wait for it to come to you.
And you don’t even need to stay where you are. I’ve moved to the other end of the ship after ordering, and my food still found me!
Just don’t expect instant service during the busiest times. If half the ship has the exact same idea at sailaway, things can slow down a bit. Still, the fact that it works at all is really impressive.
5. Find Your Travel Companions Without Sending Back-and-Forth Messages
Every cruise group has one person who vanishes.
Sometimes it’s the partner who “just popped to get a drink” and somehow ended up in another bar on another deck. Sometimes it’s a teenager who said they’d be back in ten minutes and has not been seen since mini golf. Either way, the Medallion can help.
Princess lets guests in the same travel party locate each other through the app, which is genuinely useful on a big ship. It saves you from the usual stream of messages asking “Where are you?”, “Which pool?”, “What deck?”, and “No, the other side”.
For families and groups especially, this can be one of the best features of the whole system.
Bear in mind though, it’s not always 100% accurate. I once looked up my child’s location on the app, and the map showed his Medallion as being in the sea. Gladly, it wasn’t, and neither was he!
6. Get Directions Around the Ship
Cruise ships are brilliant. They’re also surprisingly good at making you feel like you’ve taken one wrong turn and accidentally entered another postcode.
If you’ve ever spent ten minutes trying to find the right dining room, theatre, lounge or spa entrance, you’ll appreciate this bit. The Princess system can help with wayfinding, showing you how to get from where you are to where you actually meant to be.
It’s particularly useful on the first day or two, when you’re still pretending you totally know the difference between forward, midship and aft. It also comes in handy when you’re racing to trivia, dinner or a show and do not have the patience for a scenic route through three wrong decks.
Now if only it worked like a sat nav and could give you directions that avoid the crowds… One day, maybe!
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7. Check Plans Without Being Glued to Your Phone
Not everyone wants to spend their cruise staring at an app, and fair enough.
One of the better things about the Medallion setup is that you can use screens around the ship to pull up useful information without needing to do everything on your phone. Depending on where you are, that can include your plans, bookings, activities and other personalised details.
That makes it easier for people who aren’t especially techy, and it’s also just a nice break from (small) screen overload. You can stay organised without feeling like you’re spending the whole holiday tapping through menus.
The big screens have games you can play on them using the Medallion, too.
Sometimes cruise tech works best when it gets out of the way a bit, and this is one of those times.
8. Make The Whole Cruise Feel More Personal
This is one of the more subtle perks, but it can make a difference.
Because the Medallion links to your profile, it helps create a more personalised experience onboard. That might mean staff can identify you more quickly, certain preferences are easier to see, or little touches feel more tailored to you rather than totally generic.
Walking past a digital screen on your birthday? A little celebratory message might pop up…
No, it doesn’t mean every crew member suddenly knows your life story. But it can make interactions feel smoother, especially when it comes to things like onboard purchases, bookings and service.
It’s the kind of feature that you don’t always notice until you sail without it and realise how many little moments it had quietly simplified.
9. Use It in Some Ports Too!
The Medallion isn’t always just for onboard use.
In some destinations and participating shops, Princess guests can use MedallionPay ashore as well. That means you may be able to make purchases in selected ports without switching back into full wallet-and-bank-card mode the second you step off the ship.
That convenience will appeal to some cruisers more than others. If you like keeping things simple, it’s a nice option. If you’re the kind of traveller who prefers paying in local currency and hunting down the best deal, you might be less fussed.
Also it’s important to know that it doesn’t charge purchases to your account, but instead uses the card you’ve registered to your account to pay immediately. Don’t assume you can use onboard credit to pay for things ashore. There’s a reason it’s called “Onboard Credit”.
Either way, it’s a useful extra to know about – especially if you like the idea of keeping your day ashore as low-hassle as possible.
10. Wear It at the Pool, On the Beach or In the Rain
A lot of cruise essentials are annoying the minute water gets involved. The Princess Medallion isn’t really one of them.
Because it’s designed to be worn throughout the cruise, you don’t need to panic if you’re heading to the pool, relaxing on the beach or get caught in a sudden downpour. That all-day convenience is part of the appeal. You’re not constantly taking it on and off or wondering where to stash it.
That’s especially useful on sea days, when you might bounce between breakfast, the pool, lunch, a hot tub, another drink and then back to the cabin without ever wanting to think too hard about what’s in your pockets.
11. Turn It into Something a Bit More You
The standard lanyard does the job, but it’s not exactly glamorous.
Princess also offers different accessories for the Medallion, so you can wear it in a way that suits you a bit better – whether that’s clipped to clothing, worn on a wristband or turned into more of a necklace-style accessory. If you hate having things around your neck all day, that flexibility helps.
The wristbands are especially useful for a lot of the things on this list.
It’s not the most important feature, obviously, but it does make the Medallion easier to live with. And on a cruise, the best gadgets are the ones you forget you’re even wearing.
What Can You Do with Your Princess Medallion after The Cruise?
This is where things get a little less exciting, but it’s still worth knowing because loads of people ask.
Once your cruise is over, your Princess Medallion isn’t really something you keep using for future sailings in the way some people hope. It’s not a permanent cruise pass you keep reactivating again and again. For most people, its useful life ends with that sailing.
The good news is that Princess says the Medallion itself doesn’t store your personal information, so you don’t need to treat it like a mini hard drive full of your card details. That’s a relief if you’ve ever looked at it after the cruise and thought, “Right, what exactly am I meant to do with this now?”
In reality, most passengers do one of three things.
They keep it as a souvenir, especially since it’s quite a fun little memento from the trip.
They turn it into a magnet or keepsake, which honestly suits it quite well.
Or they recycle it responsibly rather than throwing it in general rubbish, since it’s still a small electronic item.
So no, it’s not going to unlock your front door, buy you a coffee on land or magically shave money off your next Princess cruise. But it can still make a decent little reminder of a holiday you loved.
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Final Thoughts
For something so small, the Princess Medallion does quite a lot of heavy lifting.
Some of its features are practical – unlocking your cabin, paying for drinks, getting back on the ship. Others are more about making the whole cruise feel smoother, easier and a bit more modern. And that’s really where it works best. It takes everyday cruise admin and makes it less noticeable.
You probably won’t step onboard thinking the Medallion will be the highlight of your holiday. But by the end of the cruise, there’s a good chance it’ll be one of those little things you realise you’d hate to do without.
A guarantee cabin (often shown as “GTY”) is a cruise booking where you pay for a cabin category, such as interior, oceanview, balcony or suite, but the cruise line chooses the exact cabin number later. In return you usually get a slightly lower fare and a small chance of a free upgrade. The catch is that you have no say over deck, location, view or bed layout, and once the cabin is assigned you generally can’t swap it for free.
That trade-off suits some cruisers well and others very badly. Below are 10 reasons to think twice before you book a guarantee cabin, followed by the situations where it does make sense, how the main cruise lines handle assignments, and a quick checklist to work out whether the saving is worth it.
What Is a Guarantee Cabin on a Cruise?
When you book a cruise you normally choose between two options. You can pick a specific cabin from the deck plan, or you can book a “guarantee” in a category and let the cruise line place you. Norwegian Cruise Line’s own FAQ puts it simply: a guarantee stateroom has no cabin number at the time of booking, it guarantees the category you paid for, and it “does not guarantee deck, location or specific bed arrangements.”
The line promises you a cabin at least as good as the category you booked. If that category sells out, you may be moved into a higher one at no extra cost. You’re never placed below what you paid for, but you’re also never promised anything better.
You’ll see the same idea under different names: guarantee stateroom, GTY, “run of ship” or, on MSC Cruises, the entry-level Bella experience, where MSC assigns the cabin and you can’t pick the number or location.
10 Reasons You Shouldn’t Book a Guarantee Cabin
1. You can’t choose where on the ship you sleep
Location affects comfort more than most first-time cruisers expect. Midship cabins on a lower deck feel the least motion. Cabins at the far forward end can feel more pitching in rough seas. With a guarantee cabin, the cruise line decides, and anyone prone to seasickness could end up at the bow.
2. Noise is a real risk
Every ship has a handful of cabins that cruisers try to avoid: under the pool deck where loungers are dragged at dawn, beside crew service doors, above the theatre or nightclub, or near the anchor and thrusters. These cabins are often the last to sell, so they’re exactly the ones still free when guarantee passengers are assigned. Our guides to Celebrity Cruises cabins to avoid show how many problem cabins a single ship can have.
3. Your view may be obstructed
An oceanview or balcony guarantee can land you behind a lifeboat or tender. Royal Caribbean’s FAQ states that allocated guarantee staterooms “may be subject to obstructed views”. On its Oasis and Icon Class ships, a balcony guarantee can also mean a Neighborhood View balcony that looks over Central Park or the Boardwalk rather than the sea.
