Despite the desire for budget-friendly vacations, travelers believe these 10 cruise lines offer value for the money.
In 2024, U.S. News and World Report released its ranking of the Best Cruise Lines for the Money, evaluating and scoring the top ships from 18 of the most popular ocean cruise lines.
Cruisers are seeking affordable options that fit their budget, according to Nicola Wood, Senior Travel Editor at U.S. News and World Report, as reported by CNBC Make It.
A cruise can still be a cost-effective travel option for those seeking value: According to the report, a vacation at sea offers lodging, food, and entertainment all in one price, making it a more affordable choice compared to a land-based getaway.
The cruise lines were ranked based on the following factors:
- Expert rating
- Traveler rating
- Health rating
The publication's editors evaluated each cruise experience based on the ship's atmosphere, facilities, activities, cabins, cuisine, and service. Travelers rated their satisfaction with their cruise experience.
The ranking of airlines was based on factors such as itinerary affordability and amenities included in the base fare.
No. 1 cruise line for the money: Celebrity Cruises
In 2024, Celebrity Cruises rose from the second position to the top spot on the list, with an overall rating of 4.38. The line has 15 ships and stops in Asia, the Caribbean, Europe, and other destinations.
"Wood states that the current price of the cruise line is reasonable, but it still has a high overall rating comparable to luxury cruise lines. Essentially, it offers a high-quality experience at a price that is competitive with budget-friendly lines like Carnival and Royal Caribbean this year."
The Celebrity Cruises ship travels to over 70 countries across all seven continents and more than 300 ports, with voyages ranging from two to 18 nights.
In the U.S., Fort Lauderdale, Miami, and Los Angeles are cities where Celebrity Cruises has a presence.
In Europe, ships depart from Southampton in the U.K., Amsterdam, and Barcelona, among other ports.
10 best cruise lines for the money, according to experts and travelers
- Celebrity Cruises
- Virgin Voyages
- MSC Cruises
- Royal Caribbean International
- Holland America Line
- Cunard Line
- Carnival Cruise Line
- Norwegian Cruise Line
- Princess Cruises
- Costa Cruises
Virgin Voyages has dropped one spot from last year to rank as the No. 2 best cruise line for the money, with an overall rating of 4.34.
Virgin Voyages dropped in the rankings due to higher fares this year compared to last year, according to Wood. However, "it remains a great value option because it offers a range of perks in the base fare, unlike other cruise lines."
She adds that it still offers a great value for the price.
An adults-only cruise line, Virgin Voyages, was founded by British entrepreneur Richard Branson and currently has three ships in its fleet, with a fourth set to debut in 2025.
The cruise lines offers free Wi-Fi, over 20 dining venues, unlimited group workouts, and essential drinks such as sodas, drip coffee, water, and more.
The company Virgin Voyages provides sailings to various destinations, including the Caribbean, Europe, and the South Pacific, with ports located in Miami, Puerto Rico, and Spain, among others.
The biggest surprise in the 2024 cruise industry was MSC Cruises' rise from No. 6 to No. 3, with an overall rating of 3.78.
"Their itineraries are some of the most affordable on the market, with a wide range of destinations to choose from. On select cruises, kids are still free, making it an excellent option for families on a tight budget," she remarks.
Numerous ships on this platform feature kids' clubs and a wealth of amenities catering to youngsters and adolescents.
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