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This U.S. Cruise Company Plans to Nearly Double Its Fleet

American Cruise Lines will grow its fleet to more than 25 small ships.

The options for small-ship cruising in the U.S. are about to substantially expand in both vessel and destination choices, thanks to American Cruise Lines . The company, which offers river cruises and small-ship coastal sailings only in the U.S., plans to grow its fleet to more than 25 small ships.

A new class of 12 small ships with accommodations for only 109 guests will begin being built this year. The first two ships in American's Project Blue fleet — American Eagle and American Glory — will debut in 2023 and sail fully domestic itineraries along the East Coast. American currently has 15 small ships, including 10 modern riverboats and five coastal cruise ships accommodating 100 to 190 guests. The ships sail more than 25 U.S.-only itineraries in 29 states. All of American's ships are built in the U.S.

"We've seen tremendous demand for domestic, small-ship cruising and this brand-new class of 'go-anywhere' ships will help us answer that call," says David Luxeder, director of marketing for American Cruise Lines. "The impressive design will allow us to visit new U.S. destinations, while still providing highly personalized service."

American's fleet expansion will offer U.S. itinerary options well beyond rivers, too. The new vessels boast an environmentally friendly catamaran design for sailing coastal routes and in the shallow waters of rivers, bays, and lakes. Regional expansions will include sailing the full East and West coasts, the Great Lakes, Alaska, and more.

Each Project Blue ship will be 241 feet long and 56 feet wide. They will feature only 56 staterooms, including suites and singles, with nearly all offering private balconies. Guests will be able to enjoy the ships' swim platforms, kayaks, and tenders designed for small group exploration.

Other news from the company includes one more modern riverboat making its debut on the Mississippi River in 2023, as well as the remodel of its four paddle wheelers, which were launched at the beginning of the 2022 season. American also launched two modern riverboats in 2021 and 2022 on the Mississippi.

American focuses on the history and culture of the U.S. on and off the ship. Current itineraries include the Mississippi River, New England, the Hudson River, Chesapeake Bay, the Southeast Coast, Puget Sound, Alaska, and the Columbia and Snake rivers.

For more on American Cruise Lines, visit americancruiselines.com .

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ACL American Liberty

Cruise line American Cruise Lines

• Amelia Island Florida (Fernandina Beach)
• Charleston SC (South Carolina)
• Providence RI (Rhode Island)
• Washington DC (USA)
• Boston (Massachusetts)

ACL American Liberty current position

ACL American Liberty current location is at US East Coast (coordinates 41.47915 N / -70.69349 W) cruising en route to VINEYARD HAVEN,MA. The AIS position was reported 6 seconds ago.

Current itinerary of ACL American Liberty

ACL American Liberty current cruise is 7 days, round-trip 7 Night New England Islands Cruise . Prices start from USD 8475 (double occupancy rates). The itinerary starts on 05 Sep, 2024 and ends on 12 Sep, 2024 .

Specifications of ACL American Liberty

•   Itineraries
•   Review

ACL American Liberty Itineraries

Acl american liberty review, review of acl american liberty.

The 2024-built MS American Liberty cruise ship is the third in a 12-ship series (Project Blue/aka Coastal Cat) of catamaran-design newbuilds in the ACL-American Cruise Lines fleet . From this (new for ACL) class are the same designed catamarans/sisterships launched two per year - in 2023 ( Eagle /August, Glory /November), 2024 (Liberty/June, Legend /November), 2025 (Patriot/June, Pioneer/November), 2026, 2027, and 2028.

All ACL cruise ships are US-flagged and built by the company-owned Chesapeake Shipbuilding Yard in Salisbury MD (Maryland USA).

The Coastal Cat American Liberty is ACL's 18th vessel overall. It was delivered in 2024 and inaugurated on August 15th (maiden voyage).

American Liberty's christening ceremony was on August 20, 2024, in Newport, Rhode Island USA , and held while the ship was docked at Fort Adams State Park. The special event was attended by local community members, representatives from Sail Newport (Brad Read), RI state (Lauren Carson) and Fort Adams State Park, and a VIP group of ACL executives and crew, including Charles B. Robertson (ACL's President and CEO). The ceremony was led by godmother Clare Harrington (New York Yacht Club's Vice Commodore). The event featured onboard live performances (by The Victory Belles/vocal trio performing music from the 1940s) and concluded with a traditional New England Lobster Bake (at Fort Adams Park) featuring a live demonstration of Native American cooking methods.

History - construction and ownership

The shipowner American Cruise Lines/ACL is the USA's largest river cruise company (headquarters in Guilford Connecticut) operational since 1991. The company specializes in cruise shipping on the USA's largest navigable inland waterways (rivers and lakes) as well as in cruises along the US East Coast, US West Coast, and Florida.

All ACL vessels feature some of the industry's largest passenger cabins with private step-out balconies, spacious lounges and outdoor deck spaces, gourmet cuisine, top-quality enrichment program with many complimentary land tours and excursions, highly personalized service by all-American staff and crew.

In January 2022 ACL announced a plan to grow its fleet to 25+ vessels by adding 12 units of a new class (Project Blue), each with max passenger capacity 109 (plus 50 crew/staff), length 241 ft (74 m), beam/width 56 ft (17 m), 56 staterooms (~85% balconies).

MS American Liberty features an innovative catamaran ship design that guarantees smaller capacity (more comfortable and intimate vacation travel experience) along with stable navigation in both inland waterways (rivers and lakes) as well as close-to-coast/expedition-style cruising.

The catamaran hull features an aft activity platform/Marina (at the stern) from where are launched the ship's kayaks. At the stern is also mounted the tender boat which is used for passenger transportation as well as for cruising close to shore and on shallow inland waterways.

Decks and Cabins

ACL American Liberty has 5 passenger decks (4 are accessible via two midship elevators) and a total of 56 staterooms . The number of cabin categories is 6. Most accommodations are balconied (~85% of all), each fitted with a floor-ceiling sliding door opening onto a private step-out veranda. The boat has 3 single cabins, only 1x handicaped cabin (wheelchair-accessible ADA stateroom designed for passengers with disabilities) and no connecting rooms.

Only Deck 1 cabins (8x in category AAC) are without balconies. The smallest staterooms (including the studios / single-occupancy cabins) are sized 230 ft2 (21 m2). Standard Balcony cabins (AAM and Veranda) are sized 270-280 ft2 (25-26 m2) including the veranda.

The largest accommodations are located forward on Deck 4 - Sky Suite (425 ft2 / 40 m2) and Grand Suite (550 ft2 / 51 m2), with sizes including their terraces. These staterooms (2x Grand and 4x Sky) are two-room suites with separate living room and bedroom (both with direct terrace access, 2x TVs), dining area, marble bathroom (double-sink vanity).