4. Bed layout isn’t promised
Most cabins have twin beds that convert to a queen, but some older or unusually shaped cabins have fixed beds, and pull-down Pullman bunks can be awkward to live with. Because a guarantee stateroom doesn’t promise bed arrangements, it’s a poor fit if you need a particular setup.
5. Families and groups may be split up
Booking two guarantee cabins doesn’t mean they’ll be next door to each other, or even on the same deck. Connecting cabins are usually only guaranteed if you book them by number. For families with young children this is often the biggest risk, which is why our guide to the best and worst family cabins on Royal Caribbean recommends choosing the cabin yourself.
6. You often won’t know your cabin until close to sailing
Timings vary by line and by sailing. Norwegian says assignment can happen any time after final payment, up to the day of sailing. Royal Caribbean says it can allocate a cabin at any time up to check-in. Waiting that long makes pre-cruise planning harder.
7. Once assigned, you’re usually stuck
Norwegian states plainly that once a guarantee stateroom has been assigned, “there will be no changes”. Many travel agencies say the same across most lines: if you dislike your assigned cabin, the usual way to move is to pay for a specific cabin or an upgrade.
8. The saving may be tiny, or zero
Guarantee fares aren’t always cheaper. Some lines price them a little below the cheapest assigned cabin in the same category, while others charge the same. If the gap is only a few dollars per person, you’re taking on all the risk for almost no benefit.
9. Upgrades are rarer than the hype suggests
Free upgrades only happen when your booked category oversells and a higher one has space. On popular sailings, such as school holidays, new ships and Alaska in summer, the higher categories tend to sell out too. Some lines also limit upgrades for guarantee bookings, so treat an upgrade as a pleasant surprise rather than part of the deal.
10. Accessible cabins and special requests need a specific booking
If you need an accessible cabin, a cabin close to a lift, or a particular configuration for a medical device, book it by number. A guarantee can’t promise any of these, and fixing it after assignment is difficult. The same goes for back-to-back cruises. Norwegian, for example, doesn’t offer guarantees on back-to-back bookings, because staying in the same cabin can’t be assured.
A guarantee secures the cabin category, not the exact view. Photo: Cole May on Pexels
When a Guarantee Cabin Does Make Sense
None of this means a guarantee is always a mistake. It can be a sensible choice when:
The price gap is meaningful. If the guarantee is clearly cheaper than the cheapest cabin you’d happily choose, the saving can pay for drinks, a specialty dinner or an excursion.
You’re flexible about location. Solo travelers and couples who sleep well anywhere, don’t get seasick and spend little time in the cabin take on less risk.
The category you want is sold out. Sometimes a guarantee is the only way to get onto a near-full sailing in your preferred category.
Interior cabins. With no view to lose, an interior guarantee mainly risks noise and location. That’s a smaller gamble than a balcony guarantee, as our balcony vs inside cabin comparison explains.
You enjoy a bit of suspense. Some cruisers like the lottery element and the chance, however small, of an upgrade.
Guarantee Cabin vs Choosing Your Own Cabin
Factor
Guarantee cabin (GTY)
Choose your own cabin
Price
Often slightly lower, sometimes the same
Standard fare; better locations may cost more
Cabin category
Guaranteed at or above what you paid for
Exactly what you booked
Deck and location
Chosen by the cruise line
Chosen by you from the deck plan
View
May be obstructed (oceanview and balcony)
You can see and avoid obstructions before booking
Bed configuration
Not guaranteed
Can be checked in advance
Upgrade chance
Possible, never promised
Only by paying or bidding
Cabin number known
Weeks or days before sailing, sometimes at check-in
At the time of booking
Families and groups together
Not guaranteed
Adjacent or connecting cabins can be booked
Changing cabin later
Usually not possible once assigned without paying
Possible before final payment on many fares, subject to availability
Best for
Flexible, budget-minded travelers
Light sleepers, families, accessibility needs, special trips
How Cruise Lines Handle Guarantee Assignments
Policies change and can differ by market, so always check the fare terms when you book. As a general guide:
Royal Caribbean: Guarantees are available in interior, oceanview, balcony and suite categories. The line allocates the cabin at its discretion at any time up to check-in, and assigned cabins may have obstructed views. On Oasis and Icon Class ships, balcony guarantees can be Neighborhood View balconies. See the official Royal Caribbean website for current fare terms.
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): A cabin can be assigned any time after final payment up to sailing day, with no changes once assigned, and no guarantee of deck, location or bed arrangement. Guarantees aren’t offered on back-to-back bookings.
Carnival: Carnival sells guarantee rooms in each main category. Cruisers typically report assignments a few weeks before sailing, though timing varies, and assigned rooms can include obstructed-view options in that category.
Celebrity Cruises: Guarantee fares are offered on many sailings. Cruise Critic reports that Celebrity assignments often come close to departure and that free upgrades tend to come with specific promotions rather than as standard.
MSC Cruises: The Bella experience works like a guarantee. You choose the category but MSC chooses the cabin number and location, and agency guidance says this is often confirmed only a few days before departure. Views can be obstructed, partially obstructed or promenade, depending on the ship.
P&O Cruises and other UK lines: UK lines have sold similar allocated-cabin fares under their own names. These typically carry stricter terms, so read the small print on location, view and amendments before you commit.
A few minutes with the deck plan helps you judge a guarantee fare. Photo: Markus Winkler on Pexels
A Quick Checklist Before You Book a Guarantee Stateroom
Before you book, work out how big the gamble really is for your sailing.
Compare like with like. Check the guarantee fare against the cheapest cabin in the same category that you’d be happy to pick yourself. If the difference is small, choose the cabin.
Count the problem cabins. Open the deck plan and count the cabins in your category that you’d hate: obstructed views, under venues, at the extreme bow or stern. If they’re a large share of the category, the odds aren’t in your favor.
Look at availability. If almost every cabin in your category is still free, you’re unlikely to be upgraded. If the category is nearly full and the next one up has space, your upgrade chance is better.
Check the fare rules. Make sure a guarantee doesn’t stop you from repricing if the fare drops before final payment, and check whether it changes deposit or cancellation terms.
Be honest about your sleep and seasickness. Light sleepers and anyone who struggles with motion should usually choose a midship cabin themselves.
Timing matters too. Booking early usually gives you the widest choice of specific cabins, which reduces the need to gamble at all. Our guide to cruise deals for 2027 and when to book covers when the best prices and cabin choices tend to appear.
The Bottom Line on Guarantee Cabin Pros and Cons
A guarantee cabin trades control for a modest saving and a small chance of an upgrade. It can work well for flexible solo travelers and couples, especially in interior categories. For families, light sleepers, anyone needing accessibility features or anyone on a once-in-a-lifetime trip, choosing your own cabin is usually worth the small extra cost.
Guarantee cabins are often allocated from the leftovers, which can include the cabin locations most cruisers try to avoid, such as cabins under the buffet or beside the elevators.
Guarantee fares and upgrades are often confused, so read our guide to cruise upgrade myths.
It can be if the fare is clearly cheaper and you don’t mind where you sleep. If the saving is small, or you need a quiet, midship or connecting cabin, choosing your own cabin is usually the better value.
When do cruise lines assign guarantee cabins?
It varies by line and sailing. Norwegian can assign any time after final payment up to sailing day, and Royal Caribbean can allocate up to check-in. Many cruisers hear a few weeks out, but some only find out days before departure.
Can you get a worse cabin with a guarantee?
You won’t be placed in a lower category than you paid for. Within that category, though, you could get a less desirable location, a noisier spot or an obstructed view.
Do guarantee cabins get upgraded?
Sometimes. Upgrades happen when your category oversells and a higher one has space. They’re never promised, and on busy sailings they’re uncommon.
Can I change my guarantee cabin after it’s assigned?
Usually not for free. Norwegian says there are no changes once a guarantee is assigned. On most lines, moving means paying for a specific cabin or an upgrade if one is available.
The best cruise ships of 2026, judged by the major award lists rather than marketing, are Royal Caribbean’s Utopia of the Seas and Star of the Seas, Celebrity Xcel, Virgin Voyages’ Brilliant Lady, Princess Cruises’ Star Princess and MSC World America, with Oceania’s Allura and the Explora Journeys ships leading at the luxury end. Each one below won or was named in a 2025-2026 award from Cruise Critic, Cruiseline.com, Condé Nast Traveler or The Points Guy, and we say exactly which.
No single “best cruise ship in the world” suits everyone. A ship that wins for waterslides and Broadway shows won’t suit a couple who wants quiet dinners and long port days. So we’ve grouped the winners by type of trip, added a summary table, and explained how to read the awards so you can tell a reader vote from a line-level ranking.
Best Cruise Ships 2026 at a Glance
Ship
Line
Entered service
Guests (approx.)
