Ocean Cruises

Cruise Line Comparison

Find the Right Cruise Line for You

Not all ocean cruises are created equal! Whether you're dreaming of tropical escapes, cultural adventures, or family fun at sea, choosing the right cruise line can make all the difference. This page breaks down the key features, vibes, and inclusions of top ocean cruise lines—from family favorites like Disney Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean to upscale options like Holland America, and Virgin Voyages.

Explore how each brand differs in style, price point, dining, entertainment, ship size, and destination focus—so you can confidently pick the cruise that fits your travel style, budget, and vacation goals.

Ready to compare? Scroll down to see which cruise line is the perfect match for you

Cruise ship on ocean with pink inflatable float in foreground

Carnival Cruise Line

  • Vibe: Fun, casual, budget-friendly

  • Best For: Families, first-time cruisers, groups

  • Destinations: Caribbean, Mexico, Alaska, Bahamas, Europe, more

  • Highlights: Waterparks, themed parties, family activities, and affordable pricing

  • Fleet Size: 25+ ships, including the new Carnival Celebration and Mardi Gras

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Cruise ship with colorful lights and amenities at sea

Royal Caribbean International

  • Vibe: Action-packed, innovative, family-friendly with premium touches

  • Best For: Families, multi-generational groups, adventure lovers

  • Destinations: Caribbean, Alaska, Europe, Asia, Australia

  • Highlights: Onboard activities like ziplining, surfing, ice skating, and skydiving simulators; private island Perfect Day at CocoCay

  • Fleet Size: 27+ ships, including the Icon of the Seas (largest cruise ship in the world)

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Two cruise ships with colorful designs on the ocean under a clear sky.

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)

  • Vibe: Freestyle cruising with flexible dining and entertainment

  • Best For: Couples, solo travelers, foodies, relaxed cruisers

  • Destinations: Caribbean, Europe, Alaska, Hawaii, Asia

  • Highlights: “Freestyle” no-schedule dining, Broadway shows, solo staterooms

  • Fleet Size: 18+ ships, including the Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva

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Cruise ship near a glacier in a scenic mountain setting

Princess Cruises

  • Vibe: Elegant, destination-focused, relaxing

  • Best For: Adults, couples, retirees, and world travelers

  • Destinations: Alaska, Caribbean, Mediterranean, Asia, World Cruises

  • Highlights: Enrichment programs, Movies Under the Stars, MedallionClass tech

  • Fleet Size: 15+ ships, including the Sun Princess and Discovery Princess

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Cruise ship sailing through a lush, green canal with a smaller boat nearby.

Holland America Line

  • Vibe: Sophisticated, classic cruising with a cultural edge

  • Best For: Retirees, food & music lovers, longer voyages

  • Destinations: Alaska, Europe, Panama Canal, South America, Grand Voyages

  • Highlights: Live music venues, culinary experiences, elegant décor

  • Fleet Size: 11 ships, including the Rotterdam and Nieuw Statendam

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A large cruise ship docked in a harbor with a city skyline in the background under a clear blue sky.

Virgin Voyages

  • Vibe: Adults-only, trendy, wellness-focused, boutique-style

  • Best For: Adults 18+, couples, solo travelers, wellness and nightlife fans

  • Destinations: Caribbean, Mediterranean, Europe

  • Highlights: No kids, modern design, inclusive pricing (gratuities, Wi-Fi, dining), high-end entertainment

  • Fleet Size: 3 ships (and growing), including Scarlet Lady and Valiant Lady

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Costumed cartoon characters posing on a beach in front of a cruise ship.

Disney Cruise Line

  • Vibe: Whimsical, family-focused, polished Disney magic

  • Best For: Families, Disney fans, multigenerational trips, first-time cruisers

  • Destinations: Caribbean, Bahamas (including Disney’s private island Castaway Cay), Europe, Alaska, Mexico, and more

  • Highlights: Broadway-style shows, kids’ clubs with Marvel, Star Wars, and Pixar themes, rotational dining with immersive storytelling, meet-and-greets with beloved Disney characters

  • Fleet Size: 5 ships (with more coming!), including the Disney Wish, Disney Dream, and Disney Fantasy

Learn More

Plus so many more!

I partner with so many more cruise lines not listed here. Whether you want a luxury ocean voyage or an intimate and relaxing cruise, I can match you with the right experience

Why book with a travel agent

Cruises are designed to be relaxing—but picking the right ship, itinerary, cabin, and sail date can feel like navigating uncharted waters. I help my clients:

  • Choose the perfect cruise line and ship based on their travel style and group

  • Find the best value for their budget, including deals and limited-time offers

  • Understand cabin categories, dining options, and onboard experiences

  • Unlock extras like onboard credits, priority boarding, or celebration packages

Let me help you set sail on a vacation where everything’s taken care of—from the midnight buffets to the shore excursions.