Holland America Line isn’t one of the mega cruise lines with dozens of ships. The fleet sits at a comfortable 11 vessels, launched over the past 25 years.
Unlike some of the bigger brands, Holland America doesn’t rush to release a new ship every year. Instead, the focus is on refined design, consistent quality and a classic cruising experience that appeals to loyal guests.
Positioned neatly between the huge family-friendly fleets of Royal Caribbean and Carnival, and the intimate luxury of Silversea or Regent Seven Seas, Holland America offers a little of both – spacious ships, elegant service and a relaxed, premium feel.
So, which ships are the newest in the Holland America fleet – and are any new builds on the way? Let’s find out.
The Newest Holland America Ships:
Rotterdam
Nieuw Statendam
Koningsdam
1. Rotterdam – 2021
Rotterdam is Holland America’s newest ship, having launched in 2021. She is the third and likely final Pinnacle-class cruise ship for the fleet, although there may be plans to expand the class in future.
First announced in 2017, the ship was built in the Fincantieri shipyard and was originally planned to be named Ryndam. Holland America has a history of reusing ship names from former ships in the fleet.
But in 2019, the announcement was made that the ship would, in fact, be named Rotterdam in honour of the ship with the same name that was sold that same year.
The ship also suffered from delays, and her originally scheduled debut sailing and season in Europe in 2021 was ultimately cancelled. Eventually, she set sail in October of that year, with a Transatlantic sailing that took the ship to the Caribbean for the winter, before she returned to Europe in April of the following year.
She now sails itineraries around Northern Europe during the summer months, primarily from Amsterdam. In the winter, she returns to Fort Lauderdale for Eastern Caribbean sailings.
The ship is an almost-identical twin of her sister ships Nieuw Statendam and Koningsdam, which launched the Pinnacle Class. This means that she retains The Retreat – the exclusive area of the ship with an outdoor lounge that requires an extra charge for access.
Like her sister ships, she has a guest capacity of 2,668. This is significantly smaller than some of the new cruise ships to launch for other cruise lines in recent years, but it is another sign of how Holland America is not the type of cruise line to be building gigantic mega-ships.
2. Nieuw Statendam – 2018
Nieuw Statendam was the second of the Pinnacle-class ships to join the Holland America fleet, having first been announced in 2014. Two years later, at the christening ceremony for Koningsdam, the Nieuw Statendam name was confirmed.
As I say, Holland America likes to name ships in honour of ships that once sailed for the fleet, and Nieuw Statendam is no different. There have been 5 Statendam ships sailing for Holland America before the Nieuw Statendam, the most recent of which was sold as recently as 2015.
Similar to her sister ship Rotterdam, she spends half of the year in Europe and half of the year in the Caribbean. She shares her Caribbean home port of Fort Lauderdale with Rotterdam, but during the summer months, she focuses on Mediterranean cruises from both Barcelona and Civitavecchia, the port for Rome.
Again, the Nieuw Amsterdam follows an almost identical template to the other Pinnacle-class ships, and so guests can expect to find popular features such as the Music Walk live entertainment area, including multiple music venues playing R&B, chamber music, pop music and classic rock.
She also has a stunning theatre for even more varied live performances, with incredible 270-degree wraparound screens helping to bring every concert or live show to life.
3. Koningsdam – 2016
Koningsdam was the first of the Pinnacle-class ships to launch for Holland America. While she is now a little older, she definitely counts as one of the newest ships in the fleet, since she helped launch what is now the flagship class of ships for the cruise line.
She was originally planned as a sister ship to the Nieuw Amsterdam, part of the Signature Class of ships for the fleet. However, as the design seemed to be ageing, the Carnival Corporation instead made the announcement in 2012 that two new ships were being built, one of which would be the first of a new class for Holland America.
She was ultimately christened in May 2016 and began a season of sailing between Northern Europe and the Mediterranean. However, unlike her sister ships, she no longer moves between Europe and the US, and she has instead based herself on the western coast of the US.
Sailings are varied and include Alaska ports, Hawaii itineraries, and cruises to the Mexican Riviera.
As the first ship in the Pinnacle Class, Koningsdam launched a number of new features for the cruise line. Notably, the Pinnacle Class offers more varied dining options than other ships in the fleet, with five speciality restaurants alongside the usual Main Dining Room and buffet.
Of course, the Pinnacle-class ships are also bigger than others in the fleet, and more spacious. They also debuted single-passenger oceanview cabins for the cruise line.
There Are No More Holland America Ships on Order
No plans have been announced for more Holland America Line ships to be built. It may only be a matter of time, though. Holland America has a history of retiring or selling ships as they get old.
Indeed, two of the four Rotterdam-class ships have already gone, leaving the Volendam and Zaandam as the only two left, both of which are over 23 years old.
In 2020, the cruise line sold off ships that were originally built in 1997 and 2000, so the time is probably nearing for the last of the Rotterdam class of ships, which may spark orders for newer ships to replace them.
Even the Vista-class ships are starting to feel like their time might be coming. There are four of those, having been built between 2002 and 2006.
While they likely will remain with the cruise line for the next couple of years at least, it wouldn’t be surprising if they were phased out in favour of updated vessels, as the cruise line has done before.
To Conclude
Holland America doesn’t have quite the exciting lineup of new ships on the horizon, but it doesn’t need to. It offers quality, premium cruising experiences, and the three Pinnacle-class ships still feel very much like they are brand new anyway.
There isn’t a huge demand for growing capacity for the cruise line, especially when she is part of the larger Carnival Corporation with other fleets that are more suited to expansion. Yet it may not be too long until we hear of another Holland America ship in the pipeline.
NEW DEALS JUST RELEASED!
Don’t miss the latest Holland America Line offers…
Celebrity Cruises has one of the largest fleets of any premium cruise line. While it’s smaller than the mega-fleets of Royal Caribbean, Carnival, and Norwegian (NCL), Celebrity still impresses with 15 ships currently sailing – and one more on the way.
While most of the fleet consists of large, modern ocean ships, Celebrity Flora stands apart as the line’s only expedition vessel. She’s purpose-built for exploring the Galápagos Islands, offering an intimate, all-suite experience for just 100 guests.
As part of the Royal Caribbean Group, Celebrity benefits from the strength of one of the world’s biggest and most successful cruise companies.
With new ships helping to keep the brand fresh and in demand, let’s take a look at the newest Celebrity Cruises ships – the latest additions that are turning heads at sea.
The Newest Celebrity Ships
The newest Celebrity Cruises ship is Celebrity Xcel, the fifth Edge-class ship for the fleet. She launched in November 2025. One final Edge-class ship (for now) is due to join the fleet in 2028 – Celebrity Xcite.
The Newest Celebrity Ship Being Built
1. Celebrity Xcite (Edge Class) – 2028
Celebrity Xcite is set to launch in 2028 and will be the sixth ship in the Edge® Class, following Celebrity Xcel, which debuted in November 2025.
While details are still under wraps, Celebrity has confirmed that Xcite will continue the brand’s signature Edge-class style – combining modern luxury, innovative design and advanced technology.
No major design changes or new ship class have yet been announced, so for now, Xcite looks set to build on the success of her popular sister ships.