Best for
Award
Utopia of the Seas
Royal Caribbean
2024
5,668 (double occupancy)
Short Bahamas getaways, groups
Cruiseline.com 2026 Best Overall Cruise Ship
Star of the Seas
Royal Caribbean
2025
5,610 (double occupancy)
Families wanting everything onboard
Cruiseline.com Best New Cruise Ship of 2026
Icon of the Seas
Royal Caribbean
2024
5,610 (double occupancy)
Activities and entertainment
Cruiseline.com 2026 Best Ship for Activities and Entertainment
Celebrity Xcel
Celebrity Cruises
2025
about 3,260
Couples, food-focused cruisers
Cruise Critic 2025 Best New Ship
Brilliant Lady
Virgin Voyages
2025
2,770
Adults only, included dining
Condé Nast Traveler 2026 Hot List
Star Princess
Princess Cruises
2025
about 4,300
Alaska, classic cruising
Condé Nast Traveler 2026 Hot List
MSC World America
MSC Cruises
2025
up to about 6,770 (max)
Value-minded families
TPG Awards 2026 Best New Ocean Ship; CNT 2026 Hot List
Allura
Oceania Cruises
2025
1,200
Foodies, port-intensive voyages
Cruise Critic 2025 Best New Luxury Ship
Explora I, II and III
Explora Journeys
2023 to 2026
about 900 each
All-suite luxury
Cruise Critic 2025 Best Luxury Cruise Line, Best Cabins, Best Dining
Viking Vesta (and sister ships)
Viking
2025
998
Adults, culture and enrichment
Cruise Critic 2025 Cruisers’ Choice No. 1 Luxury Line
Guest numbers are lower-berth or double-occupancy figures unless marked “max”. Ships sail with more people when third and fourth berths are filled, which matters on family-heavy sailings during school holidays.
How These Best-Rated Cruise Ships Were Chosen
Cruise awards measure very different things, and many headlines blur the difference. Before you book on the strength of a trophy, it helps to know which kind it is:
Review-based ship awards (Cruiseline.com Member Choice): scores from passengers who sailed during a set period. The 2026 awards, released in March 2026, use reviews from cruises taken in 2025. These are the closest thing to a “best-rated cruise ship” list, because they rank individual ships.
Editors’ picks (Cruise Critic Best in Cruise, The Points Guy Awards): experts choose winners, informed by reviews. Cruise Critic’s 2025 awards came out in December 2025.
Reader votes (Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice, Travel + Leisure World’s Best): readers rate cruise lines in size bands. These rank lines, not individual ships, so a winning line can still have older ships that feel dated.
New-ship lists (Condé Nast Traveler Hot List): editors pick standout debuts from the past year. A place on the list is recognition, not a ranking.
The practical lesson: when a line wins, look at which of its ships you would actually sail. Our guide to whether a cruise ship’s age really matters explains when an older ship is a better deal and when it isn’t.
Mega-ship top decks are built around waterparks, slides and pools. Photo: Arian Fernandez on Pexels
Best Cruise Ships for Families and First-Timers
Utopia of the Seas (Royal Caribbean)
Utopia of the Seas swept Cruiseline.com’s 2026 Member Choice ship awards. It won Best Overall Cruise Ship plus the separate categories for food and dining, staterooms and service. It is an Oasis-class ship that sails short three- and four-night trips from Port Canaveral, so it’s a good way to try a big ship without committing a full week. The flip side is a lively, party-friendly atmosphere on weekend sailings.
Star of the Seas and Icon of the Seas (Royal Caribbean)
Star of the Seas, the second Icon-class ship, was named Cruiseline.com’s Best New Cruise Ship of 2026. Its older sister, Icon of the Seas, won Best Ship for Activities and Entertainment. Both carry about 5,610 guests at double occupancy and up to around 7,600 when every berth is full. They are packed with waterparks, pools and neighborhoods aimed at young children. If your family wants to spend most of the trip on the ship, these are the best cruise ships to start with. If you want a calm pool deck, look elsewhere.
MSC World America (MSC Cruises)
The Points Guy named MSC World America Best New Ocean Ship in its 2026 awards (published January 2026). Condé Nast Traveler also put it on its 2026 Hot List. It sails from Miami, measures nearly 216,000 gross tons and can carry about 6,770 guests at full capacity. Its selling point is mega-ship features at fares that often undercut Royal Caribbean. MSC also won Cruise Critic’s 2025 Best for Families award at line level.
Disney Cruise Line (line award)
Disney was voted No. 1 large-ship cruise line in Travel + Leisure’s 2026 World’s Best Awards and No. 2 in the large-ship category of Condé Nast Traveler’s 2026 Readers’ Choice Awards. Both are line-level awards rather than ship awards. Its newest ship, Disney Destiny, entered service from Fort Lauderdale in November 2025 and carries about 4,000 guests at full occupancy.
Best Cruise Ships for Couples and Adults
Celebrity Xcel (Celebrity Cruises)
Cruise Critic’s editors named Celebrity Xcel Best New Ship in December 2025, and Celebrity also won that site’s Best Specialty Dining award. Xcel is the fifth Edge-series ship, sails from Fort Lauderdale and carries about 3,260 guests. It suits couples who want stylish design, good food and a quieter feel than a mega-ship. Before you pick a stateroom, check our Celebrity Xcel cabins to avoid, because the Edge-class “Infinite Veranda” layout isn’t for everyone. If you prefer a traditional balcony on an older Celebrity ship, see the Celebrity Reflection cabins to avoid guide too.
Brilliant Lady and Valiant Lady (Virgin Voyages)
Virgin Voyages is the most decorated line of the past year. Its wins include No. 1 Large Ship line in Condé Nast Traveler’s 2026 Readers’ Choice Awards, No. 1 Mega-Ship line in Travel + Leisure’s 2026 World’s Best Awards, and Best Ocean Cruise Line, Best Dining and Best Entertainment from Cruise Critic for 2025. At ship level, Brilliant Lady made the Condé Nast Traveler 2026 Hot List and Valiant Lady made its 2026 Gold List. The ships are adults-only (18+), carry about 2,770 guests, and include basic Wi-Fi, tips and all restaurants in the fare.
Star Princess and Sun Princess (Princess Cruises)
Star Princess, which entered service in autumn 2025, was named to Condé Nast Traveler’s 2026 Hot List. It carries about 4,300 guests and spent its first summer in Alaska from Seattle. Sister ship Sun Princess was the magazine’s No. 1 mega-ship in 2024 and 2025. In 2026, Princess as a whole topped the Readers’ Choice mega-ship category. Cruise Critic also named Princess Best for Couples for 2025. These ships have more glass, views and lounges than most ships their size, with less emphasis on thrill rides.
Smaller luxury ships trade waterslides for space, service and included extras. Photo: Konstantin Mishchenko on Pexels
Best Luxury Cruise Ships in the World
At the luxury end, awards favor smaller, newer ships with all-suite or near all-suite layouts. For a full line-by-line comparison with prices, see our best luxury cruise lines ranked.
Explora I, II and III (Explora Journeys)
Explora Journeys won Cruise Critic’s 2025 Best Luxury Cruise Line, plus Best Cabins and Best Dining in the luxury category. It ranked No. 2 in Travel + Leisure’s 2026 mid-size list. Every accommodation is an ocean-front suite. Explora III, the newest, began its inaugural season from Barcelona in August 2026 and carries 922 guests.
Allura (Oceania Cruises)
Oceania’s Allura won Cruise Critic’s Best New Luxury Ship for 2025. It is a 1,200-guest sister to Vista, and it’s built around food, with a large culinary center and several specialty restaurants included in the fare. Itineraries pack in ports, so it suits travelers who’d rather explore than spend sea days at the pool.
Viking Ocean Ships
Viking ranked No. 1 in Cruise Critic’s 2025 Cruisers’ Choice luxury ratings, which are based on passenger reviews. It was also Cruiseline.com’s 2026 Best Premium Cruise Line and No. 3 in Travel + Leisure’s 2026 mid-size list. The ocean ships are near-identical, 998-guest, adults-only vessels with no casino and an included shore excursion in most ports. Viking Vesta, from 2025, is among the newest.
Crystal
Crystal topped Travel + Leisure’s 2026 mid-size ship ranking, and Cruiseline.com named it Best Luxury Cruise Line for 2026. Its two ships, Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony, are older but were extensively refitted before the brand relaunched in 2023. They show that a well-run older ship can still beat newer ones on service.
Newest Cruise Ships of 2026 to Watch
Ships that debuted in 2026 haven’t had time to collect review-based awards yet, so treat early praise with some caution. The 2026 ships most likely to appear on next year’s lists include:
Legend of the Seas (Royal Caribbean): the third Icon-class ship. It began sailing in the Mediterranean on July 4, 2026, and is scheduled to reposition to Fort Lauderdale in late 2026.