Shipboard facilities and amenities

The ship's interior design is marked by a 4-story Vestibule (glass-walled Atrium positioned midship on all cabin decks) that allows unobstructed portside and starboard views. Despite the boat's dimensions, all indoor and outdoor areas are spacious and very well designed, all with floor-ceiling windows. Deck 5's SkyLight is a transparent glass-roof that allows natural light into the Vestibule/Atrium.

Top-deck (deck 5) is a crew-only area with a SkyLight (glass-roof cover over the Atrium) and a Helideck.

The Sun Deck (Deck 4-aft) is all-teak and fitted with two sunbathing areas (padded sun loungers, low tables), a shaded seating area (hard roof-covered), a walking lane/track, open-air relaxation areas (2-seat tables, padded deckchairs, garden sofas), live plants for decoration. Also aft on Deck 4 are the funnels (4x smokestacks).

The ship has one Restaurant (complimentary, glass-enclosed Main Dining Room with Galley/kitchen), Games Room/Library, Fitness Center (indoor Gym/Exercise Room), Forward Lounge (Deck 1, indoor, bow-facing/with 270-degree views) with a Bow Terrace (4-seat tables, sofas), Sky Lounge (indoor, Deck 3-aft) with a Stern Terrace served by the Cafe (hard-roof covered outdoor lounge with 4-seat tables, cushioned armchairs and sofas).

Both bar lounges (Forward Lounge and Sky Lounge) feature comfortable furniture (plush sofas, 4-seat round tables, glass-top coffee tables, armchairs), wall-to-wall windows, full Bar service, and direct access to an open-air Terrace (for relaxation and alfresco dining/weather-permitting). Throughout the day, at both venues are served beverages, light snacks, fresh-baked sweets (cookies and pastries). Sky Lounge's glass doors open to the Lookout Cafe (alfresco dining venue) fitted with premium wicker furniture (sofas with low tables and 4-seat tables with armchairs). The lounges' bars serve water, soda, and light snacks throughout the day. The Afternoon Tea service is complimentary and offered between 3:30-4:30 pm. In the evenings, ACL has a complimentary cocktail hour.

The bow-facing (on Deck 2) Forward Lounge is the main lounge with large wall-to-wall windows on all its three sides (bow, portside, starboard). This is the boat's show lounge that also serves ACL's onboard enrichment program (port talks, media presentations, lectures, live entertainment, etc). Here are served warm cookies (starting at 10 am) and complimentary Afternoon Tea with fresh pastries (starting at 3:30 pm). The free-drinks cocktail hour is at 5:30 pm. Root beer and ice cream are offered during the evening shows (solo performances, music tributes, themed music, movie trivia, bingo). Lectures are differently themed (on history, food and wine, literature, etc) and depend on the current cruise itinerary.

The list of the American Liberty ship's main public venues includes:

• (Deck 1) AAC Cabins/forward, Vestibule/lobby level, Ship's Office, Powder Room, Laundry Room, Forward Lounge, Dining Room Restaurant, Galley (Kitchen and Storage Rooms), Staff & Crew Cabins/forward, motorized Rescue Boat/aft
• (Deck 2) Passenger Cabins/AAM and Single Balcony, Bow Terrace/observation area with seating, Fitness Center/aft, The Study/Games Room/aft
• (Deck 3) Passenger Cabins/Veranda Suites and Single Balcony, Pilothouse/Wheelhouse, Sky Lounge/aft, Lookout Cafe/aft
• (Deck 4) Passenger Cabins/Grand Suites and Sky Suites, Sun Deck/aft, Funnels/aft
• (Deck 5) SkyLight, Helideck (helicopter-landing platform used in cases of emergencies)

Two Lifts (passenger elevators in the Atrium/midship) and indoor stairs (forward and midship) connect all cabin decks (1 thru 4). Aft outdoor staircases interconnect decks 3-4 (Sky Lounge's Cafe with Sun Deck).

Itineraries

ACL American Liberty itinerary program started in August 2024, with the "Christening Cruise" (Maiden Voyage) roundtrip from Providence, Rhode Island on August 15th. The 7-night/8-day "New England Islands" itinerary visited New Bedford , Nantucket ,  Martha’s Vineyard ,  Block Island , Newport , and  Bristol .

Other itineraries that ACL listed for the American Liberty's maiden season (2024) included:

8-day / 7-night " New England Islands Cruise " (visiting 8 ports) is a roundtrip itinerary departing from Providence RI . Call ports include Baltimore MD, St Michaels MD, Norfolk VA, Kitty Hawk NC, Beaufort NC (Morehead City NC), Wilmington NC, Charleston SC, Beaufort SC, Hilton Head SC, Savannah GA, St Simons Island GA, Jekyll Island GA, Amelia Island FL (Fernandina Beach). Prices started from $8490 (AAM), $8745 (Single), $9615 (Veranda Suite), $10845 (Sky Suite), $13360 (Grand Suite).

8-day / 7-night " Hudson River Fall Foliage Cruise " (visiting 8 ports) is a roundtrip itinerary departing from NYC/New York City NY . All call ports are in the New York state and include Catskill, Albany, Kingston/Hyde Park, West Point, Sleepy Hollow, and NYC (overnight stay before debarkation). Prices started from $8490 (AAM), $8745 (Single), $9615 (Veranda Suite), $10845 (Sky Suite), $13360 (Grand Suite).

8-day / 7-night " Historic South and Golden Isles Cruise " (visiting 8 ports) is a one-way itinerary operated between homeports Charleston SC and Jacksonville FL ( Amelia Island ). Call ports include Charleston SC, Beaufort SC, Hilton Head Island SC, Savannah GA, Jekyll Island and St Simons Island (GA), Amelia Island FL (overnight). Prices started from $6960 (AAM), $7170 (Single), $7880 (Veranda Suite), $8890 (Sky Suite), $10950 (Grand Suite).

15-day / 14-night " East Coast Inland Passage Cruise " (visiting 15 ports) is a one-way itinerary operated between homeports Baltimore MD and Jacksonville/Amelia Island FL. Call ports include Baltimore MD, St Michaels MD, Norfolk VA, Kitty Hawk NC, Beaufort NC (Morehead City NC), Wilmington NC, Charleston SC, Beaufort SC, Hilton Head SC, Savannah GA, St Simons Island GA, Jekyll Island GA, Amelia Island FL (Fernandina Beach). Prices started from $13085 (AAM), $13480 (Single), $14690 (Veranda Suite), $16570 (Sky Suite), $20410 (Grand Suite).

