Best cruise lines in the world revealed

The best cruise lines in the world have been unveiled in a new survey which quizzed the public on which cruising brands they liked the most.

Research looked at the best mega-ship ocean cruise lines, the best large-ship ocean cruise lines and the best mid-size ocean cruise lines, with categories based on the number of cabins, rather than passenger capacity.

The World’s Best Awards survey was carried out by travel site Travel + Leisure which asked readers to share their opinions on travel experiences around the world.

So depending on what sort of cruise vacation you’re after, the findings could well be instrumental in helping you plan your next getaway on the high seas.

Here are the best cruise lines in the world…

1. Celebrity Cruises
2. Virgin Voyages
3. Princess Cruises
4. Royal Caribbean
5. Norwegian Cruise Line

Mega cruise ships are defined as those with 1,500 or more cabins; in short, the true beasts of the cruising world.

However it was actually the smallest of all the mega-ships that helped Celebrity Cruises claim its top place – Celebrity Reflection has 1,523 cabins and suites. The 10-year-old ship is the fifth and largest ship in Celebrity Cruises’ award-winning Solstice class. It was praised for service, crew and amenities as well as its stylish décor and amazing modern art collection.

Virgin Voyages passengers loved the included dining options, dance parties, adults-only cruises and fun nightlife.

In third place was Princess Cruises whose newest cruise ship Enchanted Princess received glowing reviews.

1. Disney Cruise Line
2. Cunard
3. Celebrity Cruises
4. Holland America Line
5. Royal Caribbean

Large cruise ships are defined as those with between 800 and 1,499 cabins.

Disney Cruise Line came in first place thanks to its amazing theme-park level attractions and amazing kids and family options. Also applauded was its catering for adults cruising without children and the separate adults-only areas and venues.

Cunard and its three classic ocean liners came second, with guests praising the experience of crossing the Atlantic amid an elevated onboard atmosphere, while Holland America received plaudits for its food, cabins and crew.

1. Viking Cruises
2. Seabourn
3. Silversea
4. Regent Seven Seas Cruises
5. Oceania Cruises

Midsize cruise ships are defined as those with 300 to 799 cabins.

Viking took first place in this category thanks to the cruise line’s Scandinavian design, cultural offerings and ships’ consistency. Guests loved the value proposition, too – with shore excursions, wine and beer at meals and speciality dining all included in the cruise fare.

Seabourn came second thanks to the food, service and quality of the all-suite ships and Silversea was in third place with its largest Silver Spirit and onboard feeling of spaciousness commended.

In fourth position, Regent’s excellent crew were applauded while Oceania’s amazing food and variety were complimented in fifth.