Norwegian Luna (Norwegian Cruise Line): a 3,565-guest Prima Plus-class ship, christened in Miami in March 2026. It sails Bahamas and Caribbean trips from Miami before moving to New York in April 2027. Its sister, Norwegian Aqua (2025, about 3,571 guests), has a similar layout, so our Norwegian Aqua cabins to avoid guide is a useful cross-check.
Explora III (Explora Journeys): see above. It is the line’s first LNG-powered ship.
Award-winning ships with good reviews rarely go on deep discount. If you have one of these ships in mind for next year, our cruise deals 2027 guide covers when to book and which offers are worth watching.
How to Pick the Best Cruise Ship for You
Start with who’s going. With kids under 12, the Icon and Oasis-class ships, MSC World America and Disney win on facilities. Adults-only groups should look at Virgin, Viking or Celebrity.
Match ship size to itinerary. Mega-ships mostly sail the Caribbean and Bahamas. Smaller luxury ships reach ports big ships can’t, such as small Mediterranean harbors and Norwegian fjord villages.
Check what’s included. Virgin, Viking, Explora and Oceania include far more in the fare than mainstream lines, so compare the total cost of the trip, not just the headline price.
Choose the cabin as carefully as the ship. A cabin under a noisy pool deck or next to a lift lobby can undo the benefits of a great ship.
Ship size shapes the experience, and our guide to average cruise ship capacity compares small, mid-size and mega ships.
FAQs
What is the best cruise ship in the world right now?
Based on 2026 passenger reviews, Royal Caribbean’s Utopia of the Seas, which won Cruiseline.com’s Best Overall Cruise Ship award. For luxury, Explora Journeys and Oceania’s Allura lead Cruise Critic’s editor awards.
What is the #1 cruise line in the world?
It depends on the award. Virgin Voyages topped both Condé Nast Traveler’s 2026 large-ship category and Travel + Leisure’s 2026 mega-ship category. Princess won Condé Nast’s 2026 mega-ship category, and Royal Caribbean was Cruiseline.com’s Best Mainstream Cruise Line.
What is the best new cruise ship of 2026?
Cruiseline.com named Star of the Seas its Best New Cruise Ship of 2026. The Points Guy picked MSC World America, and Condé Nast Traveler’s Hot List included Star Princess and Brilliant Lady.
Which cruise ships are best for adults without kids?
Virgin Voyages ships such as Brilliant Lady and Viking’s ocean ships are adults-only. Celebrity Xcel and the Oceania and Explora ships allow children but attract a mostly adult crowd.
Almost 8,000 passengers on a single cruise ship. For some cruisers, that’s an exciting glimpse of the future. For others, it’s enough to make them start searching for the nearest small ship.
Either way, Carnival Cruise Line has everyone’s attention.
The cruise line has started turning Project Ace from an exciting concept into a real ship. Construction is now officially underway on the first vessel, Carnival Destiny, and more details are gradually beginning to emerge.
While there’s still plenty we don’t know, the early information suggests these ships will be bigger, busier and more ambitious than anything the line has built before.
And with the first ship arriving in 2029, the debate has already begun.
Project Ace Marks A New Era For Carnival
Project Ace isn’t just another new ship class. It’s Carnival’s biggest step forward since the launch of the Excel Class.
Three ships have already been ordered from Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri, with deliveries planned for 2029, 2031 and 2033. Construction has now officially begun after the steel cutting ceremony for Carnival Destiny, marking the moment Project Ace moved from drawings to reality.
Carnival is describing the ships as the next generation of Fun Ships, suggesting they’ll offer far more than simply additional cabins and larger public spaces. The line is promising new venues, new entertainment and entirely new ways for guests to experience a Carnival holiday.
Exactly what those experiences will look like remains one of the biggest unanswered questions.
These Ships Will Be Bigger Than Anything Carnival Has Built Before
Carnival’s current flagship vessels – Mardi Gras, Carnival Celebration and Carnival Jubilee – already rank among the largest cruise ships sailing today.
Project Ace will take things much further.
The new ships are expected to measure at least 230,000 gross tons, making them around 25% larger than the Excel-class vessels. That means Carnival will finally break through the 200,000 gross ton barrier for the first time.
To put that into perspective, Carnival Jubilee measures around 183,500 gross tons. Even Carnival’s upcoming Excel-class ships, Carnival Festivale and Carnival Tropicale, will remain significantly smaller.
Project Ace represents a major leap in size rather than a gradual evolution.
The 8,000-Guest Figure Is What Everyone’s Talking About
The statistic that has generated the most discussion isn’t the size of the ships. It’s how many people they’ll carry.
Carnival has confirmed that each vessel will feature more than 3,000 staterooms and accommodate almost 8,000 guests at full capacity.
That’s an extraordinary number, even by modern cruise standards.
For comparison, Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas can carry around 7,600 passengers at maximum occupancy. Project Ace could potentially host even more guests despite being smaller in overall tonnage.
Of course, maximum capacity doesn’t necessarily reflect the experience most passengers will have onboard. Cruise lines rarely sail completely full in every berth category. Still, whenever numbers get this large, questions about crowding become impossible to ignore.
Carnival Is Keeping Most Of The Secrets For Now
For all the headlines around Project Ace, Carnival is still keeping plenty under wraps.
But we do now know a little more.
Around 70% of the public venues will be completely new concepts, rather than updated versions of spaces we’ve already seen on previous Carnival ships. That’s an unusually high number for a new ship class and suggests these vessels will feel very different from anything Carnival has launched before.
Carnival has also revealed that the ships are being designed with more ocean-facing spaces than any previous Carnival ship, giving guests more opportunities to enjoy sea views throughout the vessel rather than focusing everything around inward-facing public areas.
Beyond that, Carnival has confirmed there will be:
New dining venues
New entertainment options
Re-imagined outer deck spaces
New experiences created specifically for the class
That leaves plenty of room for speculation.
When Carnival launched Mardi Gras, BOLT quickly became the headline attraction. It seems likely that Project Ace will feature its own signature attractions designed to create a similar wow factor.
At this stage, though, Carnival’s New Build team is keeping its cards close to its chest.
The First Ship May Already Have An Obvious Homeport
Carnival hasn’t announced where the first Project Ace ship will sail from, but there are some clues.
Florida feels like the natural choice. The state remains the centre of Caribbean cruising and already handles many of the world’s largest cruise ships.
One particularly interesting detail came from Ben Clement, Carnival’s Executive Vice President of Maritime & New Builds, who confirmed that PortMiami’s Terminal F will be capable of accommodating Project Ace vessels.
That doesn’t guarantee Miami will be the ship’s homeport, but it certainly puts it firmly in the conversation.
We also now know the first ship will be called Carnival Destiny, bringing back a name that longtime Carnival fans may remember from the cruise line’s earlier fleet.
Given the scale of these ships and Carnival’s investment in the Caribbean market, it’s difficult to imagine the first vessel launching from anywhere else.
Carnival’s Private Destinations Were Built With Ships Like These In Mind
Project Ace doesn’t exist in isolation.
Carnival is simultaneously investing heavily in its private destinations, and the timing feels significant.
The new ships will be able to visit Celebration Key, Carnival’s upcoming destination in The Bahamas that is expected to become a centrepiece of many future itineraries.
Meanwhile, upgrades at RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay include a new pier capable of handling Project Ace-sized vessels.
Taken together, these developments suggest Carnival is planning for much more than bigger ships. It’s creating an entire holiday ecosystem built around them.
The strategy mirrors a wider industry trend where private destinations become just as important as the ships themselves.
This Isn’t Carnival’s Attempt To Beat Icon Of The Seas
Whenever a cruise line announces a giant new ship, comparisons are inevitable.
However, Carnival has made it clear that Project Ace isn’t about taking the title of the world’s largest cruise ship.
Christine Duffy has downplayed the importance of size rankings, saying the focus is on what the ships offer rather than where they sit on a leaderboard.
Based on current estimates, Project Ace will still be smaller than Icon of the Seas. But Carnival may not care.
The line has always positioned itself differently from Royal Caribbean, focusing on fun, energy and accessibility. Project Ace looks more like an attempt to create the ultimate Carnival holiday rather than a direct challenge to its rivals.
Long before the first ship enters service, the arguments have already begun.
Some cruisers have questioned how nearly 8,000 passengers will fit comfortably onboard. Others have pointed out that ships of similar size often carry significantly fewer guests.
Space-to-passenger ratios are a particular concern for some experienced cruisers, who worry that larger passenger numbers could lead to busier pool decks, longer queues and more crowded public areas.
It’s a valid concern.
But it’s also worth remembering that many people said similar things when Mardi Gras was announced. In practice, many guests found the ship handled crowds surprisingly well thanks to multiple dining venues and better distribution of entertainment across the vessel.