Note: The above-listed prices are early-booking rates (in USD and per person) with double occupancy, excluding single cabins.

ACL cruise deals are inclusive of a pre-cruise hotel package, all shore excursions (organized daily), cocktail hour (each evening), stateroom, gourmet meals, Afternoon Tea service, room service (Breakfast only), onboard enrichment and live entertainment programs, Wi-Fi (shipwide coverage).

ACL American Liberty ship related cruise news

ACL's newest ship American Liberty christened in Newport RI USA

ACL-American Cruise Lines has announced the christening of American Liberty (the newest/3rd vessel in the Coastal Cat series) in Newport, Rhode...

ACL's ship American Liberty passes sea trials ahead of maiden voyage

ACL-American Cruise Lines has announced the successful completion of sea trials for the American Liberty ship, ACL's 3rd catamaran/Coastal Cat. The...

Construction begins on ACL's 3rd new Coastal Cat, American Liberty

ACL-American Cruise Lines announced that construction had begun on the company's 3rd new Coastal Cat in the Project Blue series, the 105-passenger...

•   show more news

Other American Cruise Lines cruise ships

• ACL American Eagle
• ACL American Glory
• ACL American Legend
• ACL American Patriot
• ACL American Pioneer
• American Constellation
• American Constitution
• American Empress
• American Harmony
• American Heritage
• American Independence
• American Jazz
• American Melody
• American Pride
• American Serenade
• American Song
• American Spirit
• American Splendor
• American Star
• American Symphony
• American West

Best Cruise Ships for You

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Celebrity Beyond

Launched in April 2022, Celebrity Beyond is the third ship in the cruise line's Edge Series, capable of holding up to 3,260 passengers and over 1,400 crew members. On board, guests have their pick of 32 food and beverage venues serving everything from Greek to French to Italian cuisine; there are also several cocktail bars and lounges where guests can grab a drink.

One of the highlights of Celebrity Beyond is its 4,500-piece art collection, which includes works by travel photographers and international artists. There is also no shortage of unique entertainment options; these range from acrobatic shows to juggling mixologist performances. To enjoy stunning water views, enjoy Celebrity's "Magic Carpet," a large platform that hangs off the edge of the ship and moves from deck to deck.

Staterooms offer amenities like plush bathrobes, comfortable Cashmere mattresses and flat-screen TVs; many also come with private verandas. For a one-of-a-kind experience, splurge on a room in The Retreat. This resort-within-a-resort features villas and suites with added luxuries like plunge pools, hot tubs and butlers. Plus, guests of The Retreat have exclusive access to a private sundeck, restaurant and lounge, along with an onboard credit that can be used however you see fit.

Celebrity Beyond sails to a variety of popular Mediterranean and Caribbean destinations, including Italy, Mexico and more. 

U.S. News Insider Tip: On Celebrity Beyond, if you're lucky, your drink might be poured by Captain Kate McCue herself during the nightly flair bartender show at the Grand Plaza Martini Bar. Make sure to follow her behind-the-scenes adventures on Instagram. – Skye Sherman, Contributor

Celebrity Edge

Debuted in December 2018, the Celebrity Edge stands out for its modernity. The vessel carries 2,918 guests at double occupancy, 3,373 guests at maximum occupancy and 1,320 crew members. The Edge is dressed to the nines in contemporary designs and features a diverse array of technologies, amenities, activities and dining venues on board. Passengers can delight in the ship's rooftop garden, take a dip in one of many ocean-facing pools, work up a sweat on the jogging track or relax at the on-site spa.

You'll find plenty of evening entertainment options, too, including themed bars and lounges, a club and a theater showcasing a variety of productions. The Edge was the first Celebrity ship fitted with the Magic Carpet – the line's cantilevered venue at sea that travels 13 stories. The open-air venue can be repositioned alongside several decks, allowing it to transform from a live music venue to a bar to an exclusive specialty restaurant, depending on its location.

For dining, passengers have 29 options to choose from. These include four main restaurants and specialty options serving a range of cuisines, from sashimi to French bistro classics. After a bite to eat, take a break and relax in your modern stateroom or suite. Every room offers technology that allows guests to control temperature, service and lighting with a touch screen. What's more, with a roughly 2-to-1 passenger-to-crew ratio, service across the ship will be spot on.

Celebrity Edge makes sailings across  Alaska, Hawaii, Asia, Australia and more. 

U.S. News Insider Tip: On Edge Series ships, park yourself at the Sunset Bar with a spicy margarita every evening – it’s the best spot on the ship to watch for the fabled green flash. – Skye Sherman, Contributor

Debuted in October 2021, Rotterdam welcomes up to 2,668 guests at double occupancy, 3,172 guests at maximum capacity and 1.048 crew members. The name hearkens back to the line's founding in the late 19th century, when its first ship, Rotterdam, sailed from the Netherlands to New York. Though the ship's name is rooted in the cruise line's past, its amenities are anything but antiquated. 

Among Rotterdam's standout facilities is World Stage, a performance venue that features a two-story, 270-degree wraparound LED screen that creates a panorama of light and sound for audience members. For more entertainment, passengers can catch a performance at any of the ship's numerous music venues, including the Rolling Stone Rock Room and B.B. King's Blues Club.

When travelers aren't grooving to live tunes, they can test their luck at the onboard casino or relax at the spa. Meanwhile, kids can play the day away at the Kids Club. Foodies will be pleased to hear the ship offers eight dining options, including Rudi's Sel de Mer, a French brasserie, and Tamarind, which highlights the culinary traditions of Southeast Asia, China and Japan.

Cabins range in size from 143 square feet to 1,290 square feet, with some of the luxury suites boasting floor-to-ceiling windows, whirlpool baths and verandas with hot tubs.

Sailings aboard Rotterdam depart from ports like Fort Lauderdale, Florida , and Amsterdam to destinations in the Caribbean, Europe and the Panama Canal.

U.S. News Insider Tip: The art collection aboard Rotterdam is valued at more than $4.1 million and has 2,645 pieces of diverse works ranging in value from $500 to $620,000. Take some time to walk around the ship to explore the collections. Each of the three stairwells has a theme that reaches from top to bottom: architecture, music or zoology. – Jill Schildhouse, Contributor

Viking Venus

Launched in May 2021 from Portsmouth, England, Viking Venus features modern amenities and a contemporary design. The ship can hold 930 passengers and 465 crew members. Amenities include multiple pools and shops, as well as a cinema, a live performance theater, a jazz lounge, a spa, a fitness center and a salon. Plus, you can attend a lecture or discussion with the onboard historian, who helps educate passengers on the cultural aspects of each destination. An onboard cooking school, The Kitchen Table, also allows guests to learn about each destination's unique cuisine. 

