Cruise Ship Reviews

The Cruise Ship Industry is growing a very fast rate these last few years and Companies are rushing to build ever bigger and heavier Ships to accommodate the demand.

The business of cruising is based on mastery of companies to maximize mass tourism in a small area, to share amenities between passengers and thus, lowering the cost for the passengers and the company. To me, it summarizes in one simple fact: It is the mastery of Logistics that made cruising possible. Some companies have mastered the art of providing an impeccable experience, to what appears to be a very affordable holiday. Others are amateurs and trying to catch up. Some ships are oriented to s specific clientele. Others are oriented to accommodate everyone.

So as a world traveller, I enjoy cruising as I use it as a “holiday from a holiday”, as well as a means of transport between continents on “repositioning cruises”. Through the years, I have cruised over 50 cruises on pretty much all the biggest cruise lines, and my reviews are aimed at helping my readers choose the best cruises for their holiday.

MSC Cruises

Norwegian Cruise Line

Carnival Cruise Line

Holland America Cruise Line

Pullmantur

Royal Caribbean International Cruises

Reviews by Contributing Authors

The Cruise Ship industry and the Top Cruise Lines

Let’s start by talking about what makes cruising so darn amazing. Picture this: waking up to the gentle rocking of the ship and stepping out onto your private balcony to watch the sunrise over the ocean. As you sip your morning coffee, you’re greeted by breathtaking views of crystal-clear waters and pristine beaches stretching out as far as the eye can see. Sounds like paradise, right? Well, that’s just the beginning.

One of the best things about cruising is that it offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker looking for heart-pounding excitement or a laid-back traveler in search of relaxation, there’s a cruise ship out there with your name on it. From massive mega ships with onboard water parks and zip lines to intimate river cruises that meander through picturesque landscapes, the options are endless.

Now, let’s talk about some of the top cruise lines in the industry and what sets them apart from the rest. First up, we have Royal Caribbean International, known for its innovative ships and jaw-dropping amenities. With features like surf simulators, skydiving simulators, and even a zip line, Royal Caribbean offers an adrenaline-packed experience that’s perfect for thrill-seekers and adventure lovers.

Next, we have Carnival Cruise Line, famous for its fun and lively atmosphere. With a wide range of onboard activities, including comedy shows, live music, and themed parties, Carnival is all about letting loose and having a good time. Plus, with affordable prices and a laid-back vibe, it’s a favorite among families and young adults alike.

If you’re looking for luxury and sophistication, look no further than Celebrity Cruises. With its elegant ships, gourmet dining options, and impeccable service, Celebrity offers a refined cruising experience that’s perfect for those seeking a more upscale vacation. From wine tastings and cooking classes to Broadway-style shows and spa treatments, Celebrity has something to delight even the most discerning of travelers.

Of course, we can’t forget about Norwegian Cruise Line, known for its Freestyle Cruising concept. With no set dining times or dress codes, Norwegian offers a relaxed and flexible experience that’s all about freedom and choice. Whether you want to dine in a fancy restaurant, grab a burger by the pool, or enjoy a casual meal in your stateroom, the choice is yours.

Last but not least, we have Disney Cruise Line, beloved by families for its magical and immersive experience. With themed dining rooms, character meet-and-greets, and Broadway-quality shows, Disney offers a vacation experience that’s truly unforgettable for kids and adults alike.

The Majestic Top Players

Now, let’s meet the stars of this aquatic show:

  1. Royal Caribbean International: With its fleet of innovative ships, Royal Caribbean offers everything from adrenaline-pumping zip lines to Broadway-style shows. Their Oasis-class vessels are floating cities, complete with Central Park and ice-skating rinks.
  2. Carnival Cruise Line: Known for its fun-loving atmosphere, Carnival caters to families, couples, and party animals alike. Their “Fun Ships” promise non-stop entertainment, from water slides to deck parties.
  3. Norwegian Cruise Line: Freestyle cruising is Norwegian’s mantra. No fixed dining times or dress codes—just pure relaxation. Their ships feature vibrant nightlife, diverse dining options, and jaw-dropping views.
  4. MSC Cruises: This Italian line combines elegance with affordability. MSC’s ships boast chic designs, world-class cuisine, and a touch of Mediterranean flair.
  5. Princess Cruises: If you fancy a touch of sophistication, Princess delivers. Their ships exude classic elegance, and their Alaska itineraries are bucket-list material.
  6. American Cruise Lines: For those who prefer intimate experiences, American Cruise Lines specializes in small-ship river and coastal cruises within the U.S. Think paddlewheelers and historic towns.
  7. Celebrity Cruises: Imagine Michelin-starred dining, spa retreats, and modern art galleries at sea. Celebrity caters to discerning travelers seeking refined luxury.
  8. Genting Hong Kong: This conglomerate owns Crystal Cruises, Dream Cruises, and Star Cruises. Their ships offer opulence, from gourmet dining to lavish suites.
  9. MS Berlin: A classic beauty, MS Berlin combines old-world charm with modern amenities. It’s like stepping into a vintage postcard.

Weathering Storms

The cruise industry faced tempests during the pandemic. In 2021, only 13.9 million passengers embarked on cruises—a 53% drop from pre-pandemic levels. But hope floats! As vaccinations spread and travel restrictions ease, the industry is cautiously navigating toward calmer seas.

The Future Beckons

Why is cruising still all the rage? Well, apart from the allure of endless buffets and midnight chocolate fountains, there are deeper currents at play. The expanding middle class, especially in emerging economies, fuels the industry. As disposable incomes rise, more people can afford cruise vacations. Plus, the thrill of waking up in a new port every morning is irresistible.

So, whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a landlubber contemplating your maiden voyage, remember this: the sea calls to our souls, promising adventure, relaxation, and memories that ripple through time.

Special Note on the rating System: The rating system on my Cruise Reviews is based out of comparison to what many consider the best cruise line over the board: Royal Carribbean. In fact, Royal carribbean have become so good at the game that they currently have a steady 25% of the clientel of cruise ships over the world, a very considerate amount. I must agree that Royal carribean is the best experience one can have on a cruise, and this is due to the fact that they are excellent in absolutly all the categories I list in my Rating articles. When I say excellent, this means they pretty much rank a 8/10 without exception. Some cruise lines may have one or two categories with higher ratings than RCCL, but may lack in other caterogies. So in mt rating system, for comparison purposes, if a category ranks 7/10, it means it is lesser than the RCCL’s average, while a 9/10 means an Exceptional rating, better than the RCCL Average.

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