Project Ace will ultimately be judged by how it feels rather than how many people it carries on paper.
Some Cruisers Can’t Wait To Book
For fans of mega ships, Project Ace – and Carnival Destiny in particular – sounds incredibly promising.
More restaurants, more bars, more entertainment and more outdoor attractions usually mean more choice throughout a cruise. Larger ships can also support bigger production shows, more varied accommodation and entirely new experiences that smaller vessels simply don’t have space for.
There’s also the excitement of trying something brand new.
Every major ship class brings fresh ideas, and Project Ace has the potential to become one of the most innovative launches Carnival has ever delivered.
For many cruisers, bigger ships mean bigger possibilities.
Others Think Carnival Has Gone Too Far
Not everyone shares that enthusiasm.
Many loyal Carnival guests actively prefer smaller vessels, particularly ships in the Spirit and Vista classes. For them, the appeal of cruising lies in a more manageable atmosphere and a stronger sense of connection to the sea.
The idea of sharing a holiday with nearly 8,000 other passengers isn’t especially appealing.
Concerns range from crowded elevators and busy buffet areas to embarkation day logistics and finding a quiet corner onboard.
The truth is that no ship appeals to every cruiser. The same features that excite one group often put off another.
That’s why Project Ace may become one of Carnival’s most polarising ship classes ever.
The Real Goal Isn’t Size – It’s Scale
Looking at everything Carnival is doing, the bigger picture starts to emerge.
The company isn’t just building larger ships. It’s expanding destinations, upgrading infrastructure and creating experiences that work across an entire holiday ecosystem.
Celebration Key, Half Moon Cay improvements and Project Ace all appear to be pieces of the same puzzle.
Rather than chasing records, Carnival seems focused on creating cruise holidays that feel larger, more immersive and more self-contained than ever before.
That’s a very different objective from simply building the biggest ship possible.
Final Word
Project Ace is still years away, but it’s already shaping up to be one of the most significant cruise developments of the next decade.
We know the ships will be huge. We know they’ll carry almost 8,000 guests. We know construction has officially begun on Carnival Destiny, and that Carnival is planning an onboard experience that’s largely built around brand-new venues and a stronger connection to the ocean.
What we don’t know is whether Carnival can make a ship of this scale feel exciting without feeling overwhelming.
That’s the challenge that will define Project Ace.
If Carnival gets it right, these ships could become the blueprint for the line’s future. If it gets it wrong, critics will point to those passenger numbers and argue that bigger isn’t always better.
For now, all we can do is wait for more details.
One thing is certain, though – nobody is going to ignore a Carnival ship carrying nearly 8,000 guests.
Disney Cruise Line is offering an unprecedented number of special deals this week, with sail dates extending into early May 2027. There are 158 sail dates with special offers, departing from various ports such as Fort Lauderdale, Galveston, Port Canaveral, San Diego, Southampton, and Vancouver.
The Disney Magic now leads the fleet with 41 sailings (unchanged from last week), followed by the Disney Treasure and Disney Wish, both at 40 sailings (each down 6). The Disney Wonder eased 1 to 37 sailings, while the Disney Dream fell 2 to 34 sailings. The Disney Fantasy dipped 2 to 31 sailings, and the Disney Destiny dropped 5 to 29 sailings.
The Florida Resident rate dropped 8 sailings to 55, the US Military Personnel offer dropped 9 dates to 75 sailings while the Canadian Resident offer dropped 2 to 103 sailings. The special offer for Southern California residents remains added 1 date for a total of 19 sail dates. The special bonus US Military offer for $250 onboard credit on select Disney Wish and Disney Dream remains for sailings throughout 2026.
Moving over to Disney Cruise Line’s other promos, the new IGT, OGT, and VGT offers valid on new bookings for select sailings with savings up to 25% off the prevailing rate remains available on well over voyages with a lot of overlap with the specific offers listed below.
Finally, the extra savings for those with placeholder reservations where the standard 10% is applicable for some concierge levels on select sailings and a bump in the discount up to 25% off on select sailings remain active.
The special offers listed below are available to book today while inventory lasts.
Special Offers for U.S. Military Personnel
Special Rates for U.S. Military Personnel (MTO) are limited to 50 staterooms per category and sailing. Pricing varies, the lowest priced category per person per night listed below. New sailings added this week are in bold. To take advantage of military cruise rates, at least one adult in each stateroom must provide Proof of Military Service. Please note: This offer cannot be combined with any other special offers or discounts. Valid for new bookings only.
Disney Destiny
3-Night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • Castaway Cay • Nassau, Bahamas
3-Night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • Lookout Cay • Nassau, Bahamas
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • Lookout Cay • Castaway Cay • At Sea
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • Castaway Cay • Nassau, Bahamas • At Sea
5-Night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • At Sea • Nassau, Bahamas • Castaway Cay • At Sea
5-Night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • Castaway Cay • Nassau, Bahamas • Lookout Cay • At Sea
5-Night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • Castaway Cay • At Sea • Lookout Cay • Nassau, Bahamas
5-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • At Sea • Cozumel, Mexico • At Sea • Castaway Cay
7-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • Lookout Cay • Castaway Cay • At Sea • San Juan, Puerto Rico • Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic • At Sea
7-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • Lookout Cay • At Sea • Falmouth, Jamaica • Grand Cayman • Cozumel, Mexico • At Sea
Disney Dream
13-Night Westbound Transatlantic Cruise from Southampton ending in Fort Lauderdale Southampton • At Sea • Vigo, Spain • Lisbon, Portugal • At Sea • Funchal, Portugal • At Sea • At Sea • At Sea • At Sea • At Sea • At Sea • At Sea
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • At Sea • Lookout Cay • Castaway Cay
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • Castaway Cay • Lookout Cay • At Sea
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • Lookout Cay • Nassau, Bahamas • At Sea
5-Night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • Castaway Cay • Lookout Cay • At Sea • At Sea
7-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • Lookout Cay • At Sea • San Juan, Puerto Rico • Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic • At Sea • Castaway Cay
Disney Fantasy
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • Castaway Cay • Lookout Cay • At Sea
5-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • Castaway Cay • Lookout Cay • Nassau, Bahamas • At Sea
5-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • At Sea • Lookout Cay • Nassau, Bahamas • Castaway Cay
5-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • Castaway Cay • At Sea • Cozumel, Mexico • At Sea
Disney Magic
3-Night Baja Cruise from San Diego San Diego, California • At Sea • Ensenada, Mexico
4-Night Baja Cruise from San Diego San Diego, California • At Sea • Ensenada, Mexico • At Sea
4-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Galveston Galveston, Texas • At Sea • Progreso, Mexico • At Sea
5-Night Baja Cruise from San Diego San Diego, California • At Sea • Cabo San Lucas, Mexico • At Sea • Ensenada, Mexico
5-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Galveston Galveston, Texas • At Sea • At Sea • Progreso, Mexico • At Sea
5-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Galveston Galveston, Texas • At Sea • Cozumel, Mexico • Progreso, Mexico • At Sea
7-Night Alaskan Cruise from Vancouver Vancouver, Canada • At Sea • Glacier Viewing (Stikine Icecap), Alaska • Skagway, Alaska • Icy Strait Point, Alaska • Ketchikan, Alaska • At Sea
7-Night Mexican Riviera Cruise from San Diego San Diego, California • At Sea • At Sea • Puerto Vallarta, Mexico • Cabo San Lucas, Mexico • At Sea • Ensenada, Mexico
Disney Treasure
7-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • At Sea • At Sea • Tortola, British Virgin Islands • San Juan, Puerto Rico • At Sea • Castaway Cay
7-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • At Sea • At Sea • St. Thomas, USVI • Tortola, British Virgin Islands • At Sea • Castaway Cay
7-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • At Sea • At Sea • Tortola, British Virgin Islands • St. Thomas, USVI • At Sea • Castaway Cay
7-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • At Sea • Cozumel, Mexico • Grand Cayman • Falmouth, Jamaica • At Sea • Castaway Cay
Disney Wish
3-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • Nassau, Bahamas • Castaway Cay
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • Nassau, Bahamas • Castaway Cay • At Sea
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • Castaway Cay • Lookout Cay • At Sea
Disney Wonder
5-Night Mexican Riviera from San Diego San Diego, California • At Sea • Cabo San Lucas, Mexico • At Sea • Ensenada, Mexico
5-Night Pacific Coast Cruise from Vancouver to San Diego Vancouver, Canada • Victoria, Canada • At Sea • At Sea • At Sea
6-Night Mexican Riviera Cruise from San Diego San Diego, California • Ensenada, Mexico • At Sea • Cabo San Lucas, Mexico • At Sea • At Sea
7-Night Alaskan Cruise from Vancouver Vancouver, Canada • At Sea • Glacier Viewing (Stikine Icecap), Alaska • Skagway, Alaska • Juneau, Alaska • Ketchikan, Alaska • At Sea
7-Night Mexican Riviera from San Diego San Diego, California • At Sea • At Sea • Puerto Vallarta, Mexico • Cabo San Lucas, Mexico • At Sea • Ensenada, Mexico
Special military rates are available to retired and active US military personnel (and their spouses), including US Coast Guard, US National Guard and US Military Reserves. Members of the US National Guard or the US Military Reserves (or their spouses) must show active-duty orders dated January 1st of the previous year to qualify. Third and fourth Guest prices valid with 2 full-fare Guests in the same stateroom. Rates may vary by sail date and category. Other restrictions may apply. Other categories and sail dates may be available. To take advantage of military cruise rates, at least one adult in each stateroom must provide Proof of Military Service. Active and retired members (or spouse) of the US military must provide valid identification at time of check-in. Valid for new bookings only.