Cruisers can enjoy daily updated food options at The Restaurant, diverse cuisine at the World Café, expertly paired tasting menus at The Chef's Table and Italian favorites at Manfredi's Italian Restaurant. There are eight dining venues on board in total, in addition to the ship's cooking school at The Kitchen Table and 24/7 room service.

When it's time to rest, there are six types of accommodations to choose from – all with private verandas. The standard Veranda Staterooms measure 270 square feet and feature plush beds, free Wi-Fi access and flat-screen TVs. Higher-tier rooms come with extras like priority shore excursion reservations, priority spa reservations, in-room coffee and free laundry services. Plus, travelers in these cabins will have more space: Rooms reach up to 1,448 square feet and may include separate living and dining areas.

The Viking Venus sails to popular European destinations like Barcelona , Athens , Bangkok , Istanbul , Rome , London , Sydney and Stockholm .

Celebrity Apex

The Celebrity Apex – which made its inaugural sailing in June 2021 – can hold up to 2,910 passengers at double occupancy, 3,385 at maximum occupancy and 1,320 crew members. Guests can wine and dine at 29 restaurants, bars and lounges, then spend the night testing their luck at the casino or enjoying live music at the Magic Carpet (which offers great ocean views). Specialty restaurants include a steakhouse and a raw bar, while main dining options feature Mediterranean, Italian and French cuisines. There are also meeting spaces and multipurpose areas on board, as well as upscale shops. 

Visit the spa or adults-only Solarium pool to stay relaxed throughout your stay at sea. For younger travelers, there are some kid-friendly areas of the ship – such as a Camp at Sea. However, the ship is geared more toward adult clientele (or families with older children) looking for a relaxing escape.

The ship's staterooms, which start at 181 square feet, offer smart TVs, customizable air conditioning and plenty of storage space. Many rooms also offer private verandas. If you're willing to splurge, consider booking a room in The Retreat. This exclusive section of the ship features luxury accommodations as well as access to a private restaurant, sun deck and lounge. Plus, rooms in The Retreat offer more space, measuring up to 1,892 square feet.

The Celebrity Apex sails to European destinations like Italy, Croatia and Portugal, as well as to Caribbean hot spots like St. Thomas , Puerto Rico , Belize and Grand Cayman . 

Viking Saturn

Debuted in May 2023, the adults-only Viking Saturn has the capacity to hold 930 passengers and 465 crew members. Travelers love the ship's clean Scandinavian design and compact size, which allows it to dock in smaller ports that larger cruise ships cannot reach.

On board, travelers have access to a slew of amenities, including a fitness center, a spa, a library, a state-of-the-art theater, a hair salon, an infinity pool and more. A resident historian is also on board to offer lectures and educational programming about upcoming port destinations. When hunger strikes, Viking Saturn offers an array of dining options, from fresh seafood at World Café to afternoon tea service at Wintergarden to traditional Norwegian cuisine at Mamsen's. Or, learn how to prepare regional dishes from your itinerary at the onboard cooking school.

Starting at 270 square feet, standard staterooms come equipped with king-size mattresses (which can be converted into two twin beds), flat-screen TVs, full-size verandas and bathrooms with heated floors. What's more, each accommodation includes 24-hour room service. Travelers who opt to stay in one of the ship's upgraded suites (which reach up to 1,448 square feet) have access to additional perks such as separate living areas and dining rooms, complimentary laundry services and a welcome bottle of Champagne, among other luxuries.

Viking Saturn sails to a variety of destinations in northern Europe (such as Bergen, Norway; London  and Stockholm ) and the Mediterranean (think: Barcelona, Spain ; Rome ; Athens, Greece ; and Istanbul ).

Seven Seas Splendor

Debuted in September 2021, the 746-passenger (double occupancy), 548-crew member Seven Seas Splendor is the newest ship within the Regent fleet. Seven Seas Splendor – along with most of the line's other ships – takes opulence to the next level by equipping each suite with its own private balcony. Other standard in-room amenities include interactive flat-screen TVs, luxurious bath products, bathrobes and slippers, signature queen-size beds and dining tables for two. There are 10 suite categories available, ranging from the smallest Veranda (307 square feet) and Deluxe Veranda suites (308 to 361 square feet) to the largest Regent (4,443 square feet) and Master suites (1,895 to 2,108 square feet). 

Guests have a wide array of things to do while on board. Spend your days relaxing at the spa, playing paddle tennis or bocce ball, working up a sweat on the jogging track or taking a dip in the ship's two whirlpools and two pools, one of which is an infinity-edge pool that stretches along the edge of the ship, providing swimmers with exceptional views of the ocean. At night, enjoy one of five shows at the onboard theater. 

When it comes to food, Seven Seas Splendor offers eight eateries ranging from casual to fine dining. Enjoy your breakfast alfresco at La Veranda and grub down for lunch at the Pool Grill buffet. For something more formal, opt for a French-inspired meal at Chartreuse, Pan-Asian dishes at Pacific Rim or Compass Rose, the largest restaurant on the ship.

Seven Seas Splendor visits a variety of European and Mediterranean destinations, as well as ports across Europe, the Caribbean, Africa and South America.

Viking Mars

Viking's newest ship, the Viking Mars accommodates 930 passengers and, since it's a smaller vessel, it can dock in many ports where some of the larger ocean-faring cruise ships can't reach. The all-veranda accommodations on this ship, which debuted in May 2022, range in size from around 270 square feet to 1,448 square feet. In-room amenities include free Wi-Fi access, flat-screen TVs, safes, minibars filled with drinks and snacks, robes, slippers and 24-hour room service.

Visitors will find a relaxing spa, a hair salon, a yoga area and a well-equipped indoor fitness center (plus an outdoor fitness center) aboard the ship. Those looking to unwind with a book in one hand and a cocktail in the other should snag a cozy spot in The Living Room. Like other Viking ships, the Viking Mars offers educational programming, lectures, cooking classes and more on board.

Cruisers can also enjoy amenities like the main pool and hot tub, the infinity pool, the cinema, the theater, a jazz lounge and various bars. Dining options on this ship include Manfredi's Italian Restaurant, Aquavit Terrace, World Café, The Chef's Table and The Kitchen Table.

Viking Mars receives rave reviews from recent cruisers. The variety of excursions, the delectable onboard dining and the comfortable cabins are a few things previous guests highlighted as superb. However, the staff received mixed reviews: Some experienced attentive and friendly employees, while a few noted they were expecting better service across the board for the price point.

Upcoming itineraries on the Viking Mars include cruises with ports of call in Iceland, Norway, Greece, Italy, Spain, the U.S. and Canada.