After Xcite, Celebrity hasn’t confirmed any additional new-build orders, so fans will be watching closely to see what comes next for the fleet.
Joining the fleet in late 2025, Celebrity Xcel is the fifth Edge-class ship and the newest addition to the Celebrity Cruises fleet. She sails year-round from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on Caribbean cruises packed with style, sunshine and that modern-luxury flair that Celebrity fans can’t get enough of.
Like her sister ships, Celebrity Xcel is all about the views – with huge open-air spaces, panoramic lounges and floor-to-ceiling windows that make you feel connected to the ocean wherever you are on board.
Guests can expect fine dining, world-class service and luxurious accommodations, alongside state-of-the-art technology and sustainable engineering – continuing Celebrity’s commitment to innovation at sea.
What sets Celebrity Xcel apart from her Edge-class sisters is several exciting firsts. She debuts The Bazaar, a vibrant three-deck space packed with live entertainment, local-inspired experiences and destination-themed food stalls – a completely new concept for Celebrity Cruises.
Guests can also enjoy Bora, the line’s first-ever al fresco restaurant offering a relaxed brunch and dinner experience in the Rooftop Garden. And for those seeking relaxation, Xcel introduces an enhanced spa area with a Hydra Room and outdoor Vitamin D Deck, designed to bring wellness closer to the ocean than ever before.
Construction milestones for Xcel included her steel cutting in 2023, float-out in 2024, and maiden voyage in November 2025, marking the start of an exciting new chapter for the Edge Series.
2. Celebrity Ascent – 2023
Celebrity Ascent joined the fleet in late 2023 as the fourth Edge-class ship, bringing even more modern luxury to the Caribbean before spending her summers sailing both sides of the Mediterranean.
She builds on everything guests already love about the Edge Series, with sleek design, stunning outdoor spaces and incredible ocean views that make every moment feel special.
From fine dining and vibrant entertainment to quiet corners made for relaxation, Ascent delivers the perfect mix of sophistication and fun that Celebrity fans adore.
Construction began with steel cutting in November 2021, and after her float-out in January 2023, she officially entered service in December 2023 – setting the standard that Celebrity Xcel would later build upon.
3. Celebrity Beyond – 2022
The third-most recent addition to the Celebrity Cruises fleet, Celebrity Beyond is also the third Edge-class ship to launch for the line, and she really fulfils the promise of the class – more open spaces, more places to relax, and more areas where you can soak in the incredible views of the ocean as you sail.
Similar to many other ships in the Celebrity fleet, she spends her winter months exploring the Caribbean and her summer months offering itineraries across the Mediterranean, including sailings that focus on some of the unique ports of Croatia and Montenegro. She also has sailings along the Panama Canal.
Celebrity Beyond was the first ship in the Celebrity fleet to be equipped with SpaceX Starlink internet connections. Using the SpaceX satellites, this provides a significantly faster WiFi experience for guests onboard.
4. Celebrity Apex – 2020
Celebrity Apex was the second of the Edge-class ships to join the fleet. She was completed on time in 2020, but due to the COVID-19 pandemic, she ultimately didn’t enjoy her maiden voyage until 2021.
During the winter months, she primarily sails around the Eastern Caribbean, and then in summer, she offers cruises around Europe. Unlike some of her sister ships, she mainly offers sailings in Northern Europe, including British Isles cruises, Norwegian Fjords itineraries and sailings to Iceland.
All of the Edge-class ships are very similar in design, retaining the popular features that were first introduced on Celebrity Edge. And while her later sister, Celebrity Beyond, introduced Starlink internet first, it has since been added to Celebrity Apex too.
If you want to sample the premium cruise experience of an Edge-class ship, but you prefer the more historical landmarks and cities of the ports of Northern Europe, then Celebrity Apex would be the ship to go for.
5. Celebrity Flora – 2019
It’s not all about the Edge-class for Celebrity. The line also operates one very special small ship – Celebrity Flora – which offers the same premium experience but on a much more intimate scale.
Now the only expedition ship in the Celebrity Cruises fleet, Flora was the first purpose-built vessel designed specifically for exploring the Galápagos Islands. She accommodates just 100 guests, making her about 4% of the size of an Edge-class ship, yet still delivers the signature style, service and comfort Celebrity is known for.
Stationed year-round in the Galápagos, guests fly into Ecuador before joining the ship to discover the region’s breathtaking landscapes and unique wildlife.
Classified as a mega-yacht, Celebrity Flora offers an elegant, all-suite experience with multiple dining venues, including the Ocean Grill, as well as beautiful social spaces like the Discovery Lounge and Observatory.
She may be small, but Celebrity Flora is packed with luxury – a stunning ship built to deliver an unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
6. Celebrity Edge – 2018
Celebrity Edge was the first of the Edge-class ships, of course, and she launched back in 2018 – still relatively recent when compared to many of the other ships in the fleet.
Similar to her sister ships, she moves between the Caribbean in the winter months and Europe in the summer – focusing primarily on the Western Mediterranean and ports in Spain, France and Italy.
Of course, as the first ship in the Edge Class, a lot of features debuted on Celebrity Edge. This includes Eden, the magnificent ‘living’ room with three levels and a variety of sensory experiences designed to help you feel closer to the ocean, enhanced by the stunning floor-to-ceiling views.
There’s also the Magic Carpet – a protruding space that changes purpose throughout the cruise, and rises between the decks to offer amazing views from the ship.
And old favourites return too, such as The Retreat – the exclusive, all-suite location on the ship where guests can enjoy sumptuous spaces and incredible dining if they book accommodation here. Other guests don’t settle for average cuisine, though – every restaurant onboard is exceptional.
To Conclude
While there aren’t many brand-new builds on the horizon for Celebrity right now, the Edge-class ships are still some of the freshest and most impressive at sea. Their sleek, modern design means they continue to feel brand new every time you step onboard.
And let’s not forget Celebrity Flora – the line’s purpose-built expedition yacht that brings Celebrity’s signature luxury to the Galápagos Islands. She offers one of the most exclusive and unforgettable cruise experiences in the world.
A shore excursion for cruise guests in Tenerife ended in tragedy on Saturday, 8th November 2025, when a powerful wave struck a pier in Puerto de la Cruz, sweeping several people – including cruise passengers and locals – into the Atlantic Ocean.
One Tourist Dies After Being Pulled From the Sea
Among those caught in the incident was a Dutch woman who suffered a cardiac arrest after being rescued from the water.
Despite emergency efforts, she was pronounced dead before reaching hospital.
At least 10 tourists, most of whom had arrived earlier that morning on a cruise ship docked in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, were affected.
Officials have not yet confirmed which vessel the group travelled on, though Silversea’s Silver Dawn and TUI Cruises’ Mein Schiff 3 were both in port at the time.
A spokesperson for the coastal safety platform Canarias, 1,500 km de Costa, Sebastián Quintana, said none of the victims had entered the water voluntarily.
“No one was swimming – they were simply observing the sea,” he said.
The Canary Islands were under a red weather alert for dangerous coastal conditions, with waves of up to 15 feet (4.5 metres) reported.