Special Offers for Florida Residents
Special Rates for Florida Residents (FLR) are limited to 50 staterooms per category and sailing. Pricing varies, the lowest priced category per person per night listed below. New sailings added this week are in bold. Please note: This offer cannot be combined with any other special offers or discounts. Valid on new and existing reservations.
Disney Destiny
5-Night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • At Sea • Nassau, Bahamas • Castaway Cay • At Sea
5-Night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • Castaway Cay • At Sea • Lookout Cay • Nassau, Bahamas
5-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • At Sea • Cozumel, Mexico • At Sea • Castaway Cay
7-Night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale with 2 stops at Castaway Cay Fort Lauderdale, Florida • Lookout Cay • Castaway Cay • At Sea • Nassau, Bahamas • Castaway Cay • At Sea
7-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • Lookout Cay • At Sea • San Juan, Puerto Rico • Philipsburg, St. Maarten • At Sea • At Sea
7-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • Lookout Cay • At Sea • Falmouth, Jamaica • Grand Cayman • Cozumel, Mexico • At Sea
Disney Dream
13-Night Westbound Transatlantic Cruise from Southampton ending in Fort Lauderdale Southampton • At Sea • Vigo, Spain • Lisbon, Portugal • At Sea • Funchal, Portugal • At Sea • At Sea • At Sea • At Sea • At Sea • At Sea • At Sea
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • Castaway Cay • Lookout Cay • At Sea
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • Lookout Cay • Nassau, Bahamas • At Sea
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • At Sea • Lookout Cay • Castaway Cay
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • Lookout Cay • Castaway Cay • At Sea
5-Night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • Castaway Cay • Lookout Cay • At Sea • At Sea
7-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • Lookout Cay • At Sea • San Juan, Puerto Rico • Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic • At Sea • Castaway Cay
Disney Fantasy
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • Castaway Cay • Lookout Cay • At Sea
5-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • Castaway Cay • Lookout Cay • Nassau, Bahamas • At Sea
5-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • At Sea • Lookout Cay • Nassau, Bahamas • Castaway Cay
5-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • Castaway Cay • At Sea • Cozumel, Mexico • At Sea
Disney Treasure
7-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • At Sea • At Sea • Tortola, British Virgin Islands • St. Thomas, USVI • At Sea • Castaway Cay
7-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • At Sea • At Sea • Tortola, British Virgin Islands • San Juan, Puerto Rico • At Sea • Castaway Cay
7-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • At Sea • At Sea • St. Thomas, USVI • Tortola, British Virgin Islands • At Sea • Castaway Cay
7-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • At Sea • Cozumel, Mexico • Grand Cayman • Falmouth, Jamaica • At Sea • Castaway Cay
Disney Wish
3-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • Nassau, Bahamas • Castaway Cay
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • Nassau, Bahamas • Castaway Cay • At Sea
To take advantage of Florida residency cruise rates, proof of Florida Residency for at least one adult in each stateroom must be presented at time of check-in. Guests unable to show proper proof of Florida residency at check-in will have their cruise re-priced and the balance must be paid before being allowed to sail.
Proof of residency must be valid at the time of sailing, and includes the following:
Florida Driver’s License
Florida Identification Card
If you do not have one of the IDs indicated above, then you must provide one of the following—dated within the past 2 months—verifying a Florida residential address and your name, along with a corresponding, valid government-issued photo ID (such as passport, driver’s license, state identification card):
Monthly mortgage statement
Renter’s lease agreement
Current automobile registration, insurance policy or bill
Current homeowner’s insurance policy or bill
Current utility bill (power/phone/cable/water)
Mail from a financial institution, including checking, savings or investment account statements
Mail from a federal, state, county or city government agency
Note: property deeds and P.O. boxes are not considered acceptable proofs of residency.
Children’s rates are also available to Guests ages 3 through 12 that are traveling with 2 adults in the same stateroom.
Special Offers for Southern California Residents
Special Rates for Southern California Residents are limited to 50 staterooms per sailing. The offer is available to those living in a qualifying zip code—90000 to 93599—at time of check-in. Pricing varies, the lowest priced category per person per night listed below. New sailings added this week are in bold. To take advantage of Southern California resident rates, at least one adult in each stateroom must provide proof of residency. Please note: This offer cannot be combined with any other special offers or discounts, but is valid on new and existing reservations.
Disney Magic
14-Night Eastbound Panama Canal Cruise from San Diego ending in Galveston San Diego, California • At Sea • Cabo San Lucas, Mexico • Puerto Vallarta, Mexico • At Sea • At Sea • At Sea • At Sea • Panama Canal • Cartagena, Colombia • At Sea • Grand Cayman • At Sea • At Sea
4-Night Baja Cruise from San Diego San Diego, California • At Sea • Catalina Island, California • Ensenada, Mexico
4-Night Baja Cruise from San Diego San Diego, California • At Sea • Ensenada, Mexico • At Sea
5-Night Baja Cruise from San Diego San Diego, California • At Sea • Cabo San Lucas, Mexico • At Sea • Ensenada, Mexico
6-Night Mexican Riviera Cruise from San Diego San Diego, California • At Sea • At Sea • Cabo San Lucas, Mexico • At Sea • Ensenada, Mexico
7-Night Mexican Riviera Cruise from San Diego San Diego, California • At Sea • At Sea • Puerto Vallarta, Mexico • Cabo San Lucas, Mexico • At Sea • Ensenada, Mexico
Disney Wonder
3-Night Baja Cruise from San Diego San Diego, California • Ensenada, Mexico • At Sea
3-Night Baja Cruise from San Diego San Diego, California • Catalina Island, California • Ensenada, Mexico
4-Night Baja Cruise from San Diego San Diego, California • At Sea • Ensenada, Mexico • At Sea
4-Night Baja Cruise from San Diego San Diego, California • At Sea • Catalina Island, California • Ensenada, Mexico
5-Night Baja Cruise from San Diego San Diego, California • Catalina Island, California • Ensenada, Mexico • At Sea • At Sea
5-Night Mexican Riviera from San Diego San Diego, California • At Sea • Cabo San Lucas, Mexico • At Sea • Ensenada, Mexico
6-Night Mexican Riviera Cruise from San Diego San Diego, California • Ensenada, Mexico • At Sea • Cabo San Lucas, Mexico • At Sea • At Sea
7-Night Mexican Riviera from San Diego San Diego, California • Ensenada, Mexico • At Sea • Cabo San Lucas, Mexico • Puerto Vallarta, Mexico • At Sea • At Sea
7-Night Mexican Riviera from San Diego San Diego, California • At Sea • At Sea • Mazatlan, Mexico • Cabo San Lucas, Mexico • At Sea • Ensenada, Mexico
7-Night Mexican Riviera from San Diego San Diego, California • At Sea • At Sea • Puerto Vallarta, Mexico • Cabo San Lucas, Mexico • At Sea • Ensenada, Mexico
Proof of residency must be valid at the time of sailing, and includes the following:
California Driver’s License
California Identification Card
If you do not have one of the IDs indicated above, then you must provide one of the following documents—dated within the past 2 months—verifying your California residential address in a qualifying zip code (90000 to 93599) and your name, along with a corresponding, valid government-issued photo ID (such as passport, driver’s license, state identification card):
Monthly mortgage statement
Renter’s lease agreement
Current automobile registration, insurance policy or bill
Current homeowner’s insurance policy or bill
Current utility bill (power/phone/cable/water)
Mail from a financial institution, including checking, savings or investment account statements
Mail from a federal, state, county or city government agency
Note: Property deeds and P.O. boxes are not considered acceptable proofs of residency.
Children’s rates may also be available to Guests ages 3 to 12 that are traveling with 2 adults in the same stateroom.
Other categories and sail dates with other rates may be available.
