Congrautions on deciding to take a cruise! Regardless of whether your journey takes you to The Bahamas, Europe, Alaska, or beyond, you're sure to enjoy life at sea.
Before getting onboard (literally), you must select which cruise line best suits your needs and preferences. There are over 50 ocean and river cruise lines to choose from, each offering their own unique experiences. No two are like, either.
If you want a ship jam-packed with recreational activities, entertainment, and dining options, you likely won't enjoy the low-key environment of a luxury cruise line. Likewise, those seeking an experience that's more destination-focused with an emphasis on world-class dining might find splurging on a line like Regent or Oceania worth it.
Some cruise lines operate mega cruise ships with everything from surf simulators to rope courses and roller coasters on the top deck. Others offer intimate expedition voyages to remote and exotic locations like Antarctica. There are even a few cruise lines that feel like luxurious floating boutique hotels that provide an all-inclusive vacation experience.
Lucky for you, surveys continually show that first-time cruisers are highly satisfied with their vacation choice. In fact, the majority of first-time cruisers state they would cruise again, so the odds are in your favor that you’ll love your first cruise and want to set sail over and over again.
Cruising is also becoming increasingly more popular as a vacation choice, especially among millennials who see the convenience and value of traveling on a cruise ship. Gone are the days when cruising was just for older travelers playing shuffleboard on the top deck, and the newest, techiest cruise ships confirm that.
Before booking your first cruise, you’ll need to do some research to understand which cruise line fits your travel needs. Not only are amenities important, but cruise lines range in price. Some, like Carnival and MSC, tend to be pretty affordable. Others, however, can cost thousands upon thousands of dollars.
There's a cruise line for everyone, and in this guide, we'll help you pick the perfect cruise line to ensure you have a memorable experience that leaves you planning your next cruise before disembarking!
Cruise Line Overview: The Big 9
9 cruise lines essentially dominate the cruise industry, which we will refer to as "The Big 9":
- Royal Caribbean International (28 ships)
- Carnival Cruise Line (27 ships)
- Norwegian Cruise Line (19 ships)
- MSC Cruises (22 ships)
- Celebrity Cruises (16 ships)
- Princess Cruise Line (16 ships)
- Holland America (11 ships)
- Disney Cruise Line (5 ships)
- Virgin Voyages (3 ships)
Most likely, you will be sailing on one of these cruise lines for your first cruise solely because of the number of cruise ships and itineraries offered by these lines.
Royal Caribbean International
The biggest cruise line in the world, based on passenger capacity, is Royal Caribbean International. With 28 ships that can hold over 90,000 passengers, Royal Caribbean comprises about 22% of the cruising industry.
With mega cruise ships that have major wow factors and sail in markets around the world, Royal Caribbean is a popular choice among cruisers of all ages.
You'll find adventure around every corner of a Royal Caribbean ship, along with adult-only relaxing areas and specialty dining restaurants serving up incredible cuisine, from interactive Teppanyaki to inventive cuisine and even southern favorites.
Though known for having the largest cruise ships at sea, Royal Caribbean's fleet is encompassed by ships as small as 73,817 gross registered tons (GRT).
While you won't find any mega thrills onboard, these tiny ships are great for destination-focused cruisers who prefer visiting new ports each day of their cruise. Additionally, they're great for vacationers who don't necessarily want to be surrounded by families with younger children but still want a lively cruise experience.
Carnival Cruise Line
Carnival Cruise Line is one of the most budget-friendly cruise lines and is branded as having the most "Fun Ships" within the industry. You’ll find nonstop activities on a Carnival ship with a party-like atmosphere from sunrise to sunset.
Carnival also has the most sailings for weekends and short itineraries, making this a perfect choice if you want to dip your toes into the cruising world. As such, you can expect to find many families onboard a Carnival cruise, along with plenty of people who just want to have a good time with a drink in hand.
Their newest class of ship is the first to feature a roller coaster at sea and dining partnerships with Emeril Lagasse and Rudi Sodamin, offering even more options for adrenaline junkies and foodies alike.
Speaking of food, Carnival has some of the best complimentary dining options at sea, ranging from juicy burgers from Guy's Burger Joint to burritos and tacos and BlueIguana Cantina.
Thankfully, both are staple eateries on most ships within the fleet; however, depending on the vessel, you may also find a fried chicken joint and "food cart" vendors dishing up things like bao buns, fresh fries, kebabs, and more.