Second Incident at Another Beach
Later that same afternoon, six French tourists were swept away by another large wave on Playa del Roque de las Bodegas, further north along the coast.
Emergency teams, including a rescue helicopter, managed to save all six.
One woman was airlifted to hospital with moderate injuries, while four others were taken by ambulance. According to local reports, the group had ignored a warning beacon marking hazardous conditions.
Multiple Fatalities Reported
In total, three people died and 15 were injured within a span of five hours as unusually strong waves pounded the island. Quintana described it as “the most tragic day” for Tenerife’s coastline in years.
Images shared by rescue services showed emergency personnel and bystanders assisting drenched victims on the promenade as waves continued to batter the shore.
Cruise Lines Monitoring the Situation
Cruise lines operating in the region, including Silversea, TUI Cruises, and P&O Cruises – whose ship Azura was also in port that weekend – are understood to be monitoring the situation and working with tour operators to review safety procedures for excursions.
Local authorities have opened an investigation to determine whether safety barriers, signage, and warnings were adequately in place at the time of the tragedy.
Early reports suggest that while red alerts were active, no cordons or tape were visible at the Puerto de la Cruz pier when the wave struck.
Concerns Over Coastal Safety
The disaster has renewed calls for tighter coastal safety enforcement in the Canary Islands, where sudden “mar de fondo” swells – long-period waves generated far offshore – can strike without warning.
Tenerife and its neighbouring islands are popular winter cruise destinations.
In 2024, more than four million cruise passengers visited Spain’s Atlantic island ports, many taking day trips to scenic coastal areas.
Between January and October 2025, Canarias, 1,500 km de Costa recorded 54 drowning deaths across the archipelago, several of which occurred during high-wave alerts.
Authorities continue to urge both residents and tourists to avoid piers, breakwaters, and rocky promenades whenever such warnings are in effect.
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This week’s special offers from Disney Cruise Line include sail dates from this week into June 2026. There are 116 different sail dates, available with special offers available across the fleet for sailings from Auckland, Fort Lauderdale, Galveston, Melbourne, Port Canaveral, San Diego, and San Juan.
The Disney Dream leads the fleet with 66 sailings, followed by the Disney Wish which dropped 1 to 35 sailings, Disney Magic dropped 1 to 27, Disney Treasure is up 2 to 19, the Disney Fantasy is up 3 to 24, and the Disney Wonder held with 10 sailings this week.
Last week’s drastic increases in the number of available sail dates mostly held this week with some modest changes. The Florida Resident rate is up 5 to 51 sail dates, the US Military Personnel offer dropped 2 to 57 cruises, and the Canadian Resident offer remained at 73 sail dates.
Be on the lookout for some additional offers for those that served. Last month, The Walt Disney Company revealed they will will unveil 2026 offers sometime in November for Walt Disney World Resort, Disneyland Resort, and Disney Cruise Line for eligible service members in appreciation of their service and in celebration of America’s 250th anniversary. If I had to guess, this week may be the announcement with Veterans Day tomorrow on November 11th.
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 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 • At Sea • Nassau, Bahamas • Castaway Cay
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 • Nassau, Bahamas • At Sea • Castaway Cay
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • Nassau, Bahamas • Lookout Cay • At Sea
5-Night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • Castaway Cay • Nassau, Bahamas • Lookout Cay • At Sea
Disney Fantasy
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 • Lookout Cay • At Sea
5-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • At Sea • Lookout Cay • At Sea • Castaway Cay
5-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • Nassau, Bahamas • Lookout Cay • At Sea • Castaway Cay
5-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • Nassau, Bahamas • Lookout Cay • Castaway Cay • At Sea
5-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • At Sea • Nassau, Bahamas • Lookout Cay • Castaway Cay
5-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • Nassau, Bahamas • Castaway Cay • Lookout Cay • At Sea
Disney Magic
4-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Galveston Galveston, Texas • 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 Bahamian Cruise from San Juan ending in Galveston San Juan (Pan American Pier) • At Sea • Lookout Cay • Castaway Cay • At Sea • At Sea
Disney Treasure
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 • Castaway Cay • Lookout 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 • Nassau, Bahamas • Castaway Cay • At Sea
Disney Wonder
10-Night Disney Magic at Sea Cruise from Auckland ending in Sydney Auckland, New Zealand • Tauranga, New Zealand • At Sea • Napier, New Zealand • Wellington, New Zealand • Christchurch (Lyttelton), New Zealand • At Sea • Fiordland National Park, New Zealand • At Sea • At Sea
5-Night Disney Magic at Sea Cruise from Auckland Auckland, New Zealand • At Sea • Wellington, New Zealand • Christchurch (Lyttelton), New Zealand • At Sea
5-Night Disney Magic at Sea Cruise from Melbourne ending in Auckland Melbourne, Australia • At Sea • At Sea • At Sea • At Sea
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 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 • Nassau, Bahamas • Lookout Cay • At Sea
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • At Sea • Nassau, Bahamas • Castaway Cay
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 • Nassau, Bahamas • At Sea • 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 • Nassau, Bahamas • Lookout Cay • At Sea
Disney Fantasy
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 • Lookout Cay • At Sea
5-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • At Sea • Lookout Cay • At Sea • Castaway Cay
5-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • Nassau, Bahamas • Lookout Cay • At Sea • Castaway Cay
5-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • Nassau, Bahamas • Lookout Cay • Castaway Cay • At Sea
5-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • At Sea • Nassau, Bahamas • Lookout Cay • Castaway Cay
5-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • Nassau, Bahamas • Castaway Cay • Lookout Cay • At Sea
Disney Treasure
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.
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 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 • Nassau, Bahamas • Lookout Cay • At Sea
4-Night Bahamian Cruise from Fort Lauderdale Fort Lauderdale, Florida • Nassau, Bahamas • At Sea • Castaway Cay
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 • Nassau, Bahamas • At Sea • Castaway Cay • At Sea
Disney Fantasy
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 • At Sea • Nassau, Bahamas • Castaway Cay
5-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • At Sea • Lookout Cay • Nassau, Bahamas • At Sea
5-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • Nassau, Bahamas • Lookout Cay • Castaway Cay • At Sea
5-Night Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral Port Canaveral, Florida • Castaway Cay • Lookout Cay • Nassau, Bahamas • At Sea
Disney Magic
4-Night Baja Cruise from San Diego San Diego, California • Catalina Island, California • Ensenada, Mexico • At Sea
4-Night Baja Cruise from San Diego San Diego, California • Ensenada, Mexico • At Sea • At Sea
4-Night Pacific Coast Cruise from San Diego to Vancouver San Diego, California • At Sea • At Sea • At Sea
4-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Galveston Galveston, Texas • At Sea • Progreso, Mexico • At Sea
5-Night Western Caribbean Cruise from Galveston Galveston, Texas • At Sea • Cozumel, Mexico • Progreso, Mexico • At Sea
Disney Treasure
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 • Castaway Cay
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 • At Sea • Catalina Island, California • Ensenada, Mexico
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.
Last but certainly not least, I wanted to invite you to consider joining us on an upcoming DCL Blog Group Cruise! Next August 2026, we are heading to Fort Lauderdale to sail to the Western Caribbean on the all new Disney Destiny. Click here to learn more out this group opportunity and check out our daily trip reports from our most recent group sailing to Alaskan on the Disney Wonder. We look forward to seeing you aboard.