The 930-passenger Viking Sky – which debuted in February 2017 – receives rave reviews from past cruisers for its port-heavy itineraries (fares include one complimentary excursion per port) and luxurious, comfortable staterooms. Cabins offer between 270 and 1,448 square feet of space and include balconies, complimentary Wi-Fi access, flat-screen TVs and bathrooms with heated floors, among other amenities. Those who opt for an upgraded stateroom or suite are treated to additional perks, like priority reservations at the spa and specialty restaurants.

Viking Sky's activities include classes at the fitness center, treatments at the spa and destination-focused lectures. The ship also offers two pools and two whirlpools, including an infinity pool on the stern of the ship. In the evenings, passengers can enjoy live performances in the theater or watch destination-related movies in one of two cinemas.

Guests also have their choice of cuisine, from alfresco dining on the Aquavit Terrace to Manfredi's Italian Restaurant. With 550 crew members on board, the ship maintains a nearly 2-to-1 guest-to-crew ratio.

Viking Sky sails to the Mediterranean, Europe, Central America and more. The ship also offers world voyages.

Seven Seas Explorer

Regent Seven Seas Explorer debuted in 2016. It's one of the largest vessels in the fleet, welcoming up to 746 passengers at double occupancy. The ship makes service a top priority, with 548 crew members on board. According to past cruisers, the staff is friendly and attentive.

Travelers were even more impressed by the all-suite accommodations, which are some of the largest offered among ocean liners. All 373 suites include spacious balconies, marble bathrooms, walk-in closets, interactive flat-screen TVs and unlimited Wi-Fi.

Another high point: the cuisine. Explorer offers eight dining areas that range from the casual Pool Grill to Asian creations at Pacific Rim. As part of the 'Regent Experience,' all specialty dining is included in the cruise fare.

Outside the cabins, guests can spend their days participating in cooking demonstrations, lounging by the pool or relaxing in the library. At night, entertainment options include casino games, cocktail lounges and shows in the Constellation Theater. Complaints about this ship are few and far between, though some reviewers felt the entertainment could be more impressive. 

The best perk, according to recent passengers? All shore excursions are included. Seven Seas Explorer sails to destinations in Alaska, Asia, Australia and more.

U.S. News Insider Tip: Pacific Rim is a favorite dining venue among cruisers, with its Asian-inspired cocktails and cuisine offering a selection of dishes from Thailand, Korea, China, Vietnam and Japan. Spin the bronze Tibetan Buddhist prayer wheel as you enter the restaurant and be sure to sample the miso black cod. – Gwen Pratesi, Contributor

Disclaimers about ship ratings: A ship’s Health Rating is based on vessel inspection scores published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). If a ship did not receive a CDC score within 22 months prior to the calculation of its Overall Rating, its Health Rating appears as N/A; in such a case, the ship’s Overall Rating is calculated using the average Health Rating of all CDC-rated ships within the cruise line. All ship Traveler Ratings are based on ratings provided under license by Cruiseline.com.

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A trio of new super-small cruise vessels promises luxury adventure from South America to Asia

Much of the buzz in the cruise world in recent years has been about a new crop of megaships that can carry many thousands of passengers and are packed to the gills with over-the-top attractions. We're talking about such amenity-filled giants as Royal Caribbean's 18-deck-high Wonder of the Seas — the new world's largest cruise ship.

But there have been a lot of wonderful small cruise vessels debuting, too, including some so small that they sometimes aren't even mentioned at cruising sites.

Here, we look at three of the very smallest new cruise vessels of them all, all of which are in the process of starting up service on rivers and oceans from South America to Asia.

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Even the biggest of the three vessels carries just 82 passengers — less than 2% of the number that can fit on Wonder of the Seas. Or, to put another way, the total passenger count of all three of these ships wouldn't even fill half of one of Wonder of the Seas' lifeboats.

All three of these new vessels have us super excited here at TPG — and not just because they offer an intimate and upscale experience that is designed to be anything but mass-market or cookie cutter.

They also are vessels specifically designed to visit some of the world's most alluring destinations, from the ancient temples along the Nile River in Egypt to the wildlife-filled reserves along the coast of Ecuador — and to do it in style. All three vessels fall on the luxury side of the spectrum for cruising.

As you'll see below, two of the vessels are from a single line, Viking. Viking is in the midst of expanding its small-ship footprint into more regions of the world, including Antarctica . The other newcomer is from a startup small-vessel company, Kontiki Expeditions.

Here, we take a closer look at these three tiny and luxurious new cruise vessels.

Viking Osiris

Location: Nile River.

Cruise operator: Viking.

River cruise giant Viking is calling its new river ship the most upscale cruise vessel on the Nile, and from what we've seen of it so far, it's a boast that's hard to dispute. Designed to hold just 82 passengers, Viking Osiris features an entire deck of sprawling suites with two full-size rooms apiece; two suites even have stunning glass walls that wrap around the front of the vessel.

The river ship also has a swanky sun deck where you can kick back on shaded loungers while enjoying 360-degree views of the ancient Egyptian temples that line the waterway. The views are almost as grand from its main restaurant, which sits high on the ship and features floor-to-ceiling glass walls.

Scheduled to be christened Monday in Luxor, Egypt, Viking Osiris is notably smaller than the typical Viking ship, with just 41 cabins. But it's a classic Viking vessel in other respects (think: minimalist Scandinavian design and included tours). If you've been on any of Viking's 60-plus river ships in Europe, you'll feel right at home.

Related: 20 things you must bring on every cruise — including a roll of duct tape

That's in part because Viking Osiris is the first Nile River vessel specifically built to Viking's specifications. It's also owned and operated by Viking. That's unusual in a market where most Western lines charter local vessels for their trips. In Viking's eyes (and ours, too), that means Viking will be able to offer the most consistent product on the river. Unlike some other Western companies operating in Egypt, Viking will have complete control of the experience.

The details: Viking's Egypt trips pair a seven-night Nile cruise on Viking Osiris with a four-night stay at a hotel in Cairo (three nights before the cruise and one night after), with included tours to such iconic Egypt sites as the Great Pyramids of Giza and the Valley of the Kings. Fares start at $5,299 per person, not including taxes and fees. For information, visit viking.com .

Viking Saigon

Location: Mekong River.

Viking also is going small and upscale with a new cruise vessel for the Mekong River in Southeast Asia. New as of this month, the three-deck-high riverboat was designed with just 40 cabins, every one of which has a floor-to-ceiling sliding glass door opening onto a traditional balcony or French balcony — a high-end touch you don't always see on Mekong River ships.