Canadian Resident Rates
Special Rates for Canadian Residents with savings on prevailing rates as quoted on Disneycruise.com for non-concierge Verandah, Oceanview, and Inside Staterooms on select cruises. Pricing varies, the lowest priced category per person per night listed below. New sailings added this week are in bold. Proof of residency is required an you must mention the special offer code CAN when booking. NOTE: Offers may be applied to existing bookings if requested when calling in. This offer cannot be combined with any other special offer or discounts, or onboard credits.
Disney Destiny
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • Nassau, Bahamas • Castaway Cay • At Sea
5-Night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • At Sea • Nassau, Bahamas • Castaway Cay • At Sea
5-Night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • Castaway Cay • At Sea • Lookout Cay • Nassau, Bahamas
5-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • At Sea • Cozumel, Mexico • At Sea • Castaway Cay
7-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • Lookout Cay • At Sea • Falmouth, Jamaica • Grand Cayman • Cozumel, Mexico • At Sea
Disney Dream
3-Night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • Lookout Cay • Nassau, Bahamas
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • Castaway Cay • Lookout Cay • At Sea
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • Lookout Cay • Nassau, Bahamas • At Sea
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • At Sea • Lookout Cay • Castaway Cay
6-Night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • Castaway Cay • Lookout Cay • At Sea • At Sea • Castaway Cay
7-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • Lookout Cay • At Sea • San Juan, Puerto Rico • Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic • At Sea • Castaway Cay
7-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • Lookout Cay • At Sea • San Juan, Puerto Rico • Tortola, British Virgin Islands • At Sea • At Sea
Disney Fantasy
3-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • Castaway Cay • At Sea
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • Nassau, Bahamas • Lookout Cay • At Sea
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • Castaway Cay • Lookout Cay • At Sea
5-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • Castaway Cay • Lookout Cay • Nassau, Bahamas • At Sea
5-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • At Sea • Lookout Cay • Nassau, Bahamas • Castaway Cay
5-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • Castaway Cay • At Sea • Cozumel, Mexico • At Sea
Disney Magic
3-Night Baja Cruise from San Diego San Diego, California • Ensenada, Mexico • At Sea
4-Night Baja Cruise from San Diego San Diego, California • At Sea • Ensenada, Mexico • At Sea
4-Night Baja Cruise from San Diego San Diego, California • At Sea • Catalina Island, California • Ensenada, Mexico
4-Night Pacific Coast Cruise from San Diego to Vancouver San Diego, California • At Sea • At Sea • At Sea
4-Night Pacific Coast Cruise from Vancouver ending in San Diego Vancouver, Canada • At Sea • At Sea • At Sea
4-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Galveston Galveston, Texas • At Sea • Progreso, Mexico • At Sea
5-Night Baja Cruise from San Diego San Diego, California • At Sea • Cabo San Lucas, Mexico • At Sea • Ensenada, Mexico
5-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Galveston Galveston, Texas • At Sea • At Sea • Progreso, Mexico • At Sea
5-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Galveston Galveston, Texas • At Sea • Cozumel, Mexico • Progreso, Mexico • At Sea
6-Night Mexican Riviera Cruise from San Diego San Diego, California • At Sea • At Sea • Cabo San Lucas, Mexico • At Sea • Ensenada, Mexico
7-Night Alaskan Cruise from Vancouver Vancouver, Canada • At Sea • Glacier Viewing (Stikine Icecap), Alaska • Skagway, Alaska • Icy Strait Point, Alaska • Ketchikan, Alaska • At Sea
7-Night Bahamian Cruise from Galveston Galveston, Texas • At Sea • At Sea • Nassau, Bahamas • Castaway Cay • At Sea • At Sea
7-Night Mexican Riviera Cruise from San Diego San Diego, California • At Sea • At Sea • Puerto Vallarta, Mexico • Cabo San Lucas, Mexico • At Sea • Ensenada, Mexico
Disney Treasure
7-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • At Sea • At Sea • Tortola, British Virgin Islands • St. Thomas, USVI • At Sea • Castaway Cay
7-Night Eastern Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • At Sea • At Sea • Tortola, British Virgin Islands • San Juan, Puerto Rico • At Sea • Castaway Cay
7-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • At Sea • Cozumel, Mexico • Grand Cayman • Falmouth, Jamaica • At Sea • Castaway Cay
Disney Wish
3-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • Nassau, Bahamas • Castaway Cay
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • At Sea • Lookout Cay • At Sea
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • At Sea • Lookout Cay • Castaway Cay
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • Castaway Cay • Lookout Cay • At Sea
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • Nassau, Bahamas • Castaway Cay • At Sea
Disney Wonder
3-Night Baja Cruise from San Diego San Diego, California • Catalina Island, California • Ensenada, Mexico
3-Night Baja Cruise from San Diego San Diego, California • Ensenada, Mexico • At Sea
4-Night Baja Cruise from San Diego San Diego, California • Ensenada, Mexico • At Sea • At Sea
4-Night Baja Cruise from San Diego San Diego, California • At Sea • Ensenada, Mexico • At Sea
4-Night Baja Cruise from San Diego San Diego, California • At Sea • Catalina Island, California • Ensenada, Mexico
4-Night Pacific Coast Cruise from San Diego to Vancouver San Diego, California • At Sea • At Sea • At Sea
5-Night Baja Cruise from San Diego San Diego, California • Catalina Island, California • At Sea • Ensenada, Mexico • At Sea
5-Night Baja Cruise from San Diego San Diego, California • Catalina Island, California • Ensenada, Mexico • At Sea • At Sea
5-Night Mexican Riviera from San Diego San Diego, California • At Sea • Cabo San Lucas, Mexico • At Sea • Ensenada, Mexico
6-Night Mexican Riviera Cruise from San Diego San Diego, California • At Sea • Cabo San Lucas, Mexico • At Sea • At Sea • Ensenada, Mexico
6-Night Mexican Riviera Cruise from San Diego San Diego, California • Ensenada, Mexico • At Sea • Cabo San Lucas, Mexico • At Sea • At Sea
7-Night Mexican Riviera from San Diego San Diego, California • At Sea • At Sea • Puerto Vallarta, Mexico • Cabo San Lucas, Mexico • At Sea • Ensenada, Mexico
7-Night Mexican Riviera from San Diego San Diego, California • At Sea • At Sea • Mazatlan, Mexico • Cabo San Lucas, Mexico • At Sea • Ensenada, Mexico
7-Night Mexican Riviera from San Diego San Diego, California • Ensenada, Mexico • At Sea • Cabo San Lucas, Mexico • Puerto Vallarta, Mexico • At Sea • At Sea
The Canadian Resident rate excludes suites and categories with restrictions (VGT, OGT, and IGT). Proof of Canada residency will be required at time of check-in. Taxes, Fees and Port Expenses are not included. If booking through Disney Cruise Line’s Contact Center, you must mention code CAN. Offers may be applied to existing bookings if requested by caller. This offer cannot be combined with any other special offer or discounts, or onboard credits. Offer valid for new and existing reservations.
Please note, the offers listed are not to be taken as official quotes. Prices and availability can change at any time without notice. More importantly, the deals listed above are a snapshot in time based on DCL’s online cruise search tool.
River cruises can look surprisingly similar at first glance. They all sail sleek ships through beautiful scenery, stop in historic towns and promise great food, fascinating excursions and a relaxing week away.
So it’s easy to assume that choosing between them is simply a case of finding the itinerary you like at the best price. That’s exactly what I used to think.
But, after sailing on several river cruises, visiting over 20 ships and chatting to the people who know them inside out, I’ve realised there are some surprisingly big differences between the cruise lines.
Some include far more than others. Some are much more active. Some attract guests from all over the world, while others create a very different onboard atmosphere.
If you’re trying to decide which river cruise line is right for you, there are some things I’d always check before booking…
1. Do They Sail Where You Want To Go?
The first thing I’d check isn’t the ship or what’s included. It’s where the cruise line actually sails. Some people assume this isn’t really a concern with river cruising, but they’re wrong!
Most river cruise lines offer the classic European routes along the Rhine and Danube. If you fancy the Rhône, Seine, Douro, Dutch Waterways, Main or Moselle, you’ll have slightly fewer options.
Then, if you want to cruise on the Elbe, Po, Guadalquivir or some of the smaller rivers in France, you’ll have even fewer options.
But the biggest differences tend to appear once you start looking beyond Europe. If you’re dreaming of somewhere a little more adventurous, such as Vietnam and Cambodia, you’ll find far fewer cruise lines operating there.
It’s also worth thinking about how many itineraries a cruise line offers in the destinations you’re interested in. Some companies have just one or two routes, while others offer several variations, giving you more flexibility over things like cruise length, start and end points, and the places you’ll visit along the way.
2. What’s Actually Included?
This is probably the biggest mistake first-time river cruisers make.
It’s really easy to compare two prices and assume the cheaper cruise is better value. But until you know what’s included, you’re not really comparing like for like.