Authorities in the United States have launched an investigation following the death of a passenger onboard Carnival Horizon during its latest Caribbean sailing.
When the ship returned to PortMiami on Saturday, 8th November 2025, agents from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) boarded the vessel to begin enquiries into the incident.
In a statement shared with US media, Carnival Cruise Line confirmed it is cooperating fully with the investigation.
“Our focus is on supporting the family of our guest and cooperating with the FBI,” the cruise line said.
No details have been released about the passenger’s identity, age, or cause of death, and investigators have not confirmed whether the death is being treated as suspicious.
One guest onboard the ship reported conflicting rumours circulating amongst guests that it was either a murder or an overdose, but these are only rumours so far and so should not be treated as fact until any further confirmation follows.
FBI and Cruise Line Investigating
According to a brief statement from the FBI’s Miami office, agents “responded to the scene” when the ship docked. “Because this is an ongoing matter, no further information is available at this time,” the spokesperson added.
Passengers onboard the 6-night cruise – which sailed from Miami on 2nd November and visited Ocho Rios, Grand Cayman, and Cozumel – reported a medical emergency announcement on the final day of the voyage. However, it has not been confirmed whether that was linked to the death.
Some guests staying on Deck 8 said they received letters advising them to vacate their cabins early on disembarkation day to allow investigators to access the area.
“Authorities will be joining the ship first thing upon arrival to complete an investigation and will be in the area of your hallway,” the notice reportedly stated. “It could be noisy and disruptive, so we kindly ask that you be out of your stateroom by 7:00 a.m.”
Those guests were offered breakfast before being escorted off the ship first.
A Miami-Dade County Medical Examiner’s van was also seen at the port after the ship arrived, suggesting local officials have taken possession of the body.
Cruise Schedule Unaffected
Despite the investigation, there was no significant delay to Carnival Horizon’s turnaround in Miami. The ship did leave a little later than planned, with the FBI apparently onboard until 5 pm.
But the ship has already departed on her next voyage – an 8-night Southern Caribbean itinerary visiting the so-called “ABC islands” of Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao.
Carnival Horizon, a Vista-class vessel launched in 2018, carries up to 3,960 guests at double occupancy (and nearly 5,000 at full capacity) with a crew of about 1,400.
Standard Protocol for Deaths at Sea
Deaths at sea are uncommon but not unprecedented, and cruise ships are required by maritime law to have medical facilities and secure morgues onboard.
When a death occurs, local and federal authorities become involved once the ship reaches port, particularly if the voyage began or ended in the United States.
In such cases, the FBI investigates any incidents involving possible foul play or suspicious circumstances, while natural or accidental deaths are typically referred to local medical examiners.
Carnival Cruise Line has not released further comment while the investigation remains open.
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Guests sailing aboard Norwegian Epic have received an unexpected and worrying health alert: they may have been exposed to Legionnaires’ disease.
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) issued the warning on Tuesday to passengers currently sailing on the 12-night Mediterranean voyage from Rome to Lisbon, as well as to those who recently disembarked the same ship.
The cruise line confirmed that two former guests who had travelled on Norwegian Epic were later diagnosed with Legionnaires’ disease – a severe form of pneumonia caused by Legionella bacteria.
At this stage, it is unclear whether the infections originated onboard or elsewhere, but the cruise line is cooperating with the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which has opened an investigation.
Health Warning Issued Mid-Voyage
The alert, sent to roughly 4,100 passengers mid-cruise, advised guests to monitor for symptoms such as fever, cough, muscle aches, headache and shortness of breath – typical indicators of Legionnaires’ disease.
“On the rare occasion that any past guests receive such a diagnosis, we work with the CDC to support their investigation efforts as part of their standard operating procedures,” NCL said in its letter to guests.
Travellers were urged to contact the ship’s medical team immediately if they developed any symptoms while onboard.
Those who had already disembarked were advised to seek medical attention if symptoms appear within 14 days of their cruise, and to show the alert letter to their doctor to ensure testing for Legionnaires’ disease and prompt antibiotic treatment if needed.
What Is Legionnaires’ Disease?
The illness, first identified in 1976 following an outbreak at an American Legion convention in Pennsylvania, spreads through inhalation of contaminated water droplets – often from hot tubs, showers, air-conditioning systems, or decorative fountains.
According to the CDC, symptoms generally appear two to 14 days after exposure. While most people recover with antibiotics, the disease can be life-threatening for those with weakened immune systems, smokers or the elderly.
Past Cruise Incidents and Industry Response
This is not the first time Norwegian Cruise Line has faced such a situation. In February 2023, the company sent a similar notice to Norwegian Prima passengers after two guests who sailed in late 2022 were diagnosed post-cruise. No source of exposure was ever confirmed.
Other cruise operators have also experienced comparable cases. Earlier this year, Royal Caribbean International warned Symphony of the Seas guests after one former passenger contracted Legionnaires’ disease. The investigation, likewise, did not establish a definitive link to the ship’s water systems.
Cruise lines are required to maintain rigorous sanitation and water-quality protocols, including regular testing and treatment of spas, pools and potable water systems to mitigate such risks.
Norwegian Epic Continues Its Voyage
Despite the warning, Norwegian Epic continues its itinerary through the Mediterranean, with enhanced monitoring and sanitation measures reportedly in place.
The 155,873-gross-ton ship, which accommodates more than 4,000 guests, entered service in 2010 and is one of the largest vessels in NCL’s fleet.
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Our Ambassador Cruise Line review in short: Ambassador is a traditional, mid-sized, mostly adults-only British line. Its biggest strengths are no-fly cruises from regional UK ports, friendly service and low fares. The trade-offs are older ships, fairly simple cabins and a plain choice of entertainment. Passengers who want a relaxed, classic cruise close to home usually rate it well. Passengers who expect a modern mega-ship are more often disappointed.
This Ambassador Cruise Line review brings together the line’s own information, its published prices and the patterns in thousands of passenger reviews. It covers the fleet as it stands in November 2026, ports, cabins, food, drinks, entertainment, real onboard costs, and who Ambassador does and doesn’t suit.
Ambassador Cruise Line review: at a glance
Ambassador launched in 2021 and is owned by investment firm Njord Partners. In January 2025 it merged with France’s Compagnie Française de Croisières (CFC) to form the Ambassador Group. The UK brand keeps a clear identity: it sells unhurried, good-value cruises to an older British market, and most of them sail straight from home.
Feature
What to expect
Style
Traditional British cruising, smart-casual evenings, optional formal nights
Typical guest
Over-50s, couples, solo travellers, groups of friends
Age policy
18+ on almost all sailings (a few named multi-generational cruises)
UK ships
Ambience (about 1,400 guests) and Ambition (about 1,200 guests)
About £7 per person per night, added automatically (check current rate)
Drinks
Pay as you go, or packages from about £21 (non-alcoholic) to £56 per night
Deal of the week · ends Tuesday 17 November
Christmas & New Year in Spain and Portugal: 10% off with Ambassador
Spend the festive season on Ambassador's Ambition, sailing 15 nights round trip from London Tilbury on 21 December 2026. You'll be in Gijón on Christmas Eve and Gibraltar on New Year's Eve, with Lisbon, Portimão, Cádiz, Málaga, Cartagena and Vigo in between, and you're home on 5 January.