Like Viking Osiris, Viking Saigon boasts Viking's signature, clean-lined Scandinavian design. It is packed with onboard amenities including a small spa, fitness center, library and even an infinity pool (which lies at the back of the top deck next to an open-air bar). That's an impressive mix for such a small vessel.

As is typical for Mekong River ships, Viking Saigon is sailing one-way voyages between Kampong Cham, Cambodia (not far from the famed ruins of Angkor), and My Tho, Vietnam, near Ho Chi Minh City. Viking combines the cruise with hotel stays in Ho Chi Minh City; Hanoi, Vietnam; and Siem Reap, Cambodia (the gateway to the Angkor ruins), to create a 14-night "Magnificent Mekong" tour of Cambodia and Vietnam.

The details: Viking Mekong River trips combine a seven-night Mekong cruise on Viking Saigon with a two-night stay in Hanoi, a three-night stay in Siem Reap and a two-night stay in Ho Chi Minh City. Fares start at $4,499 per person, not including taxes and fees. For information, visit viking.com .

Kontiki Wayra

Location: Coast of Ecuador.

Cruise operator: Kontiki Expeditions.

If you've always wanted to explore the coast of Ecuador in style, this is your vehicle. Designed to travel to off-the-beaten-path places along the country's coastline, the 18-passenger Kontiki Wayra is as upscale as it is intimate.

Despite its small size, Kontiki Wayra offers a lot of upscale amenities, including a sun deck, two outdoor lounges, bar, Jacuzzi, spa treatment room and fitness area. Every one of the vessel's nine cabins is a suite.

The ship's 12 crew members include wellness professionals (wellness is a big focus for the brand), naturalist guides and a local chef. There also are two local expert guides on board, who will provide insight as Kontiki Wayra stops at small Ecuadorian towns, historic sites and nature areas full of wildlife.

During initial sailings in Ecuador, passengers can expect to see such wildlife as blue-footed boobies, sea lions and howler monkeys. A focus on cuisine incorporates local seafood and produce on board and on land as well as tastings of local chocolate. The vessel also carries kayaks, paddleboards and snorkeling equipment for watery adventure; diving is an option.

The details: Wayra is operating a weeklong itinerary between Bahia in the north of Ecuador and Salinas in the south. Fares start at $7,245 per person, based on double occupancy, and include all activities and meals as well as transfers to and from ports. Solo traveler rates and private charter rates are also available. For more information, visit kontikiexpeditionscruises.com .

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• 12 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
• What to pack for your first cruise

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Caribbean & Central America Cruises

Bridgetown to Fort Lauderdale, Florida

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The luxury of choice

Catering to individual travel preferences, we are pleased to offer our guests the luxury of choice when selecting the perfect fare.

• 10 Countries

A true tonic for the soul - the Caribbean’s energy, reggae inflection and warm welcome is all you need to refresh and renew. Acquaint yourself with exclusive and exquisite escapes like the Virgin Islands - the idyllic getaway of choice for celebs. Elsewhere, enjoy time’s slow tick in fishing villages brimming with character. Colour-splashed towns and cobblestone streets tell of colonial pasts, as we visit locations rich with French, British, and Dutch heritage.

The excursions are provided as a sample of what may be offered on this voyage and are subject to change. We are constantly updating our shore excursion programme with immersive and authentic experiences, so please do not hesitate to review your tour programme choice closer to your sail date. We invite guests to visit my.silversea.com for the most updated information.

Silversea's oceanview suites are some of the most spacious in luxury cruising. All include the services of a butler thanks to the highest service ratio at sea and almost all have a private teak veranda so that you can breathe in the fresh sea air by merely stepping outside your door. Select your suite and Request a Quote - guests who book early are rewarded with the best fares and ability to select their desired suite.

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Silver Spirit offers its guests one of the most complete cruise experiences available. With one of the highest space-to-guest ratios in the business and eight superlative luxury dining options, she retains our world-famous service standards and home away from home feel. Spacious decks leave plenty of room for relaxation, yet the cosy niches make sure that there is something for everyone. Meet like-minded friends, enjoy first-class dining and relax on our original Silversea flagship.

Silver Spirit Dining Options : 8 Restaurants

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La Terrazza

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Zagara Beauty Salon

Travel deeper.

Behind the Lens: Surrounded by Sea Turtles in Barbados Blue

How to Choose your Cruise: Caribbean and Central America

Behind the Lens: Exploring Panama’s Wild Darién Jungle

Things to Do in Nevis: Visit the Hamilton House, Botanical Gardens, and More

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Carnival cruise devolves into mayhem as angry passengers demand refunds over last-second itinerary change.

Mayhem broke out aboard a Carnival cruise when enraged vacationers were told they wouldn’t be voyaging to the expected Caribbean getaway because of an engine problem — while they shouted for their money back and pleaded to get off the ship.

Guests aboard Carnival’s Vista had booked the 8-night Southern Caribbean cruise out of Port Canaveral, Florida on Aug. 10 intending to stop in Aruba, Curacao and Turks and Cacaos.

As the boarding process was ongoing and some passengers were already on board, the cruise line sent a notification detailing the change in plans.

Carnival crew members had discovered a “technical issue affecting the ship’s cruising speed” which forced the cruise line to alter the itinerary, the cruise line told The Post.

The Vista would instead travel to the Bahamas, making stops at Nassau, Princess Cays, Freeport, and Half Moon Cay, according to Inside Edition.

Some passengers were not thrilled with the last-minute change and began chanting for refunds as cruise staff attempted to explain the situation.

“Give us our money,” several guests aboard the ship shouted, according to Instagram user Only In Florida on Aug. 28 .

One man claimed he spent $6,000 just to get on the cruise.

“Ladies and gentlemen, the way you’re going about this with the noise and chaos isn’t going to solve any issues,” one cruise employee explained to the passengers, according to video obtained by Inside Edition.

An 8-day cruise aboard the Vista averages $779 per person.

The passengers were given several choices once the cruise line determined the need for an itinerary change.

“We communicated directly with guests on board regarding their options for the sailing,” Carnival said.

“Those that sailed were given an onboard credit as well as a future cruise credit toward another cruise to make up for the unexpected change, and those who preferred not to sail were offered a 100 percent refund.”

Even with the choice of not cruising to the Bahamas, passengers were still frustrated with Carnival for the last-minute announcement.

“They knew about the problem prior to us getting onto the ship,” Ashley Ball told the outlet. “They just didn’t say that until we were already on the ship, and, you know, went through customs and the lines and securities and all that, and then decided to display that information.”

The Vista which has since been on several voyages since the Aug. 10 departure has reportedly had its Sept. 7 departure from Port Canaveral canceled, Inside Edition reported.