Norwegian Cruise Line
Similar to Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line’s newest cruise ships have major onboard thrills, including a multi-level race car track! These floating resorts have a family-friendly atmosphere and a freestyle approach to cruising, meaning there are no set dining times or dress codes!
They are also trying to implement a more "inclusive" approach to cruising with their "Free at Sea" program, which includes additions such as Wi-Fi, drink packages, shore excursion credits, and specialty dining.
Norwegian is the only cruise line to offer year-round cruises to Hawaii aboard the Pride of America. In just seven days, guests can visit four different islands, including Oahu, Maui, the Island of Hawai'i, and Kauai.
Like Royal Caribbean, NCL's older and smaller ships tend to focus on offering guests itineraries to unique destinations, such as the British Isles, Africa, Hawaii, and more. No matter where you're set on cruising to, you're sure to find an itinerary on a Norwegian ship that appeases even the most adventurous cruisers.
MSC Cruises
MSC Cruises is a European cruise line that has gravitated towards building huge, resort-style cruise ships with plenty of thrilling attractions.
Everything from giant water slides to race track simulators can be found on MSC’s newest ships. Cruisers also love the exceptional service and cultural cuisine found onboard without breaking the budget.
Because of their recent venture into a more permanent Caribbean market, their private island, Ocean Cay Marine Reserve, is relatively new and highlights the company's commitment to environmental conservation and sustainability. And because of its European flair, you can expect an enriching and immersive onboard experience.
MSC's newest ships rival Royal Caribbean's Oasis Class, featuring 22 decks filled with a water park, massive dry slide, and bustling open-air neighborhood. MSC World America will make its grand debut in Florida in early 2025, sailing to the Caribbean from MSC's new terminal.
However, if the Caribbean doesn't interest you, there are plenty of cruises sailing to interesting destinations around the globe, from the Middle East to Africa, South America, Asia, and more. In short, if you're looking to vacation on a budget while avoiding mass tourist ports, MSC Cruises is a good go-to.
Celebrity Cruises
Within the same family as Royal Caribbean, consider Celebrity Cruises the older, more refined big sister. These luxurious ships are known for offering stunning entertainment, gourmet cuisine, and even a famous martini bar. They're known for their attentive and personalized service, elevating the onboard experience.
While still family friendly, Celebrity Cruises operates a smaller fleet that appeals to a more adult population. Unlike Royal Caribbean, Celebrity's ships don't have water slides, surfing simulators, miniature golf courses, or ice skating rinks onboard. Instead, you'll find world-class cuisine, upscale bars, and enriching activities.
Even their stateroom experience is more refined compared to Royal Caribbean, with standard amenities including separate shampoo, conditioner, and body wash; lotion; makeup remover towelettes; and a hair net. Additionally, cabins are serviced twice per day, rather than once, ensuring you always have fresh towels and a made bed.
Those looking for the ultimate cruise experience with Celebrity should consider one of their Galapagos cruises. Passengers onboard the intimate expedition vessel Celebrity Flora will enjoy a premium experience while taking in the awe-inspiring natural wonders and biodiversity of the Galapagos.
Holland America Line
Holland America Line appeals to an older demographic with exceptional cuisine, plenty of live music, and a low-key environment. Onboard activities include enrichment lectures, wine-tasting seminars, cooking classes, and plenty of trivia.
HAL's fleet is comprised of modest ships, nothing like Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas. In fact, Holland America's largest ship measures just shy of 100,000 gross registered tons (GRT), making them ideal for venturing to off-the-beaten-path ports of call.
While you'll still find cruises to the ever-popular Caribbean, HAL's itineraries focus on exploring the globe. For instance, the longest sailing advertised on their website for 2025 is a 133-day sailing that sails from "pole to pole." Not only that, but they're offering over 280 cruises that are 17 nights or longer in 2025 alone!
Holland America is also one of the leading cruise lines to Alaska, having sailed to The Last Frontier for over 75 years, longer than any other line in operation!
Princess Cruises
Princess Cruises rose to prominence in part due to the television series The Love Boat, which was a fictional show about the crew and different passengers onboard MS Pacific Princess in the 1970s and 80s.
Like Holland America Line, Princess Cruises is a more adult-focused cruise line. However, sailings can appeal to everyone in the family, as they have partnered with the Discovery Channel and Animal Planet to create enriching, educational onboard activities for all ages.