Use code COTW10 for 10% off every cabin grade, plus up to £400 onboard credit. Ocean View fares were from £1,699 per person before the discount when we checked. Valid on new bookings until 23:59 on Tuesday 17 November.
Fares are per person, two sharing, and can change. The code can't be combined with other promotions. We may earn a commission if you book through our link, at no extra cost to you.
The Ambassador fleet in 2026
Ambience
Ambience was built in 1991 and is about 70,000 gross tons, so she marked 35 years at sea in 2026. She sailed for P&O Cruises Australia before joining Ambassador in 2022. She carries up to about 1,400 guests in roughly 800 cabins over 20 categories. That includes 89 solo cabins, which is a high number for a ship this size. Public rooms carry British names: the Buckingham Restaurant, the Palladium theatre, the Purple Turtle pub and Brontë’s Library.
Ambition
Ambition was built in 1999 and is about 48,000 gross tons. She sailed for several other lines, most recently AIDA, before joining Ambassador in 2023. She carries up to about 1,200 guests in 680 cabins. There are more balconies and suites than on Ambience (125 balcony cabins and over 100 suites), but standard cabins are smaller on average.
Renaissance
Renaissance is the former Holland America Maasdam, built in 1993. She came into the group through the CFC merger and mainly serves the French market under the Ambassador Croisières name. UK passengers meet her on Ambassador’s winter Caribbean fly-cruises. From 29 October 2026 to 1 April 2027 she is based in Bridgetown, Barbados, and UK guests fly out on Virgin Atlantic-operated charters from Heathrow and Manchester. She also serves French-speaking guests, so check what the onboard language and announcements will be before you book.
Ambella, the ex-Oceania Sirena
In September 2026 Ambassador announced it had bought Oceania Cruises’ Sirena, a small ship of about 30,000 tons and around 670 guests from the former Renaissance Cruises R-class. She will be leased back to Oceania until spring 2028. She then becomes Ambella and launches a new German brand, Ambassador Kreuzfahrten, with adults-only summer sailings from Bremerhaven and Kiel from May 2028. In winter she is chartered to Semester at Sea. She is not aimed at UK passengers for now, but she shows the group is growing.
Sailing straight from a regional UK port is the main reason many passengers choose Ambassador. Photo: Wolfgang Weiser on Pexels
Departure ports and embarkation
The main selling point of Ambassador cruises is avoiding a long drive to Southampton or a flight. Ambience and Ambition sail from seven regional UK ports:
London Tilbury: the busiest base, used all year
Bristol (Avonmouth/Royal Portbury)
Portsmouth
Newcastle (Port of Tyne)
Dundee
Belfast
Liverpool
Some itineraries also use ports such as Edinburgh and Falmouth. Most reviews describe embarkation as quick and calm, which you’d expect with smaller ships and terminals. The complaints that do come up are about parking at certain ports and slow disembarkation at Tilbury on busy turnaround days. Book port parking early and check your terminal’s arrival-time slots.
Cabins: simple, comfortable, and good for solo travellers
Expect classic, compact cabins rather than designer rooms. Average sizes are about 17–18 m² on Ambience and 15–16 m² on Ambition. Reviews often call the cabins clean, quiet and well stocked with storage, but some are visibly dated. Worn fittings and the odd air-conditioning problem appear regularly in lower-scoring reviews.
Solo cabins: Ambience has 89 dedicated solo cabins, which makes Ambassador one of the better choices for solo cruisers from the UK.
Balconies: limited on Ambience (66 cabins), more plentiful on Ambition.
Accessible cabins: each UK ship has 13 wheelchair-accessible cabins. Book these early.
Tip: on older ships, cabins near the stern or over the theatre can be noisier. Check the deck plan before choosing a guaranteed fare.
Food and dining
The main dining room (the Buckingham, plus the Holyrood on Ambition) is included and runs traditional two-sitting dinners, with open seating at breakfast and lunch. The Borough Market buffet and the poolside Alfresco Grill are also included. Food and service in the main dining room get some of the best comments in Ambassador cruises reviews, and passengers with coeliac disease or allergies often single out the line’s care with dietary needs.
The buffet is the weak spot. Several reviewers say it gets crowded at peak times, with limited seating and limited hours. If you prefer a calmer breakfast, the main dining room is usually the better choice.
Venue
Ship
Cost (from, per person)
Buckingham / Holyrood main dining
Both
Included
Borough Market buffet, Alfresco Grill
Both
Included
Saffron (Indian and Asian)
Both
About £16.95
Lupino’s (Mediterranean)
Ambition
About £14.95
Sea & Grass (fine dining)
Ambience
About £27.95
Chef’s Table (nine courses with wine)
Both
About £89
Speciality restaurants are booked at reception once you’re on board. Prices can change, so treat the figures above as a guide.
Drinks packages and the real cost of an Ambassador cruise
Ambassador isn’t all-inclusive. For the 2026-27 season it sells three main packages, priced per person per night on cruises of five nights or more:
Package
Pre-cruise
Onboard
Covers
Premium
£49.95
£55.95
Premium spirits and wines, cocktails, speciality coffees, soft drinks
Classic
£42.95
£47.95
House wines and spirits, selected beers, house cocktails, soft drinks
Non-alcoholic
£20.95
£22.95
Soft drinks, juices, mocktails
Gratuities are included in package prices. Everyone in the cabin must buy the same package, and drinks are served one at a time by the glass. Prices are a little lower on cruises of 30 nights or more. For a full breakdown and a break-even calculator, see our Ambassador drinks packages guide.
A quick reality check on cost: headline fares are often low, so it’s worth adding up extras before comparing lines. Two people on a 7-night cruise who don’t buy a package pay about £98 in gratuities (£7 × 2 × 7). The same couple on the Classic package pay about £601 pre-booked, with gratuities included. A low fare plus a package can still beat a more inclusive rival, but not always. Do the sums for your own drinking habits.
Evening entertainment on Ambassador ships centres on the theatre, live music and quizzes. Photo: Ann Hannes on Pexels
Entertainment, atmosphere and service
Entertainment is traditional and low-key: production shows and visiting acts in the Palladium theatre, live bands, tribute nights, quizzes, bingo, dancing, craft workshops, guest speakers and a casino. There are no water slides, go-karts or Broadway-scale shows. Ambassador also runs themed sailings, such as music-decade cruises.
With mostly adults on board, sea days are generally quiet and sociable. Service is the most consistently praised part of the product. Reviewers repeatedly call the crew warm and attentive. Lower scores tend to focus on the hardware (ship age, maintenance, buffet crowding) rather than the people.
Itineraries
From the UK, expect a mix of:
Short breaks of 2–5 nights to Belgium, the Netherlands and France, including festive Christmas market cruises.
Norwegian fjords and Iceland, often from Newcastle, Dundee or Tilbury.
British Isles and Ireland round-Britain itineraries.
