U.S. News Announces the 2024 Best Cruise Lines

Virgin Voyages: Best Value, Disney Cruise Line: Top For Families

WASHINGTON, Oct. 25, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- U.S. News & World Report, publisher of Best Hotels, Best Vacations and Best Travel Rewards Programs, just unveiled its 10th edition of the Best Cruise Lines rankings.

The 2024 rankings highlight 17 cruise lines that cater to every kind of traveler, helping them discover their ideal cruise. U.S. News ranks cruise lines in six categories: Best Cruise Lines for the Money, Best Cruise Lines for Families, Best Cruise Lines for Couples, Best Cruise Lines in the Caribbean, Best Cruise Lines in the Mediterranean and Best Luxury Cruise Lines.

Securing the No. 1 spot in the Best Cruise Lines for the Money ranking for its second consecutive year, Virgin Voyages delivers the best value among cruise lines. U.S. News considered the overall cruise line quality, average base fare per night and extra benefits, such as free gratuities, complimentary Wi-Fi access and all-inclusive package options. Celebrity Cruises, which provides an upscale experience at reasonable rates, is No. 2, and Princess Cruises, famous for its television appearance on the classic 1970s TV series, "The Love Boat," holds the No. 3 ranking.

Disney Cruise Line has been named the Best Cruise Line for Families for the 10th consecutive year. The family-focused cruise line features ships that host character meet-and-greets, themed dinners, nighttime fireworks and various activities tailored for children. Royal Caribbean International comes in at No. 2, thanks to its onboard amenities and wide array of dining options that cater to guests of all ages, while Carnival Cruise Line ranks No. 3, offering family-friendly features such as water parks, basketball courts and a wide range of activities. 

New for the 2024 edition: U.S. News tapped several cruise experts to share personal experiences and insider tips, included in the profile and ship reviews, to help travelers better understand what sets various cruise lines apart.

"This year has seen an enormous resurgence in the popularity of cruises,'' said Nicola Wood, senior travel editor at U.S. News. "After the unprecedented cruising shutdown during the peak of the pandemic, people are eager to sail the world's oceans and tour multiple destinations in a single trip. The Best Cruise Lines rankings provide a variety of cruise recommendations, making it easy for cruisers to choose the best options for them."

The 2024 rankings are accompanied by an editorial compilation of the top cruise lines making progress to become more sustainable for the environmentally conscious traveler, and the best new cruise ships for 2024 and beyond. Travelers can also discover the best gay cruises and top cruise lines for solo travelers. In addition, consumers can peruse helpful advice and find useful planning tips for their next cruise, including the essential cruise packing list, what to wear on a cruise and more.

The rankings are based on a comprehensive and transparent methodology that takes into account expert evaluations of ship quality, traveler ratings, health assessment results and other relevant factors. 

2024 Best Cruise Lines Rankings
See the full rankings here.

Best Cruise Lines for the Money

1. Virgin Voyages
2. Celebrity Cruises
3. Princess Cruises

Best Cruise Lines for Families

1. Disney Cruise Line
2. Royal Caribbean International
3. Carnival Cruise Line

Best Cruise Lines for Couples

1. Viking Ocean Cruises
2. Seabourn Cruise Line
3. Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Best Cruise Lines in the Caribbean

1. Disney Cruise Line
2. Celebrity Cruises
3. Virgin Voyages

Best Cruise Lines in the Mediterranean

1. Viking Ocean Cruises
2. Seabourn Cruise Line
3. Celebrity Cruises

Best Luxury Cruise Lines

1. Viking Ocean Cruises
2. Seabourn Cruise Line
3. Regent Seven Seas Cruises

For more information on the Best Cruise Lines, explore Facebook, X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram using #BestCruises.

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

SOURCE U.S. News & World Report, L.P.