In June, a Brooklyn family was left watching their cruise sail off as they stood on the docks of Port Canaveral because of a delayed flight out of John F. Kennedy Airport.

Tisha LaSaine says she had been working hard at her post office job to save up the $8,500 needed to take her mother, twins and oldest son on an eight-day cruise on June 30.

The trip was meant to serve as a celebration for LaSaine’s 50th birthday and for her son who would be starting his junior year in college, but after a “crew issue” caused their Delta flight to be delayed for nearly two hours, they missed boarding their cruise.

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I've been on 6 different cruise lines, here are the pros and cons of each one

C ruising is one of my favorite kinds of family vacations . Whether I’m looking for sun-drenched beaches in the Caribbean , scenic views in Alaska, or city-hopping around the Mediterranean, cruises are a fun and hassle-free way to sample a variety destinations all around the world. Once I decide where I want to go on a cruise vacation, my next step is to pick a cruise line. 

BIG SAVINGS: Kids sail free: 7 cruise lines with kids cruise free deals  

I’ve sailed with most of the major cruise lines for families that depart from the United States and around the globe, and each one has its pros and cons. If you’re thinking about taking a cruise at some point in the next year or so, now’s the time to book for the best prices and availability. But before you do, make sure you’re choosing a cruise line that fits your personality and vacation style.

Table of Contents:

• Disney Cruise Line
• Carnival Cruises
• Royal Caribbean
• Norwegian Cruise Line
• Virgin Voyages
• Princess Cruises

How to choose a cruise line: pros and cons of each one

Here are my recommendations based on my personal cruise experiences with some of the world’s most popular cruise lines.

How we chose these cruise lines:  Read our methodology for selecting family cruise vacations .

1. Disney Cruise Line

Disney Cruise Line (DCL) pioneered the concept of family-friendly cruises. Its sailings give everyone a chance to see beloved Disney characters, watch fun Broadway-caliber shows, and have dedicated spaces and activities for kids and adults.

Pros of Disney Cruise Line

Stateroom design: One of my favorite things about Disney Cruise Line is the stateroom design. Fleet-wide, most of the staterooms have DCL’s signature split bathroom, where one bathroom has a toilet and sink and the other has a tub shower and a sink. Additionally, there’s lots of storage space, a privacy curtain to divide the room into two spaces, and luggage can easily roll under the bed. In some staterooms, there’s additional space for sleeping five people with a pull-down Murphy bed, which is great for larger families.

CARIBBEAN DREAM: These 6 cruise lines offer the best Caribbean cruises for families  

Rotational dining: Disney is known for its rotational dining concept , where families will move through three distinct dining rooms at dinner throughout their cruise (and the dining room waitstaff moves with you). Each ship has different dining rooms, but a fan-favorite continues to be Animator’s Palate, which is available on the Disney Dream , Disney Fantasy , Disney Wonder , and Disney Magic . One of my favorite dining rooms is Worlds of Marvel on the Disney Wish (and coming to the Disney Treasure in 2024).

Dedicated spaces for kids and adults: Disney cruises cater to children with dedicated kids spaces, activities, and entertainment, but adults can have just as much fun. On all of Disney’s cruise ships , there are spaces that are exclusive for adults , too, like pools, lounges, bars, and restaurants. No matter your family’s makeup, everyone will have a space they enjoy.

Cons of Disney Cruise Line

Price: One of the biggest cons to a Disney Cruise vacation is the price compared to other family-friendly cruise lines. Disney does offer discounts on cruises throughout the year, but they’re not available to every type of guest or sailing date. 

No drink packages: Another con for some people is that Disney Cruise Line does not offer drink packages, so you’ll be paying for each cocktail, specialty drink, beer, wine, or specialty coffee individually. These charges can add up quickly if you aren’t careful, so be sure to put a spending limit on drinks and check your stateroom folio often to be sure you’re staying within your budget. 

STAR WARS AT SEA: With Star Wars: Hyperspace Lounge and Cargo Bay, every day is ‘Star Wars Day at Sea’ on the Disney Wish

2. Carnival Cruises

Sailing with Carnival Cruises always feels like a fun party. The cruise line is known for its big ships that are filled with big personalities. I always tell people that Carnival is a great starter cruise line to see if you like cruising, or if you want a cruise where the party never stops. 

Pros of Carnival Cruise Line

Price: One of the biggest pros for Carnival Cruise Line is the affordability factor. Carnival is constantly running deals on cruises, so it’s easy to find a discounted sailing . The price for its smaller, older ships is usually cheaper than the bigger, newer ships, but depending on where you want to go and what season, the cost could vary greatly between cruises. To get the best deal, I recommend calling Carnival to book directly because the booking agent can play with discounts and sometimes combine them to give you a better deal than what you can get by booking online.

NO HIDDEN FEES: 7 best all-inclusive cruise lines in the world  

Celebrity chef-backed restaurants: Carnival is noteworthy for its celebrity chef-backed restaurants. Kids and adults love the burgers and BBQ that come straight from Guy Fieri’s Flavortown kitchens, and everyone can get a taste of the Big Easy from celebrity chef Emeril Lagasse on Carnival Mardi Gras , Carnival Celebration , and Carnival Jubilee . And don’t forget about everything fried chicken at Big Chicken from Shaquille O’Neal.

Easy loyalty program: Every cruise line has a loyalty program. Carnival’s is called the VIFP Club , and it’s one of the easiest loyalty programs to understand and move up in. After just one cruise you’re enrolled and get members-only offers, and the perks go up from there, including priority check-in and boarding on embarkation day, $25 to use in the casino, and cabin upgrades. 

Cons of Carnival Cruise Line

Older ships feel very dated: Even though Carnival’s newest ships are bright and shiny, its older ships feel very dated. While the brand does put the older ships, like the Carnival Elation from Jacksonville, Florida, through dry dock repairs and upgrades, those upgrades are mostly for cleaning and maintenance and not to make the ships feel newer. 

Food and service can be hit-or-miss: Even though the celebrity chef-backed dining is very good, the rest of the food offerings on Carnival’s ships can be hit-or-miss, even in specialty dining restaurants that cost extra on some cruises. On a recent sailing, I dined in Chibang, which is a mash-up of Mexican and Chinese; the food was just okay and I felt rushed through the entire meal. I was hustled in and out the door for dinner in about 30 minutes. The main dining room can also have a lot of variation where some meal services are perfectly paced and others are rushed or exceptionally slow. 

3. Royal Caribbean

Families looking for another option for a fun cruise that’s not Disney will love Royal Caribbean . In fact, this is my pick for the best cruise for multigenerational travel. 