For example, some river cruise lines include excursions, while others charge extra. Drinks policies vary too, with some including wine, beer and soft drinks at mealtimes, while others offer drinks all day or not at all. Gratuities, WiFi and airport transfers are other things that can make a surprisingly big difference to the final cost of your holiday.
On my recent Emerald river cruise, I loved not having to constantly think about what was costing extra. Excursions, gratuities, WiFi and drinks with lunch and dinner were all covered.
And yes, you can leave the dining room with a full glass of wine and enjoy it on the sun deck!
That doesn’t mean every cruise line should include exactly the same things. Some travellers would rather pay a lower fare and choose which extras to add, paying for drinks and excursions individually, while others prefer to have as much as possible included from the start.
The important thing is to compare the whole package rather than just the number on the booking page. Sometimes the cruise that looks more expensive at first glance can actually work out to be better value in the end.
This is something I’d never really thought about before I started river cruising, but it can make a surprisingly big difference to your holiday.
Some river cruise lines attract guests from all over the world, others from just one or two countries. That means announcements, port talks and excursions may be delivered in several different languages.
On my recent Emerald river cruise, everyone onboard spoke English, and there was a really nice mix of guests from the UK, Ireland, the USA, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. Other cruise lines, such as TUI river cruises, market to only British guests.
In contrast, when I cruised with Viva Cruises, almost all of the other guests were German speakers. Not only did that make socialising very difficult, but we had to sit through a port talk in German for 15 minutes every day, which got a little tiresome.
It’s also worth thinking about the sort of atmosphere you’re looking for. Some river cruise lines feel very traditional, while others have a more contemporary feel. Some attract mainly retired couples, while others appeal to a broader mix of ages, including younger couples and families on selected sailings.
None of these approaches is better than another. It simply comes down to the kind of holiday you enjoy. If you’re someone who loves meeting new people, for example, the guest mix onboard can have just as much impact on your cruise as the itinerary itself.
Emerald Cruises River Exclusive Offer
Get an additional £150pp saving on any departure year (2026 or 2027) when quoting the discount code JENNI.
Shore excursions are a huge part of any river cruise, so I’d always look beyond the simple question of whether they’re included or not (although, that’s a pretty important question too).
Think about the types of excursions on offer too. Some cruise lines focus mainly on traditional guided walking tours, while others offer a wider choice, including cycling, hiking, food experiences and cultural events.
One thing I really liked about Emerald Cruises was that there was usually more than one way to explore each destination. If you wanted a classic guided tour, that was available. If you’d rather get out on an e-bike or join a guided hike, there were EmeraldACTIVE excursions too.
Then there were EmeraldPLUS experiences, which are designed to give you something a little different. On my Rhine cruise, that included a private classical concert which genuinely felt like it should have cost extra.
It’s also worth checking whether excursions cater for different mobility levels. During my cruise, Emerald Cruises offered both standard and gentle walking groups, which was a huge help while I was recovering from a broken toe. It meant I could still enjoy the destinations without worrying about holding everyone else up with my slower pace!
5. The Ship Itself
It’s easy to assume that all river cruise ships are pretty much the same. After all, they’re all built to fit through the same locks and sail under the same bridges.
But once you step onboard, the differences become much more obvious. These aren’t cookie-cutter vessels.
Some ships feel quite traditional in terms of the decor, while others are much more contemporary.
Cabin layouts vary too, with some offering French balconies, others step-out balconies and some using clever designs that maximise the space inside the room.
Public areas can be just as different, from cosy lounges designed for quiet evenings to ships with much more emphasis on wellness and onboard facilities.
It’s also worth looking beyond the cabin. If you’re planning to spend time onboard between ports, think about how you’ll actually use the ship. Is there somewhere comfortable to sit with a book? A sun deck with plenty of loungers? A fitness area? Bikes to borrow if you fancy exploring independently?
Most river cruise ships have a hot tub on the top deck. This isn’t always ideal in the summer. You would think they would have them set to be a cold plunge pool, but in my experience, they always seem to be hot!
I do prefer when a river ship has a proper pool. The family-friendly ship A-Rosa Sena has two pools – one for adults and one for kids (complete with water guns!).
But my favourite type of pool on a river ship has to be the one on Emerald Cruises’ Star-Ships. These pools have a current you can swim against, a retractable roof, and thanks to the clever raising floor, they transform into a cinema in the evening and an exercise studio in the early morning!
Before you book, I’d spend as much time looking at the ship as you do looking at the itinerary. After all, it’s going to be your hotel for the week.
6. Keeping Active
Not everyone wants the same kind of river cruise. For some people, the perfect day is a gentle stroll around a pretty town followed by a leisurely lunch and an afternoon watching the scenery drift by. Others would much rather get their walking boots on, head out on a bike or fit in a yoga class before breakfast.
That’s why it’s worth looking at what each cruise line offers beyond the standard sightseeing tours.
Some put a much bigger emphasis on wellness and active travel than others, with things like guided hikes, cycling excursions, fitness classes and onboard gyms. If that’s the sort of holiday you enjoy, those extras can make a much bigger difference than you might expect.
I hadn’t really thought much about this until I started river cruising. Now I’d always look to see what’s available, even if I don’t end up using everything. It’s nice to have the choice.
Emerald Cruises is a good example of this. Alongside traditional excursions, there are EmeraldACTIVE experiences for guests who’d rather explore on foot or by bike, and the ships also carry e-bikes that can often be borrowed independently.
It’s a nice option to have, particularly on European rivers where many of the cycle paths are flat and run alongside the water.
7. Food and Drink
Food is a big part of any river cruise, but it’s worth looking beyond the menu photos in the brochure.
It’s also worth looking at the style of dining. Most river ships have a single main restaurant, but the menus, service and overall atmosphere can vary from one cruise line to another. Some put a big emphasis on regional dishes, while others stick to more familiar international favourites.
If you have dietary requirements, don’t be afraid to ask how they’re handled. On my recent river cruise, guests had the chance to speak to the head chef at the start of the sailing, and I received the following day’s menu each evening so I could request any changes in advance if I needed them. It’s one of the best systems I’ve come across, and it made the whole experience feel really relaxed.
Finally, don’t forget that food isn’t just about what’s on your plate. For me, some of the best conversations of the week happened over dinner, chatting with other guests about where we’d been that day and what we’d discovered ashore. However, some people prefer a table for two. Each river cruise line can be quite different in terms of seating arrangements.
One of the biggest differences between cruise lines is what’s included to drink. Some include wine, beer and soft drinks only with lunch and dinner, while others include drinks throughout the day.
If you enjoy a cocktail before dinner or a glass of wine in the lounge each evening, it’s worth checking exactly what’s covered before you book.
8. Dress Code and Atmosphere
If you’ve never been on a river cruise before, it’s easy to imagine everyone dressed up for dinner every evening. I get it – river cruises tend to be a little more expensive than ocean cruises, and people often assume that more expensive also means more formal.
The reality depends very much on the cruise line. Some have a more traditional feel, where guests tend to dress smartly in the evenings and the atmosphere is a little more formal. Others are much more relaxed, with smart-casual clothing being perfectly acceptable and no expectation that you’ll pack a suit or cocktail dress.
It’s also worth thinking about the overall atmosphere onboard. Some river cruises are very quiet, with guests heading to bed soon after dinner ready for the next day’s excursion. Others put more emphasis on evening entertainment, whether that’s live music, local performers or simply creating a lively place to enjoy a drink after a day ashore.
I liked Emerald Cruises’ approach because it felt relaxed without being too casual. People made an effort in the evenings, but nobody looked out of place in a polo shirt, shorts or a simple summer dress. There was usually some entertainment after dinner too, but it never felt like there was pressure to stay up late if you’d rather have an early night.
There’s no right or wrong here. It’s simply about finding a cruise line whose atmosphere matches the sort of holiday you want.
Don’t Just Compare Prices!
It’s tempting to choose a river cruise the same way many people choose a hotel – by finding the itinerary they like at the lowest price.
But after experiencing a few different river cruises, I don’t think that’s the best approach.
Take a few minutes to look at what’s included, the style of excursions, the facilities onboard, the atmosphere and the sort of guests the cruise line attracts. Those things can have just as much impact on your holiday as the destinations themselves.
For me, Emerald Cruises strikes a really nice balance. It feels modern without being flashy, includes the things that matter most and gives you plenty of choice, whether you’d rather spend your day exploring a historic city, cycling along the river or simply relaxing on deck with a drink.
Ultimately, there isn’t one river cruise line that’s right for everyone. But once you know what to look for, you’ll have a much better chance of finding the one that’s right for you.
Emerald Cruises River Exclusive Offer
Get an additional £150pp saving on any departure year (2026 or 2027) when quoting the discount code JENNI.
