Navigating the Seas: Ratings of Top Cruise Lines in 2025

Navigating the Seas: Ratings of Top Cruise Lines in 2025

By Beth Coe Travel Agent & Adventure Enthusiast October 21, 2025

Hello, fellow wanderers! I'm Beth Coe, your go-to travel agent at My Travels by Beth. With years of experience crafting dream getaways, I've helped countless clients set sail on unforgettable cruises. As someone who's passionate about turning travel stress into seamless joy, I know how overwhelming it can be to pick the right cruise line. That's why today, I'm diving deep into nine popular options: Carnival Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Disney Cruise Line, Holland America, MSC Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean, Viking, and Virgin Voyages.

In this post, I'll rate each on a scale of 1-10 for price (value for money, including what's included in the base fare), experience (service, entertainment, amenities, and overall vibe), and food (quality, variety, and dining options). These ratings draw from the latest 2025 traveler reviews, expert rankings like U.S. News & World Report and Travel + Leisure, and my own insights from client feedback. I'll also crown the best and worst overall, based on a simple average of these categories.

Whether you're a family seeking magic, a couple craving romance, or a solo adventurer hunting value, there's a ship for you. Let's hoist the sails!

Quick Comparison Table

For a bird's-eye view, here's how they stack up:

Notes: Higher scores mean better performance. Price considers base fare affordability and inclusions; experience factors in service and fun; food evaluates taste and options.

Detailed Ratings and Reviews

Carnival Cruise Line: Fun on a Budget

Carnival keeps it lively and accessible in 2025, with ships like Carnival Adventure and Carnival Firenze delivering high-energy vibes for budget-conscious families and groups. Expect water slides, comedy shows, and deck parties that scream "fun ship," though crowds can test patience on peak sailings.

1. Price: 10/10 – Unbeatable affordability, with fares often dipping below $100/night; a top pick for value-driven vacations.
2. Experience: 7/10 – Packed with entertainment like Family Feud live and Guy's Pig & Anchor BBQ, but service can feel stretched on older vessels.
3. Food: 6/10 – Casual eats like burgers and buffets are hit-or-miss—decent for quick bites, but many reviewers note bland flavors and repetitive options. Pro Tip: Go for a newer Excel-class ship like Carnival Celebration for upgraded amenities without the premium price.

1. Price: 9/10 – Tops U.S. News' Best for the Money; fares start around $150/night with solid inclusions like Wi-Fi and drinks packages.
2. Experience: 9/10 – Elevated entertainment, from live music to spa retreats; perfect for couples or multigenerational trips.
3. Food: 9/10 – World-class dining like Le Petit Chef; fresh, inventive menus earn consistent praise. Pro Tip: Book an Edge stateroom for that infinite veranda magic!

Celebrity Cruises: The Premium Sweet Spot

Celebrity shines in 2025 as a refined escape without breaking the bank. Their Edge-series ships like Celebrity Xcel offer sleek design, craft cocktails, and immersive itineraries. Clients rave about the intuitive service and wellness-focused vibes.

1. Price: 9/10 – Tops U.S. News' Best for the Money; fares start around $150/night with solid inclusions like Wi-Fi and drinks packages.
2. Experience: 9/10 – Elevated entertainment, from live music to spa retreats; perfect for couples or multigenerational trips.
3. Food: 9/10 – World-class dining like Le Petit Chef; fresh, inventive menus earn consistent praise. Pro Tip: Book an Edge stateroom for that infinite veranda magic!

Disney Cruise Line: Magic on the Waves

If families are your crew, Disney delivers pixie dust at sea. With ships like Disney Destiny launching in 2025, expect character meet-and-greets, Broadway-caliber shows, and rotational dining that's pure whimsy.

1. Price: 6/10 – Premium pricing (often $300+/night) reflects the all-in magic, but it's a splurge compared to mainstream lines.
2. Experience: 10/10 – Unmatched for kids and parents alike; themed pools and adult-only lounges keep everyone happy.
3. Food: 8/10 – Themed eateries like Animator's Palate impress, though some find portions small or overly kid-focused. Pro Tip: Splurge on the concierge level for priority everything.

Holland America: Timeless Elegance

Holland America blends classic cruising with modern touches, ideal for mature travelers seeking enrichment. Their 2025 Alaska routes are legendary, with BBC Earth concerts and cooking demos onboard.

1. Price: 8/10 – Great value at $150-250/night; includes more excursions than budget lines.
2. Experience: 9/10 – Serene spas, live orchestras, and port-intensive itineraries; a top pick for cultural explorers.
3. Food: 9/10 – Pinnacle Grill steaks and fresh seafood stand out; consistent quality across venues. Pro Tip: Opt for a veranda suite to watch glaciers glide by.