Winter sun to the Canary Islands, Iberia and the Mediterranean, plus longer voyages and a world cruise.
Caribbean fly-cruises on Renaissance from Barbados, with stops such as Antigua, St Lucia, Curaçao, Bonaire and Dominica.
Pros and cons of Ambassador Cruise Line
Pros
Cons
No-fly sailings from seven regional UK ports
Older ships, with visible wear in some cabins and public areas
Almost entirely adults-only
Buffet can be crowded with limited seating at peak times
Friendly, well-reviewed crew
Fewer facilities and less entertainment than big modern ships
Strong range of solo cabins on Ambience
Not all-inclusive; gratuities and drinks add to the fare
Main dining room and dietary care get good reviews
Fewer balcony cabins on Ambience
Competitive fares, especially in sales
Mixed reports on disembarkation and parking at some ports
Who Ambassador suits, and who it doesn’t
Good fit: over-50s and retirees who prefer a classic style (see our pick of the best cruises for over 50s). It also suits solo travellers, people who don’t want to fly, anyone living far from Southampton, and couples who want a quieter, child-free ship.
Probably not for you: families with children outside the few multi-generational dates, anyone who wants modern ships with lots of balconies, people who need plenty of nightlife or big-ticket attractions, and travellers who want everything included in the fare. If you’re weighing it against Britain’s biggest line, our P&O Cruises vs Ambassador comparison sets the two side by side.
Is Ambassador good value? Price guidance
Ambassador generally prices itself below the bigger British brands, and it runs frequent sales, sometimes with discounted drinks packages or included gratuities. Fares change a lot with date, cabin grade and how far ahead you book, so it’s not useful to quote a single figure. Compare the per-night price after adding gratuities and drinks, look at solo fares if you’re travelling alone before you book. Always confirm the current offer and terms on the official Ambassador website or with your travel agent.
Ambassador Cruise Line review: the verdict
Ambassador does the basics well: friendly crew, decent food, easy departures from close to home, and a calm, adults-focused atmosphere. Its ships are old and it doesn’t hide that, so the experience suits passengers who value convenience and atmosphere over the newest features. Go in with that expectation, budget for the extras, and it’s a sensible, good-value choice for UK cruising.
For the right passenger, yes. Ambassador gets consistent praise for friendly crew, convenient no-fly departures from regional UK ports and good value. The most common criticisms are the age of the ships, cabin wear and tear, and busy buffets at peak times. Average review scores sit in the mid-3s to high-3s out of 5 on the big review sites at the time of writing.
Is Ambassador Cruise Line adults only?
Mostly. Ambassador sailings are for guests aged 18 and over, apart from a small number of named multi-generational cruises in school holidays. The line has said its 2027-28 no-fly programme from the UK will be entirely child-free. Check the booking page for your sailing to be sure.
How many passengers does Ambassador Ambience carry?
Ambience carries up to about 1,400 guests and has around 800 cabins, 89 of them solo cabins. Ambition is a little smaller, with up to about 1,200 guests and 680 cabins.
Are gratuities included on Ambassador cruises?
Not in the basic fare. At the time of writing, gratuities are added automatically at about £7 per person per night (£6 on cruises over 15 nights), and you can adjust them at Guest Services. Gratuities are included if you buy a drinks package.
What ships does Ambassador Cruise Line have?
For UK no-fly cruises, Ambassador uses Ambience and Ambition. Renaissance, a former Holland America ship, sails for the group’s French brand and runs the winter Caribbean fly-cruises from Barbados. A fourth ship, the ex-Oceania Sirena, will become Ambella and sail for a new German brand from 2028.
Cunard Line is one of the world’s most iconic cruise lines – a name that’s become synonymous with elegance, heritage, and that unmistakable sense of old-world charm.
Loved by those who appreciate a more traditional style of cruising, Cunard’s fleet of famous “Queens” continues to set the standard for refined travel at sea.
But which ship stands above the rest?
I’ve compared real guest reviews to see how each of the Queens ranks – and whether there’s a clear favourite or if all three deliver that timeless Cunard experience equally well. Let’s find out.
How I Gathered the Data
Before we dive in, I wanted to clarify how I put this list together.
I’ve not (yet) had the pleasure of sailing on all the Cunard ships, so using my own personal opinion would be biased. Instead, I’ve used genuine reviews for the ships from those who have sailed.
I gathered the data from three of the biggest independent review sites – Cruiseline.com, Cruise Critic, and TripAdvisor. Those sites are big enough that they aren’t skewed by one or two reviews – the averages are fair.
I’ve then calculated the average review score across all three sites and come up with the ranking order. I’ll be honest, the scores are pretty tight.
Also, the worst average score on this list is 3.46 out of 5. That’s not a bad average. So even the ‘worst’ ship on this list is still a good ship.
Now with all that context, let’s get into it.
The Best Cunard Ship
According to customer reviews, the best Cunard ship is Queen Mary 2, although Queen Victoria is only marginally behind her.
The largest ship in the fleet, Queen Mary 2, is classed as an ocean liner unlike her sisters, and offers classic transatlantic sailings from Southampton to New York.
The Best Cunard Ships by Reviews
1. Queen Victoria
Cunard’s Queen Victoria takes the top spot, earning the highest average review score of 3.85 out of 5. She’s slightly smaller than Queen Mary 2 and Queen Elizabeth, but what she lacks in size, she more than makes up for in charm and atmosphere.
Guests consistently praise her elegant design, impeccable service, and that distinct Cunard sense of tradition that makes every sailing feel special. The décor – rich woods, sweeping staircases, and grand lounges – evokes the golden age of ocean travel while still feeling comfortable and refined.
Despite her slightly smaller scale, Queen Victoria still impresses with three swimming pools, a ballroom, a theatre, seven restaurants, and 13 bars and lounges.
Some reviews do mention compact cabins and tight shower spaces, but overall, Queen Victoria remains the best-rated Cunard ship for offering that classic cruise experience done right.
2. Queen Mary 2
Once the highest-rated ship in the fleet, Queen Mary 2 now takes second place – but she still captures the hearts of those who love the elegance and grandeur of a true ocean liner.
As Cunard’s flagship, she was purpose-built for transatlantic crossings, slicing through the Atlantic with a top speed of just over 30 knots and a cruising speed of 26 knots – several knots faster than most cruise ships. During the winter months, she switches to warmer itineraries such as Caribbean sailings, offering guests a change of pace without losing her refined atmosphere.
She’s also the largest ship in the Cunard fleet, yet carries only around 2,695 guests, giving her a wonderfully spacious feel. Unlike modern mega-ships, Queen Mary 2 was designed to provide open lounges, sweeping decks, and a sense of calm – never crowds.
One of her most unique features is the onboard kennel, making her the only ship at sea where passengers can travel with their dogs and cats – a charming nod to her transatlantic heritage.
Reviews highlight the classic ambience, impeccable food, and that unmistakable sense of history you feel the moment you step aboard.
A few long-time fans mention that standards have slipped slightly in recent years and staffing can feel stretched at times, but overall Queen Mary 2 remains a truly iconic way to cross the Atlantic in style.
