David Cumberbatch
Virgin Voyages earns its first No. 1 ranking in the Best for the Money category
U.S. News & World Report, publisher of recently released its annual rankings of the Best Cruise Lines.
The 2023 rankings highlight 17 cruise lines to help every type of traveler find the cruise that’s right for them. For the first time, Virgin Voyages takes the No. 1 spot in the Best Cruise Lines for the Money ranking, offering the best value among cruise lines. U.S. News considered the overall cruise line quality and average base fare per night, as well as extra benefits such as free gratuities, Wi-Fi access and all-inclusive package options. Carnival Cruise Line, known for its budget-friendly fares and frequent sales, and Celebrity Cruises, which offers a more upscale experience at reasonable rates, rank No. 2 and No. 3, respectively.
For the ninth consecutive year, Disney Cruise Line is the Best Cruise Line for Families. The family-oriented line offers ships with character meet-and-greets, themed dinners, nighttime fireworks, waterslides and more. Royal Caribbean International comes in at No. 2, thanks to its onboard amenities that cater to guests of all ages, while Carnival Cruise Line ranks No. 3, offering family-friendly perks like water parks, basketball courts and ropes courses on its ships.
“After more than two years of sailing restrictions and limited voyage options due to the coronavirus pandemic, cruisers and cruise lines are excited to be on the seas again,” said Nicola Wood, senior travel editor at U.S. News. “The Best Cruise Lines rankings evaluate a variety of cruise types, making it easy for travelers to find the best options that fit their budgets, cruising styles and desired destinations.”
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. The rankings follow a comprehensive, transparent methodology that factors in expert evaluations of ship quality, traveler ratings, health assessment results and more.
This year’s rankings are accompanied by editorial roundups of the top gay cruises for 2023, the top cruise lines for solo travelers and the best cruise insurance; each piece aims to provide helpful advice and planning information to a wide community of cruisers. U.S. News also offers additional cruise tips and recommendations, such as what to pack on a cruise, the top river cruise lines, fun adults-only cruises and more.
2023 Best Cruise Lines Rankings
Best Cruise Lines for the Money
1. Virgin Voyages
2. Carnival Cruise Line
3. Celebrity 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. Azamara
Best Cruise Lines in the Caribbean
1. Disney Cruise Line
2. Virgin Voyages
3. Celebrity Cruises
Best Cruise Lines in the Mediterranean
1. Viking Ocean Cruises
2. Seabourn Cruise Line
3. Azamara
Best Luxury Cruise Lines
1. Viking Ocean Cruises
2. Seabourn Cruise Line
3. Regent Seven Seas Cruises