MSC Cruises: Budget Glamour with Italian Flair

MSC's mega-ships like World America bring European style to U.S. waters at wallet-friendly rates. Think yacht clubs and 4D cinemas, but expect crowds on popular sailings.

1. Price: 9/10 – Often the cheapest new ships ($100-200/night); value shines for short Caribbean hops.
2. Experience: 7/10 – Flashy amenities, but service can feel inconsistent; better for party vibes than relaxation.
3. Food: 6/10 – Mixed reviews: Italian specialties delight, but buffets are often called bland or repetitive. Pro Tip: Upgrade to Yacht Club for butler service and exclusivity.

Norwegian Cruise Line: Freestyle Freedom

NCL's "Freestyle Cruising" lets you dine and play on your schedule. Ships like Norwegian Aqua (debuting 2025) pack in go-karts and infinity beaches for adventure seekers.

1. Price: 7/10 – Mid-range ($150-300/night), but add-ons like specialty dining add up quickly.
2. Experience: 8/10 – Solo-friendly studios and diverse entertainment; flexible for groups.
3. Food: 7/10 – Solid variety from Teppanyaki to buffets, though some call mains underwhelming. Pro Tip: Book the Free at Sea package for perks like open bar.

Princess Cruises: Sophisticated Simplicity

Princess offers a polished, no-fuss vibe with strong Alaska and Europe focus. Love Boat legacy meets modern apps for easy reservations.

1. Price: 8/10 – Balanced fares ($150-250/night) with good inclusions for longer voyages.
2. Experience: 8/10 – Movies under the stars and enrichment lectures; relaxed for all ages.
3. Food: 8/10 – Elegant main dining and fresh options; Sabatini's Italian is a highlight. Pro Tip: Reserve Sanctuary Collection for adults-only serenity.

Royal Caribbean: Thrills Unlimited

Royal's Oasis-class giants like Star of the Seas (2025 launch) redefine family fun with surf simulators and ice shows.

1. Price: 7/10 – Starts at $150/night, but upsells (drinks, Wi-Fi) inflate costs.
2. Experience: 9/10 – Adrenaline-pumping activities; top for families and first-timers.
3. Food: 7/10 – Chops Grille impresses, but buffets get mixed marks for quality. Pro Tip: Target shorter itineraries to avoid crowds.

Viking: Scandinavian Serenity

Viking's ocean ships are adults-only havens of quiet luxury, emphasizing history and culture on river-like ocean voyages.

1. Price: 7/10 – Higher end ($300+/night), but all-inclusive (excursions, wine) justifies it.
2. Experience: 10/10 – Thoughtful design, no casinos or kids; immersive ports top charts.
3. Food: 9/10 – Nordic-inspired cuisine with local flair; consistent excellence. Pro Tip: Pair with a Nordic itinerary for authentic fjord magic.

Virgin Voyages: Adults-Only Revolution

Virgin's cheeky, boutique-style ships like Brilliant Lady (2025) ditch kids for DJs, wellness, and tattoo parlors—perfect for millennials.

1. Price: 8/10 – $200-300/night with essentials like Wi-Fi and tips included.
2. Experience: 9/10 – Vibrant nightlife and fitness classes; innovative and inclusive.
3. Food: 9/10 – Hip spots like The Wake; fresh, flavorful, and all complimentary. Pro Tip: RockStar status unlocks VIP perks.

The Verdict: Best and Worst Cruise Lines

Based on these ratings and 2025 trends, the best overall is Celebrity Cruises (9.0 average). It nails value, sophistication, and cuisine without the ultra-luxury price tag—ideal for most travelers seeking elevated escapes. On the flip side, the worst is MSC Cruises (7.3 average). While unbeatable on price, inconsistent service and food quality drag it down, especially for English-speaking U.S. cruisers.

Ready to Book Your Sea Adventure?

Cruises are booming in 2025, with record bookings and innovative ships on the horizon. But picking the right one is personal—tell me your vibe, budget, and destinations, and I'll tailor the perfect voyage.

At My Travels by Beth, I offer competitive quotes for flights, rentals, accommodations, and excursions to ensure you receive the best possible price. Once you've made your selections, I handle all the booking details and confirm your reservations before you embark on your journey. To make your travel stress-free with my VIP Services, I check you in for your flights 24 hours in advance and send you your boarding passes. Your personalized itinerary will include all the details you need, including excursions and valuable tips for saving money during your stay. I also offer a convenient packing list and recommend nearby restaurant options to enhance your travel experience. Let me take care of the details so you can focus on enjoying your adventure!

Drop me a line at bethcoe@mytravelb.com or visit my site to check out my reviews. Fair winds and following seas—where to next?

Safe travels, Beth Coe