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3. Queen Elizabeth
Queen Elizabeth comes in third, with an average review score of 3.73 out of 5. She shares a near-identical layout with her sister ship Queen Victoria, though she launched three years later and feels just a touch more modern as a result.
Slightly larger thanks to her steeper stern, Queen Elizabeth can accommodate around 40 more guests. Her décor sets her apart – a beautiful Art Deco design inspired by the original Queen Elizabeth ocean liner of the 1930s, giving her interiors a timeless, glamorous feel.
In terms of onboard features, there’s little difference between her and Queen Victoria. The Winter Garden on Victoria becomes the Garden Lounge on Elizabeth, with a static glass roof instead of a retractable one, and Elizabeth includes a Britannia Club section in the main restaurant – ideal for guests who prefer private dining.
Negative reviews are relatively mild, often coming from loyal Cunard fans who feel some of the classic touches have faded over the years. A few mention that the service can feel stretched in busy areas, but overall, Queen Elizabeth remains a favourite for those who appreciate her elegant style and relaxed atmosphere.
4. Queen Anne
Photo credit: Cunard
The newest addition to the Cunard fleet, Queen Anne, officially joined the lineup in May 2024, marking a bold new chapter for the cruise line. She combines Cunard’s signature elegance with a more modern, contemporary design, appealing to both long-time fans and a new generation of cruisers.
Sailing primarily around Northern Europe and the Mediterranean, Queen Anne introduces fresh features like innovative dining concepts, stylish pool deck areas, and the Bright Lights Society, a glamorous entertainment venue unique to this ship.
Photo credit: Cunard
While her design and facilities have been praised, early reviews have been mixed, earning her an average score of 3.46 out of 5 – placing her fourth in the fleet. Guests love the ship’s look and feel, but some note that service and organisation still have room to improve, which is common for a new launch as operations settle in.
There’s no doubt that Queen Anne represents the future of Cunard, and as more guests sail on her, it’ll be interesting to see whether she rises up the rankings in the months ahead.
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The Scores
The table below shows the review scores for each ship and their overall average.
Ship
Cruiseline.com Score
Cruisecritic.com Score
Trip Advisor Score
Overall Average Score
Queen Victoria
4.2
3.9
3.5
3.86
Queen Mary 2
4.2
3.7
3.5
3.80
Queen Elizabeth
4.0
3.7
3.5
3.73
Queen Anne
4.3
3.1
3.0
3.46
The Bottom Line
Unlike some of my other ship rankings, there isn’t a huge gap between Cunard’s fleet – each ship delivers that unmistakable blend of elegance, tradition, and British charm that the line is known for.
Queen Mary 2 still stands out for her unique ocean liner design, while Queen Elizabeth and Queen Victoria offer a slightly softer, more modern take on the classic experience – and now Queen Anne brings a fresh, contemporary twist to the family.
But what do you think? Do you agree with the rankings, or do you have your own favourite among Cunard’s Queens?
As the festive season draws near, ports around the world sparkle with lights, music, and cheer – each one offering its own magical twist on Christmas at sea.
From the festive markets of Copenhagen to the dazzling displays of New York City and the joyful traditions of Barcelona, these ports capture the spirit of the season in unforgettable ways.
So, grab your passport and a cup of hot cocoa – it’s time to explore the world’s most festive cruise ports to visit at Christmas.
1. Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona shines as a unique and vibrant destination for festive cruises in December. This Catalonian capital, steeped in rich traditions and cultural festivities, transforms into a festive wonderland during the Christmas season.
One of the city’s most beloved customs is the Caga Tió, a whimsical Christmas log that children ‘feed’ in the days leading up to Christmas, eagerly anticipating the gifts it will ‘produce’ on Christmas Eve.
Barcelona is renowned for its elaborate Nativity scenes, known as “Pessebres,” which are intricately designed and displayed throughout the city, reflecting the deep religious heritage and artistic flair of the region.
A centrepiece of Barcelona’s Christmas celebration is the Fira de Santa Llúcia, a bustling outdoor market dating back to 1786. Located in front of the stunning Barcelona Cathedral, this market is a hub of festive activity, offering everything from handcrafted gifts and decorations to typical Catalonian holiday treats.
In December, several cruise lines, such as MSC Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, P&O Cruises and Norwegian Cruise Line, include Barcelona in their itineraries. As this is a major departure port, you may wish to spend a few days staying in a Barcelona hotel and exploring the city either before or after your cruise.
2. New York City, USA
New York City is an iconic destination for festive cruises in December. Known worldwide for its extravagant holiday displays and celebrations, NYC transforms into a dazzling winter spectacle during the Christmas season. The city’s festive spirit is infectious, with its streets and landmarks adorned with spectacular lights and decorations.
A central feature of New York’s Christmas celebration is the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, an iconic symbol of the holiday season in the city. This towering tree, brilliantly lit and decorated, draws visitors from around the world, serving as a backdrop for countless holiday memories.
The window displays of stores like Macy’s and Saks Fifth Avenue are a visual delight, each telling a unique holiday story through intricate designs and animations. The city also hosts a variety of festive shows, including the renowned Radio City Christmas Spectacular, adding to the rich cultural experience of the holiday season in New York.
Several cruise lines, such as Cunard, Royal Caribbean, MSC Cruises and Norwegian Cruise Line, feature New York City in their December itineraries.
3. Vienna, Austria
Vienna, known for its imperial architecture, gets a festive makeover during the Christmas season. The city hosts several Christmas markets, with the Christkindlmarkt at Rathausplatz being particularly magical.
Vienna comes alive with the sound of classic Christmas music, adding to the city’s enchanting charm. Visitors can enjoy traditional Austrian Christmas treats and crafts.
Many river cruise lines like Uniworld, Riviera Travel and Avalon Waterways offer Danube river cruises that stop in Vienna during December.
4. Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen captures the essence of ‘hygge’, the Danish concept of cosiness, especially during Christmas.
The Tivoli Gardens are transformed into a dazzling Christmas fair, adorned with festive lights, decorations, and markets. This blend of cosy Danish traditions and a festive atmosphere makes it a must-visit destination. December visitors can enjoy the quintessential Scandinavian Christmas experience.
Cruise lines such as P&O Cruises, Saga Cruises and Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines often include Copenhagen in their winter itineraries.
5. Nuremberg, Germany
Nuremberg is renowned for its Christkindlesmarkt, one of the world’s oldest and most famous Christmas markets. During December, this German city transforms into a magical winter wonderland, filled with festive cheer.
The market is celebrated for its unique handmade ornaments, traditional gingerbread, and the presence of the Christkind, a symbolic figure of Christmas. Visitors can immerse themselves in the festive atmosphere, sampling traditional foods and browsing through a plethora of Christmas crafts.
Major river cruise lines that visit Nuremberg in December include Viking River Cruises and AmaWaterways, offering itineraries that focus on Christmas markets along the Danube.
6. Bruges, Belgium
Bruges in December is a fairy-tale-like setting, perfect for those seeking a traditional European Christmas experience. The city’s medieval architecture, including its belfry and cobbled streets, provides a picturesque backdrop for its Christmas market. Located in the main square, the market offers a range of festive goods, from Belgian chocolates to handcrafted gifts.