Overall, though, Princess Cruises prides itself on offering delicious cuisine, engaging entertainment, and longer cruises that feature more port-intensive itineraries.
Whether you're seeking a relaxed cruise to the Caribbean or hoping to travel the world and experience different cultures, Princess Cruises will have something to meet your needs!
Disney Cruise Line
Disney Cruise Line mostly sails in North America, although you can find sailings to Europe, Australia, and Alaska as well. For a premium price, your family can experience the magic of Disney onboard one of Disney’s ships.
Though Disney operates a modest fleet of just five ships, the cruise line is expected to grow rapidly over the next few years, beginning with the launch of Disney Treasure in December. Next year, the fleet will also welcome Disney Adventure and Disney Destiny.
From enchanting themed dinners to character meet and greets, your family will love all the activities and amenities offered onboard. Whether you're sailing to the sunny Bahamas, scenic Alaska, or beyond, there's nothing quite like the magic of Disney. From impressive themed deck parties to immersive youth clubs and sleek adult-only lounges, Disney ensures there's something for everyone to enjoy.
When it comes to dining, Disney has a unique approach. Rather than offer one large Main Dining Room, each ship has three themed rooms, each with different menus and experiences. At Worlds or Marvel, for example, guests will step into the Marvel Universe, complete with superhero appearances and an impressive array of dishes that pay homage to the homelands of various characters, including Wakana, Sokovia, and New York.
Entertainment is also top-notch, featuring Broadway-style musicals, movie screenings, and more.
Virgin Voyages
New to the cruising scene is Virgin Voyages. This niche cruise line made a splash in the industry by offering adult-only voyages that feature everything from innovative dining to an onboard tattoo parlor.
Cycling classes, smoothie bars, and plenty of specialty-like restaurants replace traditional dining and buffets. Instead, passengers can indulge in a variety of culinary options, including Italian restaurants, steakhouses, Mexican eateries, and more. Not only that, but each of their three ships—soon to be four in 2025—is stylish and modern, catering to a more sophisticated crowd. Onboard, you'll find spacious outdoor decks, inviting lounges, and a stunning pool deck.
The entertainment also goes beyond traditional cruise ship offerings, featuring events like drag queen bingo, a PJ party, cabaret-style shows, and more. Don't forget to check out the iconic "Scarlet Night" party on the pool deck!
European Cruise Lines
Although your first cruise will likely be on one of The Big 9 cruise lines we just described, there are other cruise lines to consider as well. These cruise lines operate smaller fleets and tend to focus on certain geographical locations. Not only that, but the onboard environment is meant to cater to a European crowd, rather than a North American one.
If, for example, you're looking to sail to Europe in the off-season, such as November through March, you will likely need to sail with a European-based cruise line that sails all year, such as Costa Cruises, P&O Cruises, TUI Cruises, or AIDA Cruises.
Luxury Cruise Lines
Perhaps sailing on a large mainstream cruise line isn't appealing. Thankfully, there are luxury lines that offer a more upscale experience, with ships more akin to boutique hotels.
From menus crafted by Michelin-star chefs to top-notch service, luxury cruise lines provide an intimate and refined atmosphere, catering to fewer guests and offering more enriching itineraries. As such, they're more costly than cruises on lines like Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, and MSC.
The well-known luxury cruise lines include:
- Seabourn
- Regent Seven Seas Cruises
- Silversea Cruises
- Crystal Cruises
- Oceania Cruises
- Viking Cruises
The Suite Experience
Certain cruise lines aim to provide a premium cruise experience, costing more than the most affordable cabins onboard. This also means that if you want to splurge on your cruise, you don’t need to necessarily book with a luxury cruise line—like Regent or Oceania—anymore.
For example, Norwegian Cruise Line offers suites in The Haven, which give guests incredibly spacious and luxurious cabins and access to a private sundeck, restaurant, pool and fitness center.
On the other hand, Royal Caribbean has expanded its stateroom selection on its Oasis, Quantum, and Icon Class ships to include a large variety of amazing suites, including the Ultimate Family Suite. This 2-level stateroom features a slide, gaming room, and a private butler.
Even the most budget-friendly cruise line, Carnival Cruises, has incorporated high-end suites onboard its Excel Class ships. These suites, known as Excel Suites, are spacious cabins with huge living spaces and access to the exclusive resort-style area called Loft 19.
