Cruise Ships
From intimate yachts to mega-ships, explore detailed reviews and insights to help you choose the right vessel for your next voyage. We cover over 50 ships with expert analysis of cabins, dining, entertainment, and casinos, updated regularly with the latest ship news.
Explore Featured ShipsFloating resorts with endless amenities, multiple dining venues, and entertainment for thousands of passengers. Typically carrying 3,000 or more guests, these ships feature water parks, Broadway-style shows, and multiple specialty restaurants. They are ideal for families and travelers who want constant activity and variety.
A balance of amenities and intimacy, offering diverse dining and entertainment without overwhelming scale. Usually carrying 1,500 to 3,000 passengers, these ships provide more personalized service and less crowding. They are a good fit for couples and travelers seeking variety with a relaxed pace.
Intimate ships focused on unique itineraries and immersive experiences, often with luxury touches. Carrying under 1,500 passengers, sometimes fewer than 500, they can access smaller ports and remote destinations. The emphasis is on enrichment and destination immersion rather than onboard spectacle.
One of the largest cruise ships in the world, known for its seven distinct neighborhoods and innovative entertainment. Gross tonnage is 228,081 with a passenger capacity of 5,518 at double occupancy. Highlights include the Ultimate Abyss slide, Central Park, and the AquaTheater.
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A revolutionary ship with outward-facing design, the Magic Carpet platform, and luxurious accommodations. Gross tonnage is 130,818 with a passenger capacity of 2,918. Highlights include Infinite Verandas, the Rooftop Garden, and Eden.
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An elegant small ship focused on destination immersion, with inclusive amenities and Scandinavian design. Gross tonnage is 47,800 with a passenger capacity of 930. Highlights include the Explorers' Lounge, Aquavit Terrace, and notably, no casinos onboard.
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From cozy interiors to expansive suites, cabins are your home at sea. Learn about interior, oceanview, balcony, and suite categories, plus considerations like deck location, noise, and accessibility.
Explore CabinsCruise ships offer a range of dining from casual buffets to specialty restaurants. Discover main dining rooms, buffets, dress codes, and reservation tips to plan your meals.
Explore DiningBroadway-style shows, live music, comedy clubs, and more. Find out what entertainment is available, how to book, and what to expect in theaters, lounges, and outdoor venues.
Explore EntertainmentMany ships feature casinos with slots, table games, and poker. Learn about layouts, game variety, opening times, dress codes, and etiquette before you play.
Explore CasinosEnjoy world-class productions at sea, from musicals to acrobatics, often included in your fare. Shows vary by ship and itinerary, and reservations may be required on larger vessels.
Treat yourself to gourmet cuisine in intimate venues, from steakhouses to sushi bars. An additional fee usually applies, and reservations are recommended.
Indulge in massages, facials, and thermal suites with ocean views. Spa services are an extra cost, and thermal suite passes may be available for the length of your cruise.
Test your skills at blackjack, roulette, or slots in a lively onboard casino. Casinos only open while at sea, and age restrictions apply.
Soak up the sun, take a dip, or relax in a hot tub with panoramic views. Pools vary in size and features, and some ships have adults-only areas.
Learn culinary tips from ship chefs in interactive sessions. These are often free but may require sign-up due to limited space.
Catch a film on a giant outdoor screen with popcorn and blankets. Available on many ships, weather permitting.
Stay active with yoga, spinning, or TRX sessions in state-of-the-art gyms. Some classes are free, while others have a fee.
Many ships feature impressive art, from sculptures to paintings, often with self-guided tours. Art auctions are also common onboard.
There's nothing quite like a private balcony view as the sun dips below the horizon. Balcony cabins offer this experience.
Are you looking for non-stop activity or quiet relaxation? Your preferences will narrow down the ship size and type. Mega-ships offer more amenities but more crowds, while small ships provide intimacy and unique itineraries.
Make a list of must-have features, such as a casino, specialty dining, or a water park, and check which ships offer them. Not all ships have casinos — for example, Viking Ocean Cruises does not — and some ships have unique features like go-kart tracks or surf simulators.
The destinations you want to visit may dictate the ship, as some ports can only accommodate smaller vessels. Larger ships may be limited to major ports, while expedition ships can access remote areas.
Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas is set to debut as the largest cruise ship ever built, featuring groundbreaking amenities. Expected delivery is early 2024, and it will feature the largest waterpark at sea.
December 2023
Celebrity Cruises announces a multi-million dollar refurbishment for Celebrity Beyond, enhancing dining and entertainment venues. Scheduled for late 2023, it will add a new specialty restaurant.
November 2023
Carnival Cruise Line's new Excel-class ship, Carnival Jubilee, begins sailing from Galveston with innovative features. It features the BOLT roller coaster, and its homeport is Galveston, Texas.
October 2023
The best time depends on your destination. For the Caribbean, December to April offers pleasant weather, while Alaska is best from May to September. Consider hurricane season from June to November for the Caribbean, and note that shoulder seasons often have lower prices.
Most cruises include accommodations, meals in main dining venues, and basic entertainment. Specialty dining, drinks, gratuities, and shore excursions are usually extra. Some luxury lines are more inclusive, and drink packages can be purchased.
For most international cruises, a passport is required. For closed-loop cruises from the US, a birth certificate and government ID may suffice, but a passport is recommended. Check specific requirements for your itinerary, and ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond travel.
Pack for both casual and formal occasions. Include swimwear, comfortable shoes, evening wear, and layers for cooler evenings. Don't forget sunscreen and medications. Check dress codes for specialty restaurants, and note that formal nights may require suits or cocktail dresses.
Detailed guides to cabin types, locations, and what to expect in each category.
Reviews of dining venues across different cruise lines, from buffets to specialty restaurants.
Insights into shows, activities, and nightlife options on board.
Everything you need to know about casinos at sea, including game guides and reviews.