The scent of Belgian waffles and hot chocolate permeates the air, adding to the market’s cosy atmosphere. Ice-skating rinks add to the festive fun, offering a delightful activity for visitors of all ages. The city’s canals and historical buildings are also lit up with Christmas lights, enhancing the magical ambience.
Bruges is a popular stop on cruises during the Christmas season. Cruise lines such as P&O Cruises, MSC Cruises, Cunard and Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines include Bruges in their itineraries.
7. Strasbourg, France
Strasbourg, often referred to as the ‘Capital of Christmas’, hosts Christkindelsmärik, the oldest Christmas market in France. This market is a focal point of the city’s festive celebrations, blending French and German Christmas traditions in a unique way. The city’s half-timbered houses and historic buildings are beautifully decorated, creating a storybook Christmas setting.
The market features an array of stalls selling traditional Alsatian Christmas items, including handmade decorations, local crafts, and seasonal treats like bredele cookies and vin chaud (mulled wine). The city’s streets are adorned with festive lights and decorations, adding to the magical atmosphere.
Beyond the markets, Strasbourg is rich in culture, with museums, galleries, and live performances. Visitors can also enjoy traditional Alsatian cuisine in the city’s many restaurants and bistros.
River cruises are a popular way to visit Strasbourg during the Christmas season. Cruise lines like Avalon Waterways and AmaWaterways offer itineraries that include Strasbourg, giving travellers the opportunity to experience its renowned Christmas market and festive atmosphere.
My Recommendation
A Christmas cruise is a fantastic holiday. We took a cruise last Christmas and had a wonderful time. Check out my Guide To Cruising At Christmas for more info about the experience.
Cruising over Christmas can be expensive though. So if your budget doesn’t stretch to it, then cruising earlier in December is a great way to experience the festive atmosphere at sea without blowing your holiday budget for the whole year.
Black Friday is the biggest shopping day of the year – but does that apply to cruises too?
Well, every November, cruise lines roll out flashy “can’t-miss” offers that promise huge savings and free perks. But are they really as good as they look?
Before I became a full-time cruise blogger, I spent five years working in the marketing department at Cruise118, part of World Travel Holdings – the world’s largest retailer of cruises.
I saw exactly how these deals are created, so I know what’s genuine and what’s just clever marketing. Plus, I hand-source cruise deals every week, spending hours looking over the promotions.
So, should you actually book your next cruise on Black Friday… or wait for a better deal? Let’s find out.
The Truth About Black Friday In The Cruise Industry
Here’s the truth – there are always cruises with cabins that are hard to sell.
While the family cabins on the newest ships are selling out over a year in advance, there will always be be plenty of obstructed, oceanview cabins on older ships during the off-season that are tricky to fill.
So, cruise lines use traditional sale periods like Black Friday, Cyber Monday and the January Sales to drop the prices on anything that might otherwise go unsold.
But… if that’s all they did, you’d notice, wouldn’t you? You’d be like: “Hmmm, why can I not find any August sailings on the Black Friday page?”
So what you’ll see, is sitewide offers like “Up to 75% Off The Second Guest” or “Save Up To £600 Per Cabin”.
Yes, those offers will apply to certain cruises. But they won’t apply to all of them.
That means that sometimes, if you book during the Black Friday Sales, you’ll get a great deal. But sometimes, you’ll pay exactly the same as you would have done in October.
The trick is knowing which is which – and that’s where a little insider knowledge helps.
What You Can Actually Save
Let’s be honest – cruise prices don’t usually fall off a cliff on Black Friday. You’re unlikely to find half-price cruises, but you can grab some great value if you know where to look.
Most cruise lines offer around 10–30% off, and they may also add bonuses like free drinks, onboard credit, WiFi or kids sail free.
Sometimes, those perks are worth more than a straight discount – especially if you’d have paid for them anyway.
For example, Royal Caribbean often runs “up to 30% off” plus a second offer like up to £250 off. Last year, Holland America Line offered savings of up to £800 per cabin, plus free upgrades. Princess Cruises offered discounts of up to £500 per cabin, plus free onboard spending money.
It’s important to note the phrase ‘up to’. If It says up to £800 per cabin, you can bet that you’ll probably need to book the top suite to save that much. The saving on an inside cabin will be much, much lower.
The best way to tell if you’re getting a true saving is to check the historical cruise prices before you book. If they haven’t changed much, then you’ll know it’s not actually a bargain. Unless, of course, you’re getting extra value added, like free onboard credit.
How To See Historical Cruise Prices
My favourite way to see cruise prices over the past 90 days is with Cruise Critic.
It’s easy. Just search for the cruise that you’re interested in, then scroll down to the Price Insight section.
Choose your cabin type and it will show what the price was price every day for the past 90 days, like this…
It will also tell you whether the price you see today is low, high, or typical, based on historical prices for the cruise. Like this…
When Black Friday Cruise Deals Are Worth It
Black Friday (and a couple of weeks leading up to the actual day) can be a brilliant time to book – but only if you find a good deal.
Not every Black Friday deal is good, but some of them are unbeatable. You can find real value, especially when deals include extras and not just discounts.
A free drinks package or £300 onboard credit can be worth more than a fare discount, especially if you’d spend that money on board anyway.
Travel agents may give extra discounts on Black Friday too. That could be an extra 5% off on top of the cruise line’s price, or something like a free case of wine or a Christmas hamper.
So, even when you’ve found a cruise you like, it can be worth shopping around to make sure you’re getting it for the best price and not missing out on any free gifts.
Expert Tips for Getting the Best Cruise Deal
Want to make sure you don’t miss a genuine bargain? Here’s how to stay one step ahead of the crowd.
1. Sign up for Black Friday alerts from Cruise Mummy
I’ll be watching every cruise line’s sale closely and listing them all in one place.
I’ll also share my handpicked Black Friday cruise bargains straight to your inbox so you can book the best ones before they’re gone.
Pop your email in the form above and I’ll email you as soon as the deals are out.
2. Be ready to book fast
Black Friday isn’t just one day in the cruise world. Cruise lines start releasing offers from early November, so by the time Friday 28th November rolls around, many of the best cabins may be gone.
Do your research ahead of time so that you have an idea of when and where you want to go.
And if you need to get your annual leave approved, put that request in now so that you’re ready to book as soon as you spot a good deal.
3. Double check it’s a good deal
Remember, perks are only perks if you’ll actually use them. So while free WiFi and drinks may sound great, if you wouldn’t have bought them anyway it may not be such a good deal.
When you spot a deal, be sure to use the Cruise Critic Price Tracker to see what the price was before the sale started.
The Bottom Line
So, should you book a cruise on Black Friday?
Yes! I do it every year and have gotten some great deals. But, don’t assume that every cruise is cheaper, just because it’s Black Friday.
Some deals are genuinely fantastic, especially when they include free perks or extra onboard credit. Others are just clever marketing with prices that haven’t really changed. The key is to compare, stay alert, and move quickly when you spot a real bargain.
I’ll be tracking every cruise line’s offers and sharing the best of the best. So if you haven’t already, sign up for my Black Friday cruise deal alerts to get my handpicked recommendations as soon as they drop.