Essentially, don’t neglect some of the more affordable cruise lines under the assumption that you won’t receive a premium experience. Booking in one of these luxury suites with special amenities will make you feel like you're sailing on an entirely different cruise ship than those booked in other standard cabins.
Ocean or River Cruise?
Another important consideration when booking your first cruise is deciding if you want to sail on an ocean cruise ship or river cruise ship. While you might think these are similar vacation options, river and ocean cruises offer entirely different experiences.
Ocean cruises are on large cruise ships that sail in the open water, whereas river cruises sail inland between cities on a river. River cruises are most common in Europe, although you can find river cruises around the world, including the Mississippi River in the United States. These typically appeal to an adult audience. In fact, some cruise lines have an age minimum of 18 years or older.
Cruising on the Rhine River, Nile River, or even on the Amazon River are all offered through various cruise lines. River cruises are a great option if you are looking for a quieter, more intimate experience while visiting unique locations that can’t be reached by ocean.
The most popular river cruise lines include:
- Viking River Cruises
- Avalon Waterways
- Ama Waterways
- American Cruise Line
- Uniworld Boutique River Cruises
- Riviera River Cruises
However, don’t expect to find bells and whistles on a river cruise ship, as these are significantly smaller than ocean liners. With more limited space, you can expect to have fewer options for dining, entertainment, and activities.
Don’t let this turn you away from river cruising. Many cruisers absolutely love their river cruising experience and appreciate the opportunity to visit more unique locations. On that note, river cruising is typically more expensive than cruising on an ocean cruise ship. These are considered to be more premium cruising experiences, although many river cruise lines offer promotions and discounts throughout the year.
Establishing a Budget
Now that you have a basic understanding of the cruise lines, the most important step of booking your first cruise is establishing your budget. Every cruise line offers a unique experience and caters to a different demographic of cruisers; however, even within one line, you can find a wide range of prices depending on the age and size of the cruise ship, as well as the time of year you're sailing, cabin category, and more.
Figuring out your budget will help you narrow down an itinerary based on length and destination as well. Longer cruises might offer cheaper nightly fares, but this can add up when sailing on a 14-night itinerary. Similarly, some destinations are inherently more expensive than others.
Whether you need to travel to your cruise is also a major consideration to keep in mind. Driving to a departure port will be the cheapest option. If you need to book flights for your cruise, consider how much this will cost and incorporate that into your vacation budget. For example, flying to Europe from the United States for a cruise could add thousands of dollars to the cost of your vacation.
You'll also need to factor in a hotel for the night before your sailing. Flying to your embarkation city on the day of departure is risky, as the ship won't wait for you if there's a flight cancelation or delay.
One final consideration is allocating how much you plan to spend in port. Excursions, especially through the cruise line, can add up throughout a cruise. Itineraries with more ports mean more opportunities to spend money on excursions or activities. Plus, some regions are known for having more expensive excursions, such as Alaska and Norway.
Picking a Cruise Ship
Once you’ve decided on a budget and cruise line, you will find tons of itineraries, destinations, and cruise ships to choose from. When picking a cruise line, do some research on the different classes of ships offered by each company.
Royal Caribbean, for instance, has a fleet of 28 ships that sail around the world. Operating some of the biggest cruise ships at sea, you’ll find a varied experience even among all of Royal Caribbean’s ships, from tiny Vision Class ships to the massive Icon of the Seas.
Depending on where you want to depart from and which itinerary you’re considering, you should research which cruise ships check all the boxes for your vacation needs.
You might find one cruise line has a cruise ship that better fits your needs than another, especially if you want to sail on a newer and bigger ship. Typically, smaller and older ships won’t have all the onboard thrills and activities you’re looking for. Similarly, giant cruise ships won’t always provide an intimate and quiet experience.
If you’re looking for the latest and greatest that the cruise industry has to offer, one of the Big 9 cruise lines will be your best bet. These cruise lines are building ships with more activities, eateries, and onboard thrills than you can imagine. Those wanting a more relaxing and subdued cruise experience might consider an older cruise ship that exudes the essence of traditional cruising.
Regardless of which cruise ship you pick, you're sure to love your first cruising experience!
Allie Hubers
Allie Hubers has been cruising since she was a tiny toddler. What started as a yearly vacation with family quickly turned into a passion for travel, cruising and adventure. Allie's been on over 45 cruises all over the world. She even studied abroad on Semester at Sea, sailing the world on a ship while taking courses for college and visiting 4 continents.
