travel
The best cruise lines for families, couples and budget-conscious in 2016
Crystal Cruises has been named the most romantic cruise line for couples, while Disney has taken the title of best brand for families.
That’s according to the latest 2016 cruise ranking released from US News & World Report, which compared 15 of the biggest cruise lines across six categories.
For the third year in a row, Disney Cruise Line was named the best company for families, and was also the top choice for cruising in the Caribbean.
With life-sized Elsas, Annas and Olafs roaming about the ship, kid-friendly dance parties, pirate-themed dinners, and Mickey-themed decor, Disney has had a leg up on the competition for years.
That’s not to say that the competition isn’t growing fierce. This fall, Royal Caribbean announced plans to bring the cast of popular animated films such as “Shrek,” “Kung Fu Panda,” and “Madagascar” aboard their newest vessel Anthem of the Seas.
Meanwhile, couples looking for a romantic cruise holiday may want to look at Crystal Cruises, which offers couples massages on board and views of the sunset for the 360-degree Promenade Deck.
New this year, the ranking included a category spotlighting the best cruise lines in the Mediterranean in response to rising demand. Taking the top spot in that category is Seven Seas Cruises for offering itineraries that sail to 12 countries in the area.
Regent Seven Seas also offers longer voyages and unlimited free shore excursions that include everything from kayaking down the Dalmatian Coast in Croatia to cooking classes in Santorini, Greece.
And as one of the biggest cruise lines, Royal Caribbean can afford to keep rates low and offer trips costing less than US$150 USD per person a night, making it the best choice for budget travelers.
Here are the results of the US News 2016 Best Cruise Lines Rankings:
For the Money
Royal Caribbean International
Carnival Cruise Lines
Celebrity Cruises
For Families
Disney Cruise Line
Royal Caribbean International
Carnival Cruise Lines
For Romance
Crystal Cruises
Regent Seven Seas Cruises
Azamara Club Cruises
For Luxury
Crystal Cruises
Regent Seven Seas Cruises
Azamara Club Cruises
In the Caribbean
Disney Cruise Line
Royal Caribbean International
Celebrity Cruises
In the Mediterranean
Regent Seven Seas Cruises
Azamara Club Cruises
Silversea Cruises – AFP Relaxnews, November 11, 2015.
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