Every cruise line works a little bit differently. Getty Images; Chelsea Jia Feng/BI
- Before you book a cruise, it's important to understand that not all cruise lines are equal.
- Each cruise line has amenities, entertainment, and experiences tailored to specific cruisers.
I am a very, very avid cruiser. Last year alone, I spent 73 days on cruise ships.
I've sailed with most major lines, from kid-focused Disney Cruise Line to the sometimes-naughty Virgin Voyages. When people ask me which cruise ships I recommend, my answer isn't so straightforward.
Each cruise line is unique, offering amenities, entertainment, and experiences tailored to specific cruisers. What you book will depend on your needs, wants, budget, and what you'd rather avoid.
So, I've done some research about popular cruise lines and combined my personal experiences to help you decide which cruise line to book with.
After all, this is kind of the year of the cruise, with travelers predicted to set sail at some of the highest rates in years throughout 2024.
Here's what you need to know about some of the major cruise lines before you book your next trip.
Editor's Note: Price ranges were calculated at the time of publication based on available listings on each cruise site. Cruise pricing is per person, based on double occupancy and the cheapest stateroom/fare available. Prices were calculated before taxes, port charges, and other fees. Itineraries with added tours built-in were not included when calculating this information.