Pros of Royal Caribbean

Beautiful private island: One of Royal Caribbean’s most exciting offerings is its private island destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay . The island is home to family beaches, a spacious pool with a swim-up bar, a massive water park, and more. It’s also going to debut a new adults-only area, Hideaway Beach, in early 2024. If you choose to order a drink package it’s valid on the island, and lunch is served at a beachside BBQ so you don’t have to go back to the ship for a meal. 

TEEN-FRIENDLY CRUISES: 5 cruise lines that know how to keep teens (and their families) happy  

Variety of homeports: Royal Caribbean has one of the largest number of home ports around the world. Some of the most exciting home ports outside of the United States include Rome, Italy; Athens, Greece; Dubai, UAE; Buenos Aires, Argentina; Sydney, Australia; Singapore, Singapore; and Shanghai, China. From North America, there are 14 different home ports, including Miami, Florida; Galveston, Texas; New Orleans, Louisiana; and Seward, Alaska.  

Over-the-top amenities on each ship: Royal Caribbean has some of the most over-the-top cruise amenities among the lines I’ve sailed with. Many of these amenities and activities are included in the overall cruise fare, which is even better. Kids and adults can enjoy things like water slides and splash pads, a surf simulator, rock climbing walls, zip lines, ice skating, observation pods, bumper cars, laser tag, and more. 

Cons of Royal Caribbean 

Ships can feel crowded: Royal Caribbean ships are some of the biggest in the world, meaning that the larger ships can feel crowded. On Wonder of the Seas , there are 2,876 staterooms that can accommodate up to 7,084 guests; and on Icon of the Seas, the, 2,805 staterooms can accommodate up to 7,600 people. Even though guests are split between more than a dozen decks, it can still get overcrowded at the pool, the buffet, or in theaters for showtime. 

4. Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line is ideal for families vacationing with teens or adults looking for a getaway of their own. The newest Norwegian ships are stunning with high-caliber entertainment and fun around every corner.

Pros of Norwegian Cruise Line

Included dining options are great: Norwegian Cruise Line’s included dining options are stellar. After sailing on Norwegian Prima last year, I was blown away at the quality of the main dining room food for breakfast and dinner. At breakfast, I had one of the best iterations of steak and eggs I’ve ever had. I also love Indulge Food Hall, where breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served and you can pick from a variety of made-to-order dishes ranging in cuisine style from Indian and Mexican to ramen and salads.

BRING THE LITTLE ONES: 10 toddler-friendly vacations that are just as much fun for parents  

Glamorous staterooms: The staterooms on Norwegian are simple and refined, with plenty of storage, comfortable beds, and a decent-sized bathroom. I like that Norwegian also offers solo accommodations for those traveling alone. The solo staterooms are priced exclusively for solo travelers, and those guests also have access to the private Studio Lounge. 

Fantastic onboard entertainment: Norwegian pulls out all the stops for onboard entertainment. While sailing on Prima , I was able to see a Broadway-caliber show detailing the life of Donna Summer, head into a lounge with live rock-and-roll music every night, enjoy live bands around the ship, and even take in a few comedy shows. There’s no end to the amount of entertainment onboard, and it often goes into the wee hours of the night. 

Cons of Norwegian Cruise Line

Added activities add up quickly: Unlike other cruise lines where most activities are included, Norwegian’s best activities are an added cost per person, which adds up quickly. Things like go-kart racing, an afternoon in the virtual reality Galaxy Pavilion, and mini-golf are all additional costs once you get onto the ship. 

Boring private island: Norwegian’s private island, Great Stirrup Cay , is one of the most boring private islands I’ve been to on a cruise. While the beach is pretty, there are not a lot of included activities, and getting to the island is a challenge since you have to take a tender boat to and from the ship. However, there are some fun excursions you can book on the island, like swimming with pigs, taking a guided kayaking tour, or renting water sports equipment. 

5. Virgin Voyages

Virgin Voyages is an adults-only cruise line that caters to the party lifestyle and makes sure everyone always has a good time. 

Pros of Virgin Voyages

Vast entertainment options: No matter which Virgin ship you end up sailing on , there’s going to be a huge variety of entertainment. When I sailed with Virgin, I loved the live music around the ship and the pop-up entertainment that sometimes just happens in the main atrium area. At night, there are a few places to see shows, including drag and acrobatic performances.

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Richard’s Rooftop: Those staying in a suite are welcome to enjoy Richard’s Rooftop, which is a dedicated area on an open deck for suite guests. This area has a hot tub, plenty of cushy loungers, a dedicated bar and bar team, and great views of the ocean passing by. Every day there’s also a Champagne happy hour, where bartenders will continuously walk around filling up your cup until you tell them to stop. 

Cons of Virgin Voyages

Scarlet Night can be hard to get into: One of the hardest things for me to become involved with was Scarlet Night. This is the premier party of Virgin Voyages where every guest dresses in red and is encouraged to explore the ship for pop-up entertainment before heading to the pool deck for an all-night party.

The overall story of Scarlet Night is hard to follow if you don’t get to the right places at the right times on the ship, and I found that the staff didn’t really care to help people who looked lost and did not know what to do during “free exploration” time. I’ve heard that some of the pinch points of Scarlet Night have been worked out since my sailing, so I would say just go with the flow of the night and try to make friends with other guests to venture around the ship together. 

Cabins aren’t maximized for storage: The biggest con for Virgin Voyages is that the standard cabins feel more like an IKEA showroom than a luxury escape on a brand-new ship. The cabins lack enough storage for longer sailings, and the beds are not tall enough to roll suitcases underneath. 

6. Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises mainly caters to older adults looking for a more chill vacation with elevated service. 

Pros of Princess

The Sanctuary: One of the best things about Princess Cruises is the Sanctuary, which is an adults-only deck space that you can pay to use for a day or for the entire cruise. The Sanctuary comes with a dedicated team that learns your preferences quickly, from where you like to sit to when you enjoy lunch (which can be brought to you). Besides having a serene oasis, the Sanctuary means you’ll always have a comfortable lounge chair to enjoy. When I was on Caribbean Princess over the summer, I was always greeted with a smile when I walked up the Sanctuary and spent most of the day enjoying the breeze and sunshine.

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Onboard staff is fantastic: Princess crew members are among the most dedicated to guest service I’ve seen. Everyone knows your name by day two of the cruise, knows your preferences for things, and can even give you tips about what you may enjoy around the ship or at some ports of call. 

Cons of Princess

Entertainment feels dated: I wanted to like the entertainment, but most of it felt very dated, especially the shows in the main theater. The musical performances were mostly songs from my grandparent’s era, and the acting was just okay. I did enjoy the nightly 18+ entertainment that was hosted by the entertainment staff, but overall the entertainment offerings were weak relative to other cruise lines.

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