
When it comes to planning a cruise vacation, here's one thing you must remember — not all cruise lines are the same. So, you should put a lot of thought into the cruise line you choose if you want to have the best experience. For example, some cruise lines are better maintained and offer higher quality customer service than others.
When choosing the best cruise line for you, it's important to consider your personality type and age. Yes, some cruise companies cater to people from specific demographics. This means that you'll have a not-so-pleasant experience as a millennial on a cruise line for seniors. Other factors to consider when choosing cruise lines include size, budget, favorite activities, destination, etc.
Unfortunately, picking the best cruise lines can be challenging as many options exist. That's why we've gone through the trouble of researching the major cruise lines and choosing the best ones for you. Our top picks will blow your mind.
Types of Cruise Lines

Cruisers typically have a make a choice out of these cruise lines:
- Mainstream Ocean Cruise Lines
These traditional cruise lines target almost everyone and draw the most cruisers. As such, mainstream ocean cruises typically have large ships and offer attractions for families, children, and teenagers.
Although they may include many extra charges, mainstream cruise lines are also budget-friendly. That's primarily because food and many other features are mass-produced and targeted.
- Premium Ocean Cruise Lines
Premium Ocean cruises are similar to mainstream ocean cruise lines except that they offer more quality. You'll enjoy better scenery, customer service, and designs with premium Ocean Cruise lines. Premium ocean cruise lines are also more spacious than mainstream cruises and carry fewer cruisers.
- Luxury Ocean Cruise Lines
As the name suggests, luxury Ocean Cruise lines give you the best of comfort and have everything upscaled. These cruise lines offer spacious suites, designer toiletries, and a complete package. In summary, luxury ocean cruises are the 5-star hotels of the cruise industry and will offer you the VIP experience.
- River Cruise Lines
River cruise ships are typically smaller than their ocean counterparts. As such, they also carry fewer passengers than ocean cruise ships. Also, river ships have a faster boarding process and generally cost higher than ocean cruise ships. River cruise lines are the best option for cruisers prone to seasickness and not big on entertainment.
- Speciality Cruise Lines
Specialty cruise lines focus primarily on a single location/theme and provide a wide range of facilities, schedules, and itineraries.
What are the Top 5 Cruise Lines?
These are our 5 best cruise lines to choose from:
- Royal Caribbean Cruise Line - Best for the Money
Royal Caribbean cruise line offers the best value for your money with competitive prices and amazing features. This cruise line is great for single passengers, seniors, and families. Additionally, you'll enjoy an abundance of onboard amenities for dining, entertainment, and relaxation when you choose Royal Caribbean.
- Disney Cruise Line - Best for Families
Disney Cruise Line is your best bet if you want your kids to have a swell time on a cruise vacation. This cruise line also offers amazing features for the entire family. Everything about Disney cruise lines appeals to parents and children, from the cabins to the activities and dining options. There are waterslides, deck parties, fireworks, and lots more to enjoy on a Disney cruise
- Viking Ocean Cruise Line - Best for Couples

Are you in the mood for a romantic getaway in a cozy atmosphere? Then, you'll adore everything the Viking Ocean Cruise line has to offer.
Viking ocean cruise line offers an intimate experience with small ships and a few passengers. You'll also get to enjoy quality time with your partner as the ship docks in numerous small ports.
- Seabourn Cruise Line - Best in Luxury
When it comes to class, exclusivity, and high-end experiences, the Seabourn cruise line takes the spotlight. Seabourn cruise line prides itself in delivering "all-inclusive ultra-luxury award-winning cruises" with a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. From complimentary caviars and champagnes to scented baths, exotic dishes, and impeccable services, you'll experience comfort as you've never had on Seabourn's ships.
- Azamara - Best Cruise Line in the Mediterranean
If you want to have the best experience of touring the Mediterranean, the Azamara cruise line is a great choice. While the tours will provide you with a closer look at local culture, Azamara's overnight stops will help you immerse yourself in new cultures. Azamara cruise line also offers amazing perks like spas, night shows, fitness classes, etc.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — our list of 5 best cruise ship lines to explore. Which of them will you prefer for your next vacation?